O São Paulo segue sem muitas novidades quando o assunto são chegadas de novos jogadores nesta janela de transferências. Além disso, o clube quer cumprir o pedido de Dorival Júnior para não vender atletas importantes do elenco. Um número importante que serve para saber se um jogador pode ir para outro clube brasileiro ou não é o número de jogos que o atleta fez no Brasileirão.
+ Veja tabela do Brasileirão clicando aqui
A partir de sete partidas no torneio, o jogador não pode mais vestir a camisa de outra equipe na competição. O São Paulo tem quatro atletas que estão beirando esse número: Alan Franco, Diego Costa, Luan e Méndez. Os três primeiros fizeram seis jogos cada um e se completarem o sétimo, devem ficar no São Paulo até o final da temporada. O volante fez cinco partidas.
A situação mais indefinida é a de Luan. Mesmo com Dorival Júnior no comando do São Paulo, o camisa oito não vem ganhando chances. Contra o Bragantino, por exemplo, quando o Tricolor foi com um time alternativo, Luan não entrou como titular e ficou no banco de reservas durante toda a partida.
+ Para os tricolores paulistas apaixonados: produtos a partir de R$39,90 na FutFanatics!
Luan quebrou o ‘jejum’ de cinco partidas sem jogar quando entrou na segunda etapa contra o Palmeiras. O São Paulo não tem propostas oficiais por ele, mas o jogador segue com futuro indefinido.
Já Alan Franco, Diego Costa e Méndez devem cumpir a sétima partida sem problemas. O Cria de Cotia, inclusive, deve ser titular contra o Santos. O volante briga por vaga entre os titulares, por conta da lesão de Gabriel Neves, que fraturou duas costelas e será desfalque. Além do mais, o São Paulo não tem planos de vendê-lo ou emprestá-lo no momento.
Manchester City could make a sensational bid for an “insane” player, who they made contact with earlier this summer, it has been revealed.
Lijnders impacting Guardiola's style at Man City
Jamie Carragher believes former Jurgen Klopp assistant Pep Lijnders is having a real impact on Pep Guardiola’s style of play, with Man City now playing a high defensive line, and scoring goals on the counter-attack against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Carragher said: “I couldn’t believe what I saw, the players were all jumping high up to try and catch the Wolves players offside. This is very Liverpool-like. It made me think how much influence is maybe the new coach having on this team.”
However, the Blues’ defensive frailties were on show in the 2-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur last time out, with James Trafford making an error leading to Joao Palhinha’s goal, while Rico Lewis won just two of the eight duels he contested.
Man City set to fight PSG for skyrocketing winger amid Donnarumma talks
The Citizens are ready to swat aside the Champions League holders…
1 BySean Markus Clifford Aug 26, 2025
Consequently, Pep may want to bring in a little more experience at the back, with Paris Saint-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma emerging as a major target, and there is also interest in a new right-back, who Lijnders knows very well…
Indeed, according to a report from Caught Offside, Man City could make a sensational bid to sign Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in the January transfer window, with the former Liverpool man not exactly making a flying start to life in La Liga.
Dani Carvajal has managed to force his way back into Xabi Alonso’s side, which has led to doubts over Trent’s future, and City are monitoring the situation, having already contacted the right-back over a potential move to the Etihad Stadium earlier this summer.
The 26-year-old, who is reported to earn a base salary of around £276k-a-week at Real Madrid, has only made seven appearances for Real Madrid so far, but City are now in the picture for a shock move, with Guardiola in need of a long-term Kyle Walker replacement.
Trent would be "insane" signing for Man City
Given the recent history between Man City and Liverpool, the full-back linking up with Guardiola doesn’t seem like the most plausible of scenarios, although he has praised the atmosphere at the Etihad Stadium in the past.
The England international said: “People talk about City’s atmosphere and you know, hand on heart when we play them, the atmosphere is incredible, like we feel it. It’s intense.”
