Sources: Man Utd target tells European giants he wants to leave, agents hold talks with Liverpool

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

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

HITC understands that Bayern Munich defender Matthijs De Ligt has told the club he wants to leave this summer.

Bayern Munich are open to letting Mattihjs De Ligt leave this summer and talks have taken place with a number of Premier League clubs.

Since joining the German giants during the summer of 2022, the Dutch centre-back has been one of the more promising players for the Bavarian side.

However, De Ligt was a frustrated figure under Thomas Tuchel along with central defensive team-mate Kim Min-Jae.

Both players made it clear to Bayern’s hierarchy they would not put up with a repeat this season as they prepare for life under former Burnley manager Vincent Kompany.

Bayern have already completed the signing of Hiroki Ito and are in talks for the signing of Jonathan Tah which would clear the way for the De Ligt sale.

Bayern Munich’s stance on De Ligt explained

Bayern have now decided that whilst they want the former Napoli defender Kim Min Jae to compete under Kompany next season, they are ready to let De Ligt move on.

De Ligt is one of the higher earners at the club and Bayern realise they may have to subsidise those earnings to cement a move, and HITC is also told that they would consider a loan with an option to facilitate his exit although they would clearly prefer a sale.

There is interest in the former Ajax defender from multiple top sides in the Premier League with Manchester United understood to be one of the sides keen on the defender.

De Ligt’s representatives in contact with a number of Premier League clubs

We understand that talks have taken place with United, Liverpool and Chelsea – whilst Arsenal, Manchester City and Newcastle have been made aware of this situation.

HITC understands United have made it clear they are keen on De Ligt and he is on their list of options – whilst they continue their talks over Jarrad Branthwaite, although it is increasingly unlikely they are going to be able to agree terms with Everton.

The Red Devils have agreed terms with the Everton defender but the Englishman is said to cost £70 million.

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'I wish': Lamine Yamal urges Barcelona to beat Arsenal and Liverpool to £40m ace

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

One of the stars of Euro 2024 appears to have made up his mind. And that is bad news for his array of Premier League suitors.

HITC reported last week that, talks have been held with Arsenal, Newcastle United, Liverpool and an Aston Villa side who reportedly submitted a £45 million bid for their long-standing transfer target last January, per the Daily Mail.

History looks likely to repeat itself for Villa, however, with their top-flight rivals also likely to end up disappointed.

And not just because Nico Williams, HITC understands, has left his suitors shocked by demanding an eye-watering £300,000-a-week wage at his next club. The Athletic Bilbao speedster has his heart set on Barcelona.

As anyone who has watched Williams and Lamine Yamal tear full-backs limb from limb at the European Championships will tell you, this is a partnership with infinite potential.

Ripping into defences like the red arrows in full flight, whoever said Spain can only play one way?

• READ: 50 MOST LIKELY PREMIER LEAGUE, EFL AND EUROPEAN SUMMER 2024 FOOTBALL TRANSFERS

Arsenal and Liverpool among Nico Williams’ suitors

The searing pace and devastating directness of Williams and 16-year-old Yamal have transformed a usually possession-obsessed Spain side into arguably the tournament’s most thrilling side in quick transitions too.

And the understanding between Williams and Yamal would only grow if the former joins the latter at the Camp Nou. Williams is keen to make the move happen. And so is a man – or kid, really – who became the youngest to ever feature at a Euros during Spain’s 3-0 curtain-raising thrashing of Croatia.

“Yes, I wish Nico could come to Barca,” Yamal tells Diario Sport.

“At the first meeting, I met Nico and then we became very good friends. We get along very well. You can see that on the pitch too, that we are very close, that we are very good friends. And that is the most important thing to have the connection on the pitch.”

HITC understands that Williams is Barcelona’s first-choice target this summer. A left winger by trade, the Athletic academy graduate would likely fill a spot vacated by Joao Felix with the Portuguese playmaker heading back to Atletico Madrid after the expiration of his season-long loan deal.

Barcelona the dream move for Spain Euro 2024 star

There had been concerns over Williams’ end product not so long ago. But with eight goals and a remarkable 19 assists for Athletic in 2023/24, those fears have been emphatically dispelled with every power-packed finish and every eviscerating drive into the box.

The relative elder statesman of Spain’s wing duo at the age of 21, the often ‘unstoppable’ Williams has been reluctant to give anything away in public even if, in private, it appears he is keen to link up with Yamal on a weekly basis in red-and-blue.

“(Every rumour) is good. It means I’m doing my job well. Every kid dreams of being noticed by big clubs,” Williams explains to La Vanguardia.

“I’m focused on doing well at the European Championship. And whatever comes after that I’ll find out, because these days I’m totally disconnected.

“(Yamal and I) get along very well. We’re not just team-mates, we’re also friends, and I think that’s something that also matters when it comes to leading a team to the big time.

“We started talking and we saw that we had a lot of similar topics of conversation. That’s also when the banter started and now I think we have a nice relationship.”

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Defender who played against Wayne Rooney and Mohamed Salah names Chelsea legend as toughest opponent

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

Former Southampton, Chelsea and Leicester City defender Ryan Bertrand has named the toughest opponent of his career.

