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Sunderland fans won't quite know what to expect from the new Frenchman occupying the Black Cats dug-out now, with Regis Le Bris joining from Lorient to put an end to the lack of a permanent boss troubling those on Wearside.

Fresh off relegation in Ligue 1, before walking away to move to England, Le Bris will be judged solely on how he copes with the pressures of Championship football.

Yet, the Sunderland fanbase will be wanting and almost demanding a much improved season ahead, after finishing in a dire 16th spot last campaign.

That will be easier said than done, however, with the pressures of the Sunderland job post proving too much for some in recent memory, but the relative unknown entity in the Black Cats hot-seat could begin to endear himself to his new set of supporters if he was to get rid of a forgotten, injury-prone figure soon.

Dennis Cirkin's time at Sunderland

Once a promising first-team gem at the Stadium of Light, it's fair to say Dennis Cirkin's career for the Wearside outfit is now a sorry state of affairs.

The former Tottenham Hotspur youth product had an extremely productive 22/23 campaign, before becoming plagued with injuries this season just finished, with five goals managed from down the left-flank.

Since then, however, Cirkin has found himself regularly in and out of the treatment room at Sunderland, with only eight games managed in the Championship during the entirety of the 23/24 season.

That caused a whole host of issues for the struggling Black Cats consequently, with a lack of a nailed-down left-back making this a problem area for the various different managers that walked in and out of Sunderland before Les Bris' arrival.

It remains to be seen whether the injury-prone 22-year-old is in Les Bris' plans going forward, with the likes of Leo Hjelde and Aji Alese at his disposal at left-back as well, with Cirkin's excessive wage a potential factor as to why Sunderland could be prepared to offload the ex-Spurs defender soon.

Cirkin's wage at Sunderland

As per Capology, Cirkin's salary at Sunderland currently stands at a handsome £10k-per-week, meaning he earns the same amount as Anthony Patterson in-between the sticks at the Black Cats, despite Patterson being everpresent last season in the league, minus the final day.

Cirkin's hefty pay packet actually remarkably makes him a higher earner than wanted man Jobe Bellingham, who earns just £6.5k-per-week, even with the 18-year-old being fresh off a breakthrough season at the Stadium of Light.

Plenty more will be presumably expected of him under Les Bris' guidance, after picking up seven goals and a solitary assist from 47 appearances during his debut season.

1. Jack Clarke

£16.9k-per-week

2. Daniel Ballard

£15k-per-week

3. Bradley Dack (now released)

£15k-per-week

4. Patrick Roberts

£12.5k-per-week

5. Anthony Patterson

£10k-per-week

= 5. Dennis Cirkin

£10k-per-week

Sunderland have shown they won't hesitate in binning off high earners too, as seen in Bradley Dack being let go of on the club's recent retained list, who earned an excessive £15k-per-week.

Cirkin could be the next for the chop, therefore, with Sunderland hoping that another club would gamble on his services if they were to put him up for sale, hoping that he can become injury-free again and shine.

Le Bris might well see something in Cirkin this pre-season, on the contrary, and pray that he can be a star under his tenure, but the former Tottenham man's spell playing at the Stadium of Light could soon be over, especially if more unfortunate injuries come his way.

Le Bris must instantly ditch Sunderland gem who's worth more than Neil

New Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris could well be cutthroat when it comes to this midfielder.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 24, 2024

Tottenham Hotspur’s unbeaten run across all competitions has now extended to three games across all competitions after Tuesday’s Champions League win over Slavia Prague.

The Lilywhites claimed a superb 3-0 victory in Europe after penalties from Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons and an own goal from opposition defender David Zima.

Thomas Frank looks to have finally found a winning formula, as seen in recent weeks, after previously failing to win in any five matches, four of which came in the Premier League.

Some may argue that the Dane is starting to get the best out of his current playing squad, with a period of adaptation evidently needed after his summer appointment.

However, despite the three-goal triumph in North London last night, the manager will no doubt have seen some glaring flaws that will need correcting in the weeks ahead.

Spurs's biggest underperformers against Slavia Prague

After starting each of the last four games on the substitutes bench, winger Wilson Odobert was handed the chance to start from the off against Slavia Prague.

However, the Frenchman struggled to make the desired impact, as seen by his tally of 86% duels lost, leading to his withdrawal in the 76th minute of the clash.

