All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Leeds United have a huge task on their hands over the summer as they look to try and beat the drop in the Premier League throughout the 2025/26 campaign.

The Whites managed to secure the Championship title after posting a staggering 100 points total, winning the league on goal difference after Manor Solomon’s strike against Plymouth Argyle secured a final day win.

However, despite Daniel Farke securing promotion from England’s second tier for the third time, he faces the prospect of keeping the Yorkshire outfit in the top-flight next season – something which he’s failed to do in his two previous attempts.

The board have backed him in recent weeks, handing him the chance to spend around £100m on new additions to bridge the gap and build a competitive squad.

With the window opening last Sunday, work has already commenced behind the scenes to hand the manager the players he craves, with numerous players emerging as key targets this summer.

The latest on Leeds’ hunt for new signings this summer

Leeds will need additions in all areas of the pitch to hand themselves the best chance of survival next season, but it’s crucial they sign quality over quantity in their quest.

Gustavo Hamer, Sam Johnstone and Sean Longstaff have all been touted with a summer switch to Elland Road, but as of yet no deals have yet been completed in Yorkshire.

However, it appears as though another name has been mentioned in recent days, with Ipswich Town centre-back Dara O’Shea on their radar, according to The Irish Sun.

Their report claims that the Whites are weighing up a move for the Ireland international, who won the Tractor Boys’ Player of the Season award despite suffering relegation.

It also states that Wolves and Burnley are interested in a move for the 26-year-old, who cost a fee in the region of £15m less than 12 months ago – with the defender wanting to stay in England’s top flight next season.

Why Leeds’ £15m target could be the next Bogle

Jayden Bogle has thrived beyond the imagination of all supporters at Leeds this season, playing a crucial role at both ends of the pitch during the club’s title-winning campaign.

The 24-year-old joined the Whites in a £5m deal from Sheffield United, looking to fill the void at right-back after academy star Archie Gray departed for Tottenham Hotspur.

However, the defender made a huge impact at the back, helping the side concede just 30 times in their 46 league outings, with Burnley the only side to concede fewer.

He also impressed in attacking areas, registering 10 combined goals and assists, which included six goals – with his most notable effort coming in the 2-0 win away at Coventry City.

The fee paid for his signature now appears to be somewhat of a bargain, with the club having the opportunity to replicate such a deal with O’Shea this summer.

The Irishman would be the next player to join the Whites from a side relegated from the Premier League, looking to cement their place in the backline – just as Bogle has in recent months.

O’Shea, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by former boss Slaven Bilic, has also managed to have an impact in forward areas, registering two assists for Kieran McKenna’s side, but ultimately not enough to keep them in the division.

Games played

35

Goals & assists

2

Pass accuracy

80%

Dribble success

50%

Tackles won

63%

Aerials won

3.8

Interceptions made

1.1

Duels won

5.8

His underlying stats are just as impressive, completing 80% of the passes he attempted, while registering a 50% dribble success rate – having the tools to play out from the back should Farke need him to.

The defender has also won 63% of the tackles he entered this season, whilst winning 3.8 aerials per 90, handing the side the added defensive quality they need to survive the drop in the Premier League.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Irishman will set them back this summer, he has the tools to bolster Farke’s ranks and play a key role should he move to Elland Road.

Given the interest from other sides in the division, they will need to act quickly to avoid missing out on his signature and subsequently improving a rival in their hunt for survival.

Better than Solomon: "Electric" £34m star is open to Leeds transfer

This Leeds target is reportedly open to joining the club, and he would be an even better signing than Manor Solomon

1 ByDan Emery Jun 5, 2025

In an attempt to get their summer business going, Aston Villa have reportedly submitted an opening offer to sign a defensive target for Unai Emery whose release clause expires soon.

Aston Villa set for tough Newcastle opener

If Aston Villa are keen to find out where their squad is at in the early stages of next season then their opening day Premier League meeting with Newcastle United will hand them the perfect chance to do exactly that. The Villans have been handed a tough start against one of last year’s top five, but Emery will also be well aware that victory over the Magpies would send quite the statement.