During Ryan Bertrand’s time playing in the Premier League, the Englishman had to face some of the best players ever seen in the top division of English football.

The 34-year-old defender played against Wayne Rooney and Mohamed Salah just to name a few of the star studded players he has had to face during his career.

Bertrand had a superb trophy haul during his career, winning the Champions League with Chelsea in 2012, as well as the Europa League and FA Cup, also with the Blues.

Bertrand names Chelsea legend as toughest opponent

Despite playing against Manchester United’s all-time leading goalscorer and one of the finest goalscorers Liverpool have had in the 21st century in Salah, Bertrand has named another player as his toughest opponent.

“I’d probably say Hazard,” Bertrand told talkSPORT when asked to name the toughest opponent he has had to play during his career.

“Playing against Hazard was probably a tough one because of his low centre of gravity.”

The English left-back faced Hazard on nine occasions during his time at Southampton and also played with the Belgian winger on 34 occasions during Bertrand’s time at Stamford Bridge.

Hazard will go down as a bonafide Chelsea legend as the former Lille winger was crucial for the club as they won two Premier League titles during his time in West London.

Hazard’s career came to a sad end

After numerous outstanding seasons for Chelsea, Real Madrid came in for the Belgian and splashed out £130 million on the exciting winger.

Sadly for Hazard, and Madrid, the move never worked out as the Belgian had to deal with numerous injury issues during his time in the Spanish capital and never recovered.

Despite this, he still won two La Liga titles, the Champions League, the Super Cup, the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup during his time at Los Blancos.

Hazard will always be remembered for tearing Premier League defences apart and Jamie Carragher once had some high praise for the Belgian.

After Hazard scored an outrageous goal against Liverpool back in 2018, Carragher told Sky Sports: “Think of Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, Gianfranco Zola and you can even go back to Diego Maradona and Pele. They can’t be bullied in football. Even though they are great players, you think ‘how do you stop them?’

“You can’t knock them off the ball and he has got that power and strength in the legs and the backside.

“I said on commentary that he is the best player in the Premier League. It’s not because he scored that goal, I believe it. I think he should have been named the best player of the World Cup also.”

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'The criticism affects me'... Liverpool star hits back after being called 'horrendous' at Euro 2024

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

Liverpool had 10 first-team players jet off to Germany to compete in Euro 2024 but it hasn’t gone to plan for all of them.

Trent Alexander-Arnold‘s experiment in the England side backfired and he was left out completely for their final group stage clash against Slovenia.

Andy Robertson has also not had an enjoyable Euros experience after his Scotland side crashed out of their group alongside a Hungary side featuring Dominik Szoboszlai.

Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo and Virgil van Dijk helped the Netherlands squeeze through to the knockout stages by finishing third in their group, and the latter has been put in the firing line by his national media.

The Netherlands are now set to face Romania in the round of 16 on Tuesday afternoon and pressure is on Van Dijk to improve on his poor display against Austria.

Virgil van Dijk responds to Euro 2024 criticism

Van Dijk is widely considered one of, if not the best, defenders in the Premier League but the defensive aura and leadership he brings to Anfield has not been carried over to his national side.

The 32-year-old looked shaky and overwhelmed at times against Austria, but he has soaked up the criticism and agreed that he must improve.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday morning, Van Dijk said: “We have spoken a lot in the last 48 hours and some harsh words have been spoken.

“I blame myself too. I’m not crazy, I know when things need to be improved. That’s what I’m working on. That is the basis for getting better.

“That is the responsibility I take now and that responsibility is very great, especially with the national team. And the criticism affects me.”

Virgil van Dijk must bounce back from ‘horrendous’ display

Van Dijk was branded “horrendous” by BBC pundit Thomas Hitzlsperger for his recent performance against Austria.

READ MORE: Sporting director of European giant likes ‘really special’ Liverpool star who wants a new contract

He is now under pressure to turn things around for his national team with elimination now at stake.

Liverpool will rely on Van Dijk at the heart of their defence next season and Arne Slot will want his star centre-back to return to training full of confidence.

The post 'The criticism affects me'... Liverpool star hits back after being called 'horrendous' at Euro 2024 appeared first on HITC.

‘We all like him’: Roy Keane hails ‘really good’ Euro 2024 midfielder West Ham are huge admirers of

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

West Ham United now begin a new chapter after the departure of David Moyes.

In recent years, West Ham fans have been used to the team competing in Europe, but they will have their midweeks empty next season.

Whether it’s through winning the FA Cup or finishing in the top seven, Julen Lopetegui won’t just be tasked to get the club higher up the table, but also improve the style of play.

That will require changes to the squad, with departures expected and several big names linked with moves to the London Stadium.

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In recent times, HITC has revealed that there is interest in Wolves centre-back Max Kilman, who worked with the West Ham boss in the Midlands.

But the Hammers are also huge admirers of Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, who might not be handed a new deal at Stamford Bridge and that has interested several Premier League clubs, as HITC revealed in April.

Roy Keane stated that Gallagher is a player ‘we all like’ as he touched upon the midfielder’s energy, as he told ITV Sport.

Gallagher is currently on England duty at Euro 2024, he started the last group game draw against Slovenia, but was subbed off at half-time.

