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Liverpool are renowned for their amazing recruitment strategies whilst Michael Edwards occupied the position of sporting director at Anfield for many years, playing a huge part in building the squad that finally won the Premier League title for the first time in 2020.

Mohammed Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, Alisson Becker, Andy Robertson and Fabinho are all products of Edwards’ vision for the club, but it’s not just incomings that the club have struck gold on.

The Reds have ruthlessly sold any player that doesn’t fit the profile, matched the high standards in quality or simply were not in the mindset to take the team forward, and have rarely got it wrong when sending players packing.

Not only that, the players that are deemed no longer a good fit for the team are more often than not sold on for a good profit and one player that Edwards made the right call on was Leicester City goalkeeper Danny Ward.

Ward who has been dubbed “awful” by journalist Ade Adeayo, only made three senior appearances for the Merseysiders before the decision was made to sell up in 2018, making £12.5m on the keeper who joined the club in 2012 at just 19 years old from Wrexham for a fee of only £100k.

That is a staggering return for the club, who ultimately sold the Welshman on for 12400% more than their initial investment.

Since then, the 29-year-old had been in the shadow of Kasper Schmeichel at the King Power Stadium until this summer when the Leicester number one decided to make a move to Ligue 1 side Nice, giving Ward the golden opportunity to prove his worth by stepping into the Danish ‘keeper’s shoes.

However, it’s safe to say it isn’t going well for the Foxes gloveman since being given the responsibility to protect the Leicester City goal, conceding the most goals in the entire Premier League (22) so far in just eight games, which has contributed to Brendan Rodgers’ men falling into the relegation zone.

Ward has conceded 2.8 goals per game, with one error leading to a shot and another error leading to a goal, completing just 33% of his long balls.

In fact, the stopper is currently the second lowest-rated player in the entire Premier League, as per WhoScored, with a rating of 5.99 only second to Emmanuel Dennis (5.93) who has played only 88 minutes so far for Nottingham Forest.

It appears that Ward is completely out of his depth at Leicester and is making his name in the Premier League for all the wrong reasons, something Edwards clearly foresaw four years ago when he was sold on by Liverpool.

Glasgow Rangers’ lack of signings following their Champions League qualification arguably came back to haunt them on Saturday, as they were embarrassed 4-0 in the Old Firm derby.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side have struggled against the Bhoys in recent meetings and were outclassed at Parkhead on Saturday, with the hosts taking a 3-0 lead into half-time, before Jon McLaughlin’s howler gifted them a fourth in the second half.

Although Rangers were fairly active early in the summer transfer window, bringing in seven new signings, the lack of investment in the squad following their Champions League qualification has been baffling.

Following their win over PSV in the final qualifying stage, the Teddy Bears earned a bonus of around £13m, while each win and draw in the group stage will also net them significant fees.

On yesterday’s showing, however, that may be a struggle, and Ross Wilson must take a share of the blame for failing to improve the squad further, as we have seen with their fierce rivals, whose marquee summer signing Jota scored another impressive goal in the Old Firm win.

Meanwhile, Rangers started just two summer signings on Saturday in the shape of Antonio Colak and Malik Tillman, with long-standing squad members such as McLaughlin and Steven Davis starting and perhaps emphasising that their best playing days are long behind them.

The lack of goalkeeper addition this summer was a strange one for Rangers as both McLaughlin and Allan McGregor are getting towards the end of their respective careers, and the former showed on Saturday that he cannot be relied upon, as he should have done better with Liel Abada’s opener, before being at fault for the fourth.

All five substitutes who came on during the Old Firm were in the squad which failed to defend its Premiership title last season, which again suggests that more quality additions were needed, as they were completely outclassed by a Celtic side that have only got stronger.

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The sales of Joe Aribo and Calvin Bassey landed Rangers more than £25m but they spent just over £10m on new signings, which is inexcusable when you also consider the financial bonus of Champions League football, and Van Bronckhorst will surely be disappointed that he wasn’t able to strengthen further.

Fabrizio Romano has name-checked Crystal Palace when providing an update on Watford forward Ismaila Sarr.

The Lowdown: Sarr links

The Eagles have been linked with a move for Sarr this month, with reports even suggesting that Steve Parish and Dougie Freedman were rushing to sign the Senegal international.

It seemed as if Palace were going to miss out on Sarr to Aston Villa after they agreed on a £25m deal for the forward, who Ben Foster labelled as a player with “scary” ability.

However, a move to Villa Park has now fallen through, and it looks as if a potential transfer to Selhurst Park could still be on the cards.

The Latest: Romano’s claim

Romano, writing for Caught Offside on Tuesday, provided an update regarding Sarr.

