De Ketelaere can be Leeds’ own Nunez

Leeds United have already spent a significant amount of money on bringing new players to Elland Road in the summer transfer window.

According to Transfermarkt, the Whites have spent just over £52m by securing deals for Marc Roca, Brenden Aaronson and Rasmus Kristensen.

Another Premier League club that have also been busy in the window is Liverpool.

In addition to Calvin Ramsey and Fabio Carvalho, the Reds broke their club-record transfer fee by splashing out a hefty fee of £85m to bring Darwin Nunez to Anfield from Benfica.

With some weeks still left before the summer window closes, Leeds have the chance to secure what could be their own version of Nunez before their 2022/23 campaign kicks off.

Earlier this week, it was reported that the Whites are looking to launch a move to sign Club Brugge attacker Charles De Ketelaere.

In 120 senior appearances for the Belgian club, the 21-year-old has scored 25 goals and delivered 20 assists across all competitions, highlighting the attacking talent he has at a fairly young age.

Having played in 33 league games last season, the youngster found the net 14 times and provided seven assists for his teammates.

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This, in a similar sort of way, mirrors how prolific Nunez was for Benfica last season that eventually caught the eye of Liverpool.

With 41 appearances to his name across all competitions last season, the Uruguayan racked up 34 goals and four assists.

In fact, the new Liverpool attacker is included on a list of similar players to De Ketelaere according to Football Transfers, further highlighting the connection between the two.

Speaking to Het Nieuwsblad (via Goal) about the young Belgian, former Brugge midfielder Gert Verheyen had this to say about him: “His versatility is a huge asset. He is complete, with a mix of physical and technical qualities.”

This versatility was on full display last season as the Belgian international played in numerous attacking and midfield positions for his side.

Moving forward, the prospect of Jesse Marsch getting his own version of Nunez this summer in the shape of De Ketelaere is one that the Leeds hierarchy should do all they can to make a reality.

AND in other news: Jesse Marsch can from “outstanding” duo in Leeds United swoop for £6.75m-rated target

West Ham: Moyes makes Benrahma decision

West Ham United manager David Moyes could be willing to cash in on forward Said Benrahma this summer, according to reports.

What’s the word?

As per respected insider Claret and Hugh, should an offer be submitted for the Algerian ace there is ‘every chance’ that the Hammers would sanction a departure, with it believed that Moyes ‘isn’t a big fan’ of the 26-year-old.

The report suggests that with the future of teammate Nikola Vlasic set to be resolved, with a loan move to Torino in the works, the attention will turn to that of the former Brentford man, who could well be moved on just two years on from initially joining the club on loan.

This follows a recent report in the Guardian that suggested the London Stadium outfit were ‘open to offers’ for the 17-cap playmaker, with free agent Jesse Lingard potentially the man to replace him.

Supporters fuming

Although some supporters may welcome that news, the large majority will no doubt be furious at the prospect of losing such a talented asset this summer, particularly just 18 months on from forking out £25m to sign him on a permanent deal.

There has been some suggestion that Moyes is disappointed with the £58k-per-week star’s attacking output as well as his work defensively, hence the potential desire to cash in so soon into the player’s Irons career.

While that inconsistency was no doubt evident in his debut campaign during the 2020/21 season – in which he scored just one goal in 30 Premier League appearances – the most recent term was far more profitable, as he chipped in with eight goals and provided six assists in 32 league outings.

In the current Hammers squad, only Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio provided more goal contributions in the top-flight, proving that Benrahma has clearly played his part as an attacking threat.

Undoubtedly he may not have hit the heights that he produced in the second tier with the Bees, having scored 30 goals and provided 27 assists in just 94 appearances, yet perhaps it may simply require a gradual adjustment to life in the top level.

Equally, with the likes of Andriy Yarmonlenko and the aforementioned Vlasic set to depart, allowing another exit would leave the former Manchester United boss incredibly short with regards to attacking options, with it seemingly unwise to let the £22.5m-rated gem leave unless adequate replacements or even upgrades can be found.

The Scotsman would no doubt risk the wrath of supporters if he does sanction Benrahma’s departure, only to fail to acquire quality alternatives.

IN other news, Moyes plotting move for “special” £45m “baller”, he’d be a “superstar” for West Ham

Leeds: Ian Abrahams provides Kalvin Phillips update

A move to Manchester City for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips is now looking more likely, according to reliable reporter Ian Abrahams.

The Lowdown: Man City reportedly make Phillips offer

City have been heavily linked with a move for the 26-year-old over recent weeks, with the Premier League champions identifying the Leeds star as an ideal replacement for Fernandinho.

Pep Guardiola is thought to be a ‘huge’ fan of Phillips, with reports earlier this week claiming that the Etihad Stadium club have now made a formal offer.