Lauded as “insane” by former footballer George Chomakov, the ex-Liverpool star has established himself as one of the best attacking full-backs in the world, while also impressing from a defensive point of view on occasion over the past year.
Statistic
Average per 90
Assists
0.22 (87th percentile)
Progressive passes
8.40 (99th percentile)
Tackles
2.64 (87th percentile)
Interceptions
1.23 (82nd percentile)
That said, even though Trent seemingly burned his bridges with Liverpool by leaving in the summer, a move to Man City seems relatively far-fetched, especially considering he is still in the very early stages of his Real Madrid career.
Chelsea are set for a very busy final month of the transfer window, as BlueCo set their sights on both strengthening the squad and shipping off a plethora of unwanted players.
Chelsea to bid for £192k-a-week star who Bayern have phoned "several" times
BlueCo remain busy in the market.
ByEmilio Galantini Jul 29, 2025
While the Blues are in no danger financially, having made millions through player sales, Champions League qualification and winning the Club World Cup in recent months, there is a looming threat from UEFA.
Chelsea have effectively been ordered to balance out their squad through departures, or risk not being able to register new signings for the Champions League next season (Kaveh Solhekol), coming after they were fined for breaching FFP rules.
Cole Palmer
7.33
Moises Caicedo
7.02
Enzo Fernández
6.95
Nicolas Jackson
6.88
Noni Madueke
6.82
via WhoScored
João Félix comes as the latest in a long line of Chelsea casualties after he agreed an initial £26 million move to Al-Nassr, with the Portugal international officially joining Kepa Arrizabalaga, Basir Humphreys, Noni Madueke, Marcus Bettinelli, Djordje Petrovic and Mathis Amougou out of the door.
Felix could soon be followed by many more, with Ben Chilwell, Renato Veiga, Tosin Adarabioyo, Christopher Nkunku, Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, Carney Chukwuemeka, Lesley Ugochukwu, Armando Broja, Tosin Adarabioyo, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Alfie Gilchrist and Nicolas Jackson all tipped to potentially leave Chelsea as well.
However, one exit reportedly advancing is that of Raheem Sterling and his potential switch to west London rivals Fulham.
PSV's Walter Benitez saves Raheem Sterling's effort for Arsenal.
The 30-year-old spent 2024/2025 on loan at Arsenal after being frozen out by Enzo Maresca last summer, and according to a new report by TEAMtalk this afternoon, talks over a transfer to Fulham are seriously progressing.
Raheem Sterling close to agreeing Fulham move as Chelsea eye Alejandro Garnacho
As per the news outlet, Sterling is close to agreeing personal terms with Fulham as talks advance, and Chelsea are keen to get the England international’s sky-high £325,000-per-week wages off their books.
Maresca’s side are even prepared to shake hands on an outright sale worth £20 million – a price which Fulham see as a bargain – with Chelsea poised to take a £30m loss on the £50m they paid Man City for Sterling over three years ago.
What’s more, despite Chelsea’s advanced talks for RB Leipzig playmaker Xavi Simons, the club are planning to replace Sterling with Man United winger Alejandro Garnacho – following previous reports that they could also bid for the Red Devils ace amid their shortage of left-wingers.
The Argentine, called “unplayable” at times by new Tottenham boss Thomas Frank, would be an instant upgrade on Sterling, and it appears that Chelsea are maintaining their pursuit of Garnacho after considering a deal for him in January.
Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke is looking to follow in the footsteps of Marcelo Bielsa in the Premier League next season, as he attempts to avoid the drop.
The German boss was relegated with Norwich City in the 2019/20 campaign and sacked before he had the chance to be relegated again in the 2021/22 season with the Canaries, which means that he has yet to prove that he can keep a team in the division.
Leeds have already backed him more than Norwich did in the market, though, with a host of additions having already been made this summer, including Gabriel Gudmundsson, Jaka Bijol, Lucas Perri, Sebastiaan Bornauw, Lukas Nmecha, Anton Stach, and Sean Longstaff.
