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While the international break is still in full swing, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag will already have one eye on the return to club action this weekend, with the Red Devils set to take on top-four rivals Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday.

The major selection headache at present for the Dutchman, ahead of the trip to St James' Park, will be the enforced absence of influential midfielder, Casemiro, with the Brazilian still having three games left to serve of his four-game ban after being dismissed in the most recent league meeting against Southampton.

The loss of the 31-year-old will come as a notable blow for United such has been the £70m man's impact in recent times, having been hailed as the "glue" in the side by club legend Rio Ferdinand due to his undoubted importance.

Although there is an argument that the former Ajax boss could look to fill that void by pushing usual centre-back Lisandro Martinez further forward, there are other members of the squad who could also be pushing for a role.

Academy graduate Scott McTominay will likely be hoping he has staked a claim for selection after netting twice off the bench in Scotland's 3-0 win over Cyprus on Saturday, with that clinical double proving vital in getting Steve Clarke's men off to a perfect start in their Euro 2024 qualification campaign.

That being said, however, the fact that the 26-year-old wasn't even selected from the start for his country should be something of a warning sign to Ten Hag, with the 6 foot 4 man – who has been linked with a move to Newcastle this summer – having also been hooked early in the second half during the FA Cup triumph over Fulham last time out.

Instead of looking to the Lancaster-born colossus as the answer to the Casemiro problem, United could be wise to hand a chance to January arrival Marcel Sabitzer in that deep-lying role, with the Austria international having also thrived for his country in recent days.

Should Sabitzer start for Man United?

The on-loan maestro scored twice and registered an assist for Ralf Rangnick's men in what was a thumping win over Azerbaijan on Friday evening, with the 29-year-old recording a monstrous 10/10 match rating, as per Sofascore, after also laying on three key passes and creating two big chances on the day.

Although that creative prowess may ensure that Sabitzer is better suited to a more advanced role, the Bayern Munich man could replicate the forward-thinking and progressive approach that Casemiro has taken on in his defensive-minded berth this season, with the latter man having created five big chances in the league this term.

Equally, while the former Real Madrid ace has been an effective screen in front of the back four this season as he ranks in the top 6% among those in his position in Europe's top five leagues for tackles made, Sabitzer also possesses the credentials to mirror that destructive style, as the 5 foot 10 gem actually ranks in the top 5% for that same metric.

A player who can seemingly make an impact at both ends of the pitch, the recent, temporary addition notably bagged his first goal for the club against the Cottagers just over a week ago, with that hopefully the first of many in a United shirt.

With recent reports claiming that the £13m-rated ace would be "happy" to stay in Manchester beyond the end of the season, the upcoming top-flight fixtures should allow him the chance to prove why he would warrant a permanent deal.

The exciting playmaker does appear to have been carrying something of a knee problem of late, although the aforementioned Rangnick does appear to be "optimistic" regarding the extent of the injury, ensuring that Sabitzer could still be in line to feature against the Magpies.

If the one-time RB Leipzig star – who has been branded a "monster" by Statman Dave this season – can showcase his ability to ease the loss of Casemiro, then such flexibility and versatility may well only enhance his chances of being snapped up for the long term by Ten Hag and co.

While Manchester United still have plenty left to play for between now and the end of the season, manager Erik ten Hag will already likely have one thought on just how his squad will shape up heading into next season, with key decisions needing to be made to continue the recent progress under the Dutchman.

One notable area that does appear in need of addressing is the midfield ranks, with the Red Devils currently having something of an ageing pool in that department, with the likes of Christian Eriksen, Casemiro and Fred all in their thirties.

There is seemingly an urgency to find a more youthful, long-term replacement for the latter man, in particular, with the diminutive Brazilian – who has been at the club since 2018 – reportedly one of those who could be moved on this summer.

The 30-year-old currently has just over a year to run on his existing deal after the club recently triggered a 12-month extension, albeit with it seemingly unlikely that a long-term contract will be in the works, with the former Shakhtar Donetsk man having been a polarising figure during his time at Old Trafford.

