Crystal Palace are now in the race to sign a “phenomenal” midfielder, who will cost in excess of £30m this summer, according to a report.
Palace stepping up summer transfer plans
Palace are on course for a solid mid-table finish, but with a number of first-team players’ futures in doubt, including Marc Guehi, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Adam Wharton, they may have to be active in the transfer market to remain competitive next season.
With that in mind, Steve Parish has now set his sights on a statement signing, and the chairman is trying to persuade Marcus Rashford to move to Selhurst Park this summer, rather than completing a permanent move to Premier League rivals Aston Villa.
Not only is Parish keen on a new forward, but the Eagles could also pursue a new central midfielder, and Sunderland’s Jobe Bellingham has been named as a potential target, having impressed in the Championship this season.
Contact made: Crystal Palace make move to sign "Pique-esque" £5m defender
The Eagles have made an approach for a defender, who is also attracting interest from West Ham United.
ByDominic Lund Apr 10, 2025
Bellingham is not the only Sunderland star Crystal Palace have their eye on, however, with a report from The i Paper revealing they are also in the race to sign Chris Rigg, whose future will be in major doubt if the Black Cats fail to win promotion.
A number of Premier League clubs are set to battle it out for Rigg, with Everton, Liverpool, West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur also running regular checks to assess the 17-year-old, who has established himself as a key player for Sunderland this season.
Sunderland'sChrisRigg
A deal will not be cheap, however, with the Black Cats set to demand a fee way above the £30m Leeds United received for Archie Gray last summer, indicating just how highly regarded the youngster is at the Stadium of Light.
"Phenomenal" Rigg has shades of Roy Keane
Football scout Ben Mattinson is a big fan of the Sunderland starlet, describing him as a “phenomenal” player, who is “capable of moments of brilliance”, while he is also impressive out of possession, according to former manager Tony Mowbray.
Mowbray has claimed the teenager possesses a “Roy Keane-esque type of nastiness”, which may be why former teammate Marco Gabbiadini praised the youngster for his tackling ability, saying: “He is also quite tenacious. He doesn’t shirk out of tackles or challenges. That has been one of the features of his game.”
Having made 38 Championship appearances this season at just 17-years-old, during which time he has scored four goals, the Sunderland star is clearly destined for the top, so it is exciting news that Palace are in the race for his signature.
However, given the level of interest in Rigg, with soon-to-be Premier League title winners Liverpool also interested, it would be a major coup if Palace pulled off a deal.
Arsenal hold a serious belief that they’ve now signed a “world-class” player for Mikel Arteta ahead of next season, and they’re behaving like it is a done deal behind-the-scenes.
Arsenal's main transfer plans for this summer
Buoyed by the arrival of new sporting director Andrea Berta, Arteta has already admitted that Arsenal are set for a “big” summer transfer window after the Italian’s appointment.
Arsenal demand major Thomas Partey concession in talks over new deal
The Ghanaian has arguably enjoyed his best campaign at Arsenal.
ByEmilio Galantini Apr 25, 2025
A host of incomings across multiple areas of the squad are anticipated ahead of what is expected to be a busy debut window for Berta, with GiveMeSport recently reporting that £300 million could be spent on seven major signings.
As per GMS, Arsenal are believed to be prioritising a new second-choice goalkeeper to replace Neto, a full-back, new midfielder, left-winger, right-winger and striker. Kieran Tierney is off to Celtic, while Oleksandr Zinchenko is expected to be sold after falling down Arteta’s pecking order.
Bournemouth (home)
May 3rd
Liverpool (away)
May 11th
Newcastle United (home)
May 18th
Southampton (away)
May 25th
While Thomas Partey is in talks to extend his Arsenal contract, Jorginho remains likely to depart when his contract expires, meaning the addition of a centre-midfielder is still pretty imperative before 2025/2026.
Meanwhile, Leandro Trossard’s long-term future is uncertain, as his contract expires in 2026, with Arsenal arguably in need of another winger who can provide Arteta with a quality alternative to the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz’s long-term injuries have also emphasised the need for Arsenal to finally sign a prolific striker, so there is plenty to do for Berta. Indeed, Arteta confirmed last week that he wants Arsenal to bring more strength and depth into the squad, sending a subtle message to his director.
