Arsenal are now eyeing a surprise move for a “fantastic” Premier League striker, who is desperate to leave his club this summer, according to a report.
Gunners' striker pursuit heating up
As we edge closer to the summer transfer window, the Gunners have now stepped up their pursuit of a new striker, and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has recently joined the list of targets, with a hijack of Newcastle United’s move for the Cameroonian on the cards.
Talks have also been held over a deal for RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko, with the north Londoners now pushing hard to complete a move for the Slovenian, but the 21-year-old is not believed to be their top target.
Right at the top of the list is Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, with talks recently being held over a deal for the Sweden international, ahead of what could be an early summer deal.
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Talks have since been accelerated, with the forward clearly held in very high regard at the Emirates Stadium, but a surprise alternative option from the Premier League has also entered the frame.
That is according to a report from France (via Sport Witness), which states Arsenal are now in the picture to sign Chelsea striker Christopher Nkunku this summer, with the Frenchman determined to seal a move away from Stamford Bridge.
Having fallen down the pecking order under Enzo Maresca, the 27-year-old’s relationship with Chelsea is at the point of no return, which means he is set to search for a new club this summer, and he would be keen to sign for a side in the Champions League.
There may be competition for Nkunku’s signature, however, with Bayern Munich expressing an interest, having also been keen to take him to Germany back in the January transfer window.
Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures
Date
PSG (h)
April 29th
AFC Bournemouth (h)
May 3rd
PSG (a)
May 7th
Liverpool (a)
May 11th
Newcastle United (h)
May 18th
"Fantastic" Nkunku needs fresh start
The France international arrived at Stamford Bridge for the hefty fee of £52m, but it would be fair to say he has flattered to deceive, particularly this season, scoring just three goals in 27 Premier League outings.
However, the former RB Leipzig man picked up a remarkable 70 goals and 55 assists in 172 matches during his time with the German club, so it is clear he has quality, but he may need a fresh start at a club more willing to give him consistent starts.
The forward has also been praised for his versatility by former manager Mauricio Pochettino, who said: “He is a player, a fantastic player, that was top scorer in the Bundesliga and he can play in different positions. His quality is amazing.”
That said, Arsenal should have serious reservations about signing Nkunku, given his failure to adapt to life in the Premier League, and it would probably be wise to pursue an alternative target.
Newcastle United are now showing strong interest in signing a Premier League player who Eddie Howe called “magnificent”, according to a report.
Magpies pushing for the Champions League
Newcastle are in a strong position to qualify for next season’s Champions League, while also ending their 70-year trophy drought by winning the EFL Cup earlier this season, which should make St. James’ Park an attractive destination for new signings this summer.
Howe’s side have performed very well, but the manager is looking to upgrade his squad in several areas this summer, including in midfield, having now joined the race for Manchester City’s James McAtee, who could be available for a fee of just £26m.
There is also a desire to strengthen in forward areas, with Ademola Lookman on the shortlist, while Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi could be brought in to bolster Howe’s centre-back options, having been keen on the Englishman for quite some time.
In-demand player would rather join Newcastle despite offer from Barcelona
The Magpies could land his signature…
1 BySean Markus Clifford May 4, 2025
Another area in which Newcastle could look to strengthen is between the sticks, with Nick Pope now arguably in the twilight years of his career at 33-years-old, and they have their eye on an option from within the Premier League.
That is according to a report from Caught Offside, which states Newcastle are showing strong interest in signing Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who is in line to leave the Saints after their relegation to the Championship.
Ramsdale will be able to leave for just £25m following his side’s relegation to the second tier, and the goalkeeper is eager to remain in the Premier League, with West Ham United believed to be leading the race for his signature.
Pope’s injury setbacks mean the Magpies are looking to bring in a goalkeeper capable of competing for a starting spot, and the Southampton shot-stopper fits the bill, although the requirement to abide by financial fair play rules could hinder their chances of getting a deal over the line.
Newcastle United’s final Premier League fixtures
Date
Chelsea (h)
May 11th
Arsenal (a)
May 18th
Everton (h)
May 25th
Ramsdale could be "magnificent" signing for Newcastle
The Saints have endured a torrid campaign in the Premier League, collecting just 11 points all season, but it is difficult to be too critical of their goalkeeper, given that he is ranked as the best-performing player in the squad.
Howe has also been left seriously impressed by the Englishman in the past, describing him as “magnificent” during their time working together at AFC Bournemouth.
Southampton's AaronRamsdalelooks dejected after the match
Not only that, but the 26-year-old caught the eye during his time with Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta singling him out for praise after an impressive performance at Anfield, describing his goalkeeper as “fantastic”.
Pope has been a fantastic servant to Newcastle, but with the Englishman now in the latter stages of his career and out of contract in 2026, a long-term replacement could be required, and there are plenty of signs that Ramsdale may well be a solid option.
Arsenal have been one of the Champions League’s most frequent participants, but have not been able to take home the famous trophy.
The Gunners have come unstuck against Bayern Munich and PSG since returning to the competition after six seasons away, with Mikel Arteta’s side spending years in the relative wilderness of the Europa League (as well as one year out of Europe altogether) before threatening to go all the way in 2024/25.
