All posts by z3u9t.icu

Glasgow Rangers have already confirmed that Barry Ferguson’s time as interim manager of the Ibrox club came to an end after the Scottish Premiership season concluded.

The Light Blues were held to a 2-2 draw at Easter Road on the final day of the league season, as Rangers cemented their second-placed finish behind their city rivals.

Ferguson’s interim spell ended with six wins, five draws, and four defeats in 15 matches in all competitions, which was far from impressive on paper for the inexperienced Scottish coach.

It has now been confirmed that he will not be in contention for the job on a full-time basis, as the Gers are now looking elsewhere for a permanent successor to Philippe Clement, who was relieved of his duties in February.

There have already been plenty of interesting names linked with the vacant managerial position at Ibrox, ranging from British coaches, foreign coaches with British experience, and left-field coaches with no experience in British football.

One of the names who has been mentioned alongside the Rangers job in recent weeks is Real Madrid assistant first-team coach Davide Ancelotti, the son of Carlo Ancelotti.

Why Rangers should avoid Davide Ancelotti

There have been some contradicting reports on the club’s interest in the Italian tactician of late, with talk of an offer from the Gers and then a report saying that was false and that he wants to join his father with the Brazil national team for a year.

Whether he is a serious candidate for the job or not, the 49ers and Kevin Thelwell should look elsewhere in their search for a new head coach because of the job facing the next manager ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Rangers have finished second in the Premiership in each of the last four seasons, watching their city rivals lift the trophy each year, and need a head coach who can bring success back to Ibrox.

Whilst Ancelotti is an exciting prospect, because he has yet to manage at first-team level and is full of untapped potential, the fact that he is an unknown quantity as a manager also counts against him for this particular job.

Real Madrid (Assistant manager)

Carlo Ancelotti

233

Everton (Assistant manager)

Carlo Ancelotti

67

Napoli (Assistant manager)

Carlo Ancelotti

73

Bayern Munich (Assistant manager)

Carlo Ancelotti

60

Real Madrid (Fitness coach)

Carlo Ancelotti

119

PSG (Fitness coach)

Carlo Ancelotti

77

The 35-year-old coach, as shown by his career path above, has not been a first-team manager to date, as he has only worked as part of his father’s coaching staff, as either a fitness coach or as an assistant manager.

Whilst there is a lot of brilliant experience in some of the best leagues in Europe at some of the biggest clubs in the world there, Ancelotti has not proven himself as the main man and that is why Rangers, in their current situation, should look elsewhere.

Rangers want to appoint new manager this week

As per a fresh report from the Daily Mail, Rangers are looking to appoint a more experienced manager as they are set to hold talks with English boss Steven Gerrard.

The report claims that the club are planning to hold talks with the Liverpool legend within the next 48 hours to discuss a potential return to Ibrox, having left the job to join Aston Villa back in 2021.

Manager Focus

Who are the greatest coaches in the land? Football FanCast’s Manager Focus series aims to reveal all.

It states that Gerrard, who is currently without a club, is currently the frontrunner to land the role, and that Rangers want to have a deal wrapped up by the end of this week if possible.

All going well, the English manager could be holding up a Gers scarf for the second time before next Monday, although there is no mention of how interested he is in making a return to Glasgow.

With this news in mind, the club must convince Gerrard to return to Ibrox before the end of the week during these talks that are due to take place within the next 48 hours because he would make supporters forget about wanting Ancelotti.

Why Gerrard would make Rangers forget Ancelotti

As aforementioned, the Real Madrid assistant manager would arrive at Ibrox as a huge gamble by the club, given his lack of senior managerial experience, but that would not be the case with Gerrard.

In fact, the English head coach may be the safest possible appointment for Rangers to make, given that he is the only Gers manager who has won the Premiership in the last decade.

The former England international lost more games than he won at Aston Villa (19 vs 13) and Al Ettifaq (20 vs 19) after moving on from Ibrox in 2021, but there is no mocking his record during his time in Scottish football.

After being given time to build a squad in the 2018/19 and 2019/20 campaigns, Gerrard won the Premiership title in the 2020/21 season with 32 wins and zero losses in the top-flight, an achievement that was described as “unbelievable” by journalist Leanne Prescott.

Matches

38

12

Wins

32

8

Draws

6

3

Defeats

0

1

Points

102

27

Points per game

2.68

2.25

League position

1st (Champions)

1st

As you can see in the table above, the 4-3-3 manager only lost one of his last 50 matches in charge of the club, and left the team at the top of the table before Giovanni van Bronckhorst failed to follow up with another title success.

Gerrard, once dubbed “amazing” by Glen Johnson, has proven that he can deliver a successful style of football at Ibrox, given his incredible record across his last 50 games and the title that he won in the 2020/21 campaign.

Rangers have failed to win the Premiership in the last four seasons, and they need a head coach who can bring the title back to Ibrox next term. So, who better than the only man to have done it in the last decade? That is why appointing Gerrard could make fans forget about the exciting potential of bringing Ancelotti in for his first managerial job.

Not just Butland: Rangers flop may have played his last game at Ibrox

Several Rangers players wont be at the club next season after the 2-2 draw with Hibs.

ByRoss Kilvington May 17, 2025

The 2024/25 FA Cup final is almost upon us, with an all-Premier League clash between Crystal Palace and Manchester City deciding the latest winner of the famous trophy.

