Everton: £100k-p/w Signing Could Revive DCL At Goodison

After securing survival on the final day of the last Premier League season, Everton will be looking to endure a slightly more stable campaign in Sean Dyche's first full year in charge at Goodison Park. And goals may be the answer to that.

The Toffees scored just 35 goals, only more than Wolverhampton Wanderers, as main man Dominic Calvert-Lewin struggled with injuries once again, missing a total of 14 games. When he was available, too, the Englishman managed to find the back of the net on just two occasions.

With that said, another forward arriving could benefit Calvert-Lewin and Everton as a whole, and, according to TuttoMercatoWeb, they have put in an offer for Leeds United forward Rodrigo this summer.

The 32-year-old didn't do enough to save Leeds last season, but he did, at least, manage to get his name on the score sheet 13 times in the Premier League, which would have made him Everton's top goalscorer last season in what could have saved them the stress of final day safety.

Transfer insider Dean Jones certainly believes that the Toffees would benefit by signing Rodrigo this summer, who could form a partnership with Calvert-Lewin. Jones told Football FanCast:

"I actually quite like the idea of a Rodrigo and Calvert-Lewin partnership. I think they could quite positively help each other.

"I know he couldn’t keep Leeds in the Premier League last season, but, ultimately, he’s a very good player. When he first came into the Premier League initially, I thought he’d do really well. And if you use him properly and not as an out-and-out nine, I think that Rodrigo could really give Everton a lot."

What role would Rodrigo play at Everton?

Rodrigo's main role at Leeds should have been supplying the goals for Patrick Bamford. But injury issues and a lack of form meant that the Englishman endured a season to forget. This is something that the Spaniard will be hoping to avoid a repeat of with Calvert-Lewin should he complete a move to Goodison Park this summer.

That may not be the case, however. At Everton, Rodrigo could be the man to finally get Calvert-Lewin back on form, who has previously thrived with a strike partner. When playing together with Richarlison in the 20/21 season, the forward scored 16 Premier League goals – his highest-ever total.

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Since the Brazilian's departure to Tottenham Hotspur last summer, however, the academy graduate has found the back of the net just twice, albeit with injuries contributing to this.

Rodrigo can replicate that Richarlison impact, however, helping to revive Calvert-Lewin.

When compared to the 20/21 version of the forward, the Leeds United man made more progressive passes per 90, and, like the current Spurs man, made over two shot-creating actions per game, according to FBref. So, the evidence is there that Dyche can form a solid offensive partnership next season.

The £100k-per-week Rodrigo has certainly earned a lot of praise, too, with Sky Sports' Aaron McLean saying during Leeds' victory over Norwich in 2022: "Rodrigo was a livewire in that first half.”

We've seen in the past that strike partnerships can become the key to success for a Dyche side, with a Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes duo helping Burnley to unexpected heights.

Rodrigo and Calvert-Lewin can become the next great duo under Dyche, should the former make the move this summer.

Liverpool Could Sign An "Incredible" Talent In 17 y/o Gem

Liverpool appear to have homed their sights on Paris Saint-Germain prodigy Warren Zaire-Emery amid recent reports of the teenager's mounting interest across Europe.

What's the latest on Warren Zaire-Emery to Liverpool?

According to RMC Sport, the French outlet claims that the Reds are among a cluster of outfits vying for the 17-year-old's signature after a remarkable breakout season with the French champions.

Zaire-Emery is also attracting the attention of treble winners Manchester City, who are interested in including the teenager in a deal involving Bernardo Silva – who has been linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium – while Borussia Dortmund also eyeing a swoop.

The talented Frenchman is already valued at £17m by CIES Football Observatory, though such a valuation will surely only skyrocket over the forthcoming seasons.

How good is Warren Zaire-Emery?

When asked of his thoughts on Zaire-Emery's meteoric rise, PSG Deputy Academy Director Yohan Cabaye said: "I'm not surprised, because he has the intelligence to understand, and also to know that he has to keep working, and he has the behaviour, the fantastic behaviour that gives him the chance to play.

"He deserves everything he has."