From repeated last-16 heartache to final… heartbreak, the Gunners have had quite a journey in the Champions League over the years.
So how does Arsenal’s Champions League record shape up? While they had two European Cup campaigns in 1971 and 1991, they have appeared in 21 of the last 27 editions of the UEFA Champions League ahead of their expected entry in 2025/26.
Arsenal's top 25 Champions League moments
Arsenal have enjoyed some of their greatest European nights in the Champions League.
ByMark Marston May 15, 2025
Here is a complete Arsenal record in Europe’s premier club competition.
Arsenal’s record in the Champions League
Season
Stage reached
Beaten by
1998/99
Group stage
Dynamo Kyiv, Lens, Panathinaikos
1999/00
Group stage
Barcelona, Fiorentina, AIK
2000/01
Quarter-finals
Valencia
2001/02
Second group stage
Leverkusen, Deportivo, Arsenal
2002/03
Second group stage
Valencia, Ajax, Roma
2003/04
Quarter-finals
Chelsea
2004/05
Round of 16
Bayern Munich
2005/06
Final
Barcelona
2006/07
Round of 16
PSV
2007/08
Quarter-finals
Liverpool
2008/09
Semi-finals
Man Utd
2009/10
Quarter-finals
Barcelona
2010/11
Round of 16
Barcelona
2011/12
Round of 16
Milan
2012/13
Round of 16
Bayern Munich
2013/14
Round of 16
Bayern Munich
2014/15
Round of 16
Monaco
2015/16
Round of 16
Barcelona
2016/17
Round of 16
Bayern Munich
2023/24
Quarter-finals
Bayern Munich
2024/25
Semi-finals
PSG
1998/99 First CL campaign ends in group stage disappointment
Arsenal secured their maiden UEFA Champions League berth after winning the Premier League title in Arsene Wenger’s first full season at the club.
Their first two seasons in the competition were marked by the Gunners playing their home games at Wembley in order to play in front of larger crowds, with the national stadium having almost double the amount of seats as Highbury.
Unfortunately, with only group winners guaranteed a quarter-final place, Arsenal were left to rue some late equalisers as they ended up finishing third on the head-to-head rule.
Arsenal Champions League results 1998/99
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
Group stage
Lens (a)
D 1-1
Vairelles / Overmars
Group stage
Panathinaikos (h)
W 2-1
Adams, Keown / Mauro
Group stage
Dynamo Kyiv (h)
D 1-1
Bergkamp / Rebrov
Group stage
Dynamo Kyiv (a)
L 1-3
Rebrov, Holovko, Shevchenko / Hughes
Group stage
Lens (h)
L 0-1
Debeve
Group stage
Panathinaikos (a)
W 3-1
Sypniewski / Asanovic (og), Anelka, Boa Morte
1999/00 Fiorentina and Barcelona win at Wembley to eliminate Gunners
Arsenal came up against some world superstars such as Gabriel Batistuta and Rivaldo in the first group stage, and while they were far from embarrassed, they fell short by a point to finish third once again.
They found solace in a run to the UEFA Cup final, where they were beaten on penalties by Galatasaray.
Arsenal Champions League results 1999/00
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
Group stage
Fiorentina (a)
D 0-0
None
Group stage
AIK (h)
W 3-1
Ljungberg, Henry, Suker / Nordin
Group stage
Barcelona (a)
D 1-1
Luis Enrique / Kanu
Group stage
Barcelona (h)
L 2-4
Bergkamp, Overmars / Rivaldo, Luis Enrique, Figo, Cocu
Group stage
Fiorentina (h)
L 0-1
Batistuta
Group stage
AIK (a)
W 3-2
A. Andersson (2) / Overmars (2), Suker
2000/01 Gunners suffer away goals heartbreak Pt. 1
The 2000/01 campaign was the first time the Gunners made it through the group stage – a feat they repeated for the following 16 years.
It was also the one and only time they made it past the second group stage before it was discontinued in 2003.
Qualifying comfortably from the group as winners, they survived a second group stage including would-be familiar foes Bayern Munich, before falling to Valencia on away goals in the quarter-finals despite Ray Parlour’s first-leg screamer.
Arsenal Champions League results 2000/01
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
Group stage
Sparta Prague (a)
W 1-0
Sylvinho
Group stage
Shakhtar Donetsk (h)
W 3-2
Wiltord, Keown (2) / Bakharev, Vorobey
Group stage
Lazio (h)
W 2-0
Ljungberg (2)
Group stage
Lazio (a)
D 1-1
Pires
Group stage
Sparta Prague
W 4-2
Parlour, Lauren, Dixon, Kanu / Labant, Rosicky
Group stage
Shakhtar Donetsk (a)
L 0-3
Atelkin, Vorobey, Byelik
Second group stage
Spartak Moscow (a)
L 1-4
Marcao (2), Titov, Robson / Sylvinho
Second group stage
Bayern Munich (h)
D 2-2
Henry, Kanu / Tarnat, Scholl
Second group stage
Lyon (a)
W 1-0
Henry
Second group stage
Lyon (h)
D 1-1
Bergkamp / Edmilson
Second group stage
Spartak Moscow (h)
W 1-0
Henry
Second group stage
Bayern Munich (a)
L 0-1
Elber
Quarter-final 1st leg
Valencia (h)
W 2-1
Henry, Parlour / Ayala
Quarter-final 2nd leg
Valencia (a)
L 0-1
Carew
2001/02 Double winners fall short in Europe again
Arsenal won all their home games to squeeze into the second group stage, where although they defeated eventual finalists Bayer Leverkusen, the Gunners were knocked out, with two defeats against then-Spanish giants Deportivo proving crucial.
