Chelsea are considering a move for an overseas defender, with a reliable journalist suggesting that this could be a situation to keep a close eye on ahead of January.
Chelsea's current defenders
The Blues have seven centre-backs in the building as it stands in the form of Levi Colwill, Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, Malang Sarr, Thiago Silva and Trevoh Chalobah, but there’s a strong chance that the latter two could be set to leave next year.
Brazilian side Fluminense reportedly hold an interest in Silva and are ready to offer him a return to his homeland, whilst Chalobah has fallen significantly out of favour having made zero appearances so far this season, not only in the Premier League but also across all competitions (WhoScored – Chalobah statistics).
Therefore, Mauricio Pochettino may have to enter the market to find a suitable replacement should one or both of the pair depart and he has identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba as a potential candidate, despite him only recently signing a new long-term deal which doesn’t expire until 2028 (Bayer Leverkusen contracts).
Chelsea keen on deal for Edmond Tapsoba
Writing in his Daily Briefing for CaughtOffside, Fabrizio Romano claimed that Chelsea are eyeing a move for Edmond Tapsoba, while also sharing news on Chalobah and a possible replacement.
"I can say that Chelsea are also looking into a new centre-back signing for 2024. It’s because the decision of the club – which is now 100 percent confirmed – is to sell Trevoh Chalobah in the January transfer window.
"He would love to stay at Chelsea, he wants to play more, but there is no space for him and he doesn’t want to be stuck on the bench. Now he’s injured of course, but Chalobah’s future is elsewhere.
"Chelsea will look at the opportunities in the January transfer window, then it depends if they find the right player at the right price.
"One more player to watch is Edmond Tapsoba, he’s having a fantastic campaign with Bayer Leverkusen. He did extend his contract there in September, but there is a possibility for him to leave in 2024 with a big proposal."
Bayer Leverkusen defenderEdmond Tapsoba.
Standing at 6 foot 4, Tapsoba provides an excellent physical presence at the heart of Bayer Leverkusen’s backline which he’s proven by averaging 2.6 clearances and 2.1 aerial wins per game this season in the Bundesliga (WhoScored – Tapsoba statistics).
The Burkina Faso international, who is 24 years of age, is also extremely calm and composed in possession having recorded a 92.6% pass success rate, with his consistently solid displays having previously seen him dubbed a defensive “rock” by talent scout Jacek Kulig.
Champions League Participant
2022/23
Europa League Participant
2019/20, 2020/21 & 2021/22
Africa Cup Participant
2022
German Cup Runner-Up
2019/20 (Data via Transfermarkt)
Furthermore, Tapsoba is capable of making a positive impact at the opposite end of the pitch having posted 26 contributions, 22 goals and four assists, since the start of his career (Transfermarkt – Tapsoba statistics), with his set-piece threat likely to be another attractive attribute to Pochettino.
Chelsea have not always had the best success in the transfer window, as demonstrated by their tendency to acquire big-money flops as opposed to players who have gone on to achieve greatness in their careers.
The Blues have been busy hoovering up talent in the market since Todd Boehly acquired the club in May 2022, shelling out over £1bn on new players without having the success to show for it.
His transfer dealings and multiple managerial appointments have not achieved the goals he’s set out so far with Chelsea vastly underperforming expectations considering the ludicrous amount of money spent.
Despite hiring a world-class manager in Mauricio Pochettino, the Argentine has been unable to turn the tide and while he’s led the club to a Carabao Cup quarter-final, his side is currently languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table.
Pochettino’s case hasn’t been helped by the poor hand he’s been dealt, suffering serious injuries to several star players, including big-money summer signings Romeo Lavia and Christopher Nkunku.
Aside from having an over-flowing injury table, the Blues can be disappointed with how the majority of their summer acquisitions have performed.
For instance, striker Nicolas Jackson has only scored twice in the league for the club since making a £31.8m move from Villarreal.
To make matters worse, Chelsea were looking at potentially capturing Julian Alvarez from Manchester City just a few months prior, and the Argentine would have been a huge upgrade on the 22-year-old.
How close Chelsea came to signing Julian Alvarez
Reports from Spain claimed in April that Chelsea and Real Madrid were interested in battling it out for the signature of Alvarez in the summer.
The 23-year-old, who played understudy to the irrepressible Erling Haaland for the majority of last season, was concerned about his limited game time, which opened up the possibility of him departing Manchester.
The report claimed that several top clubs across Europe were alerted about his situation, but it was the Blues who were the most keen on prising him to Stamford Bridge, as they felt the Argentine would have helped revive their fortunes in front of goal.
According to Transfermarkt, Alvarez had a value of £50m at the time and after Chelsea chose not to take their interest any further – and instead signed Jackson in the summer – the former River Plate hitman has seen his value skyrocket to a whopping £130m (€150m), as per Football Transfers, following his exceptional start to the season.
