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After losing 3-0 to Manchester City at Old Trafford last time out – Erling Haaland showing no mercy with two goals in a comprehensive victory for Pep Guardiola's men – Erik ten Hag cut a forlorn figure again on the touchline as Manchester United boss.

It's not out of the ordinary in recent years for Guardiola's high-flyers to humiliate their rivals on their own patch, the gap between the two sides frightening and ever-growing.

It puts even more pressure on the shoulders of the Dutch head coach attempting to turn things around with the Red Devils, who continue to struggle and ultimately fold on the big occasion.

Five defeats from their opening ten matches in the Premier League is way off where an expectant Man United fanbase thought they would be under Ten Hag, the ex-Ajax head coach was meant to be the catalyst for change at Old Trafford when appointed.

Yet, it's pointing in the direction now of another managerial dismissal similar to the likes of Ralf Rangnick, Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Jose Mourinho before him – all unable to reach the heights expected of them.

The Red Devils could, therefore, look towards a serial winner to replace their current boss which would certainly appease the restless natives at the Theatre of Dreams – previous interest in Zinedine Zidane could well be reignited as a statement appointment.

Man United manager news – Zinedine Zidane

First linked with a switch to Manchester in 2021 according to football journalist Duncan Castles of the Telegraph, the iconic Frenchman's name could well pop back up in the list of names rumoured to replace Ten Hag who remains on extremely thin ice.

Zidane's agent would reject multiple advances from the Red Devils at the time, the 51-year-old taking time out of football after departing Real Madrid.

Man United would eventually settle for Rangnick, another notable misfire in their ongoing back catalogue of failed managerial appointments.

But, with the pressure ramping up on Ten Hag to fix the situation at Man United fast, Zidane should well be in the running to finally come to Old Trafford as boss to turn around the fortunes of the underperforming giants.

Zinedine Zidane's immense trophy collection

Two years now out of the managerial game, you imagine Zidane will be raring for a return to the limelight and Man United could present the former Ballon d'Or winner turned head coach with an opportunity to find his feet again.

Zidane would raise the standards at Old Trafford tremendously, the 51-year-old determined to win at all costs which saw his Real Madrid teams dominate the Champions League – the Frenchman spearheading his elite group to three Champions League titles in a row, the third and final honour coming at the expense of Liverpool with Gareth Bale's overhead kick stealing the show in a 3-1 victory.

He has also never lost a game versus Man United in his entire managerial career, beating the Red Devils 2-1 in the 2017 Super Cup final to add another trophy to his extensive collection as Los Blancos manager.

Burning out at the Bernabeu eventually, Zidane could well fancy the opportunity to kickstart a resurgence at the Theatre of Dreams if he was to return to the cut and thrust of managing again. Ten Hag may well have won trophies in the Netherlands but he doesn't have the CV that one of France's greatest players possesses.

Expectations would have to be tempered somewhat. Ten Hag was meant to be this saviour-like figure for the Red Devils when swapping Amsterdam for pastures new in Greater Manchester and it hasn't gone according to plan whatsoever.

Zidane would have to navigate through choppy waters initially, with the Man United job arguably a poisoned chalice ever since Sir Alex Ferguson walked away from his post ten years ago.

Manchester United could be set to lose one of their first-team stars next summer, with a fresh report revealing that he’s set to receive an offer alongside Bruno Fernandes.

Bruno Fernandes – Saudi Arabia links

According to reports, Fernandes has emerged as a target for some of the biggest clubs in the Saudi Pro League who are keeping close tabs on his situation, with the same outlet claiming that his admirers are willing to offer up to £87m to prise him away from Old Trafford at the end of the season.

The Red Devils midfielder’s entourage are expected to hold talks with representatives from the wealthy division to discuss what a potential switch would look like upon the conclusion of the current campaign, but if the following update is to be believed, he might not be the only senior squad member heading for the exit door.

At the start of the season in the Premier League, Harry Maguire looked to have fallen significantly down the pecking order, but having started the past five consecutive games in the top-flight (Transfermarkt – Maguire statistics), Erik ten Hag appears to have handed the centre-back another lifeline.

West Ham United were heavily linked with a move for England’s international over the summer, whilst Everton also had a proposal rejected, and despite a deal failing to come to fruition for either club before the previous deadline, the 30-year-old is now attracting interest from a new potential suitor in the Serie A.

Juventus plotting swoop for Harry Maguire

According to JMania (via Sport Witness), Juventus are considering tabling a bid for Maguire next summer. The Allianz Stadium outfit are preparing a “monstrous offer” thought to be in the region of €30m (£26m) for their target, but with no further information available, it remains to be seen whether these claims are completely accurate.

