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It was an unusually quiet transfer window for Everton over the summer, and new manager Rafa Benitez may be regretting missing out on some top targets.

What’s the story?

According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, the Toffees were eager to secure the services of AC Milan forward Rafael Leao during the summer transfer window in order to provide cover for Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

However, despite them reportedly showing an interest in the highly-rated 22-year-old, it’s claimed that a deal was never close to completion, and Everton have now missed their opportunity to sign the Portugal international.

The report claims that Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund are still linked with the youngster, while his agent Jorge Mendes is attempting to offer his client to fellow Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Benitez badly needed him

Leao has cultivated a reputation as one of European football’s most intriguing young strikers in recent years after impressing for Sporting Lisbon, Lille and Milan during his short career.

Although he initially struggled to settle at San Siro, bagging seven goals and providing six assists in 40 appearances throughout his maiden campaign on Italian shores, the attacking talent eventually found his best form, catching the eye of former striker Rolando Bianchi.

“Leao is very young and is having a great season. Sometimes young people give the impression of mirroring themselves a bit, but his performance are that of a great player,” he said (via MilanNews).

“I had seen him at the U20 World Cup with Portugal, and he made spectacular plays. He has great speed, he has a touch of the ball. Milan have made a great purchase, and if they continue like this, they have great prospects.”

And Leao appears to have taken his game to another level this time around. In just 13 outings in all competitions, he’s scored five goals and laid on two assists, helping Milan climb to the top of the Serie A table in the process.

The £45m-rated gem’s eye-catching displays may be good news for the Rossoneri, but they’re likely to leave Benitez feeling absolutely gutted.

Calvert-Lewin’s current injury woes have left 32-year-old Salomon Rondon leading the line at Goodison Park, and he looks a shadow of the player that caused so much damage to top-flight defences during his time at Newcastle United.

He’s yet to find the back of the net in seven outings for Everton after arriving in the summer, contributing to their recent back-to-back defeats, in which they struggled in the final third.

Therefore, Benitez is surely ruing the missed opportunity to snap up Leao, and he’ll be hoping director of football Marcel Brands can make amends in the upcoming January window.

And, in other news…Club source reveals concerning update on key Everton man, fans may be worried 

Barcelona have reportedly agreed a five-year deal for Leeds United winger Raphinha as his time at Elland Road seemingly nears its conclusion.

The Lowdown: Raphinha on the move?

There have been numerous reports focusing on the Brazilian in recent weeks, with a summer exit from Leeds appearing to be on the cards.

There is no denying that Barcelona have emerged as the strong favourites to snap up Raphinha at the end of the season as Xavi eyes up attacking reinforcements at Camp Nou.

Now, arguably the biggest update yet has emerged regarding the matter.

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The Latest: Barcelona deal agreed

According to Spanish media outlet Sport, Raphinha has agreed terms with Barcelona over a five-year deal, despite competition from the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City and Bayern Munich.

His salary and bonuses are thought to be decided already and he has ‘given his word’ to the Catalan giants that he will join them in the summer.

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The Verdict: Matter of time

If true, this update comes as no great surprise, with Raphinha’s future increasingly looking like it belongs away from Leeds as the weeks and months have passed.

On the plus side, the Whites should earn a substantial fee for the Brazil international – Phil Hay has claimed that it will take considerably more than £30m for a deal to be done – allowing Jesse Marsch the opportunity to bring in top players of his choosing over the summer.

The main thing now is that Raphinha knuckles down and produces big performances until May, helping Leeds to stay in the Premier League and ensuring that his legacy at Elland Road is very much a positive one.

In other news, Leeds have been linked with a loan move for one player this summer. Find out who it is here.

West Bromwich Albion are expecting to receive a substantial settlement in the tribunal regarding Nathan Ferguson’s departure from The Hawthorns.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to Joseph Masi’s report for the Express & Star, with the journalist revealing that, despite it having been more than a year since the right-back’s move from West Brom to Crystal Palace on a free transfer, the tribunal to determine the fee the Premier League side owe Albion is yet to take place – something which is largely down to the pandemic.

