Latest news with #ArneSlot
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Liverpool make contact to sign world-class finisher
Liverpool have reportedly made contact to sign one of the best finishers in Europe. At this moment in time Richard Hughes is prioritising signing a no.9 for the Reds. With Darwin Nunez's future up in the air, Liverpool are going to be short of attacking options heading into the new season. With or without Nunez, Liverpool still need another no.9 and who that could be remains to be seen. Alexander Isak is the ultimate dream option. Newcastle United though are unwilling to budge on their stance of not wanting to sell him for the moment. The Reds have alternatives of course. Among them, Hugo Ekitike is high up on Liverpool's radar. However, Benjamin Sesko could also be another option with Liverpool scouts having watched him in action several times for RB Leipzig last season. The duo are not the only two players on the club's radar. Another dream option is Julian Alvarez, although again Atletico Madrid have a pretty strong stance that they won't sell him this summer either. So, who else remains who Liverpool could target? Well, there's another world-class finisher who appears to be on the club's radar and who could be the perfect option for Arne Slot's style of play. As per Foot Mercato Liverpool have made contact with the representatives of Jean-Philippe Mateta earlier this week in a bid to explore a move for the French forward. At first glance, Mateta, who just turned 28-years-old, doesn't feel like a 'typical' Liverpool signing. However, there is much more to this than meets the eye and the Crystal Palace striker may actually be a solid option for the Reds. There are several factors as to why this might be the case. As we mentioned above, Liverpool's dream options Alvarez and Isak seem to be unavailable this summer. Sesko and Ekitike who are the alternatives are project signings and they would demand a significant fee. Are Liverpool in the position to be able to spend or commit to another project forward? It's possible, if the club's scouts are convinced that Sesko and Ekitike could be major successes at Anfield in the long-term. However, if Liverpool decide to hold out for Alvarez or Isak in the hopes that they can sign one of them next summer, Mateta is the more sensible option. He's a proven goal-scorer in the Premier League, who has made 46 goal contributions in his last two seasons at Crystal Palace. Mateta is a real nuisance. He presses the ball really well and he's got the technical qualities to link-up with his teammates. His style of play would be well-suited to the way Slot wants his Liverpool side to play. Especially because Mateta thrives inside the box. In fact he's one of the best finishers in the Premier League. Out of players who average at least 1.8 shots per 90 minutes and have played at least 1500 minutes in England's top flight last season, only Isak (25%) and Bryan Mbeumo (24.4%) had a better goal conversion rate than Mateta (23.3%). Looking around Europe's top five leagues, Mateta ranks in the top 15 strikers above the likes of Erling Haalad (21.3%), Kylian Mbappe (19%) and Joao Pedro (18.9%). So Mateta is one of the best finishers in Europe and he's been producing these numbers at Palace. Just imagine the kind of numbers he could be producing at Liverpool where he would link-up with the likes of Florian Wirtz, Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai. Not to mention Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez will be whipping in crosses for him into the box from the wings. In an environment like that, Mateta could absolutely explode and that's why he could be the club's perfect option this summer if Isak and Alvarez are not available.
Metro
7 hours ago
- Sport
- Metro
Arsenal fans respond to Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze message
You certainly can't accuse Arsenal of being inactive in the window this summer, but whether the new signings and potential new recruits will be enough to power the Gunners to the title remains to be seen. The naysayers will point to Liverpool's already impressive summer, which has seen Arne Slot add two top class full-backs and smash the British transfer record to snare Florian Wirtz. Building from a position of strength, the best are getting even better, even without the arrival of a new centre forward, an issue that looks likely to be addressed imminently. Arsenal, however, can only look after themselves and while it might have been tempting to enter the race to sign Alexander Isak, plugging the gaping holes in their squad, exposed by last season's injury crisis, represents a far smarter use of the considerable funds that have again been made available to Mikel Arteta. Of the new additions, Martin Zubimendi's is perhaps the most intriguing. Will the addition of a genuine deep-lying playmaker, one in the prime of his career, prompt a more expansive style of play? If the Spaniard's addition shifts Arsenal back towards a side somewhere between the buccaneering nearly-men of two years ago and the overcautious, safety first unit that lost their way last term then there is no reason to suggest they cannot last the distance. The rest of the signings represent gambles, while even Eberechi Eze and Rodrygo, although level raisers, would come with no guarantees given it is not clear where the Crystal Palace playmaker would fit in, while there have been plenty of Real Madrid cast offs who have failed to shine in the Premier League. That said, this is a top class Arsenal side whose consistency over the last three years is often overlooked as a consequence of their lack of silverware. The new signings may only need to contribute the extra 10% required to get the Gunners over the line given the quality that Arteta already has at his disposal. If you're looking for a positive omen, cast your minds back to the summer of 2001 when Arsenal brought in Richard Wright, Francis Jeffers, Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Sol Campbell at significant cost, while Edu was effectively a new signing given he hardly played following his arrival in January. Of that group, only Campbell could have been considered a genuine game changer, but that group all made valuable contributions across a campaign which saw Arsenal end a run of three second place finishes to complete a Premier League and FA Cup double under Arsene Wenger. James Goldman | Metro Sports Editor.