Other figures, such as zero dribbles completed and two big chances missed in the final third, also highlight his lack of positive impact despite Frank’s faith shown in the youngster.

He wasn’t alone in struggling to deliver during the win, with Pedro Porro unable to produce the regular attacking quality the fanbase have become accustomed to in recent years.

The Spaniard only managed to complete one of his five attempted crosses, whilst completing just 66% of the passes he attempted – largely being ineffective when in possession.

He also failed to win any tackles against the Czech side, whilst failing to complete any of his attempted dribbles – showcasing his lack of quality at both ends of the pitch in North London.

Spurs star needs to be dropped after Slavia Prague

Spurs have spent heavily over the last couple of years to try and be competitive in the Premier League and try and compete for titles under Frank in the years ahead.

In the recent summer alone, the Lilywhites hierarchy backed the manager with over £120m worth of funds to make an immediate impact during his first year at the helm.

Xavi Simons was just one of the additions made by the hierarchy during the off-season, but he’s struggled to make an impact across various competitions in recent months.

He went 17 games without a goal until last week, but the Dutch star has started to find his feet – as seen by his tally of two goals in his last two games for the Lilywhites.

The same can’t be said for striker Richarlison, who has constantly struggled for consistency after his own £50m transfer from Everton back in the summer of 2022.

The Brazilian international has been Frank’s starting centre forward for the majority of 2025/26 to date, subsequently managing to net a total of seven goals across all competitions.

Whilst such a tally may seem respectable, he’s often gone missing in major moments this campaign, as seen against Slavia Prague in the meeting on Tuesday.

He was once again handed a start at the top end of the pitch, but he was unable to provide the goods in front of goal and was subsequently replaced in the 68th minute.

Richarlison was only able to register a measly tally of 22 touches, a tally fewer than goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who managed 50 – showcasing his lack of impact in North London.

Minutes played

68

Touches

22

Passes completed

9

Possession lost

7x

Big chances missed

1

Aerials won

50%

Passes into final third

1

Fouls committed

2

He also only managed to complete nine passes and lost possession on seven separate occasions, further highlighting his lack of positive impact during the Champions League clash.

The Brazilian also missed one big chance in front of goal and won just 50% of his aerial battles, often struggling to provide the focal point Frank has massively craved.

As a result of his showing, the striker was handed a measly 6/10 match rating by Football London’s Alasdair Gold, further showcasing his struggles in North London.

After such a showing, Frank must certainly be left with no choice but to drop the forward and hand the likes of Mathys Tel and Randal Kolo Muani the chance to stake their claim for the number nine role.

Richarlison has no doubt been a decent option for Spurs over the last couple of years, but it’s becoming increasingly evident week on week that he’s not at the level needed for success.

Frank's new Mbeumo: Paratici set to make Spurs bid to sign "world-class" CF

Tottenham Hotspur could be about to land a new talisman in the upcoming January window.

ByEthan Lamb 3 days ago

Richard Hughes was rightly lauded after overseeing a staggering summer transfer window for Premier League champions Liverpool, but any positivity has been scourged away by the dreadful form that has fractured Arne Slot’s reign.

Nine losses across 12 fixtures is bad enough, but the limp and toothless manner of many of the defeats – especially recent losses at Anfield against Nottingham Forest and PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League – underscores the severity of the crisis Slot is dealing with.

He needs to find answers, or else FSG will be forced into making a rare managerial dismissal. It’s inevitable that discussion is increasing about the security of Slot’s position.

That would be an outcome few of a Red persuasion would want, not least because of a shortage of options.

Jurgen Klopp’s name has been bandied about, but this is not realistic.

Who Liverpool could replace Slot with

Klopp draped the curtain on his Liverpool dynasty at the end of the 2023/24 campaign. He was tired. It had been a tough, gruelling, heavy metal career on Merseyside, where he had devoted nine years to restoring Anfield as a global superpower.

Premier League

1x

19/20

Champions League

1x

18/19

FA Cup

1x

21/22

Carabao Cup

2x

21/22, 23/24

Club World Cup

1x

19/20

UEFA Super Cup

1x

19/20

Community Shield

1x

22/23

There has been some discussion online as to whether FSG should push for a comeback, but this romanticised notion would fall flat.

