da roleta： West Bromwich Albion got their stuttering Championship promotion push back on track on Saturday with a narrow 2-1 victory over Tom Cleverley’s Watford.

da realsbet： Before the golden three points were collected against the Hornets, Tony Mowbray’s men found themselves deep in a five-match winless run in the league, but the West Midlands side are now only two points off the play-offs regardless of any past struggles.

Mowbray has been here before when it comes to the intense promotion race, with the 61-year-old lifting the Championship title way back in 2008 during his first stint as manager.

During that run, he had the likes of Baggies great James Morrison to thank for his fantastic displays in the middle of the park.

Morrison's heroics at West Brom

Morrison’s first season at the Hawthorns would coincidentally coincide with these promotion heroics, leading to the much-loved Scotsman going down as a modern icon over many a year in the West Midlands.

In total, the revered number seven would go on to amass a whopping 341 appearances for Albion, with goals and assists aplenty also coming his way with a combined tally of 73.

Not just content at contribution regularly in the final third, the now-retired 38-year-old was also known as a flexible and versatile figure capable of playing all across the pitch.

Indeed, the ex-Scotland international lined up as right and left winger regularly, away from starring in the middle of the park.

Mowbray could have his next Morrison, therefore, in an equally adaptable star…

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Expand Collapse Mowbray's new Morrison

West Brom possess a lot of talent in the midfield department at the moment, with ex-Leeds United man Alex Mowatt sticking out as a competent performer in the EFL, considering he can boast a weighty seven goals and two assists this season in league action.

But, he isn’t the figure who could go on to be the promotion-chasing side’s next iteration of Morrison, with flashy January capture Isaac Price arguably more suited to this billing.

Price has already shown he has an eye for goal after all, with the ex-Standard Liege midfielder firing home a sublime effort just last month when Hull City came to the Hawthorns.

With an assist next to his name too from 11 second-tier appearances, the 21-year-old is already beginning to live up to his hefty £2.5m price-tag, leading to Mowbray lauding Price as a “very talented” star.

Due to his qualities and versatility, perhaps the Northern Irishman is capable of reaching Morrison’s lofty heights down the line.

Price’s career numbers by position

Position played

Games played

Goals scored

Assists

CM

61

2

2

DM

23

2

3

RM

20

0

0

AM

17

0

2

RW

2

0

0

CF

1

0

0

LM

1

0

0

RB

1

1

0

CB

1

0

0

Sourced by Transfermarkt

Away from his promising early output in England potentially mirroring Morrison, his unbelievable fluidity to line up in various different positions – as can be seen glancing at the table above – also makes him a great candidate to be Mowbray’s next icon, with Price even starting a one-off contest as a right-back when starring in Belgium.

He still has some way to go to match the memorable number 7 obviously, but there are some encouraging early signs to suggest he could go down as a great, especially if he can play his part in leading Mowbray’s men back to the Premier League.

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da poker： Over the last couple of years, Chelsea have been known to splash the cash in the transfer market, with Enzo Maresca the beneficiary of the investment from the hierarchy.

da apostaganha： Since the takeover in May 2022, the board has invested over £1.3b into players to improve the first-team squad, whilst also keeping one eye on the future with the funds spent on youngsters.

Given the previous history in the window, it would be no surprise to anyone if the Blues spent heavily once again this summer as they look to provide the manager with added reinforcements.

With Champions League football potentially on the cards in 2025/26, added squad depth is also needed to compete, opening the door to further summer arrivals.

One position in particular is in serious need of investment this summer, with Maresca still yet to land any targets he desires after taking the reins last year.

The latest on Chelsea’s hunt for a new striker

Ever since the Italian took over from Mauricio Pochettino, he’s been demanding a new talisman at the top end of the pitch to help him in his quest to fight at the top end of the Premier League table.

Benjamin Sesko is one player who’s been largely touted with a move to Stamford Bridge over the last 12 months, with his name emerging on the list once again ahead of this summer.

The RB Leipzig star was named on a shortlist of strikers who the club are targeting in the coming months, a decision which is understandable given his record of 20 goals in 41 appearances this season.

However, he’s not alone on that list, with Ipswich Town centre forward Liam Delap also a name mentioned with a big-money transfer to West London.

According to Graeme Bailey, the Blues are leading the race for the 22-year-old’s signature, with the hierarchy willing to trigger his £30m release clause to reunite the pair after their time together at Manchester City.

Why a £30m PL star would be better than Sesko for Chelsea

Senegalese international Nicolas Jackson has been Chelsea’s number one striker over the last couple of seasons, but injuries have massively restricted him throughout 2024/25.

