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A Manchester United move for Bayern Munich’s Serge Gnabry is getting ‘more likely’ all the time. 

That’s according to transfer insider Dean Jones, who was speaking to GiveMeSport.

The lowdown

Sky Sport Germany reported in June that United hold an interest in the Germany winger, who is now into the final 12 months of his £115,000-per-week contract at the Allianz Arena.

Bayern will be aware that, come January, he will be negotiate pre-contract terms with a foreign club, and the Bundesliga champions’ CEO Hasan Salihamidzic recently urged the 26-year-old to be open about his wishes so that ‘we can find a solution that makes everyone happy’.

The latest

Jones has said that a prospective move to Old Trafford might be seen as a logical step for all parties, particularly because Gnabry could be available at a ‘reasonable price’.

The journalist told GiveMeSport: “It’s one they’ll have to consider if it drags on. And the longer he doesn’t sign a new contract, and the longer United don’t have a solution in attack, the more likely it becomes.

“He’s a solution on the market that is doable at a reasonable price, so it’s possible.”

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The verdict

There are a number of compelling arguments for United to pursue Gnabry.

First of all, his track record is very strong. He has been directly involved 104 goals in 171 appearances for Bayern (64 goals, 40 assists), including 27 last season (17 goals, 10 assists).

In 2019/20, the former Arsenal forward made the Champions League squad of the season after helping Bayern to win the tournament outright.

Beyond that, he is also versatile, capable of operating on both flanks as well as the number 10 role. He offers a strong defensive contribution, ranking in the 70th percentile for interceptions and the 88th percentile for tackles among positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues (via FBRef).

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has waxed lyrical about the Germany winger, calling him ‘phenomenal’ and ‘world class’, and the reported price tag of €40m (£33.9m) looks very tempting indeed.

Everton have been locked in talks with Tottenham Hotspur over their interest in Richarlison this summer, and now a new update has emerged from a reliable source.

What’s the latest?

Italian journalist and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has revealed an update on Spurs’ efforts to sign Everton winger Richarlison.

Romano tweeted:

“Tottenham are closing on Richarlison deal, after full agreement on personal terms as reported yesterday. Matter of time for deal structure to be agreed with Everton. Medical could take place soon.”

The Athletic’s David Ornstein suggested a medical could even take place today (Thursday).

He said: “Richarlison scheduled to undergo medical today after Tottenham struck agreement in principle with Everton overnight to sign 25yo. Fee ~£50m + £10m add-ons but talks continue today to establish final price. Personal terms agreed.”

Lampard will be gutted

There is no doubt that Lampard will be gutted by the ongoing situation with his Brazilian player as he will want to get his squad together as soon as possible so that the team can concentrate on the challenging Premier League season ahead.

Richarlison was the top goal-scorer for Everton last term and played a vital role in their difficult relegation scrap.

As a result of that, the manager will be incredibly worried about the player’s future considering how hard his impact on the team will be to replace.

This isn’t merely a bit-part player heading for the exit door, it’s arguably their most important player so the Toffees’ summer is set to begin with disaster.

The former Chelsea boss spoke out last season responding to questions on the chances of retaining his front three of Richarlison, Dominic Calvert Lewin and Anthony Gordon this summer in an interview with Liverpool World;

“I hope so (the trio can remain at Everton). Those conversations have been on hold because everyone knows our situation.”

“All of those ones you mentioned and more. Now those conversations can start.”

Unfortunately, it doesn’t look as though he’s set to have much luck with keeping them as Gordon has also attracted interest from Tottenham.

With that being said, Farhad Moshiri and the powers at Goodison Park must now start preparing for the worst and start lining up potential replacements for the Brazilian, as it could cost them dearly in their efforts to not get themselves in the same situation as they did last season.

AND in other news: “My understanding”: Alan Myers drops Everton transfer update, supporters will love it

Liverpool have already made three signings this summer with Darwin Nunez, Calvin Ramsey and Fabio Carvalho all joining the Anfield outfit, and now a new update has emerged on a potential transfer target.

