The transfer window is just around the corner, and as Mikel Arteta told the press just last month, it’s set to be a massive one for Arsenal.

The Gunners failed to get over the line in any competition this year, and while injuries have played their part, one of the team’s most significant problems, which most agree on, is their lack of a truly clinical striker.

So, it’s not been surprising then, that in recent weeks, the North Londoners have been heavily linked with several top-class number nines, perhaps none more than Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, who could be available for around £70m.

However, the club seem intent on revolutionising the entire attacking unit, and reports have now touted another superstar for a move to the Emirates, a star who’d be a dream teammate for the Swede.

Arsenal's attacking transfer targets

Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other attacking talents who’ve been linked with Arsenal in recent weeks, such as Daizen Maeda and Jamie Gittens.

Transfer Focus

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

The former has been enjoying a simply spectacular campaign north of the border with Celtic, in which he’s scored 33 goals and provided 12 assists in 48 games and best of all, he could be available for just £25m.

Gittens, on the other hand, could cost up to £51m, but as he’s still just 20 years old and has managed to rack up a stellar haul of 12 goals and five assists in 46 games for Borussia Dortmund this season, he looks like he’d be worth it.

However, to really get the most out of Gyokeres and take the club’s whole attack to another level, the Gunners will need to sign a true superstar, someone like Rodrygo.

Yes, according to a recent report from journalist Graeme Bailey, Arsenal are one of a few Premier League sides keen on the Real Madrid star.

Alongside the North Londoners, the report has revealed that Liverpool and Manchester City have contacted the player’s representatives and remain in contact today.

In terms of how much the winger might cost Arsenal, a report from earlier this week claimed that he could be available for around €100m, which is about £85m.

It would be an incredibly costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Rodrygo’s immense ability, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he’d be ideal for Gyokeres.

Why Rodrygo would be a dream for Gyokeres

So, to keep things simple, there is one primary reason why Rodrygo would be a dream teammate for Gyokeres, which all others stem from his output.

For the Swedish goal machine to make the most of his incredible finishing ability, he’s going to want to have someone as effective as Saka to the left of him, and that could be the Brazilian.

For example, in 50 appearances this term, the “world-class” attacker, as dubbed by Luka Modrić, has scored 13 goals and provided ten assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.17 games.

Rodrygo vs Martinelli vs Trossard
Players	Rodrygo	Martinelli	Trossard
Appearances	50	48	53
Minutes	3290′	3313′	3262′
Goals	13	9	10
Assists	10	6	8
Goal Involvements per Match	0.46	0.31	0.33
Minutes per Goal Involvement	143.04′	220.86′	181.22′
All Stats via Transfermarkt

In comparison, Leandro Trossard has produced 18 goal involvements in 53 appearances, and Gabriel Martinelli has produced 15 in 48, which comes out to an average of one every 2.94 and 3.2 games, respectively.

Moreover, besides having far better raw output than the North Londoners’ current left-wing options, the 24-year-old has some seriously impressive underlying numbers to his name.

According to FBref, he sits in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for carries into the final third, the top 2% for pass completion and passes blocked, the top 4% for progressive carrying distance, the top 9% for shot-creating actions from take-ons and more, all per 90.

Finally, despite his age, the Osasco-born dynamo has seen it all and won it all at club level, with two Champions League titles, three La Liga titles and a handful of other cups to his name, so while some of Arteta’s other options might struggle to step up on the biggest stages, it’ll just be another game to the Real star.

Ultimately, thanks to his brilliant output, impressive underlying numbers and the immense amount of experience he has at his age, Rodrygo would be a dream teammate for Gyokeres and Arsenal should do what they can to sign him.

Kai Havertz upgrade: Arsenal send scouts for "unpredictable" goal machine

The free-scoring forward could be just what Arsenal need.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

May 9, 2025

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has opened talks to sign a “commanding” defender, who’s now a top defensive target for the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Gunners set sights on new centre-back amid Saliba concerns

The Gunners’ centre-back partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba has received widespread acclaim over the past few seasons, with Jamie Carragher saying: “As a partnership, him and Gabriel is as good as anything in the Premier League.

“I think Saliba is the better player but Gabriel is the better leader, and Saliba needs to bring that to his game if he wants to get to the levels we talk about with Virgil van Dijk.