Branded "not good enough" by club legend Roy Keane earlier in the campaign, the relentless gem does still have his merits, however, having been hailed as a "mosquito" by Ten Hag for his pest-like, all-action style in the Europa League triumph over Barcelona.

As such, if Fred is to move on any time soon, the former Ajax boss will be looking to find a suitable successor for the 32-cap machine in the centre of the park, with promising youngster Charlie Savage one such candidate for the role.

How is Charlie Savage getting on at Forest Green?

The 19-year-old – who is the son of one-time United academy graduate, Robbie Savage – is currently shining out on loan at League One side, Forest Green Rovers, having joined the club in January on a temporary deal until the end of the season.

The Wales youth international – who recently turned down a call-up from his nation's U21 set-up in order to focus on his club side – notably scored his first senior goal in the defeat to Bristol Rovers earlier this month, with that having been just reward for his fine start to life under manager, Duncan Ferguson.

Much like Fred the 'mosquito', Savage is also seemingly "full of energy and enthusiasm" – according to Ferguson – with that showcased by the fact that he has averaged 1.2 interceptions and 0.7 tackles from his six league outings this season, while the current United man has averaged 0.7 and 1.6 for the same two metrics, respectively.

A left-footed midfield asset – much like Fred – the teenager was previously given the chance to shine under the watchful eye of Ten Hag during the Red Devils' pre-season tour, notably leaving club legend Bryan Robson "impressed" due to his impact on the trip.

Having also done "really well" in the friendly win over Liverpool in Bangkok – as per treble-winner Andy Cole – the Leicester-born maestro certainly made a positive impression, with Ten Hag himself reportedly having been left 'surprised' by the 6-foot gem's ability.

While that did not lead to game time at senior level earlier in the campaign, Savage previously earned his debut alongside friend and midfield colleague Zidane Iqbal in the Champions League back in December 2021, with the pair likely to be hoping to build on that brief taste of first-team football moving forward.

Although it would be a notable step up for the playmaker to rise from playing in England's third tier to establishing himself at the Theatre of Dreams, the possible departure of Fred could give the teen gem the opportunity to stake his claim for a first-team berth next season.

Reporter Alex Crook has revealed on TalkSport that Alejandro Garnacho is close to signing a new contract at Manchester United.

The Lowdown: A stunning breakout season

Manchester United are at the start of their revolution under Erik ten Hag, but some parts have undoubtedly progressed quicker than others as they find themselves in a title race and a Carabao Cup final.

Certain players have also taken major steps forward in their careers, with Marcus Rashford now one of the most in-form players across Europe and youngster Garnacho has proven himself more than capable of performing at this level.

The young winger is still on a basic contract given his age, and that prior to this season, he’d made just two first-team appearances. But now with eight goal involvements this season to his name, he looks set to be rewarded with a bumper deal.

The Latest: Garnacho set for a new contract

According to Crook, everything is edging closer to the Argentinian penning a new deal at Old Trafford which would likely see his wages take a significant boost.

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He said: “Another player close to agreeing a new deal, I’m told, at Man United is young Alejandro Garnacho. That will be a long-term contract as well, and I was told yesterday progress is being made on that, so it might not be too long until we get an announcement that he’s committed his future to Manchester United.”

The Verdict: Smart move from everyone involved

It makes sense for Man United and Garnacho to get a new deal thrashed out as soon as possible as if he keeps performing at his current level this season, more clubs could start to take a keen interest in the winger, though talk of a new and improved deal would surely also give the teenager the confidence that Man United believe in him.

Garnacho has been afforded 13 league appearances this season, which may well have been unthinkable at the start of the campaign, but it’s a testament to the work he and Ten Hag will have done behind the scenes that he has risen to prominence at Old Trafford this term.

It has previously been reported that a new contract offer from Man United could see Garnacho go from a weekly wage of around £5,000 to £20,000, which will be life-changing for the winger, while the Red Devils won’t be ruining their wage structure by raising his salary.

Southampton are traversing a turbulent path right now, recently sacking their second permanent manager of the campaign before agonisingly missing out on a new manager in Jesse Marsch, who had reportedly been “set” to complete a deal.