Wenger’s men continued to impress on the domestic front, with another league and cup double leaving European success as the missing part in the trophy cabinet.
Arsenal Champions League results 2001/02
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
First group stage
Mallorca (a)
L 0-1
Engonga
First group stage
Schalke (h)
W 3-2
Ljungberg, Henry (2) / Van Hoogdalem, Mpenza
First group stage
Panathinaikos (a)
L 0-1
Karagounis
First group stage
Panathinaikos (h)
W 2-1
Henry (2) / Olisadebe
First group stage
Mallorca (h)
W 3-1
Pires, Bergkamp, Henry / Novo
First group stage
Schalke (a)
L 1-3
Mulder, Vermant, Moller / Wiltord
Second group stage
Deportivo (a)
L 0-2
Makaay, Tristan
Second group stage
Juventus (h)
W 3-1
Ljungberg (2), Henry / Taylor (og)
Second group stage
Bayer Leverkusen (a)
D 1-1
Kirsten / Pires
Second group stage
Bayer Leverkusen (h)
W 4-1
Pires, Henry, Vieira, Bergkamp / Sebescen
Second group stage
Deportivo (h)
L 0-2
Valeron, Naybet
Second group stage
Juventus (a)
L 0-1
Zalayeta
2002/03 Gunners draw four of six second-phase games
Experienced Champions League participants by this point, Arsenal secured a routine second group stage spot after seeing off the likes of Borussia Dortmund and PSV.
While they had their moments in the second group stage – including Thierry Henry’s hat-trick against Roma – failure to convert draws into wins saw Ajax and Valencia pip the Gunners to the two quarter-final berths.
Arsenal Champions League results 2002/03
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
First group stage
Borussia Dortmund (h)
W 2-0
Bergkamp, Ljungberg
First group stage
PSV (a)
W 4-0
Gilberto, Ljungberg, Henry (2)
First group stage
Auxerre (a)
W 1-0
Gilberto
First group stage
Auxerre (h)
L 1-2
Kanu / Kapo, Fadiga
First group stage
Borussia Dortmund (a)
L 1-2
Rosicky (2) / Henry
First group stage
PSV (h)
D 0-0
None
Second group stage
Roma (a)
W 3-1
Cassano / Henry (3)
Second group stage
Valencia (h)
D 0-0
None
Second group stage
Ajax (h)
D 1-1
Wiltord / De Jong
Second group stage
Ajax (a)
D 0-0
None
Second group stage
Roma (h)
D 1-1
Vieira / Cassano
Second group stage
Valencia (a)
L 1-2
Carew (2) / Henry
2003/04 Wayne Bridge denies Invincibles shot at European glory
Thierry Henry celebrating for Arsenal.
With the second group stage now a thing of the past, Arsenal were arguably at their very best and poised to bring the Champions League to N5 for the first time.
A disastrous start to the group stage was remedied by three successive victories which included their 5-1 demolition of Inter at San Siro, before easing past Celta Vigo in the last 16 and being handed a quarter-final tie with London rivals Chelsea.
Despite a rocking first 45, Arsenal were unable to make their home advantage count as the Blues snatched the tie late on, leaving the Gunners to wonder what might have been as FC Porto went all the way.
Arsenal Champions League results 2003/04
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
Group stage
Inter (h)
L 0-3
Cruz, Van der Meyde, Martins
Group stage
Lokomotiv Moscow (a)
D 0-0
None
Group stage
Dynamo Kyiv (a)
L 1-2
Shatskikh, Belkevich / Henry
Group stage
Dynamo Kyiv (h)
W 1-0
Cole
Group stage
Inter (a)
W 5-1
Vieri / Henry (2), Ljungberg, Edu, Pires
Group stage
Lokomotiv Moscow
W 2-0
Pires, Ljungberg
Round of 16 1st leg
Celta Vigo (a)
W 3-2
Edu, Jose Ignacio / Edu (2), Pires
Round of 16 2nd leg
Celta Vigo (h)
W 2-0
Henry (2)
Quarter-final 1st leg
Chelsea (a)
D 1-1
Gudjohnsen / Pires
Quarter-final 2nd leg
Chelsea (h)
L 1-2
Reyes / Lampard, Bridge
2004/05 Arsenal fall to Bayern despite second-leg win
Arsenal topped their group despite winning just two of their six matches, though their reward of meeting Bayern Munich in the last 16 (sound familiar?) saw the Gunners endure another early exit.
