Rangers and 49ers now want to sign new "incredibly athletic" £6m+ defender

Rangers and the 49ers Enterprises are believed to be interested in signing an “incredibly athletic” player in the summer transfer window, according to an update from journalist Sebastien Denis.

Rangers and 49ers eyeing new manager and signings

The Gers are coming towards the end of what has ultimately been a disappointing season, starting with the doomed reign of Philippe Clement, who allowed his side to drift too far behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership title race.

Barry Ferguson came in and steadied the ship in interim charge, guiding Rangers to the quarter-finals of the Europa League, but it looks like a permanent replacement will arrive in the summer. Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl has been mentioned as an option in recent days, with the German looking increasingly likely to leave the Owls at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, the likes of Steven Gerrard and Marco Rose are seen as the front-runners to come in at Ibrox as the 49ers plan for a busy first summer. In terms of new signings on the pitch, Bobby Clark has been linked with a summer move to Rangers, with the former Liverpool youngster currently at RB Salzburg. Playing time has been hard to come by, though, with just two substitute appearances coming his way in the Austrian Bundesliga this season.

Rangers want to sign "incredibly athletic" £6m+ defender

Now according to a new claim from Denis on X, Estoril defender Kevin Boma is a “very popular” option for Rangers, as well as Basel and Union Berlin, with the Scottish giants eyeing a move for him in the summer window.

He goes on to describe the 22-year-old as “already one of the best defenders in Portugal” and his current club could demand as much as £6.8m for his signature.

Boma may not be the most renowned Rangers target in recent months, but the fact that Denis speaks so highly of him immediately suggests he could be an exciting young addition for next season and beyond.

The Estoril ace has won two caps for Togo at senior international level, having previously represented France’s Under-18s, and journalist Kai Watson has described him as “incredibly athletic”.

The fee that Estoril are demanding for Boma doesn’t seem too steep, considering his long-term potential, so Rangers could be looking at him as a strong option to be a mainstay at the heart of their defence for years to come.

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Becoming more defensively resolute will aid them in their efforts to close the gap on Celtic in 2025/26, with the Gers conceding 15 more goals than their rivals in the league, which has played a part in their title challenge petering out the longer the campaign has gone on.

He's shades of Kalvin Phillips: Leeds plot move for "phenomenal" PL star

This summer presents a huge opportunity for Leeds United to strengthen their first-team squad, bolstering the ranks ahead of their return to the Premier League in 2025/26.

Daniel Farke has created an excellent squad at Elland Road over the last two years, leading the club to Championship glory this season, notching a staggering 100 points.

The midfield has been crucial to their success, with Ao Tanaka undoubtedly being the star in such a department, featuring 43 times and being named in the EFL’s Team of the Season.

Brenden Aaronson, Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rothwell have all also played their part, with the latter returning to parent club Bournemouth as a result of his loan ending.

However, if the side are to remain in the top-flight at the end of next campaign, additions are needed during the off-season, with work already being made to land new stars for Farke’s side.

The latest on Leeds’ pursuit of new midfielders

Manchester City star James McAtee has been constantly on Leeds’ radar in recent weeks, reemerging after previously being a loan target 12 months ago.

The 22-year-old looks set to leave the Etihad this summer, with the Whites battling Nottingham Forest for his signature, but he may cost a pretty penny with Manchester City demanding £35m for his signature.

Manchester City'sJamesMcAteecelebrates after the match

However, another name has emerged on their shortlist in recent days, with Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure of keen interest, according to Africa Foot’s latest report.

The report claims that the Whites are battling Roma for the 32-year-old, who after signing for £20m a number of years ago, is out of contract at the end of the campaign, with the Malian appearing to wave goodbye at Goodison Park on Sunday.

It also states that he could be tempted by an offer to remain in England’s top-flight, extending his stint in such a division after spending the last nine years between Watford and the Toffees.

Why Doucoure has shades of Kalvin Phillips

Midfielder Kalvin Phillips undoubtedly remains one of the best players to come out of Leeds’ Thorpe Arch academy, developing through the youth levels before making his mark at Elland Road.

Former Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips.

The 29-year-old made a total of 234 appearances, helping the side secure promotion in 2020, before cementing their place in the Premier League – something which Farke will be desperate to do this campaign.

