Man United Target "Open" to Old Trafford Move

Manchester United target Andre Onana is "open" to a move to Old Trafford this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Is Onana joining Man United?

With Erik ten Hag's side having finally agreed a deal with Chelsea for Mason Mount, attention has turned to replacing the departing David de Gea, who is edging towards leaving the club following the expiration of his contract.

The man they have seemingly turned to is Inter's Onana, who is in contact with United over a move to the Premier League.

Despite no fee having been agreed with the Italian side as of yet, it is believed that Inter will demand a fee of around £50m for their 27-year-old shot-stopper. United will be hoping to get that figure down, or at least spread the payment over a long period of time.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Onana is keen on a move to the Premier League and is open to joining the Red Devils on a permanent basis.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the Italian said: "Something I mentioned yesterday night and in the past few days about Andre Onana is that Manchester United interest is there. I can say that also in the recent hours, today Man United had one more contact with Andre Onana's camp."

He added: "They [Inter] want around €50/55m for Onana, not less than this. But, for sure Man United interest is there. They're very well informed on the conditions, on player and club side, and the player would be open to Premier League experience."

The fact that Onana is open to a Manchester United will only strengthen the club's position when bargaining for the Cameroon international, although it appears that United are yet to approach Inter directly to speak about the transfer.

Chelsea were also interested in Onana, with the Blues eager to replace Edouard Mendy, but United have jumped ahead of them in the queue.

Is Onana an upgrade on De Gea?

When comparing Onana with his potential predecessor De Gea, both in their domestic leagues only, the two goalkeepers are not too dissimilar in standard.

Onana conceded 0.13 fewer goals per 90 and boasted a 2.4% higher save percentage than his counterpart, while De Gea enjoyed a significantly better clean sheet percentage (44.7 to 33.3).

However, there is a difference when it comes to distribution. Despite playing 14 fewer games than De Gea, Onana managed only 29 fewer passes, boasting a 10.1% better pass accuracy, but the main difference came with long passes as both goalkeepers had the exact same short and medium pass completion percentage.

It's clear that Onana is more comfortable with the ball at his feet and is utilised in a distributor role far more often than De Gea, which is the main reason Ten Hag is looking to move for the 27-year-old.

For Ten Hag, however, it looks like a trade worth making to help him implement his style of football at Old Trafford.

Man United In The Race For "Dangerous" 24 y/o Defender

Manchester United are one of the clubs in the race for Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba, according to a report from 90min.

Which defenders are Man United signing?

As per Football Insider, Man United are set to pull out of the race for Napoli defender Kim Min-jae, amid growing interest from Bayern Munich, meaning Erik ten Hag may have to move on to other targets to bolster his backline.

The Red Devils "remain keen" on AS Monaco defender Axel Disasi, who is reportedly set to be available for around €50m (£40m) this summer, while Juventus' Gleison Bremer is also an option following a scouting mission last season.

With Harry Maguire and Eric Bailly reportedly heading for the exit door, United may look at bringing in multiple new defenders this summer, and they have now emerged as potential suitors for Tapsoba – although there will be fierce competition.

According to 90min, Man United are in the race for the Bayer Leverkusen centre-back, though the likes of Liverpool and Newcastle United have also been informed about his situation.

Tottenham Hotspur are also progressing in talks with the 24-year-old and he would be willing to make the switch to north London, but there is still time for the Red Devils to hijack the move.

Who is Edmond Tapsoba?

The Burkina Faso international plays for Bayer Leverkusen at club level, joining the German side back in January 2020 after impressing the club's former sporting director, Rudi Voller, during his time with Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes.

Upon his arrival in the Bundesliga, Voller praised the centre-back for his defensive capabilities, while also adding that he is "dangerous" in front of goal and possesses "really big potential."

Hailed as "solid as a rock" by football scout Jacek Kulig, the 6 foot 4 colossus has certainly fulfilled some of that potential during his time in Germany, establishing himself as a key player for Leverkusen last season by making a total of 33 appearances in the Bundesliga.

Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba.