“Squad quality and availability. Without those two, we cannot compete in four competitions,” said Arteta on his Arsenal transfer wish.
“At this level, especially in this country, it’s impossible. The higher the quality, the higher the availability, the more chances, probability you have. After you have to do it. But the probability goes high.”
Arsenal "internally" behaving like Martin Zubimendi deal is "done"
One top target for Arsenal, as per multiple reports, is Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
They’ve been in negotiations over the Spain international’s acquisition for quite some time, with The Mail first reporting advanced pre-summer talks in January. Since then, the consensus has been that Arsenal are confident they can sign Zubimendi before June, while Marca journalist Juan Castro reported this week that an agreement appears to be struck already.
Now, the reliable David Ornstein has somewhat backed up Castro’s claim, stating that Arsenal are “internally” behaving like Zubimendi is a “done deal”.
This interesting update from a very credible source should fill supporters with confidence, as the feeling within N5 appears to be that it is inevitable the 26-year-old will finally make his long-awaited move to England, just a year after he publicly rejected Liverpool’s advances.
Called a “world-class” player by Tierney, during their time together at Sociedad, Zubimendi has been likened to Balon d’Or winner Rodri and played a key role for Spain in their Euro 2024 final triumph against England.
The La Liga mainstay is indispensable for his boyhood club, but it appears he’ll soon be waving goodbye if all goes to plan.
Arsenal are now willing to sell a player for around £26m this summer, and AC Milan are interested in his signature, according to a report.
Arteta's summer transfer plans taking shape
There have been widespread suggestions that Arsenal are in a healthy position PSR-wise, which could mean they have the funds for a big signing this summer, and Mikel Arteta is particularly keen on getting a new striker through the door.
The Gunners were recently handed a boost in their pursuit of Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, with it being revealed the Swedish forward is keen on a move to north London, while they also hold an interest in the likes of Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko.
Striker is not the only position in which Arteta is eager to strengthen, however, with the manager identifying the need for greater depth in wide areas, and Deportivo de La Coruna’s Yeremay Hernandez is a potential target, alongside Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.
Offer ready: Arsenal keen to bid £30m for "special" Premier League forward
The Gunners are set to move for an attacking midfielder, who plays for one of their Premier League rivals.
By
Dominic Lund
Apr 6, 2025
With a new central midfielder clearly also of interest, given the widespread links to Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, it could make sense for Arteta to offload some rotation players this summer, regardless of the healthy financial position the club find themselves in.
According to a report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are now willing to cash-in on Jakub Kiwior this summer, in order to fund their own transfer business, and they would be looking to receive a fee of around €25m – €30m (£21m – £26m).
There is no shortage of interest in Kiwior, with a whole host of European clubs being named as potential suitors, including both AC Milan and Inter Milan.
The 25-year-old wants to join a new club this summer, given that his development has been stifled by a lack of playing time for the Gunners, and it now looks like he may be given the opportunity to do so.
Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures
Date
Real Madrid (h)
April 8th
Brentford (h)
April 12th
Real Madrid (a)
April 16th
Ipswich Town (a)
April 20th
Crystal Palace (h)
April 23rd
Kiwior exit could be suitable for all parties
With Arteta planning to bolster his options in multiple positions this summer, it would make sense to generate as much money as possible by cashing-in on out-of-favour players, and the Poland international has made just 10 Premier League appearances this season.
At 25, the defender is at an age where he needs to be playing regularly, so it is understandable that he wants to move on this summer, despite putting in some impressive performances during his time in north London.
The former Spezia man has previously been lauded as a “monster” by reporter Sam Dean, and he put in a solid display against Everton last time out, making five defensive actions and creating one big chance.
Kiwior originally arrived at Arsenal for £20m, and given that he has remained a sporadic option for Arteta throughout his time at the club, it could be a shrewd piece of business if the Gunners are able to sell the centre-back for a profit.
After putting in what might be one of the club’s all-time great performances away to European champions Real Madrid on Wednesday night, Arsenal had the task of dispatching Ipswich Town yesterday afternoon.
