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Aston Villa are now seriously considering a January move for an “incredible” striker, who has been in fantastic form this season.

Villa looking to sign new striker this winter

It is becoming increasingly clear that Villa want to bring in a new centre-forward in the upcoming transfer window, having identified a number of targets over the past week or so, namely Brentford’s Igor Thiago, Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee and Bologna’s Santiago Castro.

Target

League goals in 2025-26

Igor Thiago

11

Joshua Zirkzee

1

Santiago Castro

4

On the face of it, pursuing a move for Thiago would appear to make the most sense, given that the Brazilian has emerged as one of the best strikers in the Premier League this season, with only Manchester City star Erling Haaland scoring more goals.

However, Aston Villa have now joined the race for another striker who has been prolific in front of goal so far this season, according to a report from Spain, which states they are seriously considering a January move for Strasbourg star Joaquin Panichelli.

Unai Emery’s side are said to be closely monitoring the striker, and hold a genuine interest, off the back of Panichelli impressing in the first half of the Ligue 1 season, with Chelsea and West Ham United also joining the race for his signature.

With the Argentinian’s contract not due to expire until 2027, the French club should be in a strong negotiating position, which complicates a deal, and finalising a move in the January transfer window could be difficult.

Panichelli has made "incredible" start in Ligue 1

Given that Ollie Watkins has just three Premier League goals to his name this season, Emery could do with bringing in a more prolific striker next month, and the Cordoba-born marksman has regularly been amongst the goals for Strasbourg, scoring ten times in all competitions.

Scout Jacek Kulig has also praised the former CD Mirandes man for the start he’s made to life at the Ligue 1 side, having only arrived at Strasbourg from the Spanish side in the summer.

The one-time Argentina international is the second-highest scorer in Ligue 1, behind only Mason Greenwood, and at 23-years-old, he is at the right age to be a long-term replacement for Watkins.

Aston Villa could launch attack to sign £44m striker who's outscoring Watkins

The Villans are looking to bring in a new centre-forward.

ByDominic Lund Dec 8, 2025

That said, with Panichelli tied down to a long-term contract and yet to prove himself in one of Europe’s top leagues over a sustained time period, it may be worth Villa continuing to monitor him, ahead of potentially launching a move next summer.

With their trade for quarterback Geno Smith in the rearview mirror, the Las Vegas Raiders appear set to keep him around.

The Raiders are signing Smith to a two-year extension, according to a Thursday afternoon report from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Smith, 34, was previously set to enter free agency after the 2025 season.

Per Rapoport and ESPN's Adam Schefter, the extension will pay Smith up to $85.5 million with $66.5 million guaranteed.

Smith spent 2020 to '24 with the Seattle Seahawks, who traded Smith to Las Vegas on March 13. With the Seahawks, the West Virginia product completely rejuvenated his NFL career.

He threw 30 touchdowns against 11 interceptions in 2022—a year in which he was named the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year. He followed that up with a 20-touchdown, nine-interception performance in 2023 that garnered him another Pro Bowl nod.

Smith's traditional numbers weren't overwhelming in 2024, but he remains a reliable option at his position—and the Raiders seem to agree.

MatériaMais Notícias

Os jogos deste domingo (26) vão mexer com as duas pontas da tabela de classificação do Campeonato Brasileiro. Além dos torcedores que vão torcer por seus times, diversas torcidas vão estar com os secadores ligados, de olho nos rivais, seja por vaga em Libertadores ou permanência na Série A.

Com a exceção de São Paulo x Cuiabá, no Morumbi, todos os jogos valem alguma coisa e o Lance! faz um levantamento do que está em disputa neste domingo.

➡️ Confira a classificação do Campeonato Brasileiro

Botafogo x Santos – 16h – Nilton Santos

O que está em jogo?
O Glorioso quer retomar a liderança do Brasileirão, enquanto o Santos quer se afastar da zona de rebaixamento.

Quem vai secar o Botafogo?
Torcedores do Palmeiras, Flamengo, Grêmio, Red Bull Bragantino e Atlético-MG.

Quem vai secar o Santos?
Torcedores do Cruzeiro, Bahia, Vasco, Internacional, Corinthians e Fortaleza

Atlético-MG x Grêmio – 16h – Arena MRV

O que está em jogo?
O Galo briga pelo G4, mas ainda sonha em ser campeão o título; já o Tricolor disputa o título.

Quem vai secar?
Todos os torcedores da parte de cima da tabela vão torcer por um empate nesta partida.