“Saliba needs Gabriel. Since Gabriel has come out of the team, that’s not the same Saliba I’m watching.”

Related Best ST since Auba: Arsenal agree personal terms for £67m "monster"

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is desperate to sign a new striker this summer.

Posts ByAngus Sinclair May 31, 2025

It has recently been revealed the Brazilian defender is now in advanced talks over a new deal to remain at the Emirates Stadium, but with Real Madrid expressing an interest in Saliba, it could be a wise idea to bring in a new centre-back this summer.

According to a report from Football Transfers, that is exactly what the north Londoners are planning to do, having now moved ahead of Manchester United in the race for Parma defender Giovanni Leoni.

Such is Arsenal’s level of interest in Leoni, he has now been identified as one of their top defensive targets for the summer transfer window, with sporting director Berta leading talks over a deal to bring the 18-year-old to north London.

Juventus and Inter Milan are also in the race for the teenager, who joined Parma in a deal amounting to €8m (£7m) last summer, which has proven to be a savvy investment, given that he has emerged as a key player for the Italian side.

"Commanding" Leoni impressing for Parma

At the start of the 2024-25 Serie A campaign, the centre-back found game time difficult to come by, but he managed to establish himself as a key player during the second half of the season, which is an impressive feat at such a young age.

Football scout Ben Mattinson has also been left impressed by the Italian defender, describing his aerial dominance and duel prowess as “commanding”, while also stating the youngster is “destined” to play for a top club.

Leoni is yet to prove himself over a sustained period of time, but his emergence as a first-team player at such a young age can only be a good sign, and the Parma ace could be a solid addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad.

That said, there are a number of other interesting young defenders on the shortlist for Arsenal, and Arteta may even decide against bringing in a new centre-back, given that Gabriel and Saliba are arguably almost undroppable when fit.

Target

Current club

Potential cost

Jorrel Hato

Ajax

£40m

Nathan Collins

Brentford

£23m

Cristhian Mosquera

Valencia

£17m

Manchester United have been in talks to sign a £34m star who embarrassed Andre Onana in the Europa League.

Amorim comments on Man Utd future after Europa League final defeat

The Red Devils’ season hit another major low point on Wednesday evening, with Ruben Amorim’s side losing 1-0 in the Europa League final against Tottenham.

Brennan Johnson’s goal just before half-time proved to be the winner in Bilbao and leaves Man Utd planning for next season without any Champions League football.

Not just Hojlund: 4/10 dud must now never play for Man Utd again

Man Utd’s grim season ended with a whimper in Bilbao on Wednesday evening

1

By
Robbie Walls

May 22, 2025

Failing to win the Europa League will have a negative impact financially on United and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, whereas transfer targets may not want to move to Old Trafford without European football on offer.

The future of Amorim has also been a talking point following the final whistle in Bilbao, and the Man Utd boss even offered to quit if the club and fans don’t think he is the right man for the job.

“In this moment, it’s a little bit of faith. So let’s see. Like I said before, coming here before in the flash, I am always open. If the board and fans feel that I’m not the right guy, I will go the next day without any conversation about compensation.

“But I will not quit again. I am really confident in my job and, as you can see, I will not change nothing in the way I do things.”

It promises to be an intriguing few months at Old Trafford in what is Ratcliffe’s first summer transfer window as co-owner, and by the looks of things, they have moved for a star who they faced in the Europa League this season.

Man Utd hold talks to sign £34m Cherki from Lyon

According to Sky Sports reporter Patrick Berger, sharing news on X just minutes before Wednesday’s final, Man Utd have held talks with Lyon over a deal for attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki.

Those discussions were held when the Red Devils faced the Ligue 1 side in the Europa League quarter-final, with Borussia Dortmund also keen on the 21-year-old.

An attacking midfielder who can also play on either wing, Cherki has enjoyed a fine individual season with Lyon, which has seen his Transfermarkt valuation rise to a career-high €34m.

Rayan Cherki’s stats 24/25
Games	44
Goals	12
Assists	20
Minutes played	3,099

Called a “wizard” amid links of a move to Spurs, Cherki even embarrassed Andre Onana against Man Utd by capitalising on the goalkeeper’s mistake to score a stoppage time equaliser for Lyon.

