West Ham Can Repeat Zabaleta Trick By Landing £15m "Warrior" At London Stadium

West Ham United appear to be belatedly ready to begin their summer transfer spending frenzy with the addition of two new signings this week.

Who have West Ham signed so far?

United have waved goodbye to Manuel Lanzini since the end of last season, while Declan Rice's £105m switch to Arsenal is on the brink of going through, but no new players have been brought in.

After kicking off their pre-season campaign with a 4-1 win over Boreham Wood at the weekend, it looks likely that West Ham are now in a position to start getting deals over the line.

Denis Zakaria and Luiz Felipe are reportedly close to arriving from Juventus and Real Betis respectively, while Daily Mail reporter Jack Gaughan suggests the Hammers are also showing an "interest" in Manchester City youngster Taylor Harwood-Bellis.

It is claimed that London rivals Fulham are also interested in the England U21 international, who is valued at £15m by City as he enters the final year of his existing contract.

Is Taylor Harwood-Bellis a good player?

The 21-year-old's stock is particularly high at this moment in time as he has just skippered England U21s to their first European title in 39 years, fresh on the back of winning the Championship with Burnley last season.

Harwood-Bellis was stood out in the heart of the second tier's best defence last season, leading the way as he did among Burnley players for interceptions (1.8 per game), blocks (0.7 per game) and aerial duels won (2.8 per game), as per WhoScored.

The defender has also impressed on loan at Anderlecht, Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers, with the then-manager of the latter, Tony Mowbray, hailing his "warrior" like attitude in wanting to win every ball.

Burnley do not appear to be in the running to sign Harwood-Bellis permanently, but the Englishman is clearly now ready to make the step up to the Premier League, rather than spending another year learning his trade elsewhere.

If those aforementioned statistics were not enough to tempt West Ham, the Irons have a good success rate when it comes to signing players from City down the years, including fellow defender Pablo Zabaleta in 2017.

Zabaleta was at a completely different stage of his career than Harwood-Bellis, having arrived at West Ham as a 32-year-old with 12 seasons of top-flight football under his belt, but the omens are certainly positive.

The former Argentina international would go on to play 80 times for West Ham over three seasons, before announcing his retirement in an emotional open letter on the club's official website in 2020.

Harwood-Bellis, who has been on City's books since 2008, will hope to have an even bigger impact than Zabaleta should he join West Ham. Like Zabaleta, the Stockport native will arrive with a point to prove, having been effectively deemed not good enough for City.

As a player who ranks in the top 1% of all centre-backs over the past year for passes attempted in the eight leagues most comparable to the Championship (85.09 per 90), as per FBref, and in the top 11% for interceptions (1.92 per 90), there is no reason why Harwood-Bellis cannot now make a name for himself in the Premier League for a number of years to come – much like Zabaleta did across his spells with City and West Ham.

Celtic Schedule Talks Over "World-Class" £19k-p/w Player

Celtic have scheduled discussions with Kyogo Furuhashi regarding a new contract extension at Parkhead, according to reports.

When did Kyogo Furuhashi join Celtic?

Furuhashi first arrived in the Scottish Premiership from Vissel Kobe back in July 2021 where he went on to become a regular feature of Ange Postecoglou’s first team making 83 appearances to date, but with the former boss having now left to join Tottenham Hotspur and Brendan Rodgers being back in charge, his future is up in the air.

The Japan international was the Hoops’ top-performing offensive player and indeed the division’s highest-goalscorer last season so was a standout star north of the border, and this form has already started to attract significant interest from the Premier League.

Crystal Palace have primarily been the side most linked with a summer swoop for the 28-year-old striker, but Spurs appear to have more recently entered the race to secure his services with Postecoglou eyeing a reunion in N17, and whilst that will be an attractive opportunity, the hierarchy are keen to stop him from leaving.

Is Furuhashi signing a new contract?