The former Guimaraes man averaged 1.1 interceptions per game in the Bundesliga last season, ranking him fourth in the squad. However, there are question marks about whether he would be a real upgrade to United's defence.

Despite his height, the centre-back is quite poor in the air, placing in just the 37th percentile for aerials won per 90 in the past year, when compared to his positional peers, and he does not particularly impress on any defensive metric.

As such, Man United should perhaps avoid signing Tapsoba, as he is not yet at the level required for a club with aims of going far in the Champions League.

Arsenal could land "generational superstar" for £35m

Arsenal are reportedly edging towards their first summer signing, as Eredivisie star Jurrien Timber has broken through as an intended target.

Mikel Arteta will aim to bolster his squad this transfer window after narrowly missing out on the Premier League title last season, securing the signing of this talent could prove to be a huge squad upgrade.

What’s the latest on Jurrien Timber to Arsenal?

As recently reported by Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal will ‘push’ on to strike a deal with Ajax over the Netherlands defender.

The journalist claimed that the Dutchman sees the club as an ‘attractive project for his future’, with ‘more to follow’ in terms of negotiation between the two sides.

A report via LondonWorld added that there is ‘confidence’ that a deal will be ‘finalised in the coming days’, with a fee of £35m stated to their understanding.

What could Jurrien Timber offer to Arsenal?

Hailed a “generational superstar” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Arsenal could land themselves one of the best upcoming talents in Europe by swooping the 22-year-old.

Deployed primarily at centre-back, the Dutchman is extremely versatile in his ability to cover the backline, and could act as a significant upgrade to Arteta’s plans to introduce a right-sided inverted full-back.

As reported by journalist Sam Dean, the Gunners had in their plans to recruit a ‘Zinchenko-like’ player, with the Ajax ace fitting the description perfectly in being one of the most effective progressive defenders in the Eredivisie.

His numbers support his plaudits, proving him to be a reliable outlet in defence with an assured 91.6% passing accuracy rate as well as showcasing his desire to be involved in play with an average of 81.65 passes attempted per 90, via FBref.

The 22-year-old’s ability on the ball could be perfect for the ongoing progression of Bukayo Saka, who has thrived this season in playing ahead of Ben White, forming an effective duo down the right side of Arteta’s favoured 11.

Bukayo-Saka-Ben-White-Arsenal

In 38 Premier League appearances, the English winger contributed 25 G/A, scoring 14 goals and assisting 11 in a memorable personal campaign, via FBref.

Playing ahead of an offensively competent full-back has unlocked Saka’s freedom going forward, but his numbers could be taken to the next level by switching out White for Timber.

Receiving an average of 14.71 progressive passes per 90 in the league, the 21-year-old ended the season at the top of the charts in this area in his position, showing his threat in getting into advanced positions.

Timber could be the perfect candidate to partner Saka on the right side, as told by his respective league-topping numbers in averaging 8.62 progressive passes per 90, the most of any centre-back in the Eredivisie, via FBref.

Arteta could hand the Utrecht-born gem the keys to unlocking the next stage of the Englishman’s potential in deploying him on the right side, giving him the chance to mirror the success that Zinchenko has seasoned the team with.

Leeds Could Sign "Terrific" £30k-p/w As Their Own Nick Pope

Leeds United seem set to add a new shot-stopper to their ranks, with a number of names touted to fill such a role…

What's the latest on Karl Darlow to Leeds United?

According to sources at Football League World, it is not just Rotherham United star Viktor Johansson who the 49ers have their eye on. With Illan Meslier seemingly heading for the exit door, finding their new No 1 has become a matter of priority – perhaps even more so than the head coach vacancy.

Fortunately for fans, this report details numerous options being considered, with Newcastle United's Karl Darlow someone who has been discussed by the hierarchy.

Given the immense success Nick Pope has enjoyed on Tyneside of late, the hope will be that his understudy can have a similarly revolutionary effect on the Whites' team, which has shipped goals for fun in recent years.

How good is Karl Darlow?

Just last term saw the West Yorkshire outfit concede 78 goals in the league, more than any other team. The season prior, 79 goals would soar into their net. Defensively inept does not even begin to describe the state of affairs at Elland Road, with a huge shift in mentality needed as much as the quality needs improving.

