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With Champions League qualification now looking rather improbable, the jury is out on whether even an FA Cup triumph would be enough to spare Erik ten Hag from the axe at Manchester United, with the Dutchman perhaps set to follow the path of his compatriot Louis van Gaal in the Old Trafford dugout.

Approaching the end of two turbulent campaigns in charge, the question remains as to whether the former Ajax boss is the man to lead the club back to the top of the English and European game, with the new Sir Jim Ratcliffe regime likely pondering that very same thing at present.

If Ten Hag's time at United is up this summer, the 54-year-old will have at least left a significant legacy with regard to the production of young talent, having bravely and courageously put faith in teenage prospects Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho over the last 12 months or so.

That stellar duo could well be followed by further academy starlets in the near future, with the past week having even seen 17-year-old Shea Lacey pictured in first-team training, while the Englishman has only just signed his first professional contract at the club.

Amid the intrigue surrounding the "Phil Foden regen" – as described by writer Jack Kenmare – it's worth considering how the starting XI at the Theatre of Dreams could look in the next few years, with the then first-team regular Lacey included among a sprinkling of new faces.

With that in mind, here's a potential United lineup – with or without Ten Hag – ahead of the 2027/28 campaign…

1 GK – Andre Onana – 31

Signed on a £47.2m deal from Inter Milan last summer, Andre Onana has had a fairly rocky first season in England, to put it mildly, notably costing the club with a string of errors during their dismal Champions League group stage run.

That being said, there have been signs of improvement of late – notably during his Man of the Match display against Brentford – while the Cameroonian can hardly be blamed too greatly amid the barrage of shots he has had to face this term, with United shipping the second most attempts on goal in the entire division.

The hope will be that the one-time Ajax man can kick on next season and beyond to cement an undisputed spot for himself at the club, securing his place in this future lineup.

2 RB – Diogo Dalot – 28

It's been a hard road for Diogo Dalot at United, although by 2027, the expectation is that he will have cemented his place as the club's first-choice right-back even further, having enjoyed a particularly impressive campaign this time around.

After a slow start under the likes of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – for whom he made just 36 appearances – the Portuguese ace has slowly managed to usurp Aaron Wan-Bissaka on that side, having arguably been the club's "best player" this season, ahead of young Garnacho.

Set to be just 28 by the time the 2027/28 season kicks off, the former Porto man is seemingly a shoo-in for this side.

3 CB – Jarrad Branthwaite – 25

The first new face in this predicted lineup is Everton star, Jarrad Branthwaite, with the £80m titan having been heavily linked with a move to Manchester in recent times.

Dubbed "magnificent" by pundit Alan Shearer, the Carlisle native has been a shining light in a struggling Everton side this season, helping to keep eight clean sheets after averaging 3.5 tackles and interceptions per game – as well as scoring twice.

With United needing to freshen up an ageing defensive unit which could lose the likes of Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans this summer, the youthful Branthwaite could represent the perfect replacement.

4 CB – Lisandro Martinez – 29

An undoubted "monster" during his first season in England back in 2022/23 – as per teammate Luke Shaw – the World Cup winner is becoming something of a problem for Ten Hag and co due to his dismal injury record, having only made 11 appearances so far this term.

That being said, if the Argentine can get back to his consistent best then there is no denying that he is a real asset at the heart of the defence, able to combine his innate ability on the ball with a fierce determination that has warranted 'The Butcher' nickname.

Alongside the towering, 6 foot 5 presence of Branthwaite, the ball-playing battler could surely thrive.

5 LB – Harry Amass – 20

There has been talk regarding the addition of a new left-back this summer – namely Nice's Melvin Bard – although United could do worse than to put faith in exciting teenager, Harry Amass, with the attack-minded full-back arguably "Luke Shaw's successor", in the words of journalist Alex Turk.

Already a part of Ten Hag's first-team squad, Amass could prove a bargain and quality solution to what has been a problem position for the club of late, with both Shaw and Tyrell Malacia enduring regular injury woes.

Having reaped the rewards of promoting the likes of Garnacho and Mainoo, there's certainly merit in giving the former Watford ace a chance to impress.

6 CM – Kobbie Mainoo – 22

Speaking of Mainoo, the Stockport-born maestro has been a revelation during an underwhelming season for the Red Devils, the playmaker having already forced his way into England reckoning despite only making his first Premier League start back in November.

