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Frank Lampard looks set for a big boost at Everton in the coming weeks, as influential midfielder Alex Iwobi is reportedly set to sign a new deal at Goodison Park.

The Nigeria international, who joined the Toffees from Arsenal in 2019, has been revolutionised as a central midfielder under Lampard and has been one of the bright sparks in an otherwise disappointing season for the Merseyside club.

Therefore, it is no surprise that Lampard is keen to offer him a new contract to extend his stay at the club, as his current deal was set to expire at the end of next season.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news on Twitter on Saturday, writing:

“Alex Iwobi will soon sign a new deal with Everton. Talks are well advanced, it’s going to be a new long-term deal. Negotiations are progressing to the final stages.”

In total, the 26-year-old has made 114 appearances in an Everton shirt, contributing eight goals and 14 assists, but his seven goal contributions so far this season emphasise the positive transformation he has undergone during his time at Goodison Park.

Journalist Joe Thomas was full of praise for Iwobi earlier this season on the Liverpool Echo’s Royal Blue podcast.

He said: “We are almost running out of superlatives to describe Alex Iwobi, at some point we are going to have to start thinking about and I wonder, maybe you two can help me with this, but at what does it need to reach before we can start discussing whether we can have a statue of him outside Bramley-Moore?

“He’s just been absolutely phenomenal and is another player Frank Lampard and his coaching team have been crucial to his renaissance really.”

So far this campaign, no player in Everton’s squad has contributed to more goals in the Premier League than Iwobi, while his 6.75 rating from WhoScored ranks him as the fifth-best performer in Lampard’s squad.

He also leads the way for key passes at Everton, which emphasises the creative influence he is beginning to have on games.

Therefore, it can only be great news as far as Lampard is concerned that Iwobi is close to extending his stay with Everton, as he will no doubt be important for the Toffees when the Premier League resumes later this month, with another relegation battle seemingly on the cards.

Chelsea have found themselves in a poor run of form in the Premier League ahead of the World Cup break this month, conceding consecutive defeats in their last three outings in the top flight which has seen them fall to eighth in the table.

New manager Graham Potter is in the early stages of establishing his best team and approach that will get the team firing again but may have the opportunity to polish up his philosophy by adding new players to the squad in the January transfer window.

Indeed, the former Brighton and Hove Albion manager will need to churn out some results before the opportunity to add depth to his squad in the new year, however, the transfer window could be the pivotal turning point if the club can acquire the right players in the right positions.

One area of the pitch that requires desperate attention is the midfield with a lot of uncertainty surrounding the future of key experienced players and the younger players who have not quite found their feet yet, giving Potter a lot to reflect on as he navigates through the second half of the season.

Conor Gallagher has been given the golden opportunity to take a more senior role at Chelsea after his outstanding season at Crystal Palace over the last campaign, but the club may not be afforded the time to allow him to develop and potentially find his place in the first team if they continue to lose games in the Premier League.

As a result, one player who would be an instant upgrade on the young Chelsea midfielder is Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who has already been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this week.

The €80m-valued (£70m) star has been a standout performer in the Serie A where he currently ranks number one for assists and key passes in the entirety of the league, as well as seventh for chance creation.

When you compare Milinkovic-Savic with Gallagher this season, the Lazio talent outperforms his positional peer in goal contributions (10 v 2), shot-creating actions (37 v 19), dribble success (43.3% v 25%) and aerial duels won (58.5% v 42.9%).

Former Chelsea and current Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri has heaped praise on Milinkovic-Savic on many occasions, notably commenting:

“I’ve coached great midfielders, like Zielinski and Hamsik, and he’s one of the best. He really is a complete player with great quality.”

“He also has great determination. And above all he’s improving in some aspects.”

With that being said, there is no doubt that Milinkovic-Savic would be a great investment for Chelsea as they attempt to rebuild their midfield over the next few transfer windows and he could be just the player Potter needs to get his team back on track in the second half of the season.

Glasgow Rangers reporter Jordan Campbell criticised James Tavernier’s performance in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night.

The Lowdown: Poor outing

It was a poor outing from the whole of Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side, as they lost 3-0 away at Napoli in the end, but it could have been much more.

The Serie A high-flyers had the majority of the ball and recorded 14 shots at goal, with six of them on target in what was predominantly a one-sided contest (SofaScore).

The Latest: Tavernier criticised

Taking to Twitter, Campbell was particularly critical of Tavernier and his passing, claiming that it was ‘baffling’ to see him make ‘such simple mistakes’ throughout the match:

“Tavernier’s pass completion in this group stage will do well to be above 70%. It’s baffling to watch him make such simple mistakes.”