Aston Villa vs Newcastle United

16/08/2025

Brentford vs Aston Villa

23/08/2025

Aston Villa vs Crystal Palace

30/08/2025

Everton vs Aston Villa

13/09/2025

Sunderland vs Aston Villa

20/09/2025

Once the Midlands club have got Newcastle out of the way, they have the chance to enjoy a far more routine run on paper. Away trips to Brentford, Everton and Sunderland represent realistic opportunities for three points, whilst the visit of Crystal Palace should also be seen as a game that the Villans are favourites to win.

It’s the type of start that Aston Villa could need following what could be a difficult summer amid PSR concerns. Despite their growing success over the last couple of years, Villa’s spending in the years prior could yet force them to sell at least one key man in the coming months before they can focus on potential incomings.

That said, their PSR concerns have not stopped the rumours from arriving when it comes to additions. Names such as Jesus Rodriguez have already threatened to steal the headlines and now those at Villa Park have also reportedly set their sights on signing a defensive addition.

Aston Villa submit opening Lucumi offer

According to Corriere dello Sport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Aston Villa have tabled an opening offer to sign Jhon Lucumi from Bologna this summer. That initial bid was below the defender’s reported €28m (£24m) release clause, however, and is unlikely to be entertained by Bologna anytime soon.

Aston Villa make contact to sign £400,000-a-week player ahead of Arsenal

He’s a Premier League winner…

1 ByTom Cunningham Jun 17, 2025

Whether the Villans go again in pursuit of the defender remains to be seen. Bologna certainly hold all of the cards if those in the Midlands decide against triggering Lucumi’s release clause, which reportedly expires on July 10.

Given that they need to be in the market for bargain deals amid their PSR concerns, Aston Villa should think again about returning for Lucumi this summer. For just £24m, until July 10, they can sign a “composed” centre-back who can play with both feet to an “excellent” standard, according to analyst Ben Mattinson.

There could be plenty of change at Manchester United this summer as Ruben Amorim prepares for his first full season in charge at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils and INEOS may have to move some players on before splashing the cash to comply with PSR, especially after the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham didn’t help with the club’s finances.

Amorim also now knows that he will be leading his Man Utd side against Arsenal at Old Trafford on the opening weekend of the 2025/26 Premier League season.

AI predicts the 2025/26 Premier League table

Who are the winners and losers from AI’s table?

1 ByCharlie Smith Jun 7, 2025

Marquee signing Matheus Cunha will be expected to feature on the opening weekend, but who else will be in that side? Well, Grok, the AI tool on X, has predicted Man Utd’s 25/26 starting line-up, with three more new faces backed to join the Brazilian.

AI predicts Man Utd’s 2025/26 starting line-up GK: Emiliano Martinez

According to Grok, the new goalkeeper for the 25/26 season at Old Trafford will be Emiliano Martinez.

The Red Devils are seemingly on the search to replace Andre Onana two years after he arrived, and the Argentine is thought to be open to joining Amorim’s side. A fee of £40m has been mooted in the media for Aston Villa to sell.

RCB: Noussair Mazraoui

Versatile defender Noussair Mazraoui has been predicted to start on the right-hand side of a back three after making 20 appearances as a central defender last season.

AI says that the Moroccan ‘adapted well to Amorim’s right centre-back role, offering defensive solidity and attacking contributions’.

CB: Leny Yoro

Still just 19 years of age, Leny Yoro looks set to be a regular at the back over the coming years, and he made 33 appearances in his first season at Old Trafford.

His ‘long-term potential make him a starter’ under Amorim, according to Grok, providing he stays fully fit.

LCB: Matthijs de Ligt

With Lisandro Martinez still sidelined through injury, Matthijs de Ligt has been predicted to make up the back three alongside Mazraoui and Yoro.

Despite being right footed, the Netherlands international has bundles of experience at the highest level and should continue to help Yoro and Mazraoui.

