Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is now ready to cash in on a £150,000-a-week player who is happy to leave the club, according to a new report.
Aston Villa face Man Utd in two separate transfer battles
As the Premier League enters the month of May, transfer business is expected to heat up, and at Villa Park, there is an expectation there is going to be a lot of coming and going, as there has been ever since Emery joined the club.
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The transfer window has yet to open, and already the Villans find themselves in two separate battles with Manchester United. The first is for goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who currently plays for Espanyol.
The shot-stopper has impressed in La Liga, and he is now wanted by both Premier League teams, as they have their eyes on strengthening their goalkeeper department. Villa are looking to win the race for Garcia by acting fast, and they are willing to trigger his release clause, which stands at £21 million. United are not out of the race though, as they have made contact with the player’s representatives over a deal to come to Old Trafford.
The second battle Villa face against United is signing teenager Christian Kofane from Albacete Balompié. The 18-year-old is wanted by Villa, United and Newcastle United, as well as many other top teams across Europe. His recent form in front of goal has put him further in the spotlight, and once again, he is a player who has a release clause, but this time a low one, as he would cost as little as £4.2 million.
Emery ready to wave goodbye to Emi Martinez
Winning the race to sign Garcia may be more significant for the Villans, as according to TBR Football, Emery now wants to sell goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who is ready to leave the Premier League club.
The report states that Saudi Pro League clubs are ready to make a move for Martinez, who won the World Cup with Argentina back in 2022. It goes on to add that Villa are interested in doing business over a possible sale, despite the fact that he is still under contract until 2029. Meanwhile, Martinez is also interested in a move away from Villa Park, after joining the club in September 2020.
The 32-year-old, who earns a weekly wage of £150,000 at Villa Park, has become one of the strongest keepers in the Premier League as well as European football. But the fact that Villa have shown an interest in Garcia could mean they see now as the ideal time for the club to cash in and bring in a younger replacement.
Emi Martinez’s 24/25 Premier League stats
Apps
33
Clean Sheets
5
Goals conceded
45
Goals conceded per game
1.4
Saves made
87
Penalty saves
1/2
Saves per game
2.6 (66%)
Errors leading to a shot
5
Errors leading to a goal
1
This season has been a slight struggle for Villa and Martinez in terms of keeping out the goals, as they have conceded 45 goals so far in the league with Martinez in goal, and the Argentine has kept just five clean sheets, which is lower than the nine he kept last season.
Everton will play at Goodison Park for the final time next week, hosting relegated Southampton in the penultimate game of the season.
When summer comes along, David Moyes will be deep in preparations for the upcoming campaign, which will see Everton step into Bramley Moore and push for a place higher up the Premier League table. This will be the fourth successive campaign that the Toffees will finish in the bottom half, and the fifth in six terms.
Everton manager DavidMoyesreacts
Moyes is a shrewd and critical manager and he won’t shy away from making sweeping changes this summer. One of which may be allowing Dominic Calvert-Lewin to leave at the end of his contract.
Why Dominic Calvert-Lewin must leave Everton
Calvert-Lewin has been playing his football on Merseyside for nearly nine years, joining Everton from Sheffield United for a £1.5m fee in 2016.
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin
At his best, the England international is a powerful and purposeful forward, adept in the air and a real focal point for his teammates to target.
However, injuries have become commonplace in Calvert-Lewin’s career over the past several years, and given his profligacy when available this season, it seems risky to renew his deal.
Especially given Beto has outperformed him since Moyes’ winter appointment.
Prem 24/25 – Calvert-Lewin vs Beto
Stats (* per game)
DCL
Beto
Matches (starts)
23 (19)
27 (12)
Goals
3
7
Assists
1
0
Shots (on target)*
2.0 (0.8)
1.5 (0.7)
Big chances missed
13
9
Pass completion
64%
57%
Key passes*
0.3
0.3
Dribbles*
0.4
0.6
Duels won*
5.5
4.7
Stats via Sofascore
Beto’s recent form, which includes six goals from 11 Premier League starts, could see him start the new campaign as Moyes’ number one at number nine.
However, the £100k-per-week Calvert-Lewin must go, for the Merseysiders have a rising star who could take his place.
Everton must unleash their new Lukaku
Everton need a striker for the ages, one in a similar vein to Romelu Lukaku, who scored 87 goals and provided 27 assists across 166 appearances before signing for Manchester United in a deal initially worth £75m.
The Belgian’s power and confidence were at their highest peak during his time at Goodison Park, all concentrated into something pointed.