Meanwhile, Pope has been at the heart of a Magpies defence that recently conceded just 33 times, making them the joint-best defence in the division alongside champions Manchester City.

Nick Pope celebrates Newcastle United's Premier League victory over Brentford.

The English goalkeeper has overseen a meteoric rise from relegation with Burnley to Champions League qualification under Eddie Howe, and it is clear that the 49ers will be hoping that some of his quality will have rubbed off on his compatriot, Darlow.

After all, the 32-year-old did spend half a season with the hulking ace, before leaving on loan for the Championship. Across just 12 games at Hull City, he would remind everyone that he should not be forgotten, despite having had his spot stolen by Pope; he maintained a 7.08 average rating, buoyed by his 2.9 saves per game and five clean sheets, via Sofascore.

A 76% pass accuracy suggests he is capable with his feet, but similar to the 31-year-old, the priority remains mainly on goalkeeping rather than ball-playing. For the Toon Army, he too maintained 2.5 saves per game, yet his pass accuracy fell to 59%, via Sofascore.

The experience Darlow has earned in the top flight could be imperative in Leeds' speedy return there, too, as he has enjoyed three impressive stints during his time in Newcastle. Steve Bruce even sought to laud him for one such campaign, noting: "We've had to call on him a bit too much at times but there's no denying he's been terrific all season."

Should the 49ers neglect bolstering their defence, they could at least be safe in the knowledge that this £30k-per-week shot-stopper has a history of playing for the underdog and could thrive in a backline that is historically fragile.

Arsenal Could Sign Premier League "Monster" For £45m

Arsenal are reportedly interested in a Premier League whiz, as Mikel Arteta aims to bolster his squad this summer.

The transfer window officially opened on Wednesday, with the Gunners providing a lot of talk in the ongoing saga regarding Declan Rice’s future.

The Englishman isn’t the only midfielder the north Londoners are chasing, if latest reports are to be believed.

What’s the latest on Romeo Lavia to Arsenal?

As reported by The Guardian writer Jacob Steinberg, Arsenal are interested in Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia.

The report suggests that the Gunners are ‘targeting’ the newly relegated ace with the belief that Arteta is wanting two midfielders this summer with Rice being the priority.

Despite suffering relegation to the Championship, Saints are expected to ask for £45m for the 19-year-old who only signed for the club last summer from Manchester City.

What could Romeo Lavia offer to Arsenal?

Arsenal fell just five points short of claiming their first league title since 2004 this season, with the squad’s lack of depth proving to be a damning weakness in the rear end of the campaign, as club legend Tony Adams explained.

Arteta will aim to challenge again next term, which he could do so should the Gunners add strengthening reinforcements to the side in the bid to close the gap on City.

Hailed as a “monster” by journalist Benjy Nurick, Lavia could be a valuable piece in completing the Spaniard's puzzle to Premier League stardom with strengths in areas critical to making Arsenal tick.

As per Sofascore, the teenager averaged 2.1 tackles per game in the Premier League with an average win rate of 56% in his total duels, flexing his commanding influence defensively in the engine room.

martin-odegaard-arsenal

In being able to offer such protection to the defence, Arteta could sign the player as a significant upgrade to current options as well as a player that could excel in playing behind Martin Odegaard.

Arsenal’s captain was named the club’s player of the season for his contributions to 15 goals and seven assists in the dominant campaign, acting as his side’s key creator in the final third.

An area critical to allowing the Norwegian to impose his influence on a game is the protection and ball-playing ability of those behind him, which is something that the 24-year-old could be guaranteed in being teamed with Lavia.

Via FBref, the 19-year-old maintained a passing accuracy of 86.2% this season, making an average of 4.13 progressive passes per 90 to show his ability to distribute the ball tidily in midfield, making him an attractive asset to add behind Odegaard.

With all eyes on Rice, Arteta could take Arsenal to the next level in completing a double swoop for the two stars that shone brightly in the Premier League this season, only time will tell if the Spaniard can get the business over the line.