Klopp is not the answer. His quasi-retirement has seen him assume the post of Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull GmbH, and it’s important to remember that the German tactician’s tactical shrewdness waned toward the end of his tenure. He was tired, after all.

But, if Slot is fired, Liverpool would need to find a replacement, and Spanish sources suggest Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is on the shortlist.

Iraola, 43, is one of the most exciting young managers in Europe, having shaped the Cherries into a front-footed and sharp attacking outfit.

Compensation pay would be required to pull him away from the Vitality Stadium, but given Iraola’s vision aligns with the club’s long-term project, he might be the one to go for.

Why Iraola could be perfect for Liverpool

It was a bold move for Bournemouth to ditch Gary O’Neil after the pragmatic manager steered the club to safety after promotion to the Premier League in 2022/23. A bold move, but one carried out with diligence, for Iraola was earmarked as a progressive option.

And Bill Foley must be delighted. In 2023/24, Bournemouth recorded a record points total (56) in the Premier League, leading​ journalist James Horncastle to hail him as “the best coach in the Premier League” for his sharp-witted and positive approach.

Iraola likes aggressive and high-octane football. He is not as turbo-charged in his approach as Klopp, but the Spaniard would infuse Liverpool with more risk-taking and directness than Slot prefers, albeit still maintaining an emphasis on retaining possession.

This could play to the strengths of Florian Wirtz, who has had a tough time since joining Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen for £116m in the summer.

A silky and inventive attacking midfielder, the German has yet to register a goal involvement in the Premier League and has lacked the clarity and poise that was expected after the thrill of his official announcement.

There remains a world-class talent in there, and Wirtz’s woes come with the caveat that he has entered a dysfunctional tactical system.

Iraola’s focus on a 4-2-3-1 formation suggests that the 22-year-old could find a natural place at number ten. As per FBref, he does rank among the top 11% of positional peers in the English top flight this term for shot-creating actions and the top 4% for passes attempted and progressive passes per 90.

This suggests that Wirtz has the potential to be a superstar in England, and Iraola can provide the stability and fluency of tactics to help realise that.

He might not be Klopp, but Iraola has labelled his tactics as being akin to “rock and roll”. Klopp’s famous branding of his vision as being ‘heavy metal football’ suggests that Liverpool might hit the jackpot by making this switch.

No one wants to see Slot be sacked, but this pitiful form and level of performance cannot be allowed to continue, and Iraola has the acumen to revive Wirtz and bring the champions back into the ascendancy.

Better than Isak: Liverpool join race for "one of the best RWs in the world"

Arne Slot’s Liverpool tenure is crumbling before him, and FSG are considering changes.

ByAngus Sinclair Nov 28, 2025

As Liverpool’s centre-back problem continues to become one of Arne Slot’s biggest concerns, scouts have now reportedly told Michael Edwards to sign a Marc Guehi alternative.

Liverpool's centre-back problem

For all the £400m that they spent in the summer, Liverpool still had one glaring problem when the deadline passed and that came at centre-back. Edwards and Richard Hughes remained stubborn on their stance that it was Guehi or nothing, which very nearly worked in their favour. The Crystal Palace defender was hours away from becoming a Liverpool player, only for Crystal Palace to pull the plug and leave the Reds hanging.

Slot can fix Ekitike blow with Liverpool star who's more clinical than Haaland

Liverpool may have to take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge without the in-form Ekitike.

ByAngus Sinclair Oct 3, 2025

Without the England international, Liverpool were left to fall back on Virgil van Diijk, Ibrahima Konate, an injury-prone Joe Gomez and the young Giovanni Leoni. It looked destined to become one of their biggest problems and Leoni’s season-ending ACL injury has since sparked further concern that Slot could be forced to turn towards some auxiliary options.

What also hasn’t helped that problem is the form of Konate. The Frenchman, who has less than 12 months remaining on his current contract, has been far from his best and was guilty of a number of errors in back-to-back defeats against Crystal Palace and Galatasaray.

With Real Madrid sniffing around and contract talks ongoing without a resolution, Konate’s performances come at the wrong time in front of those at Anfield. After Leoni’s injury, however, Slot can only turn to Gomez if he wants to drop the defender.

It’s a problem that the Reds are likely to solve in 2026, but that may not see Guehi arrive. Instead, scouts are reportedly telling Edwards to sign an unexpected option.

