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Whilst Jurgen Klopp's farewell tour continues to take several bumps along the road, Liverpool have turned their attention to life without the German, and locking up a succession plan not just for their manager but also for Virgil van Dijk.

Liverpool's summer plans

The Reds find themselves in a slightly unpredictable position when it comes to keeping hold of key players. Without the lure of Klopp, it wouldn't be as big a shock if players, like the manager, decided that the time was right for a fresh start.

Of course, it remains to be seen if that proves to be the case, but moments like Mohamed Salah's argument with Klopp in Liverpool's 2-2 draw against West Ham only fuel any fire.

That said, Michael Edwards will be keen to ensure that his return goes off without a hitch, which should see any loose ends tied up before they can spark further concern. According to Fabrizio Romano, new contracts for van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold will take priority this summer, whilst Liverpool also 'want' to offer Jarell Quansah a new deal following his rise this season.

Arne Slot wants Liverpool to sign "incredible" ace who’s broken Reds hearts

He could be the Dutchman’s first signing at Anfield.

ByHenry Jackson Apr 27, 2024

The young defender has emerged from a loan spell at Bristol Rovers to comfortably become Liverpool's replacement for Joel Matip, and is well on his way to stepping into the void that van Dijk will eventually leave behind. At 21-years-old, Quansah has more than earned a new deal.

Almost certain to be sealed with new and improved terms, Quansah will have the chance to make the first impression needed to even claim a starting place next season under Arne Slot, who looks destined to become the next Liverpool manager.

"Outstanding" Quansah is the future of Liverpool's defence

Replacing Klopp will be difficult, but it won't be too long before those at Anfield have to start thinking about replacing van Dijk in an equally impossible task. By that stage, however, Quansah should be primed and ready to fill that void. He's already shown plenty of signs that he's capable of mirroring the traits that make van Dijk so imperious at times, with excellent passing range and calmness on the ball that only the top centre-backs possess.

Progressive Passes

5.39

5.85

Progressive Carries

0.98

0.99

Ball Recoveries

5.98

4.92

Interceptions

1.18

1.11

Albeit having played far fewer minutes, Quansah has shown in a small sample size exactly why he's capable of eventually succeeding the Dutchman at Anfield. Klopp will be well aware of that too after praising the young defender in January.

Klopp said, via Mersey Sport Live: "Jarell has played an absolutely outstanding preseason. Jarell is one of these players where people already knew he was a real talent.

“He’s played only really good games when he came on against Newcastle he was outstanding in a really difficult game and from that moment its all fine its really good."

In football, certain teams are almost as iconic as the sport itself. Whether it's the pure white of Real Madrid, the red of Manchester United, or the blue and garnet of Barcelona, some clubs are just instantly recognisable to people in all corners of the globe.

However, one shirt and team is perhaps more synonymous with the beautiful game than any other: Brazil. The yellow and green shirts of the Seleção are unmistakable, and some of the players who have worn them are the greatest and most skilful stars to have ever played the game.

Whether it's for the national team or for their club sides, the South American powerhouse has produced some of the most beloved and respected footballers of all time, and while they haven't won the World Cup for some time now, you just know that it won't be long until they add a sixth star to that iconic crest. There's even the Copa America this summer so more success could be just around the corner.

With that, here is the list of who we believe are the ten greatest Brazilian footballers, based on their overall impact at either club or international level during their careers…

1

Pele

1956-1977

2

Ronaldo

1993-2011

3

Garrincha

1951-1972

4

Ronaldinho

1998-2015

5

Romario

1985-2007

6

Rivaldo

1991-2015

7

Zico

1971-1994

8

Neymar

2009-present

9

Kaka

2000-2014

10

Jairzinho

1960-1981

10 Jairzinho 1960-1982

The first name on our list is an icon of the 1970 World Cup Brazilian squad, and a man who spent the vast majority of his playing career with the club he joined as a youngster: Botafogo.

The Hurricane, or o Furacão for you Portuguese speakers out there, scored 249 goals in his two-decade-spanning career, with 186 coming in just 416 appearances for Botafogo.

His incredible career came to an end in 1982 with a trophy cabinet filled to the brim and 81 national team caps to his name, in which he scored 33 goals.

9 Kaka 2000-2014

We are moving into the modern day for our next star, well almost, as the number nine spot brings with it the brilliant Kaka.

The Gama-born magician moved to AC Milan from São Paulo in 2003, and over the next six seasons, he would go on to become one of the best players in the world, winning Serie A, the Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup and the Ballon d'Or, all before completing a historic £56m move to Real Madrid in June 2009, the same summer Los Blancos also welcomed Cristiano Ronaldo.

Unfortunately, once in Madrid, the outrageously talented midfielder suffered from consistent knee problems, which prevented him from having the impact so many thought he would.

After another five years in which he played for Orlando City and São Paulo, he eventually retired, with 92 Brazil caps and 29 international goals to his name.

