All posts by z3u9t.icu

Manchester United need key additions in all areas of the pitch if they are to stand any chance of rising up the Premier League table during the 2025/26 campaign.

The Red Devils have showcased in recent times that they’re no longer one of the sides to be feared in the division, with Old Trafford no longer the fortress it once was.

Ruben Amorim’s side slid down the table last time around, ending the season in 15th place, a finish that was the club’s lowest since the division’s formation back in 1992.

However, it remains to be seen how much funding the boss will have at his disposal this window, potentially needing to rely on outgoings before he can make the desired additions he craves.

The likes of Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans were all released at the end of their respective deals, freeing up needed budget to allow Amorim to get busy in the market.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Midfielders have seemingly emerged as key targets for United in recent days, with Lyon star Corentin Tolisso being named as a potential addition this summer.

Reports in recent days have linked the 30-year-old with a £20m move to Old Trafford, after the hierarchy entered talks with his current side over a deal for his signature.

However, he’s not the only player currently on their radar, with Juventus star Douglas Luiz still remaining as a possible target, according to Football Insider.

Their report claims that the Red Devils are leading the race for the Brazilian midfielder, who looks almost certain to leave the club this summer, after making just three starts following his £42m move last year.

It also states that they could face competition from Everton and Nottingham Forest for the 27-year-old’s signature, leading to a loan-to-buy offer currently being mooted.

Why United’s latest target could be Amorim’s own Pogba

Paul Pogba is a player who will remain in United’s history for a very long time, after he joined the club in a record £89m deal from Juventus back in the summer of 2016.

The Frenchman rejoined the club just four years after leaving them on a free transfer, with his return costing them a pretty penny and one which certainly raised eyebrows.

He made over 200 appearances during his second stint with the Red Devils, lasting just under six years, scoring on 39 occasions – including a superb strike against Swansea City.

However, Pogba would ultimately fall down the pecking order once more, leaving on a free transfer for the second time in 2022, re-joining former club Juventus in the process.

There’s no doubt he possessed a lot of quality, something which can also be said about current target Luiz – who could follow in the 32-year-old’s footsteps in joining from the Old Lady.

He also possesses a superb strike on him, but the Brazilian’s underlying stats from his time in Serie A could make him a superb piece of business for Amorim’s side next campaign.

The Brazilian, who’s been labelled “sensational” by Gary Lineker, registered 5.9 progressive passes per 90, with 2.7 progressive carries per 90, showcasing his talents in driving forward and finding a teammate at any given opportunity.

Games played

19

Progressive passes

5.9

Progressive carries

2.7

Tackles won

2.1

Tackle success rate

68%

Take-on success

79%

Aerials won

56%

He also won 2.1 tackles per 90, whilst winning 68% of the dispossession attempts he’s entered, capable of regaining possession before handing chances to those in forward areas – as seen by his superb tallies with the ball at his feet.

Luiz would be the perfect box-to-box option, as demonstrated by his 79% take-on success rate, having the capability to drive forward before making the killer pass to a teammate.

Given the interest from elsewhere, United will have to act quickly to avoid missing out on a deal for his signature, with one of their rivals subsequently strengthening as a result.

If he can get anywhere near the levels produced by Pogba during his time at Old Trafford, it would be a superb addition and one that could catapult the side up the table next time around.

Amorim's next Gyokeres: Man Utd make contact to sign "world-class" £86m CF

Manchester United appear to be making a move for a new striker this summer.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 15, 2025

After confirming the arrival of 18-year-old Diego Leon, Manchester United chiefs are now reportedly discussing the chance to sign an impressive defender who is wanted by “half of the Premier League”.

Man Utd confirm Diego Leon arrival

In their second signing of the summer following the earlier arrival of Matheus Cunha, Manchester United have officially unveiled new man Leon. The left-back, who only turned 18 in April, is likely one for the future but certainly one to watch as he progresses under Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford in the coming years.

Although the teenager won’t steal the same headlines as Cunha, his arrival could eventually prove to be just as important. With the South American confirmed too, Manchester United have officially continued their trend of welcoming young defenders in the last 12 months following Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven last season.