Liverpool scouts tell Edwards to sign Lacroix

As reported by Football Insider, Liverpool scouts are now telling Edwards to sign Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace and not Guehi. Those at Anfield have even dubbed the French defender a “Rolls-Royce” and believe that he is quietly one of the best centre-backs that the Premier League has to offer.

It would be an incredible blow for Palace, who would likely lose Guehi to another side even if Liverpool decide to pursue Lacroix. As for those at Anfield, they’d be signing an underrated part of the Eagles’ current 19-game unbeaten run in all competitions.

Starts

6

6

Progressive Passes

8

23

Successful Aerial Duels

17

13

Ball Recoveries

16

19

When compared, it’s easy to see why Palace are 19 games unbeaten in all competitions. Lacroix and Guehi have formed one of the most impressive partnerships in the Premier League this season, but Liverpool can only pick one.

Edwards and Hughes will already know Guehi well, although there’s no denying that Lacroix is worth taking a look at. With growing interest in the former elsewhere, the Reds could surprise everyone by signing the latter in 2026.

Manchester City slumped to yet another defeat at home to bitter rivals Manchester United to leave them 11 points off leaders Liverpool in the Premier League table.

The 2-1 defeat represented Man City’s fifth league defeat in their last seven games with many pundits believing that the champions are now out of the race to defend their crown once again. Their current form is a far cry from their scintillating displays that led the club to four Premier League titles in a row.

It has been a season of ill fortune for the club thus far, Ballon D’Or winner 2024 Rodri has been ruled out of action for the remainder of the season with a ruptured ACL injury and talisman Kevin De Bruyne continues to struggle for fitness and form.

Unfortunately for boss Pep Guardiola, it seems the bad news may not end with his side’s poor run of form-in fact, it could be about to get worse.

Man City star being targeted by Barcelona

Barcelona currently sit at the top of the La Liga table approaching the festive break and striker Robert Lewandowski has been in devastating form with 16 goals in just 17 appearances for the Catalan club so far this season.

However, with the striker having just turned 36, it seems that Barcelona are starting to plan for life after the Polish striker in order to continue their recent upturn in form both domestically and in Europe.

According to reports in Spain, via SportWitness, Barcelona are lining up a sensational summer move for Erling Haaland and the player is believed to be open to the move.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta is believed to be in constant contact with Haaland’s agent and it seems next summer is the moment that the Spanish giants could activate the Norwegian’s release clause. Haaland has become disgruntled at City’s recent form and believes a move to Spain could be the next progression in his fledgling career.

The move would come as a huge blow for Pep Guardiola, who would be losing his focal point of attack having scored a staggering 108 goals for the club in just 121 appearances.

The impact of Haaland departing Man City

Despite City’s notable downturn in form this season, Haaland has still amassed 18 goals in all competitions and is currently the Premier League’s joint-top goalscorer.

The £123m rated forward has been involved in 50% of Man City’s goals this season and his departure would leave a gaping hole in the forward line at the Etihad with other performances in that department lacking.

Goals

13

2

0

0

0

xG

0.81

0.1

0.2

0.11

0.27

Shots

4.32

2.18

3

1.68

2.52

Shots on target

52.2%

26.7%

12.5%

33.3%

35%

Aerial duels won

46.7%

0%

20%

16.7%

0%

It is clear that Haaland would be irreplaceable at City having scored more goals this term than the four other forward players combined. In addition, the powerhouse striker has the highest expected goals, most shots and highest shots-on-target percentage out of the attacking options Guardiola has at his disposal.

Being the focal point in City’s attack is a crucial role in how Pep likes his teams to play and with Haaland also winning the most aerial duels, he has more than proven his worth to the side in recent seasons.

Manchester City’s season may not be done and dusted yet. However, should Barcelona get their way with the Norwegian come the summer, it could leave a gap that even Guardiola would struggle to fill.

Man City must regret selling their dream Rodri replacement for just £10.5m

Man City made mistake selling their dream Rodri replacement for just £10.5m

ByConnor Holden Dec 18, 2024

An encouraging new development regarding the future of West Brom manager Carlos Corberan has emerged, following a fresh development before the weekend Championship action.

West Brom prepare for Bristol City clash

The Baggies return to the field on Saturday afternoon, welcoming Bristol City to The Hawthorns for another important game in the promotion race. Their weekend opponents sit 11th in the Championship table and only five points adrift of Corberan’s eighth-place side, highlighting the importance of the game, as they look to pull eight points clear of them.

