All posts by z3u9t.icu

This article is part of Football FanCast’s In Numbers series, which takes a statistical look at performances, season-long form and reported transfer targets…

Manuel Pellegrini opted to start Pablo Zabaleta for West Ham United’s match with Newcastle United, meaning the 34-year-old was directly up against Allan Saint-Maximin.

The decision seemed a little bit strange at the time due to the skillsets of the two players, especially when it is considered that Ryan Fredericks was on the bench, and the events of Zabaleta’s 72 minutes on the pitch didn’t bring much clarity to the decision.

Saint-Maximin’s biggest strength is his dribbling, as per WhoScored, for which he utilises his speed, power and technical ability to drive at defenders, something Pablo Zabaleta struggled to deal with.

Watch West Ham United Live Streams With StreamFootball.tv Below

This can be seen by the fact that the Argentinian didn’t even attempt a tackle, while Saint-Maximin went on to make 5 dribbles throughout the game.

Anybody who watched the game would have seen the Frenchman twice sprinting away from the right-back, with Felipe Anderson being forced to come in and make defensive interventions, which the speed he possesses allowed him to do.

There was also an incident later in the game in which the 22-year-old cut inside and got a shot off unopposed, with Zabaleta stepping off, perhaps wary of getting taken on down the outside.

Zabaleta’s game eventually came to an end when he was substituted off for Fredericks in the 72nd minute with his side 3-0 down.

This was the second game in a row Fredericks started on the bench but, due to the speed and dynamism of Saint-Maximin, the decision was much more perplexing against the Magpies than it was against the Blades.

In order to prevent a similar future mismatch, Pellegrini should consider the speed of his right-back’s opposite number before sending Zabaleta to the slaughter.

This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers.

Everton’s Tom Davies must take his chance at Everton now that Andre Gomes is out injured, says Michael Ball.

What did he say?

Andre Gomes is going to face many months out of action after his horrific injury sustained against Tottenham Hotspur. The nasty ankle fracture forced the 26-year-old to undergo surgery and as he faces a long rehabilitation process fellow midfielders must step up.

Ball believes, despite the sad circumstances, that Davies must be the man to take Gomes’ place and faces a potentially career-defining time at Goodison Park.

The former Everton man told the Liverpool Echo: “It’s come under very sad circumstances but Tom has to grab his chance now.

“Since he’s come into the team, he’s shown the quality he’s got and hasn’t let anyone down,” Ball added.

“I’m made up for Tom and he just needs a good little run now of six or seven games where he’s keeping those 8/9 out of 10 performances going so he can make the spot his own and there could even be opportunities for him in the England set-up.

“Obviously Tom has got to focus on Everton first and foremost but if he can put consistent performances in at his best level, it could really set up his career.”

Career-defining period

Davies has been in the Everton squad for a while now, having burst onto the scene in 2016-17 where he made 24 Premier League appearances. This period saw the academy graduate bag two goals and provide three assists for the Toffees.

Now, at 22 years old, the Englishman has a fantastic opportunity to prove himself as the future of Everton and justify the hype that surrounded his breakthrough.

Marco Silva has been reluctant to play Davies this season, handing him just 283 minutes of league action. However, if the Portuguese international wants to build for the future, he must invest in Davies until Gomes returns.

It will, of course, be months until the former Barcelona man returns.

But now, it is time for Davies to prove to Silva that he is capable of thriving in the heart of Everton’s midfield.

Chelsea are now in pole position to sign a £34 million alternative to Reece James, with manager Enzo Maresca seemingly on the hunt for a new right-back.

Chelsea making transfer plans for 2025

Despite ongoing discontent in the boardroom, with chairman Todd Boehly reportedly keen to buy-out Clearlake Capital's majority shares, the west Londoners continue to be linked with new players and potential exits after a very eventful summer transfer window.

Maresca expected to let £89m Chelsea player go in another high-profile axe

The Italian has already deemed a host of big-names surplus to requirement.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Sep 11, 2024

Chelsea spent around £200 million on 13 summer signings before the deadline on August 30, with Joao Felix, Mike Penders, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Marc Guiu, Renato Veiga, Estevao Willian, Filip Jorgensen, Tosin Adarabioyo, Aaron Anselmino, Caleb Wiley, Omari Kellyman, Pedro Neto and Jadon Sancho all agreeing to join Maresca's new-look side.

They've started the new Premier League season with promise as well, barring an opening weekend defeat to English champions Man City. Chelsea thumped Wolves 6-2 at Molineux after their first loss of 24/25, and were unlucky not to beat Crystal Palace, having dominated the majority of the game whilst creating a host of chances in their 1-1 draw with Oliver Glasner's side.

