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Newcastle United and iconic centre-forwards go hand in hand. Both Hughie Gallacher and Jackie Milburn made massive impressions for the club during the first half of the 20th century.

The former helped the Magpies win the First Division title in 1926/27 and scored 143 goals in 174 matches, while the latter scored 200 goals for the club and won three FA Cups during his spell in the north-east.

The 1970s saw Malcolm Macdonald emerge as the next big thing, before Kevin Keegan and Peter Beardsley made their mark during the 80s.

Andy Cole’s spell on Tyneside was short, but boy was it sweet. He netted 68 goals in just 84 matches, but departed for Manchester United after only two years.

Elsewhere, Alan Shearer goes down as the best centre-forward in the club’s history. His ten-year stint with his boyhood team might have finished trophyless, but the Englishman broke Milburn’s scoring record in February 2006.

Supporters of the current generation have Alexander Isak, and what an impression he has made during his three years at Newcastle.

Alexander Isak’s Newcastle record

Eddie Howe made Isak the club’s record signing when he splashed out a staggering £63m to bring the Swedish hitman to the Premier League.

Fast-forward three years and the move is arguably one of the finest in the club’s recent history. Since joining, Isak has registered 73 goal contributions – 62 goals and 11 assists – across just 109 matches.

He may have suffered from injury issues during his first campaign, but ever since, Isak has been a goal machine.

The 25-year-old enjoyed his best season yet during 2024/25. A tally of 27 goals in 42 appearances helped the Toon secure a Champions League place next season.

Furthermore, he also scored in the League Cup final against Liverpool, ending the club’s 70-year major domestic trophy drought. There is no doubt he will go down as one of the finest strikers in the history of the club.

Alexander Isak’s PL stats for Newcastle

Metric

2022/23

2023/24

2024/25

Goals

10

21

23

Assists

1

2

6

Shots per game

2.3

2.6

2.9

Goal conversion percentage

20%

27%

23%

Key passes per game

0.7

0.9

1.2

Via Sofascore

Compared to his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, Isak ranks in the top 8% for progressive carries and successful take-ons per 90 over the previous 365 days, while also ranking in the top 12% for non-penalty goals during the same period.

These statistics suggest that Isak is one of the best strikers on the continent and the longer Howe can keep hold of him, the better.

Of course, his performances have caught the eye of several teams, Liverpool included. The Anfield side have earmarked the 25-year-old as their number one striker target.

The Magpies are demanding a British record transfer fee of around £150m for the sale of Isak, which Howe will hope puts many teams off.

Regardless if he moves or not, Isak’s form over the previous three seasons places him in the bracket of one of the club’s most impressive signings of recent times.

Might Howe be looking to land the club their biggest signing since with a move for a current Premier League star?

Newcastle's search for a new forward

Despite actively looking to bolster their squad ahead of another campaign filled with European football, Howe hasn’t had much luck in the transfer market thus far.

He has targeted moves for both Anthony Elanga and James Trafford, but deals have yet to materialise for the pair.

One move which may be close to finally being sealed is that of Joao Pedro. According to the Chronicle, Newcastle are now in advanced talks to sign the Brighton and Hove Albion star.

Discussions have been ongoing this week. The Magpies valued Pedro at around the £50m mark, although Brighton are holding out for a fee closer to £60m.

It would be an excellent first signing to make this summer for Howe, especially considering that the Brazilian has plenty of experience in the Premier League and will be ready to hit the ground running.

Dare I say it, but he might be the biggest signing the club have made since Isak.

Why Newcastle must sign Joao Pedro

The Magpies have made some impressive signings since the arrival of Isak in the summer of 2022.

Anthony Gordon joined the club in January 2023, while Sandro Tonali followed that summer. Both have since proven they are excellent signings, but Pedro’s arrival could take the club to new heights.

Since making the move to England more than five years ago, the forward has scored 54 goals and grabbed 18 assists across spells with both Watford and Brighton. For comparison, Gordon had scored just seven goals in 78 games at Everton, prior to making the switch.

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In the Premier League, 32 of these goal involvements were recorded, indicating that he will have no problem performing in the top flight under Howe; that much is certain.

When compared to his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, Pedro ranks highly over a range of performance metrics.

Indeed, not only does he rank in the top 12% for assists (0.28) and shot-creating actions (3.33) per 90, but the Brazilian also ranks in the top 4% for progressive passes (3.6) and for progressive carries (3.05) per 90 over the previous 365 days.

