'Amazing': Radu Dragusin sends passionate message to Tottenham Hotspur fans after beating Luton Town

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

Tottenham Hotspur had to do it the hard way once again on Saturday afternoon as they came from behind to beat Luton Town on Saturday.

Tottenham fans probably head to home games expecting the same pattern at this point.

That pattern goes like this; Tottenham go a goal down but create chance after chance, failing to find the net.

Spurs eventually draw level and going on to find a winner late on, snatching a victory from the jaws of disappointment.

Outside of the defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers, which followed the pattern up until Wolves finding the winner rather than Tottenham, Spurs fans have become used to these home games.

Crystal Palace, Brighton and Hove Albion and Brentford all went the same way with Luton Town joining the list after Saturday’s clash.

Tahith Chong put Luton 1-0 up early on but Tottenham hit back in fortuitous circumstances with Issa Kabore’s own goal drawing them level.

Son Heung-min then popped up with the winner, leaving many to ask whether Spurs have found a winning mentally under Ange Postecoglou or whether these kind of wins are completely unsustainable.

Radu Dragusin on Tottenham win

This performance and victory will have been a major boost for defender Radu Dragusin.

The Romanian started against Fulham before the international break and it’s fair to say that he didn’t have his best night.

Dragusin was making his first Premier League start and struggled to handle Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz.

A January signing from Genoa, Dragusin was always going to need a period of adjustment in Premier League action.

Anybody writing Dragusin off after one game would have been seriously impatient and it was great to see Dragusin turn in a more assured performance on Saturday.

Dragusin has now taken to Instagram to react, posting a passionate message to supporters after Saturday’s victory.

Dragusin noted that he is ‘thrilled to be part of this amazing team’ whilst stating that the ‘hard work pays off’.

The centre back added that he wants Tottenham to ‘keep pushing forward’, immediately turning the attention to the midweek clash with West Ham United.

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'Brilliant performance': Martin Odegaard blown away by 'complete' Arsenal player after Manchester City display

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

Arsenal have left Manchester City frustrated after claiming a 0-0 draw with a battling performance at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Mikel Arteta took his side to Manchester on Sunday with Gunners fans hoping for a major win in the race for the Premier League title.

This was billed ads being a heavyweight clash but it ended up being a rather drab game.

The two teams cancelled each other out and we only saw three shots on target across the game.

This really wasn’t one for the neutral as we saw a lot of sideways passing and not much thrust in the final third from their side.

Arteta and his players deserve praise for frustrating City but this blockbuster clash really didn’t live up to expectations.

Arsenal will be delighted with a draw and a clean sheet, restricting City to a first Premier League blank since 2021.

This was a real team effort but one man stood out from the crowd…

Martin Odegaard on William Saliba

Arsenal centre back William Saliba was outstanding throughout, highlighting the difference between this Gunners side and the one which lost to City at the Etihad Stadium last season.

Saliba missed that game through injury with Rob Holding coming into the side and struggling to handle Erling Haaland.

The Frenchman has been one of the Premier League’s very best players this season, never mind defenders, whereas Holding has spent a season in the wilderness at Crystal Palace.

Saliba’s importance cannot be overstated and the nullified Haaland admirably alongside his partner in crime Gabriel Magalhaes.

Maybe Arsenal’s fate at the Etihad Stadium last season would have been different if Saliba had been involved, but you can argue that he has taken his game to another level this season.

Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has now been asked about Saliba and his absence in that game last season.

Odegaard told Sky Sports that he thinks any team would miss Saliba because he is simply so good.

The Norwegian feels that Saliba provides quality with his defending and with the ball at his feet, branding him a truly ‘complete’ player.

Odegaard called Saliba ‘brilliant’, believing that he turned in a top performance to help keep City out.

“I think any team in the world would miss this guy,” said Odegaard. “You see the quality he has defending, with the ball, such a complete player, so yeah, we’re so lucky to have him and I’m glad he’s fit now. A brilliant player and a brilliant performance again today,” he added.

Saliba is just going from strength to strength right now and is arguably already in the upper echelon of centre backs around Europe.

Odegaard clearly knows how good Saliba is and Arsenal will be hoping that he is the cornerstone of their back line for many years to come.

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'You play hard’: Lucas Paqueta can’t hide his admiration for Newcastle United player

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

Newcastle United and West Ham United played out one of the games of the season on Saturday.

With both teams pushing for European football and trying to find some consistency amid their inconsistent performances, they threw blow after blow at St James’ Park.

From Alexander Isak’s opening penalty after six minutes to Harvey Barnes’ thunderous winner.

Lucas Paqueta was at the heart of it all for West Ham United, including providing the assist for Michail Antonio’s equaliser after 21 minutes, but he couldn’t stop injury-hit Newcastle from winning the game.

Over the international break, the Hammers star shared the same midfield as his fellow countryman – Bruno Guimaraes, including during Brazil’s 1-0 win over England at Wembley.

But the two slogged it out on the Premier League stage for their respective clubs, with Paqueta lauding his fellow Brazilian on Instagram. 

Guimaraes posted on IG ‘St James’ Park makes things possible’, with Paqueta sending him the following message in the comments section.