France 24
9 hours ago
- Business
- France 24
Liverpool eye blockbuster bid for Newcastle's Isak: reports
The Premier League champions are yet to make a formal offer for Isak but he is believed to be high on their wanted list as boss Arne Slot looks for a new forward in the wake of Diogo Jota's death. Isak joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad for £63 million in 2022, emerging as a key player for Eddie Howe's team. He scored 23 Premier League goals last season to fire the club into the Champions League for the second time in three years. Isak also scored in Newcastle's League Cup final victory over Liverpool at Wembley, which ended the Magpies' 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy. The 25-year-old, who is currently at a pre-season training camp in Austria, still has three years remaining on his contract and Newcastle are understood to be trying to tie him to a new deal. They have reportedly put a value of around £150 million on Isak in an attempt to ward off potential suitors, with Arsenal also reportedly contemplating an offer. Newcastle's majority owners, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, have the financial muscle to resist any approach for a player who is said not to be agitating for a move. Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa have also been linked with moves away from Anfield, which would increase their need to bring in a new striker. As well as their Isak interest, Liverpool have been linked with Eintracht Frankfurt's £70 million-rated forward Hugo Ekitike, who has also attracted attention from Newcastle.
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Liverpool shortlist Manchester United Star as striker search expands
Liverpool's Striker Search Takes Unexpected Turn as Rashford Emerges as Surprise Option As Liverpool seek to bolster their attacking line ahead of the 2025/26 season, a name few expected has surfaced. According to a report by The Daily Mail, Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has been 'floated as an idea' by figures at Anfield should their move for Newcastle United's Alexander Isak fall through. Advertisement While on paper such a transfer would send shockwaves through English football, the complexities surrounding it – from club rivalry to personal preferences – render it an intriguing yet improbable proposition. Big Ambitions, Bigger Obstacles Liverpool are not standing still. With six new signings already under Arne Slot, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, the reigning Premier League champions are building from a position of strength. Having toppled Manchester City last season, the Reds are looking to evolve their squad further, specifically in the number nine role. Newcastle's Alexander Isak is clearly the first-choice target. As The Daily Mail states, 'Liverpool have made an approach for Newcastle United star Alexander Isak in a £120million deal.' However, the Merseyside club are not putting all their trust in one pursuit. Sporting director Richard Hughes and Slot are reportedly assessing multiple forwards, casting a wide net in preparation for summer negotiations. Photo IMAGO Advertisement Rashford's Curious Situation One of the most unexpected names on Liverpool's shortlist is that of Marcus Rashford. Still just 27 and entering the peak of his career, Rashford's situation at Old Trafford has soured. According to The Daily Mail, 'Rashford is one of the forwards that Liverpool have on their list should they be unable to sign Isak from Newcastle.' Photo IMAGO Adding further intrigue, The Athletic have disclosed that the £325,000-a-week forward has been described as a 'shock Premier League name' at Anfield. This isn't merely idle gossip. While Liverpool remain cautious, the idea of Rashford leading the line under Arne Slot, with service from players like Wirtz and Frimpong, paints a mouthwatering image on Merseyside. Advertisement However, complications abound. Not only are Manchester United unlikely to sell to their fiercest rivals, but TEAMtalk reports that 'Rashford's dream is to play for Barcelona.' After a failed January switch due to financial restrictions, the Catalan giants remain in contact with the England international. He spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Aston Villa, suggesting that both club and player are ready for a fresh start. Alternatives to Isak and Rashford Liverpool's striker search extends beyond just Isak and Rashford. The club is reportedly monitoring Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt, Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa and Brentford's Yoane Wissa. Napoli's Victor Osimhen and Real Madrid's Rodrygo have also been listed among the potential options. This wide-ranging list indicates a careful strategy: Liverpool want quality but are not going to be held hostage by negotiation games. They aim to secure a forward who suits Slot's dynamic style without overpaying or compromising the squad's harmony. Advertisement Man Utd's Dilemma Meanwhile, the situation at Old Trafford grows increasingly unstable. New manager Ruben Amorim faces a massive rebuild after United's dismal 15th-place finish last season. Only Matheus Cunha, of their three new summer signings, is expected to feature in Amorim's regular XI. With Rashford seemingly out of favour, and his wages a burden, United may be forced to consider all options. But a sale to Liverpool? That would require seismic shifts behind the scenes. As one insider put it, 'The report has revealed that the £325,000-a-week (The Athletic) Man Utd forward's name has been 'floated as an idea' at Liverpool, adding that he is a 'shock Premier League name'.' Advertisement Our View – EPL Index Analysis 'Marcus Rashford to Liverpool?' That's the kind of rumour that makes fans spit out their morning brew. For many Reds, the idea of a United player donning the Liverbird is nothing short of unthinkable, even if the name is as big as Rashford's. The rivalry aside, there's undeniable quality in the England international. His pace, directness and experience at the highest level would make him a serious threat under Arne Slot. But there are serious doubts. Firstly, £325,000-a-week is steep for someone who didn't start regularly at United last term and had to find form at Aston Villa. Then there's the question of intent. If Rashford really has his heart set on Barcelona, is he the kind of player who'll give 100% at Anfield? Fans want players who live and breathe Liverpool, not those who see the club as a stepping stone or compromise. Advertisement Still, if Isak proves unattainable and the club believe Rashford fits Slot's system, it would be fascinating to see how the move plays out. Football has a way of surprising even the most seasoned observers. But for now, scepticism reigns.
