Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Aleix Garcia didn't fall short of words while praising Barcelona duo and Spanish national team-mates Lamine Yamal and Pedri. While Garcia admitted that he "enjoy watching him", he hailed Pedri as the nucleus of the reigning La Liga champions, explaining what makes the former Las Palmas sensation such an effective and reliable footballer.
Barcelona back among Europe's best
Hansi Flick's debut season saw Barcelona win La Liga, Copa del Rey and the Supercopa de Espana, while coming agonisingly close to reaching the Champions League final. Barca, as such, marked their return to Europe's creme de la creme. A memorable 2024-25 season, however, was preceded by years of mediocrity, with the Catalans struggling to stay the same force to be reckoned with both domestically and in Europe.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesPedri and Lamine Yamal: Barcelona's boy wonders
Barcelona's resurgence can be credited to many players, but Pedri and Yamal have been perhaps the two most central figures in the starting XI. The midfield maestro has left many in awe with his unparalleled impact in the middle of the pitch, which saw him earn Ballon d'Or shouts.
Meanwhile, Yamal was the chief instigator of chaos in the final third with his mazy dribbles, eagle-eyed vision, and sniper-like precision in front of goal. The 18-year-old finished second only to Ousmane Dembele in this year's Ballon d'Or rankings, a testament to the teenager's limitless potential.
Aleix Garcia picks Pedri as Barca's real difference maker
Speaking to Leverkusen midfielder Garcia shared his thoughts on Spanish national team-mates Pedri and Yamal and was lavish in his praise for the duo.
"For me, Pedri is the key: he gives meaning to the game, accelerates or slows down when necessary, and improves his teammates," the former Girona star explained when asked what makes Pedri so decisive. "He is at an incredible level and makes Barca flow. Then, the tactical work of the coaching staff enhances that, but Pedri makes the difference," he added.
Yamal has had the world at his feet at such a young age. When asked how can one manage the "boom" of a teenage footballer attaining superstardom, Garcia stated: "In addition to his abilities, I'm impressed by how he handles the pressure. He's under the microscope, but when he steps onto the pitch, he forgets everything and performs. I enjoy watching him with the national team: he's incredible. We have to take care of him and take it slow, but every game shows that we can demand a lot from him because he's so good."
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Getty Images SportReal Oviedo challenge awaits Barcelona
The Catalan side have lost their previous two games heading into this week's away match against Real Oviedo. With Yamal out injured, the onus will be on the likes of Raphinha, Marcus Rashford, and Ferran Torres to help Barca register their third win on the bounce and break the losing streak at the Carlos Tartiere Stadium on Thursday.
Arsenal were denied a penalty in their 2-1 win at Newcastle as Viktor Gyokeres was brought down by goalkeeper Nick Pope, with VAR controversially advising to overturn the on-field decision. Former referee Mark Halsey says the penalty should have stood, likening the decision to an infamous William Saliba incident last season. Fans are now questioning consistency in Premier League officiating.
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Arsenal denied penalty after surprise VAR call
In the 14th minute at St James’ Park, Arsenal striker Gyokeres latched onto a slack back-pass and was taken down by goalkeeper Pope while through on goal. Referee Jarred Gillett initially awarded a penalty, but VAR intervened after replays suggested Pope touched the ball first before hauling the striker to the floor. The decision was overturned, with the spot kick denied despite protests from the Gunners.
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Former PL ref believes Arsenal should've had the penalty
Former Premier League referee Halsey argued the on-field penalty decision was correct. He explained in his piece with , "Gyokeres' penalty should not have been overturned. Newcastle goalkeeper Pope got a touch on the ball but he did not win the ball. The touch does not negate the award of a penalty. Why did VAR get involved? It was not a clear and obvious error from referee Jarred Gillett.
"The on-field decision should have stood. Gyokeres played it on to Pope, that is how he got the touch and then there is a late challenge and brings him down. How many times do you see a foul given for a player that wins the ball and follows through? The touch does not mean it is not a penalty. VAR should not have got involved."
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Ordeal likened with Salibs incident from last season
Halsey also highlighted the inconsistency in Premier League refereeing, adding, "We saw this last season at Brighton when William Saliba was adjudged to have committed a foul on Joao Pedro after he headed the ball. This situation is exactly the same – clear and obvious, the on-field decision should have stood."