He relayed the news on a transfer to Aston Villa falling through, before name-checking Palace as a suitor and describing the situation as ‘open’.

The Verdict: Time to act?

There are just days left for Palace to bolster Patrick Vieira’s squad, so a move for Sarr could be one to watch closely.

The Eagles are yet to really improve their attacking ranks this summer, with teenage winger Malcolm Ebiowei the only final third arrival.

Therefore, bringing in Sarr, who can play anywhere across the front three and already has plenty or Premier League experience, could be a wise move after Vieira lost striker Christian Benteke to DC United.

Nottingham Forest are weighing up a potential summer move for free agent Cheikhou Kouyate this summer, according to journalist Santi Aouna.

The Lowdown: Forest still looking for midfielder

Steve Cooper has enjoyed a highly productive summer in the transfer market, bringing in lots of exciting new faces following their return to the Premier League.

Saturday’s 2-0 defeat away to Newcastle United was proof that it isn’t going to be easy for Forest to stay up this season, however, and a new central midfielder remains a priority as the club chase a deal for Morgan Gibbs-White.

Now, a fresh update suggests that the Reds may have more than one central midfield player on their shortlist…

The Latest: Kouyate linked with move

According to Foot Mercato‘s Aoune on Twitter [via Sport Witness], Forest are interested in signing Kouyate, who is currently a free agent after leaving Crystal Palace at the end of last season.

It is stated that ‘following the failure in the Gueye dossier, Nottingham Forest could look into Cheikhou Kouyate’, although ‘Turkish clubs are also interested’.

The Verdict: Still a force?

In truth, Kouyate doesn’t feel as exciting an option as some past midfielder targets – at 32, he arguably isn’t the player he was and there would be concern that he wouldn’t be able to offer his past energy and dominance in the middle of the park.

That being said, Kouyate possesses huge experience, including 258 Premier League appearances and 82 caps for Senegal, so he could be a good foil for younger figures around him.

Patrick Vieira hailed the 6 foot 2 ace for the way he ‘wins so many balls’ during his time at Palace, and his destructive tendencies in the middle could actually partner up well with a more creative signing like Gibbs-White – he’s won a whopping 554 tackles during his career in England’s top flight.

The 2022 Africa Cup of Nations winner wouldn’t necessarily come in as a key starter every week but he could be a strong squad player – the fact that he would arrive on a free transfer would make it less of a gamble, too.

Tottenham Hotspur could finally end their Tanguy Ndombele nightmare this summer…

What’s the word?

Spurs sporting director Fabio Paratici is currently in Milan to discuss several potential deals, both incoming and outgoing, and it is thought that AS Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo is on the agenda.

Jose Mourinho’s side have just signed Paulo Dybala and whilst it remains to be seen exactly how he’ll fit in, it could impact the Italian’s place in the starting lineup, given they play similar roles.

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According to Calciomercato (via Sport Witness), Paratici has been a long-term admirer of Zaniolo and it’s thought that the Serie A side would part ways with him ‘under the right conditions.’

Some reports have suggested that the 23-year-old is valued at around €50m (£43m).

Bye-bye Ndombele

A creative playmaker is thought to be high on the agenda for Tottenham now that they have secured six new signings, ranging from new wing-backs in Ivan Perisic and Djed Spence to a left-sided centre-back in Clement Lenglet and a standout swoop for Richarlison to bolster the attack even more.

All that is really missing is that no.10-type figure, even if Antonio Conte’s initial system doesn’t cater for it. Finding a player of this calibre will allow him to change it up in-game or allow for further midweek rotation.

It also would mean that Ndombele is pushed closer to the exit door, having been left at home for their pre-season trip to South Korea in a bid to resolve his future. Often dubbed “very lazy” throughout his tenure, Spurs’ club-record £55m dud has failed to hit the heights expected from such a price tag.

After being shipped out on loan in January to former club Lyon, it’s abundantly clear that he has no part to play in Conte’s plans. Paratici can give him a nudge towards the door by signing Zaniolo, who appears to be streets ahead of the Frenchman.

The Italian provided eight goals and nine assists across 42 appearances under Mourinho last season, an impressive feat considering his injury history. This is also a step up to that of Ndombele, who has only managed ten goals and nine assists across a three-year spell.

His form over in Italy has earned plenty of praise and even some exciting comparisons. According to his former Inter coach Stefano Vecchi, the 6 foot 3 midfielder is “a [Steven] Gerrard, [Frank] Lampard-type player.”

Meanwhile, Roma legend Francesco Totti believes Zaniolo is an “explosive” talent and that he has “everything it takes to become a truly great player”.

