All posts by h79snht.top

Century and six-wicket haul respectively prove ample to see off Thunder

ECB Reporters Network01-Sep-2024

Sterre Kalis works one to the leg side•Getty Images

Northern Diamonds 290 for 6 (Kalis 100, Langston 58, Winfield-Hill 50) beat Lancashire Thunder 204 (Jones 57, Turner 6-20) by 86 runsSterre Kalis hit a thrilling maiden List A century and Phoebe Turner claimed a first five-wicket haul as Northern Diamonds defeated Lancashire Thunder by 86 runs to go top of the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy table.The Diamonds are on the verge of qualifying for the semi-finals with 37 points, 14 points ahead of fifth placed The Blaze who have three games left. The defeat leaves Lancashire Thunder struggling to make the knockout stages.After Lauren Winfield-Hill and Emma Marlow posted a 95-run opening stand, a century partnership between Kalis and Beth Langston for the fifth wicket took the Diamonds to 290 for six and that proved to be too many for the Thunder despite a century stand between Eve Jones and Seren Smale with the Thunder 204 all out.Alice Clarke and Emma Lamb started the Thunder run chase brightly taking 38 from the opening five overs before Rachel Slater removed both Clarke lbw for 14 and bowled Lamb for 19.Eve Jones and Seren Smale rebuilt steadily to take the Thunder to the 25-over halfway point on 130 for two, needing a further 161 runs. But the Diamonds attack plugged away and were rewarded moments after the Thunder duo had reached their century partnership off 115 balls.Turner returned to bowl Smale for 48 and Langston produced a double-wicket maiden having Eve Jones caught at extra cover for 57 and then bowling skipper Ellie Threlkeld second ball.Suddenly game had swung dramatically the way of the visitors with Thunder 166 for five in the 31st over and the Diamonds pressed home their advantage as Turner ran through the rest of the Thunder line-up with a superb second spell to finish with six for 20 and clinch a five point victory for the Diamonds.Winfield-Hill and Marlow made an excellent start after the Diamonds had been put in to bat taking 48 runs from the powerplay and building a good platform of 95 runs by the 20th over before the Thunder hit back by taking two wickets in four balls.Winfield-Hill, dropped on 14, posted an otherwise flawless fifty from 59 balls that included 6 fours but was bowled off the next delivery from left arm spinner Hannah Jones. And the Diamonds suffered a big blow four balls later when captain Hollie Armitage was bowled by Naomi Dattani for 0.Phoebe Graham kept up the pressure by having Marlow caught for 45 from the first ball after the 25 over drinks break while overseas all-rounder Erin Burns, returning from her stint in the Caribbean Premier League, perished for 10 to leave the Diamonds on 136 for four after 30 overs.A 111-run partnership across inside 17 overs between Stere Kalis and Beth Langston revived a faltering innings with Kalis reaching her fifty off 64 balls and, having been dropped from the following delivery, the Netherlands international moved on relentlessly to reach her maiden List A century off 94 balls before driving Naomi Dattani to Seren Smale at cover.Langston hit out to good effect over the closing overs, driving Graham for the only six of the innings, in a damaging 53-ball innings of 58 to take the Diamonds to 290 for six and that proved to be sufficient.

Chelsea have the chance to seal their second trophy under Enzo Maresca when they face PSG in the Club World Cup final.

It will be a tough task, as the French side are arguably the best side on the planet, evidenced by their 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the Champions League final.

Enzo Fernandez will be crucial as the Argentine will be tasked with trying to keep possession for the Blues, while also aiming to stop PSG from mounting attack after attack in the final third.

That being said, despite Maresca signing plenty of attacking players this summer, might the former Benfica starlet be growing worried amid the club’s latest transfer link?

Chelsea enquire over Barcelona midfielder

The list of attacking players linked with the Blues is lengthy, but Maresca now looks like he could be set to add a midfielder or two to his squad.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

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According to Caught Offside, Chelsea, along with Arsenal, have enquired about the availability of Barcelona star Marc Casado this summer.

The Catalan giants are demanding €50m (£43m) should any club wish to make an official bid for the Spaniard.

He does have a release clause worth €100m (£86m), but due to their financial situation, Barcelona may be forced to accept a lower offer. If Maresca does sign the player, it could be bad news for Fernandez.

Why Chelsea must sign Marc Casado

Last season in the Premier League, Fernandez played alongside Moises Caicedo in the heart of the Chelsea midfield.