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The Verdict: Did not lead by example

As captain, Tavernier failed to lead by example, and in the end put in as poor of a performance as any of his team-mates.

The right-back lost five of his duels, and failed to make a single interception or accurate long ball, giving possession away on 19 separate occasions, the second-most of the entire Gers squad (SofaScore).

He also made an error leading to a shot, and his pass accuracy was just 78%, one of the lowest out of his team-mates (SofaScore).

Tavernier was exceptional in last season’s Europa League campaign, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer in helping the Light Blues reach the final, but perhaps the Champions League was too much of a step up.

Glasgow Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst has ‘lost the dressing room’ and could now be facing the sack, according to journalist Josh Bunting.

The Lowdown: Increasing pressure

The Scottish Premiership giants played out a 1-1 draw against 10-man Livingston on Saturday and were booed off the pitch by supporters after yet again failing to show a clinical edge in the final third.

The Ibrox outfit are now four points adrift from rivals Celtic at the top of the table and are already out of the Champions League, leaving the boss coming under increased pressure to turn things around.

The Latest: Bunting’s comments

Taking to Twitter after the game, Bunting claimed that Van Bronckhorst no longer has the backing of his team and suggested that he could soon be relieved of his duties if Gers’ current form doesn’t improve. He wrote:

“Just looks like Giovanni van Bronckhorst has lost the dressing room at Rangers, players seem to have just given up.

“Performances abysmal and today for me goes a long way to deciding the title already and we are in October. Downward spiral and if it was the end I wouldn’t be shocked.”

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The Verdict: More time deserved

Rangers’ performances of late have been underwhelming, but GVB should be handed a bit more time given the impact he’s had since his arrival.

The Dutchman has won 40 and drawn ten of his 62 matches in charge, losing just 12 and averaging 2.10 points per game (Transfermarkt).

The 47-year-old also led his side to the Scottish Cup title last season, and it will only take one slip up from Celtic for the Light Blues to reduce the deficit at the top.

Crystal Palace hosted Chelsea at Selhurst Park on Saturday afternoon but were unable to take any points from the game, and now a reliable source has revealed an injury update on players who were noticeably missing during the disappointing clash.

What’s the latest?

In a Q&A for The Athletic, journalist Dominic Fifield gave updates on the fitness of Joachim Andersen and James McArthur.

On McArthur, Fifield revealed:

“Vieira spoke on Jimmy McArthur yesterday and, as anticipated, the update was fairly pessimistic. He remains out “long-term” with a hip problem and is sorely missed. The head coach spoke about the team pining for his experience, and they will for a while yet.”

On Andersen, the writer confirmed:

“He is injured, I’m told. Don’t think it’s hugely serious, but definitely a niggle.”

Vieira should be gutted

It was reported earlier this week that McArthur could return for the Chelsea clash, but clearly that wasn’t possible and now it is looking like the injury is still more serious than anticipated, something Vieira should be gutted about when you consider their form in the Premier League at the moment.

Crystal Palace are now 17th in the league table after West Ham United secured a win to lift them out of the relegation zone, and with just six points tallied up after not winning a game in their last four outings, they could join Wolverhampton Wanderers and Leicester City in the bottom three if Nottingham Forest can take all three points from the King Power Stadium on Monday night.

There is a clear lack of experience and leadership in the team at present, something that the Palace manager will know is important to give the team their best chance of picking up points in the top flight.

Vieira is a huge admirer of McArthur and hailed the 34-year-old midfielder earlier this year, saying:

“Macca is one of the players we missed a lot because of what he brings us on the field.

“It’s not about the quality of the player, but it’s about his presence and his experience. He is vocal when he’s on the field, he is one of our leaders.”

Over last season, McArthur delivered three assists and created three big chances, made 1.4 interceptions, 1.6 tackles per game and won 4.6 duels per game, as well as completing 70% of his dribbles from his position in the centre of the pitch, proving he is a dominant and effective presence in the team.

For context, no player in the entire Palace squad won more interceptions a match than him last term, while only four other individuals racked up more tackles, suggesting his combative attitude is very much crucial for Vieira.

With that being said, the French manager will need to find a solution to their struggle if Palace are going to have any chance of having a much more comfortable season over the coming weeks and months, otherwise a difficult relegation battle could be the harsh reality for the Eagles.

Indeed, Andersen’s miss will not be helpful either, particularly after he starred for Denmark, keeping the likes of Kylian Mbappe quiet in a 2-0 win over France during the international break. Having established a timely run of form for his country, it will be a shame that he’s now nursing a problem of his own.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have started their Premier League campaign with a bit of a whimper, winning just once in their opening six matches.

Their quest for another top-half finish under Bruno Lage has been made slightly more difficult due to their underwhelming start, but there is still time to spark the team into life after the international break and get positive results.