Given the hype before their Champions League game and the sheer jubilation that followed it, it wouldn’t have been all that surprising to see the Gunners struggle to motivate themselves for a Premier League game that ultimately now means little in the grand scheme of their season.
However, Mikel Arteta has instilled a certain philosophy in his team, and they came out flying against the Tractor Boys, coming away from Suffolk as fully deserved 4-0 winners, with the likes of Mikel Merino and Leandro Trossard seriously impressing.
Yet, as good as the two starters were and as vital as they will be for the rest of the season, one of the second-half substitutes is now worth considerably more than both and could even be the Gunners’ new Cesc Fàbregas.
Merino & Trossard's game vs Ipswich
With Thomas Partey set to miss the first leg of Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain thanks to his brainless yellow card in the closing stages of last week’s win, Arteta left him out of yesterday’s starting lineup, moving Merino into midfield and starting Trossard up top, in preparation for the upcoming game.
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?
While some were understandably worried about changing a winning formula, it would be fair to say it was a tweak that worked perfectly.
For example, the Belgian scored a goal in both halves and what made them all the more impressive was that he did so with little space to manoeuvre in the box, which might be how he has to operate next Tuesday.
We weren’t the only ones impressed with the former Brighton & Hove Albion man either, as the Standard’s Simon Collings awarded him an 8/10 match rating at full-time, writing that he ‘made his case’ to start against PSG and ‘offered more than just goals.’
Moreover, be it the confidence he’s gained from playing up top or the simple fact that he’s now had a sizable run of games in the side, the former Real Sociedad star was phenomenal and earned an 8/10 rating from Collings.
For example, his brilliant backheel allowed Gabriel Martinelli to score his 50th goal for the club, and while he didn’t get on the scoresheet himself, he was here, there and everywhere in the middle of the park, as exemplified by his statistics.
For example, in just 57 minutes of action, the “duel monster,” as dubbed by Arsenal content creator Adam Keys, amassed a combined expected goal plus assists figure of 0.48, provided one assist, took 33 touches, played one key pass, was accurate in 100% of his crosses, created one big chance, won ten duels and made six tackles.
Merino’s game in numbers
Minutes
57′
Expected Assists
0.04
Assists
1
Expected Goals
0.44
Key Passes
1
Big Chances Created
1
Crosses (Accurate)
1 (1)
Touches
33
Duels Won
10
Tackles
6
Dribbled Past
0
All Stats via Sofascore
In short, both Trossard and Merino put in stellar displays yesterday and should now be nailed-on starters for next Tuesday’s season-defining encounter.
Yet, both players are worth considerably less than one of yesterday’s substitutes, who could be the club’s next Fabregas.
The Arsenal gem worth millions more than Trossard & Merino
So, first things first, how much are Merino and Trossard worth today? Well, according to Football Transfers, the former is worth around €39.7m, which is about £34m, and the latter is valued at €31.8m, which is about £27m.
Now, while those are not insignificant valuations, they are, surprisingly so, much lower than Ethan Nwaneri’s, which is a whopping €54.6m, which comes out to about £47m, or £20m more than the Belgian and £13m more than the Spaniard.
Arsenal'sEthanNwaneriand MylesLewis-Skellyduring training
It might seem like an absurd number for someone who’s just turned 18, but that might actually work in his favour, as the Hale Ender is already showing an ability to thrive in a title-chasing side at such a young age, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in just 33 appearances, totalling 1294 minutes.
In fact, it’s this ability to step up and perform like a seasoned professional at such a young age that makes him so similar to Fabregas.
The former captain became the youngest player to represent the team in a competitive fixture – a title now held by the Enfield-born gem – when he came off the bench against Rotherham United in a League Cup match in October 2003.
Then, over the next few years, he became a regular starter in the team, so much so that he started the club’s triumphant FA Cup final against Manchester United in 2005.
On top of breaking through in similar ways, there is a real possibility that the Gunners’ “unplayable” young star, as dubbed by Jack Wilshere, could eventually move into the position once held by the Spaniard in time, as while he’s thriving on the wing at the moment, his most played position across his junior career was attacking midfield.
Finally, like the former Barcelona star, the teenage phenomenon has already shown that nothing about top-flight football fazes him, which could be one of the characteristics that help him establish a starting role in the first team in the years to come.