RWB: Amad Diallo

In a 3-4-2-1 system, Amad Diallo impressed as a right wing-back in the early days of Amorim’s Man Utd tenure.

Amorim also praised Diallo, saying the Ivorian has “improved so much defensively”, and he has been backed to feature there on a regular basis, starting against Arsenal ahead of Diogo Dalot.

LWB: Patrick Dorgu

On the other side, January signing Patrick Dorgu could get the nod ahead of his first full campaign as a Red Devils player.

The Denmark international was a regular in the second half of the 24/25 campaign and will be looking to add to his 20 Man Utd appearances.

CM: Manuel Ugarte

The first of two midfielders is Manuel Ugarte, who, despite being known for his defensive work, contributed to eight goals under Amorim in 24/25.

Ugarte is described as a ‘guaranteed starter’, providing a major midfield signing isn’t made, as he ‘brings energy and defensive nous to midfield, aligning with Amorim’s desire for dynamism’.

CM: Bruno Fernandes (c)

After snubbing interest from Saudi Arabia, Bruno Fernandes was always going to start in Grok’s Man Utd predicted XI.

Games

290

Goals

98

Assists

86

Trophies won

2

The Red Devils captain is into his sixth year at Old Trafford and despite the club’s struggles, will go down as an iconic Man Utd star. AI says Fernandes ‘will anchor the midfield, likely playing slightly advanced’.

RW: Matheus Cunha

After triggering Matheus Cunha’s £62.5m release clause, it is no surprise to see Man Utd’s new signing thrown straight into the starting line-up.

The Brazilian contributed to 19 goals last season as an attacking midfielder or second striker, with the remaining four contributors coming as a winger or centre-forward. Grok has predicted that Amorim will use Cunha as one of two No.10s behind a striker.

LW: Bryan Mbeumo

Joining Cunha in behind a forward is another new face in Bryan Mbeumo. The Red Devils have a major interest in the Brentford star, who is valued up to £60m.

Grok says Mbeumo ‘pace and goal-scoring’ will offer a ‘balance to the attack’, and after a career best season in front of goal with the Bees in 24/25, it’s hard to argue against that.

ST: Viktor Gyokeres

Finishing off the side could be Man Utd’s most exciting and expensive signing of the summer in Viktor Gyokeres. The goalscoring machine starred under Amorim with Sporting CP and a reunion has been spoken about, although he does have an £85m release clause in his contract.

Grok says Gyokeres ‘could be the answer to their goal-scoring woes, outshining Rasmus Hojlund’ in the process.

Liverpool are “clearly ahead” of rivals Chelsea in the race to sign a “magnificent” player in the summer transfer window.

Kerkez to join Liverpool this week

The Reds have now officially signed Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen in a British-record £116m move, in a piece of business that has made the rest of Europe sit up and take notice.

There is unlikely to be a bigger signing made this summer, with Wirtz considered one of the world’s top attacking players, but Liverpool are not expected to be done there, still planning on adding fresh faces to the squad.

It looks as though Milos Kerkez will be the next name through the door at Anfield in the coming days, with journalist Fabrizio Romano claiming over the weekend that a minor issue has been ironed out and that he could be unveiled as soon as Tuesday.

David Ornstein of The Athletic has gone one better, however, saying that a medical is now expected to be done on Monday after flying into the UK, with the deal set to be worth £40m for the Bournemouth left-back.

Liverpool leading race to sign "magnificent" ace

Now, reliable Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri [via Sport Witness] has said that Liverpool are “clearly ahead” of Chelsea and others in the battle to sign Lyon winger Malick Fofana this summer.

He states that the Reds’ head of recruitment, Barry Hunter, admires the 20-year-old and has him at the top of his list of summer targets. The Premier League champions will need to sell Federico Chiesa first, though, and Fofana could possibly cost as much as £60m.

Fofana could be a brilliant long-term signing for Liverpool, with scout Jacek Kulig describing him as a “magnificent” prospect last year.