He’s only made 27 league appearances, scoring just nine goals, with Maresca desperately needing a new talisman in forward areas to catapult them to success in the near future.

Such form has led to links to Sesko, but if they are to complete any deal for the 21-year-old sensation, it would set them back at least £60m given his tender age and goalscoring record.

However, the recent emergence of a move for Delap could provide a cheaper alternative for the hierarchy, but it would also hand Maresca a better option in forward areas.

The fact the pair have previously worked together is a huge advantage in their pursuit, but when also comparing his figures to those of Sesko, he’s managed to outperform him in numerous key areas – showcasing how much of a superb addition he would be for the Blues.

The Ipswich ace, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has matched the Slovenian for goals scored, showcasing the attacking threat he possesses – offering that clinical edge the side have lacked.

He’s also managed to achieve a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate, whilst registering more shot-creating actions, further offering Maresca an added threat should he move to the Bridge.

How Delap compares to Sesko in 2024/25 so far

Statistics (per 90)

Delap

Sesko

Games played

32

29

Goals scored

12

12

Shot-on-target accuracy

46%

42%

Shot-creating actions

2.3

1.9

Take-ons attempted

3

2.9

Carries into final third

1.6

1.1

Fouls won

1.8

0.6

Stats via FBref

Delap has proven his all-round nature in the Premier League this season, attempting more take-ons and also completing more carries into the final third than Sesko – with the Englishman undoubtedly a better option.

There’s no denying that both players would improve the current centre-forward department in West London, further bolstering the ranks ahead of a potential title charge in 2025/26.

However, if they are to have the greatest chance of edging closer to such a feat, it’s evident from the figures produced that the Tractor Boys star is the man whom the hierarchy need to pursue a move in the coming months.

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da realbet： Every team wants a world-class centre-forward to lead their line, and there is arguably a lack of top strikers in today’s game compared to previous generations.

da stake casino： Scoring goals on a regular basis is a priceless attribute, and all clubs want a proven finisher in their ranks, but they can come at a huge price. That being said, there are still a plethora of elite strikers at the top of their games, but who is the best number nine around today?

Ranking factors

To help rank the strikers in order, we have considered the following criteria:

Current form – how well a player has performed in the past few months Importance to their teams – how influential they are to their team’s performances Role – how unique their skillset is Reputation – what others say about them Best strikers in the world right now: in pictures

Top 15 strikers in the world

Rank

Player

Age

Club

Nation

1

Harry Kane

32

Bayern Munich

England

2

Erling Haaland

25

Man City

Norway

3

Kylian Mbappe

26

Real Madrid

France

4

Alexander Isak

25

Newcastle United

Sweden

5

Robert Lewandowski

36

Barcelona

Poland

6

Viktor Gyokeres

27

Arsenal

Sweden

7

Lautaro Martinez

27

Inter Milan

Argentina

8

Julian Alvarez

25

Atletico Madrid

Argentina

9

Victor Osimhen

26

Galatasaray

Nigeria

10

Hugo Ekitike

23

Liverpool

France

11

Marcus Thuram

27

Inter Milan

France

12

Benjamin Sesko

22

RB Leipzig

Slovenia

13

Omar Marmoush

26

Man City

Egypt

14

Cristiano Ronaldo

40

Al Nassr

Portugal

15

Matheus Cunha

26

Man Utd

Brazil

15 Matheus Cunha Man Utd and Brazil

It looks as if Matheus Cunha is heading into the prime years of his career, and has sealed a marquee transfer to Man Utd this summer.

The Brazilian has hit double figures for Premier League goals in the last two seasons to help keep Wolves in the top flight, with his 2024/25 tally the best goalscoring campaign of his career to date.

Ruben Amorim has called Cunha “quality”, and we’ll see the pair working together at Old Trafford.

Matheus Cunha: Major titles won

Trophy

Years won

Olympic Gold

2021

14 Cristiano Ronaldo Al Nassr and Portugal

Arguably one of the best players to have ever graced the game, Cristiano Ronaldo is still going strong at the age of 40 and has actually scored more goals since turning 30 than he did before.

He’s been plying his trade in the Saudi Pro League for Al Nassr since 2023 and has continued to find the back of the net on a regular basis. Ronaldo now has more than 900 career goals for club and country and has been showing no signs of slowing down.