Internacional x Red Bull Bragantino – 18h30 – Beira-Rio

O que está em jogo?
Mais um confronto que envolve times que brigam em partes diferentes da tabela. O Colorado quer afastar de vez qualquer risco de rebaixamento, enquanto o Massa Bruta quer manter viva a chama pelo título inédito.

Quem vai secar o Internacional?
Torcedores do Cruzeiro, Bahia, Vasco, Santos, Corinthians e Fortaleza

Quem vai secar o Red Bull Bragantino?
Torcedores do Palmeiras, Botafogo, Flamengo e Atlético-MG.

Fortaleza x Palmeiras – Castelão – 18h30

O que está em jogo?
O Verdão entra em campo para se manter na liderança do Brasileirão. Já o Leão do Pici quer se afastar da zona de rebaixamento.

Quem vai secar o Palmeiras?
Torcedores do Botafogo, Flamengo, Grêmio, Red Bull Bragantino e Atlético-MG.

Quem vai secar o Fortaleza?
Torcedores do Cruzeiro, Bahia, Vasco, Santos, Corinthians e Internacional

América-MG x Flamengo – 18h30 – Parque do Sabiá

O que está em jogo?
O Rubro-Negro está de olho na liderança e enfrenta o Coelho já rebaixado.

Quem vai secar o Flamengo?
Torcedores do Palmeiras, Botafogo, Grêmio, Red Bull Bragantino e Atlético-MG.

Quem vai secar o América-MG?
Talvez nem os torcedores de Cruzeiro e Atlético-MG, já que não tem o que secar.

Tottenham Hotspur’s exit from the Carabao Cup last night was evidence of the hot and cold nature of Thomas Frank’s tenure at the helm so far in 2025/26.

Coming into the clash against Newcastle United, the Lilywhites claimed a superb 3-0 victory against Everton in the Premier League – but such a showing at St James’ Park was the polar opposite.

Fabian Schar and Nick Woltemade’s efforts either side of the break secured the win for Eddie Howe’s men, with Frank’s first chance of claiming a trophy in North London evaporating in front of his eyes.

The Dane only made four changes from his starting eleven that defeated the Toffees on Sunday night, but little players failed to cover themselves in glory on Tyneside.

One player in particular was handed a second successive start last night, with such a run now expected to come to an end after his dismal display against the Magpies.

Brennan Johnson’s evening to forget against Newcastle

After Mohammed Kudus’ summer arrival from West Ham United, winger Brennan Johnson has often had to resort to minutes off the bench to make an impact for Spurs.

Such a decision may have come as a surprise to many of the Lilywhites faithful, especially after the Welshman ended last year on 18 goals – even scoring the winner in the Europa League final.

However, 2025/26 has been a different story for the 24-year-old, with his performances night and day from his spell under Ange Postecoglou last campaign.

His showing against Howe’s side was yet another disappointment – with his withdrawal in just the 65th minute highlighting his lack of positive impact in the North East.

Johnson only achieved a total of 28 touches, whilst losing possession on 14 occasions, subsequently gifting the ball back to the opposition every other time he was in control of the play.

Other figures such as zero dribbles and crosses completed further demonstrate his lack of creativity, something which Kudus has possessed in abundance – as seen by his tally of four assists for the Lilywhites.

Such was the level of disappointment around his showing, one Spurs analyst labelled the former Nottingham Forest star as a “passenger” – which proves Frank made the right decision by replacing him with the Ghanaian this summer.

The Spurs player who now looks finished under Frank

Alongside Johnson, numerous other players struggled to match the expectations placed upon them by the Spurs faithful ahead of the meeting with Howe’s men.

Joao Palhinha has been an excellent addition for the Lilywhites, offering the side the perfect ball-winning option at the heart of the midfield, but he was forced to operate out of position last night.

The issues at the back saw the Portuguese international drop into a centre-back role – ultimately taking away his best quality, as seen in his tally of zero tackles won.

Despite his lack of impact, Palhinha certainly left more of a positive impression than Richarlison, with the centre-forward once again ensuring an evening to forget.

After being dropped to the bench against former side Everton on Sunday, Frank recalled him to his starting eleven – handing the Brazilian the opportunity to prove his worth.

However, for the eighth game in a row, the 28-year-old was unable to find the back of the net, with his underlying figures showcasing his lack of impact against the Magpies.

Richarlison managed to complete just nine passes during his 78-minute display, whilst also losing possession on eight occasions, often being unable to provide the local point Frank has craved.