These stats prove that while he is a major threat in the opposition penalty box, Pedro is also capable of generating chances for others while successfully getting the ball into dangerous areas.

He was even hailed by commentator Kevin Hatchard for his “magical” ability on the ball, and this is a move that Howe must be desperate to get over the line sooner rather than later.

If so, it will surely give the whole club a major boost. The St James’ Park faithful will hope that once one player has been signed, the rest will follow.

Keeping Isak will be vital if Newcastle want to go far in the Champions League next term, while aiming for another trophy win.

Should an offer too good to turn down arrive, however, Pedro would make for a more than able replacement heading into the 2024/25 campaign.

Related Self proclaimed "world-class" star has now "agreed" terms to join Newcastle

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Posts 2 ByHenry Jackson

Nottingham Forest are now keen on signing a “complete” forward after watching him in action recently, but there will be plenty of competition for his signature from rival Premier League clubs, according to a report.

Forest planning for the summer

Forest are enjoying a remarkable season in the Premier League, surpassing all expectations and pushing for Champions League qualification, which may mean their most important task this summer will be keeping hold of their best players.

However, new targets are also being identified, with Nuno Espirito Santo seemingly particularly keen on strengthening in the attacking third, given that a number of forwards have been linked with moves to the City Ground.

Contact has been made over a deal for Corinthians striker Yuri Alberto, while the Tricky Trees are also eyeing a move for AS Roma’s Tammy Abraham, who is currently on loan at AC Milan.

Related £25k-p/w Nottingham Forest star being targeted by PL rivals with Murillo

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Posts ByDominic Lund

Matheus Cunha was also heavily linked with Forest in the January transfer window, and the Wolverhampton Wanderers star is not the only Brazilian on the list of targets.

According to a report from The Boot Room, Nottingham Forest are now keen on signing Marseille forward Luis Henrique, who has put in some impressive displays in Ligue 1 this season.

In light of Henrique’s performances in France, he has been tipped to receive a Brazil call-up, and he could also be in line for a move to the Premier League, with a number of clubs believed to be queuing up.

Newcastle United and Everton are also credited with an interest in the forward, with all three clubs watching him in action in recent weeks, so there could be plenty of competition for his signature this summer.

Henrique impressing for Marseille

Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi is clearly very pleased with the Brazilian’s performances this season, having singled him out for praise earlier this month: “He is having a fantastic season. He shows us that he is a complete player, with or without the ball. In terms of finishing, he scores goals. He is young and has to be determined to keep improving. He is one of the most important players for OM.

As such, it may be difficult to prise the left-winger away from Marseille this summer, especially considering the French side are in a strong negotiating position, as he is under contract until the summer of 2028.

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However, should the 23-year-old move to the City Ground, there is every indication he could be a fantastic signing, having amassed seven goals and four assists in Ligue 1 this term.

Nuno is not short on top-quality wide players, with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga both enjoying impressive seasons.

However, if Forest qualify for Europe next season, they will need strength in depth, and Henrique’s performances for Marseille suggest he could be a solid addition to the squad.

Tottenham Hotspur meet Aston Villa in the Premier League this afternoon, and though fans were delighted with a win over Manchester City in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, this is a different test entirely.

Unai Emery’s high-flying side perch five points ahead of Spurs, who have only won four of their nine top-flight fixtures thus far. They were defeated by Crystal Palace, who were previously winless, last weekend.

While Ange Postecoglou and his squad are hardly in dire straits, there is a feeling that defeat in north London against the Villans – for the second season running – would place a sour taste in the fanbase’s proverbial mouth.

It’ll be a tough test indeed, there are no two ways about it. Aston Villa are unbeaten on the road in the Premier League this term and have only been beaten by Arsenal, way back in match-week two.

Moreover, Micky van de Ven has picked up another injury and faces a spell on the sidelines. Fans can only hope that it doesn’t prove to be a detrimental blow.

Micky van de Ven's injured – again

Van de Ven is a fantastic footballer, endowed with the highest calibre of athleticism and keeping things crisp from Tottenham’s backline, one of the sharpest distributors in the Premier League.

The 23-year-old has been plying his craft in the English capital for over one year now, joining from German side Wolfsburg in a £43m deal in August 2023. He’s been brilliant; it’s quite easy to forget how porous Spurs were in defence before his advent.