According to Football Insider, Celtic are set to hold “talks” with Furuhashi over a new deal when he returns from his current break in his homeland. The Glasgow outfit are “keen to tie down” their prized asset to a “new and improved agreement” in the hope of fending off outside attention, with the aim being to extend his contract that runs until 2025 by at least one more year.

Alongside Palace and Spurs, it’s reported that he’s also become a target for Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth and several unnamed clubs in the Serie A and Bundesliga. Furuhashi was believed to be “stung” by Postecoglou’s exit, but it’s stated that he’s “happy” where he is and “won’t rush into any decision” in the weeks ahead.

Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi.

Does Furuhashi deserve improved terms?

Celtic will recognise the hugely positive impact that Furuhashi has made since joining and also how much he’s appreciated by his teammates having been hailed “world-class” by Jota, so offering the centre-forward a new contract would be nothing less than he deserves.

The £19k-per-week earner clocked up a remarkable 26 goal contributions (23 goals and three assists) in 31 Scottish Premiership outings last season whilst recording 85 shots over the course of the campaign which was more than any other of his fellow peers, as per FBRef.

Furthermore, Furuhashi has not only helped the side secure five trophies following his arrival but he’s also been rewarded for his individual performances by being named the Hoops’ Player of the Year for 2022/23 so it’s clear to see how loved he is, making this a decision that the board shouldn’t even have to think twice about.

Tottenham Transfer Update On James Maddison

Tottenham Hotspur "will push" to sign James Maddison next week, as the Leicester City midfielder is Ange Postecoglou's "priority target", according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Who is James Maddison signing for?

According to The Guardian, Tottenham are now leading the race for Maddison, despite having a bid rejected last week, as rival suitors Newcastle United are now prioritising a move for AC Milan's Sandro Tonali.

The same report details the Leicester star is set to leave this summer, following the Foxes' relegation from the Premier League, and Spurs are expected to make a fresh move for him, with Postecoglou keen on bringing in reinforcements in the middle.

Although Newcastle have cooled their interest, reports elsewhere claim they still remain keen on the 26-year-old, who is valued at £60m by his current club, meaning the Lilywhites may have to wrap up a deal sooner rather than later.

In a new update on Twitter, Romano has now stated that Tottenham "will push again" for the Englishman next week, as he remains the "priority target" for Postecoglou in that area of the pitch.

It remains to be seen whether Spurs are willing to match Leicester's £60m asking price, but a renewed attempt to sign the former Coventry City man can be expected in the near future.

Will Maddison sign for Tottenham?

Newcastle cooling their interest in the England international is a major boost for Tottenham, and Sky Sports report they are also hoping the prospect of living in London could be a decisive factor, despite the Magpies having Champions League football on offer.

While Spurs are leading at present, the race for the attacking midfielder's signature still appears to be open, and the hope will be that progress can be made next week, as he could be an excellent addition to Postecoglou's squad.

James Maddison in action for Leicester City.

Hailed as "sensational" by members of the media, the Leicester star has impressed over the course of a number of seasons now, recording 19 goal contributions in 30 games last season, by far and away the highest number of any player in the squad.

With an average WhoScored match rating of 7.24, the maestro was ranked as the 15th-best performing player in the Premier League, despite playing for a side that got relegated, largely due to his contributions in the attacking third.

At a club like Tottenham, where the expectation will be to compete for the top four, Maddison could really kick on next season, and he should undoubtedly remain Postecoglou's key target.

Tottenham: Spurs Set For Imminent Signing Talks

Tottenham Hotspur talks to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba will take place in these next few days, according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Who will join Spurs this summer?

Spurs are set to bolster their squad this summer as chairman Daniel Levy, buoyed by the incoming new manager Ange Postecoglou, looks to this transfer window for upgrades.

