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Liverpool: Klopp tracking "dangerous" No.10

Liverpool "have tracked" Celta Vigo midfielder Gabri Veiga ahead of a potential summer transfer swoop, however they are yet to make a "concrete proposal" for his services, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

Which midfielder are Liverpool signing?

There has now been a fresh update on Liverpool's pursuit of Ryan Gravenberch, with Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg claiming they are "definitely" out of the race for the Dutchman, while also adding they have now chosen to prioritise a move for Southampton's Romeo Lavia.

Journalist David Lynch has now taken to Twiiter to confirm the Reds have also halted their pursuit of Nice's Khephren Thuram, saying: "Liverpool no longer pursuing a move for Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram. Talks were held with the player's representatives earlier in the window but Dominik Szoboszlai ultimately emerged as a preferred target."

Jurgen Klopp has started to narrow down his shortlist of midfield targets, and there are now indications the Reds could go in for Veiga, having recently been named as the club leading the race for the Celta Vigo star's signature.

In a recent interview with GiveMeSport, Jacobs confirmed the Spaniard has a number of potential suitors waiting in the wings, and Liverpool are one of them, while he also claimed the youngster would be able to adjust quickly if he completed a move to England.

The journalist said: "I think everybody is looking at Veiga, if I'm perfectly honest with you. It's completely normal because he's just deemed to be a phenomenal talent with a very strong profile that fits the Premier League, and there is also a release clause at €40m (£34m). That is why many Premier League clubs are looking.

"There's no doubt that Liverpool have tracked the player and there's no doubt that Liverpool admire the player. At the time we're recording this, they've not made a concrete proposal."

What position does Gabri Veiga play?

The 21-year-old, who has been hailed as "dangerous", often features in an advanced midfield role, owing to his fantastic record in front of goal, weighing in with 11 goals and four assists for Celta Vigo in La Liga last season.

Not only that, the Spanish youngster is also particularly impressive at dribbling, ranking in the 88th percentile for successful take-ons and progressive carries per 90 over the course of the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

Football scout Jacek Kulig has claimed the starlet is also capable of playing as a box-to-box midfielder, given the range of qualities that he has at his disposal, including pace, passing, work rate, off-the-ball movement and bravery.

Celta Vigo midfielder Gabri Veiga.

The Celta Vigo star is said to be "highly talented" in that role, indicating that he could play slightly deeper for Liverpool, should they submit a concrete proposal at a latter stage in the transfer window.

Given his goal-scoring nature, coupled with his range of other strengths, Veiga could be a fantastic addition to Klopp's squad, and Liverpool should undoubtedly make a move for him this summer, particularly considering he will be available for the affordable price of £34m.

Pundit Drops "Worrying" Leeds Manager Update On Daniel Farke

Former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie has called for Leeds United to name Lee Boywer as their new manager instead of Daniel Farke.

Is Daniel Farke joining Leeds?

The search for Sam Allardyce's successor is ongoing at Elland Road, with the next appointment absolutely vital, in terms of the Whites getting back into the Premier League as soon as possible.

After three years back in the top flight, it would now be hugely disheartening to see Leeds languish in the second tier for longer than one season, but bringing in the right manager is essential when it comes to making that happen.

Farke has emerged as the clear front-runner to become the new Whites boss in recently days, with various reports stating that a deal is seemingly close to being agreed.

Birmingham City's former manager Lee Bowyer.

What about Bowyer to Leeds?

Speaking to Football Insider, McAvennie instead called for Bowyer to come in, with his past history at Leeds making him a better option than Farke:

"They should hire a profile similar to Lee Bowyer. He played for the club, he has them in his heart and a manager like that is what they would need to get back into the Premier League. Give someone like Bowyer a chance, and the fans would love one of their own to come in and they would show the passion needed on matchdays.

"Similar to Duncan Ferguson at Everton a couple years back, that helped them reignite the season.

"It is a worrying situation for Leeds as I would not like to see them go back into oblivion again as they are a Premier League club."

There is some logic to the 63-year-old McAvennie's comments, in terms of Bowyer knowing the club inside out, but ultimately, it is still his ability as a manager that is most important.

The Englishman has generally done well in his post-playing career to date, doing a solid job with both Charlton Athletic and Birmingham City, he has also yet to win any silverware as a manager, and remains inexperienced at a high level.

On the flip side, Farke has twice guided Norwich City from the Championship to the Premier League, winning the title both times, so he is far more proven than Bowyer, at a time when Leeds cannot afford to be taking risks with their appointment.

