Rangers: Star Now In Talks Over Summer Exit

Rangers star Ryan Kent is now in talks with Burnley over a free summer move, according to a report by Ibrox News.

Who could leave Rangers this summer?

The Glasgow giants, as things stand, could see a plethora of both first team and fringe players leave the club very soon as their contracts expire in May. Indeed, Kent, Alfredo Morelos, Ryan Jack, Filip Helander, Scott Arfield, Steven Davis, Allan McGregor and Kieran Wright are all out of contract just next month (Transfermarkt).

As such, Gers supporters could be about to witness a real year of change in their attempts to keep pace with Old Firm rivals Celtic. Decisions have apparently already been made on a select few, with defender Helander reliably tipped to leave after an injury-ridden season.

Meanwhile, reports surround the likes of Morelos and Kent, with the latter attracting interest from major clubs south of the border. The 26-year-old, who has a market value of £9.7 million according to Transfermarkt, is set to leave Rangers for nothing as things stand with sides looking to take advantage.

One of them is Championship high-flyers Burnley, who have just been promoted back to the Premier League at the first time of asking under the guidance of Man City legend Vincent Kompany.

According to a report by Ibrox News, Kent and his entourage have held discussions with the Clarets this week in an attempt to seal a Bosman move. Burnley have apparently made 'the first move' with talks now 'underway' with the midfielder.

An Ibrox 'source' told the outlet that Burnley negotiations have 'already commenced' with Kent and his representatives as Kompany looks to reinforce his squad ahead of next campaign.

New Kent contract talks appear to have resulted in nothing as things stand, opening the door for interested sides like Burnley to make an approach.

Potential Gers blow

Losing the Englishman would be an undoubted blow for the Gers considering just how important he is in the final third for Beale.

According to WhoScored, no Rangers player has completed more successful take-ons per 90 than Kent, who also ranks in their top three for key passes made.

Kent's tally of 11 goal contributions in the Scottish Premiership alone demonstrate his status as a key, key player – with only Borna Barisic registering more assists than the winger this season (WhoScored).

Not even acquiring a transfer fee for his services would surely leave a sour taste, yet according to this latest update, it appears to be heading in that direction.

Newcastle £10k p/w Youngster Can Be Trippier Alternative

Newcastle United defender Harrison Ashby has a 'big future' at St James' Park, according to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie.

What's the latest news involving Harrison Ashby?

Last week, Eddie Howe gave an update on whether Ashby would be involved in the Magpies' season run-in following a hamstring problem after he appeared for their Under-21 side in a 4-3 victory over Norwich City.

In his pre-match press conference before Newcastle thrashed Tottenham 6-1 in the Premier League, the 45-year-old said:

“He’s had a minor hamstring problem a couple of times, which has just dented his ability to train with us. Really pleased to see him come through (Monday’s) game.

"He played very well. He showed his qualities. He could potentially before the end of the season be in the matchday squad but he’s very much one that we’re developing and looking forward to trying to maximise his talent.”

The Scotland Under-21 international has yet to make a senior appearance for the Magpies since joining from West Ham United for £3 million back in January; however, it looks as if he could soon be set for a chance to showcase his abilities in the North East.

Speaking to Football FanCast, Sky Sports journalist Downie has echoed the sentiment that Ashby could become a big player for Newcastle in years to come.

When asked about what alternatives Newcastle have to Kieran Trippier at right-back, Downie told FFC: "That's why they went and got that young kid Harrison Ashby in January. I think they see a big future in him."

Can Harrison Ashby go on to have a successful career at Newcastle United?

It seems as if Ashby is highly rated at St James' Park and on the face of it, being able to learn from the example of someone like Tripper sets at right-back can only be beneficial for his career development.

Javier Manquillo is also on hand to cover for Trippier when needed, giving Magpies boss Howe plenty of options to choose from on the right-hand side of defence.

Harrison Ashby and Anthony Gordon are welcomed to St James' Park following their January moves to Newcastle United.