What’s the latest?

According to The Mirror, Liverpool are now set to make a bid for Portuguese midfielder Otavio.

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As per the report, Porto are expecting the Champions League finalists to make an official offer of £34m for their player in the coming days, despite having a £51m release clause.

Liverpool are said to be following up their interest in attacking players due to the exit of Sadio Mane who joined Bayern Munich this week.

Imagine him & Nunez

If the club did sign Otavio this summer, Jurgen Klopp would have the opportunity to unleash a formidable partnership between the attacking midfielder and his fellow former Primeira Liga star Nunez at Anfield next season.

The 27-year-old machine who was hailed “phenomenal” by scout Alex Goncalves has been a consistent and reliable attacking threat for Porto and it’s not hard to see why Liverpool see him as a viable option to boost goal contributions and chance creation in the team upon the exit of Mane.

Over 32 league appearances this season, the midfielder has scored three goals, delivered 11 assists and created a whopping 17 big chances, making 2.3 key passes, 3.2 tackles and 1.1 dribbles completed on average per game, as well as winning the majority of his duels combined (51%), proving that he is a real force in midfield.

Otavio also offers wide diversity in his position, an attribute that Klopp would value highly as they compete on all fronts for trophies, with the Portuguese star capable of playing effectively in all midfield roles from left to right and in the advanced role, with strengths in high pressing and playmaking according to SofaScore.

These qualities displayed by Otavio would be a great addition to compliment Nunez in his striker role at Anfield and to increase the amount of attacking opportunities generally across the team.

With that being said, the signing of the player would be a major coup for Liverpool in their pursuit to not only soften the blow of losing Mane this summer but also to ensure the team can compete at a high level next season as they did in the previous campaign.

AND in other news: FSG make LFC transfer decision on “world-class” £81m-rated star, Klopp will be fuming

Sunderland won promotion back to the Championship last season and are now set to compete in the second tier for the first time since the 2017/18 campaign.

Alex Neil replaced Lee Johnson at the helm earlier this year and hit the ground running on Wearside as he led the team to glory via the play-offs.

Kristjaan Speakman and the Scottish boss will now be looking to shape the Black Cats squad in the coming weeks, with outgoings and incomings potentially taking place ahead of the 2022/23 season.

One player who may be on his way out of the club is versatile American gem Lynden Gooch. The 26-year-old is out of contract at the end of the month and is reportedly attracting interest from fellow Championship side Swansea.

Gooch played in a multitude of roles for Neil and Johnson throughout the 2021/22 campaign, featuring out wide, in central midfield and at wing-back in League One. He was able to fill in wherever he was needed and this made him a reliable option for the head coach to call upon.

However, the consistency in his performances was not always there as he averaged a solid, albeit unimpressive, SofaScore rating of 6.77 in the third tier. The dynamo failed to score a single goal but did provide six assists as he played 41 times in the league.

Whilst losing him may be a concern at this moment in time, Speakman can allay any fears that Gooch’s exit will be a blow by signing free agent Robbie Brady.

He spent the second half of last season at Bournemouth and is now set to be available on a free. Sunderland are one of the teams reportedly keen on the Irishman and he can be a big upgrade on the American heading into the 2022/23 campaign.

The £33k-per-week wizard was recently dubbed “fantastic” by Swansea boss Russell Martin and he showed glimpses of what he is capable of with an average SofaScore rating of 7.03 in six matches for the Cherries.

He has previously shown that he can be a valuable asset at Championship level and has already worked with Neil at Norwich. In the 2016/17 campaign, he averaged a score of 7.11 as he managed four goals and four assists in 22 matches for the Canaries.

The gem is capable of playing at left-back, on either wing – as a winger or wing-back – and has played in central midfield during his career.

This shows that he is as versatile as Gooch whilst also having a history of performing to a higher standard in the league above the one the American gem played in last season. Therefore, Sunderland must sign Brady as he can be a big upgrade on the 26-year-old.

