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Manchester United are reportedly close to the signing of Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona in a move which will surely please incoming manager Erik ten Hag.

What’s the word?

According to a report from AS (via The Faithful MUFC), a deal is close for the transfer of the Dutchman from Camp Nou to Old Trafford.

The report stated that if United make an offer of €70m (£59.6m) then the La Liga side will allow the 25-year-old to leave.

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Ten Hag would then reunite with his former Ajax protégé, and this news will surely excite the Old Trafford faithful.

Better than Paul Pogba

De Jong is currently valued at £63m by Transfermarkt and could well be the marquee signing that Ten Hag needs to make to instantly make an impression on United supporters who are desperate for success.

With the likelihood of Paul Pogba leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract this summer, as Juventus seemingly offer the midfielder a deal to return to Italy, then the Red Devils urgently need another central midfielder.

In the 25-year-old, they would get an instant upgrade on the Frenchman. It’s clear that the Netherlands international offers more of a goalscoring threat from midfield, with four goals this season compared to Pogba’s solitary strike.

De Jong also has a higher pass completion rate than the 29-year-old (90.1% to 83.5%), generates more than double the amount of shot-creating actions (104 to 56) and has made significantly fewer fouls over the course of the season (37 to 56).

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These figures clearly prove that signing De Jong would be a shrewd move, and with Ten Hag knowing exactly what he would get from the Barcelona maestro from their mutual time at Ajax, then it’s a transfer that makes absolutely perfect sense.

With Barca manager Xavi dubbing the midfielder a “genius”, it could be a massive loss to the Spanish side in the long-term, but it would be a tremendous coup to kickstart the Ten Hag era at Old Trafford.

AND in other news, Man United plotting bid to sign “complete” £63m monster, he’d be their own De Bruyne

Everton have had a disappointing season and as a result, many players have been speculated about a move away from the club, with a new update emerging on Richarlison’s potential exit from Goodison Park this summer.

What’s the latest?

According to Goal Brasil, the Brazilian forward’s agent Renato Velasco has been in “talks” with clubs in the top European leagues.

The report suggests that Richarlison is keen on a move to a giant club but prefers to stay in the Premier League, with Manchester United and Real Madrid already showing interest in signing the Everton player.

Lampard set for major disaster

After such a difficult season and a rollercoaster relegation battle, it would be a major disaster for Frank Lampard if he was to lose one of the best players in the squad, especially if they stay in the Premier League next term.

Everton missed out on the opportunity to secure safety in the top-flight after losing to Brentford and going down to nine men at Goodison Park on Sunday, and it could’ve given the Toffees boss a head start in working on the transfer business ahead of next season. However, it will need to continue to be put on pause.

Despite the stressful relegation battle, the £110k-per-week goal-machine who was hailed “hard-working” by teammate Allan, has been highly effective and integral in the challenge for survival scoring five goals and assisting twice in the last nine games, proving he is extremely important to this Everton team.

With that in mind, if he does depart the club, it would surely leave the fanbase at Goodison rather fuming with proceedings.

Losing the 24-year-old who has been dubbed a “match-winner” by former Blues forward Kevin Campbell would be a complete disaster for the club, and they would need to work incredibly hard to replace him this summer if they were to accept an offer to let him leave Merseyside.

The Toffees will play their penultimate Premier League game and last home fixture against Patrick Vieira’s Crystal Palace on Thursday and fortunately for Lampard their chances of survival are still in their hands with another opportunity to secure safety in the league before the last game of the season this weekend.

AND in other news: Rejected for £60k: Everton snub of £135m-rated “cyborg” will haunt Moshiri forever

Glasgow Rangers journalist Jonny McFarlane has been left stunned by some news that he has now seen coming out of Ibrox.

The Lowdown: cinch revelation

As shared by McFarlane on Twitter, the print edition of The Times have reported that concern over the future of Cinch’s five-year partnership with Scottish football were eased by the Teddy Bears’ Glasgow arch-rivals winning the title.

There were fears that the company would tear up their contract should Rangers have been victorious again, as the club have maintained that they cannot comply with the car dealers because they already have a contract with chairman Douglas Park’s used-car dealing firm.

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Cinch were left furious when white tape was placed over their logo during interviews with both Giovanni van Bronckhorst and the players in a win away to Motherwell in April.

Most of the Scottish clubs are dependent on the income they get from sponsors, notably Cinch, and some have even ‘discussed acting against’ the Light Blues, according to one director.

The Latest: McFarlane stunned

Taking to Twitter, McFarlane of The Rangers Review was left stunned by the news, claiming that some of the quotes from SPFL sources were ‘remarkable’.