8 Neymar 2009-present

We have reached the only current player on the list, and, of course, whether you love him or hate him, Neymar Jr has to be on it.

Despite making a questionable move to the Saudi Pro League last summer, the 32-year-old has certainly had an impressive career, one that has seen him lift the Champions League with Barcelona and rack up Ligue 1 titles with Paris Saint-Germain like they're nothing.

However, for all the hope that was pinned on his shoulders with the national team, the man who has more national team goals than Pele has never been able to lead the country to World Cup glory, and due to his current injury, he won't even be at this summer's Copa América.

That said, with 302 goals in 511 club matches and 79 goals in 128 national team appearances, the Mogi das Cruzes-born ace deserves to be counted among the best Seleção players of all time.

7 Zico 1971-1994

We are going back in time again, as the sixth star on this list is the player Gary Lineker described as "unbelievable," Zico.

Born in Rio de Janeiro, the 5 foot 8 midfielder was a tour de force in his home country, scoring 529 goals in 724 games for Flamengo, and while he wasn't able to win the World Cup, he was a vital member of the 1979 Copa América winning squad and eventually retired with 71 senior caps to his name.

At club level, he won a mountain of trophies for Flamengo, including seven state championships, before moving to Japanese side Kashima Antlers, where he won the league in 1993 and is now a technical adviser – whatever that is.

6 Rivaldo 1991-2015

From one icon who couldn't win a World Cup to one who starred in one, Rivaldo is the next name on the list.

The Recife-born wonder played a crucial role in Brazil's triumphant 2002 campaign in Japan and South Korea, scoring in the first five games and forming a deadly trio alongside Ronaldo and Ronaldinho – more on them later.

He might also have caught the headlines for something a little more embarrassing in the game against Turkey, but fans shouldn't forget just how brilliant a player he was. After all, you don't rack up 74 senior caps for nothing.

Moreover, he won the Coppa Italia and Champions League with AC Milan, as well as two La Ligas, a Copa del Rey, and a UEFA Super Cup with Barcelona.

5 Romario 1985-2007*

He might be playing the cold game of politics today, but during his playing career, Romario was one of the very best around.

During his international career, the Rio-born striker won 70 caps and scored 55 goals – only Neymar, Pele, and Ronaldo scored more – won two Copa Americas and the 1994 World Cup.

He was just as successful at the club level as well, winning three Eredivisie titles with PSV Eindhoven, one La Liga title with Barcelona and one league title with Vasco da Gama.

4 Ronaldinho 1998-2015

Fourth place belongs to arguably the most entertaining footballer of all time, or at least on this list anyway.

Ronaldinho started his career in his home country with Gremio before moving to PSG in 2001.

Just a couple of years and some brilliant performances later, he secured his big move to Barcelona, where he scored 70 goals in just 145 matches, won two La Liga titles and lifted the Champions League, all while enchanting fans and rivals alike with his incredible technical ability.

On the international stage, the Porto Alegre-born star won 97 caps, in which he scored 33 goals, including that one against David Seaman, won one Copa América and one World Cup.

However, the English goalkeepers union got the last laugh as Joe Hart managed to save a penalty from the great midfielder in his penultimate international game in 2013. However, we're sure he's not lost any sleep over that one in the same way Seaman might have.

3 Garrincha 1951-1972

The bronze medal goes to Garrincha, who starred alongside Pele in Brazil's 1958 World Cup triumph and then became the star four years later in the great man's absence, showing just how essential he was to the nation's footballing successes.

The extraordinary winger only made 50 senior appearances for the national team, but his impact is almost unrivalled.

In his two-decade-long playing career, he made 238 appearances for Botafogo, in which he scored 84 goals, before also playing for teams like Corinthians, Flamengo and even Atlético Junior in Colombia.

2 Ronaldo 1993-2011

The second spot on this list is reserved for, as some might call him, the real Ronaldo.

Full name Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, but often just referred to as R9, the Itaguaí-born superstar was a complete monster of a footballer.

In his 454 club appearances, the unstoppable forward scored 298 goals and provided 75 assists. He averaged a goal involvement every 1.2 games across his career, meaning the average was even better during his pomp.

Brazil's top international goalscorers of all time

Here are the best in front of goal for Selecao.

ByCharlie Smith Apr 4, 2024

At club level, he won La Liga, the Cope del Rey, the UEFA Cup, and the KNVB Cup, while at international level, he won two World Cups and two Copa Americas.

By the time he retired, he had made 98 senior appearances, in which he scored 62 goals – talk about a legacy.

1 Pele 1956-1977

We have reached the number one spot on the list, and, come on, who else could it have been?

Of course, the best Brazilian footballer of all time has to be the late great Pele, and some wouldn't stop at Brazilian either.

The sporting icon was the Messi of his era, and even though the majority of football fans today wouldn't have watched him play, they all know his name, and they almost certainly know his face.

