All posts by z3u9t.icu

It may be odd to argue, amid what was a wretched campaign for Manchester United as a whole, although 2024/25 was in many ways a season of redemption in some quarters, with Harry Maguire re-establishing himself as a central figure under the new Ruben Amorim regime.

Thrust into an unorthodox number nine berth during United’s Europa League run, in particular, the England international delivered arguably the greatest Old Trafford moment in recent years, following his last-gasp winner against Lyon.

Once written off under Erik ten Hag, having been stripped of the captaincy amid talk over a move to West Ham United, the 32-year-old, to his credit, fought his way back from the brink, having notably been hailed as “perfect” for the 3-4-3 system by Amorim.

Fittingly too, that heroic winner against the Ligue 1 side had been supplied by another man on a mission, in the form of Casemiro, with the Brazilian having also delivered the assist for Kobbie Mainoo just minutes earlier – alongside winning the prior spot-kick.

Central to that comeback, the 33-year-old is in many ways the comeback kid, having shaken off the disappointment of being left out of the starting lineup for last season’s FA Cup final, to then edging out Manuel Ugarte to get the nod for the Europa League showpiece 12 months later.

That resurgence has been a joy to behold, although the fact remains that his £70m addition was perhaps a costly, long-term mistake. Could something similar soon be repeated?

Latest on Man Utd's transfer search

Speaking of fixing prior mistakes, the Red Devils appear to be searching for a suitable successor to Andre Onana between the sticks, with the 29-year-old facing an uncertain future at the club after just two years in Manchester.

Linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, the £47.2m signing made a catalogue of errors again in 2024/25 – including three leading to a goal in the Premier League – with it no surprise that Amorim is reportedly seeking a replacement.

As noted by journalist Rudy Galetti, United are said to have “renewed interest” in Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen, with the club holding “internal talks” over whether to make a move for the German.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Writing in his attached piece for TEAMtalk, Galetti notes that the 33-year-old has emerged as a ‘leading target’ for the Red Devils, amid their search to replace Onana this summer.

The veteran goalkeeper – who is said to have also been considered by Chelsea – is facing his own uncertainty back in Catalonia, amid the potential arrival of Espanyol’s Joan Garcia.

Why Ter Stegen could be another Casemiro for Man Utd

It is heartwarming that a man who won the lot at Real Madrid – namely five Champions Leagues – appears to simply love life at Manchester United, with Casemiro memorably collapsing to the floor in delight following the wild celebrations after Maguire’s Lyon winner.

The one-time Porto man has looked back to his first season best in recent months, having notably described 2022/23 as the “best” individual campaign of his career, with Erik ten Hag having hailed him as the “cement” in the side at the time.

Frustratingly, however, such performances were not maintained in the following year, with Casemiro described as looking like he’s playing “in Soccer Aid” by pundit Jamie Redknapp, having failed to justify his reported £350k-per-week salary.

Games (starts)

28 (24)

25 (24)

24 (18)

Goals

4

1

1

Assists

3

2

0

Big chances created

7

2

3

Key passes*

1.0

0.6

0.9

Pass accuracy*

79%

83%

80%

Tackles & interceptions*

4.4

4.0

4.1

Balls recovered*

N/A

5.3

4.3

Dribbled past*

1.6

2.2

1.2

Total duels won*

55%

52%

64%

Despite his recent renaissance, the decision to plump for the ageing talent remains a costly one then, with the same potentially set to occur with regard to Ter Stegen – a player who takes home £102k-per-week in Barcelona.

Like his former Madrid rival, the 44-cap Germany international could bring a wealth of experience to United, undoubtedly, having racked up 422 appearances for the club to date, while winning a plethora of major honours.

Much like Casemiro too, Ter Stegen has repeatedly delivered the goods at the elite level over a consistent period, having previously been described as “extraordinary” and “among the three best keepers in the world” by former boss Xavi. Former Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Mitchell Langerak also stated that it is “is crazy the way he can make some saves”.

The problem is, however, that at 33, the former Borussia Mönchengladbach man would hardly be a long-term solution, not least considering his unfortunate injury woes of late.

Indeed, last season, the long-serving Barca star made just nine appearances in all competitions, having only recently made his return from a lengthy stint on the sidelines due to a tendon issue.

That spell out of action – which saw Ter Stegen miss 51 games for club and country – follows a previous period of absence in 2023/24, in which he missed a further 19 games with a back injury.