As has been the theme since Clearlake Capital's takeover in 2022, though, Chelsea are always busy on the transfer front, and it is believed they have their eyes on a few key targets heading into 2025.

After failing to sign Victor Osimhen on deadline day, it is still possible the Nigerian could join in January. His Galatasaray contract has a break-clause inserted, meaning interested clubs are allowed to swoop for him in the winter window, and his new Napoli contract includes a reasonable £63 million release clause.

Appearances

25

Goals

15

Assists

3

Shots Per 90

3.86

Key Passes Per 90

1.05

Successful Take-Ons Per 90

0.73

Chelsea could have a free run over signing Osimhen in January as well, with Arsenal already deciding not to pursue a mid-season deal. The Blues are in the market for a new full-back as well, and it is believed Chelsea could decide to make Lecce defender Patrick Dorgu a priority target.

Chelsea in pole position to sign Vanderson from Monaco

According to CaughtOffside, Monaco ace Vanderson has now entered Chelsea's radar too. It is believed Chelsea lead Man United and Spurs in the race for Vanderson, who is expected to cost around £34 million, and the Brazilian could come as an alternative to Reece James – following the Englishman's serious struggles with injury and availability.

Malo Gusto has performed very well, for the most part, in James' stead – but Vanderson would provide Maresca with another quality option in that position.

“Vanderson has been less consistent recently, but he is still a young player," said ex-Monaco boss Phillipe Clement in 2022.

"He had an exceptional adaptation here [last season]. We have already spoken about that. He is also a player who is and continues to interest lots of big clubs. That can possibly do something to the mindset, not that he didn’t have his feet on the ground, but Vanderson is very ambitious and a huge perfectionist.

“Every day he wants to be better than the last. That can give him a lot of pressure, lots of stress with all of the ambition that he has. We need to manage that more for him. If I left him to it, he would train for 18 hours a day. He is like that. Sometimes we need physical and mental breaks and he is a young player that needs to manage that. He will do it, because he has such a positive frame of mind."

Newcastle United are now believed to be considering using the Marc Guehi money to sign a £100m-rated midfielder, according to a recent transfer update.

Newcastle transfer news

The summer transfer window may now be closed, meaning the Magpies can't make new signings until January, but that isn't stopping Paul Mitchell and Co from getting their ducks in a row for 2025, identifying targets after what many fans believed to be a disastrous summer window.

One such figure is Kevin Zenon, with Newcastle linked with a move for the Boca Juniors midfielder, considering him an exciting long-term prospect. They have even made an initial approach for the 23-year-old winger, whose left foot has been described as "magical".

Meanwhile, Barcelona winger Raphinha continues to be touted as a possible target for Newcastle in the coming transfer windows, as they look to snap up an upgrade to Miguel Almiron. The Brazilian has been linked with a switch to St James' Park numerous times in the past, and they are believed to be willing to match Barca's £52m valuation of him.

It is always important for Eddie Howe and Mitchell to be looking into the future and eyeing signings for the summer of 2025, and it looks as though one exciting player has been identified as an ambitious option.

Newcastle interested in "outstanding" midfielder

According to The Daily Mail's Sami Mokbel, Newcastle are interested in signing Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton next summer, with Liverpool and Manchester City also mentioned as being in the mix. The Magpies of course have money in the coffers after failing with a near £70m deal for Wharton's teammate, Marc Guehi, whose position as Palace captain could now stifle a future move as well.

It has been claimed that the Eagles value the young midfielder at over £100m, and while Newcastle's interest is only thought to be "tentative", he would surely be viewed as a long-term successor to Bruno Guimaraes in the middle of the park.

Wharton could be a fantastic signing by Newcastle in 2025, having enjoyed a meteoric rise this year, joining Palace in January and then being named in England's squad for Euro 2024. It would be a shrewd way to use the Guehi money if a deal for the centre-back is indeed dead in the water.

A gifted young midfielder with elegance to his game, the 20-year-old was lauded by Newcastle legend Alan Shearer earlier this year, who said of him after an eye-catching performance away to Liverpool.

In Wharton, Newcastle wouldn't only be signing a player who could mature into something great as the years pass, but they would also be getting a footballer who is ready to shine in the Premier League for them from the off, having proven himself at Palace.

Newcastle make first approach to sign "magical" new £15m star for Howe

The Magpies could already have their first signing of 2025 lined up.

ByTom Cunningham Sep 6, 2024

Granted, the lure of Liverpool and City acts as a real threat to the Magpies' chances of getting their man, but they should be willing to break the bank for him, having averaged 2.3 tackles per game in the league this season, as well as one key pass per match.