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Arsenal managed to fight back for the win
Arsenal came out on top despite the controversial moment, as they put on a spectacular late comeback after Mikel Merino brought the Gunners level in the 84th minute before Gabriel Magalhaes scored the winner in the 96th minute of the game. However, fans and pundits alike will continue to scrutinise refereeing decisions, especially in tight matches against top-six rivals.
Tottenham Hotspur are once again navigating the transfer market with a sense of urgency after a summer of change.
The north London club, fresh off their first European trophy in over 40 years, are preparing for a Champions League campaign that promises both excitement and challenge.
However, their squad has been left short of creative midfield options following a series of departures and injuries.
The departure of Son Heung Min to LAFC marked the end of an era for Spurs, leaving a gap in attacking output that the club have been eager to fill.
Compounding this issue, James Maddison, who was expected to provide the creative spark in midfield, suffered a season-ending ACL injury in a pre-season match against Newcastle in South Korea.
Manager Thomas Frank now faces the dual challenge of maintaining Spurs’ attacking intensity while integrating new signings capable of thriving in the Premier League and on the European stage.
Spurs targeting top young talent
With Tottenham having invested heavily over the summer, including the £60m signing of Mohamed Kudus from West Ham and ongoing negotiations for Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, the club are clearly intent on ensuring their squad can compete on multiple fronts.
The urgency is amplified by Maddison’s absence, which has created a pressing need for a technically gifted midfielder who can operate in various attacking positions and inject creativity into the team’s play.
Spurs are reportedly willing to enter the market again before the transfer window closes, aiming to secure a player capable of bridging the gap left by Maddison.
In recent days, reports from TEAMtalk have linked Tottenham with a move for highly-rated young midfielder Harvey Elliott.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Described by former Liverpool striker Neil Mellor as a “special talent,” Spurs are ready to meet Liverpool’s valuation of around £40m for the 22-year-old, who has expressed enthusiasm about a move to north London following discussions with Thomas Frank.
The player’s profile has attracted interest from several clubs, with Crystal Palace reportedly viewing him as a potential replacement for Eze – should the Palace star depart for Spurs.
Harvey Elliott celebrates for Liverpool
German side RB Leipzig have also been monitoring the situation after Liverpool’s depth in midfield has limited the youngster’s regular game time.
How Harvey Elliott compares to James Maddison
Statistics from the previous season illustrate why Tottenham are pursuing this deal.
The player featured 18 times in the Premier League, scoring once and contributing two assists.
He also made a significant impact in the Champions League, scoring three goals in five appearances, including a decisive winner in a 1-0 victory over PSG at the Parc des Princes.
His performances on the international stage, particularly in England’s back-to-back U21 European Championship wins, further underscore his potential to develop into a central figure for both club and country.
Spurs’ willingness to meet Liverpool’s demands reflects their determination to secure a player who can immediately contribute at a high level, mitigating the absence of Maddison and ensuring their Champions League campaign begins with strength and creativity in midfield.
The pursuit of this young midfielder appears to be a strategic attempt to fill the creative void left by the former Leicester star.
James Maddison celebrates for Tottenham
While Maddison, now 28, brought experience, vision, and a proven goal contribution record to Spurs, the prospective signing offers a dynamic and progressive style of play, with a profile that aligns closely with modern Premier League demands.
Comparisons have been drawn between Elliott and other top young talents such as Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo at Barcelona, as well as Chelsea’s Cole Palmer.
His ability to operate on either flank, though most comfortable centrally, provides Frank with flexibility in attacking patterns and formation setups.
Elliott – Liverpool Stats (all comps)
Season
Apps
Goals
Assists
24/25
28
5
3
23/24
53
4
14
22/23
46
5
2
21/22
11
1
0
*20/21
1
0
1
19/20
8
0
1
Stats via Transfermarkt
Looking at the statistics, the differences between the two players are notable. The youngster averages 2.44 progressive carries per 90 compared to Maddison’s 2.24, and 10.7 progressive passes per 90 versus Maddison’s 8.16.
These metrics suggest a player capable of moving the ball forward effectively while actively involving teammates in attacking sequences.
His pass completion rate of 82.2% slightly edges Maddison’s 81.3%, while his progressive passing distance per 90 (247.8) is comparable to Maddison’s (250.1), indicating a similar ability to transition play from midfield to attacking positions.