Still only 17 years old, the central midfielder is one of the most gifted talents in Europe, and after making his senior debut in PSG's first Ligue 1 match of the season, he has achieved a total of 31 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals.

As per FBref, he already ranks among the top 15% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for non-penalty goals, the top 19% for progressive carries, the top 10% for successful take-ons and the top 5% for progressive passes received per 90 – as well as the top 3% for pass completion.

Hailed as an "incredible talent" by Joe Cole, Zaire-Emery would undoubtedly play a role in Liverpool's first-team system if he was signed, having completed 92% of his passes and succeeded with 59% of his dribbles in the French top-flight this term, as per Sofascore. Interestingly, these numbers would top the rankings in the Reds' squad based on last season's Premier League data.

And given his prodigious roots, he could even surpass Spaniard Stefan Bajcetic's potential on Merseyside, with the 18-year-old box-to-box ace earning all the plaudits this term for his own breakout exploits.

Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic.

Bajcetic forged 19 displays and scored one goal before injury cruelly ended his resounding campaign prematurely, but he will expect to earn further opportunities next year as he continues his ascent, having been hailed as "so mature and composed for his age" by journalist Ben Bocsak.

An energetic and nimble player, the former Celta Vigo starlet could yet blossom into one of the Premier League's leading centre-midfielders, but if Zaire-Emery was to join the Reds fold, he could yet eclipse his progress.

Nicknamed "the robot" by his peers, the PSG sensation would definitely not come cheap if his signature was to be procured by the Anfield side this year, but he is arguably one of the most advanced youngsters around and would only enhance Klopp's squad with his dynamic abilities that belie his tender age.

Tottenham May Sanction Deal For £190k p/w Ace To Please Kane

Tottenham Hotspur could sign Harry Maguire from Manchester United this summer and club talisman Harry Kane wouldn't 'be too concerned' over the 30-year-old joining him in N17, according to journalist Dean Jones.

What's the latest transfer news involving Harry Maguire?

As per The Evening Standard, Tottenham are keen on signing Maguire from Manchester United this summer as Ange Postecoglou gets to work regarding potential additions in north London.

The report states that Spurs may be reticent to move due to Maguire's £190,000 per week salary at the Red Devils; however, a loan move may emerge as a potential option for the 30-year-old in the transfer window.

ESPN understand that both Tottenham and West Ham United have been offered the chance to acquire Maguire, with Erik Ten Hag said to be open to letting go of his club captain.

Ten Hag has also spoken about the future of Maguire in a recent interview, stating: "I'm happy he's here… it's also a decision he has to make [because] nobody would be happy with this situation."

CBS Sports reporter Ben Jacobs told The United Stand YouTube channel that Wolverhampton Wanderers could also become a contender to tempt Maguire with a fresh challenge elsewhere.

Speaking to Football FanCast, journalist Jones has suggested that Spurs marksman Kane would be content if his international teammate Maguire was to move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this summer.

Jones told FFC: "He's a total professional, he's come through some really tough times if you think of the mental challenges that he's faced on the back of some of his performances. I think if Tottenham were to ask Harry Kane for his views on it, I don't think he would be too concerned about Maguire coming."

Would Harry Maguire be a good signing for Tottenham Hotspur?

Maguire has his critics, it is fair to say; nevertheless, he has shown impressive mental resilience over the last year or so and would offer an experienced head in the Spurs backline if he was to move to the Lilywhites.

In 2022/23, the Red Devils' captain made 31 appearances in all competitions for his current employers in total, as per Transfermarkt.

harry-maguire-man-united-everton-transfers

The 30-year-old has shown his awareness to dangerous attacking situations efficiently in the season just gone, making an average of 2.6 clearances per match in the Premier League, according to WhoScored.

FBRef also note that Maguire has excelled compared to his positional peers across Europe's top five divisions in the art of aerial duels, winning around 3.01 per 90 minutes across the last 365 days, putting him in the top 12% for this metric.

Of course, some Tottenham fans would have doubts over the signing of Maguire due to his underwhelming time at Old Trafford, though he can still be a competent defender and has proved his worth at times for Manchester United over the last year.