Maguire has become "undroppable" under Ten Hag

Standing at 6 foot 4, Maguire is able to provide a real physical presence with his height at the heart of the defensive backline, and since being brought back into the team, he’s more than proved why he deserves to keep his place in the starting line-up at Man United.

The Sheffield-born talent is currently averaging 3.1 clearances and the same amount of aerial wins per game in the Premier League (WhoScored – Maguire statistics), but he’s also capable of posing a threat to the opposition when it comes to the action in the final third.

Sponsored by Puma, Ten Hag’s colossus has clocked up 54 goal contributions (29 goals and 25 assists) since the start of his career, so not only is he effective in his own position, but he can even help the side be successful at the top end of the pitch.

Since he’s returned to the team, Maguire has been described as an “undroppable” player by journalist Josh Bunting for the leadership qualities and the determination that he’s shown, so whilst a summer exit initially seemed likely, it might be a good idea to keep him in the building beyond next summer.

Reliable journalist David Ornstein has shared an important update on Arsenal's pursuit of Douglas Luiz from sources "inside the club".

Arsenal identify Luiz as dream transfer target

The north Londoners signing a new central midfielder in January is seen as a real possibility, according to reports in the last month. Mikel Arteta has been forced to deal with Thomas Partey's reoccurring injury problems this season, and while his side are sure-fire contenders for their first Premier League title in nearly 20 years, a squad imbalance could change that.

"Really excited" – Romano shares Ivan Toney to Arsenal news he's "hearing"

The Brentford star is a top target for Arteta.

ByEmilio Galantini Dec 13, 2023

Teams across the division are dealing with injury problems aplenty, and even just one or two absences could threaten to derail Arsenal's title charge. Mohamed Elneny and Jorginho's contracts also expire at the end of this season, making the need for another option all the more prevalent next month.

As a result, central midfield is expected to be a transfer priority for Arsenal in January, with the likes of Monaco's Youssouf Fofana and Fulham star Joao Palhinha linked to joining Arteta. However, it's Villa midfield general Luiz who is seen as a "dream" target for Arsenal.

“The dream target for Arsenal in midfield is Douglas Luiz," said journalist Fabrizio Romano late last month.

"It’s a complicated deal, though, because Aston Villa are having a fantastic season. I think it would take very important money to make Villa change their minds about Luiz, so he’s Arsenal’s dream target – they see him as a perfect midfielder with a big future."

The Brazilian has been in fine form under Villa boss Unai Emery this term, starting all 16 of their league games while scoring five goals and assisting two others in the process.

Ornstein shares important Luiz transfer update out of Arsenal

Now, another reliable reporter in The Athletic's David Ornstein has shared what he's heard about the possibility of Luiz joining Arteta in January.

Unfortunately, in an important update, there's bad news. The reporter claims there is no chance of Villa green-lighting Luiz's sale to Arsenal with doubts "inside" Arsenal whether he's the right fit after all.

“There is always speculation around Douglas Luiz and he signed a new contract last January when Arsenal tried to sign him," said Ornstein on The Athletic Football podcast.

"It’s been described to be a no chance that Arsenal will get him this January and people I speak to of an Arsenal persuasion dispute that they’re going to go for him or that he’s the profile that everyone inside the club wants."

This could come as a surprising one given the widespread reports indicating that Arsenal really like the former Man City midfielder, with Arteta rumoured to be a big fan of Luiz.

Percentage of passes found – 91%

Percentage of successful passes in own half – 99%

Balls recovered per game – 2.8

Completed take-ons per 90 – 75%

In any case, we believe a great alternative could be France international Fofana. The in-form 24-year-old, according to journalist Ryan Taylor recently, could be a "viable, realistic and affordable option".

Arsenal are said to be very interested in signing another young South American star amid links to Fluminese midfielder Andre and Villa's Douglas Luiz.

Edu's Brazilian connections

Gunners sporting director Edu has already signed a host of Brazil internationals since taking the reins as Arsenal's transfer chief. Gabriel Jesus joined the club in a £50 million deal from Man City in the summer of 2022, while centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes has gone on to form a brilliant partnership with William Saliba at the heart of Mikel Arteta's defence.

Marquinhos, who is currently on loan at Ligue 1 side FC Nantes, joins Arsenal's crop from Brazil as well, with Gabriel Martinelli also standing out as another star from across the Atlantic.

Edu appears to have a real habit of attracting the most exciting players from his homeland to north London, with reports suggesting that the Arsenal employee wants to keep it going. Arteta's side are believed to view Villa midfielder and former Man City man Luiz as a top target for the midfield, while promising young star Andre is another player on Arsenal's radar.