Crystal Palace booked their place in the final after a comprehensive Wembley win over Aston Villa, with goals from Eberechi Eze and Ismaila Sarr sealing a first final for the Eagles since 2016.

Opponents Manchester City are aiming for a third FA Cup in seven seasons, and are heading back to Wembley after a 2-0 semi-final win over Nottingham Forest.

The 2024/25 tournament has not seen as many giantkillings as in previous years, though Plymouth Argyle produced a classic FA Cup upset with their defeat of eventual Premier League champions Liverpool.

Meanwhile, holders Manchester United were dumped out on penalties at home to Fulham in the fifth round.

Last year saw former United boss Erik ten Hag get revenge for his side’s defeat to City in the 2023 final. While the final featured two of the elite top-flight sides, there were a few cup runs from those in the lower tiers.

Maidstone United reached the fifth round, suffering a 5-0 defeat to Coventry City, who came so close to reaching the final. Against Man Utd, the Sky Blues thought they had won the tie in extra time, but eventually lost on penalties.

The best FA Cup runs by non-league teams

These teams are proof you don’t have to be in the Premier League to enjoy an FA Cup run…

ByJack Salveson Holmes Feb 27, 2024

The first FA Cup final was played in 1872 and won by Wanderers Football Club – the first of five victories. As of 2025, Arsenal hold the record for most trophies won with 14, with their last coming in 2020.

In total, there have been 143 FA Cup finals staged, with 44 teams winning the competition at least once in their history.

Club

Wins

Last win

Arsenal

14

2020

Manchester United

13

2024

Chelsea

8

2018

Liverpool

8

2022

Tottenham Hotspur

8

1991

FA Cup format and changes

The FA Cup is a simple knockout tournament, with the winners of each tie advancing to the next round. Non-league clubs take part in qualifying, with teams from League One and League Two entering in the first round proper. Premier League and Championship clubs join at the third-round stage.

A major change to the format has seen replays scrapped from the first round onwards. Previously, drawn matches would see the fixture replayed at the visitors’ home ground, but citing player welfare, the FA decided to remove replays to ease fixture congestion.

The move sparked anger from the EFL and prompted backlash from the likes of Keir Starmer.

The 9 most successful teams in the FA Cup

The FA Cup has been won by some of the biggest teams in the country since its inception in the 19th century.

ByRoss Kilvington Oct 30, 2024 FA Cup final preview

With Crystal Palace and Manchester City winning their semi-finals, both clubs will be back on the road to Wembley three weeks after victories over Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest respectively. Kick-off is at 4.30pm.

It will be Palace’s first FA Cup final since 2016, when they lost to Manchester United after extra time, as Jesse Lingard’s winner secured the trophy for the Red Devils in what was Louis van Gaal’s final match in charge.

Both of the Eagles’ previous cup finals have been against United – the other coming in 1990, which was won after a replay following an enthralling 3-3 draw at Wembley Stadium.

Now, United’s neighbours stand in the way of a first major trophy for Oliver Glasner’s side.

Round

Opponent

Result

Round

Opponent

Result

Third round

Stockport (H)

W 1-0

Third round

Salford (H)

W 8-0

Fourth round

Doncaster (A)

W 2-0

Fourth round

Leyton Orient (A)

W 2-1

Fifth round

Millwall (H)

W 3-1

Fifth round

Plymouth (H)

W 3-1

Quarter-final

Fulham (A)

W 3-0

Quarter-final

Bournemouth (A)

W 2-1

Semi-final

Aston Villa (N)

W 3-0

Semi-final

Nottingham Forest (N)

W 2-0

As for seven-time winners Manchester City, they are far more experienced in this situation, with Pep Guardiola guiding his side to a third successive final, having taken part in back-to-back Manchester derbies in 2023 and 2024.

Despite their glut of trophies under the Spaniard’s reign, the FA Cup has only been won by the Citizens twice since Guardiola’s arrival (in 2019 and 2023), with their 2011 win the only other City triumph this century.

After an underwhelming campaign by their high standards, City have the chance to end it on a high and avoid going trophyless for the first time since the 2016/17 season – Guardiola’s first at the helm.

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Kick-off time

Sat 17th May

Crystal Palace

Man City

4.30pm

The top 10 FA Cup finals of all time – ranked

As the 2024/25 first round gets underway, here’s a look at 10 of the best finals in history.

1 ByAlex Caple May 25, 2024 2024/25 FA Cup results

The FA Cup’s first round proper kicked off with fifth-tier Tamworth defeating League One Huddersfield Town, while the weekend saw its fair share of surprise results and almighty scares.

However, there was to be no ‘fairytale’ run for Wrexham as they were undone by Harrogate Town. AFC Wimbledon’s win in a grudge match against MK Dons was another highlight of the round.

Tamworth continued their story in the second round after knocking out Burton Albion on penalties, while Reading were taken to extra time by Harborough Town. Elsewhere, League One leaders Wycombe avoided an upset with a win at non-league Wealdstone.

The Lambs’ superb run to the third round came to a valiant end at home to Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, with the National League outfit taking Ange Postecoglou’s men to extra time.

The shock of the third round was undoubtedly Brentford’s undoing at home to Championship strugglers Plymouth Argyle, while holders Manchester United saw off Arsenal in a fierce affair at the Emirates Stadium following a penalty shootout.