There is more work to be done in the market to improve the squad, however, after they missed out on a deal to sign Feyenoord winger Igor Paixao.
As well as chasing exciting deals like Paixao, though, Leeds should also be looking for functional players who can go under the radar whilst performing consistently, in the way that Stuart Dallas did for Bielsa.
Why Stuart Dallas was important for Marcelo Bielsa
The Northern Ireland international did not sign for Leeds when they were promoted to the Premier League, as he had already been part of the team in the Championship, but he is the kind of player the club could do with now.
Dallas was a bit of an unsung hero in the club’s first year back in the top-flight in the 2020/21 campaign, as the likes of Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha stole the headlines with their excellent performances on the pitch.
The experienced star provided great versatility for Bielsa with his ability to play in a multitude of roles across the pitch in the Premier League, whether that was at full-back, out wide, or in midfield.
Left midfield
96
Left-back
55
Right-back
46
Right midfield
33
Central midfield
24
Attacking midfield
7
Defensive midfield
1
As you can see in the table above, Dallas started 24 times or more in five different positions throughout his time at Elland Road, which shows that the manager could rely on him to fill gaps when needed.
The Northern Irish star also scored nine goals and provided two assists in his two seasons in the Premier League with the West Yorkshire outfit, which shows that he offered quality as well as versatility.
Leeds considering move for Championship star
According to LeedsUnitedNews, the club are now considering a move to sign £11m-rated Leicester City full-back James Justin, and he could be Farke’s own version of Stuart Dallas.
The report claims that Leeds United have a serious interest in the England international, who has emerged as a priority target for the Whites this summer.
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 the Championship champions want a full-back who can operate at left-back and right-back, and that Justin is one of the options under consideration at this moment in time.
Leeds are in the market to sign another full-back because Isaac Schmidt is said to be closing in on a season-long loan move to Werder Bremen, after just 12 months at Elland Road.
The report adds that Justin is now into the final 12 months of his contract with Leicester, which may open the door for the Whites to swoop in and secure his services before the end of the summer transfer window.
Why James Justin would be the new Stuart Dallas for Leeds
The Foxes defender may not be a glamorous signing or one that gets fans excited to watch him in action, but it could be a shrewd deal that makes a lot of sense.
Justin could arrive at Elland Road to be Farke’s own version of Dallas in the Premier League, as he has the quality and the versatility to be a very useful option for the German head coach.
The 27-year-old star has started at least 11 matches in his club career as a centre-back, a right-back, a left-back, a left midfielder, and as a right midfielder, which shows that he can be used in a multitude of ways by the boss.
He can cover both full-back positions, be utilised as a wing-back, cover at centre-back, and play on the wing when needed. This could make him almost the perfect squad signing as a player who can cover in five or six different positions when needed.
Appearances
36
Goals
2
Assists
2
Tackles + interceptions per game
2.9
Dribbled past per game
0.6x
Ground duel success rate
59%
Aerial duel success rate
55%
Justin, as you can see in the table above, is also coming off the back of a solid season of performances in the Premier League, in spite of his team’s relegation from the division.
The English ace, who was described as an “adventurous” full-back by pundit Tony Cascarino, chipped in with four direct goal contributions in a team that got relegated, which suggests that he can offer a decent threat at the top end of the pitch.
His defensive numbers were also far from dreadful. Justin held his own in duels on the deck and in the air, whilst rarely being dribbled past by opposition wingers, which suggests that he is a solid operator out of possession.
As a back-up to Jayden Bogle and Gudmundsson in the full-back positions, the versatile Leicester star could come in as a fantastic squad option and as Farke’s own Dallas, performing admirably in a clutch of different roles across the pitch when called upon in the Premier League.