West Ham United have had an extremely busy summer transfer window, already acquiring nine signings for new boss, Julen Lopetegui, as he targets a return to European football for the Hammers.

The club is currently trying to manage outgoings, in order to add a final few additions to the squad before the window slams shut, one of those being Kurt Zouma, who has been subject to interest from clubs abroad.

Zouma made 39 appearances for West Ham in all competitions last season, scoring three goals, and contributing to four clean sheets in his 3,379 minutes played.

West Ham transfer news

According to reports relayed by The Guardian, West Ham are reportedly interested in signing Galatasaray defender, Victor Nelsson. It is believed a deal could be done for a fee in the region of £12m, but the Hammers are currently reliant on sales before making a move.

Other interested clubs include Spanish side Sevilla, French side Lille and Italian side Bologna.

Nelsson made 46 appearances for Galatasaray in all competitions last season, scoring two goals, and contributing to 20 clean sheets in his 3,448 minutes played.

Current West Ham centre back options compared

Once described as "exemplary" by Jacek Kulig, the Danish defender has been highly rated for some time now, attracting interest from top European clubs.

The only current senior right-footed centre-back options at West Ham are Zouma (who could be on his way out) and new signing Jean-Claire Todibo. Therefore, if Zouma was to leave, West Ham would like to address the depth in this area, with someone more comfortable on the ball.

Stats (per 90 mins)

Zouma

Todibo

Progressive Carries

0.20

1.08

Progressive Passes

1.55

5.08

Passes Attempted

36.3

84.3

Pass Completion %

83.7%

89.6%

Tackles

0.76

1.97

Interceptions

0.96

1.27

Blocks

1.18

1.15

Aerials Won

1.89

1.32

From these metrics, you can see how Todibo is a better-suited centre back for Lopetegui's system, where he will be required to play out from the back. His 84.3 passes attempted per 90 compared to Zouma's 36.3, and his 5.08 progressive passes per 90, compared to Zouma's 1.55 show their stark contrast in passing ability.

Where Zouma does excel, is in aerial duels, winning 1.89 per 90, and physically imposing himself with his 6 foot 3, powerful frame. However, the difference between the two in the air isn't a big enough reason to prefer Zouma, when you compare the other factors needed for a Lopetegui defender.

This is where Nelsson comes in, who averaged 4 aerials won per 90, more than double the amount of Zouma, and 51.8 attempted passes per 90, whilst playing in the Süper Lig last season.

Whilst only being 6 foot 1, compared to the 6 foot 3 frames of Zouma and Todibo, the Danish defender still puts his stamp on the game physically, showing his ability to win aerial duels. But he also brings a more comfortable option on the ball than Zouma, which would be better suited to Lopetegui's system.

West Ham's ability to get rid of players surplus to requirements, and replace them with younger, more suitable profiles for their new brand of football, could be a season-defining moment for them, and make it a whole lot easier for Lopetegui to implement his ideas faster.

West Ham and Lopetegui eyeing move for "superb" £12m player alongside Soler

The Hammers could be in for a busy end to the window.

ByTom Cunningham Aug 23, 2024

Newcastle United have already spoken to Juventus about Federico Chiesa, according to a report from Sky Italy journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, via his website.

How many goals has Federico Chiesa scored this season?

Juventus have struggled this season in Serie A and will miss out on Champions League football in the 2023/24 campaign due points deductions.

The Turin outfit finished in seventh – much further down the table than one would expect considering their domestic dominance in the 21st century – and it means we could see some stars depart this summer.

Chiesa was able to contribute on a regular basis despite more struggles with injury, and played on 21 occasions for the outfit. However, the winger was only able to actually start six games throughout the season – his worst ever total.

In spite of this, the forward was still able to produce the goods when he was called upon. He bagged himself two goals and five assists along the way and that was a better tally than his efforts last season, despite the fact he both started and featured in more Serie A games for Juventus during that campaign.

It also meant that the player had a goal contribution rate of 0.74 per 90 – which is his best ever total barring a short spell with Fiorentina before his Juve move.

Do Newcastle United have an interest in Chiesa?

It was recently reported that Liverpool were lining up a cut-price £34m bid for him and were prepared to splash the cash, despite no official offer having been lodged yet. Now, according to a report from Sky Sports' Di Marzio, via his website, the player could indeed be about to try his luck in the Premier League with yet another team throwing their hat into the ring for him.

That's because it appears Newcastle have also asked about Chiesa. No formal bid has yet been made for the £150,000-a-week star however.