The Old Gold’s goalscoring woes from last season – only 38 league goals scored – have reared again this season, with only three goals scored in the Premier League.

It’s clear they need some added creative input, and although Lage brought in Goncalo Guedes and Matheus Nunes to his side, he might rue missing out on a player who has shone in Scotland…

Wolves made a blunder on Kent

Ryan Kent was linked with a move back to England this summer, with Wolves tracking the layer alongside Fulham, Leeds United, and Everton.

With the future surrounding Wolves winger Pedro Neto still unclear as Arsenal looked set to sign him during the summer transfer window, he might still move away in the near future, and Kent would have been an ideal heir.

The £20m release clause for the “lively” 25-year-old shouldn’t put Wolves off, considering the fees they spent during the summer and, if Neto does move on, they would be able to reinvest the money.

Although they missed their chance in the summer, with Kent’s contract set to expire in 2023, they might even be able to secure his services for free in January, or on a cut-price deal.

Neto spent the vast majority of last season injured, however, comparing the Portuguese winger’s stats to the Light Blues player from the 2020/2021 campaign proves Lage might rue not making a move for Kent in the transfer window.

With 19 goal contributions domestically, Kent proved that he can be a far greater goal threat than Neto (11 goal contributions), showcasing his attacking talents as Rangers romped to the Scottish Premiership title. The 25-year-old had 2.54 shots per game compared to Neto’s 2.19, as he demonstrated his willingness to shoot from a wide position.

What’s more, Kent missed eight big chances during the campaign, meaning he may have had even more goals, with Neto missing only four.

His former Rangers teammate Leon Balogun described Kent as a “wing wizard” and after watching his tricky and creativity on the flank during his spell at the Gers, he could easily translate that to performing at a high level in the Premier League.

Lage might have missed the perfect chance to sign Kent, but he could well try again in January.

Tottenham Hotspur managing director Fabio Paratici is a big admirer of Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin, according to football.london’s Alasdair Gold.

The Lowdown: Strong window

Spurs have enjoyed a strong summer transfer window having welcomed seven fresh faces to Hotspur Way.

Unlike previous years when the club have been accused of selling-to-buy, it seems like a major change has taken place in the Lilywhites’ transfer strategy.

Therefore, even when fringe players have been on the cusp of leaving, it has been made imperative that an adequate addition comes in to take their place in the squad.

The Latest: ASM links

With Bryan Gil now expected to join Valencia on loan, Conte has reportedly demanded a direct replacement for the 21-year-old.

As such, reports have emerged linking various wide players with N17 moves in recent weeks.

Gold has weighed in on Tottenham’s possible transfer targets, revealing interest in a number of Premier League players.

And according to his report for football.london, Paratici is a big admirer of Newcastle forward Saint-Maximin.

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The Verdict: Great addition

Recently praised by Magpies boss Eddie Howe for his ‘electric’ performance against Manchester City on Sunday after he contributed two assists in the 3-3 draw, it is easy to see why Conte would want a Premier League proven speedster in his Lilywhites squad.

As per FBRef, compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, the Frenchman ranks in the 99th percentile for dribbles completed and in the 87th percentile for progressive carries – illustrating his ability to terrorise defences at ease.

With Spurs now looking to build upon the strong foundations of their current squad, the addition of Saint-Maximin at Hotspur Way would provide fantastic depth and quality, sparking fierce competition amongst the attacking ranks at N17.

Frank Lampard is ready to bring a former Everton player back to the club if reports are to be believed…

What’s the word?

That’s according to Simon Phillips, who spoke to GIVEMESPORT about the Toffees’ interest in Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley.

He said: “Ross Barkley is wanted by Lampard, but with the history there with the club, the way Barkley left, I’m not so sure that they would want him back.”

Although Frank Lampard is reportedly a fan, and with the midfielder with only a year left on his £100k-per-week contract, there is no doubt that the polarising star could be tempted back to Goodison Park for a cut-price.

Lampard should avoid him

The decision to appoint Rafael Benitez was one which split the fanbase completely, devastating the club and nearly sinking them into relegation.

Although signing Barkley would likely not have this same impact, it could certainly polarise a fanbase that was torn apart during Benitez’s reign.

Not only this, but the chance that he could even be a success upon re-signing for the club is so unlikely given he has never really found any form since leaving in 2018.

Having made nearly 100 appearances for Chelsea, it can be assumed that he has been a mainstay in the side but suffered a few unfortunate injuries.

In reality, having played just 5,152 minutes, his time on the pitch per game averages out to just over 52 minutes a match, meaning he has never truly been considered a starter at the club.

With just 12 goals and 11 assists to his name during this period, many would likely dub his move to the English capital a failure. Evertonians will delight in this fact given the way he left.