In the ensuing days, caretaker manager Ruben Selles, who had arrived last summer as second fiddle to Saints’ former long-time boss Ralph Hasenhuttl, took the reins and led the daunting charge at Stamford Bridge to gallantly seek salvation against Chelsea, who, despite their own troubles this season, were well aware that victory was the only acceptable option.

As fate would have it, James Ward-Prowse’s wand of a right foot dictated the flow once more, and the south coast club escaped from the lion’s den with all three points, now just one point adrift at the bottom of the Premier League table.

Selles masterminded this victory, bagging the goods in his Premier League debut as the club’s first-team manager, which comes as a timely surprise to all affiliated with the endangered top-flight outfit, who may now turn to the interim leader and offer a permanent seat at the head of the table.

However, according to beIN Sports anchor Richard Keys, Southampton must lay waiting for the Blues’ manager Graham Potter to receive the sack, with Chelsea having won just one of their past ten matches across all competitions.

Keys said: “If Chelsea get on and sack Potter as they should – there’s a very good job waiting for him at Southampton. He’d be perfect there.”

Could Potter really end up at Southampton?

While Potter is currently enduring the torrid task of managing chastened Chelsea’s copious pool of players, it would certainly be unfair to say that his time in west London has been a comprehensive insight into his capabilities as a top-flight boss.

After departing from Ostersunds FK for Swansea City in 2018, having led the Swedish minnows from the third tier to the top division in the Scandinavian nation, Potter’s possession-based emphasis and fluid philosophy started to seep into English football, and after landing a tenth place finish, Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion made a swoop.

Over his three full seasons in charge, the 47-year-old recorded 15th, 16th and ninth-placed finishes, earning plaudits for his tactical vision and seamless implementation into the Albion set-up.

And departing the Seagulls for Chelsea earlier in the current campaign, having forged the early work that has left his former outfit perched proudly in seventh place in the division after 22 matches, Potter’s influence has been crystallised.

It hasn’t, however, worked out at Chelsea thus far, with the Blues tenth in the league and out of both domestic cup competitions; despite spending in excess of £550m since the summer, the prestigious club face the inconceivable prospect of missing out on Champions League football next season.

And if Southampton were to complete a transfer, it would represent a return to the energetic, buoyant and gegen-pressing football that was so often on show under the endeared Hasenhuttl’s tenure – depsite losing 9-0 on two occasions, the Austrian manager was held in very high esteem, a testament to the job he was doing in Hampshire.

Brighton were often tagged with an inability to finish despite the free-flowing nature of their overall play, exuding a verve that belied their initial lowly standing in the Premier League over Potter.

And with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola once waxing lyrical over the “aggressive” style that is a prominent cachet of a Potter system, it certainly seems that he holds the tools to rekindle the fire that has dimmed to a heap of smouldering coals in Southampton.

Should the former Seagull be handed the keys by owners Sport Republic, he could instil the very same aura that left him so revered eastward across the south coast, and given Saints’ position, this could be the very remedy to ail their woes.

Insider Pete O’Rourke has claimed that Leeds United fans will hope that breakthrough star Wilfried Gnonto stays at the club rather than making a big move this summer.

What’s the word?

Gnonto arrived at the club for around £3.8m this summer in a deadline-day move from FC Zurich and has been the shining light of an otherwise underwhelming season.

The teenager continued his fine start to life in English football with a stunning performance away at Manchester United in midweek, opening the scoring in the first minute before setting up the second goal in their 2-2 draw, and may start to attract interest from elsewhere.

However, O’Rourke has told Football FanCast that Leeds fans will be desperately hoping he does not leave in the event the club avoid relegation amid potential interest arriving from elsewhere off the back of his fine performances.

O’Rourke said: “He’s definitely got all the tools. He’s already an Italy international as well.

“He’s made a real big impact at Leeds this season. I think for Leeds fans, they’ll be hoping he can stay for as long as possible and that none of the big boys will try and prise him away with a big-money offer in the summer.”

Bargain buy

Gnonto was let go by Inter in 2020, joining Zurich for free, and Leeds brought him to the Premier League for a bargain price with an eye on the future.

