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Transfer deadline day is always an exciting one for fans all over England, but today could prove to be a huge day for Tottenham Hotspur in their quest to end the window on a positive note.

Up to now, the business conducted by Thomas Frank has been a huge success, spending around £155m on new additions, with Xavi Simons being the latest big-money signing in North London.

The Dutchman joined in a £52m deal last week, adding to the £55m signing of Mohammed Kudus and a permanent move to land Frenchman Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich.

However, new boss Frank is evidently still hunting for further additions to help boost his chances of securing any form of success in Europe and or the Premier League this campaign.

Numerous names have emerged on their shortlist throughout deadline day, with progress being made on deals to land various top-level European talents.

Spurs’ hunt to land new talent on deadline day

Despite Simons’ transfer in recent days, Spurs have been hunting for the signature of Ademola Lookman over the last couple of hours – potentially costing a fee in the region of £43m.

The Nigerian, who scored 20 goals for Atalanta last season, has been desperate for a transfer this summer, potentially getting himself a move to North London before tonight’s deadline.

However, another name has emerged on their radar in recent hours, with Football Insider reporting the Lilywhites are keen on a late move for Conor Gallagher.

They claim that the Atlético Madrid star is available for €60m (£52m) in the coming hours, with Newcastle United also battling Frank’s side for a potential switch back to England.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be perfect for Kolo Muani

Alongside Lookman, Spurs are negotiating a deal with PSG for the signing of striker Randal Kolo Muani – despite the Frenchman looking certain to join Juventus this summer.

It’s been reported this morning that the Lilywhites are close to agreeing personal terms with the forward over a deal to North London – with a loan with an obligation to buy mooted before tonight’s deadline.

Such a deal has advanced after Dominic Solanke suffered a setback with his current ankle issue, with no timeframe currently placed on his return to first-team action.

Kolo Muani, who scored 10 goals in 22 appearances on loan in Italy last campaign, would offer another impressive option in the final third – potentially being aided by Gallagher in his quest for goals in 2025/26.

Whilst the former Chelsea star is primarily a ball-winning option, he’s also showcased his ability to break the lines and play key passes into attacking areas – having the tools to be a perfect box-to-box talent in Frank’s side.

His underlying stats from the 2024/25 campaign showcase the talent he possesses, with £52m potentially being an excellent price – should he replicate such figures in North London.

The 25-year-old, who’s been labelled “sensational” by journalist John Cross, ranked in the 89th percentile for tackles won (1.8) and in the 90th percentile for recoveries made (5.9) in LaLiga – showcasing his ability to regain possession should he move to Frank’s side.

However, in possession, the England international also impressed, making an average of 3.5 progressive passes per 90 at a pass completion rate of 85% – tallies which could provide Kolo Muani with constant chances in dangerous areas.

Conor Gallagher – LaLiga stats (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

32

Goals & assists

6

Pass accuracy

85%

Progressive passes

3.5

Passes into final third

2.5

Tackles won

1.8

Interceptions made

1.1

Recoveries made

5.9

Stats via FBref

2.6 of his progressive passes last season were made into the final third, further showcasing his talent with the ball at his feet, offering added ammunition for the Frenchman should he join the Lilywhites.

£52m would be another huge investment from the Spurs hierarchy, but it’s a deal that could add further quality into Frank’s already impressive midfield department.

If he can replicate his numbers from LaLiga last season, it would be a sensational pickup and one that could allow Kolo Muani to adhere himself to the supporters in the process.

Related Frank's next Wissa: Spurs close to agreeing terms to sign £50m star

Tottenham are set for a frenetic finish to the summer transfer window.

Posts 2 ByAngus Sinclair Sep 1, 2025

Leeds United are still in the market to add more quality to their squad before the summer transfer window officially slams shut at the start of September.

The Whites have set about bolstering their defence and midfield so far, with the additions of Jaka Bijol, Lucas Perri, and Sean Longstaff, among others, and now it is time to focus on the attack.

