Confirmed: Klopp makes Dominik Szoboszlai decision as Liverpool v Chelsea lineups emerge

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 31, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Liverpool are back in Premier League action once again this evening as they host Chelsea at Anfield.

The Reds go with Alisson in goal tonight as Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate start as the centre back pairing.

Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez are the full backs with Alexis Mac Allister in front of the back four once again.

Dominik Szoboszlai returns to the starting lineup and joins Curtis Jones in playing just ahead of Mac Allister.

Mohamed Salah is still unavailable so Liverpool go with a front three of Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez in attack.

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson are only on the bench tonight as they continue their recoveries from injury.

Caoimhin Kelleher, Cody Gakpo, Harvey Elliott, Ryan Gravenberch, Bobby Clark, James McConnell and Jarell Quansah.

Chelsea have Djordje Petrovic in goal with Thiago Silva partnering Benoit Badiashile in the heart of defence.

Axel Disasi and Ben Chilwell are the full backs tonight with a midfield trio of Moises Caicedo, Conor Gallagher and Enzo Fernandez all starting.

Cole Palmer appears to be playing as a false nine again, flanked by Raheem Sterling and Noni Madueke.

Christopher Nkunku is fit enough for the bench tonight, joining Lucas Bergstrom, Alfie Gilchrist, Malo Gusto, Cesare Casadei, Carney Chunkwuemeka, Mykhailo Mudryk, Deivid Washington and Armando Broja.

Liverpool starting XI: Alisson; Bradley, Van Dijk, Konate, Gomez; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Jones; Diaz, Jota, Nunez.

Liverpool substitutes: Kelleher, Gakpo, Elliott, Robertson, Gravenberch, Clark, McConnell, Alexander-Arnold, Quansah.

Chelsea starting XI: Petrovic; Disasi, Thiago Silva, Badiashile, Chilwell; Caicedo, Gallagher, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Sterling.

Chelsea substitutes: Bergstrom, Gilchrist, Gusto, Casadei, Chukwuemeka, Mudryk, Washington, Nkunku, Broja.

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Confirmed: Postecoglou makes James Maddison decision as Tottenham v Brentford lineups emerge

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 31, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Tottenham Hotspur are back in Premier League action this evening as they host London neighbours Brentford.

Tottenham go with Guglielmo Vicario in goal as Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven continue as the centre backs ahead of the Italian.

Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie line up as the full backs with Rodrigo Bentancur and Oliver Skipp in midfield.

The big news surrounds James Maddison as the playmaker makes a stunning return to the starting lineup this evening.

Maddison has been ramping up his return and has been thrown straight back into action for his first appearance in nearly two months.

Richarlison leads the line once again with Dejan Kulusevski and Timo Werner flanking him out wide.

That means Brennan Johnson drops to the bench, joining Fraser Forster, Emerson Royal, Radu Dragusin, Ben Davies, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, Jamie Donley, Bryan Gil and Dane Scarlett.

Brentford have Mark Flekken between the sticks tonight and it’s a back three ahead of him as Nathan Collins, Ben Mee and Ethan Pinnock all start.

Mads Roerslev and Keane Lewis-Potter are the wing backs tonight with Christian Norgaard, Vitaly Janet and Mathias Jensen in midfield.

Ivan Toney leads the line with support from Neal Maupay.

Former Arsenal talent Josh Dasilva makes the bench tonight alongside Thomas Strakosha, Mathias Jorgensen, Kristoffer Ajer, Mikkel Damsgaard, Shandon Baptiste, Yehor Yarmolyuk, Ethan Brierley and Benjamin Fredrick

Tottenham Hotspur starting XI: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bentancur, Skipp, Maddison; Kulusevski, Richarlison, Werner.

Tottenham Hotspur substitutes: Forster, Emerson, Dragusin, Davies, Højbjerg, Donley, Johnson, Gil, Scarlett.

Brentford starting XI: Flekken; Roerslev, Collins, Mee, Pinnock, Lewis-Potter; Norgaard, Janelt, Jensen; Maupay, Toney.

Brentford substitutes: Strakosha, Dasilva, Jorgensen, Ajer, Damsgaard, Baptiste, Yarmolyuk, Brierley, Fredrick.

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'Dream come true': Agent confirms star is leaving Southampton, Saints could net £18m profit

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 31, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Carlos Alcarez’s move to Juventus is ‘a dream come true’ with the Southampton midfielder set to complete a shock move from the Championship to Serie A. 

12 months after Southampton fought off competition from Inter Milan to sign the then-Racing Club ace, Carlos ‘Charly’ Alcarez is finally on the verge of making a belated move to one of Italy’s biggest clubs. 

It will not be Inter, however, but a Juventus side who are emerging as the Nerazzuri’s strongest challengers for the Serie A title. 

HITC Football understands that Alcaraz will move to Turin on an initial loan deal. The transfer could become permanent to the tune of £30 million in the summer, however, meaning The Saints can console themselves with the prospect of a huge profit even if Alcaraz will be a big miss for a club with automatic promotion ambitions. 

Carlos Alcaraz is leaving Southampton for Juventus

According to Sebastian Lopez, Alcaraz’s representative, the 21-year-old should jet out to Italy on deadline day before putting pen to paper on a ‘dream’ move to Massimiliano Allegri’s side. 

“Juventus represents a dream come true for Carlos,” Lopez tells Europa Calcio.

“The medical visits will take place in London today, and he could arrive in Turin tomorrow. This is the idea. The most important of (transfer) of his career.”  

‘A dream come true’

Alcaraz was a rare bright spark in a dismal season for Southampton in 2022/23, making an immediate impact at the club unlike many of the Saints’ other January additions. He even scored just seconds after kick off with a superb lob during that thrilling 3-3 draw with Arsenal at the Emirates. 