Not the defensive-minded asset that many thought he was, the highly-rated talent has showcased his attacking quality with crucial stunners against both Wolverhampton Wanderers and Liverpool – two major high points in a mixed bag of a campaign.

While more difficult periods will arise for the youngster in the future, as is the way for any rising star, he is looking like the type of figure that a side should be built around.

7 CM – Joao Neves – 22

The big task for United this summer will be to settle on a long-term replacement for Casemiro at the base of the midfield, with the Brazilian's form and physical capability having nosedived in 2023/24 – Sky Sports' Jamie Redknapp brutally suggesting that the 32-year-old "looks like he's in Soccer Aid".

While there is no obvious target being lined up, perhaps by 2027, Ratcliffe and co will have got their hands on Benfica's midfield sensation, Joao Neves, with the diminutive warrior having been tipped to move to Old Trafford over the last year or so.

Likened to a certain Paul Scholes by data analyst, Ben Mattinson, Neves has caught the eye due to his brilliance both in and out of possession, ranking in the top 9% among his European peers for tackles made, as well as in the top 8% for successful take-ons per 90.

Perhaps not the imposing midfield destroyer that some may be craving, the Portuguese starlet could still dovetail nicely in a midfield combination with Mainoo.

8 RW – Shea Lacey – 20

A senior bow has yet to emerge for the now-17-year-old, although the expectation is that Lacey will be a future star at Old Trafford, having been lauded as a "very, very special player" by the aforementioned Turk.

With five goals and five assists from just 19 games for the club's U18 side, the wing wizard has dazzled on the right flank throughout the youth ranks, with comparisons having also been made to fellow left-footer, Ryan Giggs.

That right-wing berth has been a consistent issue for the club in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, with £86m man Antony – who has just one league goal involvement this term – the latest costly addition to fall flat.

Perhaps, young Lacey is the long-awaited solution…

9 CAM – Bruno Fernandes – 32

The current United skipper will almost be 33 by the time that 2027/28 gets underway, yet it would be difficult to bet against him still being a mainstay of the side in that number ten berth.

A divisive figure at times due to his emotional and passionate presence on the pitch, there is no denying the playmaker's quality, as his 76 goals and 62 assists in 227 games in all competitions for the club can attest to.

The former Sporting CP star deserves to be part of a truly successful United side, with the club needing to match his winning ambition over the coming years – or risk losing him to a more competitive outfit.

10 LW – Alejandro Garnacho – 23

Aside from his recent social media activity, it has been another season of individual success for Garnacho, with the fleet-footed ace establishing himself in Ten Hag's side at the age of just 19, after starting the last 30 games in all competitions.

With nine goals and four assists to show for his efforts, the Argentina international is only going from strength to strength while operating off the right flank, albeit with his future looking destined to be on the opposite side.

That switch could then come at a cost to local hero Marcus Rashford, with the Englishman's inconsistent form becoming a real issue for United, after scoring just seven league goals this term.

With rumours also rife that Rashford could be moved on before too long, that left-wing berth may be Garnacho's for the taking.

Glasgow Rangers face a tough clash against Kilmarnock this afternoon at Ibrox as the race for the Premiership crown goes on.

Killie defeated the Gers in the opening game of the season, while they pushed Philippe Clement’s men all the way in the last meeting between the two back in February, as the club had to rely on a goal from Tom Lawrence to secure a 2-1 comeback win.

All three points are required if the Light Blues want to go into the final Old Firm clash of the season with hopes of winning their 56th league title, but the starting XI could see some changes.

Why Dujon Sterling could be relocated against Killie

The versatile Englishman has featured in six different positions for the Gers this term, filling in wherever necessary as Clement has had to endure his fair share of injury issues.

Recently, the former Chelsea gem has been filling in at left-back due to Ridvan Yilmaz’s injury and the poor form of Borna Barisic.

This isn’t his natural position, but the 24-year-old has stood up and delivered solid performances.

Position

Games played

Left-back

7

Left midfield

1

Right-back

2

Right-winger

2

Central midfield

5

Right midfield

5

Against Killie, however, he will likely be moved to the left wing in order to accommodate Yilmaz, who could return to the starting XI this afternoon.