Speaking on Arsenal's transfer policy last year, Edu explained that they're only in the middle of their project and aim to keep adding more and more quality.

"We have a plan really in place, so we are probably in the middle of our project," said Edu (via Sky).

"We need to keep improving the quality in the squad. We have to make important decisions to make our squad better every year, so we have to improve, improve and improve.

"Here we have to always think about winning. I think the club was born to win things because of the size of this club and that we have to always think about winning. Every single year we have to be better, better and better."

Indeed, Brazil appears to be a very real talent pool for Arsenal, and some news has come to light about another player who is really attracting their attention.

Arsenal very interested in signing Moscardo

According to reliable journalist and transfer expert Neil Jones, speaking to CaughtOffside this week, Arsenal are very interested in signing Gabriel Moscardo from Corinthians. It is believed they're far more keen on the midfielder than the likes of Liverpool, who themselves prefer to wait for South American talent to develop before considering them for first-team football.

"Another young Brazilian linked with a move to Merseyside is Gabriel Moscardo of Corinthians, although my information is that both Chelsea and Arsenal have shown far more interest in the 18-year-old than Liverpool have," said Jones.

“Liverpool, generally, do not sign first-team players directly from South America. Their tendency in the past has been to wait and see how a talent develops once it has moved to Europe – think of Diaz, Firmino, Fabinho, Nunez, Mac Allister and Alisson as six great examples – before making their move when the player reaches their early-mid 20s.”

Moscardo, despite being just 18, has already made 23 senior appearances in all competitions and could be a real one to watch in the future.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly entering the market for new centre-backs in January, and one target is now becoming more tempted to leave in 2025 as Spurs add him to their shortlist.

Spurs target new centre-back after triple injury blow

As things stand, Radu Dragusin is manager Ange Postecoglou’s only natural senior central defensive option right now – with trio Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero and Ben Davies all sidelined through injury.

Tottenham make approach to sign "very fast" £25m centre-back in January

Spurs are after a stand-in for Micky van de Ven or Cristian Romero.

ByEmilio Galantini Dec 20, 2024

Postecoglou has been forced to deploy versatile summer signing Archie Gray at centre-back to partner Dragusin in the last few games as a result, and while the teenager’s done well in a very unfamiliar role, Tottenham’s current injury crisis has exposed the lack of depth in their squad.

Speaking ahead of their blockbuster Premier League clash at home to Liverpool, Postecoglou dropped a transfer hint and suggested that Spurs could go into the market for more experienced players to complement the likes of Gray.

Tottenham’s next five Premier League games

Liverpool (Home)

Nottingham Forest (Away)

Wolves (Home)

Newcastle United (Home)

Arsenal (Away)

“Moving forward, we probably need to err on the side of getting a little bit more experience, just to help the group, because we’ve got very few at that kind of sweet spot in terms of ages,” said Postecoglou in his latest press conference.

“And we want to give the guys in their teens or early twenties the opportunity to keep growing. We need to make sure we put quality around them, so how we allocate the next resources may shift a little bit. But I’d hate to be sitting here now and saying we had an opportunity to sign Archie Gray at 18, and we passed it up because maybe we could have got a player who helps us for a couple of years.”

Postecoglou has held recruitment meetings with technical director Johan Lange ahead of January, by his own admission, and reports suggest that Spurs could go after a fresh centre-back option.

There are many potential options for Spurs in this regard, with French newspaper L’Equipe claiming that Tottenham have entered the race for RC Lens starlet Abdukodir Khusanov, who his club are attempting to sell in the winter as they attempt to raise funds.

Postecoglou has also asked Tottenham to consider a move for Getafe’s Omar Alderete, as per Spanish media sources, and they’re also believed to hold an interest in Feyenoord star David Hancko.

David Hancko open to leaving Feyenoord as Tottenham eye move

The Slovakia international was a key player for Arne Slot during his time at Feyenoord, and has continued to be a mainstay, but he’s now considering a fresh chapter away from the Eredivisie side.

That is according to TEAMtalk and journalist Rudy Galetti, who report that Hancko is open to leaving Feyenoord as Tottenham express an interest in signing him.

This transfer appears to be more likely for the summer as things stand, though, and despite contrary reports of a reduced price tag, TT write that Hancko will cost around £41 million to sign in 2025.

That being said, the 48-cap star has a glowing reputation and could be worth the investment, especially if Postecoglou is after proven reinforcements at the back.