Bruno Guimaraes helps Newcastle United beat West Ham United

Paqueta wrote to Guimaraes: ‘I love you, buddy. You play hard.’

Newcastle close the gap on West Ham

After a season of real struggle and constant injury issues, Eddie Howe will be hoping it can still end in European football – Andy Cole and Peter Schmeichel were annoyed with Newcastle’s win over West Ham.

Eighth-placed Newcastle are now one point behind David Moyes’ men, with a game in hand and a far better goal difference (+12 compared to -5).

Whilst they have the goals and power in them to blow any team away.

The clear issues lie with their defence, even before their injury issues and now it’s made matters worse with both senior centre-backs – Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles – out for the rest of the campaign.

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'Fantastic': Pundit labels two Nottingham Forest players 'genius' during Palace draw

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

When you’re battling against the rising tide of relegation, it always helps if you’ve got a proven Premier League centre-forward in your midst. Not only that, but also a willing provider of the ammunition. Nottingham Forest, in truth, did not really look like scoring against Crystal Palace.

Oliver Glasner’s side were 1-0 up through Jean-Philippe Mateta’s first-half finish with about half an hour remaining at the City Ground. 

That is, until Morgan Gibbs-White picked up possession and floated an inch-perfect through ball over the Palace backline and onto the grateful bonce of Chris Wood. They are not quite Kevin de Bruyne and Erling Haaland but there was a touch of the former’s famed vision and the latter’s dead-eyed efficiency about the goal which drew Nottingham Forest level.

Gibbs-White and Chris Wood combine for Nottingham Forest

“The imagination is fantastic!,” former Chelsea, Everton and Scotland winger Pat Nevin said on punditry duty for BBC Sport. 

“Chris Wood is running away from goal, has his back to goal, and that is a very, very tough chance (to finish off). (Gibbs-White has) dropped into the pocket, quarter back pass, genius ball, genius finish (from Wood).”

Nevin was also full of praise for the impact made by one Gio Reyna. So seldom-seen since his January arrival from Borussia Dortmund, a twinkle-toed cameo from the America international offered a timely reminder as to why he was such a favourite of Haaland’s over in Germany, and why ex-BVB boss Marco Rose once labelled him a footballer with ‘world-class’ potential. 

Gio Reyna makes his mark at last

“The changes have made such an impact for Forest,” Nevin adds, Reyna replacing Divock Origi for only his fourth Forest appearance.

“Morgan Gibbs-White wasn’t getting any space earlier in the game, he is getting space now and is really creating for them. Him and Gio Reyna look like they’ve been playing together for years!”

Wood, meanwhile, now has 10 goals this season. Perhaps surprisingly, this is the fifth time he’s reached double figures in a Premier League campaign.

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'Credit to them': West Ham captain highlights Newcastle stars who 'made a difference' in 4-3 comeback

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

It says a lot about the quality of the squad Eddie Howe and co have put together at Newcastle United that, even on an afternoon where that never-ending injury crisis reared it’s ugly head again, The Magpies still had the strength in depth required to pull off a comeback for the ages.

Newcastle lost Jamaal Lascelles and Tino Livramento, two of Howe’s starters, and were even forced into subbing a pair of in-game subs; Emil Krafth and Miguel Almiron.

But it was the three substitutes who lasted until the end – Elliot Anderson, Lewis Hall and eventual matchwinner Harvey Barnes – who dragged Newcastle out of the mire, from 3-1 down to 4-3 up and within one place and one point of their visitors in seventh.

Newcastle stun West Ham in comeback win

“It’s a bad day for us,” sighs Kurt Zouma, the West Ham centre-back and captain speaking to TNT Sport after a shocking collapse which will ramp up the pressure on the oft-maligned David Moyes.

“Everyone was upset after the game, especially with the way things changed from being 3-1 up. We were playing really well, but then we stopped. (Newcastle) put us under a lot of pressure and we couldn’t cope with it.

“And, in the end, they managed to get the goals that got them the win.”

Barnes, obviously, will hog most of the headlines. Back fit after a long spell out injured himself, the summer signing from Leicester City reminded everything why he was one of the most potent wide players in the Premier League during his time at the King Power Stadium.

Harvey Barnes hits brilliant winner

If his first was cool and concise – slipping through the legs of Lukasz Fabianski following a gorgeous Alexander Isak pass – then his 90^th minute winner was a cracker befitting some of the greatest widemen to grace St James, from David Ginola to Laurent Robert and Hatem Ben Arfa.

Jinking away from Kalvin Phillips, Barnes whipped a ferocious shot into the far corner. But do not downplay the influence of fellow second-half subs Anderson and Hall, the youngsters bringing energy and tenacity at a time of the game when Newcastle were crying out for exactly that.

“Credit to them,” Zouma adds. “They had nothing to lose and went for it when they were 3-1 down, and I think their substitutes made a difference.

“When they made it 3-2 we knew it was going to be hard with their fans. But we just didn’t do enough (to hold on). It’s incredibly frustrating.”

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Ex-West Ham hero says Newcastle have an 'elite player', but £45m team-mate was MOTM

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

If you tuned in with a bingo sheet full of potential flashpoints in front of you, then Newcastle United’s 4-3 triumph over West Ham in an instant Premier League classic on Saturday lunchtime would surely have left you celebrating a full house. 