One area Keane thinks Gallagher has issues in is his lack of ability when in possession because ‘you certainly can’t question his honesty’.

West Ham United’s transfer interest in Conor Gallagher

“Aren’t you supposed to do that for every game, press well and bring energy,” said Keane.

“Conor Gallagher. We all like him. I think he’s a really good player. Sometimes I think he lacks real quality when he is in possession. He is a workman-like player. You certainly can’t question his honesty. He will get forward. And as I said, just that question mark when he is in possession.”

If Conor Gallagher leaves Chelsea…

It seems as though the player in question wants to stay, but with 12 months left on his deal and the possibility of making a serious profit on an academy star, then others seem to be unwilling.

Either way, if Gallagher leaves Chelsea, then his next club have a player that they can very much rely on and prove to elevate the qualities around him.

READ MORE: West Ham United’s newest signing says he was desperate to move to the Hammers

Push or allow Gallagher the freedom to get forward and then he will also score crucial goals for you.

Either way, when Euro 2024 concludes, this is a name looking out for throughout the summer transfer window.

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‘Really come after him…’ Danny Murphy says Liverpool star ‘frustrated’ with teammates at Euro 2024

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

Virgil van Dijk could be facing some familiar faces at Euro 2024 if the Netherlands draw England in the knockout stages.

The Liverpool centre-back is regarded as one of the best in the Premier League and a proven winner on the domestic stage.

But the Netherlands aren’t performing as well as they would have liked. They finished third in Group D and lost their final group game 3-2 to Austria.

Virgil van Dijk is a man who has been critiqued heavily for his performances and it’s something that is the norm for the Liverpool man on the international stage.

The 32-year-old can’t argue too much because the Dutch have been all over the place from a defensive aspect and it seems to be getting to the player.

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Danny Murphy stated that, during the Netherlands’ 3-2 defeat to Austria, he was ‘getting frustrated’ with his teammates.

Stefan de Vrij and Lutsharel Geertruida were two players seemingly under fire from the Liverpool man.

At that time, the Netherlands were 1-0 down, with Murphy sharing that van Dijk was ‘really coming after’ de Vrij and he would have given them a few stern words at half-time, as he told Match of the Day on BBC One.

Ronald Koeman’s side did come out for the second half with a bit more fight about them because Cody Gakpo scored straight away amid his own mixed performance.

But they still proceeded to concede two more goals, with van Dijk coming under fire himself, despite his annoyance with what was around him.

Virgil van Dijk ‘frustrated’ at Euro 2024

“Van Dijk is getting frustrated,” said Murphy. “He has come across de Vrij there. Really come after him to try and get after some people and close someone down.

“He has had a little pop at Geertruida as well. Telling him to come on. I expect a few words at half-time, never mind from the manager, but from the lads and Virgil van Dijk. When he goes in, give them a few kicks because it has been lacklustre from too many of them.”

Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool next season

Many felt that van Dijk was back to his best during the previous campaign and he is going to be key in Arne Slot settling in.

The arrival of van Dijk and Alisson Becker started Liverpool’s trophy dominance under Jurgen Klopp.

READ MORE: Director claims £20m Liverpool ace ‘definitely wants’ to join his side this summer

There have been Saudi clubs wanting to sign those two and you feel Slot has to stop any possible sale, even if the money might be too good to turn down.

The new Liverpool boss needs as much early support as possible because this gig is going to be far tougher than he thinks.

The post ‘Really come after him…’ Danny Murphy says Liverpool star ‘frustrated’ with teammates at Euro 2024 appeared first on HITC.

Tottenham Hotspur star scores twice in private friendly after avoiding Euro 2024 injury nightmare

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

Tottenham Hotspur only have a handful of players in action at Euro 2024 with a number of stars missing out for various reasons.

Ange Postecoglou guided Tottenham to a fifth-place finish in the Premier League this past season, securing Europa League football.

The top four evaded Tottenham but this was a decent first season under Postecoglou despite a number of players being snubbed for Euro 2024 action.

Pedro Porro was surprisingly axed by Spain whilst James Maddison was overlooked by England.

Timo Werner has also been snubbed by Germany as he returns on loan to Tottenham from RB Leipzig, so a number of Spurs players are missing from Euro 2024.

There is some Tottenham representation in the tournament; Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has been featuring prominently for Denmark, even leaving Jamie Carragher surprised with his display against England.

Radu Dragusin has been shining for Romania too whilst centre back Micky van de Ven has been utilised as a substitute by the Netherlands.

Micky van de Ven scores twice in Netherlands friendly

Spurs centre back Van de Ven came on for just three minutes against Poland in the first group stage game before then playing 25 minutes against Austria on Tuesday.

Van de Ven couldn’t prevent a 3-2 defeat against Austria, but the Netherlands are still through to the knockout stages of the competition.

It’s a tough ask for Van de Ven to break into the Netherlands side but he is certainly giving it a good go right now.

Ronald Koeman’s side took the surprise decision to play a behind-closed-doors friendly against lowly German side TSV Havelse.

Koeman seemingly wanted to keep his squad sharp and give chances to fringe players ahead of a huge knockout clash in the coming days.