49ers lining up Leeds swoop for £17m star who's as exciting as Paixao
Leeds United are eyeing up a £17m-rated winger who could be just as exciting as Igor Paixao.
Manchester United are making progress in their mission to strengthen under Ruben Amorim and could now be set to move forward in their pursuit of a high-pedigree defender, according to a report.
Manchester United urged to break the bank for quality additions
Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha would fit the definition of breaking the bank for elite talent, but Premier League giants Manchester United are aware that more signings are needed to match the output of their domestic rivals on the market.
Reports suggest Manchester United would be willing to offer £22 million for Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra, which would be another signal of intent, though Rio Ferdinand believes the Red Devils should go all out for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba to bolster the spine of their team.
He stated: “Who would you go and get?”, and there’s only one name I’m thinking about, I’m going to be honest, guys, who I think fits the bill for what we need.
“He’s an Amorim-type player as well. Physically, he’s great. He can drive with the ball, he can take it in all areas, very good tactically, great energy, great legs, Premier League experience, central midfield… Baleba.”
Without putting too fine a point on it, Manchester United’s lack of solidity in the Premier League last term was evident for all to see, hence why Amorim is also targeting defensive reinforcements in the form of Lucas Beraldo.
Manchester United’s defensive frailties in 2024/25
Goals conceded
54
Defeats
18
Clean sheet percentage across 38 league matches
26%
Ultimately, a failure to secure the back door is a recipe for chaos, leading to a growing appetite for an overhaul within the Red Devils’ backline.
After months of searching, Manchester United could now have found one part of a solution to remedy the well-documented faults within their rearguard.
Manchester United make contact for Inter defender Benjamin Pavard
According to Transferfeed, Manchester United have made contact by enquiring about Inter Milan defender Benjamin Pavard, who may be allowed to leave San Siro this summer for a fee between £26.1 million and £30.5 million.
Despite the Nerazzurri not officially listing the France international for sale, they are looking into potential replacements for the ex-Bayern Munich star, including Genoa’s Koni De Winter.
Better than Sesko: Man Utd in talks to sign "one of the best STs in Europe"
Manchester United could be about to forget about Benjamin Sesko with another move elsewhere.
ByEthan Lamb Jul 25, 2025
Labelled “brilliant” by Les Blues boss Didier Deschamps, Pavard, who is outfitted by Adidas, registered one goal and a solitary assist in 37 appearances last campaign, operating almost entirely in central defence.
The 29-year-old also won 78 duels in Serie A, cementing himself as an important factor behind Inter’s ability to go deep both in domestic competitions and the Champions League.
Now, it appears he could be set for a new challenge in the prime of his career, which has piqued Manchester United’s interest as they look to seal a marquee deal to strengthen their backline.
They say strengthen while you’re on top, and that is exactly what Liverpool have done this summer, with the runaway Premier League champions having already secured three marquee deals to bolster Arne Slot’s ranks.
After a quiet first summer in charge, the Dutch coach has so far welcomed Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez into the fold – alongside two new goalkeepers – with rumours still rife regarding a further move for Crystal Palace captain, Marc Guehi.
With Darwin Nunez’s impending switch to Napoli also heightening the need for a striker, the Reds don’t appear to be done just yet – a scary prospect for the chasing pack.
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Liverpool are making sweeping changes in the transfer market as Slot prepares to defend his PL title.
3 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 3, 2025
What is yet to be seen, however, is whether such incomings will spark a raft of further outgoings at Anfield to help balance the books, with speculation rife over Luis Diaz’s future at the club.
The latest on Luis Diaz's Liverpool future
Previously looking set to be the man to replace Sadio Mane on the left flank, Diaz found a new home for himself through the middle under the new Slot regime last term, resulting in his best return for the club to date with 25 goals and assists in 50 games in all competitions.
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz
The 28-year-old appears to have properly found his groove in a Liverpool shirt, although with just two years left to run on his existing deal, it remains to be seen what the future lies in store, with talk of an extension having seemingly gone quiet.