Shot creation is another area where the young midfielder shows promise. With 4.48 shot-creating actions per 90, he is a consistent source of opportunities for his team, slightly higher than Maddison’s output.
Although still developing, his defensive contributions are also respectable, with interceptions and clearances per 90 ranking in the upper tiers for young Premier League midfielders.
What makes the player particularly appealing for Tottenham is his versatility.
He can function effectively in multiple attacking roles, whether on the flank or through the centre, offering Thomas Frank the tactical flexibility to adjust formations and strategies mid-game.
Liverpool's HarveyElliottcelebrates
Given Spurs’ current European ambitions, having a midfielder capable of performing in high-stakes matches against elite continental opponents is crucial.
Additionally, the young midfielder’s career trajectory shows a pattern of success at youth and senior levels, both domestically and internationally.
He has demonstrated an ability to perform in high-pressure scenarios, such as Champions League fixtures against top-tier teams and in international tournaments with England’s U21 squad.
This experience is invaluable for a Spurs squad balancing domestic and European competitions, particularly with a new manager implementing a system that requires both technical proficiency and tactical understanding.
While Maddison brought experience and a track record of goal involvement, the new signing offers a blend of creativity, energy, and adaptability that could complement Tottenham’s evolving squad.
With ongoing negotiations progressing, Spurs appear committed to finalising a deal that strengthens the squad, provides cover for injuries, and injects fresh attacking impetus to a side preparing to make a mark in both the Premier League and the Champions League this season.
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Sam Harper was fight hard for Victoria as they attempted to narrow the deficit on a surface taking turn
AAP02-Nov-2024Ben Manenti has masterminded a 4 for 7 collapse to spin South Australia into a strong position at the halfway stage of their Sheffield Shield match against Victoria at Adelaide Oval.The offspinner was the central figure behind the visitors’ 45-delivery collapse from 59 for 0 to 66 for 4 in the middle session, before wicketkeeper Sam Harper saved his side from embarrassment, joined in the middle late in the evening by Peter Siddle.Related
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Manenti had Jonathan Merlo caught at backward square leg by Lloyd Pope, before bowling Ashley Chandrasinghe, then taking a sharp catch at second slip to dismiss Campbell Kellaway. Manenti dismissed Peter Handscomb, squeezing a catch to Henry Hunt at short leg, and added Tom Rogers to his list, miscuing a pull shot to Pope at backward point.Victoria captain Will Sutherland feathered a catch to wicketkeeper Alex Carey, as did Mitchell Perry, Liam Scott striking immediately with the second new ball.Harper, who has looked in decent touch, remained the key scalp for SA.In the corresponding fixture last summer, Harper thumped nine sixes in an astonishing 151 off 109 balls to lead Victoria to a thrilling, low-scoring victory.”We’ve still got to get these last three wickets,” Manenti said after stumps on Saturday. “Harps is batting nicely and Sids has been around for years – he can obviously chip in as well.”Get these last three, then get to work with the bat and give ourselves a real good shot tomorrow afternoon or early day four to have a crack and put ourselves in a position to win it.”After resuming at 286 for 9 overnight, SA’s stubborn tail frustrated the Victorian attack on the second morning before their innings concluded when No.11 Pope, who scored a personal-best 17, edged Cameron McClure to Harper.Evergreen ex-Test quick Siddle, who turns 40 this month, was the pick of Victoria’s bowlers, capturing 3 for 57.
Naseem Shah’s opening salvo with the ball ensured Markhors came away with victory in the opening game of the Champions One-Day Cup against Shadab Khan’s Panthers.Panthers won the toss and inserted Mohammad Rizwan’s side in, with Kamran Ghulam’s 102-ball 115 setting the platform for the formidable 347 Markhors posted. Panthers were never really in the contest, with six of the top seven failing to reach double figures as Naseem’s 3-27 helped reduce them to 52 for 6. A late rearguard by Amad Butt, who managed a spirited 72, was much too little much too late, and the Markhors secured a 160-run win.The opening game of a tournament the PCB had set so much faith and investment in saw Faisalabad attract a decent crowd, which grew as the afternoon heat gave way to evening. Panthers had Markhors on a leash early on, prising Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Faizan out before they could really get going. Offspinner Mubasir Khan was the pick of the bowlers, getting rid of Zaman and Salman Ali Agha, but against most of the other bowlers, Markhors made hay.Shadab Khan was picked off in the middle overs and never returned to bowl, but fellow legspinner Usama Mir was smashed for 83 wicketless runs in his full quota. Amad Butt bore the brunt of a sizzling cameo from Abdul Samad; his 25-ball 62 helped Markhors add 83 runs in the final five overs, posting a total that appeared well above par.Naseem, aided by Shahnawaz Dahani, killed the game off before the chase ever took flight. A combined 5 wickets for 56 ripped through Panthers’ batting order, with Panthers briefly in danger of the heaviest defeat in Pakistan List A history. Amad combined with Mubasir and Usama for a pair of half-century partnerships, which staved off that prospect, but Panthers’ fate had long since been sealed.
