Nottingham Forest have now made an approach to sign an “unstoppable” forward, who is set to be available for a fee of £39m this summer, according to reports.
Nottingham Forest eyeing replacement for Elanga
Anthony Elanga is set to sign for Newcastle United in a £55m deal, meaning Edu Gaspar’s first task as Global Head of Football will be to find a replacement for the winger, although it may not be a quick process.
Speaking about the way in which he goes about making new additions to the Forest squad, Edu said: “You can’t just sign for the sake of signing. It has to be a process that takes weeks and weeks. Right there on my desk, I have reports with over 180 pages on a player. It’s really detailed.
“Physical, technical, and mental profiles, whether they have Premier League experience, whether they’ll be able to adapt. It’s all there. We analyse our weaknesses, where we can improve, where we can invest, and then we go looking for that new name.”
Seemingly PSV Eindhoven’s Johan Bakayoko ticks a lot of boxes for Edu, as Forest have now entered talks over a deal for the winger, who is viewed as a direct replacement for Elanga.
PSV Eindhoven's JohanBakayokoin action
However, the 22-year-old is not the only option on the shortlist, with the Tricky Trees also making an approach to sign Benfica winger Kerem Akturkoglu, according to an update from reporter Kutlu Akpinar on X.
Forest were the “first” team to make contact over a deal for the forward, and they were told that €45m (£39m) would be enough to get a deal done, although there could be competition for his signature.
The Turk has made it clear that the only team he wants to play for in his home country is Galatasaray, but there could be rival interest from within the Premier League, as Sunderland and Everton are also named as potential suitors.
Nottingham Forest join race to sign "fantastic" £50m+ Elanga replacement
Newcastle are still pushing to sign Elanga.
ByTom Cunningham Jul 7, 2025 "Unstoppable" Akturkoglu could be fantastic signing for Forest
Once lauded as “unstoppable” by U23 football scout Antonio Mango, the Benfica star was a regular source of goals and assists last season, picking up 22 goal contributions in the Liga Portugal alone.
With Forest set to embark on a European adventure, Nuno Espirito Santo will also be keen to bring in players with experience in the biggest competitions, and the 26-year-old also caught the eye in the 2024-25 Champions League, netting four goals.
Considering the former Galatasaray man has predominantly featured at left-wing throughout his career to date, it is unclear whether he would be viewed as a direct replacement for Elanga, but he could be a fantastic addition to the squad nonetheless.
Not only that, but Forest should be in a strong position to beat Sunderland and Everton to Akturkoglu’s signature, given that European football will be on offer at the City Ground next season.
There have been moments, flashes, when Darwin Nunez has looked like the player Liverpool thought they were investing in three years ago, with the Anfield side’s then club-record capture memorably getting off the mark on debut in the Community Shield.
Who can forget the Uruguayan’s breathtaking brace as the ten-man Reds romped past Newcastle United at St James’ Park in August 2023, with Nunez briefly resembling the player who had hit 48 goals in just 85 games for former club Benfica.
Unfortunately for all concerned, such statement displays have been few and far between to date, with the chaotic nature of the profligate striker looking distinctly at odds with the cool and composed style of Arne Slot’s football.
That chasm resulted in Nunez scoring just seven times in all competitions in 2024/25, having notably been restricted to just eight Premier League starts. An exit – most likely to Serie A champions Napoli – now appears an inevitability ahead of next term.
Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez
With Luis Diaz earning admiring glances from those at Barcelona, the need for a new figure to lead the line has only been heightened. Enter, a high-profile target…
Liverpool plotting bid for high profile forward
£187m has already been spent on acquiring Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, although with funds set to be raked in amid the potential sales of Nunez and Diaz – alongside Jarell Quansah’s £35m exit – there could still be further activity for Slot and co over the coming weeks.
The Merseysiders have notably been linked with a move for Eintracht Frankfurt starlet, Hugo Ekitike, with the 23-year-old believed to have emerged as a top target, amid his ability to feature off the left or in a central role.
That versatility is also a feature of Real Madrid star Rodrygo’s game, with reports in Spain suggesting that Liverpool are among a trio of Premier League clubs who are keen on signing the highly-rated Brazilian.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The suggestion is that, along with Manchester City and Arsenal, the Anfield side are in the mix for the 24-year-old’s signature, with the report outlining that they have already been ‘informed’ of the player’s situation.
Not only has there seemingly been contact made, but the piece also outlines that Liverpool are ready and willing to submit an offer for the former Santos starlet, with prior reports indicating that he could command a fee of around £75m.