After a 3-1 defeat at a snowy Olympiastadion, Arsenal threatened to stage a remarkable comeback in the second leg, but their 1-0 win was not enough to advance to the quarters.
Arsenal Champions League results 2004/05
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
Group stage
PSV (h)
W 1-0
Alex (og)
Group stage
Rosenborg (a)
D 1-1
Strand / Ljungberg
Group stage
Panathinaikos (a)
D 2-2
Gonzalez, Olisadebe / Ljungberg, Henry
Group stage
Panathinaikos (h)
D 1-1
Henry / Cygan (og)
Group stage
PSV (a)
D 1-1
Ooijer / Henry
Group stage
Rosenborg
W 5-1
Reyes, Henry, Fabregas, Pires, Van Persie / Hoftun
Round of 16 1st leg
Bayern Munich (a)
L 1-3
Pizarro (2), Salihamidzic / Toure
Round of 16 2nd leg
Bayern Munich (h)
W 1-0
Henry
2005/06 Gunners lose in Paris finale amid historic campaign
Arsenal’s closest call to date came in what was their final European campaign at Highbury. They bowed out in style by easing through the group, and enjoyed a magical night at the Santiago Bernabeu before holding Real Madrid to a goalless draw in north London.
Their penultimate night under the Highbury lights in Europe saw Cesc Fabregas and Thierry Henry see off Juventus before another shutout in Turin, while there was more drama in the semi-final.
Kolo Toure scored Highbury’s last-ever Champions League goal as they took a slender advantage to Spain, where a late Jens Lehmann penalty save secured Arsenal a place in the Champions League final.
The final was also fraught with controversy, with Lehmann’s first-half sending-off leaving the Gunners up against it, though they somehow led at half-time through Sol Campbell’s header.
Barcelona’s equaliser had more of a hint of offside about it, before the 10 men’s luck ran out late on, as Juliano Belletti’s winner broke Arsenal hearts.
Arsenal Champions League results 2005/06
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
Group stage
FC Thun (h)
W 2-1
Gilberto, Bergkamp / Ferreira
Group stage
Ajax (a)
W 2-1
Rosenberg / Ljungberg, Pires
Group stage
Sparta Prague (a)
W 2-0
Henry (2)
Group stage
Sparta Prague (h)
W 3-0
Henry, Van Persie (2)
Group stage
FC Thun (a)
W 1-0
Pires
Group stage
Ajax (h)
D 0-0
None
Round of 16 1st leg
Real Madrid
W 1-0
Henry
Round of 16 2nd leg
Real Madrid
D 0-0
None
Quarter-final 1st leg
Juventus
W 2-0
Fabregas, Henry
Quarter-final 2nd leg
Juventus
D 0-0
None
Semi-final 1st leg
Villarreal
W 1-0
Toure
Semi-final 2nd leg
Villarreal
D 0-0
None
Final
Barcelona
L 1-2
Campbell
2006/07 PSV’s Alex nets at both ends to send Gunners out
Arsenal’s fourth-place finish the previous year – their lowest under Wenger – saw the Frenchman’s side in the unfamiliar territory of having to enter the qualifying rounds, where they defeated Dinamo Zagreb over two legs.
The Gunners topped their group once more, but their run came to an abrupt end when Alex nodded in a last-gasp equaliser for PSV in the last 16 to defeat Arsenal on aggregate.
Arsenal Champions League results 2006/07
Round
Opponent
Result
Goalscorers
Third qualifying round 1st leg
Dinamo Zagreb (a)
W 3-0
Fabregas (2), Van Persie
Third qualifying round 2nd leg
Dinamo Zagreb (h)
W 2-1
Ljungberg, Flamini / Eduardo
Group stage
Hamburg (a)
W 2-1
Sanogo / Gilberto, Rosicky
Group stage
Porto (h)
W 2-0
Henry, Hleb
Group stage
CSKA Moscow (a)
L 0-1
Carvalho
Group stage
CSKA Moscow (h)
D 0-0
None
Group stage
Hamburg (h)
W 3-1
Van Persie, Eboue, Baptista / Van der Vaart
Group stage
Porto (a)
D 0-0
None
Round of 16 1st leg
PSV (a)
L 0-1
Mendez
Round of 16 2nd leg
PSV (h)
D 1-1
Alex (og) / Alex
2007/08 Contentious penalty sees Arsenal’s San Siro victory count for nothing
This was another campaign that left the Gunners licking their wounds, as Arsenal were minutes away from the semi-finals before a late, debatable penalty call at Anfield put paid to their efforts to see off English opposition in the Champions League.
Arsenal dazzled at times in the group stage, securing their biggest-ever Champions League win in their 7-0 rout against Slavia Prague. They then dispatched holders Milan with a memorable victory at San Siro before meeting Liverpool in the last eight, where the Reds’ European experience showed.
Next season will be the start of a new era for Everton.
On Sunday, the Toffees played their 2,791th and final match at Goodison Park, waving goodbye to their home since 1894 with a 2-0 victory over Southampton; Iliman Ndiaye the scorer of a first half brace.