Ridvan Yilmaz’s statistics this season

During his pre-match press conference, Clement confirmed that Yilmaz was a “maybe” in terms of featuring in the match, but if he is ready to go, giving him some game time is a must.

The £12k-per-week dynamo showed plenty of quality when he usurped Barisic for the left-back position around the turn of the year, as the regular run of games allowed him to showcase his true talents at Ibrox.

The Belgian manager even hailed the youngster as a “fighter” back in March following his emergence as one of the club’s key players, and his statistics don’t lie.

Among his teammates, Yilmaz currently ranks third in the squad for big chances created (six) in the Premiership, along with ranking third for key passes per game (1.7), sixth for interceptions per game (0.8) and ninth for clearances per game (1), showing how impressive he has been across both attacking and defensive metrics this term.

While injury disrupted his debut season in Glasgow, he was going along rather well until suffering a hamstring issue when on international duty for Turkey in March.

Yilmaz at left-back and Sterling on the left wing could prove to be a solid combination which could see plenty of chances coming from that side of the pitch.

Much will depend on whether Clement feels the time is right for Yilmaz to come back into the squad, but it feels like an ideal time, especially with a clash against Celtic coming up next weekend.

With just five matches left of the current campaign, Rangers need to win them all and hope Celtic slip up in one of their other league fixtures to win the league title.

It isn’t impossible, but the club need to keep a clear head over the next few weeks.

Chalkboard

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

West Bromwich Albion will know that the gameplan for their second leg away at Southampton on Friday night will have to be different, with a focus more on being gung-ho than just defensively solid.

The 0-0 draw in the first leg of the Championship playoffs arguably plays into the hands of the Saints at St. Mary's, who will look to use their home advantage to secure progress through to a nervy final at Wembley.

Carlos Corberan will just pray misfiring attackers such as Grady Diangana and Brandon Thomas-Asante from the first clash can find their shooting boots again on the South Coast, with Thomas-Asante having a torrid afternoon in particular at the Hawthorns by failing to register a single on-target effort.

The Spaniard will be less worried about his defenders in such a huge contest, knowing that he can rely on the likes of Conor Townsend at the back to come good after delivering consistent top displays during the regular campaign.

Conor Townsend's time at West Brom

The decision to take a punt on Townsend back in 2018 from Scunthorpe United continues to look like a shrewd buy from a Baggies perspective, with the 31-year-old a key first-team figure over many seasons now.

Notching up a staggering 212 appearances for the West Midlands outfit to date, his importance to the West Brom cause hasn't waned at all this campaign.

Picking up four assists down the left-hand side from 42 games, with his last assist coming on the final day to help his side secure a playoff spot, Townsend has also been crucial in ensuring the Baggies' reputation for having a staunch and stern defence has remained in-tact all season long.

Once described as being "industrious" by football journalist Chris Lepkowski on the Liquidator Podcast, Townsend has lived up to that billing with 3.8 duels won on average per game this season helping West Brom pick up a respectable 11 clean sheets whenever he's featured.

Corberan could well even hope Townsend can deliver a moment of magic like the above goal versus Norwich City against Russell Martin's men, but knows he will put in a commendable shift at the back either way.

It's seen Townsend's value go up and up ever since his arrival to the Hawthorns five years ago, with his valuation now higher than that of Diangana's according to Football Transfers.

Townsend's transfer value in 2024

As of this year, the esteemed Baggies servant's value has rose to a very high £3m even as Townsend begins to wind down his career a bit at the age of 31.

Diangana's worth has crashed all the way down to a meagre £1.8m in contrast, a startling drop-off when you consider the Congolese attacker once cost Corberan's side a reported bumper fee of £12m back in 2020.

1. Jed Wallace

£3.5m

2. Okay Yokuslu

£3.1m

3. Darnell Furlong

£3.09m

4. Conor Townsend

£3m

5. Brandon Thomas-Asante

£2.9m

Away from Diangana ripping West Brom off, Townsend continues to look like a smart acquisition with his current value putting him in the top five most valuable assets at the club with his full-back partner down the right flank in Darnell Furlong also boasting an increased worth.

Diangana will just aim to get back to his dazzling best for the Baggies in the second leg to come, writing his name into the history books potentially as the star that got West Brom to Wembley.