A bid in the region of £50m could well be enough for Leeds to part ways with the defensive midfielder, who is entering the final two years of his current contract.

The Latest: Abrahams shares Phillips update

Abrahams took to Twitter late on Wednesday evening to provide an update regarding Phillips’ future.

He said: “From what I’m hearing it’s looking more likely now Kalvin Phillips could be set to leave @LUFC for @ManCity this summer.”

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The Verdict: Inevitable?

It does look as if a move to the Etihad is gathering pace for Phillips, with Transfermarkt citing the probability of such a deal at 63%.

City are visualising an agreement at around £45m to £50m, and should one materialise, it is vital that Leeds reinvest those funds over the coming months.

Marc Roca is set to become the Whites’ third signing of the summer but was viewed as competition for Phillips and not a replacement, so Andrea Radrizzani and Victor Orta may need a further two central midfielders to truly replace the England international.

In other news: Radrizzani and 49ers ready to pay fee for ‘huge’ talent as Orta works on next Leeds move

Tottenham: Palmeri shares major transfer news for supporters

Journalist Tancredi Palmeri of Sport Italia has now shared some major transfer news out of Tottenham Hotspur.

The Lowdown: Spurs set for busy summer…

Antonio Conte seems set for a busy summer after guiding the Lilywhites to a top-four Premier League finish and Champions League qualification, subsequently earning Spurs a £150 million equity increase via owners ENIC.

The north Londoners have also confirmed two new arrivals already with both Ivan Perisic and Fraser Forster arriving on Bosman deals ahead of what will be a huge 2022/2023 campaign.

More signings are in the pipeline for Conte as club chief Fabio Paratici takes to the market, aiming to give the Tottenham manager full backing and to orchestrate major deals.

The Latest: Palmeria shares major update…

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Now, as per Sport Italia reporter Palmeri, there has been a big update on Spurs’ striker plans.

As shared by the journalist on Twitter, Bayern Munich have made contact to sign star forward Harry Kane and Spurs are ‘thinking to replace him’ with Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez.

He explained:

“BOOM! Bayern have contacted Tottenham for Harry Kane! And Tottenham are thinking to replace him with Lautaro from Inter according to SportItalia!”

The Verdict: Significant update?

While we believe this move is unlikely to occur given Kane’s importance to Spurs and Conte, it could show the dramatic nature of the window and how this summer may well come up with a fair few twists and turns.

Bayern would have to offer a substantial sum to prise the 28-year-old away from Hotspur Way and it is debatable whether Martinez could fill Kane’s boosts.

The Argentine did rack up 21 goals over last campaign and has previously dazzled for Conte at Inter, yet it’s possible Spurs could sign him without letting Kane go given the Serie A side’s need to sell.

In other news: ‘Very recently’ – Tottenham hold talks over signing ‘one of the top strikers in England’! Find out more here.

Man City: ESPN journalist shares big de Jong update

Reliable journalist Rob Dawson of ESPN has now shared a big Manchester City transfer update involving Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong.

The Lowdown: Sky Blues eye more signings…

City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, having watched the Blues retain their Premier League crown in such dramatic fashion, later confirmed that there will be even mores summer signings after Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez.

Fernandinho’s glittering nine-year stay at Eastlands has now come to an end with the fan favourite set to leave, prompting manager Pep Guardiola to set his sights on a midfield heir to the Brazilian.

Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips and West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice have both been linked with moves to Eastlands as well as Barcelona sensation de Jong.

Sharing news on the latter man, Dawson has a big update.

The Latest: Dawson shares big de Jong update…

According to the ESPN reporter, a Man City correspondent, the marquee Catalans star has been ‘offered’ to Guardiola and co with Barcelona desperately trying to raise £70million for new arrivals.

However, despite Barca handing City a chance to sign de Jong, the La Liga giants have only received positive responses from Man United and Paris-Saint Germain.

The Verdict: Reconsider?

As the Netherlands international gets placed on the table, we believe City sporting director Txiki Begiristain and Guardiola should, at the very least, consider a move carefully.

De Jong has been a mainstay under Barca boss Xavi, playing the fourth-most league minutes over 2021/2022 behind veteran stars Sergio Busquets, Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Jordi Alba (WhoScored).

His impressive pass accuracy of 91.3% is also on par with crucial City stars like Rodri, Aymeric Laporte and Ruben Dias – backing how seamlessly de Jong would fit into Guardiola’s starting eleven (WhoScored).

Called a ‘phenomenal’ player by Spanish football expert and ex-Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell, the only red herring to this potential deal would be the 25-year-old’s lofty €85 million (£73m) price tag.

In other news: Journalist: Man City ‘offer’ on the cards to sign ‘unplayable’ star, Pep called him ‘incredible’…find out more here.