After all of his injury issues, it appears as though Chiesa might finally be refinding the kind of form that thrust him into the spotlight. Football journalist Josh Bunting for example stated back in June that Chiesa performed as the player that "we've missed" during a game, adding that he still has "drive" and scores "beautiful" goals.

The player could be back at his best now then – and with Juve perhaps prepared to sell, Newcastle appear to be prepared to capitalise.

Fulham are "trying to sign" Fortuna Düsseldorf midfielder Ao Tanaka alongside Premier League rivals and "an agreement could be reached in the coming days", according to reports.

Who will join Fulham this summer?

The Whites, after a successful first full campaign back in the top flight, are reportedly looking to back manager Marco Silva with fresh faces and won't be letting their star players go for nothing.

Indeed, reports in the last few days have even suggested that Fulham are set to demand a lofty £90 million for star midfielder Joao Palhinha, coming as the likes of Man United, Liverpool and West Ham take interest.

The Portugal international was sensational under Silva last season, prompting his stock to rise dramatically, so Fulham chiefs certainly won't be letting him go on the cheap.

Meanwhile, it has been reported that Fulham are after United midfielder Fred, with manager Erik ten Hag apparently willing to sanction his sale. The Brazilian, who has just over a year remaining on his current deal, is open to joining the west Londoners.

Elsewhere, but staying in midfield, Silva's side are attempting a move for Japan international Tanaka this summer but face a battle with West Ham.

That is according to German newspaper Rheinische Post, who claim both Fulham and the Hammers are "trying to sign" Tanaka and "an agreement could be reached in the coming days".

They also relay comments from Dusseldorf sporting director Klaus Allofs, who states that the 24-year-old could be eyeing a new opportunity.

"It was clear from the start which path Ao would like to go," said Allofs.

"The second division was not what he was looking for. But he didn't come to me either and said he really wanted to leave.

"If there's a situation that makes sense for both of you, then that's totally fine. If that doesn't work, he'll remain our player and do a good job."

Who is Ao Tanaka?

Over his 22 German second tier appearances for Dusselforf last season, Tanaka averaged their second-highest rate of tackles per 90 (WhoScored).

The defensive midfielder also featured at last year's 2022 World Cup, where he faced off against the likes of Germany and Spain in Group E of the tournament.

Avid watchers of the World Cup will remember him as the player who scored an historic winner in their 2-1 group stage win over Spain.

Indeed, Tanaka sealed all three points for his country and one of the shock results of Qatar midway through the second half.

Newcastle United are expected to make some statement signings this summer as Eddie Howe eyes quality reinforcements, according to journalist Dean Jones.

What's the latest transfer news involving Newcastle United?

According to Sky Sports, Newcastle United are in discussions with Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella in an ambitious swoop to try and bring the Italy international to St James' Park this summer.

Any deal for the 26-year-old could cost in the region of £50 million and Magpies boss Howe is said to be a big admirer of the midfielder as he tries to lure him to the Premier League.

Newcastle United are also keen on Leicester City playmaker James Maddison, who has also attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur in his services this off-season, according to The Evening Standard.

Despite Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou's willingness to land the Coventry-born playmaker, Newcastle United are believed to be in pole position to acquire the England international.

Telegraph Sport understand that Newcastle United may not be able to fund a squad overhaul this window due to Financial Fair Play obligations and may only be able to bring in two players in the summer.

The Daily Mail report that Newcastle United will have around £75 million to spend, though that figure could reach the £100 million mark depending on player sales.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, journalist Jones still expects Newcastle United to be active in the market for marquee additions over the next few months.

Jones said: "Newcastle are trying to play things down and I don’t blame them but if they are genuinely aiming to sign five players that can get into the starting XI they are not going to do that with a budget of £75million.

"I’m still expecting them to go big, they just leapfrogged Liverpool, Chelsea and Spurs and have a chance to cement a status among the top four – this is an opportunity that very rarely comes along, so I’m predicting a massive summer haul."

Who else could join Newcastle United this summer?

Football Insider report that Leicester City man Harvey Barnes has been shortlisted by Newcastle United and would be open to a move to St James' Park this window.

The same outlet also claim that Arsenal man Kieran Tierney is a serious target for the Magpies as they look to add another quality left-back to the ranks ahead of next term amid interest from Manchester City.

Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams may secure a quickfire return to the Premier League with Newcastle United, who are said to be keen on the 24-year-old enforcer, according to Telegraph Sport.

Newcastle United look set for a busy summer in the market; nevertheless, it will be intriguing to see how far their budget stretches in light of Financial Fair Play obligations.

Celtic could now consider appointing Red Bull Salzburg boss Matthias Jaissle as their new manager, according to a recent report from 90min.