Townsend will just be content staying put at the Hawthorns whether promotion comes about or not, knowing that he's still performing to the peak of his powers so late into his playing days.

Corberan must consider selling West Brom ace who's worth more than Johnston

Carlos Corberan will think long and hard about offloading this West Bromwich Albion man.

ByKelan Sarson May 13, 2024

Newcastle United have enjoyed success from developing players from within their academy during the 2023/24 campaign.

Players such as Elliot Anderson and Lewis Miley have broken into Eddie Howe’s first team and taken full advantage of the club’s injury situation – giving the boss a selection headache when all players are available at the start of next season.

Miley in particular has impressed, racking up 17 Premier League appearances over the last couple of months, while even scoring his first professional goal in the 3-0 win over Fulham.

Despite his tender age of just 18, he’s slotted straight into the Magpies squad, looking at home at St James’ Park despite his lack of experience at the top level.

He has the potential to star in the club’s midfield for many years to come, potentially being the pioneer in their efforts to challenge for a Premier League title again in the near future.

However, just a couple of years ago, many Newcastle supporters would’ve thought that one player could’ve been the future of the club, especially given his impact on his first-team debut, but he’s endured a huge drop in recent years, with Howe making the right decision by letting him leave Tyneside for pastures new.

Matty Longstaff’s stats at Newcastle United

After joining the club at the age of ten, midfielder Matty Longstaff quietly progressed through the club’s academy system, before getting his big opportunity in the senior side back in 2019.

At the age of 18, he made his Premier League debut against Manchester United, scoring a brilliant strike from outside the box, winning the Premier League’s Goal of the Month award in the process.

Longstaff would also bag his second goal for his boyhood club in the return fixture against the same opponents at Old Trafford, but unfortunately, that was as good as it got for the youngster at St James’ Park.

The promising midfielder only managed a total of 20 appearances for the club but enjoyed a successful loan stint at Mansfield Town before a serious knee injury prevented him from having any further impact on Tyneside.

Aberdeen

5

0

0

Mansfield Town

18

6

2

Colchester United

10

0

0

The huge investment from the Saudi PIF undoubtedly restricted the youngster from any further first-team action, with the ace no longer up to the level required following the signings of players such as Bruno Guimaraes and Joe Willock.

He would leave the Magpies upon the expiration of his deal at the end of 2023/24, but agreed to an early termination in order for him to move to Toronto FC in the MLS.

Matty Longstaff’s market value in 2024

Nearly five years on from his Magpies debut, the now 24-year-old has suffered a dramatic drop in his market value, unsurprisingly given his downfall over the past couple of years.

According to Transfermarkt, Longstaff is now only valued at a measly £800k, a huge drop from his market high of £4.2m back in 2021.

His subsequent figure is now over ten times lower than Magpies outcast Matt Targett, who still boasts a market value of £8.5m, despite not featuring for Howe’s side since the 2-2 draw against West Ham United back in October 2023.

It’s unfortunate to see Longstaff’s huge drop since his debut for the club a handful of years ago – with the one-time wonderkid having real potential to be a long-term talent alongside his brother Sean in Newcastle’s midfield.

However, it’s good to see him have a new settled home, where hopefully he can recapture his form and rebuild in order to reach the potential a lot of supporters once thought he had on Tyneside.

Howe must cash in on Newcastle man who earns nearly 6x more than Hall

He’s endured a terrible few weeks for Eddie Howe’s side.

ByEthan Lamb May 22, 2024

Celtic are on the hunt for reinforcements this summer despite winning a domestic double, and may have just found a cheap way to strengthen their squad for the new season.

Rodgers' side set for change

After their Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup success, it would be easy for Celtic to rest on their laurels, but change appears inevitable. Matt O'Riley is the subject of interest from across Europe, while Kyogo could also be on the move this summer following the successful loan of Adam Idah, who Brendan Rodgers is keen to sign permanently.

Perhaps most importantly though, Brendan Rodgers' side are on the hunt for a new no.1 goalkeeper after veteran England shot-stopper Joe Hart announced his retirement midway through the season, bowing out with the Scottish Cup success over Rangers.

Though there was concern when Hart was signed, the ex-Manchester City no.1 has been a reliable option between the sticks for Celtic in each of his three seasons with the club, keeping 13 clean sheets in his swansong campaign.