For a club like United who have endured frequent injury setbacks in recent times, that must surely have alarm bells ringing, with Amorim unable to afford further disruption in such a key position.

Yes, like Casemiro, the 6 foot 2 ace – who ranked in the top 7% in LaLiga in 2023/24 for save percentage – can be a quality asset on his day, but those days may prove to be few and far between as his career reaches its climax.

As United found with Casemiro – and Raphael Varane before him – Spain’s elite clubs are rather canny at affloading ageing stars at the right time. United simply can’t prove another victim of that this summer.

Their best CF since Ronaldo: Man Utd eager to sign "fearless" £44m striker

Manchester United are eyeing up a move for a striker who would be their best forward since Cristiano Ronaldo.

ByDan Emery Jun 8, 2025

Securing qualification for the Champions League is a great achievement for Enzo Maresca in his first campaign since taking the reins as Chelsea manager.

The Italian has overcome adversity and numerous spells of criticism in the media, leading the Blues back to the biggest club competition in world football ahead of 2025/26.

Levi Colwill’s second-half strike secured a place in the top five, after Aston Villa and Newcastle United both suffered defeats on the final day against Manchester United and Everton, respectively.

It was a superb display against Nottingham Forest, restricting the hosts to very few opportunities and taking advantage of the chances that fell their way in front of goal.

The showing perfectly sets up the Europa Conference League final next week, but one player failed to produce his best performance at the City Ground despite the win.

Cole Palmer’s stats for Chelsea against Forest

Cole Palmer was Chelsea’s shining light during the opening months of the campaign, but his performance levels have massively dipped despite the club’s Champions League qualification.

The England international has only registered one Premier League goal since the middle of January, subsequently scoring just once in his last 16 outings.

He once again failed to score against the Reds, with the 23-year-old only registering a single effort on goal and unable to complete any dribbles, showcasing his lack of impact in the final third.

Palmer also only completed 17% of his attempted crosses and came out on top of just 33% of duels – often being dominated in the middle of the park by the opposition.

Given his recent run of form, the side have been less reliant upon his talents, with one other first team member now becoming just as, if not more, important to Maresca.

The Chelsea star who’s becoming more important than Palmer

Moises Caicedo once again started for Chelsea in the win against Forest, becoming the first player since Cesar Azpilicueta to start every league game back in 2018/19.

The Ecuadorian may have cost an English record transfer fee, but he’s certainly been worth every penny, that’s if his importance to the side is anything to go by.

However, despite his showings, he’s not the player who’s become as important as Palmer, with teammate Marc Cucurella taking that crown given his turnaround at Stamford Bridge.

He struggled to make a real impact last campaign, being branded a waste of money, but he’s transformed his career under Maresca, with his display against Forest highlighting how impressive he’s been.

The Spaniard featured for the entirety of the contest, registering a total of 60 touches and completing 91% of the passes he attempted during the triumph.

Minutes played

90

Touches

60

Passes completed

29/32 (91%)

Tackles won

3

Fouls won

2

Clearances made

7

Duels won

5

He also won three tackles – the most of any player on the pitch – making seven clearances in the process, playing a huge part in the Blues’ clean sheet at the City Ground.

Cucurella’s excellent outing didn’t stop there, winning two fouls and coming out on top in five duels, certainly cementing the left-back role as his own.

As a result of his showing in Nottingham, the 26-year-old was handed a 7/10 match rating by the Daily Mail’s Kieran Gill – showcasing his excellent display in helping the side claim a top-five finish.

His progress this campaign has been nothing short of sensational, hopefully building on his showings going into what’s likely to be a massive year for the club in 2025/26.

As for Palmer, the off-season will be crucial if he is to regain his previous levels of performance, possibly holding the cards to any European success for the Blues next campaign.

Fewer touches than Sanchez: Chelsea dud must never play for the club again

Chelsea secured Champions League football after a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest this afternoon.

ByEthan Lamb May 25, 2025

With rumours continuing to come thick and fast, Leeds United are now reportedly eyeing a sensational double swoop to sign a £12m midfielder and a striker who’s closing in on the Premier League’s 100 club.

Leeds set for busy summer as 49ers hunt proven top level stars

If there were any concerns that the 49ers are not aware of just how much backing a promoted side needs to avoid relegation at the first time of asking, then recent rumours should have put those worries to bed. The American owners have already reportedly set their sights on several improvements, with club chairman Paraag Marathe setting his ambitions higher than simply escaping the clutches of the dropzone.