Chelsea Plotting Sensational £180m-Rated Double Swoop

Amid N'Golo Kante’s expected departure to the Saudi Arabian Super League, Chelsea have been linked with two Premier League superstar midfielders as the Blues look to strengthen in the middle of the park.

The west London club have been linked with both Brighton & Hove Albion’s Moises Caicedo and West Ham’s Declan Rice, per 90min.

Rice is valued in excess of £100m, while Brighton are expected to demand a £80m figure for their Ecuador international.

Chelsea transfer news – Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice

The midfielders are two of the most sought-after transfer targets of the summer with Arsenal also believed to be interested in them ahead of the window.

According to Tom Gott and Graeme Bailey, the Blues are well aware of interest in Caicedo and Rice elsewhere. Caicedo is a top target of Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, while the Telegraph has also highlighted Rice as player of interest for the Premier League runners-up.

Ahead of Kante’s departure, Chelsea look set to sell midfielders Mateo Kovacic to champions Manchester City and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to Champions League semi-finalists AC Milan, while Chelsea declined to make the loan of Denis Zakaria from Juventus a permanent transfer.

Declan Rice of West Ham

Manchester City, Manchester United and Bayern Munich are all reportedly interested in Rice, who lifted the Europa Conference League trophy on Wednesday night as West Ham captain in a dramatic 2-1 victory of Fiorentina.

Should Chelsea sign Moises Caicedo?

Caicedo could be an excellent option for Chelsea with Paris Saint-Germain set to beat them to the signature of Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

It has been reported this week that Chelsea has taken the lead in the race to sign Caicedo, moving slightly ahead of London rivals Arsenal.

Caicedo played a crucial role in Brighton’s success this season, playing in 37 of their 38 league games and featuring in 92% of the Seagulls Premier League minutes.

The Ecuador international who has 30 caps for his country, provided one assist and one goal for Brighton this campaign.

Can Chelsea sign Caicedo and Rice?

It may seem unlikely that Chelsea buy both Caicedo and Rice this summer, especially after spending a huge fee on the transfer of Enzo Fernandez from Benfica back in January.

However, Todd Boehly has shown his pockets are incredibly deep in his opening 12 months at Stamford Bridge.

Rice was asked about his future after West Ham’s victory in the Europa Conference Final but refused to be drawn into speculation about his future.

“There’s a lot of speculation going on about my future,” he said.

“There is interest from other clubs, but ultimately I’ve still got two years left at West Ham. I love this club. So, my focus is playing for West Ham, enjoying tonight and seeing what happens”.

Tottenham: Spurs Readying Salary Offer For "Top Class" Star

Tottenham Hotspur and chairman Daniel Levy by extension are readying a mammoth pay rise offer to tempt Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, according to journalist Wayne Veysey.

Who could Spurs sign this summer?

The Lilywhites, coming after they played their final Premier League game of 2022/2023 on Sunday, are now tasked with preparing sufficiently for next season – but there are currently a plethora of issues yet to be resolved.

Tottenham remain without a permanent manager and successor to Antonio Conte, despite the Italian parting company over two months ago, with former top target Arne Slot now staying at Feyenoord.

Spurs are also still without an out-and-out sporting director since Fabio Paratici was forced to resign earlier this year, even if talks have reportedly been held with candidates.

On top of all this, the north Londoners need to start laying the groundwork for transfer targets ahead of a looming summer window, with a new goalkeeper widely tipped to be on their agenda.

Long-term number one and club legend Hugo Lloris could well depart this year, with reports suggesting he has already received seismic offers from the Middle East.

Brentford's Raya is among the keepers who could replace Lloris, with reporter Veysey sharing an update on their links to Football Insider.

David-Raya

According to the journalist, Tottenham and Levy by extension are readying a "ready triple-your-money" offer to tempt with a move to N17.

Indeed, Spurs are apparently willing to table a salary proposal which will treble his current earnings under Thomas Frank, amounting to around £100,000-per-week.

Raya is expected to leave Brentford this summer and Frank faces a real battle to keep hold of his star shot-stopper, who has been shortlisted by Tottenham as a possible successor to Lloris.