Ultimately, while Merino and Trossard should and almost certainly will start against PSG, Nwaneri looks like he will be one of Arsenal’s best players for potentially the next decade or more.
Best signing since Rice: £58m goalscoring "monster" wants to join Arsenal
The incredible international could be just what Arsenal need.
One player who dazzled in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday night is “now looking” to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer, according to a report.
Arsenal make history with stunning victory over Real Madrid
Mikel Arteta watched on from the sidelines as his side dominated European champions Real, in what was a statement performance from the Gunners.
Arsenal want to finalise £17m deal for Fabregas target "as soon as possible"
The former Gunners star is apparently eyeing him for Como.
ByEmilio Galantini Apr 8, 2025
Declan Rice made all the headlines with his stunning pair of free-kicks, with makeshift striker Mikel Merino also adding to his tally of strikes this season by scoring Arsenal’s third of the contest.
Brentford (home)
April 12th
Ipswich Town (away)
April 20th
Crystal Palace (home)
April 23rd
Bournemouth (home)
May 3rd
Liverpool (away)
May 11th
The Premier League side have placed one huge foot in the Champions League semi-finals, and Carlo Ancelotti will be debilitated for the second leg after midfielder Eduardo Camavinga was sent off in the dying minutes of Real’s heavy defeat.
That being said, Los Blancos still pose a huge threat, and have made some truly historic comebacks on big nights in Europe over the last decade. Taking this into account, Arteta is definitely not counting his chickens just yet.
“I know how much work and how many decisions a lot of people have made in this football club, to live the night that we had tonight,” said a joyous Arteta after Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Real.
“I told them, thank you so much for making us enjoy the journey, to come here, and thank you, for me feeling so convinced that tonight we’re going to do it, and we’re going to make it happen. It was a genuine feeling because I think we are prepared to do that, and now we have to go to the Bernabeu and do it, and that will be another step.”
Alongside the likes of Rice, another key performer who’s attracted serious praise for his display against Real comes in the form of £200,000-per-week midfielder Thomas Partey.
The Ghanaian has been lavished by media for his “masterclass” in front of the back four, helping to break up Real’s play and averaging an impressive 94% passing accuracy over the 90 minutes. Partey also made more tackles than any other Arsenal player bar Jurrien Timber (WhoScored), and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.
Thomas Partey "now looking" to leave Arsenal this summer
The 31-year-old has been very useful for Arteta this term, impressing both at both right-back and in midfield, but his contract is currently set to expire this summer as things stand.
There has been little noise regarding a potential new deal for Partey, with journalist Sergi Sole providing an update on his future in a piece for Mundo Deportivo.
Indeed, it is believed that Partey is “now looking” to leave Arsenal this summer, as he is keen to embark on a new chapter at this stage in his career, and Barcelona are thought to be his preference.
Performances like Tuesday night’s showcase why losing the African for nothing is a real blow for Arsenal, and new sporting director Andrea Berta should very seriously consider the possibility of attempting to change his mind and negotiating fresh terms.
Partey could still have a pivotal role to play and could prove a useful asset to have yet again next season, when Arteta will be hoping to end Arsenal’s long wait for a Premier League title.
Over the last couple of years, Chelsea have been known to splash the cash in the transfer market, with Enzo Maresca the beneficiary of the investment from the hierarchy.
Since the takeover in May 2022, the board has invested over £1.3b into players to improve the first-team squad, whilst also keeping one eye on the future with the funds spent on youngsters.
Given the previous history in the window, it would be no surprise to anyone if the Blues spent heavily once again this summer as they look to provide the manager with added reinforcements.
Chelsea manager EnzoMarescalooks on before the match
With Champions League football potentially on the cards in 2025/26, added squad depth is also needed to compete, opening the door to further summer arrivals.
One position in particular is in serious need of investment this summer, with Maresca still yet to land any targets he desires after taking the reins last year.
The latest on Chelsea’s hunt for a new striker
Ever since the Italian took over from Mauricio Pochettino, he’s been demanding a new talisman at the top end of the pitch to help him in his quest to fight at the top end of the Premier League table.
