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Whilst Thomas Frank managed to win his first Premier League game as Tottenham Hotspur manager, the club still have work to do before the end of the summer transfer window.

He’s already been backed by the board, landing a £55m deal for Mohammed Kudus, but ultimately, further big-money reinforcements are needed to avoid a repeat of the 2024/25 campaign.

The Lilywhites ended the previous year in 17th place, still managing to win the Europa League, with the Dane the man to lead them into the Champions League this season.

However, if the 51-year-old is to be successful in either of the competitions in the near future, he will need added quality in depth within key areas of the pitch.

Big money will likely need to be spent if added success is to be achieved, but one of the club’s key dealings may have already taken place over the last couple of days.

Cristian Romero’s new contract at Tottenham Hotspur

Back in the summer of 2021, Spurs completed the loan signing of Cristian Romero from Italian outfit Atalanta, making the centre-back’s move permanent 12 months later – costing around £42.5m in the process.

Whilst his disciplinary record has often been brought into question, he’s been a key component of the Lilywhites’ backline, making 126 appearances over the last four years.

The 27-year-old was named the club’s captain last week, highlighting the trust new boss Frank has placed in him – understandably so given his Man of the Match showing in the European final against Manchester United.

The good news has continued for the Argentine, penning a new four-year deal until the summer of 2029, with such a move arguably one of the best pieces of business conducted by the club this window, amid interest from Spanish giants Atlético Madrid.

However, despite Romero’s new contract, the hierarchy are looking to add further quality into the club’s backline, handing Frank the added depth he needs to help the side challenge at the top of England’s top-flight.

Spurs targeting move for a new Romero partner

Over recent days, Spurs have entered talks with Manchester City over a potential deal for 20-year-old right-back Rico Lewis – potentially providing competition for Pedro Porro.

The Englishman has also been subject to interest from Nottingham Forest, but it’s been confirmed that the youngster wants to remain at the Etihad beyond the summer window.

However, he’s not the only defender in their sights, with the club also strongly considering a move to land Brentford star Nathan Collins, according to the Daily Mail.

Their report claims that the Lilywhites have been closely monitoring the Irish international, who featured in every single minute of the previous Premier League campaign.

It also states that Manchester United and Liverpool are also plotting a move for the 24-year-old, but Spurs could hold the key to any move, given the centre-back’s previous time playing under Frank at the GTEC.

Why Spurs’ latest target could be perfect for Romero

Whilst Frank has only overseen two competitive games as Spurs boss, he’s already showcased his versatility in the role, operating with various different systems.

In the UEFA Super Cup final against PSG, the Dane utilised a back-five, whilst switching back to a more familiar back four in the win against Burnley on Saturday.

However, if the club are to be a success, adapting the side based upon the opposition is vital, something which was hugely lacking during Ange Postecoglou’s tenure.

A move for Collins could offer the new boss the depth he craves, adding another option to the heart of the defence, which could allow for a centre-back trio of Micky van de Ven, Romero and the Irishman.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the Bees star would set the hierarchy back before the September 1st deadline, but it would be a transfer that would add the needed quality to the defensive unit.

When comparing his stats to those of Romero from 2024/25, the 24-year-old managed to outperform the Argentine in key areas, even ranking highly among other defenders in the division.

Collins, who’s been labelled “one of the best defenders in the Premier League” by journalist Mario Marra, ranked in the 97th percentile for blocks made (2.1) whilst ranking in the 89th percentile for aerials won (3.1), according to FBref.

Games played

38

18

Goals & assists

5

1

Progressive carries

0.9

0.7

Progressive passes

4.8

4.5

Blocks made

2.1

1.1

Clearances made

5.9

3.6

Aerials won

3.1

2.6

Aerial success rate

63%

60%

Such figures are both higher than those produced by Romero, which would subsequently hand Frank the quality at the back to improve the record of 65 league goals conceded last season.

The Irishman also achieved a better aerial success rate last season, whilst making nearly two times more clearances per 90 – further highlighting the quality he possesses without the ball.

However, despite Collins’ ability without the ball, he’s also showcased his talent in possession, something which has been vital in Frank’s system – as seen by the Bees’ average possession of 48% in the Premier League during 2024/25.