AND in other news, Speakman has held SAFC talks to sign “effortless” £9m magician, he’s McGeady 2.0…

It’s no secret that Erik ten Hag faces one of the most important transfer windows in Manchester United’s recent history this summer.

The Red Devils finished sixth in the Premier League last time around, and next year will mark a full decade since they won their last league title in Sir Alex Ferguson’s final season in charge.

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Something needs to change, and fast. With the Dutchman arriving at a club in turmoil, there will be cautious hope that he can bring back the good times at Old Trafford.

For that to happen, new blood will be required, especially in the heart of defence. French journalist Fabrice Hawkins stated that United are keen on signing Evan Ndicka from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer, and a fee of around £17m could be enough to secure the services of the player, who is out of contract at the end of next season.

With journalist Christopher Michel describing the 22-year-old as the “complete package”, he could well be an excellent upgrade on Harry Maguire.

Ndicka possesses a much greater goalscoring threat from the heart of defence than the Englishman, netting four times last season in the Bundesliga whilst also grabbing four assists, with Maguire only scoring once in the English top flight.

The Eintracht Frankfurt also won more tackles (43) and made more blocks (74) and interceptions (64) than the 29-year-old (26, 46 and 53 respectively) proving that his defensive attributes are first-class.

The 22-year-old is also quite mature for his relatively young age, being cautioned only three times all season, compared to Maguire’s nine bookings and one red card in 2021/22.

While the Old Trafford faithful may be excited about pursuing big names, Ten Hag might be better off looking at players such as Ndicka, a no-nonsense centre-back who could be available for what seems like a bargain price.

The Frenchman looks like he could settle in with ease at United, so now it’s up to the manager to make his move. Based on the above evidence, it seems a no-brainer.

AND in other news, Bid made: FSG now in LFC talks to land “world class” £60m “storm”, imagine him & Nunez

Tottenham Hotspur appear to be closing in on the signing of Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder, Yves Bissouma…

What’s the word?

As per transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the north London side are now “set to complete” the signing of the Mali international, with it seemingly only a matter of time before the 25-year-old is confirmed as a Spurs player.

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Writing on Twitter about the latest situation regarding the 18-cap gem, the Italian journalist gave his much-coveted green light to the deal: “Tottenham are set to complete Yves Bissouma deal, here we go! There will be final contacts with Brighton today on payment terms, then paperworks time. Medical already scheduled as expected.

“Agreement on €29m fee plus add-ons. Final details, then it will be signed.”

This follows reports that emerged earlier this week that suggested Antonio Conte’s side were close to getting their man, seemingly fending off reported interest from the likes of Liverpool and bitter rivals, Arsenal.

Paratici masterstroke

That impending arrival represents yet another astute piece of business from sporting director Fabio Paratici, with the former Juventus chief appearing to have worked his magic once again to bring in a “Champions League level” talent – in the words of Graham Potter – on the cheap.

With just a year remaining on his existing deal, Bissouma is set to make the switch to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for a fee of around £25m, with that figure appearing something of a bargain considering reports earlier this year had suggested he could be worth as much as £50m.

Having already brought in experienced Croatian, Ivan Perisic, from Inter Milan and reliable backup goalkeeper Fraser Forster from Southampton – both deals having been completed for free – Paratici has added instant quality and depth to a squad that had perhaps been too reliant on its core starting XI last summer.

Add in the January signings of Rodrigo Bentancur and Dejan Kulusevski – both of whom have hit the ground running for the Lilywhites – and it has proven a fairly impressive 2022 thus far with regards to incomings, with more additions seemingly on the way amid links to 21-year-old wing-back Djed Spence and Everton talisman Richarlison.

As for Bissouma, in particular, the imminent signing represents a major coup for the club, with the £31.5m-rated man arguably one of the most commanding, all-action midfielders in the Premier League, having averaged 1.8 clearances, 1.9 interceptions and 2.9 tackles per game in his 26 outings in the most recent campaign.