He registered 13 goal contributions in the top flight, while also creating 13 big chances and averaging 2.3 key passes per game for the Blues. The Argentine may be a more effective player going forward, but defensively, Casado has the upper hand.

Indeed, last season, the Barcelona starlet tackled a higher percentage of dribblers (48.8% vs 36.9%) per 90, along with committing fewer fouls (26 vs 52) and making more interceptions (22 vs 13) in their respective domestic leagues.

Marc Casado’s La Liga statistics last season for Barcelona

Accurate passes per game

53

Goals

1

Assists

3

Total duels won per game

4

Big chances created

3

Tackles per game

1.9

Via Sofascore

Furthermore, Casado also won more total duels per game (53% vs 47%) and lost possession fewer times per game (7.7 vs 12.8) than the current Blues midfielder.

With the club signing a plethora of attacking players this summer, shoring up the midfield now appears to be Maresca’s priority.

A move for Casado could have Fernandez fearing for his place in the starting XI next season, that’s for sure, with Caicedo seemingly a shoo-in to start, having been described by Maresca as “one of the best, if not the best, defensive midfielder in the world”.

Following Spain’s victory over Switzerland last November, Casado was showered with praise by teammate Bryan Zaragoza, who said: “He’s an animal. I don’t even know what to say about how he played. He’s barbaric.”

This sort of player is exactly the type of midfielder that Maresca would love to have available to him.

Aged just 21, Casado is only going to get better with age, especially by playing in the Premier League and Champions League for the Blues.

If the Stamford Bridge side can secure his signature for a decent fee, it might turn out to be one of their best signings of the summer, with Casado representing a perfect partner to Caicedo in the centre of the park.

For Fernandez, however, it could well be bad news in the long run.

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Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 11, 2025

تحدث لامين يامال، لاعب الفريق الأول لكرة القدم بنادي برشلونة عن نصائح مدربه الألماني هانز فليك قبل المباريات من خلال حوار أجراه مع صحيفة “موندو ديبورتيفو” الإسبانية.

وتألق اللاعب صاحب الـ 18 عامًا مع برشلونة الموسم الماضي وكان عاملًا مؤثرًا ومهمًا في تتويج برشلونة بالثلاثية المحلية “الدوري وكأس الملك والسوبر” مع الصعود إلى نصف نهائي دوري أبطال أوروبا لأول مرة منذ عام 2019.

وقال لامين حول النصائح التي يقولها له فليك بشكل دائم في المباريات: “أتحدث مع فليك كثيرًا، إنه يمنحني ثقة كبيرة ويشجعني على الاستمتاع بوقتي، والتحلي بالشجاعة، وعدم التراجع عن المستوى الذي أنا فيه وهذا ما يجعلني سعيدًا”.

وعن شخصيته القوية التي يتمتع بها، أكمل: “أعتقد أنها مهمة في كرة القدم الاحترافية، من المهم جدًا أن تؤمن بنفسك وأن تتمتع بشخصية قوية، دائمًا تواضع ولكن مع العلم أن وجودك هنا يعني أنك تمتلك القدرة على المنافسة”.

اقرأ أيضًا | برشلونة يتلقى دفعة معنوية كبيرة قبل لقاء نيوكاسل في دوري أبطال أوروبا

وعن اعتماده على أخصائي نفسي رياضي بجانب موهبته، أضاف: “الحقيقة هي أنني أعمل في كلا الاتجاهين، في لا ماسيا لطالما علمونا الاستعداد الذهني، ولديّ أيضًا متخصصين يساعدونني، إنه أمر أساسي”.

وفيما يتعلق بالفوز بالكرة الذهبية، أردف: “سيكون حلمًا بالطبع، جائزة الكرة الذهبية من أعظم الجوائز التي يمكن أن يحصل عليها لاعب كرة قدم”.

وعما سيفعله إذا فاز بها، أوضح: “ربما سأحتفل بهذه المناسبة مع عائلتي وأصدقائي، الذين كانوا بجانبي طوال الوقت”.

واستطرد: “بالتأكيد الفوز بالكرة الذهبية في سن الثامنة عشرة سيكون أمرًا رائعًا ولكن إن لم يحدث الآن فسأواصل العمل على تحسين أدائي يومًا بعد يوم، هكذا هو الحال”.

