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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…

According to Calciomercato, Tottenham Hotspur are prepared to pay £54m to land Ajax attacker David Neres in this summer’s transfer window.

What’s the word, then?

Neres enjoyed a terrific 2018-19 campaign for Ajax – scoring 12 times and registering 15 assists in 50 appearances in all competitions.

The 22-year-old has been strongly linked with a move to Everton this summer and the Toffees are said to be in pole position to land the Brazil international.

According to Calciomercato, though, Tottenham are determined to hijack the Merseyside outfit’s move for Neres. Indeed, Mauricio Pochettino’s side are said to be prepared to pay £54m to land the attacker.

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Spurs have already broken their transfer record to bring French midfielder Tanguy Ndombele to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this summer.

However, the capital outfit continue to be linked with a number of players ahead of the start of the new Premier League campaign.

And bringing Neres to London for the 2019-20 season would send out a huge message to the rest of the league and indeed Europe.

Why must Tottenham move for Neres?

As mentioned, Neres contributed 12 goals and 15 assists for Ajax last term, including two goals and two assists in the Champions League as the Dutch giants reached the semi-finals of the competition.

What’s more, the attacker has a record of 29 goals and 32 assists in 99 appearances for his current club in all competitions.

Neres’ numbers are very impressive for a player still relatively young, but there is no question that his versatility will also be hugely attractive to Pochettino.

Transfermarkt have listed Neres as playing on 23 occasions as a left winger last season, 20 times as a right winger and seven times as an attacking midfielder.

He played in all three of those positions during Ajax’s run to the semi-finals of the European Cup and caused a lot of problems with his ability to rotate.

Tottenham need movement around Harry Kane if they are to move up another level in the coming seasons and a summer move for Neres makes a whole lot of sense.

أعلن البرتغالي جايمي باتشيكو المدير الفني لنادي الزمالك، تشكيل فريقه لمواجهة الإسماعيلي، اليوم الأربعاء في الدوري المصري الممتاز.

الزمالك يلتقي مع الإسماعيلي، في إطار منافسات الجولة الثالثة عشر من عمر مسابقة الدوري.

طالع | مباشر بالفيديو | مباراة الزمالك والإسماعيلي في الدوري المصري

ويشهد تشكيل الزمالك، عودة أحمد أبو الفتوح في الجبهة اليسري، كما يقود الهجوم سيف الدين الجزيري. تشيكل الزمالك أمام الإسماعيلي:

حراسة المرمي: محمد أبو جبل.

خط الدفاع: محمود علاء ومحمود الونش وأحمد أبو الفتوح وحازم أمام.

خط الوسط: طارق حامد وأمام عاشور ويوسف أوباما وأحمد سيد زيزو وشيكابالا

خط الهجوم: سيف الدين الجزيري.

طالع | بدلاء الزمالك أمام الإسماعيلي في الدوري.. فرجاني ساسي يجاور بن شرقي ويحتل الزمالك صدارة ترتيب جدول الدوري المصري الممتاز، برصيد 26 نقطة، فيما يتواحد الإسماعيلي، في المركز السابع عشر بـ 8 نقاط.

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The two biggest deals so far in Spain’s top-tier this summer have seen Antoine Griezmann join Barcelona from Atletico Madrid, whilst Eden Hazard has switched Chelsea for Atletico’s rivals Real. But what does the rest of the transfer window have in store? Today’s La Liga transfer roundup discusses Barcelona’s interest in Junior Firpo, the future of Gareth Bale and Malcom’s potential departure from the Camp Nou.

Barca edge closer to Firpo

Report: AS is reporting that the departure of Pep Segura as Barcelona’s sporting manager will facilitate Junior Firpo’s rumoured transfer from Real Betis to the Blaugrana. The 58-year-old was said to not be a big fan of the Spain U21 international. Barca are hoping that the deal can be completed this week so that the defender can travel to the USA with the squad on Monday.