A two-footed, versatile attacker, Cherki is thought to be valued at £34m by Lyon this summer, but missing out on Champions League football could have an impact on any potential transfer.

As Manchester United prepare to head into the defining game of their season on Wednesday night, a key dilemma for manager Ruben Amorim to contemplate is the centre-forward berth, amid the continued woes of young Rasmus Hojlund.

Despite showcasing flickers of life with goals against Bournemouth and Athletic Club in recent weeks, the 22-year-old has still scored just ten goals in all competitions this season, with just four of those coming in the Premier League.

The Europa League – or European competition in general – has been a welcome solace for the Dane following his £64m switch in 2023, although even his 11 goals on the continent to date should not cloud Amorim’s judgement considering the wretched campaign that the former Atalanta man has endured.

Against Chelsea on Friday night, for instance, the struggling striker won just two of 11 duels and lost the ball on 13 occasions, with there a very real debate to be had over whether the former Sporting CP boss can find a wildcard solution to replace the club’s number nine in Bilbao.

As for the long-term, meanwhile, Hojlund’s woes have indicated that signing an upgrade is essential this summer. On the evidence of recent reports, that work has already begin, amid the speculation surrounding Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap.

Latest on Man Utd's interest in Liam Delap

While a deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers man Matheus Cunha appears to be edging ever closer to an agreement, the suggestion is that United are also looking to raid the Premier League for young Delap, following an encouraging first campaign in the top-flight.

Despite playing his part in a side that has slipped back into the Championship under Kieran McKenna, the 22-year-old has still managed to rack up 12 league goals thus far, with no player back at Old Trafford even reaching double figures, by contrast.

Reportedly available for just £30m this summer amid the presence of a relegation clause in his contract, the England U21 star represents an affordable option ahead of next term, with The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell outlining that talks have already been held with the player regarding a move.

As per Whitwell, however, the Red Devils are set to face competition from the likes of Chelsea, with Delap set to engage in negotiations with a number of suitors before making his decision.

The suggestion is that the club could afford to sign both Cunha and the former Manchester City starlet, even if Champions League qualification is not secured. That said, might it be worth stretching the budget just a little further?

Man Utd chasing Delap alternative

Having signed Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee in successive summers, the decision to plump for another young striker like Delap could prove another mistake for those at Old Trafford, with the club simply needing to get it right in the centre-forward department.

Transfer Focus

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

According to reports in Spain, the Red Devils are seemingly in the mix for a prolific alternative, amid claims that they are among the Premier League clubs to have made an approach for Sporting sensation, Viktor Gyokeres.

As per the report, while it is Arsenal who remain in the ‘best position’ to sign the 26-year-old, United are said to have emerged as a ‘strong competitor’ of late, amid the forward’s prior relationship with Amorim.

The suggestion is that the former Coventry City man will end up back in England this summer, with Fabrizio Romano having outlined in recent days that he could be available for around €65m (£55m),

That extra £25m, in relation to Delap, would prove worth the investment for a player who could prove to be the next Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Why Gyokeres could be the new Van Nistelrooy

It is not too difficult to argue that not since the days of Van Nistelrooy have United truly had a reliable goalscoring presence at the club, with the clinical Dutchman chalking up 150 goals in 219 games in all competitions, including 95 in just 150 Premier League outings.

Signed from PSV Eindhoven in 2001 for a then British-record fee of around £19m, having seen a deal collapse a year earlier due to injury, the beloved striker hit the ground running in a United shirt, having scored twice on debut against Fulham.

In truth, the then-24-year-old had picked up where he left off in his homeland, having netted 77 times in just 90 games for PSV, after previous stints with Den Bosch and Heerenveen.

Any fears over whether he could cut it in English football were swiftly eased, with Van Nistelrooy proving that a goalscorer of that ilk can deliver the goods wherever they are plying their trade.

Hopefully, the same can be true of Gyokeres, with the “ball-striking monster” – as hailed by analyst Ben Mattinson – enjoying a similar record to what Ruud recorded at PSV, having netted 96 times in just 101 appearances in Lisbon.