Benjamin Sesko is one player who’s been largely touted with a move to Stamford Bridge over the last 12 months, with his name emerging on the list once again ahead of this summer.
RB Leipzig's BenjaminSeskobefore taking a penalty
The RB Leipzig star was named on a shortlist of strikers who the club are targeting in the coming months, a decision which is understandable given his record of 20 goals in 41 appearances this season.
However, he’s not alone on that list, with Ipswich Town centre forward Liam Delap also a name mentioned with a big-money transfer to West London.
According to Graeme Bailey, the Blues are leading the race for the 22-year-old’s signature, with the hierarchy willing to trigger his £30m release clause to reunite the pair after their time together at Manchester City.
Why a £30m PL star would be better than Sesko for Chelsea
Senegalese international Nicolas Jackson has been Chelsea’s number one striker over the last couple of seasons, but injuries have massively restricted him throughout 2024/25.
Chelsea'sNicolasJacksonreacts after sustaining an injury
He’s only made 27 league appearances, scoring just nine goals, with Maresca desperately needing a new talisman in forward areas to catapult them to success in the near future.
Such form has led to links to Sesko, but if they are to complete any deal for the 21-year-old sensation, it would set them back at least £60m given his tender age and goalscoring record.
However, the recent emergence of a move for Delap could provide a cheaper alternative for the hierarchy, but it would also hand Maresca a better option in forward areas.
The fact the pair have previously worked together is a huge advantage in their pursuit, but when also comparing his figures to those of Sesko, he’s managed to outperform him in numerous key areas – showcasing how much of a superb addition he would be for the Blues.
Ipswich Town'sLiamDelapapplauds fans after the match
The Ipswich ace, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has matched the Slovenian for goals scored, showcasing the attacking threat he possesses – offering that clinical edge the side have lacked.
He’s also managed to achieve a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate, whilst registering more shot-creating actions, further offering Maresca an added threat should he move to the Bridge.
Games played
32
29
Goals scored
12
12
Shot-on-target accuracy
46%
42%
Shot-creating actions
2.3
1.9
Take-ons attempted
3
2.9
Carries into final third
1.6
1.1
Fouls won
1.8
0.6
Delap has proven his all-round nature in the Premier League this season, attempting more take-ons and also completing more carries into the final third than Sesko – with the Englishman undoubtedly a better option.
There’s no denying that both players would improve the current centre-forward department in West London, further bolstering the ranks ahead of a potential title charge in 2025/26.
However, if they are to have the greatest chance of edging closer to such a feat, it’s evident from the figures produced that the Tractor Boys star is the man whom the hierarchy need to pursue a move in the coming months.
He can revive Palmer: Chelsea ready move for "the best player in the world"
Chelsea could look to revive Cole Palmer’s form by making a big-money signing.
Everton and their hierarchy are now pushing to complete the signing of a £12 million attacker who has told his entourage to get the deal done, according to a recent report.
Everton chasing multiple signings to kick off summer business
The Toffees are one of several sides in the Premier League who have nothing to play for in the remaining games of the season, but will want to carry plenty of momentum into the new campaign. Club chiefs at Goodison Park however appear to be turning their attention towards the summer and the business they would like to conclude.
Moyes' biggest star since Rooney: Everton leading race to sign £38m star
Everton appear to be making moves to land a talented youngster ahead of this summer.
By
Ethan Lamb
Apr 24, 2025
Strengthening the options in defence seems to be a high priority for David Moyes, as they have already been linked with a shock move for Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah, who has now been backed to make the move to Everton by former scout Bryan King. The Toffees are also interested in signing David Hancko from Feyenoord, but it is not a cheap deal, as the Dutch side want to get around £34 million for his services.
It’s also been stated that Moyes is keen to strengthen his forward line, as goals have been somewhat of a problem, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin could leave for nothing come the end of the season. Brighton’s Evan Ferguson has been identified as their top target for a new centre-forward, as his future with the Seagulls is very much up in the air.
Everton are pushing to sign £12m winger Moses Simon
As well as looking at Ferguson, the Toffees are also looking at other attacking additions, and according to Africa Foot, relayed by Sport Witness, Everton have identified Moses Simon as a transfer target heading into the summer.