Leeds: Lewis O’Brien may cost Whites £15m

Leeds United may have to pay up to £15m for Huddersfield Town star Lewis O’Brien this summer.

The Lowdown: O’Brien links

The Whites have had O’Brien on their radar for some time now and still have an interest in the central midfielder heading into Jesse Marsch’s first full season as head coach.

The 23-year-old, labelled an “exceptional” player by his manager Carlos Corberan, suffered playoff heartbreak with The Terriers last weekend but may still be plying his trade in the Premier League next season.

Leeds are thought to be one of five top-flight clubs chasing a move for the midfielder, however, recent reports that suggested a £12m release clause may be wide of the mark.

The Latest: £15m?

MOT Leeds News relayed an update regarding O’Brien from Friday’s print edition of The Huddersfield Examiner.

They cited a £15m figure when it came to the midfielder last summer and said that his stock has risen over the past 12 months, and with no mention of a release clause in the report, £15m could be the minimum Leeds may have to pay this time around.

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The Verdict: Midfielder needed

Leeds need to add to their central midfield ranks this summer after they wrap up a move for RB Salzburg right-back Rasmus Kristensen, even if Kalvin Phillips remains at the club.

New signing Brenden Aaronson is expected to be used as an inverted winger, so O’Brien could be a perfect partner for Phillips in either a 4-4-2 or 4-2-2-2 system.

Marsch has limited options in the middle of the park and just one holding midfielder in Phillips, so O’Brien, who is extremely versatile after playing in seven positions last season, could be a shrewd signing, despite a fee potentially going up.

In other news: Reporter says Leeds and Orta may now hijack rivals’ move for ‘outstanding’ star. 

Leeds keen on Tom Lawrence

Leeds United are reportedly looking to sign Derby County attacker Tom Lawrence on a free transfer. 

The Lowdown: History with Leeds supporters

Lawrence, labelled as ‘magnificent’ by Wayne Rooney, has been with The Rams since 2017 but is out of contact at the end of June.

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The Wales international has made 185 appearances for Derby, scoring 37 times and registering 25 assists. He’s played against Leeds on 11 occasions and has been on the losing side seven times.

The 28-year-old also has history with Whites supporters following the club’s playoff semi-final with Derby during the 2018/19 season. Lawrence and a number of his Derby teammates teased the south stand over ‘Spygate’ after they booked their spot at Wembley following a 4-2 win at Elland Road, but it now looks as if Victor Orta is keen to sign the soon to be free-agent.

The Latest: Leeds interest

TEAMtalk shared a story on Thursday morning regarding Lawrence, claiming that Leeds are ‘battling to secure his signature’.

The Derby captain looks set to leave Pride Park following their relegation to League One and is attracting interest from three other Premier League clubs – Bournemouth, Fulham and Southampton

The Verdict: Bizarre

Lawrence has hit double figures for goals in each of the last two Championship seasons in what has been a struggle for Derby both on and off the pitch, however, a move to Elland Road does seem to be a strange one.

Not only does Lawrence have previous with Whites fans, but he’s also primarily a winger. Jesse Marsch currently has a number of wide options and he may even look to implement his preferred narrow formation for his first full season in charge.

Brenden Aaronson’s arrival appears to outline Marsch’s plans for a potential 4-2-2-2 system, so signing a player with just four games of Premier League experience may not go down too well as Leeds aim to build on a disappointing campaign where they only just avoided the drop.

In other news: Phillips partner: Leeds now want ‘extraordinary’ int’l for free; Orta’s already spoke with agent

Liverpool to make another move for Tchouameni

Liverpool have been heavily linked with Aurelien Tchouameni and are currently battling with Champions League rivals Real Madrid for his signature, with a new update emerging on the player.

What’s the latest?

According to a journalist for Foot Mercato, Liverpool will “step up” their chase for the Monaco midfielder after the Champions League final.

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The reporter tweeted: “There is not yet a full agreement between Real and Monaco for Tchouameni.

“The people of Madrid remain in pole position for the moment. Liverpool will step up after the UCL. Paris have not said their last word and are ready to offer more than other clubs.”

Supporters will be buzzing

After Fabrizio Romano revealed that Tchouameni reportedly preferred a move to Real Madrid it seemingly put a dampener on Liverpool’s chances, however supporters will be buzzing that the club hasn’t given up on the potential signing yet.

It is clear that Jurgen Klopp is keen to bolster his midfield by injecting youth into his ageing squad, with Gavi and Ibrahim Sangare both also linked with a move to Anfield this summer but it’s clear that the intent is to sign the Ligue 1 star if possible.

The £60m ace who was hailed a “monster” by France U21 boss Sylvain Ripoll, has been an absolute force for Monaco this season with the youngster scoring two goals, creating six big chances and completing the most interceptions (101) of any player in the top five European leagues this season.