Ashby has endured an unfortunate time with injuries at Newcastle; however, the £10k-a-week ace has plenty of time on his side to break into the fold and become a key player in the coming years.

Next season could prove to be an exciting time for the youngster as he looks to make the right-back position his own in the North East.

But you do have to wonder how their potential qualification for the Champions League may see Newcastle question whether they have the required depth given he is yet to play for the senior side.

It could possibly see Ashby offered opportunities in the league or cup competitions as Howe may rotate the 32-year-old, Trippier.

Forget Gnonto: Leeds Must Unleash Brilliant Star

In recent weeks there has been a huge clamour from Leeds United fans for Javi Gracia to unleash teenage winger Wilfried Gnonto to aid their fight against relegation.

There were audible groans during the week as Crysencio Summerville came off the bench to replace the injured Luis Sinisterra, with the Italy international left on the bench to continue his recent lack of game time under the Spanish manager.

Given the gravity of the game and the impressive performances that Gnonto has produced in his first season in England, it is a huge source of frustration for Leeds fans that he has barely featured since the international break.

However, the main issue for Leeds is not with their attack, but with their toiling midfield and defence, with Marc Roca and Weston McKennie providing little protection for the back four, so Gracia must consider instead unleashing the rarely-seen Adam Forshaw.

Should Leeds start Adam Forshaw?

Forshaw has mustered just seven appearances in the Premier League so far this term and looks destined to depart Elland Road in the summer when his contract expires, but his experience could still be crucial for Gracia in the remaining games.

Since joining from Middlesbrough in January 2018, the midfielder has gone on to make just 86 appearances for the Yorkshire outfit, with injuries plaguing his time at Elland Road, but he has still caught the eye when enjoying a rare run in the first team, with Jermaine Beckford singing his praises on Sky Sports in 2021.

He said (via Leeds Live): “He’s been like a brand new player. So much energy, so much hunger. But I like that when Adam came in it was like there was nothing to worry about, nothing was missing.

“His passing ability, his movement, he breaks up play really well, he links up the game really well. Brilliant, brilliant football player.”

This desire and ability to break up the play could be the key to ending a rotten defensive record that has seen the Whites ship a league-high 63 times.

In the absence of the influential Tyler Adams, Leeds have leaked goals in recent weeks, suffering heavy defeats against Crystal Palace and Liverpool which have dropped them back into serious relegation trouble.

Gracia is seemingly unwilling to utilise Archie Gray or Darko Gyabi but needs to make a change to his midfield if he wants to keep the Peacocks in the Premier League, as Phil Hay emphasised in his build-up to the Leicester game in his Q and A for The Athletic.

He wrote: “Forshaw is also an option. Has to be something different to Roca-McKennie, I feel. That partnership is too easy to bully."

Some experience in the middle of the park could be exactly what Gracia needs to steady the ship, especially with some extremely tricky games coming up before the end of the season.

Therefore, while fans will continue to call for Gnonto on the wing, defensive security should be the priority, and Forshaw should be the man to come into the midfield for upcoming fixtures.

West Ham’s Incredible Star Outshone Benrahma Vs Man Utd

West Ham United took a huge step towards Premier League safety on Sunday evening as they beat Manchester United 1-0 at the London Stadium.

What happened in West Ham vs Manchester United?

It was the visitors who started the stronger of the two sides, as both Bruno Fernandes and Antony fired narrowly wide of Lukasz Fabianski's post, with the Polish shot-stopper well-beaten.

Marcus Rashford then hit the woodwork but United's missed chances came back to haunt them not long after, with David De Gea's howler gifting Said Benrahma the opening goal just before the half-hour mark.

Both sides had chances to score in the second 45, with Rashford and Anthony Martial denied by the impressive Fabianski, while Tomas Soucek also came close as his acrobatic effort struck the post.

However, Benrahma's goal would prove enough in the end, and the Hammers move seven points clear of the bottom three with just three games remaining, suggesting that David Moyes' side can now be considered all but mathematically safe.