Minutes played

78

Touches

29

Passes completed

9

Possession lost

8x

Big chances missed

2

Dribbles completed

0

Chances created

0

Crosses completed

0

In front of goal, the Brazilian was just as wasteful, registering three shots on target, but two of which were defined as big chances missed – leading to one analyst labelling his showing as “unacceptable”.

His dismal display was further highlighted by his inability to complete any dribbles, crosses or create any chances for his teammate, with the manager desperately needing a solution to his problems.

Randal Kolo Muani was brought on in the second half, with the Frenchman producing numerous mazy runs which could see him handed the chance to start from the off against Chelsea.

As for Richarlison, his double on the opening day of 2025/26 has certainly fooled people into thinking he can be the talisman Frank needs to achieve success in North London.

However, there’s no denying that the Brazilian has ultimately failed to match those standards in recent weeks, as seen by his goal drought, which dates back to the 20th of September.

It’s clear he’s not the man the Lilywhites need to progress to the next level, with his career at the club pretty much all but over – which should open the door for a potential January exit.

Fewer touches than Kinsky: Frank must axe 5/10 Spurs dud after Newcastle

Tottenham Hotspur crashed out of the Carabao Cup against Newcastle United last night.

ByEthan Lamb Oct 30, 2025

نجح فريق الأهلي في تحقيق الفوز على الاتحاد، بنتيجة 1-0، ضمن منافسات الجولة الثامنة من بطولة الدوري السعودي “دوري روشن” للموسم الحالي.

كما فاز فريق النصر على نيوم، بنتيجة 3-1، ضمن منافسات الجولة الثامنة من بطولة الدوري السعودي “دوري روشن” للموسم الحالي.

وانتصر الهلال على النجمة في المباراة التي جمعتهما أمس الجمعة، ضمن منافسات مسابقة الدوري السعودي للمحترفين، برباعية مقابل هدفين.

ويتصدر النصر ترتيب الدوري السعودي برصيد 24 نقطة، ثم التعاون 21 نقطة، والهلال ثالثا 20 نقطة، والقادسية رابعا 17 نقطة، ثم الأهلي خامسا 16 نقطة. جدول ترتيب الدوري السعودي

1- النصر – 24 نقطة

2- التعاون – 21 نقطة

3-  الهلال- 20 نقطة

4- القادسية – 17 نقطة

5- الأهلي- 16- نقطة

6- الخليج- 14 نقطة

7- نيوم – 13 نقطة

8- الاتحاد – 11 نقطة

9- الفيحاء – 11 نقاط

10- الخلود – 9 نقاط

11- الاتفاق- 9 نقاط

12- الرياض- 8 نقاط

13- الشباب- 7 نقاط

14- الحزم- 6 نقاط

15- الفتح – 5 نقاط

16- الأخدود – 4 نقاط

17- ضمك – 4 نقاط

18- النجمة بدون نقاط

يمكنكم متابعة ترتيب الدوري السعودي، بشكل محدث باستمرار من هنا.

Sofyan Amrabat has hailed Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes as a “real winner” and one of the best players he’s ever shared a dressing room with. The Moroccan midfielder, now at Real Betis, looked back fondly on his time at Old Trafford, singling out the Portuguese playmaker for his leadership, talent, and professionalism despite enduring his own difficult loan spell.

• Fernandes receives huge praise

  Amrabat, who spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Manchester United, has spoken glowingly about his former teammate Fernandes. The Moroccan international praised the United captain’s quality and mentality during an appearance on the YouTube show Bij Andy in de Auto, describing him as “truly fantastic” and “a real winner.” Amrabat’s comments come more than a year after leaving Old Trafford, where he made 30 appearances across all competitions before moving to Fenerbahce and later joining Real Betis.

  The 28-year-old midfielder reflected positively on his short time in England despite an underwhelming individual campaign. He joined United on transfer deadline day from Fiorentina for a €10 million (£8.6m) loan fee under Erik ten Hag but was not retained permanently after the season ended. Still, Amrabat insisted he learned valuable lessons from his time at Old Trafford and particularly admired Fernandes’ professionalism and influence on the pitch.

  His praise comes at a time when Fernandes continues to polarise opinion among fans and pundits. While his technical brilliance and attacking output are rarely questioned, his visible frustration and demanding leadership style have often been criticised.

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• AFP
  

  Amrabat lavishes praise on Portuguese

  Speaking on Dutch YouTube show Bij Andy in de Auto, Amrabat said: “It was really quite something. United is still a truly massive club in every way.”