Tottenham Hotspur’s long-awaited trophy finally came at the end of this season, but attention has quickly turned to the 2025/26 campaign, with work needing to be done to sustain the success.
Ange Postecoglou led the Lilywhites to a Europa League triumph, but it wasn’t enough to save his job in North London, as Daniel Levy relieved the Aussie of his duties.
He subsequently appointed Thomas Frank, handing the Dane the responsibility of building on the European victory and making the side a competitive Premier League outfit.
He will need to make a quick start to life at the club to prove the owner made the right decision in opting for a change, potentially coming under huge pressure should he fail to deliver.
However, if he is to be a success in the role, he will need backing within the current transfer window, handing him the platform for success during his first season at the helm.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Over the last couple of days, Lyon star Georges Mikautadze has emerged as a key target for Spurs, with the club expected to make an offer for the Georgian forward after their relegation to Ligue 2.
Rodrigo Muniz is another player on their radar this window, but will cost a pretty penny during the off-season, as Fulham are demanding £50m for the Brazilian forward.
However, if either of the players are to move to North London, they will need to be provided with opportunities in the final third, with Xavi Simons a player in their sights, according to GIVEMESPORT.
Their report claims that the RB Leipzig star is keen on a move to the Premier League this window, but the German outfit are demanding a fee in the region of £60m to part with their star man.
It also states that the Lilywhites have registered a keen interest in the 22-year-old, who managed to register 10 goals and seven assists in the Bundesliga this campaign, with contact already taking place as the north Londoners have been ‘updated on Simons’ situation by his representatives’.
Why Spurs’ £60m target would be a better signing than Eze
Over the last couple of years, Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been constantly on Spurs’ radar, but they’ve never been able to complete a deal for his signature.
Crystal Palace's EberechiEzecelebrates with the trophy after winning the FA Cup
This window remains no different, with Frank already targeting the England international and considering making a move to take the star to North London.
His stock is undoubtedly higher this time around, after netting the winner in the FA Cup final this campaign, securing the Eagles’ first major trophy against Manchester City at Wembley.
However, he does currently have a £68m release clause in his contract, but could face huge pressure to land his services, as North London rivals Arsenal have also entered the race.
As a result, the Lilywhites hierarchy should shift their attention to a move for Simons, with the Dutch international a better option for Frank’s outfit this window.
Xavi Simons celebrates
He would provide the side with a younger and cheaper option, but when comparing the pair’s respective figures from 2024/25, he’s also managed to outperform him in key areas – subsequently making him a higher-quality addition.
Simons, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by OptaJohan, has completed more of the passes he’s attempted, and posted more progressive passes per 90 – handing other attackers at the club the chance to bolster their own tallies.
How Xavi Simons compares to Eberechi Eze in 2024/25
Statistics (per 90)
Simons
Eze
Games played
25
34
Goals scored
10
8
Progressive carries
3.6
2.4
Progressive passes
5.9
3.3
Shot-on-target accuracy
46%
27%
Pass accuracy
79%
74%
Passes into final third
3.3
1.7
Carries into final third
3
1.6
Stats via FBref
The youngster has also starred with his ball-carrying, registering nearly two times more carries into the final third per 90, showcasing his desire to get forward at any given moment.
Given his age, price tag and difference in figures produced, a deal for Simons should be a no-brainer this window, offering Frank the elite-level talent he craves within the final third.
It would be an expensive addition for the hierarchy, but ultimately, it’s one that’s needed if the club are to reach the next level during the Dane’s tenure at the club.
There’s no denying that Eze is a hugely talented player, but it’s evident that there is a tendency for more expensive fees to be touted for English stars, subsequently making Simons the better option this window.