Southampton have already brought in a potentially inspired replacement, however, with David Brooks joining from South Coast neighbours Bournemouth. We understand that Russell Martin’s high-flying side have also made an offer for Coventry City talisman Callum O’Hare, though it remains to be seen if the former Aston Villa starlet was viewed was an alternative to Brooks or someone capable of slotting in alongside him in Martin’s attack. 

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West Ham's £15m sale scuppers Everton's exit plans, Toffees man had agreed terms

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 31, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Said Benrahma’s seemingly inevitable switch from West Ham United to Lyon certainly throws a spanner in Everton’s works. 

And not just because, as HITC have been informed, The Toffees showed an interest in the Algeria international too before West Ham accepted a £15 million loan-to-buy bid from the Ligue 1 giants one day before the deadline. 

HITC Football understands that Everton were also planning to let Arnaut Danjuma go, the Dutchman underwhelming since his summer arrival from Villarreal. Danjuma, who’s departure could have freed up funds for another forward to take his place, had agreed terms with Lyon, only for one of European football’s great underachievers to shift their focus to Benrahma with a few days remaining of the transfer period. 

West Ham exit could scupper Everton plans

Danjuma’s agent confirmed to talkSPORT that negotiations had been opened with Lyon shortly after Christmas.

And while Everton boss Sean Dyche has been keen to play down suggestions that the former Bournemouth talisman would be allowed to leave only a few months into his Everton career, HITC understands that The Toffees would not exactly have fought tooth and nail to keep him on Merseyside. 

Moyes, meanwhile, was a little more forthcoming than Dyche was when asked about Benrahma’s future. The Hammers, he admits, need to sell before they can buy, with purported deals for the likes of Jota, Armando Broja or Ibrahim Osman either in the balance or facing collapse heading into the final 24 hours of the window. 

‘We probably need to sell’

“I do believe Marseille made a loan offer,” Moyes said last Friday, before Lyon overtook their Ligue 1 rivals in pursuit of Benrahma. “As far as I know, it was knocked back anyway.  

“We probably need to sell to get some other players in. If that’s the case then we’re probably in a selling mood, rather than a loaning mood.”

The BBC adds that, while Benrahma will join Lyon on loan, they are offering to include a £15 million obligation-to-buy clause in the former Brentford star’s contract. 

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Michael Edwards makes decision on potential Liverpool return after FSG make approach

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 30, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Sources have confirmed to HITC that Michael Edwards has turned down the chance to return to his former club Liverpool.

HITC understands that Fenway Sports Group made a move over the weekend to bring their sporting director back to the club – be he was quick to turn the chance down.

Edwards left Liverpool in the summer of 2022 after 11-years at Anfield, which saw him rise through the ranks up to sporting director – which he took on in 2016.

Liverpool appointed Julian Ward, Edwards’s former assistant, as his successor but he left last summer – which forced The Reds into bringing in Jorg Schmadtke on a temporary basis and he oversaw a successful summer window.

Klopp leaving

Now, following Jurgen Klopp’s announcement that he is leaving at the end of the season, it was confirmed that Schmadtke would be leaving his role this month.

HITC revealed over the weekend that Edwards’s was being linked with a return to the club in the light of Schmadtke departing, and they did indeed make a move.

HITC has been told that Liverpool intend to bring in a new sporting director ahead of their managerial appointment, and owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) were quick to look into the possibility of Edwards making a return.

Sources have now informed HITC that FSG president Mike Gordon made contact with Edwards last week about the prospect of returning to the club – but he was quick to say no to his former employers.

Edwards’s new role

Edwards, who turned down Chelsea last season and has been linked with Manchester United, is not looking to commit to a club role having decided to set up his own business Ludonautics, with former club director Ian Graham.

Ludonautics is an advisory service to the football industry offering advice to owners and teams looking to build success within the game and it is believed Edwards is committed to his new business.

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Aston Villa finally set to sign £15m talent, years after he was offered in Jack Grealish swap

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 30, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Aston Villa are finally set to land Morgan Rogers – more than two years since he was floated as a makeweight in Jack Grealish’s move to Manchester City.

The transfer deadline is fast approaching and Aston Villa look set to add a new signing to Unai Emery’s squad.

HITC Football understands that Villa have finally agreed a deal to sign Middlesbrough talent Morgan Rogers.

Villa will be paying £8million up front for Rogers with a further £7million in add-ons taking the deal to around £15million.

Former club Manchester City are owed a decent chunk of cash through a sell-on clause and Rogers is now poised to make the move to Villa Park.

The 21-year-old has hit seven goals and nine assists in 33 games this season and will now have a chance to shine in the Premier League.

Aston Villa finally land Morgan Rogers

If there are any Villa fans with a good memory out there, they may recognise Rogers’ name from the 2021 summer transfer window.

ESPN reported in July 2021 that City tried to include Rogers as part of their deal to sign Jack Grealish from Villa.

City valued Rogers at about £10million at the time and were offering him to Villa alongside a £90million fee to take the deal to a value of around £100million.

Villa seemingly weren’t all that interested and preferred to cash the full cash value as Grealish ended up joining City for around £100million.

Rodgers – once a hot prospect at West Bromwich Albion – had just come off a strong season on loan at Lincoln City in League One.

The step up to the Premier League is a big one though and Villa may have felt that he simply wasn’t ready for top-flight action at 19.

Rogers instead went on loan to Bournemouth and managed just one goal in 16 Championship games.

One goal in 22 games on loan at Blackpool last season meant Rogers found himself in a tricky situation, leading City to sell him to Boro.

Rogers has shown his quality with Boro and we can understand why Villa see big potential in him.

A tall and physical player with a powerful running style, Rogers can play up front or out wide but has really thrive as a number 10 this season.

Villa may see some athletic similarities with Ollie Watkins but Rogers has shown that he can make a real difference in a slightly deeper role than the one Watkins plays for Villa.

Michael Carrick has got the best out of Watkins and Emery will now look to do the same as Rogers – more than two years after those initial rumours – finally heads to Villa Park.