The report states that the Toffees are pushing to complete a deal for Simon after sending scouts to watch him live in action in Ligue 1 in the last few weeks. The Nantes winger is said to have left them impressed, and now the Premier League side are working on a deal, with Simon telling his agent to do whatever needs to be done to complete a move to Everton in the summer transfer window.
Interestingly, his agency CAA Base also represent one of Everton’s coaching staff, Dan Micciche, who is the Toffees’ Player Development Lead.
The French club do not want to sell Simon, despite his contract ending at the end of next season. However, their stance on selling the 29-year-old will change if they receive a bid worth €15 million, which is roughly £12.8 million. The Toffees meanwhile believe they could take advantage of Simon’s contract and bring him to England for less than the price Nantes want.
Moses Simon’s Ligue 1 stats
Apps
173
Goals
32
Assists
37
The Nigeria international has scored seven goals and recorded nine assists in 28 Ligue 1 games this season, which is his best return in his career. Everton may need to strengthen in the wide areas this summer, as there is uncertainty over the future of Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom, who are both on loan until the end of the campaign.
Manchester City find themselves on a decent run of form, which has seen them remain unbeaten in their previous six games in the Premier League and FA Cup.
With an FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest to look forward to this weekend, especially as the competition represents the only chance they have of silverware this season, Pep Guardiola will be desperate for a win.
With just five league games left between now and the end of the campaign, City are yet to guarantee a top-five finish, which will see them secure qualification for the Champions League for the 15th year in a row.
It promises to be an exciting end to the season for the club. If FA Cup glory is achieved, plus a solid finish in the top flight, Guardiola could enter the summer with some renewed hope of starting a fresh era at the Etihad.
After several signings made during the winter transfer window, the Spaniard is already thinking ahead to the summer equivalent as one of Europe’s top young talents is being earmarked for a move to City.
Man City's summer transfer plans
With Kevin De Bruyne set to depart the Etihad Stadium this summer, City will be in the market for a new attacking midfielder.
Kevin De Bruyne
Morgan Gibbs-White, Nottingham Forest’s mercurial playmaker, has already been earmarked for a possible summer switch but the Citizens may have to pay upwards of £100m.
The England international isn’t the only player on City’s radar in the attacking midfield positions, however.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Indeed, according to Football Insider, Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz remains the number one target for City to replace De Bruyne this summer.
German publication Bild reported last week that City could be set to pay the £129m fee that the German side has set for the player, although Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are also showing plenty of interest in the German international.
This high fee could give City a major advantage over the other teams, as detailed by former City financial advisor Stefan Borson who told Football Insider: “The impression I get is that they see Wirtz as that kind of headline signing to replace Kevin De Bruyne, and they recognise that to do that deal is going to cost what it costs.
“I think in some ways City might quite like the fact that that is the price because it pretty much rules out Real Madrid from the situation, and it possibly also rules out Bayern Munich as well.”
Replacing the ageing Belgian with someone who has the world at their feet could boost their confidence heading into next season, no doubt about that.
He is also comparable to another young maestro who is making waves on the continent – Lamine Yamal.
Why Wirtz could be Man City's very own Yamal
Yamal has been breaking records since he made his Barcelona debut at the age of just 15 years, nine months and 16 days in April 2023, becoming the youngest-ever debutant for the club in La Liga.
He hasn’t stopped there. A few months later, the winger made his debut for the Spanish national side aged just 16 and even scored, becoming both the youngest player and scorer for his country after the win over Georgia in September 2023.
At the 2024 European Championships, Spain won the title with Yamal playing a key role. His stunning goal in the semi-final against France set the nation on their way to an eventual 2-1 win, which powered them into the final.
He is on a fast track to greatness, and this season has been his most productive yet. Indeed, the 17-year-old has scored 14 times while grabbing 22 assists as Barcelona edges towards the La Liga title.
Although he plays in a different position to Wirtz, operating as a natural winger rather than an attacking midfielder, the two share some similar statistics this season.
Real Sociedad'sJonAramburuin action with FC Barcelona's Lamine Yamal
Yamal is even the seventh-most comparable player to the Leverkusen star as per FBref.