It will be interesting to see what areas of the attack the Championship champions look to strengthen in, as it may be telling as to who Daniel Farke believes has the quality to make the step up as a regular starter in the Premier League within the current squad.

Anton Stach’s brilliant strike against AC Milan on Saturday, as shown in the clip above, suggests that he could offer a goal threat from midfield, but Leeds also need goals from their forward line.

Leeds eyeing deal for Bundesliga winger

The Whites are reportedly looking at a move for a new attacking option who could come in to trouble Dan James for his spot in the team on the right.

Transfer Focus

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

According to The Boot Room, Leeds United are one of a number of clubs that are lining up a potential deal to sign Nathan Tella from Bayer Leverkusen this summer.

The report claims that the West Yorkshire outfit sent scouts to watch the Nigeria international in action against Chelsea in a friendly on Friday, with a view to a possible move for him.

It adds that Forest, Brighton, Brentford, and Burnley also had scouts in attendance, although Forest are the only side specifically said to be keen on Tella, along with Leeds.

Why Leeds should sign Nathan Tella

The Whites should swoop to bring the forward, who was signed for £20m from Burnley in 2023, to Elland Road because he could come in as an upgrade on Dan James.

As aforementioned, Leeds need to find players who can score goals in the Premier League next season, and Tella’s form for Leverkusen and Burnley suggests that he has the potential to provide more than the Welshman in front of goal at the top level.

The Nigerian forward has scored 11 goals and provided nine assists in the last two seasons in all competitions, including seven goals in the Bundesliga in that time.

James, meanwhile, scored two goals and provided one assist in 24 matches in the Premier League in his last season at the top level with Fulham in the 2022/23 campaign.

Appearances

39

36

Goals

17

12

Big chances missed

7

7

Conversion rate

24%

12%

Minutes per goal

148

218

Goals from inside the box

15

10

Goals from outside the box

2

2

As you can see in the table above, the Leverkusen forward’s season in the Championship with Burnley was far more prolific than the Leeds winger’s last term.

Tella, who was described as “sensational” by U23 scout Antonio Mango during his time with the Clarets, has shown in a top five league – in the Bundesliga – and in the Championship that he has the potential to offer a greater threat in front of goal than James.

Celtic can finally replace Jota with swoop for "flamboyant" £6m "dribbler"

Celtic could finally replace the injured Jota with a swoop for this reported transfer target.

ByDan Emery Aug 10, 2025

Although he is unproven in the Premier League, the 26-year-old wing wizard appears to have the potential and pedigree to come in as an upgrade on James on the right flank as a goalscoring threat.

Manchester United hit their nadir last season, but Ruben Amorim is a stoic sort and has knuckled down and made tentative progress with the Premier League giants.

Maybe the Portuguese tactician was a little too frank during interviews, but at least he understands where the cracks lie for the Old Trafford side, who finished 15th in the league and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur.

There have been positives throughout the Premier League Summer Series in America, for sure, but the Red Devils still have improvements to be made, irrespective of who might be welcomed to the fold.

Saying that, the recent draw against Everton corroborated Amorim’s desire for a new midfielder, with Manuel Ugarte flattering to deceive.

Why Man Utd need to replace Manuel Ugarte

Ugarte, 24, joined Man United from Paris Saint-Germain last summer in a deal rising to £50.5m. Last season, he left much to be desired, but did feature 45 times across all competitions, scoring twice and laying on six assists.

Man United showed some promise against the Toffees, but Vitalii Mykolenko dispossessed Ugarte in in the build-up to Iliman Ndiaye’s first-half goal, leading Bruno Fernandes to claim that his team “looked a bit lazy” at times.

Much has been made of United’s need for a focal frontman, but with Casemiro getting on, a secure and confident midfield anchor is equally as crucial to the success of the project.

That’s why INEOS are weighing up a move for Atalanta’s Ederson. As per TEAMtalk, the Brazilian could be available for around £52m this summer, which makes him the most expensive man on United’s midfield shortlist.

But there’s a reason for that. Man United have a ‘long-standing interest’ in Ederson, and if it proves financially viable, he could complete a midfield that needs reinforcing.