Youssef Chermiti could be the perfect heir. The Portuguese youth international is very much in the maiden stage of his career, and while he hasn’t made the mark on Merseyside that he would have hoped for, there’s plenty of time for that to change.
Described as a “superb prospect” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Chermiti has the power and pace to put the fitness troubles of recent years behind him and start showcasing the talent that is clearly within his grasp.
Everton's Youssef Chermiti
Everton did pay £15m to take him from Sporting Lisbon in Portugal, after all. Framed at 6 foot 4, Chermiti has had to bide his time this season but he’s starting to win Moyes over, it seems, having featured four times off the bench since March.
The 20-year-old’s strength and athleticism even suggest that he could be Everton’s next version of Lukaku, with some remarking that there is an element of an “early Lukaku” to him after returning from injury with far more bulk and brawn about him.
Though all 24 of Chermiti’s senior appearances for Everton have returned little in the way of substance, he’s yet to score or assist, there’s no question he’s making the physical improvements that could marry into his technical game and shape him into Everton’s next Lukaku.
With Calvert-Lewin heading out the door, this could be a shrewd way for Everton to keep things ticking at the striking position, especially if Beto’s form continues into the new campaign.
He's perfect for Delap: Everton open talks to sign "unbelievable" star
Everton have wasted no time in moving for summer targets, already putting in the work to land one star.
Tottenham Hotspur are now keen on signing an “amazing” defender, who is likely to be tempted by a move away from his current club in the summer, according to Graeme Bailey.
Tottenham eyeing defender amid Romero uncertainty
Tottenham have fallen way short of expectations in the Premier League this season, with Ange Postecoglou’s side on course for a 17th-place finish, so it is little wonder that one of their key players has little interest in sticking around beyond the summer.
Back in April, it was revealed that Cristian Romero is now pushing to leave Spurs, with Daniel Levy cancelling talks over a new contract, which means the chairman could be tasked with bringing in a replacement at the end of the season.
AFC Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen is among the more ambitious targets, with the Lilywhites recently being linked with a £50m swoop for the Spaniard, who is also wanted by Real Madrid, while they remain keen on signing Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi after making a £70m bid in January.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehireacts after the match
Huijsen and Guehi have established themselves among the Premier League’s best defenders with their performances this season, but there have also been suggestions that Spurs could make a move for more of an unproven quantity.
According to Bailey, in a report for EFL Analysis, Tottenham are now keen on signing Sutton United defender Jack Taylor, having conducted checks on the 20-year-old this season, alongside a whole host of other clubs.
Teams from across the EFL pyramid are interested in signing Taylor, including Bristol City, Millwall and Portsmouth, with West Ham United and Brentford likely to be the main rival suitors from within the Premier League.
The centre-back is set to enter the final year of his contract, and he is expected to be tempted by a move elsewhere this summer, despite Sutton’s eagerness to tie him down to a new deal.
Tottenham now frontrunners and pushing to sign "incredible" maestro for £0
Spurs are leading the race for a midfielder, despite interest from Manchester United.
ByDominic Lund May 11, 2025 "Amazing" Taylor impressing at Sutton
Given that the defender played in the fifth tier in the 2024-25 campaign, he is unlikely to be capable of making the step-up to the Premier League in the near future, but there are some signs he could be a solid long-term addition to the squad.
Sutton manager Steve Morison expressed his disappointment when the youngster suffered a season-ending injury back in March, saying: “That’s probably his season done. We’re at the backend of the season now so anything over a couple of weeks; you’re not going to get them back, but he’s pulled his groin and it’s gutting because he’s been amazing.”
That said, Tottenham should also look to bring in a ready-made replacement for Romero alongside Taylor, given his inexperience, and there are a number of potential options on the shortlist.
While buying the right players remains a key point of concern at Manchester United in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, it could be argued that there has been just as much difficulty with regard to selling players in recent times.
Indeed, the £10m profit made on Daniel James in 2021 showcases a rare example of the Red Devils actually making an astute move in the market, with the club having far too often let talents go on the cheap – the £500k sale of £40m man Donny van de Beek a notable example.
There is a sense, however, that things are perhaps beginning to change, with the last few years seeing the Old Trafford hierarchy allow numerous academy graduates to be sold, namely Anthony Elanga (£15m), James Garner (£15m), Dean Henderson (£20m) and, of course, Scott McTominay.
Having so often been poor sellers, can fans and pundits alike really be too critical of the club trying to strike while the iron is hot with regard to cashing in?