Verdict: There has been a fair amount of talk linking Firpo to the Catalan club, and so this deal looks likely to go through. It appears to be more a question of when rather than if. Barcelona have plenty of talent and a plethora of quality all over the pitch, apart from at left-back. Jordi Alba is currently Ernesto Valverde’s only option there, so Firpo’s arrival would be a welcome addition to the squad. At just 22 years of age, he could one day replace Alba as Barca’s first choice on the left side of the defence, and his ability to play left-midfield shows a certain versatility, although it is questionable how much use that will be considering the current manager favours a 4-3-3 with two wingers rather than wide midfielders.

How likely is the deal? 8/10

Real “reopen the track” to Tottenham for Bale

Report: As per Tuesday’s print edition of Sport (via Sport Witness), Real Madrid have “reopened the track” for Gareth Bale’s potential switch to Tottenham. The Wales international was close to a move to Jiangsu Suning, but Florentino Perez’s financial demands scuppered the deal.

Verdict: Bale is almost certain to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, especially considering that Zinedine Zidane has made it so blatantly clear that he does not want the winger at the club. Whilst a return to Tottenham would make sense from a sentimental point of view, financially, it doesn’t seem viable. The 30-year-old currently earns £300,000 a week at Los Merengues and will reportedly not take a pay-cut to leave. Tottenham, meanwhile, only have one player that takes in £200,000 or more every seven days in Harry Kane. Spurs would need to break their wage structure to take him back, and that does not seem like something Daniel Levy would be willing to do. Real, therefore, would likely need to subsidise the former Southampton man’s move to London.

How likely is the deal? 4/10

Zenit in swoop for Malcom

Report: According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Barcelona are close to reaching an agreement with Zenit St Petersburg for the sale of Malcom. Talks between the two clubs are ongoing, with Javier Ribalta, the Russian team’s sporting director, apparently already in Catalonia to complete the deal.

Verdict: What a disappointing 12 months it has been for Malcom. His performances in 2017/18 for Bordeaux were so impressive – he scored 12 goals and provided seven assists in 35 Ligue 1 games – that several clubs declared an interest in him last summer, and Barcelona were so desperate to sign him that they even hijacked the 22-year-old’s move to AS Roma. But he barely got a look in during the last campaign, and made just 24 appearances in all competitions for the La Liga outfit. He has been linked with Everton and Arsenal amongst others so far this summer, so an eventual switch to Russia would be rather anticlimactic. It also seems to be a waste of his ability – surely there is a club from Europe’s top five leagues that would be happy to take him? For Zenit, this signing would be a coup, so kudos to them for putting themselves in a position to make it happen.

How likely is the deal? 7.5/10

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[ad_pod ]This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…Per a report from David Ornstein, Eddie Nketiah is now nearing a loan move to Leeds as he heads to Elland Road to wrap up a deal.

What’s the word?

After Kemar Roofe switched the white of Leeds for the purple of Anderlecht, the Yorkshire club were always going to need to look at bringing in another striker.

Besides the young Ryan Edmondson, Patrick Bamford was the sole forward at the club in terms of senior players so their attacking line was looking particularly thin on the ground.

A move for Andrea Petagna had been touted last week but nothing materialised. As such, Leeds look as though they’ve turned to the loan market once again.

Arsenal’s Nketiah seems as though he could be the latest to arrive, according to Ornstein, who claims he is travelling to Leeds to put pen to paper on a loan move for the duration of the 2019/20 campaign.

Orta comes up trumps

Leeds have had a topsy-turvy transfer window, struggling to bring in players of note to improve the team both in attacking and defensive phases of play.

They landed Helder Costa and Ben White earlier in the window but any striker looked to be thrown out the window when Victor Orta said they were 90% done in terms of their plan this summer.

However, that has taken a twist in the final days of the window with Leeds bringing in goalkeeper Illan Meslier.