He managed to achieve more progressive passes and carries per 90 last season, able to seamlessly fit into the manager’s plans given his previous stint under his guidance.

Whilst it’s unclear how much the Bees will be demanding to part ways with their captain, it’s a deal that could transform the Lilywhites’ fortunes within the defensive third.

If he can replicate such numbers from 2024/25, he could prove to be the perfect partner for Romero, which could provide added success for the club in the not-too-distant future.

Not just Richarlison: 8/10 Spurs ace must be a regular starter under Frank

Tottenham Hotspur secured the perfect start to life under Thomas Frank with a 3-0 win over Burnley.

ByEthan Lamb Aug 16, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur’s summer transfer window could’ve been massively impacted by their failure to land Morgan Gibbs-White, with the Nottingham Forest star staying at the City Ground.

A deal had been all agreed, leading to the player even being set to have a medical with the Lilywhites, but Reds owner Evangelos Marinakis intervened, resulting in the midfielder signing a new contract.

However, such disappointment has fuelled Thomas Frank’s desire to land new additions, subsequently making a huge effort to land Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich this summer.

Huge progress has been made for his signature over recent days, leading to a deal being agreed, with the player in the process of completing his medical ahead of a loan move to North London.

Such a move also includes an option to buy next summer, but it appears as though their activity looks set to continue before the September 1st transfer deadline.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

In recent days, a move has been made by the Spurs hierarchy to try and secure the services of highly-rated Stade Rennais forward Arnaud Kalimuendo.

The Lilywhites have even entered talks with the Ligue 1 outfit over a potential deal, leading to a £30m transfer being mooted, with Nottingham Forest, another side, currently in the running.

However, he’s not the only player currently in their sights, with Barcelona star Ronald Araujo another top-level star they’re pursuing, according to one Spanish outlet.

The report claims that Frank’s side have already made contact with the LaLiga outfit over a potential move for the Uruguayan centre-back before the end of the window.

It also states he could be open to a move to North London, potentially being attracted to the new project being undertaken at the club, which could see Barça open to negotiations at around the £50m mark.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be a bigger coup than Palhinha

A holding midfielder has been massively needed at Spurs this summer, leading to a hunt for a proven ball-winner at the base of Frank’s side if they are to build on the recent success.

Whilst Palhinha may not have been the supporters’ first choice for the role, a move is seemingly edging ever closer, potentially proving to be an excellent pick-up if he can replicate his form from his last stint in England’s top-flight.

He spent a couple of years at Fulham before moving to Germany, averaging a tally of 2.5 tackles per 90, whilst winning 8.6 duels per 90, with both figures ranking him within the top 5% of all players in the division that year.

Numbers like that are nothing short of sensational and prove why Bayern splashed £47m on his signature last summer – highlighting the talent the Lilywhites will be getting their hands on.

However, a move for Araujo would be a huge coup for the club, especially considering his sustained spell of featuring at the top level of European football for the Spanish giants.

The 26-year-old has racked up 175 appearances since making his debut in the summer of 2019, having Champions League experience, which will be vital for Spurs next campaign.

Whilst he was injured at times throughout 2024/25, he managed to rack up 25 appearances across all competitions, producing numerous incredible figures that would add the needed depth and quality to Spurs’ backline.

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

12

Goals & assists

2

Pass accuracy

92%

Progressive passes per 90

4.2

Tackles won

1.7

Blocks made

1.4

Clearances made

4.3

Aerials won

3.9

Araujo, who’s been labelled “incredible” by Dr Rajpal Brar, completed 92% of the passes he attempted, handing the Lilywhites a composed presence at the back, whilst allowing Frank’s side to play out from the back when needed.

Without the ball, the Uruguayan also starred in LaLiga, winning 1.7 tackles per 90 and making 1.4 blocks per 90 – having the tools to provide the side with a needed commanding presence at the back.

At just 26, Araujo has plenty of time to reach his full potential, with the £50m fee being mooted, undoubtedly a great price for a player entering his prime years as a professional.

Should he hit the ground running in North London, it would be a tremendous pick-up and one that would be a bigger coup than Palhinha, especially when taking his experience at the top level of European football into account.