What's the latest Celtic manager news?

Celtic chiefs are compiling a shortlist of manager targets, with Manchester City's Enzo Maresca at the top, however there are a number of other potential successors to Ange Postecoglou, including Jesse Marsch and Bodo/Glimt's Kjetil Knutsen.

West Ham United boss David Moyes is the Hoops' "priority" target, according to journalist Santi Aouna, with reports indicating the Scot could leave his current role, regardless of whether his side wins the Europa Conference League final tonight.

Alternatively, former player Kris Commons has urged the board to make a "box-office" appointment by going for someone like Graham Potter, as his attacking play-style is "everything you would want" in a modern manager.

Another manager in this mould is Jaissle, with BBC journalist Raj Chohan previously claiming that he plays "liquid footy", and there are now reports that Celtic could consider the RB Salzburg boss as an heir to Postecoglou.

According to a report from 90min, the Hoops could turn to the 35-year-old manager, however a number of other potential options are named, including Marsch, Moyes and Brendan Rodgers.

It appears as though Celtic's interest is tentative at this stage, but the German will certainly be considered.

Who is Matthias Jaissle?

The young manager has started to make a name for himself in the Austrian league, leading RB Salzburg to two league titles and an Austrian Cup, and what is equally impressive is the style of play he has implemented at the Red Bull Arena.

Journalist Raphael Honigstein believes the Nurtingen-born coach could be the "next big thing", and the man himself has spoken of his desire to play "brave and bold" football, even when his side faced tough very tough competition in Chelsea.

BBC's Chohan has also indicated the former FC Liefering manager could be a better appointment than Marsch, given that he evolved Marsch's Salsburg side in possession when the American left to join RB Leipzig.

Despite his age, the Salzburg boss already has ample experience competing for silverware, and he became the youngest-ever manager to successfully defend the Austrian Bundesliga title this season.

Appointing Jaissle would be a risk, as he does not have any experience managing outside of Austria, however he could be a shrewd appointment, given that he has already experienced some success and plays an exciting brand of football.

Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani and his firm Aser Holding Company being involved in a deal to buy a stake in Sampdoria may speed up a sale of the Whites to 49ers Enterprises, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

What's the latest news involving Leeds United and Andrea Radrizzani?

As per BBC Sport, Radrizzani, as part of consortium Aser Holding Company has agreed a deal to buy Italian side Sampdoria and has also apologised to Leeds United fans due to their relegation to the Sky Bet Championship.

The 48-year-old said: "I am sincerely sorry for how this season has unfolded. We have made significant investments to try to keep Leeds United in the Premier League, but in working hard to improve the club, we have also obviously made some mistakes. We are reflecting on the decisions that we have taken to ensure we learn the lessons to improve our club and make progress in the future."

Sky Sports report that Leeds United owner Radrizzani remains in 'advanced negotiations' to sell the club to 49ers Enterprises and their takeover is still set to be completed regardless of the Whites' relegation to the English second-tier.

Leeds United are also in the hunt for a new manager following news that Sam Allardyce has ended his short spell at Elland Road, as per BBC Sport.

Speaking to Football FanCast, journalist Jacobs thinks that Radrizzani's involvement in a deal to purchase Sampdoria may provide a clearer picture of when Leeds United may change hands at ownership level.

Jacobs said: "Sampdoria is an interesting one, that offer that's been accepted, or, let me rephrase, that agreement that is in place is the first step towards acquisition and I think that's really important to understand. So, what Radrizzani and Aser have done is fought off competition and agreed on something in principle to proceed, but now there has to be due diligence at Sampdoria, now there has to be talks with banks around debt refinancing and Radrizzani has to build a fuller consortium, of which I understand QSI, the owners of PSG are a part of as well. From there, probably by early July, something is likely to be completed and then in these months, it will become a lot clearer as to what the roadmap is for 49ers Enterprises to take over at Leeds United."

What now for Leeds United?

While the ownership situation will continue to dominate the landscape at Elland Road, there is also the matter of identifying who will be trusted to lead the club forward as manager of Leeds United next term.

The Guardian report that former Leicester City boss and ex-Chelsea coach Graham Potter have emerged as two candidates in the frame for the job; however, it is unclear whether they would be willing to drop into the Sky Bet Championship to manage Leeds United.

West Bromwich Albion boss Carlos Corberan is also a contender for the vacancy alongside Andoni Iraola as the search for Allardyce's replacement begins to take shape in Yorkshire, according to The Daily Mail.

Leeds United also want a new sporting director to replace Victor Orta, indicating that there could be a major sea change at the club this summer as they look to bounce back in 2023/24.