“He is so stable and can basically do anything. I just think he is a top defender all-round,” said ex-Feyenoord ace Tim de Cler to SoccerNews.

“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.”

After finally earning their first Premier League victory since gaining promotion back to the top flight, Ipswich Town could reportedly fall victim to their own success, with Juventus sending their scouts to watch one particular star man in action.

Ipswich transfer news

Following Wolverhampton Wanderers’ victory over Southampton earlier in the weekend, Ipswich travelled to Tottenham Hotspur as the only remaining side without a Premier League victory this season. Saving their best moment for when they needed it most up against a top six side, however, the Tractor Boys shocked the North London club to take home what they will hope to be the first of many historic wins this season.

Now out of the Premier League’s bottom three by a single point, victory over Spurs could prove to be crucial come the end of the season. It came as little suprise that it was Liam Delap who scored what turned into the winning goal late in the first-half. The summer signing has been one of the brightest sparks in the bottom half this season and his rise may not end with Portman Road.

Ipswich want to sign future "Premier League star" who's outscoring Delap

The sensational winger would make Ipswich much more dangerous.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 14, 2024

According to Tutto Juve, Juventus have sent scouts to watch Delap this season as the European giants potentially begin to plot a move to secure the forward’s signature.

Having arrived from Manchester City for a reported £20m in the summer, Delap has enjoyed an excellent run of form – perhaps far better than anyone could have expected – and has become the player most likely to spearhead Ipswich to safety. So, to lose such a talent this early into his time at the club would represent a major blow.

Whether the former Machester City academy star can resist the temptation of a top club remains to be seen, however.

Ipswich cannot afford to lose "powerful" Delap

Whilst it’s easy to doubt Ipswich in their battle to survive in the Premier League, they have an asset that many clubs in a similar position often struggle to find and suffer the consequences as a result. At his disposal, Kieran McKenna has a natural goalscorer who looks likely to reach double figures for goals, having already found the back of the net six times in 11 Premier League games. Such a record is simply invaluable for any side, let alone a relegation candidate.

If European clubs of Juventus’ calibre come calling, then the Tractor Boys have to hold them off until at least the summer transfer window when they’ve potentially got survival secured and preparations are underway for a second consecutive campaign in the top flight.

£20,000-a-week Delap has, of course, earned plenty of praise throughout the season, including from current England U21s boss Ben Futcher told Henry Winter, as relayed by the East Anglian Times: “Liam was an absolute handful. If you want to go and fight him, he’ll match you. If you want to race him, he’ll win the race.

“He’s very difficult to deal with, he’s quick, he’s powerful, he’s in good form in the Premier League. Liam’s a top number nine and he’s going to keep developing.”

Arne Slot could be praised for many things, but his uncanny ability to identify the richest vein of fluency and grasp and sustain it at Liverpool has worked wonders.

Rotation is not enforced freely this season. While Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo regularly jockey for stardom on the left wing, and Kostas Tsimikas is enjoying minutes at left-back, the Dutch tactician has refrained from making sweeping changes thus far – despite the congested nature of Liverpool’s fixture list.

On the opening day of the season, Jarell Quansah was handed a significant show of faith when placed alongside Virgil van Dijk at Ipswich Town, but he was replaced by Ibrahima Konate at half-time, with Slot frustrated by a (collective) lack of success in the duel. Someone had to go. Konate has started every Premier League outing since.

Now, against Southampton, who Liverpool meet in the top flight on Sunday after the November international break, the Reds might be forced to ring a number of changes, for injuries, while not severe, are starting to slide wintry tendrils into the squad.

The biggest concern would probably be Trent Alexander-Arnold, who pulled out of England duty after injuring his hamstring against Aston Villa two weeks ago. Slot has confirmed that he will be absent, and may miss the midweek Champions League clash against Real Madrid too.

Who then should replace the one-of-a-kind defender on the South Coast tomorrow?

1 The Obvious Choice Conor Bradley

Maybe we got a bit carried away. When Conor Bradley burst onto the scene last year, it felt for all the world that Liverpool had plucked a prodigy capable of dominating at right-back from the offing.

The thing is though, Alexander-Arnold is a generational talent and Bradley, though exciting and sparkling with potential, would be hard done by if expected to play that role with regularity, to the same degree, should the Reds’ vice-captain leave next summer.

Still, though, Bradley’s not exactly a bad prospect. He’s endowed with a balanced skill set but has an “eye-catching” attacking approach, as The Athletic’s James Pearce noted, that lends itself to success in Slot’s system.

He’s not like Alexander-Arnold, though. While both are creative and high-level attacking outlets, Bradley’s pace and dribbling serves as the nuts and bolts of his style; he drives forward, penetrating lines and fizzing balls inward to the likes of Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez.