There were seven goals, injuries galore, subs being substituted, a stunning comeback, two penalties, VAR drama, a red card, and – to top it all off – a 90^th minute wondergoal.

Dean Ashton, the former West Ham striker could not hide his excitement, even as his old employers were left stunned by stirring second-half display from a Newcastle side who could almost have been forgiven for letting their heads drop as the visitors cruised into a 3-1 lead and Eddie Howe’s treatment room threatened to reach London underground at rush hour levels of packed.

Newcastle beat West Ham 4-3 in Tyneside classic

“Honesty, this league, it is just magnificent. You just think the game is done, West Ham look comfortable, there is Newcastle players dropping like flies,” ex-England forward Ashton tells talkSPORT (30 March, 2.30pm).  

“And then to be able to muster the character, the energy, with a makeshift back four, I think says everything about what Eddie Howe has built. The connection between the players and the supporters, you could feel it. You could just sense it.

“There is something special here and it’s very difficult to stop.”

It felt fitting, somewhat, that in a day in which Jamaal Lascelles, Emil Kraft and Miguel Almiron were forced off, it was a man who had only recently returned from his own injury issues who dragged Newcastle to within one point of West Ham in seventh. One who was also linked with West Ham before ending up on Tyneside.

Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon shine

“We know he’s a top-class player,” Ashton says of Harvey Barnes, who levelled the scores at 3-3 following a(nother) sublime Alexander Isak assist and then completed the comeback with a long-range curler as the clock struck 90.  

“When they signed him from Leicester City, we thought; ‘What a good signing this could be’. Really unfortunate that he’s had the injures but, when fit, this is a top, top level elite player, and he showed it straight away.

“To score the winner the way he did, taking it on hte back foot and whipping it into the back corner… They’ve got a great player there. Can they keep him fit?

Barnes, however, still did not do enough to earn him talkSPORT’s Man of the Match award. That honour went to the man who could yet find himself starting for England at Euro 2024, Gordon winning a pair of penalties and even playing through a suspected muscle injury before his late red card. 

“I thought Gordon was brilliant,” says an awe-struck Ashton. “He was so good. He was crucial in the second half, he even looked injured but he carried on.

“Terrific player and a terrific performance.”

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'So strong and fast': Arsenal or Tottenham could sign a 'special' player for £17m

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

Versatility can take you a long way in football. Just look at the sheer level of interest being shown ahead of the summer transfer window in the Arsenal-linked rising star who, during recent years, has played on either wing, in attacking midfield and in a defensive destructor role before establishing himself as an all-action left-back. 

HITC Football understands that Arsenal, having initially shown an interest during the January transfer window, may be joined in their pursuit by Wolves and North London neighbours Tottenham Hotspur come the summer. 

The £17 million-rated Ferdi Kadioglu, one of the most tactically flexible young players on the market, has been nothing short of a revelation since blossoming as a left-sided full-back at Turkish Super Lig challengers Fenerbahce. 

To think, he was an up-and-coming right winger when rising through the ranks in the Netherlands with NEC Nijmegen. Not that Kadioglu’s former team-mate, Ole Romeny, has been taken by surprise, the Dutch-born Turkey international the sort of player you could probably even stick in goal and expect a few stand-out saves. 

Arsenal and Tottenham are keen on Ferdi Kadioglu

“One of my best friends is Ferdi Kadioglu. He is doing very well now. He has become a defender,” Romeny, now at Utrecht, tells Voetbal Primeur. 

“I also played one-v-one with him very often. That boy is so strong and so fast in the first (few) metres. In the youth (teams), he often played as ‘eight’ and as a ‘six’ in midfield. You also have to be able to defend a bit to play there.

“It was in him, he is also tough and can be really aggressive. So I always knew that you could put him (in defence).” 

A jack of all trades footballer

Kadioglu is reportedly valued at £17 million. His past as a midfielder and his two-footedness certainly suggests that the 24-year-old would be able to adapt to the inverted full-back role favoured by Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou.

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta also likes his full-backs to drift infield, a la Oleksandr Zinchenko. It’s telling that The Gunners extended the contract of Takehiro Tomiyasu recently too, the Japan international the classic ‘utility man’ in Arteta’s squad.

“(Kadioglu can reach) the absolute top,” Romeny adds. “He is also special as a left back. There is no one with (his) footballing qualities.”

Fenerbahce president Ali Koc admitted recently that he expects Kadioglu to leave this summer. There is also interest from the likes of Tottenham, Newcastle and Aston Villa in Fener’s defensive midfielder Ismail Yuksek.

HITC have been told that Arsenal and Spurs are also pursuing Fiorentina full-back Michael Kayode.

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Sources: Liverpool look at what deal for £13m manager looks like after Xabi Alonso blow

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

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

Liverpool are now studying what a deal for Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim looks like after missing out on Xabi Alonso to be their new manager, HITC Football understands.

The Anfield natives are still yet to settle on the tactician who will replace Jurgen Klopp at the end of the season. Klopp announced in January that he will leave Liverpool this summer and will not see out his contract until 2026. Yet he may leave with a second Premier League title.

Only goal difference splits Liverpool from table-toppers Arsenal after 28 games ahead of the Reds hosting Brighton & Hove Albion. A win on Sunday could also give the Merseyside outfit control of the title race ahead of the Gunners travelling to meet third-place Manchester City.