Indeed, the Dutchman ranks among the top 1% of centre-backs in the English top flight this season for assists, the top 14% for pass completion, the top 11% for progressive passes, and the top 14% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref. Such metrics underscore the complete nature of his skill set.

He’s a singular player, irreplaceable, even. His lightning-quick pace and muscular physique make him the prototypical defender to nullify Aston Villa’s frontline, with the likes of Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran, once he is inevitably unleashed past the hour mark, certain to be emboldened by his absence.

Tottenham worries have been compounded by the potential absence of Cristian Romero too, with Postecoglou revealing that the Argentine titan was left feeling “a bit sore” following the victory over City.

That eventuality is bound to send a frisson of fear lancing through Lilywhites supporters near and far. Although, saying that, it’s not all doom and gloom.

Radu Dragusin is set to start in central defence, regardless of Romero’s fitness. The 22-year-old Romanian won his only ground duel against City on Wednesday, as per Sofascore, also making five clearances to keep the visitors at bay.

Who else to promote to the rearguard? Archie Gray is one option, but he’s young and inexperienced, and would not fare well in a moonlit position against a team like Villa.

Ben Davies, then.

Ben Davies could replace Van de Ven – again

Davies has been at Tottenham for some time. In July 2014, the Wales international arrived from Swansea City in a swap deal worth £10m.

He’s been a loyal servant down N17. A decade later, Davies, now aged 31, has made 335 appearances for the north Londoners, scoring nine goals and supplying 23 further assists.

An 89-cap international, he’s as experienced as they come and hardly averse to playing from the outset in the Premier League – albeit, Postecoglou is yet to dispatch him in the league this season.

That said, Davies has played every minute of Tottenham’s Europa League campaign so far, keeping a clean sheet at centre-back against AZ Alkmaar last time out.

As per Sofascore, he’s completed 91% of his passes across those three fixtures while averaging 85 touches per game. This bodes well for Davies’ potential replacement of Van de Ven, for he’s not afraid to star at the centre of the action in central defence and is a top-class passer besides.

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He’s also proven himself to be capable of stepping in for the Netherlands star last season, proving to be something of a hero during the threadbare spell of Spurs’ 2023/24 season, when Van de Ven was sidelined throughout the winter period.

The £80k-per-week ace is of course not as good as Van de Ven. He’s not as mobile, and nor is he blessed with the same athletic prowess. Having said that, though, the Welshman’s metrics do align quite nicely when contrasting them against his Spurs positional peer, as you can see below.

Micky van de Ven vs Ben Davies (past 365 days)

Stat

Van de Ven

Davies

Pass completion

93%

90%

Passes attempted

72.1

71.6

Progressive passes

4.90

5.54

Shot-creating actions

0.72

1.14

Progressive carries

0.72

1.42

Successful take-ons

0.52

0.28

Stats via FBref

Davies might not carry some of the same natural-born properties as Van de Ven, sure, but he’s a reliable and robust defender who doesn’t earn as much match action as perhaps he deserves.

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Only last season, as stated, the defender stepped in for his peer and produced some composed and cultured performances in the face of adversity, starting 12 matches, completing 91% of his passes, and winning 68% of his ground duels.

So then, he’s not just competent on the continent, against ostensibly lower-level opponents. Davies is assured and will not find his fluency knocked by an absence from the Premier League field.

In fact, the long-serving Spurs man’s industriousness may well blend nicely with the more dynamic defending of Dragusin, sure to start against Villa later on today.

Of course, Romero’s unavailability is not something that Tottenham supporters would hope for, but it’s perhaps a testament to Postecoglou’s project that he’s created a team with ample cover for such conundrums.

Davies has what it takes to send Emery’s outfit packing, and he should be unleashed. Who knows, if Romero does receive the green light, maybe his particular profile would be best served in the starting line-up, instead of Dragusin.

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Posts 2 ByJack Salveson Holmes

Aston Villa have got the ball rolling in recent days after winding around PSR sticking points in recent weeks. Douglas Luiz's transfer to Juventus has yet to be concluded but is edging toward completion, with Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea headed to Villa Park.

Circumnavigating financial issues has left Unai Emery unable to enjoy the kind of thrilling start to the transfer window that last season's top-four Premier League finish called for, though a deal in excess of £35m has also been agreed for left-back Ian Maatsen and Everton's Lewis Dobbin is in advanced negotiations with the Lions.