Goals

0.10

0.08

Assists

0.20

0.24

Shot-creating actions

4.42

2.66

Progressive passes

7.76

3.84

Progressive carries

1.72

3.76

Successful take-ons

0.95

1.33

Touches (Att. pen)

1.42

3.76

Alexander-Arnold, conversely, has probably the best range of passing of any full-back in history. Quite a claim, but not without substance: Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher even remarked that “it’s like having Kevin De Bruyne playing at right-back” when waxing lyrical about the 26-year-old’s strengths.

Bradley’s the most obvious replacement, but Slot is blessed with a few alternative options that he may want to consider.

2 The Senior Option Joe Gomez

Joe Gomez has been used sparingly under Slot’s wing, and perhaps he resents the missed opportunity to end his storied Anfield career this summer, having been tipped for a transfer away in August.

It didn’t happen, and in fairness, Gomez is Liverpool’s longest-serving first-team player with a deep love for the club. Sure, he’ll have wanted more than the three substitute appearances he has been afforded in the Premier League this season, and now might be his chance.

Gomez is a highly versatile defender who has even been entrusted with a deep-sitting midfield role on occasion in the past, operating industriously and selflessly.

He’s certainly a different kind of player than Alexander-Arnold, but Gomez could be the perfect option to sit behind Salah and provide him with stability as the talismanic attacker looks to continue his incredible start to the campaign, with ten goals and ten assists apiece across 17 matches.

Should Slot decide against this option as well, Liverpool’s options would be slim. However, there could be a rogue shout to start an up-and-coming talent in a new role, having plied his trade exclusively at centre-back since breaking into the Liverpool first team.

3 The Wildcard Pick Jarell Quansah

The wildcard. Quansah is a centre-back but played at right-back prominently throughout his youth career, with his physicality and robust athleticism lending itself to moonlit success in the role.

He’s got attacking qualities that could see him, in part, compensate for Alexander-Arnold’s absence. FBref record that the 21-year-old ranks among the top 1% of centre-backs for goal scored per 90 over the past year. He’s also been described as a “monster” by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Moreover, he racked up three assists across five Carabao Cup matches en route to the title last season, so clearly has a creative spark that Liverpool could benefit from at right-back, albeit to a lesser degree than the likes of Alexander-Arnold and Bradley.

Slot may not go for this one. It’s definitely left-field. But it’s food for thought in any case. Quansah will be desperate to prove himself worthy of a prominent role in the Merseysiders’ team, and alongside Konate, might prove to become a weirdly workable right-sided partnership.

Well, one thing’s for certain: whatever happens at the St. Mary’s Stadium, Liverpool are going to be weakened by Alexander-Arnold’s injury absence. How will they ensure that victory is still secured?

Liverpool thought they had the next Alonso, but then he left for £0

Before Bajcetic, Liverpool sold a flop who was supposed to be the next Xabi Alonso.

ByAngus Sinclair Nov 23, 2024

Fair to say, things are going rather well for Chelsea right now.

On Sunday, despite being 2-0 down inside 11 minutes at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the Blues fought back to beat fierce rivals Spurs 4-2 in some style.

Jadon Sancho’s stunning strike got the comeback started and then Enzo Fernández lashed home the go-ahead goal from the edge of the area, with Cole Palmer also converting a pair of penalties, the second of which was an outrageous, audacious Panenka that capped off a memorable comeback.

Enzo Maresca continues to insist Chelsea are not in the title race, but the Blues are now clear of both Manchester City and Arsenal in second, a mere four points adrift league-leaders Liverpool, albeit having played a game more.

They will be seeking a fifth successive Premier League victory when West London rivals Brentford visit Stamford Bridge next Sunday and, with this followed by games against Everton, Fulham, Ipswich, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and then Wolves, Chelsea appear likely to be hanging around the title conversation a little while longer.

Chelsea's excessive spending on forward players

Since Todd Boehly, José E. Feliciano and Behdad Eghbali purchased Chelsea from Roman Abramovich in the summer of 2022 for a reported £4.25bn, the club have been rather active in the transfer market haven’t they?

Since July 2022, a total of 39 senior players have arrived at the club, costing in excess of £1bn in transfer fees.

When looking at attackers alone, the Blues currently have nine in their first-team squad, acquired for £347m.