The 19-year-old has scored four goals for Leeds this season, and his pace and creativity provide a spark in an otherwise inconsistent team, who recently sacked manager Jesse Marsch.

Indeed, he ranks in the top 9% of wingers for progressive carries and is already a crucial member of the attack as he helps carry the ball forward.

Leeds interim boss Michael Skubala called Gnonto “special”, and if he maintains this level of performance and helps Leeds avoid relegation, he will surely become a hero at Elland Road. Whether that will be enough to see him stay at the club in the long term remains to be seen.

Wolverhampton Wanderers will now find it ‘really difficult’ to complete a deal for Flamengo midfielder Joao Gomes before next Tuesday’s deadline, according to Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.

The Lowdown: The story so far

The Daily Mail revealed earlier this month that the Old Gold were closing in on a deal to bring the 21-year-old to the Premier League, with Fabrizio Romano backing up reports by stating that the Brazilian was all set to fly to England to undergo his medical.

However, a roadblock emerged at the last minute when French outfit Lyon made a late swoop and presented an offer for the player which was £2.5m higher than Fosun’s, meaning that the deal stalled as a result of Flamengo preferring the proposal which had more money on the table.

The Brazilian is keen to come to Molineux, though, and posted a teasing message on social media just two days ago which read ‘time is a teacher’, a possible hint that progress was on the horizon.

The Latest: Taylor’s comments

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Taylor claimed that despite that recent message from the player, Wolves may now have had Gomes stolen from underneath their nose thanks to their competitors.

He said: “It’s looking like a really difficult deal to complete now because Flamengo effectively said Lyon are paying higher money, so we want to sell to Lyon.

“I think Wolves will feel really hard done by on that front because they literally had the deal done and now it’s been taken away from them.”

The Verdict: He’d have been perfect for Wolves

Ruben Neves has recently been linked with a summer exit from Molineux, and if he should leave at the end of the season, Gomes would be an ideal long-term successor, having been labelled a ‘midfield destroyer’ by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

The Nike-sponsored starlet is naturally stronger in the defensive aspect of his game, currently ranking in the 99th percentile for most tackles per 90 minutes among players in what FBref define as Men’s Next 8 Competitions. He is also capable of contributing in the final third, having scored four goals and provided three assists throughout his senior career (Transfermarkt).

The Rio de Janeiro native has five trophies to his name already, so he will know what it takes to be successful, and that is exactly the kind of winning mentality that Julen Lopetegui needs to instill into his Wolves squad.

Gomes also has the ability to operate in all positions across midfield, so he would offer the Old Gold plenty of versatility should he get his wish and put pen to paper in the Black Country, but sadly that now looks improbable.

Liverpool transfer target and 2022 World Cup sensation Sofyan Amrabat has been favourably compared to Javier Mascherano by journalist Pete O’Rourke, with Jurgen Klopp reportedly mulling over a winter move.

What’s the word?

According to Corriere dello Sport (via the Liverpool Echo), the Reds’ German manager is striving to drive a deal over the line this winter, with Moroccan phenom Amrabat at the heart of the attention.

Fiorentina would reportedly be resigned to consider a bid in the region of €40m (£35m), and Klopp must act swiftly and test the Italian outfit’s resolve if he is to stabilise the ship and set Liverpool on course for success during the business end of the season.

According to O’Rourke, who was speaking to Football FanCast, Amrabat could even be like a former Red, with Liverpool wise to try and sign such a player as the club languish in sixth place, seven points off Manchester United in the top four.

The transfer insider said: “He can be better than Mascherano in possession which would be a big bonus for Liverpool as well and if he’s half as good as Mascherano I’m sure Liverpool fans would be more than happy to have him at Anfield.”

A monster signing on the way?

Liverpool’s desperation in the pursuit of fresh faces in midfield has become all the more apparent this term, with a stark decline in form and fluidity following a previous year that clinched a domestic double in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup and a 92-point Premier League finish.

The 26-year-old Amrabat could prove to be the glittering gem to serve as a central focal point in righting the wrongs and oozing assurance and quality from the middle, weaving a layer of undeniable excellence into the fold.