Who was West Ham's best player against Man United?

While Benrahma, and perhaps more likely De Gea, will steal the headlines for the goal, it was arguably Lucas Paqueta who was the strongest performer at the London Stadium.

As per Sofascore, the former AC Milan man would earn an impressive 7.5/10 rating for his performance, which ranked him as the third-best player to feature in the game, with only Fabianski (8.1) and Benrahma (7.8) rated higher.

During his time on the pitch, the Brazil international would register an impressive two shots, two dribbles and three key passes, all of which are an improvement on his seasonal average of 1.8 shots, one dribble and one key pass per game in the Premier League.

West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta

Despite his reputation as a flair player and an attacking midfielder, Paqueta has shown in recent weeks that he is more than willing to get stuck in defensively, registering another three tackles on Sunday evening, which again is an improvement on his average of 2.5 tackles per game.

However, that Brazilian flair certainly hasn't deserted him and he has begun to show his quality on a consistent basis in recent weeks, with the Athletic's Roshane Thomas suggesting that he, along with Declan Rice and Benrahma, were simply "having fun" in the win at the London Stadium.

The club-record signing was unfortunate to be denied an assist when Soucek's effort came off the post, but his all-round display was excellent again, and he deserves a lot of credit for upping his game when the Hammers needed him most. Indeed, he was arguably the club's true hero last night.

Tottenham: Nagelsmann Could Find Musiala 2.0 In 20 y/o Gem

Tottenham Hotspur are still on the hunt for a new manager to lead them into next season following Antonio Conte's exit earlier this term.

The Daily Mail recently reported that the club are still hoping to appoint German head coach Julian Nagelsmann as their new boss, following his departure from Bayern Munich earlier this year.

Lilywhites chief Daniel Levy is attempting to pry technical director Lee Dykes from fellow Premier League side Brentford to have a solid structure in place for whoever ends up taking the job.

Whilst the potential duo of Dykes and Nagelsmann could be given funds to reshape the squad in the upcoming transfer window, Spurs could look to their academy for potential first-team contributors.

The ex-Bayern boss showcased his willingness to give young players an opportunity during his time in the Bundesliga and the emergence of Jamal Musiala was one of his biggest success stories, with the youngster scoring 23 goals and providing 18 assists in 73 matches for the manager.

Bayern Munich forward Jamal Musiala.

Musiala predominantly plays as an attacking midfielder but can also feature anywhere across the frontline and Nagelsmann could find his next version of the German international if he joins Spurs by unleashing 20-year-old gem Yago Santiago from the U21 side.

Who is Yago Santiago?

The Spanish gem is also a no.10 who can play further up the pitch and on both flanks and his contract was extended until 2024, with the option for a further year, by the club in April, which suggests that they view him as a good prospect moving forward.

He has scored seven goals and provided three assists in 30 appearances in the Premier League 2 and UEFA Youth League combined this season, after managing three goals and five assists in 20 U18 Premier League outings in 2021/22.

The young maestro, who football.london journalist Alasdair Gold hailed as "bright" last year, has shown promise as a goalscorer and creator whilst playing in the youth set-ups and his statistics are not too dissimilar to what Musiala was doing for Bayern prior to his breakthrough.

Before making his first-team bow, the former Chelsea youngster scored eight goals and assisted three in 30 appearances for the German giant's academy side.

Since then, Musiala has scored 30 goals and provided 21 assists in 122 outings for Bayern in all competitions and Nagelsmann could attempt to extract a similar explosion of form from Santiago if he becomes Tottenham's next coach, given the Spaniard's impressive displays at youth level for the club.

Aston Villa Could Sign Defensive ‘Monster’

Aston Villa are on the path towards an exciting time ahead with Unai Emery at the helm on his Premier League return.

When the club hired the Spaniard in November, not many would have dreamed how the season could end, with Villa still in contention for a top-six finish and European football next campaign.

The four-time Europa League-winning coach has installed a new sense of belief in the squad, taking players to the next level and placing the club in a positive direction.