The pair have registered similar statistics across a range of metrics in their respective domestic leagues, including goals and assists (19 vs 18), shots on target per 90 (1.26 vs 1.15), shot-creating actions per 90 (5.76 vs 5.53), touches in the attacking penalty area (122 vs 187) and successful take-on percentage (50.3% vs 49.6%) this season.
Should Guardiola get a deal for Wirtz over the line in the coming months, he could be signing his very own version of the Spanish superstar, that’s for sure.
Despite being only 21 years of age, it feels as though Wirtz has been around for a lifetime. He made his debut for Leverkusen during the 2019/20 season, even scoring in the Bundesliga.
The next two seasons saw him go from strength to strength, registering 18 goals and 22 assists for the club across just 69 matches. His emergence from raw talent into a potential world-class star was evident, but then disaster struck.
In March 2022, he suffered a cruciate ligament tear that saw him miss 43 games for club and country, ruling him out of the 2022 World Cup in the process.
This type of injury may have kept plenty of players down on their luck. Not Wirtz, who has arguably returned even stronger.
Football talent scout Jacek Kulig has previously hailed the 21-year-old as a “superstar”, and that is exactly what he was last season for Leverkusen. The club won the domestic double.
Goals
6
9
Assists
1
10
Big chances created
4
16
Key passes per game
2.8
1.9
Successful dribbles per game
2
2.7
Throughout the 2023/24 Bundesliga season, Wirtz created 12 big chances, averaged 2.3 key passes per game and succeeded with 2.5 dribbles each match – a success rate of 51% – which helped the club claim their first ever league title.
Although Leverkusen won’t win any silverware this term, Wirtz has still contributed superbly, netting 15 goals along with recording 13 assists in all competitions.
He has yet to hit his peak and this is what is so enticing about the youngster. Guardiola will be able to push him towards becoming one of the best in the world should he end up at City this summer.
Man City have found their own Declan Rice in "outstanding" homegrown star
Pep Guardiola might well have his own Declan Rice at Manchester City with this terrific talent.
Cole Palmer was sensational for Chelsea over the weekend in their 3-1 win over Liverpool.
Not only did he manage to find the back of the net to end a long goal drought, but he was a chance-creation machine, playing four key passes.
He also completed three dribbles out of three that he attempted, dazzling against the newly-crowned Premier League champions in a statement performance. At the end of the game, Roy Keane said the attacker is “one of these players you’d pay to come and watch, he’s that good”.
Enzo Maresca’s side are not short of top attacking quality, and they could add to the likes of Palmer in the summer by signing another left-footed attacking star.
Chelsea target new attacker
If recent reports are to be believed, one of the players the Blues are going to go all out to sign this summer is Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The Cameroonian attacker has been sensational this season, which has caught the eye of Chelsea.
According to a report from one Spanish news outlet, Mbeumo has ‘caught the attention of the Stamford Bridge club’s directors’.
As a result, they could now make a move to sign him this summer. It seems to be quite a concrete move, too, with his ‘next destination seems to be increasingly close’ to being Chelsea.
Brentford's BryanMbeumoreacts
However, the Brentford forward won’t come cheap. The Blues are thought to be ‘preparing an offer that could convince Brentford to let him go’, this summer. The Bees could demand a fee as high as £51m if they are to sell their star attacker to their West London rivals.
Why Mbeumo would be a good signing for Chelsea
Mbeumo’s quality this season has been clear for all to see. He has played a huge role in the success of Thomas Frank’s side in 2024/25, helping them to reach ninth in the table and be within touching distance of a European spot.
Brentford's BryanMbeumocelebrates scoring their first goal
Mbeumo, who was once described as a “deadly” attacker by Statman Dave, has been on fire in the Premier League. In 35 appearances, he has found the back of the net 18 times and registered a further seven assists.
One of the standout things about Mbeumo’s game is his consistency. The longest goal involvement drought the 25-year-old has had this season is three games, showing just how regularly he can contribute. Perhaps his standout performance came at home to Brighton and Hove Albion in a 4-2 win, when he scored twice and assisted another.