Joe Hart's impressive final season

Appearances

37

Clean sheets

13

Save %

70.1%

Saves per 90

1.68

The likes of Liverpool no.2 Caohmin Kelleher and Sunderland's talented Anthony Patterson have been touted among those who could replace Hart at Celtic Park, but both are likely to cost well in excess of £15m, which would represent a significant outlay for Rodgers' side.

As a result, they have reportedly been exploring the free agent market, but have been dealt a blow on that front as Belgian shot-stopper Koen Casteels is set for a move to Saudi Arabia rather than Scotland this summer. Now though, they have been offered a new opportunity to land an exciting prospect between the sticks.

Goalkeeper packing his bags

That comes as Turkish sources report that Celtic are readying a four year contract offer for Manchester United shot-stopper Altay Bayindir.

Bayindir joined the Red Devils last as Andre Onana's deputy, but has made just one appearance under Erik ten Hag and now looks set to leave the club. Said report claims his time in Manchester is "coming to an end" because he didn't find "what he was looking for" at Old Trafford, meaning that the shot-stopper is "preparing to leave" the club this summer despite still being under contract until 2027, a deal which sees him take home £35,000 a week.

Celtic could land "dangerous" partner for Maeda in swoop for 5 ft 10 star

The Hoops are reportedly interested in a deal to sign the full-back this summer.

ByDan Emery May 29, 2024

Now, Celtic are willing to step in and take him to Glasgow, and they are reportedly planning to offer him a four year deal at Celtic Park to get a deal over the line and see him restored to the no.1 position.

No fee is mentioned, but Bayindir is unlikely to command a fee much greater than the 5m euros he was signed for 12 months ago, which could play nicely into Celtic's hands.

It remains to be seen whether a deal is in fact possible, but with Manchester United having put almost everyone up for sale this summer, Bayindir will certainly have his price.

Manchester City may have won their fourth Premier League title in a row last season, yet Pep Guardiola is constantly seeking to bolster his squad.

While there have been signings as yet, is the Spaniard looking towards the long-term future of his side? As there appears to be interest in a current English sensation…

Man City transfer news

According to Dom Smith, football reporter for the Evening Standard, City have “identified Adam Wharton as a long-term transfer target” following his impressive start to life in the top flight for Crystal Palace.

The promising youngster has capped a stunning six months by securing a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the upcoming European Championships.

Palace only signed him for a fee which could reach £22m during the January transfer window, although there have already been reports that he is now worth closer to £60m, amid interest from the likes of Bayern Munich.

Guardiola has given chances to plenty of youngsters during his reign at City, most notably Phil Foden, but selling Cole Palmer last summer to Chelsea looks like a massive mistake.

Might the Spaniard forget all about Palmer by making Wharton one of his key transfer targets in the future?

Why Man City need to sign Adam Wharton

At the start of January, Wharton was playing for Blackburn Rovers in the Championship, making 29 appearances in all competitions before Palace swooped and brought him to the Premier League during the transfer window.

Between then and the end of the season, he played 16 times in the top flight, registering three assists and impressing almost everyone, notably Southgate.

Despite playing only 16 times, Wharton ranked fifth among his teammates for big chances created (five) in the Premier League, along with ranking fourth for key passes per game (1.3) and third for accurate long balls per game (1.8) as he transitioned from the second tier to the top flight with ease.

Hailed as a “phenom defensive midfielder” by analyst Jon Mackenzie recently, Wharton has everything in his locker to play at the very highest level, and he certainly wouldn’t look out of place in the current City starting XI.

Many felt selling Palmer for around £40m was a good piece of business by Guardiola last summer. Fast-forward 12 months, however, and the Chelsea gem ended the 2023/24 season with 25 goals and 15 assists in all competitions, demonstrating that even the greatest get things wrong once in a while.

Goals

22

Assists

11

Big chances created

17

Shots per game

3.2

Goal conversion rate

20%

Successful dribbles per game

1.5

Key passes per game

2.1

With this freshly on his mind, the former Barcelona manager – who admitted he was desperate to keep Palmer at the club – can perhaps fill the gap in his squad with another dazzling young left-footer in the form of Wharton.

Identifying the Palace gem as a target is a smart move and if he impresses during the Euros and into next season, might the City faithful see the 20-year-old at the Etihad sooner rather than later?