The Liverpool faithful will know all about the ball-playing mastery and defensive resilience of Mascherano, with the phenom having plied his trade at Anfield during his playing career, signing from West Ham United in an initial loan deal in 2007.

Mascherano, who was once heralded as a “phenomenon” by compatriot Pablo Zabaleta, played across five seasons for Liverpool before earning a £22m move to FC Barcelona, and his versatility as a holding midfielder and defender earned him lavish praise for his dynamism and effectiveness

A notable maestro with the ball at his feet, completing 88.5% of passes throughout his career post-2008, the Argentine took control of matches and utilised his footballing intellect to pick precise, positive passes.

Amrabat can adopt this mantle, and O’Rourke’s praise over his aptitude in possession is bolstered by the statistics; as per FBref, the “monster”, as hailed by journalist Carlo Garganese, ranks within the top 5% for pass completion and the top 3% for progressive passes when compared to midfielders over the past year.

And, as per Sofascore, his exploits with Morocco in Qatar – an 85% passing accuracy, 2.3 tackles and 1.4 clearances per outing – were a pivotal factor behind his nation’s historic surge to the semi-finals of the competition, ultimately finishing fourth.

With Liverpool indeed requiring a signing with world-class credentials to bolster the middle of the park, Amrabat might be the man; fleet-footed, pin-point, and robust, he could be Klopp’s saving grace, a monster in the middle of the park, as the battle to secure that coveted Champions League spot intensifies.

Wolves have reportedly submitted a second bid for OGC Nice midfielder Mario Lemina, as Julen Lopetegui looks to add to his midfield options at Molineux now the transfer window has opened.

What’s the word?

The Old Gold have been linked with a move for the Gabon international in recent days and after seeing their first bid rejected, reports are claiming that Wolves have now gone back to the Ligue 1 side with a better offer.

According to Daily Mail journalist Tom Collomosse on Twitter, Lopetegui’s side have returned with a €5.5m (£4.9m) bid for the former Southampton midfielder.

However, Collomosse also claims that it might take a little more for Wolves to get a deal done, but it seems likely that the 29-year-old could return to the Premier League this month.

Lopetegui’s own Caicedo?

It is easy to see why Lopetegui might want to recruit a defensive-minded midfielder this month, given that the Old Gold possess a lot of technically gifted midfield players but not many natural battlers, which are definitely necessary in a relegation battle.

According to FBref, the fifth-most similar player to Lemina, when compared with other midfielders across Europe’s top leagues, is Brighton sensation Moises Caicedo.

The Ecuador international has recently attracted interest from the likes of Liverpool after starring with the Seagulls, having established himself as a key player at the Amex Stadium at just 21.

When comparing Lemina and Caicedo’s performances from the current campaign, the two share remarkably similar stats with regard to tackles in the attacking third (both eight), goal-creating actions per 90 (0.11 vs 0.13) and touches in the defensive penalty area (38 vs 39).

According to WhoScored, Lemina and Caicedo also share the exact same strengths; interceptions, concentration and aerial duels, which suggests that they are very similar types of midfielders.

During the £138k-per-week earner’s spell with Southampton, the Gabonese star caught the eye of BBC pundit Garth Crooks after an impressive display against Crystal Palace.

He said: “My goodness, this lad looks a powerhouse.

“I suppose when you’ve played for one of the biggest clubs in the world in Juventus, you should have all the tools to survive in any league.”

Lemina could be precisely what Lopetegui needs in his midfield if he is going to win ugly at Wolves and given his similarities with Caicedo, who is undoubtedly one of the most exciting prospects in the Premier League at the moment, the Spanish manager would be foolish not to bring the former Juventus man to Molineux.

Tottenham Hotspur are waiting to find out the availability of one of their top targets…

What’s the latest?

That’s according to Dean Jones, who gave his view on the rumours linking Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij to north London.

The Dutchman is entering the final six months of his £117k-per-week deal, with reports suggesting that he could leave for as little as €5m (£4m) in January.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones then claimed: “He’s a contender, we’d have to wait and see. Spurs are waiting really. Inter have offered him a new contract and at the same time, they’re being offered players of their own in case the player does leave.”