However, Masi continued to state that Valerien Ismael’s side are expecting the fee they are eventually awarded by the tribunal to be a sizeable one, as Palace had agreed an initial £11 million transfer fee for the defender in the January transfer window prior to his summer move.

Ismael will be delighted

Considering the fact that Ferguson’s move to Palace occurred a year before Ismael was appointed West Brom manager, the fact that the Frenchman looks set to receive a considerable fee for a player he did not work with is sure to delight the 45-year-old.

Indeed, should the tribunal have taken place at any point over the previous 12 months, Sam Allardyce would more than likely have spent the fee received for Ferguson in the January transfer window, on a player who – it can be assumed – would not have fit the criteria Ismael likes his signings to meet.

As such, while Masi revealed that The Professional Football Compensation Committee are yet to appoint a panel so that the tribunal can begin, and while no date has been reported as to when the proceedings could be set to start, it would seem likely that Ismael is in line to receive a windfall of cash at some point this season, which the Frenchman could then put towards either January or summer additions to his first-team squad.

In other news: Fresh report reveals twist on “fantastic” West Brom beast, Ismael will be devastated

Glasgow Rangers fans are far from happy with the news that the three tickets for their Europa League group stage home games will cost £117.

After winning the Premiership last term, the Gers had the chance to qualify for the Champions League before they were beaten by Malmo 4-2 on aggregate in the competition’s third qualifying round. However, they were able to reach the Europa League group stages after getting past Alashkert.

In that stage of the tournament, Rangers will play Lyon, Brondby and Sparta Prague. The prices for tickets are now on sale, and they have been priced at £117 for the whole package. The supporters, it seems, feels that is a bit steep, and are worried about paying such a price to be able to attend the games.

The Heart and Hand podcast made the original complaint on their Twitter page, and it attracted plenty of attention from the supporters. They took to the social media platform to share their thoughts.

Let’s see what the fans had to say below

“Shocking price”

Credit: @kplloyalbear

“There’s no need for the “package” it’s a slap in the face to those who have multiple season tickets to pay for”

Credit: @blackmambawatp

“Shocking on top of 4 tops season ticket money give fans a break”

Credit: @stevorfc79

“It is very steep but no surprise…..fans are just a cash cow which is not a great feeling but hey ho will still be there”

Credit: @lee_samo

“Put it into perspective, we are 60% dearer for an adult package and 100% dearer for a concession more than the great unwashed across the city This needs raised to the club that we shouldn’t be treated like cashcows anymore”

Credit: @VWdoubleforte

“You’ll need a payment plan for champ league lol”

Credit: @Brianwatp55

In other news, Rangers fans reacted to this man’s exit.

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.

Many Wolves fans have been left raging as a transfer update emerged on Adama Traore.

As per Sky Sports, the Spain international has emerged as a potential option for Tottenham Hotspur to sign on loan for the rest of the 2021/22 season.

It would be very strange if the Midlands club were to let one of their best players go out on loan, especially to a Premier League rival, considering that Traore’s market value is currently £27m according to Transfermarkt.

Granted, he did not have the best of seasons last year by his standards, but in 2019/20 he scored six goals and supplied a further 12 assists in 54 matches across all competitions (Transfermarkt), and he still poses a threat whenever he runs forward.

Wolves fans on Traore transfer update

These Wolves supporters were left raging as the exit rumour involving Traore was shared by Talking Wolves on their Twitter page, with one imploring chairman Jeff Shi not to let it happen:

“There’s literally no logic in doing that.”

Credit: @jon306

“If we accept it, we are fully in the mud.”

Credit: @Edwardtxylor

“That’s the lamest thing I’ve heard all day. Loaning Adama would be so stupid.”

