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.

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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

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.

Arsenal Champions League results 2007/08

Round

Opponent

Result

Goalscorers

Third qualifying round 1st leg

Sparta Prague (a)

W 2-0

Fabregas, Hleb

Third qualifying round 2nd leg

Sparta Prague (h)

W 3-0

Rosicky, Fabregas, Eduardo

Group stage

Sevilla (h)

W 3-0

Fabregas, Van Persie, Eduardo

Group stage

Steaua Bucharest (a)

W 1-0

Van Persie

Group stage

Slavia Prague (h)

W 7-0

Fabregas (2), Hubacek (og), Walcott (2), Hleb, Bendtner

Group stage

Slavia Prague (a)

D 0-0

None

Group stage

Sevilla (a)

L 1-3

Keita, Luis Fabiano, Kanoute / Eduardo

Group stage

Steaua Bucharest (h)

W 2-1

Diaby, Bendtner / Zaharia

Round of 16 1st leg

Milan (h)

D 0-0

None

Round of 16 2nd leg

Milan (a)

W 2-0

Fabregas, Adebayor

Quarter-final 1st leg

Liverpool (h)

D 1-1

Adebayor / Kuyt

Quarter-final 2nd leg

Liverpool (a)

L 2-4

Hyypia, Torres, Gerrard, Babel / Diaby, Adebayor

Liverpool will soon look to build on winning the Premier League title and new reports have now offered encouragement to the Reds in their hunt to sign a world-renowned star.

Liverpool held by Arsenal after conceding two-goal lead

In their first home match since becoming champions, Liverpool were held by Arsenal in a 2-2 draw despite opening up a comfortable advantage courtesy of Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz. Gabriel Martinelli and Mikel Merino hit back for the visitors to steal a point, but the main talking point was supporters’ mixed reaction to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s appearance from the bench.

Coming off the back of his decision to leave his boyhood club on a free transfer, there are plenty of fans who made their frustration known despite the backdrop of a brilliant season for all involved at Liverpool. Arne Slot will be keen to banish any negativity present at Anfield, which is likely to disappear promptly in the summer once high-profile targets become public knowledge.

Real Madrid superstar Rodrygo could join the Reds to add a layer of elite quality on the right flank, illustrating a marker of FSG’s ambition to keep the club at the summit of English football for time to come.

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Lyon’s Malick Fofana may arrive at Liverpool to replace Luis Diaz, offering another inkling regarding the type of profile Slot wants as part of his project once the window opens. Next term, the Reds’ divisional rivals are likely to be stronger and in a better position to compete for the Premier League crown, meaning statement additions are necessary to add shine to a squad bristling with talent.

This is something they could now achieve if all goes to plan, per recent developments.

Kevin De Bruyne tempted by Liverpool move amid conflicting reports

According to reports in Italy via Sport Witness, Kevin De Bruyne is seriously considering a proposal from Liverpool and could be tempted by the prospect of one more season in the Premier League before moving to the MLS or Saudi Arabia.

It is important to point out that there have been conflicting stories surrounding the Manchester City icon – claims of a Liverpool offer being made for the 109-cap Belgian star have previously been circulated. On the other hand, Fabrizio Romano has said that Liverpool are not in talks to sign De Bruyne.

Either way, the 33-year-old is possibly the most lucrative free agent on the market this summer after deciding to leave the Etihad Stadium – City were placing a £100m price tag on him last year amid interest from the Middle East.

Kevin De Bruyne’s incredible time at Manchester City

Appearances

419

Goals

108

Assists

177

In a transitional season for the Citizens, De Bruyne has struck six times and delivered eight assists. Those may not be groundbreaking numbers, but the fact he has created 55 chances in the Premier League is enough to showcase his appeal.

Despite the rivalry that exists between Liverpool and Manchester City, Slot could pull off one of the most-talked about signings over recent years if the man in question’s willingness to move to Anfield is indeed legitimate.