He caught the eye with his passing ability and ball-winning talent, whilst also registering numerous goals and having a positive impact within the final third when the ball fell his way.

Phillips would depart to join Manchester City in a £45m deal back in the summer of 2022, already being linked with a return to Yorkshire after his dismal stint under Guardiola.

However, the club should steer clear of any reunion and pursue a move for Doucoure, with the Malian international having the tools to be the club’s next version of the academy graduate.

Abdoulaye Doucoure

Whilst he’s featured in a more attacking role than Phillips this campaign, he has still managed to thrive in and out of possession, whilst handing the manager an added threat in the final third.

Doucoure, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by one journalist, has registered five combined goals and assists this campaign, whilst also notching a higher shot-on-target rate – highlighting his clinical edge in attacking areas.

How Doucoure compares to Phillips in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Doucoure

Phillips

Games played

32

19

Goals & assists

5

0

Progressive carries

1.5

0.3

Shot-on-target accuracy

29%

18%

Pass accuracy

80%

79%

Tackles won in the defensive third

0.8

0.5

Take-on success

53%

41%

Aerials won

41%

24%

Stats via FBref

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted, whilst registering more progressive carries – handing Farke an excellent option in possession throughout what’s likely to be a difficult campaign.

The Toffees star’s dominance doesn’t stop there, winning more tackles in the defensive third and coming out on top in more aerial battles, offering the added defensive talent needed in the club’s midfield.

Given the fact that he’s available on a free transfer this summer, it’s a no-brainer that the Whites need to snap up a deal for Doucoure, with the Malian offering an experienced option in the middle of the park.

If he can get anywhere near the levels achieved by Phillips at Elland Road, he would be one hell of an addition, potentially playing a massive role in their chances of achieving survival next campaign.

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Tottenham will let Tel go if they sign £242k-p/w forward with ties to Levy

Tottenham Hotspur will let Mathys Tel go back to Bayern Munich this summer if they can sign a highly-rated forward, according to a report this week, with Spurs holding a “concrete” interest heading into the first summer window on June 1.

Tottenham's option to buy Mathys Tel may be renegotiated

After a mixed first season at Spurs for Tel, with the Frenchman bagging just three goals and an assist in 20 total appearances so far, there are suggestions that chairman Daniel Levy will seek to bring his costs down.

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1

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Emilio Galantini

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The Lilywhites have an option to buy Tel permanently for around £42 million, which was negotiated when Spurs signed the versatile attacker on loan in January, but Levy apparently wants to renegotiate the fee needed to make him a Tottenham player next term.

Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

GiveMeSport and some reports from Germany indicate that Spurs will enter discussions with Bayern over a fresh deal for Tel, with the former claiming Ange Postecoglou’s side wish to bring his price down to somewhere around the £30 million mark.

The 20-year-old has displayed flashes of real promise during his time in N17, but there are arguments that Tel needs to improve his consistency and output in front of goal, so it will be intriguing to see whether Levy can whittle down Bayern’s asking price or move on to other targets.

Interestingly, credible reports this week have started linking Tottenham with another Bayern star – £242,000-per-week winger Leroy Sane – who is out of contract this summer as things stand.

Super-agent Pini Zahavi was pictured meeting with Bayern chiefs again over the prospect of a new deal, and the lengthy ongoing saga surrounding whether he’ll remain has motivated Premier League sides to consider him.

The 29-year-old has reportedly been offered to many clubs in England (Graeme Bailey), while some German media sources claim that Tottenham are currently the strongest contender to sign Sane on a Bosman deal (Sport Bild).

Tottenham unlikely to sign Mathys Tel if they seal Leroy Sane deal

The likelihood of them sealing a deal for the “dangerous” ex-Man City forward will have a knock-on effect when it comes to Tel’s future, according to Bundesliga insider Christian Falk.

Falk tells FC Bayern that, if Tottenham manage to sign Sane, they’re “unlikely” to pursue a permanent deal for Tel.

Spurs are said to hold a “concrete” interest in the former, and his agent Zahavi has a “very close” relationship with Levy, who is actively looking to find a suitable landing spot for his client if they cannot agree fresh terms with Bayern.