He tweeted: “Remarkable quotes buried in this story from The Times. SPFL source saying some clubs pushed for class action law suit against Rangers over cinch deal and that a title win would have been a “stress point”.”

The Verdict: Worrying

Of course, the Gers may not be as affected financially as some of the other sides in the Scottish pyramid, given their progress in the Scottish Cup and Europa League, but the money would start to add up if Cinch were to cancel their five-year partnership.

Therefore, they need to try and come up with a compromise as soon as possible, not just for their sake but to also help out the other Scottish clubs.

Nonetheless, this seems like a story which will drag on through the summer, as Cinch contemplate whether to keep sponsoring Scottish football for next season.

In other news, find out who RFC are now set to offer a ‘massive’ new deal to here!

Everton could reportedly now sell Salomon Rondon this summer as Real Mallorca consider making an offer.

The Lowdown: Flop

It is safe to say that Rondon has been a flop since arriving at Goodison Park in the summer, having managed to score just once in the Premier League in 20 games.

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His last match summed up his time on Merseyside perfectly, as he got himself sent off for what Sky Sports pundit Andy Hinchcliffe described as a ‘reckless’ challenge in a 3-2 loss at home to Brentford, which could have ended up as what costed them dearly if the relegation threat had been realised.

The Latest: Offer considered

As per The Daily Mail, Spanish club Real Mallorca are now considering making an offer for Rondon, as Frank Lampard is expected to overhaul his attack.

He has one year left on his current deal at the Toffees, with the option of a further year, so the summer presents a good time to sell him, should they want to recoup any decent transfer fee.

The Verdict: Get rid

It has come to the point where the Blues simply need to get rid of Rondon, and reinvest in a new striker for the future.

The 32-year-old is currently earning £43,000-per-week, and so EFC could do with getting his wages off of their books to free up room for any potential additions.

Sadly, it just has not worked out for Rondon, who was signed by Rafa Benitez for the third time in his career, a player that the former Everton manager clearly loves.

Nonetheless, now is the time for both him and the club to part ways.

In other news, find out which ‘outstanding’ leader the Toffees are now favourites to sign here!

Manchester United’s hopes of signing Ajax defender Jurrien Timber this summer have taken a blow, with the Dutch centre-back reportedly concerned about his prospective playing time at Old Trafford.

What’s the word?

The Red Devils have been heavily linked with the 20-year-old in recent weeks, with the youngster seemingly keen on following his former manager Erik ten Hag to the Premier League.

However, Dutch news outlet De Telegraaf have now thrown a spanner in the works, with their report claiming that Ajax are growing increasingly confident of keeping Timber in Amsterdam, as he targets a regular starting spot for the Netherlands ahead of the World Cup in Qatar later this year.

Ten Hag will be gutted

Defensive reinforcements are going to be pivotal for United this summer if they are to improve on what was a disastrous 2021/22 campaign.

The Red Devils shipped 57 goals in the Premier League and finished with a level goal difference, while they also produced shocking performances against Middlesbrough, West Ham and Atletico Madrid to crash out of all three knockout competitions in the round of 16 or an earlier stage.

Despite being United’s best-performing defender in the league last season according to WhoScored, recent reports have suggested that Ten Hag does not rate Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Timber would have been an excellent replacement for the former Crystal Palace man, as he can also fill in at right-back.

The Ajax youngster averaged a superb 7.40 rating from WhoScored for his performances in the Eredivisie this season and is highly rated by Ten Hag, who made him a regular presence in the side, so the 20-year-old would surely be an excellent addition to the Dutch manager’s squad at Old Trafford.

The new United boss spoke highly of Timber earlier in the summer, saying: “He is another great leader that was trained at Ajax. Besides his football skills he has the personality to become a captain.”

Although Ten Hag has experienced defenders such as Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof at his disposal next season, he should perhaps consider making certain assurances to the £27m-rated Timber to ensure that the youngster ends up at Old Trafford this summer. Otherwise, the Red Devils risk losing out on a serious talent.

In other news… United can sign Ronaldo 2.0 with wonderkid who has a “big career ahead of him”

Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling could now be tempted away from the Etihad Stadium in pursuit of a new challenge, according to ex-BBC pundit Noel Whelan.

The Lowdown: Real Madrid interested in Sterling

According to a recent report by The Times, Spanish giants Real Madrid have stepped up their interest in the 27-year-old as the Sky Blues winger ponders his future at the Manchester club.

Sterling is set to be out of contract at the end of next season, so he will soon sit down with City executives and decide whether or not to commit his long-term future to the Premier League champions.

According to Transfermarkt, the England international has a current market valuation of £76.5m, but with his contract running short, Real Madrid may be able to sign the winger away for less than that.

