Man Utd in pole position to sign £25m "menace" who starred at Euro 2024

With a deal to sign Matthijs de Ligt seemingly edging closer and closer, Manchester United have now reportedly set their sights on signing another defensive reinforcement for Erik ten Hag, even taking pole position for his signature.

Man Utd transfer news

Now that Ten Hag's Old Trafford future is sealed, it's no surprise that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and new sporting director Dan Ashworth instantly turned their attention towards reinforcements. And with deals reportedly close for both De Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee, things are starting to come together at Manchester United ahead of a vital third campaign under Ten Hag.

Bayern Munich defender Matthijs De Ligt

Following such a disappointing season last time out, however, the Red Devils will need more than just two fresh faces through the door. Their FA Cup final victory over rivals Manchester City only papered over the cracks of what was ultimately a campaign that centred around United's failure to finish inside the Premier League's top four.

Looking to instantly rectify that next season, likely with De Ligt and Zirkzee through the door sooner rather than later, the Red Devils have been keeping a keen eye on Euro 2024 and one particular standout.

Italian media report talks of Man Utd signing Italy star in Sancho swap

Sancho could hand the Red Devils a parting gift…

ByTom Cunningham

According to Calcio Mercato, Manchester United are now in pole position to sign Ferdi Kadioglu from Fenerbahce this summer as they look to take one of former manager Jose Mourinho's best players in a deal worth just €30m (£25m).

The left-back starred at Euro 2024 in an impressive Turkey side eventually eliminated at the last eight stage by the Netherlands in a narrow 2-1 defeat, and the Red Devils are now "above all" with their interest in the player.

The defeat far from tainted the reputation that Kadioglu built up throughout the tournament, and he still remains an in-demand player this summer. Given how Luke Shaw struggled for fitness last season, welcoming Kadioglu would represent solid business from a Manchester United standpoint as they look to hand Ten Hag much-needed defensive depth.

"Menace" Kadioglu can push Shaw for a starting spot

Competition for places is crucial for any side looking to finish inside the Premier League's top four and competition is exactly what Kadioglu would offer Shaw down the left-hand side.

League Stats 23/24 (via FBref)

Ferdi Kadioglu

Luke Shaw

Minutes

3,326

959

Assists

4

0

Tackles Won per 90

1.46

0.79

His presence would push the England international more than ever, especially if Tyrell Malacia needs to ease himself back up to pace after such a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Dubbed a "menace" by Zach Lowy after such an impressive Euros performance, Kadioglu could steal plenty of headlines this summer.

For just £25m, United would be landing a player who could instantly replace Shaw in both the short and long-term at 24 years old and fresh from capturing plenty of attention on one of football's biggest stages this summer.

New target: Liverpool eyeing Serie A manager to replace Jurgen Klopp

A new target has emerged to replace Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager, with the "excellent" boss in question a serial winner who FSG could offer an eye-catching salary to.

Liverpool manager latest

It still seems scarcely believable that Klopp isn't going to be in charge at Anfield after this season, with the German one of the greatest figures in the history of the club. Sunday's EFL Cup final win over Chelsea was the latest display of his genius, as he masterminded a dramatic 1-0 win with a host of youngsters on the pitch.

Whoever comes in to replace the 56-year-old is going to have such a tough job on their hands, with Klopp potentially leaving one of the biggest voids a manager ever has in the English game.

Xabi Alonso continues to stand out as the favourite to take over from the German, with the former Liverpool midfielder working wonders at Bayer Leverkusen, not yet tasting defeat in the Bundesliga this season.

He is not the only potential target being looked at, however, and it appears as though the Reds are going down the route of looking at Europe's most exciting young bosses. Former Bayern Munich and current Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann is seen as an option, and the same applies to Sporting CP's highly-rated leader Ruben Amorim.

Bayern's Julian Nagelsmann

Now, another new name has been thrown into the hat, as Liverpool keep their options open in the hunt to find Klopp's successor.