Their recruitment staff have apparently followed the Spaniard all season, though Spurs may have to pay Brentford around £40 million for his services on top of their proposed wage increase.

Who is David Raya?

The 27-year-old was an ever-present between the sticks last season, featuring over more league minutes than any Brentford player and ranking among their top five best-performers per 90 (WhoScored).

Called a "top-class" player by Michael Owen on Premier League Productions, via HITC, Raya has also been praised by Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp for his excellent distribution.

Speaking on the former Blackburn star in 2021, after an encounter with Brentford, the Reds manager was effusive in his praise for Raya.

“The goalkeeper could have the shirt with No 10,” said Klopp.“He played a few incredible balls but it was the right thing to do against us today.”

Man Utd Ownership Battle Could Have Transfer Implications

Manchester United will 'fear' missing out on key targets this summer due to the ongoing battle for ownership at the club dragging on at Old Trafford, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

What's the latest news involving the ownership battle at Manchester United?

As per Sky Sports, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his petrochemicals firm INEOS remain the 'leading candidate' to gain control of Manchester United despite an 'inconclusive board meeting' that occurred last Thursday between the Glazer family and the Raine group alongside independent directors.

Ratcliffe's bid is said to be proposing assuming a majority stake in Manchester United that would see two of the Glazer family still involved with the club while his rival bidder, Qatari businessman Sheikh Jassim, wants to buy the club outright with no external involvement.

ESPN reported earlier this month that there may be a delay in proceedings, which in turn may affect Erik Ten Hag's ability to conduct business in the initial part of the transfer window as the Dutchman eyes reinforcements to bolster his squad.

Ten Hag has indicated that the battle for ownership at Old Trafford won't have too much of a bearing on his recruitment plans, as per Sky Sports, stating: "I came in here [at the end of] last season and we talked about what can we do in the squad, what can we do in transfers. And last year, the club confirmed they can do. So, for me, I don't think anything changed and yeah, in this summer period we can do the same.

What has Ben Jacobs said about Manchester United's recruitment prospects?

Speaking to Football FanCast, journalist Jacobs thinks that there will be anxiety at Old Trafford over being able to secure important transfer targets if there is still complications in the ownership process once the window opens for business.

Jacobs told FFC: "It is really important to preface any Manchester United summer business in that context, that it isn't a routine window financially for Manchester United to navigate. I think that's been the frustration specifically with the recruitment team at Manchester United, that they've been operating with business as usual, trying to line up deals. Eventually, you can negotiate all you like, but if you get to the point where you're ready to complete a deal, somebody has to green light that and that either is going to be the Glazers, knowing they're going to stay or the Glazers knowing they're outgoing and maybe being reticent to spend or a new owner coming in. That first two or three weeks of the window is so crucial, because there's a range of players that obviously want to move quickly and early and have stability and walk in on day one of pre-season after a summer break. If the situation is resolved, with that kind of player looking for that kind of stability, should that player then have another option, Manchester United could find that they miss out on a certain target and I think that's always been the fear."

Who have Manchester United been linked with going into the summer?

Manchester United have been linked with several players as the forthcoming transfer window approaches as they look to build on a successful 2022/23 campaign that has yielded qualification for the Champions League.

Sky Sports report that Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount, Tottenham Hotspur talisman Harry Kane and West Ham United captain Declan Rice are all on a shortlist of potential targets at Old Trafford; however, it is unlikely that the Red Devils will sign all three players.

Out of the three, Mount looks to be the most realistic prospect at present to end up at the Premier League giants and is said to favour a move to Manchester United over other alternatives, according to journalist David Ornstein.

Writing in his column for GIVEMESPORT, journalist Dean Jones has also suggested that Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez is also on the radar for Ten Hag, though it will be interesting to see the direction the Red Devils go in when weighing up potential additions.

Chelsea Want £55m-Rated "Warrior" To Be Their Own Ben White

Chelsea could finally be set to sign a long-time target of theirs after a monumental past effort, capitalising on the uncertainty at Barcelona.

What's the latest with Jules Kounde to Chelsea?

The summer of 2022 was largely dominated by the Jules Kounde transfer saga for the Blues, as they constantly made efforts to tempt Sevilla's star man to west London to no avail.