Competition

Games

Goals

Assists

Liga Portugal

33

39

8

Taca de Portugal

6

4

3

Champions League

8

6

0

Allianz Cup

3

4

0

Supertaca

1

0

2

Competition

Games

Goals

Assists

Liga Portugal

33

29

9

Taca de Portugal

6

6

4

Europa League

9

5

2

Allianz Cup

2

3

0

Like Van Nistrelrooy too – who provided 20 assists in Eindhoven, as per Transfermarkt – the former Coventry hero can also create chances for others too when leading the line, having chipped in with 28 assists of his own.

In essence, Gyokeres is the complete striker, possessing that ability to lead the line on his own in impressive fashion, much like Van Nistelrooy was able to do in Sir Alex Ferguson’s 4-5-1 formation in the early 2000s.

The “hottest striker in Europe” right now, as per ESPN’s Mark Ogden, the one-time Brighton and Hove Albion asset is in simply blistering form. A reunion with Amorim could represent the dream alternative to chasing Delap, even if it comes at a greater cost.

Man Utd submit bid to sign "unplayable" star who's more deadly than Cunha

Manchester United have submitted a bid to sign a star who would be amazing with Matheus Cunha.

1 ByDan Emery May 19, 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers have money to play with this summer and could now turn their attention to an exciting winger to add flair acrosss their forward line, according to reports.

Wolverhampton Wanderers kickstart summer transfer window

Matheus Cunha’s departure to Manchester United may have left a sour taste in the mouth for supporters of the Old Gold, but there was always an element of inevitability regarding his eventual fate.

Nonetheless, the picture appears to be bright in the West Midlands under Vitor Pereira, who will be given time and financial backing to shape his squad over the coming months.

Evaluating the immediate priority at Molineux, adding one or two quality attacking options in the face of Cunha no longer being in the building will become a popular topic among fans and pundits alike.

Millwall forward Mihailo Ivanovic has been targeted by the Old Gold to help provide some added prowess in the final third, and Alex Neil’s ringing endorsement that the 20-year-old is one of Europe’s top ten talents will likely create plenty of intrigue.

Further back, Nelson Semedo is mulling over a new deal at Wolves as his contract nears expiration, illustrating the importance of bringing a right-sided defender to the club should the Portugal international move on to tackle a fresh challenge.

Wolves could sign instant Cunha replacement in "special" £25m talent

Wolves will be hoping to sign a replacement for Matheus Cunha this summer

ByRoss Kilvington May 31, 2025

Sunderland’s Trai Hume may be the man the Old Gold are looking for to strike an adequate balance. Meanwhile, Rayan Ait-Nouri’s impending transfer to Manchester City leaves food for thought at left-back.

Transition may not be a bad thing for Wolves in light of big-money departures. Either way, they are now reportedly plotting a swoop for an exciting young winger.

Wolverhampton Wanderers plotting swoop for Roger Fernandes

According to Molineux News in conversation with Graeme Bailey, Wolves are keeping tabs on Braga winger Roger Fernandes and he expects the Old Gold to ‘explore’ the Primeira Liga for additions during the window.

Reports earlier this year claimed Manchester United, Manchester City, Brighton, Aston Villa and Newcastle United are also keen on Fernandes amid his rise to prominence in Portugal, which has led to a £25m price tag.

Referencing the situation, Bailey said: “I think the Portuguese league will be somewhere that they explore; it wouldn’t surprise me if they do look towards that league again. I’ve heard Roger Fernandes’ name linked to Wolves in recent weeks as well, wouldn’t surprise me if he was on the agenda.”

Roger Fernandes at Braga in 2024/25 – why are Wolves taking an interest? (FBRef)

Shot creating actions (Primeira Liga)

78

Shot creating actions (Europa League)

19

Progressive carries per 90 mins (Primeira Liga)

4.71

Progressive passes received per 90 mins (Primeira Liga)

9.94

Goal-creating actions (combining both competitions)

9

Likened to former Manchester United star Antonio Valencia by Foot The Ball, Fernandes has registered five goals and seven assists in 48 appearances for Braga this term and is capable of featuring on either flank.

Completing an average of 1.4 dribbles per league match, the Portugal youth international could go some way to filling the creative void left by Cunha, even if he is only one part of the solution.

Arsenal are now set to hold talks over a deal to sign a £84m striker, with Mikel Arteta keen to secure his signature, according to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg.