Van de Ven certainly took his chance, scoring twice in a dominant 6-1 victory for the Dutch side.

Wout Weghorst also scored twice whilst Brian Brobbey and Jeremie Frimpong got themselves on the scoresheet too.

Van de Ven may still be on the bench for the next Netherlands clash but scoring twice in a private friendly is certainly one way to try and push for a starting role.

The Tottenham star may even just feel lucky to be in contention for action right now having recently avoided an injury.

Van de Ven was involved in an incident with former Tottenham winger Steven Bergwijn during a Dutch training session.

Unsurprisingly, Van de Ven was pretty angry with Bergwijn described as going ‘all out’ on the centre back’s ankle.

That situation has been calmed down with Bergwijn apologising and Van de Ven will be hoping to have caught Koeman’s eye after avoiding an injury nightmare.

• READ: 50 MOST LIKELY PREMIER LEAGUE, EFL AND EUROPEAN SUMMER 2024 FOOTBALL TRANSFERS

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'Perfect': Ange Postecoglou loves what he's hearing from Arsenal's Declan Rice

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

Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou has shared his thoughts on the verbal fire currently facing the England team at Euro 2024.

Many players have come under the spotlight as Gareth Southgate’s side crawl their way to the knockout stages, including Arsenal midfielder, Declan Rice.

Arsenal’s club-record transfer was recently dubbed ‘overrated’ by James McClean as he and his England teammates struggle at Euro 2024.

It has resulted in the likes of Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer firing shots at the team for their lacklustre performances.

England recorded an unconvincing 1-0 win over Serbia to open their account, before they were lucky in their 1-1 against Denmark. 

Heading into their goalless and final group game against Slovenia on Tuesday, the likes of Declan Rice urged the team to ‘go out and make a statement’ and prove their worth this tournament.

They aren’t the only top players being questioned in Germany because Kevin de Bruyne of Belgium has received the same treatment.

But as Ange Postecoglou pointed out, the Manchester City playmaker ‘went out there to make a statement’ during his side’s must-win game against Romania.

And when the Spurs boss heard Rice utter the same words, he absolutely loved it and dubbed it ‘perfect’, as he told ITV Sport.

England criticism at Euro 2024

“I look at it through a different prism,” responded Postecoglou on players not being able to hide away from criticism given that there is so much media coverage.

“We look at that from our perspective. What I found with young people, they are a lot more mature than we think they are. We have seen 16-year-olds (Yamal) ripping it up in this tournament. Sometimes when you are in camp, especially a national team, you do feel under siege because all the information is sort of coming from one or two sources.

“Whereas, at club football, you go out for a walk, someone will see you and give you a bit of a cheer up and then you get a better perspective. I don’t know if they are protecting the young players. Who are they protecting? They aren’t protecting Cole Palmer. He hasn’t played yet (before the Slovenia game). They’re not protecting Eze – What Declan (Rice) said there was perfect. ‘Go out there, play and make a statement’. You saw de Bruyne the other night, he went out there to make a statement. Modric, they got knocked out, but they went out there and made a statement. That’s what this platform is all about.”

Gareth Southgate’s style of play

The issue isn’t the players, but the man behind the wheel and that’s Southgate.

This is a tournament too far for the former centre-back and his sleep-walking style is ruining a lot of players’ reputations.

READ MORE: ‘He will move…’ Paul Merson hails ‘brave’ Euro 2024 defender amid Arsenal transfer interest

Harry Kane is having to take a lot of verbal hits, Phil Foden has been questioned and so has Jude Bellingham.

All of these players were the best in Germany, England and Spain’s top tier during the recently concluded campaign.

Yet, they play like complete and utter strangers when they don the colours of their country and that problem lies with one man only. 

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‘Very surprised…’ Barry Ferguson admits shock at treatment of Celtic star at Euro 2024

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

Celtic fans will be looking forward to turning their attention back to domestic matters after Scotland’s horror show at Euro 2024.

There was hope and expectancy going into the summer tournament and belief among some that they could progress through to the knockout stages.

But Scotland were slapped 5-1 in their opening game against Germany, with Celtic captain Callum McGregor coming under fire for his performance.

Yes, the performance was better against Switzerland, with the team picking up a point and Anthony Ralston this time in the firing line.

But a very, very late defeat to Hungary sent Scotland on the early flight home, with Barry Ferguson claiming that Steve Clarke might ‘regret’ some of his decisions.

One of them included not even handing a single minute to Celtic winger James Forrest during the tournament.

Chris Sutton called for it during the draw against the Swiss and Ferguson admitted that he was ‘very surprised’ he never saw Forrest at all, as he told Go Radio.

The ex-Rangers man highlighted Forrest’s performances under Brendan Rodgers during the latter months of the season.

Even though Scotland were struggling in the final third, with no shots on target for a must-win game, only two goals were scored, and one of them being an own goal, yet the man who dazzled Celtic’s wings was unused.

Steve Clarke doesn’t use James Forrest at Euro 2024

“I certainly, sitting at half-time, as I said before it would have been 10-15 minutes maximum, and then he would have made the changes,” said Ferguson.