With The Athletic noting that Rodrygo could be made available by the LaLiga giants this summer, having played a bit-part role for Xabi Alonso at the Club World Cup, now could be the perfect time for Slot to pounce.
Why Liverpool need to sign Rodrygo
Having seen Trent Alexander-Arnold join the Spanish outfit for a fee of around £10m earlier this summer, the Reds could more than get their own back by prising the unsettled Rodrygo from the Bernabeu.
Rodrygo stats
At just 24, the Brazil international offers that perfect blend of youth and experience, having already spent six seasons in Madrid, following his £38m arrival back in the summer of 2019.
Such a deal could evoke memories of the capture of a certain Fernando Torres from the Spanish capital back in 2007, with the prolific striker making the switch at the age of 23, having proven himself for Atletico Madrid.
Like Rodrygo – who has scored 68 goals in 270 games for Los Blancos – Torres was an undoubted star in LaLiga, with that first spell at Atleti seeing him reach double figures for league goals in each of his first five seasons.
Such red-hot form was more than replicated at Anfield, with ‘El Nino’ ultimately dazzling alongside Steven Gerrard and co, having terrorised defences up and down the country over the next four years.
A return of 81 goals in 142 games is certainly nothing to be sniffed at, certainly not when compared to Nunez’s return of just 40 goals in 143 games thus far, having been hailed as “among the best” in the division by then-boss Rafa Benitez.
Similar praise has been dished out by ex-Madrid coach, Carlo Ancelotti, in relation to Rodrygo, with the iconic Italian naming his young winger as one of the “best players in the world”, alongside the likes of Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe.
2024/25
30
12
2023/24
34
15
2022/23
34
18
2021/22
33
8
2020/21
22
7
2019/20
19
2
While Rodrygo’s star has been dimmed by that trio, it is hard to deny his quality, with the fleet-footed marksman already scoring 25 times in just 65 Champions League appearances for his current side. For comparison, Torres scored 20 times in 79 career outings in Europe’s elite competition.
Although not necessarily a centre-forward by trade, the £75m man could emulate Diaz in providing a more fluid and mobile option through the middle, with Ancelotti previously suggesting in the past that number nine could be best suited to him, as his “strengths are his movement”.
Having previously seen Torres make a smooth transition to live in England, after leaving Madrid behind, hopefully Rodrygo can follow suit this summer.
He's as exciting as Wirtz: Liverpool in contact to sign a £75m "superstar"
This transfer target could be the perfect Luis Diaz replacement at Liverpool.
Brendan Rodgers has had to oversee a lot of change on the left side of his Celtic squad, at left-back in particular, during the summer transfer window so far.
The Hoops have already added one new left-back to the team in the form of Kieran Tierney, who has returned to Parkhead on a free transfer from Premier League giants Arsenal, six years on from his initial move to the Gunners from Glasgow.
Tierney, who won five Scottish Premiership titles during his first spell at the club after coming through the academy, will be aiming to nail down a position as the first-choice left-back at Celtic once again.
The Scotland international looks set to replace compatriot Greg Taylor, who is leaving the Scottish giants this summer upon the expiry of his contract.
Fabrizio Romano, as shown in the post above, recently confirmed that the full-back has agreed a deal to sign for Greek side PAOK ahead of next season.
Another left-back who has moved on from Parkhead this summer is Jeffrey Schlupp, who spent the second half of the season on loan from Crystal Palace, and the club must now avoid a permanent deal for him.
Why Celtic should not sign Jeffrey Schlupp
The Eagles confirmed at the end of May that the left-back would not be getting a new contract at Selhurst Park, which means that he will be available on a free transfer.
Schlupp made 14 appearances, starting eight of those games, in the Premiership and the Champions League for the Hoops, and his best performance for the club came in the second leg of their Champions League play-off clash with Bayern Munich.
Minutes
90
Clearances
9
Blocks
1
Interceptions
5
Tackles
6
Dribbled past
1x
Ground duels won
7/8
Aerial duels won
1/2
As you can see in the table above, the Palace loanee was incredibly dominant defensively up against the mercurial Michael Olise on the right wing for Bayern, winning the majority of his duels and making 11 tackles and interceptions, whilst being dribbled past just once.
Despite that impressive showing from the Ghana international, Celtic also have to plan for the future and signing a 32-year-old, who turns 33 in December, on a permanent multi-year contract may not be the best move that they can make this summer.
Therefore, supporters should be happy to read that the Hoops are reportedly closing in on the signing of an alternative target who could be an even better signing than Schlupp.
Celtic schedule medical to complete new signing
According to Sponichi, Celtic are closing in on a deal to sign Albirex Niigata defender Hayato Inamura to bolster their options at the back ahead of next season.