Arteta's striker pursuit rumbles on

There has been a new twist in the Gunners’ pursuit of a striker, with it being revealed that Viktor Gyokeres plans to snub Manchester United if the Gunners come calling, although the Sweden international isn’t thought to be Arteta’s top target.

Indeed, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now revealed the deal for Gyokeres is “not advancing”, with the north Londoners “focussing” on bringing Benjamin Sesko to the Emirates Stadium this summer, having identified the Slovenian as a prime target months ago.

Talks held: Arsenal make approach to sign £84m Martinelli replacement

The Gunners are in the race for an “unbelievable” forward, amid doubts over Gabriel Martinelli’s future.

ByDominic Lund Jun 9, 2025

Unlike Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester City, Arteta’s side don’t need to rush to bring a new striker through the door, as they are not competing in the upcoming Club World Cup, but they are now stepping up their pursuit.

That is according to an update from Plettenberg on X, with the reporter revealing that the next round of talks over a deal for Sesko is now “scheduled”, and the feeling around a possible deal is “very positive”.

Arteta is personally “keen” on signing the 22-year-old, who Plettenberg describes as a “top striker”, but a deal will not be cheap, with RB Leipzig expected to hold out for a fee of around €80m – €100m (£67m – £84m).

The Bundesliga club are now waiting for an official offer for the centre-forward, with no full agreement in place at this stage.

"Monster" Sesko could be ideal striker signing for Arsenal

It is important that Arteta is happy with the striker Andrea Berta brings in this summer, given that he must be suitable for the Spaniard’s system, with it previously being revealed they are in disagreement over whether to sign the RB Leipzig forward or Gyokeres.

At this point, the Slovenia international seems to be the more likely signing, which could be good news for the Gunners, considering he has proven himself in a stronger league than the Sporting star, while he is also five years his junior.

Sesko has maintained a solid goal record over the past two seasons in Germany, showing real signs of development since arriving from RB Salzburg, and he could be the final piece of the jigsaw for Arsenal in attack, much like Erling Haaland was for Manchester City.

Season

Appearances (all comps

Goals

Assists

2023-24

42

18

2

2024-25

45

21

6

Lauded as a “monster” by football scout Ben Mattinson, the Leipzig star could be a fantastic signing for the Gunners, although Gyokeres did manage to outscore his fellow forward last season, albeit in a weaker league.

Bruno Fernandes is staying. Matheus Cunha is joining. Bryan Mbeumo could be next. The future of Manchester United could perhaps be a brighter one…

Of course, Red Devils supporters have been down this road before, with ‘winning the window’ rarely translating into on-field success – just look back to 2021 and the statement signings of Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The difference this time, however, is that Ruben Amorim and co appear to be ready to raid the Premier League for ready-made solutions, hence their pursuit of Cunha and Mbeumo, with the club having far too often looked abroad for reinforcements over the last decade or so.

As the MEN’s George Smith noted, amid Cunha’s arrival, United had not signed a proven top-flight attacker since prising Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal in 2018, with Romelu Lukaku having joined from Everton a few months earlier.

Those deals aren’t exactly shining examples, although in the case of Lukaku, his return of 42 goals in 96 games has certainly aged well, not least considering Rasmus Hojlund has scored just 26 times in 95 outings in all competitions.

Hopefully, both Cunha and Mbeumo – should the latter sign – can replicate and exceed the Belgian’s return at Old Trafford, with United wise to be continuing this approach of looking closer to home for new additions.

Man Utd keen on signing another Premier League star

The bombshell news that Mbeumo is keen to join Amorim’s side came following the news that United had lost the race for Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, with the Englishman opting to reunite with former Manchester City youth coach, Enzo Maresca, at Chelsea.

Transfer Focus

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

Amid that potential setback, The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell has reported that the club are considering centre-forward alternatives, namely Viktor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen and Antoine Semenyo, with Amorim also keen on acquiring an ‘athletic No.8’, while a new wing-back could also be ‘on the agenda’.

The search for new options on the flanks may have seen United turn toward another top-flight talent, in the form of Brighton and Hove Albion’s Pervis Estupinan, with reports in Spain indicating that the Ecuadorian has emerged as a ‘priority’ target.