The Pilgrims were at it again in the fourth round, while Brighton claimed a high-profile scalp themselves by coming from behind to see off Chelsea.

Elsewhere, Manchester City were given an almighty scare by League One’s Leyton Orient, falling behind to one of the goals and moments of the season before battling back to squeeze into Round Five.

The round of 16 kicked off with Aston Villa boosting their chances of a first major trophy since 1996, as they beat Cardiff 2-0 at Villa Park. This left Preston as the only second-tier representatives after they beat Championship rivals Burnley.

That weekend also saw Bournemouth’s dramatic shootout win over Wolves, with Boubacar Traore missing the all-important spot-kick before Luis Sinisterra sealed the Cherries’ place in the last eight.

Crystal Palace joined them courtesy of their 3-1 win over Millwall, which was overshadowed by Jean-Philippe Mateta’s sickening injury, which put the Frenchman in hospital, where he required stitches.

Plymouth were on their way to another big upset, but only led for seven minutes at Manchester City before the Premier League champions eventually came back to win.

Another dramatic afternoon followed as Brighton saw off Newcastle in extra-time thanks to Danny Welbeck’s winner in a game which saw both sides reduced to 10, while Fulham prevailed on penalties at Old Trafford, with Bernd Leno saving from Joshua Zirkzee and Victor Lindelof.

The quarter-finals saw all the away sides prevail, with Bournemouth the only losing side to get on the scoresheet before bowing out.

Crystal Palace and Aston Villa secured comfortable victories on the road, while Nottingham Forest and Manchester City needed to rely on penalties and super subs respectively to overcome their last-eight opponents.

In the semi-finals at Wembley, Palace steamrolled Villa to comfortably win 3-0, with the West Midlanders exiting the cup and the Champions League in the space of two weeks.

Manchester City finally dispatched Nottingham Forest in the other semi, with the Reds’ superb run amid an exceptional domestic campaign coming to an end after successive shootout victories.

