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Flocking to Twitter, many Southampton fans are buzzing over a fresh transfer update out of St. Mary’s Stadium involving Fulham forward Fabio Carvalho.

Saints transfer chief Martin Semmens has kept his role as chief executive even after Serbian-born businessman Dragan Solak completed his £100 million takeover in early January (Sky Sports).

As such, the Southampton CEO is still tasked with overseeing recruitment strategy as Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side become linked with a few signings.

Their main priority appears to be wrapping up a permanent deal for loanee Armando Broja, who has impressed since joining on a temporary transfer from Chelsea (The Guardian).

However, that doesn’t mean other moves aren’t in the pipeline, with an update emerging involving Fulham forward Carvalho.

According to Eurosport journalist Dean Jones, speaking to Give Me Sport, Southampton are in pole position to sign the exciting Championship talent who has seven goals and two assists this season.

As per the ‘transfer insider’, Semmens and have ‘really been leading the race’ for Carvalho despite interest from Liverpool, West Ham and Tottenham (TEAMtalk).

Saints fans buzzing…

Flocking to this claim, many Saints supporters have been left buzzing on Twitter, with one fan calling him a would-be ‘unreal signing’.

His brilliant Championship form at the tender age of 19-years-old just shows how much potential Carvalho may have to become a really top level player, and the fact he could leave as a free agent as things stand is even more of a reason to swoop.

Here’s how Southampton fans reacted on social media as their club lead the way:

“Perfect signing if we pull that off”

Credit: @Charlie_Mercer_

“This is an incredibly inspiring move. Another youngster who can shine in a young talented team”

Credit: @LH_SFC

“PLEASEEEE”

Credit: @danthemanmfer

“This excites more than any potential deal for Broja tbh. #saintsfc”

Credit: @andrew2021k

“Get this done”

Credit: @Ross_Hodgson98

“YES YES YES”

Credit: @sfcrxbbo_

“This would be an unreal signing. Instantly replaces Redmond and brings energy in those winger positions”

Credit: @sfchenry_

Tottenham Hotspur continued their impressive Premier League form under the management of Antonio Conte with a 3-0 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon, making it six league games unbeaten for the 52-year-old Spurs coach.

And, the performance against Patrick Vieira’s side was arguably one of their most impressive under the Italian, with goals from Harry Kane, Lucas Moura and Heung-Min Son sealing a dominant win for Tottenham – a result which sees the club climb to fifth place in the Premier League standings.

However, despite a number of impressive individual displays, one player who once again failed to live up to expectations was Tanguy Ndombele, with the 24-year-old failing to make any real mark on the match after being introduced in the second half.

Lost 100% duels

While it is indeed true that the France international was only on the pitch for 11 minutes against Palace, the central midfielder’s returns will nevertheless be something of a cause for concern for Conte.

Indeed, the £25m-rated man managed a grand total of just nine touches of the ball, completed a mere eight passes, was dribbled past by an opponent on one occasion, conceded one foul and lost all three of his attempted duels.

These returns saw the £120k-per-week midfielder earn an extremely disappointing SofaScore match rating of 6.3, ranking him by far and away as the worst performer of any Tottenham player on the day.

As such, while it may be slightly harsh to judge the Frenchman on such a limited amount of time on the pitch, it is undeniable that Ndombele will have done nothing to convince his manager that he is deserving of a start when Spurs visit Southampton on Tuesday evening.

If the 24-year-old’s second-half stint was a test run, it was certainly one which the former Olympique Lyon midfielder failed.

In other news: Forget Moura: £62k-p/w THFC gem with 4 key passes proved he’s no longer “miles off it”

West Ham have set their sights on a January move for Aston Villa winger Anwar El Ghazi, according to Football Insider.

The Lowdown: El Ghazi’s forgettable 2021/22 so far

The 26-year-old has struggled to become a regular under both Dean Smith and Steven Gerrard this season, starting just four Premier League fixtures.

His only league goal came against Newcastle back in August, with reports suggesting that Villa could look to offload the Dutchman in January in an £18m transfer to Roma. However, it seems as if El Ghazi is now a wanted man at the London Stadium.

The Latest: Source shares news

Football Insider shared a story on Saturday morning regarding El Ghazi.

They were informed by a Hammers source that the 6 foot 2 winger is back on their radar, with David Moyes viewing the Netherlands international as a versatile attacking option.