A major overhaul is possible too with Hugo Lloris, Ivan Perisic, Davinson Sanchez, Ryan Sessegnon, Eric Dier and Ben Davies’ futures all hanging in the balance. Meanwwhile, Spurs could also attempt to sell Giovani Lo Celso, Sergio Reguilon, Tanguy Ndombele and Harry Winks (The Telegraph).

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is another player who could make way and free up space for Postecoglou signings before the start of 2023/2024.

In terms of who they could be, Spurs are reliably believed to be closing in on Lloris’ successor, with Empoli goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario set to undergo a medical this weekend ahead of his proposed move.

Tottenham are also chasing a central defender, with Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo among the targets. However, Tapsoba appears to be taking centre stage, as some reports suggest he is likely to join if an official approach is made.

If that is indeed the case, reliable reporter Romano may have good news for Spurs supporters, as it is now expected that the north Londoners will imminently open formal talks.

The Burkina Faso international is apparently top of their transfer list, and in the next few days, negotiations over his signing will commence.

What’s been said about Edmond Tapsoba?

Commentator Mark Lovell is among Tapsoba’s biggest fans, calling him “top quality” all the way back in 2020, and it’s safe to say the defender has maintained that form as a consistent starter for Leverkusen right now.

Meanwhile, at international level, Tapsoba has been described as “fundamental” in past seasons by journalist Bruno Alemany.

Everton Enquire Over £25m "Leader", It May Be Bye-Bye Onana

Everton supporters are bracing themselves for Amadou Onana's exit from Goodison Park this summer, but they should fear not as there is a ready-made replacement waiting to join.

Onana is reportedly being targeted by Chelsea should they fail to sign top target Moises Caicedo from Brighton and Hove Albion, with the Seagulls refusing to budge on their nine-figure valuation.

Everton are themselves said to be after £55m for Onana, which the big-spending Blues would likely pay, and the Toffees can then sign as good a player – if not better – for half of that fee.

What are the latest Everton transfer rumours?

According to the Daily Mail, Sean Dyche's side have already made enquiries over Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams, though the United States international is also wanted by Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest and indeed Brighton.

The report suggests that the 5 foot 9 ace could be the subject of a £25m bid from the Seagulls.

Is Tyler Adams an upgrade on Amadou Onana for Everton?

Adams may have suffered relegation from the Premier League in his first season with Leeds, having only joined from RB Leipzig for a reported £20m last summer, but his reputation as a tough-tackling midfielder remains intact.

The American ranked joint-fourth in the Premier League last season in terms of tackles, level with Manchester United's Casemiro on 89, as per FBref. To put that in some perspective, Onana ranked 16th in the division with 72.

Amadou Onana Chelsea target

Adams (50) also ranked second, behind only Fulham's Joao Palhinha (71), for dribblers tackled in last season's Premier League, while he ranked tenth for tackles and interceptions combined (129).

That translates to 5.17 combined tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes for Adams, compared to 3.95 for Onana, the man he may be brought in to replace by Everton.

Not only would the Toffees be bringing in one of the finest around at breaking up play – he ranks in the top 4% of all midfielders across Europe's top five leagues in that metric, as per The Analyst – they also have a natural leader in the engine room, as pointed out by former Leeds boss Jesse Marsch.

"We used to have conversations in New York about whether we make Tyler the captain at 17, 18 years old," Marsch told The Athletic of the pair's time together at New York Red Bulls. "Everyone talked about his potential as a leader."

Adams is also comfortable on the ball, ranking in the top 17% of midfielders in the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Ligue 1 and Serie A for average number of touches per game, whereas Onana is in the bottom 14%.

The 24-year-old does not provide any sort of attacking threat, as highlighted by the fact he is in the lowest 2% of his positional peers across Europe's elite leagues for shots taken, but that is not what Everton are after.

In some ways, a bid from Chelsea for Onana should almost be welcomed by Everton. Not only will they be able to bring in a player for half the cost at £25m, as per the Daily Mail report, but they will also have money left over to strengthen other troublesome positions in the hope of a more positive 2023/24.