There is plenty of debate over how many goals Pele actually scored at club level, but we can be quite sure that the number stands at a minimum of 680, whereas for Brazil, he racked up 77 goals in 92 games.

He was also the crucial player in the country's first World Cup triumph in 1958, despite being just 17 at the time. He would end his career with another two, although he missed most of the 1962 edition through injury.

Brazil's most-capped football players of all time

Football FanCast takes a look at the most-capped players for Seleção.

ByCharlie Smith Apr 18, 2024

While Everton have suffered a turbulent few months with off-the-field issues resulting in an eight-point deduction, manager Sean Dyche has impressed this season with the Toffees' securing their Premier League status for next term.

The Merseyside club have turned their form around in recent weeks, with their four-game unbeaten run enough to pull themselves clear of any looming danger despite the troubles with PSR.

The financial problems behind the scenes at Goodison Park have been well documented and have prevented Dyche from investing heavily in his squad, restricting him to working with players who were at the club before his appointment.

Injuries and various other reasons have seen the Toffees' boss rely on some younger players to do the business this season, with Jarrad Branthwaite the main beneficiary – starting 33 times in the Premier League this campaign.

However, the manager has been let down by some of his first-team squad this season, with one player, in particular, struggling with his fitness and yet to showcase his best at Goodison Park.

Nathan Patterson's stats at Everton

After joining the club in January 2022 under boss Rafa Benitez, full-back Nathan Patterson had high hopes of being the club's long-term Seamus Coleman replacement.

He joined from Rangers for a fee in the region of £16m, a figure that was then the highest figure ever received for a player from Ibrox, with the youngster signing a five-and-a-half-year deal at Goodison Park.

However, over two years on from his arrival on Merseyside, he's only made 48 appearances for the club, with only 20 coming during the 2023/24 campaign.

2021/22

1

45'

2022/23

21

1,431'

2023/24

26

1,411'

Patterson has only started 25% of matches under Dyche this season, missing the last four Premier League outings with a fresh hamstring issue.

At just 22, the Scotsman could still prove to be a success at Goodison, but for the time being he's failed to prove his worth, with his market value taking a nose dive as a result of his lack of game time.

Nathan Patterson's market value in 2024

After just two appearances in 2024, the Scotsman's value has decreased to just £6m, as per Football Transfers – a drop of £10m from the fee that the club paid for him in January 2022.

His subsequent value is now less than defender James Tarkowski, who joined the club on a free transfer from Burnley just six months prior to Patterson's arrival at the club.

The centre-back is now worth £17.8m, a huge jump from his transfer that cost the club nothing – another example of the excellent dealings conducted by the Toffees in recent seasons.

Patterson undoubtedly still has the potential to be a hit at the club, but for now, he's got to bide his time with Ben Godfrey currently looking undroppable after his recent stint covering at right-back.

However, he has the opportunity during pre-season to stake his claim for a starting spot, with the defender needing to grasp the next opportunity that comes his way if he's to become a regular under Dyche next season.

Having spent over two years now on Merseyside, time is perhaps running out for the former Gers man to make an impact…

Everton played a blinder on Koeman signing who's now worth less than Keane

He failed to demonstrate his qualities during his time at Goodison Park.

ByEthan Lamb May 9, 2024

A club chief appears to have confirmed negotiations are "happening" to sign a £125,000-per-week player from Aston Villa this summer.

Unai Emery eyeing future Premier League title at Villa

Manager Unai Emery has won over the hearts of Villa supporters since he took over from Steven Gerrard in late 2022, and has now guided them to their first Champions League qualification since the 1980s.

£18k-p/w Aston Villa target Monchi really wants has bargain release clause

It could make him one of the snips of the summer.

ByBen Browning May 16, 2024

The Midlands giants are officially set for fourth and a spot in the Champions League group stage next season, coming after a fantastic full debut campaign for Emery in the Villa Park dugout.

Club chief Monchi and NSWE are set to back Emery in the summer transfer market as well, according to reports, with Villarreal star Alex Baena attracting Villa interest heading into the summer window – which opens for business on 14th June.

Aston Villa 3-3 Liverpool

Brighton 1-0 Aston Villa

Aston Villa 2-2 Chelsea

Aston Villa 3-1 Bournemouth

Arsenal 0-2 Aston Villa

Aston Villa 3-3 Brentford

Man City 4-1 Aston Villa

Aston Villa 2-0 Wolves

West Ham 1-1 Aston Villa

Aston Villa 0-4 Tottenham

It's an exciting time to be a supporter of Villa, but Emery is by no means settling on a place in Europe. The Spaniard, as he admitted to the press on Friday, wants to take them to the next level and eventually challenge for a Premier League title.

"It is a dream," said Emery on Villa's next ambitions.

"It is very difficult. When we were at the beginning of the season playing two matches against City and Arsenal, we won both matches. We were there.