While things are ticking at Villa Park this season, the Spaniard has been linked with a number of players that could improve his squad in terms of depth and in signing future stars.

Earlier this week, the Villans were linked with a potential double swoop for a Serie A pair, in a move that could have a positive influence on Villa’s hopes to compete at this level again next season.

What’s the latest on Denzel Dumfries to Aston Villa?

As reported by InterLive – via SportWitness – Villa are planning a €55m (£48m) offer to sign Inter Milan duo Marcelo Brozovic and Denzel Dumfries.

denzel-dumfries-inter-milan-transfer-newcastle-united-premier-league

Both players have been linked with a move away from Inter this summer, with InterLive’s report claiming that Mateu Alemany – who had been set to join Villa until a change of heart – could be the key influence in any move.

However, since revelations regarding Alemany's own future, there has been no update on whether Dumfries remains a target.

What could Denzel Dumfries bring to Aston Villa?

Lauded as a “monster” by journalist Alan Rzepa on Twitter, the right-back is one of the top performing in his position in Europe over the past year as per FBref.

The 27-year-old ranks in the top 4% in Europe’s top five leagues in his position for his rate of aerials won, with 1.97 per 90.

The most dominating attribute the Dutchman offers is his ability to get forward, which is a key strength for a full-back when entering the Premier League.

Having caught the eye for his pace and directness, the £55k-per-week defender is a threat in attack on the flanks.

Such a claim is supported by the £35m-rated full-back's numbers which rank him in the top 1% of those in his position in Europe for most touches in the attacking penalty area, averaging a huge 4.01 per 90.

While Ashley Young is a seasoned professional in the Premier League, having made 421 appearances in the league over the years, the 37-year-old is nearing the end of his playing career.

The Stevenage-born right-back has been a key member of Emery’s squad, however, finding depth in his position is vital.

Dumfries could opt as a worthy heir to the Englishman, as a player that is experienced himself having played among Europe’s elite in his career at Inter.

Only time will tell if the Dutchman will reside at Villa Park come the end of summer, however, his talent and suitability to Emery’s squad is an exciting prospect.

£17k-p/w Celtic Man Slammed After 2-2 Draw

Journalist Alan Galindo has slammed Celtic winger Jota for his "quiet afternoon" as the Bhoys failed to win in their most recent game.

What's the latest on Celtc vs St Mirren?

Ange Postecoglou and co required a late equaliser to ensure they kept their unbeaten domestic home run alive, extending it to 51 games in a row with a draw against St Mirren on Saturday.

Indeed, Celtic fell behind after only four minutes as Curtis Main opened the scoring before Kyogo Furuhashi slammed the ball home to make it 1-1 ten minutes later.

Main, however, put the away team a goal ahead before half time and it took until the 81st minute before Callum McGregor rescued a point with a late equaliser.

As you can see from the result, the Bhoys clearly weren't at their best on the day and it sounds as though one man in particular failed to make much of a positive impact.

Indeed, as noted by Galindo in the player ratings for Glasgow Live, Jota delivered an underwhelming 6/10 display and had a: "Quiet afternoon by his standards."

What award has Jota won for Celtic?

While there have certainly been more damning criticisms fired at Celtic players in the past, this sub-par display of Jota's catches the eye because he is usually so good.

Against St Mirren, the SofaScore stats show just how poor he was as he gave the ball away with real regularity, losing possession 26 times – which was more than any other player on the pitch.

He also failed to have a single shot on target, with three attempted; was successful with just two of nine attempted crosses; and was dribbled past as well.

This is hardly what we've come to expect from the £17k-p/w Celtic winger who was recently awarded the PFA Scotland goal of the season award for his superb chip against Rangers in that 4-0 Old Firm victory last September.

Celtic winger Jota

After the game, manager Postecoglou certainly didn't seem to happy with the overall standards shown by his side on the day.

Indeed, he told the press (via BBC Sport): "It was a tough game. St Mirren worked hard as they have all year and that's why they are what they are.

