Manchester United currently have three centre-backs out injured, while two are set to leave in the summer, and Ruben Amorim could do with help in the defensive department once the transfer window opens.
Lisandro Martinez is out till next year with an ACL injury. Even upon his return, the World Cup winner could be set for a position change.
Matthijs de Ligt suffered an injury against Brentford and will miss at least the next two games. Ayden Heaven is also sidelined.
Add Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof‘s impending departures, and all Amorim has are Leny Yoro, an ageing Harry Maguire and an unfit Luke Shaw. Young Tyler Fredricson has impressed but he needs to bulk up.
Defence needs help
Jarrad Branthwaite has been a long-term target for INEOS, who failed with two bids for the Englishman last summer.
Talks of a move have refused to die down amid the 22-year-old’s imperious form for the Toffees this season.
Amid another potential summer approach, Teamtalk have suggested that David Moyes’ return has changed the Merseyside outfit’s outlook with the owners set to back the former United boss in the market.
And Everton will not allow the England international to leave for anything less than £70 million and they will not change their valuation come what may.
Everton not budging
“Everton are point-blank refusing to part with Jarrad Branthwaite for anything less than their valuation this summer no matter which side wants to sign him, sources have revealed to TEAMtalk, leaving Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s big transfer dream facing capitulation.
“Sources have confirmed the Toffees have slapped a £70 million (€82.6m, $93.7m) minimum price tag on the defender – and they’re not budging.”
Lots of clubs were interested in Branthwaite with the centre-back helping the Toffees keep nine clean sheets. But it seems he could be staying put for now.
United have other positions in greater need of reinforcements and it is unlikely INEOS will sanction such an extensive outlay on a centre-back this summer.
The 26-year-old has been at the center of widespread media and fan discussions in recent weeks, culminating in his announcement on Sunday that he will not extend his contract with Liverpool. His current deal runs out at the end of June 2025.
Real Madrid appears to be his next destination, with The Athletic reporting on Monday that the right-back is set to join the Spanish giants as a free agent. Sources in Spain suggest a six-year contract is close to being finalized. ..Continue Reading
In his statement, Alexander-Arnold explained that stepping outside his “comfort zone” was a key factor in his decision to leave the reigning Premier League champions.
Over the past three decades, several high-profile players—including Eden Hazard, Steven McManaman, Gareth Bale, and Michael Owen—have swapped English football for a fresh challenge in Madrid. However, Ronaldo’s 2009 move from Manchester United to Los Blancos remains the most iconic switch.
Despite Alexander-Arnold seemingly set to follow a similar path, he once made his stance clear in an interview with Oh My Goal in 2019, stating that Messi is “the best player of all time.”
In another interview with the Mirror back in 2024, Alexander-Arnold doubled down on his choice, he explained: “It has to be Messi for me, the best player I’ve played, for me the best player that’s ever played the game.”
The right-back added: “I never watched [Diego] Maradona, so I don’t know… to imagine anyone better than what I’ve been able to see… my brain doesn’t comprehend it, there’s no way anyone can be better.”
He continued: “There’s just a different feeling playing against him than I’ve ever felt with anyone else.
“You’re always on red alert when the ball’s near him, I think it’s very rare for a player to have that kind of feeling, to put that feeling into other players. So for that reason, I have to say him.
“For me, I think in many, many aspects of the game, he’s probably the best at any given moment. He can almost do what he wants on a football pitch, so yeah, for that reason, he’s the best.”
Despite admitting that Messi is the greatest of all time, Alexander-Arnold still has huge respect for Ronaldo, and so he should given the fact that the Portuguese is Real’s highest-ever goalscorer and greatest player.
“With Ronaldo being one of the greats, probably one of the best players ever, it’s going to be an honour to hopefully play against him,” Alexander-Arnold said ahead of the 2018 Champions League final, which Liverpool lost 3-1 against Madrid.
“You have to admit he’s [Cristiano Ronaldo] an unbelievable player and he’s done exceptional things in the game,” he added. “The numbers that he does season in, season out are absolutely unbelievable.
“I know a lot about him and the likes of Messi because I watched them on YouTube growing up. You always watch those type of players. But you’ve just got to focus on the game and, if he’s a direct opponent, you have to see what the strengths and weaknesses are and use them to your advantage.”