The report claims that the left-footed star’s last match for his club was the 4-0 defeat to Machida on Sunday, as he played 90 minutes as a centre-back in the loss.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
It adds that the two clubs have already reached an agreement in principle over a transfer for the 23-year-old talent, and that a move will officially go through in the coming week.
Sponichi reveals that the Japanese defender will travel to Scotland at the start of the coming week to undergo a medical with the Hoops before putting pen to paper on a permanent switch to Glasgow.
Celtic managerBrendanRodgerscelebrates after winning the League Cup
This means that Celtic are set to sign the versatile Niigata ace in the coming days, with a medical scheduled and a fee agreed, and he could come in as an even better signing than Schlupp.
Why Inamura will be a better signing than Schlupp for Celtic
As aforementioned, the former Palace loanee turns 33 later this year and would only come in as a stop-gap signing to provide cover in the short term, which is also what he did during his loan spell.
Schlupp would not be a signing with a view to the future because, at his age, he is unlikely to develop much further, if at all, and does not have the potential to grow into being the first-choice after Tierney’s second spell comes to an end.
Inamura, however, is nine years younger than the Ghana international and, therefore, has far more time on his hands to develop and improve as a player during his time in Glasgow.
He is five years younger than Tierney and could, therefore, eventually be his successor if he kicks on and improves at Celtic, whilst initially coming in as a back-up option.
Inamura is usually deployed as a centre-back by Niigata, but Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph noted that he can also play as a left-back. His statistics in the J1 League this season also suggest that he would be well-suited to playing that role for the Hoops.
Assists
0.07
Top 8%
Pass accuracy
87%
Top 29%
Accurate long passes
5.75
Top 5%
Long pass accuracy
47%
Top 19%
Chances created
0.42
Top 18%
Cross accuracy
50%
Top 15%
As you can see in the table above, the soon-to-be Celtic signing ranks incredibly highly among his positional peers in a host of possession-based metrics, which speaks to his ability on the ball.
His ability to successfully complete crosses at an impressive rate and to consistently create chances for his teammates from a centre-back position suggests that he could be well-suited to playing as a left-back for the Hoops, which would allow him to showcase his in-possession qualities.
Celtic manager BrendanRodgersbefore the match
Inamura, who analyst Rio Nakagawara claimed has “fantastic ball progression” as a passer and carrier, appears to have the technical qualities to thrive in Glasgow.
His positional flexibility also makes him an attractive target, as he can play at centre-back or left-back, and that is another reason why he would be an even better signing than Schlupp, who was not a central defensive option for Rodgers.
Dream signing for Nygren: Celtic targeting move for "promising" £2m star
Following Benjamin Nygren’s arrival from Nordsjælland, Celtic are in the mix to sign one star who’d be a dream teammate for the Swede.
Jun 29, 2025
Overall, signing Inamura seems to make more sense for the Premiership champions because of his age profile, his positional flexibility, and his quality on the ball.
An exciting transfer update has emerged regarding Liverpool’s quest to build a squad capable of retaining their Premier League crown, courtesy of Fabrizio Romano.
Liverpool closing in on stunning Wirtz move
The Reds appear to be edging closer to completing the most exciting signing of the summer in England, with Florian Wirtz on the verge of joining from Bayer Leverkusen.
He is expected to smash Liverpool’s transfer record, with a move of £116m mooted, in what could be among the club’s most significant signings of the past decade or so.
Wirtz has been voted as the best player in the Bundesliga in each of the past two seasons by his peers, highlighting his brilliance, and Reds supporters will be hoping that he can enjoy the same level of world-class influence that the likes of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Alisson have at Anfield.
Once the German superstar is confirmed as a Liverpool player, it will be time for the Reds to turn their attention to other targets.
Romano: Liverpool "on fire" with Kerkez set to join
Speaking on TikTok late on Sunday evening, Romano confirmed Wirtz will join the club once he finishes his holidays and completes a medical, but he also had news on Bournemouth star Milos Kerkez, revealing the Reds are “on fire”.
At this point, it would be a huge surprise if the Reds didn’t bring in Kerkez this summer, with the Hungarian at the top of their list for a long time now, and it’s not hard to see why.
Milos Kerkez
The Bournemouth man, on just £30,000-a-week on the south coast, already looks like such a polished footballer, despite his tender years, and the energy and competitive edge in his game have echoes of a young Andy Robertson, with former teammate Mat Ryan once heaping praise on him.
“Milos is a great boy. A crazy dude, in a good way. He is always positive and smiling. Hopefully he can develop even further in England and become even more mature. He is aggressive, powerful and has so many qualities. A unique skill set. Bournemouth is going to get stronger because of him. Milos still has a great career ahead of him.”