It’s not just young players that are on United’s radar, however. The Red Devils are still chasing a deal to sign Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo with negotiations ongoing in pursuit of a deal worth over £60m this summer.

The winger is likely to cost around the same price as Cunha, who joined the club for £63m this summer, and would provide Amorim with yet another attacking upgrade.

Starts

38

29

Goals

20

15

Assists

7

6

Expected Goals

12.3

8.6

Last season’s numbers suggest that signing Mbeumo alongside Cunha would make it job done for Manchester United’s attacking rebuild, but they’re still reportedly targeting the likes of Victor Osimhen to truly round things off.

Meanwhile, those at Old Trafford are also reportedly discussing the chance to welcome a key defensive addition before the new Premier League season gets underway.

Man Utd discussing Bisseck deal

According to Caught Offside, Recruitment chiefs at Manchester United are now discussing signing Yann Bisseck from Inter Milan, but reportedly face competition from “half of the Premier League” for his signature. The central defender played his part as Inter reached the Champions League final last season and may yet bring that experience to English football.

Described as a “commanding” defender who is “dominant” in wide channels by analyst Ben Mattinson, Bisseck – like Mbeumo and Cunha – would hand Manchester United an instant upgrade on their current options.

Man Utd want midfield star who scores at exact same rate as Bruno Fernandes

He’s a wanted man…

ByTom Cunningham Jul 5, 2025

The Red Devils have already surprised many by taking charge of the race to sign Mbeumo and could yet do the same in pursuit of the Inter defender. Despite interest from elsewhere in the Premier League, the Manchester United name may remain strong enough to lure another reinforcement to Old Trafford.

Arsenal are attempting to sign another player with Brentford’s Christian Norgaard and Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera, with the Gunners reliably reported to be closing in on deals for the latter two.

Agbonlahor slams "very odd" Arsenal transfer decision as Berta agrees deal

The Gunners are shopping “at Asda”.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 27, 2025

Earlier this week, following quick-fire talks with Brentford, Arsenal agreed a fee of around £10 million, plus an additional £5 million in add-ons, to sign the Denmark international as a replacement for Thomas Partey.

Norgaard has also been allowed to undergo a medical at Arsenal before signing his contract as the north Londoners’ third signing of the summer, following the reliably reported arrivals of Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

Straight after sealing a move for the 31-year-old, sporting director Andrea Berta immediately began work on Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera too. Arsenal opened talks with the La Liga side over a deal for Mosquera on Thursday, and he could cost under £17 million given the player is entering the final 12 months of his contract.

The 21-year-old can play both as a right-back and centre-back, with Mosquera said to have already agreed personal terms over a switch to the Emirates Stadium. Amidst all of these negotiations, though, Berta is still trying to bring in a new striker for Mikel Arteta.

The Italian has been simultaneously laying groundwork on moves for both Sporting CP’s iktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, before deciding which transfer is most feasible for Arsenal to pull off (BBC).

News surrounding the centre-forwards has been more scarce than usual this week, thanks to Arsenal’s many other transfer deals, but an update has now come to light on their chances of signing Sesko.

Arsenal in ongoing talks for Benjamin Sesko who wants to join

As per Football Insider and journalist Pete O’Rourke, the Slovenia international wants to join Arteta’s side, and he’s posing absolutely no issues when it comes to agreeing personal terms, contrary to some reports that he wants high wages.

Arsenal remain in ongoing talks over a deal for Sesko, and negotiations are ongoing with both the player’s representatives and Leipzig themselves. O’Rourke’s sources insist that this potential move isn’t being held up by the 22-year-old’s demands, so the indication is it must be a club-to-club issue.

It’s an increasingly confusing situation, as while reports suggest Sesko has a release clause near £70 million, others state that Leipzig could still demand as much as £85 million to let their star striker leave.

He bagged 21 goals in all competitions last season, his best return to date since moving to Germany, and Sesko has been praised for his physicality in particular.

“Benjamin Šeško is among the game’s top young talents and has enormous potential to become a top player,” said former Leipzig technical director Christopher Vivell.