At just 20 years of age, the young Belgian has already bagged 22 goal contributions (15 goals and seven assists) in 62 appearances for Lyon, also winning one cap for Belgium at senior level, and those numbers should only improve as he matures as a player.

Predominantly a left-sided attacking player, it seems slightly strange that Liverpool would push so hard for Fofana, though, especially as Chiesa is right-sided in general.

Better than Guehi: Liverpool eyeing one of the best young CBs "in Europe"

Liverpool are looking to bolster their backline with Marc Guehi touted.

ByMatt Dawson Jun 22, 2025

Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo appear to be staying put, so it would arguably only make sense for the Reds to sign the Lyon ace if one of them moves on, or if Arne Slot sees him as a backup option to Mohamed Salah on the right. But his talent is undeniable, so the idea of him in a Liverpool shirt is exciting.

Now it’s time for Eddie Howe and Newcastle United to show their ability to pass through adversity once again. But then they’ve done it before.

Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford should join the St. James’ Park ranks, but there are still glaring openings in central defence, up front and out on the attacking right flank.

Stepping back into the Champions League, the 2024/25 Carabao Cup champions need more depth, especially so in the final third.

Newcastle's hunt for new forwards

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo rattled suitors when stating he would only jump ship for Manchester United this summer, turning his head at interest from Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur.

And now, Joao Pedro is set to join Chelsea having hitherto been listed as one of Newcastle’s top targets, if not the top target.

This is deeply frustrating, for Newcastle are yet to bolster their attacking ranks whatsoever, having entered the window with this principal priority. It’s not for the want of trying, at least.

West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus has since been earmarked, while an offer for Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, worth £50m, has already been rejected.

It’s Elanga who is the priority, with Football Insider now reporting that the Magpies are preparing an improved offer for the Sweden international.

Elanga, 23, has been a defining member of a Forest team who will compete in Europe next year, and the Tricky Trees are indeed proving tough negotiators, demanding £60m for the right winger.

He’d bring a lot to the United cause, with a silky skill set that practically demands to be combined with Alexander Isak’s.

What Anthony Elanga would bring to Newcastle

Pace, and plenty of it. Elanga left Manchester United to sign for Nottingham Forest in 2023 for just £15m, and he’s only gone from strength to strength since.

The fastest & slowest players in the Premier League (2024/25)

Over his two terms, he’s helped pull his club away from the relegation fodder and onto the continental stage, so electric and incisive down the right flank.

Nuno Espirito Santo hailed him a “special player” after one blistering counter-attack against Manchester United, bagging the sole goal in a 1-0 win back in March.

Matches (starts)

36 (25)

38 (31)

Goals

5

6

Assists

9

11

Shots (on target)*

1.5 (0.6)

1.2 (0.6)

Big chances missed

10

6

Pass completion

75%

78%

Big chances created

14

9

Key passes*

0.9

1.3

Dribbles*

0.8

0.7

Tackles*

0.9

0.5

Duels won*

2.9

3.0

Having kept a pretty consistent level throughout his time at the City Ground, Elanga has now proven that he’s worth the money, athletic, purposeful and reliable with his output. The stream of assists is certainly something Isak will have his eye on.

He also demonstrated an uptick in shooting accuracy, missing as many big chances as he scored (six) in 2024/25 after squandering ten chances the year prior, bagging only five times.

This must be to the delight of Isak, who is a superstar unto himself but will perhaps raise his game even higher (just pause and imagine that) with such a presence beside him, for Isak is not just a goalscorer, but a creator and an influencer; the perfect focal point.

Forest’s star winger might have only averaged 0.7 dribbles per Premier League match last term, but that’s a tactical quirk.

This is a man who self-proclaims to be “one of the fastest players in the league”, and when you observe him in his barnstorming groove, you wouldn’t argue against it.

Isak would relish the chance to play with such a pacy winger, reliant on their creativity. We’ve seen the marksman’s prowess with Murphy, now imagine that with his countryman Elanga, faster and just as tenacious.

More important than Elanga: Newcastle close in on signing "world-class" ace

Eddie Howe looks close to making his first summer signing at Newcastle United.