First round

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Fri 1st Nov

Notts County

Alfreton

Fri 1st Nov

Tamworth

Huddersfield

Sat 2nd Nov

Barrow

Doncaster

Sat 2nd Nov

Bradford

Aldershot

Sat 2nd Nov

Bristol Rovers

Weston-super-mare

*after extra time

Sat 2nd Nov

Burton

Scarborough

Sat 2nd Nov

Carlisle

Wigan

*after extra time

Sat 2nd Nov

Chesterfield

Horsham

Sat 2nd Nov

Crewe

Dag & Red

Sat 2nd Nov

Exeter

Barnet

Sat 2nd Nov

Gillingham

Blackpool

Sat 2nd Nov

Grimsby

Wealdstone

Sat 2nd Nov

Newport

Peterborough

Sat 2nd Nov

Port Vale

Barnsley

Sat 2nd Nov

Reading

Fleetwood

Sat 2nd Nov

Rochdale

Bromley

Sat 2nd Nov

Rotherham

Cheltenham

Sat 2nd Nov

Salford

Shrewsbury

Sat 2nd Nov

Southend

Charlton

*after extra time

Sat 2nd Nov

Stevenage

Guiseley

**Stevenage won 5-4 on penalties

Sat 2nd Nov

Stockport

Forest Green

*after extra time

Sat 2nd Nov

Swindon

Colchester

*after extra time

Sat 2nd Nov

Solihull

Maidstone

Sat 2nd Nov

Rushall Olympic

Accrington

Sat 2nd Nov

Maidenhead

Crawley

*after extra time

Sat 2nd Nov

Brackley

Braintree

**Brackley won 5-4 on penalties

Sat 2nd Nov

Tonbridge Angels

Harborough Town

Sat 2nd Nov

Tranmere

Oldham

Sat 2nd Nov

Walsall

Bolton

Sat 2nd Nov

Woking

Cambridge

Sat 2nd Nov

Worthing

Morecambe

Sat 2nd Nov

Wycombe

York

Sat 2nd Nov

Hednesford Town

Gainsborough Trinity

**Gainsborough Trinity won 5-4 on penalties

Sat 2nd Nov

Northampton

Kettering

*after extra time

Sun 3rd Nov

MK Dons

AFC Wimbledon

Sun 3rd Nov

Sutton United

Birmingham

Sun 3rd Nov

Boreham Wood

Leyton Orient

**Leyton Orient won 3-1 on penalties

Sun 3rd Nov

Curzon Ashton

Mansfield

Sun 3rd Nov

Harrogate Town

Wrexham

Mon 4th Nov

Chesham United

Lincoln

Second round

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Fri 29th Nov

Harrogate

Gainsborough Trinity

Sat 30th Nov

Wealdstone

Wycombe

Sat 30th Nov

Accrington

Swindon

**Accrington won 4-1 on penalties

Sat 30th Nov

Barnsley

Bristol Rovers

**Bristol Rovers won 4-3 on penalties

Sat 30th Nov

Cambridge

Wigan

*after extra time

Sat 30th Nov

Crawley

Lincoln

Sat 30th Nov

Exeter

Chesterfield

Sat 30th Nov

Leyton Orient

Oldham

*after extra time

Sat 30th Nov

Morecambe

Bradford

Sat 30th Nov

Peterborough

Notts County

Sat 30th Nov

Salford

Cheltenham

Sat 30th Nov

Stevenage

Mansfield

Sat 30th Nov

Stockport

Brackley

Sat 30th Nov

Walsall

Charlton

Sat 30th Nov

AFC Wimbledon

Dag & Red

Sun 1st Dec

Kettering

Doncaster

*after extra time

Sun 1st Dec

Blackpool

Birmingham

Sun 1st Dec

Burton

Tamworth

**Tamworth won 4-3 on penalties

Sun 1st Dec

Reading

Harborough Town

*after extra time

Sun 1st Dec

Solihull

Bromley

Third round

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Thu 9th Jan

Sheff Utd

Cardiff

Thu 9th Jan

Everton

Peterborough

Thu 9th Jan

Fulham

Watford

Fri 10th Jan

Wycombe

Portsmouth

Fri 10th Jan

Aston Villa

West Ham

Sat 11th Jan

Birmingham

Lincoln

Sat 11th Jan

Bristol City

Wolves

Sat 11th Jan

Middlesbrough

Blackburn

Sat 11th Jan

Liverpool

Accrington

Sat 11th Jan

Leicester

QPR

Sat 11th Jan

Bournemouth

West Brom

Sat 11th Jan

Brentford

Plymouth

Sat 11th Jan

Chelsea

Morecambe

Sat 11th Jan

Exeter

Oxford

Sat 11th Jan

Norwich

Brighton

Sat 11th Jan

Nottingham Forest

Luton

Sat 11th Jan

Reading

Burnley

*after extra time

Sat 11th Jan

Sunderland

Stoke

*after extra time

Sat 11th Jan

Leeds

Harrogate

Sat 11th Jan

Man City

Salford

Sat 11th Jan

Coventry

Sheff Wed

**Coventry won 4-3 on penalties

Sun 12th Jan

Hull

Doncaster

**Doncaster won 5-4 on penalties

Sun 12th Jan

Tamworth

Tottenham

*after extra time

Sun 12th Jan

Arsenal

Man Utd

**Man Utd won 5-3 on penalties

Sun 12th Jan

Crystal Palace

Stockport

Sun 12th Jan

Ipswich

Bristol Rovers

Sun 12th Jan

Newcastle

Bromley

Sun 12th Jan

Southampton

Swansea

Mon 13th Jan

Millwall

Dag & Red

Tue 14th Jan

Leyton Orient

Derby

**Leyton Orient won 6-5 on penalties

Tue 14th Jan

Mansfield

Wigan

Tue 14th Jan

Preston

Charlton

Fourth round

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Fri 7th Feb

Man Utd

Leicester

Sat 8th Feb

Leeds

Millwall

Sat 8th Feb

Leyton Orient

Man City

Sat 8th Feb

Coventry

Ipswich

Sat 8th Feb

Everton

Bournemouth

Sat 8th Feb

Stoke

Cardiff

**Cardiff won 4-2 on penalties

Sat 8th Feb

Preston

Wycombe

**Preston won 4-2 on penalties

Sat 8th Feb

Southampton

Burnley

Sat 8th Feb

Wigan

Fulham

Sat 8th Feb

Birmingham

Newcastle

Sat 8th Feb

Brighton

Chelsea

Sun 9th Feb

Blackburn

Wolves

Sun 9th Feb

Plymouth

Liverpool

Sun 9th Feb

Aston Villa

Tottenham

Mon 10th Feb

Doncaster

Crystal Palace

Tue 11th Feb

Exeter

Nottingham Forest

**Nottingham Forest won 4-2 on penalties

Fifth round

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Fri 28th Feb

Aston Villa

Cardiff

Sat 1st Mar

Preston

Burnley

Sat 1st Mar

Crystal Palace

Millwall

Sat 1st Mar

Bournemouth

Wolves

**Bournemouth won 5-4 on penalties

Sat 1st Mar

Man City

Plymouth

Sun 2nd Mar

Newcastle

Brighton

*after extra time

Sun 2nd Mar

Man Utd

Fulham

**Fulham won 4-3 on penalties

Mon 3rd Mar

Nottingham Forest

Ipswich

**Nottingham Forest won 5-4 on penalties

Quarter-finals

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Sat 29th Mar

Fulham

Crystal Palace

Sat 29th Mar

Brighton

Nottingham Forest

**Nottingham Forest won 4-3 on penalties

Sun 30th Mar

Preston

Aston Villa

Sun 30th Mar

Bournemouth

Man City

Semi-finals

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Sat 26th Apr

Crystal Palace

Aston Villa

Sun 27th Apr

Nottingham Forest

Man City

Final

Date

Home team

v

Away team

Sat 17th May

Crystal Palace

Man City

Why the FA Cup semi-finals are played at Wembley

The semi-finals are played under the arch every year, but why are other grounds overlooked?

ByStephan Georgiou Mar 29, 2025 Round dates

This year’s final takes place on Saturday, 17th May 2025, on the penultimate weekend of the Premier League season. Top-flight league fixtures have been rescheduled to make the final the standalone fixture on cup final day.

Round

Date

First Round

1st-4th November 2024

Second Round

29th Nov-2nd Dec 2024

Third Round

11th January 2025

Fourth Round

8th February 2025

Fifth Round

1st March 2025

Quarter-final

29th March 2025

Semi-final

26th April 2025

Final

17th May 2025

FA Cup prize money

The FA will give out over £22m in prize money over the course of the 2024/25 season. Any non-league clubs who make it through from the first round of qualifying to the first round proper could pocket around £23,000, while if a Premier League or Championship club was to go all the way, they’d be better off to the tune of £5.41m.