“He has all the qualities to do that. He’s extremely quick, has a great jump on him and is strong in the air. Benjamin is a real goalscorer, who despite his 1.95m (6’4″) is mobile and technically strong. His abilities make him a special player with a special profile.”

Liverpool will surely need to make some sales this summer to balance the books for all their incomings.

The Reds have splashed the cash already this summer, signing Jeremie Frimpong and lining up some more expensive moves, including a deal to sign Florian Wirtz for what Fabrizio Romano reports as £128m.

To make room and raise funds for other signings, FSG may well have to sell a couple of key first-team players. One man who has recently been linked with a move is Cody Gakpo, who Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg said is on the list for Bayern Munich, a club looking for a new winger.

Selling someone like Gakpo could free up funds, and means they’d need to sign a new winger to replace him.

Liverpool's new left-winger target

It would be a huge move for the Reds if Gakpo departed Anfield. It certainly seems as though his potential move to the German champions is one to keep an eye on, although it is not a guarantee, as there are a few targets in their sights.

Transfer Focus

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

However, if Arne Slot’s side are to lose Gakpo this summer, then it seems like they are already lining up his replacement.

According to a report from DaveOCKOP, Liverpool are ‘in active contact’ to sign Anthony Gordon this summer. He was a player they chased in 2024, but a move never materialised.

Liverpool’s ‘interest in the England international has persisted’ this summer, and they could now spend the £80m fee to sign him. At least, that is how much TEAMtalk suggested he is worth back in May. It seems likely that is how much he would cost the Reds.

Why Gordon would be a good signing

If the Reds were to bring Gordon to the club this summer, he would be joining on the back of some fine form for Newcastle in 2024/25. He impressed last season, described as an “exceptional” player by football scout Antonio Mango.

Last term for the Magpies, the England international played 42 games across all competitions, scoring nine goals and grabbing seven assists. In the Premier League, he bagged six goals and created the same amount, featuring in 34 games.

Who can forget his contributions for the Magpies in the Carabao Cup? Gordon assisted in the quarter final and scored in both legs of the semi-final against Arsenal to send Eddie Howe’s side to Wembley. That was a game they won, beating Liverpool 2-1, but the winger was suspended after picking up a red card in the Premier League.

It seems as though Gordon would be a direct replacement for Gakpo if he were to depart Anfield for the Allianz Arena this summer. He certainly impressed under Slot last term, helping Liverpool win their second Premier League title.

The Eindhoven-born winger, who joined the Reds from PSV, played 35 top-flight games and contributed ten goals and five assists in their title-winning season. Three of those goal involvements came at Anfield against Ipswich Town in a 4-1 win.

So, whilst Gakpo had a strong campaign in the 2024/25 season, there are stats, via FBref, to suggest that Gordon could be an upgrade on the Dutchman.

For example, the Magpies’ star averaged 1.89 key passes and 4.48 progressive carries per 90 minutes, compared to 1.77 key passes and 2.74 progressive carries each game from Gakpo.

Key passes

1.89

1.77

Progressive passes

3.63

2.42

Goal-creating actions

0.44

0.37

Progressive carries

4.48

2.74

Ball recoveries

3.59

3.58

Those numbers suggest that Gordon will add much more of a creative influence than the Liverpool number 18, and more dynamism and forward thinking when carrying the ball. He will add a whole new dynamic to an already deadly attack.

The £80m fee is an expensive one, but the Reds would need a replacement for Gakpo if he departs. Thus, signing Gordon could be the perfect move, a huge upgrade in many ways.

He'd be elite alongside Wirtz: £130m star is now Liverpool's no.1 target

Liverpool may not be done with their big spending yet

ByJoe Nuttall Jun 18, 2025

Arsenal will be one of the busiest Premier League sides in the transfer market over the coming months, and supporters can anticipate many twists and turns before the final deadline day on September 1.

Mikel Arteta challenges Arsenal hierarchy in transfer plea

Mikel Arteta has already confirmed that the north Londoners want to be very active when it comes to incoming signings, admitting to the press that he anticipates an exciting window before their 2025/2026 campaign.