Leeds United are currently enjoying their title party and could already be set to kick that up a notch after identifying two candidates to join them on their Premier League journey, according to a report.

Leeds crowned champions after stunning win at Plymouth

Daniel Farke has endured plenty of trials and tribulations this term, but his side have been a class above and deservedly find themselves top-flight bound after a successful campaign climaxed with a last-gasp title winner from Manor Solomon at Plymouth this weekend.

Many would argue that a club of Leeds’ stature belong in the Premier League, though there is plenty of work to be done to ensure his squad are equipped to take on the challenge of surviving after promotion from the Championship.

Dipping into the market, Farke has identified Celtic attacker Daizen Maeda as a primary target at Elland Road following his freescoring campaign north of the border. The Japan international is valued at £25 million, while Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are among a host of clubs ready to swoop for his services.

Confidence is high that Solomon will join Leeds on a permanent deal after a fine campaign on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, with the player said to have agreed to a return next term.

Leeds "well-placed" to sign £6m+ ace who's similar to Phillips and Tanaka

He is tempted by a move to the Premier League.

By
Henry Jackson

May 3, 2025

Kalvin Phillips and Tomas Soucek have been mentioned in connection with the Whites. The former hardly comes a surprise due to his links with his boyhood club, but it remains to be seen if a fairytale return is on the cards.

Scaling up ahead of their Premier League return won’t be easy for Leeds, given the level of side they are likely to come up against on a weekly basis compared to the English second-tier. Nevertheless, they now have two talented players in their sights that could make all the difference, per recent developments.

Leeds want Nicolas Kuhn and Cameron Carter-Vickers from Celtic

According to TBR, Leeds are in the mix to sign Celtic duo Cameron Carter-Vickers and Nicolas Kuhn to strengthen their Premier League survival bid. The pair earn £50,000 per week between them at Parkhead and have lit up the domestic scene in Scotland, emerging as two of the best players in the top-flight, with Carter-Vickers playing a part in the Bhoys conceding only 22 goals in 34 league matches.

Cameron Carter-Vickers – key statistics in 2024/25 (Scottish Premiership)
Duels won	160
Aerial duels won	119
Recoveries	123
Dribbled past	3
Interceptions	32
Nicolas Kuhn – key statistics in 2024/25 (Scottish Premiership)
Chances created	47
Completed dribbles	55
Shots on target	24
Touches in opposition box	157
Duels won	107

On the other hand, Kuhn has notched 20 goals and 14 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions, earning plaudits for his consistent displays coming off the right flank.

Celtic’s involvement in Champions League football may be a sticking point for Leeds if negotiations were to occur, though the lure of Premier League football can be a tempting one for top performers in Scotland.

Arsenal head into the summer with a new sporting director, Andrea Berta, and given the volume of work expected to be carried out, it’s just as well they’ve acted swiftly to appoint Edu’s successor.

Given Arsenal’s domestic plight this season, this summer is a crucial one for the Gunners as they go in search of adding the bodies required to help them lift their first Premier League title in over 20 years.

Top of Berta’s priority list must be a striker. Kai Havertz has been a solid signing, but he’s not your 20-goal-a-season man.

The likes of Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres, and of course, Alexander Isak continue to be linked with moves to north London.

Yet, this summer won’t all be about incomings. The Gunners need to get rid of a few bodies too.

Arsenal's exit dilemmas this summer

There are a few players definitely expected to depart this summer with Scottish full-back Kieran Tierney set to bring his association with the club to an end when his contract expires.

It’s expected that Tierney will head to former club Celtic, the side he swapped Arsenal for in a £25m deal in 2019.

Midfielder Jorginho is also expected to depart upon the conclusion of his contract but against all odds, Thomas Partey looks set to stay.

The Ghana midfielder’s deal ends at the conclusion of the season and it was widely thought that he would depart but the Athletic’s David Ornstein reported last week that talks are being held over a new deal.