Liverpool are looking into what it takes to bring Sporting boss Ruben Amorim to England

But while Klopp bids to win Liverpool another Premier League title, the Anfield hierarchy are looking for his replacement. HITC Football understands Liverpool have done their homework on Amorim and are looking into what a deal to bring the Sporting boss to England looks like.

Sources have also confirmed to HITC Football that Amorim is now emerging as the preferred option for several senior figures at Anfield after Liverpool missed out on Bayer Leverkusen’s Alonso. The Reds turned their attention to Amorim after Alonso decided to stay in Germany.

“I had a very good meeting with Simon [Rolfes] and Fernando [Carro] when I informed them of my decision to continue being coach of Bayer Leverkusen,” Alonso revealed on Friday in a press conference. “I feel that this is the right place for me to develop as a coach.”

What has Sporting boss Ruben Amorim said about replacing Jurgen Klopp at Anfield?

HITC Football also understands that Amorim has a release clause worth €15m (£13m) in his contract with Sporting. But the clause can only be exercised at the end of this season. While Amorim discussed Liverpool’s interest in the 39-year-old possibly replacing Klopp on Friday.

“I’m just Sporting’s coach and I’m focused on the Portuguese Cup,” Amorim said, via A Bola.

HITC Football revealed on Thursday that Amorim is now one of the candidates that Liverpool are focusing on. Anfield chiefs also admire the likes of Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann and Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi. But the Reds might face competition to target Amorim.

Sources have also confirmed to HITC Football that Chelsea are showing interest in targeting Amorim if the Stamford Bridge natives decide to move on from Mauricio Pochettino in the summer. Pochettino has so far only won 11 of his 27 Premier League games in charge there.

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Tottenham and Aston Villa warned that midfielder won't be sold for 'below' £20m

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

With the European Championships now less than three months away, a 6-1 defeat may have actually given a midfielder on the radar of Tottenham, Newcastle United and Aston Villa a timely boost. 

The much-coveted enforcer was not, after all, one of the players who started as Ralf Rangnick’s Austria side ran riot in midweek, cruising to a six-goal victory as they continue to cement their status as one of the summer’s ‘dark horses’. 

That, interestingly, was a tag worn by Turkey back in Euro 2020. One that they certainly didn’t live up to, a group-stage exit taking many by surprise. If head coach Vincenzo Montella cannot find a way to stiffen up a defence hit for six by Austria at the Ernst Happel Stadium, then another early departure could be heading Turkey’s way. 

And Ismail Yuksek, who started on the bench during that midweek capitulation, may be feeling a little more confident of securing a place in Montella’s first XI now. Especially after watching Dortmund’s Semih Ozcan – chosen ahead of him – chase Austrian shadows in Vienna. 

Tottenham and Aston Villa targeting Turkey international

HITC Football understands that Yuksek, one of the standout talents currently plying his trade back home in Turkey, is on the radar of Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Bournemouth and also Wolves, as well as clubs in Italy and Germany. 

Yuksek, like the talented left-back Ferdi Kadioglu, is expected to leave Fenerbahce this summer in the face of such interest. Omer Faruk Uzuner, who worked with the late-blooming 25-year-old during his time as a youngster at Golcukspor believes that the bidding should start in excess of £20 million. 

But even that could be a bargain of a fee for a man who’s keenly-felt absence will have made Turkish hearts grow stronger vs Austria.

“I think that Ismail can leave if he receives offers from clubs such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City,” Uzuner tells Sporx. “Fenerbahce will not sell him for a figure below 25 million euros.” 

A Hojbjerg replacement at Spurs?

There is nothing to suggest, so far, that Barcelona, Real Madrid or Man City are keen. The likes of Tottenham, Aston Villa or Newcastle, however, will likely appeal to a man who, averaging 2.5 successful tackles per game, is emerging as one of the best ball-winners in the Turkish Super Lig (WhoScored)

Yuksek saw a £9.5 million bid from French side Lyon fall short in January. He could replace the unhappy Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg at Tottenham. Villa, meanwhile, have seen their lack of depth in hte number six spot exposed by Boubacar Kamara’s season-ending injury. 

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'That's how it is': International boss shares honest verdict on why he substituted Tottenham star at half time

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

Radu Dragusin will have been hoping for a strong international break after Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-0 defeat away at Fulham.

Micky van de Ven was ruled out against Fulham with injury and that meant a chance for Radu Dragusin to step up.

The centre back signed from Genoa in January but had to wait patiently for his first Premier League start.

Van de Ven’s injury against Aston Villa ruled him out against Fulham and threw Dragusin into action.

The trip to Craven Cottage wasn’t a particularly happy one for Dragusin, who struggled in a 3-0 hammering.

Dragusin lost Rodrigo Muniz for Fulham’s opener and it just wasn’t his – or Tottenham’s – night as they fell to defeat.

Nobody should be writing Dragusin off at this stage; he only joined Tottenham in January and will need a period of adjustment.

Dragusin would have wanted to get back on track with Romania during the international break, but that didn’t really happen…

Romania boss on Radu Dragusin

Dragusin started against Northern Ireland but had his hands full with Stevenage striker Jamie Reid.