Equally, he compares favourably to those in his position across Europe’s top five leagues for his attacking capabilities, ranking in the top 9% for pass completion and the top 10% for dribbles completed, with his knack for surging forward from midfield making him a hugely attractive prospect.

If this deal is anything to go by, it looks as if Spurs supporters could well be in for a treat this summer, with the £29k-per-week machine’s arrival not likely to be the last Paratici masterstroke of the window.

IN other news, Paratici has “genuine interest” in sealing “magic” £47m Spurs deal, he’s Robben 2.0

According to one journalist, Southampton are one of three Premier League sides interested in signing Manchester United defender Phil Jones.

The Lowdown: Jones’ playing time

Whilst the 30-year-old has made 228 appearances for Man United and has amassed 203 caps in the English top-flight (via Transfermarkt), the centre-back has found himself out of the Red Devils’ side in recent years.

The former England international played just 161 minutes of Premier League football all season, adding a further half-an-hour in the FA Cup to his first-team tally.

With injury and Covid-19 absences for Harry Maguire, Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof, Jones had to step up and play alongside Raphael Varane as United faced Wolves in January.

After a returning from his 709-day absence, teammate Luke Shaw hailed the defender’s performance, claiming that he was ‘phenomenal’ at the back.

The Latest: Saints interested

After returning from his devastating injury which he suffered back in 2020, rumours surrounding Jones’ future have now begun to emerge.

Taking to Twitter, a reporter for Italian newspaper Calcio in Pillole has shared news of a potential move away from Old Trafford for the 30-year-old, claiming:

“EXCL Fulham, Southampton and Leeds are interested in Manchester United’s English defender Phil Jones.”

The Verdict: Good move for him

With his United career having stagnated due to various reasons, a move away to another top-flight side could prove to be a great decision for Jones.

Saints could utilise an experienced defender in their backline alongside Mohammed Salisu, with the youngster having found his feet in the league after making 34 appearances this season.

With Ralph Hasenhuttl viewing the signing of a centre-back as a priority this summer, Jones could be a great addition to Southampton’s squad if he can stay fit, with United expected to command a minimal fee.

This could be a deal that suits all parties.

In other news: Journalist shares exciting Brereton-Diaz update

Newcastle United want one more striker after closing in on a deal for Reims forward Hugo Ekitike, claims journalist Mark Douglas.

The Lowdown: Newcastle closing in on Ekitike

According to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, the 19-year-old Frenchman has agreed to a five-year deal with the North East club and the final details between Reims and Newcastle just need to be agreed so the transfer can be completed.

This follows Eddie Howe’s pursuit of the striker in January, where the Tyneside outfit had a £33m offer accepted by the Ligue 1 side, before Ekitike himself called the move off because the timing wasn’t right.

The Latest: Douglas says Magpies aren’t done

With the news that Ekitike is close to joining Newcastle this summer, the reliable Douglas of iNews has shared further information on the Magpies’ striker search.

Taking to Twitter late on Wednesday night, he claimed: “Hugo Ekitike signing looking ‘more than likely’ now, according to someone with knowledge of the deal. They want at least one more striker… #nufc”

The Verdict: Exciting times for supporters

With Dwight Gayle set to leave St. James’ Park this summer, Eddie Howe will be left with just two out-and-out strikers – struggling January arrival Chris Wood and injury prone Callum Wilson.

Therefore, it is evident that Newcastle need greater squad depth in the striker position, regardless of Ekitike’s arrival, given that the French starlet is more of a long-term project than a marquee addition right off the bat.

With PIF’s excellent recruitment record so far, this appears to be an exciting time for Toon fans to keep their eyes on the rumour mill.

In other news: Magpies send scouts to watch Ben Nelson…

Celtic are reportedly interested in Manchester City youngster Taylor Harwood-Bellis, according to reports.

What’s the word?

As per Sky Sports, Ange Postecoglou’s side are believed to be ‘monitoring’ the 20-year-old ahead of a potential deal, albeit with contact yet to be made regarding a possible switch.