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Confirmed: Arteta makes Emile Smith Rowe decision as Nottingham Forest v Arsenal lineups emerge

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 30, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Nottingham Forest starting XI: Turner; Montiel, Omobamidele, Murillo, Toffolo; Mangala, Danilo; Williams, Gibbs-White, Dominguez; Wood.

Nottingham Forest substitutes: Hennessey, Vlachodimos, Worrall, Awoniyi, Hudson-Odoi, Felipe, Elanga, Yates, Aguilera.

Arsenal starting XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Smith Rowe, Odegaard; Saka, Martinelli, Jesus.

Arsenal substitutes: Ramsdale, Cedric, Walters, Kiwior, Jorginho, Havertz, Nelson, Trossard, Nketiah.

Nottingham Forest and Arsenal are back in Premier League action tonight as they meet at the City Ground.

Forest go with former Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Turner in goal with Andrew Omobamidele and Murillo as the centre backs ahead of him.

Gonzalo Montiel and Harry Toffolo are the full backs tonight with Danilo and the heavily linked-away Orel Mangala in midfield.

It looks like Neco Williams and Nicolas Dominguez will play out wide to protect the Forest defence with Morgan Gibbs-White supporting Chris Wood up top.

Taiwo Awoniyi makes the Forest bench today, joining Wayne Hennessey, Odysseas Vlachodimos, Joe Worrall, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Felipe, Anthony Elanga, Ryan Yates and Brandon Aguilera.

Arsenal start with David Raya in goal as William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes continue in the heart of defence.

Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko line up as full backs this evening with Declan Rice in front of the back four.

There is a shock start for Emile Smith Rowe tonight as he joins Martin Odegaard in the advanced midfield positions.

It’s a familiar front three for Arsenal as Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli all feature for the Gunners.

Kai Havertz is on the Arsenal bench tonight, joining Aaron Ramsdale, Cedric Soares, Reuell Walters, Jakub Kiwior, Jorginho, Reiss Nelson, Leandro Trossard and Eddie Nketiah.

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Saudi Pro League club looking to finalise move for star as alternative to Newcastle United ace

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

HITC understands that Al-Shabab are trying to finalise a deal for Newcastle United winger Miguel Almiron, but their attempts look unlikely to result in a transfer.

HITC revealed last week that the Pro League outfit had made a move to try and secure a deal for Almiron.

Newcastle were not in a hurry to seal Almiron in this window, but were open to offers and it is understood a deal worth £30million would have been accepted – as it would have enabled them to do other business this month.

29-year-old Almiron is a hugely popular figure on Tyneside and it would have taken a major offer to tempt him to move, but that now looks highly unlikely.

Deal unlikely

Al-Shabab, who are close to finalising a deal for Croatian star Ivan Rakitic from Sevilla, were keen to land Almiron but the Pro League’s deadline window closes on Tuesday – meaning a move is now unlikely.

It is understood that they could return for him in the summer, but the news that he is staying will be pleasing to Eddie Howe.

Howe spoke about Almiron after the weekend’s FA Cup win over Fulham – which the Paraguayan missed through illness.

“Miggy has been so important to us. Last year he was a big goal getter for us. This year he’s worked incredibly hard and been reliable for us,” Howe told the Journal.

Important to Magpies

“He’s always been fit and hasn’t missed many games and that’s been vitally important to us when we’ve had some many injuries to our attacking players.

“He’s not underestimated by me in terms of his personality and what he produces on the pitch so of course I would like to keep him.”

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'They love him there': Rio Ferdinand backs 41-year-old manager to replace Klopp at Liverpool

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Rio Ferdinand believes that Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso is the clear favourite to replace Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager this summer.

Jurgen Klopp stunned Liverpool fans on Friday, announcing that he is leaving Anfield at the end of the season.

The German has decided to take a break from football after spending more than eight years in the Anfield dugout.

Nobody really saw this coming and Klopp will leave as an absolute hero having brought the Premier League and Champions League back to Liverpool during his time at the club.

There is a real chance for Liverpool to add to Klopp’s trophy haul this season but the Reds hierarchy will already be looking at potential successors.

Rio Ferdinand backs Xabi Alonso for Liverpool job

There will no doubt be a number of names on Liverpool’s radar but one of the most popular suggestions is Xabi Alonso.

The Spaniard has an emotional connection to Liverpool having joined the club under Rafael Benitez back in 2004.

Alonso went on to rack up more than 200 appearances for Liverpool, winning a Champions League and an FA Cup during his time at the club.

Alonso moved on to Real Madrid in 2010 and has turned to coaching, first with the Real Madrid youth setup and then the Real Sociedad B team.

Bayer Leverkusen took a chance on Alonso in 2022 and their gamble has paid off as they sit top of the Bundesliga table with an unbeaten record this season.

Alonso is going for the Bundesliga title and his impressive work in Germany has made him a popular shout for the Liverpool job.

Pundit Rio Ferdinand has now offered his view, believing that Alonso is the clear favourite for the job right now.

Speaking on FIVE, Ferdinand suggested that Liverpool could build some hype by securing Alonso in advance of the end of the season.

Ferdinand feels that Alonso’s history at Liverpool and his style of play at Leverkusen make him the clear favourite, even if his lack of experience makes him something of a risk.

“If they announce quick, or before the end of the season, that Xabi Alonso is coming, and he’s just of the back of winning the German league with Leverkusen, unbeaten… whew,” said Ferdinand. “Whether he wins it or not though, Xabi Alonso, in this season, has done something that nobody has ever done in Germany halfway through.”

“He plays good football. Xabi Alonso because of the whole history, he’s played for the club, they love him there, the brand of football he’s playing. He’s only been in it a little while, which is the risk, he hasn’t got the experience,” he added when asked for his shortlist.