Sky Sports: Berta now identifies £100m PL star among top Arsenal targets

The Italian’s shortlist has been revealed by a reliable media source.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 6, 2025

The Gunners lost out on this year’s Premier League title to Liverpool by a whopping 10 points, and Arteta will be very keen for the Gunners to ensure they don’t squander their chances in a similar fashion next term.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

A combination of injuries and a general lack of potency in the final third saw Arne Slot clinch the domestic crown at the end of his very first season in charge at Anfield, and by contrast, Arteta still hasn’t got a single title to his name, nearly five years after replacing Unai Emery in the hot seat.

The Spaniard is under no disillusion – Arsenal need reinforcements.

“Obviously we need players because the squad is really short, and on top of that we are losing four or five players that are going to end contracts, and their loans are finished,” said Arteta about Arsenal’s summer window, towards the end of 24/25.

“So, we need to be sharp. Again, very disciplined in what we want to do, and make sure that we are strong in the next season. Finish the season, go to the beach and make sure the ones upstairs (hierarchy) do what they need to do.

“What I can promise is I will do my very best. I will give my life here. I will give everything. I will get every drop of everybody there is, squeeze it, to get the best.”

Arsenal’s ongoing pursuit of a new striker, with talks now advancing over a move for Benjamin Sesko (Fabrizio Romano), is taking centre stage right now – even if they have other key items on the agenda, like finally sealing a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

Arsenal U-turn over selling Gabriel Jesus with new deal planned

Given their chase for a number nine, uncertainty has surrounded the long-term future of £265,000-per-week striker Gabriel Jesus.

The Brazilian enjoyed a real purple patch of form midway through 2024/2025, before succumbing to an ACL injury against Man United, but the consensus was that Arsenal will likely sell Jesus to make room for another centre-forward.

However, according to Football Transfers, a “shock twist” has come to light about the ex-Man City star.

Not only do Arsenal not plan to sell Jesus anymore, but they also wish to offer him a 12-month contract extension, which comes as a surprise when you consider Kai Havertz’s presence in the squad and their widely reported attempts to sign a prolific number nine.

Given this claim, perhaps Arteta is plotting a new role out-wide for Jesus? The 28-year-old can play there, and with Leandro Trossard entering the final 12 months of his deal, there could be more space in that area of the squad for him.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are now set to say goodbye to Rayan Ait-Nouri as Manchester City are reportedly closing in £33.7m deal to sign the player.

The Algerian defender has been with Wolves since 2020, but after five seasons at Molineux, now is the time to cash in.

This follows on from Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha, bringing in £62.5m for Vitor Pereira to use this summer.

Cunha will be missed, no doubt about that, but Ait-Nouri has been one of the best players for Wolves in the Premier League over the previous few years.

Rayan Ait-Nouri's record at Wolves

Last season, the defender enjoyed his most productive season with regards to attacking output since he joined Wolves.

Across 41 matches, Ait-Nouri scored five times while registering seven assists for the club. He also created eight big chances in the Premier League for the Old Gold, while averaging 1.3 key passes and succeeding with 1.7 dribbles per game last term.

The onus for Pereira now is to find a player who can be signed cheaply that will go on to replicate the success that Ait-Nouri has at the club.

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2024/25

41

5

7

2023/24

38

3

4

2022/23

27

2

1

2021/22

27

1

6

2020/21

27

1

2

He will have money to spend. That’s a certainty. Could he sign a player from his homeland this summer who might be an even bigger talent than Ait-Nouri?

Wolves eyeing move for Roger Fernandes

Journalist Graeme Bailey stated recently that Wolves are keeping tabs on Braga’s Roger Fernandes ahead of making a potential swoop.

Transfer Focus

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

“I think the Portuguese league will be somewhere that they explore; it wouldn’t surprise me if they do look towards that league again,” said Bailey.

“I’ve heard Roger Fernandes’ name linked to Wolves in recent weeks as well, wouldn’t surprise me if he was on the agenda.”

Despite typically operating as a right-winger, Fernandes can also play either left-back or left wing-back, positions that Ait-Nouri made his own at Wolves.

Quite how highly-rated the 19-year-old is evident by the fact that he even made his debut aged just 15 years and eight months for Braga back in August 2021 – a record in Portugal’s top-flight. Ait-Nouri, by contrast, was 17 when he made his first senior bow for Angers in August 2018.