An average of 1.2 key passes per 90 minutes throughout his career to date suggests that he is consistent when it comes to delivering in the final third and that is something that can’t be said for Ndombele, who has failed to surpass 0.7 key passes per 90 in each of the last two Premier League seasons.

It’s time to offload the French flop and a move for Zaniolo instead could pay serious dividends. It makes a lot more sense given the Italian connections.

AND in other news, Paratici given green light to seal “extraordinary” £34m Spurs signing, Conte needs him…

Manchester United are reportedly making ‘important steps’ to sign free agent Paulo Dybala.

The Lowdown: Eriksen and Strakosha pending

The Red Devils have finally made their first summer signing under Erik ten Hag, with left-back Tyrell Malacia penning a four-year deal at Old Trafford during the week.

United also seem to be closing in on two free agents in Christian Eriksen and Thomas Strakosha which would bolster the club’s midfield and goalkeeping ranks respectively, and it looks as if Dybala could be another to arrive in Manchester.

The Latest: Dybala update

United recently called Dybala’s agent, and Sport Witness relayed a fresh update from Il Mattino regarding a potential move for the Argentine.

They claimed that Ten Hag’s side are ‘taking important steps’ to sign the attacker this summer, so a move may have developed further following an initial phone call.

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The Verdict: Get it done

Described as ‘world-class’ and ‘phenomenal’ by former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, Dybala is still just 28 years of age and can play anywhere in attack.

He has an impressive record of 144 goals and 64 assists in 403 club appearances, and with Cristiano Ronaldo seemingly wanting out, Dybala could be a shrewd marquee addition at Old Trafford.

You’d expect that the Argentina international won’t be short of offers, though, so if United want to make him a potential third free agent arrival alongside Eriksen and Strakosha, they may need to be quick.

At least it looks as if they are being proactive in their attempts to lure Dybala to Manchester, judging by this report.

There is a growing confidence that Ruben Neves will remain a Wolves player by the end of this summer, according to The Athletic.

What’s the word?

Despite the Portuguese midfielder seemingly hinting that his time at Molineux was up last season, there has been little progress on a move away from the Black Country in recent weeks.

Bruno Lage confirmed that Wolves value him at £100m, and as it stands, it seems unlikely that any club will be willing to pay that fee for the 25-year-old.

The Athletic writers Steve Madeley and Maram AlBaharna have now provided the latest on Neves’ situation in arecent article.

They wrote: “There was an expectation that clubs interested in Neves would have made their move by now but, as it stands, there has been a slew of rumours (with Barcelona the most frequently mentioned club) but no formal move for the 25-year-old.

“That does not mean that Neves will stay at Wolves next season. But with no movement in the market for the Portugal star, that outcome has increased in likelihood since the transfer window opened.”

Supporters will be buzzing

While Wolves fans might have consigned themselves to losing their talismanic midfielder, this update suggests that he could be lining up in Old Gold again next season.

Considering his superb performances since joining from Porto in 2017, supporters will surely be delighted to hear that the 25-year-old could remain at Molineux.

In 212 appearances for the club, Neves has contributed 24 goals and 12 assists, with many of his goals coming in the form of screamers from outside the penalty box.

Of the Wolves players to make more than 10 appearances last season, Neves was the fourth-best performer in Lage’s side according to WhoScored, so it would undoubtedly be beneficial to the club if they could keep him around for at least another year.

Journalist Tim Spiers was full of praise for the Portuguese star after an impressive performance in the 1-0 win against Everton last season, saying: “Ruben Neves was outstanding. Ran the show. What a guy.”

Therefore, Wolves supporters will surely be encouraged by this latest update from The Athletic and will be hoping that Neves can be convinced to remain at Molineux for the foreseeable future.

In other news… Lage could seal dream Nunes partner with Wolves bid for “very talented” starlet

Calvin Bassey established himself as a key player for Rangers in the most recent season and it has been no surprise to Gers fans to see him linked with a move away from Ibrox in recent weeks.

What’s the word?

Journalist Ryan Taylor recently spoke to GIVEMESPORT about Bassey’s future at Ibrox.

It comes with Aston Villa heavily linked with the 22-year-old defender, with former Gers manager Steven Gerrard clearly keen on bringing him to Villa Park.

Taylor said: “Bassey is clearly highly rated by Villa. I think that deal will happen; I can see it happening. Obviously, [Diego] Carlos coming in might change the picture, but it’s clear Villa rate him highly, and for me, it’s just a no-brainer.

“The way he played in the Europa League, he looks like a player that’s just naturally ready to step up and perform.”

Supporters will be gutted

The former Leicester City man won a lot of plaudits for his performances in Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side last season, with his switch to centre-back an inspired decision by the Dutch manager which brought out sensational performances, most notably in the Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt.