The problem is, however, that the woes of a side who could still finish 17th in the Premier League table have been heightened by the success of those who have moved on, with McTominay playing a vital role in steering Napoli to the Serie A title.
The MVP in that stunning Scudetto charge, the 28-year-old is the man of the moment. Why did the Red Devils ever let him go?
Why Man Utd sold Scott McTominay
McTominay’s heroics in Naples are a sight to warm the heart, with the 6 foot 4 sensation scoring 12 goals en route to league glory, including a remarkable bicycle kick on Friday night to help clinch the title.
Sold for a reported fee of £25m, the Scotland star is seemingly a player that Erik ten Hag “didn’t want” to sell by his own account, although he was almost “forced” into doing so amid the club’s financial woes. Those funds were subsequently used to help seal a move for fellow midfielder, Manuel Ugarte.
Therein lies the problem, with that latter deal now looking like something of a mistake, with Ugarte on course to soon emulate Van de Beek, not least after sitting out Wednesday’s Europa League final.
McTominay
With McTominay netting ten times in all competitions last season, his impact would likely have been far greater than the Uruguayan, a player who has scored just twice this term under Ruben Amorim.
Yes, McTominay himself at times looked “not good enough” alongside Fred, as per club legend Roy Keane, although he was a valued squad member who stepped up when needed. Who can forget his remarkable long-range strike in the Manchester Derby in March 2020?
While not always a guaranteed starter – having started just 27 times in 2023/24 across all fronts – here was a player who had “Manchester United in his veins”, according to Ten Hag. A player looking set to be a future “captain” of the club, in the words of Ralf Rangnick.
As it is, a love story is now brewing between the people of Naples and their new shining star. Back at Old Trafford, it could be time for Amorim and INEOS to acquire a suitable replacement.
Man Utd could land their next Scott McTominay
Amorim is set to stay put despite United’s midweek woes, although change is afoot elsewhere, not least with Alejandro Garnacho having reportedly been told he can leave the club this summer.
The Argentine winger – who was dropped to the bench for the showpiece in Bilbao – may not be the only high-profile exit from the Theatre of Dreams, with speculation still rife regarding the future of talismanic skipper, Bruno Fernandes.
That uncertainty has come amid concrete interest in the 30-year-old from Saudi Arabian side, Al Hilal, with Fernandes having admitted following the 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur that he would accept it if United did decide to cash in.
Bruno Fernandes
While that still remains an unlikely prospect, if the playmaker does indeed move on this summer, the Red Devils have already drawn up plans for a replacement, a player perhaps in the mould of the aforementioned McTominay.
Indeed, it was reported earlier this month that the Premier League outfit are lining up Athletic Club star, Oihan Sancet, should Fernandes depart, with the 25-year-old having a £67m release clause in his current contract with the Basque side.
The Spain international was absent from the Europa League semi-final meeting with Amorim’s side due to injury, although it has been an otherwise standout campaign, amid his return of 17 goals in all competitions.
That includes 15 goals in LaLiga from only 19 starts, with the attack-minded star boasting that “box-crashing” impact that McTominay has shown for both Napoli and United, as noted by analyst Ben Mattinson.
A player capable of operating as a number ten or as a second striker, much like the Lancaster-born giant, Sancet also mirrors McTominay in being something of an unsung hero, having been described by Mattinson as “one of the most underrated players in Europe” right now.
That is a suitable statement considering that the Athletic star ranks in the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for non-penalty goals this season, as per FBref. For context, McTominay ranks in the top 1% of midfielders in that same metric.
McTominay vs Sancet – 24/25 League stats
Stat (per 90)
McTominay (Serie A)
Sancet (LaLiga)
Non-penalty goals
0.37
0.68
Shots
2.33
2.66
Assists
0.12
0.06
Shot-creating actions
2.11
2.83
Pass completion
84.1%
81%
Progressive passes
3.43
5.09
Progressive carries
1.72
2.94
Touches in opposition box
3.25
3.85
Aerial duels won
2.02
0.68
Stats via FBref
A slightly more advanced, attack-minded option than the ex-United man, an added bonus is also Sancet’s superior quality on the ball, as evidenced with regard to his progressive carries and progressive passes record.
To be able to combine a McTominay-esque instinct in front of goal with a composed presence in possession could be an ideal mix as far as Amorim is concerned, with Sancet looking a perfect fit for one of the Portuguese’s two number ten berths.
A man who has risen up through the youth ranks to sparkle for the Basque outfit, much like McTominay in Manchester, the £67m man would be a worthy addition for the new INEOS regime this summer.