£70k-p/w Wizard Should Never Play For Newcastle Again

Newcastle United have revelled in the jubilance of qualifying for the Champions League under Eddie Howe's tutelage, but must now shift focus on making effective moves in the transfer market to secure their newfound spot among Europe's elite.

Technical director Dan Ashworth is expected to target four 'elite' signings this summer to enrich the Magpies' prospects of replicating their incredible work this season.

Liverpool and Chelsea were both out-of-sorts this term and neither club retained their spot in the top four of the Premier League; Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion are also rising forces and will look to further their feats after qualifying for Europe.

Howe will be confident that his current crop can continue the industrious work forged thus far under his wing, but he will look to make the requisite upgrades where applicable, and the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin could fall prey as several departments of the Tyneside team are refashioned.

Should Newcastle sell Allan Saint-Maximin?

Saint-Maximin is one of Tyneside's most beloved stars in recent history, signing from Ligue 1 outfit Nice for £16.5m in 2019 and forging 124 appearances, scoring 13 goals and supplying 24 assists.

He has never been the most prolific of players, but the £70k-per-week winger is a "wizard" with the ball – as proclaimed by Graeme Bailey – and ranks among the top 9% of positional peers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for shot-creating actions and the top 1% for progressive carries and successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

However, with just one goal and 14 starts across all competitions this term, he might be seeking new pastures if Howe is unable to offer him greater responsibility next season – and while European football will deepen the side's competition, there are several factors that illustrate why this might not benefit the mercurial ace.

First and foremost, a first-rate winger is likely to be signed this summer as one of the forthcoming 'elite' additions, with free-scoring flanker Harvey Barnes, who has shone this year despite relegation with Leicester City, earmarked.

£63m club-record signing Alexander Isak has also been utilised out wide of late to accommodate Callum Wilson – who scored 18 top-flight goals from just 21 starts – as the central focal point, and while the Swede is less effective on the wing, he undoubtedly takes precedence when fully fit.

There's also the case of Jacob Murphy, who with three goals in the final month of the campaign became one of the more pleasing success stories this season.

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The 28-year-old would have been one of the favourites for the axe at the start of the campaign, but his diligence and tenacity have left him with unwavering support from his manager – no other Magpie has played more than his 68 games at the club under Howe.

Finally, Anthony Gordon scored his maiden goal in black and white against Chelsea after signing for £45m from Everton in January, and while Saint-Maximin was also "superb" against the Blues, as hailed by reporter Jordan Cronin, the 5 foot 8 Frenchman's performance could be used to fuel intrigue in his services, with Transfermarkt currently valuing him at £30m.

In west London, Saint-Maximin made five key passes, won eight of his 15 duels and succeeded with six of his eight dribble attempts, earning a 7.4 match rating – via Sofascore – in one of his standout performances of the campaign.

Many supporters would likely bemoan the decision to part ways with the enigmatic ace. After all, he entered St. James's Park when it was a ramshackled mess and was integral in offering a glimpse of a brighter future before the PIF takeover, captivating the swathes of Toon support with his fleet-footed runs.

But he is not getting the game-time he will desire at 26-years-old, and Howe must brazenly use the recent stellar showing against Chelsea to tout his name, freeing up room for a superlative new addition to wreak havoc down the left flank.

Man United Planning Future Bid For £20,000-A-Week Player

Manchester United are preparing an attempt to snap up Evan Ferguson in a future transfer window, according to a report from Sky Sports.

Who wants to sign Evan Ferguson from Brighton?

The 18-year-old has taken the Premier League by storm this campaign, with the teenager already emerging as a first-team regular and goalscorer for Brighton. Helping the Seagulls to break into the top six, he has managed a total of 17 games this season and has six goals and two assists already. That means he currently has an average of 0.88 goals or assists per 90 minutes – an impressive record for a youngster.

In addition, the attacker has already made an impact for the Republic of Ireland at international level. He's broken into the first team reckoning with three caps and already has his first goal under his belt – showing that the big stage certainly doesn't faze him.

It's these showings that have now led to interest in his services from across the rest of the top flight. A fresh report from Sky Sports suggests Man United are keen to land the forward in the future and that they have laid down plans to prise him away from his current side from the next summer transfer window.