  “He’s a truly great player, truly top-notch. Is he my best teammate ever? I’ve played with a lot of good players, and I don’t want to discredit anyone, but he was truly fantastic. He was also a good guy, very helpful, and a real winner.”

  Amrabat’s heartfelt comments underline the respect Fernandes commands within the dressing room, even among those who only shared it briefly. His words offer a different perspective to the public narrative around Fernandes, focusing on his leadership and human qualities rather than the occasional emotional displays that draw criticism. For Amrabat, who has played in multiple leagues and represented Morocco at the World Cup, such praise carries considerable weight.

• Transformative Fernandes

  Fernandes’ impact on Manchester United since joining from Sporting CP in January 2020 has been transformative. The Portuguese international has amassed 299 appearances, scoring 100 goals and providing 87 assists across all competitions. Operating as the team’s creative lynchpin, Fernandes has been directly involved in nearly every major attacking sequence during his tenure, combining technical precision with an unrelenting competitive edge. His influence extends beyond statistics. Fernandes has lifted both the EFL Cup and FA Cup while also claiming multiple Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year awards, a testament to his importance and consistency.

  His leadership qualities, however, often split opinion — some view his visible frustration and vocal demands as signs of passion and accountability, while others see them as signs of poor temperament. Regardless, his productivity and durability have been indispensable, making him one of United’s most impactful midfielders of the modern era.

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  What comes next?

  Fernandes continues to serve as Manchester United’s on-field leader under Ruben Amorim, who has built his system around the Portuguese playmaker’s vision and work rate. The midfielder remains integral to United’s attacking blueprint, orchestrating transitions and dictating tempo in key matches. Despite occasional scrutiny over his temperament, Amorim and his coaching staff have publicly supported their captain, describing him as “an example of professionalism and intensity.”

  As for Amrabat, his journey has taken him from Old Trafford to Real Betis, where he is attempting to rebuild his form and reputation after mixed spells in England and Turkey.

After scoring their fifth consecutive late winner to secure all three points against Atletico Madrid, Liverpool and Arne Slot have received another boost on the injury front.

Slot praises Liverpool in "different" Atletico Madrid win

The Reds haven’t done things the easy way so far this season. They needed Federico Chiesa’s late winner against Bournemouth, Rio Ngumoha’s stoppage time winner against Newcastle United, Dominik Szoboszlai’s stunning free-kick against Arsenal and Mohamed Salah’s late penalty against Burnley to make it four from four in the Premier League.

Not Salah or Van Dijk: Liverpool star is now "one of the best in the world"

Liverpool left it late once more to collect a Champions League victory at Anfield over Atletico Madrid.

ByKelan Sarson Sep 18, 2025

Six minutes into Atletico Madrid’s visit, it seemed as though Slot’s side finally had take-off, however. It was about as scintillating a start as Anfield is likely to see, with goals from Andy Robertson and a vintage Salah finish seeing Liverpool race into a 2-0 lead. Their dominance only continued from there, but complacency – as was the case against Bournemouth and Newcastle – soon arrived.

Diego Llorente’s brace, which featured a deflected effort to equalise in his fourth Anfield goal, soon had the visitors level and Liverpool in need of another late goal. This time, it was the captain who stepped up to head home in the 92nd minute to keep his side rolling on and the late show featuring another guest star.

Although the trend of late winners continued, Slot was quick to claim that victory against Atletico was “different” to Burnley and Arsenal, thanks to the amount of chances that Liverpool created.

He told reporters: “Everybody will probably talk again about the late game winner, which I understand because that is the story of this game and the story of the last five games. But for me it was a different game than the ones we have played before.”

Another Anfield win followed more good news on the injury front too, which will see one player make his return for the Merseyside derby this weekend.

Curtis Jones set to return for Merseyside derby

As confirmed by Slot, Curtis Jones is on course to return from injury in time to face Everton in the Merseyside derby on Saturday afternoon, in what is a fitting way for the academy graduate to make his comeback.

The midfielder missed games against Burnley and Atletico Madrid, but will now hand Liverpool a boost in the middle of the park with his return. It is against another side that will sit deep that his ability to progress play will come in use for the Reds, as the full impact of his ability is potentially felt across Anfield in what could be a frantic affair.

Praised as “complete” by Slot, Jones remains an underrated player who is gradually beginning to make his mark in Merseyside.

If you are planning to visit Estadio BBVA for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, we've got you covered!