The report suggests that the Scottish champions are keen to strengthen defensively this summer – at both centre-back and left-back – even if they manage to secure Cameron Carter-Vickers on a permanent deal.

The desire to bolster at centre-back has also been heightened by Christopher Jullien’s ‘uncertain’ situation, as per the report, with the Frenchman having been linked with a return to Ligue 1.

Frimpong 2.0

As the report also outlines, the Old Firm outfit have enjoyed good relations with City – and the City Football Group – over the last few years, having brought in a number of players from the Etihad that have gone on to do well north of the border.

One such figure to have impressed after making the move from Manchester to Glasgow was young Dutchman Jeremie Frimpong, the attacking full-back having been signed straight from the academy back in 2019.

Having joined for a reported fee of just £1m, the Amsterdam-born ace went on to quickly catch the eye at Parkhead, eventually recording 11 goal contributions in 51 appearances in all competitions over the next 18 months.

Such were the nature of his displays that it wasn’t long before one of Europe’s elite came knocking, with Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen plucking him for €11m (£9.3m) in January 2021 – representing a tidy profit for the club.

Although Postecoglou and co will be more concerned with the potential impact that Harwood-Bellis could have on the pitch were he to join this summer, the Frimpong example illustrates how the club can successfully nurture young talent in order to generate funds, with the player also aware that Celtic Park offers the platform to impress as well as win silverware.

The £6.3m-rated defender has spent time on loan at Blackburn Rovers, Anderlecht and most recently at Stoke City in the Championship, having failed to really break into Pep Guardiola’s first-team thoughts.

In his time away from his parent club, however, the Stockport-born starlet has certainly showcased his talent, with Tony Mowbray having praised the “old school” youngster for his “aggressive” approach during his time at Ewood Park.

It would no doubt be a step up to join a club who are set to compete in the Champions League next term, although as the Frimpong case study shows, there is a pathway to success for emerging prospects at Celtic.

IN other news, Celtic can unearth a new Giakoumakis after submitting bid for “very strong” £2.5m gem

Manchester United are preparing a sensational attempt to sign RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku this summer, according to Sport 1 journalist Florian Plettenburg (via Sport Witness). 

The lowdown: Breakout season

Signed from Paris Saint-Germain having graduated from the club’s youth system, Nkunku had been making steady progress in Germany by directly influencing 39 goals in 84 outings prior to the 2021/22 campaign.

However, the versatile attacker took his form to a whole new level this season, directly contributing to an astonishing 55 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions.

Unsurprisingly, the upturn in output from the France international has prompted multiple suitors from across Europe to sit up and pay attention.

The latest: United keen on Nkunku

Taking to Twitter (via Sport Witness), Plettenburg confirmed that United are interested in signing Nkunku after the Frenchman was ‘recommended’ as a target by Ralf Rangnick.

He said: “Update #Nkunku: Yes, there is a good contact between #MUFC and the player’s management. It is said that an official offer could arrive in Leipzig next week. United bosses rate him as very good. Rangnick recommended his transfer as reported. RB still won’t sell.”

The verdict: Sensational capture

Holding a market value of £58.8m and under contract in Germany until 2024 (Transfermarkt), signing the 24-year-old would be a superb piece of early business from Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.

Capable of operating centrally and on either wing, Nkuku shares a stylistic likeness with such star names as Tottenham forward Son Heung-min, Manchester City’s Phil Foden and Liverpool trio Luis Diaz, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane (FBRef).

That illustrious company in terms of his playing style – allied with a remarkable 7.59 Sofascore rating (third highest in the German top flight) whilst completing 1.9 successful dribbles per game (joint-seventh highest in Bundesliga) – makes the prospect of adding a player of Nkunku’s calibre to the Red Devils’ squad a hugely exciting one.

Described by current Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch as a player with ‘no weaknesses’, the gifted Frenchman should certainly be considered a priority transfer target for Ten Hag and the Red Devils.

In other news: Man Utd are interested in signing one Serie A giant this summer, read more here