Julian Alvarez's Manchester City statistics
Manchester City acquired Alvarez from Argentinian outfit River Plate for around £14m in January 2022, with the player remaining in his homeland on loan until the summer.
While his arrival was somewhat overshadowed by the phenomenal acquisition of Haaland from Borussia Dortmund, the forward still enjoyed an impressive maiden campaign, scoring 17 goals and supplying five assists from 49 matches across all competitions, starting only 23 of those.
The 23-year-old has since made some huge strides in this campaign that warrant the staggering £130m price tag attached to his head, posting an exceptional seven goals and five assists in 16 appearances.
Where last season City’s Norwegian machine stole the plaudits for his jaw-dropping goal-scoring exploits, this time around, Alvarez is no longer playing understudy and has forged his own identity in Pep Guardiola’s system, with commentator Ally McCoist labelling him as “superb”.
Through his explosive pressing, clever movement into space and ability to craft his own opportunities, the 5 foot 7 metronome has become one of the most dangerous forwards on the planet and those waxing lyrical about his talents have been proven correct.
Man City are a chance-creating machine, possessing a world-class supply line to feed the Argentine, with Alvarez feasting on that quality, ranking in the top 1% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues in the past year for non-penalty goals, top 6% for shots and top 16% for touches in the attacking penalty box, as per FBref.
On the back of his performances this term, Guardiola has labelled him as “almost undroppable” – and that is high praise from someone known for tinkering with his team.
Julian Alvarez's Ballon d'Or ranking
The most prestigious individual accolade anyone can win in world football is the Ballon d’Or as whoever claims this trophy is crowned the best footballer of the past year.
On Monday, the latest ceremony took place, and it was no surprise to see Lionel Messi crowned with his eighth Ballon d’Or trophy following his World Cup heroics with Argentina.
Whilst he didn’t win it, his fellow World Cup-winning compatriot, Alvarez, was recognised for his outstanding performances by placing in seventh position out of the 30 shortlisted candidates for the trophy.
He beat the likes of Harry Kane (19th), Mohamed Salah (11th) as well as City teammates, Ruben Dias (30th), Josko Gvardiol (25th) and Bernardo Silva (9th), while Rodri (5th), Kevin De Bruyne (4th) and Erling Haaland (2nd) finished ahead of him.
#10 Luka Modric
Real Madrid
#9 Bernardo Silva
Manchester City
#8 Victor Osimhen
Napoli
#7 Julian Alvarez
Manchester City
#6 Vinicius Jr
Real Madrid
#5 Rodri
Manchester City
#4 Kevin De Bruyne
Manchester City
#3 Kylian Mbappe
PSG
#2 Erling Haaland
Manchester City
#1 Lionel Messi
Inter Miami
Alvarez can be content with finishing as the most-decorated footballer on the planet for the 2022/23 campaign, having claimed the biggest prize international football has to offer and scooped the treble with Man City.
By contrast, the striker that the Blues ended up with, Jackson, has struggled since making the switch from Spain this summer.
Nicolas Jackson Chelsea statistics
Jackson arrived as a highly-rated striker from Villarreal and was expected to inject the art of goalscoring back to Stamford Bridge, having seen their fortunes dry up in front of goal.
For instance, Kai Havertz finished as the club’s top scorer with seven in the Premier League last term as the Blues slipped to a disappointing 12th-place finish, and the German was sold to Arsenal this summer.
The 22-year-old didn’t have big shoes to fill in that regard but he has flattered to deceive when put through on goal, failing to eject the confidence that an Alvarez would, and has instead been incredibly wasteful.
While he’s still acclimatising to life on English shores, his numbers so far this season make for very grim reading.
With only three goals scored in all competitions, the Senegal international has demonstrated that wastefulness by missing seven big chances in the top flight, recording an xG of 2.23 and a measly goal conversion of 8%, as per Sofascore.
It is normal for any foreign player to need a season to acclimatise and Chelsea will hope that is the case with Jackson before he eventually starts firing them in.
However, on the evidence of Alvarez’s rapid rise to stardom, they should have done everything in their power to prise him to Stamford Bridge this summer.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp will undoubtedly look to the market to strengthen his side in January and reports have emerged indicating the German and owners FSG are in pole position to sign a new target.
Liverpool's successful rebuild…
Back in the summer, the general consensus in and around Anfield was that a squad rebuild would be necessary if the Reds were to realise their ambitions of being able to compete with the likes of Manchester City at the top end of English football.
Big changes occurred during the last window, with the likes of experienced heads Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, James Milner and Roberto Firmino among others leaving the club to make way for new arrivals. Freshening up his engine room, Klopp moved to acquire Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo, which looks to have worked a treat on Merseyside, with Liverpool sitting second in the Premier League standings with 27 points from their first 12 fixtures.