Only time will tell, but the Eagles starlet looks like the real deal, and he could be England’s secret weapon in Germany this summer as Southgate looks to end their near 60-year major trophy drought.

Man City favourites to sign £100m sensation who's "similar to Rice"

He has been a key man in the Premier League this season.

ByJoe Nuttall May 30, 2024

Newcastle United's injury troubles during the 2023/24 are well known, with Eddie Howe's side hit with multiple long-term absentees, subsequently missing out on any form of European football for next season.

Players such as Sven Botman and Nick Pope missed large spells of the last campaign with various issues, with Howe’s defence massively suffering as a result of their respective absences.

However, the attacking department was just as affected, with Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron both suffering their own fitness issues, restricting their minutes on the pitch.

The latter saw a drop in performance when he returned to action, failing to score a single goal in the Premier League for the Magpies in 2024, and unable to get anywhere near his tally of 11 goals from the season prior.

As a result, Howe must look to offload the Paraguayan this summer, with the club willing to part ways with the former Atlanta United attacker.

Miguel Almiron could be set to leave Newcastle this summer

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Almiron's future at Newcastle remains unclear ahead of the transfer window which opens over the coming days.

The Magpies reportedly agreed to sell Almiron to Saudi Arabian side Al Shabab during the January window, but Howe decided to keep hold of the attacker, with the 30-year-old potentially one step closer to the exit this time around.

However, the transfer guru confirmed that Newcastle are open to parting ways with the Paraguayan during the off-season, with the club needing to raise funds to avoid any form of punishment for breaking the Premier League’s FFP rules.

Games

33

Minutes played

1,947

Goals

3

Assists

1

Minutes per goal or assist

486

When delving into his weekly earnings on Tyneside, it’s no surprise that Howe and Co are willing to offload the attacker, with his wages massively more than one player who has impressed during the closing stages of 2023/24.

How much Miguel Almiron earns at Newcastle

Over the last couple of years under the Saudi PIF, the club have been able to hand out more lucrative contracts to the playing squad, allowing them to attract numerous top-quality players.

Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes are just two examples, with the pair, who earn £120k-per-week and £160k-per-week respectively, as per Capology, both arriving at the club, transforming Howe’s side and pushing them back towards European football.

Almiron was another beneficiary, earning a reported £60k-per-week on Tyneside, with the forward taking home just over £3.1m per season at St James’ Park.

His subsequent weekly earnings see him pocket eight times more than £28m signing Lewis Hall, who only earns £7k-per-week despite his excellent end to the season, which saw him score his first Premier League goal in the 3-2 defeat against Manchester United.

Given Almiron’s recent injury troubles and lack of impact when called upon, Howe should look to offload him upon the opening of the transfer window, with this summer potentially the last chance to make a profit on the £20m they paid for him over five years ago.

His wage and any fee generated would go a long way towards the club’s battle to avoid an FFP punishment, with the club still in danger of a breach should they splash the cash once more this summer.

Another Toney situation: Newcastle could sell ace with "Vinicius quality"

Newcastle may have to part ways with a superb talent to avoid FFP issues.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 13, 2024

As the Arne Slot era begins on Merseyside, Liverpool are looking to back their new manager and build him the squad that could help them lift the Premier League title next season.

Liverpool prepare for the Slot era at Anfield

The latest transfer news out of Merseyside suggests that FSG are set to give their new manager significant backing in the transfer market this summer.

Liverpool interested in Euro 2024 star who’d be a dream for Trent

He’s being pursued by a host of Premier League clubs.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 17, 2024

The Reds are eyeing up improvements all over the pitch with Liverpool currently linked with moves for young talents Kenan Yildiz and Leny Yoro. The former is a Turkish teenager who has excelled with Juventus and could now be making a £25 million move to Merseyside. Yoro has also earned plaudits overseas with his exploits with LOSC Lille last season, earning him a £50 million price tag.

Slot's side are also looking at more established players with Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi reportedly on the radar of the Merseyside outfit. Joining Guehi on Liverpool's shopping list is Sporting defender Goncalo Inacio, who has a £51 million release clause that the Reds may look to exercise this summer.

With a central defender clearly high on Liverpool's list of priorities, it appears that the Reds are now looking towards a highly rated defender that Slot knows very well.