"Those teams are amazing with consistency. I want to get better and I have my dreams and I believe in my dreams. Of course, my objectives are to win the Premier League or the Champions League. The party on Tuesday was fantastic. I was really happy with the players and coaches. I know how important it is to be there [in the Champions League] and compete in it.

"Through the Premier League, to get it is very difficult. To get it is fantastic. Now, after the next challenge, it is about preparing for the new season."

As the Villa team grows, though, certain players will have to be moved on – as is the nature of the beautiful game. Some exits will be bittersweet, but one man who the club will be keen to fully offload is £17 million signing Philippe Coutinho.

Vasco Da Gama talks "happening" to sign Coutinho from Aston Villa

The £125,000-per-week Brazilian's transfer from Barcelona simply hasn't worked out as planned, and he's spent this season on loan at Qatar Stars League club Al-Duhail.

Speaking to Globo Esporte, as translated and shared by Sport Witness, Vasco Da Gama president Pedrinho appears to have confirmed talks are happening to sign Coutinho from Villa – offering the club a chance to sell him in a permanent deal, with talks appearing to have been held either with the president himself or the ownership. Vasco Da Gama are part-owned by 777 Partners.

“It [negotiations with Coutinho] is happening," said Pedrinho.

"With whom? With whom is it happening? [Journalist replies that it’s with Vasco SAF].

"And is it still with Vasco SAF or with me? Suddenly it was with me before it was with Vasco SAF. Back then it may have been with Josh [Wander, 777 Partners], now it may be with me. And it may have been rumoured that it’s with Vasco SAF.”

Glasgow Rangers manager Philippe Clement was unable to end the club's run of years without a Scottish Premiership title at Ibrox as he guided his team to second this season.

The Belgian manager, who replaced Michael Beale in the dugout earlier this term, did win the League Cup but failed to stop Celtic from securing the title.

They have now gone three years without lifting the Scottish top-flight and will be hoping to end that barren run with a huge 2024/25 campaign.

In order to do so, the Gers manager and head of recruitment Nils Koppen will need to nail the upcoming summer transfer window to make the changes needed to oust their rivals out of the way.

Former Rangers head coaches and sporting directors have made their fair share of transfer blunders and mistakes when selecting and making new signings.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Ross Wilson combined to make a particularly memorable – for the wrong reasons – addition to the Gers squad when they signed Aaron Ramsey from Juventus on loan in 2022.

Aaron Ramsey's time with Rangers in numbers

The Scottish giants swooped in to sign the Wales international from the Italian side in January 2022 to bolster their midfield for the second half of the campaign under the Dutch head coach.

Michael Bridge told GIVEMESPORT that the Gers splashed out a loan fee of around £2m to sign the central midfielder for just five months, whilst The Athletic reported that they only paid a fraction of his wages – reported to be a staggering £400k-per-week.

This means that Rangers paid in excess of £2m to sign the experienced midfielder, who had only played five times for Juventus during the first half of the season, for a matter of months.

He did not turn out to be value for money, though, as the ex-Arsenal ace only made 13 appearances in all competitions for the Light Blues, whilst either being an unused substitute or missing out on the matchday squad on 15 occasions.

Appearances

7

Starts

5

Goals

2

Assists

1

Ground duel success rate

43%

Pass accuracy

83%

As you can see in the table above, the Welsh flop did not have much of an impact in the Premiership with just five starts in five months at the club.

His last touch in a Gers shirt was one that not many fans will forget, but many may want to, as it was a missed penalty in a 5-4 shootout defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League final – the only player to miss on the night.

Overall, it was an expensive disaster for Rangers as they tried to revive Ramsey's career after his struggles at Juventus and ended up paying the price, on and off the pitch, with an expensive outlay and little return in terms of the quality of his performances.

Clement is now at risk of signing his own version of Ramsey at Ibrox amid a report linking the club with a move for a current Premier League midfielder.

Rangers interest in England international midfielder

According to HITC, Rangers and Celtic are both interested in a possible swoop to sign Manchester City flop Kalvin Phillips in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claimed that the Old Firm sides are keen on the England international, who has not made the most recent squad for his country, as the Premier League champions are prepared to subsidise his wages, as Juventus were with Ramsey.

Leeds and Everton are also said to be keen on the English enforcer and it remains to be seen whether or not the Cityzens dud would be interested in a move to Scotland.

Meanwhile, teams in Europe, including RB Leipzig, Nice, Sevilla, and Lyon are also interested in the former Leeds star, as they all look to revive his career.

The outlet also did not state whether or not any club would need to pay a loan fee for the 28-year-old midfielder, who spent the second half of this season on loan with West Ham United in the Premier League.

Clement and Koppen must now avoid the race for his signature as it could turn out to be an expensive mistake, particularly if they have to end up paying a loan fee and even a fraction of his £150k-per-week wages.