“I was very surprised that I never seen James Forrest. I thought that was a game that would have suited him. I thought they were there for the taking. Hungary have got good players, but defensively I thought they were suspect at times.

“Bringing Che Adams off. Putting Lawrence Shankland on, I would have maybe said ‘you know what, keep the two of them on’ and then bring in James Forrest, who we all know how he finished the season off. Absolute flying the last month, so I am sure he (Steve Clarke) will go away, digest that and he will probably regret that he never made some of the changes.”

James Forrest at Celtic next season

The 32-year-old has one year remaining on his contract and you feel this could be the final 12 months of his trophy-winning career at Parkhead.

He is going to prove to be a useful squad player next season. Not expected to start, but he deserved his increased minutes towards the end of the previous campaign.

READ MORE: Celtic boost in £8m chase as director admits club ‘want to’ sell this summer

Rodgers’ first season back was pretty up and down, but in the end, he got the job done and delivered two trophies.

You feel Celtic will now stick their chest out and really show their worth next season and dominate like they once did under Rodgers. 

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‘Crazy to say’: Darren Ambrose reacts to who Newcastle United want to sign

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

It’s been pretty quiet so far on the transfer front for Newcastle United after they missed out on European football.

Eyes aren’t just on who could come into St James’ Park, but who could possibly leave.

It is well-documented that Newcastle have the richest owners in the Premier League, but Financial Fair Play (FFP) and Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) have handcuffed them to spend how they wish.

You could argue that during the time Eddie Howe has been at the club, a large percentage of his signings have worked out really well and there aren’t many bad eggs.

Lloyd Kelly has been the recent addition to the squad after he left Bournemouth, whilst they missed out on Tosin Adarabioyo, who decided to join Chelsea. 

And now there is talk of a striker possibly coming in, with the rumour mill jumping up and down of late.

Sources told HITC that Newcastle are keen on signing Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin after he scored seven Premier League goals last term.

Darren Ambrose was unsure about this possible deal because he highlighted how Calvert-Lewin replacing Callum Wilson is just bringing in one injury-prone player for another.

The only big plus side on Calvert-Lewin’s side is that he is 27 and Wilson is 32, so it would make sense, in that regard.

But Ambrose did admit that as ‘crazy’ as it sounds, a possible £25 million deal for Calvert-Lewin ‘isn’t that much for a centre-forwards nowadays’, as he told talkSPORT.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin at Newcastle United

“I think Callum Wilson offers you a little bit more than Dominic Calvert-Lewin,” said Ambrose. “The pace he has going in behind. He is good in the air.

“Calvert-Lewin is probably better in the air. He is a lot taller – the argument is with both of these, they can’t stay fit.

“£25 million in the grand scheme of things, and it’s crazy to say in today’s current climate, but it’s not that much for a centre-forward nowadays. If you can keep Dominic Calvert-Lewin fit, then yes, he will offer you something, with Isak there as well, you only need to put crosses in and he will get on the end of them.”

Tricky summer transfer window for Newcastle United

When Newcastle were in the Champions League last season, they weren’t able to spend as freely as they would have liked.

Aston Villa are finding that out now, with one of their main players, Douglas Luiz set to leave for Juventus.

READ MORE: Don Hutchison expecting Newcastle to sign star amid ‘very weird’ triple Aston Villa transfer deal

But now that the Magpies are without any form of Europe, you just wonder if another tricky summer transfer window awaits them.

The one big plus they can take out of all of this is. Don’t lose your best players and the last time they were without Europe, they ended up finishing in the top four.

The post ‘Crazy to say’: Darren Ambrose reacts to who Newcastle United want to sign appeared first on HITC.

Arsenal transfer news: £15m goal machine wanted as Mikel Arteta contacts potential midfield signing

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

Here is the latest transfer news coming out of the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal continue to chase potential signings.

Arsenal are yet to make a move in the summer transfer market but fans are expecting new additions.

The Gunners just came up short in the Premier League title race and Mikel Arteta will be keen to take Arsenal a step further next season.

New signings are needed, so let’s take a look at some of the latest Arsenal rumours…

Nico Williams

Another winger appears to be on the wish list for Arsenal this summer and Arteta could move for fellow Spaniard Nico Williams.

The Athletic Club star has made a real name for himself in La Liga and is currently on international duty with Spain at Euro 2024.

HITC understands that Arsenal are interested in activating the £43million release clause in Williams’ contract, but have been left shocked by his £300,000-a-week wage demands.

Caught Offside now claim that Arsenal are ready to pay the release clause in a real push to bring Williams to North London.

Arsenal are now expected to hold further talks with Williams’ representatives as a host of other clubs – such as Chelsea and Manchester City – hold an interest.

Pedro Neto

Williams isn’t the only winger on the Arsenal radar though.

Wolverhampton Wanderers star Pedro Neto has been linked with Arsenal for years now and appears to still be on the radar.

Football Transfers now suggest that Wolves are willing to sell Neto for £43million – much less than the £80million wanted in January.

Arsenal allegedly remain keen but are concerned about his injury record – and want a full medical assessment before proceeding with an offer.

Neto has picked up a number of injury problems in recent years and that is an understandable concern for any suitor.