So, who else could take their leave? Well, Oleksandr Zinchenko – who was linked with Dortmund last January – has seen decreased game time and will likely seek pastures new.

If Arsenal sign a new batch of forwards then don’t be surprised to see Leandro Trossard flee the Emirates either. There has been Saudi interest in the enigmatic Belgian who has found a recent run of strong form.

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Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

The other forward who must leave Arsenal

Over the last two seasons, there has been a common theme with Arsenal’s summer business. They’ve seen a batch of homegrown attackers leave the club.

In 2023, it was the turn of Folarin Balogun who after a rip-roaring season on loan in France, headed to Monaco in a permanent deal.

Last summer, Eddie Nketiah left for Crystal Palace, Mika Biereth headed to Sturm Graz in Austria and infamously, Chibo Obi Martin left to Manchester United.

Well, in 2025, it must be the turn of Nathan Butler-Oyedeji.

The striker is out of contract in the summer and it’s unlikely Arsenal will take the opportunity to renew his terms.

Now aged 22, the forward has still only played 27 senior games of football in his career, and the returns he has to show for those appearances are non-existent, failing to find the back of the net.

While it might be a harsh assessment, one has to be realistic here. Butler-Oyedeji is just one year younger than Saka. He’s four years older than Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly. While we wish him the best for the rest of his career, he’s not going to make it Arsenal, it’s as simple as that.

Arsenal U21

64

23

12

Arsenal U18

29

3

2

Cheltenham

14

0

0

Accrington

11

0

0

Arsenal first team

2

0

0

Despite that, it has been a landmark campaign for the young attacker who must have learnt plenty from his regular appearances in the Arsenal matchday squad.

He made his first-team debut against Dinamo Zagreb, appearing off the bench in a Champions League dead rubber a few months ago and then finally earned his Premier League debut last weekend, coming off the bench against Ipswich.

He’s rated highly, particularly by the aforementioned Nwaneri, who revealed that his “finishing is so good”.

It was a lovely moment indeed, but for a 22-year-old it’s for the best of his career that he goes out and finds regular first-team football at a senior level next season.

Arsenal are yet to see much of that expert finishing, but there’s no doubt he’ll have a successful career elsewhere. As we always say, one a Gooner, always a Gooner.

Arteta's next Havertz: Arsenal make enquiry to sign £52m "monster"

Arsenal could be about to land a new fprward to end their issues in the final third.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 27, 2025

Glasgow Rangers announced earlier this month that Czechia international Vaclav Cerny will return to his parent club Wolfsburg following the conclusion of his loan spell at Ibrox.

The left-footed winger spent the season on loan in Glasgow and it now remains to be seen whether or not the Gers will be able to bring him back to the club for a second stint.

Cerny looks set to be the third loan star in as many seasons to light up Ibrox before moving back to their parent club before going elsewhere, following in the footsteps of Abdallah Sima and Malik Tillman.

Sima scored 16 goals in 39 games on loan from Brighton in the 2023/24 campaign, and Tillman racked up 12 goals and five assists in 43 matches on loan from Bayern Munich in the 2022/23 season.

This shows that the club’s top wide options in the last three seasons have all been contracted to other clubs, which is not ideal because it means that Rangers have to replace them every year and have no option to potentially sell them on for profit as a result of their performances.

With this in mind, the Scottish Premiership giants should be trying to find a permanent solution to their problems out wide by finding their next Ryan Kent.

Rangers hit the jackpot with Ryan Kent

The English forward was a rare loanee that they were able to sign permanently for a reported fee of £7.5m during Steven Gerrard’s reign at Ibrox, and he went on to be a big success in Glasgow.

Rangers were willing to splash the cash to sign him permanently, and it turned out to be a fantastic decision as he was a terrific servant for many years on the left flank.

Kent played on the left flank, cutting in on his right foot, and delivered plenty of quality at the top end of the pitch for the Gers, particularly in the 2020/21 campaign.