Frank's very own Mbappe: Spurs in talks for "one of the most prolific" CFs

Tottenham Hotspur look set to make a move for a star who could thrive like Kylian Mbappe.

ByEthan Lamb Aug 1, 2025

Glasgow Rangers are expected to make a bid to bring a Nike-sponsored attacker to Ibrox following their move for Thelo Aasgaard.

Rangers sign Thelo Aasgaard on four-year Ibrox deal

The Gers, new owners the 49ers Enterprises and manager Russell Martin have been busy so far at Ibrox this summer, with Aasgaard becoming the latest permanent addition from Luton Town.

An attacking midfielder, Aasgaard has cost those at Ibrox around £3.5m and has signed a four-year contract in Glasgow. Talking after completing his move to Scotland, Aasgaard said:

“When I heard about Rangers I was over the moon. I have played against the manager’s teams a few times and I always pictured myself in his team and to be here now is really good. It was an easy decision, I love the number of games here, it is like the EFL and I love playing. The stature and history is enough as well.”

Meanwhile, Martin was “delighted” at securing Aasgaard’s services: “We are delighted to bring Thelo to the club. He is a player who we have liked for a long time, and we believe he possesses the necessary qualities to thrive at this club and in this team. He wants to win and develop as a player, and we believe we can help him do both. His attributes will enhance the group and look forward to him getting to know his teammates on and off the pitch.”

A better signing than Djiga: Rangers exploring move for "lethal" £5m star

Rangers find out how much it will take to sign one of their main targets

By
Ross Kilvington

Jul 6, 2025

Aasgaard joins Lyall Cameron, Max Aarons, Joe Rothwell and Emmanuel Fernandez as Rangers’ summer signings, and by the looks of it, a new attacker is now wanted by Martin and co.

Rangers and 49ers set to make Weslley Patati bid

According to recent reports relayed by Ibrox News, Maccabi Tel Aviv forward Weslley Patati is a target for Rangers this summer.

It is claimed that the Gers are expected to make an offer for the Brazilian in the coming days, with Patati’s asking price of more than £8m.

A left-footed attacker, Patati is primarily a right-winger but can also turn out on the left or even as an attacking midfielder if required. Still just 21 years of age, Patati is already sponsored by Nike and currently holds a career-high €2.5m Transfermarkt valuation.

Under contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv until 2027 after signing last year, Patati enjoyed a successful first season with the Israeli side, winning the league title in 2024/25.

As can be seen, he registered double figures for goals and assists, so a move for Patati could be a shrewd one by Rangers, considering the Gers have just Oscar Cortes, Rabbi Matondo and Ross McCausland as their only wing options at this moment in time.

Tottenham have some key transfer decisions to make in the build up to Thomas Frank’s first full season in charge, and chairman Daniel Levy could orchestrate the departures of some noteworthy names.

Levy spends £200m+ on new signings: AI predicts Tottenham's 2025/26 line-up

Spurs and Daniel Levy could splash the cash.

7

By
Charlie Smith

Jun 28, 2025

Spurs are fresh off the back of a much-needed end to an otherwise dismal campaign on the domestic front, winning the Europa League final in late May after breaking their record for most Premier League defeats in a single season.

It was a mixed 2024/2025 to say the least, but their first major trophy in 17 years has gifted Frank something precious to build upon with his brand-new squad that he cannot wait to work with.

“The feeling of being the new head coach is extraordinary,” said Frank during his first interview as Tottenham boss.

“I’m really looking forward to this massive challenge together with a lot of good people. I only heard good stuff about all the people here, the training ground, the players, good squad, exciting, massive club, I think massive potential, so just super, super excited.”

However, as recent reports suggest, the 51-year-old may not be able to keep hold of every star player before deadline day on September 1.

Son Heung-min may have already played his last competitive game for Spurs, amid interest from Saudi Arabia, and Levy has reportedly placed a £50 million price tag on the South Korean’s head as he considers taking advantage of this limited window to sell him for a profit.

Meanwhile, Frank will also be wary of Atlético Madrid’s serious interest in Cristian Romero, which has already been confirmed by Diego Simeone himself.