HITC understands that Newcastle United have been in contact about signing Neto too, whilst also targeting Wolves teammate Max Kilman.

Serhou Guirassy

Arsenal are also expected to target a new striker this summer and Stuttgart’s Serhou Guirassy is being linked with a move to North London.

HITC understands that Guirassy was offered to Arsenal in January and he is being mentioned for the Gunners once again.

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg claims that Guirassy has now decided to leave Stuttgart this summer and has communicated that decision to the Bundesliga club.

Plettenberg suggests that Arsenal are in the mix alongside AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund, but Chelsea are now out of the race.

Guirassy hit 28 goals in 28 Bundesliga games this past season and is ready to make a big move at 28 years of age.

Now able to leave thanks to a €17.5million (£15million) release clause in his contract, Guirassy is a man in demand this summer.

Mikel Merino

Arsenal could go for another midfielder amid questions over the future of Emile Smith Rowe and Thomas Partey.

A left-sided central midfielder to truly replace Granit Xhaka could be targeted but fans may be surprised by links to Mikel Merino.

Spanish newspaper SPORT claim that Arteta has contacted Real Sociedad midfielder Merino over a move.

Barcelona are understood to be keen but Arteta is allegedly looking into a move himself.

Merino joined Newcastle United in 2017 but failed to make a lasting impact in the Premier League and headed to Real Sociedad after just a year in England.

Now 28 and with 23 Spain caps to his name, Merino has excelled for Real Sociedad and appears to have put himself on the Arsenal radar.

Joshua Kimmich

Another midfielder is on the Arsenal wish list with HITC understanding that the Gunners have joined the race to sign Joshua Kimmich.

The Germany star has just one year left on his Bayern Munich contract and he is open to exploring his options away from Allianz Arena.

Arsenal are now considering a move too with Arteta no doubt attracted by Kimmich’s versatility to play at right back and in midfield.

Manchester City and Liverpool are eyeing Kimmich too but Arsenal are paying close attention to his contract situation in Bavaria.

• READ: 50 MOST LIKELY PREMIER LEAGUE, EFL AND EUROPEAN SUMMER 2024 FOOTBALL TRANSFERS

The post Arsenal transfer news: £15m goal machine wanted as Mikel Arteta contacts potential midfield signing appeared first on HITC.

‘Really good footballer’: Conor Coady wowed by Euro 2024 midfielder Arsenal want to sign

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

Arsenal proved last summer what a difference a top-quality midfielder makes to their team.

After months and months of speculation, Mikel Arteta got his wish and the club paid a club-record transfer for Declan Rice.

The former West Ham United captain proceeded to be Arsenal’s best player in his debut campaign despite the club missing out on the Premier League title on the last day.

But Arsenal need to go again because it’s not easy moving the trophy-winning machine of Manchester City and the London club probably need two high-quality players for each position.

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Many midfielders have been tipped to secure a transfer to Arsenal this summer, with HITC revealing that they have joined the race of Bayern Munich star, Joshua Kimmich.

But he isn’t the only one tipped to join the Gunners because there is also interest in Everton star, Amadou Onana.

The 22-year-old was lauded for his performance at Euro 2024 as Belgium picked up their first win in the competition when they beat Romania.

Conor Coady labelled Onana, who he played alongside at Goodison Park for a brief period, as a ‘really, really good footballer’, as he told Match of the Day.

The former centre-back added that Onana is ‘fantastic’ at breaking up play and then allowing the forward-thinking players to do their work.

In Belgium’s case, he let Kevin de Bruyne and Youri Tielemans sing and dance in the final third and maintain their team’s chances of progressing to the knockout stages.

Amadou Onana at Euro 2024 with Belgium

“I played with Amadou at Everton and he is a really, really good footballer,” said Coady. “We all knew how much he loved playing for Belgium.

“He’s fantastic at that. Breaking up play. Big, long legs and he can cover the pitch. But he is massive and he can run. He is a fantastic player. Whenever those two went forward, de Bruyne and Tielemans, he was the one sitting.”

Arsenal linked with Amadou Onana

There is interest in Onana from Arsenal and you could see Arteta working wonders with a man of his quality.

With the ball, in possession and causing issues in the final third, you feel there is work to do, but you could see him improving at Arsenal.

READ MORE: Cesc Fabregas says Arsenal now have a ‘great leader’ who reminds him of himself

The only thing is the price tag that would be on his head and can Arsenal splash the cash in big ways again?

There is a Premier League tax on Onana’s head, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if they look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements for that reason.

The post ‘Really good footballer’: Conor Coady wowed by Euro 2024 midfielder Arsenal want to sign appeared first on HITC.

‘I am more disappointed’: David Moyes slams Liverpool star during crunch Euro 2024 clash

By: Muhammad Saeed on June 23, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Liverpool duo Andy Robertson and Dominik Szoboszlai were in action for their respective nations during a crunch Euro 2024 clash on Sunday.

This was their final group game, with Scotland knowing a win would seriously aid their chances of progressing through to the knockout stages and Hungary hoping for a similar miracle.

Liverpool fans have seen what Andy Robertson is all about on the domestic circuit because, for years and years, he has provided winning performances after winning performance under the now-departed Jurgen Klopp.