Everton are reportedly in the race to sign Villarreal winger Nicolas Pepe this summer, with competition heating up from Wolverhampton Wanderers and clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
Toffees Eye Reinforcement as Pepe Rebuilds His Career
According to Foot Mercato, the Toffees are keen on bolstering their attacking options and have identified 29-year-old Ivory Coast international Nicolas Pepe as a target. After a turbulent spell at Arsenal, Pepe has found his feet again with Villarreal, registering two goals and four assists in 23 La Liga appearances this season. His standout performance against Osasuna has reignited interest from several clubs.
Pepe, once a £72 million signing for Arsenal, never quite lived up to expectations in North London. Following a season in Turkey with Trabzonspor, the French-born winger made a free switch to Villarreal, where he has shown glimpses of his old form from his LOSC Lille days.
Premier League Return: A Fresh Start at Everton?
Everton’s interest in Pepe is no surprise, especially with uncertainty looming over loan stars Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom. The club needs reliable depth out wide, and Pepe, with his Premier League experience, could offer just that.
However, Everton aren’t alone in their pursuit. Wolves and several Saudi clubs are also monitoring Pepe’s situation, setting up a potential summer transfer tussle. With his top-flight experience and renewed form, a return to the Premier League could be the perfect opportunity for Pepe to reignite his career.
CHELSEA have been linked with a potential move for Ipswich star Liam Delap, and according to reporter Iomie Stanley, the forward has the potential to be one of the best strikers in the Premier League.
Delap has had a decent season for Ipswich in the Premier League this season despite the clubs relegation, and his performances have been linked with a switch to Liverpool and Chelsea.
Now, amid all the speculation and rumours, The existence of a release clause that could cost Chelsea or Liverpool £30 million, Stanley says he could be a great signing for the big clubs as he has the potential to be a top Premier League star.
Stanley told icfootballnews: ‘Chelsea’s pursuit of young talent has been a cornerstone of their transfer strategy in recent years, with the club investing heavily in players who possess both potential and immediate value.
‘Delap could be a shrewd acquisition for Chelsea, particularly as they look to solve their long-term issues in the center-forward role.
‘At Ipswich Town, Delap has showcased his predatory instincts in front of goal. His movement in the box, combined with his ability to find space and finish clinically, makes him a standout among young strikers. Delap’s record at youth levels and his continued improvement in professional football demonstrate that he is not only a promising talent but also a consistent goal threat.
‘Chelsea, who have struggled to find a dependable striker since the departure of Diego Costa, could benefit from adding a player with Delap’s goal-scoring pedigree to their ranks.
‘Standing tall and strong, Delap’s physicality is one of his defining attributes. This strength allows him to hold up play effectively, shrug off defenders, and provide a focal point for his team’s attack.
‘The Premier League’s physical nature demands forwards who can withstand challenges, and Delap’s natural physique makes him well-suited to the rigors of top-flight football.
‘He could complement CHELSEA’s dynamic wide players and creative midfielders by offering a robust presence in the penalty area.
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Manchester United’s record goalscorer Wayne Rooney has questioned Ruben Amorim’s use of Bruno Fernandes.
Despite United’s struggles in the Premier League, Fernandes has been outstanding this season – arguably playing the best football of his career – and has clearly adapted well to life under Amorim.
Fernandes has notched an impressive 19 goals and 18 assists in 52 appearances across all competitions.
Amorim has primarily utilised the skipper in a midfield pivot, but he has also impressed when deployed in one of the two No. 10 roles.
When operating in a deeper role, Fernandes has been instrumental in helping United break the lines and progress up the pitch, while in the No. 10 position, he’s consistently showcased his creativity and vision in the final third.
It remains to be seen in which position his long-term future lies but Rooney feels the Portugal international is less effective when playing deeper.
Speaking on The Overlap, Rooney explained that it isn’t right that defensive-minded players are sometimes allowed to be more involved in attacking play than Fernandes.
“The game now is very much positional. For instance, at United now, the creative players are coming back and the wingbacks are going higher.”
“The attacking players are lower than the defensive players. If you have good attacking players, you want them [higher up the pitch].”
“Like I think Bruno has done really well in midfield, but I want to see Bruno higher, in and around the penalty area where he can shoot and create.”
Rooney added, “You’re ending up with so many defenders up the pitch and your midfield players who are good attacking players filling in at fullback spots and stuff. In some ways it’s OK if you’ve got the personnel.”