A better signing than Semenyo: Spurs leading race to land £25m sensation
Tottenham Hotspur appear to be making strides in a move to land a new talent for Thomas Frank.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers may have to deal with interest from other clubs in his top players yet again during the summer transfer window.
The Northern Irish head coach’s plans were disrupted around this time last year when Denmark international Matt O’Riley left to sign for Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League.
Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley.
There are now clubs reportedly interested in snapping up the club’s key players this year, as Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with an interest in Japan international Daizen Maeda.
Turkish giants Fenerbahce, managed by Jose Mourinho, are also reportedly interested in a deal to sign the winger from the Scottish giants this summer.
The Japanese forward produced 16 goals and ten assists in the Scottish Premiership in the 2024/25 campaign, and it would be a big blow for the Hoops to lose him to Spurs or Fenerbahce ahead of next season.
Celtic would have to go back into the market to bolster their options on the flanks, and Rodgers could be on the lookout for his next version of Scott Sinclair.
Why Scott Sinclair was a star for Brendan Rodgers
The English attacker played for the Northern Irish head coach at both Swansea and Celtic earlier in his career and caught the eye with his performances at the top end of the pitch.
Sinclair racked up 95 goals and 49 assists in 238 appearances for the manager at those two clubs combined, and no player, Luis Suarez and Jamie Vardy included, has scored more goals for Rodgers to date.
The former Great Britain Olympic star was particularly impressive for Celtic as a right-footed left winger who thrived as both a scorer and a creator of goals, cutting in from the left to provide a huge threat in front of goal.
Scott Sinclair’s Premiership career at Celtic
Season
Appearances
Goals
Assists
19/20
2
0
0
18/19
28
9
3
17/18
30
9
10
16/17
35
21
7
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, Sinclair enjoyed a hugely successful first season at Parkhead with a return of 28 goals and assists in 35 Premiership matches.
The winger signed for the club in the same summer that Rodgers made the move to Glasgow in 2016, as he joined from Premier League side Aston Villa for a reported fee of £3m.
That £3m transfer fee looks like a bargain in hindsight because he went on to deliver plenty of goals and assists for the Scottish giants as an impressive and exciting left-sided attacker for Rodgers.
He was a star for the Northern Irish head coach because he could provide consistent quality in the final third, and the Celtic boss could unearth his next version of Sinclair by signing one of the club’s current transfer targets.
Celtic identify winger as top target
According to Celts Are Here writer Mark Hendry, Celtic have identified Royal Antwerp winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha as a top target for the summer transfer window.
The reporter claims that the Belgian forward is a target for the club because Rodgers would like to bolster his options in the wide areas, which suggests that he could be signed irrespective of any exit for Maeda.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Hendry’s article adds that the club have monitored the 24-year-old for some time and that he remains ‘active’ on their shortlist, as they eye a deal for the wing wizard.
The journalist states that Royal Antwerp look set to cash in on the Pro League attacker this year to avoid losing him on a free transfer at the end of next season, as his current contract with the Belgian side is due to expire in the summer of 2026. His valuation, as per Transfermarkt, currently stands at £4.6m
Celtic could, therefore, take advantage of that situation to swoop in and agree a deal for the left-sided forward, who could be Sinclair 2.0 for Rodgers at Parkhead.
Why Balikwisha could be the next Sinclair
Like the English forward, who played for Bristol Rovers this season, Balikwisha is a right-footed forward who predominantly plays off the left flank, cutting in onto his favoured foot to make things happen in the final third.
This immediately suggests that they are stylistically similar and could, therefore, fulfill a similar tactical role within Rodgers’ system, whilst starting on the left wing in his favoured 4-3-3 set-up.
Balikwisha also has the quality to make a real impact in the final third. He returned from injury during the second half of the 2024/25 campaign to deliver four goals and seven ‘big chances’ created in just 12 Pro League starts.
The Hoops target has shown that he has the potential to be a Sinclair-esque figure on the left wing if put in the right environment, as he caught the eye in limited game time.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha (Pro League)
23/24
24/25
Starts
27
12
xG
6.46
2.65
Goals
7
4
Big chances created
6
7
Key passes per game
1.5
1.6
Assists
5
3
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, Balikwisha has consistently outperformed his xG in the Pro League since the start of the 2023/24 campaign, whilst regularly creating three chances every two games on average.