So, come August, the Blues will commence the new campaign at their new home at Bramley-Moore Dock, with a renewed sense of optimism, given that the team have stabilised since David Moyes’ return, while new owners the Friedkin Group offer hope for the future too.
However, with one of Everton’s most-prized assets, potentially, on his way out this summer, have they already identified an ideal replacement?
Everton targeting defensive reinforcements
According to a report in Africa Foot, Everton are ‘considering’ making a move to sign defender Sinaly Diomandé, adding that ‘negotiations between the various parties are… underway’.
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Indeed, the report adds that the Toffees are said to have ‘begun talks’ with the player’s representatives regarding a potential move.
The 24-year-old Côte d’Ivoire international began his career at Olympique Lyonnais, making 85 appearances for les Gones, before joining Auxerre last summer on a free transfer, albeit, according to L’Équipe, Lyon will receive 50% of any future sale.
Sinaly Diomande for Auxerre.
So, could the young defender be on the move again, this time to Merseyside?
How Diomande compares to Jarrad Branthwaite
Once again, as was the case last summer, Jarrad Branthwaite’s name features prominently in the transfer rumour mill.
Mick Brown of Football Insider claims that Chelsea are ‘considering’ a move to sign the centre-back, while it would be no surprise to see Manchester United come back into the equation this summer.
A year ago, as noted by Andy Hunter and Ben Fisher of the Guardian, Everton rejected two bids from Man United, the second of which was worth £50m, with Branthwaite valued at closer to £70m.
Nevertheless, even if Everton stand firm, interest in the England international will remain.
So, would Diomandé be a good replacement? Well, let’s find out.
Jarrad Branthwaite vs Sinaly Diomandé 2024/25 comparison
Statistics
Branthwaite
Diomandé
Appearanes
30
23
Minutes
2,510
1,945
Pass accuracy %
83%
85%
Successful tackles
36
39
Clearances
188
96
Interceptions
27
30
Blocked shots
23
18
Ball recoveries
93
86
Duels contested
186
160
Duels won
118
94
% of aerial duels won
59%
54%
% of ground duels won
69%
61%
Touches per 90
56
59
Average Sofascore Rating
7.02
6.89
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt, Squawa and SofaScore
As the table outlines, the duo’s statistics are very similar across the board, with Branthwaite having the slight edge overall, albeit Diomandé does boast a better passing accuracy, while also registering more tackles and interceptions, as well as more touches per game.
One analyst noted that Diomandé is a talented youngster who has “shown some great things” during his time in Ligue 1, while Sébastien Denis of Foot Mercato believes he has “incredible qualities”.
Meantime, João Ruivo of Total Football Analysis praises his aerial prowess as well as his ability to register plenty of interceptions, assertions that are supported by the data, while Dom Corrigan of Target Scouting is impressed by his ‘calming presence’, adding that he is ‘capable of brilliant last ditch defending’.
Jarrad Branthwaite
Thus, it is clear that Diomandé is a young defender with serious potential, so, given Everton’s ongoing financial constraints, if they’re able to secure him at a cut-price, he could be an excellent addition to fill Branthwaite’s possible void.
Everton join race to sign "elite" £17m+ defender also wanted by Aston Villa
The Toffees are now in the frame to sign a centre-back, who is attracting widespread interest from the Premier League.
Glasgow Rangers are reportedly closing in on a deal to appoint Scottish head coach Russell Martin as their permanent successor to Philippe Clement.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the former Southampton manager has ‘accepted the project’ at Ibrox, and he is now on course to take the reins heading into next season.
Once Martin is in the building, there is plenty for the ex-Premier League boss to deal with during the summer transfer window, in order to create a squad that can compete for the Scottish Premiership title.
The English-born tactician is set to walk into a club that has not won the league title for four years, and he must be ruthless with decisions on players whilst working alongside sporting director Kevin Thelwell.
One Rangers player who wants to leave
Part of building a squad that can be successful and dominant under Martin’s management next season will be ensuring that the players want to be there and want to play for Rangers.
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The Light Blues should not want anyone in the group who either sees their future elsewhere or is not happy with playing in Scotland, which is why news that one flop wants to leave the club should give Martin an easy decision to make.
IbroxNews recently reported that central defender Robin Propper wants to leave Rangers to return to his home country in the Netherlands, a year on from leaving FC Twente to join the Gers.
Robin Propper
The outlet added that FC Twente are keen to bring him back to the Eredivisie this summer, but only for half of the £2.5m that the Scottish giants paid for him.
Why Rangers should sell Robin Propper
Martin should instantly axe Propper from the squad as one of his first decisions as the club’s new manager, should the deal go through as expected, for several reasons.
As aforementioned, the ex-Southampton boss should not want a player who does not want to be at Rangers, as he will need all the players pulling in the same direction to be successful.
Crucially, though, Martin should ditch Propper because he has not offered enough quality on the pitch. The Dutch centre-back earns more (£9k-per-week) than star attacker Hamza Igamane (£7.2k-per-week), who delivered 16 goals in all competitions this season, and has not done enough to justify that.