The Tottenham ace then started against Colombia on Tuesday night and was substituted at half-time in a 3-2 defeat.

This wasn’t the ideal international period for Dragusin, who may again be called upon at centre back for Tottenham against Luton Town this weekend.

Romania boss Edward Iordanescu has now explained his thinking behind substituting Dragusin at the break on Tuesday.

Iordanescu has told Digisport that he needs Dragusin to be a ‘certainty’ because he didn’t quite look right against Colombia.

Iordanescu suggested that Dragusin was suffering muscle problems and that is – in the eyes of the Romania boss – because he isn’t playing often enough.

“Radu Dragusin needs to become a certainty,” said Iordanescu. “I changed him at halftime because he felt a little loaded, that’s how it is when you don’t play,” he added.

Dragusin has gone from being a nailed-on starter at Genoa to having to fight for a place at Tottenham.

More than two months into his time at Tottenham, Dragusin has only started one game and Iordanescu is seemingly frustrated that one of his key players is now fighting for match sharpness.

That is not ideal heading towards Euro 2024 and Dragusin will be looking to find his best form in the coming weeks and months – or his Romania spot could come under scrutiny.

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Sources: Liverpool and Bayern Munich learn Xabi Alonso's future decision

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

HITC understands that Liverpool and Bayern Munich have been informed that Xabi Alonso is set to remain in charge of Bayer Leverkusen next season.

Both Liverpool and Bayern targeted Alonso to take charge next season – with Jurgen Klopp departing Anfield and Thomas Tuchel leaving Munich.

Sources have confirmed to HITC that talks had been going on behind the scenes with both clubs pushing hard to persuade Alonso to rejoin one of his former clubs – but with Leverkusen on the brink of a unlikely Bundesliga success, he is set to remain for at least one more season.

Informed

It is understood that Alonso has instructed his representatives to inform both Liverpool and Bayern that his decision has been made. It is believed he did not want the situation to push on towards the summer and this will now allow both clubs to concentrate on their search on their new managers.

Liverpool’s new football chief Michael Edwards had already approved the club making Alonso their primary target – but along with the club soon to be sporting director Richard Hughes, it is understood that they had, and do, have alternative options in mind and have begun work on those.

HITC understands that current German boss Julian Nagelsmann is someone of interest to Liverpool, as we revealed earlier this month, whilst Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim is seen as a strong candidate along with Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi.

De Zerbi is a man in demand and HITC have confirmed that Brighton are looking to tie him down to a new deal, with his current contract having a release clause worth around £10million – but it is understood the Italian is not in a hurry to sign fresh terms.

De Zerbi is someone that Bayern have a genuine interest in and HITC is told that they would not have an issue paying his release, if they had to.

Bayern, like Liverpool, have been working hard on Alonso, but they admitted on late on Thursday evening that the deal was unlikely.

Bayern admit defeat

Bayern honorary president Uli Hoeness admitted that the chances of landing Alonso had diminshed.

“It will be very difficult, not to say probably impossible,” he told Das Erste.

“I can certainly imagine him staying in Leverkusen. As I got to know him, he would be more inclined to carry on because he wouldn’t want to leave it behind now.

“He is now working at a club that is currently in the process of becoming German champions. He has a lot to thank this club for, and so does the club.

“If he had two or three years more success, it would probably be easier to get him out of there. We would like to sign him. But if that doesn’t work, it will be the task of the club’s management to look for and find alternatives.”

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‘Varane will go': Agbonlahor backs defender with 'speed' and 'aggression' to join Manchester United

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

There was a lot of fanfare when Manchester United signed Raphael Varane from Real Madrid in 2021.

When the World Cup winning centre-back has been fit, he has proven his worth and showcased why he is a top defender.

But the issue is that he has had constant injury issues during his time at Manchester United, which has disrupted his rhythm and form, including Erik ten Hag not picking him on occasions.

You suspect, come the summer, Varane will head for the exit door and changes will be made to the backline once more.

Gabby Agbonlahor certainly expects the 30-year-old to leave and he thinks there is a perfect replacement, as he told talkSPORT (28/03/24 at 6:30 am).

The former striker has backed Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite to make that move to Old Trafford – sources have told HITC Football that Manchester United are keen on the player.

Despite Everton’s issues this season, he has been a standout performer, including earning a maiden call-up by Gareth Southgate during the recent internationals, but he didn’t earn a minute for England.

Either way, ahead of the summer transfer window, Agbonlahor thinks it ‘makes sense’ for Branthwaite to move to Manchester United, as he highlighted the player’s ’speed’ and ‘aggression’.

Jarrad Branthwaite at Manchester United

“It just makes sense, doesn’t it,” said Agbonlahor. “Spurs, Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool, they have their centre-halves sorted really.

“You look at Manchester United. Martinez, a lot of injuries this season, people aren’t sure of Maguire, but I think he does a good job.

“I think Branthwaite. He has the composure, the speed and the aggression. Varane will go as well. They aren’t going to give him a new contract. I think he fits in right in there.”

Manchester United’s transfer window

Talk of Erik ten Hag’s future will rumble on until the end of the season.

But this is a very important transfer window coming up for the club, especially for the INEOS.