He told reporters after the Whites secured promotion back to the Premier League recently: “Two years of getting to this point, but all that hard work and all that difficulty makes this much more rewarding and makes this so special.

Leeds have "fantastic" Man City target "on their radar" as 49ers plot move

They could pull off a shock hijack…

1 ByTom Cunningham May 16, 2025

“This is a journey and this is not the end. We have to keep going. This is what Leeds does. We are going to have some difficulties, but we are going to get where we want to go and we are going to be one of the best clubs in all of Europe.”

Whilst talk can sometimes be cheap, recent reports suggest that the 49ers are set to put their money where their mouth is this summer amid links with the likes of Beto, Jamie Vardy and Caoimhin Kelleher, planning to spend over £100m to strengthen the spine of the site with Premier League level talent.

Kelleher would be a particularly impressive arrival. The Irishman has been an incredibly successful deputy to Alisson Becker at Liverpool and has rarely faltered when called upon in the Brazilian’s absence. Now, however, he’s ready to become an undisputed No.1.

The same can be said for two more top flight talents, who have found themselves on Leeds’ radar after struggling to gain the consistent game time that they’ll be desperate for.

Leeds eyeing Wilson and Longstaff deals

According to The Sun, as relayed by TeamTalk, the 49ers are now plotting a double swoop to sign Callum Wilson and Sean Longstaff from Newcastle United this summer. The former is set to become a free agent following the expiration of his current deal in Tyneside next month, whilst Longstaff will reportedly be available for as little as £12m in the coming months.

Both players would be excellent additions at Elland Road, given their experience at the very top level. And if Marathe wants to ensure that Leeds become more than just survival hopeful, then signing such experience will be crucial.

Wilson would be a particularly interesting option. Whilst his career has often been surrounded by injuries, the veteran striker is only 12 goals away from reaching the Premier League’s 100 club and almost guarantees goals when fit.

Appearances

237

Goals

88

Assists

25

At 33 years old, Wilson could have one last Premier League move left in the tank and Leeds could certainly do a lot worse than signing the former Bournemouth star on a free this summer.

Right throughout Todd Boehly’s reign as owner, Chelsea have not held back on signing elite young talents.

It has been a clear transfer strategy at Stamford Bridge, with the Blues looking to bring players to the club regarded as some of the hottest prospects in world football.

Perhaps the best example of this is Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian, who will join Chelsea for £29m this summer. He was described as a “wonderkid” showing all the “signs of a top player” by football scout Antonio Mango. He is just one of the young talents the Blues have signed under Boehly’s ownership.

This summer, Chelsea could add Ajax defender Jorrel Hato to that list, if recent reports are to be believed.

The latest on Chelsea’s pursuit of Hato

It would be an excellent signing if Chelsea can bring Hato to Stamford Bridge this summer. According to a recent report from Sky Sports, the Blues are ‘seriously considering making a move’ for the Dutchman this summer, and have ‘longstanding’ interest in signing him.

However, they will face competition from two Premier League giants, with Sky Sports also suggesting that newly-crowned champions Liverpool, and Chelsea’s London rivals Arsenal are also interested.

In reality, it is not hard to see why the West Londoners are so keen to bring Hato to the club. At just 19 years of age, he is a full international with the Netherlands and has played 108 times for Ajax already.

Described as a “magnificent talent” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, Hato has played 28 times in the Eredivisie this season, scoring twice and grabbing six assists. He has also captained the club three times, a superb achievement at 19.

Chelsea do not have a clear path to signing Hato, and will face stiff competition from Liverpool and Arsenal if they are to do a deal.

However, if they are not able to sign the Dutchman, then an alternative may be hiding in plain sight in the academy.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

Chelsea's in-house Hato alternative

If the Blues can’t sign Hato himself, then why not promote their very own “Hato alternative” from the academy? At least, that is what football analyst Ben Mattinson has coined Chelsea’s young defender Ishe Samuels-Smith.

The West Londoners poached Samuels-Smith from Premier League rivals Everton, for a reported £4m two seasons ago. The highly-rated youngster has recently renewed his deal at Stamford Bridge until 2031.

At just 18 years of age, Samuels-Smith is yet to have any kind of first-team involvement on the pitch. Yet, he has featured on the bench three times this term under Enzo Maresca, which included two games in the Premier League back in February.

For the U21s, the youngster has had a key role to play. Skippering the side on five different occasions, Samuels-Smith has featured 23 times this term, scoring two goals and grabbing four assists from full back.