The Argentine played a key role in Tottenham’s journey to the Europa League podium, and was awarded Player of the Tournament for his string of standout performances, but Frank apparently faces the real possibility of being without his star defender next season.

Tottenham reach "agreement in principle" to sell Cristian Romero

That is according to journalist Fernando Czyz, via Doble Amarilla, who makes a bold claim that Tottenham have reached an “agreement in principle” to sell Romero to Atlético for around £56 million, including add-ons.

The 27-year-old’s exit from N17 is described as closer than ever before, following positive talks over the weekend, and negotiations will apparently continue this week with an expectation that the transfer will eventually be finalised.

This information is yet to be backed up by other media sources, so supporters have the luxury of taking it with a pinch of salt, but it’s a clear indication that Atlético aren’t likely to end their interest in the centre-back any time soon.

Romero is an ever-present leader of the squad has been praised for his “world-class” performances since joining the club from Atalanta in 2021, with Micky van de Ven holding his central defensive partner in very high regard.

“For me, he is world-class. He is a leader. He is always one hundred per cent. He is a top-class player with the ball and without the ball when defending,” said van de Ven to Optus Sport.

“I can promise you he is not scared of anyone. He keeps going every game. From day one here he has helped me. He is just a world-class player.”

The former England allrounder has previously played four seasons for Sydney Sixers

ESPNcricinfo staff24-Jun-2024Allrounder Tom Curran has signed a two-year deal with Melbourne Stars in the BBL, committing to play the full duration of the tournament, while Chris Jordan will return to Hobart Hurricanes.Curran has previously played four seasons for Sydney Sixers but was caught up in controversy in the 2023-24 campaign when he was suspended for four matches for intimidating an umpire and his tournament was later ended by a knee injury. In 36 BBL matches he has taken 51 wickets at 19.76 with an economy of 8.25 and scored 359 runs at a strike-rate of 143.60.Related

Melbourne Stars get first pick in BBL overseas draft

Billings picks Sydney Thunder ahead of rival T20 leagues

Curran joins under the BBL’s new multi-year contract option which allows clubs to sign one overseas player before the draft. Any player joining under the new agreement has to stay for the entire tournament – including finals – from the 2025-26 season although Curran will do so for both years of his deal.Jordan, who took a hat-trick against USA to help secure England’s spot in the T20 World Cup semi-finals, heads back to Hurricanes after claiming nine wickets in 10 matches during 2023-24 season plus hitting a 17-ball fifty.”CJ was our top priority to bring back as part of our multi-year overseas contract, he provided our squad with experience, both with bat, ball, and in the field, and showed our squad what professionalism in World T20 cricket looks like,” Salliann Beams, Hurricanes list manager and high performance general manger”He also provided a good balance to our bowling unit, and when paired with Nathan Ellis, we have two of the best death and powerplay bowlers in T20 cricket. We also saw what CJ can do at his destructive best with the bat and know that he can play a role for us in the lower order when required, I am excited to see what he can do for our franchise over the coming seasons.”Sam Billings was the first player to sign a multi-year deal in the BBL when he joined Sydney Thunder.Meanwhile, in an interview conducted by Stars, Curran said that Glenn Maxwell had played a key role in encouraging him to join the club when the pair spent time together for Royal Challenges Bengaluru in the IPL.”I’m really looking to getting out to Australia in a few months and playing at the MCG which will be a great honour to call my home ground,” he said. “You want to come in as an overseas player and have an impact and help win games, it’ll be a joy not having to bowl to Maxwell and Stoinis.””I was at the IPL with Maxi at the time and I knew Peter Moores was the coach – who I’ve never worked with but who I’ve heard great things about,” he said. “I had a decent idea of which players were part of team having played a fair bit against the Stars over the years. After the initial chat it didn’t take too long for me to decide to be honest.”Stars will need a new captain for next season after Maxwell stood down following last year’s campaign which saw Stars finish sixth. Marcus Stoinis has confirmed his interest in the role.Stars have the first pick in the overseas draft which will take place early in September.

Interestingly, it’s all gone a bit quiet on the centre-forward front for Liverpool, who are progressing with plans across other areas as Arne Slot works out how to improve his title-winning squad.