Yet it’s Nketiah who Leeds have demonstrated their pulling power with.

Orta has been somewhat questionable during the transfer window but he’s finally come up trumps with this latest reported move.

Ornstein claims that he was able to make an impressive late pitch which convinced him to reject Bristol City and two other clubs in order to push through a temporary move to Elland Road.

Selling the Marcelo Bielsa vision is huge. After all, this is a manager who has managed some top clubs around Europe and under the Argentine, there could be no better place for someone like the 20-year-old to learn.

We’ve already seen the impact he’s had on the likes of Jack Clarke and Tyler Roberts last season.

If there were any ever doubts over whether the Whites could still attract top talent, this will surely put them to bed. For once, Orta is on the verge of truly delivering for Leeds.

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According to Turkish media outlet Fanatik, Fenerbahce are targeting a move for Crystal Palace striker Christian Benteke, and Eagles fans have been quick to react on Twitter.

Fanatik report that the Super Lig club are looking to buy another two or three players before the transfer window shuts having already strengthened their squad this summer, and the Belgium international is one of the names they are keen on.

The report suggests that sporting director Damien Comolli will go to London for talks over a move, with Fenerbahce wanting a deal that would see them loan him with an option to buy.

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That could easily prove to be a tempting proposal for Palace if the money is right, given the 28-year-old only has one year remaining on his contract and has hardly been prolific of late – the centre-forward netted once in 19 appearances in all competitions last term.

Eagles supporters were quick to give their views on the exit link, and many seemed happy at the potential of the goal-shy centre-forward leaving.

In the video below, find out which Chelsea academy prospect is reportedly being lined up to replace Aaron Wan-Bissaka at Crystal Palace…

However, there were those that said they wanted a replacement first, and who can blame them given Alexander Sorloth and Connor Wickham are there only other senior options available right now – the former is yet to get off the mark in the Premier League while the latter has made 42 appearances in four years at Selhurst Park.

Here is just a selection of the Twitter reaction…

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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…

According to The Sun, Fernandinho is “ready to wait” before entering into talks with Manchester City over a new contract.

What’s the word?

The Brazil international has had his season delayed due to his involvement in the Copa America, and his place in the first-team is under threat due to the arrival of big-money signing Rodri.

Despite having just nine months left on his existing deal with the club, The Sun claim the veteran midfielder has such a “strong relationship” with City and that there is “no hurry” on agreeing terms on an extension.

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The report adds both parties are fine with kick-starting negotiations later on in the campaign as Pep Guardiola seeks to make it three Premier League titles in a row.

Experience

Fernandinho has been a cornerstone of City’s success since his arrival from Shakhtar Donetsk back in the summer of 2013. The Brazilian has formed an integral part of the side’s spine and proved his influence for Guardiola last season as he helped them land a domestic treble.

The holding midfielder does all the dirty work in midfield, and allows the Citizens’ forward players to do what they do best. Whilst the signing of Rodri will undoubtedly ease the load and reliance on Fernandinho, the City star offers a wealth of experience and Premier League know-how that the Spaniard simply doesn’t have yet.

Watch how to cross the road like a boss with freestyler Ben Nuttall in the video below…

When the club enter the business end of the season, and are challenging for league titles and European trophies, the Brazilian’s invaluable history will help replace some of the leadership that left with Vincent Kompany’s departure. So, whilst City may feel relaxed right now about negotiating a new contract with their prized midfielder, they simply must ensure they get the job done as soon as possible.

The former Shakhtar ace will be able to enter into discussions with foreign clubs in the January transfer window, and so the onus is really on City to be proactive with their contract talks.

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أكد أشرف قاسم المشرف العام على فريق الكرة بنادي الزمالك، أهمية الفوز على الإسماعيلي في مباراة اليوم بالدوري المصري الممتاز.