While Vincent Kompany’s side are attempting to restructure Sane’s initial contract offer to better suit the German, there remains a strong possibility that he chooses a move to London, especially considering his family currently reside in the English capital.

Derby County now want "fantastic" Blackburn star loved by John Eustace

Derby County are preparing for another tilt at life in the second-tier following their miraculous escape from relegation under John Eustace and could now make a bold statement on the market, according to a report.

Derby look to avoid repeat scenario of close shave with relegation

Avoiding the drop is never an easy feat to achieve when the chips are down. Still, John Eustace will rightfully be heralded as a miracle worker at Pride Park following his side’s turnaround.

Speaking to Football League World, pundit Don Goodman believes Derby can avoid being drawn into a relegation battle next term now that the foundations are in place to help the Rams thrive.

Derby County manager JohnEustace

He explained: “I look at the 14 games John Eustace took charge of at the end of last season – six wins and three draws, and that’s despite losing the first three games he took charge of.

“If he accrued that points total over the course of last season that would be 69 points, which would’ve actually been enough for a play-off spot for Derby, remarkably.

“He’s outstanding at organising teams and making them hard to play against and hard to beat, so those are ingredients that will see Derby County not be in a relegation battle.”

Derby County make out-of-window move for "athletic" player in free transfer

John Eustace could be set to link up with a former player at Pride Park.

By
Sean Markus Clifford

Mar 7, 2025

Inevitably, Derby will need to pull up some trees on the market to put themselves in a position of relative comfort.

Defensive duo Danny Batth and Dion Sanderson have been linked with moves to Pride Park, but there will be more in the pipeline as Eustace exhausts all avenues to put his mission into place.

Now, the Rams could turn to his former club in an attempt to pull of a statement deal that would definitely enhance their survival prospects, per recent developments.

Derby plotting move for Blackburn Rovers captain Lewis Travis

According to EFL Analysis, Derby are in the mix to sign Blackburn Rovers captain Lewis Travis and Eustace is said to be a big fan of his exploits after working with the 27-year-old at Ewood Park.

Predominantly a defensive midfielder, reports claim it would cost £2 million to prize him away from Lancashire. Meanwhile, Wrexham are also keen to lure him to North Wales.

Lewis Travis in all competitions – 2024/25

Appearances

39

Goals

2

Assists

1

Labelled “fantastic” by David Lowe, Travis is out of contract next summer which may increase pressure on Blackburn to sell their captain this window before his value begins to dwindle on the market.

Intriguingly, he has previously spoken out about his ‘close’ relationship with Eustace, something that may be used as an emotional string to pull on in the event of any negotiations.

Nevertheless, Derby aren’t messing about in their bid to add quality reinforcements and there is no doubt their engine room would drastically improve were Travis to land at Pride Park this summer.

Worst sale since Mane: "World-class" Liverpool star now in talks to leave

Liverpool hardly need a rebuild, and could likely go again next season, qualifying for the Champions League and competing for major trophies, with just minimal investment.

But FSG are prepared to reward Arne Slot for winning the Premier League in his first year in charge by making a ferocious statement of intent in the market.

Richard Hughes and Arne Slot

Already, the Reds have signed Jeremie Frimpong to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold; Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz are in talks to follow.

But it’s not just incomings on sporting director Richard Hughes’ mind. Liverpool have a few potential high-profile exits to contend with.

Liverpool transfer exit news

Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez is expected to leave this summer, having been persistently linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League. La Liga giants Atletico Madrid have also shown an interest.

Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez

Having scored only seven times across all competitions for Slot’s side, the 25-year-old would probably be best off wiping the slate clean and trying his hand elsewhere, especially since plans have been drawn up for a new number nine.

Though Nunez is tenacious and likeable, there’s no doubt he’s regressed in a Liverpool shirt over the past year, incongruous and ineffective as the frontman of Slot’s set-up.

Darwin Nunez – Liverpool Career (all comps)

Season

Apps

Minutes

Goals

Assists

24/25

45

1,982′

7

7

23/24

54

3,026′

18

15

22/23

42

2,366′

15

4

Stats via Transfermarkt

On the note of players in need of a switch, Harvey Elliott has admitted on England U21 duty that he may need to leave Anfield this summer.