Liverpool interested in Simone Inzaghi

According to Tuttosport on Tuesday [via Football Italia], Liverpool and FSG are interested in Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi, with Manchester United and Chelsea also keen on snapping him up.

simone-inzaghi-inter-manager-live-updates-spurs-tottenham-nagelsmann

The update from the latter states that the Italian currently "earns €5.5m (£4.7m) net per season plus add-ons, adding that "the Premier League offers could reach around €8m-€9m (£6.8m-£7.7m) per year, figures his Italian club are unlikely to match."

Inzaghi certainly represents an intriguing option for Liverpool, considering how much he has already achieved in the game, winning three Italian Cups – two with Inter and one with Lazio. He has also been hailed by former defender Lele Adani, who has said of him:

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"Simone Inzaghi is an excellent coach who continues to evolve. I believe his team’s performances and results speak for him."

Simone Inzaghi's trophy wins as a manager

Year

Italian Cup (Inter Milan)

2023

Italian Cup (Inter Milan)

2022

Italian Cup (Lazio)

2019

Italian Super Cup (Inter Milan)

2024

Italian Super Cup (Inter Milan)

2023

Italian Super Cup (Inter Milan)

2022

Italian Super Cup (Lazio)

2020

Italian Super Cup (Lazio)

2018

The 47-year-old likes to adopt a 3-5-2 system that gets the best out of wing-backs, which could see the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Bradley and Andy Robertson shine at Liverpool, and the job he is doing at Inter currently speaks for itself, with the Nerazzurri top of Serie A by nine points with a game in hand.

Jurgen Klopp "pretty sure" Liverpool star will sign new long-term contract

This would go down so well with Reds supporters.

ByHenry Jackson

Plenty may feel as though Alonso is the best choice to replace Klopp, however, given his reputation as a special young coach, highlighted by his brilliance in charge at Leverkusen. His Liverpool past helps, too – but plenty of supporters could also see sense in Inzaghi being appointed, making this one to watch.

Nottingham Forest news: Reds looking to sign "superb" new player for Cooper

Steve Cooper has continued his successful tenure at Nottingham Forest so far this season, with the Midlands club looking like a side ready to break away from relegation trouble and into the Premier League's mid-table. Their most impressive moment has come against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, where they defeated the Blues in one of the moments of the campaign so far.

After a solid start, those at the club could yet turn their attention towards further reinforcements, be it in January, or preparation for the future with next summer's targets lined up. And that could include one particular player, whose current contract expires in the summer.

Latest Nottingham Forest transfer news?

Nottingham Forest's transfers were once again extensive in the summer, welcoming a number of additions, from Anthony Elanga, and Divock Origi, all the way to Ibrahim Sangare. And, so far, although some may believe that their transfer tactics are rather drastic at times, they've been rewarded for their spending. From Cooper's perspective, he will hope that his side return in even better form after the international break, too, as they look to create distance between themselves on the dropzone.

Player

Price

Ibrahim Sangare

€35m (£30m)

Anthony Elanga

€17.5m (£15m)

Chris Wood

€17m (£15m)

Andrew Omobamidele

€13m (£11m)

Murillo

€12m (£10m)

Nicolas Domininguez

€10m (£9m)

Matt Turner

€8m (£7m)

Odysseas Vlachomidos

€5m (£4m)

Callum Hudson-Odoi

€3.5m (£4m)

Nuno Tavares

€1m loan fee (£870k)

Ola Aina

Free

Andrey Santos

Loan

Gonzalo Montiel

Loan

Divock Origi

Loan

Off the pitch, meanwhile, the latest Borna Barisic transfer news is certainly interesting for the Midlands club. According to TeamTalk, Forest and Evangelos Marinakis are still interested in signing the Rangers left-back, whose current contract comes to an end next summer, meaning that he's free to start discussions over a move come January.

The Croatian does reportedly have a new deal on the table, however, which would see him extend his time at the Gers by another two years. Perhaps handing Forest some hope is the fact that he is yet to put pen to paper on that deal, adding fuel to the fire when it comes to the rumours.