Cristiano Ronaldo: Major titles won

Trophy

Years won

Ballon d’Or

2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017

Best FIFA Men’s Player

2008, 2016, 2017

European Championship

2016

Premier League

2007, 2008, 2009

La Liga

2012, 2017

Serie A

2019, 2020

Champions League

2008, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018

FIFA Club World Cup

2009, 2015, 2017, 2018

UEFA Super Cup

2014, 2016, 2017

Nations League

2019

FA Cup

2004

League Cup

2006, 2009

Community Shield

2007

Italian Cup

2021

Copa del Rey

2011, 2014

Spanish Super Cup

2012, 2017

Italian Super Cup

2018, 2020

Portuguese Super Cup

2003

13 Omar Marmoush Man City and Egypt

After starring for Eintracht Frankfurt, Omar Marmoush got his big move to Man City in January 2025, and he’s continued to find the back of the net for fun in England.

Pep Guardiola called the Egypt international “the best player in the Bundesliga” after signing Marmoush for City, and he already has a Premier League hat-trick to his name.

12 Benjamin Sesko RB Leipzig and Slovenia

Towering striker Benjamin Sesko could soon be in line for a move away from the Red Bull group after starring for both RB Salzburg and RB Leipzig in recent years.

Called “the new Erling Haaland”, Sesko is going from strength to strength and has been linked with numerous European giants in recent months.

His Transfermarkt value continues to increase and stands at a career-high €65m today, so clubs may be wise to sign the 21-year-old sooner rather than later.

11 Marcus Thuram Inter Milan and France

Marcus Thuram made history in 2025 with the quickest goal to be scored in a Champions League semi-final following his clever flick against Barcelona.

The goal highlights Thuram’s quality, and he is now valued at €75m by Transfermarkt, a figure which has more than doubled since moving to Inter Milan from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2023.

The French forward has had the best goalscoring season of his career in 2024/25, and at 27, is at the peak of his powers.

Marcus Thuram: Major titles won

Trophy

Years won

Serie A

2024

Italian Super Cup

2023

Nations League

2021

10 Hugo Ekitike Liverpool and France

Hugo Ekitike became a man in demand after impressing for Eintracht Frankfurt, with Liverpool winning the race to secure his services for an initial £69m.

The 22-year-old previously made his loan move to Frankfurt from Paris Saint-Germain permanent in 2024 and enjoyed his best ever season in front of goal.

PSG are doing just fine themselves without Ekitike, however, they will surely be kicking themselves in regards to selling the “next Mbappe”.

Hugo Ekitike: Major titles won

Trophy

Years won

Ligue 1

2023, 2024

French Super Cup

2023

9 Victor Osimhen Galatasaray and Nigeria

Galatasaray struck gold by signing Victor Osimhen on loan from Napoli last summer, with the Nigeria international continuing to do what he does best – score goals.

Osimhen fell out with Napoli chiefs last summer which resulted in his move to Turkey for the 2024/25 season, and that has now become permanent. The striker has been called “one of the best centre-forwards in the world” by Alvaro Morata.

8 Julian Alvarez Atletico Madrid and Argentina

Julian Alvarez was always the understudy to Erling Haaland at Man City, but after leaving the Etihad for Atletico Madrid in 2024, has become the main man under Diego Simeone.

The Argentine has been Atletico’s top La Liga scorer for the 24/25 campaign and is showing why he has been hailed as “extraordinary” by Guardiola before leaving City.

City have replaced Alvarez with Marmoush, however, the former is now valued at a whopping €100m by Transfermarkt.

Julian Alvarez: Major titles won

Trophy

Years won

World Cup

2022

Copa America

2021, 2024

Champions League

2023

FIFA Club World Cup

2024

Premier League

2023, 2024

FA Cup

2023

UEFA Super Cup

2023

Community Shield

2024

Copa Libertadores

2018

Argentine Primera Division

2021

Copa Argentina

2019

Recopa Sudamericana

2019

Argentine Super Cup

2019

CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup

2022

7 Lautaro Martinez Inter Milan and Argentina

Alvarez’s international teammate, Lautaro Martinez, is next on the list, with the Inter Milan star a regular source of goals for the Serie A giants since 2018.

In fact, Martinez has hit double figures for Serie A goals in all eight of his campaigns in Italy and has now surpassed 150 goals in all competitions for Inter.

Now Inter captain, Martinez appears to be in the prime of his career and even Lionel Messi backed him to win the Ballon d’Or just last year.

6 Viktor Gyokeres Arsenal and Sweden

Many wouldn’t have expected Viktor Gyokeres to be one of the best strikers in the world a few years ago when he was at Coventry City in the Championship.