That uncertainty has provided a potential opportunity for suitors to pounce, with recent months having seen Barcelona heavily linked with a move, while interest in the Colombian has also emerged from Saudi Arabia.
A further destination also presented itself in the form of Bayern Munich, with the Bundesliga side’s director of sport, Max Eberl, believed to have made contact amid the hopes of landing the £73m-rated forward.
As revealed by journalist Paul Joyce, that approach has been rebuffed by the Merseysiders, with Liverpool holding firm on their stance that the player is not for sale.
Luis Diaz
Diaz may yet stay at Anfield this summer it would seem – although that’s not to say the club aren’t seeking a potential upgrade in the attacking ranks…
Liverpool's search for a new forward
The Reds’ interest in Alexander Isak remains a hot topic on Merseyside, albeit with the fact remaining that it would take a colossal bid to prise the Swede from St James’ Park, not least with Newcastle United reportedly slapping down a £200m price tag.
Alternative centre-forward options thus need to be considered, with journalist Fabrizio Romano – speaking on his YouTube channel – reporting that Liverpool are actually “discussing” a move for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike.
The suggestion is that Slot and co will step up their interest in the £85m marksman if and when Nunez’s expected exit is sealed, with Romano stating:
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
“Liverpool are working on this deal, they are discussing the possibility of adding Hugo Ekitike to their squad. The idea of Liverpool is to have one more striker, they are waiting to understand what happens with Darwin Nunez with conversations ongoing with Napoli.
“Liverpool can add a new striker, so Hugo Ekitike remains a name on the list for the club.”
Why Ekitike could be an upgrade on Diaz
The beauty of Diaz in Slot’s tenure thus far has been his surprising versatility, with the orthodox left-winger having fashioned a new role for himself as a false nine or centre-forward, amid Nunez’s dismal return of just seven goals across all fronts in 2024/25.
That said, Ekitike also boasts that same flexibility to feature off the left or in a central role, with the promising Frenchman having even eclipsed Diaz’s return of 25 goal involvements last term.
Indeed, the 23-year-old – who was previously on the books at Paris Saint-Germain – racked up a mammoth haul of 34 goals and assists in just 48 games in Germany last time out, having surpassed his Liverpool counterpart in both of those metrics.
Most goals & assists in 24/25 – U23 players in Europe’s top 5 leagues
Player
Goals
Assists
Total
Michael Olise
12
18
30
Mason Greenwood
21
6
27
Erling Haaland
22
3
25
Bradley Barcola
14
11
25
Cole Palmer
15
9
24
Yamine Lamal
9
15
24
Hugo Ekitike
15
8
23
Florian Wirtz
10
13
23
Stats via Transfermarkt
On the league front, in particular, it was Ekitike who also enjoyed the greater success with 15 goals and eight assists in the Bundesliga, with Diaz, by contrast, contributing ‘just’ 13 goals and seven assists in the Premier League.
Away from just that end product, the Frankfurt star also came out on top with regard to big chances created (12 vs eight), as well as for successful dribbles completed (1.6 vs 1.5), as per Sofascore, thus showcasing the full array of his talents.
Lauded as a “world-class” figure by talent scout Jacek Kulig, the relative youngster has also been described as looking like the “perfect centre-forward” by TNT pundit Owen Hargreaves – all while still just 23.
While Liverpool certainly don’t need to weaken their ranks by selling Diaz, providing increased competition in the forward line would be a mouthwatering prospect, not least if the Reds would actually be getting an upgrade in the process.
The next Henderson: Liverpool now closing in on a "monster" new signing
Liverpool are running rampant in the transfer market this summer.
Whether the Club World Cup marks the end of a successful 2024/25 campaign, or the start of preparations for the new season is up for debate, although what is clear is that Chelsea are beginning to find their groove under the Enzo Maresca regime.