All told, there's a lot going on. Staying within spending regulations and preventing a damaging points deduction next season is paramount, yes, but Villa need to ensure competitivity in the Champions League, with a centre-forward now being considered.

Villa eyeing new striker

As per i news, Aston Villa are among the clutch of Premier League clubs interested in signing LOSC Lille striker Jonathan David, though currently trail Manchester United, who have made contact with the player's representatives.

Lille president Olivier Letang confirmed last week that the Canada international is available for transfer with just one year left on his current deal – offers in the £25m ballpark will be met with consideration.

Why Villa are interested in Jonathan David

Aston Villa boast one of the best forwards in the Premier League in Ollie Watkins, but Chelsea's efforts to sign Jhon Duran would leave Villa Park a little light up front, so signing a replacement is paramount.

It goes without saying that Champions League football will bring thrill to Villa Park but it will also bring rigours that a lack of depth will succumb to, leaving Emery's squad leached and lethargic in the later stages of the campaign. Duran is young but he's been highly effective as Watkins' understudy, with talent scout Jacek Kulig claiming that he has "the potential to become a top striker".

David, who scored 26 goals and added nine assists from 47 matches for Lille in 2023/24, would be the perfect replacement. Still only 24, he's been hailed an "unbelievable finisher" by journalist Austin Ditlhobolo, ranking among the top 17% of strikers across Europe's top five leagues last season for non-penalty goals scored per 90 (FBref).

Ligue 1: Top Scorers 23/24

Rank

Player

Goals

1.

Kylian Mbappe

27

2.

Jonathan David

19

2.

Alexandre Lacazette

19

4.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

17

5.

Wissam Ben Yedder

16

Stats via Ligue 1 Uber Eats

Not just a sharpshooter, the Canadian also ranks among the top 3% for pass completion, speaking highly of his technical, staccato-fired distribution, combining and conducting in attacking phase to maintain a fluent, all-together kind of advance.

For Villa, who ranked 16th in the Premier League last season for long balls, this kind of snappy, straightforward passing would prove to be a welcome addition to the build-up structure.

By selling Duran to Chelsea, Villa Park would frankly lose some raw power, and prodigious gusto, that scant few targets could effectively imitate upon arrival, but David is a refined and polished goalscorer who would bring some maturity and experience needed for the forthcoming European campaign.

Duran, aged 20, scored eight goals in all competitions last term and notably dissembled Liverpool's defence in the penultimate game, bagging twice to all but confirm a seat at Europe's elite table.

But starting just three top-flight fixtures, he's clearly still got much to learn. David's 84-goal return from 183 matches for his French club highlights the kind of attacking prowess Emery would be adding to his team, providing Villa with the finished article as opposed to a talent such as Duran, who will likely need several seasons yet before offering the full package.

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David would be an excellent replacement for Duran, taking 2.3 shots per game in Ligue 1 last season and missing only 15 big chances despite scoring 19 goals. That's the mark of a clinical striker.

The Aston Villa transfer target is also wonderfully two-footed, with 22 of his 71 Ligue 1 goals scored by his weaker left foot (44 with his right, five with his head). Duran, conversely, bagged all five of his Premier League strikes with his left, suggesting David would offer a greater sense of fluidity and more angles in his attacking game.

For a bargain £25m fee, Villa must surely move to snap David up and bolster their frontline with his clinical qualities – especially if Duran is sold to Chelsea for the mooted £40m price.

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Newcastle United are bang in the mix for an exciting new addition come the summer transfer window, with his currently club said to be happy for the opportunity to cash in.

Newcastle transfer news

The Magpies continue to be linked with new signings, even though the January transfer window has closed, with summer reinforcements now being looked at by Eddie Howe and Dan Ashworth, following a season that has been disappointing on the whole, with FFP affecting their ability to spend last month.

Hoffenheim midfielder Anton Stach is one player who has been backed to complete a move to St James' Park at the end of the season, being seen as someone who can add further influence in the middle of the park, averaging 3.1 tackles per game in the Bundesliga this season, which is more than any other Newcastle player.

Sheffield United youngster Oliver Arblaster in another player who has been mentioned as a long-term addition, with the 19-year-old spending last season on loan at Port Vale, not to mention winning a combined nine caps for England Under-20s and Under-18s.

These aren't the only Newcastle-related stories doing the rounds, however, and it looks as though an attacking ace could be on the cards, with extra depth needed amid injury problems for Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.