Tottenham: "Sensational" Star Could Now Leave Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur star Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s future is “uncertain” and he could leave this summer, according to journalist Tom Barclay.

Who will leave Tottenham?

The arrival of former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou also marks the dawn of a brand new era at Spurs, and one which could see certain players either resurrect their careers or find themselves surplus-to-requirements.

Hugo Lloris, Ivan Perisic, Davinson Sanchez, Ryan Sessegnon, Eric Dier and Ben Davies’ futures all hang in the balance, while Spurs could also attempt to sell Giovani Lo Celso, Sergio Reguilon and Harry Winks (The Telegraph).

The latter trio are returning from their various loan spells, alongside club-record signing Tanguy Ndombele, and it will be interesting to see whether they can impress Postecoglou and become successes at Tottenham.

Reports have also suggested in the last few days that Dejan Kulusevski, who remains only on loan at Spurs, is yet to convince Tottenham’s new manager while talks have stalled over a new deal for Eric Dier.

It appears a major overhaul could be on the cards this summer, with the north Londoners targeting major additions like Leicester City star James Maddison, a new goalkeeper and star centre-backs.

Players will need to make way, but perhaps surprisingly, another name who could now depart Spurs is Hojbjerg – despite him being a mainstay for the last two seasons.

pierre-emile-hojbjerg-opinion-luis-enrique-tottenham-premier-league

Hojbjerg’s future at Spurs is uncertain, according to Barclay of The Sun, who took to Twitter with an update on his situation.

In a piece for The Sun, Barclay puts this down to a Postecoglou stylistic clash, with Hojbjerg more suited to the counter-attacking philosophies of his predecessors Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo and Conte.

Who is Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg?

The 27-year-old has experience both in the top flight and internationally with Denmark, with Spurs pundits like Paul Robinson claiming last October that he was playing his best football for Tottenham.

I’ve been surprised by how much he has stepped up this year,” said Robinson to Football Insider.

“I thought he was the one who would make way for Yves Bissouma. The club spent a lot of money on Bissouma. I think Hojbjerg recognised that and stepped up.

“He is playing to a level that we have never seen before. He is playing his best football in a Spurs shirt.”

Called “sensational” at times by members of the press, we believe there are other players more deserving of the axe than Hojbjerg, but the question is whether Postecoglou can fit him into his system.

Arsenal Battling Spurs In The Race For £20k-p/w "Lion"

Arsenal are battling Tottenham Hotspur and multiple other clubs in the race for Galatasaray defender Victor Nelsson, according to journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu.

What's the latest Arsenal transfer news?

With reports indicating that Ben White is poised to switch back to a central role next season, Arsenal have set their sights on bringing in a new right-back, and they have reportedly already made an offer for Galatasaray's Sacha Boey.

The Gunners have tabled a bid worth £12m for Boey after meeting with Galatasaray vice-president Erden Timur in London, however the Turkish side are holding out for £17m, which means the offer may need to be increased.

Another option being considered by Mikel Arteta is Manchester City's Joao Cancelo, who the Spaniard knows well from their time working together at the Etihad Stadium, and a bid of around £35m may be launched in the coming days.

Not only is a move for a new right-back in the offing, the Gunners have also identified Galatsaray centre-back Nelsson as a potential target, with Sports Digitale's Sabuncuohlu taking to Twitter to confirm they are in the race for his signature.

The journalist claims that a whole host of teams are battling it out for the Denmark international, including Arsenal, Tottenham, Sevilla, Atalanta and Borussia Dortmund.

However, the English clubs may hold a major advantage, as the centre-back's "first choice" is a move to the Premier League.

Who is Victor Nelsson?

The Dane does not have any experience in one of Europe's "big five" leagues, having spent the majority of his career in his home country, during spells with FC Nordsjaelland and FC Copenhagen, before moving to Galatasaray.