The former Whites midfielder could be a good choice further down the line, but for now, it is only right that Farke is the favourite to take charge.

21-y/o "Leader" On Man United Radar For Summer Transfer

Amadou Onana is an option Manchester United could explore in the summer transfer window, journalist David Ornstein has revealed.

Who could Man United sign in midfield?

Recent reports have revealed that Man United have submitted a final bid for Chelsea's Mason Mount, having agreed personal terms with the England international, but a deal is far from guaranteed as there is a reluctance to meet Chelsea's high asking price.

Erik ten Hag is targeting a midfielder to play alongside Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, and Everton's Onana is a name believed to be on their list of targets.

Speaking on the FIVE YouTube channel, Ornstein revealed that Onana is on the list at United, but he is one of a number of players they could target this summer.

"You've got Manchester United as well, who want a midfielder, though as far as we know, they're focused on the more advanced one in Mason Mount at this point in time and the number nine," he stated.

"They are looking at the other positions and you'll have seen reports about Onana and Everton, I'm led to believe he's on the list, and like many, he's one of many options they're considering.

"But they've got their ownership situation which is complicating it all. So this market is just absolutely wild."

Should Man United sign Onana?

The 21-year-old has had an impressive debut season in the Premier League despite Everton's struggles, and has been a standout performer for the Toffees.

amadou-onana-everton-transfer-newcastle-premier-league

Former Belgium manager Roberto Martinez described the midfielder as a "leader," and he could bring a lot of strength and dynamism to the United midfield.

His height could prove to be invaluable in the middle of the park, and he ranks in the top 7% of midfielders for aerial duels as per FBref.

It remains to be seen whether he offers enough on the ball for Erik ten Hag, given that he ranks poorly for progressive passes, but he could help glue together the midfield trio, and at just 21, there is massive potential for him to grow.

If United do sign Mount, then it seems unlikely that they will pursue another expensive midfield signing, but if they pull out of a deal for the Englishman, then Onana is a ready-made alternative they could explore.

Uncertainty over the ownership situation means that a deal may have to be completed later on in the window, but should Onana join, he would be an investment which could reap rewards in the long run.

Tottenham Want £61m "Monster" To Usurp Dier

Tottenham Hotspur have seemingly identified one of their top targets for the summer…

What's the latest on Edmond Tapsoba to Tottenham Hotspur?

That's according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, who took to Twitter earlier today to issue an update on Ange Postecoglou's progress in the transfer market.

With Edmond Tapsoba a highly-rated centre back across Europe, his name being touted with a move to north London is one which will have fans excited. The journalist wrote: "Understand Tottenham have started concrete contacts to be informed on Edmond Tapsoba as new CB.

"He’s on the list since long time — and Spurs are now exploring conditions of the deal on both player and Bayer 04 side. Nothing advanced yet — Tapsoba, keen on the move".

It's been claimed by other reports that any such deal could cost an eye-watering £61m.

Would Edmond Tapsoba improve Tottenham Hotspur?

Whilst it is certain that the addition of such a defensively dominant titan would improve Spurs, the fact that it could spell bad news for Eric Dier might make this move even more worthy of the astronomical expected price tag.

After all, the England international struggled last term under the ever-changing leadership, proving himself underwhelming in a back three, and flat-out useless in a back four.

eric-dier-tottenham-hotspur

Cristian Stellini showcased this for all to see when he opted for the latter system in April only to see his side ship six goals to Newcastle United. Dier was, unsurprisingly, at the heart of this. For the rest of the term, he maintained an underwhelming 6.86 average rating.

Meanwhile, the Burkina Faso international has been ever-present at the heart of his team's back line, showcasing immense skill with the ball at his feet, and unparalleled power in his defensive work.

Whilst maintaining 1.1 interceptions, 1.5 tackles and three clearances per game in the Bundesliga is admirable, it is his 86% pass accuracy and astronomical 89% dribble success rate that truly makes him the perfect modern-day centre-back, via Sofascore.

This notion is only emphasised through Opta's player analysis tool, which showcases how the 24-year-old is a true standout in both touches and possession won. He snatches the ball back from the opposition with ease but then has the poise and skill to stride out from the back and kickstart an attack.

TAPSOBA

Standing at 6 foot 4 too, such an imposing figure that marries his power with fleet-footedness makes him a true physical marvel, and a certainty to thrive in English football. After all, he has been noted as something of a "monster" by scout and writer Antonio Mango.

