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Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita is wanted by a trio of heavyweight Premier League clubs, according to a new transfer rumour that has emerged.

The Lowdown: Keita’s struggles continue

The 27-year-old’s Reds career has ultimately been a hugely frustrating one, having arrived with such a massive reputation from RB Leipzig back in 2018.

A mixture of injuries and inconsistent form has held Keita back, with the Guinea midfielder only making 117 appearances in just over four years at Anfield.

The midfielder’s current Reds deal expires at the end of this season and a new update suggests he could be heading elsewhere.

The Latest: PL trio eye up move

According to 90min’s Graeme Bailey on Twitter, Keita is wanted by Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham – all of whom are eyeing him up on a free transfer next summer:

“A host of clubs are keeping a close eye on Naby Keita’s situation at Liverpool. The possibility of landing him on a free transfer next year is appealing. Arsenal, Chelsea and Spurs amongst a raft of clubs maintaining a watching brief.”

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The Verdict: Time to move on?

When Keita is fit and firing, he can be an influential performer. Indeed, Virgil van Dijk once called him ‘world-class’, but his lack of availability is a major issue.

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Liverpool’s midfield has looked ageing and slow this season, and having the Guinean fit for every game would have made such a difference in taking the pressure off the likes of Fabinho, Thiago, Jordan Henderson and James Milner.

Given Keita’s ongoing fitness issues, it makes sense to part ways when his contract expires, although if he can prove himself between now and May, the club may yet consider an extension.

North East reporter for The Daily Mail Craig Hope has revealed that Graeme Murty is ‘in talks’ to take over as the new Sunderland U21 manager.

The Lowdown: Left Rangers

Murty left Glasgow Rangers as their Head of Elite Academy Development back in November of last year, as the club hailed him for his ‘outstanding’ service over five years in Scotland.

He had played a leading role in the development of their Academy players and practices, leading their development squad to success in the SPFL Reserve League as well as managing their first steps into the UEFA Youth League in 2019.

The Latest: Sunderland talks

Taking to Twitter, Hope has revealed that Murty is now ‘in talks’ to take over as U21 boss at the Stadium of Light:

“Understand Graeme Murty, the former Rangers manager, is in talks to take over as Sunderland Under-21s boss.”

The Verdict: Smart appointment

Given Murty’s previous success at a big club like Rangers, this seems like a very smart appointment by the Black Cats.

He had a six-month spell as Gers manager in the 2017/18 season, accumulating 1.9 points per game, while for their B team, he managed an even more impressive 2.14 points per match (Transfermarkt).

As a player, Murty made over 80 appearances in the Championship, and so knows the league well.

Nonetheless, the 47-year-old could excel as manager of the U21’s, before potentially being promoted up to the first team’s backroom staff in the near future, or earning himself another significant job away from the club.

Now backed by mega-rich owners, Newcastle United are a far greater force in the transfer market than they were during the Mike Ashley era, having only recently secured the club-record arrival of Alexander Isak.

For all the focus on potential incomings, though, manager Eddie Howe could well save PIF millions by promoting from within, with the Magpies having a handful of emerging prospects who could well be unleashed on the first team in the near future.

One such academy talent is that of midfielder Joe White, with the 19-year-old yet to feature at senior level despite having impressed in the youth ranks, having previously scored eight goals and provided nine assists in just 33 games for the club’s under-18s.

The Carlisle-born starlet also impressed after joining Hartlepool United on loan in January, registering three assists in just 16 appearances for the League Two outfit.

There had even reportedly been interest in the playmaker from Old Firm rivals Celtic and Rangers – among others – prior to that, albeit with the Englishman subsequently quashing such speculation by signing a new long-term deal at St James’ Park in March.

While another temporary exit was mooted over the summer for the “talented” starlet – as dubbed by Howe – no such move came to fruition, ensuring that the youngster is available to be called upon by the former Bournemouth boss.

A chance in the first team should well be afforded to the attacking midfielder amid the current injury woes at the club, with Jonjo Shelvey facing an extended period on the sidelines, while January addition Bruno Guimaraes has been out of action of late.

With midfield options already limited, there should seemingly be a chance for White to stake his claim as the season progresses, with fellow academy prospect Elliot Anderson having already managed to take on a more prominent role in the early weeks of the season by making four appearances thus far.

It would certainly be a positive statement for the club’s youth department if those two academy graduates could go on to become key figures for the Tynesiders over the coming years, and it’s a mouthwatering prospect to imagine the pair running riot in midfield for Howe’s side.