Round

Winners’ prize

Losers’ prize

First Round

£45,000

£15,000

Second Round

£75,000

£20,000

Third Round

£115,000

£25,000

Fourth Round

£120,000

None

Fifth Round

£225,000

None

Quarter-final

£450,000

None

Semi-final

£1,000,000

£500,000

Final

£2,000,000

£1,000,000

How to watch the FA Cup final on TV

In the UK, broadcasting rights for the FA Cup are shared between the BBC and ITV. Throughout the season, the BBC have shown 18 live matches, while ITV committed to broadcasting 20 games from the competition.

In the US, FA Cup games are broadcast live on ESPN, with ESPN+ streaming a selection of fixtures across the duration of the tournament.

Recent years have seen BBC and ITV share coverage of the final, while a new broadcasting deal is set to take effect next year, which will see BBC and TNT Sports share coverage of the competition.

This year’s final will indeed be shown on both channels, with ITV’s coverage starting at 3pm; BBC One’s broadcast will begin at 3.25pm. The match itself kicks off at 4.30pm.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have now tabled a contract offer to sign an “excellent” midfielder, and they are looking to beat Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur to his signature, according to a report.

Wolves stepping up summer transfer plans

Wolves are on a remarkable run of form under the helm of Vitor Pereira, winning their last six Premier League games on the spin to move up to 13th in the table, and the manager will be hoping his side can carry the momentum into the 2025-26 campaign.

Before then, however, Pereira will have the opportunity to put his own stamp on the squad, and targets have been picked out in a number of areas in recent days, with Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy recently being named as an option at striker.

Internal talks have also been held over a move for West Bromwich Albion’s Grady Diangana, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, although it may be difficult to convince the winger to move to the Baggies’ bitter rivals.

Vitor Pereira wants Wolves to sign 22 y/o ace who he's worked with before

He could be a strong addition to Wanderers’ midfield.

1 ByHenry Jackson Apr 25, 2025

With speculation building over Matheus Cunha’s future, it may be particularly important for Pereira to strengthen in forward areas this summer, but the Old Gold are also keen on strengthening their options in the middle of the park.

That is according to a report from Spain (via Sport Witness), which states Wolves have now offered to triple Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso’s salary, in a bid to lure the USA international to Molineux this summer.

Tottenham have a deal which allows them to buy Cardoso for €25m (£21m) which he agreed to last summer, but there is now a growing possibility that he leaves for a higher amount, with a €30m – €35m (£25m – £30m) move on the cards.

Interest is growing from within the Premier League, and the Old Gold’s willingness to triple his salary underlines just how highly the 23-year-old is regarded at Molineux.

"Excellent" Cardoso impressing in La Liga

It is little wonder that clubs are now queuing up to sign the Betis star, given that he has put in some impressive performances over the past year, most notably flourishing in a defensive role, although he also ranks relatively highly for non-penalty goals, when compared to other midfielders.

Statistic

Average per 90

Non-penalty goals

0.12 (72nd percentile)

Successful take-ons

0.96 (80th percentile)

Interceptions

2.12 (98th percentile)

Clearances

2.47 (91st percentile)

As such, the American is clearly a well-rounded midfielder, and he has also been praised for his ability to pick out his teammates by scout/writer Ben Mattinson.

It may be difficult for Wolves to compete for Cardoso’s signature, given that Tottenham have the option to sign him, but there is every indication he could be a success at Molineux if they are able to win the race.

Liverpool carry a wide sense of appeal to potential targets this summer, but they may now have a new obstacle to overcome in their pursuit of one of Europe’s hottest properties.

Liverpool look to bolster their ranks this summer

The Reds are nearly there in their quest to lift the Premier League title and there is now tangible evidence that Arne Slot could add some premium talent to his side over the next few months.

According to reports, Liverpool are leading the race to sign Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen, who has emerged as one of the world’s most in-demand young defenders following his excellent displays on the South Coast.

Following news that Virgil Van Dijk has signed a new contract at Anfield, any moves to strengthen a backline already rich on quality would likely go down well among their expectant fanbase.

Winning the top-flight is one thing, but staying at the top next term in the face of a renewed challenge from the elite of English football will be what sets Slot apart, so it is no surprise to see that the Reds also have Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike at the top of their wishlist.

Hugo Ekitike’s goalscoring record in 2024/25 – all competitions

Appearances

43

Goals

21

Assists

9

Eintracht Frankfurt’s Europa League exit at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur may dampen his desire to stay in Germany, though they remain in contention to seal Champions League qualification via the Bundesliga.

Either way, recent developments surrounding Liverpool’s interest have taken a sharp turn that may throw up an obstacle to any prospective deal.

Worth more than Huijsen: Slot has hit the jackpot on Liverpool "monster"

Liverpool hope to employ this star for many years to come.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 18, 2025 Sky Sports: Eintracht Frankfurt raise Hugo Ekitike asking price

Per Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, Eintracht Frankfurt have raised their asking price for Liverpool target Hugo Ekitike to £85.7 million, though he is still deemed ‘likely’ to leave the Bundesliga outfit this summer.

Chief executive Markus Krösche is thought to be behind the move, raising the price by about £17m to try and maximise his profitability following an excellent campaign for the ex-Paris Saint-Germain striker.

