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As if the transfer window hasn’t already been an exciting state of affairs for Aston Villa, it could yet end with even triumph and satisfaction for Steven Gerrard and the club’s supporters.

Philippe Coutinho and Lucas Digne have already arrived but a major name from within the game is now being closely linked to Villa.

What’s the word?

Reports emerged late on Tuesday evening that the Villans had tabled an offer to bring Suarez back to England and as a result of Gerrard, they were ahead of a number of Brazilian clubs in the race to secure his signature.

Now, the Villa boss and Johan Lange have been given further hope of concluding a deal by Spanish football expert, Alvaro Montero, who was speaking live on Sky Sports on Wednesday.

He claimed that Suarez was looking to leave his current employers, Atletico Madrid, and in a captivating four-word claim, suggested that Villa “could be an option” for the veteran striker.

The Uruguayan’s contract expires at the end of the season so there is a chance that the Midlands outfit could sign for free in the summer.

Fans surely buzzing

After the signings of Digne and Coutinho, fans will have rightfully been on cloud nine given their international experience and previous exploits in the game.

However, if you combine that with the potential for Suarez to arrive at Bodymoor Heath in the next six months, supporters will simply be ecstatic.

Of course, the forward is now 34 years of age now and is no spring chicken, but there is no escaping from the fact that he is still a wonderful goalscorer.

He has regularly beaten the goalkeeper throughout his career and at the top level no less, scoring 69 Premier League goals, while also racking up a phenomenal 195 strikes during his stay with Barcelona.

Furthermore, Suarez is an incredibly decorated player. This is someone who has won the Spanish top-flight on five occasions, an individual who has won Copa del Rey four times and has also taken home both the Champions League and Club World Cup.

That is quite the honours list and based on experience alone, he’d be a wonderful player to have in the dressing room.

On top of that, his superb ability to make something extraordinary happen out of nothing is almost second to none. He has terrorised English defences before and there is every chance he could do the same in the claret and blue of Villa.

A move still feels unlikely but what a coup he’d be if they could get a deal across the line. Coutinho was a landmark signing but this would surely blow that out of the water, consequently leaving supporters elated with their recruitment team.

AND in other news, Sky Sports journo drops exciting AVFC transfer update on live TV, fans surely buzzing…

According to Corriere di Puglia e Lucania, as relayed by Sport Witness, a major update has dropped as Tottenham Hotspur and Fabio Paratici set out a plan for Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic.

The Lowdown: Spurs in summer talks…

As per Sky Sports, Tottenham were interested in the 24-year-old over last summer’s transfer window and even attempted to leapfrog West Ham in the race for his signature.

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The reliable broadcaster also claimed that talks were held over Milenkovic but to no avail with the Serbia international eventually putting pen to paper on fresh terms with La Viola.

Now, in a fresh update, it appears that Spurs are eyeing a fresh swoop in January.

The Latest: Mikenkovic update emerges…

As per CDPEL, via Sport Witness, Tottenham and Paratici are ‘following the player closely’ ahead of next month and it is even believed that the Lilywhites are now ‘ready to enter in negotiations’.

This comes amid claims that Milenkovic has a gentleman’s agreement to leave Fiorentina if the right offer arrives.

The Verdict: Get it done…

As Antonio Conte becomes linked with bolstering his defensive reinforcements in the winter window, we believe a swoop for Milenkovic would tick a lot of boxes.

The 6 foot 4 powerhouse is adept at passing out from the back and colossal in the air, as evident by the fact he eclipses the rates of every Tottenham player in terms of aerial duels won per 90 (WhoScored).

He’s also found 90.8% of his passes to teammates in Serie A this season, highlighting a cool head on fairly young shoulders and leaving little wonder he has attracted plenty of praise.

Spanish defender Pol Lirola recently called him ‘extraordinary’ while Milenkovic’s former coach Ivan Tomic labelled the defender a ‘beast’. Accolades and numbers like these could point to a really shrewd option for Conte.

In other news: Levy now open to another big name exit as Conte tells Spurs to sell ‘magnificent’ player, find out more here.

Everton will be expected to go into the transfer window with conviction over the next couple of weeks, as they have been, surprisingly, one of the most underperforming teams in the Premier League with only five wins and five draws from their last 17 fixtures this season so far.

The Toffees have been linked to a number of players over the last few months, but there was one signing in particular that was picked up by transfer insider, Fabrizio Romano, and the deal seems to be almost done.

What’s the word?

Ukrainian left back, Vitaliy Mykolenko is set to join Everton in January according to Fabrizio Romano, who tweeted out a transfer claim two weeks ago.