Yes, there may be more glamorous, highly touted names out there, but as the Red Devils found with the case of McTominay, never overlook such an invaluable, ‘underrated’ goal threat.
Man Utd's "outrageously good" flop has been better than McTominay in 24/25
INEOS must terribly regret letting this player leave Old Trafford.
Football is built on gossamer-fine margins, and Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe will know that his side came within a whisker of failing to restore their place in the Champions League.
The Toon might have lost to Everton at St. James’ Park on the final day of the Premier League season, but Aston Villa also lost at Old Trafford, thus securing Newcastle’s place among Europe’s elite once again, having also won the Carabao Cup in March.
United won’t be losing Alexander Isak to a rival this summer, but with Callum Wilson at the end of his contract, a new striker is among the biggest priorities for the Tynesiders.
Newcastle leading race for new striker
Howe reportedly wanted his striker addition to be Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, but he’s now set to join Chelsea for £30m.
However, PIF have found an alternative, and have even established the lead in the race.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
As per Italian outlet Calcio Mercato, Fiorentina’s Moise Kean may be on the move this summer, and Newcastle are said to be ‘very interested’ in signing him.
Fiorentina'sMoiseKeancelebrates after the match
Kean, 25, has also been the subject of enquiries from Serie A champions Napoli, who are deliberating over whether to meet his €52m (about £44m) release clause, which will be active across the first two weeks of July.
Why Newcastle want Moise Kean
Kean flopped like a fish when last trying his skills on Premier League soil, only scoring twice across 32 games for Everton in England’s top flight.
However, he was young and Everton were turbulent. The Italy international re-joined Juventus from Goodison Park in a deal worth £25m (the same ballpark Everton initially paid). Now he is regarded as “the king of kings” for La Viola by those like reporter Mina Rzouki.
His rise has truly been something to behold, and if Kean can translate his sustained form over to Newcastle, he could become a force to be reckoned with, one who could even apply pressure on Isak.
Moise Kean – League Stats by Season (last 5 years)
Season
Apps
Goals
Assists
24/25 – Fiorentina
32
19
3
23/24 – Juventus
19
–
–
22/23 – Juventus
28
6
–
21/22 – Juventus
32
5
3
20/21 – PSG
26
13
–
20/21 – Everton
1
–
–
Stats via Transfermarkt
His stratospheric leap into rich form since moving to Florence has been a remarkable thing to witness, scoring 19 league goals last term, but it’s not Kean’s only weapon. As per FBref, he ranked among the top 12% of Serie A forwards this year for successful take-ons per 90.
There’s a power and purpose to his football that echoes Delap’s qualities, the English striker captivating so many suitors this season with his strength and confidence, hailed by Alan Shearer for being a “nuisance to play against.”
Kean, meanwhile, has been praised for his “scary” physical presence by reporter Carlo Garganese.
Ipswich Town'sLiamDelapreacts
Newcastle must push hard to get this one done; across all competitions this season, Kean has posted 25 goals, even outscoring supposedly Manchester United-bound Bryan Mbeumo, who has indeed opted to sign for the Red Devils, rejecting Newcastle and more in the process.
Brentford’s Mbeumo, while not a striker, has been one of English football’s finest goalscorers this year, bagging 20 goals from 42 matches.
It’s clear: Newcastle must secure Kean’s signature. After all, they are already in the lead and were willing to spend on Delap. Here is the perfect alternative.
Move over Delap: Newcastle teen is one of the "best prospects in the world"
Newcastle may find a new teenage superstar burst onto the scene next season.
Manchester United are now confident of agreeing deals for two new attacking signings in the coming weeks.
Man Utd lining up replacements for Ten Hag signings
Now that the transfer window is back open, teams such as Man United can get back to work on finalising their squads in time for pre-season to begin. Given how last season went for the Red Devils, club chiefs will be keen to have a lot of their business done as early as possible so they can give Ruben Amorim the best chance of success.
Man Utd in talks to sign £40m+ Aston Villa star keen on Old Trafford move
The Villans could have a decision to make on his future…
BySean Markus Clifford Jun 15, 2025
There are multiple positions Amorim and co. want to strengthen this summer, but none may be more important than in goal, given the mistakes Andre Onana made throughout last season.
The Cameroon international was linked with a move to Saudi Arabia a month or two ago, but that talk has now gone quiet. However, that hasn’t stopped United from looking at potential replacements, and according to Caught Offside, United are now in talks with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez over a possible transfer this summer. The Argentine is said to be open to a move to Old Trafford, as his time at Aston Villa looks to be coming to an end.