Newcastle want Matias Soule

According to TuttoMercatoWeb [via Sport Witness], Juventus are pleased that Newcastle are interested in signing Matias Soule, with the Serie A giants watching with "interest and satisfaction" at his progress on loan at Frosinone this season, seeing it as a reason to cash in on him.

Both the Magpies and Crystal Palace are credited with interest in the 20-year-old, and they "could soon make concrete offers" for his services in the summer transfer window. The report says that he is valued at "at least €40m (£34.2m)", so he wouldn't be arriving on the cheap as the Old Lady look to offset some financial issues of their own.

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Soule could be looked at as an excellent long-term signing by Newcastle, with his impact at Frosinone outlined by a tally of 10 goals in 21 Serie A appearances this season. Capable of playing up front, off the striker as a number ten or on either wing, he has been hailed by manager Eusebio Di Francesco, who has compared him to Italy attacker Domenico Berardi:

"In certain aspects, he resembles Berardi, but he must learn to shoot on goal more often. He doesn’t lack qualities and has excellent dribbling, but in the game, he needs to be more lucid when making his choices. My thought is that his talent should not be limited; with time and experience, he will improve in many aspects."

Matias Soule's Serie A stats this season Total

Appearances 21 Goals 10 Assists 2 Dribbles per game 3.3 Key passes per game 2.4 Tackles per game 1.3 Pass completion rate 81% Newcastle need to be in a situation where they are planning for both the present and future, and Soule ticks both of those boxes, being experienced enough to make an impact from the off, but also someone who should only get better as the years pass. Related Newcastle could now sign another top striker as PIF prepare for busy summer

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Posts ByTom Cunningham

Primarily a right-sided forward, it could even be that the Argentine is considered a direct replacement for Miguel Almiron, should the Magpies attacker move on at the end of the season.

Southampton are now eyeing Russell Martin as a replacement for Will Still, who was dismissed on Sunday night, but there could be competition for his signature from their Championship rivals.

After being relegated from the Premier League last season, the Saints were expected to mount a promotion push, but it has been nothing short of a terrible start to the campaign, having taken just 12 points from their opening 13 matches.

The 2-0 defeat at home to Preston North End was the final straw for Sport Republic, who relieved Still of his duties on Saturday, and Under-21s head coach Tonda Eckert has now emerged as a contender for the first-team manager’s job.

It would be a gamble to appoint Eckert, however, given that he is just 32-years-old and yet to prove himself at senior level, and an external appointment is also being considered…

Southampton eyeing Russell Martin to replace Will Still

According to journalist Alan Nixon (via GiveMeSport) Southampton are now eyeing former manager Martin as a replacement for Still, with the 39-year-old on standby for a swift return to management, having recently been dismissed by Scottish giants Rangers.

The Saints are not the only Championship club that hold an interest, however, with it being revealed that Norwich City are also considering the Englishman, given that there are doubts over Liam Manning’s future.

The Brighton-born manager is available without any compensation, which means he is an appealing option for the two Championship clubs, who could do battle for his services.

In truth, the former Rangers manager’s spell at Ibrox was a complete disaster, being sacked after just 17 games in charge, making him the shortest-serving permanent boss in the Scottish side’s history.

That said, the “exciting” manager, as hailed by analyst John Walker, could still be a good appointment for Southampton, considering the work he did at St. Mary’s previously, guiding them to promotion in the play-off final in the 2023-24 campaign.

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The ex-Swansea City boss, who prefers to implement a 4-3-3 system, is also very experienced at Championship level, having taken charge of 138 second tier matches.

Russell Martin’s Championship record

Games

138

Wins

60

Draws

34

Losses

44

Points per match

1.55

That said, it would arguably be a backwards step to appoint Martin, given that he was sacked by the Saints less than one year ago, after being unable to make the step-up to the Premier League, with his side losing 13 of their opening 16 Premier League games.

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Leeds United are now believed to be right in the mix to complete the signing of an exciting young Premier League player in the summer transfer window.

Who are Leeds trying to sign this summer?

Nikola Krstovic has emerged as a rumoured transfer target for the Whites this summer, with the returning Premier League outfit even reportedly tabling a £29m offer for his services. The Lecce attacker scored 11 goals in 37 Serie A appearances last season, and could add much-needed firepower to Daniel Farke’s squad.

Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz has also been linked with a move to Leeds before next season gets underway, with the Turin giants willing to move him on, despite his quality. He could be a signing of real intent by the Whites, having shone for Aston Villa previously.