One scout, Emir, on X, claimed that the winger has the quality at the top end of the pitch to “wins games on his own”, which is backed up by the statistics above as he can score and assist goals at a good level in Belgium.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha for Royal Antwerp.
A move to Scotland to play in an incredibly dominant Celtic team could allow him to flourish, as Maeda did this season with his 26 goal involvements in the Premiership, and truly reach Sinclair’s level of goals and assists under Rodgers.
Balikwisha has also shown potential in Europe, with two goals in seven games in the Champions League in the 2023/24 campaign, which suggests that he could hit the ground running in the league phase of the competition next term for the Hoops.
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Celtic could unearth a surprise replacement for Jota by bringing this star back to Parkhead.
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Overall, the Royal Antwerp star could be an excellent signing for Celtic due to his age, his contract situation in Belgium, and the potential he has to be Sinclair 2.0 for Rodgers as an electric winger who can score and assist goals from the left flank.
Arsenal’s summer striker search is set to be one of the major topics for discussion in N5, with two big-names in Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko rumoured to be Andrea Berta’s top two targets.
Arsenal hold talks over signing Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko
Reports from reliable media sources indicate that this centre-forward duo feature the highest on Berta’s striker target list.
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They’ve now pulled out of the deal.
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Sesko is fresh off the back of a career-best Bundesliga campaign with Leipzig – bettering his 2023/2024 tally with 21 goals in all competitions – while Gyokeres has quite simply been unstoppable with 54 goals in total across 24/25.
19/20 – winter
£0
20/21 – summer
£81.5m
20/21 – winter
£900k
21/22 – summer
£156.8m
21/22 – winter
£1.8m
22/23 – summer
£121.5m
22/23 – winter
£59m
23/24 – summer
£208m
23/24 – winter
£0
24/25 – summer
£101.5m
24/25 – winter
£0
Berta has held extensive talks over a move for Gyokeres (Florian Plettenberg), but Arsenal have also since begun concrete negotiations for Sesko as well – leading to some confusion over who the club’s main target actually is.
Sky Germany’s Plettenberg reported last week that their focus is on both men, but either deal would prove to be “extremely expensive”, prompting Berta to consider the two options very carefully.
Either way, another reliable journalist in David Ornstein fully expects one of Gyokeres or Sesko to seal a switch to Arsenal last summer.
“They’ve got a decision to make between Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig and Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting Lisbon, both fantastic options and talents,” said Ornstein to NBC Sports.
“I do expect one of them to come into the Emirates Stadium this summer.”
BBC journalist shares update on Arsenal signing Sesko or Gyokeres
Responding to this burning question in a Q&A, about whether Arsenal are going to sign Sesko or Gyokeres, the BBC’s Sami Mokbel has shared “information” on Arsenal’s talks for the pair.
He says that Arsenal are attempting to confirm the “frameworks” when it comes to deals for Sesko or Gyokeres, before they make a final decision on who to go for.
“In terms of Gyokeres or Sesko – my information is that the club are working towards confirming the frameworks of both deals before making a final decision on which to proceed with,” said Mokbel.
“Sesko has near-universal backing at the Emirates but, crucially, will be the more expensive deal. Gyokeres’ chances of moving to Arsenal have increased since Andrea Berta’s appointment as sporting director. Price is key here. Sesko ticks many boxes in terms of profile, he is younger than Gyokeres and plays in a stronger league (the Bundesliga) according to recruitment data. But some of the reported figures indicate he could cost £93million.
“Gyokeres is more economical, but would see the club divert from their longer-term strategy given Sesko has always been a target.”
RB Leipzig's BenjaminSeskocelebrates
Sesko already rejected a move to Arsenal last summer, so he’s been a long-term target for Arteta, pre-dating Berta’s arrival as sporting director.
Given just how highly the Spaniard must rate him, splashing in around £93m for the 22-year-old would be a real show of backing to their manager by the Arsenal board.
Leeds United are interested in signing a “great” new player this summer and have already made contact, according to one Sky Sports reporter.
Leeds preparing for Oxford with Championship promotion a real possibility
The Whites have just four Championship fixtures remaining and are currently top of the table on goal difference ahead of Burnley.
More importantly, though, the gap to third place Sheffield United now sits at five points with the Blades losing their last three games against Oxford United, Millwall and Plymouth Argyle. Leeds still have to travel to both Oxford and Plymouth, with a clash with the former up next on Good Friday.