Reds keen on move for Feyenoord defender

As first reported by HITC, the Spanish press are stating that Liverpool are interested in a move for Feyenoord defender David Hancko. The outlet reports that the Reds are in competition with Atlético Madrid to secure the services of the £30 million rated Slovakia international, who produced a stunning goal line clearance as his side upset Belgium 1-0 in their Euro 2024 opener.

The 26-year-old made 34 league appearances for Feyenoord as they finished second in the Eredivisie last season, mostly as a central defender, but he can also play on the left. Hancko also featured six times in the Champions League as the Dutch side finished third in a group that contained Lazio, Celtic and the aforementioned Atlético Madrid.

Having played under new Reds' boss Slot during his time at Feyenoord, the Slovakian would be a logical signing for Liverpool to make. With Joel Matip set to leave the club this summer and uncertainty around the future of Virgil van Dijk, Hancko would be a quality asset for Slot's new look outfit, adding depth in two positions at once.

In the wake of rumours around his future, former Feyenoord defender Tim de Cler has backed Hancko to excel no matter where he ends up telling the Dutch press (via Sport Witness): “He is so stable and can basically do anything. I just think he is a top defender all-round.

“If he makes it to the next round, and that chance is quite high, his market value will also increase again. More and more clubs are becoming interested. And they were already there.

“I think he can easily handle a club just below the top six in Europe. Then I’m talking about a club like Atlético Madrid or Liverpool. He can certainly handle that.”

With Slot already facing a tough task in filling the shoes of the iconic Jurgen Klopp, it would certainly help his cause to bring in a player who he knows well but also has the quality to succeed at Anfield.

Newcastle United are lurking for the potential signing of a £114,000-a-week star this summer, with the player wanting an improved salary.

Newcastle transfer news

The Magpies are looking to strengthen their squad all over the pitch during the summer transfer window, with a new goalkeeper seemingly a key point of focus for Eddie Howe.

Burnley stopper James Trafford has emerged as a primary target between the sticks and Newcastle are reportedly "optimistic" that they can strike a deal for the Englishman, needing to pay £20m for his services.

The Magpies are also thought to have made an approach for AC Milan centre-back Fikayo Tomori, who has impressed for the Serie A giants since arriving from Chelsea, also winning five caps for England. He is being looked at as an ideal defensive partner for Sven Botman, but would have to be patient before lining up alongside the Dutchman, considering he is out with a serious knee injury.

Another rumoured option for Newcastle this summer is Leeds United attacker Crysencio Summerville, who is seen as a perfect foil for Alexander Isak, providing quality from out wide and dovetailing with the striker effectively. The fact that the Whites failed to seal promotion from the Championship to the Premier League last season could work in the Magpies' favour.

Newcastle eyeing £114,000-a-week ace

According to El Chiringuito journalist Marco Benito [via Sport Witness], Newcastle are interested in signing Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo this summer, looking to take advantage of his current situation by showing a willingness to pay up to £68m to get their man.

Barca are struggling to get the Uruguayan to sign a new deal at the club, with the 25-year-old wanting an improvement on his current £114,000-a-week wages, and the Magpies and Manchester City are "best placed" to snap him up.

Araujo could be a signing of real intent if Newcastle managed to strike a deal in the coming weeks, considering he is arguably one of Europe's leading central defenders currently. Barcelona legend Carles Puyol certainly rates him highly, saying of him last year:

"He’s having a very good season, he’s in extraordinary condition. I’ll stick with what they’ve told me, because I don’t know him personally, but he’s very professional, humble, he always gives his best in training and matches and that’s where his performance is. Right now, if he’s not the best central defender in the world, he’s among the top three. He’s young, he still has room for improvement and I think we have a very good central defender at Barcelona for many years to come."

Such praise from a legend of the game says so much about Araujo's quality, and considering he is still only 25 years of age, he and Botman could forge a monstrous defensive pairing for years to come at St James' Park.

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However, the lure of City is clearly a great one considering their chances of winning major trophies every season, and staying at Barca is also still an option if they accept his wage demands. Newcastle must do all they can to sign him, though, in what could be such a significant addition as they seek a return to the Champions League.

Everton have been active in the transfer market this summer and now that international duties have been wrapped up, they will focus on building toward a successful start to the 2024/25 campaign.