Additional work may well be needed in January to bolster squad depth in key positions and according to Football Insider, Klopp seemingly isn't finished strengthening his midfield arsenal as of yet and a move for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips could now be on the cards. The report states that Serie A giants Juventus have also thrown their hat in the ring to try and land the England international; however, his preference would be to remain in the English top flight at this stage.
Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane is also mooted to be a target for Liverpool and the 27-year-old has revealed that he is delaying talks over a new contract with the German champions to focus on the current season, as he said:
"I haven’t given it any thought. The club wants to have discussions but at the moment I want to concentrate on the season. Bayern will be my first point of contact, everything else will take care of itself."
Now, a fresh report has suggested that a new defender could also be on the way to Anfield come the New Year when the market re-opens.
Liverpool's last five results – all competitions
Competition
Opponent & result
Venue
Premier League
Liverpool 3-0 Brentford
Anfield
Europa League
Toulouse 3-2 Liverpool
Stadium de Toulouse
Premier League
Luton Town 1-1 Liverpool
Kenilworth Road
EFL Cup
Bournemouth 1-2 Liverpool
Vitality Stadium
Premier League
Liverpool 3-0 Nottingham Forest
Anfield
Liverpool lead Goncalo Inacio chase
According to new reports from Spain, Liverpool are favourites to sign Sporting Club defender Goncalo Inacio, who has a release clause of €60 million (£52.5 million) present in his current terms with the Portuguese giants. Nevertheless, the Portugal international is also being courted by the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Real Madrid; however, Liverpool's plans to install Inacio as an 'undisputed starter' could give them the edge in negotiations.
This term, Inacio, who has previously been labelled a "sensation" by Football Talent scout Jacek Kulig, has been ever present for Sporting, racking up 17 appearances across all competitions for his current employers (Inacio statistics – Transfermarkt).
Now, a move to Anfield could beckon for Inacio as Liverpool aim to wrestle the Premier League crown from Manchester City between now and next May, making this one to watch.
Arsenal are once again seeking the ultimate silverware in the form of the Premier League title. The Gunners came ever so close throughout the last campaign, but were eventually denied by the winning machine of Manchester City on their way to picking up an historic treble. This time around, those in North London will hope that their victory over the champions at The Emirates will go a long way in their claim for top spot come May. Meanwhile, the January transfer window could also play a part.
If Arsenal can add some final reinforcements to Mikel Arteta's side, then they may well become a force strong enough to outperform Pep Guardiola's outfit. Arteta is seemingly well aware of that too, having reportedly requested one particular January signing.
Arsenal transfer news
After sealing their return to Champions League action last season, Arsenal could have easily sat back and settled for European qualification once more. Instead, however, they made a statement in the summer by beating City to the signature of Declan Rice, whilst also welcoming Kai Havertz from Chelsea. Rice has particularly slotted straight in and became a vital player under Arteta, who has reportedly requested a repeat of Arsenal's midfield recruitment for the January transfer window.
According to Sport in Spain, Arteta has asked Arsenal to sign Ruben Neves from Al-Hilal in January in a new wish. The former Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder left the Midlands club in favour of a move to Saudi Arabia during the summer, but could now get an instant return to England's top flight. The Gunners could reportedly welcome Neves as a replacement for Thomas Partey, who has struggled with injuries and a lack of game time this season, with Arteta insisting on a move. Arsenal know all about his quality too, given that two of Neves' Premier League goals came against the Gunners.
They will reportedly have to fend off interest from Newcastle United in pursuit of the midfielder's signature, though the Premier League could vote to block players moving between associated clubs on loan, which could rule out a move to the Magpies for Neves in January.
Arteta wants to sign "complete" Neves
It's easy to forget just how talented Neves is after he swapped the Premier League for the Saudi Pro League during the summer, but this is still a player who appears to be able to compete at the highest level. For a side in Arsenal's position, adding the Portugal international to their side could make all the difference in their hunt for silverware. Neves' stats in the Premier League certainly show that he is ready to replace Partey.
Player
Goals
Assists
Tackles Won
Interceptions
Ruben Neves
6
1
43
50
Thomas Partey
3
0
40
28
Former manager Julen Lopetegui was also full of praise for the midfielder last season, saying:
"All of my decisions are difficult for me, but I prefer to always have all the players ready. It’s very good news for us that Ruben is coming. Of course, Ruben is a very important player for us and now he is ready to play. It is good news for us, for sure. He is a very good player, a very complete player and important for the dressing room and on the pitch.”
Sheffield Wednesday surrendered what could've been a valuable point late on at St Andrew's at the weekend to kickstart some form, 19-year-old Jordan James scoring late on to win the game 2-1 for Birmingham City in what was Wayne Rooney's first win as Blues boss since joining.
The Owls just can't buy a positive result at the moment, winning only one of their 17 games in the second tier to date with a pitiful six points accumulated.
Danny Rohl will have a never-ending headache at the moment trying to work out what line-up could conjure up a desperately needed three points, with table-topping Leicester City licking their lips at the prospect of playing the Owls this mid-week.