Credit: @jack57168200

“Are they having a laugh, a loan. Tell them where to go Jeff.”

Credit: @JohnLanghamj

“If we accept this then we’re in even more of a mess than I thought”

Credit: @WeAreWolvesFans

“No way this happens. Jeff will never be able to show his face again if we let this happen”Credit: @robbowwfcIn other news, find out what Bruno Lage admission has left these Wolves fans fuming

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

Newcastle are expected to sign a number of players in the summer according to Sky correspondent Keith Downie.

What’s the story?

He said when speaking to This Is Futbol that he expects the Toon to be extremely busy when it comes to adding new faces to the squad ahead of next season.

He said: “I still expect four or five players to arrive, and that’s without me talking about anyone leaving. If players leave then it could lead to even more arriving.”

Despite still not having secured their Premier League status, the Magpies seem confident of their survival and seem to be planning ahead of next season already.

Who’s on their list?

It will be interesting to see who Newcastle are able to attract but it’s likely they will want to target some of Europe’s best players.

They have recently been linked with a move for West Ham United star Jarrod Bowen who has been their top scorer this season and is highly rated at only 25-years old.

A move for him would also see them weaken potential rivals next season when they’ll be looking to finish as high as possible.

Reports in the Daily Mirror also say that the club have already set their list of targets which includes Everton star Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Kalvin Phillips.

With Everton and Leeds both struggling this season, if either of them were to be relegated it would make it far easier for Newcastle to make these signings.

Targeting an English contingent of players may be a strategic move. They may be more willing to move to the North East due to recognising Newcastle’s stature and history perhaps more than players on the continent.

However, if they do go down this route then they will have to be willing to pay more for English talent. History has shown players from home tend to fetch higher transfer fees.

Ever since the takeover, it’s been expected that Newcastle would spend big to try and compete with the best in the league. Time will tell just how much they will spend but if you’re a fan of the Magpies then it should be an exciting summer ahead. This is certainly great news for the Toon Army.

IN other news: NUFC plot bid to sign £31.5m-rated star who’s on “fire”, he could be their own “Salah” – opinion

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

Leeds United have handed a boost in their bid to bring Ryan Kent to Elland Road in the summer transfer window.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a claim made by Pete O’Rourke, with the transfer insider revealing in a recent interview with GIVEMESPORT that the Rangers winger has a release clause written into his contract with the Scottish Premiership side – reported to be somewhere around the £20m mark.

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Speaking about Leeds’ interest in the 25-year-old, O’Rourke said: “The Ryan Kent one is interesting; he’s been a long-term target for Leeds. Ever since they won promotion back to the Premier League there were links with Ryan Kent.

“He’s had another good season for Rangers, impressed especially in their European run as well. If Leeds did follow up their interest, there is a release clause in his contract.”

Kent can replace Harrison

Considering the fact that Jack Harrison has recently been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur in the summer transfer window, it is easy to see why Victor Orta would once again be considering a move for Kent at the end of the current campaign.

Indeed, while Kent has not quite hit the heights of 2020/21 over his 24 Premiership appearances so far this season, the £12.6m-rated winger has still been one of Rangers’ better performers, scoring two goals, registering seven assists and creating ten big chances for his teammates, as well as taking an average of 2.5 shots and making 1.8 key passes per game.

These returns have seen the £52k-per-week forward who Leon Balogun dubbed a “magician” and Andrew Dickson labelled “completely unplayable” average a highly impressive SofaScore match rating of 7.14, ranking him as Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s sixth-best player in the Scottish top flight – not bad for an off season.

As such, should the £60k-per-week Harrison – a player who has scored seven goals and provided one assist over his 29 Premier League appearances this term, as well as averaging a SofaScore match rating of 6.70 – indeed move on to pastures new this summer, Kent would very much appear to be an excellent replacement for the 25-year-old Leeds attacker.

AND in other news: Orta can finally axe “horrible” £46k-p/w Leeds flop with “significant” £25m signing