Liverpool could easily get close to a decade of great service from Kerkez, assuming he avoids serious injury, and regardless of whether Robertson stays or not this summer, the Cherries ace must be considered the Reds’ first-choice left-back.
It’s been a truly bizarre campaign for Tottenham Hotspur this year.
The fans will only remember this season for the club’s historic triumph in the Europa League – and rightly so – but the powers that be cannot ignore just how disastrous the team’s Premier League performances were, injury crisis or not.
While there are likely plenty of things the club can and should address behind the scenes, one of the best ways Daniel Levy and Co can ensure next year is more successful is by signing the right players this summer.
The good news is that recent reports seem to indicate that they’re targetting at least one bonafide star who’d be an incredible addition to the squad, but it could be bad news for James Maddison as the target in question would likely be an upgrade on him.
Tottenham transfer news
Given how poorly the team fared on the domestic front this season, it’s not been a surprise to see Spurs linked with a host of talented stars in recent weeks, like Xavi Simons and Angel Gomes.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The former could cost the club around £65m, but with a tally of 11 goals and eight assists in just 33 appearances for a lacklustre RB Leipzig side this season, that’s a fee that feels pretty reasonable.
Gomes, on the other hand, wouldn’t cost a penny in transfer fees, as his contract with LOSC Lille expires this month, although for all the experience and quality he’d bring with him, he couldn’t be described as an upgrade for Maddison, unlike Eberechi Eze.
Yes, according to a recent report from Football Transfers, Spurs have maintained their intense interest in the Crystal Palace star.
In fact, the report goes a step further, proclaiming the Englishman as the North Londoners ‘top target’ for the window.
The story does not reveal how much the 26-year-old dynamo might cost the Lilywhites, but it has been pretty widely reported in recent weeks and months that he has a release clause in his current contract worth around £68m.
It would be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Eze’s incredible ability, it would be more than worth it, even if his arrival would be bad news for Maddison.
How Eze compares to Maddison
Now, while Eze is a positionally versatile player and has spent plenty of his career playing out wide on the left, his most played position, and where he’s spent most of this season, is attacking midfield.
Crystal Palace's EberechiEzecelebrates with the trophy after winning the FA Cup
Therefore, his main rival for game time at Spurs would be Maddison, but how do the pair stack up against one another?
Well, when it comes to their pure output, it’s the Eagles ace who comes out on top, as in 43 appearances for the South London side, he scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists, which comes out to a goal involvement every 1.72 games.
In comparison, the former Leicester City star scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists in 45 appearances for the Lilywhites this year, which comes out to a goal involvement every 1.95 games.
What about their underlying numbers, then? Who comes out victorious when we take a look under the hood?
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.52
0.50
Progressive Passes
3.37
8.16
Progressive Passes Received
5.31
4.73
Progressive Carries
2.36
2.24
Shots
3.48
1.94
Shots on Target
0.94
0.85
Key Passes
2.01
2.04
Shot-Creating Actions
4.69
4.73
Tackles
1.35
1.54
Blocks
0.94
0.74
Successful Take-Ons
2.33
1.64
Ball Recoveries
5.07
3.78
Well, things are once again somewhat close here, but overall, it’s the FA Cup-winning “superstar,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, who comes out on top.
For example, he comes out ahead in more relevant metrics than his compatriot, including, but not limited to, non-penalty expected goals plus assists, progressive carries, shots and shots on target, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.
Ultimately, while Maddison is a brilliant player, Eze is two years his junior and performing at a higher level in a side that most would have predicted to finish lower than the North Londoners this time last year.
Therefore, Levy and Co should be doing all they can to sign the versatile star this summer before someone else beats them to him.
Shades of Dembele: Spurs make "generational" £60m star a priority signing
The sensational gem could develop into something truly special at Spurs.
Tottenham Hotspur were thrashed by Brighton & Hove Albion to finish a miserable Premier League campaign that has been salvaged and then some overseas.
Indeed, Ange Postecoglou’s side dared to dream in midweek, beating Manchester United in Bilbao to seal the Europa League title and end 17 interminable years of rotten luck on the trophy front.
A hangover was expected, but this bruising defeat was not an outlier for the Lilywhites, who have wrapped up the 2024/25 league campaign languishing in 17th place.
There’s much for chairman Daniel Levy to chew on over the coming months, with several players doing themselves few favours down N17 this weekend.
Spurs' worst performers vs Brighton
Tottenham lost their 22nd top-flight match of the season, marking the end of their worst-ever Premier League campaign.