Last season, meanwhile, Fernandes made 48 appearances across all competitions for the Portuguese side, scoring five goals and chipping in with seven assists.

For context, Ait-Nouri’s final season in France saw him register just three assists in 17 games in Ligue 1, before joining Wolves at the age of 19.

Fernandes shone at both ends of the pitch. Not only did he create six big chances while averaging 1.3 key passes per game, but the youngster also won over 50% of his contested duels while averaging 1.5 tackles per match for Braga.

Last summer, talent scout Jacek Kulig praised the teenager, describing him as “Braga’s biggest jewel” and “one of the most exciting U19s in Portugal.”

It would certainly be a significant coup should Pereira land the winger this summer, especially given his high ceiling for development.

Wolves might only have to pay a fee of around £25m to secure his services. With the club raising nearly £90m by selling Cunha and Ait-Nouri, it could prove to be a wonderful bargain this summer.

Wolves now keeping tabs on £25m winger who is similar to Antonio Valencia

The Old Gold are looking to add some attacking flair this summer.

BySean Markus Clifford Jun 5, 2025

Leeds United are tooling up for a return to the Premier League and could now be closer to making their first signing of the summer window, according to reports.

Leeds United look towards Premier League comeback

Following playoff heartbreak against Southampton, Daniel Farke finally led his side to the Championship title this time around and will now focus on navigating the challenges top-flight football has to offer.

The Whites could have a transfer budget of over £100 million to play with this summer, which may go a long way to securing the survival that the 48-year-old craves in charge at Elland Road.

Ipswich Town act as an example that capital spent doesn’t necessarily guarantee a sustained place among England’s footballing elite, but there are valuable lessons to learn from promoted sides’ ill-fortune over the past few years.

Looking to buck that trend, Leeds are eyeing a statement move for former star Kalvin Phillips and have held internal talks to hatch a plan that could tempt him back to Yorkshire from Manchester City.

Evan Ferguson is another potential Whites signing with Premier League credentials that could thrive in the correct surroundings. Admittedly, he has stalled since his injury troubles, though his age may work in his favour if a deal were to be agreed.

Big upgrade on Piroe: Leeds in the race to sign £34m "monster"

Leeds United would land themselves a Joel Piroe upgrade if they successfully signed this goalscoring monster.

1 ByKelan Sarson Jun 1, 2025

Callum Wilson and Jamie Vardy have been mentioned as free agent options to bolster Farke’s frontline. Again, any possibility of a swoop would depend on whether they would fit the wage bracket at Elland Road.

Focusing on the foil behind the main men, Leeds and the 49ers have now stepped up their pursuit of a talented attacking midfielder to support their pool of centre-forward options.

Leeds United hold talks over Emiliano Buendia move

According to TBR’s Graeme Bailey, Leeds have now held talks to sign Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia. Having spent the second half of the campaign on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, the former Norwich City man is “open” to a move to Yorkshire and is someone who Farke trusts as his side look to retain their Premier League status.

Five most similar players to Emiliano Buendia (FBRef)

Eliesse Ben Seghir

Monaco

Enzo Millot

Stuttgart

Facundo Buonanotte

Leicester City

Jude Bellingham

Real Madrid

Xavi Simons

RB Leipzig

Labelled “delightful” by Dean Smith, Buendia registered five goals in 34 appearances across all competitions at his parent club and in Germany, though it is clear he needs to find a platform to gain regular minutes after a series of injury troubles.

Now, it remains to be seen if Leeds can pull off what would be regarded as a bit of a coup should they come to an agreement on a deal with the 28-year-old.

Buendia was regarded as one of the Premier League’s most talented stars outside the ‘Big Six’ not too long ago, so there is every chance Farke could reignite the Mar del Plata-born man.

Earlier this week, the Whites were said to be preparing a £16.8 million offer for the man in question, indicating there could be something in the water.

Manchester United have wasted no time in the transfer market to aid Ruben Amorim in being a success at Old Trafford, already making a move to sign one player.