Having rounded off May with Champions League qualification and Conference League glory, the Blues look destined to go far in this summer’s bumper tournament, with a favourable last-16 tie against Benfica on the cards.
New man Liam Delap is already off the mark to boot, with the west Londoners’ new number nine swiftly settling in to life in his new surroundings, all while Nicolas Jackson’s suspension woes continue.
Snapped up for just £30m from relegated Ipswich Town, the 22-year-old could represent a real bargain for the Blues if his early displays are anything to go by, having chalked up one goal and one assist from just his first three outings.
The latest in a succession of youthful additions at Stamford Bridge under Todd Boehly, Delap is already beginning to show his worth. Hopefully, Chelsea’s next potential arrival can follow suit.
Latest on Chelsea's summer transfer search
A growing theme has emerged at Chelsea in recent years, with Delap following the likes of Cole Palmer, Romeo Lavia and Tosin Adarabioyo in joining the club, after previously being schooled in Manchester City’s youth ranks.
That trend also saw the Blues snap up another Etihad graduate, Jadon Sancho, last summer, albeit with the club ultimately paying a £5m cancellation fee to cut short his time in the capital, despite having had the chance to make that deal permanent.
Sancho’s departure – alongside Mykhaylo Mudryk’s continued absence – has only served to heighten the need for a fresh face down the left flank, with Boehly and co still pressing on with a deal for one-time Man City product, 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.
Indeed, Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg has reported that “new and positive negotiations” have taken place between Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund regarding the Englishman, amid prior claims that the 20-year-old has already struck his own agreement with the Blues.
That said, Plettenberg outlines that no club-to-club compromise has yet been reached, with the Bundesliga outfit still demanding a fee in the region of €65m (£55m), if they are to contemplate a sale.
The transfer insider notes that Dortmund are aware of other suitors who are also in the mix, although “no direct talks” have been held with Bayern Munich to date. Chelsea, as such, still appear to be leading the race.
Why Gittens could be Chelsea's own Florian Wirtz
Chelsea are currently basking in the delight of young Delap, although it’s hard to ignore the statement addition to the Premier League so far this summer, in the form of Liverpool’s £116m signing of Florian Wirtz.
Florian Wirtz
Plucked from Bayer Leverkusen, the Anfield side have broken the bank in order to sign the 22-year-old German sensation, with Wirtz coming off the back of a season in which he registered 31 goals and assists in 45 games in all competitions.
Gittens – who registered 17 goal involvements in Germany from 49 appearances last term – may not be quite at that level just yet, although he could represent Maresca’s own exciting, fleet-footed acquisition from the Bundesliga.
Indeed, the Dortmund speedster – who has been described as an “explosive winger” by talent scout Jacek Kulig – is recognised as a statistically similar player to Wirtz, among those in their position in the German top-flight in 2024/25, as per FBref.
That likeness is particularly evidenced by the duo’s dribbling prowess, with Gittens ranking in the top 1% of his peers for progressive carries and successful take-ons per 90, while Wirtz is only just behind after ranking in the top 5% and the top 3% for those same two metrics, respectively.
Non-penalty goals
0.41
0.31
Assists
0.15
0.46
Shot-creating actions
3.70
5.67
Pass completion
76.5%
78.3%
Progressive passes
2.13
6.74
Progressive carries
5.73
5.01
Successful take-ons
3.90
3.14
Touches in attacking penalty area
5.57
5.24
Progressive passes received
9.12
11.83
While the England youth star did only score eight goals and register just four assists in the Bundesliga, that came amid just 23 league starts, ensuring his non-penalty goals per 90 record actually places him ahead of Wirtz in that regard.
What that suggests is that if afforded a consistent run of games, the London-born wonderkid can potentially reach even greater heights, providing Maresca with another exciting attacking weapon to wield.