"We've gone off it a little bit the last couple of weeks, particularly the defensive side of the game, and when you do that, it's very hard then for us to play the football we want to.

Arsenal: Gunners Eyeing Move For Yet Another England Star

Arsenal are reportedly eyeing yet another English star for manager Mikel Arteta, with news of their interest in Leicester City's James Maddison.

Who could Arsenal sign this summer?

The Gunners are beginning to identify transfer targets for the looming summer window and reports suggest that central midfield is of real, real priority.

Indeed, West Ham United star Declan Rice is viewed as a top target, while Arsenal still hold an interest in Brighton's Moises Caicedo as an alternative among others (The Daily Mail).

The north Londoners and sporting director Edu also want additions in more advanced, playmaking roles – leading to their reported talks with the agents of Chelsea's Mason Mount.

Man City captain Ilkay Gundogan is reliably believed to be of interest as well, with the Germany international currently looking set to leave Eastlands as a free agent next month if fresh terms can't be agreed.

Going back to Rice and Mount, both established England internationals, the Three Lions duo aren't the only stars Arsenal could target from Gareth Southgate's roster.

james-maddison-leicester-city-newcastle-united-transfer-premier-league

According to a report by The Daily Mirror, Foxes midfield star Maddison is also on their radar, coming after the 26-year-old's excellent campaign at the King Power Stadium.

This comes as Arteta and co prepare a huge summer rebuild, with Arsenal apparently expecting "a major set of ins and outs this summer".

Kieran Tierney, Rob Holding and Emile Smith Rowe could be sold, according to this report, with the aforementioned Mount, Gundogan, Rice and Caicedo all attracting Arsenal interest alongside Maddison.

Thomas Partey could also depart north London as Serie A clubs circle for the Ghanaian's signature.

Who is James Maddison?

The Englishman has been in fine form for Leicester throughout 2022/2023 – arguably standing out as a shining light amid their torrid, relegation-threatened campaign.

According to WhoScored, Maddison ranks as Dean Smith's best-performing player by average match rating in the Premier League – having registered an impressive 19 goal contributions in top flight alone (10 goals, nine assists).

The former Norwich City star has averaged more attempts at goal and key passes completed per 90 than any other Leicester player in the league – whilst also sitting joint-top of their ranks for successful take-ons (WhoScored).

Maddison has starred under both Smith and the departed Brendan Rodgers this season, leaving little wonder why top clubs like Arsenal have had their heads turned.

Reports claim Leicester have slapped a £50 million price tag on his head, which we believe is a more than fair price for such a threatening player.

Pundit Graeme Souness even thinks he's worth double that at "over £100 million" (Sky Sports via The Mail).

Tottenham Could Land AVB 2.0 In "Genius" Coach

The season may not yet be over, although Tottenham Hotpur's protracted search for a new permanent manager will likely already be beginning to grate on the club's support, with the Lilywhites having already seen a host of potential candidates fall out of the running.

Despite having sacked former boss Antonio Conte at the end of March, the north London outfit still appear to be no closer to naming a long-term successor to the experienced Italian, with leading target, Arne Slot, having only recently outlined his desire to remain with Eredivisie champions, Feyenoord.

Prior to that, Spurs were also dealt something of a blow after learning that Julian Nagelsmann is also not set to be on his way to N17, while Xabi Alonso also stated his intention to stay put at Bayer Leverkusen.

With chairman, Daniel Levy left to continue his quest to find a new head coach, Football Transfers only recently reported that out-of-work boss Graham Potter is among those being considered by the businessman, having left his post at rivals Chelsea earlier this year.

The 48-year-old – who was hailed as a "genius" by broadcaster Joe Thomlinson amid his spell at Brighton and Hove Albion – had only taken charge of the Blues back in September, although was ultimately relieved of his duties by Todd Boehly and co last month, after winning just 12 of his 31 games in charge.