Elliott, 21, is a boyhood Liverpool supporter and a special creative talent, but his opportunities have been limited since Klopp departed, and a move away might be for the benefit of his career.

However, Liverpool may not just be selling those they wish to part with. Indeed, Luis Diaz is being mooted for a move to Saudi Arabia, and it might prove a bigger mistake than many are anticipating.

Why selling Luis Diaz would be a mistake

Liverpool acted swiftly to replace Sadio Mane with Diaz before their Senegalese legend had even left the club. In January 2022, FSG purchased Diaz from Porto in a deal, rising to £49m, and his predecessor stayed on until the end of the campaign.

When Liverpool sold Mane to Bayern Munich, however, they perhaps didn’t grasp how out of kilter it would knock Klopp’s side. The 2022/23 season sits as an infamous outlier across the illustrious span of Klopp’s tenure, a dark and permanent blot on his copybook.

Sadio Mane Liverpool graphic

Though Mane objectively reached a higher level of quality than Diaz, the Colombian is still one of the most important parts of Slot’s system, and he’s just come off his most productive campaign too, having posted 17 goals and eight assists across 50 appearances.

Regarded as a “world-class player” in the view of his former German boss, at least, Diaz’s unique value for Slot has been further underscored by his regular deployment as a false nine, combating an absence of reliable central striking options.

Diaz might be happy at Liverpool, but the riches of the Saudi Pro League could tempt him to pack up and leave off the back of winning the Premier League.

According to Foot Mercato, talks appear to have already begun, with Al-Hilal having established contacts with the 28-year-old as they sound out a bid.

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz

Liverpool were warned that losing the “irreplaceable” Mane would “knock them sideways” by former star Dean Saunders in 2022, and this proved to be the case – in the short term, at least.

Diaz has done a rather good job in the years since, now a Carabao Cup and Premier League champion in the seasons since Mane’s departure.

Given the need to make numerous signings this summer, maybe Liverpool would be better off warding away interest in their dynamic left winger.

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Dream Firpo replacement: 49ers considering Leeds move for "incredible" LWB

The last time Leeds United were promoted to the Premier League, they had a summer transfer window to remember, landing numerous players who went on to star at Elland Road.

Additions such as Raphinha, Rodrigo and Robin Koch all moved to the club that summer, all playing a crucial role in their ability to take the top-flight by storm under Marcelo Bielsa.

Daniel Farke has the chance to replicate such success this window, looking to add depth and quality to the squad after their title-winning campaign in the Championship throughout 2024/25.

The hierarchy have already wasted no time in making new signings, as Lukas Nmecha has already arrived at Elland Road, with a deal for Jaka Bijol set to be announced after completing his medical.

There’s no denying that further reinforcements are needed to hand the Whites the best chance of making the step-up and being competitive in England’s top flight.

The latest on Leeds’ hunt for new additions

Over the last couple of days, striker Vladyslav Vanat has emerged as a potential option for Leeds, offering a clinical outlet for the side after netting 17 goals for Dynamo Kyiv this season.

He’s not the only player on their radar this window, with Juventus star Douglas Luiz being a surprise option for Farke, with a loan to buy offer mooted ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Douglas Luiz in action for Juventus.

However, moves have been made elsewhere, which has seen Wolves star Hugo Bueno become a key target on their radar, according to Spanish outlet Marca via Sport Witness.

The report claims that he’s set to return from his loan spell at Feyenoord this summer, with the West Midlands outfit evaluating what to do with the Spaniard after the Whites’ interest.

It also states that Farke’s side will face competition from the Dutch side who want to sign him permanently, handing the club and the player a huge decision to make in the coming weeks.

Why Leeds’ latest target would be the perfect Firpo replacement

Junior Firpo has set the Championship alight this campaign, playing a vital role at both ends of the pitch in the club’s success and ability to claim promotion.

Leeds United's JuniorFirpoin action with Stoke City's Million Manhoef

The Dominican international featured in 32 league matches this season, registering 14 combined goals and assists, a simply staggering tally for a left-back.

However, winning the time with the Whites appears to be his final contribution for the club, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the month.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed that he had agreed a three-year deal with Spanish side Real Betis, looking certain to return to his former side after a six-year absence.