The belief is that while the 27-year-old is attracting interest from a long list of suitors, it is the Red Devils who are showing the ‘strongest interest’ at present, having ‘set their sights’ on the full-back.

This comes amid prior reports which suggested that INEOS had actually held talks over a move for the £15m defender, with any potential deal ensuring Amorim could land an immediate upgrade on January arrival, Patrick Dorgu.

How Estupinan compares to Dorgu

It is undoubtedly still early days in Dorgu’s United journey, having signed from Lecce on a £30m deal in January, although it hasn’t exactly been plain sailing, not least when considering the 20-year-old’s red card against Ipswich Town in February.

There have been notable bright moments – including winning a penalty in the 4-1 thrashing of Real Sociedad at Old Trafford – yet the promising Dane is yet to truly convince, with club legend Gary Neville including him among those who are “not good enough” among the current crop.

The addition of Estupinan to bolster that left flank could then represent the perfect upgrade, with the experienced star recognised as “one of the best left-backs in the Premier League” by manager Fabian Hurzeler.

While the 2024/25 campaign ended in the attack-minded full-back providing just one goal and one assist in the league, he had previously registered 15 goal involvements in the two seasons prior to that, across all competitions.

For comparison, the young Dorgu has so far registered no goals and just a solitary assist during his brief time in Manchester, after previously racking up only five goals and two assists in 57 games in Italy.

While the winter signing’s age must be factored in, it is also worth noting that Dorgu did actually play as a winger on occasion in Serie A, with it yet to be seen if he can provide that much-needed end product.

Dorgu vs Estupinan – 24/25 PL record
Stat (*per game)	Dorgu	Estupinan
Games (starts)	12 (10)	30 (26)
Goals	0	1
Assists	0	1
Big chances created	1	5
Key passes*	1.0	0.9
Pass accuracy*	86%	88%
Tackles & interceptions*	2.9	3.4
Balls recovered*	3.1	4.9
Successful dribbles*	0.3	0.6
Errors leading to goal	2	0
Stats via Sofascore

As indicated above, while the current United man is certainly not too far behind across a string of metrics, it is Estupinan who comes out on top in numerous key areas, including tackles and interceptions, ball recoveries, successful dribbles and pass accuracy, emphasising his quality at both ends of the pitch.

It’s not to say that Dorgu should simply be cast off so soon into his time in English football, yet at just 20, the jury is out on whether he can be a consistent, regular performer at Premier League level.

As journalist Samuel Luckhurst suggested after the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, the left-footer arguably looked ‘out of his depth’.

With that in mind, a rival or competitor to the Denmark international is certainly needed this summer – by signing the Seagulls star, Amorim may even be getting himself an immediate upgrade.

He's outscored Mbeumo: Man Utd weighing up bid for £40m Delap upgrade

Manchester United are preparing a move for a star who could thrive at Old Trafford.

By
Ethan Lamb

Jun 4, 2025

Arsenal are set for one of their most imperative transfer windows in recent years, with sporting director Andrea Berta working to reinforce the squad whilst backing manager Mikel Arteta with sufficient squad upgrades.

Arsenal laying groundwork for key summer deals

Recently, two players in particular have dominated the headlines around N5.

He's a Sesko upgrade: Arsenal stepping up pursuit of £84m "powerhouse"

The incredible goalscorer would be a serious threat at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 9, 2025

Given the club’s obvious need for a new striker, Arsenal’s talks for RB Leipzig sensation Benjamin Sesko are attracting due attention, with the Gunners looking to make it third-time-lucky and finally seal a deal for the Slovenian.

Sesko rejected a switch to the Emirates last summer, instead penning a contract extension with Leipzig and coming to a gentlemen’s agreement that he could leave either this year or in 2026 (Fabrizio Romano).

Arsenal also reached out over a deal for Sesko in January, but were respectful of Leipzig not wanting to sell mid-season, not to mention the player’s wishes to see out the Bundesliga campaign (Ben Jacobs).

Now, they could finally land their man if they come to an amicable agreement with Leipzig, with Standard Sport reporter Simon Collings sharing that the Bundesliga side want around £70 million to part company after fresh talks.

Beyond Sesko, there is also the ongoing saga revolving around Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

Fabrizio Romano shares Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal update

It is a very complex situation, with the BBC reporting that a medical had been scheduled for the “perfect” 26-year-old, which was later rebuffed by the player himself in an interview with Radio Nacional.

Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay also poured cold water over how advanced this deal is, but members of the media are still adamant that Arsenal have signed Zubimendi and the agreement is sealed.

Reports in Spain are now also beginning to claim that Real Madrid could hijack Arsenal’s move for Zubimendi, so the uncertainty remains, but trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has moved to provide a fairly comforting update.

Speaking on his YouTube channel this week, Romano said that a deal is agreed for Zubimendi to join Arsenal, and Arteta’s side remain convinced that he’s about to finalise his transfer to the Premier League.

“We have many questions, we have many stories, and I respect all the sources on this story, because obviously until the deals are official, you can try until the very end,” said Romano.

“From Spain, that is what they guarantee Real Madrid are trying to do.

“Until the deals are signed, clubs can try to enter and hijack until the very final moments. But my understanding on this story is that Martin Zubimendi has agreed on absolutely everything to become a new Arsenal player.

“There is an agreement with the club since a long time ago. I already said a few months ago the ‘here we go’, because from what I heard, Zubimendi accepted everything Arsenal offered. He already spoke to Mikel Arteta, he wanted to wait until the formal steps to respect Real Sociedad until the end of the season.

“The deal is agreed. They’ve already exchanged everything, in terms of documents. It’s just about the medical, put pen to paper, take the pictures, and then Zubimendi will become an Arsenal player.”

Sharing a cautionary word, the journalist doesn’t entirely rule out Real, but Arsenal appear more than confident they’ll get him over the line.

“If Real Madrid or any other clubs will be able to change this story while the documents are ready, in football like so many things… never say never,” continued Romano.

“But Arsenal are convinced he will be their player this summer.”

As Aston Villa prepare for a busy summer in the transfer market, how they would love to unearth a forward as prolific as Christian Benteke.

The Belgian striker scored 49 goals in just 101 appearances for the Villans, thereby averaging a goal every 172 minutes, despite the fact they were struggling throughout his time at the club.

Having arrived from Genk for just £7m in 2012, Benteke was sold to Liverpool for £32.5m three years later, quite the return on investment.

A decade on from his departure, could Villa be about to make a Benteke-esque striker move in this transfer window?

Aston Villa targeting new striker

According to a report by Football Transfers, Monchi has made Brighton & Hove Albion forward João Pedro a ‘high-priority’ target this summer, adding that the Brazilian is valued at around £58m by the Seagulls.

Pedro has not been seen since being sent off at Brentford on 19 April, first serving the customary three-match suspension.

However, despite then being available for Brighton’s final two fixtures of the campaign, Fabian Hürzeler chose not to select him.

This is because, as outlined by Pedro was involved in a ‘training ground altercation’ with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke, merely fueling speculation around his future.

Sam Dean of the Telegraph has previously documented that Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal are all ‘interested’ to Pedro this summer, but could Aston Villa position themselves at the front of the queue by acting swiftly?

Why Pedro would be a better signing than Rashford

Now that his loan spell has come to an end, there was always going to be much speculation about Marcus Rashford’s future.

In 17 appearances for Villa, he looked like a different player, enjoying a ‘career rehabilitation’ in the Midlands as he scored four goals and registered six assists, on target against Brighton and Manchester City in the Premier League, also bagging a brace at Preston North End in the FA Cup.

Nevertheless, Jamie Jackson of the Guardian reports that, even though he is contracted to the club until 2028, Rashford has no future at Manchester United, who value him at £40m, with reports in Spain documenting Barcelona’s long-standing interest.

However, rather than pushing to make Rashford’s deal permanent, would Villa be better served signing Pedro?

Well, let’s attempt to find out.

Goals

0.46

0.38

Assists

0.28

0.19

Key passes

1.39

1.77

Progressive passes

3.61

2.15

Shot-creating actions

3.33

3.54

Successful take-ons

1.34

1.14

Progressive carries

3.06

2.66

As the table outlines, Rashford and Pedro’s statistics this season are remarkably similar.

In around 300 more minutes across all competitions, the Englishman scored one more goal, registered two more assists and accumulated more shot-creating actions per 90.

Nevertheless, Pedro came out on top for carrying metrics across passing and dribbling, suggesting he’s even more of a livewire than Pedro in forward areas.