Nicknamed (The Steel Giant), CF Monterrey’s home ground Estadio BBVA is one of the three Mexican host stadiums for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside the historic Estadio Azteca and Chivas’ home, Estadio Akron.

For the tournament, the venue will be referred to as Estadio Monterrey due to sponsorship regulations.

Having already hosted numerous matches for Monterrey as well as the Mexican national team, 2026 marks a new chapter for this modern and striking stadium.

Estadio BBVA will host a total of four World Cup matches, including both group stage and knockout games.

If you are planning to visit the stadium soon or during the 2026 World Cup to support your team, this guide is for you. GOAL has got you covered with all the essential information before you visit the stadium. 

Getty Images SportEstadio BBVA Stadium overviewCapacity53,500Year opened2015Tenant(s)CF Monterrey (Liga MX)Addressv. Pablo Livas 2011, La Pastora, 67140 Guadalupe, N.L., MexicoAdvertisementGetty Images SportHistory of Estadio BBVA

Estadio BBVA, originally opened as Estadio BBVA Bancomer in 2015, became the new home of CF Monterrey, replacing the historic Estadio Tecnológico, which had stood since 1950.

In its opening match, Monterrey defeated Portuguese side Benfica 3–0 in a friendly. The stadium is considered a marvel of modern architecture, featuring stunning visuals and world-class facilities.

In addition to Monterrey’s home games, Estadio BBVA has hosted Copa MX finals, CONCACAF Champions League finals, and Mexican national team matches.

It is also a regular venue for major cultural events in Mexico, including concerts by world-renowned artists such as Coldplay, The Weeknd, Shakira, and more.

At the 2026 World Cup, Estadio BBVA will stage four matches, including three group stage games and one Round of 32 clash.

Getty Images SportWhich teams play at Estadio BBVALiga MX side CF Monterrey is the only tenant at the Estadio BBVA TeamLeagueCF MonterreyLiga MXENJOYED THIS STORY?

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Getty Images SportHow to get to Estadio BBVA

How to get to Estadio BBVA by public transport 

To reach Estadio BBVA by public transit, you can take Metrorrey Line 1 (L01). This metro line stops at Exposición Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the stadium.

Several bus routes also stop close to the venue, including routes 214, 223, TME, and 093. The Pablo Livas (Estadio BBVA) stop is just a couple of minutes’ walk from the stadium.

How to get to Estadio BBVA by car 

Both Avenida Constitucion (Highway 85D) and Carretera Miguel Aleman (Highway 54D) lead toward Estadio BBVA. Exits onto Avenida Pablo Livas or La Pastora are clearly marked with signs directing fans to the stadium on event days.

After a dismal 17th-place finish in the Premier League last season, it was vital that the Tottenham Hotspur hierarchy invested money into the first-team ahead of 2025/26.

Thomas Frank was the man to fill the void left by Ange Postecoglou’s dismissal, with the Dane being handed the funds as a result to try and transform the Lilywhites’ top-division fortunes.

He’s so far landed duo Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons for a combined £107m, subsequently bolstering the options at his disposal within the attacking department.

Joao Palhinha has also arrived on loan, whilst Mathys Tel also made his loan move permanent – after spending the second half of the previous campaign in North London.

However, with just a couple of days remaining in the transfer window, the new boss will still want further additions to help him in his quest for success during his tenure at the club.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions before deadline day

Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo has been a surprise target for Spurs over the last couple of days, with the player himself wanting a temporary move away from Old Trafford.

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The Lilywhites hierarchy have held talks with Ruben Amorim’s side over a potential move before Monday’s deadline, but it’s unclear if a move could materialise given the Red Devils’ reluctance to offload the youngster.

However, he’s not the only Englishman currently in their sights, with Atlético Madrid star Conor Gallagher once again appearing on their radar, according to CaughtOffside.

They claim that Frank’s side are preparing a £35m-£40m bid for the 25-year-old, with the Spanish outfit prepared to let him leave if an acceptable offer is presented. Man United are also in the race, although Spurs are said to be the frontrunners.

It also states that Diego Simeone’s side would want as much as £45m this summer, potentially being the third big-money addition for Spurs during the current window.

Why Spurs’ £52m target would be perfect for Simons

The recent transfer of Simons to Spurs has injected added excitement into the fanbase, and understandably so when delving into his numbers from last season.

The Dutchman registered 10 goals and seven assists for Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, and ended the year as one of the most threatening attacking options in the division.

Chelsea seemed destined to land the former PSG youngster at one stage, but Frank’s men swooped in at the 11th hour, with the move finally ending their hunt for a new attacking midfielder.