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 30, 2025

Everton are now reportedly leading the race to sign a Champions League-level winger who will be allowed to leave his current club this summer.

What Everton could do next after signing Travers

After confirming the arrival of Mark Travers from Bournemouth, Everton still have unfinished business in the summer transfer window. Ahead of their first season at The Hill Dickinson Stadium, the current transfer window reflects an opportunity for The Friedkin Group to make an impressive statement and set David Moyes up with a squad capable of more than just survival.

After Travers, Thierno Barry and the permanent arrival of Carlos Alcaraz, the Toffees still have plenty of work to do and that work could be done to reinforce their midfield.

Having lost Abdoulaye Doucoure following the end of his contract at the end of last season, Moyes is arguably lacking a physical presence at the heart of his midfield. But that’s where a familiar face in Tomas Soucek could arrive. The Czech Republic ace thrived under Moyes at West Ham and is now reportedly set to be the subject of an imminent £12m bid from Everton.

Appearances

207

Goals

32

Assists

11

It should come as no surprise that Soucek is now keen to reunite with Moyes after such a successful spell together the first time around. And for just £12m, Everton wouldn’t exactly be breaking the bank.

That said, Soucek isn’t their only reported target in midfield. The likes of Jacob Ramsey have also been mentioned in recent headlines, as Aston Villa continue to struggle on the PSR front. Like Soucek, the England midfielder would be an excellent addition.

Ndiaye 2.0: Everton pushing to sign 'the 2nd best dribbler in the world'

David Moyes wants to add some more attacking quality at Everton this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 15, 2025

The same can be said for a La Liga winger, as the Toffees aim to send a transfer statement.

Everton now in pole position to Samuel Lino

According to reports in Spain, Everton are now leading the race to sign Samuel Lino from Atletico Madrid this summer. The winger is reportedly free to leave the Champions League side and several sides have enquired about his availability as a result. Whether Everton are among those sides remains to be seen, however.

Starts

21

24

Goals

3

1

Assists

4

0

Successful Take-ons

27

24

Previously described as “interesting” by scout Jacek Kulig, Lino would be an instant upgrade on Jack Harrison, who has been linked with a permanent move to Everton this summer.

The Atletico Madrid man was involved in more goals in fewer games last season, whilst also enjoying more take-on success. In every key department, Lino should be preferred over the Leeds United man.

At 25 years old, Lino should be at the peak of his powers if he discovers his most clinical form. Reportedly in pole position, Everton should kick on and sign a player who has Champions League experience and outperformed other targets last season.

Glasgow Rangers are in the market to improve their options on the flanks in the coming days, as Russell Martin looks to make further additions to his squad.

The Light Blues are set to sign Tottenham Hotspur youngster Mikey Moore on a season-long loan to provide Djeidi Gassama with competition on the left flank.

Rangers are also reportedly in talks with Go Ahead Eagles over a potential deal to sign Finland international forward Oliver Antman, who could provide an excellent option on the other wing.

The 23-year-old star delivered an eye-catching return of 17 assists in all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign, and could provide a huge threat as a creative force for the Scottish Premiership giants.

Rangers in talks to sign left-footed forward

As well as seemingly closing in on deals for both Moore and Antman, the 49ers are not done there as they want another winger to compete for a place in Martin’s team.

Transfer Focus

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

According to The Sun, as relayed by Ibrox News, the 49ers remain in Rangers talks with Premier League side Crystal Palace over a possible deal for forward Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.

The report claims that the left-footed wing wizard has interest from around the globe this summer, but currently ‘favours’ a move to Ibrox to work with Martin.

It adds that the Eagles are demanding a fee of £10m to allow him to leave on a permanent basis, with Rangers in talks to sign the winger on an initial loan deal.

Why Rangers should sign Rak-Sakyi and Antman

The Light Blues appear to be targeting deals for both Rak-Sakyi and Antman, despite the fact that they both predominantly play on the right wing, and that should come as good news to supporters.