Martinez is not the only goalkeeper on United’s radar, as according to a new report, the Premier League side are also interested in signing Marco Carnesecchi from Atalanta. The 24-year-old has impressed for the Serie A side in the last 18 months, and his performances have caught the attention of United – it’s said that Atalanta would want around £34 million for their goalkeeper.
Man Utd confident of signing Mbeumo and a new striker
As the Red Devils work on a new goalkeeper, according to the Manchester Evening News, Man United are confident of agreeing a deal to sign Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford.
Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo celebrates after the match
The report states that Mbeumo has told friends he only wants to join United but has not ruled out a move to Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs are said to be pushing for Mbeumo and are prepared to offer a higher salary, but United are considered to be the frontrunners for the £60 million star.
As well as working on a deal to sign Mbeumo, Manchester Evening News also adds that they are lining up a deal to sign a striker afterwards.
The report doesn’t state which striker, but this comes as Inter Milan are reportedly working on a deal to sign Rasmus Hojlund, which has made United look for replacements.
The Red Devils are interested in a deal to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt and have already made contact with the German side over a possible deal. Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen is another player on the radar, and it’s been reported that talks have been held between the club and the striker’s representatives over a potential transfer this summer.
Ekitike, Osimhen and Gyokeres’ 24/25 league stats
Ekitike
Osimhen
Gyokeres
Apps
33
30
33
Goals
15
26
39
Assists
8
5
8
Ekitike and Osimhen could be United’s potential striker targets, as Viktor Gyokeres has now prioritised a move to Arsenal over the Red Devils.
Glasgow Rangers head coach Russell Martin is set to bring a new style of play to Ibrox when his team takes to the field for the start of the 2025/26 campaign.
The former Scotland international plays a ball-dominant style that will see the Gers look to dominate possession and break teams down next term.
In order to build a squad that is suited to the way that the former Southampton manager wants to play, though, there will be players who have to move on in order to make way for new recruits.
One player who looks set to be on his way out of Ibrox is centre-back Robin Propper, as it was recently reported in his home country that he has agreed a deal to return to FC Twente on a three-year contract.
The Rangers Review also recently claimed that the Dutch giant is ‘expected’ to leave the club, amid interest in Leicester City central defender Conor Coady, who could come in as his replacement.
Why selling Robin Propper is a good move by Rangers
This proposed move back to FC Twente is a good move by Rangers and a good move for the defender because he did not settle in well at Ibrox on the pitch.
Propper did not do enough in his performances to show that he was ready for the physicality of the Scottish Premiership, which was a clear problem early on in his career in Glasgow.
In December 2024, the centre-back lost 100% (2/2) of his duels and was substituted at half-time against St. Johnstone, which led to him being criticised by former Gers midfielder Derek Ferguson.
The BBC Sportsound pundit said: “Propper is struggling. He’s been pretty vocal over the last couple of weeks that he’s finding it tough in our league. He’s been asked the question early on. It’s quite worrying when you see him struggling as bad as that. Look at the body language – he’s looking for a way out already.”
24/25 Europa League
Robin Propper
Appearances
10
Clean sheets
1
Tackles + interceptions per game
1.8
Dribbled past
4x
Ground duel success rate
45%
Aerial duel success rate
44%
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the 31-year-old centre-back also struggled with the physicality of European football in the Europa League, as he lost the majority of his duels on the deck and in the air.
These statistics and the criticism of his play in the Premiership illustrate exactly why the decision to allow him to move back to the Netherlands is a good one for all parties involved.
Propper may not be the only first-team player to move on from Ibrox before the Martin era officially gets underway on the pitch, though, as another dud is attracting interest from elsewhere.
Five teams eyeing deal for Rangers forward
According to the Daily Record, a number of teams are showing an interest in Rangers winger Ross McCausland during the summer transfer window.
The report claims that FC Cincinnati, Plymouth Argyle, Cardiff City, Basel, and OH Leuven are all eyeing up a potential swoop for the Northern Ireland international.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
It states that they are all keeping tabs on his situation at Ibrox heading into the summer, which shows that there is plenty of interest from clubs across the globe and in the UK.
The Daily Record adds that McCausland is keen to remain at Rangers and would like to be a part of Martin’s project, but that the Scottish head coach could be willing to listen to offers for the academy graduate.
Ross McCausland for Rangers against Celtic.
It reveals that the former Norwich City centre-back is still assessing the squad and that no final decisions have been made either, which means that the attacker’s future is still up in the air.