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Panenka LFC: Liverpool keep or sell ahead of 2025/26 season
Liverpool's Summer Shake-Up: Who to Keep or Sell? As pre-season drags on and competitive football feels miles away, the crew at Panenka LFC decided to do what every fan secretly loves — go through the Liverpool squad and ask that brutal but necessary question: keep or sell? The latest podcast sees the contributors break down the Reds' roster position by position, providing a fascinating glimpse into how Arne Slot might shape his squad heading into the 2025/26 campaign. Goalkeeping Business Already Done The goalkeeping department seems settled. As the hosts put it, 'Alisson remains our clear number one. No questions there.' With Caoimhín Kelleher leaving for Brentford in a deal 'worth up to 18 million pounds,' Liverpool responded swiftly. The signing of Mamardashvili as the new backup, along with Freddy Woodman and Armin Pecsi as depth options, means 'the goalkeeping business looks wrapped up for the summer.' Advertisement Right Back Reboot Trent Alexander-Arnold's departure has opened the door for a new era on the right flank. 'With Jeremy Frimpong joining the squad, the question is where does that leave Conor Bradley?' Panenka LFC had no doubts: 'He's a definite keep. He's technically sound, solid defensively, and most importantly, he's homegrown.' But not everyone is on solid ground. Calvin Ramsay's Liverpool career remains on pause. 'He came in back in 2022… but two years and several injuries later, he's barely made any appearances.' The solution? 'Let's loan him for a season and hope he stays fit.' Robertson or Tsimikas: Only One Can Stay Over on the left, Milos Kerkez is 'likely set to become our new starting left back.' That forces a tough decision between Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas. 'We can't afford to sell both,' the show said bluntly, leaving the final call to fans in the comments. But they added knowingly, 'We think we already know what the answer will be.' Advertisement Centre-Back Choices and the Joe Gomez Dilemma With Jarell Quansah off to Germany and a potential deal for Marc Guéhi on the table, Liverpool could soon have 'Van Dijk, Konaté and Guéhi as our top three choices.' Joe Gomez's future is less clear. 'Gomez is now 28… and no longer the rising star we once saw.' Still, Panenka LFC believe he stays, at least for now: 'Selling him now would leave us short… he's a reliable piece of depth.' Curtis Stays, Harvey's Future in Doubt The midfield debate centred on youth. Curtis Jones is described as a player who 'fits into Slot's system… physical, versatile… one of our own.' The host confidently predicts, 'Curtis is set for an even bigger role in the 2025 to 26 season.' Advertisement On Harvey Elliott, the tone shifted. 'He's technically gifted… but where does he actually fit?' With intense competition and minimal minutes, the pod suggests a possible loan or sale: 'If a club puts in a bid around 30 million or more, Liverpool might seriously consider it.' Darwin and Chiesa Out? Up front, the spotlight was firmly on Darwin Núñez. Despite his raw attributes, the panel didn't pull punches: 'He ended the league campaign with just seven goals… Darwin will probably be sold. And honestly, we agree with that move.' Federico Chiesa's time at Anfield looks even shorter. 'It just hasn't clicked,' the host conceded, calling his likely exit a case where 'sometimes transfers just don't work out.' Advertisement Ben Doak: Keep, but Loan Lastly, they discussed teenage sensation Ben Doak, who 'lit up the right wing with his direct running and fearless attitude.' Still, game time may be limited. 'A Premier League loan where he can start 20 or more games would massively speed up his development,' they said — but added, emphatically, 'under no circumstances should we sell him permanently.' Panenka LFC's keep or sell rundown offers a grounded, fan-centred evaluation of a squad preparing for another title charge under Arne Slot. With opinions flying in the comments, the message is clear: 'We want to hear from you now. Who would you sell? Who absolutely has to stay?'