Presenter Sam Ucko labels the Brazilian a ‘special player”, while Liam Tharme of the Athletic praises his ‘technical prowess’, which enables him to drop deep and be involved in the build-up play.

So, the smarter business decision would be to spend big on the younger Pedro, rather than splurging on a 27-year-old whose best days could be behind them.

Pau Torres 2.0: Aston Villa submit offer to sign £21m "big game player"

Aston Villa are looking to do their transfer business early

ByJoe Nuttall May 28, 2025

One of the most interesting transfer sagas that will develop this summer regards Aston Villa’s former loanee Marcus Rashford. His future is up in the air at Old Trafford, and it does seem likely that he will depart Manchester United after a decade at the highest level for his boyhood club.

He went on loan to Villa Park in January, but it remains to be seen if he will stay at the club. The Villans have a £40m buy option for the winger, but BBC Sport reported that ‘there have been no negotiations over a permanent transfer’, and Rashford thinks United ‘would be prepared to sell him for £40m to anyone this summer’.

So, if they do not keep hold of the England superstar, it means Villa will need to sign a new winger. Perhaps that player could be Rashford’s international teammate.

Aston Villa’s potential Rashford replacement

It will be fascinating to see if Rashford stays at Villa Park beyond this season. However, if that is not to be the case, then it seems as though Unai Emery’s side have done due diligence on alternative options.

Transfer Focus

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

According to a report from TEAMTalk, the Villans are a ‘team to watch in the race’ to sign their former attacker Jack Grealish. The Manchester City star seems destined to leave this summer, and could now launch a move for their ex-captain, who was a superstar at Villa Park.

Emery is said to be ‘a big admirer’ of the forward, and could push for a deal to be done. However, they will face competition from Everton and Newcastle United, as well as Scudetto winners Napoli.

Grealish is valued at £40m by Football Transfers, and could cost upwards of that price.

Why Grealish would be a good signing

If Villa are to bring Grealish back to his boyhood club this summer, it would be a sensational return for a true maverick of the Premier League. Despite a tough season for City, the England international is still a player capable of magical moments.

He has only played 20 games in the Premier League under Pep Guardiola this season. In that time, the 29-year-old scored and assisted one apiece. Despite four goal involvements in five games in City’s run to the FA Cup final, he was snubbed of an appearance at Wembley, with Guardiola choosing to bring Claudio Echeverri on for his debut, instead.

Should Grealish get to call Villa Park home again next season, he would surely love to reignite the exceptional form that earned him the £100m move to City in the first place. In 213 games for the Villans, he scored 32 times and created 43 goals.

So, how does that stack up to Rashford’s form at Villa Park? Well, the Wythenshawe-born superstar was sensational during his 17-game stint in Claret and Blue, leaving a huge impression in such a short time.

During his brief career as a Villa player, Rashford found the back of the net four times and grabbed six assists. He played 940 minutes, the equivalent of 10.4 games, leaving him with a goals per game ratio of almost one.

With that being said, Grealish could be the perfect Rashford replacement. The numbers from the 2020/21 campaign, his final season at Villa, compared to the United star’s stats from the same season, show exactly what he can do in a Villa shirt.

According to FBref, the former Villa skipper averaged 3.33 key passes and 7.08 progressive carries per 90 minutes. In comparison, the Red Devils’ number 10 averaged 1.33 key passes and 4.14 progressive carries each game.

Goals and assists

0.66

0.62

Key passes

3.33

1.33

Goal-creating actions

0.82

0.62

Take-ons completed

2.67

2.53

Progressive carries

7.08

4.14

If Villa get that version of Grealish, or even a player half as good, they have an excellent replacement for Rashford. Both players were sensational that season, with 16 goals and assists for Grealish and 20 for Rashford.

To bring back a player to his boyhood club who can be one of the best attackers in the country, as the stats show, might be a genius move for Villa.

As Statman Dave once called him, he is a “menace”. If Emery can bring the best out of Grealish, it will be a fantastic deal for the club and player.

Emery's new Duran: Aston Villa lead chase for "frightening" £40m sensation

Unai Emery is aiming to bolster his attacking options this summer

1 ByRoss Kilvington Jun 7, 2025