Meanwhile, Joe Gomez has been backed to join Leeds if he wants to leave Liverpool this summer, but unfortunately, he has seemingly committed his future to the Reds on Instagram: “It’s been a blessing to be a part of the different dressing rooms and getting to create such special memories over the years with so many great players & staff.

“I felt it was important to share my thanks to you all for the support throughout the years, it’s always meant the world and I will never take it for granted. A decade in red… and still hungry to keep going.”

Leeds pushing to sign "incredible" Premier League ace

According to a fresh update from Marca [via Sport Witness], Leeds are battling Feyenoord for the signing of Wolves left-back Hugo Bueno this summer. The 22-year-old spent last season loan at the Eredivisie side, and they are now keen on turning his temporary move into a permanent switch.

Bueno could be exactly the type of shrewd squad signing that Leeds are after this summer, coming in and providing squad depth, having proven himself as a solid squad player in the Premier League.

The Spaniard has made 43 appearances in England’s top flight, while former Wolves sporting director Matt Hobbs has lauded his impact from a very young age at Molineux.

“Since joining us as a 16-year-old number 10, the work that Hugo and the coaches have put into changing his position, and the acceptance he had of doing that, shows what a good pro he is. To be able to get his head around a new position and develop at the rate he has was incredible.

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“Hugo’s one of the huge success stories of the club. Bringing him in from a grassroots team in Spain when he was just 16, and he’s now 21, playing in the Premier League and being a regular Premier League player, it’s testament to everyone involved.”

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Bueno could provide stiff competition for Sam Byram at left-back next season, and given his age, there is no reason why he won’t blossom more as a player as the years pass.

Manchester City’s last outing was a hugely disappointing 3-1 defeat in the Champions League against Real Madrid. It saw the Citizens crash out of the premium European club competition in a frustrating manner, losing 6-3 on aggregate.

A phenomenal Kylian Mbappe hattrick was enough to sink Pep Guardiola’s side, with the French forward scoring three superb goals, including a lob over goalkeeper Ederson and a lovely strike from range with his weaker left foot to seal the treble.

City lost John Stones just minutes into the game, with the England international succumbing to injury. It was a bit of a makeshift defence for City, which included new signing Abdukodir Khusanov at right-back.

Khusanov’s performance vs. Real Madrid

So far, the Uzbekistan international has played a bit-part role in a Man City shirt. The January signing from French outfit Lens has featured four times, with his start against Madrid the first time he has played in the Champions League for City.

However, it was a tough night at the office for Khusanov against Los Blancos. Defending against Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior, a quartet often quite fluid in their rotations, you could not have really asked for a tougher assignment.

In fact, the youngster received a 3/10 for his performance against the Spanish giants, courtesy of Goal. Richard Martin said Khusanov ‘was tortured from start to finish’ by the likes of Mbappe and Vinicius.

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When the Frenchman received the ball for his second goal, it came to him after City’s number 45 had the ball poked through his legs by Rodrygo.

It was certainly a baptism of fire in the Champions League for the first time donning that famous Blue shirt. It will be interesting to see if Guardiola keeps him in the side for the heavyweight clash with Liverpool on Sunday.

The same thing could be said for another City defender, who also struggled against Madrid.

The City player who could be dropped against Liverpool

When you’re defending against the likes of Mbappe, Bellingham, Vinicius and Rodrygo, it is never going to be easy. Khusanov found that out first-hand, but perhaps no one can relate more than Josko Gvardiol.

If Khusanov had a tough night, then Gvardiol certainly did. He was, in many ways, embarrassed by Madrid’s hattrick hero, who sat him down for his second goal, moments after the Uzbek defender was nutmegged by Rodrygo.

With Gvardiol sliding in for a challenge on Mbappe, the Madrid number nine simply shifted the ball from his left foot to his right, and watched as the Croatian defender slid past him and ended up on his back. Gvardiol could only watch as Mbappe slotted home,

It was a poor performance from City’s left-back at the Santiago Bernabeu. He received a 4/10 from Martin, which was justified when looking at his stats on Sofascore.

He won just five out of 14 ground duels and was dribbled past twice, including for Mbappe’s second goal.