Cole Palmer

£42.5m

João Félix

£45m

Mykhailo Mudryk

£62m

Pedro Neto

£54m

Noni Madueke

£28.5m

Jadon Sancho

Loan + £25m

Christopher Nkunku

£53m

Marc Guiu

£5m

Nicolas Jackson

£32m

First-choice centre-forward Nicolas Jackson was much maligned last season, but still scored 17 goals in all competitions, with Rúben Díaz of Opta’s The Analyst arguing that his first campaign at Stamford Bridge “has actually been a success”.

Approaching the midway point of this campaign, Jackson has taken his game to another level, netting eight times in the Premier League already, leading to wide-spread praise of the Senegalese international, including from Sean Walsh of Goal, who asserted he is now “London’s best striker”.

So, does Jackson’s impressive form mean Chelsea won’t dip into the market for a striker in 2025? No, almost certainly not.

Chelsea looking at Nicolas Jackson rival in 2025

According to a report from journalist Graeme Bailey, Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea all remain interested in Dušan Vlahović.

Bailey claims Juventus may be forced to sell in the near future, struggling to pay his £200k-per-week wages, while his contract expires in June 2026 meaning, if he cannot agree a new deal in Turin, next summer would be la Vecchia Signora’s last opportunity to recoup a big fee.

Vlahović has perennially been linked with a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal ‘actively attempting to sign’ the Serbian striker back in January 2022, according to David Ornstein, but instead moved to Juventus from Fiorentina for a reported fee of £63m.

Vlahović has scored 50 goals in 118 appearances for I Bianconeri, on target nine times this season to date, most notably bagging a brace as ten-man Juve fought back from a goal down to defeat RB Leipzig in the Champions League.

Analyst Ben Mattinson described him as an “insane ball-striker” and his second goal at Red Bull Arena emphasises why.

Nevertheless, Vlahović has been heavily criticised for his performances this season, struggling to fit into Thiago Motta’s new style, with his manager saying the striker “must accept criticism” back in September, with Parshva Shah in Goal adding the centre-forward certainly hasn’t “hit the levels expected of him” since swapping Florence for Turin.

So, could a move to West London next summer reignite his career, and how does Vlahović compare to Nicolas Jackson?

Appearances

67

60

Minutes played

4,721

4,709

Goals

30

25

Expected goals

27.5

26

Shots

205

135

Shots on target %

34.1%

48.1%

Shot-creating actions

104

126

Progressive carries

52

96

Take-ons attempted

56

135

Touches

1241

1337

The table underlines that, stylistically, Vlahović and Jackson are very different strikers.

At one end of the scale, the Serbian is a pure-centre-forward, having fewer touches, and significantly fewer dribbles but attempting vastly more shots, leading to him having scored marginally more goals during a near-identical number of minutes.

On the flip side, the Senegalese striker gets involved in build-up play more frequently, hence why he’s attempted an exponentially higher number of dribbles and progressive carries, racking up many more touches as well as shot-creating actions.

Nevertheless, the fact Vlahović and Jackson are so different could be exactly why Chelsea are interested in signing the Juventus front-man, adding an extra dynamic to their already free-scoring forward line.

8/10 Chelsea star was even more 'dazzling' than Palmer vs Spurs

Chelsea secured a memorable victory over Tottenham.

ByConnor Holden Dec 8, 2024

Imagine if Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had succumbed to the pressure last season.

His dynasty was in disarray after a staggering nosedive from the high-octane, swift-breaking brand of football that had lifted the club toward illustrious heights. Heights that had restored a city, etched his name into Liverpool folklore.

The German decided that this was not to be the narrative that would define his tenure, and the sweeping summer changes to a sapped and sighing midfield have proved significant, altering the pathway Liverpool were headed.

Klopp is now leaving but the Merseysiders have been revived and are competing for the Premier League and Europa League titles after clinching the Carabao Cup earlier in the term.

On Sunday, Manchester City host Arsenal in a clash against first and third; Liverpool will be keenly watching. But first, the Reds will host Brighton & Hove Albion in a must-win top-flight clash.

Liverpool have been hit with a catalogue of injuries but there is golden light at the end of that storm, with key members of the squad filtering back through.

Liverpool team news

Andy Robertson has avoided serious injury after hurting his ankle on international duty with Scotland, though it's likely that the 30-year-old left-back will be sidelined against the Seagulls.

Thiago Alcantara and Joel Matip remain long-term absentees, while Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Diogo Jota and Stefan Bajcetic will not be involved but edge closer to a return.

More positively, Ibrahima Konate is fit once again after missing the past few fixtures, while Curtis Jones could make his first appearance since the start of February.

A variety of senior options in the centre of the park is something Klopp has not quite had at his disposal over recent months, and he might now be tempted to make a tweak, with Dominik Szoboszlai, for all his quality, possibly moving to the bench against Roberto De Zerbi's men.