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou
The defensive capitulation underlined the crux of Postecoglou’s woe this season, with pitiful performances from the newly-promoted trio proving the tenuous barrier between Tottenham and a true relegation dogfight.
There were more than a few tired legs after the interval, and Dominic Solanke’s early penalty was too little to give Tottenham the strength they needed to finish the term off on strong footing, with Pedro Porro and Archie Gray lacking their usual enthusiasm, substitute Wilson Odobert inefficient when welcomed after the break.
Yves Bissouma made a hash of things when brought off the bench, giving away the penalty after bringing down Diego Gomez in the box, leading to Matt O’Riley’s spot-kick to make it 3-1. A fourth would follow in stoppage time.
Tottenham's Yves Bissouma gives away a penalty
It was a performance to forget, all told. Certainly not the fixture of the week that will be remembered in years to come.
One man in particular failed to replicate his sparkling midweek form, shining a light on his ability to emerge at the biggest moment, reminiscent of former hero Lucas Moura.
Spurs' new Lucas Moura
Lucas played an important role for Tottenham after signing from Paris Saint-Germain for £23m in 2018, posting 39 goals and 27 assists across 221 appearances in all competitions.
However, he didn’t always maintain the requisite levels for a reputation in English football as a truly deadly forward, one who can maintain their output invariably.
Premier League
152
20
16
0.24
Champions League
22
6
1
0.32
FA Cup
17
5
6
0.65
League Cup
12
2
0
0.17
Europa League
10
4
1
0.50
Conference League
4
1
2
0.75
UEL Qualifiers
3
1
1
0.66
UECL Qualifiers
1
0
0
–
Now, Brennan Johnson is in danger of adopting a similar reputation, proving Tottenham’s hero on a big night but struggling to project his finest form with the desired degree of consistency.
Make no mistake, this has been a promising term for the former Nottingham Forest man, who joined for a £47.5m fee in July 2023 and has sharpened his goalscoring sense this year, bagging 18 goals and seven assists in all competitions.
He failed to add to his haul against the Seagulls, however, unable to influence proceedings for his struggling and, frankly, sapped side.
Football.london’s Alasdair Gold saw the funny side, branding the Welshman with a 5/10 match rating but quizzing why he was permitted the full 90 after such frenzied celebrations only days earlier, bundling in the only goal against United on Wednesday.
Like Johnson, Lucas liked to make a key contribution on the continental scene for Tottenham, miraculously scoring that hat-trick to send Mauricio Pochettino’s side through to the Champions League final way back when, but he lacked consistency, and that’s something Ange’s star needs to work on.
Underscoring this, the Wales international has only netted in three of his past 20 Premier League games, emphasising an up-and-down nature that Lucas carried through his career in English football too.
The good thing is Johnson can be afforded some leeway, of course, after his goal on Wednesday night, but he still saw a chance go begging after being played into space and struggled to impose himself, albeit working hard defensively, making two clearances as he found himself hemmed in the defensive third, as per Sofascore.
Johnson also completed only nine of his 17 attempted passes, a success rate of just 53%, failed to make a dribble, failed with all three attempted passes from range, and didn’t even attempt a trademark dribble.
Still only 24, mind, he’s got plenty of time to hone his talent and reach the level those around him know he is capable of.
One thing’s for sure: he has already left a bigger legacy than his Brazilian positional peer and could reach higher still with a few improvements over the coming season.
Spurs hit gold on "sensational" monster who's becoming their new Dembele
The impressive international could be a star for Spurs.
Manchester City are looking ahead to another season of Champions League football next campaign and could now aim to beat rivals Manchester United to a talented midfield addition, according to a report.
Man City looking to challenge for Premier League title in 25/26
Pep Guardiola will be more aware than anyone that his side need to improve on what ended as a trophyless season just gone. However, they will have a chance to bounce back swiftly at the Club World Cup next month.
Chelsea and Manchester City provide Premier League representation at the United States-based tournament, which could carry a bounty worth nearly £100 million for the competition winners.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reacts withJamesMcAtee
Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has promised an aggressive recruitment drive will be underway at the Etihad Stadium following a first campaign without silverware since 2017, serving as a warning to top-flight competitors.
He stated: “It’s a lot of lessons learned. I can assure you, this club will do everything possible to come back to the standards that we know we all can achieve.”
Talks have been held over a deal that could see Wolverhampton Wanderers left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri move to Manchester City, with the Algeria international high on their left-back shortlist heading into the window.
Man City make offer for "insane" £50m star who's "said yes" to Etihad move
The Blues are now stepping up their pursuit of a midfielder, with the deal “almost done” on the player’s side.