They won't be alone in trying to snap up Ferguson's signature, though, with the striker also wanted by Tottenham Hotspur.

evan-ferguson-brighton-and-hove-albion-transfer-tottenham-hotspur-harry-kane

Whilst it doesn't mention that a deal will go ahead this coming summer – which is unlikely considering he has only just penned a new agreement with Brighton – it suggests that the interest and the bids could begin from this time next year.

Are Man United signing Evan Ferguson?

The player certainly looks like he could be a real talent in the future, especially considering what he has already achieved at such a tender age.

Already, the attacker has managed a rating of 6.76 on WhoScored – putting him within the top ten performers in the current Brighton squad. It shows that even at 18 years old, he has already become a vital part of the success his side are having, with the Seagulls assured of a European place with a game to spare.

Even those in the media have already been quick to laud the striker's performances. Football journalist Josh Bunting labelled Ferguson as "excellent", and it seems as though the player ticks plenty of boxes.

If Ferguson was to become a new recruit at Old Trafford, his arrival may well be considered bittersweet, as Sky Sports also noted how he had recently been dubbed a "£50m-plus mistake", with the Red Devils failing to take him in following a previous trial.

Nevertheless, Erik ten Hag would surely love to have the chance to snap up Ferguson this summer, and judging from his performances, the forward will be worth the wait.

Presenter Fumes At Everton Player’s Antics Vs Man City

Presenter Lawrence Bury was left deeply unimpressed with Yerry Mina's antics in Everton's 3-0 defeat at home to Manchester City in the Premier League.

How did Everton fare against Man City?

The Blues faced a mammoth task on Sunday afternoon, as they welcomed the reigning champions to Goodison Park for another huge game. Pep Guardiola's side have been in sensational form of late, as they look to win a treble, so it was always going to be a likely away win.

Everton battled well in the first half, but they were undone by a piece of brilliance by Ilkay Gundogan, who brilliantly steered an effort past Jordan Pickford. Erling Haaland then scored his customary goal for Guardiola's men, heading home to double the lead in swift fashion.

From that point done, it was a routine afternoon for City – Gundogan added a free-kick after the break – as they cruised to three points and ensured that Everton remain very much in the relegation battle. Sean Dyche's team are in 17th place and one point clear of the drop zone with two matches remaining, with a nerve-shredding couple of weeks on the horizon.

Someone who seemed heavily involved in the action throughout was Mina, who was involved in a constant physical battle with Haaland, as they looked to get the better of one another. There was a separate incident that displayed the Colombian's bad side, though – one that didn't involve the City striker.

Premier League, Everton, Everton news, Everton latest news, Everton update, Everton analysis, Everton academy, EFC news, EFC latest news, EFC update, EFC analysis, EFC academy, Yerry Mina, Sean Dyche

What did Mina do wrong?

Taking to Twitter, Bury lambasted Mina's playacting after a tussle with Aymeric Laporte during the first half, in a moment that didn't cover the central defender in glory:

"Yerry Mina is everything wrong with modern footballers."

In truth, Mina's behaviour was fairly embarrassing in that one incident, with the 28-year-old going to ground easily after contact from the City defender. The 39-cap Colombia international is clearly a good player when he is fit, and an influential performer for Everton, but it would be nice to see him cut that out of his game.

There may be some who enjoy the histrionics, especially when it comes from a player representing their team, but Mina embarrassed himself and it ultimately had no bearing on the result, with his reputation only damaged because of it.

That being said, he could be a massive player in these final two games, with Dyche needing him to be at the absolute top of his game against both Wolves and Bournemouth.

Aston Villa Could Move For £170k-p/w Star In Summer

Aston Villa could make a move for Barcelona attacker Ferran Torres in the summer transfer window, journalist Graeme Bailey has claimed.

What's going on with Ferran Torres?

The Spain international has fallen down the pecking order at Barcelona this season following the arrivals of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, and after an inconsistent campaign, he could depart in the summer.

Barcelona are reportedly keen to bring Lionel Messi back to the club, but given their financial issues, they have to make major sales in order to fund such a move, and Torres could be one of the players sacrificed.