Why Man Utd want to sign Ederson

Ederson is a 26-year-old midfielder who has established himself as one of the best in the business over in Italy. Across 139 appearances in all competitions, he has scored 13 goals and supplied four assists.

Hailed as a “machine” of a midfielder by reporter Carlo Garganese, this is exactly the kind of hardy, dynamic player that Amorim needs to welcome to his squad, should he wish to return to European competition and challenge for silverware at the Old Trafford helm.

Instrumental in winning the Europa League in 2023, Ederson has the strength, self-belief and roundedness to succeed under Amorim’s wing in the Premier League, with the right balance in his performances to nestle into the United centre, acting as a tough-tackling six but also a progressive force.

Matches (starts)

37 (32)

29 (22)

Goals

4

1

Assists

1

2

Touches*

65.9

43.2

Pass completion

87%

89%

Big chances created

6

3

Key passes*

1.1

0.3

Dribbles*

0.6

0.6

Ball recoveries*

5.0

4.2

Tackles + interceptions*

2.3

3.6

Duels won*

4.9 (56%)

5.0 (53%)

On the surface level, it doesn’t look like Ugarte did all that badly across his first Premier League campaign, but he’s susceptible to a poor error of lapse of focus, with one Man United content creator online even saying he “is frightened to death of passing forward.”

No such problem for Ederson, who ranked among the top 12% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for progressive passes per 90, as per FBref.

Though Amorim and INEOS will continue to push ahead with a deal for a new number nine, this one could prove to be equally important.

Described by Italian journalist Damiano Er Faina to be “the strongest defensive midfielder in the world”, Man United might just hit the jackpot if they push ahead and complete their midfield with his many-faceted player.

The Inter Miami star recently cast doubt on his participation in the next World Cup.

• Messi will not face Ecuador
• The forward has prioritized MLS action
• Could be his sixth World Cup if he participates

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Lionel Messi’s recent comments suggesting he may skip the 2026 World Cup made headlines around the globe, as fans are still hoping to see the Argentine captain have one last dance on football’s biggest stage and defend the trophy. 

  Ahead of Tuesday’s qualifier against Ecuador – a match Messi will miss after choosing to prioritize his fitness for the remainder of the MLS season – Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni admitted he has not discussed those remarks with the star forward.

  “I don’t think it’s right to put a percentage on it today because I honestly don’t know,"  Scaloni explained. "Many things can happen. We already have a core group of players; everyone knows that. From there, when we know how many spots we’ll have, we’ll make decisions. As for Leo, I haven’t talked to him about it. I only know what he said publicly, and he’s going to take his time with this decision.”

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Messi will be the notable absentee against Ecuador, having already returned to Miami to rejoin Inter Miami under Javier Mascherano’s supervision. Argentina, however, have already secured top spot in the CONMEBOL standings with 38 points, holding a commanding 10-point lead over second-place Brazil with one match left to play.

• AFP
  

  WHAT LIONEL SCALONI SAID

  This was also Scaloni’s final press conference of the World Cup qualifying campaign, as Argentina will wrap up their run against Ecuador in Quito. The coach left his own future beyond the World Cup somewhat open but reflected positively on his tenure so far.

  “I focus only on what’s next, I’ve never been one to think too far ahead. I don’t think it’s right because it distracts from the present. Right now, we’re focused on tomorrow’s match and the upcoming friendlies. What happens beyond that, we’ll see. For now, I feel good here,” he said.

  Scaloni highlighted the work ethic and identity his staff has instilled: “From Day 1, we aimed to build a sense of belonging, to play for the shirt without it feeling like an obligation, with the right mindset and respect for teammates. That has been achieved. Winning obviously helps, but even without the trophies, the players and everyone around the team lived up to the values we set out to build.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR ARGENTINA NATIONAL TEAM?

  will visit Ecuador this Tuesday in the final match of the qualifiers.