Demonstrating his lethal edge in front of goal, Ekitike has managed to place 40 of his 101 shots on target while featuring in the German top-flight and has also earned a non-penalty XG total of 17.20.

Liverpool are clearly big admirers of his talent and want to bring him to Anfield, but they won’t want to be caught in the trap of being held to ransom in negotiations.

FSG will likely have a cut-off point, though the fact Ekitike is still expected to leave may play into the Reds’ hands on this one.

Burnley are already looking to sign a Championship star this summer ahead of promotion rivals Sheffield United, according to a new update.

Burnley on course for Championship promotion under Parker

The Clarets are in a hugely strong position to win promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking, with Scott Parker’s side second in the Championship and five points clear of the Blades in third.

Leeds (88 pts)

Sheffield United (83 pts)

Burnley (88 pts)

Oxford United (a)

Cardiff City (h)

Watford (a)

Stoke City (h)

Burnley (a)

Sheffield United (h)

Bristol City (h)

Stoke City (a)

QPR (a)

Plymouth Argyle (a)

Blackburn Rovers (h)

Millwall (h)

Parker’s side have been brilliant in defence which has laid the promotion platform, conceding just 13 times in 42 games.

Burnley set the pace last Friday with a 2-1 win over Norwich City after goals from Hannibal Mejbri and Jaidon Anthony. Leeds also won 2-1 at home to Preston North End, however, Chris Wilder’s side lost 2-1 against Plymouth Argyle.

As a result, should Burnley win at Watford on Friday, a victory at Turf Moor against Sheffield United on Monday would guarantee promotion.

Owner Alan Pace could back Parker in the transfer market if Burnley go up, and by the looks of things, a new target from the second tier has emerged.

Burnley looking to sign £10m Championship star ahead of Sheffield United

According to reporter Graeme Bailey for EFL Analysis, Burnley are one of five clubs interested in signing Stoke City attacker Million Manhoef.

As well as the Clarets, rivals Sheffield United are also interested in the winger along with Scottish giants Celtic and Belgian duo Genk and Club Brugge.

The Potters are looking for £10m to sell Manhoef this summer after spending just £3m on his services last January.

The 23-year-old, who mainly plays as a right-winger, is into double figures for goal contributions in 2024/25 and is under contract with Stoke until 2027.

Games

35

Goals

6

Assists

4

Minutes played

2,389

Manhoef was also praised by former manager Steven Schumacher last year, who described the attacker as a player who can make things happen.

“We expected him to take time to settle in, but since he’s got here, he’s been really positive. He’s shown what he can do, his ability that he’s got, and getting a goal like he got on Saturday will only do his confidence the world of good.

“We needed that type of player who can run towards the goal, take people on, get shots away and create for the team, so I’m not overly surprised that he’s starting to do that now. Like all players though, he’ll thrive off confidence. He thrives off belief and a run of games. Getting up to the speed and the intensity of the Championship is going to be key for him.”

Should Burnley win the race for Manhoef, he may rival loanee Marcus Edwards for a spot on the right-hand side, providing the Clarets go up and exercise their option to make Edwards’ move permanent.

Newcastle United are on course for Champions League qualification for the second time in just three seasons after a 4-1 win over Manchester United.

Last time out, they struggled on the big stage, despite securing a stunning home victory over PSG. Should they make the group stages again, Eddie Howe will have his men better prepared. That’s a certainty.

In order to do this, however, he will have to invest when the summer transfer window opens in a couple of months.

The lack of a big-name signing is perhaps the only thing the Toon faithful have to say against the club right now, but this should be corrected ahead of next season.

There are plenty of areas to improve on in the first-team squad, which could see Howe being an extremely busy man once the current campaign comes to an end.

Several players might need to be sold to comply with the Premier League profit and sustainability regulations, something which the manager has done rather well during his time in charge of the Magpies.

Bringing in young talent and developing them into world-class players is another thing Howe has done well. Take a look at Alexander Isak for example, who is now being courted by Liverpool and Arsenal.

Could Newcastle bring in a player who is attracting interest from several European heavyweights this summer?

Newcastle eyeing move for teenage superstar in waiting

According to the Sun, Scouts from Newcastle were present at Hampden Park last month to witness Konstantinos Karetsas become Greece’s youngest-ever starter and then their youngest-ever scorer during their 3-0 victory over Scotland in the Nations League.

The Premier League outfit aren’t the only club to be keeping a close watch on the winger. Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich want to bring him to Germany, while Liverpool and Manchester United are admirers from England too, with fellow Premier League sides Aston Villa, Man City and Nottingham Forest also having scouts present in Glasgow a few weeks ago.

The 17-year-old currently plays for Belgian side Genk and has a contract at the club until the summer of 2027.

Luckily for Newcastle, there is a £35m release clause inserted into the deal, which is a very affordable fee for the Magpies.

Securing Champions League football this term would go a long way to enticing the youngster that St James’ Park is the best place for his development, especially as he could likely get more playing time compared to the other clubs interested.

Such is his emergence onto the European scene that the Greek wonderkid is showing a similar meteoric rise that Lamine Yamal has shown over the previous 12 months.

Why Konstantinos Karetsas could be Newcastle's own Lamine Yamal

Yamal made his senior club debut back during the 2022/23 season and, is still aged only 17. He has since gone on to make 95 appearances for Barcelona, scoring 21 times while grabbing 30 assists in the process.