Here's what Rohl's starting line-up could look like up against the Foxes on Wednesday…
1 GK – Cameron Dawson
Sheffield-born Cameron Dawson should retain his spot in between the sticks for the Leicester home match, the 6 foot 4 goalkeeper becoming Wednesday's starting 'keeper over the last few contests under Rohl.
Dawson has kept two clean sheets from his last seven games in net, both coming against Rotherham United and Huddersfield Town in tasty local affairs at Hillsborough. Could he keep a third against Enzo Maresca's Leicester City?
2 RB – Dominic Iorfa
Deployed by Rohl at both centre-back and right-back this season, Dominic Iorfa stood out in a struggling backline in the latter position up against Birmingham.
Iorfa won eight out of nine ground duels against the Blues as per Sofascore, alongside getting stuck in with seven tackles in an attempt to thwart the Birmingham attackers.
3 CB – Di'Shon Bernard
Di'Shon Bernard could start ahead of Michael Ihiekwe in the line-up for the Foxes home match at Hillsborough, the Manchester United loanee performing well in bursts this season when starting.
Ihiekwe failed to win any of his duels in the contest against the Blues, opening up the opportunity for Bernard to come in instead.
Ihiekwe was even given a 5/10 by Yorkshire Live journalist Ricky Charlesworth in his player ratings, writing that the ex Rotherham United man would be "disappointed" with his display.
The 23-year-old Red Devils loanee was solid in Wednesday's 0-0 draw with Huddersfield at the start of October in contrast, winning 12 of his 14 duels versus the Terriers.
4 CB – Bambo Diaby
The former Barnsley centre-back should start again in defence against Leicester on Wednesday night, battling bravely against the Blues.
Diaby was valiant in his efforts to try and keep the ball out of Dawson's net, blocking three shots at St Andrew's whilst also clearing the ball away three times.
5 LB – Akin Famewo
Akin Famewo will also stay as Rohl's left-back for the Leicester match after an encouraging display against Rooney's men on Saturday.
Wednesday's number 23 was successful in all three of his dribbles against the Blues to propel his team forward, whilst also remaining staunch defensively with seven ground duels won.
6 CDM – George Byers
Wednesday's number eight will be the first name on the team sheet by Rohl for Wednesday's game versus Leicester, Byers scoring the opening goal of the contest at St Andrew's before Birmingham pulled off a comeback.
Byers wasn't just important to the Owls through this contribution alone, however, intercepting the ball twice in his 83-minute spell on the pitch as an energetic presence centrally.
7 CDM – Will Vaulks
Vaulks was solid alongside Byers as the more defensively sound option of the duo, amassing 78 touches of the ball throughout the 90 minutes in an attempt to orchestrate moves out from the back.
Accurate with eight of his 15 long balls on the day, Vaulks will hope he can unlock a stern Foxes defence next match with a cutting pass at Hillsborough.
8 RM – Djeidi Gassama
The second potential change Rohl could look to make is dropping Anthony Musaba for Djeidi Gassama, the ex Paris St Germain winger exciting the away fans packed into St Andrew's with his cameo from off the bench.
Gassama showed his pedigree with four successful dribbles in just 26 minutes, alongside completing two key passes in a spell of the game where Wednesday should have given more to win.
Musaba will be fearing for his starting spot as a result, Wednesday's number 45 failing to register a single shot on goal before being hauled off for the far more impressive Gassama.
9 CAM – Barry Bannan
Bannan was pushed further forward into an attacking midfield role for the trip to Birmingham, the ever-popular Scotsman trying his best as always to unlock opposition defences with trickery and skill.
The diminutive midfielder had four efforts on goal but failed to find the back of the net, whilst one big chance he created was not put away by a misfiring forward line.
Wearing the captain's armband for the Owls, the 33-year-old will hope he can be more impactful against Leicester on Wednesday night in an attacking role.
10 LM – Mallik Wilks
Sheffield Wednesday forward Mallik Wilks.
Frozen out of the first team picture for some time, Mallik Wilks was handed a rare start by his manager up against the Blues.
The ex Hull City winger was substituted off at the 64-minute mark, but impressed in patches against Rooney's Birmingham from down the channels.
Attempting two shots on goal – with one of the efforts blocked by a Birmingham shirt – Wilks will pray he's in from the start again versus Leicester in a bid to open his Championship account for the season against the table-toppers.
Throughout the summer transfer window, Liverpool's focus was rightly on rebuilding their midfield following the departures of Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, Naby Keita and others in the middle of the park. Now approaching the halfway point of the season, it's clear to see that Jurgen Klopp completed that task with the arrivals of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo. Whilst the focus was on restoring their midfield, the Reds failed to bolster their backline, which could indicate what their next transfer plan is.