However, Rangers must take advantage of the level of interest in McCauland, with five teams eyeing him up, and cash in on him this summer.
Why selling McCausland is as important as Propper
As aforementioned, it is a good call to sell Propper because he did not deliver on the pitch and the Light Blues need more strength and quality in that area of the park to be successful under Martin next season.
Since making the breakthrough as a first-team regular under Philippe Clement in 2023, McCausland has failed to prove that he is good enough to be a key player for the Scottish giants moving forward.
The 21-year-old attacker has shown some promise at times, including scoring his first goal for the club in the Europa League in the clip above, but has not delivered consistently enough in the final third.
To date, McCausland has scored three goals and provided six assists in 44 appearances in the Premiership, and racked up seven goals and seven assists in 66 games in all competitions for the first-team.
24/25 Premiership
Ross McCausland
Appearances
13
Starts
4
Goals
0
Big chances created
0
Key passes per game
0.6
Assists
1
Red cards
1
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the Northern Irish dud ended the 2024/25 campaign without a single goal to show for his efforts in the league, whilst he had as many red cards as goal contributions.
McCausland was once described as an “explosive” player by talent scout Jacek Kulig, but he has failed to kick on since exploding onto the first-team scene at Ibrox. The winger has gone from an exciting young talent to just another one of the players, like Propper, who needs to be replaced.
Rangers forward Ross McCausland.
Put simply, the Gers academy graduate does not offer enough in front of goal to be a key attacking figure for Martin moving forward, as shown by his lack of end product in the Premiership in particular, which is why it is as important to sell him as it is to sell Propper.
This could provide the new Rangers manager with a chance to replace him with another winger in the summer transfer window, with the hope that any new recruit could come in to offer more goals and assists to win vital points for the team moving forward.
The new Lundstram: Martin wants to make £18m star his first Rangers signing
As Russell Martin starts his overhaul of Rangers’ squad, could he sign a “class” midfielder in a deal reminiscent of John Lundstram’s move to Ibrox?
ByBen Gray Jun 8, 2025
It is now down to Kevin Thelwell and Martin, though, to field offers and work with the interested parties to find the best solution for all parties involved.
Sunderland’s defenders really did lead by example all across the Black Cats’ dramatic playoff fixtures.
Without Daniel Ballard, Regis Le Bris’ men might well have crashed out of the lottery of the Championship playoffs at the semi-final stages, but, thankfully, the Northern Ireland international connected with Enzo Le Fee’s corner kick delivery expertly to seal Sunderland’s place at Wembley after beating Coventry City.
Sunderland's Daniel Ballard celebrates with teammates and fans after the match
At Wembley itself, the defenders had to dig deep once more, with Chris Mepham stepping up to the mark in Luke O’Nien’s injury absence by winning four duels and registering 12 clearances to keep Sheffield United largely at bay.
But, with Mepham now gone, Sunderland could look to add some fresh centre-backs for the testing mission of the Premier League to come, with O’Nien one figure who might well have to drop into the reserves despite being a loyal Wearside servant.
O'Nien's heroics at Sunderland
This is the cutthroat nature of the beast after all, with those who are deemed dependable in the Championship perhaps not cut out for the gruelling step-up to the Premier League.
O’Nien has only ever tasted EFL football all across his drawn-out career to date, with the ex-Wycombe Wanderers defender’s no-nonsense approach making him a firm fan favourite at the Stadium of Light from day one.
Indeed, as Sunderland shot up the leagues from League One obscurity to the brink of top-flight football, so did the quality of O’Nien’s performances, with the Black Cats veteran now up to 314 appearances for the Wearside giants, on top of collecting 23 goals and 16 assists along the way.
However, the versatile Sunderland mainstay – who can also play in central midfield – isn’t without his limitations, with a stacked list of 52 yellow cards when donning a Black Cat jersey a major concern, especially if a skilful player in the division above brings out this hot-headedness in him.
Moreover, his complete lack of experience in the top-flight could also come back to bite Le Bris and Co. Therefore, if a move is soon to be on the table for a Premier League-ready centre-back to join the ever-growing camp, it’s a move that must be pursued.
The "outstanding" PL star who is a big O'Nien upgrade
That isn’t to say O’Nien won’t still play a part in Sunderland attempting to keep their heads above water, with his captain-like bravery a real asset to have around the building.
Transfer Focus
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But, the Premier League can eat promoted teams whole when it comes to leaky defensive displays creeping in, as seen in previous playoff winners Southampton shipping a league-high total of 86 strikes last season, leading to them finishing rock bottom of the pile.