If Howe does manage to lure Karetsas to the club, could he have his very own version of the Spanish sensation at his disposal? It certainly looks that way.

Perhaps his greatest contribution has been at international level with Spain. Making his debut in September 2023, aged only 16, the winger duly scored on his debut against Georgia and hasn’t looked back since.

Indeed, he secured a place in the Euro 2024 squad, going on to play a part in every game during the victorious campaign, with the highlight being a stunning curling effort against France in the semi-final.

Such was his maturity; Yamal grabbed an assist in the final as Spain defeated England to win their fourth European Championship.

Both quick with a keen eye for goal, Karetsas has shown plenty of similar qualities in recent months. Like Yamal, who made history as Spain’s youngest-ever player when he made his debut, the Greek star was aged just 17 when he came off the bench against Scotland during a 1-0 loss last month.

A few days later, he made history of his own. In the return leg against the Scots, the attacking midfielder scored a delightful lob over Craig Gordon in the Scotland goal, making him the youngest-ever scorer for the Greek national team in the process.

Yamal has made his mark at a club like Barcelona. Could Karetsas do the same should he move to a European giant this summer?

Konstantinos Karetsas' best attributes

This season, the teenager has been in excellent form for Genk. Across 33 matches in all competitions, he has scored three goals while recording four assists.

In the Belgian top flight, Karetsas has created seven big chances for his teammates, averaging 1.6 key passes per game while succeeding with 1.1 dribbles each match.

Compared to his teammates, he ranks third for big chances created, third for key passes and second for successful dribbles, showcasing Yamal-like traits and demonstrating that he is already one of the best players in the team, despite his tender years.

The future looks bright indeed for the player and Newcastle must make sure they are there or thereabouts when it comes to trying to secure his signature this summer.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig lauded the youngster for his antics against Scotland recently, suggesting he is “one of the most electrifying teenage talents in Europe.”

Goals

1

Assists

0

Key passes

1

Big chances created

0

Touches

39

Total duels won

6

Passes

18/19

Given the nature of the transfer market now, with players going for inflated fees, paying just £35m to sign Karetsas could turn out to be one of the best signings a club could make this summer.

Much will depend on just how strong the Magpies finish the season. With the top five securing a spot in the promised land of the Champions League, the incentive is there for Howe’s men.

If so, a talent like Karetsas may just be willing to make the move to the northeast when the window opens.

8/10 Newcastle star who won 100% duels was even better than Barnes

Newcastle sealed a 4-1 win over Manchester United on Sunday evening.

ByConnor Holden Apr 13, 2025

Manchester United have now expressed in signing an “outrageous” striker, who’s been “on fire” this season, scoring a brace against Paris Saint-Germain.

Man Utd keen on new striker amid doubts over Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee may have scored his first Premier League goal of the season in the 2-1 victory at Crystal Palace at the end of November, but the striker’s goalscoring record since arriving at Old Trafford leaves a lot to be desired.

Season

Appearances (all competitions)

Goals

2024-25

49

7

2025-26

9

1

Despite the Dutchman’s struggles in front of goal, Ruben Amorim wants to keep hold of him, as he values the forward’s versatility, but the manager is at odds with the club, who are open to sanctioning a January departure for a fee of around £35m.

Aston Villa are named as potential suitors for Zirkzee, alongside a whole host of other clubs from England and Italy, meaning United will have a decision to make in the January transfer window.

Should the Netherlands international move on, Amorim may want to bring in a replacement, considering Benjamin Sesko wasn’t exactly tearing up the Premier League prior to his recent injury, scoring two goals in 11 games.

According to a report from Caught Offside, Man United have now expressed an interest in a striker who has been much more prolific in front of goal this season, namely RC Strasbourg star Joaquin Panichelli.

The race for Panichelli’s signature is heating up, with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa also being credited with an interest, but Chelsea are currently in pole position, given that Strasbourg are a part of BlueCo.

That relationship gives the Blues an advantage in the race for the centre-forward, who has put in some top-quality performances since his arrival at Strasbourg in the summer…

"Outrageous" Panichelli "on fire" in Ligue 1

Scout Jacek Kulig has hailed the Argentinian for the impact he’s made in France, having only arrived from Spanish side CD Mirandes during the summer.

The South American is now on ten goals in 19 matches in all competitions, with perhaps his best performance coming in Strasbourg’s 3-3 draw against PSG back in October, during which he bagged a brace.

Amorim's priority target: Man Utd step up interest in "special" Madrid star

Man United are now in the race for a “special” player

ByDominic Lund 3 days ago

Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior may be reluctant to part ways with the 23-year-old, given just how highly he spoke about his talisman earlier this season, saying: “He is a top player, we’ve done quite a bit of work with him during the pre-season to try to make him run less.”

The French club are under no immediate pressure to cash-in, with Panichelli contracted until 2030, but it could be worth Man United testing the waters with an offer, considering Zirkzee’s struggles.

Tottenham’s first transfer window with their new-look, reshuffled boardroom will be a very intriguing one, and a striker is believed to be at the very top of their priority list.

Ever since replacing Ange Postecoglou in the summer, new manager Thomas Frank has been starved of a reliable focal point up front.