Signing both players would be the right move for the Gers to make because they do not currently have any senior, recognised, right wing options to call upon, and they will need two players to spread the workload across a potentially 50 or 60-game season.

They could be an amazing right-wing rotation for Rangers and Martin because they are both incredibly gifted forwards who have the potential to make an impact in the final third, albeit in different ways.

Whilst Antman, as aforementioned, is an exceptional creative talent who can provide his teammates with plenty of chances to score, Rak-Sakyi is more of a goalscoring winger, as partially evidenced by his 15-goal haul for Charlton in the 2022/23 campaign.

Appearances

35

32

Goals

7

6

Goals per 90

0.4

0.2

Assists

2

15

Assists per 90

0.1

0.6

Big chances created

3

16

As you can see in the table above, Rak-Sakyi averaged twice as many goals as Antman per 90 at league level last season, whilst the Finland international was significantly more creative.

This suggests that they offer different qualities on the wing, providing Martin with ways to change up his side, whilst the statistics also suggest that there could be a way for the manager to get them to play together.

Antman, for example, has played as a central midfielder, a centre-forward, and as an attacking midfielder in his career, which suggests that he is also comfortable operating in the middle of the park, if not in his natural position out wide on the right.

This means that the Finnish star and Rak-Sakyi, who was described as “devastating” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, could play together in the same starting XI, as the former could play in the middle with the Palace ace out on the flank.

That could be an effective combination for the Light Blues to use because Antman’s creativity, coupled with Rak-Sakyi’s goalscoring quality, could lead to them being a deadly duo on the pitch in Glasgow next season.

He's as bad as Propper: £5m Rangers flop "edging closer" to an Ibrox exit

This Rangers flop who was as bad as Robin Propper is now closing in on an Ibrox exit.

ByDan Emery Jul 27, 2025

Therefore, they could be an amazing set of signings for Rangers to make this summer, both because of their potential to play together, as well as the depth that they would provide Martin on the right wing.

Everton are now “ready” to make an offer for a “complete” player this summer, according to a fresh claim from journalist Sebastien Vidal.

Everton pushing for signings from Spain and Portugal

The Blues know the importance of getting further transfer business over the line before their return to Premier League action, in order to be a top-half team again, rather than looking over their shoulder at the relegation zone.

Some exciting names are being linked with summer moves to Everton, including Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo, who has been likened to Lionel Messi, in terms of his style of play. A new right-sided player is needed, and he could be the ideal addition for David Moyes, with contact already made over a potential move to the club.

Added midfield depth is also important for the Blues, with a dominant force needed in front of the defence, and Benfica’s Florentino Luis has been mentioned as an option.

Everton are said to have enquired about the availability of the Portuguese ace, as have Burnley and Leeds United, but they will reportedly have to pay around £22m to prise him away from the Primeira Liga giants.

Everton "ready" bid for £38m starlet

Now, according to a new update from Vidal on X, Everton are preparing a £38m offer for Como winger Assane Diao, looking to beat Nottingham Forest to his signature this summer.

At just 19, Diao is far from the finished article as a footballer, but that doesn’t mean that Everton shouldn’t be going all in on him ahead of the new season.

The Como ace has already scored eight goals in just 15 appearances for his current club, with such ruthless end product rare for teenage wide players. He also has two caps to his name for Senegal, having switched his allegiances from Spain, and scout Jacek Kulig has described him as a “complete” player.

Diao is at his most comfortable on the left wing, so he could come in as a strong backup option to the influential Iliman Ndiaye, but his versatility means he can also shine on the right flank, which is a more pressing area to add quality for Everton, hence the interest in Kubo.

Everton pushing in race to sign "superb" Douglas Luiz alternative for Moyes

Moyes is still seeking reinforcements.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 31, 2025

Hopefully, the Blues are successful in their imminent bid for the Senegalese, with the Como starlet having the ability to grow into a formidable option for Moyes over time.

Newcastle United’s summer has been nothing short of turbulent so far.