22/23

44

3

10

21/22

46

3

19

20/21

52

13

14

19/20

33

8

4

18/19

43

6

9

As you can see in the table above, the English flanker produced an eye-catching 27 goals and assists combined in 52 games that term, in which the Light Blues won the Scottish Premiership title under Gerrard.

The right-footed speedster moved on from Ibrox in the summer of 2023 and Rangers have failed to replace him with a permanent replacement, signing Sima and Cerny on loan since, but that they could change that with their latest target.

Rangers in strong position to sign new star

According to GIVEMESPORT, Rangers are one of 26 clubs that are interested in a deal to sign Peterborough United winger Kwame Poku in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that Birmingham City, Celtic, Sheffield United, and Sunderland are also eyeing up a deal to sign the Ghana international to bolster their respective clubs.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

It reveals that Rangers and Celtic are in a strong position to sign the 23-year-old star, though, because they would not have to pay as much in compensation as English teams would.

Poku’s contract at Peterborough is due to expire at the end of next month, making him a free agent, but because of his age, the Posh would be due compensation, and UEFA’s cross-border compensation rules mean that the Scottish teams would land him for a cut-price fee.

GIVEMESPORT adds that the Scottish teams have sent scouts to watch the attacker in action, but it remains to be seen who will win the race for his services this summer.

Rangers should, now, look to use their compensation advantage to put together an attractive contract package that can convince him to make the move to Ibrox, as he could be Kent 2.0.

Why Kwame Poku could be the next Ryan Kent

Poku could be the next version of Kent at Ibrox as an exciting wing talent who could be a long-term option for the next Light Blues manager, rather than a one-season loan.

The Scottish giants could build their attack around the 23-year-old star, who could be a key player for the club for many years to come, as Gerrard did with Kent after the English ace joined on a permanent deal.

Poku, who was described as “outstanding” by journalist Lukman Evergreen, has produced impressive performances for Peterborough over the last two seasons, and his form for the League One side suggests that the potential is there for him to be a fantastic signing for Rangers.

The left-footed star delivered 11 goals and seven assists in 39 appearances in the division during the 2023/24 campaign, before he improved on that haul at the top end of the pitch in the season that just finished.

Appearances

37

27

Goals

10

12

Big chances missed

8

3

Big chances created

9

9

Key passes per game

1.8

1.2

Assists

9

8

As you can see in the table above, Poku’s 2024/25 campaign for Peterborough was even more impressive than Kent’s in the Premiership title-winning season under Gerrard, with more goals and as many ‘big chances’ created in ten fewer appearances.

These statistics suggest that the potential is there for the 23-year-old to be a Kent-esque figure on the right flank for the Light Blues next season and beyond, as a winger who has the quality to deliver goals and assists on a regular basis.

Whilst it remains to be seen whether or not he can make the step up to the Premiership, Poku would be an exciting signing as a player with the potential to improve and develop over time as a long-term addition to the squad, rather than a one-season loan.

They've had talks: Rangers could hire 3-4-3 manager who's like Clement & GVB

Rangers are still no further forward in their search for a new manager

ByRoss Kilvington May 27, 2025

Therefore, the Light Blues could find their next version of Ryan Kent at Ibrox by winning the race to bring the Peterborough star to Ibrox this summer.

Erling Haaland is the current top striker in the Premier League, with the Man City superstar scoring for fun since moving to England.

The Norway international, should he remain in Manchester, could go on to break all kinds of records, but is he the best centre-forward the Premier League has seen since 1992? He’s got some catching up to do…

Ranking factors Appearances Goals scored Teams played for What others have said about them 20 best strikers in Premier League history: in pictures 20 Les Ferdinand QPR, Newcastle, Tottenham, West Ham, Leicester, Bolton

One of the top strikers around when the Premier League was formed in 1992 was Les Ferdinand. A powerful target man who loved a duel in the air, he scored 20 goals in the first ever Premier League campaign for QPR and featured for five more clubs in the top flight.