Villa would prefer to listen to permanent offers, although they would also entertain any loan bids.

The Verdict: Time to go?

Reports at the end of November suggested that two of El Ghazi, Bertrand Traore and Trezeguet were set to move on this month, so now could be the time to cash in on the former.

Villa podcaster Cole Pettem said last year that ‘a lot of people are complaining that he looked like he put on a lot of weight’, and he hasn’t been as effective as he was in 2020/21, when he plundered 10 league goals.

It doesn’t look like Gerrard fancies El Ghazi as he is yet to hand him a start, so a permanent move away over the coming weeks could be best for all involved.

In other news: ‘Exciting’ – Many Villa fans react to big transfer update on ‘quality’ Gerrard target

Newcastle United have been sent a clear message by Philippe Coutinho’s entourage ahead of the transfer window. 

The lowdown: Record breaker

Coutinho still holds the record for the biggest transfer involving a Premier League club, having left Liverpool to join Barcelona in January 2018 for a fee of £121.5million.

He’s started five La Liga matches so far this season, making a further six substitute appearances. The 29-year-old has scored two goals from 22 shots and also recorded 16 shot-creating actions (via FBRef).

Coutinho is under contract until June 2023 and is valued at £18million by Transfermarkt. His £380,000-per-week salary makes him the highest earner at the Camp Nou.

New Barca manager Xavi adores the playmaker, saying Coutinho is a player he ‘likes personally’ and stressing that he possesses an ‘innate talent’ (via ESPN).

The latest: Fresh update emerges

Mundo Deportivo (via Sport Witness) have again named Newcastle in connection with Coutinho, perhaps unsurprising given his uninspiring time since leaving England and the Magpies’ new-found riches.

However, the position of the Brazilian’s camp ‘to this day’ is that ‘he will not move from Barca in January’.

The verdict: Assist machine, but too risky

Coutinho has racked up a series of honours in his career. He’s won the Champions League and Copa America, whilst at an individual level, he’s been named in the PFA Team of the Year and even led the way for assists at a World Cup.

But according to Xavi, he’s now facing ‘psychological’ obstacles, preventing him from demonstrating that ‘innate talent’.

When you also consider his eye-watering salary, perhaps it would ultimately be for the best if Newcastle missed out on signing him, as signing a hugely costly player who is down on his luck and confidence would be an incredibly risky first marquee signing of the new era.

In other news, Newcastle have offered a record deal to this big-six ace.

Leeds United and West Ham are definitely showing some interest in Blackburn Rovers striker Ben Brereton Diaz, according to talkSPORT, relayed by MOT Leeds News.

The Lowdown: Orta desperate…

Rumours over a possible move to Elland Road for the Chile international appear to be gathering pace.

The Sun’s Alan Nixon shared a story over the weekend, claiming Leeds are thought to be desperate for an attacking addition in the New Year.

He linked the Whites, Brighton and Sevilla with a move for Brereton Diaz, who is thought to be valued at £25m.

The 22-year-old can play anywhere across the front three and has scored 17 goals in 22 Championship appearances this season – already his best campaign in front of goal.

The Latest: talkSPORT’s claim

As relayed by MOT Leeds News, talkSPORT provided an on-air update on Brereton Diaz’s future on Wednesday lunchtime.

Alex Crook was the reporter to share the information, replying to presenter Jim White’s question regarding the Chile international.

“He’s just about the hottest property outside the Premier League right now, his name is Ben Brereton Diaz. 17 goals in 22 games this season. We understand he is attracting interest from the likes of Leeds and West Ham in the Premier League.”

The Verdict: Good move?

Versatility is key in Bielsa’s small squad, and Brereton Diaz would certainly bring that with him to Yorkshire, should a winter window transfer go through.

He appears to be at the top of his game with his 17-goal tally already this season and would be able to play out wide if needed.

However, Leeds aren’t short of fit wingers at this moment in time, so you’d expect he’d play in a centre-forward role with Patrick Bamford missing the majority of the campaign due to injury.

Andrea Radrizzani may have to write a cheque of £25m for the Rovers star, but it seems as if Bielsa and Victor Orta are desperate for an attacking addition over the coming weeks.

In other news: Phil Hay now shares Leeds transfer ‘intention’ after huge injury news. 

A number of Liverpool supporters have bemoaned Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Henderson’s call-up to the England squad, fearing more injuries.