HITC Football understands that Alonso is the preferred options insider Liverpool when it comes to replacing Klopp.

Alonso would surely be tempted by a return to Anfield having spent so many great years there as a player but his full focus will be on winning a league title with Leverkusen.

Klopp joined Liverpool with a reputation for breaking Bayern Munich’s dominance of German football and Alonso could arrive in a similar way this summer.

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Roy Hodgson comments on Michael Olise future amid Manchester United rumours

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Crystal Palace boss Roy Hodgson feels that Michael Olise leaving the club would be a ‘sad day’ amid interest from Premier League clubs.

Michael Olise has been in superb form this season and Roy Hodgson wants to see him stay at Crystal Palace for a while yet.

Olise has hit five goals in just nine Premier League appearances this season and continues to dazzle down Palace’s right flank.

Hodgson has been speaking to Sky Sports today having been questioned about reports linking Olise away from Selhurst Park.

Hodgson believes that Olise leaving would be a ‘sad day’ for Palace and that the club would ideally like him to honour the contract he signed last summer.

The former England boss wants Palace to build around players like Olise rather than lose them, even if Premier League clubs are prepared to pay big money.

“It would be a sad day for the club,” said Hodgson. “Like everyone else at the club, I was delighted when he signed a long-term contract. I’m certain that’s what the club would like him to honour and would like to improve and build the team around players of his quality and Eze’s quality and Guehi, Andersen, Doucoure – these players, we need to build around them and make the team stronger, not lose players to other Premier League clubs who may put some money on the table,” he added.

Michael Olise tug-of-war on the cards – with club and country

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

HITC Football understands that Olise’s new release clause – which can be activated at the end of the season – is in excess of £50million.

Palace aren’t giving away too much information right now though and some believe that the price might be nearer to £70million, but there has been no confirmation on that front at the moment.

All the big clubs are looking closely at this situation and whilst it has been claimed Manchester United are his preference, we understand that Olise has given no indication on where he might want to play, should he leave Crystal Palace.

Chelsea are hugely keen on Olise after trying to sign him last summer, and his brother Richard is already in the Stamford Bridge ranks.

Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are huge fans of Olise too, as we reported earlier in the January window.

We also understand that England boss Gareth Southgate would love to persuade the Palace winger to represent the Three Lions – but as it stands he is committed to France after playing for them at Under-21 level.

Olise was born in London to a Nigerian father and French-Algerian mother, meaning he qualifies for all four countries – England, France, Nigeria and Algeria.

The 22-year-old has picked up nine caps at youth level with France but England would seemingly love to tempt Olise into picking a future with the country of his birth.

Reports earlier this season indicated that Olise was genuinely considering switching to play for Algeria, so there could be a real fight for his services in the coming months.

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Opinion: Don’t be surprised if Liverpool man joins Henderson at Ajax as departure plan confirmed

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 29, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Liverpool will not only be losing Jurgen Klopp this summer but also Pep Lijnders – and a move to Ajax makes sense at the end of the season.

Liverpool fans couldn’t have possibly expected such a dramatic Friday morning.

Reds supporters were left rocked as Jurgen Klopp announced that he will be stepping down as Liverpool boss at the end of the season.

Klopp wants to go and live a ‘normal life’, seemingly looking to spend time outside of football after more than eight years in the Anfield dugout.

There was another level to the shock though as Liverpool confirmed that Klopp’s coaching staff would also be leaving the club.

Liverpool’s statement noted that assistant coach Pep Lijnders is ‘keen to pursue his own career in management’ and will be moving on in the summer.

Don’t be surprised if Pep Lijnders ends up at Ajax

Some will wonder just where Lijnders is going to end up.

The 41-year-old has a strong history in coaching with PSV Eindhoven, Porto and Liverpool, gaining incredible experience since becoming a coach at just 20.

Lijnders did have a crack at management in 2018, leaving Liverpool to become NEC Nijmegen boss, where he won 11 of his 22 games, losing seven and drawing four.

Now ready for another go, Lijnders is bound to attract plenty of interest and our minds have gone straight to Ajax.

That isn’t just because Lijnders is Dutch, but he will certainly have an understanding of the expectations at Ajax and the style of play required.

Lijnders has previously shown how Dutch football and tactics have inspired him, using a 3-4-3 with a diamond midfield in the Liverpool youth ranks just like Rinus Michels, Johan Cruyff and Louis van Gaal – all Ajax legends.

That kind of tactical approach may well appeal to the Ajax supervisory board with Michael van Praag and Danny Blind – two people who bleed Ajax and will push the club’s principles – no doubt taking key roles in the managerial hunt.

Current boss John van ’t Schip is only only in charge until the summer and Ajax will be looking for a more long-term appointment.

Lijnders may well fit the bill and he would have one major supporter inside the Amsterdam giants – Jordan Henderson.

Henderson worked closely with Lijnders at Liverpool and Henderson even admitted earlier this month that Lijnders recommended a move to Ajax for him.

Henderson has now joined Ajax and Lijnders was a driving force, telling the former Reds midfielder what a ‘beautiful club’ Ajax is and recommending the city of Amsterdam too.

Lijnders clearly thinks highly of Ajax and their board will be well aware of Lijnders’ availability and his desire for a managerial job.

This is the kind of bold move that may appeal to Ajax and we wouldn’t be at all surprised to see Lijnders feature highly on Ajax’s wish list as they chase a new manager at the end of the campaign – exactly when Lijnders is looking to move on.

This would still be a risk for Ajax, especially after the struggles of Erik ten Hag’s old assistant Alfred Schreuder, but Lijnders is surely a key candidate for Ajax this summer.

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'It's wonderful': Jurgen Klopp has spotted three 'special' wonderkids in the Liverpool ranks

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 28, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has praised the talent emerging at the club having been impressed with Jayden Danns and Trey Nyoni.

Sunday’s FA Cup clash against Norwich City was always going to be an emotional one.