West Brom have endured a frustrating period of form in recent months, topping the table back in September before going on a long winless run, with so many draws thrown in. In fact, they have drawn 11 of their 21 league matches so far this season, leading to them falling out of the playoff places.

For Corberan, it has been such a frustrating period, and considering that managers are ultimately judged on results, there has been some understandable criticism aimed at him in recent times, during a season in which many expected the Baggies to be one of the leading contenders to win the Championship title.

That said, the 41-year-old has largely impressed since taking charge at West Brom back in 2022, guiding his side into the playoffs last season, being beaten by Southampton in the semi-finals. Now, a significant update has emerged regarding the future of the Baggies manager.

Encouraging update over Corberan's West Brom future

Despite a claim from AS [via Sport Witness] that Southampton have sent an “important offer” to West Brom boss Corberan, following the sacking of Russell Martin, they have instead agreed a deal with Ivan Juric, according to Fabrizio Romano on X.

For all the disappointment at West Brom’s form at times this season, this update still represents a real boost for the Baggies, considering what an influential figure Corberan has been over the past couple of years.

The fact that a Premier League club were actively trying to prise him away from a Championship club says a lot about his credentials, but it looks as though he is staying put. To see him leave The Hawthorns midway through the season would be a bitter pill to swallow.

Hopefully, Corberan feels that West Brom are the perfect club for him for the time being, believing that he can guide his West Brom team into the top flight in the coming months, masterminding an upturn in fortunes.

Corberan must now ditch West Brom star who earns even more than Maja

This West Bromwich Albion star could soon be heading for the exit door.

ByKelan Sarson Dec 20, 2024

That said, the lure of the Premier League is great for so many managers, both in terms of being able to test yourself against some of the best coaches in the world and also the financial benefits.

It remains to be seen if Corberan’s head could be turned by another approach from a different club, assuming Juric does complete a move to Southampton, but his sole focus is now hopefully on sealing promotion in the coming months.

Leeds United are looking like they will have a huge fight on their hands to avoid relegation this season. Their first campaign back in the Premier League is not going to plan, with Daniel Farke’s side just one point clear of the drop zone at the moment.

The underlying numbers do not make for good reading if you are a Leeds fan, either. The West Yorkshire outfit have massively underachieved according to their expected points, which is 15.49xPTS, over four more than they actually have.

In attack, they’ve only scored ten goals, although Farke has continued to pick a similar front three across the season. That means Brenden Aaronson has kept his place in the side.

Aaronson’s disappointing form this season

As an attacking unit, Farke’s Leeds side have certainly left a lot to be desired. The Whites’ lack of form in front of goal has been an issue, as has the fact that they are struggling to create a substantial number of chances.

Aaronson is certainly someone who has underperformed. The USA international only has one goal and one assist this season, but has been one of Farke’s most trusted lieutenants.

He’s played all 11 games in the top flight this season, and has started all of the last eight.

In terms of output for the 54-cap American international, he’s only managed one goal and one assist so far this term.

Perhaps that is because he is playing on the right wing despite being a number ten by trade, but Leeds fans must surely be expecting better numbers.

As far back as last season, there have been question marks surrounding Aaronson’s ability.

Former Leeds defender Jon Newsome said, “I don’t think he’s at the level in my honest opinion,” implying the Whites could do better in that area of the pitch.

They might have the perfect Aaronson replacement already at the club, in a player who is thriving out on loan.

The on-loan Leeds star who could break into the first team

Perhaps Leeds can make better use of their talent in and around the first team squad, if not this season, then in years to come. Farke has shown trust in up-and-coming youngsters in the past, with Archie Gray a prime example a few seasons ago.

Another player who could fit that bill next season, when he returns to the club, is on-loan star Joe Gelhardt. The 23-year-old attacker is excelling in the Championship for Leeds’ Yorkshire rivals Hull City this term.

The versatile attacker, who can play on the right, as a number ten or at centre-forward, has seven goals and two assists in the second tier for the Tigers this season.

His form in recent weeks has been particularly impressive, with Gelhardt racking up seven goal involvements in just six games.