Romero masterclass

For Tottenham to dip back into Serie A and pull out another sensational defender could draw comparisons with Fabio Paratici’s transfer masterclass to unearth Cristian Romero.

The Argentine signed for Spurs in a £42m move in 2021 and has become a mainstay in the team, with his bravery and defensive work rate arguably unrivalled in the Premier League.

This is exemplified in his 6.94 average performance rating, which is propped up by his 1.4 interceptions, 2.4 tackles and 2.8 clearances per game (via Sofascore).

Italy is renowned for breeding some of football’s best defenders, and adding another could offer the defensive impetus that Conte needs in order to really enforce his title-winning philosophy on this group.

In De Vrij, the Dutchman has enjoyed a similarly impressive season for the Nerazzurri, boasting two interceptions, one tackle and three clearances per game (via Sofascore). He pairs this with an 88% pass accuracy which suggests that he could become the perfect modern-day defender in England.

The 6 foot 3 titan could probably more than cope with the physical demands placed upon him in the Premier League, with former Lazio teammate Mauricio leading the praise for the 31-year-old by saying: “Stefan is a great defender and deserves to be at a big club. He’s very tall, he’s strong and fast, he runs a lot – he’s a monster!

“He also has excellent technique and knows how to play the ball like few others, and that’s the difference between him and other players. He’s a calm defender who never gets agitated.”

Bringing in another top defender from Italy could see Conte and Paratici repeat Spurs’ earlier success with Romero, bolstering a backline which has conceded the most goals of any team in the Premier League’s top eight so far this term.

Newcastle United reportedly see Leeds United right-back Cody Drameh as ‘one for the future’ and could pounce on contract uncertainty at Elland Road to sign the youngster, according to transfer expert Graeme Bailey for TEAMtalk.

The Lowdown: Drameh on the periphery at Leeds

The 20-year-old defender has struggled for game-time under Jesse Marsch this season, playing only twice for the first team and not featuring at senior level in the last three months, with Rasmus Kristensen the undisputed first-choice at right-back.

Having already gone out on loan to Cardiff City earlier this year, there now seems a firm possibility that the youngster could depart Yorkshire for good, particularly with his contract expiring in just over 18 months’ time and no sign of a renewal, with reports claiming that a new deal is ‘unlikely’.

The Latest: Newcastle name-checked for Drameh

Bailey spoke to TEAMtalk on Friday about Drameh’s future, name-checking Newcastle among a litany of clubs who could look to take advantage of the uncertainty at Leeds.

The journalist stated: “Leeds have been in talks with Drameh about a new contract but they have not been able to agree terms and now that is off the table, and both seem to be accepting that a new deal is unlikely.

“Leeds ideally would like Drameh to be challenging Rasmus Kristensen over the next 12 months, with Luke Ayling looking likely to leave in the summer.

“Drameh has just over 18 months left on his deal, and he knows of the interest in him which is widespread. There are clubs all over who seen Drameh as an option. Newcastle, West Ham and Crystal Palace see him as one for the future, whilst there are the likes of Middlesbrough and Norwich in the Championship who I am told also like him.

“However, the 20-year-old does have options abroad – I am told that the options are plentiful and not just Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig but from clubs in France and Italy too.”

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The Verdict: Go for it

Despite being snubbed by Marsch, Drameh did make a lasting impression at Cardiff, being named the Young Player of the Season and Player of the Season for 2021/22 despite only joining midway through the campaign.

He also earned a glowing endorsement from his then-manager Steve Morison, who dubbed the youngster “excellent” and said that the 20-year-old was “like a Duracell Bunny” with the energy that he brings to the team.

While Kieran Trippier is the firm first-choice at right-back at St James’ Park, Drameh could be a worthy backup. Eddie Howe already has Emil Krath and Javier Manquillo in that position, but the Swede has been blighted by injury while the Spaniard has barely had a look-in and failed to impress with his piecemeal game-time this season.

Therefore, the Leeds youngster could well be worth the effort from PIF if they are to actively pursue him.