The supporters shouldn’t worry about his pending departure, with Bueno offering a superb option for Farke, outperforming the Dominican in numerous key areas.

Hugo Bueno for Feyenoord.

The Spaniard, who’s been labelled “incredible” by Wolves’ sporting director Matt Hobbs, has managed more progressive carries and key passes per 90, highlighting the threat he possesses with the ball at his feet.

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted and registered more crosses, handing the talents ahead of him with the chance to improve their own tallies in the final third.

How Bueno compares to Firpo in the 2024/25 campaign

Statistics (per 90)

Bueno

Firpo

Games played

20

32

Goals & assists

3

14

Progressive carries

4.6

2.2

Pass accuracy

86%

80%

Key passes made

1.7

1.66

Take-on success

52%

38%

Crosses completed

3.7

2.1

Tackles won

1.2

1.1

Blocks made

0.9

0.8

Stats via FBref

Defensively, he’s also starred, making more tackles per 90, alongside more blocks made – offering an added defensive presence to Farke’s side in the Premier League.

It’s unclear how much a deal for Bueno would set the hierarchy back this window, but given the interest from elsewhere, it’s crucial they work quickly to avoid missing out.

Losing Firpo would be a bitter blow given his form this season, but it’s clear that the Wolves star has more talent and huge potential to improve given his tender age.

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He's perfect for Mbeumo: Wilcox opens talks to sign £35m star for Man Utd

Manchester United have made a rapid start to the summer transfer window, something that was desperately needed given their lowly Premier League standing this season.

Ruben Amorim’s side ended the campaign in a measly 15th place, winning just 11 of their 38 matches, sitting a staggering 24 points off a place in the top five.

He’s already added attacker Matheus Cunha to his ranks, with a move for Bryan Mbeumo appearing to be moving in the right direction after submitting an improved offer for his services.

Whilst the pair are likely to cost over £120m between them, the hierarchy appear to be showing no signs of slowing down in the market as multiple other targets remain on their radar.

Multiple positions are set to be the subject of their investment, handing the manager the depth he needs if he is to be a success during his stint at Old Trafford.

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

Dusan Vlahovic is a player who’s emerged as a key contender for the striker role at United, with Juventus set to hold talks over a swap deal which would see Jadon Sancho move in the opposite direction.

Goalkeeper Emi Martinez has been another key target for the Red Devils, as the Argentine is expected to depart Aston Villa this window as they try to raise funds to satisfy the division’s PSR rules.

However, the midfield department could be about to have a new addition, with the club firmly in the race to sign Club Brugge star Ardon Jashari, according to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg.

He claims that Amorim’s side have already been in contact with the Belgian outfit over a move for the 22-year-old who’s valued at €40m (£35m) this summer.

Plettenberg also confirmed that they face a battle with Serie A side AC Milan over a move to land his signature, with the player himself keen on a move to Italy this window.

Why United’s £35m target would be perfect for Mbeumo

As previously mentioned, United submitted an improved £60m bid for Brentford star Mbeumo, still facing stiff competition from fellow top-flight side Tottenham Hotspur for his signature.

However, even before the latest bid, the 25-year-old stated his desire to move to Old Trafford this summer, claiming that they are the only side he’s interested in joining during the off-season.

His tally of 20 league goals this season is evidence of the talent he possesses within the final third, handing Amorim a new dimension and the added threat he’s craved since taking the reins.

As a result of his success, he’s demanding a pretty penny should he move to the Theatre of Dreams, wanting a reported £250k-per-week, subsequently making him one of their highest-paid players.

If he is to succeed in any move, he will need to be provided with opportunities at the club, something which Jashari could do should he also join the Red Devils this summer.

Club Brugge's ArdonJasharireacts

The youngster, who’s been labelled “seriously talented” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has registered four assists this campaign, with his tally of 7.2 progressive passes per 90 within the top 9% of all players within the Belgian Pro League.

He’s also managed 7.3 passes per 90 into the final third, with 1.3 of which going into the opposition area, subsequently being able to hand Mbeumo the ammunition he needs to succeed next season.

