Latest news with #EPLIndex
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Arsenal in talks for teenage talent with Fabregas comparisons
Arsenal Pursue Karetsas Deal as Focus Turns to Future-proofing Midfield Genk starlet emerges as major summer target In a move that blends audacity with foresight, Arsenal are reportedly in advanced talks to sign 17-year-old Konstantinos Karetsas from Genk, in a deal that could be worth up to €45 million. The Athenian-Macedonian news agency reports that the Gunners aim to finalise a deal this summer but allow the Greek teenager to stay on loan at Genk for the 2025/26 season. Photo IMAGO It is a strategy that speaks to Arsenal's wider recalibration: youth, sustainability, and calculated aggression in the market. A generation ago, this might have looked like a gamble. Now, it is Arsenal's default setting. Karetsas drawing continental attention The midfielder's stock has surged rapidly, driven by composed displays in the Jupiler Pro League and a standout performance in Greece's 3-0 win over Scotland earlier this year. Comparisons to a young Cesc Fabregas are not handed out lightly, but they reflect Karetsas' control, vision and game intelligence. Photo IMAGO Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta is central to the negotiations, with his relationship with Karetsas' agent, who also facilitated Albert Sambi Lokonga's transfer, smoothing the process. Historic price tag expected Should the reported deal be completed, Karetsas would become the most expensive Greek player in history, eclipsing the €36 million Napoli paid for Kostas Manolas in 2019. Arsenal are keen to seal the transfer early to ward off interest from Chelsea, Bayern Munich and PSG, all of whom are monitoring the player. Photo IMAGO The plan is not to fast-track Karetsas to the Emirates but to let him mature in Belgium. First-team football, week in and week out, is deemed crucial before unleashing his potential in North London by 2026. Long-term vision meets short-term needs While the pursuit of Karetsas represents Arsenal's eye for tomorrow, they are also navigating the present. Talks are ongoing with RB Leipzig over striker Benjamin Sesko, who netted 21 goals last season. Sporting director Berta is also in dialogue with Thomas Partey about a potential one-year contract extension, though Barcelona and Saudi clubs remain interested. Advertisement In this moment, Arsenal are plotting parallel paths: building a title-contending squad for now, and constructing the foundation for the future. Our View – EPL Index Analysis Konstantinos Karetsas may not be a household name yet, but neither was Fabregas at 17, and the comparison isn't just flattery. His calmness in midfield, ability to read the game and dictate tempo already sets him apart from many seasoned pros. What's even more encouraging for the supporters is that the club are not rushing this. Letting him develop at Genk shows trust in the process and a clear long-term vision. Arsenal are no longer scrambling for short-term fixes. They're identifying elite potential early, something the best-run clubs have done for years. Advertisement And it's not happening in isolation. With Sesko negotiations ongoing and Partey's situation being managed with care, there's a sense of joined-up thinking behind the scenes. Berta's influence is already being felt — smart, strategic, and forward-thinking. If Karetsas does arrive, he won't just be the most expensive Greek footballer ever. He could very well be a cornerstone of Arsenal's next great side. The future looks not just bright — it looks planned.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Arsenal in talks for teenage talent with Fabregas comparisons
Arsenal Pursue Karetsas Deal as Focus Turns to Future-proofing Midfield Genk starlet emerges as major summer target In a move that blends audacity with foresight, Arsenal are reportedly in advanced talks to sign 17-year-old Konstantinos Karetsas from Genk, in a deal that could be worth up to €45 million. The Athenian-Macedonian news agency reports that the Gunners aim to finalise a deal this summer but allow the Greek teenager to stay on loan at Genk for the 2025/26 season. Photo IMAGO It is a strategy that speaks to Arsenal's wider recalibration: youth, sustainability, and calculated aggression in the market. A generation ago, this might have looked like a gamble. Now, it is Arsenal's default setting. Karetsas drawing continental attention The midfielder's stock has surged rapidly, driven by composed displays in the Jupiler Pro League and a standout performance in Greece's 3-0 win over Scotland earlier this year. Comparisons to a young Cesc Fabregas are not handed out lightly, but they reflect Karetsas' control, vision and game intelligence. Photo IMAGO Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta is central to the negotiations, with his relationship with Karetsas' agent, who also facilitated Albert Sambi Lokonga's transfer, smoothing the process. Historic price tag expected Should the reported deal be completed, Karetsas would become the most expensive Greek player in history, eclipsing the €36 million Napoli paid for Kostas Manolas in 2019. Arsenal are keen to seal the transfer early to ward off interest from Chelsea, Bayern Munich and PSG, all of whom are monitoring the player. Photo IMAGO The plan is not to fast-track Karetsas to the Emirates but to let him mature in Belgium. First-team football, week in and week out, is deemed crucial before unleashing his potential in North London by 2026. Long-term vision meets short-term needs While the pursuit of Karetsas represents Arsenal's eye for tomorrow, they are also navigating the present. Talks are