Matheus Cunha has been a player constantly linked with a switch to join the Red Devils over recent months, with a deal seemingly edging ever closer ahead of the final game of the Premier League campaign.

It’s been widely reported that the club have been in advanced talks with Wolves over a deal for the Brazilian international ahead of the summer despite the failure to win the Europa League.

The 25-year-old has a £62.5m release clause within his current contract, but that doesn’t appear to be an issue after agreeing a deal to pay such a figure out in multiple instalments.

However, despite the movement with a deal for Cunha, it appears as though one deal could be completed before him, with another deal edging closer to completion.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

After such a dismal year in the Premier League throughout 2024/25, new additions are to be expected at United to try and right the wrongs of the current campaign.

The likes of Ronald Araujo, Ederson and Viktor Gyokeres have all been strongly linked already ahead of the off-season, as the hierarchy look to bolster various areas of the pitch.

However, despite the interest in the aforementioned players, Palmeiras star Richard Rios could be the first summer signing, according to one Spanish outlet.

Their report claims that he’s seen as a key part of the revival at Old Trafford, and could be available for a fee in the region of just £20m – an absolute bargain.

It also claims that, despite the move for Cunha, the 24-year-old could be set to be the first addition to the new project led by Amorim to lead the club back to their former glory.

Why Rios would be an upgrade on Ugarte

Midfielder Manuel Ugarte was seen as a huge signing last summer after joining in a £50m deal from PSG, looking to be a key part of the rebuild conducted by former boss Erik ten Hag.

The Uruguayan has started 22 league games to date, often having a stop-start period in the North West and being unable to string up a real run of games over the last few months.

He was benched for the Europa League final defeat against Spurs on Wednesday night, not even being brought on by Amorim – potentially highlighting his form of late in the first-team.

It remains to be seen if he will be part of the manager’s long-term plans at the club, but a deal for Rios could further limit his game time and offer Amorim a quality option in the middle of the park.

The Colombian, who’s been labelled a “machine” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has managed to match or better him in numerous key areas this campaign – highlighting why his £20m fee would be a bargain.

Rios has registered more goals and assists throughout 2024/25, handing the side an added attacking option from a deep-lying role, something which is needed given their lack of threat this season.

He’s also managed to complete more of the passes he’s attempted, registering more key passes per 90 – handing the players ahead of him the chance to bolster their own tallies.

Games played

27

29

Goals & assists

6

3

Progressive carries

1.1

0.8

Progressive passes

2.5

3

Pass accuracy

91%

89%

Key passes

1.1

0.5

Blocks made

2.2

1.6

Interceptions made

1.4

1.3

The 24-year-old’s talent out of possession is just as impressive, making more blocks and interceptions per 90, offering the added defensive presence they need, given their lowly league standing.

£20m in today’s market is a bargain price, especially for a player of Rios’ quality, with his skillset certainly bolstering the options currently at Amorim’s disposal.

As seen by the stats produced in recent times, he’s managed to better Ugarte in such a role, possibly being a key player in their ambitions of pushing back up the league table in 2025/26.

He's like Pogba: Man Utd begin talks to sign "world-class" £50m talent

Manchester United could be about to make a move for a star who may follow in Paul Pogba’s footsteps.

ByEthan Lamb May 20, 2025

Could Steven Gerrard be poised to return as Rangers manager?

Well, according to widespread reports, including from Martin McMillan of the Glasgow Times, the Liverpool legend is amongst the front-runners to be re-appointed this summer.

Gerrard has been out of work since being sacked by Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq in January, with Jamie Braidwood of the Independent noting that he was regularly ‘met with boos and jeers’ by the club’s supporters for many months before his dismissal.

Nevertheless, the Englishman is significantly more popular in Govan, having been in charge for 192 matches between July 2018 and November 2021, winning 124 of them, leading the Gers to their only Premiership title since 2011.

With 49ers Enterprises, led by Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe, set to complete their 51% takeover of Rangers this summer, this is certainly an attractive job for someone to take on, and the investors, who plan to ‘inject additional capital’ into the club, could tempt Gerrard to return.