Although this is Mbeumo’s best season in the Premier League to date in terms of goals and assists, the Bees’ number 19 didn’t take long to adapt to the top flight of English football. In all four seasons of Premier League football so far, he has managed ten or more goal involvements.
2021/22
35
2916
4
7
265
2022/23
38
2928
9
8
172
2023/24
25
1961
9
7
122
2024/25
35
3147
18
7
125
If there is one former Chelsea star Mbeumo might hope to replicate, it is legendary winger Arjen Robben.
The Dutchman played for some of the biggest clubs in the world, including Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, but really made a name for himself at Stamford Bridge.
The Dutchman played 106 times for the Blues, scoring 19 goals and grabbing 23 assists in that time. His trademark skill saw him cut inside on his left foot from the right wing, drive at defenders before unleashing a wicked effort.
This is similar to Mbeumo, as his second goal against Brighton a few weeks ago highlighted. He picked the ball up just inside the penalty box, at the right-hand corner, set himself and fired a shot home. There was certainly a bit of Robben about that effort.
Should the Blues bring Mbeumo into the club, he could add consistency and a genuine goal threat off the right-hand side. He already has more goals than Robben did in the Premier League.
Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo
If he can continue on the current trajectory, perhaps the Brentford star can become even better in a Chelsea shirt than Robben was.
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.
Leeds United will be playing Premier League football next season after they won the 2024/25 Championship title with an extraordinary 100-point haul.
The Whites, who secured the crown with a stoppage-time winner against Plymouth Argyle on the final day, will now have to think about how the squad will shape up ahead of a campaign in the top-flight.
Daniel Farke and his staff need to decide who will and who will not be up to the task of stepping up to the Premier League, and Isaac Schmidt is one player whose future is up for debate.
Why Isaac Schmidt may not be deemed ready for the Premier League
Leeds swooped to sign the Swiss full-back from St. Gallen at the end of the summer transfer window last year to bolster their options in the full-back positions.
Isaac Schmidt for Leeds United.
Unfortunately, though, Schmidt has been unable to force a way into the side over Jayden Bogle at right-back or Junior Firpo at left-back, and did not start a single match in the Championship this season.
The 25-year-old defender played 71 minutes over 12 substitute appearances in the second tier, and was an unused substitute on 22 occasions.
Daniel Farke and Max Aarons at Norwich.
Leeds were recently linked with an interest in Bournemouth right-back Max Aarons, whom he worked with at Norwich City, and that could mean that the club are looking to improve on Schmidt, which could be bad news for his future at Elland Road.
There is another star, however, who played even fewer minutes than the Swiss defender in the Championship for the Whites, and they must never play at Elland Road again.
Why Leeds should release Josuha Guilavogui
Josuha Guilavogui was brought to West Yorkshire as a free agent in October 2024 after injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev left Farke particularly light in the middle of the park.
Chalkboard
Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.
The former France international, who previously played for Atletico Madrid, Mainz, and Wolfsburg, provided an experienced presence on and off the pitch throughout the season, but was rarely used on the pitch.
James Debayo
1
0
Charlie Crew
4
0
Harry Gray
4
0
Joe Gelhardt
9
0
Sam Chambers
16
0
Josuha Guilavogui
58
0
Isaac Schmidt
71
0
Georginio Rutter
90
1
Patrick Bamford
235
0
Max Wober
332
2
As you can see in the table above, only five players played fewer minutes in the league, and they are all academy graduates, rather than nailed-on first-team players, which shows that he was not viewed as a frontline option for the team.
Guilavogui did not start any of his 16 appearances in the Championship, playing even fewer minutes than Schmidt, and should now be released ahead of promotion to the Premier League.
His contract is up this summer, and all parties should shake hands and part ways. He came in and did a job for the team when called upon off the bench as an emergency option, but his lack of minutes in the second tier do not suggest that the midfielder is likely to be a good enough option in the top-flight.
Therefore, Leeds should ruthlessly part ways with the 34-year-old veteran this summer and look to replace him with a player who can fulfill his role effectively at Premier League level.
Pablo Hernandez 2.0: Leeds seriously eyeing move for "dazzling" £35m star
Leeds are interested in signing a Premier League star who could be the club’s new Pablo Hernandez.