Best known for his impressive short stint at Newcastle and six-year period with Tottenham, Ferdinand ended with an impressive 149 goals.

Appearances

349

Goals

149

Assists

34

19 Jamie Vardy Leicester

Considering Jamie Vardy has only played for Leicester City in the Premier League, his tally of 144 goals in just under 350 appearances is hugely impressive.

The rapid striker scored in 11 consecutive top-flight games back in 2015/16, helping the Foxes win the title under Claudio Ranieri in what is arguably the greatest underdog story in sporting history.

Appearances

340

Goals

144

Assists

47

Golden Boot

1

Titles

1

18 Teddy Sheringham Nottingham Forest, Tottenham, Man Utd, Portsmouth, West Ham,

At the peak of his powers at the end of the 1990s was Teddy Sheringham, who is known best for his time at Tottenham and Man Utd.

Arguably a forward who went under the radar at the time, Sheringham was clinical in front of goal and appeared to get better with age, with Sir Alex Ferguson calling the striker “remarkable” during his time at Old Trafford.

Appearances

418

Goals

146

Assists

76

Golden Boot

1

Titles

3

17 Jermain Defoe West Ham, Tottenham, Portsmouth, Sunderland, Bournemouth

Agile, quick and a clinical finisher were some of Jermain Defoe’s main attributes as a striker, with the Englishman enjoying a successful partnership with towering forward Peter Crouch during his career.

Defoe certainly knew where the back of the net was and scored goals in 19 different Premier League campaigns, with a highlight netting five against Wigan in 2009.

Appearances

496

Goals

162

Assists

33

16 Ian Wright Arsenal, West Ham

Despite starting his Premier League career late at the age of 29, Ian Wright made a big impact for Arsenal, hitting double figures in the first six top-flight campaigns.

Wright was even the Gunners’ all-time top scorer for a period of time, and despite being known for his punditry work today, his talents as a striker in the 1990s cannot be forgotten.

Appearances

213

Goals

113

Assists

22

15 Dennis Bergkamp Arsenal

Another Arsenal star in attack in the 1990s and 2000s was Dennis Bergkamp. The Dutch forward was versatile, intelligent and technically brilliant, enjoying a brilliant partnership with Thierry Henry at Highbury under Arsene Wenger.

Bergkamp may not have scored as many goals as others, but he was called a “dream” by Henry, “the best” Wright has played with and the definition of a “footballer” by Johan Cruyff and loved to create. (talkSPORT)

Appearances

315

Goals

87

Assists

94

Titles

3

14 Robbie Fowler Liverpool, Leeds, Man City, Blackburn

Robbie Fowler scored an impressive 162 goals during his Premier League career, and was best known for his time at Liverpool, with those at Anfield naming him ‘God’.

His goal record in the 1990s at Anfield was every two games, and despite netting 53 times in the 1993/94 and 1994/95 seasons, never actually won a Golden Boot. In front of goal, Fowler was clinical, with Andy Cole calling the Englishman the “best finisher ever”.

Appearances

379

Goals

163

Assists

39

13 Ruud van Nistelrooy Man Utd

Sir Alex Ferguson called Ruud van Nistelrooy “the most prolific” striker he had at Man Utd, and his game to goal ratio certainly backs that up.

The Dutch striker arrived at Old Trafford having cored for fun in his native country, and he didn’t take long to adjust to life in the Premier League, scoring 23 league goals in his first campaign. It’s a shame Van Nistelrooy’s time in England only lasted five years, but he certainly won’t be forgotten.

Appearances

150

Goals

95

Assists

14

Golden Boot

1

Titles

1

12 Robin van Persie Arsenal, Man Utd

Another Dutch icon who spent longer in the Premier League was Robin van Persie, who made the controversial move from Arsenal to Man Utd in 2012.