Ardon Jashari’s stats for Club Brugge in 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

25

Goals & assists

6

Pass accuracy

87%

Progressive passes

7.2

Passes into final third

7.3

Passes into oppostion box

1.3

Take-on success

61%

Carries into final third

2.2

Stats via FBref

Jashari’s talents with the ball are further reflected by his take-on success rate, which has seen him complete 61% of his efforts, often liking to drive forward and taking the ball into attacking areas.

Given his talents, £35m in today’s market would reflect excellent business by the Red Devils, with the prospect of the youngster linking up with the Cameroonian certainly one the supporters should get excited by.

However, given the interest in his signature from Italy, the hierarchy need to operate quickly to avoid missing out on such a talent, with Jashari having all the tools to thrive and improve further given his tender age.

Their own Osimhen: Man Utd start talks to sign one of Europe's "best STs"

Manchester United appear to be making strides in a deal to land a new striker for Ruben Amorim.

1

By
Ethan Lamb

Jun 25, 2025

Nottingham Forest bid to sign "rated" Brazilian attacker who Dortmund want

Nottingham Forest have made an offer to sign a new Brazilian forward who is also wanted by German giants Borussia Dortmund.

Nottingham Forest sign Jair Cunha after Igor Jesus

It has been an extremely eventful few days at the City Ground in the transfer market and in regards to their European spot for the 2025/26 season.

Anthony Elanga has joined Premier League rivals Newcastle United in a deal that could reach £55m, whereas Morgan Gibbs-White has been at the middle of a transfer saga involving Tottenham Hotspur.

There has been a new signing for the Reds, though, with defender Jair Cunha sealing his move to the Midlands from Botafogo. The 6ft 6 defender has been heavily linked with a move to Forest and now joins striker Igor Jesus at the City Ground, who also moved from the Brazilian side.

Nottingham Forest summer signings

From

Fee

Igor Jesus

Botafogo

£10m

Jair Cunha

Botafogo

£10m

Talking after the deal for Cunha was announced, Forest’s chief football officer Ross Wilson said: “Jair is a young talent who has shown quality during his time in Brazil, and we are happy to have secured his signature. Jair has flourished in Brazil and now has new ambitions as he moves to the Premier League. We know he will be warmly welcomed into the group here in Nottingham.”

Nottingham Forest make bid to sign 28 y/o who Spurs want with Gibbs-White

The update comes from the reliable David Ornstein.

By
Henry Jackson

Jul 11, 2025

The 20-year-old has signed a five-year deal with Forest and could be an immediate part of Nuno Espirito Santo’s starting line-up next season. The Reds aren’t stopping there though when it comes to looking at the Brazilian market for new additions.

Nottingham Forest make offer for 18 y/o Brazilian forward

According to reports from Brazil, relayed by Sport Witness, Nottingham Forest have now made an offer to sign Santos forward Mateus Xavier.

The 18-year-old’s contract is set to expire in 2026, and it is claimed that he has also had enquiries from Borussia Dortmund, PSV Eindhoven and Zenit Saint Petersburg.

Forest are the ones who have made their move with an offer, though, and Xavier’s ‘representatives are considering the best option for him’. However, it is also claimed that Santos has made a new contract offer to Xavier and are confident of a renewal.

Called “highly rated” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Xavier is being backed to make the breakthrough into first team football and is capable of playing as a left winger, right winger or attacking midfielder.

He’s already made five senior appearances for Santos and has scored 10 goals in 36 games for their U20 side, and by the looks of things, Forest are looking to make him the third Brazilian through the door this summer.

'I made a new friend' – Cristiano Ronaldo sends heartwarming message to emotional young mascot

Cristiano Ronaldo has taken time out to send a touching message to an awestruck fan he met before Portugal's clash with Armenia.

  • Ronaldo on target as Portugal thrash Armenia
  • Consoles mascot before game
  • Sends message to fan afterwards
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  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Portugal icon was spotted consoling a young mascot before kick-off on Saturday night, offering words of support during an emotional evening. Portugal were back in competitive action for the first time since the death of Liverpool star Diogo Jota and swept Armenia aside in a 5-0 win.

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    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Ronaldo scored twice during the game, with his first goal coming in the 21st minute. Manager Roberto Martinez said afterwards the goal showed that "Jota is with us" as the forward wore the 21 for the national team. Ronaldo has now sent a message to the young mascot he met at the match and made it clear he made a big impression on the Portugal icon.