ongoing with RB Leipzig over striker Benjamin Sesko, who netted 21 goals last season. Sporting director Berta is also in dialogue with Thomas Partey about a potential one-year contract extension, though Barcelona and Saudi clubs remain interested. Advertisement In this moment, Arsenal are plotting parallel paths: building a title-contending squad for now, and constructing the foundation for the future. Our View – EPL Index Analysis Konstantinos Karetsas may not be a household name yet, but neither was Fabregas at 17, and the comparison isn't just flattery. His calmness in midfield, ability to read the game and dictate tempo already sets him apart from many seasoned pros. What's even more encouraging for the supporters is that the club are not rushing this. Letting him develop at Genk shows trust in the process and a clear long-term vision. Arsenal are no longer scrambling for short-term fixes. They're identifying elite potential early, something the best-run clubs have done for years. Advertisement And it's not happening in isolation. With Sesko negotiations ongoing and Partey's situation being managed with care, there's a sense of joined-up thinking behind the scenes. Berta's influence is already being felt — smart, strategic, and forward-thinking. If Karetsas does arrive, he won't just be the most expensive Greek footballer ever. He could very well be a cornerstone of Arsenal's next great side. The future looks not just bright — it looks planned.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Everton want Liverpool prospect after standout Boro stint
Everton eye Liverpool winger as part of summer rebuild Everton express interest in promising Liverpool talent As reported by Sky Sports News' Lyall Thomas, Everton are exploring a move for Liverpool winger Ben Doak following his standout loan spell at Middlesbrough. The 19-year-old has drawn interest from several Premier League clubs, including Ipswich and Crystal Palace, but Liverpool rejected those approaches in January. Photo IMAGO Doak's trajectory has been closely monitored, with Liverpool keen to assess his readiness during pre-season under new manager Arne Slot. The Dutchman is tasked with shaping the next generation, yet Everton sense an opportunity. Youthful energy needed at Goodison Park With Everton in need of pace and creativity out wide, a move for Doak aligns with their strategy of blending experienced heads with youthful promise. His Championship stint showcased his direct style and willingness to take on defenders, qualities sorely lacking in the current Everton squad. Loan success raises stock At Middlesbrough, Doak demonstrated maturity beyond his years, frequently impressing with his work rate and positional intelligence. It's no surprise he's now attracting top-flight suitors. Everton's interest reflects a shift towards smarter recruitment under the constraints of PSR regulations. Photo IMAGO Liverpool face decision on long-term plans Whether Liverpool opt to keep Doak as part of their first-team rotation under Slot or cash in will depend heavily on his summer showing. A permanent move to Goodison Park could offer guaranteed playing time, but the Reds may see him as too valuable to let go at this stage. Our View – EPL Index Analysis This rumour carries mixed emotions for Everton supporters. On one hand, Doak is clearly a player with enormous upside – direct, fearless and with top-level experience via Liverpool's academy and his time at Middlesbrough. But on the other, is this really the kind of signing Everton need right now? Advertisement With financial pressures dictating the club's every move and an ageing squad crying out for proven Premier League performers, gambling on potential might not be enough. Doak could be a masterstroke, or he could be another name lost in the churn of failed Goodison rebuilds. There's also the nagging concern that Liverpool might only entertain a deal if they've already decided he won't make the cut under Slot. That's not always a red flag, but it does make you wonder. If he's really good enough for Liverpool's first team, why would they sell to their neighbours? Still, if the price is right and the intent is clear, bringing in young, hungry talent like Doak could be a small but smart step in the right direction.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Man United ready to pay £92.5m for Premier League duo this summer
Manchester United's Summer Shift: Delap, Cunha and the Rebuild in Motion Delap Decision Could Shape United's Summer Strategy Manchester United's transfer window is taking shape with intent and urgency. ESPN reports that the club have agreed the framework of a £30 million deal for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap. All that remains is the player's green light. The 22-year-old scored 12 Premier League goals for a relegated Ipswich side, a stat that quietly speaks to his potential amid adversity. United have informed Ipswich they will activate Delap's release clause should he decide on Old Trafford. Photo IMAGO 'The outline of personal terms have also been agreed with Delap's representatives and the transfer could move quickly once the 22-year-old makes a decision on his future.' Advertisement This isn't a lone pursuit either. Chelsea are also monitoring the former Manchester City academy product. Delap joined Ipswich in a £20 million deal just last summer, but United clearly see the striker as an immediate piece in their attacking puzzle. Cunha Close to Completion The other pressing move is Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, with United signalling their willingness to meet a hefty £62.5 million release clause. Cunha, dynamic and sharp, is expected to sign a five-year deal. The Brazilian offers a different profile to Delap – more fluid and creative in transition. Photo: IMAGO 'United have indicated they will meet the £62.5m release clause in the Brazilian's contract at Molineux and he's set to sign a five-year deal.' Changing Faces at Old Trafford Behind the arrivals, exits are mounting. Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelöf and Jonny Evans have been confirmed as the first summer departures. United are also actively seeking to move on Jadon Sancho, Anthony and Marcus Rashford. Advertisement Rashford's story is particularly poignant. Once the face of the rebuild, the England forward is now reportedly available for £40m, following a difficult spell and a brief loan to Aston Villa. 'Rashford is available for a fee of £40m after his loan spell at Aston Villa came to an end. The England forward is keen to move to Barcelona if the newly-crowned La Liga champions firm up tentative interest expressed in the January window.' Targets Across the Premier League United's interest in Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo and Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze reinforces their desire to refresh with Premier League-ready talent. These are bold, statement names and the pattern is clear – younger, aggressive, dynamic. Advertisement 'United are also interested in Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo and Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze.' This is no slow evolution. This is Amorim – or the decision-makers around him – attempting a sharp tactical reshuffle. The pressure now is not just to buy, but to build. Our View – EPL Index This is what we've been crying out for – urgency, decisiveness and ambition in the market. Liam Delap might not be a marquee name yet, but 12 goals in a side that finished 20th shows grit. It screams potential. If Erik ten Hag, or whoever is driving this, can nurture that, we may finally be watching a new forward line grow together. Advertisement Matheus Cunha? Love that one. He's tricky, confident on the ball and can play across the front. He might be the piece that lets Bruno and Garnacho breathe creatively. And if we get Eze or Mbeumo as well? That's a team that moves, presses and excites. Letting Rashford go would hurt emotionally, but if he wants out, then fair enough. What we can't do is hold back this rebuild to accommodate sentimental stories. This isn't about individual moments anymore, it's about winning again. And if these moves come off, United could be dangerous next season. Finally.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Arsenal ‘in talks' to sign £50million forward
Arsenal Push Ahead in Nico Williams Race as Arteta Makes Direct Contact Arteta takes personal approach in pursuit of winger Arsenal are intensifying their pursuit of Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, with manager Mikel Arteta reportedly holding direct talks with the Spain international as the Gunners look to fend off interest from Real Madrid and Chelsea. Photo: IMAGO According to Caught Offside, Arteta has taken a hands-on approach, personally outlining his project to Williams in an effort to convince the 22-year-old that north London is the right destination for the next phase of his career. Advertisement The winger, who has a £50 million release clause, has also been the subject of admiration from Madrid and Chelsea. Yet Arsenal believe their early groundwork — led by Sporting Director Andrea Berta — has placed them in a strong negotiating position. Williams fits strategic recruitment model Williams is seen as a player who not only fits Arteta's tactical profile but also represents Arsenal's long-term transfer vision. With 11 goals and seven assists in 44 appearances this season, his pace, versatility and technical quality have made him one of Europe's standout wide players. Photo IMAGO Former Madrid boss Jose Mourinho called Williams 'unique' and 'wonderful' in December 2024 — a view that reflects his rising stock across elite clubs. His Copa del Rey triumph with Athletic and success with Spain at Euro 2024 only strengthen his credentials. Photo: IMAGO Competition heats up but Arsenal remain confident Madrid's long-standing interest and Chelsea's financial clout mean the deal is far from done. However, Arsenal are quietly confident that their manager-led pitch, Champions League football, and an increasingly attractive project under Arteta will make the difference. Project appeal could seal the deal Arteta's personal involvement underlines just how pivotal this signing could be. The club views Williams not simply as a statement acquisition but as a central figure in their push to return to title contention next season. Our View – EPL Index Analysis Nico Williams isn't just another name on a transfer list — he's a proven talent with European pedigree, and at 22, he fits the mould of what Arsenal are trying to build: young, hungry, technically gifted players with room to grow into superstars. Advertisement The idea that Arteta is personally pitching the club to Williams is exciting for Arsenal fans and speaks volumes about how much they value him. In past years, Arsenal might have watched Madrid or Chelsea swoop in with bigger promises and deeper pockets, but this is a different era. This is a club that knows what it wants and is willing to go all in to get it. There's also something poetic about trying to lure a Copa del Rey and Euro winner to the Emirates. It signals Arsenal's intent to compete with Europe's elite again, not just participate. If Arsenal can beat Madrid to Williams, it would send a powerful message — not only to fans, but to future targets too.