The Latest: Whelan’s claim on Sterling

Whelan, who used to work as a pundit for BBC Radio, has claimed that it will be difficult for Sterling to resist the lure of Los Blancos.

Speaking with Football Insider, the 47-year-old claimed: “I think there are very few clubs capable of prising a player away from Man City right now.

“You’re talking about Barcelona, Real Madrid, and possibly Paris Saint-Germain. It would be extremely difficult to turn them down.

“The history says it all for Real Madrid, and Sterling would enhance them even more and give them another option.

“It’ll be a tempting offer. There aren’t many who can say no to Real Madrid when they come calling.

“He’s won pretty much everything at Man City, so maybe he just needs that fresh challenge. This certainly isn’t the first time this has been spoken about.

“He just isn’t getting enough game time.”

The Verdict: Still a top-class player

Whilst Sterling’s minutes have been more limited in the league this season, having featured 23 times in the starting XI, five fewer than the previous season’s total, the 27-year-old remains “a world-class player” according to Everton manager Frank Lampard.

When compared with positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year, the City forward impressively ranks in the 99th percentile for non-penalty expected goals and the 98th percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area (via FBRef).

Therefore, with such a mercurial talent falling down the pecking order at the Etihad, Sterling could be tempted by a move to Madrid, with more first-team football in mind.

In other news: One of Sterling’s team-mates could also be set for a surprise exit

Aston Villa have been strongly linked with a move for Calvin Bassey, and with Matt Targett securing his future with Newcastle United, there is an opportunity for Steven Gerrard to strengthen the team’s defence.

What’s the latest?

According to the Birmingham Mail, Villa are now prioritising the signing of defensive reinforcements during the summer transfer window, with the left-hand side an area of concern for the club.

As per the report, Rangers’ Calvin Bassey has been identified as a top target for the Villa manager, with the view that he would provide backup across the defence.

Bassey could be “outstanding” for Gerrard

Villa didn’t have the best end to their Premier League campaign in 2021/22, with no wins from their last four games and 19 defeats overall. Gerrard will be looking to improve upon that ahead of next season to ensure that his side can progress from their 14th-placed finish this time around.

Bassey would certainly add depth and could even be a massive upgrade for the defence at Villa Park if he can emulate the performances and deliver the talent that he has displayed at Rangers.

The £25m-valued Villa target, who was dubbed “astonishing” by Owen Hargreaves after last month’s Europa League final, has been a dominant force for the Gers this season, deployed as both a left-back and a centre-back during his 50 appearances in all competitions as he proved his versatility in positioning.

As per SofaScore, in 29 Scottish Premiership appearances, the Nigerian delivered three assists, created one big chance and made 1.5 tackles and 1.2 clearances per game. He won the majority of his duels (63%) and also completed the majority of his dribbles (52%).

Bassey is no stranger to Gerrard, as 22-year-old was given his Rangers debut at left-back under the current Villa boss, who has lavished praise on the player in the past.

Speaking in a press conference following one of Bassey’s performances in the Europa League, the former Rangers boss claimed (via Inside Futbol): “I thought he [Bassey] was outstanding, coming into a game of that level with so little experience. We are all proud of him and with time we believe we can develop him even further.”

If Gerrard can tempt the defender to Villa Park this summer, he will have the opportunity to develop and deploy Bassey’s talents in his team once again to help the Midlanders climb the Premier League table and enjoy a better finish next season.

AND in other news: Romano reveals Villa have “opened talks” for 18y/o starlet, Gerrard surely buzzing

Everton are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Premier League season, and a new potential transfer target has now been identified.

What’s the latest?

According to 90min, the Merseysiders have approached Burnley with an interest in signing winger Dwight McNeil.

The Toffees join fellow Premier League clubs Fulham, Brentford, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Newcastle United with their interest in the 22-year-old.

Another Anthony Gordon

Everton desperately need to identify players who can make an instant positive impact on the team after a difficult and disappointing season for Frank Lampard’s side, and McNeil could certainly add a fresh perspective to the attack.

The 22-year-old was solid for Burnley last season despite their relegation from the Premier League, and although he scored no league goals, he proved that he can offer a formidable presence in his position.

McNeil delivered one assist and created six big chances, making 1.3 key passes and 2.1 tackles and taking 1.4 shots per game, whilst winning the majority of his duels (54%) and also proving successful in the majority of his dribble attempts (60%).

The £72k-per-week gem. who was called “dangerous” and a “real talent” by his former Burnley boss Sean Dyche, has been most comparable to Anthony Gordon in recent months according to FBRef.

Gordon scored four more goals in 2021/22, but McNeil’s attempted more shots with 52 compared to the Everton winger’s 44, while the Clarets ace is more accurate in his pass completion with 69.4% compared to Gordon’s 66.7%.