£55m being splashed on ex-Manchester United youngster turned Nottingham Forest star Anthony Elanga definitely raised a few eyebrows early on in the hectic transfer window, with Aaron Ramsdale also joining the ranks, rubber-stamping the Magpies’ failed pursuit of James Trafford.

The agony of missing out on Trafford to Manchester City will be nothing compared to the expected sorrow of Alexander Isak deserting St James’ Park, as Liverpool continue to sniff around for the potent Premier League marksman.

The Toon surely has a standout replacement up their sleeve for Isak if the clinical Swede does up and leave, leading to even more cash being potentially splashed by Eddie Howe and Co.

Newcastle in talks with £70m striker

At this point, it’s not exactly the best-kept secret that Newcastle are looking at fresh striker options, resigned to the fact that Isak is likely to exit.

Newcastle have been linked to a whole host of attackers, with Chelsea outcast Nicolas Jackson even reportedly on their radar, away from recurring stories suggesting that Yoane Wissa will soon leave Brentford behind for a move to St James’ Park.

However, away from those named, Newcastle United are also in talks with RB Leipzig goal machine Benjamin Sesko to fill the Isak-shaped hole that will soon appear, with Sky Sports’ Keith Downie revealing that a £70m offer is on the table.

However, it is yet to be accepted by the Bundesliga side, and negotiations are now ongoing to reach an agreement as the Magpies to sign the Bundesliga star this summer.

Downie does further state that Sesko would be open to a move to the Toon, alongside also being up for a switch to Manchester United, who are also keeping a close eye on the Slovenian to enhance their personnel up top.

For Newcastle’s sake, they will hope one of these avenues pays off very soon, with Elanga champing at the bit at the prospect of lining up alongside the lethal Sesko, as the pair go about terrorising Premier League defences together.

How Sesko could shine even more alongside Elanga

Throughout his goal-laden Leipzig stay to date, Sesko has been supplied with chances galore from a whole host of exciting attacking teammates.

Last season, Xavi Simons and Lois Openda – who are attempting to leave Germany behind themselves this summer – chipped in with 12 assists between them to help boost Sesko’s goal numbers in Bundesliga action to a hefty 13 strikes from 33 outings.

Games played

64

74

Goals scored

27

11

Assists

7

20

Big chances missed

18

16

Big chances created

6

23

These promising numbers in Germany could be taken to that next level in England if Sesko soon lines up next to an assist-hungry Elanga, as seen in the 23-year-old mustering up a healthy 20 assists across his last two Premier League campaigns at the City Ground.

Often, Elanga will dart forward with pace to burn, before laying it off to a poacher – such as Chris Wood – waiting for him to unlock a defence, with his ex-Forest teammate in Ryan Yates even going as to far to label him as a “dream” to work alongside, owing to his “you give him the ball and he can do the rest” level of ability.

Having such a rapid, but creative teammate by his side will be music to the ears of the lethal Slovenian, with his split-second instinct to fire home a chance, seeing him be dubbed a “monster” by football analyst Ben Mattinson.

Staggeringly, there could be even more to Sesko’s game that has yet to be unearthed, as the £70m attacker tries to follow in the footsteps of Isak with ease.

The 22-year-old striker will be helped along the way, if he does join, by Elanga being next to him, as the 25/26 campaign edges ever closer for a Magpies side leaping into an unknown future.

Better than Sesko: Newcastle eyeing £40m striker who's "turning heads"

Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing a star who could be even better than Benjamin Sesko.

ByDan Emery Aug 3, 2025

Hill Dickinson Stadium is now officially open for business.

On Saturday, Everton’s senior men’s team played at Bramley-Moore Dock for the very first time, although they’re still waiting for their first goal at their new home, beaten 1-0 in a pre-season friendly by Roma.

This brought to an end a rather miserable pre-season for David Moyes’ men, winning just one of seven fixtures, this against EFL League One side Port Vale, scoring just six goals in these matches.

Thus, it is no wonder Moyes is seeking attacking reinforcements ahead of his team’s Premier League opener against Leeds United at Elland Road next Monday night, so could the Toffees sign an exciting young striker?