Why Kalvin Phillips could be the next Aaron Ramsey

The 5 foot 10 dud could be the next Ramsey for Rangers as he has not played regular football over the last two seasons and has struggled in his short time on the pitch.

Phillips has only played 24 Premier League games since the start of the 2022/23 campaign, with eight of those coming on loan with the Hammers during the second half of this season.

In his outings in the English top-flight this term, the experienced midfielder struggled badly and failed to prove that his career is on course for a revival.

Over last 365 days, Phillips ranks within the bottom 1% of midfielders in the Men's Big 5 Leagues and European competitions for Expected Assisted Goals per 90 (0.00), as he failed to create a single chance for his teammates in the Premier League during the 2023/24 campaign.

Appearances

12

Starts

3

Goals + assists

0

Key passes

0

Duel success rate

48%

Error led to goal

1

Penalties committed

1

Meanwhile, the English flop made one error that directly led to a goal for the opposition, with Dominic Solanke scoring from his poor backpass, and he gave away a penalty for the Hammers.

This, essentially, means that the Man City loanee created two more chances for West Ham's opponents than he did for his own teammates from a midfield position.

Phillips, who was dubbed "so poor" for the Hammers by journalist Josh Bunting, is coming off the back of two difficult seasons and Rangers should not be taking another expensive risk on an experienced big name on sizeable wages, as they did with Ramsey.

Rangers already have an "exciting" replacement for Roofe

The “bright” Light Blues star had an injury disrupted first season at Ibrox this term.

ByDan Emery Jun 4, 2024

If it does not work out then it is simply money down the drain and the player returns to his parent club, whereas if they spend that money on a permanent and younger alternative then there is long-term potential and resale value for the Gers.

Tottenham are now tempted to bid for a £28 million forward who Harry Kane said "trains hard" behind-the-scenes, as manager Ange Postecoglou and co look to add more firepower.

Spurs looking to sign a new striker this summer

The transfer window is now officially open, and one of Spurs' key goals over the next few months is bringing in a prolific new striker who can take Kane's mantle.

Tottenham could now offer Gil in swap move for prolific £17 million striker

This is an “attractive” proposal.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 12, 2024

The north Londoners coped well in Postecoglou's debut season without Kane. The majority of their goals came from Son Heung-min, who was deployed both as a central striker and wide player over the 2023/2024 season, and Brazil international Richarlison.

The attacking duo racked up 29 goals between them in all competitions last term, replicating the kind of return which is standard for Kane, but it is believed that Postecoglou doesn't wish to rely on Richarlison and Son for Tottenham's output again next season.

Son Heung-min

17

Richarlison

12

Dejan Kulusevski

8

Brennan Johnson

5

Cristian Romero

5

Spurs are apparently open to offers for Richarlison, with the ex-Everton star attracting interest in Saudi Arabia, while Son is on the wrong side of 30 and has entered the final 12 months of his contract at N17.

Tottenham are believed to have been targeting a host of forward options in the last fortnight alone. Sevilla star Youssef En-Nesyri is apparently on Spurs' radar, coming after he scored 20 goals in all competitions for the La Liga side last campaign.

Meanwhile, closer to home, the likes of Brentford striker Ivan Toney have been linked as well. Football Transfers claimed last week that Spurs are prepared to bid £40 million for Toney, and are also readying a personal terms package for the Englishman.

Tottenham now tempted to bid for Tammy Abraham

It is still very early days in the window, though, so the Lilywhites will be doing their due-diligence on a number of targets.

One name to have emerged on their shortlist, according to The Boot Room, is former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham. The Roma forward could depart for just under £30 million, as the Serie A side set a £28 million price tag.

Lorenzo Pellegrini has called him "vital" for the group at Roma, and he scored 17 goals in all competitions during his best season there in 21/22. Tottenham are apparently tempted to bid for Toney after hearing he's valued at £28m, with Kane also being a huge fan of the 26-year-old.

“I think that Tammy is a great player,” said Kane on Abraham's quality in 2022. “He’s had a fantastic season at club level, he’s still learning and has experience to gain but every time he comes here he works hard and trains hard.

“He wants to impress the manager, he wants to score goals and of course it’s great to have competition in every position and in the Premier League we have some great English strikers who are scoring goals on a regular basis.

“Tammy is doing that for Roma as well so he’s a great player and I’m sure he’ll want to keep improving, keep working hard and that’s what he’ll try and do in this camp and going back to club level as well.”

Liverpool were in a bit of a pickle during the 2022/23 campaign, but Jurgen Klopp engineered a resurgence that saw a thrilling midfield overhaul and a return to prominence, winning the Carabao Cup and fighting for the Premier League title, ultimately finishing third.

Did Liverpool fail in their pursuit of English football's pinnacle prize, or did Klopp's team actually overachieve, buoyed by the innate belief of a squad led by a unique kingpin, fuelled by the desire to make his final hour a thing of beauty?