The Liverpool-born forward has certainly received lots of praise for his excellent form in a Hull shirt this season. Their boss, Sergej Jakirovic, described him as a “special” footballer and said that “he can reach the Premier League” one day.

It is easy to see how he could end Aaronson’s Leeds career next season, if he is given the chance to shine in a Leeds shirt. His underlying numbers this term are superior to the American’s. For example, he averages 0.8 goals and assists per 90 minutes compared to just 0.4 for Aaronson.

Goals and assists

0.8

0.4

Chances created

1.1

1.4

Take-ons completed

1.7

1.2

Ground duel success rate

54.55%

52.08%

Ball recoveries

5

4.6

Gelhardt – previously lauded as a “human wrecking ball” by Marcelo Bielsa – has never really been given a consistent chance at first-team level for the Whites. He’s only played 57 games across five seasons, with ten goals and assists in that time.

However, his performances this season will surely make Farke sit up and take notice.

Aaronson simply has not cut it in the Premier League, and with a talent like Gelhardt on their books, perhaps it is time Leeds give the 23-year-old a chance to shine next season.

Worse than Perri: Leeds dud is one of their worst signings in PL history

Leeds United have dropped some transfer clangers when looking back at their summer business.

ByKelan Sarson Nov 11, 2025

Liverpool kicked off their pre-season tour in Asia with a 4-2 loss against AC Milan. Results do not matter in pre-season, of course, but it is interesting to see the likes of Florian Wirtz in action.

The attacking midfielder, who joined the Reds from Bayer Leverkusen for a British-record £116m fee in June, was all neat flicks and cute turns and intelligent one-twos. The German maestro is the real deal, all right, and could be the difference-maker as Arne Slot looks to defend his Premier League title while chasing glory across other fronts.

Hugo Ekitike didn’t feature, for he only played out his first training session with his new club on Friday, having finalised his £79m move from Eintracht Frankfurt earlier in the week.

You can be sure to expect the Frenchman’s participation in the weeks ahead. Though in what capacity remains to be seen, with the Reds chasing a deal for Alexander Isak, who has informed Newcastle United that he wants to sign for the Merseysiders.

However, one player who won’t be taking part is Joe Gomez, who has been dealt another cruel injury blow and has been forced to head home.

Liverpool's defensive situation

Jarell Quansah was sold to Bayer Leverkusen for £35m last month, thinning out Slot’s backline. In Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, Liverpool have an elite pairing, but little else in the way of depth.

However, Gomez does have a chance to shine at the rear next year, having been utilised centrally by Slot last term after principal full-back displays across Jurgen Klopp’s final term.

Well, that was the case until the England international had to withdraw from Liverpool’s summer camp due to what has been reported as a ‘minor Achilles injury’.

There’s no doubt that this blow exacerbates Liverpool’s comparatively frail defensive depth, and may well see sporting director Richard Hughes forge ahead with plans to sign Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.

Liverpool emerged as leading contenders for Guehi in June, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the Anfield side’s interest in the centre-back.

With just one year left on his current deal, the Reds are optimistic that they can sign the 25-year-old in a cut-price £40m package. Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are also keen.

Why Liverpool must sign Marc Guehi

It’s funny that Liverpool have spent so heavily this summer and yet still feel fragile and thin at the back.

And with the non-committal Konate entering the final year of his £70k-per-week deal, and with Real Madrid hoping to snap him up, it feels crucial that the Reds add a player of Guehi’s quality to their ranks.

The one-time Chelsea prospect has made quite the name for himself at Selhurst Park, playing 132 games in the Premier League and winning the FA Cup last season, keeping a clean sheet against Manchester City in the final.

Liverpool need a centre-back, but Guehi isn’t any old defender. He’s perfect for Slot’s expressive yet composed system, hailed by analyst Ben Mattinson as “England’s best player” at the 2024 European Championship and described as a “monster in defence” by reporter Bobby Manzi.

Indeed, as per FBref, Guehi ranked among the top 9% of centre-backs across Europe’s top five leagues last season for goal contributions, the top 12% for shot-creating actions, the top 2% for through balls and the top 20% for successful take-ons per 90.

The 6 foot titan, not the tallest, made up for his so-called weakness in regard to stature by winning 63% of his ground duels in the Premier League last term, as per Sofascore, underscoring the kind of first-class defending Slot would be welcoming to his ranks.

There’s even a case to be made for Guehi being a more important signing than Isak.