Should Nottingham Forest sign Borna Barisic?

Borna Barisic for Rangers

With current Forest left-back Harry Tofolo facing a five-month ban for breaching betting rules come the end of next season, welcoming Barisic wouldn't exactly be a bad idea for Cooper. The 30-year-old would arrive with plenty of experience, having won the Scottish Premiership with the Gers. It is at the club that Barisic has been at his best throughout his career, and has earned deserved praise as a result, including from Pat Bonner, who once described the left-back as "superb" when speaking to BBC Sportsound.

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So, Barisic is certainly one to keep an eye on in the coming months, especially if he fails to sign a new contract at Rangers. Forest haven't been afraid to splash the cash in the past, either, meaning that if the Scottish giants want to cash in, the Midlands club could be there waiting to welcome the Croatian. He would add another element down Forest's left-hand side, that's for sure.

Casemiro Throws His Name Into Man United Captaincy Debate

Manchester United have had some legendary captains throughout their illustrious history. We're talking Sir Bobby Charlton, Nemanja Vidic, Gary Neville and Roy Keane. Unfortunately, Harry Maguire is far from becoming a member of that list of icons, with his spell as captain going in somewhat of the opposite direction.

As the designated leader, it helps when you're on the pitch. You're meant to be one of the first names on the team sheet. And Maguire is simply not that at Old Trafford. The £80m defender has lost his place under Erik ten Hag, and looks closer and closer to the exit door with every passing moment.

According to The Sun, Newcastle United and Aston Villa have shown interest in Maguire, but United do not want to loan the central defender.

Following the departure of the experienced David de Gea, too, the question comes to the fore as to who will step into the leadership roles at Manchester United on the pitch. It could be time for Ten Hag to pick a new player to take charge.

As per The Sun also, with reports linking Maguire with a move away, Ten Hag will likely have to pick a new captain.

With that in mind, Casemiro certainly believes he has the leadership qualities to fulfil that role and it appears he's thrown his name in the ring.

What did Casemiro say?

Speaking to Placar when asked about the leadership role, Casemiro said, via Goal: "I like having this role, yes, to be honest. Being a leader, caring, being like a father, going after things, I like to set an example, be the first to arrive, I like to play this role.

"The captain’s [armband] is nothing more than a symbol, but the players have the responsibility to talk to the referee, to the players – I like to be that example player."

The midfielder's experience likely plays a large role in that leadership, given the amount of major silverware he picked up during his time at Real Madrid, winning the Champions League in three consecutive seasons at one stage.

How much did Casemiro cost?

Soccer Football – Europa League – Group E – Manchester United v Real Sociedad – Old Trafford, Manchester, Britain – September 8, 2022 Manchester United's Casemiro reacts REUTERS/Craig Brough

Even though many Manchester United fans will be quick to point out just how priceless a player of Casemiro's quality and experience is, the 31-year-old cost the Red Devils a reported £70m last summer.

The Brazilian has more than paid that price tag back, though, getting United back into the Premier League's top four, and helping them win their first trophy under Ten Hag – the Carabao Cup.

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Next season could be even better, too. Those at Old Trafford are gearing up to go one step better than a top-four place next season, with a place in the Champions League handing them the chance to cause a few shocks on the European stage.

Meanwhile, sneaking their way into the Premier League title race wouldn't exactly go amiss. It will be difficult, given Arsenal's summer arrivals so far, and Manchester City's treble-winning squad. But, if the Red Devils can get their own summer plans right, then they could cause an upset come August.

Between now and then, however, Ten Hag may find himself choosing a new captain, should Maguire depart.

Arsenal’s £90k-P/W "Genius" Stole The Show

Arsenal recorded yet another Premier League victory – their eighth in a row – against Leeds United that restored their eight-point cushion at the top of the table.

Earlier on this afternoon, Manchester City hammered Liverpool 4-1 and reduced the gap while putting all the pressure back onto Mikel Arteta’s men and the onus was for them to respond in kind and secure a crucial three points.