وعن هدفه بالموسم الجديد أتم: “أريد أن أستمر في التطور ومساعدة الفريق بتسجيل الأهداف وتقديم التمريرات الحاسمة والمنافسة على كل لقب نتنافس عليه”.

Chelsea are now through to the Club World Cup final after brushing aside Fluminense with ease 2-0 in New Jersey.

After just about getting the better of Brazilian outfit Palmeiras 2-1 in the last round, Enzo Maresca’s Blues managed to progress through to the final stage by beating yet another South American side, as either Real Madrid or Paris St. Germain now await the West Londoners for a chance at pre-season glory.

João Pedro would steal most of the headlines from the straightforward win by popping up with both of Chelsea’s goals on the day, as the brand-new attacker looks to instantly settle into his new environment after leaving Brighton and Hove Albion behind.

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Posts ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025 Joao Pedro's performance in numbers

After clearly impressing Maresca with a lively 26-minute run-out against Palmeiras, the Italian would hand the exciting 23-year-old attacker the first-team reins as Chelsea’s main man up top against Fluminense.

It was an inspired decision from the former Leicester City boss to axe Liam Delap in favour of starting the fresh number 20, with Pedro only needing an hour to score a brace to hand his new employers an uncomplicated passage through to the Club World Cup final.

It was a confident and assured performance from a star who will want to make that sole striker spot his own ahead of the new Premier League season getting underway, with Pedro firing home a clinical 30 goals across his last two seasons at the Seagulls, before Chelsea came calling.

Based on Nicolas Jackson’s selfish miss in the second half, which sent Cole Palmer into a frenzy, he could well make that up-for-grabs position on the pitch his own very soon.

But, he wasn’t the only standout performer as Chelsea’s Brazilian opponents were dealt with comfortably, with this fellow attacker for the Blues sticking out once more, as some now even herald him as Chelsea’s finest player of the entire Club World Cup tournament.

The 8/10 star turning into Maresca's "best player"

Of course, those with connections to Stamford Bridge will be rightly enthused by Pedro’s flashes of excellence.

But, there have been other key individuals for Chelsea across the whole span of the tournament who have stood out even more than the much-talked-about South American, with Pedro Neto definitely fitting into this bracket.

Across his five games in the United States heat, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers winger has tallied up a crucial three goals, with his goal against LAFC in the middle of last month getting Maresca’s men up and running in the competition.

Whilst he didn’t collect another memorable strike against Fluminense, it wasn’t through lack of trying, with the tireless attacker seeing his only effort of the game be blocked, away from just shining as a vibrant and slick option down the Blues’ left flank when running forward with pace to burn.

Neto’s performance in numbers vs Fluminense

Stat

Neto

Minutes played

68

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Shots

1

Touches

34

Accurate passes

18/18 (100%)

Successful dribbles

4/6

Total duels won

5/8

Stats by Sofascore

Amazingly, Neto would complete four successful dribbles across his standout 68-minute spell, with his surges up the field constantly allowing for openings to happen, with Neto also accurately completing every single pass that came his way when feeding the likes of Pedro to shine.

Whilst the former Brighton striker did snatch most of the plaudits come the full-time whistle, Neto wasn’t short of admirers himself either, with journalist Zach Lowy taking to X to declare the Portuguese entertainer as Chelsea’s “best attacker” this tournament and “arguably their best player” full stop.

That is quite the call to make, but it was backed up by The Standard’s Sam Tabuteau post-match, who also declared him ‘Chelsea’s best performer’ in America, amidst a high 8/10 rating for his efforts against Fluminense.

It will be intriguing to see if Neto can kick on after all this pre-season praise when Premier League football returns to West London, with the Club World Cup trophy also perhaps making the trip back to England very soon if all goes to plan.

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Posts ByBen Gray Jul 8, 2025

“It is important to give players freedom – that’s what I believe in – and not have a relationship of a head coach and a player”

S Sudarshanan22-Jul-20240:38

Gambhir: ‘Our responsibility to have Bumrah fresh for important games’

India made significant gains during the two-and-a-half-year period where Rahul Dravid was their head coach, making the finals of a world event in each of the three formats and winning the T20 crown. Now the focus is on building on those gains and the man leading them forward will be Gautam Gambhir, their new head coach, who understands he has “big shoes to fill”.Speaking to reporters for the first time in his new role, Gambhir touched on the way he wants to work with India’s players and what they can expect from him. “It is very simple,” he said on Monday in Mumbai. “It is important to give players freedom – that’s what I believe in – and not have a relationship of a head coach and a player.”The best relationship is one built on trust. The most important thing is they’ll always have my backing. I don’t complicate too many things. I am taking over a very, very successful team – India are T20 world champions, have been runners-up in the World Test Championship and the 50-overs World Cup.”Related