  • WHAT RONALDO SAID

    He posted a video of the moment on X and added the caption: "I made a new friend yesterday. Grateful for the love and support every single day and I hope everyone gets to follow their dreams!"

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    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Ronaldo's double against Armenia mean he has now scored 941 goals in his career.

Much bigger talent than Joseph: Leeds chasing deal for "nightmare" striker

Leeds United have only just announced the £12m capture of Sean Longstaff, but another midfield deal looks to be nearing to completion to complement the ex-Newcastle United man’s arrival.

Indeed, it is now being reported that Daniel Farke’s Premier League newcomers will welcome Anton Stach to the building imminently, with the versatile Hoffenheim presence going down as their sixth summer buy for around the £17.4m mark.

Longstaff and Stach might just be the start, however, before another wave of new faces joins very shortly, with attacking signings now looking to be a priority.

Leeds chasing deal for Premier League youngster

Away from Stach offering Leeds more options in midfield alongside the 27-year-old giant, the other signings through the door this summer have mostly been defensive, besides Lukas Nmecha.

Therefore, attack is surely the next part of the pitch due for a makeover, with Rodrigo Muniz reportedly still on the Leeds agenda, on top of new, exciting targets such as Igor Paxiao coming to the surface to gift the Whites more options on the left and right flanks.

Whilst Muniz is a buy that will appeal to Whites supporters everywhere, when assessing his weighty 17 goals in the Premier League, Leeds’ other pursuit of Marc Guiu might well raise some eyebrows.

Chelsea's Marc Guiu celebrates

Football journalist Graeme Bailey claims that Leeds could soon chase a loan deal for the Chelsea youngster to boost their options up top, having looked at him previously.

Whilst Guiu does come highly rated from Stamford Bridge, his lack of Premier League experience would worry those at Elland Road as they jump back up to the gruelling division.

Yet, the Spaniard might well go to be an even bigger talent than Mateo Joseph if he does move to West Yorkshire, which would unfortunately push his fellow compatriot down the Whites pecking order even more.

How Guiu could be a bigger talent than Joseph

Joseph must already know deep down that his Premier League minutes next season are going to be somewhat sparse, considering only 11 league starts were handed to him last season on the way to Farke and Co. sealing the title.

A promising three goals and three assists would come his way, but the 21-year-old hasn’t quite shown enough in these bursts of quality from the bench to suggest he should be pushing for more consistent first-team minutes. Whereas, Guiu at Chelsea might well fancy his chances at being a second-in-command to Joel Piroe, and even more, based on his blistering cameos in West London last campaign.

Guiu’s overall numbers for Chelsea vs Joseph’s at Leeds

Stat

Guiu

Joseph

Games played

16

73

Goals scored

6

6

Assists

0

4

PL appearances

3

3

Sourced by Transfermarkt

Amazingly, despite appearing 57 times less for Enzo Maresca’s outfit overall when weighed up next to the 21-year-old’s haul at Elland Road, Guiu finds himself on the exact same goal tally Joseph has next to his name at Leeds, with all six of those efforts also staggeringly coming about last season as Chelsea ran out convincing champions of the UEFA Conference League.

Of course, the quality of the opposition can be questioned here, but Guiu does look ready for more senior chances, with those six goals coming about from just four starts, meaning he’s a far more lethal and composed finisher from limited chances than his Whites counterpart.

With two goals under his belt in the senior ranks at Barcelona, too, the 19-year-old would surely go on to enhance and elevate his game surrounded by the likes of Piroe as a hungry asset wanting to learn more, as opposed to Joseph, who has made his intentions clear on his desire to move on from West Yorkshire.

Once labelled as a “nightmare for centre-backs” to contain by football talent scout Jacek Kulig off the back of his high-energy game, Guiu might well be the perfect impact bench option for Farke to call upon next season, away from landing a more seasoned head such as Muniz.

Marc Guiu

With all these thrilling new buys in the offing, there might not be a place for Joseph at Leeds very soon, as fresh blood is potentially preferred over the reserve striker.

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By
Dan Emery

Jul 18, 2025

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