ByDominic Lund May 29, 2025
In addition, AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders could be a Citizen before the Club World Cup, indicating the priority is to bring through a swift stream of arrivals to replace outgoing figures such as Kevin De Bruyne before the competition begins.
Now, Manchester City have set their sights on beating Manchester United to another operator in the engine room as they aim to go from strength to strength.
Man City making £42m offer to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson
According to reports in Italy via Sport Witness, Manchester City are offering around £42 million for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, and he is said to be at the top of Guardiola’s summer shortlist.
Atalanta midfielder Ederson
Hugo Viana has been assigned the specific task of bringing the Brazil international to the Etihad Stadium, while the Serie A outfit have reportedly lined up Celtic’s Arne Engels as a replacement should a deal go through.
Ederson in 2024/25 – all competitions
Appearances
49
Goals
5
Assists
2
Manchester United have been in the race to sign Ederson and have made contact over a swoop for the midfielder, who has also been linked with reigning Premier League champions Liverpool in recent weeks.
Labelled “powerful” by Tiago Nunes, the 24-year-old won 161 tackles over the course of the campaign on league duty, lending credence to his reputation as a dogged operator in the engine room.
With Rodri back and Mateo Kovacic also capable of playing in a holding role, it remains to be seen where Ederson would fit in at Manchester City if a deal were to come to fruition in the summer window, but it looks as if it will be one to watch.
The Premier League has seen some world-class wingers since 1992, with Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah the current best player in the top flight.
The Egyptian King has extended his stay at Anfield and looks set to continue to light up the division, but where does Salah rank among the best wingers in Premier League history?
Ranking factors Appearances Goals Assists Titles What others have said about them 20 best wingers in Premier League history: in pictures 20 Leroy Sane Man City
Arguably one of the quickest left-wingers the Premier League has seen, Leroy Sane’s spell at Man City under Pep Guardiola was extremely successful.
The German was one of Guardiola’s first signings at the Etihad and would destroy full-backs with his pace alone, with the Spaniard calling Sane “the best wide player in the world” in 2019.
Games
90
Goals
25
Assists
28
Titles
2
19 Harry Kewell Leeds, Liverpool
After coming through Leeds United’s academy, Harry Kewell made a big impact in the Premier League with the Whites and then Liverpool between 1996-2008.
The Australian, could score all sorts of goals, beat defenders with ease and use his pace to great effect and won the Young Player of the Year in the Premier League in 1999/00.
Games
274
Goals
57
Assists
38
18 Alexis Sanchez Arsenal, Man Utd
Alexis Sanchez’s Premier League career may have been stained slightly due to how his time at Man Utd went, however, he lit up the division with Arsenal between 2014-2018.
Under Arsene Wenger, Sanchez would be the Gunners’ main man in attack, so it’s no surprise that the legendary Arsenal manager would call the Chile star a winger who has “something special”.
Games
154
Goals
63
Assists
31
17 Bukayo Saka Arsenal
Over his career, Bukayo Saka could quite easily rise up this list even higher, and he has already made a big impact for Arsenal since turning professional in 2018.
The England international has become a key player for club and country, cutting in off the right to score with his left foot on a regular basis. Regarded as one of the best attackers in the world, Saka has even been called Thierry Henry’s “favourite player” and “one of the best players in Europe” by Robert Pires.
Games
200
Goals
55
Assists
45
16 Marc Overmars Arsenal
Continuing the trend of great Arsenal wingers brings us to Marc Overmars, who would star in his first season in north London to help the club win their first Premier League title in 1997/98.
The Dutch speedster was called “world-class” by Arsene Wenger and also had great technical ability, so it wasn’t a shock when Barcelona paid big money for Overmars after three years at Highbury.
Games
100
Goals
25
Assists
14
Titles
1
15 Steve McManaman Liverpool, Man City
An academy graduate at Liverpool, Steve McManaman’s ability to dribble past defenders with ease was frightening, and he was key for the Reds out wide in the 1990s.
Going down as an arguably an underrated Liverpool legend, McManaman’s displays caught the eye of Real Madrid, where he would go on to become ‘the most successful English player to head overseas’.
Games
275
Goals
41
Assists
59
14 John Barnes Liverpool, Newcastle
John Barnes was approaching 30 years of age when the Premier League was formed, however, he arguably saved the best years of his career as a winger in the latter stages of his career.
Barnes was even called “the best player” Jamie Carragher has ever trained with and the “best finisher” ahead of Fernando Torres, Michael Owen and Robbie Fowler, which says all you need to know about how good Barnes was at Anfield.