In fact, that is one of the standout features of his game. Just like Hato, the Manchester-born defender can play anywhere across the back line, even slotting in a right-back this term despite being left-footed. He has also played further forward as a wing-back.

The 18-year-old has impressed in the EFL Trophy this season for the Blues, as the stats on Sofascore reflect. In three games in the competition, he put in 3.7 tackles, made two interceptions and won two aerial duels per game.

Passes completed

46

138

Long balls completed

2.7

8

Key passes

1.3

4

Tackles

3.7

11

Interceptions

2

6

Aerial duels won

2

6

It surely does not seem like a first-team debut for Samuels-Smith can be too far away. The Blues academy skipper is clearly a talented player, putting in some excellent performances this term and showing great versatility.

If they miss out on signing Hato, then there might not be a better alternative to the Dutchman than their talented academy star.

He's their new Drinkwater: Maresca must axe £30m Chelsea flop this summer

Chelsea have certainly signed plenty of players in recent transfer windows, but one player is very reminiscent of the Blues’ worst-ever signing.

May 6, 2025

Manchester City could be a force to be reckoned with in the transfer market and have made their first step to landing a priority target this summer, according to reports.

Man City look to enjoy successful summer window

The Premier League title may have headed to Anfield this season in a transitional year for the Citizens, but you get the impression they will be quick out of the blocks once the window opens for business.

Pep Guardiola acted decisively to bring in Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis and Juma Bah in January, and no stone will be left unturned as Manchester City aim to position themselves among the elite.

Sky Sports: Nottingham Forest keen on signing "special" £25m Man City ace

Nottingham Forest are the latest team to show interest in signing an attacker from Manchester City.

ByBrett Worthington Apr 26, 2025

With some statement arrivals on the agenda, the Blues are said to be keen on a move for Paris Saint-Germain star Desire Doue, even if they will have to stump up £85 million or over to have a chance of landing his services.

Barcelona winger Raphinha is another high calibre target at the Etihad Stadium and he is believed to be among their priority options to strengthen out wide due to his excellent form for club and country.

Even if the Citizens were to miss out on Champions League football, they still hold an appeal that very few would be able to match with Guardiola’s long-term project likely to yield further silverware.

Nevertheless, Manchester City remain at a vantage point from which they will be confident they can finish the job before a summer when changes could be made to fuel the fire for success. Now, they have taken a step forward in their pursuit of another key target as their ruthless approach to recruitment begins to take its course.

Man City submit £34m+ offer for Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa

According to reports, Manchester City have submitted an initial £34.1 million offer for Porto stopper Diogo Costa and look set to improve on their opening bid, which was rejected, sooner rather than later.

The Portugal international’s contract includes a £64 million release clause, but he may be allowed to leave for a fee in the region of £51.1 million if appropriate interest arises for his services.

Labelled “incredible” by countryman Diogo Dalot, Costa has kept 18 clean sheets in 44 appearances across all competitions this season as Porto look to seal continental qualification.

Diogo Costa’s key statistics in 2024/25 – Liga Portugal

Saves

51

Save percentage rate

66.2%

Goals conceded

26

Acted as sweeper

18

High claim

17

Errors led to goal

0

Ederson is expected to leave Manchester City for Saudi Arabia, so it is intriguing to see that they have now upped the ante in pursuing a long-term replacement for the Brazil international.

Looking ahead, it seems plausible that progress could be made in their move for Costa and it will be intriguing to see if he does end up becoming the man between the sticks at the Etihad Stadium.

Chelsea would have been expecting a tricky contest against Arne Slot’s Liverpool, but would have remained hopeful of a positive result off the back of the Reds potentially dropping the ball after being crowned Premier League champions a week ago.

The Dutchman would make considerable alterations – seen in the likes of Jarell Quansah starting at the back ahead of Ibrahima Konate – yet the manner in which Enzo Maresca’s Blues brushed aside the Reds 3-1 was still impressive, considering that was only Liverpool’s third loss of the season to date.

Now, Chelsea are only four points off Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in second spot, away from their pursuit of a Champions League position.

To clinch a top-five place though, Maresca will know he needs Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez performing at the same unbelievable levels they managed against Liverpool for the rest of the campaign to come.

Fernandez & Palmer's importance to Chelsea

Before exploring Fernandez’s superb day at the office further, Palmer would end up clinching the three points right at the death for Chelsea, meaning he’s now in an illustrious list of past Blues goalscorers.