The £170k-p/w star has scored seven times in 41 appearances this season, and could return to the Premier League less than two years after departing Manchester City.

Speaking on The Talking Transfers Podcast (32:30), Bailey revealed that Aston Villa are interested in a move for the 23-year-old.

"Ferran Torres is a name we're already hearing, I wouldn't be surprised if Ansu Fati's name came up," he stated.

"A player whose name is coming up, Yannick Carrasco, a player who Barcelona have got a first option on, which they're unlikely go through with.

"The thing Villa fans will be very happy about we're talking about that next calibre of player now."

Would Ferran Torres move to Aston Villa?

Given that Torres pushed for a move away from Man City to join Barcelona in the first place, it may be a tough ask to lure him back away from La Liga.

However, if the club push him towards the exit door in order to fund a move for Messi, then he could leave in search of first-team football, and if Villa qualify for Europe they could be a viable option.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery.

Mateu Alemany is expected to join Villa from Barcelona as a director, and he will know Torres well from their stints at the Nou Camp and at Valencia. If he is able to pull off such a deal, it could be a huge coup for Villa.

Torres can play across the entire front line, and could help strengthen Unai Emery's side going forward. If there is European football on offer, then extra quality depth would be necessary, and he could be the perfect statement addition as they return to continental competition for the first time in over eleven years.

Barcelona manager Xavi previously described Torres as "world-class," and it would be a signing which could bring a lot of excitement to Villa Park.

Tottenham: Spurs Make Big Mauricio Pochettino Decision

Mauricio Pochettino has 'long liked' the idea of re-joining Tottenham Hotspur with both the coach and Spurs now making a final decision on his mooted return.

What's the latest Spurs manager news?

After the north Londoners succumbed to a humbling 6-1 loss at the hands of Premier League top four rivals Newcastle United on Sunday, chairman Daniel Levy made the big call to sack interim head coach Cristian Stellini.

The result capitulated Eddie Howe's side into a solid position to qualify for next season's Champions League campaign whilst dealing a mighty blow to Spurs – who are now six points adrift of fourth.

The Lilywhites face a real uphill battle to catch both Man United and Newcastle, with the two sides both possessing games in hand on Spurs and superior goal differences. Levy is facing a disastrous end to the 2022/2023 campaign and simply must make the right call when it comes to Antonio Conte's replacement.

Luis Enrique and Julian Nagelsmann stand out as the most big name and readily-available candidates for hire, with both men being heavily linked in the last week. Pochettino, who has been mentioned as a possible option since Conte's departure, is thought to be in talks with Chelsea despite Spurs fans singing for his return from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium stands.

Mauricio Pochettino

All the noises suggest he is edging towards west London, and according to The Independent, both Pochettino and Spurs have made their decision on his mooted reunion at N17.

As per this report, the 51-year-old has 'long liked the idea' of a return to Tottenham, as have Spurs themselves, with both Pochettino and the hierarchy strongly considering it back in 2021, However, this time round, he didn't emerge as a major contender for the role – with the two parties both making a decision to 'look on'.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are a serious destination for the tactician.

Are Spurs making a Pochettino mistake?

The former Paris-Saint Germain boss, who already knows the club and members of their squad, also has the necessary experience in England and would have been a brilliant appointment.

Pochettino also would have returned to Tottenham with trophy-winning pedigree – clinching a Ligue 1 title and other honours in France – with his status as a free agent coming as another attraction.

Called an 'excellent' manager by Man City boss Pep Guardiola, we feel it is quite simply a missed opportunity for Spurs and supporters could be very disappointed he is heading towards one of their major London rivals.

It's back to the drawing board for Levy and Tottenham's chief is under immense pressure to make the right appointment.

Celtic’s "Wonderful" £12k-p/w Dynamo Shone vs Well

Celtic moved one small step closer to securing a second successive league title after recording a 1-1 draw at home to Motherwell on Saturday afternoon, with the Old Firm giants now just two wins away from being crowned as champions.

While Ange Postecoglou's men may be rather frustrated to have dropped two points after winning their previous 12 Scottish Premiership games, that stalemate has ensured that the Hoops have remarkably still only lost once in the top flight all season.