Robin Propper (24/25)
Premiership
Europa League
Appearances
27
10
Starts
22
9
Dribbled past
11x
4x
Clean sheets
5
1
Duel success rate
63%
45%
Yellow cards (red)
8 (0)
1 (1)
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, Rangers only kept six clean sheets in the 37 games that he played in the Premiership and the Europa League, whilst he was particularly weak in Europe – losing 55% of his duels.
Back in December, Derek Ferguson voiced concerns over how the centre-back was adapting to life in Scotland. He said:
“Propper is struggling. He’s been pretty vocal over the last couple of weeks that he’s finding it tough in our league. He’s been asked the question early on. It’s quite worrying when you see him struggling as bad as that. Look at the body language – he’s looking for a way out already.”
It simply has not worked out for the 31-year-old defender at Ibrox, as shown by his statistics domestically and in Europe, and that may be why he is now keen to move back to the Netherlands.
With all of this in mind, it should be a fairly simple decision for Martin to make on his future, as he must instantly axe the Dutch flop from the squad amid interest from FC Twente.
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Rangers have now sent one of their club scouts to South America to watch a 6-cap international live in action today, according to a recent report.
Russell Martin named new Rangers manager
After being linked with several different candidates, Rangers announced on Thursday that former Southampton manager Russell Martin is their new head coach, joining on a three-year deal. Steven Gerrard and Carlo Ancelotti’s son Davide were both linked with the role, but it is Martin who has been given the job, replacing Barry Ferguson.
The new boss had a spell at Ibrox during his playing career, spending five months on loan in 2018, and he now returns as manager. Speaking for the first time since his appointment, Martin has vowed to give supporters a Rangers team they can be “proud of”.
“The supporters are the most important people at any football club. My job is to give them a team they identify with, and they are proud of. A team that wins.
“A team that’s going to give everything. One thing that’s always overlooked with our teams is they always run the most out of possession, because they have to if they want to dominate the ball and be aggressive.
“It’s not a given; it’s an attribute – you need to work hard; not everyone has that. We want people like that to come to the club.
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“To the fans, I have to win. I don’t think I’ve been the number one choice at any club I’ve been at. By the time we’ve left every team I’ve been at, we’ve formed a real connection with the supporters. I hope this will be the same. My whole playing career was based on hard work and resilience. It was not done on talent.”
Rangers official in South America today to watch Chile international
As the Gers announce the arrival of Martin, the club could already be lining up his first summer signing, as according to En Cancha, relayed by Sport Witness, a Rangers official has been sent to South America to watch midfielder Vicente Pizarro live in action today.
The 22-year-old, who currently plays for Chilean side Colo-Colo, has been called up to the Chile national team for the World Cup qualifiers against Argentina and Bolivia, as he looks to add to the six caps he has already won. Chile face Argentina late on Thursday evening, and it is a match that could be crucial to Pizarro’s future.
The report states that Rangers are one of a few clubs who are sending a scout to watch the midfielder in action, and while he is under contract until December 2027, Pizarro could leave Colo-Colo this summer.
Vicente Pizarro’s Colo-Colo stats
Apps
150
Goals
8
Assists
3
The Scottish side do already have a few options in the middle of the park, but with doubts surrounding the future of Nicolas Raskin, Pizarro could arrive as a direct replacement for the Belgium star.
Arsenal are ready to spend big this summer and could now gain the upper hand on Chelsea in pursuit of a talented star plying his trade at the Club World Cup, according to a report.
Arsenal ready to make statement signings
The Gunners hope to establish themselves as a frontrunner in the race for the Premier League title and Mikel Arteta is set to be backed this window as high-profile targets are identified at the Emirates Stadium.
In an honest assessment of his former side’s hunt for a striker, Arsenal icon Theo Walcott has pointed out that the club need to pursue someone in Liam Delap’s mould as they search for a new source of goals.
Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are Arsenal’s two main striking targets, and the latter has given his priority to Arteta’s side following an excellent campaign at Sporting.
That development comes in spite of interest from Manchester United, which will undoubtedly provoke optimism among a support desperate to see the final piece of the jigsaw added over the coming months.
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However, it has to be taken into account that signing a forward isn’t the only requirement to exceed their rivals’ points tally next season; you also need an effective foil to maximise attacking output across the board.
With that in mind, Arsenal now have a winger on their radar that they could steal from under the nose of rivals Chelsea, according to reports.
Arsenal prepare bid to sign Borussia Dortmund star Jamie Gittens
According to reports in Spain, Arsenal are preparing a bid to sign Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens, and he is viewed internally as someone who would fit their philosophy to develop talent over the long-term.
Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Bynoe-Gittensin action with Lille's Bafode Diakite
Berta and company are ready to put forward an offer that could amount to roughly £42.5 million, while Chelsea have also been heavily linked with Gittens and came close to signing him before the Club World Cup registration window closed. There have even been claims the Blues still want him and could make a new bid in days.
Jamie Gittens in 2024/25 – Bundesliga (FBRef)
Shot-creating actions
73
Goals-creating actions
10
Progressive carries per 90
5.53
Touches in opposition penalty area per 90
5.53
Successful take-ons per 90
3.57
Labelled “fantastic” by Nuri Sahin, the England Under-21 international registered 12 goals and five assists as Borussia Dortmund left it late to secure Champions League qualification.