It was a top-drawer showing from the former Manchester City attacker throughout, with Palmer notching up four key passes as a constantly creative menace, on top of beating Alisson from the penalty spot with an ice-cold finish.

Whilst it’s expected that Palmer will be able to bury chances considering he’s up to 15 Premier League strikes now, Fernandez’s composure was a joy to behold too during the 3-1 win, with this perfect touch and finish after just three minutes setting the tone for Chelsea to collect all three points.

Much like his electric teammate, however, the South American is a team player for the Blues cause, with four duels won, displaying the ugly side of his game, away from nearly adding to this seven assists in the league when collecting two key passes.

Both players are stalwarts under Maresca and for good reason, but there’s another standout performer who is equally as paramount to Chelsea right now, away from this spectacular duo.

Performance in Numbers

Want data and stats? Football FanCast’s Performance in Numbers series provides you with the latest match analysis from across Europe.

The Chelsea star who is as important as Fernandez & Palmer

The West Londoners really do seem to be entering their stride at the best possible time, considering the Blues have now won their last three Premier League clashes on the trot, even with Slot’s intimidating Liverpool in their way.

These victories are made to look even more impressive when you take into account Moises Caicedo – who usually lines up in the centre of the park – has had to be drafted into the right-back position as of late, but the £115m star’s versatile nature has just managed to shine through regardless.

Minutes played

90

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches

53

Accurate passes

29/31 (94%)

Key passes

1

Accurate crosses

1/1

Accurate long balls

1/1

Clearances

5

Blocked shots

1

Interceptions

1

Tackles

2

Total duels won

7/10

The expensive 23-year-old is beginning to prove his worth as a full package, with Caicedo exiting the field of play after the 3-1 win with only two misplaced passes next to his name, leading to a 94% pass accuracy being calculated.

But, he also battled well – much like Palmer and Fernandez – when necessary, with a high seven duels won across the course of his stellar 90 minutes, away from winning the hosts that late decisive spot-kick when moved back into the midfield areas.

Handed out an 8/10 post-match rating by London Evening Standard journalist Malik Ouzia, it looks as if Maresca will continue to pick Caicedo alongside Palmer and Fernandez for the foreseeable, knowing full well this trio are ready for the potential Champions League challenge that awaits.

Before anything is set in stone, however, Chelsea will just need to keep picking up the wins, with a very tough fixture away at Newcastle United up next, one that will show off the character of Maresca’s camp.

Their own Isak: Chelsea make approach to sign "tremendous" £60m talisman

Chelsea could be about to land a star who could be their own version of Alexander Isak.

ByEthan Lamb May 3, 2025

Arsenal have privately refused to rule out signing a former Man City forward for manager Mikel Arteta this summer, with new sporting director Andrea Berta and the Gunners hierarchy set for a key transfer decision.

Arsenal cruise into Champions League semi-finals after Real Madrid win

It’s been a sensational week for Arteta and co, who made history by becoming the first ever side in history to win at the Bernabeu on their first two visits – breaking a record which stood for 77 years.

Arsenal given 50% discount for £280k-per-week forward after opening talks

Andrea Berta could now strike a half-price deal.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 18, 2025

Goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli sealed a stunning 5-1 aggregate win for Arsenal in the Spanish capital, making a serious statement to the rest of Europe that they’re genuine contenders to win this year’s Champions League title.

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

A tough test in Ligue 1 champions PSG awaits in the semi-finals, but their tails will surely be up after a potentially season-defining quarter-final tie.

“The feeling that we have is our reality, basically,” said Arteta on the mood around Arsenal after their triumph over Real Madrid.

“And in the feeling that I had before the game, when the players were transmitting and how prepared I could feel the team, that we are ready to compete against anybody. Now we have to continue to do that because I think we have some momentum now.

“Where we finished last year and the way we’re doing it this year, the teams with their eyes on us and the competition, it’s incredible. Big credit to [Madrid}, it was my first time as a coach in that dugout, and today I realised after three minutes in this stadium, anything is possible. They are specialists of creating such chaos and belief, and it’s very difficult to really understand what’s going on in the game and have certainty about how we controlled it. I think they showed a lot of maturity.”

Arsenal refuse to rule out signing Raheem Sterling permanently

Privately, Arsenal are making plans to build the squad further and provide Arteta with new wide attackers.

In the last week, Arsenal have repeatedly been linked with a move for Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman, not to mention Athletic Bilbao sensation Nico Williams, but there is also the matter of Raheem Sterling and his future at the Emirates.