In previous seasons, the Gunners would have crumbled, not this term, with the Spaniard working his magic so far as he aims to end their 19-year wait for a league title.

It was an utterly dominant display and Arteta will surely be boosted by the fact Gabriel Jesus has returned to goal-scoring form.

The Brazilian scored two goals against Leeds in a 60-minute spell, took four shots in total, made one key pass and also had 48 touches as he looks like he is returning to the form that saw him be so impressive during the first half of the season.

His goals and impact will be vital heading into the next few weeks; however, Gabriel Martinelli will also be needed at top form, and he was arguably Arteta’s unsung hero today.

How did Gabriel Martinelli perform against Leeds United?

Statistically, the Brazilian winger was Arsenal’s third-best player on the pitch, behind Jesus and Martin Odegaard, receiving a Sofascore rating of 7.6/10 and this was very well deserved considering his performance.

He may not have scored, but the 21-year-old did provide an assist for Ben White to score and also took four shots during the match as he looked to add to his 13 goals scored already this term.

His performance led writer Ifreke Inyangto to claim that “Martinelli is decision making away from being really unstoppable.” And his attacking ability was crucial to the north Londoners' goal of securing all three points, being a constant threat from the left wing throughout.

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Journalist Victor Dieguez also had plenty of praise for the player, lauding him as a “genius” and if he can carry on performing like this until May, it could well be the Gunners’ title to lose.

Gabriel Jesus celebrates scoring for Arsenal

Martinelli also won seven ground duels, displaying his strength in one-on-one scenarios, while also adding two key passes, completing five dribble attempts, and taking 69 touches, proving the £90k-per-week man constantly wanted to be involved.

It was another wonderful performance from the youngster and Arteta has a sensation on his hands there’s no doubt about it.

Palace ‘in discussions’ with Ahamada

Crystal Palace are ‘in discussions’ with VfB Stuttgart midfielder Naouirou Ahamada over a move which is set to be completed, according to Matt Woosnam.

The Lowdown: Ahamada profiled

Despite his tender years, the 20-year-old has already become a key player for his current side, making 16 starts in the Bundesliga so far this season.

In that time, Ahamada has enjoyed an 85.2% pass completion rate, ranking second any Stuttgart regular, not to mention also averaging one tackle per game in the competition, showing his on and off-the-ball quality.

The youngster’s current Stuttgart deal expires in 2025 but it looks as though a move to the Premier League could be imminent.

The Latest: Palace set to sign midfielder

Taking to Twitter, The Athletic‘s Woosnam claimed that Palace are in ongoing talks with Ahamada over a move to Selhurst Park, with an agreement now close:

“Palace are in discussions with Stuttgart over a deal for 20-year-old midfielder Naouirou Ahamada. In an ideal world they hope to sign a right-back, centre midfielder and striker this window but won’t do deals for the sake of it.”

The Verdict: Long-term addition

Building towards the future at Palace is always vital, rather than simply focusing on the present, and Ahamada is someone who would help that approach come to fruition.

That’s not to say that the three-time capped France Under-18 international would not be an important squad player from the off, however, with football talent scout Jacek Kulig pointing out in 2020 that he part of a ‘crazy’ talented group of young midfielders from his homeland.

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Midfield is an area that Palace certainly need to improve in – Jeffrey Schlupp is playing centrally at times currently but is arguably more renowned for being a left-sided player – and Ahamada could help add competition and quality there.

The youngster has plenty of experience as a deep-lying midfielder and in a more advanced box-to-box role, even operating as a ten on a couple of occasions (Transfermarkt), which is an added bonus when it comes to providing Patrick Vieira with even more squad depth.

Journo criticises West Ham man vs Man Utd

Journalist Roshane Thomas was critical of Gianluca Scamacca’s ‘underwhelming’ performance in West Ham United’s defeat away to Manchester United in the Premier League.