The spin-bowling consultant says the team is heading in the right direction and could start winning more away from home

Mohammad Isam15-Aug-2024Bangladesh’s spin-bowling consultant Mushtaq Ahmed says that Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim have lifted the team’s morale ahead of the Test series against Pakistan.”All the players are excited about the first Test match,” Mushtaq said. “Shakib and Mushfiqur Rahim are the senior players. They are playing a positive role with the guys. I also give credit to the management who has been good with the players. The focus is on cricket now.”The Bangladesh players arrived in Pakistan on August 13 upon invitation from the PCB, after the BCB could not arrange a full team practice session with head coach Chandika Hathurusinghe due to political upheaval in Dhaka. Shakib reached Lahore on Wednesday and joined the team in their training sessions hours later.Related

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Before that, he was playing for Bangla Tigers Mississauga in the Global T20 Canada where he had an eventful week. He played a match on August 5, mere hours after the Awami League government fell in Bangladesh and the prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India. As a result, Shakib lost his seat in the parliament and was booed by fans during the game.He was then embroiled in controversy for not showing up for the toss in Bangla Tigers’ eliminator match against Toronto Nationals, which led to his team forfeiting the game.Mahmudul Hasan Joy was among several Bangladesh Test regulars to get some game time ahead of the Pakistan Tests•PCBMushfiqur is currently playing a four-day game against Pakistan A in Islamabad. This is a rare occasion when a Bangladesh A tour is connected closely to the senior team’s tour of the same country. Although the match has been affected by rain, it provided much needed game time for Mushfiqur, who last played a Test ten months ago. Other red-ball regulars – Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque, Nayeem Hasan and Hasan Mahmud – are also playing in this match.Bangladesh have only won one Test series of two or more matches abroad, against West Indies in 2009. But Mushtaq believes they could start winning more Test matches away from home.”A cricketer has to have basics and belief to do well at this level, otherwise he loses the battle,” Mushtaq said. “Skill-level looks after itself. We will give them the belief that you can beat anyone. Bangladesh is a good side. You saw that they challenged good teams in the World Cup. They are getting good fast bowlers. They are going towards a good direction. If they keep learning and keep believing in themselves, hopefully, they can start winning games outside.”Mushtaq also praised the Bangladesh spinners, saying they were eager to learn and quite receptive to his suggestions Legspinner Rishad Hossain has really levelled up under Mushtaq’s guidance and was the joint fifth-highest wicket-taker at the recent T20 World Cup.”The spinners are very mature. They are keen to learn. My role is to talk about tactical and technical things. You have to wait for the technical things for after the match. Tactically, you have to tell the spinners which angle to use, how to read the pitch, what pace to use, field settings for particular batters. You need reminders despite your experience.”Taijul [Islam] and [Mehidy Hasan] Miraz are match-winners. They are a great bunch of guys. They are coachable people. They are good listeners. I am honoured to be working with them. Hopefully, I can make a difference for them.”

Arsenal have plenty of time on their hands to bring in stars to strengthen their bid for the Premier League title, but may now face a battle to retain one of their key men, according to a report.

Arsenal closing in on Martin Zubimendi deal

In what appears to have become a long-running saga, Arsenal are close to signing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi after the Spain international was in London over the weekend to try and iron out the finer details of his move.

With Thomas Partey set to leave the Gunners on a free transfer amid interest from Fenerbahce and Galatasaray, there is definite scope for Mikel Arteta to reshape his engine room ahead of another campaign where his side are expected to lead the fight on all fronts.

Nevertheless, there is still no clear direction on whether Arsenal will sign Benjamin Sesko or Viktor Gyokeres to lead the line as the financials involved between the club and either RB Leipzig or Sporting remain to be determined.

Of course, the Gunners have plenty of capital to play with in North London, but they need to factor in the best possible way to use it without being short-changed in their hunt for reinforcements.

Taking a measured approach to signings makes a degree of sense, though there is always a sense of impatience among supporters desperate to see new arrivals.

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Jorrel Hato is another long-term Arsenal target. Still, there may need to be one or two departures to bankroll their summer spending spree.