Jurgen Klopp confirmed on Friday that he will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season, so this was the first part of a lengthy Anfield goodbye.

As luck would have it, Klopp was going up against his long-time friend David Wagner, which only added to the emotion for Klopp.

Liverpool came up with the victory, beating Norwich 5-2 in an entertaining clash to book their spot in the fifth round of the FA Cup.

We saw strong performances from a number of Liverpool prospects with Jarell Quansah, Conor Bradley and James McConnell all impressing.

Jurgen Klopp has spotted ‘special’ talent at Liverpool

Klopp has shown a willingness to bring academy players into the first team and he has been impressed by three more.

Whilst praising youngster Bobby Clark, Klopp named Trey Nyoni, Jayden Danns and Lewis Koumas, branding them ‘special’ having witness their Under-18’s displays.

Klopp feels that Liverpool’s academy is ‘in a good moment’ in terms of producing top talent, bringing this trend ‘wonderful’.

“Today Bobby Clark didn’t come on and I think he did particularly well in the last few games, Trey [Nyoni] and Dannsy are special as well from the U18s, [and Lewis] Koumas,” said Klopp.

“There are a lot of really good players coming up still. The academy is in a good moment, I would say, production-wise. It’s wonderful,” he added.

Midfielder Nyoni only joined Liverpool last summer, leaving Leicester City for a move to Anfield.

The 16-year-old appears to have a huge future and has been around the first team picture at times this season.

Danns hails from Liverpool and is the son of former Blackburn Rovers, Birmingham City and Crystal Palace midfielder Neil Danns.

Danns junior, 16, plays as a striker and has been incredibly prolific this season, smashing nine goals in nine Under-18 Premier League games.

Koumas also has football in his blood as father Jason Koumas was a prominent figure for Tranmere Rovers and West Bromwich Albion in the early 2000’s.

18-year-old Lewis has dazzled in Premier League 2 this season and has predominantly played on the left wing but can also play up front, on the right flank and in midfield.

All three appear destined for big futures and Klopp sees them becoming stars for Liverpool – even if he isn’t the one to manage them as he gets ready to leave his successor with an exciting crop of talent.

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'Necessary': Club president shares why he simply had to sell 21-year-old to Tottenham Hotspur

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 28, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Tottenham Hotspur snapped up Radu Dragusin earlier this month and Genoa’s president has now offered his view on the move.

Tottenham came into the window with one desperate need – the signing of at least one new centre back.

Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have formed a superb partnership this season – at least when both have been available.

Injury and suspension have been factors for Romero and Van de Ven, leaving Tottenham’s defensive depth exposed.

Another centre back to compete with both Romero and Van de Ven was vital and Spurs struck an important signing by landing Radu Dragusin.

Genoa president reacts to Radu Dragusin joining Tottenham Hotspur

Romanian centre back Dragusin had impressed for Genoa in the first half of the season and sparked major interest earlier in January.

Tottenham appeared to be favourites for his signature but Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich made a move to hijack Spurs.

Dragusin still picked a move to Tottenham, marking a major transfer win for Spurs having beaten one of Europe’s elite to his signature.

Dragusin was able to make his debut against Manchester United earlier in January and his departure will hurt Genoa.

The Italian side are happy with the profit though and Genoa president Alberto Zangrillo has been quoted as saying that the deal was ‘necessary’.

Zangrillo noted that Genoa would have done themselves and Dragusin a ‘disservice’ by not accepting Tottenham’s offer.

That is because Zangrillo wants Genoa to become a bigger club and taking the money was the best way to do it, believing that Genoa, Spurs and Dragusin can all now be happy with the move.

“The sale of Dragusin was a necessary, thoughtful choice, shared by all those who have the responsibility for the central objective: the growth of the club on the national scene. We would have done the club and him a disservice by not accepting Tottenham’s proposal,” said Zangrillo.

Dragusin is still only 21, so he could be a fixture of the Tottenham defence for years to come.

Getting into the side ahead of Romero and Van de Ven won’t be easy but Dragusin has big talent and potential, leaving Spurs delighted with their January move.

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Dele Alli and Tottenham’s James Maddison love what Harry Kane has just posted on Instagram

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 28, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Not many would have predicted at the start of the season, but after repping the colours of Tottenham Hotspur, Harry Kane and Eric Dier are now proving their worth for Bayern Munich.

Harry Kane’s call to leave Spurs and move to Munich in the summer was perhaps less surprising, but the German champions bringing in Eric Dier this month took many by surprise.

After Eric Dier came off the bench to help Thomas Tuchel’s side record a 1-0 win against Union Berlin this week, he made his full debut on Saturday during a 3-2 win against Augsburg.

The former Tottenham centre-back played the entire match, with surprise, surprise, Harry Kane getting on the scoresheet.

That was the England captain’s 23rd goal in 19 Bundesliga matches and 27 overall, with Bayern Munich now two points behind unbeaten and high-flying Bayer Leverkusen.

After the game, Harry Kane took to Instagram to post a picture of himself alongside a smiling Eric Dier.

In the comments section of his post, James Maddison applauded the duo, whilst Manchester United centre-back Harry Maguire added ‘love it lads’ and Dele Alli posted heart eyes emojis.

Harry Kane and Eric Dier at Bayern Munich

The old Tottenham gang

Spurs fans wish they could turn back the clock and watch Kane, Dier, Alli and Co in their pomp again under Mauricio Pochettino.

From the Premier League to the Champions League final, that team came so near and far to secure the ultimate trophy for the team.

But it wasn’t meant to be and now Spurs are beginning a new chapter under the all-out attacking, Ange Postecoglou.

Tottenham suffered a disappointing FA Cup defeat to Manchester City recently, but this is all about the long-term and trying to go again like they previously did under Pochettino. 