Games
201
Goals
28
Assists
29
13 Freddie Ljungberg Arsenal, West Ham
After scoring seconds into his debut against Man Utd in 1998, Freddie Ljungberg didn’t look back and would go on to become a Premier League great.
The skilful Swedish winger would win two titles under Arsene Wenger and had a knack of scoring important goals for the Gunners. His career in north London has seen him recognised as the 11th best player in Arsenal’s history.
Games
241
Goals
48
Assists
29
Player of the Season
1
Titles
2
12 David Ginola Newcastle, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Everton
Iconic winger David Ginola lit up the Premier League in the 1990s and will be best remembered for his time at Newcastle and Tottenham, so much so he was voted PFA Player of the Year during Man Utd’s treble-winning season.
Ginola’s ability to dribble past defenders with ease was his main attribute, and he made the game look extremely easy in his prime, being named among the top 10 Frenchman to play in the Premier League.
Games
195
Goals
21
Assists
42
Player of the Season
1
11 Son Heung-min Tottenham
Son Heung-min has shown during his time at Spurs that he can do it all. Create, take defenders on, score every type of goal, the South Korea star has lit up the division for more than 10 years now.
Regarded as ‘the best finisher in world football’, Son also became the first player from Asia to score more than 100 goals in the Premier League and even won the Golden Boot with 23 goals in 35 games in 2021/22.
Brendan Rodgers has enjoyed another successful season in charge of Celtic, and it could get even better if his side wins the SFA Cup final later this month.
The Hoops travel to Hampden Park to take on Aberdeen at the national stadium with the chance to secure a domestic treble, having already won the Scottish Premiership and the League Cup.
Celticmanager BrendanRodgerscelebrates with the trophy after winning the League Cup
Rodgers led the team to the SFA Cup trophy and the Premiership title in his first season back at Parkhead in the 2023/24 campaign, as he came in to replace Ange Postecoglou in the summer of 2023.
It has been an incredibly successful return to the club for the Northern Irish head coach, whose team won the title with a 5-0 win over Dundee United at the end of last month, and he has had to make some ruthless decisions along the way.
Rodgers is not afraid to make bold or unpopular decisions if he thinks it is the best for the team, and one example of that has been his use of central defender Maik Nawrocki this season.
Why Maik Nawrocki has not been playing for Celtic
The Polish centre-back did not make a single appearance in the Champions League campaign and has only played two matches in the Premiership to date.
He was an unused substitute in the 1-1 draw with Rangers at Ibrox last time out, which is the 28th time that has happened to the defender in the current term. This shows that he has rarely been used by Rodgers despite being available for the entire season.
Nawrocki could not do much more to earn more minutes in the first-team, though, because he took his chances when they came his way against Rangers and Hearts last month.
Due to injuries to Liam Scales, Dane Murray, and Auston Trusty, the former Legia Warsaw star was named in the starting XI for the first time in the campaign against the Gers, and did enough to keep his place against Hearts in the following Premiership match.
Minutes
90
90
Clearances
7
9
Blocks
0
3
Tackles + interceptions
5
1
Duels won
7/10
8/9
Dribbled past
0x
0x
Pass accuracy
93%
98%
Error led to shot/goal
0
0
As you can see in the table above, Nawrocki put in two outstanding performances at centre-back, as he was incredibly reliable on the ball and dominant defensively, with plenty of defensive actions and impressive duel success rates.
However, the 24-year-old colossus has not played a minute of football in any competition since the full-time whilst went in the 3-0 win over Hearts, and Rodgers has explained why that has been the case.
The Celtic boss explained: “I do always prefer where I can a left-footed centre-half on that side, in all honesty because that allows you to get through the pitch quicker and have more speed playing forward.”
Nawrocki is, of course, right-footed and this has led to Scales and Trusty starting every game since that win over Hearts, as one or both of them have been fit and available since then.
Chalkboard
Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.
It now remains to be seen what will happen to the Polish defender in the upcoming summer transfer window, because it seems unlikely that he will be happy with just two league appearances all season.
Whilst Nawrocki is one player who could push to move on from Parkhead of his own volition, there is a player who has played even fewer minutes than the defender who should be moved on by the club – Scott Bain.
Why Celtic should move on from Scott Bain
The 33-year-old goalkeeper has been on the bench in recent weeks, with Viljami Sinisalo deputising for Kasper Schmeichel, but has not played a single minute in any competition this season.
Bain reportedly earns £7.6k-per-week at Parkhead, which is more than Hyun-jun Yang (£6k), Liam Scales (£5k), and Sinisalo (£2.5k), yet has played fewer minutes than Nawrocki in all competitions, as he has not played any at all, domestically or in Europe.
Celtic goalkeeper Scott Bain.