Looking ahead to potential events that could occur, the Gunners now have a major decision on their hands involving one of their most important contributors.

Arsenal could face battle to retain Gabriel Martinelli

According to TBR, Arsenal could struggle to retain Gabriel Martinelli after Bayern Munich made contact over a potential move for the Brazil international.

Lodging an enquiry, the Bundesliga champions have tempted the 24-year-old to think about his future, and he is said to be ‘exploring his options’ and hasn’t made a conclusive decision over whether to stay in North London or otherwise.

Gabriel Martinelli’s Premier League campaign in numbers – 2024/25 (Fotmob)

Chances created

40

Successful dribbles

33

Shots

55

Shots on target

25

Successful crosses

22

Labelled “brilliant” by teammate Gabriel Jesus, Saudi Pro League clubs have also expressed an interest in his services, though it feels unlikely that he would opt to leave Europe’s top-five leagues during a relatively early stage in his career.

Enjoying a productive time of things last term, £180,000 per week earner Martinelli registered ten goals and six assists in 51 appearances across all competitions and wouldn’t be easy to replace at the Emirates Stadium.

Intriguingly, Arsenal have looked at Chelsea’s Noni Madueke after missing out on Nico Williams to Barcelona, so there is a possibility that wingers will form a key part of their transfer strategy regardless of the outcome elsewhere.

There’s been a lack of activity in the transfer market so far this summer from Newcastle United, but fans shouldn’t worry; Eddie Howe’s side are looking to make several signings.

Having qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the Premier League season, the Magpies faithful will expect the squad to be rewarded for their Herculean efforts, winning the Carabao Cup too.

But sporting director Paul Mitchell stands down at the end of the month, and frustrations are already reaching boiling point for some given transfer targets like Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo appear to be headed elsewhere.

Mbeumo scored 20 goals across 38 top-flight fixtures, earning praise from Thomas Frank for his “unplayable” attacking performances.

However, with Mbeumo seemingly out of reach, Newcastle are turning their attention elsewhere, and might have found an exciting option perhaps not yet discussed by the biggest channels.

Newcastle enter race for Mbeumo alternative

As per Caught Offside, Newcastle are in the running for versatile RB Leipzig forward Antonio Nusa, though they are joined in their interest by a host of clubs, including Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea.

Valued at €45m (£38m), the 20-year-old has only been playing in Germany for a year but has made good progress, showcasing his range of attacking qualities. Thus, he could be snapped up before his stock rises higher still.

While there haven’t been any official proposals from the suitors yet, bids may materialise quickly, so Newcastle might be wise to act now and bring a top talent to St. James’ Park – one who might even outgrow Mbeumo in the future.

What Antonio Nusa would bring to Newcastle

Hailed as a “future icon” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Nusa has impressed across his maiden campaign in Germany, scoring five goals and supplying seven assists across 36 appearances.

The Norwegian talent has yet to find the kind of goalscoring form that has defined Mbeumo’s time in the Premier League, but there’s more to his skill set than that.

In the Champions League, particularly, he impressed. As per FBref, Nusa ranked among the top 4% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s elite competition for shot-creating actions, the top 7% for progressive carries and the top 5% for successful take-ons per 90.

There’s a long road ahead for Nusa if he wishes to prove himself as a better signing than Mbeumo in the future, but his underlying data certainly suggests he has what it takes.

Matches (starts)

25 (16)

38 (38)

Goals

3

20

Assists

3

7

Shots (on target)*

1.0 (0.3)

2.2 (1.1)

Big chances missed

1

9

Pass completion

78%

74%

Key passes*

0.8

1.8

Big chances created

6

17

Dribbles*

1.6

1.4

Ball recoveries*

3.1

4.1

Tackles + interceptions*

1.5

1.7

Duels won*

4.1

4.7

Nusa is still very young – five years Mbeumo’s junior, in fact – but you can already see a combativeness and efficiency in his ball-carrying that suggests he too could sustain complete performances in the Premier League.