With that in mind, Everton could add greater depth to their right side by acquiring the services of the 22-year-old, who can also offer defensive attributes and better passing accuracy in games where Lampard’s side may be struggling to retain possession of the ball.

Ultimately, it could be another great piece of business for Farhad Moshiri if he can get a deal over the line for McNeil at a cut-price fee due to Burnley’s relegation, although he could have huge competition from other Premier League clubs so will duly need to offer something special to complete the signing.

AND in other news: Everton could land major Allan upgrade with swoop for £51m gem who’s “one of the best” 

An update has emerged regarding Tottenham’s interest in signing Atletico Madrid winger Yannick Carrasco in the summer transfer window…

What’s the talk?

According to Spanish outlet AS, Spurs are one of three Premier League clubs who are interested in a swoop for the Belgium international.

The report claims that Fabio Paratici has made contact with the La Liga outfit to enquire about a deal as he weighs up a bid for the wide man, alongside Manchester United and Chelsea.

It is stated that Diego Simeone does not want to part ways with Carrasco, so his €60m (£51m) release clause may need to be activated in order for him to arrive in England this summer.

Antonio Conte needs him

Paratici must get a deal for Carrasco over the line before the end of the transfer window, as Antonio Conte badly needs the Belgian next season.

Ryan Sessegnon and Sergio Reguilon managed just two goals and five assists between them from left wing-back in the 2021/22 Premier League campaign. They failed to show that they can provide consistent attacking quality in the Italian head coach’s 3-4-3 system, suggesting that a new player is needed in that position.

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Ivan Perisic has already come through the door but, at the age of 33, there is no guarantee that he will cope with the intensity of a full season in England. This means that an alternative option will be needed, and that is what Carrasco can be.

The Belgian caught the eye last term as he impressed at wing-back for Simeone in La Liga, scoring and creating plenty of goals for the Spanish giants.

Journalist Josh Bunting lauded him earlier this year, tweeting: “I do think Yannick Carrasco has had a good season, one of very few Atletico Madrid players who have maintained their standard and skillset from last seasons title winning campaign, he’s been consistent throughout the campaign. An extremely underrated player in my opinion.”

He ended the season in La Liga with six goals and six assists in 28 starts, averaging an excellent SofaScore rating of 7.09. He produced 1.6 key passes per game and created 10 ‘big chances’ for his team-mates as he showcased his ability to unlock opposition defences.

Therefore, he could provide a significant attacking threat on the left that Sessegnon and Reguilon have been unable to offer, which is why Conte needs him badly. It is now over to Paratici to work his magic on a deal for Carrasco…

AND in other news, Paratici plotting Spurs bid for “clinical” £50m gem, he can be Conte’s new “talisman”…

Former Rangers striker and now Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd has made a big claim on a certain fan favourite at Ibrox which will leave Light Blues supporters buzzing.

What’s the word?

The news surrounds Alfredo Morelos, who with one one year left on his contract, has been the subject of abundant rumours about his future.

Boyd told Sky Sports News [via Daily Record]: “I’ve said it before, every player has a price tag. If someone wants to meet that valuation then I’m sure Rangers will speak about it. As it stands he is a Rangers player and I am sure he will return back for pre-season ready to go to attack the Champions League qualifiers and Premiership when it starts.”

Hopefully the 38-year-old is right and Morelos comes back ready to hit pre-season with everything he has got, aiming to start the new campaign with a bang.

Morelos is key for Rangers

Despite Giovanni van Bronckhorst tying some players down to extended deals towards the end of last season such as Steven Davis and Scott Arfield, the likes of Ryan Kent, Joe Aribo and Morelos are all into the final year of their contracts, so it’s time that Rangers tie them down to longer deals.

Sevilla launched a derisory bid of £7m for the Colombian earlier this week, and whether or not he extends his deal, clubs will surely need to offer much more than that to sign the £11.7m-rated predator.

Since joining the Gers in 2017, the Colombian has scored 113 goals in 224 appearances for the Ibrox giants, with 29 of those coming in European competition, making him the club’s record continental goalscorer.

The 26-year-old has become a talisman as the club wrestled back the Premiership crown from Celtic in 2021 to win their first title in ten years, and while injury ruined the end of his 2021/22 campaign, he still contributed heavily in Europe by netting five goals in Rangers’ run to the Europa League final.

Hopefully Ross Wilson and Van Bronckhorst can sit Morelos down and make him an offer he can’t refuse, as he could go on to become an undisputed club legend.

AND in other news, Rangers now closing in on 7-figure deal for “quality” 126-goal ace, he’s Van Bronckhorst’s dream