This is where Liverpool colossus Joe Gomez could come to the rescue, with a recent report by the Guardian speculating that the newly promoted side are locked in an intense race to sign the Reds defender, alongside Newcastle, Aston Villa, Burnley, Leeds United, and various others.
Liverpool defender Joe Gomez
The wide array of names here taking a look at the 28-year-old might well make it a tall order for Sunderland to win his coveted services, but if they were to land the ex-England international’s in-demand signature, they won’t feel as nervous as they do right now about their defensive options jumping into the elite league.
Gomez’s overall PL numbers
Games played
149
Goals conceded
106
Tackles
211
Tackles won
72%
Recoveries
720
Duels won
590
Aerial battles won
253
Passes per match
53.79
Wins
99
Clean sheets
47
Stats from the Premier League
Just one quick glance at Gomez’s “outstanding” top-flight numbers – as he was once labelled by Reds teammate Virgil van Dijk – is enough to know why Sunderland would be immediately put at ease.
Notably, the London-born centre-back has only conceded 106 top-flight goals across his 149 appearances to date.
Much like O’Nien, too, the Liverpool number two can slot into multiple different positions on a pitch if needed, with Gomez potentially offering Le Bris cover in the left-back and right-back positions, alongside also being capable as a defensive midfielder.
Liverpool's Joe Gomez
With two Premier League titles glistening next to his name as well, snapping up Gomez would definitely show Sunderland mean business when stepping up a division, rather than settling for what they already possess.
Le Bris' next Rigg: Sunderland make approach to sign "outstanding" EFL star
Sunderland could be about to win their next Chris Rigg if they successfully sign this EFL ace.
WI lost four powerplay wickets in the first innings, but Rutherford stepped up to rescue their batting innings
Abhimanyu Bose13-Jun-20244:19
McClenaghan: New Zealand’s batting has been ‘a major concern’
A sensational rescue effort from Sherfane Rutherford set up a third win on the trot for West Indies in the T20 World Cup 2024 while putting New Zealand on the verge of elimination at the Brian Lara stadium in Tarouba. With the win, the co-hosts have also secured a spot in the Super Eight.New Zealand’s fast bowlers dictated proceedings in the powerplay to have West Indies four down in the first innings. Rutherford found little support as West Indies slid to 112 for 9 after 18 overs, but he plundered 37 runs off the last two overs to take the co-hosts to 149.Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie and Akeal Hosein then stepped up with the ball, as New Zealand slumped to their second defeat in as many games.Rutherford stands tall at the deathRutherford found himself in unfamiliar territory thanks to West Indies’ top-order collapse, coming in to bat in the sixth over. Only for the second time in his T20I career, he faced a ball in the powerplay. But he vied his time in his partnerships with Hosein, Andre Russell and Romario Shepherd. For long, his only two boundary shots were two sixes off drag-downs from Mitchell Santner and James Neesham before he finally let loose in the last two overs.New Zealand took a gambit in using up their best frontline bowlers early and ended up giving Daryl Mitchell the penultimate over and Santner the last.The plan nearly paid off, with West Indies having just one wicket in hand after the 18th over. But Rutherford resisted as he first tore into Mitchell, hitting him for back-to-back sixes down the V’ before depositing the ball over the fine-leg fence for a third six in the over.He then hit Santner for two fours and a majestic six slog-swept from wide of off over wide long-on, on the way to a 33-ball half-century. The 37 runs off the last two overs helped take West Indies to 149, a score that seemed unattainable for almost all of their innings.Related
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Allen attacks in the powerplay Finn Allen helped New Zealand gain early momentum in the chase, despite losing Devon Conway in the third over. Allen got going by pulling Shepherd behind square for a boundary in the second over before hoisting Hosein over cow corner. Hosein then had Conway caught at fine leg as he top-edged while trying to sweep, done in by the extra bounce. Allen then flicked Russell behind square and cut Hosein for two more fours.Joseph, introduced in the sixth over, drew a leading edge off him only for Rutherford to drop him running back from point. But one ball later, Allen miscued a pull to Russell at deep square leg.Motie ties New Zealand downMotie struck in his first over, getting Williamson to nick behind trying to cut, as West Indies grabbed two wickets in two overs. In his next over, he had Rachin Ravindra – who came in to bat at No. 3 – hole out to deep midwicket. In his third over, Motie knocked Mitchell over with a peach that pitched on middle and spun past the outside edge to crash into the stumps.Between Motie and Hosein, West