Amid the recent interest in Leicester City’s James Maddison – who could cost more than £60m – Newcastle could well avoid splashing the cash by turning to young White instead.

All the transfer talk concerning Scottish champions Celtic appears to be centred around whether or not Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley will make the move to Parkhead.

What’s the word?

Recent reports have suggested that the Old Firm giants are interested in signing the 28-year-old before the September deadline, albeit with a host of Premier League clubs also in the race for his signature.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke – speaking to GIVEMESPORT – has given his backing to the idea of the Englishman joining the Glasgow side this summer, albeit while outlining the potential risk that could come with it due to his failings at Stamford Bridge of late.

The transfer insider stated: “It would be an exciting signing, just because of who he is. He’s a top player, he’s played in the Premier League for Everton and Chelsea, although his career has stalled in the last few years, so it would be a gamble in some respects if Celtic were to sign him.”

The 33-cap playmaker – who has just a year remaining on his current deal in west London – appears to be surplus to requirements under Thomas Tuchel after having not been handed a shirt number for the new season.

Sensation

While there may be those at Celtic Park questioning the wisdom of signing a player who made just a solitary league start last season, the overriding feeling seemingly mirrors that of O’Rourke, with huge excitement as to the potential impact he could have in the Scottish Premiership.

Pundit Kevin Campbell has certainly given his backing to the switch, stating that: “I think he’ll be a sensation up there I really do. A strong side like Celtic, the way they play, his dynamism from the midfield, the way he can dribble, shoot, beat players, I think he’d be a revelation at Celtic.

“I think that could be good for him. He could go up there for a year, do the business, and then he’s a free agent. I think he’ll do great up there.“

As has proven the case with Barkley’s former Three Lions teammate, Joe Hart, a move north of the border can well inspire a new lease of life for a player of undoubted talent who is undergoing a tricky spell in their career.

While it has been an extended stint without regular football for the former Everton man of late, having made six just league outings last season, he has still managed to rack up a respectable tally of 12 goals and 11 assists in his 100 appearances in the English capital thus far.

Equally, in what was arguably his only regular run in the side under Maurizio Sarri during the 2018/19 season, the £10.8m-rated ace recorded an impressive haul of five goals and six assists in 48 games in all competitions, proving that perhaps all he may need is the faith of a manager.

Once likened to compatriot Wayne Rooney during his time at Goodison Park – where he netted 27 goals and provided 28 assists in 179 games – the £96k-per-week man no doubt has unquestionable natural talent, with the Liverpool-born gem simply needing a new stage to show it.

If handed the chance, he could well become a ‘sensation’ for Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou.

The agent of Roma winger Nicolo Zaniolo is in contact with Tottenham Hotspur to see whether a resolution can be reached over a potential transfer.

The Lowdown: Zaniolo links

On Monday, Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Spurs remain interested in the 23-year-old, but their current offer – a loan with an obligation to buy for £21.14m – doesn’t meet the Serie A giants’ valuation.

Tottenham were handed a boost in their pursuit when Juventus, another club interested in the youngster, pulled out of the race, having switched their attention to alternative targets (via Football Italia).

However, Roma have still refused to lower their £42m price-tag on Zaniolo, leaving the two clubs stuck at a crossroad.

The Latest: Agent now involved

According to the print edition of Il Tempo (08/08/22 – as relayed by Sport Witness), Zaniolo’s agent, Claudio Vigorelli, is “talking to Tottenham to see if there are margins for an offer in line with AS Roma’s demands: €50m cash, with no counterpart.”

Giallorossi boss Jose Mourinho would apparently like to keep the Italy international, but it is thought that if a suitable offer came in, the Serie A outfit would cash in on the winger.

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The Verdict: Great signing but seems unlikely

Given his underlying statistics, it seems Zaniolo would certainly fit in well playing in Antonio Conte’s fast-flowing side.

As per FBRef, compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, the 23-year-old ranks in the 93rd percentile for shots total and in the 90th percentile for progressive passes received, boasting similar traits to Adama Traore, another target for Conte.

Once dubbed a ‘lethal playmaker’ by journalist Zach Lowy, Zaniolo would add further depth and quality to the Lilywhites’ squad.

However, with the two clubs so far apart in their valuations, this appears to be an unlikely deal if Spurs aren’t going to budge on their offer.

Manchester United have ‘shown some interest’ in AC Milan centre-back Fikayo Tomori, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato (via Sport Witness).