It’s curious because it’s been understood for several months that Liverpool are making the addition of a new focal frontman a priority, but with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s imminent departure now set in stone, FSG have moved quickly to land Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, with a deal in the closing stages.

It’s also understood that left-back Milos Kerkez will be bumped up to first priority once the Dutchman has signed, with Andy Robertson no longer at his rip-roaring best.

Interest in Florian Wirtz has dominated headlines in recent days, but none of this should detract from the fact that Liverpool are going to launch a statement move for a new striker this summer.

Darwin Nunez is set to leave, after all.

The latest on Darwin Nunez's Liverpool future

Nunez arrived on Merseyside to much fanfare, leaving Benfica after a prolific stint that saw goals scored against Jurgen Klopp’s Reds, Barcelona and Bayern Munich in one Champions League campaign.

He joined, aged 22, for a club-record fee rising to £85m.

Fast track three years, and the 25-year-old is set to leave the club with rueful frustrations over what might have been. Despite flashes of brilliance, the mercurial talent has never kicked on, and actually fallen back several steps under Slot’s wing.

Ultimately, it just hasn’t quite worked out for Nunez. But he still leaves Anfield with a Carabao Cup medal and as a Premier League champion, having clinched 66 goal involvements across 141 appearances.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed he is expected to leave, with all parties keen on drawing a close to his Liverpool career.

Slot has only started the Uruguay forward once in the top flight since Boxing Day, however, and it’s almost nailed-on that he’ll be plying his trade elsewhere next term, with Liverpool gearing up to advance interest in a talented new striker.

Liverpool eyeing bid for new striker

As per Caught Offside, Liverpool are weighing up a bid for Brighton & Hove Albion striker Joao Pedro, who has enjoyed two promising years on the south coast.

The Brazilian talent, still only 23, is also being pursued by Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United, whose fate in qualifying for the Champions League will determine their place in the race.

The Premier League star is expected to fetch a fee of around €60m (£51m) if he leaves the AMEX this summer. No small sum, but more affordable than some other high-profile names on the market.

Joao Pedro is the perfect Nunez upgrade

Joao Pedro left Watford in the Championship to sign for Brighton in a deal just shy of the £30m mark in 2023, and he’s since posted 30 goals and ten assists across 70 matches in all competitions.

While he’s undergone something of a quieter season this year, the versatile attacker has been regarded for his “really magical” quality by Bundesliga commentator Kevin Hatchard, and has hit 17 contributions from just 24 starts.

He’s a work in progress, but one who has proved himself in the Premier League. There’s little question he would offer more for Slot’s team than Nunez has this season, adding a dimension that will surely be required to ease the burden on Mohamed Salah and angle Liverpool toward a more balanced offensive threat.

Contrasting the two forwards’ Premier League campaigns, it’s clear to see why Liverpool would be interested in making the change.

Joao Pedro certainly has aspects to improve upon, but there’s no question he’s a dynamic and rounded player with technical flair and a tenacious attitude besides.

By contrast, Nunez has plunged into deep fathoms, detached from the combative, committed player who first arrived at Anfield, raw but robust and raring to go.

FBref have crunched the data to reveal more about Joao Pedro’s skill set, and why his multi-facetedness would be perfect for Slot’s side.

Across the current Premier League campaign, the £50k-per-week talent ranks among the top 3% of forwards for assists, the top 15% for shot-creating actions and passes attempted, the top 20% for progressive carries, the top 17% for successful take-ons, and the top 6% for through balls per 90.

To put it another way, he’s endowed with an athletic and creative style that Slot would will into any direction he pleases, and while the clinical edge needs some sharpening, Joao Pedro has converted 19 big chances in the league for the Seagulls, missing 16 big chances all told.

Nunez, conversely, has missed 54 big chances since first playing in England’s top flight, only scoring 25 league goals in that timeframe.

His presence has waned in Slot’s system, a rather damning indictment on his at-odds efforts given the meteoric rises of Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai.

A player of “ridiculous” talent who has yet to really break into his quickest stride, according to one Brighton analyst, Joao Pedro has what it takes to make a big improvement on an already thriving Liverpool frontline.

With Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota hoping to reprise their places in the Liverpool squad, this could be a dynamic addition to allow the team to do it all over again next year.

He plays a lot like Wirtz: Liverpool plot huge move to sign £85m "magician"

Liverpool are ready to throw the kitchen sink at a marquee attacking signing this summer.

By
Angus Sinclair

May 17, 2025

Silly season is upon us, but given that Liverpool are the best team in England having won the Premier League, there are scant players across the globe who wouldn’t at least consider a move to Anfield this summer.

And players will come through the gates. FSG hit the jackpot when appointing Arne Slot to replace Jurgen Klopp last year, an affable but contrasting personality whose meticulous tactical approach has borne dividends.

Having done the business without any proper first-team investment, Liverpool’s owners are happy to get their purse out and reward the Dutch coach, with a range of incomings expected.

While replacing Darwin Nunez, who has failed to react positively to Slot’s tactics and is expected to leave at the end of the season, is the chief attacking priority, especially with Mohamed Salah now tied down for two more years, Slot is keen to strengthen across a number of areas.

And that intrigue has led to Villa Park, with Morgan Rogers added to Liverpool’s shortlist.

Liverpool's interest in Morgan Rogers

Rogers has only been at Aston Villa for 14 months, but he’s made quite the impression, leaving Middlesbrough in the Championship to sign for Unai Emery’s side in a £15m deal.

His rise and rise has caught Liverpool’s eye, that’s for sure, with the mighty Fabrizio Romano revealing to GIVEMESPORT this week that Liverpool and Chelsea are among the top clubs to have been scouting the 22-year-old this season.

However, sealing a deal is hardly going to be a walk around Stanley Park, for Manchester United have also shown an interest in Rogers of late and were met with a response that a bid worth £68m would be required for Villa to consider his departure.

The ice-cold England international has scored 14 goals and added 13 assists across 50 Villan appearances this season, though it bears testament to the level of his ability that it is the underlying quality that has lifted him toward the top of Liverpool’s summer shortlist.

However, with Villa expected to play hardball, especially so if they retain their place in the Champions League, Liverpool might be forced to turn their heads elsewhere.

Luckily, a fitting and more affordable alternative has been earmarked.

Liverpool chasing new forward

As per Football Insider, West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus is open to a move away from east London this season after a disappointing campaign, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City all interested.

Transfer Focus

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

However, Reds fans will be pleased to know that FSG are singled out as the main party in the race so far, confident that they can seal a summer deal for a figure lower than his £80m release clause.

The player himself, meanwhile, is said to want to ‘make that move’ to Anfield and would ‘jump at the opportunity if an offer arrives’.

While some will harbour reservations after the Ghanaian’s below-par output this season, this talent is unquestionable and the Hammers are willing to consider cut-price offers.

What Mohammed Kudus would bring to Liverpool

In August 2023, West Ham signed Kudus from Ajax for a £38m fee, pipping Brighton & Hove Albion to his signature. Regarded as a “generational talent” by journalist Gary Al-Smith.

He played an important part for United last term, scoring 14 goals and laying on nine assists as David Moyes’ side fought for European qualification in the Premier League and drove their way into the quarter-finals of the Europa League, losing over two legs against Bayer Leverkusen.

However, there’s no denying that Kudus has fallen down a notch this season, albeit struggling alongside the masses over a deeply frustrating year for the Irons.

Matches (starts)

33 (27)

28 (28)

Goals

8

4

Assists

6

2

Shots (on target)*

2.0 (0.5)

2.4 (0.8)

Pass completion

84%

90%

Big chances created

5

3

Key passes*

0.8

1.0

Dribbles*

3.8

3.0

Ball recoveries*

6.4

4.5

Tackles*

2.0

1.2

Duels won*

8.5

6.6

There is a reason why Liverpool have maintained an interest in the winger over the past year. Kudus would be the first to admit he has endured a testing campaign, but that doesn’t mean he’s not a player worthy of a place in Slot’s squad.

Indeed, his propensity for danger down the channels is quite a thing; for instance, Kudus disabled a firm Arsenal defence during a shock victory at the Emirates Stadium back in February, all but ending the Gunners’ feeble title hopes.