It was a decision that worked out for Van Persie, who won the Premier League title with the Red Devils after missing out with Arsenal, and the forward had one of the best left foots the league has ever seen.

Known for scoring some outrageous goals, Van Persie’s effort against Aston Villa to help seal the title for Man Utd in 2013 was called “goal of the century” by Sir Alex Ferguson.

Appearances

280

Goals

144

Assists

53

Golden Boot

2

Titles

1

11 Luis Suarez Liverpool

Luis Suarez’s stay in England was short but sweet, with the Uruguayan becoming a Liverpool icon in such a brief period of time.

Capable of scoring out of nothing and winning games on his own, Suarez was at Anfield for just three-and-a-half seasons, with his 2013/14 campaign one of the greatest individual seasons in Premier League history.

He netted 31 goals in 33 games that year and almost took the Reds to a title before Barcelona came in and signed Suarez for big money.

Appearances

110

Goals

69

Assists

23

Golden Boot

1

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’.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Expand Collapse

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.

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’.

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.

​​​​​​​

Related 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.

Posts ByDominic Lund May 21, 2025

Celtic were hit with a pretty devastating blow at the start of this month when it was confirmed that the knee injury sustained by Jota is going to keep him out for the best part of a year.

The Hoops winger hobbled off during the first half of the 5-0 win over Dundee United at Tannadice, a result that won the Scottish Premiership title, with a knee injury.

Brendan Rodgers then confirmed that the Portuguese forward could be out for up to nine months with a cruciate ligament injury, which means that the attacker is unlikely to be fit for the start of next season.

Based on that timeline, there is a real chance that Jota will not play for Celtic again in 2025, with a return in the first couple of months of 2026 currently being projected, and that could force the club’s hand in the summer transfer window.

The Scottish giants are set to be without a key wide attacker for a huge chunk of the 2025/26 campaign, which could result in them swooping for another winger in the coming months.

With this in mind, we have taken a look at three potential signings the Hoops could make to replace Jota until he returns from his long-term injury.

1 Tyrhys Dolan

Firstly, Blackburn Rovers dynamo Tyrhys Dolan is an intriguing option for the Scottish giants because he is set to be out of contract at the end of June, and would be available as a free agent.

Celtic are reportedly interested in a bargain swoop to sign the 23-year-old star from the English Championship side and it is easy to see why he has emerged as an attractive target for the club.

As well as potentially being a cost-effective signing due to his contract situation at Ewood Park, Dolan is also an ideal fit for Celtic from a footballing perspective, because he can comfortably play on the right wing, on the left wing, as a centre-forward, or as an attacking midfielder, with at least 26 appearances in his career in each position.

This means that Rodgers could use him on either flank, as he did with Jota when the winger was available, which makes him a like-for-like replacement for the former Rennes man in that sense.

Appearances

44

Goals

7

Conversion rate

14%

Big chances created

7

Key passes

44

Assists

6

As you can see in the table above, Dolan also showed signs of promise in a midtable Blackburn team in the Championship, delivering 14 goals and ‘big chances’ created combined in a team that did not finish inside the top six in the division.

The 23-year-old star has yet to prove that he can deliver goals and assists consistently, though, so there is still a question mark over whether or not his output would improve if he played in a better team.

2 Kwame Poku

Sticking with the lower leagues in England, Peterborough United winger Kwame Poku is another talented young prospect who has been linked with a move to Parkhead this summer.

The Hoops have reportedly sent scouts to watch the Ghana international in action this season, and he could be available for a compensation fee when his contract with the Posh expires this summer.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Poku played in a lower division than Dolan, in League One, but did showcase his ability to deliver consistent quality in the final third as part of a team that was chasing promotion to the second tier.

The 24-year-old magician ended the season with a return of 12 goals, nine ‘big chances’ created, and eight assists in 27 matches in the league for Peterborough, whilst predominantly playing on the right flank.