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Gambhir’s tenure begins on July 27 with India’s white-ball tour of Sri Lanka. This is his first time as head coach of a team, although he has served as a mentor in the IPL, with both Lucknow Super Giants and the reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders. In his playing days, he was an excellent opening batter with an international career that spanned 13 years and peaked with World Cup wins in 2007 and 2011.”My learning has been simple – it has been all about winning,” he said. “I don’t deviate from something. We are in a profession where there can be only one winner. We try and play fair, we try and play hard, and try and come back in a winning dressing room and a happy dressing room.”A happy dressing room is a winning dressing room. Ultimately it is the players’ team, the support staff is there to try and get the maximum out of their potential. Sometimes international cricket can be tough, it can be insecure as well because only 15 can be picked. It is the job of support staff to keep them happy.”For the tour of Sri Lanka, Gambhir will have Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate as assistant coaches and Sairaj Bahutule as the bowling coach. T Dilip, so far, is the only one to reprise his role from the previous regime. He will be the fielding coach. The other support staff members, Gambhir said, will be finalised after the Sri Lanka tour.In the past, Gambhir has not been an advocate of players picking and choosing matches. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli both have been selected for the ODIs against Sri Lanka, with the former set to lead. This is one of only two ODI series India are slated to play ahead of the Champions Trophy early next year.Gambhir said that workload management is important for fast bowlers but batters need to play all games if they are fit and available.”Workload management for someone like Jasprit Bumrah is important,” Gambhir said. “For batters, if they can play consistently and if they are in good form, [they] might as well play all the games. With Rohit and Virat now not playing T20 cricket, they only have two formats to look after. So they are going to be available for most of the games.”For Bumrah, because he is one rare kind of a bowler who anyone would want [in their team], so it’s our responsibility to try and have him fresh for most of the important games. So, workload management for, not just Bumrah, but fast bowlers becomes very, very important.”

Everton manager David Moyes is aiming to build a side that will be able to secure a top-half finish in the Premier League in their first season at the club’s new stadium.

It is the start of a new era for the Merseyside outfit and what better way to commemorate it by emerging from their recent malaise and moving forward under Moyes.

Much will depend on the transfer business that the club manage to pull off this summer. So far, only Carlos Alcaraz has joined the Toffees. Even then, the South American starlet spent the last six months of the 2024/25 campaign on loan. Therefore, he is hardly a brand-new arrival.

A few days ago, it was reported that Everton were in talks to sign Fulham right-back Kenny Tete on a free transfer.

Everton’s Premier League finishes under David Moyes

Season

Final placing

2024/25

13th

2012/13

6th

2011/12

7th

2010/11

7th

2009/10

8th

2008/09

5th

2007/08

5th

2006/07

6th

2005/06

11th

2004/05

4th

2003/04

17th

2002/03

7th

2001/02

15th

Via Transfermarkt

Moyes is keen on bringing in another full-back, especially on the right side of the defence, and with Tete available for nothing, it is a move that makes perfect sense.

Another player who the club are targeting is Villarreal centre-forward Thierno Barry, who enjoyed a stellar campaign in 2024/25.

Considering Everton scored just 42 goals throughout the Premier League last term, the lowest of any club outside the relegation zone, improving in the attacking department is a major priority for Moyes.

As such, signing Barry could turn into a solid piece of business, especially as he looks ready to take the next step in his career.

Why Everton must sign Thierno Barry

Last season, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Beto and Armando Broja netted just 13 goals between them, highlighting that this area in the squad needs to be vastly improved.

Barry could be the perfect solution for Moyes. Indeed, the Frenchman made a total of 41 appearances for the La Liga club last term, scoring 19 goals and registering four assists in the process.

He also shone across various metrics when compared to his positional peers in the Spanish top flight last season. Not only did the striker rank in the top 25% for non-penalty goals (0.39) per 90, but he also ranked in the top 27% for total shots (2.75) and in the top 17% for aerials won (3.84) per 90.

Although they might not be a spell-binding array of statistics, considering it was his debut season in Spain, it suggests that Barry is only going to get better and better as time goes on.