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‘He looked frightened’: Tony Cascarino blasts Tottenham 27-year-old who's got 'worse' under Ange

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 27, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Tottenham Hotspur endured one of their worst attacking performances of the season on Friday night when they were booted out of the FA Cup.

An experienced and high-in-confidence Manchester City side saw them off with a narrow 1-0 win, with Ange Postecoglou’s men failing to register a shot on goal in the first half and only one overall.

Ange ball was nowhere to be seen, with Tottenham’s new boy Timo Werner, who is on loan from RB Leipzig, taking verbal hits for his performance.

Tony Cascarino claimed that the 27-year-old looked ‘frightened to death’ of Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker, as he told talkSPORT.

The former striker even added that Timo Werner looks ‘worse’ in Spurs colours than when he was at Chelsea.

Some would argue that he made run after run throughout the game, but just wasn’t fed the ball by the midfield players or the fullbacks.

Whilst others would argue that it was the job of Timo Werner to also be a creator, which Tony Cascarino thinks he failed to do.

Timo Werner under Ange Postecoglou

“Timo Werner on the other side,” said Cascarino. “Honestly, he was frightened of Kyle Walker.

“When you come up against Kyle Walker, you know what he is. He is incredibly strong and quick. And Timo Werner is quick.

“But he stood out on the left-hand side and he was never ever a threat. Richarlison had a hard job. He had both wingers on either side of him offering nothing to him. 

“Timo Werner actually looked like he was worse than he was at Chelsea. He’s not even getting chances. At least at Chelsea he got loads of chances and missed them. It was his home debut. You think there would be something. But he looked frightened to death of Kyle Walker.”

Harsh criticism of Timo Werner

The German has just entered the building and he isn’t playing as poorly as it’s being made out.

Plus, it also needs to be noted that, before his move to Spurs, he had only started two games this season, and now he has been thrown straight into the deep end.

From a physical and sharpness standpoint, he isn’t anywhere near his best, so he will only get better as the season progresses.

The game on Friday was just a frustrating one for Tottenham because they were outclassed by a team that showed why they are Treble winners. 

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Opinion: Arsenal's absolute top priority has just become clear after Saturday announcement

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 27, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Arsenal will be on red alert after hearing that Xavi is leaving Barcelona and Mikel Arteta’s contract should become the absolute top priority.

This has been a quiet January window for Arsenal and we can’t see it getting busy before the deadline this week.

The Gunners look set to go with what they have as they chase the Premier League title, but news from Spain means a top priority is emerging.

Barcelona boss Xavi announced on Saturday evening that he will be stepping down as manager at the end of the season.

Just over 24 hours after Jurgen Klopp announced his Liverpool departure, Xavi will be following suit – and don’t be surprised if Barcelona focus on Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal must get Mikel Arteta contract sorted right now as Xabi announces Barcelona exit

Arteta has been loosely linked with the Barcelona job in the past but played down a potential 2022 move to the Camp Nou.

Xavi is now on his way out and Arteta will surely be prominent in the thinking in terms of a replacement.

Arteta came up in the famed La Masia ranks as a player, leaving Antiguoko for Barca at the age of just 15.

After emerging in the Barcelona B ranks, Arteta left Catalunya for Paris Saint-Germain and a potential return to the Camp Nou may pull on the heartstrings – just as returning to manage Arsenal did in 2019.

Arteta has proven his ability to change the culture of a club and his schooling under Pep Guardiola would surely make him appealing to the Catalan giants.

Barcelona’s financial situation is perilous and that is something which could dissuade Arteta from such a move, but Arsenal can’t take any chances.

This is the time for Arsenal to push for Arteta to sign a new contract, commit his future to the club and kill off any Barcelona interest before it really ramps up.

Fabrizio Romano reported earlier in January that Arteta loves Arsenal but only has 18 months left on his contract.

There was no rush at the time but Barcelona are now looking for a new manager – and somebody with ties to the club, like Arteta, will be on their radar.

That should spark Arsenal into life and put the offer of a new deal on the table with the goal of providing some stability and clarity for all.

Arteta may not have brought the Premier League title back to North London but his work at Arsenal has been stellar, building a side that can challenge in the Premier League and in Europe.

The exciting thing with Arteta is that he is still only 41; he is one of the top managers around right now and he should have an incredible future ahead of him in the next decade and even beyond.

Arsenal need to make that Arteta’s future is at the Emirates Stadium rather than at the Camp Nou, and his contract should subsequently become priority number one.

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'He's not even on the list': Sky pundit urges Liverpool to appoint English PL boss as Klopp's successor

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 27, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Liverpool are now in a position not many of their fans thought they would be in and that’s searching for a new long-term manager, with Newcastle United supporters being sent a message they don’t want to hear. 

On Friday, news rippled through Merseyside that Jurgen Klopp will leave the club at the end of the season. 

It sent shockwaves, not just through Liverpool, but the entire footballing world. But who will the powers that be at Anfield appoint as their next manager?

Lee Hendrie has tipped Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe as Jurgen Klopp’s replacement, as he told Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports (27/01/24 at 14:20 pm).

The former Aston Villa midfielder highlighted the Englishman’s experience and ability to work in troubled waters as a reason he could take the Liverpool gig.

When news broke of Jurgen Klopp’s exit, sources told HITC Football that Bayer Leverkusen’s high-flying coach Xabi Alonso and Brighton’s free-flowing manager Roberto De Zerbi are two names on the club’s list. 

Rather than giving the job to someone like Roberto De Zerbi, who currently has Brighton seventh in the table, Lee Hendrie thinks Eddie Howe is the man because he is someone not even on the list.

Eddie Howe – next Liverpool manager?

“I would like to chuck someone in there that isn’t even on there (the list),” said Hendrie. 

“Things aren’t great at Newcastle. I think maybe someone like Eddie Howe. Someone that knows the Premier League. He has gone to a football club that has been a tough one to really deal with. I think people have doubted him. 