Jamie Gittens
Comfortable operating off the left flank or as more of an “inside forward”, as noted by Kulig, Gittens’ versatility again highlights that likeness to Wirtz, with Liverpool’s new man also comfortable lining up all across the front line.
That reported £55m price tag may appear steep for a player yet to even earn a senior England cap, yet – as they are beginning to find in the case of Delap – such a deal could actually represent a bargain, if he does manage to replicate the heroics of the £116m-rated Wirtz.
He's a dream for Delap: Chelsea weigh up move for "generational" £60m star
The winger could be a brilliant signing for Chelsea and Liam Delap, in particular.
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.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhacelebrates after Rodrigo Gomes scores
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.
The summer transfer window officially opens for business next month and Celtic have already completed their first signing, although he will not officially join until the start of July.
Kieran Tierney will re-join the Scottish giants in the summer after his contract with Arsenal expires at the end of June, which means that the Scotland international will return on a free transfer.
The former Hoops academy graduate enjoyed a terrific first spell at Parkhead, racking up 37 assists in 170 matches in all competitions before his £25m move to The Emirates in 2019.
This suggests that Brendan Rodgers is set to have a brilliant attacking left-back option at his disposal when the 2025/26 campaign gets underway later this year.
Celtic are also set to be in the market for a player to play ahead of Tierney in the left wing position after it was revealed that Jota could be on the sidelines for up to nine months with a knee injury.
That could put the Hoops on alert for a new winger in the summer transfer window because losing the Portuguese talent to a long-term injury is a big blow.
Why losing Jota is a big blow for Celtic
The Scottish Premiership champions reportedly paid a fee of £8m to bring the attacker back to Parkhead from Rennes in the January transfer window, 18 months after they sold him to Al Ittihad for £25m.
This shows that the Hoops were willing to pay big money to reunite with the exciting winger, and for good reason, after his first spell on the flanks in Glasgow.
As you can see in the graphic above, Jota was an absolute joy to watch during his time in the team under Ange Postecoglou in the 2021/22 and 2022/23 campaigns, as he delivered goals and assists on a regular basis, whilst playing on the left and the right wing.
Prior to his recent injury, the former Benfica starlet showed that kind of form again with a return of four goals and two assists in seven starts in the Premiership during the second half of this season.
The Celtic star hit the ground running on his homecoming to Glasgow, despite scoring just one goal for Rennes in the first half of the campaign, and looked set for a strong end to the season after his fast start to life back at the club.
Unfortunately, the Scottish giants will now have to deal without having Jota for the best part of a year, which is a blow because they have lost a star who has proven that he can score and assist goals on a regular basis in Scotland.
Celtic could, however, find a perfect replacement for the Portuguese gem for the start of next season by signing their latest reported transfer target.
Celtic eyeing move for English attacker
According to The Herald, Celtic are one of the teams interested in a deal to sign 23-year-old attacker Tyrhys Dolan from Championship side Blackburn Rovers.
The report claims that the Hoops are monitoring his situation with the English side, as Rodgers seemingly lines up a swoop for the talented forward.
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Dolan’s current contract at Ewood Park is due to expire at the end of June and this means that the Scottish giants could swoop in to land him for a compensation fee, as he came up through the youth ranks at Blackburn and they would still be entitled to a nominal fee. This is quite remarkable considering the Scottish Sun suggests that he is actually valued around the £10m mark.
The Herald adds, though, that fellow Premiership side Rangers have already made contact with the player to be informed about his situation, which shows that Celtic are not the only side interested in a swoop for the English attacker.
It is now down to the Hoops to win the race for the Championship star’s signature because he could come in as a perfect replacement for Jota for Rodgers.
Why Dolan would be a perfect Jota replacement for Celtic
Like the Portuguese forward, Dolan is a versatile right-footed winger who can play out on the right or on the left flank, which means that he can play down the line as a touchline winger on the right or on the left as an inverted winger who cuts inside to create space for an overlapping full-back.