As things stand, Klopp's options are Joel Matip, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Jarell Quansah, but a long-term injury to Matip has left the German with just three options in the Premier League. And given that Matip's contract runs out next summer, the Reds could be in need of another central defender, either way, which could reportedly see FSG target one particular reinforcement.
Liverpool transfer news
Those at Anfield must start thinking about the long term before it's too late. The last thing they need is to repeat the problem they endured last summer when they were forced to rebuild their midfield in one summer window. Reports indicate that the Reds could have an option for the future lined up, with the club open to offers.
According to 90min, Sao Paulo are now open to offers to sell Lucas Beraldo in what appears to be a boost for the Reds. The 20-year-old has reportedly attracted the interest of Liverpool and was the subject of a summer bid from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The ball now seems to be in Liverpool's court, with the Brazilian side willing to listen to any offers for their defender.
Liverpool make first move to sign "starlet"; he's impressed Reds scouts
The Reds have reportedly turned their attention towards the future…
ByTom Cunningham Dec 6, 2023
"They are boys with very good minds, who know that the moment will come [to leave]. We'll always talk to the agent and the player. We ended up renewing Beraldo's contract until 2027. We will negotiate with each of them if the offer is good for everyone. But I have never faced pressure from these boys. Quite the opposite."
"Innovative" Beraldo could become Van Dijk replacement
At just 20 years old, Beraldo is yet to reach his prime and is being linked with moves to the Premier League. If Liverpool are to think of their long-term future, then welcoming the Sao Paulo defender may not be a bad idea. Matip is leaving in the summer as things stand and Van Dijk is now 32, begging the question of who will replace the current captain in a few years. And the answer to that question may well be Beraldo.
Sao Paulo defenderLucas Beraldo.
The Brazilian has earned plenty of praise whilst playing in his home country, including from U23 scout and journalist Antonio Mango, who posted on X:
"Brazil aren’t too far away from the next big thing but you, as like me think of their attacking flair. It’s not too often you get excited by a rare breed left-footed centre-back. Innovative, distinctive creative and brave Beraldo has a unique complexion of attributes that makes him one of the most compelling individuals upcoming."
Whilst it remains to be seen whether Liverpool place an offer for Beraldo, the central defender is certainly one to keep an eye on in the forthcoming transfer windows.
Daniel Farke will be looking towards the upcoming January transfer window as a way to bolster his defensive options, with his Leeds United side plagued by injuries at this moment in time along the back four – Sam Byram, Junior Firpo and Stuart Dallas all sidelined through injury.
It has led to Djed Spence having to fill in playing an unfamiliar left-back role recently and visibly showing signs of struggling, as was seen in Leeds' unsatisfactory draw with Coventry City yesterday.
6/10 Leeds lightweight who won just 3 duels flopped alongside Piroe
Leeds United weren’t at the races at all against Coventry yesterday, with this particular player way off the pace.
ByKelan Sarson Dec 17, 2023
The popular German boss has even had to bump teenage starlet Archie Gray all the way up to the first team fold to make up the numbers, starting him at right-back in Leeds' last eight Championship matches despite Gray only being baby-faced still at 17 years of age.
Leeds could well target a Premier League youngster to help out in the short-term. Therefore, swooping in to sign Liverpool full-back Conor Bradley on a loan deal this January, who could end up being a major upgrade on another defender in the Whites ranks in a waning Luke Ayling, could be a shrewd move.
Leeds transfer latest
Recent report from TEAMTalk suggested that the Whites are just one of many interested parties trying to land Bradley, however, with Burnley interested from the Premier League alongside fellow second-tier outfits Middlesbrough and West Brom sniffing around.
Bradley's impressive performances out on loan at Bolton Wanderers in League One last season would have alerted these clubs from higher up the pyramid to his services, whilst the 20-year-old is highly thought of at Anfield also.
Jurgen Klopp even started Bradley in the Europa League last week versus Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, the 20-year-old ace was not at his best but he would still put it down as a worthwhile run-out for his ongoing development.
The young Reds defender's progression would come on leaps and bounds making the switch to Elland Road arguably, the Whites in dire need of another figure down the flanks which could signal the end of Luke Ayling completely as a reserve option.
How Conor Bradley compares to Luke Ayling
At 32 years of age, Ayling's best performances in a Leeds shirt are probably behind him.
Only starting eight games this campaign, the loyal Whites servant – who has amassed 267 appearances in total for the West Yorkshire titans – has been unremarkable on the pitch this season.
Whereas, Bradley would be champing at the bit to come in and excel hoping to similarly endear himself to a new fanbase like he managed with the Bolton fans with electric display after electric display.
Bradley was an aggressive ball of energy in a Bolton shirt, picking up 12 yellow cards but also helping himself to five goals and four assists as an expansive full-back.
Even in his prime during the 2019-20 Championship season, Ayling was never able to beat this tally and instead equalled it as an experienced second-tier man – notching up four goals and five assists, never managing to surpass that total in a campaign since.