Whilst he has shown promise as a winger who can deliver quality on a regular basis, Poku would not be a like-for-like replacement for Jota because he is a left-footed attacker who typically plays on the opposite flank.

This means that there could be better options out there to directly replace Jota, and one of those options could come from further afield, in Norway specifically.

3 Sondre Orjasaeter

Celtic reportedly had an offer turned down for Sarpsborg forward Sondre Orjasaeter in the January transfer window, as the Norwegian side were looking for a fee of £7m for the winger.

The 21-year-old star, once dubbed an “artist” by Havard Flo, could be the perfect replacement for Jota because of his age, his style of play, and his quality.

Whilst he is comfortably the most expensive player on this list, as the other two options are out of contract this summer, Orjasaeter could be worth the expense for the Scottish giants.

Stylistically, the Norwegian sensation would be an ideal fit for the Hoops because he is a right-footed attacker who predominantly plays on the left flank, just as Jota does.

Appearances

28

7

Goals

5

1

Big chances missed

5

2

Big chances created

12

7

Key passes per game

1.9

2.0

Assists

5

2

Dribbles completed per game

2.4

2.7

As you can see in the table above, Orjasaeter has caught the eye with his performances for Sarpsborg in the Eliteserien since the start of the 2024 campaign, with six goals and 19 ‘big chances’ created in 35 appearances.

This shows that he has the ability to make a significant impact at the top end of the pitch, despite only being 21, from a left wing position, which is another reason why he could be an ideal signing to replace Jota this summer for Rodgers.

Orjasaeter, of course, is unproven in British football, unlike Dolan and Poku, and that is one thing that goes against him in this list, but the Hoops could gamble on his performances for Sarpsborg translating well to Scottish football, making him the dream signing to fill that left wing position.

It will now be interesting to see if Celtic go in for any of these three players, given that they are all reported to be of interest, or if they decide to look elsewhere to bolster their wide options.

A "Larsson-type signing": £7.8m star would "love" to play for Celtic

A former Celtic star has revealed that he would love to play for the club again.

ByDan Emery May 21, 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers will head into the summer transfer window full of confidence that they can secure a top-half finish in the Premier League next season.

Much will depend on Vitor Pereira’s budget, however. Will he be allowed to spend big in order to carry on the momentum gained over the last few months?

There will certainly be a few sales when the window opens as he begins to build his squad.

The key question for the Molineux faithful: Will Matheus Cunha be at the club on the opening day of 2025/26?

Why Matheus Cunha is a wanted man this summer

If it wasn’t for Cunha’s output in the final third this season, Wolves may arguably have been in real danger of relegation.

The Brazilian has been in remarkable form, scoring 15 times in the top flight while chipping in with six assists in the process.

Not only does this account for 41% of the club’s total goals in the league, but he also ranks ninth in the Premier League for goals and assists.

Despite this, Cunha has clashed with supporters on social media following a post he put up on his Instagram.

He even confessed that he wishes to leave in order to challenge for trophies, and if a big offer comes in, the forward may depart.

The forward currently earns £90k-per-week in the Midlands and, should he leave, this would help free up a big chunk of the wage budget for Pereira.

It does look likely he will move on from Wolves. But there is one player the manager should be actively trying to sell, especially considering he is earning more than the club’s talisman at the moment – Goncalo Guedes.

Why Goncalo Guedes must follow Cunha out the door

£35m signing Guedes was given a second chance at the club after returning from a loan spell last summer, but he hasn’t exactly taken the opportunity.

Across 31 games, he has registered ten goal contributions – five goals and five assists – but only two goals have come in the top flight.

He started in the 2-0 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion, but was subbed off after 59 minutes.

Goncalo Guedes’ stats in the PL this season
Goals	2
Assists	4
Shots per game	0.8
Key passes per game	0.4
Big chances created	2
Successful dribbles per game	0.2
Via Sofascore

During the game, he missed a big chance – notably firing a close-range effort over the far – failed to register a shot on target, failed with his only dribble attempt and won just a solitary duel against the Seagulls.