“I am not saying he’s leaving Newcastle, but you look at managers that aren’t in the frame. I think De Zerbi and Eddie Howe. I think I would be looking at Eddie Howe because I like the way he plays.”

Replacing Jurgen Klopp

This is going to be an almighty task and you already feel sorry for Klopp’s successor because he has built such a reputation.

What could make things even worse is if Liverpool go on and win numerous trophies this season, including the Premier League title.

It will just increase the pressure on the next man through the door and further highlight the monumental task at hand.

It will be interesting to see if Klopp himself is asked or has a say on who the next manager should be because, from the perspective of the board, you would be daft not to, at the very least, ask for some advice.

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Former Arsenal chief scout explains one mistake Erik ten Hag did at Manchester United

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 26, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Former Arsenal and Dortmund chief scout Sven Mislintat highlighted how Jadon Sancho was misused by Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.

Jadon Sancho was exiled from all first-team facilities at Manchester United after responding publicly to criticism from his manager back in September.

The winger was handed a lifeline however after recently completing his return to Borussia Dortmund, signing a loan contract until the end of the season with no purchase option.

A bright start to life in his second spell at Dortmund saw Sancho grab an assist on his first game back in the Bundesliga against Darmstadt before inspiring his side to a 4-0 win over Koln last week.

Having signed Sancho at Dortmund back in 2017, Sven Mislintat spoke about the Englishman’s qualities and believes he could’ve been a ‘difference-maker’ for Manchester United under Erik ten Hag.

Mislintat blames Erik ten Hag

“Jadon Sancho was the last transfer that Michael Zorc [ex-Dortmund sporting director] and I worked on together,” Mislintat told Sky Germany.

“On one hand, he’s a sensational guy and has a good heart, and on the other, he’s an absolute difference-maker in the Bundesliga.

“If you get the chance to sign a player like that and your budget allows it, it’s a no-brainer. I’m a bit negatively surprised that Erik ten Hag wasn’t able to get the best out of him, because Manchester United would have benefited from this quality.”

While it remains to be seen whether Sancho will represent Manchester United again next season, the Red Devils will certainly feel they could’ve gotten more out of the 23-year-old.

After his big £73 million move to the Premier League in 2021, Sancho looked destined to succeed at the record English champions but his fallout with Ten Hag could be the final straw.

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Brighton make move for Championship midfield star with £30m price tag who Arsenal admire

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 26, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Brighton & Hove Albion have opened talks with Leicester City over midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, HITC understands.

The Premier League Seagulls have been tracking Dewsbury-Hall for a considerable amount of time and now made an approach for the 25-year-old.

Leicester are not keen on selling their homegrown star and sources have confirmed they would like more than £30million for Dewsbury-Hall and it remains to be see if Brighton will match their valuation.

Dewsbury-Hall is contracted to Leicester until 2027, so they don’t need to sell the player this month as they look to seal promotion from the Championship back to the Premier League at the first-time of asking.

Will Leicester sell?

Having sold James Maddison and Harvey Barnes last summer, sources close to Leicester insist they do not need to sell this month – but Brighton are testing their resolve.

HITC understands that Brighton are not the only admirers but many are not ready or wiling to make a bid this month. Arsenal, Newcastle and Everton are all huge fans of Dewsbury-Hall but as it stands they don’t look like mounting a rival bid.

Brentford and Fulham both like the player, but we are told the £30million price tag as put them off, but if Brighton can make headway in their talks – other may launch counter offers.

Leicester themselves are not over blessed with midfielders having lost loan ace Cesare Casadei after he was recalled by Chelsea – something they were shocked by.

Foxes have already lost one midfielder

“We were surprised Casadei went back to Chelsea,” Foxes boss Enzo Maresca told the club’s website.

“They own him, so they can decide. We can’t do anything. We didn’t expect it, but we deal with it and we see if we can do something before the transfer window closes.”

Leicester have moved to replace Casadei with Inter Milan midfielder Stefano Sensi set to complete his move to the King Power – a confirmed by HITC earlier this month.

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West Ham move could be a stroke of genius, Declan Rice hailed star as 'one of the best professionals I’ve ever seen'

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 26, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

During the summer, West Ham United were resigned to the fact that Declan Rice was to leave East London and would most likely move to Manchester or North London.

Whether it was Manchester City, Arsenal, or even the outside chance of it being Manchester United, Declan Rice was set to leave West Ham United and David Moyes was having to get used to that possibility.

Edson Alvarez was brought in as a replacement for Rice and he has done superbly well but another man, who has just been brought in, is surely the heir to the Rice throne that they have been looking for.

Kalvin Phillips completed his move to West Ham from City today and the Englishman could be that midfield anchor that the Hammers have been searching for.

Phillips’ struggles

Since moving to the Etihad Stadium from Leeds United in the summer of 2022, things have been very difficult for the 28-year-old, despite winning an amazing treble with City last season.

Due to Rodri’s superb performances for City, Phillips hardly got a look in and a move away from the champions of Europe always looked like a possibility either in the summer or this month.

Well, the move didn’t happen in the summer but it was confirmed that West Ham had completed the signing of the Yorkshireman, who will wear the number 11 shirt.

“There’s an unbelievable group here,” Phillips told the West Ham website, “and if I can come in and add the quality that I know I’m capable of, I’m sure we can give the West Ham fans plenty to be excited about between now and the end of the season.”

He has only made four appearances in the Premier League this season with a further four appearances coming in the Champions League. For Phillips’ sake, he needed to get out of Manchester.

Phillips showed during his successful spell at Leeds that he is a player with superb quality, multiple of the league’s top sides were keen on the 28-year-old.

If Pep Guardiola is keen on you, then you certainly have superb potential and talent, and Phillips has that in abundance.

Rice on Phillips

Perhaps the only way to replace Rice is to sign the midfielder the Arsenal star played alongside as England made it to the European Championship final at Wembley in 2021.