It now looks as if Tottenham could turn to the one-time Swansea City man as their successor to Conte, with Levy potentially set to snap up another managerial figure to have only recently departed Stamford Bridge, having done so previously with Andre Villas-Boas.

How did Villas-Boas do at Spurs?

Much like Potter, the Portuguese coach arrived at White Hart Lane following a short-lived spell in west London, having been sacked after just nine months with the Blues after initially arriving in England from Porto ahead of the 2011/12 season.

Having previously won the treble in Portugal prior to joining Chelsea, Villas-Boas was still seemingly a well-regarded coach at the time of his move to Spurs, with Levy lauding him as a figure with an "outstanding reputation" back in 2012.

Tottenham manager Andre Villas Boas

The one-time Academica boss would ultimately lead his Gareth Bale-inspired side to a fifth-placed finish during what proved to be his only full season in charge, with the Welsh wizard scoring 21 league goals prior to sealing an £85.3m move to Real Madrid.

Having lost his talisman, Villas-Boas was unable to kick on the following season as the north Londoners endured a dismal start to the campaign, with the up-and-coming coach ultimately being shown the door in December 2013, after suffering hefty defeats to the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.

Much like his time at Chelsea, the Porto-born tactician's spell under Levy also proved rather brief in truth, with it having ultimately not proven a wise move to pounce for the available coach after his underwhelming stint at Stamford Bridge.

The fear will be that history could repeat itself if a deal is struck with Potter in the near future, with the Englishman having already struggled to make his mark at one of the Premier League's elite clubs.

57 y/o Informs Levy Of Spurs Managerial Decision

Tottenham Hotspur have been handed the green light from Ange Postecoglou that he is keen to take on the vacant managerial role in north London.

Who is Ange Postecoglou?

Daniel Levy saw Antonio Conte leave the club back in March following a run of underwhelming results amid the Italian's ongoing issues off the pitch.

But the off-field issues did not end there for Spurs with Fabio Paratici also leaving the club after the director of football was caught up in legal issues from his past.

However, Tottenham could now be heading in the right direction to get their plans for the future underway with the managerial vacancy expected to be filled in the coming days.

Indeed, it is believed the Celtic manager, Postecoglou, will take the reins at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having completed the Scottish treble on the weekend with the Bhoys.

The 57-year-old has never managed in one of Europe's top five leagues with the opportunity at Parkhead presenting him with his first role in the United Kingdom.

However, the Australian is seemingly keen to make the step up to the Premier League with Alex Crook telling TalkSPORT the Celtic boss has informed Spurs of his desire to take the job:

"What I was told last night [Sunday] by sources close to Postecoglou, that it's pretty much a done deal, but he's already given Tottenham the indication that he wants to job obviously still have to formally approach Celtic. They were holding off out of respect until after that cup final at the weekend.

"But it won't be a complicated one because Postecoglou has a 12-month rolling contract, so compensation won't be an issue for Spurs."

Where has Postecoglou managed before?

The Australian has a very short history of managing in Europe with the job at Parkhead marking just his second role on the continent having previously managed Panachaiki in Greece.

Prior to taking the role at Celtic, Postecoglou had mainly managed in his homeland and Japan with Yokohama but it is apparent he has made a positive impression on those within the Premier League.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy

Indeed, it is believed Spurs were not the only side to have looked at Postecoglou as a potential option with Leeds United and Leicester City – prior to the relegation – both linked with the Australian.

Although some Spurs fans may not look at these links as positives, it is worth mentioning that Postecoglou was also a serious candidate for the job at Brighton & Hove Albion when Graham Potter left.

Again, the Seagulls who many may view as the best-run club in the league, are believed to be seriously keen on one of the Asian stars which Postecoglou has introduced to Europe in Reo Hatate.

Postecoglou may not be a familiar name with some just yet, however, Spurs fans could take a lot of optimism from the attention he has received from the likes of the Brighton board.

After all, Spurs have tried the big names with the likes of Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte, perhaps it is now time to try a manager who could bring the fanbase back together.

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