The striker has spent the previous few weeks representing France at the U21 European Championships. Across his five games at the competition, Barry has scored once, averaged two shots per game and created two big chances, despite averaging just 37 minutes per game for France.

His future looks bright indeed. Should he make the move to the Toffees, could he be a success on Merseyside? Only time will tell on that front.

Moyes will be keen to supplement the signing of Barry by adding further attacking talent this summer, especially those who can help make the French starlet even better.

Might he possibly be eyeing up a move for an Englishman who impressed in the Premier League last season?

Latest Everton transfer news

While Barry is the main attacking target, Moyes has also shown interest in Timothy Weah and James McAtee this summer already.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

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Both players would improve the club’s attacking options, without a shadow of a doubt, although they may cost the club a pretty penny.

According to TEAMtalk, Everton are now exploring a potential move for Ipswich Town attacking midfielder Omari Hutchinson this summer.

Amid Ipswich’s relegation, several clubs, including the Toffees, Brentford and West Ham, are waiting to make a move for the player, who is valued at €28m (£24m) according to Football Transfers.

The Tractor Boys may have struggled last term, but Hutchinson was one of the few bright sparks, and it is likely he will depart.

Moyes must make sure he is at the front of the queue to sign the talented Englishman, especially as he could be a dream signing for Barry.

Why Omari Hutchinson could be a dream for Thierno Barry

Last season, Hutchinson played 31 Premier League games for Ipswich, scoring three goals and grabbing two assists.

While it wasn’t enough to prevent their relegation, he impressed in large spells, which is now leading to attention in the transfer market.

Aside from his goal contributions, Hutchinson also created six big chances, averaged one key pass per game and succeeded with 1.6 dribbles per game. This is made even more impressive by the fact Ipswich averaged just 40% possession across their 38 league games last term.

It proves that when the Englishman had the ball, he was willing to make things happen for his teammates, indicating that he would be a dream signing for Barry.

Not only would the youngster create chances for the Frenchman, but he would also be able to consistently get into dangerous positions in the final third.

Labelled “dazzling” by Statman Dave in the Championship, he spent the early part of the summer helping England U21s reach the final of the European Championship, playing a key role in their success.

Hutchinson has started four of England’s five matches and, as well as grabbing an assist, he has also created three big chances, averages 1.8 key passes and succeeds with an impressive 2.2 dribbles per game at the tournament.

If England go on to defeat Germany in the final, it will largely be due to Hutchinson’s impressive performances.

Moyes will surely have one eye on the final this weekend, especially as the club have joined the list of potential suitors for his signature.

Getting a move for Barry over the line will be his priority firstly. But once this deal is signed, sealed and delivered, lining up Hutchinson will be on the agenda.

It all depends on the fee Ipswich demands, but if it is reasonable, the Toffees should be all over the move. That’s for sure.

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Posts ByBrett Worthington Jun 26, 2025

It looks as though Glasgow Rangers are set to make their first sale of the 2025 summer transfer window.

Striker Cyriel Dessers has agreed terms with Greek side AEK Athens, and the Light Blues have set a £5m asking price for the player.

This would ensure that the Ibrox side secure a profit on the Nigerian international, who was signed for £4.5m two summers ago, and this would give Russell Martin some funds to bolster his team.

Dessers certainly exuded Jekyll and Hyde-like performances throughout his two seasons in Glasgow, but his professionalism and effort cannot be faulted; that’s for sure.

A return of 51 goals across 109 games is a more than respectable tally. Going forward, however, it looks as though he isn’t going to fit into Martin’s tactical system.

Cyriel Dessers Rangers statistics (2024/25)

Metric

Premiership

Europa League

Goals

18

3

Assists

2

2

Big chances missed

21

10

Shots per game

2.4

1.7

Goal conversion percentage

22%

15%

Via Sofascore

If the fee of £5m is correct, Dessers would be the first Rangers striker to be sold for this amount since a certain Nikica Jelavic departed the club in January 2012.

Then it was a transfer fee of £5.5m, but how would Martin love a striker of his calibre to be leading the line for the Light Blues next season?

Nikica Jelavic’s Rangers statistics

The summer of 2010 saw Rangers lose a few attacking players. Nacho Novo, who joined the club in 2004, moved on.

Elsewhere, Kris Boyd left the club when his contract expired, joining Middlesbrough. This meant Walter Smith had lost a pairing that had scored 72 and 129 goals respectively heading into the 2010/11 campaign.