The Lowdown: West Ham beaten at Old Trafford

The Hammers made the trip to Old Trafford on Sunday, looking to continue their improved recent form after the 2-0 win at home to Bournemouth six days ago.

Unfortunately, it proved to be a disappointing 90 minutes for David Moyes’ side, who lost 1-0 as Marcus Rashford’s header seven minutes before half-time ultimately secured the points for Erik ten Hag’s men.

Scamacca started proceedings against Man United but flattered to deceive with his performance, failing to have the desired impact in the final third.

The Latest: Thomas critical of Scamacca’s showing

Taking to Twitter, Thomas was critical of the Italian’s display at Old Trafford, as the 23-year-old continues to blow hot and cold in the absence of Lucas Paqueta.

The Athletic reporter stated:

“West Ham miss Paqueta. He provided creativity and service to Scamacca. He’s been underwhelming in the last three games and it’s mainly due to Paqueta’s absence.”

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/west-ham-latest-news-5/” title=”West Ham latest news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=“none”]

The Verdict: Need more from him

Scamacca arrived as such an exciting, big-money summer signing for £35.5m, but it’s fair to say that he hasn’t fully convinced yet, only scoring twice in the league in 11 appearances.

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Against Man United, the 23-year-old was too often on the periphery of the game, only having 18 touches of the ball, completing a mere nine passes and winning none of his four ground duels prior to being hauled off by David Moyes just 12 minutes into the second half.

While some signings can often take time to grow into their new surroundings, much more is needed from Scamacca before the World Cup – as pointed out by Thomas, the absence of Paqueta to injury certainly hasn’t helped the Italian’s cause.

West Ham: Moyes interested in Jakobs

West Ham United are interested in a deal to bring Ismail Jakobs to the London Stadium this summer.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by KUMB, who claim that David Moyes has now submitted an enquiry with AS Monaco regarding a potential deal for the 22-year-old left-back, who is represented by the same agent, Dirk Hebel, as another of the Hammers’ reported transfer targets – Thilo Kehrer.

The report goes on to state that Hebel is flying to London on Thursday in order to discuss the Paris Saint-Germain centre-back’s personal terms ahead of a potential switch to West Ham this summer – although the Premier League side are not believed to have come to an agreement over a fee with the French outfit as yet.

The next Hakimi

Considering just how exciting a prospect Jakobs very much appears to be, in addition to the fact that, following Arthur Masuaku’s switch to Besiktas, Moyes is somewhat sort of choice on the left of his backline, it is easy to see why the 59-year-old would be interested in a deal to bring the Monaco starlet to east London in the coming weeks.

Indeed, the versatile full-back – who can also operate from left-midfield and on the left wing – burst onto the scene with 1. FC Koln back in 2019, scoring two goals and registering two assists over 20 appearances in his debut Bundesliga campaign.

The 23-year-old followed this season up with another impressive showing in 2020/21, scoring one goal, providing one assist and creating three big chances over his 23 league fixtures, winning the Bundesliga’s Rookie of the Month award in December of 2020 – with his form convincing Monaco to splash €6.5m (£5.5m) on the former Germany U21 international last summer.

The £14k-per-week Jakobs – who Paul Mitchell dubbed “quality” – once again enjoyed a fine campaign over his 28 Ligue 1 appearances for the Monegasques last season, again proving his attacking threat with one assist and six big chances created in the French top flight.

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Regarding his style, Bundesliga.com went as far as to compare the £6.3m-rated talent to PSG’s full-back sensation Achraf Hakimi – who boasts an eye-catching record of 24 goals and 35 assists over 177 senior club appearances – citing the duo’s “pace and power” and “goal-threat” as their primary similarities, as well as their ability to “cut inside” from the flank to create opportunities for teammates or themselves.

Indeed, considering his ability to play all along the left flank, his knack for getting forward in support of attacks and his scope for further development in the future, Jakobs would very much appear to be an extremely astute signing for Moyes to get over the line this summer – not to mention a player who could well prove to become the next Hakimi in east London.