BT Sport pundit Owen Hargreaves was particularly impressed by the youngster following that game, as he said: “Calvin Bassey, my word, what a performance. That was astonishing, the energy and effort. Everything about his game was fantastic.

“Anyone watching that will be thinking: ‘That’s the kind of player I want in my team.”

With that in mind, it’s hardly a surprise that per SofaScore ratings, he ranks as the club’s fourth-best defender in 2021/22. That perhaps doesn’t do his performances justice with the youngster now one of the best up and coming talents in Scotland.

Since joining from the Foxes in 2020, the Nigeria international has gone on to make 64 appearances for the Teddy Bears, contributing one goal and six assists.

Having become first-choice last season, Rangers fans will surely want to keep the youngster around next season as they aim to reclaim the Scottish Premiership and target another run in Europe.

However, from what Taylor suggests, it seems unlikely that he will still be at Ibrox when the 2022/23 campaign begins, an eventuality that will no doubt leave supporters gutted.

And in other news… After Goldson: Rangers fans can expect more good news according to journo

Victor Orta is eyeing up a Leeds United swoop for Manchester United’s James Garner heading into the summer transfer window… 

What’s the talk?

According to The Mirror, the Yorkshire giants are one of three Premier League clubs keen on the midfielder ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

The report claims that Leicester and Southampton are also keen on the youngster, with the former said to be willing to wait it out for his availability this summer.

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It remains to be seen whether or not the Red Devils will be willing to send him out on loan, or a permanent deal, as Erik ten Hag is set to run the rule over his players in the coming weeks.

Jesse Marsch needs him badly

The American head coach needs Garner at Elland Road as he is badly in need of midfield reinforcements in the upcoming window.

No Whites central midfielder averaged a SofaScore rating higher than 6.85 and Mateusz Klich – who played 33 times – averaged an unimpressive score of 6.67. This suggests that Marsch does not have an array of quality in his options in the middle of the park, which is why Orta must look to bring in one, or two, players to bolster his selection.

Garner can be the player Leeds need as he has shown that he has the potential to be an excellent player at Premier League level.

The 21-year-old has enjoyed a stellar campaign on loan at Nottingham Forest in the Championship and earned plaudits for his displays.

Former Leeds goalkeeper Paul Robinson previously heaped praise on him, saying:

“Garner has been exceptional at Forest. He is an example of why players get sent out on loan.

“He can play at the top level and I think he has proven that at Forest. I don’t think he’s one that will go straight into the Man United side but I think there is a first-team role there for him and he will feature next season.”

These comments highlight how well the gem has performed and his statistics back that up.

In the Championship, he averaged an exceptional SofaScore rating of 7.26 as he scored four goals and created eight from midfield in 41 outings.

The £20k-per-week dynamo has been outstanding in the second tier and this is why he may have the ability to make the step up to the top flight.

If he can adapt to Premier League football and produce a similar level of displays then he will be an incredible signing for the Lillywhites and exactly what Marsch needs to improve his lacklustre midfield options.

AND in other news, Huge transfer twist emerges that will have Leeds United supporters buzzing…

Aston Villa have suffered a mixed season in the Premier League so far, with the club appointing Steven Gerrard in mid-November in order to take them to the next level, it hasn’t really worked out like that.

Although Gerrard has only had one January window to bring in his own players and a full summer and pre-season will give more of an indication of where things lie.

Bringing in Philippe Coutinho on loan during January was a masterstroke and there will be hopes that a permanent deal can be sorted, although there are talks of Villa landing a Premier League talent.

Journalist Josh Holland told GIVEMESPORT that Villa should sign £36m-rated Wilfried Zaha from Crystal Palace and he would be a “good signing.”

The winger has received praise throughout his Palace career with Tony Cascarino dubbing him “unplayable” at times, whilst former manager Roy Hodgson labelled him a “game-changer” and on that basis, he would be an excellent acquisition for Gerrard and his team.

There is no question that he would be an upgrade on Leon Bailey too, with Zaha scoring 12 goals to Bailey’s one this season in the league (although he has played 11 more games).

Zaha has completed 78.8% of his passes compared to just 66.5% for Bailey, while the Palace winger creates almost four times as many shot-creating actions (94) in contrast to the Villa player (21).

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These attacking and passing stats prove that Gerrard and NSWE can definitely seal an upgrade on the player who signed for Villa for a sizeable £25m just last summer.

The Palace winger won’t come cheap, but if Gerrard can sell a few players and make a profit, then there is no reason why he can’t add the talented player to his squad for next season.

He could be all the difference in a chase for a European spot.

AND in other news, Source: AVFC’s “difficult” dud could now leave Villa Park, it’s great news for Gerrard