His arrival to play as a right-sided centre-back would in turn make Dier obsolete, relegating him to the backup role that many would agree he suits. With 361 games for the club under his belt, the 29-year-old has been a loyal servant during his tenure.

However, as Postecoglou seeks to usher in a new, brighter era, this level of player must be removed and replaced with a higher quality. Tapsoba would mark just the start of this revolution.

Man Utd: Romano Issues Big Mason Mount Transfer Update

Manchester United are confident that they can agree personal terms with Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount as Erik Ten Hag endeavours to bring the England international to Old Trafford.

What's the latest transfer news involving Mason Mount?

According to Sky Sports, Chelsea have rejected an offer of £40 million from Manchester United for Mount as a gap in valuation still continues to linger between the two clubs.

The report states that Manchester United know the limit of what they would be willing to pay internally; however, they are also prepared to abandon negotiations if they are quoted a price above their valuation of the £80k-a-week ace.

As per The Evening Standard, the Red Devils are set to return with an improved offer for Mount at some point, though Chelsea are holding out for a fee in the region of £70 million.

Due to his contract expiring in 2024, Chelsea would be willing to let Mount go to avoid losing him on a free transfer following months of deadlock in negotiations over fresh terms between player and club.

talkSPORT claimed earlier this month that Mount had agreed personal terms with Manchester United; nevertheless, it remains to be seen whether the proposed move will be affected by a difference of opinion in value between the two clubs.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, journalist Romano has detailed that Mount is very keen to move to Manchester United this summer.

Romano said: "Man United want the player. Man United are convinced that the agreement with the player is something that'll be easy to reach because Mount wants this Manchester United move, so it's on the clubs now."

Will Manchester United be able to land Mason Mount?

Chelsea seem pretty insistent on recouping a significant fee for their academy product. However, they will also be aware of the reticence prospective suitors may have with regard to bidding over the odds for a player like Mount that only has one year left on his deal.

In 2022/23, Mount made 35 appearances for the Blues across all competitions, registering three goals and six assists, as per Transfermarkt.

mason-mount-chelsea-premier-league-man-united-transfers

As per The Athletic, Liverpool did hold an interest in trying to sign Mount this summer earlier this year, though his excessive price tag put them off and they will now instead focus on alternative targets.

The Sun claim that Leicester City star James Maddison has been earmarked as a 'second option' if Mount proves to be unattainable this off-season, making it anyone's guess as to whether Manchester United will be able to land Mount this summer.

Rodgers could land Vardy 2.0 With Celtic Bid For £3.5m Gem

After the sizeable blow of losing manager Ange Postecoglou last week, Scottish champions Celtic have moved quality to acquire a quality replacement for the treble-winning coach, with former Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers looking set to secure a surprise return to Parkhead.

The Northern Irishman had appeared to have somewhat burned his bridges with the Old Firm outfit after ending his first spell at the club abruptly back in February 2019, although the indication is that the 50-year-old is looking to pick up where he left off just over four years ago, having previously claimed seven domestic honours during his prior stint in Glasgow.

When the former Leicester City man does ultimately sign on the dotted line with the Scottish Premiership giants, the first major issue will be to acquire suitable new recruits with the summer transfer window having now commenced, with the Carnlough native potentially set to be forced to replace some of the current squad who could depart ahead of next season.

There will no doubt be fears among Celtic supporters that new Tottenham Hotspur boss, Postecoglou may return to poach Japanese marksman, Kyogo Furuhashi, with The Sun having only recently reported that the 28-year-old – who bagged 34 goals in all competitions last season – is a possible £30m target for the Lilywhites.

Amid the possible need to replace Kyogo this summer, Football Scotland previously reported that the Bhoys are interested in a deal for Slovenian striker, Zan Vipotnik, with it claimed that the Maribor starlet could be available for a fee of around £3.5m.

A more recent report from Sky Sports Germany has also noted that interest from those at Celtic Park, among other suitors, with there a possibility that the 21-year-old could be a first statement signing of Rodgers' second spell in charge.

Who is Zan Vipotnik?

The promising centre-forward has caught the eye after enjoying a "fantastic season" in his homeland, according to talent scout Jacek Kulig, having scored 23 goals in 38 games in all competitions in 2022/23, including 20 goals in just 30 league outings.

The 6 foot 1 dynamo – who also bagged ten goals in just 14 games during a loan spell at Triglav Kranj last year – is evidently something of a prolific and clinical presence in attack, having also scored one in just two appearances for his country at senior level.