Bukayo Saka’s injury issues throughout the campaign demonstrated that additional depth is needed for the Gunners to juggle domestic and European endeavours. Taking that into consideration, what better way for Arsenal to secure another talented outlet out wide than to beat Chelsea to Gittens’ signature.
Jemimah Rodrigues and Pooja Vastrakar, both returning after injuries, are fit to play the first ODI on Sunday, Harmanpreet confirmed
Srinidhi Ramanujam15-Jun-2024
Jemimah Rodrigues, back after an injury layoff, is back in the India team•Srinidhi Ramanujam/ESPNcricinfo
India captain Harmanpreet Kaur is all in favour of the points system in multi-format series, saying that it will make things “more challenging”.India’s home series against South Africa begins with the first of three ODIs on Sunday in Bengaluru, following which a one-off Test and three T20Is will be played in Chennai. The points system is not in place for the exchanges.”It’s totally up to BCCI or ICC [to decide],” Harmanpreet said on the eve of the series opener. “But as a player, if these things are there, players are more into the game and players are more pumped up. If the points system is there, it’s more challenging and will be good to have.”Currently, the women’s Ashes series uses a points system with four points up for grabs for Tests (four for a win and two for a draw), and two for a limited-overs match. Whoever finishes with most points win the Ashes. This system was first introduced in the 2013 series in England to keep the whole series relevant.Related
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In 2021, the points system was also used for India’s tour of England, the first time it had been used outside of the Ashes. India lost the series 10-6 on points. India’s last all-format series – against Australia at home in December 2023-January 2024 – did not use the points system with each format treated as separate.It was also the last time India played an ODI as the focus has largely on the next T20 World Cup, to be played this October in Bangladesh.Sunday’s match will only be India’s seventh ODI since the start of 2023 . As far as the next year’s ODI World Cup is concerned, they have already gained automatic qualification as hosts. However, in order to shake off the rust in the format, India had two separate camps in Bengaluru and Mumbai in the lead-up to the South Africa series, playing a few practice games while at it.”We take it as an opportunity,” Harmanpreet said. “Nowadays we are playing more T20 games but ODIs are something that, as a player, you have more time to assess yourself and even the conditions. It’s good for us that we are getting more matches to express ourselves.”It’s good for us that we are getting more time in the middle and getting to play all three formats as players.”There was good news for India ahead of the first match with Harmanpreet confirming that both Jemimah Rodrigues and Pooja Vastrakar were fit for selection. Rodrigues missed the recent tour of Bangladesh with a back niggle, while the nature and status of Vastrakar’s injury were not clear when the BCCI announced the squad.
Manchester United have a huge summer ahead of them to try and transform their fortunes on the pitch next season and subsequently avoid a repeat of this campaign.
The Red Devils finished in a measly 15th place in the Premier League, with Ruben Amorim unable to transform their fortunes after taking the reins in November following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal.
However, it appears as though the 40-year-old will have some serious money to spend throughout the summer in a bid to improve the current players at his disposal.
Manchester United manager RubenAmorimbefore the match
He’s already splashed over £60m to complete the signing of Brazilian international Matheus Cunha, with a deal also heading in the right direction for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
It’s likely that the summer activity won’t end there, which could lead to various big-money additions making the switch to Old Trafford ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, under the watchful eye of sporting director, Jason Wilcox.
The latest on United’s hunt for new additions
Warren Zaire-Emery is one of the latest names on their radar this window, with the Red Devils entering talks with PSG over an £85m move for the teenage midfielder.
He’s not the only name mentioned in recent days, as West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus has been of interest after an enquiry was made for the 24-year-old’s signature.
West Ham's Mohammed Kudus
However, another new name has entered the mix over the last few hours, with Newcastle United talisman Alexander Isak appearing on their radar, according to Italian outlet Tutto Juve.
They claim that United have been closely monitoring the Swedish international, potentially plotting a move after he scored 23 times in his 34 league appearances this campaign.
It also states that Chelsea and Arsenal are in the race to land the 25-year-old, but the Magpies are preparing a new contract for the forward, who’s currently valued at around £150m.
Why United’s £150m target would be a better signing than Gyokeres
Viktor Gyokeres has been a player in their sights over recent seasons, but their interest has skyrocketed after Amorim’s arrival – understandably so given his time with the striker at Sporting CP.
Sporting CP's ViktorGyokerescelebrates scoring their third goal to complete his hat-trick
The Swede has registered a staggering 54 goals in his 52 outings in 2024/25, leading to a whole host of English sides being linked with a move for his signature.
Arsenal appeared to be leading the race this window, but it appears as though the Gunners have moved on to different targets, subsequently bringing Amorim’s side back into the picture.
His rumoured £68m fee would undoubtedly tempt the hierarchy given his staggering goalscoring record, but they should look past a move for Gyokeres and put their attention on a deal for Isak.
Whilst the Sporting talisman has registered more goals this season, the Newcastle star has consistently thrived in England’s top flight – having the skillset that would make him an immediate success at Old Trafford.