Make no mistake, the Sweden forward is a world-class player. Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher even said that he was “the best striker in the Premier League” last season, and it’s praise that many would agree with.

Mohamed Salah, as is so often the case in the record books, was the only man to have outscored Isak in the league last year, and the Newcastle man played just 31 matches altogether, bespeaking his clinical style.

Now, while Isak would prove an incredible, level-raising signing, have Liverpool not already added Ekitike to their ranks? Data-led site FBref even reveal that the Newcastle man is one of Ekitike’s most statistically comparable players.

And with Liverpool already such a devastating attacking force, the French forward is in the perfect place to foster his burgeoning skills.

1.

Liverpool

1st

80

2.

Man City

4th

66

3.

Newcastle

3rd

65

4.

Arsenal

2nd

63

5.

Tottenham

16th

62

However, Liverpool are but a Van Dijk injury away from disaster at the back, and it would be inconceivable to enter the fresh campaign, primed to defend their title, having sold themselves short in spite of such heavy spending.

That’s why Guehi’s signature could prove such an important one for Slot’s vision. Gomez simply isn’t reliable enough to serve as the skipper and Konate’s deputy, having missed the entire second half of the 2024/25 campaign with a hamstring injury; he returned in May but failed to make it off the bench.

Liverpool know that they need to get their purse out once again this summer, turning away from the spending up front and fashioning a complete and deep defensive line.

There are many centre-halves who could make a difference, but Guehi would be the pick of the bunch, and he might even prove a more important signing than Isak when the campaign is well and truly underway.

Bigger loss than Diaz or Nunez: Barcelona charge into race for £70k-p/w Liverpool star

The Reds could lose a key man.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 26, 2025

Liverpool are now reportedly ready to spend over £100m to sign Brighton & Hove Albion’s Yankuba Minteh in an attempt to solve one of Arne Slot’s glaring problems.

Winless in four Premier League games, Liverpool’s title defence has turned into an unexpected nightmare. Slot’s side have looked out on their feet even when clawing victories at the start of the campaign. For the first time in the Dutchman’s time at Anfield, he is under increasing pressure.

Defeat at Brentford was particularly damning. The Red were bullied in West London and a squad built on a £400m+ spending spree were silenced by some old faces in a stark reminder that money doesn’t always equal success.

Alas, what should concern those at Anfield the most is Slot’s recent admission that he’s yet to find a solution to the physical style that sides are implementing against Liverpool. In the era of Premier League football, the champions have simply been unable to compete, with Arsenal epitomising the change taking place in England’s top flight.

Former Anfield star Jamie Carragher recently echoed those struggles, saying: “Losing four games in a row for Brentford would be a disaster. To see the champions do it with the expenditure in the summer means we’re in crisis time for Liverpool right now.

“There will be a lot of serious questions asked in the dressing room between the players and the coaching staff and the people above the manager. When they’ve looked at what they’ve spent, they’ll be looking for a lot more.”

The solution may not even come internally for Liverpool either, who are ready to break the bank for Minteh in an attempt to at least fix one problem.

Why Liverpool are ready to break the bank for Minteh

According to FootAfrica, Liverpool are now ready to spend over £100m to sign Minteh from Brighton in 2026. The winger has enjoyed an impressive season so far and with the Reds looking to inject the directness that they lost when selling Luis Diaz in the summer, he has emerged as an ideal option.

Minutes

770

680

803

Goals

1

5

3

Assists

2

4

2

Successful take-ons

23

36

2

Although the goals are yet to come for Minteh, his take-on success is something to take note of when compared to Salah. The Egyptian, in one of his worst starts to a Liverpool season, has completed just two take-ons. Minteh, meanwhile, is already on 23 and still isn’t close to Diaz’s 36 for Bayern Munich.

Simply put, the Reds have not replaced Diaz’s direct ability with the ball which progresses play and maintains possession. Take that away and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s ability to progress play with his passing range and Liverpool’s struggles begin to make sense.

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Described as “exciting” by scout Jacek Kulig, Minteh represents the type of player that Michael Edwards built his reputation on signing and should do so once again in 2026.

How Arne Slot has already replaced Salah

Everton return to action in the Premier League this afternoon, hosting Brentford as Sean Dyche looks to create some space between his side and the relegation zone.