Whatever the consensus, Liverpool's revamped infrastructure, dissembled and pieced back together with new bricks by Michael Edwards and his FSG cohort, will be confident that the new era at Anfield can bring trophies and thrilling campaigns.

Arne Slot is now geared as Liverpool's head coach, and while there has been comparative quietness on the transfer front thus far, you can be sure that the cogs are moving beneath the surface. Klopp solved the midfield problem one year ago, but now, fixing the backline is the pressing concern.

Liverpool lining up new defender

Last week, The Athletic's David Ornstein revealed that Liverpool are among the contenders for Leny Yoro, an 18-year-old centre-back with the world at his feet, though there appears to be a tacit understanding that he will join Real Madrid, such is the way of things.

Edwards is unlikely to focus on one target, mind, with a recent report from the Telegraph claiming that Liverpool have been alerted to the possible availability of Euro 2024 star Marc Guehi.

It's revealed that Crystal Palace will only entertain offers of £65m for their star defender, but it's paramount that the Reds sign a high-level centre-back this summer and the 23-year-old could be the man.

Marc Guehi's season in numbers

Palace signed Guehi from Chelsea in an £18m deal in 2021, with the Englishman since completing 111 appearances, scoring five goals.

Still young, Guehi has enjoyed year-on-year growth at Selhurst Park, playing his finest football during the recently completed campaign. As per Sofascore, the £50k-per-week ace featured 25 times in the Premier League (missing several months due to injury), and while Roy Hodgson struggled to make the London club click before his February dismissal, Guehi was immense.

The "absolute tank" – as former England U21 teammate Josef Bursik once dubbed him – won a whopping 67% of his ground duels and completed 87% of his passes despite the possession-lacking nature of Hodgson's style. He recovered 4.8 balls and swept away 3.5 more on average, excelling on the left side of the central defence.

Minutes played

90'

90'

Touches

60

73

Accurate passes

51/53 (96%)

60/64 (94%)

Possession lost

3x

4x

Long balls

1/2

2/4

Tackles

1

1

Clearances

2

6

Shots blocked

1

0

Ground duels won

1/1 (100%)

1/2 (50%)

Aerial duels won

1/3 (33%)

4/4 (100%)

Fouls committed

0

1

Guehi held his own and then some on his international tournament debut, with his gritty defensive style blending nicely with the more dynamic and expressive style of Manchester City's John Stones.

Liverpool have creative, modern-day-encapsulating defenders in Virgil van Dijk and the 6 foot 4 Konate. Guehi is certainly not one-dimensional, nor is he antiquated in his approach, but he is more of a natural defender. The clue is in the title: Guehi defends—no-nonsense, exuding command.

He would certainly add something extra, different, even, to Liverpool's backline, and must be signed this summer, for Slot could even emulate his predecessor in completing a transformative deal.

Why Liverpool should sign Marc Guehi

Guehi would prove to be Slot's very own Van Dijk. Signed for a big fee from a lower-down-the-ladder Premier League rival to add some impetus and inspiration to a defensive line that has not looked at its best for a few years.

Liverpool have one of the most talented backlines in Europe. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson have formed an iconic wide partnership, while Van Dijk has been described as "the best defender in the world" by Klopp.

23/24

36

41

22/23

32

47

21/22

34

26

20/21

5

42

19/20

38

33

18/19

38

22

17/18*

14

14

17/18*

0

24

*Before & after Van Dijk joined in January 2018

But there's little point hiding from the fact that Liverpool's collective might in the bottommost third has faltered in recent years; Klopp's final few years brought a rollercoaster of emotions and fortunes but the regression in defensive quality is unquestionable.

The urgency to rectify this, under Slot, runs deeper than merely a lack of numbers due to Joel Matip's summer exit at the end of his contract. This is why signing a player of Guehi's ability is so important, lest Slot fail to stamp his style into the Anfield first team, leaking fluency- and confidence-inhibiting goals.

And despite the aforementioned discussion about Guehi's steely basal skill set, he's not exactly a bad ball-carrying asset. The clip above shows the success he can find when shuttling forward, weaving past opponents to progress the ball into a promising position.

The 6-foot star's aerial prowess does leave something to be desired: Guehi won only 50% of his 1.2 aerial battles per game in the English top flight last term. Van Dijk, conversely, triumphed in 81% of his 3.9 duels per game.

But there are few more devastating in the duel than the Eagles colossus, who could spread his wings at Liverpool and make a groundbreaking impact under Slot, who could restore Liverpool's acumen in defence.

£65m is no small sum but Liverpool need to signal their intent at the start of this new chapter, and Guehi could be the player to make the biggest difference at the most crucial of points in Anfield's rich history.

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Anfield could boast quite the team come the end of the transfer window.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 16, 2024

Manchester United’s 2023/24 campaign was something of a mixed bag of results for the Red Devils. Despite winning a trophy, they struggled in the league and the Champions League and it almost cost Erik ten Hag his job.