Whilst those very same supporters are still yet to see the true worth of Dominik Szoboszlai because his debut campaign in the Premier League was pretty mixed.

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As you would expect, it was a pretty cagey affair given what was at stake, including Scotland trying to reach the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time in their history.

In the end, it was heartbreak for the Scots because they were knocked out of Euro 2024 in the cruellest of ways after Kevin Csoboth scored a 100th-minute winner.

During the match, David Moyes was critical of Robertson because he wanted more from the Liverpool man, from an attacking sense, as he told Match of the Day on BBC One.

The former West Ham United boss highlighted how Robertson ‘delivers brilliantly well’ from an attacking sense when in Liverpool colours, but he wasn’t seeing the same deployed in his national colours.

From a defensive aspect, you can’t be critical of Robertson because he was his old self, aggressive and winning his duels, including stopping Szoboszlai from shooting on the edge of the box with a brilliant tackle.

But he was subbed off towards the end and then Scotland went on to suffer a very late defeat.

Andy Robertson at Euro 2024 during Scotland v Hungary

“I am more disappointed that Andy Robertson hasn’t given a chance with a couple of opportunities to cross it in,” said Moyes.

“He delivers brilliantly well for Liverpool and I am expecting him to put the ball in the right areas because we have people who can head it and then we have the chance to score. But we haven’t put that ball in the right areas to give us that opportunity.”

Andy Robertson heading home after Scotland knocked out of Euro 2024

Robertson is heading home early and it’s going to be a bitter pill to swallow for the all-action left-back because they were very close – he now starts a new chapter under Arne Slot.

Just that one goal was needed against Hungary and they had the chances towards the end, only to commit too many men forward in stoppage-time and they were punished.

READ MORE: Paul Merson agrees Euro 2024 star Liverpool sold ‘doesn’t look like a footballer’

But the fact of the matter is, Steve Clarke’s side weren’t good enough in their opening game. Way too defensive and they were smacked 5-1 by Germany.

It’s a success for Scotland to be reaching the European Championships because it isn’t the norm for them, but this defeat is going to sting very much.

The post ‘I am more disappointed’: David Moyes slams Liverpool star during crunch Euro 2024 clash appeared first on HITC.

‘That’s crazy': Frank Leboeuf reacts to Euro 2024 star possibly returning to Chelsea

By: Muhammad Saeed on June 23, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Chelsea fans are probably feeling a little deflated as they listen and watch the transfer rumour mill throw up deals that could be concluded this summer.

It has been pretty obvious as to what the plan from the powers that be at Chelsea has been ever since they replaced Roman Abramovich.

Todd Boehly has come under fire and, whilst they have signed some hugely talented stars, fans want those experienced heads through their doors, so they can make a return to the Champions League.

But young star after young star has been linked, including the most recent suggestion that they are closing in on Aston Villa youngster, Omari Kellyman, with Ian Maatsen set to move to Villa Park.

Yet, those Chelsea fans watching Euro 2024 must be thinking ‘what if’ because a certain former player is ripping it up.

Two games N’Golo Kante has played for France and picked up two Man of the Match awards after leaving Stamford Bridge and joining Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad last summer. 

Frank Leboeuf was asked about Kante possibly making a return to Chelsea and he thinks it was a ‘huge mistake’ to let him go in the first place.

The former World Cup winner even joked that Kante would ‘cost them too much’ and thinks it’s ‘crazy’ he is no longer at the club, as he told ESPN.

The 33-year-old earned hero status at Leicester City after helping them win a memorable Premier League title and then took his game to even higher heights in West London.

But injury problems curtailed the latter months of his Chelsea career and now Leboeuf has shut down the possibility of a return.

N’Golo Kante to return to Chelsea? 

“It would cost them too much, even for Boehly,” laughed Leboeuf about Kante re-joining Chelsea.

“I don’t think Kante wants to go back. That’s crazy. He shouldn’t have left. That’s for sure. But that isn’t part of Boehly and his fellow friend’s idea of what they want to bring in the future of Chelsea. He was too old for them, so it was time to get rid of him, which was the biggest mistake. 

“They needed, as I always said, experienced players. Kante should have stayed and signed for life.”

N’Golo Kante at Euro 2024

The World Cup winner is proving that class is permanent because he has probably been the standout performer at this summer’s European Championships.

It needs to be remembered that France have Real Madrid and Champions League-winning duo Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni to pick from. 

READ MORE: Chelsea confirm agreement to sign Brazilian wonderkid for £60 million, teenager to join up next summer

Yet, they have been benched by Kante who is playing like he never left European football.

Some felt that moving to a so-called lesser league would probably hamper the sharpness and speed of his game.

But it has been far from that because Kante is looking as good as he has ever looked. 

The post ‘That’s crazy': Frank Leboeuf reacts to Euro 2024 star possibly returning to Chelsea appeared first on HITC.

‘Makes total sense’: Shaka Hislop reacts to West Ham United transfer rumour

By: Muhammad Saeed on June 23, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

West Ham United will begin a new chapter next season after the departure of David Moyes.

In recent seasons, West Ham fans have been used to the team finishing in Europe, or even better, winning the Conference League.