Indies’ left-arm spinners had combined figures of 4 for 46 from their eight overs, while offspinner Roston Chase bowled a four-run over.Joseph stops Phillips’ chargeThe spin choke saw New Zealand’s asking rate swell When Neesham fell to Joseph, New Zealand needed 65 off 29 deliveries. Phillips then tried to force the issue, hitting Russell for a four and a six before pulling Joseph for back-to-back boundaries in the 18th over. However, Joseph had the last laugh as Phillips tried to pull again and skied a catch to long-on running in.Joseph then had Southee caught off his own bowling to finish with a four-wicket haul, effectively sealing the win for West Indies.Boult triggers WI’s top-order collapseAt the start of the game, it was Trent Boult who made heads turn early. After asking West Indies to bat, New Zealand got a first-over breakthrough courtesy Boult’s wicket of Johnson Charles, who chopped one onto his stumps.Nicholas Pooran walked out to loud applause, and it took him three balls to get West Indies’ first boundary with a leading edge past short third. The boundary also took Pooran past Chris Gayle to become the leading run-scorer for West Indies in men’s T20Is.Then followed a game of cat-and-mouse between Pooran and Tim Southee, who was among three changes New Zealand made from the side that lost to Afghanistan last week.In a sequence of four balls, Pooran hit two fours, was dropped by Mitchell between the two boundary shots and then fell to the seamer. Pooran tried to take Southee on for a third boundary in the over as the bowler dug in a short ball but skied it to wicketkeeper Conway running behind a swirling ball.Pooran was the first of four wickets that West Indies lost in the space of ten runs. Chase fell for a duck, miscuing Lockie Ferguson, and Southee had Rovman Powell edging behind. From 20 for 1, they were soon 30 for 5, when Brandon King departed in the seventh over.The Boult v Russell battleThen came a 28-run stand for the sixth wicket between Akeal Hosein and Rutherford that briefly stabilised their innings. A sharp catch by Neesham at midwicket off Santner’s bowling ended Hosein’s stay, and Russell came at No. 8.Russell was immediately on the front foot, hitting Ferguson for two fours and a six. Williamson brought Boult back in the next over, the 13th of the innings, and the move paid off as Russell first missed an attempted hoick across the line and then top-edged a catch to short third.Ferguson and Boult then dismissed Shepherd and Joseph with deliveries that stayed low, nd with two overs to go, New Zealand were the happier side. But they were not prepared for Rutherford to single-handedly change the game’s course and handed West Indies the momentum at the break, helped also by the energy of a packed Brian Lara Stadium.
Sunderland are looking to potentially hijack a move for an attacking star in the summer transfer window, according to a new transfer claim.
Le Bris excited about Sunderland signing Sadiki
The Black Cats have completed the signing of Noah Sadiki, with the midfielder arriving at the Stadium of Light on a five-year deal from Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
Regis Le Bris is clearly in positive spirits about an exciting piece of business for Sunderland ahead of their imminent return to the Premier League next month, assessing the capture of the 20-year-old.
Union Saint-Gilloise'sNoahSadikiin action with Rangers' Nedim Bajrami
It’s now a case of Sunderland building on the signing of Sadiki and bringing in more signings before the current window slams shut at the end of August, and a promising new update has now emerged regarding their transfer situation.
Sunderland pushing to hijack £17.2m signing
According to Foot Mercato, Sunderland are in the mix to sign Lens midfielder Neil El Aynaoui this summer, with the 24-year-old valued at more than €20m (£17.2m) by the French club.
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The Black Cats are joined by a host of top clubs in the tussle to snap him up, as they look to steal him from under the noses of the likes of Roma, Juventus and AC Milan.
Olympique de Marseille's Quentin Merlin in action with RC Lens' NeilElAynaoui
El Aynaoui could immediately improve Sunderland as a team if they managed to get a deal over the line, adding quality in the middle of the park, as highlighted by the calibre of clubs interested in him.
The midfielder is a one-cap Morocco Under-23 international, while journalist Mohamed Toubache-Ter has described him as a “highly-talented” footballer, so he would be a signing of real intent.
It is clearly going to be tricky for Sunderland to sign El Aynaoui, given the level of interest in him from some of the biggest clubs in Italy, but they are now back in the Premier League, which is a major attraction for so many players around the world.
Hopefully, Le Bris can sell him the idea of moving to the Stadium of Light, being a key starter instead of a potential cog in the machine elsewhere, as he looks to give his side the best possible chance of survival next season.