Moreover, the Norway international might not have converted that many chances, but he only missed one big chance in the Bundesliga last term, highlighting an underlying clinical edge that Howe could harness over the coming years, using the player’s pace and power to get him into dangerous positions.

Mbeumo will cost a pretty penny to prise from Brentford this summer, and given the strength of Newcastle’s existing frontline, adding an up-and-coming talent who can challenge for places might just be the winning formula for Howe’s side, as they step back onto the continent’s biggest stage.

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1 ByJoe Nuttall Jun 13, 2025

It’s been another season of disappointments for Arsenal this year.

Mikel Arteta’s side couldn’t get past Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals of the Champions League despite creating enough chances; they fell to Newcastle United in the semi-finals of the League Cup and didn’t even get past the Third Round of the FA Cup.

Worse yet, after running Manchester City so close in the Premier League for the last two seasons, the Gunners completely fell away from Liverpool this year, who are currently 15 points ahead with two games to go.

1

Liverpool

83

37

83

2

Arsenal

66

33

68

3

Newcastle

68

45

66

4

Man City

67

43

65

5

Chelsea

62

43

63

One of the reasons the Reds have had such a comfortable time of it is the incredible, talismanic form of Mohamed Salah, something Andre Berta and Co are seemingly intent on bringing to the Emirates next season in the shape of a striker who’s outscoring Alexander Isak this year.

Arsenal's striker search

As things stand, Arne Slot’s Champions-elect have scored a whopping 17 goals more than Arsenal, so it’s hardly been surprising to see the Gunners linked with a host of prolific number nines in recent weeks, like Jonathan David and Benjamin Sesko.

Transfer Focus

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

The former is set to be available for free this summer, and it’s not hard to see why so many teams, including the North Londoners, are vying for his signature, as in just 48 appearances for LOSC Lille this season, the Canadian poacher has scored 25 goals and provided 12 assists.

Sesko, on the other hand, would cost Arteta and Co around £67m, but as he’s still just 21 years old and has managed to rack up 21 goals and six assists in 44 appearances for a team in one of Europe’s top five leagues, it would be hard to argue that’s not a fair valuation.

However, to really take that next step, the Gunners need to bring in someone with a truly remarkable record, someone like Viktor Gyokeres.

According to a recent report from Portuguese outlet A Bola, Arsenal remain incredibly interested in the Swedish international and have stepped up their pursuit of him.

The report has revealed that the club have now made an offer to the Swede’s agent worth around £7m a year, which is about £135k-per-week, and that they are prepared to make an offer of up to €75m (£63m) to Sporting CP.

It would be a costly transfer to get over the line, but given his incredible goalscoring ability, it’d be more than worth it, especially as he could become Arsenal’s own Salah.

Why Gyokeres could be Arsenal's own Salah

So, the first thing to say is that this comparison obviously has nothing to do with their position, as Salah almost exclusively plays off the right, while Gyokeres is an out-and-out centre-forward.

Instead, the latter could become Arsenal’s version of the former in the sense that his sensational goalscoring ability could fire the club to glory next season, making him a talisman for Arteta’s side.

It’s not hard to imagine this happening either, as in 50 appearances across all competitions and totalling 4038 minutes this season, the Swedish “monster,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, has scored 52 goals and provided 13 assists, which comes out to an average of 1.3 goal involvements per game, or one every 62.12 minutes.

In contrast, Isak, who has long been a target for the Gunners, has scored 27 goals and provided six assists in 41 appearances, totalling 3234 minutes this season, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.24 games, or every 98 minutes.

Moreover, the Stockholm-born phenomenon is also leading the race for the European Golden Boot, with 38 goals in just 32 league games, while second-placed Salah has 28 goals to his name in 36 league appearances.

1

Gyokeres

32

38

1.18

2

Salah

36

28

0.77

3

Mbappe

31

27

0.87

4

Kane

30

25

0.83

5

Lewandowski

31

25

0.80

Ultimately, while it might cost the club a pretty penny, they should be doing all they can to sign Gyokeres this summer, as his simply sensational ability to put the ball in the back of the net could see him become a Salah-esque talisman for them next year, and lead them to the title.