Everton's need for firepower

With stalwarts Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Abdoulaye Doucouré having both been released following the expiration of their contracts, Everton were always going to need to add attacking threat to their squad, having scored a miserly 42 goals in the Premier League last season.

Transfer Focus

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

Well, the Blues have so far signed striker Thierno Barry from Villarreal and attacking midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea, but more is required.

Thus, they have reached an agreement with Manchester City over the signing of Jack Grealish on a season-long loan, a move that Graham Ruthven of Total Soccer Show believes will be “exciting”.

Meantime, according to a report from Spain, Everton are “interested” in signing striker Franculino Djú, adding that he is valued at around £17m by FC Midtjylland, with Roma and RB Leipzig also considering a move.

Sport Witness add that the 21-year-old’s performances in the Danish Superligaen have ‘attracted interest’ from several of Europe’s top clubs, but could Everton steal a march and bring the youngster to Merseyside?

What Franculino Djú would bring to Everton

Born in Guinea-Bissau, Franculino joined Benfica’s academy at the age of 15, but never made a senior appearance for the Portuguese giants, instead moving to Midtjylland on a free transfer in the summer of 2023, with Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout stating that the Danish side hit the “absolute jackpot”.

That’s because, to date, he has scored 40 goals in 79 appearances for the Wolves, thereby averaging a goal every 118 across all competitions.

Ten of these goals have come in European competition, including a hat-trick against Omonia 12 months ago, scoring seven goals in six appearances so far this season, bagging a hat-trick when Sønderjyske visited Herning, also breaking the deadlock during last Thursday’s Europa League qualifying victory over Fredrikstad.

The aforementioned Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout labels him “unstoppable”, adding elsewhere that he has a “big future ahead”.

Farzam Abolhosseini of Tipsbladet asserts that he was the “highest-scoring teenager” across Europe last season, while Joost van der Leij documents how ‘finishing’ is the youngster’s primary asset.

Meantime, writer Tom Maston praises his “impressive strike-rate”, with Jake Entwistle of Scouted adding that he is a ‘well-rounded’ centre-forward, comparing him to the in-demand Alexander Isak, a man who could also be set for a move to Merseyside.

So, let’s analyse his statistics in the Superligaen this season so far.

Goals

6

1st

Goals per 90

2

1st

Goals inside the box

6

1st

Assists

2

2nd

Shots

10

5th

Shots on target

6

3rd

Shots on target %

60%

11th

Goals-per-shot

0.6

2nd

Big chances missed

2

3rd

Big chances created

1

14th

Average SofaScore rating

8.53

1st

As the table documents, Dju has absolutely been on fire at the start of this season, scoring seven times in all competitions already, adding to the 11 Superligaen goals he bagged last season, netting 16 times overall.

If any Evertonians are sceptical, worth noting that, according to Global Football Rankings, Denmark’s top division is the 13th strongest league in the world, just below the EFL Championship and the Eredivisie, so he is performing at a relatively high level.

So, why would he be a better signing than possible future teammate Grealish?

Well, the England international is set to join Everton on loan but an expensive one, with reports noting that this is set to cost the Toffees around £15m in a loan fee and wages, with Grealish currently earning around £300,000-per-week.

Franculino, on the other hand, could prove to be a bargain at just £17m in the long run.

If the Blues are going to get back to where their supporters believe they belong, challenging for European qualification, they’re going to have to work smarter in the transfer market, buying lesser-known players for low fees, before ultimately selling them on at a huge profit.

Franculino certainly fits that profile, with the striker seemingly ticking both boxes, boasting enough quality to improve Everton’s team right now.

Meanwhile, at 21 years old, his value will surely increase exponentially over time, while Grealish only does the former. The experienced England international has barely kicked a ball in recent years and he’s out of form.

Dju, on the other hand, is bang in form.

Just imagine him & Ndiaye: Everton aiming to sign PL star alongside Dibling

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ByBen Gray Aug 10, 2025