“But every team is doing it now and I think it’s a little bit too much.”
United are back in action on Thursday when they host Athletic Club in the return leg of their Europa League semi-final tie.
Featured image Juan Manuel Serrano Arce via Getty Images
After enduring a three-month goal drought, the English forward rediscovered his form, expressing how motivated he was to silence his critics. ..Continue Reading
The 22-year-old now has his sights set on becoming Chelsea’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer. His tally of 37 top-flight goals has propelled him into 10th place in the club’s history, drawing level with Brazilian winger Willian.
Despite joining the Blues from Manchester City just two summers ago, Palmer continues to show why Pep Guardiola’s decision to sell him may have been a misjudgment.
With his career still in its early stages, supporters will hope he remains a prolific force for years to come, having signed a nine-year contract in August 2024 that could keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2033.
Palmer’s milestone has come in just 67 appearances, boasting the best minutes-per-goal ratio of any player in Chelsea’s top 10, averaging a goal every 150 minutes.
For perspective, former striker Nicolas Anelka took 125 matches to reach 68 goals, and Palmer is poised to surpass the Frenchman soon.
His £42.5m signing in the summer of 2023 generated plenty of excitement, but few anticipated he would become such a prolific scorer.
Under Mauricio Pochettino, he quickly took on a talismanic role for Chelsea, netting 22 goals in 34 league matches during the 2023-24 campaign.
Palmer struggled to break into Guardiola’s first team at Manchester City and did not score a single Premier League goal at the Etihad.
His second season in London has been a mix of ups and downs, with less reliance on him under Enzo Maresca’s management.
Palmer started the campaign in excellent form, striking 14 times in 21 appearances, but his momentum slowed after mid-January, leading to a frustrating three-month goal drought.
However, his performance against Liverpool signaled his return to form, with his penalty taking his total to 15 goals in 34 games.
Chelsea’s official media account shared the club’s all-time Premier League top scorers list, offering an intriguing insight into their history.
The rankings emphasized Frank Lampard’s remarkable scoring ability as a midfielder, while also highlighting Chelsea’s shortage of consistent goal-scorers—evidenced by John Terry occupying eighth place.
Rival fans were quick to mock the achievement, pointing to examples of past players from their own clubs who would have comfortably made Chelsea’s top 10.
One supporter highlighted how low Palmer would feature in Arsenal’s: “37 Goals at Arsenal will have you at Number 62 behind (Eddie Nketiah).”
Another similarly pointed out: “Theo Walcott 108 is the 10th all-time PL goal scorer at Arsenal, he has more goals than (Didier) Drogba that is second on this list.”
One fan poked fun at Chelsea: “37 goals gets you into the top 10 of a supposed big club’s all-time top scorers list.”
As did another: “Top 10 in the all-time scorers after two seasons is the most tinpot thing I’ve ever seen.”
Another said: “£7.9 billion spent on strikers and John Terry’s in our top 10.”
While others saw reasons to be optimistic regarding the legacy Palmer can achieve at the club. One fan wrote: “He’s going to retire as a legend here.”
Another said: “Cole is just 2 seasons in at Chelsea and he’s already in this conversation.”
Chelsea are in the race for Champions League qualification, and the win against Liverpool has them sitting fifth with 63 points, three above Nottingham Forest, who face Crystal Palace on Monday.
Chelsea are preparing a €60 million offer to land Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo this summer, according to reports from Fichajes. The Blues see the versatile attacker as a potential game-changer in their bid for Champions League football under new boss Enzo Maresca.
Mbeumo has been sensational this season, racking up 26 goal contributions across competitions. Primarily operating from the right flank, the Cameroonian international could prompt a tactical tweak at Stamford Bridge—possibly moving Cole Palmer into a more central role. Mbeumo’s pace, creativity, and finishing touch would provide Chelsea with much-needed attacking depth and dynamism.
Manchester United Also in the Race
Chelsea, however, are not alone in the chase. Manchester United have also entered the fray, as reported by The Telegraph. The Red Devils are actively rebuilding their forward line after a lacklustre season, and Mbeumo has emerged as a top target alongside Wolves striker Matheus Cunha.
United’s front line, featuring the likes of Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, has struggled for consistency. Mbeumo’s proven Premier League pedigree could offer an instant upgrade.
With two English giants circling, Mbeumo is poised for a major step up. Whether he chooses to light up Stamford Bridge or Old Trafford, his next move will surely be one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer.