Moreover, playing in League One, Bradley would create seven big chances under Ian Evatt's guidance to further prove his usefulness going forward and has time on his side to just get better.
Meanwhile, Ayling has created four 'big chances' in his last 43 league games for Leeds since the start of the 2022/23 campaign, which suggests that the Reds youngster would be a big upgrade on him from a creative perspective.
Football pundit Ian Dowie labelled Bradley as "quality" off the back of watching him thrive with the Trotters, waxing lyrical about the Reds youngster when speaking on ViaPlay Sports UK in March.
The 20-year-old dynamo is also in and around the Northern Ireland international team despite still being in the infancy of his fledgling career – winning 10 ground duels against San Marino recently in a standout display during one of his nation's Euro qualification matches.
Bradley's obvious pedigree could have Gray worrying about his cemented starting spot under Farke subsequently, who could look to rest the 17-year-old from time to time so as not to overwork him if Bradley was signed.
It feels like a no-brainer from a Leeds perspective to sign the £4.4k per week Bradley – as per Salary Sport – in this upcoming transfer window, giving Leeds another dynamic figure in their team to help the promotion hopefuls hopefully pick up more season-defining wins.
The relentless Championship schedule is already starting to impact Leeds United and their performances as they have dropped points in the last two matches.
Daniel Farke's side were held to a 1-1 draw last time out against Coventry at Elland Road and that came off the back of a 1-0 defeat to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
Those two results have left the Whites a staggering ten points adrift of Ipswich Town in second and 13 points behind league-leaders Leicester City, who currently occupy the two automatic promotion places.
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke.
Leeds are competing to make an instant return to the Premier League after they were relegated from the top-flight at the end of last season, but will have to do so via the play-offs unless they can oust one of the top two out of the way during the second half of the campaign.
The January transfer window is set to open for business next month and the Yorkshire-based outfit could dip into the market to provide their promotion push with a boost heading into the final few months of the season.
Leeds transfer news – Kerem Akturkoglu
A recent report from Turkish outlet Fanatik claimed that Leeds are one of the teams showing an interest in Galatasaray forward Kerem Akturkoglu.
It was stated that the Whites and Italian side Lazio are both eyeing up the talented whiz ahead of a possible swoop for his services in 2024.
Fanatik also reported that several clubs from England, Italy, and France have been in 'frequent' contact with the player's agents to determine how viable a transfer could be either in January or next summer.
However, it was also claimed that Galatasaray have decided, after an internal meeting to discuss their strategy, that they will not be cashing in on any of their star players and only those already on the transfer list will be allowed to depart.
This means that Leeds could have a tough job on their hands to convince the Turkish giants to part ways with Akturkoglu when the window opens.
Leeds forward Wilfried Gnonto.
However, the sale of one of their current forwards could provide them with the funds to make an attractive offer to Galatasaray, which is where Wilfried Gnonto could come in.
Football Insider recently reported that Leeds could accept an offer for the Italy international in January as the 20-year-old wants to play regular first-team football.
Premier League and Serie A sides are said to be keeping an eye on his situation and it was previously claimed by TEAMtalk that Everton, Roma, and Lazio are keen on the gem, who would cost a fee in the region of £25m.
Cashing in on Gnonto could allow Farke to invest in another forward and this could, therefore, open the door for a swoop for Akturkoglu, who could come in as the manager's new version of Crysencio Summerville.
Summerville's season in numbers
The Dutch forward has been in terrific form so far this season in the Championship and has proven to be a reliable attacking outlet for his side.
Summerville managed four goals and two assists in 28 Premier League appearances for Leeds during the 2022/23 campaign as they were relegated to the second tier.
The 22-year-old has been able to use that top-flight experience to become a superstar for the Whites with his electric performances this term.
Leeds duo Daniel Farke and Crysencio Summerville.
He has spearheaded Farke's attack on the left wing and has been one of the best players in the entire division, with his average Sofascore rating of 7.89 topping the league ahead of the likes of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Gabriel Sara, and ex-Leeds forward Jack Clarke.
Summerville is currently third in the league for goals (ten), only behind Sammie Szmodics and Adam Armstrong, and is joint-fifth for assists (six), as it stands.
Summerville's 2023/24 statistics.
The impressive left-winger, who has created ten 'big chances' for his teammates, is also top of the Leeds squad for key passes (3.1) and dribbles completed (2.7) per game so far this season in the Championship.
These statistics show that the Dutch wizard has the quality to make a huge impact at the top end of the pitch week-in-week-out with his ability as both a scorer and a creator of goals.
He provides variety in his game that makes it difficult for defenders to stop him as Summerville can just as easily dribble on the outside to create a chance for a teammate as he can dribble inside to open up space for himself to score.
The statistics that show why Akturkoglu could be Summerville 2.0
Farke could now land his next version of the Leeds star by securing a deal ahead of Lazio to land Akturkoglu's signature before the end of next month.