However, after much deliberation, the United board decided to keep him at the club, as reported by David Ornstein.

In the Premier League, the Red Devils came 8th in the table, on 60 points, although they were some way outside of the top four, eight points behind Aston Villa to be exact.

However, according to Understat’s expected points table, they massively overperformed. The Understat metric had them in 14th on just 44xPTS.

In the Champions League, it was a poor return for United, crashing out at the group stage and conceding the most goals by a Premier League side in one group stage of the tournament, as per Opta Joe. Their defence of the Carabao Cup also ended in the fourth round, thanks to a defeat at Old Trafford against Newcastle United, the side they beat in the final the previous season.

However, they did win the FA Cup, beating Manchester City 2-1 in the final, thanks to goals from academy graduate duo Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo. It was the second trophy in as many seasons for Ten Hag.

Now, as the new season draws near, rumours have begun to intensify linking United to several players who could enhance the quality of their squad, including one player United are thought to have had a long-term interest in.

Man Utd target Premier League left-back

The player in question here is Fulham and United States international Antonee Robinson. The 26-year-old has been superb for Fulham over the past season, and it has led to fresh links with some of Europe's biggest clubs.

According to a report from Will Lancaster and Dean Jones of GiveMeSport, the American 'has taken interest' from the Red Devils, as they look to strengthen at left-back. That follows injury-riddled seasons for both of United’s left-backs; Tyrell Malacia, who has not played a minute, and Luke Shaw.

However, United are not the only side who are interested in signing Robinson this summer. Rivals Liverpool are in the market for a new left-back, with the American one option, and London club Chelsea are also thought to be of interest, as they start life under Enzo Maresca.

The report explains that Fulham are using Ian Maatsen’s move from Chelsea to Aston Villa as a guideline when it comes to a fee for their left-back. The Dutchman is switching to Villa Park for a fee of around £37.5m. The Cottagers are expected to ask for around £40m in order to sell Robinson this summer.

Why Robinson would be a good signing

The 26-year-old American international was a mainstay for Fulham this season in the Premier League. He featured 37 times in the Premier League, playing 90 minutes in 32 of those games, and missing only one match with a slight muscle injury.

He also registered six assists for Fulham, the most of his career in a single league campaign. That tally for Fulham was bettered only by Andreas Pereira, who created seven goals, as per SofaScore. As football analyst Ben Mattinson put it, Robinson “is one of the best LBs” yet to be signed by a top club.

He was very close to a move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs, AC Milan. The Italian giants were keen on signing Robinson back in 2020, during the January transfer window. The fee was agreed with his then-club Wigan Athletic, which was £6m, although it could have risen to £10m. However, the deal collapsed after Robinson was found to have an irregularity in his heart rhythm, which was found during his medical.

One of the most outstanding aspects of the 26-year-old’s game is his defensive ability. Not only does he rank highly amongst players in the Premier League, but he is also an outstanding defender when comparing him to the rest of the players in Europe’s big five leagues. He reads the game superbly and does not back away from challenges, such is reflected in his stats.

Stat

Number

Rank

Tackles won

58

=12th

Dribblers tackled

52

7th

Interceptions

80

1st

Tackles and interceptions

173

3rd

Should United sign Robinson, they would be bringing in a direct alternative to Shaw. Sadly, the 28-year-old missed 34 games with two separate injuries last season, hence their thought process behind signing a new left-back. Whilst the Fulham man is not quite as good technically as Shaw, he is more than able to hold his own.

According to FBRef, Robinson averaged 3.55 progressive passes per 90 minutes, compared to Shaw’s 4.93 per 90 in the 2022/23 season. The American actually averages more passes into the penalty box than Shaw did two seasons ago, with 1.27 compared to the Englishman’s 0.99 per 90. Their key passing stats are also close, with the Fulham man averaging 0.91 compared to Shaw’s 1.20 in 2022/23.

Where Robinson does excel over United’s number 23 is when it comes to progressive carrying. He averages 2.73 progressive carries and 1.93 carries into the final third per 90. Comparatively, Shaw averaged 1.87 progressive carries and 1.55 carries into the final third during the 2022/23 season. Robinson is a wonderful ball carrier and uses his physicality to help ride tackles and a sharp burst of pace to get away from defenders.

In signing the American, United would be adding a different profile to Shaw to their squad. That is to say, he is a proficient ball carrier and statistically one of the best defenders in Europe, whereas Shaw is technically brilliant and a wonderful passer.

With that in mind, it is easy to see why Robinson would be a great addition to United’s squad. For a fee of just £40m, he could be a superb option for United, adding excellent depth and being able to rotate often with Shaw to ensure the England international does not get too burnt out, thus increasing the risk of an injury.

This is why ten Hag must now swoop to sign the USMNT star, who is set to compete in the Copa America, before the end of the summer window.