Journo drops Ian Poveda update at Leeds

Leeds United chief Victor Orta could be making yet another mistake after a recent transfer claim emerged…

What’s the word?

Rarely-seen winger Ian Poveda is likely to be sold or loaned out again this summer, according to LeedsLive reporter Beren Cross, who delivered an update during a recent Q&A with supporters.

He said: “Poveda has two years on his contract, but doesn’t seem ready to cut it in the PL after injury scotched his Championship experience. Could see him being sold or loaned out again.”

The 22-year-old only made ten appearances during the 2021/22 campaign, where he was on loan at second-tier outfit Blackburn Rovers, but an ankle fracture seriously halted his progress.

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Orta mistake

Despite only making 20 senior appearances for Leeds, the England U20 international could still have a bright future in the game, and it would be foolish for the Yorkshire giants to give up on him just yet.

That’s especially because of Raphinha’s likely departure from Elland Road this off-season. He seems set to leave, with Barcelona a very plausible destination.

His exit would open up a spot in Jesse Marsch’s squad, one that could be filled by the former Manchester City gem – even more so if they are relegated to the Championship.

After recovering from his injury at Thorp Arch, Poveda was integrated back into Rovers’ squad for the final few games of the season and even earned praise from manager Tony Mowbray, who described the 5 foot 5 dynamo as a “wonderful talent”.

One particular game against eventual play-off semi-finalists Sheffield United last November saw Poveda put in a ‘Man of the Match’ display, earning a SofaScore rating of 8.5, having laid on two key passes and five successful dribbles. A sort of display very much in the ilk of Raphinha.

Just last month, former Whites goalkeeper Paul Robinson lauded the 22-year-old as an “exciting young talent” and claimed that he’s “quick” and “direct” to MOT Leeds News.

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We’ve certainly not seen enough of the Englishman to suggest that he should be cast away during the off-season. That could prove to be a very costly and big mistake from Orta, who has had many a transfer disaster in recent times.

With a potential Championship campaign on the horizon, it could be wise to keep Poveda around this summer.

AND in other news, Big 49ers takeover development emerges at Elland Road…

Newcastle must finally sell Miguel Almiron

The Chronicle’s Lee Ryder has delivered an update on Miguel Almiron’s future at Newcastle United amid speculation he could be set to leave St James’ Park in the summer transfer window…

What’s the story?

Comments from his agent last month revealed that there is interest from clubs in both Italy and Spain over the Paraguay international, and that they would see what the future holds come June.

Now, Ryder has claimed that Newcastle could be willing to sell at less than his release clause, and that the club are actively looking to sign a new winger in the summer.

Almiron’s time is up

With a record of just 13 goals and five assists in 111 games for Newcastle, Almiron hasn’t shown anything like the kind of form that would suggest he’s someone who could play a part in this new PIF era at St James’ Park.

Having signed for club-record fee of £20m, the Paraguayan has struggled to adjust to the demands of the Premier League, and while the work ethic on the pitch can never be questioned, his end product can be.

Now recently turned 28, Almiron has endured yet another difficult campaign thus far, scoring no goals and providing no assists whatsoever in the 20 games that he has played across all competitions.

Even speaking a couple of years ago, former Premier League defender Danny Mills called into question what Almiron brought to the table, saying: “That’s the problem, he’s working very, very hard but he’s in the team to be creative, he’s in the team to create chances and to score goals. He’s not doing it. To work hard is normal, to work hard is mandatory. That’s the very, very least every player should be doing.

“You get put in a team as a defender to stop the opposition scoring.  You get put in as a defensive midfielder to break things up, you get put in as a striker to score goals, you get put in as a creative midfielder to create chances and score goals – he’s not doing that.”

With his agent seemingly indicating that his client has interest from elsewhere, Howe has the perfect chance to get rid of someone who doesn’t fit the project going forward.

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The £75k-a-week earning ace has simply run his course at St James’ Park, and it’s high time the Magpies cut their losses on him this summer.

Meanwhile, Newcastle could find their Shelvey heir in this star…

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