The 25-year-old whiz, who can play out wide on either flank, has been in sublime form for Galatasaray since the start of last season and has the potential to offer similar qualities to Summerville in the final third.
He is a winger who has the ability to contribute with goals and assists at an impressive rate, which could make him a fantastic addition to the squad ahead of the second half of the season.
Galatasaray forward Kerem Akturkoglu.
Last term, Akturkoglu racked up nine goals, 11 assists, and 17 'big chances' created in 34 Turkish Super Lig outings for Galatasaray.
The exciting dynamo has followed that up with a return of four goals, five assists, and 11 'big chances' created in 13 Super Lig starts so far during the 2023/24 campaign.
This means that the Turkey international, who was once described as “unstoppable” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, has produced 13 goals, 16 assists, and created 28 'big chances' in his last 47 league outings, which highlights how productive he is at the top end of the pitch.
The Whites target is a right-footed winger, who can play on either side, and has the quality to score and assist goals at an eye-catching rate, just like Farke's current superstar on the left flank.
Akturkoglu has made 2.9 key passes per game for his teammates this season and only Summerville (3.1) has managed more than that within the Leeds squad.
These statistics all indicate that the 5 foot 8 Turkish sensation could be a phenomenal addition to the club if he is able to translate those performances over to English football, due to the impact he could have on matches with his attacking contributions.
After an uninspiring 2-0 defeat on the road to West Ham United last weekend, Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United were in desperate need of a victory that would get the fans back on their side. Luckily, the Red Devils completed an incredible second-half comeback to claim a 3-2 win and an important three points.
At half-time, boos were ringing around Old Trafford after the hosts conceded two very soft and avoidable goals from set pieces in the 21st and 26th minute. At that point, it seemed that United were set to suffer their ninth defeat of the season in the Premier League.
Instead, the Red Devils won their tenth game of the season in the league and only their second in the last seven matches, which puts them in sixth place for the time being.
Man Utd’s stats vs Aston Villa
United started the game slowly and only registered one attempt at goal prior to Villa’s two goals, but the reaction to going two behind was far better than the one versus the Hammers. In the first half, the possession statistics were exactly even, yet most of the half consisted of the hosts attempting to breach the Villa highline, with Ten Hag’s team getting caught offside six times.
Sergio Reguilon
The boss clearly inspired the side during the interval, and they had the ball in the back of the net five minutes later through Alejandro Garnacho. Even though it was ruled out for offside, it lifted the crowd and gave the players belief. However, just before the hour mark, the Argentine did end United’s four-game goalless streak, and when the goal went in, it seemed only a matter of time before the second would arrive.
The Red Devil’s press was relentless, and they only had 41% of the ball in the second half, but United were on top. The 19-year-old grabbed his brace with 20 minutes to go, and Rasmus Hojlund scored his first Premier League goal to steal the victory. Overall, they only had six shots in the second half and scored three goals from an xG of 0.73, proving that Ten Hag’s side were clinical for the first time this season.
Bruno Fernandes’ game in numbers
Despite Garnacho scoring a brace and being handed a 9/10 rating by Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News, Bruno Fernandes was one of the best on the field, with his performance going under the radar – despite only earning a 6/10 match rating from Luckhurst.
Bruno Fernandes
The Portuguese midfielder created three chances, which was the most in the game, but he did lose possession 25 times, slightly more than you would hope for but understandable given his role to create. The table below sums up Fernandes’ game in numbers.
Touches
75
Chances created
3
Shots
2
Recoveries
5
Tackles won
3/3 (100%)
Although he didn’t register a goal contribution, the captain was instrumental in the build-up and for each goal, acting as the connector between midfield and attack. He tackled Douglas Luiz and played Marcus Rashford through on goal for the first, drifted out wide and made the cross that led to the second, and took the corner that Hojlund scored from.
While it may have understandably been the youthful duo of Garnacho and Hojlund who stole the headlines for getting on the scoresheet, it was Fernandes who was arguably something of a saviour for Ten Hag due to his performance in the centre of the park.
Having gone four games without a win, the Dutchman needed his captain to step up – and boy did he.
Ever since the opening weekend in the narrow 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, Manchester United have seemingly had an issue in their midfield ranks, with Erik ten Hag proving unable to settle on a consistent pairing for much of the campaign.
During an undoubtedly positive debut campaign at the helm last season, the Dutchman looked to the experienced duo of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro to steer the ship in the centre of the park, with the latter man, in particular, having been the "cement" in the side following his £70m arrival from Real Madrid – as per his manager.
With Mason Mount subsequently brought in to partner the Brazilian ahead of this season, the balance was seemingly unsettled, with Casemiro and co having been "torn to shreds" by Gary O'Neil's side back in August – in the words of former United skipper Gary Neville.