Sean Dyche earned his laurels last term, engendering a steely mentality and an inner belief that allowed the Toffees to overcome an eight-point deduction in the Premier League and record a comfortable 16th-place finish.

Now, with PSR circumvented, Everton will fight toward a sunlit future, and while Amadou Onana is in the process of being sold to Aston Villa for £50m, his sacrifice means Jarrad Branthwaite is all but confirmed to stay at Goodison Park – barring a jaw-dropping offer for his services.

Iliman Ndiaye

Ben Godfrey (£10m)

Tim Iroegbunam

Lewis Dobbin (£10m)

Andy Lonergan (free)

Andre Gomes (free)

Iliman Ndiaye and Tim Iroegbunam have already been signed but there is more to come, with Everton lining up an exciting new winger after attempts to sign Hull City's Jaden Philogene were foiled.

Everton transfer news

According to La Gazzetta dellot Sport – via Goodison News – Everton have been busy in their preparation to sign Napoli winger Jesper Lindstrom, even ready to table an offer of £25m for his services.

Such news follows the words of Fabrizio Romano, who revealed last week that the Merseysiders had opened talks with the Serie A side for the transfer of the Dane. Napoli are willing to do business for the right fee – and £25m is a sizeable fee indeed.

Having rejected a proposal from Everton's arch-rivals Liverpool one year ago, this would be a sweet, sweet signing to pump some new life into Dyche's attack.

What Jesper Lindstrom would bring to Everton

Lindstrom might not have the finest final product on the block, but he boasts a range of qualities that would make him an exciting fit for an Everton side that needs some added oomph in the attacking third.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin proved this at the end of the 2022/23 campaign that his shooting boots are taking form once again, bagging four goals and adding an assist across his final seven outings. More, Ndiaye will add offensive impetus and Dwight McNeil is one of the most creative wingers out there, fashioning 17 big chances in the Premier League last term.

Lindstrom, 24, can play across the frontline and could revive his career under Dyche's tutelage after falling by the wayside in Naples, completing 29 appearances since his transfer one year ago but failing to score and failing to assist.

He was on the fringe in a pervasive environment, the 2022/23 Serie A champions suffering a dramatic downturn in form after their staggering success, and such travails are not reflective of an exciting skillset.

Indeed, during the 2022/23 Bundesliga season – with Eintracht Frankfurt – Lindstrom impressed with his progressive ability and dynamic threat, scoring seven goals and supplying four assists across 22 starting features in the division, hailed for his "exceptional" performances by journalist Antonio Mango.

He also impressed with his directness, ranking among the top 18% of positional peers in the German top flight that year for progressive carries and touches in the attacking penalty area per 90, as per FBref, highlighting his ball-carrying ability and driven attempts toward the danger area.

He principally plays in the middle but Lindstrom's pace and vehicular-like qualities have seen him feature across both flanks on many occasions, and considering such progressive strengths, he might even prove to be the perfect alternative to Jaden Philogene.

Philogene was heavily linked with a move to Everton before re-signing for Aston Villa from Hull City in a £13m deal, achieved due to a pre-payment clause embedded when the Villans sold the stylish winger one year ago.

The 22-year-old was spellbinding for the Tigers, positively purring his way through the season as he scored, assisted and entertained to no end. 12 goals and six assists are nothing to be sniffed at, but the real locus of Philogene's quality lies in the underlying metrics, averaging 2.4 tackles, 4.2 ball recoveries, 2.7 dribbles and 7.6 successful duels per game.

Philogene ranked among the top 8% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Championship last season for progressive carries and the top 7% for successful take-ons per 90.

Perhaps Lindstrom doesn't quite boast the same electrifying presence but he has proven himself a reliable ball carrier in the past and would arrive at Goodison Park with a fresh chance to cement himself as one of the outfit's leading members.

Everton have proven their grit, their adaptability, over recent years and while they didn't end up with Philogene's signature, moving swiftly in an attempt to tie up the Napoli man's signature is a testament to the determination to succeed.

The £50k-per-week Lindstrom was unable to strut his stuff as he might have liked with Napoli last season but he is still relatively young and desperate to prove himself, and Everton could offer him the platform to use as a launchpad.

Hard-working and multi-skilled, he would be a wonderful addition and would add a dimension that Dyche's team could benefit from greatly, perhaps even breaking back into the desirable side of the Premier League table.

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