It had initially looked set to be yet another routine victory for the Glasgow side as long-serving captain Callum McGregor netted early on through a deflected, long-range effort, only for Well's main marksman, Kevin van Veen, to equalise just after the break with his 20th Scottish Premiership goal of the season.

Despite the overall disappointment of enduring a rare home outing without a win, one standout figure was undoubtedly that of goalscorer, McGregor, with the 29-year-old having brought 'such a calmness to the team', as per Glasgow Live's Alan Galindo.

The Scotland international – who led the way with his 8.3 match rating, as per Sofascore – notably enjoyed a stunning pass accuracy rate of 95% from his 125 touches as a marker of his innate composure on the ball, having also been an effective presence defensively after winning seven of his 11 total duels.

The influential skipper wasn't alone in having been a shining light for Postecoglou's side, however, with fellow midfielder Matt O'Riley having also shown why he is a simply 'sublime footballer', as per Celtic Way's Tony Haggerty.

How did O'Riley perform against Motherwell?

Fresh from bagging a brace in the thumping win over Kilmarnock last weekend, the "wonderful" talent – as previously hailed by Ross County boss Malky Mackay – was again a real 'joy to watch', as per Haggerty, having run the show in his playmaking berth.

Celtic's Matt O'Riley

The Denmark U21 international was a real thorn in the side of the opposition due to his relentless creative threat, having provided a stellar haul of five key passes from his 108 touches – by far the most of any player for either side.

Hailed as 'the man in form' by Galindo, the 22-year-old also completed all three of his attempted dribbles and created two big chances, notably sliding in Kyogo Furuhashi on the hour mark.

Despite losing possession on 35 occasions, the £12k-per-week dynamo also offered real quality in a defensive sense after winning seven ground duels in his 79-minute outing, with it no surprise to see the former MK Dons man record an impressive 7.9 match rating, as per Sofascore – second only to that of McGregor.

While such an impactful display could not ultimately lead the Bhoys to victory – with January arrival Oh Hyeon-gyu missing a gilt-edged chance late on – it will be encouraging to see O'Riley looking back to his best, ahead of next week's Scottish Cup, semi-final showdown with Rangers.

Wilfried Gnonto open to Leeds exit

Leeds United star Wilfried Gnonto is open to the idea of returning to his native country, with a number of Italian sides keen on his services, according to 90min.

The Lowdown: First team impact

Gnonto arrived at Elland Road on deadline day last summer from FC Zurich after the club failed in moves for Cody Gakpo and Bamba Dieng. Since then, the 19-year-old has become a regular in Yorkshire and has been key in the final third for the Whites, contributing to seven goals in 20 appearances.

He was one of the first names on the team sheet in Jesse Marsch’s final few months in charge, catching the eye of Gary Neville with his display against Aston Villa back in January.

However, under new head coach Javi Gracia, Gnonto has had to make do with a place on the bench in two of the four Premier League games, failing to play the entire 90 minutes in either start against Southampton and Wolves. Gnonto was brought off after an hour for Rasmus Kristensen against Wolves, something which left him ‘visibly frustrated’, according to Leeds writer Adam Perry.

The Latest: Transfer news

90min reporters Graeme Bailey and Jack Gallagher shared an update regarding Gnonto in the last 48 hours.

They claimed that Juventus, AS Roma, AC Milan, Napoli and Atalanta have all been keeping an eye on the forward, who could be set to leave the club after just one season. The report also adds that Gnonto is open to the idea of moving to Italy.

The Verdict: One to watch

Gnonto has also been linked with the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City in recent days, so it seems as if it could be just a matter of time until he departs Elland Road.

You’d expect that relegation for Leeds would almost guarantee a departure for the Italy international, and even if the club stay up, it looks as if he could also depart.

Signing Gnonto for just £3.8m has proven to be a shrewd piece of business, with Neville describing his maturity on the left wing as ‘unusual’ for a player of his age, so you’d like to think Leeds would be in line for a healthy profit.

Remaining in the Premier League could leave Leeds in total control of Gnonto’s future, with the player under contract until 2027, so this could be one to keep an eye on heading into the summer.

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