Dominic Solanke, who Spurs signed for a club-record £65 million fee last year, has struggled with injury problems that have limited his involvement to just 49 minutes so far this campaign. The Englishman suffered a ‘minor’ ankle problem at the beginning of 25/26, which eventually required surgery, and he’s still on the comeback trail.

Solanke is set to miss this weekend’s pivotal North London derby against Arsenal and won’t be available for their crunch Champions League tie against PSG either, with Frank forced to rely on the out-of-form Richarlison, who’s attracted criticism for his inconsistency.

The Brazilian is a shoo-in to start against PSG next week given Mathys Tel wasn’t named in Frank’s 22-man Champions League squad. Tel, according to some reports, is said to be ‘unhappy’ in London and keen to leave Spurs in January, with Roma taking a serious interest in the Frenchman (La Gazzetta dello Sport).

Solanke’s fitness woes, Tel’s dissatisfaction and Richarlison’s form have fueled speculation that a new striker could arrive at the turn of the year, and Spurs are being linked with a few interesting names.

Chief among them is Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney, who scored 20 Premier League goals in his best campaign at Brentford whilst working under Frank.

The tactician has apparently held ‘direct’ talks with Toney about a January move to Spurs, according to some reports, while others believe that the Lilywhites are in pole position to sign him at the turn of the year after ‘preliminary’ negotiations (TEAMtalk).

While links to the 29-year-old are rife given his obvious connection to Tottenham’s manager, co-sporting directors Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange are considering other options.

Tottenham eye 'dream' move for FC Porto striker Samu Aghehowa

As per TEAMtalk, FC Porto talisman Samu Aghehowa is a ‘dream’ target for the club.

Sources believe the 21-year-old, who’s bagged nine goals in 14 appearances already this season, fits perfectly into Frank’s long-term vision. Spurs’ boss is also said to have ‘repeatedly’ emphasised his desire for a physically imposing, mobile striker capable of pressing aggressively and connecting play.

Insiders within Tottenham’s recruitment structure apparently think of Aghehowa as the “younger, longer-term” striker successor they genuinely desire, despite ongoing interest in Toney as a potential 2026 alternative.

Standing at a lofty 6 foot 4 with surprising pace for his height, the Spaniard has even been compared to former Chelsea star Diego Costa during his prime years, thankfully not the version we saw at Wolves.

However, this all being said, a January move appears very unlikely.

Portuguese sources state that Porto are refusing to entertain winter offers, especially as they pursue a first Primeira Liga title in six years. President Andre Villas-Boas has reportedly informed intermediaries that Samu is not for sale “at any price in the winter”, casting major doubt on Spurs’ ability to prise him away mid-season.

Porto have also set an £71 million asking price for Aghehowa, meaning the north Londoners may have to fork out a new club-record fee. With that in mind, Frank and Lange will apparently continue to monitor Aghehowa’s development whilst maintaining Toney as a backup option.

According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, Chelsea once came ‘very close’ to signing the forward, and he’s a player with ‘huge potential’.

Celtic have now reportedly been “made aware” of an opportunity to sign Raheem Sterling from Chelsea in the January transfer window, with the winger still frozen out at Stamford Bridge.

It’s a busy time for the Hoops, who were thrown into chaos when Brendan Rodgers made an unexpected decision to resign earlier this season – sparking the return of Martin O’Neill on an interim basis.

Celtic keeping tabs on "brilliant" Serie A gem who starred vs Rangers last season

He’s now struggling for form in Italy.

ByTom Cunningham Nov 12, 2025

Since then, the 73-year-old has turned back the clock to get Celtic back on track and send the rumour mill into overdrive that he could yet extend his second stint in charge of the club.

O’Neill, however, has often distanced himself from the permanent job and candidates such as Wilfried Nancy and Kjetil Nkutsen are beginning to emerge as potential options to take the reins.

The next two weeks should be crucial for Celtic in their managerial search, but it remains to be seen whether they’ll have a new name in charge by the time that the international break comes to an end.

If their search is ongoing, then O’Neill has reiterated that he’ll be happy to stick around until the club no longer need his services – telling reporters: “I will be here as long as the football board wants me, it’s as simple as that.”

Of course, whoever is in charge will have plenty of work to do in the January transfer window, with Celtic in need of reinforcements and a number of potential options already coming to the fore.

Celtic "made aware" of Raheem Sterling option

As Graeme Bailey told 67 Hail Hail, Celtic have now been “made aware” of the chance to sign Sterling in January, as Chelsea continue to give the four-time Premier League winner the cold shoulder in West London.

Without an appearance all season, the former Manchester City winger desperately needs a move this winter, but must face up to the reality of a significant pay-cut if he is to move onto a club like Celtic. As things stand, Sterling earns an eye-watering £16.9m-a-year at Chelsea.

To put that figure into context, Celtic’s record signing, Adam Idah cost them £11m so, in one swoop, Sterling’s wages alone would beat the Bhoys’ record transfer fee and that’s simply not doable in Glasgow. The Chelsea man will need to make a major sacrifice.

There would also be question marks over Sterling’s ability to make an instant impact. Although former Chelsea boss Graham Potter dubbed the winger “excellent” during his time at the club, those days are long gone and he hasn’t played a senior game since a loan spell at Arsenal last season. Even if he were to halve his salary, it would be an expensive gamble for Celtic.

Desmond set to hold talks with "amazing" 4-2-3-1 manager this week