While the introduction of Mount may have been a factor in the stark decline of the five-time Champions League winner – prior to his injury layoff in November – that can not wholly excuse his woes, hence reports that Ten Hag and co may already be contemplating showing the £350k-per-week asset the door at some stage this year.
Fingers must also be pointed at the likes of Sofyan Amrabat, Scott McTominay, Eriksen and Mount, yet it is Casemiro who will take much of the focus due to his hefty fee and exorbitant wage, with Neville highlighting him as a player who "doesn't fit the long-term" at Old Trafford.
With that in mind, if the one-time Porto man is to be sent packing either this month or during the summer, the Red Devils may have already stumbled across a perfect replacement in the form of Sporting CP star, Morten Hjulmand.
Man Utd transfer news – Morten Hjulmand
According to a report from The Sun earlier this week, United have seen an offer rejected by Sporting for the Danish midfielder, having lodged a bid that would have seen Facundo Pellistri included as part of the deal.
The suggestion is that such a proposal was knocked back as the Primeira Liga outfit are instead looking to acquire a fee of around £69m, such is the 24-year-old's release clause in his existing deal.
Morten Hjulmand in action.
Ten Hag's side are said to have scouted Eriksen's international colleague on numerous occasions this season, although whether they will cough up the required funds remains to be seen, with Sporting seemingly not entertaining the inclusion of Pellistri.
Forking out £69m on a player who only arrived in Lisbon from Lecce on a £15m deal last year may appear like yet more errant business from the Old Trafford outfit, yet Hjulmand has certainly justified that price tag amid his sparkling showings in Portugal to date.
Morten Hjlumand's style of play
The one-time Admira Wacker talent may not be the high-profile target that some supporters will be craving, yet as the case of Casemiro has shown, going for the big-name, marquee signing isn't always the wisest approach.
Raphael Varane could be sent packing if Man Utd sign £100m "wall"
Erik ten Hag is keen to strengthen his defence this January.
ByTom Lever Jan 10, 2024
Turning to Hjlumand would allow Ten Hag to snap up a midfield operator who is simply "an absolute monster" in the centre of the park – in the words of journalist Zach Lowy – having proven himself a truly dominant presence in front of the back four of late.
As Lowy has also noted, the "natural leader" has the "physicality, positional awareness and vision to play as a lone holding midfielder", something which would free up the likes of Mount or Kobbie Mainoo to impact proceedings in a more attacking sense.
Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha.
If a move to the Premier League were to lie ahead for Hjulmand, he could well emulate the success of another former Sporting destroyer in Joao Palhinha, with the one-time United target currently thriving for Fulham.
As "strong as an Ox", according to Sky Sports reporter Jamie Weir, Palhinha currently leads the way in the division for tackles made, having also topped the charts in that regard last season (148).
While the 6 foot 1 Hjulmand may not be quite as imposing as his Portuguese counterpart – who stands at 6 foot 4 – he too is also a master at winning back the ball for his side, averaging 2.1 tackles per game in the league this season, as well as recovering 5.7 balls per game.
Even described as a "mix of Palhinha and [Manuel] Ugarte" by his manager, Ruben Amorim, the United target may have the tools to follow in the path of the Fulham ace in English football.
How Hjulmand compares to Casemiro
Not only a Palhinha-esque talent, Hjulmand seemingly has the credentials to be able to fill the shoes of Casemiro at the Theatre of Dreams, if the 75-cap Brazil international is to move on before too long.
14 games (13 starts)
1 goal
1 assist
2 'big chances' created
0.8 key passes per game
87% pass accuracy rate
2.1 tackles
5.7 balls recovered per game
51% total duels won
8.5x possession lost per game
7.5 avg. match rating
Stats via Sofascore
United's number 18 does actually boast a similar defensive record in 2023/24 having averaged 2.6 tackles and 5.4 balls recovered per game from his eight Premier League starts, although it is on the ball where Hjulmand perhaps has the edge.
That can be seen by the fact that the Dane has enjoyed a pass accuracy rate of 87% while losing the ball just 8.5 times per game on average in the Primeira Liga, having also created two 'big chances' from his 14 appearances.
Casemiro, by contrast, has featured on fewer occasions yet has lost the ball on average 12.3 times per game and boasts a pass accuracy rate of only 83%, ensuring that he has the ability to play his side into trouble with an errant or slack pass.
The sluggish nature of the 31-year-old's play has also seen him prone to being undone on the counter, having been unable to prevent a number of relatively simple cut-backs from the opposition early in the season, such as for Danny Welbeck's opener in the defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion.
Although Hjulmand himself is not known for "being the quickest", he is still "always first to loose balls" – as per Lowy – indicating that he may be the man to help United stop conceding such soft goals on the break.
Also likely to be a more long-term option than Casemiro due to his age, the three-cap Denmark international has certainly warranted Ten Hag's interest – now the club must do all they can to push for his signature.