The Reds return to Premier League action on Sunday afternoon, making a tough trip to an in-form West Ham side.

The Hammers currently sit fourth in the table and victory over Jurgen Klopp’s team at the London Stadium would see them leapfrog their opponents.

[freshpress-quiz id=“375258″]

Alexander-Arnold and Henderson could both be expected to start Sunday’s game and they have also been called up to England’s latest squad, as confirmed by Liverpool’s official Twitter account on Thursday.

The pair will meet up with their international teammates next week, ahead of upcoming games against Albania and San Marino.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-liverpool-transfer-news-10/” title=”Latest Liverpool transfer news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Liverpool fans fume at international latest

While it is a proud honour for the Liverpool pair, these Reds fans took to Twitter to bemoan the news, hoping they avoid injury as the domestic season is halted again.

Of course, Joe Gomez suffered a very serious injury with the Three Lions last season, which was a major part of the Reds’ issues in defence, perhaps leading to these fans lamenting this as ‘bad news’…

“Please don’t get injured lads”

Credit: @GeorgeGarforth

“Dunno why either of them bother”

Credit: @sheepdogx4

“Ugh”

Credit: @andcouldheplay7

“Bad news”

Credit: @ChalBeta_PatPat

“Nooooo, call in sick from international injury duty”

Credit: @DaveLevy1

“Fetch the bubble wrap”

Credit: @Superior_LFC

In other news, James Pearce has provided a key update on one player’s future. Find out who it is here.

A Rangers manager claim has been made regarding the potential announcement of Steven Gerrard’s successor…

What’s the talk?

Gers insider David Edgar has played down suggestions that the club’s new manager will be announced on Tuesday (16/11/21). Heart & Hand are an official media partner of the club and presenter Edgar has denied speculation that a press conference has been scheduled.

He told the Heart & Hand Patreon podcast, via Ibrox News:

“You may have seen Whatsapp’s saying Rangers have a press conference booked, they don’t.

“Not to say that an announcement won’t happen, but I’d be surprised if an announcement came tomorrow [Tuesday].”

Frustration

The Gers have reportedly held talks with Gio van Bronckhorst over a deal to take over from Gerrard following the ex-Liverpool man’s move to Aston Villa last week. However, Ross Wilson is also said to be eyeing other, yet to be named, coaches for the role, which could be exciting news for Rangers fans to read.

Irrespective of any excitement that could come with the prospect of an unknown emerging as a serious contender for the role, Rangers fans will surely be starting to get frustrated at the pace of negotiations. After seemingly starting quickly with the talks with van Bronckhorst over the weekend, Wilson now appears to be considering his options and time is ticking down ahead of their semi-final clash with Hibernian on Sunday.

Rangers have the opportunity to seal a place in the final of the cup on Sunday and are currently without a permanent manager in charge. Supporters will surely want to see a head coach in place in advance of the game in order to give the players added motivation to perform, along with a game plan befitting of the style the manager wants to deploy moving forward.

With an announcement on Tuesday unlikely, according to Edgar, it does make one wonder when it will come. Wilson has less than a week to get it wrapped up if he wants someone in the dugout for the Hibs match and that could make these next few days crucial in terms of the short-term success at Ibrox.

Having a clear plan in place could provide clarity ahead of the game, rather than having players play in an important match whilst they remain clueless as to who will be their boss the following week. This is why fans should be getting frustrated as the situation continues to drag out.

AND in other news,  Time’s up: GVB could become an instant hit at Rangers by axing £1.8m-rated dud…

A transfer specialist has revealed that Ousmane Dembele is the ‘first name’ on Newcastle United’s list ahead of a potential move to St. James’ Park.

The Lowdown: Dembele promise

Dembele was a player of such promise when he was first breaking through at Borussia Dortmund, earning him a whopping £121.5m move to FC Barcelona back in the summer transfer window of 2017.

His early spells with the Catalan giants even earned praise from the great Lionel Messi, who dubbed his then teammate a ‘phenomenon’.

The Latest: Wanted on Tyneside

As per Pedro Almeida, who is verified on Twitter as an ‘insider specialising in transfers’, Dembele is the ‘first name’ that consortium member Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) wants to bring to the North East.

However, a move in January seems unlikely, as he would prefer to sign the France international as a free agent, given that his current deal at the Camp Nou expires in the summer.