However, the Hornbaek-born defender has played a vital role for his current club en-route to winning the Turkish Super Lig title, which is now mathematically confirmed, recording 35 appearances in all competitions this season.

It is fair to say the £20k-per-week ace has done enough to impress the Galatasaray hierarchy, with board member Resit Omer Kukner branding him a "Danish lion", while praising him for his "attitude on and off the pitch".

Soccer Football – Europa League – Round of 16 First Leg – FC Barcelona v Galatasaray – Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain – March 10, 2022 Galatasaray’s Victor Nelsson during the match REUTERS/Albert Gea

Football scout Jacek Kulig has also highlighted Nelsson's leadership skills, and claims that he is capable of playing as a defensive midfielder, showcasing his versatility.

That said, if White is switching to a central role next season, Arsenal would be better off bringing in a new right-back, and they should instead focus on signing Cancelo, who has proven himself in the Premier League over a number of years.

Everton: Dyche Could Bring ‘Dangerous’ Free Agent To Goodison

Everton have been linked to a winger ahead of the summer transfer window, as Sean Dyche looks to make significant improvements in the break.

The Toffees confirmed their stay in the Premier League on the final day, as relief poured from Goodison Park after a challenging season both on and off the pitch.

The club have many things to improve on this summer, however, Dyche could add attacking strength to his inherited squad by signing a player already known on Merseyside.

What’s the latest on Ryan Kent to Everton?

Last week, it was reported that Rangers winger Ryan Kent could be on the move to Everton this summer, as a host of clubs around Europe keep their eyes peeled on the Englishman’s next move.

As reported by Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb, Kent is of interest to the Toffees, who alongside Bologna, Fenerbahce and Udinese could battle for the free agent this window.

The Liverpool academy ace spent five years at Ibrox, with his contract expiring this summer and opting against extending his stay.

What could Ryan Kent bring to Everton?

The Oldham-born forward could be a strong option for Dyche in a bid to improve Everton’s goal-scoring form, with the club being the league’s second-lowest scorers this season.

Hailed as “dangerous” by former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard, the 26-year-old is an explosive outlet to have on the left flank, as told by his colourful career in Glasgow.

As per Transfermarkt, in a five-year stay the Englishman contributed to 90 goals, scoring 33 himself and assisting 57, showcasing his abilities in the final third whether it be as the finisher or creator.

Operating primarily as a left-forward, the experienced attacker has a playing style bearing many similarities to Dwight McNeil and could challenge or even provide an upgrade for the Blues forward.

While McNeil possesses a dazzling left foot, Kent is a right-footed wide player who enjoys to cut inside, posing a threat on both flanks.

Dwight McNeil

As per FBref, the Rangers ace comes out on top of the Everton man in a range of attributes key to playing as a threatening forward, as highlighted by their statistics over the past year.

Kent averages 2.84 progressive carries per 90, with McNeil recording just shy of the 26-year-old with 2.74 per 90, with results similar in terms of successful take-ons, with the Everton ace coming just behind with 1.95 to the £18k-per-week gem’s 2.13 per 90.

The former Liverpool youngster is a more competent passer of the ball than McNeil, as revealed by Sofascore, with Kent averaging a pass accuracy of 89% this season to the Goodison forward's 76%.

Whether Dyche opts to deploy the winger as competition or as a partner in an attacking reshuffle this summer, it will be interesting to see how the future of the Englishman plays out, with a potential return to Merseyside on the cards.

Newcastle Eyeing Deal For "Top Class" £55k-p/w Midfielder

Newcastle United are interested in a deal to bring Leeds United star Tyler Adams back to the Premier League, according to reports.

Who is Tyler Adams?

Adams is naturally a defensive midfielder who first arrived at Elland Road last summer from RB Leipzig, and during his debut season in the top flight, he made a total of 26 appearances. The Whites talisman was a regular feature up until the point he sustained a hamstring injury which meant he missed the last 12 games of the campaign, therefore not being able to contribute or help Sam Allardyce’s side maintain their league status.