That’s why there is huge pressure on Julen Lopetegui and he is going to need the summer transfer market to enhance his squad.

But whilst many fans will be eagerly waiting to see who the club could bring in this summer, amid suggestions that they are keen on Max Kilman.

West Ham have to keep hold of the players currently at the club and that’s where a certain Edson Alvarez comes into the picture.

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The Mexican star moved to the London Stadium last summer and enjoyed an encouraging 12 months in Claret & Blue colours, even if it was a poor campaign from the team as a whole.

But it has been suggested that Manchester United could be keen on the defensive-minded midfielder.

Shaka Hislop thinks that Alvarez moving to Old Trafford, who will be playing Europa League football next term, ‘makes total sense’, as he told ESPN.

The former West Ham goalkeeper highlighted the 26-year-old’s disciplinary issue and how that is a problem in his game.

Alvarez played 42 matches in all competitions last term and picked up 17 yellow cards, but didn’t get sent off, amazingly enough.

Edson Alvarez to Manchester United?

“Edson Alvarez makes total sense to me,” said Hislop. “There are question marks about Casemiro and his future. And Saudi Arabia’s interest.

“Edson Alvarez has really been that good for West Ham. The complaint being he gets himself into disciplinary problems on the field. Picking up too many cheap yellow cards, and therefore, missing too many games, cheaply and without need. Without question, I think he is talented enough.”

West Ham United need to keep hold of their top players

Yes, they are without any European football and that does put them on the back foot if the teams higher up come knocking.

From Euro 2024 star Jarrod Bowen to Alvarez in midfield. This is the time to keep these players, build and then try to get back into Europe.

READ MORE: £17m striker liked by West Ham and Crystal Palace spotted arriving for medical

It’s going to be very difficult because the queue of teams wanting those top seven spots is pretty incredible.

It needs to be noted that Manchester United might be playing Europa League football next term, but they still finished eighth and their FA Cup final win was huge in them rescuing their campaign.

The post ‘Makes total sense’: Shaka Hislop reacts to West Ham United transfer rumour appeared first on HITC.

‘Very weird’: Don Hutchison expecting Newcastle to sign PL star amid triple Aston Villa transfer deal

By: Muhammad Saeed on June 23, 2024 / comment : 0 HITC, news

Aston Villa and Newcastle United would ideally like to spend how much ever they want in the transfer market.

But PSR (profit and sustainability rules) and FFP (financial fair play) simply don’t allow it, which leaves the fanbases of those clubs very frustrated.

Newcastle United secured Champions League football last term after Eddie Howe did a remarkable job in his first full season in charge of the club.

And Unai Emery followed suit 12 months later by helping Aston Villa to Europe’s elite competition.

But before Villa fans can enjoy that, they have to part ways with Douglas Luiz, who is expected to join Juventus.

Two players are expected to head the other way – Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea – added to that, in a separate deal, the Midlands club are also set to sign Chelsea fullback and Borussia Dortmund Champions League finalist, Ian Maatsen.

This was described as ‘very weird’ by Don Hutchison because he feels those players don’t start for Villa, even if they are hampered by PSR.

The former midfielder also mentioned that Dominic Calvert-Lewin could be leaving Everton and joining Newcastle United for the very same reasons, as he told ESPN.

The rules are clearly the issue here and it wouldn’t be a surprise if it changes after the window slams shut, but it has still left Hutchison perplexed.

Aston Villa to sign Samuel Iling-Junior, Enzo Barrenechea and Ian Maatsen

“It’s just very weird, apart from the money side of it and PSR, it’s very weird that you could be bringing three players in, who in my opinion, don’t start in your first team,” said Hutchison about Villa’s incoming players. 

“Iling Jr doesn’t start for them. Barrenechea is a player at Frosinone where he played a handful of games. Three games I think for Juve and went there and done quite well. But he’s not ready to step into an Aston Villa side. Yes, they are in the Champions League and that’s another body. Maatsen had a really good season, but he is up against Alex Moreno and Lucas Diane, so he has got competition to try and start.

“The footballing side of it. You are bringing three players in who are potentially just going to be squad players. But the PSR and the accounting rules are where these deals are getting done because we are starting to see maybe Dominic Calvert-Lewin going from Everton to Newcastle, with another player going in the opposite direction. The window isn’t even open yet. It’s all accountancy. It’s very, very weird and well above my head.”

Dominic Calvert-Lewin to join Newcastle United from Everton?

This is an interesting one and it probably indicates that Callum Wilson will leave after another injury-hit campaign.

The only question fans will ask is why replace one injury-prone player for another?

READ MORE: ‘I like him’… Wayne Rooney speaks out on Newcastle United ace

Calvert-Lewin has had issues of his for many years now, but still managed to play 32 Premier League matches last term.

He scored seven goals and ironically enough ended his goal drought at St James’ Park.

It does need to be noted that Calvert-Lewin just turned 27 and Wilson is 32, so from that sense, it allows Howe to possibly still state that the best-ever season from the Everton man is yet to come, sources have told HITC that they are in talks.

The post ‘Very weird’: Don Hutchison expecting Newcastle to sign PL star amid triple Aston Villa transfer deal appeared first on HITC.