The lowdown

The Guardian reported in April that signing a centre-back would be one of the summer priorities for new United manager Erik ten Hag. The Red Devils have made one new signing so far, bringing in left-back Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord for an initial £13m.

Tomori came through the youth ranks at Chelsea before moving to Milan for £25m in 2021 following a successful loan spell. In his first full season with the Rossoneri, the England international helped them to win Serie A for the first time since 2010/11.

The latest

Calciomercato reported (via Sport Witness) that Milan are planning to commit Tomori to a new contract which will run until 2027, warding off any suitors in the process.

United have expressed their admiration for the 24-year-old, but he has apparently told his agent that he isn’t interested in leaving the San Siro this summer.

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The verdict

You can see why United might be interested in Tomori. He started 30 out of a possible 38 league games for Stefano Pioli’s champions last season, with their defensive record the strongest it’s been for a decade.

The Englishman defends on the front foot, ranking in the 92nd percentile for pressures per 90 minutes,. He also reads the game well, placing in the 80th percentile for interceptions among centre-backs in Europe’s top five leagues (via FBRef).

Milan technical director Paolo Maldini has called him ‘quick’ and ‘hard-working’, while another Rossoneri defensive legend in Franco Baresi said that the ‘skilful’ 24-year-old is is ‘definitely one of the most promising prospects out there’.

A move may not be possible this summer, but who’s to say that Tomori won’t want another crack at the Premier League in a couple of years’ time?

Aston Villa transfer target Gabriel Barbosa could be a ‘really good’ acquisition for the club, in the view of transfer insider Dean Jones. 

The lowdown

According to a recent report from 90min, the striker was a target for Villa during the January transfer window, and NSWE are still thought to be ‘keeping tabs’ on his situation with a view to a potential move.

Nicknamed ‘Gabigol’, Barbosa currently plays for Brazilian giants Flamengo after making a £15.75m move from Inter Milan in January 2020.

The Athletic’s Gregg Evans has already written that Steven Gerrard wants to add another centre-forward to his ranks in the coming weeks.

The latest

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones pointed out that Barbosa has been representing Brazil, the world’s top-ranked international team. The 25-year-old made Tite’s squads in September and October 2021 and January 2022, scoring against Venezuela and Uruguay.

Jones said of the Flamengo marksman’s links with Villa: “I think Gabigol could be [good enough], to be honest. I mean, he’s a Brazilian No.9. If he’s good enough to get into that set-up, he’s got to be good enough to play for Aston Villa, surely.

“We don’t obviously know yet if he’s Champions League class, but he’s kind of proven that he’s world-class on an international basis, so I feel Gabigol might be a really good get for a club like Aston Villa.”

The verdict

Barbosa’s record for Flamengo is sensational – 158 games, 131 goal involvements (103 goals, 28 assists).

Therefore, it should come as no surprise that he was named in the IFFHS South American Team of the Year in 2021, alongside Neymar, Lionel Messi and Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez.

However, it would still be a gamble to move for the £23.4m-rated marksman, who struggled during his previous stints in Europe with Inter Milan and Benfica. He made just 15 appearances combined across those two spells, netting only two goals.

Therefore, you might wonder whether he can deliver in the Premier League, the top-ranked division on the continent.

Manchester United are eyeing up a dream swoop for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong as Erik ten Hag aims to strengthen his side ahead of next season.

The Dutch manager will be looking at rebuilding a stagnating Man Utd squad and taking them back to challenging Manchester City and Liverpool for domestic honours.

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In order to do this, the Premier League side needs quality in all areas and a winning mentality which hopefully the new coach can bring having won silverware at Ajax.

One move that the club must make is for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong. United’s opening bid for the player was rejected last week, with the La Liga side holding out for a deal worth €100m (£85m) to convince them to sell.

Ten Hag has worked with the player when they were both at Ajax and this relationship can only be beneficial for United going forward as they look to add some star quality to the squad.

FB Ref’s similar player model has compared de Jong to Real Madrid’s Luka Modric and the two share the ability to go about their business without much fuss or fanfare and this is exactly what United needs going forward.

Both players possess excellent passing ability, with de Jong (91%) and Modric (90%) giving their respective sides the best chance for success by consistently making accurate passes.

Modric is the master of creating big chances during the season (10) and while de Jong (3) trails, there is no doubt that the Croatian international’s experience is a big factor behind this stat.