It hasn’t exactly been a dream loan move from Chelsea for the Englishman, who’s seen precious little game time under his former City assistant coach, with Arsenal paying around £163,000-per-week of his £325,000-per-week salary during his temporary stint.

Berta would need to renegotiate contract terms and a fee with Chelsea to make his move permanent, but according to The Mail, as quoted by TEAMtalk, Arsenal have refused to rule out signing Sterling permanently and are yet to inform him of a final decision.

It would be a bizarre call by the north Londoners at this point, considering the 30-year-old boasts just one goal and five assists all season, but it is believed his stay may not be completely off the table, contrary to reports.

Celtic failed to extend their lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership when they were beaten 1-0 by St. Johnstone away from home on Sunday.

The Hoops had the chance to move 16 points clear at the top of the division after their city rivals Rangers had been beaten 2-0 on Saturday by Hibernian, but failed to pick up a singe point of their own a day later.

Celtic had 26 shots on goal, nine of which were on target, and did not do enough to beat Andrew Fisher, who saved all nine of those efforts on target, between the sticks for the Saints.

The likes of Nicolas Kuhn, who was substituted at half-time in the match, Daizen Maeda, and Jota all ended the game without helping the team to find the back of the net.

It was an off-colour performance from Jota on the left wing as he played 76 minutes without scoring a goal or creating a ‘big chance’ for his teammates, although he did register a shot on target and two key passes.

Why Jota has been a great signing for Celtic

The Hoops swooped to sign the Portuguese forward on a permanent deal from Rennes in the recent January transfer window for a reported fee of £8m, 18 months on from his £25m move from Parkhead to Al Ittihad.

His performance against St. Johnstone was not reflective of his form since making that return to Glasgow from France at the start of the year, though, as he has been a great signing for Brendan Rodgers so far.

The 26-year-old talent has scored four goals, created three ‘big chances’, and assisted two goals in six starts and three substitute appearances in the Premiership since his £8m switch, which shows that he has been incredibly productive in the final third for the Scottish giants.

Goals

0.71

Top 4%

xG

0.52

Top 4%

xG on target

0.76

Top 1%

Shots on target

1.60

Top 1%

Assists

0.32

Top 16%

Chances created

2.13

Top 20%

As you can see in the table above, his statistics also place him very highly among his positional peers in the Premiership, as he has been one of the most frequent scorers and creators in the division per 90.

These statistics also show that he is well on his way to replicating the kind of form that earned him his £25m move to Saudi Arabia in 2023 in the first place.

As you can see in the graphic above, Jota consistently provided a threat as both a scorer and a creator of goals in the Premiership during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 campaigns under Ange Postecoglou earlier in his Celtic career.

Whilst the Hoops managed to bring the former Benfica man back to the club in January, the Bhoys did lose a talent last summer who could have become Jota 2.0 at Parkhead in Rocco Vata.

Why Rocco Vata deserved more chances at Celtic

The Irish youngster came up through the academy system at Parkhead and only made six appearances in the first-team before he left the club at the end of his contract last summer to sign for Watford.

After four appearances in the Premiership under Postecoglou in the 2022/23 campaign, Vata was not given many chances to impress at senior level by Rodgers last season.

The teenage sensation made two appearances, one in the Premiership and one in the SFA Cup, and played 29 minutes of football in the first-team, scoring against Buckie Thistle in his 26 minutes of cup action.

Vata, who was valued at £43k by Transfermarkt at the end of his Celtic career, scored 12 goals in 15 Lowland League matches in the 2023/24 campaign and scored in his only appearance that lasted more than three minutes for the first-team, but that was not enough to earn him any more outings for Rodgers.

The Ireland international took his chances, limited as they were, when they came and excelled as a goalscorer at youth level, yet still did not get more than three minutes of Premiership football in the entire season, leading to his move to Watford last summer.

Rocco Vata's soaring market value

At the time of writing (07/04/2025), Vata is currently valued at £854k by Transfermarkt and this means that his value has soared by a whopping 1,886% in the 2024/25 campaign from the £43k he was rated at by the end of his time in Glasgow.

His market value has skyrocketed as a result of his exposure to regular first-team football with Watford in the English Championship, as the Hornets have been willing to offer him the senior minutes that his promise at Celtic suggested that he deserved.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

The 19-year-old talent has racked up 31 first-team appearances and 1,282 minutes of action in all competitions so far this season, including 27 outings in the Championship, after his 29 minutes of football for the Hoops this term.