Manchester United could make a concrete move for Brentford wide forward Bryan Mbeumo this summer, as per reports.
United’s winless streak in the Premier League extended to six games after their 4-3 defeat at Brentford. This time, the Red Devils were undone by their defensive fragility, but Ruben Amorim’s biggest concern this term has been the side’s lack of forward quality.
Apart from the three relegated sides, only West Ham United and Everton have scored fewer Premier League goals than United this term.
It has been widely reported that the Mancunians are interested in the likes of Liam Delap and Victor Osimhen as they look to find a new number nine to spearhead their attack.
Should United fail to get their hands on their main targets, they could reportedly intensify their interest in Mbeumo, who was one of Brentford’s standout stars this Sunday.
Givemesport claim that Mbeumo will become a “more realistic” target for United if they do not manage to land the strikers they want this summer.
It is understood that Wolverhampton Wanderers star Matheus Cunha is the “priority for their vision of signing a new attacker.”
The technically proficient Brazilian is expected to play as one of the two number 10s in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation. However, the ex-Atletico Madrid man is also capable of playing as a centre-forward.
The report suggests United could consider signing Mbeumo to play on the flanks and pushing Cunha more centrally if the likes of Delap and Osimhen don’t arrive.
The Cameroon international has also featured as a striker under Thomas Frank but he thrives on the right flank.
Despite not playing centrally, Mbeumo has cemented himself as one of the Premier League’s most prolific players this season. He has scored 18 goals and registered seven assists so far. As such, his arrival would certainly strengthen United’s attack, irrespective of how Amorim decides to use him.
At this point, however, United are focused on getting the deal over the line for Cunha, as per Fabrizio Romano. The race for Mbeumo’s signature, meanwhile, is described as “open”.
Liverpool fell to a 3-1 defeat against Enzo Maresca’s side in their first match since being crowned Premier League champions.
Still recovering from their title celebrations the previous week, the Reds looked sluggish, allowing Chelsea to seize the advantage early. ..Continue Reading
Enzo Fernandez opened the scoring within three minutes after a well-executed move involving Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto.
Chelsea extended their lead with 20 minutes remaining when Virgil van Dijk’s attempted clearance ricocheted off Jarell Quansah and into the net for an own goal.
Although Van Dijk managed to pull one back for Liverpool with a well-timed header from a corner, Cole Palmer’s late penalty secured a crucial win for Chelsea in their push for Champions League qualification.
Salah was unusually quiet throughout the game, and Rooney credited Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella for delivering an outstanding defensive display.
Despite enjoying a spectacular season—having netted 33 goals and provided 23 assists across all competitions—Salah was unable to make his usual impact against his former club.
‘I was really impressed with Marc Cucurella,’ ex-Manchester United and England striker Rooney said on BBC’s Match of the Day 2.
‘I really liked how aggressive he was against Mohamed Salah. He was right in Salah’s face all afternoon, he didn’t give him any time on the ball.
‘Salah can obviously hurt players if he faces you up but Cucurella didn’t let that happen. He kept winning the ball and driving forward, he didn’t really give Salah any joy.
‘I think he won the ball back nine times which was more than any other player on the pitch. He was just really aggressive and I think you need to be against Salah because he will cause you massive problems if you give him time.
‘Mo Salah can make you look silly but Cucurella didn’t fear him at all. I was really impressed with him.’
Chelsea’s decision to spend over £60m on Cucurella in 2022 raised some skepticism, but the Euro 2024 champion has since established himself as a crucial figure in the squad.
Their latest victory brought them level on points with fourth-placed Newcastle United, with just three matches left in the season.
Securing a Champions League spot remains a key goal for Maresca’s team, though Nigel Reo-Coker believes they are not yet equipped to compete at the highest level in Europe.
‘You would have to say they are still in it but there are still a lot more questions about this Chelsea team,’ the ex-Premier League midfielder told BBC Radio 5 Live.
‘Just on the game against Liverpool, they took 45 minutes to get going and then they missed some real good chances.
‘Whether it is the Premier League celebration hangover. Chelsea were let off the hook in this game. It’s going to come down to Newcastle v Chelsea next [weekend] when they play each other.
‘Whoever wins that will be the one who makes it [into the Champions League positions]. I would put my money more so on Newcastle.
‘From their performances and from the way they look. They have won the League Cup this year and they have got tunnel vision.