In the end, Xavi's outfit would pull some questionable economic levers to instead tempt him to Camp Nou, where he has enjoyed title success in his debut season.

However, as per Spanish outlet Sport, the centre-back is reportedly frustrated with his head coach due to broken promises and is willing to force a move over the dispute. Coincidentally, the Blues are noted as the outstanding club who will move for the 24-year-old, 'willing to pay' even more than the €55m (£48m) Barcelona initially paid.

How good is Jules Kounde?

Although he may have grievances regarding his role at full-back, perhaps the chance to play in the Premier League could bypass his desire to star at the heart of defence.

After all, according to FBref, another converted centre back in Ben White sits atop his similar players' list as someone who has shone for the title-chasing Arsenal.

Perhaps Mauricio Pochettino could seek to emulate such success upon his arrival, introducing a physically imposing and no-nonsense full-back who will dominate that right flank.

Despite both of their preference for their old role, their ball-playing skill still sees them thrive when compared to other full-backs across Europe. After all, the France international sits in the top 7% for passes attempted and the top 5% for pass completion and progressive passes per 90, via FBref.

For comparison, White too ranks in the top 11% for passes attempted and pass completion, but stands out as part of the top 2% for progressive passes per 90, via FBref.

ben-white-arsenal-chelsea-kounde

Despite what many would assume to be a defence-first mentality, their shared creativity has instead shone through amidst two surprisingly impressive seasons for their respective clubs.

What makes Kounde an even more attractive proposition for Pochettino is this versatility, as it would allow the Argentine to switch between a back four and a back three with minimal substitutions. The £55m-rated monster boasts such tactical nouse, yet remains a tough-tackling "warrior", as noted by former Blues defender Frank Leboeuf.

Given how important White has been to Mikel Arteta this campaign, Barcelona's 5 foot 11 fighter could have a similarly transformative effect on Chelsea, helping them return to where they will feel they belong.

A tumultuous campaign for Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and now Frank Lampard has brought about many issues that need solving this summer.

With Reece James' struggling fitness once again sparking questions over his reliability, and his versatility also allowing him to play central defence or even step into midfield when available, perhaps Kounde's arrival could add another level of solidity to this side and allow their goalscoring woes to be solved later in the window.

Leeds dealt setback ahead of Arsenal clash

Leeds United have been dealt a huge setback ahead of their upcoming Premier League meeting with Arsenal on Sunday.

What’s the latest?

Speaking in his pre-match press conference (via Evening Standard), Gunners boss Mikel Arteta revealed that Ben White, who missed Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over West Ham United last weekend due to a hamstring injury, is now back in contention for the clash against Leeds tomorrow afternoon.

[snack-amp-story url=”https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/read-the-latest-leeds-united-news-transfer-rumours-gossip-and-much-more” title=”Read the latest Leeds United news and rumours!”]

Regarding the current condition of the centre-back, the Spaniard said: “Ben White is still in contention. He needs to train [on Saturday] to make sure that he is available to play.”

Marsch will be gutted

Considering how just how important it is for Jesse Marsch and his side to pick up a positive result from their trip to north London on Sunday, coupled with how impressive White has been for the Gunners this season, the news that the England international is in contention to feature against Leeds is sure to have left the American gutted.

Indeed, over his 31 Premier League appearances this term, the £36m-rated defender has been extremely solid in the heart of the Arsenal backline, helping his side to keep 13 clean sheets, along with making 1.4 interceptions, 1.4 tackles and 3.1 clearances and winning 4.4 duels (at a success rate of 59%) per game.

These returns have seen the £120k-per-week talent average a SofaScore match rating of 6.94, ranking him as Arteta’s joint 10th-best player in the top flight.

As such, it is clear  to see that the return of the former Leeds loanee would come as a huge blow to the Whites’ chances of leaving the Emirates Stadium will a decent result on Sunday afternoon – with a loss potentially seeing Marsch and his side fall into the relegation zone with just three matches left to play.

AND in other news: Leeds now plotting bid for “fabulous” £45k-p/w target, Orta should “take him all day”

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