Manchester United have opened formal talks as they look to add their first signing of the summer, it has been reported.

Red Devils need reinforcements

Erik ten Hag's side are in need of additions this summer as they look to improve on a dire Premier League campaign last season, in which they finished eighth but were rescued somewhat by an impressive FA Cup success.

Reports claim that almost the entire squad have been put up for sale, with the exception of young trio Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund, and there are plenty of departures expected this summer.

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One key area that needs addressing is the heart of defence, with only Luton Town fielding more different centre-back partnerships last season than the Red Devils With that in mind, United are making the centre-back position a priority this summer, and to that end they have reportedly made strong progress.

United open formal talks for De Ligt

Now, it has been claimed that the Red Devils are pushing ahead with a move for Bayern Munich centre-back Matthijs de Ligt, who Ten Hag "really wants". The centre-back has fallen out of favour in Bavaria, with Eric Dier and Dayot Upamecano being preferred to the Dutchman by Thomas Tuchel and the club having already announced the arrival of Hiroki Ito this summer and still pursuing a move for Jonathan Tah.

It has opened the door for De Ligt's departure, and Manchester United are thought to be leading the race for his signature. As per ex-CBS journalist turned transfer insider Ben Jacobs, the Red Devils are now in "formal talks" with Bayern over a move for the Dutchman, with "initial discussions framed around a 40m euro package" (£34m), a fee significantly less than had previously been touted.

Though the fee may seem modest, the Red Devils will also have to find an agreement with De Ligt, who currently takes home a massive £261,000 a week in Bavaria, a sum that would put him among Manchester United's top earners.

Manchester United's top earners

Player

Weekly wage

Casemiro

£350,000

Marcus Rashford

£300,000

Mason Mount

£250,000

Bruno Fernandes

£240,000

Antony

£200,000

However, the club have already freed up a combined £500,000 a week in wages this summer by virtue of letting Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial both leave, with the pair taking home £250,000 per week each during their time at the Theatre of Dreams.

De Ligt could prove a perfect fit for the Red Devils, with Ten Hag a big fan of the defender from the time they spent together at Ajax, while he has also attracted praise from Manchester City man Nathan Ake.

“It's amazing what he is doing at the moment", Ake explained back in September 2023. “He's quick, strong for his age, very good in the air and on the ball he is very good. He scores so many from set-pieces so he's got a lot of the same attributes as Van Dijk."

A deal struck at half the price of that touted for Jarrad Branthwaite could prove to be one of the best bits of business Manchester United have managed in a long time.

Newcastle United have reportedly moved to hijack a transfer for a "big character" this summer, with Aston Villa already bidding £21.1m for his services.

Newcastle transfer news

The Magpies are eyeing up new signings all over the pitch, with the centre of Eddie Howe's defence arguably a key area to bring in reinforcements, amid injury problems there. Barcelona ace Ronald Araujo has emerged as a hugely exciting option, but Premier League rivals Manchester United and Manchester City are also believed to be interested in snapping him up.

Elsewhere, a near £30m bid is reportedly being prepared for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, who is seen as one of the most exciting young players around currently, having done well at Turf Moor since sealing a permanent move from City last summer. The 21-year-old could come in and provide stern competition for Nick Pope, who found himself injured too often in 2023/24.

Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo has also been touted as a summer target for Newcastle, although the Brazilian did struggle in a loan spell at Liverpool in 2023, making only one appearance and not playing once in the league. He is believed to be available for £17m, however, and wants a return to England.

The Magpies are tussling with Bayern Munich for the signing of Mainz right-sided midfielder Brajan Gruda, too, with the 20-year-old available for £42m in the current transfer window.

Newcastle want to hijack move for Aston Villa target

According to Gazzetta dello Sport [via Sport Witness], Newcastle are moving to sign Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi this summer, entering the race in the "last few hours". The Magpies are looking to swoop in ahead of Villa, who have already attempted to tempt the former Arsenal youngster with a £21.1m bid.

Guendouzi has the potential to be a really shrewd signing by Newcastle ahead of next season, with the Frenchman an impressive midfielder who has Premier League experience, enjoying 57 outings in the competition in the past, and featuring 82 times for Arsenal in total.

The Lazio man may still only be 25 years of age, but he has been a highly-rated prospect for some time now, with Gary Neville hailing him back in 2020, saying: "Since the moment he came into the team, Guendouzi, he has looked like a big character and a leader.

"He gets on the ball all the time, he shows great courage to play and he’s always demanding from his teammates. He’s not (a squad player). You see him on the pitch, he’s always got his arms stretched, looking over his shoulder. He demands from himself but also others."

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This all points towards Guendouzi shining for Newcastle, adding bite and technical ability in the middle of the park – he completed 85.5% of his passes in Serie A last season – and pipping Villa to his signature would make it even sweeter, considering they are direct rivals, with both fighting for European football next season.