This is perhaps best illustrated through FBref’s data. The statistical site list that he ranks among the top 10% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for pass completion and the top 2% for successful take-ons per 90.

Curiously, FBref also record that Rogers is one of Kudus’ most comparable players when assessing data from the ongoing Premier League season, and if the Villa man does prove to be unattainable in the market this summer, Liverpool may be convinced to move down a different track.

The statistical likeness suggests that either star would be a fitting addition to an already talented and dynamic frontline. Both have been profiled, and both are firmly on Hughes’ radar.

A “fearless” ball-carrying threat, as has been said by scout Antonio Mango, Rogers is proving himself to be a dangerous player indeed, breaking from midfield or the left flank and closer and closer toward the goalmouth, where his growing potency has indeed led to 27 goal involvements across all competitions this season.

However, Kudus demonstrated last season his elite level for West Ham. He will be annoyed at his own regression under Julen Lopetegui and now Graham Potter at the London Stadium, but there’s little question he has ‘generational’ quality that Slot could tap into and shape into something truly special for Liverpool.

Imagine him & Gakpo: Slot driving Liverpool deal for £60m "game-changer"

Liverpool are set for a shopping spree this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 1, 2025

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers will expect to end this campaign with another three medals in his cabinet, but a former international has now intimated that one of the Hoops’ old bosses could be open to an emotional return to replace the Irishman.

Brendan Rodgers in the hunt for a domestic treble at Celtic

Despite a frustrating defeat at St Johnstone last weekend, Celtic remain on course to claim the Scottish Premiership crown and could still mathematically confirmed as champions should they defeat Kilmarnock followed by Aberdeen seeing off Rangers at Pittodrie.

In a potentially decisive few weeks for Brendan Rodgers, he could also take one step closer to winning the Scottish Cup if his side can dispose of St Johnstone at Hampden next Sunday.

With the Premier Sports Cup already in the bag, the Irishman could finish this campaign by inheriting a 13th trophy in charge across two spells, which would place him third in Celtic’s all-time most successful managers list.

Nevertheless, Rodgers will demand significant backing at Parkhead this summer in his mission to elevate the club’s standing in comparison to those on Europe’s biggest stage.

After leading Celtic to the Champions League knockout playoff phase, the 52-year-old wants to build on their continental success by securing talented arrivals to prop up a squad bristling with talent.

Related "What?" – Sutton baffled by what he's seeing from £12k-a-week Celtic star

He had a poor game in the defeat to St Johnstone.

Posts ByHenry Jackson Apr 7, 2025

By nature, most managers in Glasgow have a shelf life. Whether it be a consequence of admiration from the Premier League or failing to deal with the unique level of pressure associated with coaching one of the world’s most reputable brands, there is never a true sense of permanence in the dugout.

Casting a tentative eye towards the future, Celtic have now been told one of their former managers could be open to completing a sensational Parkhead return later down the line.

Ange Postecoglou tipped for dramatic Celtic return

Ange Postecoglou hasn’t had it all his own way at Tottenham Hotspur. The 59-year-old has been in charge for the best part of two seasons in North London, but pressure is mounting on the Australian due to a series of inconsistent results with the Lilywhites.

Now, per reports via The Glasgow Times, former Greece international Giorgos Karagounis has hinted that Postecoglou could be open to a Celtic comeback story in the future due to the immense success he had north of the border.

Brendan Rodgers vs Ange Postecoglou at Celtic – how both managers have fared

Ange Postecoglou’s managerial record at Celtic

Trophies

2x Scottish Premiership, 2x Scottish League Cup, Scottish Cup

Points per game

2.64 PPG in normal time, 1.80 PPG in post-split fixtures

European record

Finished third in Europa League group 2021/22 (knocked out of Europa Conference League by Bodo Glimt at Round of 32 stage). Finished bottom of Champions League group in 2022/23 on two points despite admirable performances against Real Madrid, RB Leipzig and Shakhtar Donetsk.

Fan approval

Loved for daring style of football and commitment to play on front foot at all costs.