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Aston Villa are now looking to a seal a deal for a “devastating” midfielder ahead of their Premier League rivals, and he is keen on the move, according to a report.

Aston Villa pursuing new midfielder

Villa are on course to have another successful season under the helm of Unai Emery, having reached the Champions League quarter-final and the FA Cup sem-final, and their midfield has been particularly impressive.

Youri Tielemans was dubbed “one of the best midfielders in the world” by analyst Raj Chohan earlier in the campaign, while Morgan Rogers has caught the eye in a more advanced role, with the Englishman ranked among the Villans’ most consistent performers.

However, it appears as though Emery is keen to bolster his midfield options even further this summer, with FC Barcelona’s Marc Casado becoming one of the latest players to be shortlisted, and talks over a deal have now been opened.

Emery has green-lighted a move for Casado, but the Spaniard is not the only target in central midfield, with a report from The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealing Aston Villa are working to close a deal for Rosenborg star Sverre Nypan.

Arsenal and Girona have also been named as potential suitors for Nypan, but the Villans are now looking to move ahead in the race for his signature, and the 18-year-old is believed to be keen on a move to Villa Park.

Personal terms and a transfer fee are still yet to be agreed, so there is still work to be done before a deal is finalised, but there is now optimism that the move will be possible.

Previous reports have detailed a deal could amount to £12.5m, potentially making the youngster a low-cost addition to Emery’s squad.

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ByBrett Worthington Apr 14, 2025 "Devastating" Nypan is one for the future

Given the talent Emery has at his disposal, it may be difficult for the young Norwegian to make an instant impact at Villa Park, but there are clear signs he could be capable of going on to be an important player.

The teenager has a very impressive goal and assist record in Norway, amassing 25 goal contributions in 62 appearances for Rosenborg, which is an eye-catching tally at such a young age.

The attacking midfielder has also caught the eye of football scout Ben Mattinson, with the starlet standing out due to his ability to pick out his teammates in dangerous areas.

Nypan could be a fantastic signing for Villa, and it would be a real statement of intent if they are able to beat the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City to his signature.

The Peshawar-born, who will play for NZ in the Under-19 World Cup, took up legspin inspired by Shane Warne and Rashid Khan

Shashank Kishore16-Jan-2024Rahman Hekmat pinches himself at the prospect of choosing cricket as a career, something Hekmatullah, his father, couldn’t because he was busy trying to give the family a better life. This sole purpose brought the Hekmats from Afghanistan to New Zealand 17 years ago, when he was just one.However, like his father, Hekmat has grown up to be a “cricket tragic”. He took up legspin after being inspired by Shane Warne’s YouTube videos and Rashid Khan’s exploits in international cricket. At 18, Hekmat is primed for an Under-19 World Cup debut for New Zealand.Hekmat was born in Peshawar, the Pakistani city in the North-West Frontier Province adjoining the Afghan border. The family first arrived in Auckland in 2006 when Hekmatullah enrolled for university to pursue engineering. Five years later, they decided to settle in the country when Hekmatullah’s job as a structural engineer gave the family stability.Related