وفاز الزمالك على الإسماعيلي بهدفين لهدف في الجولة الثالثة عشرة للدوري الممتاز، بالمباراة التي جمعتهما على استاد القاهرة الدولي، ليواصل تصدره البطولة برصيد 29 نقطة.
 
وقال قاسم خلال تصريحات عبر الموقع الرسمي للزمالك: “النقاط الثلاثة كانت في غاية الأهمية للفريق”، مشيرًا إلى أن لاعبي الزمالك (استسهلوا) المباراة في بدايتها، وكان هناك اطمئنان للفوز بشكل مبالغ فيه”.

وأضاف: “الأداء على مدار الشوطين لم يكن هو المنتظر من الفريق، لكن اللاعبين تداركوا الأمر في النهاية”.

وتابع: “تمكنا من تحقيق الفوز المهم للمحافظة على صدارة الدوري”.

طالع | ترتيب الدوري المصري بعد فوز الزمالك أمام الإسماعيلي

وأتم: “الفوز على الدراويش جاء دفعة قوية قبل خوض الفريق مباراة تونجيث السنغالي بدور المجموعات بدوري أبطال إفريقيا”.

ويستعد الزمالك لمواجهة تونجيث، يوم الثلاثاء 23 من شهر فبراير الحالي، في إطار الجولة الثانية من دور المجموعات لبطولة دوري أبطال إفريقيا.

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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…

According to a report from The Independent, Dani Alves has been ‘touted’ as a potential target to come in and provide cover for the first-team, whilst also being of benefit due to his vast experience in the game.

What’s the word, then?

Well, the Brazil international is without a club after leaving Paris Saint-Germain at the end of last season, but is seemingly keen on finding a new club after a post on his official Instagram account.

/B0ZVCi_nMDD/

The right-back wrote: “Looking for a job , where do I put my resume ? Someone let me know if you have time to read!!”

Alves most recently played at the Copa America this summer alongside Liverpool stars Roberto Firmino and Alisson Becker, where the 36-year-old was named as the best player at the tournament after helping Brazil come out victorious.

Wages may prove to be a stumbling block, but Alves would still be a shrewd capture.

What could he offer Jurgen Klopp?

The main problem at Anfield right now is squad depth.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is the only recognised right-back after Nathaniel Clyne’s knee injury, whilst Andy Robertson is the only left-back after Alberto Moreno left – Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Alisson, Naby Keita, Xherdan Shaqiri and Sadio Mane still haven’t begun pre-season either.

James Milner can cover in both full-back positions, but whilst the Englishman is versatile, Alves’ ability to cover a number of positions is very impressive and would be a major help for the Reds.

As per the former Barcelona man’s WhoScored page, the 5 foot 8 star played at right-back, right defensive-midfield, right-midfield, centre-midfield, centre defensive-midfield and as a centre attacking-midfielder last term – even though he specialises specifically at right-back, having such a versatile option would be a huge help for Klopp.

If Alexander-Arnold got injured, Alves could cover. If Milner got injured (God forbid), Alves could cover his midfield position or the full-back areas he’s always available for. If Klopp wanted something different at CAM, Alves is there – the options he presents to the German boss are endless.

Alves recorded three goals and seven assists for PSG in both Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France last term, proving he still has the ability to amass decent numbers despite his age.

The Brazilian appears to be comfortable in a number of positions and would be a huge addition to Klopp’s ranks given his astounding versatility.

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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news…

Ryan Kent’s future is looking a little bleak following the latest update from Rangers manager Steven Gerrard.

What’s the latest?

The 22-year-old spent the whole of last season on loan at Rangers and there has been speculation linking him with a move away from Anfield this summer.

Along with Leeds, Rangers have been linked, but Gerrard has seemingly ended his interest in the midfielder, a decision which leaves Kent in limbo.

He has spent time on loan at four different clubs and is getting to the age where his Liverpool career is make or break. But since he has made just one senior appearance for the club, it is unlikely he has a future with the Reds.