That could make him an ideal left-winger for Tierney to play with because the English ace could drift infield onto his stronger right foot and drag the right-back, which could provide the Scottish defender with opportunities to deliver crosses in from the space that creates.
Tyrhys Dolan in action for Blackburn Rovers.
This means that the Blackburn star could be the perfect Jota replacement from a stylistic perspective, because of his ability to fulfill the tactical roles that the £8m signing could play for Rodgers.
Of course, Celtic also need a winger who has the quality to provide goals and assists at the top end of the pitch to help them win matches and trophies, and Dolan also has the potential to be that forward as well.
24/25 Championship
Tyrhys Dolan
Appearances
44
Goals
7
Conversion rate
14%
Big chances created
7
Key passes
44
Assists
6
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the 23-year-old star has delivered seven goals and six assists in the Championship this term, which is a respectable, but not outstanding, return.
It is more impressive when you consider that Blackburn rank 16th in the Championship for xG, with 51.7 xG in 46 games, which shows that they are not a front-footed team that consistently creates chances.
Celtic, meanwhile, racked up 84.0 xG in 33 matches before the split. This means that Dolan, who Tony Mowbray once hailed as scoring a “wonderful” goal, would be in a team that creates significantly more chances for their attacking players.
Therefore, the English star could add far more goals and assists to his game by playing in an attacking, dominant, side in Glasgow, which could turn his decent haul of 13 goals and assists into Jota-esque contributions over the course of a Premiership season.
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Therefore, Dolan could be the perfect replacement for the injured Jota as a low-cost signing, given his contract situation, who fits tactically and has the potential to be an excellent operator in the final third.
Manchester United have made their first move to sign a Premier League goalkeeper to replace Andre Onana.
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The Red Devils’ preparations for their Europa League quarter-final first leg 2-2 against Lyon were disrupted by Nemanja Matic’s comments on Onana.
The former United midfielder hit back at Onana’s claims on Man Utd being better than Lyon, saying: “You know, I respect everyone but to say that then you need to give the answer. If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United’s history, you need to take care what you’re talking about.
“If it was [Edwin] Van der Sar, [Peter] Schmeichel or [David] De Gea saying that, then I would question myself. But you need to have cover to say something like that.”
In the 2-2 draw, Onana had an evening to forget, making a late error in stoppage time to allow the Ligue 1 side to level things up ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford.
Onana did hit back at Matic, though, highlighting the fact he’s won trophies in Manchester, unlike the midfielder. “I would never be disrespectful to another club. We know that tomorrow will be a difficult game against a strong opponent.
“We focus on preparing a performance to make our fans proud. At least I’ve lifted trophies with the greatest club in the world. Some can’t say the same.”
However, INEOS appear to be preparing for life without Onana at Old Trafford. Reports have claimed that Man Utd are set to sell Onana, who has interest from Saudi Arabia and is unsettled in England.
The club will therefore need a replacement ahead of Ruben Amorim’s first full season in charge, and they have made a move for one specific target.
Man Utd make contact to sign Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen
According to reports in Italy, relayed by Sport Witness, Man Utd have now made an approach to sign Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
AC Milan are also keen on Verbruggen to potentially replace Mike Maignan, but it is the Red Devils who have made contact. Verbruggen cost Brighton €20m and it is claimed that the Seagulls would likely want double which would be €40m (£34m).
A Netherlands international, Verbruggen move to England in 2023 from Anderlecht and has seen his Transfermarkt valuation rocket from €10m to a career-high €25m.
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The 22-year-old has made 60 appearances and has kept 15 clean sheets, coming in for praise from Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler earlier this season, who said: “I really enjoy working with him because he is an unbelievable character.
“For his age he is very mature and he sees things very professionally. That is why he is a role model for everything. I think he can play a big part in the future of the club.”
By the looks of things, a move north to Manchester or to Italy with AC Milan could be one to keep an eye on for Verbruggen.