Herald Scotland recently reported that Aberdeen shot-stopper Ross Doohan, who is out of contract this summer, is being considered as a target for the Hoops, as Bain is entering the final 12 months of his deal and could look to move elsewhere.
The 27-year-old ace is reportedly on a weekly wage of £2.7k, which is less than the current Celtic third-choice currently earns, and that means that this switch in goalkeepers could save the Hoops thousands per week, potentially freeing up wages to be used in other areas of the squad.
Doohan could arrive as a cheaper third-choice option for the Scottish giants than Bain, who is earning more than several first-team stars who play regulars, as aforementioned, whilst he has not made an appearance for the club since last season.
The 33-year-old flop played three times in the 2023/24 campaign and pundit Frank McAvennie criticised the goalkeeper, telling Football Insider that having him as an option is “not good enough” for the Hoops.
24/25
0
0
23/24
3
1
22/23
1
4
21/22
2
2
20/21
18
18
19/20
2
2
As you can see in the table above, Bain has only played five league games since the start of the 2021/22 campaign, conceding seven goals in those five matches, and has not played at all this term.
This does not suggest that he has done enough for the club to justify keeping him at Parkhead on more wages than the likes of Yang, Sinisalo, and Scales, who contribute to the team on the pitch, which is why they should ruthlessly ditch him from the squad this summer.
Selling Bain, if there is enough interest in his services from elsewhere, and replacing him with Doohan, who has played 15 league games this season and earns less money per week, could be a shrewd move by the club.
It is now down to Rodgers to be ruthless once again by brutally ditching the veteran goalkeeper from the squad in the upcoming summer transfer window, whilst landing the Aberdeen stopper on a free transfer.
Celtic could sign their next McGregor in shock move for £14m Scotland star
Celtic have been tipped as a possible option for this £13.6m-rated star in the future.
Aston Villa kept their Champions League ambitions intact with an impressive 4-1 victory over Newcastle United on Saturday evening in the Premier League.
The two clubs are both vying for a top-five finish and with it a spot in Europe’s top table next term. Unai Emery’s side defeated PSG in midweek, but this performance will also bolster their confidence ahead of the final few games of the campaign.
Ollie Watkins opened the scoring in the first minute before Fabian Schar equalised for Newcastle.
The second half was all Villa, however, as Ian Maatsen, an own goal by Dan Burn and an effort from Amadou Onana sealed all three points.
The majority of the starting XI performed wonderfully well, but it was Watkins and Morgan Rogers who powered the club to yet another league win.
How Watkins and Rogers performed against Newcastle
Watkins set Villa on their way to all three points after slotting home a deflected opener against the Magpies.
The Englishman also grabbed an assist, registered five total shots and made two key passes before he was subbed off in the 82nd minute.
He is returning to the form of last season and Rogers is someone who is helping him flourish. The attacking midfielder has enjoyed a fine season, having scored 14 goals and recorded 12 assists in all competitions.
Accurate passes
Youri Tielemans (71)
Key passes
Marco Asensio (5)
Ground duels won
Youri Tielemans (8)
Tackles
Ian Maatsen (6)
Shots on target
Morgan Rogers (3)
Against the Toon, Rogers grabbed another assist, completed 90% of his passes, made two key passes and succeeded with all three of his dribble attempts.
Aston Villa
When the pair are playing at this high standard, nothing can stop Villa, that’s for sure. There is one player in the squad who has been the fulcrum which makes everything tick – Youri Tielemans.
The 9/10 star who's becoming Aston Villa’s best player
The Belgian international has been the standout performer for the club this season, showcasing his talents at the highest level.
Five goal contributions in 12 Champions League games proves that the midfielder has been sublime in the competition. Add in another eight goal involvements in the Premier League and Emery has a player who could be in high demand this summer.
Content creator Mark Goldbridge described Tielemans as “Villa’s player of the season this year” following his display on Saturday evening, and it is easy to see why.
Youri Tielemans
Operating in a deep-lying midfield role, the former Leicester City star completed 88% of his passes, took 98 touches, won 11 of his 16 total duels contested and even made three key passes throughout the match – including the assist for Watkins’ opener.
Alongside Boubacar Kamara, Tielemans dominated proceedings and his performance was key in Rogers and Watkins delivering in the final third yet again. Indeed, journalist John Townley awarded the 27-year-old a match rating of 9/10 for his stunning display.
Emery has started the midfielder in every single Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League match this season, highlighting his importance to the club.
Should Villa qualify for Europe’s premier club competition next season while also winning the FA Cup, they will have Tielemans to thank.
Aston Villa in talks to sign "talented ball carrier" likened to Grealish