All eyes will be on them to see what type of impact they make because the club’s recruitment over the years has been very problematic.

If the new people in the boardroom can shake things up and send Man United down a positive road, via the transfer market, then it will bode well for the long term future.

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Opinion: Arsenal would surely delight Martin Odegaard if they can sign £63m striker this summer

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

The summer transfer window is still a couple of months away, but Arsenal fans probably already know exactly which position they will be linked with most prominently.

A striker.

Every club wants a striker who can put the ball in the net, turning half-chances into goals and draws into wins.

Arsenal don’t really have that clinical striker, even if they do have some quality forwards in Mikel Arteta’s ranks.

Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz are superb players who bring a lot to this Arsenal side, but neither are natural goalscorers.

Arsenal will surely at least explore bringing in another striker this summer with Eddie Nketiah’s lack of football suggesting that he isn’t the answer either.

Who could Arsenal go for in attack?

Links to Ivan Toney have slowed down but HITC Football understands that Arsenal are looking at RB Leipzig hitman Benjamin Sesko ahead of the summer.

Arsenal have considered Sporting hitman Viktor Gyokeres too – as well as his Swedish international teammate Alexander Isak.

HITC Football sources suggest that Isak is one of the forwards that Arsenal have checked on this year.

We understand Isak is frustrated by Newcastle’s season and no European football could be an issue for him as well as the likes of Bruno Guimaraes.

Arsenal are tracking Isak’s situation and the striker has now commented on links with a move to Arsenal…

Alexander Isak on Arsenal

Isak has been asked about Arsenal’s interest whilst speaking to Expressen during his international duty with Sweden.

The Newcastle ace suggested that the rumours don’t affect him too much as he’s used to speculation around his future.

Isak didn’t exactly rule out a summer move though, accepting that anything can happen in the transfer window, even if he hasn’t really thought about a move away.

“It doesn’t affect me that much,” said Isak. “It has been talked about many times, in many windows. I see it as just such a thing. Everyone knows that summer is coming and if things show up, things can happen, but I actually haven’t even thought about it,” he added.

Newcastle forked out £63million to sign Isak from Real Sociedad in 2022 and would surely demand a hefty profit on Isak.

The 24-year-old’s injury record may be a concern but his huge potential may just tempt Arsenal into an exciting move.

Martin Odegaard would surely love Isak move

Mikel Arteta and Edu would surely be delighted with a move for Isak, but Martin Odegaard may be happier than anyone.

Odegaard and Isak played together at Real Sociedad during the 2019-20 season, featuring in 35 games together.

Isak hit 16 goals in all competitions in that season and even told the media that Odegaard was his best friend at Sociedad.

Odegaard loves to create chances in the final third and looking up to see Isak – a friend as well as a quality striker – could give Arsenal a new dimension.

That existing connection, both on and off the field, may make Isak the ideal striking addition in Odegaard’s mind – unless Arsenal somehow sign Kylian Mbappe.

Any deal for Isak would not be cheap but the idea of reuniting Odegaard and Isak seems like a very exciting one for the Gunners – if they can convince Newcastle to sell.

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Declan Rice hails Arsenal duo as 'world-class' & how it's 'so good' playing with them

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

In next to no time, Declan Rice has already become one of Arsenal and Mikel Arteta’s most important players.

The former West Ham United man didn’t arrive into a struggling team, but one that was on the tip of winning the Premier League title.

From back to front, there are high-quality players at Arteta’s disposal, so for Declan Rice to push ahead and become so important is a credit to the player himself – Jude Bellingham hailed him on England duty.

The word ‘world-class’ has been used around these players recently, including from Rio Ferdinand and whether he thinks Bukayo Saka falls into that category.

Whilst the Manchester United legend is waiting on the Hale-End star to reach those levels, Rice thinks two players at Arsenal – Martin Odegaard and Jorginho – are already at those heights.

The England midfielder says it’s ‘so good’ playing alongside the pair and how they are ‘world-class’, as he told Arsenal’s official channel.

Odegaard dons the captain’s armband and is the wonderkid from Real Madrid who is now making a name for himself, whilst Jorginho has a trophy-winning pedigree after winning the Champions League at Chelsea and Euro 2020 with Italy.

Martin Odegaard and Jorginho ‘world-class’

On what it’s like partnering Jorginho and Odegaard: “It’s so good,” responded Rice.

“These players are just world-class players. I have played with so many world-class players in my career so far and I am lucky enough to play with more. I want to keep building my relationships with them and keep enjoying my football with them.”

Declan Rice aiming for ‘world-class’ status

There is no doubt that Rice is playing at the top of his game and has been one of the signings of the season.

But he isn’t world-class yet.

Many believe and would back him to reach those levels, but he has to add the trophies to his game to earn that status.

Winning the Premier League title in your first season as an Arsenal player is one way to go about it, especially given that their fans have waited two decades for that crown.

And you feel if Arsenal can secure that major trophy under Arteta, then they will just go on a roll and continue to charge forward.

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‘Ice-man’: Jude Bellingham wowed by player Manchester United are now considering a move for

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

This forthcoming transfer window is going to be huge for Manchester United, with or without Erik ten Hag.

One of the main reasons why the club has continually struggled since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement is because of the recruitment.