After losing the opening four league fixtures of the season, Everton have toughened up and been defeated only one time across seven outings, but with four draws in that timeframe, more work is needed.

23/24

Gtech Stadium

1-0 win

23/24

Goodison Park

3-1 win

22/23

Goodison Park

1-0 win

22/23

Gtech Stadium

1-1 draw

21/22

Goodison Park

3-2 loss

21/22

Gtech Stadium

1-0 loss

The Goodison Park side have won their last three matches against the Bees, and with the home advantage, must be optimistic that they can make progress.

Everton team news

Jarrad Branthwaite returned from injury before the international break, keeping a clean sheet against West Ham United, and will be crucial against a mean Brentford frontline.

There’s further good news on the injury front, for Dwight McNeil is expected to be fit after missing the Hammers draw two weeks back.

Armando Broja and Youssef Chermiti have both taken to first-team training but will not feature on Saturday. Moreover, Tim Iroegbunam, James Garner and Seamus Coleman remain out.

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Football FanCast's Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Despite pulling out of international duty, deadly duo Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa are expected to be fit, and the same again for Ethan Pinnock. Mbeumo, in particular, will be a force to be reckoned with on Merseyside.

Why Bryan Mbeumo is the biggest threat

Believe it or not, Tottenham Hotspur are the only team to have outscored Brentford in the Premier League this season, something that will have been discussed repeatedly at the Everton tactical table over the past two weeks.

1.

Tottenham

23

2.

Man City

22

2=

Brentford

22

4.

Liverpool

21

4=

Chelsea

21

Everton languish in 18th place at the other end of such standings, with just ten strikes from 11 matches so far. Branthwaite’s return will be crucial, especially with Mbeumo having scored eight goals from 11 Premier League matches this term – that’s a tally bettered only by Manchester City’s Erling Haaland.

It’s going to be vital that the Toffees stand firm at the back while mustering all the attacking power that they can. It begs the question: should Dominic Calvert-Lewin reprise his starting berth at number nine once again?

The 27-year-old, who is out of contract at the end of the season, has been in dreadful form of late, blanking across his past seven Premier League matches. Funnily enough, Everton are actually creating a bit, and he should be dropped for this one.

Lacking mobility, it’s probably the right call. Broja may not be ready to make his debut, but Beto has shown promising signs this season and could be the man for the job.

Why Everton should unleash Beto from the outset

Beto joined Everton from Udinese for a £26m fee in 2023, but he failed to adapt to life on English shores, only bagging three goals in the Premier League.

This year, Dyche has used him as a second-half option, and indeed, to impressive effect. Beto scored the last-gasp equaliser in Everton’s draw against Fulham several matches back and hit the post and netted (though it was chalked off after a VAR review) in the following fixture against Southampton.

He’s more athletic and mobile than Calvert-Lewin and will be determined to finally be awarded a starting berth to showcase his suitability.

Ranking among the top 24% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for successful take-ons and the top 15% for touches in the attacking penalty area per 90, as per FBref, he’s clearly got something that Calvert-Lewin’s who bears all the resemblance of a deep-rooted tree at times, lacks.

And given that journalist Sam Tighe has hailed him as a striker who “spooks defenders” through his muscular physicality and surprising springiness, it’s surely time to unleash him.

It would, to the least, provide Everton with more than they currently yield with Calvert-Lewin up top. Mbeumo – and Wissa – are bound to cause problems at Everton’s ground, and McNeil’s creativity and Iliman Nidaye’s electric-paced efforts will fall flat without a reliable talisman.

Who knows, perhaps this will prove to be the springboard that Beto needs to live up to that rather lofty price tag and prove himself within the Premier League scene.

Given that the 26-year-old has won 56% of his aerial battles in the top flight this year too, as per Sofascore, it would appear that he has the frame and aerial understanding to compensate for Calvert-Lewin’s prospective absence – after all, he’s 6 foot 4.

Dyche needs to find an answer to the threat of Mbeumo, and while Beto isn’t a player who’s cut from the same cloth, he has his talents and can apply them to emphatic effect at Goodison Park this afternoon.

Everton have enjoyed their football when playing Brentford in recent encounters but must be wary of a fluid and ferocious strikeforce.

Maybe the visitors will get themselves on the scoresheet. It’s up to Dyche to make the requisite adjustments and ensure that his team score more.

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