“EXCL: Ukraine left back Vitaliy Mykolenko is currently undergoing his medical as new Everton player, here we go! #EFC”

“He’s set to join Everton from Dynamo Kiev on a permanent move, final price around €21/23m. Personal terms agreed.”

Now Russian news outlet, YHAH, has claimed the full back is set to earn a ‘dizzying sum’ to join the Toffees on Merseyside in the New Year, with the report stating that the Dynamo Kyiv star will earn seven times his current salary at the Ukrainian club.

The report suggests that Mykolenko earns $50K a month currently, with a move to Everton improving his financial situation astronomically, as it is reported he will earn around £58K per week when and if he joins in the next few weeks.

Former Ukraine head coach Myron Markevych has heaped praised on the 22 year old speaking on the defender’s “desire to improve” in an interview quoted by the Liverpool Echo;

“By his dedication, his desire to improve, Vitaliy Mykolenko deserved such a challenge in his career. It’s really a real challenge for the 22-year-old, who has proven with his quality play recently at all levels that he is ready to test his capabilities in the world’s strongest soccer league.”

Bye Bye Digne

The signing of the Ukrainian international would only confirm further that Rafa Benitez has plans for current left back, Lucas Digne, to leave the club during the upcoming transfer window, with rumours already linking the Frenchman away from the club.

It would appear that making such a signing, with such a generous wage offering would only mean that the Spanish manager feel his differences with Digne as irreparable, which would surely leave fans gutted to see the Everton star leave after over three years and 127 appearances for the club.

It would clearly be an unpopular decision to let go of the full back, however, Benitez has come good with his signings so far for the Toffees, with both Andros Townsend and Demarai Gray joining the club during the manager’s reign, who also both happen to be the joint top goal scorers for the club right now.

In other news: Rafa must avoid losing Calvert-Lewin in the transfer window

Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips will be fit for the Whites’ upcoming Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace on Tuesday night.

What’s the latest?

That’s according to a claim made by Leeds Live reporter Beren Cross, with the journalist revealing that, despite being brought off at half-time after appearing to struggle during the opening stages of the 0-0 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend, the 25-year-old does not appear to be a serious injury concern.

In his report, Cross said of the England international: “There was clear hobbling, there was clear stretching and a clear conversation with fitness coach Benoit Delaval just before the break which saw him pointing to his lower leg.

“The assumption had been an injury when he was withdrawn before the second half, but Bielsa refuted that notion entirely in his post-match press conference. Phillips was in his tracksuit at full-time, waiting for his teammates on the touchline to embrace them and pat them on the back, smiling. This was not someone off their feet and needing treatment.

“If Phillips is okay then the big plus is his availability for Tuesday’s clash, but the concern is, without an injury, Bielsa felt it was necessary to take his England international off the field. Phillips had not played well by any means, but it has been a long time since he was taken off in a tactical decision by Bielsa. We hope he returns to his best in midweek.”

Fans will be buzzing

Phillips did not enjoy his finest game in a Leeds shirt on Saturday, with the midfielder earning a SofaScore match rating of 6.8 for his efforts against the Seagulls, a significant drop from the 7.4 he earned against Tottenham the previous week. However, considering just how important he is to Marcelo Bielsa’s side, the news he does not appear to have suffered a serious injury is sure to have left Leeds fans buzzing.

Indeed, over his 29 Premier League appearances last season, the £36m-rated England international scored one goal, registered two assists and created five big chances for his teammates, as well as making 1.2 key passes, 1.6 interceptions and 2.6 tackles and winning 5.3 duels per game.

These returns saw the £38k-per-week midfielder earn a seasonal SofaScore match rating of 7.21, not only ranking him as Leeds’ best performer in the league but also the joint 17th-best player in the entire top flight.

As such, with Bielsa’s 17th-placed Whites very much in need of three points against Crystal Palace on Tuesday if they are to avoid being dragged into a relegation scrap this season, the news that Phillips appears to be available for selection will undoubtedly be a major boost for Leeds.

In other news: Time to go: Orta must finally axe “frustrating” Leeds dud as Bielsa drops transfer hint

A number of Liverpool supporters have responded positively to James Pearce’s claim that Harvey Elliott is closing in on a return from injury.

The 18-year-old has been absent since the middle of September after he suffered a dislocated ankle in the 3-0 win away to Leeds United.

It was a cruel blow for Elliott, who had begun the season in hugely impressive form, starting three Premier League matches and not looking remotely out of his depth.

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While there were initial fears that the midfielder could be out for the entire season, he has been making remarkable progress in his recovery from that setback.

According to The Athletic’s Pearce [via Anfield Edition on Twitter], Elliott is expected to return to full training next month, assuming everything goes to plan.