Smith’s response? Sign Jelavic from Rapid Vienna for a fee in the region of £4m. It turned out to be money extremely well spent.

The Croatian hitman had scored 21 goals throughout the 2009/10 season, with three coming against Celtic in European competition, and he was seen as a direct replacement for Boyd.

His maiden season was like a dream. He may have only played 27 times due to injury, but the centre-forward produced when it truly mattered.

A return of 20 goals was excellent given the circumstances, and some were sublime efforts.

Take his overhead kick against Aberdeen at the tail end of the season, for example. With the Gers drawing 0-0, Jelavic’s stunning acrobatic effort sealed all three points.

Just weeks before, the striker had scored the winner against Celtic in the League Cup final, sealing the first trophy of the season for the club.

And who can forget the scenes at Rugby Park on the final day of the campaign? With Rangers needing a win to secure a third league title in a row, Jelavic scored once and grabbed an assist in a 5-1 victory.

Due to financial issues at the club, he was sold after just 18 months in Glasgow. His tally of 36 goals across 55 games works out as a goal every 1.5 matches for the Gers.

With Dado Prso before him and Antonio Colak a decade later, the Light Blues have enjoyed the services of excellent Croatian frontmen.

Could Martin be closing in on a move for another one?

Rangers search for a striker

With Dessers leaving, the attacking department is one that Martin will be keen on improving as the window progresses.

Israeli striker Dor Turgeman is a player who the club have shown plenty of interest in recently, and he could cost around £4m should the Gers make their move.

With firepower needed, the new manager could be set to make a bid for Croatian striker Matija Frigan in the coming days.

Indeed, according to reports coming out of Croatia (as relayed by the Scottish Sun), Martin is readying a £6m bid for the player in order to fend off interest from elsewhere.

Hamburg and Hull City are also looking to lure the player away from Belgian side Westerlo during the transfer window. The allure of playing in Europe and challenging for trophies makes Rangers favourites, as they are leading the race to land his signature.

He would be the fourth Croatian striker to play for the Ibrox side since 2004, and Martin may well unearth Jelavic 2.0.

Why Rangers must sign Matija Frigan

While he had his flaws, Rangers will be losing plenty of goals next season when Dessers departs.

Last season, Frigan scored 14 goals across 41 games, chipping in with four assists in the process.

In the Belgian Pro League, the 22-year-old recorded 2.2 shots per game, while also creating six big chances and finishing the season with a goal conversion percentage of 14% for Westerlo.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig hailed him as a “complete forward” back in 2023 when the youngster was just making his mark, and he has gone from strength to strength ever since.

One issue Rangers have had to endure in recent seasons is a poor injury record. While Dessers may have been available almost every game, Danilo and Hamza Igamane missed their fair share of matches.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

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Since the beginning of the 2023/24 season, Frigan has featured 69 times for the Belgian side, missing only six games through injury. This would be a big bonus for Martin, who could rely on the Croatian centre-forward without worrying about missing big matches.

Aged just 22, Frigan still has plenty of development to do, and what better place to grow than at Rangers? Igamane has shown that the club could be used as a stepping stone should a player deliver impressive performances.

£6m may sound like a lot on the surface, but to truly bolster the squad, Martin will need to spend big. Frigan could become another Jelavic-like player for the club. A striker who has an eye for goal, but who is also able to contribute in other areas.

A front two of Turgeman and Frigan could be a frightening prospect ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Early business will be crucial for Martin, and if he wraps a deal for the Westerlo centre-forward, it will give the supporters a boost heading into the Champions League qualifiers.

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Posts ByRoss Kilvington Dec 26, 2024

Whilst Marc Guehi has been on Newcastle United’s wishlist for some time, the Magpies have now reportedly set their sights on an alternative option who’s worth just £34m this summer.

Guehi remains on Newcastle radar

This time last year, those at St James’ Park were in a different position when it comes to spending but still had an interest in Guehi. Reports even suggested that they were willing to spend big even in the face of PSR troubles. Eventually, however, Crystal Palace managed to price both Newcastle and other interested parties out of a move for their star defender.

One year on, pricing Newcastle out of a move will be slightly more difficult. Free from their PSR limitations, the Magpies could splash the cash for the first time in two transfer windows to finally land their defensive target. It’s also worth noting that Palace, themselves, may be in a weaker negotiation position due to the fact that Guehi’s current contract now has just one year remaining.