Vata, whose screamer against Premier League side Fulham in the FA Cup is shown above, has shown that he has what it takes to play regular football at senior level, and that he can contribute at the top end of the pitch.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig claimed that the Irish whiz, who has been playing on the left wing of late for Watford, had an “exciting” future ahead of him during his time at Parkhead, and his potential is finally starting to shine through.

Appearances

27

Starts

10

xG

2.35

Goals

3

Big chances created

4

Assists

3

As you can see in the table above, Vata has been directly involved in six goals in ten starts in the second tier for Watford so far this season, which shows that he is well on the path to delivering goals and assists on a regular basis.

His return of 23 goals in 34 matches for Celtic’s B team showed that he had the potential to be a Jota-esque figure on the wing, by finding the back of the net on a regular basis, whilst he has now added creativity to his performances with the Hornets.

The Hoops, therefore, messed up when they failed to keep him at Parkhead last summer because they lost a player who could have developed into their next version of Jota on the wing, with the quality that he displayed at youth level in Glasgow and at Watford this season.

Not Engels: Rodgers has already found Celtic's new McGregor in teen star

Celtic may already have their next Callum McGregor and it is not Arne Engels.

ByDan Emery Apr 5, 2025

Celtic could have had their own homegrown star, whose value is now soaring at an exceptional rate, but they will now have to watch from afar as his career develops in England.

Liverpool turned a corner at the weekend, professionally defeating West Ham United at the London Stadium to arrest the shocking slump that has sent Arne Slot’s project into a spin.

However, it’s important for those of a Red persuasion not to get too excited. West Ham are hardly in good form, teetering on the edge of the Premier League relegation zone.

But there were some positives to be taken after that industrious win. Particularly, Liverpool looked sharp in attack, with Alexander Isak netting his first league goal for the Reds and Cody Gakpo notching a goal and an assist. Florian Wirtz sparkled in his creative role.

There has been talk of FSG and sporting director Richard Hughes dipping into the transfer market for a new forward in January, but if anything, the win over the Hammers and Liverpool’s abject form highlight a different area that needs attention.

Liverpool's winter transfer plans

It’s clear that Liverpool need a centre-back. Top sources have also linked the Premier League champions to prolific Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, who has a £65m release clause valid from January.

However, the centre of the park appears to have been overlooked. Certainly, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch have not formed a convincing partnership this season, and a tough-tackling and dynamic option could be worthwhile for a Liverpool side looking to bounce back.

As per Caught Offside, Liverpool are expected to table a €60m (£53m at current exchange rates) bid for Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, with the French midfielder no longer considered untouchable at the Santiago Bernabeu.

It’s understood that Los Blancos have held informal discussions about the 23-year-old’s future after an injury-affected few years, but Camavinga is one of the best in the business, and Liverpool could hit the jackpot by signing him for a comparatively affordable fee.

Why Liverpool want Eduardo Camavinga

Camavinga has been at Real Madrid for most of his professional career, having left France and Rennes and joined the Spanish giants in a €40m (£34m) package back in 2021.

He’s won the full gamut, and, on an individual level, been hailed by talent scout Jacek Kulig as “a real war machine in midfield”. One of the sternest criticisms Slot’s side have faced pertains to their lack of physicality and bite in midfield this season, outduelled in most of their defeats – and there have been a whole host of losses.

Camavinga would fix that, settling into the six berth. As per FBref, he ranks among the top 12% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for pass completion, the top 12% for successful take-ons, and the top 1% for tackles won per 90, emphasising his ball-playing quality and the gritty defensive acumen that would stabilise Slot’s sinking system.

Looking at those metrics – and more – in a different format, see how Camavinga could add more defensive solidity to the engine room when assessing his data against that of Mac Allister, whose form has plummeted this season.

Goals

0.11

0.18

Assists

0.11

0.20

Touches

76.18

63.79

Pass completion (%)

90.8

83.3

Shot-creating actions

2.44

3.80

Progressive passes

4.76

5.76

Progressive carries

1.93

1.46

Successful take-ons

1.13

0.67

Recoveries

5.72

4.65

Tackles won

2.72

1.46

Interceptions

1.25

0.91

Aerials won

1.30

0.56

But those metrics are taking across a year-long stretch, and the Argentine was among the creme-de-la-creme last year as Slot’s Reds romped their way to the title.