Why Dominik Szoboszlai could be benched vs Brighton

Szoboszlai hit the ground running and then some on Merseyside after joining from RB Leipzig last summer, Liverpool meeting the Hungarian's £60m release clause.

His power, skill and high-energy approach have been a perfect fit under Klopp's wing and this is reflected through his metrics, ranking among the top 7% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for goals, the top 3% for shot-creating actions, the top 19% for progressive passes, the top 4% for progressive carries, the top 17% for successful take-ons and the top 5% for blocks per 90, as per FBref.

Across 33 appearances for Liverpool, the 23-year-old has scored seven goals and added five assists, with his dynamic performances in the engine room leading talent scout Jacek Kulig to describe him as a "magician."

These skilful, influential efforts have indeed been key to Liverpool's success but he's not the only star in that department and given that Wataru Endo and Alexis Mac Allister have been in such fine and fluid form across recent matches, Szoboszlai might find that he enters after the break against Brighton.

Especially when fellow summer signing Ryan Gravenberch is pushing for a starting berth after recovering from a setback before the international break.

Ryan Gravenberch's season in numbers

Of the four midfielders welcomed to Anfield last summer, Gravenberch has probably made the least significant impact so far, though at 21 years old the Netherlands international has showcased the innate ability that may yet see him flower into a leading midfielder.

Completing a £34m transfer from Bayern Munich last summer, Gravenberch's stock had taken a hit after a year in Germany offered little promise, with just three Bundesliga starts all season and criticism regarding his work rate off the ball and defensive deficiencies.

Still, Klopp saw the promise within this multi-functional player's skill set and while he has ebbed and flowed during his maiden campaign in England, there has been plenty to get excited about.

And this has been reflected through his showings thus far, grabbing three goals and two assists across 31 appearances, starting nine games in the Premier League.

Why Ryan Gravenberch should start vs Brighton

As per FBref, Gravenberch ranks among the top 6% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for shot-creating actions, the top 13% for progressive passes, the top 6% for progressive carries, the top 5% for successful take-ons and the top 6% for blocks per 90.

1.

Joelinton

Newcastle United

2.

Conor Gallagher

Chelsea

3.

Dominik Szoboszlai

Liverpool

4.

Leonardo Bittencourt

Werder Bremen

5.

Khephren Thuram

OGC Nice

Given his stylistic similarities with Szoboszlai, added to the defensive security provided by Endo and Mac Allister, this might be the perfect opportunity to hand the Dutchman a starting role, especially with Liverpool hosting Sheffield United on Thursday evening before travelling to Old Trafford on Sunday.

Gravenberch, on his day, has been described as a "Rolls-Royce" of a midfielder by journalist Declan Carr, and while his displays in the Premier League have left much to be desired, Gravenberch need only take the soil of his efforts in the Europa League and cultivate a sustained level of performance on the domestic front.

As per Sofascore, Gravenberch has clinched three goal contributions from five games in Europe this term, averaging 2.2 key passes, 1.8 tackles, 5.0 ball recoveries and 4.6 successful duels per match.

Such an all-encompassing array of abilities is part of the natural ability that Klopp knows, as does Gravenberch himself, no doubt, is yet to be harnessed to its full, latent but waiting for a breakthrough.

This crucial late stage of the campaign will call for rotation as Liverpool fight across two fronts, and while Szoboszlai is unquestionably one of the finest players on Liverpool's books, the 6 foot 2 Gravenberch must now take this opportunity to make his mark.

Jones and Bajcetic are both returning from injury layoffs and there is no better time for Gravenberch to prove that he has what it takes to make his mark and aid his outfit in the fight for silverware.

Chalkboard

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

While few would dispute that Aston Villa are feeling the weight of a protracted, high-stakes season, fighting on home soil and on the continent, Unai Emery must feel pretty contented with the way things are going at Villa Park.

The past few fixtures have left a bit to be desired but Villa are fourth in the Premier League standings with a comfortable seven-point cushion over fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who hold a game in hand but have lost four top-flight games in succession.

It has been a meteoric rise and it may yet end in silverware, with Emery’s side heading to Greece for their Conference League semi-final second leg against Olympiakos bearing a 4-2 deficit. Stranger things have happened…

Regardless, Emery is not one to rest on his laurels and the go-getter will work furiously throughout the off-season to bolster his team.

But who might he sign? Well, it looks like Aston Villa are confident of securing quite the silvery signature.

Aston Villa's summer transfer plans

With Nicolo Zaniolo keen on a return to Italy this summer and Emi Buendia still yet to play this season as he recovers from an ACL injury, it makes perfect sense that Aston Villa are eager to secure a high-level new wide forward.