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Fresh reports this week have gone as far as to suggest that Newcastle have more or less completed a deal to sign Guehi from Palace and those in South London have already turned their attention towards finding a replacement.

If those are to be believed, then it would be some statement from PIF this early in the summer. The England international wouldn’t be the first to arrive, however, given that Antonio Cordero has already put pen to paper, and rumours suggest that he may not be the last in a frantic summer at St James’ Park.

That said, Newcastle will be well aware of just how quickly things can change in the transfer market and already reportedly have alternative options lined up if they fail in pursuit of Guehi’s signature for a second summer in a row.

Newcastle interested in signing Roma's Ndicka

If it’s not to be Guehi this summer, then it may well be a Serie A star. According to Caught Offside, Newcastle are now looking to sign Evan Ndicka from AS Roma. The Italian club value their defender at just €40m (£34m) and may well get the chance to cash in amid interest from Tyneside as well as Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest.

League stats 24/25 (via FBref)

Evan Ndicka

Marc Guehi

Minutes

3,420

3,059

Progressive Passes

107

134

Tackles Won

26

34

Ball Recoveries

134

145

Whilst the numbers show that Guehi is superior in a number of areas, Ndicka is far from a world away from the Englishman’s quality and his cheaper price tag could make any slight dip in numbers worthwhile for Newcastle this summer.

The defender hasn’t been short on praise at Roma, either. Former manager Jose Mourinho had nothing but positives to say about Ndicka after his performance in a 2-0 victory over Napoli in 2023.

The self-proclaimed Special One told reporters: “This was without a doubt his best performance as a Roma player. He played a great game.”

Still just 25 years old and available for just £34m, Ndicka could prove to be the perfect alternative should Eddie Howe and Newcastle miss out on signing Guehi this summer.

Glasgow Rangers manager Russell Martin has a massive task ahead of him, there is no doubt.

His first few interviews since being unveiled as the new Ibrox boss have been positive, and it is clear the former Southampton manager has a distinct style of play.

This is something that the club have lacked under previous managers, including Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Philippe Clement. Those two set up teams well in Europe, but domestically was a different story.

It may well be the opposite in Martin’s case. But given how poor the Gers have been in the Premiership since winning the title in 2021, this could well be a sacrifice many of the supporters are willing to make.

Martin will need every department to click at the start of next season, as a good start is imperative.

He needs his defence to be solid and reliable. A midfield full of players simultaneously able to win the ball back and move it forwards into the final third, and a front three able to get the better of a low block and take their chances.

In that regard, having someone of Alfredo Morelos’ ability would work wonders next season, especially as he would shine in Martin’s system.

Alfredo Morelos’ Rangers statistics

The Colombian talisman was a scourge for defenders, both domestically and in Europe, across his five years at Ibrox.

Between 2018 and 2023, he played 269 matches for the Light Blues, scoring an impressive tally of 124 goals for the club. Add in another 57 assists, and it is clear that Morelos was not only a clinical finisher, but he was also able to link play with those alongside and behind him.

Not since he departed have Rangers been able to call on a player with these abilities. Sure, Cyriel Dessers may have scored 51 times in just over 100 games, but the Nigerian striker often takes two or three chances to get on the scoresheet.

Morelos refined his game after a productive opening few seasons at Ibrox. Indeed, when the club won the domestic title during 2020/21, Morelos ‘only’ scored 11 league goals.

He played slightly deeper than in previous seasons, linking up with the likes of Ianis Hagi, Joe Aribo and Ryan Kent in order to create chances for them too.

Danilo has shown glimpses of his deep-lying abilities when given a chance, but the Brazilian hasn’t enjoyed a consistent run in the team to make a proper difference.

In Morelos, Rangers had a striker who established himself as a cult icon during his spell at Ibrox.

If Martin wishes to get the fans onside quickly, signing a player who is similar in style and stature to Morelos might be a good start.

Alfredo Morelos’ Rangers stats

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2022/23

45

12

7

2021/22

42

18

8

2020/21

44

17

13

2019/20

47

29

9

2018/19

48

30

12

2017/18

43

18

8

Via Transfermarkt

He could well have some money to spend this summer thanks to the 49ers investment. This should allow the new manager to bring in several transfer targets, which will bolster the squad.

Could his first signing be a young striker who is ready to take the next step in his career?

Rangers search for a new striker

While Dessers, Danilo and Hamza Igamane are all options for Martin, it is likely one is sold this summer.