‘With Chelsea, there are still quite a few questions. I don’t think they are strong enough defensively.’
Date: Wednesday night Kick-off: 20:00 Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris Occasion: UEFA Champions League Semi-Final (2nd Leg)
Football fans, buckle up—because we’re heading to the Parc des Princes for a continental heavyweight showdown that could define the season for both clubs. Paris Saint-Germain host Arsenal in what promises to be an electrifying second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final. PSG have the slenderest of leads thanks to their 1-0 win in North London, but the Gunners aren’t out of the fight yet—not by a long shot.
This isn’t just any semi-final. This is a clash of two titans desperate to shake off past UCL heartbreaks and write a new chapter. For PSG, it’s a golden chance to finally get their hands on that elusive first Champions League trophy. For Arsenal, it’s about proving to the world that their rebuild under Mikel Arteta can deliver on the biggest stage of all.
Let’s dive in, Gooners and Parisiens—this one is going to be a rollercoaster.
The Story So Far
PSG landed the first blow. Ousmane Dembele’s early strike at the Emirates gave Luis Enrique’s side a crucial away win and a one-goal cushion heading into the return leg. While the scoreline was tight, PSG were electric in the opening 20 minutes—swarming the ball, pressing like demons, and carving Arsenal open with pace and flair.
But Arsenal regrouped. They settled into the game, had their moments, and could have easily nicked an equaliser had Gianluigi Donnarumma not pulled off a world-class save or two. It wasn’t the worst result for Arteta’s men, but they now face an uphill climb in Paris.
To make matters more intriguing, both sides slipped up in their domestic leagues over the weekend. PSG were stunned 2-1 by Strasbourg, while Arsenal fell to a frustrating 2-1 defeat at home to Bournemouth. Still, both managers rotated heavily with this midweek blockbuster in mind—so expect their strongest lineups when the lights shine brightest.
Head-to-Head & Recent Form
Before Dembele’s heroics in the first leg, Arsenal had PSG’s number. The Gunners were unbeaten in four previous meetings, including a 2-0 win in the group stage this season. That alone should give Arsenal fans a glimmer of hope—especially considering the Londoners have shown they can frustrate PSG’s stars when organised.
That said, form favours the French champions. Despite only two wins in their last six games across competitions, PSG have made the Parc a fortress in Europe this season. Their ability to start fast and feed off the home crowd’s energy could make the difference.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are wobbling slightly. Three games without a win, and the creativity has dried up at the wrong time. But this is the Champions League—a platform for heroes. The Gunners will need every ounce of composure, resilience, and clinical edge to pull off what would be a famous European comeback.
Tactics & Key Battles
Here’s where the chess match begins. PSG love to stretch play with width and raw pace. Bradley Barcola is expected to replace the injured Dembele, and he’ll be a major threat down the flanks. With Kvaratskhelia floating and Hakimi bombing forward, Arsenal’s full-backs will need to be laser-focused.
In midfield, Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and Neves will look to control tempo and exploit Arsenal’s defensive transitions. But here’s the good news for Gooners: Thomas Partey is back. The Ghanaian’s presence offers a massive boost. His ability to shield the defence and free up Declan Rice to push forward could tilt the balance in Arsenal’s favour.
It’s also a big night for Martin Ødegaard, who needs to impose himself and thread passes that split PSG’s backline. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli cutting inside and sniffing for chances, the Gunners do have the firepower to cause damage.
Players to Watch
Bradley Barcola (PSG) – He scored against Strasbourg at the weekend and will be full of confidence. His movement and finishing will test Arsenal’s backline.
Declan Rice (Arsenal) – Scored in the Premier League on the weekend and thrives in big games. If he drives forward, he could disrupt PSG’s rhythm.
Donnarumma (PSG) – His saves in the first leg were huge. Arsenal will test him again, and he’ll need to be just as sharp.
Saka & Martinelli (Arsenal) – This is their time to shine. If they get isolated against PSG’s fullbacks, they’ll be licking their lips.
This tie is far from over. Yes, PSG have the upper hand. Yes, they’re at home. But Arsenal have a history of bouncing back and love playing with their backs against the wall. If they can survive the early onslaught and find a goal before half-time, this tie flips on its head.
Expect a fast start, a few nervy moments, and at least one stunner. But ultimately, PSG’s experience and quality at home might just edge it.