The Verdict: Sign

Dembele needs to rejuvenate his career, as he has never really been able to hit the ground running since arriving at Barca, with 30 goals and 21 assists recorded in 118 games in total over all competitions across the last four seasons (Transfermarkt).

However, at 24 years of age, he still has the potential to fulfil the promise that he had early on in his career, and could combine well with fellow French winger Allan Saint-Maximin.

Nonetheless, to get him for free, given that he currently has a market value of £45m, would represent exceptional business by the Tyneside club.

In other news, find out which ‘fantastic striker’ is now on NUFC’s list here!

Leeds United have been handed an encouraging transfer update in their chase for Club Brugge star Noa Lang.

What’s the story?

Reports in recent months had suggested that the 22-year-old was a major target for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, with The Athletic’s Phil Hay revealing that the Whites really like him as a player.

Then, Dutch publication Voetbal24 suggested (via Sport Witness) that the likes of Leeds, Arsenal and AC Milan still want to sign Lang, with a very good chance an offer will come in during the January transfer window.

And now, in an update from Voetbal Belgie, Brugge have put a £34m price tag on his head, and that while they haven’t ruled out

Dream Leeds United deal

Hailed as a “phenomenon” by Belgian journalist Peter Vandenbempt, the 22-year-old made history when he became the first player in more than 50 years to mark his debut for Ajax by scoring a hat-trick – something that left manager Erik ten Hag waxing lyrical about him in his post-match press conference.

He said: “He showed (his talent) today and I am very happy with that. Noa shows (his ability) it during training and during the reserve matches. And today he has also clearly shown it at the highest level too.”

And, after a particularly fine performance against KRC Genk, Belgian analyst Filip Joos, said: “He is currently the best player in the league, I think. That‘s really pure class. He sees it, makes eye contact with Mechele who finishes it fine. Fantastic goal, because that pass is also ideal. He is constantly moving, he swings across the field, he likes to dribble, but he will always play it at the right time.”

Given the struggles that Dan James has endured in his Leeds career thus far, Lang’s greater end product and age would make him the kind of dream winger signing Victor Orta could make at Elland Road.

James has managed no goals or assists in his ten games for his new club, while he was particularly disappointing in the Carabao Cup defeat to Arsenal in mid-week.

While both have the pace, it’s Lang’s greater decision-making in the final third that really sets him apart, with the young Dutchman bagging 17 goals and providing 11 assists in 38 games in all competitions last season.

This campaign has been similarly productive, with the 22-year-old netting three times and setting up another five in just 12 league games.

Given they wanted him over the summer, Orta can finally get his man for £34m.

Meanwhile, Adam Pope has revealed a major Leeds United boost…

The Birmingham Mail’s Ashley Preece has delivered his verdict on the future of Aston Villa starlet Jaden Philogene-Bidace.

What’s the story?

Writing initially on Twitter, he said: “Let’s talk about Jaden Philogene-Bidace. He’s far too good for 23s football as we all witnessed this week. A piece looking at his sensational form as he bids to make his mark at #avfc in PL. Includes a nice snippet from @PeteSmith1983.”

Then, in a follow-up article for The Birmingham Mail, he added: “To those inside the Villa circle, Philogene-Bidace is a serious talent with a bright future in B6 with head coach Dean Smith promoting the Londoner to first-team training at the beginning of last season.

“It’s crystal-clear that Philogene-Bidace remains highly thought of at Bodymoor Heath, his challenge now now is to stay patient and be ready when called upon.

“A Championship loan move could well be in the offing in January but, as it stands, Villa have a serious talent on their hands, one who’s primed and ready to make his mark in the Premier League.”

Exciting times for Villa

Make no mistake about it, Villa have somewhat of a golden generation on their hands coming through at Bodymoor Heath.

The likes of Philogene-Bidace and Carney Chukwuemeka in particular are leading the charge of youngsters who are looking to make their mark on the Premier League, and have already been given a taste of the action by Dean Smith.

While Villa have added to their wide ranks with the signing of Leon Bailey and Emi Buendia in the summer, Philogene-Bidace has got plenty of time on his hand at just 19-year-old to eventually stake his claim for a starting spot at Villa Park.

Whether that’s sooner or later remains to be seen, but whatever the case, Villa fans will surely be buzzing at the kind of exciting talent they have on their hands in Philogene-Bidace.

Meanwhile, Villa must land this star…