Gvardiol stats vs. Real Madrid

Stat

Number

Touches

69

Pass accuracy

90%

Ground duels won

4/12

Aerial duels won

1/2

Tackles won

2/4

Number of times balls lost

8

Fouls committed

3

Stats from Sofascore

Sadly for Gvardiol, there will be no respite this weekend against the Premier League leaders, Liverpool. Should he get the nod at left-back again, he will have to face one of the most in-form players in the Premier League, Mohamed Salah.

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The Reds’ number 11 has 29 goals and 20 assists in just 37 games in all competitions this season, playing as a right-winger. That means Gvardiol will come up directly against the Egyptian international.

Perhaps Guardiola will decide not to risk his number 24. After being embarrassed by Mbappe, there is no reason to say why the same will not happen against another world-class attacker.

This is a crucial game for City in their fight for a top-four spot, and perhaps the City boss will want a more watertight defence.

It would not be hard to argue against dropping Gvardiol for the clash at the Etihad Stadium. The left-back has not been playing to the high levels he can hit, and City might need someone else in better form to help keep someone like Salah quiet.

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Leeds United moved up to third in the Championship table after they secured a superb 2-0 win against Sheffield United at Elland Road on Friday night.

Their opponents had kept six successive clean sheets in the second tier ahead of the clash but could not keep out Daniel Farke’s side, who won with relative ease.

Whilst it took until the 69th minute for them to open the scoring, through Pascal Struijk, the away side did not have a shot on target all game and did not create a single ‘big chance’.

Leeds, meanwhile, created three ‘big chances’ and had four shots on target in total, scoring from two of them, as they managed to break down a stubborn defence.

After Struijk opened the scoring, the Whites looked the more likely team to get the second in the game, rather than the Blades grabbing an equaliser, and Mateo Joseph made sure of the win with a composed finish in the 90th minute.

That goal from the academy graduate means that Joseph and Joel Piroe have now combined for six goals and six assists in the Championship this season, which means that Leeds are getting more than value for money from them.

Leeds United's highest earners

Per Capology, both strikers only earn £15k-per-week and are far from being among the top earners in the squad for the the 2024/25 campaign.

Only three players, Isaac Schmidt, Joe Rothwell, who is on loan from Bournemouth, and Alex Cairns are on less money, and all three of them are back-up options when all players are fit and available.

This means that Joseph and Piroe are the two lowest-paid regular starters, although Rothwell is currently enjoying a run of starts with Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev out through injury.

Leeds United’s top ten earners

24/25 season

Weekly wage

Patrick Bamford

£70k

Junior Firpo

£60k

Manor Solomon

£60k

Dan James

£50k

Pascal Struijk

£50k

Brenden Aaronson

£45k

Ethan Ampadu

£40k

Joe Rodon

£40k

Max Wober

£35k

Wilfried Gnonto

£30k

Wages via Capology

As you can see in the table above, Joseph and Piroe do not rank within the top ten earners at Elland Road, and earn half as much as the tenth-highest – Wilfried Gnonto.

Meanwhile, the highest-paid player in the squad, per these figures, is Patrick Bamford on a staggering £70k-per-week, more than twice as much as the other two strikers combined.

Daniel Farke, who has been linked with a swoop for RB Salzburg’s Adam Daghim, must now ruthlessly ditch the English forward from the squad when the January transfer window opens for business, if there are any suitors.

Why Patrick Bamford should be sold

The one-time England international has simply not done enough on the pitch to justify his huge wages, and it has been reported that he is open to leaving.

Football Insider recently claimed that the left-footed marksman is considering an exit from West Yorkshire at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, despite having a contract through to the summer of 2026.

The 31-year-old attacker is said to have grown frustrated with his lack of minutes on the pitch under Farke, as he has only made four appearances as a substitute in the Championship this season, and the club are open to letting him go.

Bamford has been behind Piroe and Joseph in the pecking order, and rightly so given their combined 12 goal contributions, and struggled when he was getting regular minutes last term.

23/24 Championship

Patrick Bamford

Appearances

33

xG

9.52

Goals

8

Big chances missed

9

Key passes per game

0.4

Assists

1

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the experienced forward let himself down in front of goal last season by missing nine ‘big chances’ and underperforming against his xG.

He also rarely contributed as a creator for his teammates with less than one key pass every other game and only one assist in 33 Championship games.

Bamford is not the only forward who should be brutally binned by Farke in January, however, as Joe Gelhardt should also be moved on by the German head coach, due to his lack of impact whilst earning as much (£15k-per-week) as Joseph and Piroe.