Semenyo might be a stellar addition to a Liverpool side who opted against a direct Luis Diaz replacement this summer, but Gakpo has held down the fort measurably well, and Rio Ngumoha, 17, was entrusted with a regular first-team role after an impressive emergence season.

Real Madrid are in a state of upheaval right now, and signing a player of Camavinga’s ilk for a decent figure won’t come around too often. Wataru Endo is scarcely used by Slot and Gravenberch and Mac Allister need proper competition.

Should Liverpool instil some French flair into their midfield in the form of Camainga, they would be sure to level up, adding the joie de vivre that has been lacking this term, and a tough-tackling presence that would ease the defence’s burden and free up the forwards to reach new heights.

Gakpo upgrade: Liverpool open surprise talks to sign "magic" £70m PL star

Liverpool are planning to strengthen their flanks after a tough start to the season.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Dec 1, 2025

It’s not unreasonable to suggest that Ruben Amorim’s first full season at Manchester United has, so far, been characterised by ebb and flow.

But after a patchy start, the Red Devils have lost just one of their past seven Premier League matches, with Sunday’s turnaround victory at Crystal Palace a testament to the squad’s rekindled spirit.

However, there’s a sense that United lack the requisite depth to mount a real challenge at the top of the table, and that is something INEOS must look to rectify in January.

After clearing out so much attacking deadwood this summer, Jason Wilcox and co are now turning toward a new wide forward.

Man Utd searching for new forwards

If all goes to plan, Manchester United will be competing in Europe again next season. And if all goes to plan, United will need more options in the final third.

On the right, United are pretty well stocked with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, but there’s something of a lack of depth on the alternate flank.

That’s why news is emerging of INEOS’s interest in Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes, who could be available this winter.

Barnes, 27, is being reported by Spanish reports to be the focus of a £53m bid from Man United, though the Old Trafford side have been matched by Chelsea in their pursuit.

The left-sided winger’s sharpness in front of goal is seen as a defining factor behind United’s interest, with Mbeumo the club’s only forward to have scored more than two goals in the Premier League this year.

Why Man Utd want Harvey Barnes

Barnes hasn’t always been a regular starter at St. James’ Park, but he’s invariably threatening in the final third and has an athletic and pacy style of play.

He would add width and danger, perhaps tailor-made for Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation, supported by Patrick Dorgu or a potential addition there.

Barnes wouldn’t be the most expansive attacking option at the Theatre of Dreams, but he could form a neat partnership with Mbeumo on the other wing.

The £70m summer recruit from Brentford has emerged as a talismanic force for Amorim, having scored five times in the Premier League this season, including four goals from his past six outings.

Barnes’ own clinical ability would make for a perfect match, especially with the likes of Bruno Fernandes or the resurgent Mason Mount making play from the middle.

25/26 – NUFC

13

3 + 0

24/25 – NUFC

33

9 + 5

23/24 – NUFC

21

5 + 3

22/23 – LCFC

34

13 + 1

21/22 – LCFC

32

6 + 10

Barnes’ slow start to the current campaign was in line with the general laboriousness at Newcastle, and he has now posted three goals from as many games, bagging four goals from five in the Champions League too.

Though the Englishman, who has been mooted for a conversion to the Scottish national set-up, lacks the dynamism of someone like Matheus Cunha, he has that rare and intangible instinct in front of goal, hailed, in fact, for his “unbelievable” finishing by Jurgen Klopp.

The mounting interest from different spheres is a representation of Barnes’ quality. He is now polished and at ease with his role on the field, and he would likely jump at the chance to help drive this revival at Man United.

A veteran in the Premier League with more to give, Barnes would create the balance needed – and deepen the options at Amorim’s disposal – to not only reclaim a spot in the Champions League but compete, consistently, for silverware too.

Mbeumo is establishing himself as one of United’s finest and most promising signings in recent memory, but the output in the final third is somewhat skewed.

Barnes would help fix that, having been a consistent goalscoring outlet on Tyneside since joining from relegated Leicester City in 2023.

So clinical is Barnes in the final third that he ranks among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for non-penalty goals scored per 90, as per FBref.

Barnes is a proven Premier League goalscorer. You get what you paid for with him, and that’s a good thing. This would add variation and nuance to Amorim’s outfit, and he would be the perfect contrasting wideman to pair with Mbeumo as this team push for more success.

Shades of Pogba: INEOS have signed star who can end Mainoo’s Man Utd stay

Manchester United have landed a star who could reach the next level under Ruben Amorim.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 29, 2025