Fabinho, Thiago Alcantara and Jordan Henderson are all in their 30s, so making plans for the next generation of the team to come through and add a fresh perspective to the team is clearly something Liverpool want to achieve and Tchouameni is capable of providing as he identifies as the exact type of midfielder Liverpool need.

According to ESPN, Real Madrid are prepared to pay an estimated €80m (£68m) so Liverpool will need to offer something in a similar region to compete with the La Liga giants this summer and get the deal over the line to secure his services in their midfield on Merseyside for the future.

Should FSG do so then given his qualities, the entire of Anfield will be beaming with joy.

AND in other news: Huge boost: Paul Joyce drops major Liverpool update that’ll excite supporters

Leeds dealt huge boost ahead of Brentford

Leeds United have been handed a huge boost ahead of their Premier League meeting with Brentford this Sunday.

What’s the latest?

That’s according to injury analyst Ben Dinnery, who revealed that Ethan Pinnock – who missed the Bees’ 3-2 victory over Everton on Sunday with a thigh injury – only has a 25% chance of making a return to first-team football against Leeds at the Brentford Community Stadium this weekend.

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Speaking ahead of the win at Goodison Park, Thomas Frank said of the centre-back’s condition: “Ethan will not be ready for Everton, maybe Leeds.”

Marsch will be buzzing

Considering the fact that Leeds simply must secure all three points against Brentford if they are to have any hope of avoiding relegation this season, in addition to how impressive Pinnock has been in the heart of the Bees’ defence this term, the news that the 28-year-old looks likely to miss out against the Whites this weekend is sure to have left Jesse Marsch buzzing.

Indeed, over his 32 Premier League appearances in the current campaign, the £9m-rated talent has been an absolute rock at the back, helping his side keep seven clean sheets, as well as making an average of 1.4 interceptions, 1.6 tackles, 4.6 clearances and winning 6.8 duels – at a success rate of 68% – per game.

The centre-back has also impressed in an attacking capacity, scoring one goal, registering one assist and creating two big chances for his teammates, in addition to taking an average of 0.5 shots, making 0.4 key passes and completing 0.3 dribbles per fixture.

These returns have seen the £27k-per-week Jamaica international average an extremely impressive SofaScore match rating of 7.01, ranking him as Frank’s second-best performing defender and sixth-best player overall in the top flight of English football.

As such, should Pinnock indeed be ruled out of Sunday’s final day clash, it is clear to see that it would provide Leeds’ chances of securing all three points – and subsequently, survival – with a huge boost, with the 28-year-old’s absence being exactly the sort of marginal gain that Marsch will be hoping for in the buildup to the fixture.

AND in other news: Orta must ruthlessly axe £40k-p/w Leeds “mistake” who’s “nothing short of a liability”

Tottenham: Conte makes call with exit decision now made

Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte has now made a behind-the-scenes exit decision with a player told he’ll leave north London this summer, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Mass exodus?

According to The Times and reliable journalist Gary Jacob, Spurs could get rid of as many as eight players – including Sergio Reguilón, Emerson Royal, Steven Bergwijn, Giovani Lo Celso and Tanguy Ndombele as Conte looks to ‘offload’.

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This comes as the Italian sets his sights on six major incomings to head in the opposite direction with Jacob claiming Conte wants to add three defenders, a midfielder and a forward in the next transfer window.

The Lilywhites could be set for a big summer of change, and in an exit development, it appears the former Inter Milan boss has already wielded his axe on another Spurs player in Pierluigi Gollini.

The Latest: Conte call made…

According to a ‘Spurs source’, speaking to Football Insider, Tottenham have now ‘told’ the loanee goalkeeper he is leaving this summer as they decide not to take up the £13 million option to sign him on a permanent deal from Atalanta.

This comes as Conte and his coaching staff are left unconvinced by Gollini who, has made just eight appearances in all competitions and zero in the Premier League.

The Verdict: Correct call…

This move has been a regrettable one for the 27-year-old, who was rising to prominence in Italy after returning there from Aston Villa.

Called a ‘big’, ‘imposing’ and ‘commanding’ shot stopper by Serie A football critic Carlo Garganese, Gollini unfortunately hasn’t been given enough chances to truly display his ability.

The colossal 6 foot 4 man has been raved about behind-the-scenes at Spurs with defender Eric Dier even calling him ‘amazing’ earlier this campaign but it’s perhaps best for both the keeper and Lilywhites to part ways.

West Brom keeper Sam Johnstone is thought to be edging nearer a move to Hotspur Way and his signing could not only add quality, but also go some way to solving the club’s homegrown quota issue.

Indeed, Gollini should certainly make way for the Baggies ace.

In other news: In the last 48 hours…ESPN source makes five-word claim as Spurs push for ‘statement’s signing, find out more here.

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