Time and time again, big money transfers have struggled at Manchester United, and in the end, it’s the young stars such as Kobbie Mainoo who have shown how it should be done.

HITC exclusively revealed on Wednesday that Manchester United are considering a move for Brentford’s Ivan Toney.

On Tuesday night, the 28-year-old scored from the penalty spot in his first full debut for England as Gareth Southgate’s side recorded a 2-2 draw against Belgium.

After the game, Jude Bellingham labelled the player on his Instagram story as the ‘ice man’

That is one of Ivan Toney’s strengths, that calmness and cool nature to his game, it’s a reason why he is so strong at penalties and why he is such a wanted man.

Who will Ivan Toney sign for?

Thomas Frank has openly spoken about Toney moving on, so it’s a case of where he will go, not if he will leave.

Man United have expressed a big interest, but will they be willing to splash the big dough on the player?

It’s understandable if Brentford want record amounts for their star striker, but Man United have been down this road before.

For large parts, all their big-money signings have struggled and just haven’t worked out, so how the new members of the boardroom deal with this is going to be interesting.

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'A little surprised': Newcastle United star shares how Tottenham player shocked him during international break

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

Tottenham Hotspur star Dejan Kulusevski has been the talk of the Swedish media this week and not just because of his quality as a winger.

Sweden are looking for new stars to emerge.

The days of Freddie Ljungberg and Henrik Larsson have long gone and Zlatan Ibrahimovic has now called time on his career.

It’s time for the next generation of Swedish talents to step up and there is considerable excitement around four attacking players.

Winger Anthony Elanga has enjoyed a promising first season at Nottingham Forest and Viktor Gyokeres just can’t stop scoring for Sporting.

Then there is Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak and Tottenham ace Dejan Kulusevski, two players who have certainly proven themselves in the Premier League.

Finding the right formation and formula will be a challenge for new boss Jon Dahl Tomasson, and he will be hoping to see them all step forward as team leaders.

Kulusevski has done that this week after Tomasson admitted that the Spurs winger produced a rousing pre-match team talk before the 1-0 win over Albania on Monday night.

The Spurs ace is trying to step forward into more of a leadership role with Sweden and he seemingly impressed Newcastle hitman Isak.

Alexander Isak on Dejan Kulusevski

Isak has told Aftonbladet in Sweden that he felt Kulusevski ‘did well’ with his speech – and was a little surprised by it.

The Newcastle star wasn’t necessarily surprised that Kulusevski could deliver a speech, but more that it had so much ‘gusto’ for his first attempt.

“He did well actually, I was a little surprised,” said Isak. “Not that he could deliver that speech, but it was still his first speech and he delivered it with gusto,” he added.

Victor Lindelof is the current Sweden captain but is six years older than Kulusevski.

It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Kulusevski’s time come in terms of wearing the armband for his country, even if it’s a few years away.

Elanga, Kulusevski, Gyokeres and Isak are all 25 or under, so Sweden could be on the brink of having quite the attacking quartet.

Kulusevski is looking to cement himself as a leader and that may have been somewhat inspired by Sweden missing out on qualification for Euro 2024.

Kulusevski won’t want to experience missing out again and may look to really step up and lead this Sweden team towards the 2026 World Cup.

Ange Postecoglou will love hearing that Kulusevski is trying to take this next step in his career and his development as a player – and as a person – can only help Tottenham moving forward.

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£12m Liverpool player has just suffered cruel heartbreak on international duty

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

Liverpool players have been in action all over the world during the international break but one Reds player has just suffered cruel heartbreak.

The Reds have a squad full of international players and we have seen plenty of them in action in recent days.

Luis Diaz produced some magic to help Colombia beat Spain whilst Conor Bradley has earned huge praise with Northern Ireland.

Jurgen Klopp will just be hoping that all of his players return to Anfield free of injury ahead of one final push for the Premier League title.

Liverpool face Brighton and Hove Albion this weekend and having endured plenty of injuries in recent times, the Reds will hope for no more problems.

For one player though, this international break will have hurt immensely and not in the physical sense.

Euro 2024 qualification is up for grabs and left back Kostas Tsimikas will not be involved after a difficult night.

Liverpool’s Kostas Tsimikas suffers Euro 2024 heartbreak

Greece secured a spot in the playoffs thanks to their UEFA Nations League results.

After finishing behind France and the Netherlands in their Euro 2024 qualifying group, Greece were given one more chance to get over the line.

A 5-0 thrashing of Kazakhstan handed Greece a final clash with Georgia, who beat Luxembourg 2-0 in their semi-final.

Greece were slight favourites to beat Georgia but couldn’t secure a breakthrough – even after Giorgi Loria’s red card for Georgia on the stroke of half-time.

The game was dragged all the way to penalties and Greece faltered with both Anastasios Basaksetas and Giorgos Giakoumakis failing to score.

Georgia scored four of their five spot kicks to seal their passage to Euro 2024, joining Turkey, Portugal and Czechia in Group F.

This is a huge blow for Euro 2004 winners Greece, who won’t have a chance to repeat the miracle 20 years on.

Liverpool ace Tsimikas played the full 90 minutes but couldn’t help Greece get over the line and will understandably be devastated by tonight’s result.