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As Hekmat reflects on his journey into cricket from a plush hotel room in Johannesburg, he remembers his father’s early struggles to give the family a better life.”My dad came to New Zealand with literally nothing,” Hekmat tells ESPNcricinfo. “He has built our life from scratch. All he knew was the value of hard work. To have been given this chance to represent New Zealand at an Under-19 World Cup is a massive privilege. It wouldn’t have been possible without my parents’ sacrifices.”Hekmat is truly in a position of privilege. That he can take a break from academics to concentrate solely on cricket comes from knowing that his family is secure. He can’t be more grateful for this, and hopes to make them proud.”When I made it to the team, I got a lot of messages of support from the Afghan community,” Hekmat says. “It’s a big thing for me [to be] representing them. It also motivated me to do much better and perform at the highest level possible since I’m possibly the first one of Afghan origin to play for the Black Caps.”Hekmat speaks fluent Pashto. He has remained rooted to his culture, and is an active member of the Afghan community in Auckland. It’s an identity he is proud of and wouldn’t trade for anything.Rahman Hekmat (right) on his father Hekmatullah: “My dad came to New Zealand with literally nothing”•Rahman Hekmat”A lot of people ask me how I’m so fluent in Pashto,” he says with a laugh. “They’re surprised when I tell them I came here when I was one. Kids these days forget their mother tongue, but I’m very proud of my roots. I follow our traditions and customs – they’re very dear to me. And of course, I love Afghan food.”For now, though, rich Afghan food is off the plate. “No Afghan kebabs or pulao,” he laughs. “It’s tough. When my dad’s friends invite us over, they tempt me with all kinds of delicacies. But as a cricketer, I realise you have to be committed. Ever since I decided this is what I want to do, I’ve improved my diet. A year ago, I wasn’t in the best shape. But now I’m feeling good and healthy.”Hekmat began playing recreationally when he was ten. He started off as a fast bowler, but gravitated towards legspin after watching Warne’s videos on loop. It was during a regular session of corridor cricket at home with his father when he decided to switch. “It’s a tough art,” Hekmat says. “It can be unforgiving. But once you get into the rhythm and put in the hard yards, it can be rewarding.”When he was 11, Hekmat was invited to play for a club where his friend’s father coached. It was there that he developed a deep interest for the sport. He loved the camaraderie and mateship, and the opportunity to mingle with people from different communities helped develop a sense of bonding that he learnt plenty from.”Ish Sodhi has motivated me to work hard and never give up on my dreams” – Rahman Hekmat•Rahman Hekmat”It’s important to be yourself, [and] I learnt that early,” he says. “New Zealand has always been welcoming of different cultures and religion. I didn’t try to feel belonged. It was very organic because I wasn’t trying to be who I wasn’t. They enjoy the way I talk, [and also] the subcontinent gestures – like saluting elders with both hands, etc.”I want to be a role model for young kids, [and] a respectful person in society who is kind and caring. I’d rather be known for having a good attitude on the field, and being good to the umpires and the opposition with my behaviour, than just be known as a good cricketer. These things matter to me. Attitude comes first.”As Hekmat progressed through the junior circuit, he had the chance to interact with Ish Sodhi, and Hekmatullah’s familiarity with Sodhi from his younger days helped. As it turned out, there was also a family connection; Sodhi and Hekmat’s cousin were from the same circle of friends.”I’ve talked to Ish a few times, and he’s been really supportive,” Rahman says. “He’s motivated me to work hard and never give up on my dreams. Rashid Khan has been another central figure. He put Afghan spinners on the world map, and I find that very inspiring. He gives me hope that I can push on and become a good legspinner too.”Hekmat comes across as confident and mature. He realises Under-19 stardom can be a pitfall but isn’t weighed down by the pressures of playing competitive sport. He wants to relish challenges and the new experiences cricket brings him. One of those will come next week when New Zealand play Afghanistan in their second group game.

“I’m a cricket tragic. I realise you’re young only once, so the break I’ve taken from studies should be worth it”Rahman Hekmat has a lot of maturity and clarity even at 18

“It will be emotional for sure,” Hekmat says. “It will be a day to remember. But I’ll just try and make the ball talk, [and] try and contribute towards my team. Playing your motherland is a great privilege that I’m looking forward to. My folks in Kabul will be watching for sure.”Hekmat’s ultimate dream is, of course, to represent New Zealand. But there’s also a desire to play in T20 leagues at some point, like Rashid has. He is happy to soak in all the learnings now, but hopes the maturity and clarity he has at 18 helps him become not just a better cricketer but also a better person.”I’m a cricket tragic. I realise you’re young only once, so the break I’ve taken from studies should be worth it,” Hekmat said. “I’m just using this opportunity to learn at every step and refine my game every day, and also enjoy the progress I’m making rather than being caught up over one or two bad days if they come along.”This is a long journey that will be filled with challenges. I’m just learning to embrace everything cricket teaches me.”