Leicester's Jamie Vardy

That devastating finishing prowess could ensure that Rodgers is able to find his next Jamie Vardy with the signing of the youngster, with the veteran Englishman having led the line superbly under the incoming Celtic boss at Leicester.

That working relationship proved particularly fruitful as Vardy scored 70 goals and laid on a further 30 assists in just 157 games in all competitions during Rodgers' time at the club, with the pair notably winning the FA Cup back in 2021.

The one-time Liverpool boss evidently has huge admiration for the Premier League title winner having hailed him as "world class" in the past, hence the interest in potentially snapping up his heir apparent this summer.

The likeness between the two strikers can be shown by their devastating brilliance inside the penalty area, with Vipotnik having been hailed as a "poacher" by Kulig, while Vardy also comes alive at the tail-end of the pitch, notably scoring all 15 of his league goals in the 2021/22 season inside the opposition box.

Equally, Kulig has also noted Vipotnik's "movement" as one of his key assets, with that a trait that is undoubtedly shared by the Foxes legend, having been described in the past as being "ridiculously good" at stretching a defence, in the words of pundit Trevor Sinclair.

Add in the fact that the Maribor man is also a real goalscoring weapon, and it is clear to see that Rodgers could potentially be able to acquire his next Vardy this summer.

Asensio could be Man United’s next Mata

Manchester United have been linked with Real Madrid ace Marco Asensio recently and the Spain international could be the ideal man to replace Juan Mata in Erik ten Hag’s side at Old Trafford.

What’s the word?

According to reports from Spain, Asensio’s agent Jorge Mendes wants to bring his client to Old Trafford this summer as he eyes a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu.

Ten Hag will surely be in the market for attacking reinforcements given the departures of Edinson Cavani, Jesse Lingard and Mata so far this summer, as well as Mason Greenwood’s absence, and Asensio could provide some much-needed quality in attack.

The Red Devils managed just 57 goals in the most recent Premier League season and finished with a neutral goal difference, so the signing of Asensio would perhaps take some of the pressure off Bruno Fernandes as the chief creator in United’s midfield.

Mata 2.0

Mata joined United from Chelsea in January 2014 and went on to make 285 appearances during his time at Old Trafford, contributing 51 goals and 47 assists.

The Spaniard was capable of playing on either wing and as an attacking midfielder, which is where Asensio has mainly been deployed during his time at Madrid, so the similarities are clear to see.

WhoScored suggests that both Mata and Asensio’s strengths include their ability to pass and hold on to the ball, while the Madrid man is also adept at shooting from range.

Transfermarkt currently values the 26-year-old at £36m so he wouldn’t come cheap, but Madrid may be keen to move him on given that his contract is set to expire at the end of next season.

Last season saw the former Mallorca man make 31 appearances in La Liga for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, in which he contributed ten goals.

The Champions League-winning manager was full of praise for Asensio after his winning goal against Granada last season, saying:

“Asensio is very important for us. He has quality and commitment. He’s a very important player for us and we’ve won tonight via his greatest quality, his shooting.”

Given that recently departed interim manager Ralf Ragnick was critical of a number of players’ commitment at United, Asensio seems like exactly the sort of player Ten Hag will need if he is to improve his side’s fortunes next season.

Although Mata didn’t feature too much in his final season at Old Trafford, he will certainly leave a hole in the squad and Asensio might just be the man to fill it.

And in other news… United in ‘direct contact’ with former ten Hag favourite 

Crystal Palace: Alan Nixon makes Aaron Wan-Bissaka claim

Reliable reporter Alan Nixon is unsure whether Crystal Palace would pay ‘big money’ for Manchester United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

The Lowdown: Wan-Bissaka links

Palace sold the 24-year-old to United back in 2019 in a deal worth £49.5m, with Wan-Bissaka making 126 appearances for the Red Devils since then.

Reports earlier this month linked the Eagles with a move for their former defender over the summer, suggesting a loan deal was more likely than a permanent move.

Sky Sports have now revealed that the full-back isn’t in Erik ten Hag’s plans and that United will listen to permanent offers as a result.

The Latest: Nixon reacts

Nixon was asked by a Palace fan on Twitter if the Eagles were in the frame to bring Wan-Bissaka back to Selhurst Park following the major update from Sky Sports.

The journalist described it as an ‘odd development’, adding he isn’t sure if ‘Palace would pay big money or wages’.