If he can replicate such numbers in 2025/26 for the Lilywhites, he would be a phenomenal pickup, having the tools to star immediately – but also improve further, given he’s just 22 years of age.

However, should Simons want to be a success in North London, he will need to be aided in any attempts, which could prompt the hierarchy to land Gallagher in the coming days.

The Englishman, who is a former Chelsea first-team member, would be the perfect box-to-box option, that’s if he can replicate the numbers he produced in LaLiga throughout 2024/25.

Gallagher, who’s been labelled “sensational” by journalist John Cross, could offer a presence at the heart of the side which could free Simons up to cause carnage in attacking areas and show why the club forked out £52m for his signature.

The Atlético star ranked in the 89th percentile for tackles won (1.8) and in the 90th percentile for recoveries made (5.9) – showcasing his ability to regain possession for the side.

However, he would need to help transition the play after winning the ball – something which he demonstrated in abundance in Spain throughout 2024/25.

He made an average of 3.5 progressive passes per 90 at a pass completion rate of 85% – allowing him to do the ‘dirty work’ before finding the Dutchman with his line-breaking ability.

Whilst a deal for Gallagher would be an expensive addition, he would be one who could help transform Frank’s side for the better between now and the end of the Dane’s reign.

If he can strike up a partnership with Simons in 2025/26, it would be a worthwhile investment and one that can complete the summer overhaul of the midfield department.

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A Kudus repeat: "Incredible" £70m ace now wants to join Spurs after Simons

Tottenham Hotspur could now complete another deal after landing Xavi Simons earlier today.

By
Ethan Lamb

Aug 29, 2025

Everton have started the Premier League season poorly after they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Leeds following a controversial penalty decision for a handball by James Tarkowski. This defeat comes after spending over £75 million in the transfer window and bringing in Manchester City’s Jack Grealish on loan.

One area in particular that has been a focus for Everton in the transfer market is attacking midfield – David Moyes’ side lacked depth in this area. So far this window, they’ve brought in Kieran Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea and Carlos Alcaraz from Southampton on a permanent deal after he spent the back half of last season on loan at Everton.

Moyes is now looking further back in his midfield ranks, as the club is considering a move for a Premier League-proven midfielder in order to ensure defeats like this don’t become a habit.

Everton considering move for Tottenham midfielder

Everton are considering a move for Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma. The 28-year-old has made 191 Premier League appearances and joined Spurs on a £55,000-per-week contract in 2022. Reports from Tottenham insider Paul O’Keefe have revealed how much Daniel Levy would charge Everton for Bissouma.

This fee is less than half the £30 million they paid Brighton for the midfielder in 2022, but if Spurs don’t sell Bissouma this year or extend his contract in the next 12 months, then he will be allowed to leave for free next summer.

Everton’s interest is thought to currently be in the preliminary stages, with O’Keefe saying: “I understand Everton are considering him, but not really concrete enough to say they’re going to make a move.”

West Ham were also previously interested in the Europa League winner, but that deal has not developed as of yet. On the player’s side of the move, it is believed to be his desire to remain in England for at least one more year, as he would become eligible for UK citizenship.

Bissouma is a gamble, but he may be worth it for the price

Given the “peanuts” that they would be paying, a gamble on Bissouma may be worth it. Whilst he lacks versatility, what he is good at, he excels at, with the only major red flags being his attitude towards training and his on-field disciplinary record.

Last season, Bissouma ranked among the top 17% of Premier League midfielders for his tackle success rate. He was also reliable on the ball with a pass completion rate of 89%. Where Bissouma struggled was going forward; in 100 matches for Tottenham, Bissouma has only registered two goals and no assists.

As a midfielder who is constantly making challenges, Bissouma often finds himself in the referee’s book. Last season, he averaged a booking almost once every 180 minutes of play, but he did avoid seeing red in the League. One contributing factor to his poor disciplinary record last season may have been Ange Postecoglou’s style of play, as it saw his team playing high up the pitch and often needing to take drastic measures to avoid being caught on the counterattack.

What Postecoglou can’t be blamed for is Bissouma’s training tardiness. The Mali international was left out of Tottenham’s squad for the European Super Cup, and Frank explained his absence: “Bissouma isn’t here because of disciplinary reasons. He has been late several times, the latest one too many.”

Moyes and the Everton board will have to decide whether or not they think Bissouma’s strengths outweighs these issues. For less than £14 million, he may be worth the gamble.