Now, according to the Daily Record, Rangers have made Maccabi Tel Aviv centre-forward Dor Turgeman their number one target this summer.

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The youngster could be available for a fee in the region of £4m, and reports from Israel claim that the Glasgow side have already opened talks with the player regarding a move to Scotland.

Getting deals done over the line quickly will be key for Martin, especially as the Gers face a Champions League qualifier in six weeks.

Could Turgeman be a dream first signing? He certainly has all the tools required to succeed in Europe.

Why Rangers must sign Dor Turgeman

Last season, the highest scorer for the club was Dessers with 29 goals across all competitions. The next best tally from a striker was 16 by Igamane. While Danilo could only muster six goals through another injury-ravaged campaign.

Adding in another player who has the ability to score 20 or more goals next season is vital, especially if Martin wishes to challenge for the league title.

On that note, Turgeman would be an ideal signing this summer. The 2024/25 campaign was arguably his breakout for the Israeli side. Across 44 matches, the 21-year-old netted 20 goals and grabbed six assists for his club side.

He was praised by analyst Kai Watson as far back as February 2024, who said: “He’s played mostly as a striker but can definitely do a job on the wing. He’s quick, agile and has brilliant balance when driving with the ball.

“A very exciting player to watch and one that would have fans off of their seats.”

Last season certainly proved exactly what he can do and now is the chance for him to make a move and perform at a club like Rangers.

The club needs players who are willing to fight for every ball and win every duel. His manager, Zarko Lazetić, claimed that Turgeman was a “beast on the pitch”, and this sort of profile fits in with Martin’s style.

Like Morelos, the Israeli striker is capable of dropping deeper and generating chances for his team. Indeed, in the top flight last term, Turgeman created ten big chances for Maccabi, while he also recorded three assists and averaged 0.7 key passes per game.

For a fee of £4m, it is evident that Rangers would be getting a striker who closely resembles Morelos, perhaps without the disciplinary issues.

By selling Dessers in the coming weeks, Martin will be able to clear room for the youngster, who will be hoping to make his mark on Scottish football.

If the new owners and manager are serious about taking Rangers back to the summit of Scottish football, signing Turgeman should be a priority. That’s a certainty.

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Tottenham Hotspur are now the favourites in the race for a £67m “pocket rocket”, who wants to move to the Premier League in the summer, according to a report.

Spurs seal European glory in Bilbao

Ange Postecoglou made it clear that he is always successful in his second season, and nothing has changed this time around, with Tottenham’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United in Bilbao sealing Europa League glory.

Not only does the triumph end the 17-year wait for a trophy, but it also grants Spurs qualification to next season’s Champions League, which should make a move to north London far more appealing for some of Europe’s top players this summer.

In fact, the Lilywhites now have renewed hope of being able to sign Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi this summer, with club chiefs adamant that the prospect of playing in the Champions League could tempt the England international into a move.

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The doubt lingering over Cristian Romero’s future means signing a new centre-back could be important for Tottenham this summer, while they are also keen to strengthen in more attacking areas of the pitch.

Indeed, according to a report from Spain, RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons is now a priority target for Spurs, who are believed to be among the favourites in the race for his signature, but a deal will be on the expensive side.

Leipzig are set to hold out for a fee of €80m (£67m) in order to sanction Simons’ departure, amid widespread interest, with the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal recently being named as potential suitors.

Qualification for the Champions League means Spurs could have the funds to get a deal done, and a move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium may appeal to the 22-year-old, as he is believed to be keen on a move to the Premier League.

"Pocket rocket" Simons could be exciting signing for Spurs

Of course, finally winning silverware was of key significance for Tottenham, but an added bonus of winning the Europa League is the fact it should allow them to compete for some top players this summer, and the Leipzig attacking midfielder could be firmly in that category.

After making a name for himself at PSV Eindhoven, the Dutchman has taken his game to the next level over the past two seasons, regularly contributing with goals and assists for Leipzig in the Bundesliga.

Season

Bundesliga appearances

Goals

Assists

2023-24

32

8

13

2024-25

25

10

7

Not only that, but the Netherlands international has been lauded as a “pocket rocket” by analyst Raj Chohan, who also insisted he would take the former PSV man at Liverpool ahead of Real Madrid star Rodrygo.

With Liverpool now closing in on the signing of Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, however, the path is now becoming clearer for Tottenham to sign Simons, and there are plenty of indications the Leipzig star could be an exciting addition to the squad.