Leeds (88 pts)
Sheffield United (83 pts)
Burnley (88 pts)
Oxford United (a)
Cardiff City (h)
Watford (a)
Stoke City (h)
Burnley (a)
Sheffield United (h)
Bristol City (h)
Stoke City (a)
QPR (a)
Plymouth Argyle (a)
Blackburn Rovers (h)
Millwall (h)
A third win in a row for Daniel Farke’s side will see them need a maximum of four more points to guarantee promotion, with the manager looking for his side to be more ruthless in front of goal after the 2-1 win over Preston North End last time out.
“It feels pretty good after an exhausting week with three difficult games. It was a priceless three points for us. It was a really good performance and we could have made life easier by taking a few of our chances, it must have been one of our highest expected goals of the season. We should have scored six or seven.”
Leeds join race for "phenomenal" £45m striker who could be "next Harry Kane"
The Whites are set to battle it out for a forward, who has been praised for his finishing by England captain Harry Kane.
ByDominic Lund Apr 15, 2025
Joel Piroe is currently without a goal in his last eight Championship games, however, with Leeds close to promotion, transfer targets are being identified.
The club are unsure if Piroe and Patrick Bamford are Premier League quality, but someone who the Whites do like is a Germany international who plays in midfield.
Leeds in contact to sign Borussia Monchengladbach captain Weigl – Sky Sports
According to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, Leeds have made initial contact over a deal to sign Borussia Monchengladbach captain Julian Weigl.
Weigl earns a minimum of £50,000-a-week in Germany and has worked under Farke before, with the pair still having a “good relationship”.
The 29-year-old, who can play as a holding midfielder, central midfielder or even as a centre-back, would only move to Elland Road if Premier League football is on offer, Plettenberg adds.
Reports elsewhere from Sky Germany have said it would be an “expensive deal” for the Whites to sign Weigl, who Farke praised back in 2023.
“Julian is a great footballer and person. He could enrich many teams with his qualities.”
Now, it looks as if a reunion between the pair could be on the cards, making this one to keep an eye on.
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is drawing up his shortlist of potential summer targets and is now looking to beat rivals Rangers to the signature of a talented England youth international, per a report.
Celtic look to shape their squad ahead of next season
The Bhoys are closing in on the Scottish Premiership title and know that only a point is needed in their next league fixture against Dundee United to cement their achievement.
Of course, the opportunity to take another step towards winning a domestic treble is also firmly in sight as St Johnstone stand between Celtic and a place in the Scottish Cup final.
Nevertheless, individuals connected with the reigning champions are already looking ahead to the summer window. Next campaign will see the return of Champions League qualifiers, so expect plenty of business to be done early doors involving incomings and outgoings.
Celtic’s recent interest in Stoke City star Million Manhoef has made headlines, but his £10 million price-tag alongside competition from Sheffield United, Burnley, Genk and Club Brugge may throw up a couple of obstacles.
On the same token, the Bhoys’ search for attackers could lead to West Ham United striker Danny Ings. His £125,000 per week wages would likely need to drop significantly, though he is set to be a free agent once the window opens.
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Financially, Celtic find themselves in rude health and are expected to splash the cash once again, though there is always an eye for a bargain at Parkhead should circumstances align.
Tapping into that school of thought, the Hoops are now in a race with several competitors to bring in a Premier League starlet that could be on the move.
Celtic look to strike deal for Crystal Palace starlet Jesse Derry
According to Football Insider, Celtic want to sign Crystal Palace youngster Jesse Derry this summer following news that he has rejected the offer of a professional contract at Selhurst Park.
Rangers are also in the hunt for the England youth international, while Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus have all scouted the 17-year-old across the last few months.
Jesse Derry’s impressive 2024/25 campaign – all competitions
Appearances
20
Goals
9
Assists
2
Predominantly a winger, Derry is capable of playing on either flank, through the middle or as the creative foil for the main striker, illustrating his versatility which has been praised by analyst Ben Mattinson.
Available for a minimal compensation fee, he is said to be open to a move abroad after coming through the ranks at Crystal Palace, who now appear powerless in their attempts to retain the starlet.
Celtic have an excellent record when it comes to cherrypicking developing talent on the market, but it remains to be seen whether Derry would be offered first-team opportunities in the event he ends up at Parkhead.
Either way, supporters can take encouragement from the fact that movement seems to be taking place behind the scenes ahead of the summer window.