Why Leeds should sell Joe Gelhardt

The young attacker is now 22 and is still yet to establish himself as a regular for Leeds, having initially made his breakthrough in the first-team in the 2021/22 campaign, with two goals in 20 Premier League outings.

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Gelhardt showed plenty of signs of promise in the top-flight in his teenage years, with two goals and four assists in 35 matches in the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa and Jesse Marsch.

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However, he has not kicked on since that initial show of promise and it may now be time for the Whites to cash in on him in January, if there are any interested parties.

The 22-year-old was sent out on loan to Sunderland to play regular minutes in the second half of the 2022/23 campaign and only scored three goals in 18 Championship matches.

Despite his lack of production during his time with the Black Cats, Farke opted to keep the young attacker in his squad for the 2023/24 season, having arrived at the club in the summer to lead the team back to the Premier League.

Joe Gelhardt

23/24 Championship

24/25 Championship

Appearances

10

2

Starts

2

0

Goals

0

0

Assists

0

0

Key passes per game

0.2

0

Big chances created

0

0

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Gelhardt has been rarely-seen at Championship level for the Whites since he returned from his loan with Sunderland in the summer of 2023.

The versatile forward has only played 12 times in the division and has not produced a single goal, assist, or ‘big chance’ created for the West Yorkshire outfit.

He is two years older than Joseph, who has already scored two goals and provided three assists in the league this season, and it seems unlikely, given their respective performances, that he is going to overtake the Spaniard any time soon.

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Therefore, Farke should look to cash in on the English dud when the next transfer window opens for business, and move him on alongside Bamford.

Tottenham are now thought to be the most serious side about signing a £70 million defender who's been called "similar" to star centre-back Micky van de Ven.

Ange admits Spurs could sign another centre-back after Dragusin

The £25 million signing of Radu Dragusin from Genoa in January was thought to be a significant deal for Spurs, as they were starved of quality alternatives to van de Ven and Cristian Romero at the time.

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The latter star's hamstring injury last November seriously exposed Spurs' lack of defensive depth. Indeed, van de Ven's absence midway through 23/24 prompted a brief but poor run of form, and perhaps alerted Lilywhites transfer chiefs to the glaring weakness in Ange Postecoglou's squad.

A move for Dragusin was then swiftly completed in the winter window, with the Romanian seriously helping to bolster Postecoglou's back line. His presence also allowed Spurs to cover for the injured Destiny Udogie at the end of last season, with van de Ven moving to left-back and Dragusin taking his usual spot in the centre.

Radu Dragusin's best league games for Tottenham last season

Match Rating (via WhoScored)

Sheffield United 0-3 Tottenham

6.98

Aston Villa 0-4 Tottenham

6.67

Tottenham 2-1 Luton Town

6.61

Tottenham 0-2 Man City

6.49

Fulham 3-0 Tottenham

6.28

However, despite the 22-year-old's arrival at N17, Postecoglou has previously admitted that Spurs could look to sign another centre-back this summer – as they eye even more cover.

“If you’re saying, ‘Is it an area we can strengthen?’, yes it’s an area we will probably look at”, the Tottenham manager said.

“With all these things, it’s about trying to strengthen the group as much as anything else. If you think about when I first arrived, we had maybe six or seven centre-backs at the club. So it’s not just numbers. It’s more about the ability of those players to play the football we want and to fit in to what we’re trying to build here.

“I think it is an area of the park we will look to strengthen, but I think we’ll look to strengthen all areas of the park come the end of the season. That is planning that’s already underway, and other people are in charge of it at the moment.”

Tottenham made an offer to Tosin Adarabioyo before he joined Chelsea, as revealed by club insider Paul O'Keefe at the time. Spurs also held an interest in signing Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer from Bournemouth, but the Englishman is on his way to Newcastle United instead (Simon Stone, BBC).

With both free deals out of the window, Spurs apparently have their eyes on a far more expensive option in Nottingham Forest star Murillo.

Tottenham most serious side in race for Murillo

The Brazilian, who starred for Forest over his 32 Premier League starts, is also being chased by their north London rivals.

That is according to Football Transfers, who also claim that Tottenham have shown the most interest in signing Murillo at this point. They may need to stump up a considerable transfer fee, though, and it could be as high as £70 million.

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FT have also called Murillo "similar" to van de Ven, which is an enticing comparison when considering just how crucial the 23-year-old is to Spurs.