Next season will start early for Rangers, considering they will commence Champions League qualifying on 22/23 July, hence why they’ll be determined to get their managerial appointment and summer signings done early, so here is a potential dream lineup, should Gerrard choose to return.

1 GK – Liam Kelly

Up until very recently, Jack Butland had been Rangers’ undisputed number one goalkeeper, starting 88 of 94 Premiership or European matches between August 2024 and last month.

However, after a string of high-profile errors, Butland has been dropped to the bench by Barry Ferguson, with Liam Kelly getting the nod for the last four matches, including both legs of the Europa League tie against Athletic Club, notably brilliantly saving Álex Berenguer’s penalty at Ibrox.

At previous club Motherwell, for whom he made 154 appearances, Kelly proved he is a top-class goalkeeper, stating back in December that he fulfilled a lifetime’s ambition by making his Rangers debut, and the 29-year-old has done nothing so far to suggest he is not capable of donning the gloves long-term.

2 RB – James Tavernier

James Tavernier is unquestionably a Rangers legend, having now made 509 appearances for the Light Blues, only ten men have ever appeared more for the club, scoring 130 goals and providing 141 assists, remarkable statistics considering he is a full-back.

The captain has come in for widespread criticism this season, with Rangers legend Kris Boyd noting that “everybody goes on about the captain”, before refusing to blame Tavernier for the club’s miserable season.

So, potentially set to be reunited with Gerrard, for whom he starred, we believe now is not the time to move on Tavernier.

3 CB – John Souttar

Few players have been as unlucky when it comes to injuries as John Souttar, but this has certainly been his best campaign in a Rangers jersey, both in terms of availability and performance, notably missing only two of 14 UEFA competition fixtures.

The Scotland international is out of contract in the summer, with talks ‘on hold’ due to the club’s impending ownership change, but Souttar himself says that he hopes this is resolved soon, and his displays certainly merit an extension.

4 CB – Hjalmar Ekdal: new signing

Alongside, given that Leon Balogun is 36-years-old, Robin Pröpper has been very underwhelming and neither Clinton Nsiala nor Rafael Fernandes have offered very much, Rangers require a new signing at centre-back.

Well, according to a report by Anel Avdić of SportExpressen, this could be Burnley’s Hjalmar Ekdal. After not seeing a single minute of EFL Championship action for the Clarets, unable to displace either CJ Egan-Riley or Maxime Estève, the 26-year-old joined Groningen on loan in January, for whom he has impressed, starting their last ten Eredivisie matches.

Considering he’ll want to get back into Sweden’s squad ahead of next summer’s World Cup, Ekdal will likely be seeking a permanent move away from Burnley, so a switch to Glasgow, potentially linking up with Gerrard, would surely be appealing.

5 LB – Rıdvan Yılmaz

Summer signings Rıdvan Yılmaz and Jefté have seemingly been under a timeshare agreement for Rangers’ left-back spot this season but, of the two, it’s certainly the Turkish international who has impressed the most.

Before being appointed interim manager, Ferguson stated that the “little man has made a huge impression”, particularly impressed by Yılmaz’s output in the final third.

During Gerrard’s first spell, much of his success revolved around the attacking quality of full-backs Tavernier and the now departed Borna Barišić, meaning Yılmaz certainly fits the profile of what Gerrard would be searching for.

6 CM – Nicolas Raskin

Nicolas Raskin has been named both Rangers’ Player of the Year as well as the Players’ Player of the Year, stating that these individual accolades “mean the world” to him, fully deserving of this recognition, having been the club’s standout performer.

The 24-year-old has been a stalwart for the Light Blues this season, making 44 appearances, scoring during the win at Parkhead in March, and then becoming a full Belgian international a week later, debuting against Ukraine.

In an otherwise bleak campaign, Raskin has been one of Rangers’ best players, so they should certainly build around him.

7 CM – Mohamed Diomandé

Mohamed Diomandé and Raskin have formed quite a formidable partnership, with the Côte d’Ivoire international making 50 appearances across all competitions, scoring six goals and registering eight assists.

Ivory Coast manager Emerse Faé praised the 23-year-old’s “great season” in Glasgow, hence why he featured in both of les Éléphants’ World Cup qualifiers last month, so this midfield duo should certainly remain at the heart of Rangers’ rebuild.