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Liverpool fans react to Elliott latest

It is a hugely positive update from the reliable journalist, and these Liverpool fans took to Twitter to provide their thoughts on the news.

“Like a new signing that”

Credit: @Hans_LFC

“Fantastic news”

Credit: @DWLFC94

“Yes, good news”

Credit: @Aaliyahlfc14

“Get innnn”

Credit: @KaanBursa9

“Finally Starboy is returning”

Credit: @lfcnicoo1

“That’s great news”

Credit: @firi450

In other news, some Liverpool fans slammed one player’s performance against Tottenham. Read more here.

Aston Villa could review Dean Smith’s position as manager, should they lose to Southampton on Friday evening.

That’s according to reliable reporter Gregg Evans, and, as to be expected, a number of Villa fans have been giving their thoughts to the news on social media.

Villa suffered four defeats from four in October, with the last of those coming on Sunday against West Ham.

Reports since have claimed that Villa have made initial contact with former AS Roma manager Paulo Fonseca, with Villa seemingly exploring Smith alternatives.

Evans shared a story on The Athletic on Wednesday and claimed that a defeat at St Mary’s could lead to a review period during the international break, whereas a win might also only be buying Smith time.

Villa fans react

Well-known page @villareport shared Evans’ claim on Smith on Twitter. This is what these fans had to say in reply, with a few wanting to see Fonseca brought in.

“Dean Smith your time is up”

Credit: @mahomezs

“A Villa win will paper cracks over Dean Smith we should just get Fonseca regardless of the result on Friday”

Credit: @MilanRnic1

“Win or get sacked I feel for Smith. Absolutely massive. Hope we win”

Credit: @Emi1Martinez

“Smith out it’s happening”

Credit: @waynipoos1

“Smith’s last game pending”

Credit: @manj_av

“OH WHEN THE SAINTS”

Credit: @WazeUTV

In other news: ‘Welp’ – Many AVFC fans erupt as Preece shares ‘terrible news’ on Leon Bailey. 

Southampton could be in danger of losing one of their youth talents in the near future, with fellow Premier League club Manchester City reportedly keeping an eye on Kgaogelo Chauke.

What’s the news?

That’s according to talkSPORT, who also claimed that several other top European clubs are currently tracking 18-year-old.

During his time in Southampton’s youth ranks, the central midfielder has made nine appearances for the under-18 side and 34 appearances for the B team.

In his first two appearances for the B team in the EFL Trophy against Leyton Orient and Charlton Athletic this season, Chauke earned a match rating of 7/10 in both games according to SofaScore, proving that he has what it takes to perform at a good standard against senior opposition.

Currently valued at £135k according to Transfermarkt, he has appeared in all of the B team’s Premier League 2 games so far this season, completing the full 90 minutes in most of them, which just goes to show how important he is to the Saints at that level.

Chauke, who Ralph Hasenhuttl apparently “really likes” according to journalist Joe Crann, has also had a taste of playing in Southampton’s first team, with one appearance under his belt, which came during the 2-0 win over Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup back in January as he played 79 minutes.

Taking all this into account, it would be safe to say that it could be a disaster for the club if they were to lose the 18-year-old, who could well go on to break into Hasenhuttl’s side and become a regular figure at St Mary’s in the same way that the likes of James Ward-Prowse and Jack Stephens have done.

For this to happen, Southampton owner Gao Jisheng will have to ensure that the club keep Chauke out of City’s clutches or any other suitors who may have their eyes on him.

The best way they could do this would be to offer him a new deal, considering that his current contract is set to expire in the summer, and give him assurances that he will get some chances to perform in the first team and prove his worth at that level.

In other news – 100% duels won: “Important” £20k-p/w Saints monster has just shown his worth to Hasenhuttl

A number of Wolves supporters are excited after Bruno Lage’s side were linked with a move for Sporting CP defensive midfielder Joao Palhinha.

Wolves are back in Premier League action on Saturday afternoon, making the trip to Leeds United for what could be an intriguing clash.

Lage’s men have won their last three league matches, including last weekend’s unforgettable 3-2 victory away to Aston Villa, meaning they now sit 10th in the table.

While Wolves are in good form at the moment, they are always on the lookout for potential new signings and a fresh update has emerged regarding Palhinha.

According to Calciomercato [via Talking Wolves], they are keen on acquiring his signature, with the 26-year-old winning nine caps for Portugal to date.

His a destructive presence in the middle of the park, winning an enormous 3.8 tackles per game this season in Liga NOS.

Wolves fans react to Palhinha latest

These Wolves fans took to Twitter to provide their thoughts on the news, with many reacting positively, as one supporter called him a ‘perfect’ transfer target.