It seems that Rice was full of praise for the attitude shown by the 28-year-old when his game time at City was limited.

Speaking to talkSPORT back in November, Rice said: “He’s one of the best professionals I’ve ever seen, if I’m honest with you.

“I’ve seen players who don’t play and throw their toys out of the pram completely and with Kal, every time he comes back here he pops on a shirt and puts in 110 per cent.

“He played with me against Scotland and I think that was his first start in a while and he played really well, so I’ll never question his professionalism and I don’t think any of the lads will.”

Replacing the Arsenal midfielder was never easy but a midfielder who, despite his limited appearances, still ranks in the top two in Europe’s top five leagues for passes attempted and completed, according to FBREF, could well go some way to filling the Rice-shaped whole in the West Ham engine room.

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'Exceptional': Jurgen Klopp blown away by Liverpool player after Tottenham transfer rumour

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 25, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has praised Joe Gomez as ‘exceptional’ after his performance against Fulham on Wednesday night.

Chelsea booked their place in the Carabao Cup final on Tuesday night, beating Middlesbrough 6-1 to overturn a first-leg deficit.

It was Liverpool’s turn on Wednesday night as they headed to West London to take on Fulham, leading 2-1 from the first leg at Anfield.

Luis Diaz fired Liverpool into an early lead and the Reds were chasing through until Issa Diop pulled one back for Fulham.

The final 15 minutes or so were a little stressful for Liverpool but Jurgen Klopp’s got the job done, booking a spot alongside Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final.

Jurgen Klopp hails Liverpool defender Joe Gomez

This was another strong display from a Liverpool side who look to be serious challengers on all fronts this season.

Even when players go down with injuries, their replacements step up – and that is the case with defender Joe Gomez.

Gomez is now shining as a left back, filling in for both Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas as they deal with injuries.

Capable of playing at centre back and left back too, Gomez keeps stepping up to the challenge for Liverpool and is nearing his best form once again.

Gomez is surely in contention for an England call-up ahead of Euro 2024 and Liverpool boss Klopp has now proved to praise him.

Klopp has told Liverpool’s official website that he thinks the Reds would have been lost without Gomez because of how he has filled in for injured players on a regular basis.

Klopp noted that Gomez was ‘exceptional’ against Fulham and is simply a ‘top-class player’, showing his appreciation for the former Charlton Athletic talent.

“Without Joe nothing would’ve happened in the last pretty much 13 [or] 14 weeks since Robbo is out. Yes, because he could play there, but the things we could do with Trent when we brought Joey on, I don’t exactly [know] how many games [he] played now this year, but I would say 20-something already,” said Klopp.

”Not only games, [he] played exceptional today again. He’s a real defender and he comes inside. He’s doing that really well. He tried a couple of times obviously to finish the discussion about not scoring. I would say for my taste from a bit too far but it’s still alright. He is a life-saver, to be honest, that he was here, that he could play, and people forget how important Joey was in the best years we had. I don’t know how many games he played in the year when we became champions and how many games he played when we won the Champions League. A lot and rightly so because he’s a top-class player,” he added.

Gomez is making the most of his Liverpool opportunity right now and his performances in recent weeks have effectively ruled out a January transfer.

Reports in December suggested that Tottenham wanted to sign Gomez but feared they wouldn’t be able to sign him because of his increased importance at Anfield.

Tottenham ended up signing Radu Dragusin to bolster their defence and Liverpool will hope that this run in the team means Gomez isn’t itching to leave any time soon.

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Ranked: Top four clubs Victor Osimhen could sign for if he leaves Napoli, Premier League side number one

By: Muhammad Saeed on January 24, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Victor Osimhen is looking more and more set to leave Napoli this summer with a host of European teams keen.

HITC Football reported that Napoli forward Victor Osimhen, who has struggled to match the season output that he did last campaign, is being tracked by Chelsea in particular.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side have been working hard to convince the Nigerian forward that Stamford Bridge should be his next destination if he is to move on from Naples in the summer.

However, it is not only the Blues who are keen on the forward’s signature, a host of Europe’s elite are keen. Here are the four most likely destinations for the 25-year-old.

4. Manchester United

HITC have reported the Red Devils are keen on the Nigerian but it seems rather unlikely that Manchester United would invest such a big amount into the forward.

Since moving to the Serie A from Lille in Ligue 1, he has netted 67 times but it is another striker from the Italian league who United are relying on, Rasmus Hojlund.

The Danish striker has scored just twice in the Premier League but has netted five times in the Champions League and the club will continue to rely on the 20-year-old, so a move for Osimhen looks unlikely.

3. Paris Saint-Germain

Paris Saint-Germain have also been credited with an interest in the Nigerian but any deal for the Napoli forward will depend on the future of Kylian Mbappe.

For every transfer window over the past three years, the future of the Frenchman has come under question but if he remains in Paris, a move for Osimhen seems unlikely.

The £100 million fee it could cost to sign Osimhen would certainly not be out of PSG’s reach but you get the sense Mbappe’s future at the club could play a key part.

2. Arsenal

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are firmly in the hunt for a new world-class striker to lead the line and finally bring the Premier League title back to North London.

The club’s goalscoring problems have been laid bare this season and the Gunners have been linked with a move for Ivan Toney, who only recently made his return from his ban.

Arsenal are understood to be interested and may well have the straight choice between Toney and Osimhen and there are certainly positives to both deals but you would think the Gunners would pivot to the Nigerian in that scenario.

1. Chelsea

The favourites for this deal, and the team who are understood to be working hardest behind the scenes to get this done, is, of course, Pochettino’s Chelsea.

Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku have either struggled with consistency or injuries this season and a new forward to lead the line at Stamford Bridge is needed.

The Blues are working hard on the deal as they fear rival interest but if there is one man who will pay over the odds to land the player he wants it’s Todd Boehly.

Don’t be surprised if the Blues pull off a deal like this despite the odds being against them.

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