When comparing their underlying stats from the current season, Isak has dominated, further showcasing why he would be the better option ahead of 2025/26.
The Magpies attacker, who’s been labelled “world-class” by journalist Thomas Hammond, may have been outscored, but has posted a higher goal per shot on target rate – showcasing his clinical edge in front of goal.
How Isak compares to Gyokeres throughout the 2024/25 campaign
Statistics (per 90)
Isak
Gyokeres
Games played
34
33
Goals scored
23
39
Goals per shot on target
0.5
0.4
Pass accuracy
75%
71%
Progressive passes
2.9
2.1
Passes into final third
1.2
0.5
Take-on success
46%
45%
Carries into final third
1.4
1.3
Stats via FBref
He’s also completed more passes and more passes into the final third, having the tools to provide the players around him at Old Trafford with the opportunities to thrive.
Isak has also completed more take-ons and made a higher tally of carries into the final third per 90, having the skillset to create his own opportunities rather than be dependent on other options around him.
The £150m price tag would be a club and English record, but the deal could prove to be worth every penny, especially if he can carry his form from St James’ with him to Old Trafford.
Gyokeres may still be some supporters’ first choice this window, but it’s evident that Isak would be the better option for the Red Devils and Wilcox in their pursuit of rising up the table in 2025/26.
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On Monday, completely coincidentally on the final day of their accounting year, the Villans sold their women’s team to themselves, thereby avoiding breaching the Premier League’s Profitability & Sustainability Rules.
So now, having avoided a potential points deduction, Unai Emery will be looking to bolster his squad, so could Villa land a new striker?
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Jhon Durán has to go down as one of the best pieces of business in modern Premier League history, joining Aston Villa from Chicago Fire in January 2023 for a reported fee of around £13m, having made just 27 appearances for the Men in Red in Major League Soccer, scoring eight goals.
Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran
Well, two years later, following his scoring spree at the start of last season, Durán was sold to Al-Nassr for £71m last January, representing a near 600% return on investment, easing the Villans’ PSR concerns.
Well, the Colombian is back in the news again because, after a miserly 18 appearances in Saudi Arabia, scoring 12 goals, he is reportedly set to join José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe, continuing one of the more unique and bizarre career arcs.
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Well, speaking of İstanbul-based giants, a report by TurkishFootball.com claims that Villa are in talks with Beşiktaş over the possibility of signing striker Semih Kılıçsoy, adding that he is valued at €15m (£13m).
Well, the Black Eagles themselves, who are managed by Ole Gunnar Solskjær these days, have just signed Tammy Abraham from AC Milan for the exact same amount, with the England international having been handed Kılıçsoy’s number nine shirt.
In response to this, journalist Fırat Günayer stated that he would be “surprised” if Kılıçsoy was still with Beşiktaş by the end of the transfer window, adding “there are a few offers… on the table”.
So, could the 19-year-old be set to swap the Bosphorus for Birmingham?
Why Semih Kılıçsoy could replicate Jhon Durán's success at Aston Villa
After joining Beşiktaş as an 11-year-old, Kılıçsoy made his Süper Lig debut against Antalyaspor in February 2023, before scoring his first goal for the Black Eagles during a Conference League qualifying victory over KF Tirana five months later.
In total, he has netted 16 times in 85 appearances for the Turkish giants, winning the Türkiye Kupası in 2024, his most notable goal coming against Malmö in the Europa League last November, this coming in a 2-1 victory at Tüpraş Stadyumu.
His performances have earned international recognition too, debuting for Türkiye against Italy at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara last June, subsequently included in Vincenzo Montella’s Euros squad.
Given his performances, analyst Ben Mattinson has dubbed him a “very powerful” forward, while Luis Kircher of Total Football Analysis believes that he is known for his ‘lethal finishing capabilities’ and ‘versatility’, forecasting that he will become a ‘prolific’ goalscorer at the elite level in the coming years.
So, let’s see how Kılıçsoy compares to Durán, prior to his move to Villa from Illinois.
Semih Kılıçsoy at Beşiktaş vs Jhon Duran at Envigado & Chicago Fire
Statistics
Kılıçsoy
Durán
Appearances
85
75
Minutes
4,227
4,182
Goals
16
17
Assists
9
10
Senior international caps
4
3
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt
As the table outlines, Durán, prior to joining Aston Villa, and Kılıçsoy right now boast similar levels of experience, with the Turkish striker actually having accumulated more senior appearances and minutes, scoring just one fewer goal. He also boasts that necessary “selfish” streak that the Colombian possesses, as Mattinson noted.
Also, Durán had played in Colombia’s Categoría Primera A and MLS which, according to Global Football Rankings, are the 32nd and ninth-strongest leagues in the world, with the Turkish Süper Lig somewhere in the middle at 18th.
Thus, it is clear that Kılıçsoy is a high-quality, high-potential player, one that is seemingly on the way out of Beşiktaş, suggesting he is available and more than talented enough to be a star at Villa Park.
Potentially arriving as a relative unknown teenager, in a similar vein to Duran, the promising marksman could be Emery’s next Villa success story.
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