“It’s an odd development as he wasn’t available a month ago… not sure Palace would pay big money or wages… maybe have other priorities right now.”

The Verdict: Loan with option to buy?

Patrick Vieira has just two right-backs on the books heading into his second season in charge. Joel Ward and Nathaniel Clyne are both over 30, with the latter of the two actually out of contract at the end of June.

Therefore, a new right-back could be of interest to the Eagles, so a season-long loan offer for Wan-Bissaka which includes an option to buy could be a wise move.

That would then allow Vieira to bolster other areas of the pitch with permanent signings, where a new midfielder could also be high on the agenda, especially as regular Conor Gallagher looks set to return to Chelsea.

In other news: ‘Outstanding’ Palace ace may now quit SE25; could ask Parish to terminate his deal  

Newcastle eye Everton ace Calvert-Lewin

Newcastle United have reportedly now held talks over the possibility of signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the summer.

The Lowdown: Injury-hit season

Unfortunately for the Everton striker, he has been hit with numerous Premier League relegation scrap.

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Hailed as an ‘amazing’ striker by Toffees team-mate and former Magpies hitman Salomon Rondon, and called ‘one of the best‘ in his position by Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, there is no doubt that Calvert-Lewin would still be a good signing for whoever is able to land him.

The Latest: Calvert-Lewin talks

As per Football Insider, a source from St James’ Park has shared that Calvert-Lewin is on Newcastle’s list of targets, and early talks have now taken place with the player’s representatives.

However, the England striker would prefer to join Arsenal over the Magpies, should a decision need to be made.

The Verdict: Wait for relegation battle to end

Newcastle should wait to see whether or not Everton stay up before deciding to splash the cash on Calvert-Lewin.

If the Toffees do end up getting relegated, then the Magpies could potentially sign him for a cheaper price. However, if Frank Lampard’s side stay in the Premier League, the striker may come at a premium.

Nonetheless, Calvert-Lewin would be a good option for Newcastle as an England international and proven Premier League scorer, while he is also at an ideal age at 25.

In other news, find out who else NUFC are now ‘chasing’ this summer

Predicted XI: Wolves vs Man City - preview

Wolverhampton Wanderers take on Premier League title chasers Manchester City in tonight’s late kick-off.

The Old Gold managed an emphatic late comeback last time out against Chelsea, courtesy of a Chiquinho masterclass that left Tuchel dumbfounded.

Their 2-2 draw ended both a three-game losing streak and three-game goalless streak, so Lage’s side will of course now look to build on the point earned at Stamford Bridge in order to boost their chances of playing European football next season.

Manchester City, whilst hindered with injuries, will still give it their all with a Premier League title just enough to cover their blushes from the shock Champions League defeat to Real Madrid.

In a game that sees the Premier League’s best defence go up against the fourth best defence in the league, we can expect both sides to be well-organised in what should make for a tight affair.

After all, Manchester City narrowly won 1-0 in the reverse fixture, courtesy of a Raheem Sterling penalty.

Will Lage make any changes to the team which started in the 2-2 draw against Chelsea last time out? Here is how we at Football FanCast believe Wolves could line up in the game against Manchester City.

With Lage out with illness, Wolves’ fitness coach Carlos Cachada provided an update over the health of the squad on Monday, saying:

“At this moment we remain exactly the same, with the same injuries. The three guys are Daniel Podence, Nelson Semedo and Max Kilman.”

Though with centre-back Roman Saiss picking up a knock at Stamford Bridge, he may also be a doubt and will be assessed by the medical team ahead of the game.

As a result, our predicted XI sees just one change for Wolves, with £900k-rated wonderkid Toti Gomes coming in for the £28k-per week defender Saiss – who has previously been dubbed “awful” by Rob Howard – and may not be risked against Pep Guardiola’s side. Considering his fitness anyway, it may be best for everyone involved if he’s given the night off.

Meanwhile, with the Moroccan expected to depart amidst his expiring contract, Lage may well look to test Gomes over the next few games to see if he is a viable long-term replacement.

Despite setting up both goals against Chelsea, Chiquinho does not start in our predicted XI, as we believe Lage will look to use him as a secret weapon throughout the mid-point of the game, when concentration levels will be lower among the City defenders.

Elsewhere, it is the same squad that earned a point at Stamford Bridge, with Lage’s recent switch to 3-5-2 giving Wolves much more potency in attack.

In other news: Lage must unleash “ridiculous” prodigy vs Man City, his “explosiveness” will scare Pep 

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