Due to his lethargic display, Guedes was given a match rating of just 5/10 by Birmingham World with journalist Charlie Haffenden noting that he ‘wasted two big chances in the opening ten minutes’ and was ‘not too involved afterwards’ which just about sums up his time at Molineux.

It’s safe to say that if this was an audition to secure his future at the club, he failed.

The Portuguese forward currently earns the same weekly wage as Cunha which given how differently the pair have performed this season, it is a rather remarkable fact.

Rank	Player	Wage per week	Wage per year
=1	Goncalo Guedes	£90,000	£4,680,000
=1	Pablo Sarabia	£90,000	£4,680,000
=1	Matheus Cunha	£90,000	£4,680,000
4	Nelson Semedo	£80,000	£4,160,000
5	Hee-chan Hwang	£70,000	£3,640,000

With two years left on his current contract, this summer would be the ideal time for Pereira to cash in on the underperforming forward.

If so, he will be able to free up a big part of the wage bill in the process.

Wolves flop is now a Ballon d'Or contender and a bigger name than Cunha

Wolverhampton Wanderers must surely rue losing this talent who is now arguably better than Matheus Cunha.

1

By
Kelan Sarson

May 12, 2025

Arsenal want to reinforce Mikel Arteta’s squad across the board, not just up front, with sporting director Andrea Berta now setting his sights on a Chelsea high-earner.

Arsenal transfer plans beyond talks for Benjamin Sesko

As things stand, when it comes to their striker search, the Gunners appear to be prioritising a deal for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

Arsenal pull U-turn over selling £265k-per-week star after "shock twist"

The Gunners are prepared to do something “surprising”.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 7, 2025

Arsenal are advancing in talks with the Slovenian over personal terms, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, even if his price tag is proving complex due to a variable release clause, and there is even a possibility that Berta could end up having to pay around £84 million for him.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

That being said, while the 22-year-old appears to be one of Berta’s main items on the to-do list this summer, Arsenal will have to tread carefully with regard to how much they end up splashing out on Sesko.

Alongside the Leipzig sensation, Arsenal are attempting to finally wrap up a £51 million deal for Martin Zubimendi, which is proving far more complicated than initially thought this time last week.

Despite reliable reports of a medical (BBC), and even Fabrizio Romano’s famous ‘here we go’ to the deal, Zubimendi himself has attempted to pour cold water over the transfer’s advancement with confusing quotes.

“My future? It will be a long summer. I don’t know how it will end,” said Zubimendi to Radio Nacional.

“If Xabi Alonso calls me to join Real Madrid? I’ve always said Xabi is my idol, and it was a privilege to have him as my coach at La Real B. If he called me now? I don’t want to talk about that hypothesis, I’d rather talk about the present. It would be disrespectful to talk about that while I’m on national team duty. I posted pics on a Spanish beach while rumors said I’m in London doing medical exams for Arsenal? Yes, I did that to make it clear those rumors were not true.”

As well as a new midfielder, which supporters are hopeful will be Zubimendi, Arsenal are in the market for a second-choice keeper.

Arsenal hold explorative talks over deal for Kepa Arrizabalaga

After missing out on Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia to Barcelona, £150,000-per-week Chelsea outcast Kepa Arrizabalaga has emerged as an alternative.

Berta could actually snap up a proven understudy to David Raya for just £5 million, due to a release clause in his contract, which must have been written in when Kepa signed a one-year extension last year.

Sky Sports reporter Luca Bendoni now claims that Arsenal have held explorative talks over a deal for Kepa as they pursue another keeper, and due to his meagre exit clause, you can argue that this would be a snip.

The Spaniard, called “amazing” for some of his performances on loan at Bournemouth last season, would arguably need to take a pay-cut, but this is a move certainly worth considering from Berta’s perspective.