Time running out at Liverpool

When players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harry Wilson are proving their worth in the Premier League at a younger age (very slightly in the latter’s case), it has to be questioned whether the 22-year-old has any kind of future at Anfield.

He has had multiple opportunities to impress, too, but struggled to make an impression at Bristol City and Freiburg – failing to find the net for either club – and although his level of performance improved under Gerrard at Rangers with six strikes and nine assists, he is still some way below his Liverpool teammates.

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With Liverpool looking to challenge for the Premier League title and retain the Champions League, Jurgen Klopp is often rigid in his selection choices. Last season, established Premier League players like Xherdan Shaquiri, Divock Origi and Dejan Lovren managed just 26 starts combined in the top flight.

If those types of players are struggling to break into the starting line-up, then there is little chance for Kent. And with the European transfer window about to slam shut, it seems the best he can probably hope for this season is the odd cup appearance.

That will no doubt affect his development considering how crucial these years often are to a young player’s development.

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Yesterday’s Premier League transfer roundup entailed news on Giovani Lo Celso, West Ham’s interest in Gary Cahill and two new signings for Aston Villa. Today’s edition highlights Mario Mandzukic’s impending move to Manchester United, Crystal Palace’s rejected bid for Reece James and Jetro Willems’ rumoured move to Newcastle United.

Mandzukic close to United switch

Report: Mario Mandzukic is close to a move to Manchester United from Juventus according to Tuttosport. A deal could be completed on Monday, with the Old Lady asking for a fee between €10m (£9.1m) and €15m (£13.7m). The former Croatia international is willing to make the move to Old Trafford.

Verdict: This is a surprising one on paper, but it may make more sense in the coming days and weeks. The former Bayern Munich striker was said to be included in Juve’s bid for Romelu Lukaku, and this may have some impact on that potential transfer. The 33-year-old has a fantastic track record, having scored 188 goals in 476 career appearances and won 23 trophies. He is approaching the end of his career but still managed to strike 10 times last season. It would be hoped that he does not become the first choice at Old Trafford, but he can provide an interesting back-up option for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to look to in times of need.

How likely is the deal? 8/10

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Chelsea reject James bid

Report: As per The Independent, Chelsea have rejected a bid of £25m for Reece James from Crystal Palace. The offer was immediately knocked back by the Blues, who want the 19-year-old to sign a new, long-term contract at Stamford Bridge.

Verdict: James is yet to make 50 career appearances and has just completed his first full season in professional football, yet he has already been the subject of such a large approach. Of course, Palace have a lot of money to spend following the sale of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, but this is still surprising. The fee is probably down to the 19-year-old’s impressive performances for Wigan whilst on loan last campaign. The England U2o international played in all but one of their Championship matches and picked up a trio of awards at the Latics’ end-of-season honours: Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year and Goal of the Season. His future looks bright, which is why Frank Lampard and co should want to keep him at Stamford Bridge for as long as possible.

How likely is the deal? 3/10

Newcastle book in Willems medical

Report: Journalist Miles Starforth is reporting that Newcastle have booked in a medical for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Jetro Willems. Personal terms are said to be agreed, with the deal expected to be a loan with an option to buy.

Verdict: Willems was one of the few regular performers at Eintracht Frankfurt to not have a good season last time out, registering a disappointing 6.31 average rating with WhoScored. The Dutch international failed to nail down a starting spot and received fewer and fewer minutes as the season progressed. Still, he showed early promise at PSV and has been capped 22 times by the Netherlands. At just 25 years of age, he has plenty of time to rediscover his best form. The Toon have two options at left-back in Paul Dummett and Achraf Lazaar, but the latter spent the second half of last season out on loan, albeit under new Toon manager Steve Bruce at Sheffield Wednesday. Whether the 58-year-old thinks the Morocco international has what it takes to make it in the Premier League is another question. The arrival of Willems, at least, would not break the bank.

How likely is the deal? 7/10

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