Brendan Rodgers’ managerial record at Celtic

Trophies

3x Scottish Premiership, 3x Scottish Cup, 4x Scottish League Cup

Points per game

2.45 PPG in normal time, 2.20 in post-split fixtures

European record

Finished fourth in Champions League group 2016/17. Finished third in Champions League group 2017/18 (knocked out of Europa League Round of 32 by Zenit St Petersburg). Finished second in Europa League group 2018/19 (knocked out at Round of 32 by Valencia). Finished bottom of Champions League group 2023/24 Qualified for Champions League knockout playoff phase in 2024/25 (narrowly beaten by Bayern Munich).

Fan approval

Seen as a proven winner who rarely falters on big occasions.

Karagounis stated: “Ange Postecoglou did a great job with Celtic, a fantastic job, so one day I think we will see him back there.

“Having said that, at the moment, he is at another great team in Tottenham, and of course, he’s coaching in the Premier League, so I don’t think he’ll want to go back to Scotland straight away.”

Commended for his “excellent” work at Celtic by Martin O’Neill, Postecoglou is someone who is deeply admired by supporters, but it remains to be seen if a future return is something that could come to fruition.

England allrounder on life, love, happiness and an extraordinary run of batting form post-marriage

Vithushan Ehantharajah25-Jun-2024″I didn’t really think at the time it would blow up as much as it did,” Nat Sciver-Brunt says. “It just felt like the normal reaction, I guess.”The allrounder is talking about a photo (below) taken after England’s defeat to Australia in 2022’s ODI World Cup final. As Nat starts to process the loss, physically and emotionally exhausted after almost single-handedly carrying England’s pursuit of a 357-run target with 148 not out, her now-wife, Katherine Sciver-Brunt, teary-eyed, holds her face and consoles her.It is a beautiful shot. There they stand, among a throng in the middle of the Hagley Oval, and somehow alone together. Love and pain in oddly comfortable harmony.”I like the photo,” Nat adds. “Well, I like the photo more for Katherine’s face than what’s gone on in the game.”This intimate shot of England cricket’s first openly same-sex couple went viral on social media. Though the pair don’t really indulge beyond “the odd scroll here and there”, they were aware of the volume of positivity sent their way for being themselves and being so visible while at the peak of their sport. It is something they hear first-hand, too.”You might be signing autographs, and people will say little bits to me and Katherine as well. In that way, it’s quite nice that it’s in-person, and people are able to say directly to us how either we’ve inspired them, or they’re really happy for us.”Those comments reinforce the role cricket can play in the LGBTQ community. This year, England Cricket are celebrating the Rainbow Laces between June 29 and July 7, with professional and recreational clubs marking the campaign at games across the country. An array of representatives from English cricket – beyond simply the ECB – will also march in the Pride in London parade.Katherine Brunt consoles her then-fiancée Nat, after England’s loss in the 2022 World Cup final•ICC/Getty ImagesUnfortunately, Sciver-Brunt has yet to attend a Pride march because of the regular clash with cricket. This year, it’s the second of a three-match ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on Wednesday. “I suppose I have to do my work in other spaces,” she says.”I guess being myself and being free in that is my best way of displaying that. Me and Katherine being who we are, together in public and just being normal about it all, really – that’s our way of being part of Pride. Pride to me is being comfortable enough to be who you are, and not having to hide it. That’s our way of being part of the march.”Achieving that “comfort” has come in stages for Sciver-Brunt.”I’m not really sure if there were any gay people at school,” she says. “There’s something about moving away from home and probably not having the expectations of your family, or living under that roof. You’re sort of left to your own devices and working out your own way of doing things.”Going to uni and not having anyone to tell you what to do or anything like that. People grow up in that phase, don’t they?”Playing for England added an extra dimension. Sciver-Brunt arrived on the scene in 2013, just as women’s cricket was about to undergo a dramatic evolution. The fact that this coincided with her own emergence as one of the sport’s finest allrounders brought its own challenges of fame and interest. She eventually warmed to both, and, in October 2019, Nat and Katherine announced their engagement in an interview with “There was no hiding within the team,” Sciver-Brunt says, when asked about coming out via the engagement. “It was just a matter of timing before doing a few media interviews around it.

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