However, regardless of the fact that the 24-year-old has had a lengthy spell on the sidelines, he still established himself as the Yorkshire outfit’s both overall and defensive top-performing player with a WhoScored match rating of 6.73, so this alongside the fact that his club are likely to cash in on some of their prized assets following relegation means he’s been attracting interest from Eddie Howe and owners PIF at St. James’ Park.

Are Newcastle signing Adams?

According to 90min, Newcastle, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have all identified Adams as a serious “option” for the upcoming transfer window. The Leeds midfielder is also being monitored by clubs in Germany, Italy and Spain, but at this stage, it’s more “likely” that he will remain in England.

The Whites have “accepted” that they are set to lose him, alongside Brenden Aaronson, with the duo both expected to leave in the months ahead.

Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams.

Would Adams be a good signing for Newcastle?

Newcastle will know that Adams being a defensive midfielder means that he’s not a threat going forward having recorded zero goals or assists during his time at Leeds, but having been lauded “top class” in the natural aspect of his game by journalist Josh Bunting, he could be a solid acquisition for PIF.

The World Cup participant, who earns £55k-per-week, ranks in the 99th percentile for tackles having registered 89 last season which was higher than any other member of Allardyce’s squad, as per FBRef, and the 97th percentile for number of blocks, showing how much he gets stuck in and isn’t afraid to put his body on the line.

Finally, Adams, who actually share the same agency as Newcastle assistant Graeme Jones, is a versatile operator having experienced playing in seven various positions over the pitch since the start of his career, including four in the midfield and everywhere across the backline, so he may prove to be the ideal candidate to walk through the doors at St. James' Park.

Arsenal Have Genuine Interest In £255k-p/w Transfer Target

Journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Joao Cancelo will be allowed to leave this summer and Arsenal have a genuine "interest" in a transfer.

What's the latest on Arsenal and their transfer targets?

While the Gunners ultimately fell short in trying to win the Premier League, they still overachieved by even getting that close to Manchester City.

No doubt, what helped them improve this season was the double transfer swoop for Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko with the duo used to life at the top of the table.

And it seems as though another City player is on Arsenal's radar this summer with Cancelo – who has been on loan at Bayern Munich since January – supposedly on the market.

Indeed, while speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano first said (1:18): "From what I understand, Manchester City are prepared to let Joao Cancelo leave the club this summer. "

Before adding (1:57): “From what I understand, also Arsenal have an interest in Joao Cancelo. He is one of the players they appreciate.

"At the moment it is not the negotiation yet, we have to see how these discussions between Arsenal and Manchester City could be after the Zinchenko, Gabriel Jesus.

"So let's see how the relationship between the two clubs will be. But, for sure, Arsenal appreciate Cancelo – he is one of the players they like, this is true."

Who do Arsenal want to sign at right-back?

There may have been an expectation that Caneclo would complete a move to Bayern this summer as they had an option within the loan to make it a permanent transfer at the end of the season for around £61m (€70m).

However, it appears that this won't be happening. Indeed, Romano previously has revealed: "From what I understand the old [Bayern] board had no concrete plans, no concrete talks, to negotiate for Cancelo. So it was a big opportunity for Cancelo to go elsewhere.

And so the £255k-p/w right-back will be heading back to Manchester before a final decision is made on his future.

joao-cancelo-bayern-manchester-city-arsenal-transfer-gossip-ben-white-arteta-edu

And with the Gunners seemingly in the market for a new right-back – with Galatasaray's Sacha Boey also linked of late – perhaps they could look to steal yet another City player.

What's more, they'll be back in the Champions League next term and in need of great squad depth. Seeing as Cancelo has 49 appearances in that competition, he could provide the experience and quality required to aid the next step in Mikel Arteta's project.

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