8 RW – Václav Černý

Rangers’ most-productive attacker this season has been summer signing Václav Černý, scoring 17 goals and registering seven assists, netting six times in the Europa League, a tally only bettered by Kasper Høgh of Bodø/Glimt and Olympiacos’ Ayoub El-Kaabi.

The only problem for Rangers is the fact that Černý is only on loan from Wolfsburg, so they may have to spend big just to keep the Czech international in Govan.

Well, according to a report by Mark Walker of the National, the Bundesliga side would be willing to sell for £6.75m, which is obviously a lot of money for Rangers, but the 27-year-old has proved he is more than worth it.

9 CAM – Gio Reyna: new signing

During his two-year spell at Rangers, USA international Claudio Reyna played alongside future Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst, and would actually go on to name his son after the Dutch full-back.

Well, fast-forward 22 years and that son Gio Reyna is also a U.S. international, but one searching for a new club, having seen a miserly 603 minutes of action for Borussia Dortmund this season, out of contract with die Schwarzgelben in 12 months or so.

Well, according to recent reports, Gio – who is valued at £12m by Football Transfers – could follow in his father’s footsteps by moving to Ibrox, available for a cut-price deal, as Dortmund seek to move on the injury-prone forward.

Reyna’s creativity and attacking output could be exactly what Gerrard is looking for from a player in this position, while the American needs to join a club where he’ll be the main man, so this move could work for all parties.

10 LW – Ianis Hagi

Another injury-prone, mercurial attacker with a famous father, already at Rangers is Ianis Hagi, scoring five goals and providing seven assists since being reintegrated into the first team following a long-term injury in November.

Hagi, like Souttar, is out of contract in June, but he unquestionably played his best football in a Rangers jersey under Gerrard, so could his return convince both the club and the Romanian international himself to stay?

Looking to make the first big move of his Red Bull tenure, Jurgen Klopp is now reportedly personally eyeing Danny Rohl in what would deal Sheffield Wednesday an undeniable blow.

Rohl exit would compile Sheffield Wednesday misery

Whilst Sheffield Wednesday have now confirmed that their players and staff have received their March salaries, history cannot be rewritten for owner Dejphon Chansiri, who continues to endure financial struggles. This time, the club had temporary issues due to debt owed to the owner, who has had several issues in recent years.

The Owls have already been placed under a registration embargo across the last two seasons and that’s not the half of their financial problems in recent times. In 2019, Chansiri bought the Hillsborough stadium for £60m to ensure that Sheffield Wednesday didn’t breach any financial rules. When 2023 arrived, he then caused more controversy by asking fans to raise as much as £2m to help the club pay their HMRC debt and cover player wages.

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Still yet to sell the club despite those aforementioned issues, Chansiri is at risk of gradually taking Sheffield Wednesday down if a solution is not reached as soon as possible. What all of those problems do is add to the reputation of Rohl, however, who has taken the Owls towards Championship safety even as financial issues have continued.

He couldn’t hide his pride in his side despite their recent defeat against Hull City, telling reporters: “Big credit to my team, to take this tough week, to stay here and go again, to fight again for our club. It took time to come into it, but in the second half it was one direction.

“It’s hard, but the key message for me is that this team has big, big character and big, big belief. A lot of players take all the setbacks again and again and it makes me very proud.”

Jurgen Klopp targets Rohl for RB Leipzig

Rohl’s success at such a tough time has, of course, rightly attracted admirers and whilst Sheffield Wednesday managed to keep hold of the German amid Southampton’s interest earlier this season, the same may not be the case this summer. According to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg, Red Bull chief Klopp is now personally eyeing a move to hire Rohl for RB Leipzig.

Having recently sacked Marco Rose, Leipzig are in search of a permanent replacement to take them back into the Bundesliga title race next season. And that could yet be a task handed to Rohl, who’d be getting a deserved step up into Germany’s top tier from the chaos of the Championship.

As the season nears a conclusion, Sheffield Wednesday could be in for a chaotic few months which may yet culminate in a frustrating farewell to their talented young manager.