“If there is a god”

Credit: @tod1877

“Him or Renato Sanches in in the January window would arguably be the best winter window Wolves have had since promotion”

Credit: @krittterrr

“The perfect midfielder for us after Renato Sanches”

Credit: @WolvesNumber37

“PORFAVOOOOOR”

Credit: @raulismo9

“Do it please”

Credit: @Finsabu

“Get it done before we miss out”

Credit: @Dan__Vincent

In other news, a journalist has hinted at one Wolves player leaving the club. Find out who it is here.

A number of Wolves supporters have been showing their love for striker Raul Jimenez after he spoke about the fans singing his song.

The Mexican has been a fantastic player for Wolves, having joined the club from Benfica back in 2019.

The 30-year-old has scored 49 goals in 119 appearances, not to mention chipping in with a tally of 20 assists, highlighting his all-round quality in the final third.

Sadly, Jimenez saw his campaign cut short last season after he suffered a very serious head injury against Arsenal, but he is now happily back on the pitch again.

On Thursday, ahead of Monday’s clash with Everton, an official Wolves tweet shared a great quote from the Mexico international, in which he outlined how special it is when the supporters sing ‘Si Senor’.

Wolves fans react to Jimenez comments

Needless to say, these Wolves fans took to Twitter to show their love for their hero.

“It’s because you deserve it”

Credit: @WolvesLads

“Si Senor”

Credit: @Jones53272592

“A song is the least we owe. You and Hwang will be firing for the rest of the season”

Credit: @JamesSa36443478

“You deserve all the love Wolves fans give you, it’s a joy to watch you play football”

Credit: @Carol78487983

“Our Mexican sensation”

Credit: @wwfc_alfiee

“Class player, class person”

Credit: @StevenTania

In other news, one player has been linked with a January move to Wolves. Find out who it is here.

Ange Postecoglou admitted last week that he felt he’d walked under a ladder after the start of his Celtic tenure.

Indeed, after the Hoops suffered more dropped points and yet another injury on Sunday, he’d have been wondering how many ladders had been placed in his way.

On the chalkboard

This is Celtic’s worst start to a campaign for 23-years and after an injury problem to Josip Juranovic, the issues are only mounting for Postecoglou.

The Bhoys only have ten points from their opening seven matches and barring a miracle, it would take a lot of work in order to regain the Premiership title.

Juranovic has now joined a plethora of other bodies on the treatment table with fellow defender Greg Taylor out alongside the likes of Callum McGregor, Giorgos Giakoumakis and Kyogo Furuhashi.

Now is the time for Celtic’s most experienced players to step up. You’re asking for Joe Hart to lead by example and for Tom Rogic to really grab the bull by the horns.

Sadly, the Australian’s performances have waned in recent weeks. He started the campaign in excellent form and looked a rejuvenated figure under Postecoglou following a goal against Dundee FC.

However, he’s now struggling to add impetus to the final third and he’s also losing the ball on a regular basis.

As Celtic laboured to a 1-1 draw with Dundee United this weekend, he was particularly poor. Rogic missed a golden opportunity that struck the woodwork, gave away possession 20 times and completed just 71% of his passes.

The solution

One simple remedy would be to withdraw Rogic from the starting XI for a period of games.

However, with Celtic’s injury list mounting, that’s easier said than done.

A way they could solve that issue is by looking into the B team and unleashing some of the young players who are set to star in the future.

Postecoglou hasn’t been shy to grant opportunities to young players with Dane Murray featuring in the Champions League a few weeks ago and Adam Montgomery now becoming a key part of the manager’s plans.

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Another teenager they should turn to is Owen Moffat.

The 19-year-old was on the bench against Dundee United last weekend and has been a rampant threat all season long for the B team.

Capable of playing out wide but also through the middle, Moffat is a mightily talented individual, someone who’d be prepared to offer more in the final third than his Australian colleague.

He has been among the goals already this season, finding the net five times in a 10-0 win over Vale of Leithen.

The youngster started that game on the flanks but moved centrally before catching the eye again.

At his age, versatility will be extremely important when it comes to breaking into the senior set-up.

He’s never made a first-team appearance but one can’t be far off after the acclaim he’s received in 2021/22.

Speaking during pre-season, skipper Callum McGregor commented: “A mention for young Moffat – his attitude has been first class. I remember watching him at the end of last season, training on the astro himself. Every day they would do finishing and I remember thinking: ‘He’s got a finish on him’.”

With Celtic stuttering, they will be lusting after the return of their injured stars. Though, for the time being, it’s surely worth exploring Moffat’s qualities in the first-team.

AND in other news, 93% pass success: 26 y/o now shining after leaving Celtic, he was a “laughing stock”…