Just six Premier League appearances last season, and entering the final year of his contract, Chelsea will also be delighted to see the back of this signing who has been dubbed “terrible” by journalist Daniel Storey.

One argument made against his potential return is: would he be a good option if he had never played for Everton before?

The answer is a resounding no, and Lampard should heed these words to avoid a romantic re-signing who offers little footballing value. In short, it would be a terrible mistake to re-sign him.

Tottenham Hotspur managing director Fabio Paratici has held direct talks for AS Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo amid the rumours of a move this summer, reports Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.

The Lowdown: Zaniolo links

According to Italian outlet Tuttosport, Spurs are set to go head-to-head with Serie A giants Juventus in the battle to sign the 23-year-old attacker.

Journalist Maurizio Russo has revealed the Lilywhites have had an opening £25m bid rejected for the player, with their offer also including defender Joe Rodon as part of the deal.

Zaniolo has entered the final two years of his £75,000-a-week deal with Jose Mourinho’s side and since last year Spurs have been keeping an eye on his situation as talks over a contract extension seemingly broke down.

The Latest: Taylor’s claim

Taylor believes that bringing in a creative attacking midfielder is Antonio Conte’s top priority for the remainder of the transfer window, though he is not convinced of the reports of an actual bid being made.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, the journalist claimed: “I think the key now is to sign a creative midfielder that gives Conte the chance to switch from the 3-4-3 to 3-5-2 with a central attacking midfielder.

“I’m not sure on the Maddison and Zaniolo links, but I know Zaniolo is very much appreciated by Paratici.

“He’s one of the players he held talks for, while in Italy, but I don’t know about a bid, as such.”

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The Verdict: Great signing

Praised for his ‘impressive quality and strength’ by former Roma boss Claudio Ranieri, it is easy to see why the Italian duo would be keen on bringing the 23-year-old to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this summer. Roma legend Daniele De Rossi has also hailed the youngster’s ‘incredible natural physique’, so there should be no questions over his readiness for the rough and tumble of England’s top flight.

As per FBRef, compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, Zaniolo ranks in the 93rd percentile for shots total, in the 90th percentile for progressive passes received and in the 83rd percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area, providing an all round threat in behind a natural number nine, such as Harry Kane.

Having already made six signings this summer, an attacking midfielder could be the final piece of the puzzle for Conte’s side, who are looking to make a big push in the Premier League this season.

Everton are reportedly interested in Leeds United target Tyler Adams.

What’s the word?

That’s according to respected journalist Ben Jacobs, who told Twitter last night that Adams is keen on a move to the Premier League.

Whilst he does now prefer a move to Elland Road, both Everton and Sevilla are noted as interested parties. The midfielder is after first-team assurances as the World Cup approaches. 

In full, Jacobs said: “Tyler Adams really wants a loan move to Leeds. He’s already spoken to Jesse Marsch, who wants another midfielder despite landing Marc Roca. Leipzig open to a deal after Xaver Schlager’s arrival. Adams needs game time ahead of the World Cup. Everton and Sevilla also interested.”

Imagine him and Gallagher

Frank Lampard and Kevin Thelwell will certainly be looking to revamp the Toffees’ squad, especially with the departure of his talisman Richarlison for a fee rising to £60m.

He could start this rebuild from midfield, however, by signing not only Adams but Conor Gallagher too, who impressed last season on loan at Crystal Palace and has been linked with a move to Goodison Park.

If these two were to join up, they would provide perfect midfield balance, offering tenacity, tough-tackling and the ability to drive the team up the pitch. Last season Gallagher scored eight and assisted three from central midfield, and earned huge plaudits for his relentlessness in the middle of the park.

This, combined with the American international, who ranks in the 98th percentile for blocks and averages 22.53 pressures per 90 would ensure that opposition midfielders would not be afforded a minute’s peace.

The 23-year-old also averaged a 7.40 SofaScore rating in the DFB Pokal as RB Leipzig went on to win the competition. Lampard could use some of that domestic cup form to potentially propel Everton to a first major honour since 1995.

It is therefore unsurprising to see his former boss and current Leeds head coach Jesse Marsch dub him a “special talent” and claim that “the ceiling is massive for him, everyone can see that.”

To steal the gritty midfielder, who has been valued at £13m, from those who were relegation rivals last season would be an early victory in the mental battle for the upcoming season.

If both he and Gallagher could be tempted to Goodison Park, then Everton may be quick to forget the departure of Richarlison as this midfield pairing of Adams and Gallagher could see the Toffees way surpass their performances of recent years.

AND, in other news: Everton plotting no-brainer move for “unique” £80k-p/w machine, Lampard would love him.