This will not be the sole area of concern but if the right player bobs into the club’s radar, Monchi – President of Football Operations – will pounce. It’s for this reason that Villa are working on a deal to bring Crystal Palace star Michael Olise to the Midlands.

Olise has been one of the Premier League’s most exciting right-wingers this season and last, with his feats attracting interest from heavyweights like Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United.

However, according to Football Transfers, Villa believe they can outmanoeuvre closest contenders Arsenal and United in the race given that the 22-year-old would prioritise a starting role and Champions League football were he to leave Selhurst Park.

He might be rated at £60m owing to a release clause but Emery’s team offer perfect conditions for such a fast-rising player and must now advance their interest.

Michael Olise's season in numbers

Following Olise’s exploits last season, football talent scout Jacek Kulig declared him to be “one of the best wide playmakers in Europe”, having overcome past injury issues to rack up 11 assists from 37 Premier League matches.

This season, the London-born France U21 international has suffered a regression on the fitness front while leaping to new, prodigious heights when gracing Crystal Palace on the pitch.

Matches played

17

Matches started

12

Goals

9

Assists

4

Pass completion

83%

Shots per game

2.9

Key passes per game

1.9

Recoveries per game

3.5

Tackles per game

1.0

Dribbles per game

2.2 (61%)

Duels won per game

5.8 (51%)

The table above, arrayed as it is with Olise’s metrics in the Premier League this season, does not tell the tale of this star’s season by half, with line-breaking brilliance, deadly two-footedness and sparkling creative spirit shaping a skill set that is both diverse and destructive.

A lot is said about a forward’s acceleration and the effect that can have on a frontline’s fluency but Olise’s deceleration is one of the most underrated aspects of his game, capable of halting his surge like a roadrunner and expertly dispatching the ball, surgically placing it to a well-placed striker or indeed firing home himself with ferocious power, startling precision.

He’s robust and tenacious, highlighted by his high output in the duel, and he’s found feathered balance in his attacking approach, varying his goals and assists to enhance Oliver Glasner’s thriving Crystal Palace project.

It’s quite clear that the £100k-per-week ace is destined for greatness, but conditions matter and he must choose wisely if he is to leave the Eagles for a divisional rival.

He must choose Aston Villa.

How Michael Olise would fit in at Villa

It’s difficult to quantify how rich a career Olise could forge for himself but there’s little doubt that the 5 foot 10 wide forward’s demonstrable success in England’s top flight marks him as one of Europe’s highest-quality talents.

And indeed, Kulig’s vocal support of the player is felt through his more recent remark that Olise has been “one of the EPL’s best players” this season – and that’s despite finding a starting berth on just 12 occasions.

If he can do it at Palace, he can do it at Villa Park. Leon Bailey has been Aston Villa’s principal right-winger this season and given that the Jamaican has posted 14 goals and 14 assists apiece in all competitions it’s hard to argue that he isn’t deserving of a prominent place in Emery’s plans once again next term.

But what’s another star to the system? In fact, Olise is a player who would transcend the Aston Villa side, handing centre-forward Ollie Watkins an even higher class of comrade to ensure that Champions League nights become a regular feature for Emery’s side, that routes toward silverware are realisable on the regular.

Watkins, to his credit, might also prove to be the perfect strike partner for a dynamic player like Olise, with the Three Lions star having incredibly scored 27 goals across all competitions in 2023/24 – including 19 goals and 12 assists in the Premier League.

Moreover, the Lions talisman has created 11 big chances in the Premier League this term, averaging 1.1 key passes per game, and so Olise would find that his own pursuit of goals would not take a hit with a transfer to a new system.

It’s a system that might suit his wonderful strengths and it’s a move that might just see Olise flourish from the less-trodden road toward a riskier – in a sense – project at Aston Villa than the celebrity and history of Manchester United.

But why not? Olise ranks among the top 4% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for goals, the top 3% for assists and the top 2% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref, but this does not mean he must opt for the wrong, easier option.

Such prolificness would translate to a new style at Aston Villa, where the roots of success have been placed in firm soil and the 13-point gap from eighth-place Manchester United, having scored 21 more goals, speaks volumes of the polarity in the projects, and where Olise might find the better launchpad for his promising career.

Fighting against such clubs, for such players, is a mark of Aston Villa’s rise under Emery. This is the story of Aston Villa’s position of power. This is the giddying new reality of a football club breaking into Europe’s elite. Just imagine Watkins and Olise under the lights in the Champions League. Salivating isn’t it.

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