Tsimikas has yet to play in a major tournament for Greece and has now missed a great opportunity to get there.

Jurgen Klopp will no doubt send messages to Tsimikas to check in on his £12million left back, with Liverpool players ready to rally around him after such a difficult defeat.

Tsimikas may even be needed this weekend as left back Andrew Robertson has been taken off injured for Scotland, giving Liverpool a scare and potentially putting Tsimikas in line for an appearance.

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'Massive loss': Scott Minto backs £180k-a-week Liverpool star to make ‘really interesting’ transfer

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

The return of Michael Edwards has made Liverpool fans breathe a sigh of relief.

With Jurgen Klopp set to leave at the end of the season, it wouldn’t be a surprise if many are worried about the uncertainty.

But with Michael Edwards in the boardroom, at least there is that element of trust that he can bring back the magic he served during his first spell at Liverpool.

Aside from bringing in a new manager, one of his biggest jobs will be to sort out the futures of the current players at the club.

One of them includes Trent Alexander-Arnold – his current Liverpool deal expires in 2025 and there are suggestions Real Madrid are monitoring his contract situation.

Scott Minto admitted that it would be ‘really interesting’ if the £180k-a-week star did join a club like Real Madrid.

The Spanish giants are building yet another formidable team, with Kylian Mbappe yet to arrive and Jude Bellingham already doing wonders.

From England’s perspective, to have players of that calibre at Real Madrid would be outrageous and that’s why Scott Minto is keen for it to happen.

Trent Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid

“I would be very surprised if there are no talks,” said Minto about Alexander-Arnold’s contract situation. “I believe he only has one year left after this season and you don’t leave top-class players, unless they refuse, so I imagine that’s what is happening. He wants to see what’s happening, especially since Jurgen Klopp says he’s leaving.

“In terms of Trent, he is synonymous with Liverpool, isn’t he?! He is almost the symbol of what Liverpool is. Coming through the ranks. 

“From an England point of view, it would be really interesting to see him go out to a team like Real Madrid, just like Jude Bellingham has, but for Liverpool, it would be a massive loss.”

Trent Alexander-Arnold at Liverpool

Whether the 25-year-old leaves today or retires at Anfield, he will always go down as a legendary figure.

The boyhood Red helped his team win the lot, including ending the club’s 30-year wait to become champions of England again.

You feel Alexander-Arnold’s best years are ahead of him and there’s no reason why he can’t win it all again with Liverpool.

But, of course, all of this depends on who the next manager will be and just how well Edwards can settle in again.

However, as HITC revealed, Liverpool themselves are confident that Alexander-Arnold will sign a new deal.

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National media now think 'unbelievable' Tottenham Hotspur player is actually going to be snubbed for Euro 2024

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

Tottenham Hotspur have seen some top young talents on show this season and Destiny Udogie certainly fits that bill having excelled in his first Premier League campaign.

The Ange Postecoglou era isn’t even a year old just yet, but Tottenham fans will be encouraged by what they have seen.

Postecoglou has brought an all-out attacking style to Tottenham and his work developing some exceptional talents can’t be ignored.

Micky van de Ven had real promise after arriving from Wolfsburg but he hadn’t quite become one of the Bundesliga’s very best.

The Dutchman is becoming indispensable for Tottenham though, growing into an outstanding centre back after just months under Postecoglou.

Then there is Destiny Udogie, who was actually signed by Tottenham a year before Postecoglou’s arrival.

The Italian was snapped up from Udinese before being sent back on loan to the Serie A side for the 2022-23 season.

Udogie is now playing his first Premier League campaign and has turned in some superb performances, arguably emerging as the top left back in the Premier League this season.

Teammate with both club and country, Guglielmo Vicario, has praised Udogie as a truly ‘unbelievable’ player – but that sentiment may not be shared back home.

Italian media doubt Destiny Udogie plays at Euro 2024

Udogie played the full 90 minutes as Italy scraped past Venezuela on Thursday night but Tuttomercatoweb rated his performance at just 5 out of 10.

The 21-year-old wasn’t even on the bench for Monday’s clash with Ecuador but there seemingly isn’t reason for concern about an injury.

Tuttomercatoweb have now taken a look at the Italy squad and predicted who will be travelling for Euro 2024.

Italy’s first-choice left back is the Inter Milan star Federico Dimarco, so Udogie would have faced an uphill battle to start in this tournament anyway.

However, TMW now suggest that Udogie will miss out on the squad entirely, picking Juventus ace Andrea Cambiaso instead.

It’s stated that Cambiaso’s ability to play on the right side brings versatility that Udogie just can’t provide.

Centre back Riccardo Calafiori is also named in the squad by TMW and he has history of playing at left back too.

Gazzetta dello Sport still have Udogie in their squad for Euro 2024 but note that right wing back Raoul Bellanova could get the nod over him, with Cambiaso on the left.

FC Inter News add that Udogie ‘took a step back’ in this international break and his place isn’t completely secure.

Udogie may be shining for Tottenham but it looks like he faces an uphill battle to convince the Italian media and maybe even boss Luciano Spalletti ahead of Euro 2024.

Udogie is only 21 and should have plenty of major tournaments ahead of him, especially if he continues to develop at Tottenham, but missing out would still feel like a big blow after a strong season.

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