The Dutchman certainly appears to be better defensively than Modric making more tackles per game (1.1 to 0.6) and being dribbled past less (0.3 to 0.8).

These are attributes that will be a big bonus if he does join Man Utd, with their shoddy defence, he could help the side on both fronts, attacking when required and also providing effective defensive support.

If the 25-year-old – who was dubbed a “pure genius” following his move to Spain – keeps improving, he may well go on to surpass Modric.

AND in other news, MUFC now in talks to sign £51m-rated “incredible talent”, he’s a huge Rashford upgrade…

An MLS and USMNT insider has now lifted the lid on a clause in the contract of James Sands that he claims Glasgow Rangers ‘will trigger’ to keep him at Ibrox.

The Lowdown: 18-month loan

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team signed Sands on an initial 18-month loan from New York City FC back in the January transfer window.

They hold an exclusive option to buy the central defender, but the price was not disclosed by the Gers upon their announcement of his arrival.

The Latest: Clause revealed

Taking to Twitter, USA national team insider Tom Bogert has now revealed that the buy-out clause for Sands is set at $6m (£4.8m), which he claims that the Light Blues ‘will trigger’:

“Was told Rangers’ purchase clause for on-loan NYCFC and USMNT defender James Sands is $6 million. Dunno if there was a loan fee too or not. I would assume Rangers will trigger that. Think he’ll be really good this year.”

The Verdict: Activate

Given that Sands is only 21 years of age, his market value is sure to go up, and so paying just £4.8m for him could well turn out to be a bargain in a few years’ time.

The USA international played a total of 14 times for the Teddy Bears over all competitions last season, including in the UEFA Europa League final, and is clearly a squad player that van Bronckhorst values.

Nonetheless, there is a chance that Calvin Bassey could leave this summer, and so the Dutch manager will need enough centre-back options going into the new campaign.

In other news, find out who RFC have now been ‘contacted’ over signing here!

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in a deal to bring Kalvin Phillips to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the summer transfer window.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by The Telegraph, who claim that the Leeds United defensive midfielder is one of a number of players on Antonio Conte’s list of transfer targets in the summer market, with the signing of a new player in the 26-year-old’s position believed to be a priority for the 52-year-old ahead of Spurs’ 2022/23 campaign.

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However, further reports claim that the likes of Manchester United, Aston Villa, West Ham United, Liverpool and Manchester City are also interested in a move for the England international this summer, with the Whites’ expected to demand a figure in the region of £60m in order to part with their academy graduate.

Conte’s next Kante

Considering just how impressive Phillips has been for Leeds since the Whites’ promotion to the Premier League back in 2020, it is easy to see why Conte would be interested in a deal to bring the deep-lying playmaker to north London this summer.

Indeed, while a hamstring injury kept the £45m-rated talent sidelined for a large portion of 2021/22, the 26-year-old undoubtedly proved his ability over 29 Premier league appearances in the season prior, scoring one goal, providing two assists and creating five big chances, as well as making an average of 1.2 key passes, taking 0.5 shots and completing 0.7 dribbles per game.

The £38k-per-week defensive midfielder also impressed in metrics more typical of his position, making an average of 1.6 interceptions, 2.6 tackles, 1.7 clearances, completing 41.0 passes and winning 5.3 duels – at a success rate of 52% – per fixture.

These returns saw the player who Scott Saunders dubbed “unreal” average a quite astonishing SofaScore match rating of 7.21, not only ranking him as Leeds’ best player in the league but also as the ninth-best midfielder in the top flight as a whole.

For comparison, over N’Golo Kante’s – a player who is widely considered to be one of the best holding midfielders currently playing the game, as well as being a former disciple of Conte – 26 Premier League outings in 2021/22, the £45m-rated France international scored two goals, registered four assists and created three big chances, as well as making an average of 0.9 key passes, taking 0.7 shots and completing 1.3 dribbles per game.

The 31-year-old also made an average of 1.2 interceptions, 2.3 tackles, 0.3 clearances, completed 43.1 passes and won 4.6 duels – at a success rate of 57% – per fixture – with these metrics seeing the Chelsea star average a SofaScore match rating of 7.12.

As such, it is clear for all to see that, should Paratici manage to fight off the competition for Phillips this summer, the Italian sporting director could well have landed Conte his next Kante at Spurs – something that would undoubtedly provide Tottenham’s chances of success in the upcoming campaign with a substantial boost.

AND in other news: Contact made: Paratici now in talks for £43m Spurs target, he’s “out of the ordinary”