However, the Sweden international is now deservedly regarded among the elite after starring on the European stage with Sporting CP.

Gyokeres scored 43 times in his debut season in Portugal and has proven this year that he wasn’t a one-season wonder by finding the back of the net more than 50 times in 24/25. He has now got his return to England with a big-money move to Arsenal.

da bet nacional： Manchester City are now closing in on a “world-class” defender, having recently received a boost in their transfer pursuit, according to a report.

Man City pursuing new full-back

da dobrowin： With captain Kyle Walker being shipped out on loan to AC Milan in January, Matheus Nunes has been filling in at right-back, meaning Man City have now set their sights on a replacement, and Tottenham Hotspur’s Pedro Porro has been identified as a potential target.

Spurs are set to drive a hard bargain for the right-back, having set an asking price of £50m, but the Spaniard is not the only Tottenham defender of interest to City, with left-back Destiny Udogie emerging as a target earlier this month.

The Blues have been pursuing a new left-back for quite some time, and there are a number of options from within the Premier League, including AFC Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, although there could be competition for the Hungarian from Liverpool and Real Madrid.

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The Citizens have stepped up their pursuit…

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Pep Guardiola’s side have also been extensively linked with a move for Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso, and a new report from The Sun has revealed they are now closing in on a move for the Italian after receiving a recent boost in their pursuit.

Juventus are advancing towards signing a replacement for Cambiaso, namely Arsenal’s Nuno Tavares, who is currently on loan at Lazio, which indicates they are planning to sell their current left-back in the summer transfer window.

Man City are expected to make a fresh attempt to sign the 25-year-old, who they have been interested in signing since the January transfer window, and reports from elsewhere have stated that a deal could amount to around £54m.

"World-class" Cambiaso could be fantastic signing

Since forcing his way into the first-team, Nico O’Reilly has done a remarkable job at left-back, particularly impressing in an attacking sense, having picked up five goals and two assists in 16 games for City.

However, Guardiola may want to bring in a more experienced option this summer, and there are signs the Juventus defender could be a fantastic signing, given that he has received very high praise from journalist Zach Lowy.

It appears the Italy international is very comfortable in possession of the ball, given the number of passes he has attempted per 90 over the past year, while his pass-completion rate is also very impressive, potentially making the defender a perfect fit in a Guardiola system.

Statistic

Average per 90

Passes attempted

67.05 (92nd percentile)

Pass-completion %

88.5% (96th percentile)

Progressive carries

3.35 (92nd percentile)

Successful take-ons

1.10 (86th percentile)

There may be concerns that Cambiaso’s arrival could stunt O’Reilly’s development, but the Englishman is capable of playing in a number of different positions, so he should still receive regular game time, and the Juventus star could take City’s defence to the next level.

da pixbet： After sending their scouts, Leeds United are now reportedly battling to sign an in-demand central defender whose agent is already holding talks over his immediate future.

Leeds United's summer transfer plans

da pinnacle： More than ever, the three teams that earn promotion from the Championship to the Premier League must get things right in the transfer market. Those before Leeds, Burnley and what will now be one of Sunderland, Coventry City and Sheffield United got things disastrously wrong before paying the price of relegation. Now, those aforementioned teams must not make the same mistake.

For two consecutive seasons in the Premier League, all three promoted sides have instantly suffered relegation. What was once a rarity is now a worrying trend that the likes of Leeds must break. To that end, it looks as though the 49ers are ready to back those at Elland Road when the summer transfer window arrives.

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The reports have already been coming thick and fast ahead of the transfer window, with the Whites setting their sights on a fresh shot-stopper and a new striker. When it comes to those targeted, meanwhile, the likes of Caoimhin Kelleher and Beto have both threatened to steal the headlines as of late as Leeds look to commence their summer shopping in Merseyside.

Kelleher would be a particularly impressive signing, given how he’s performed as Alisson Becker’s deputy at Liverpool. The Irishman has been called on more often than not at times in the face of Alisson’s injury struggles, but has not struggled to step up in place of the Brazilian. And that, in itself, should speak volumes of his ability.

Meanwhile, in front of a new No.1, it looks as though Leeds have also set their sights on a new centre-back.

Leeds now battling to sign Bologna defender Lucumi

According to The Boot Room, Leeds are now battling to sign Jhon Lucumi from Bologna this summer after sending scouts to watch the defender throughout the current campaign. Now up against the likes of Liverpool and Crystal Palace in pursuit of his signature, the 49ers could make an impressive statement by signing Lucumi.

With his agent already reportedly holding talks with intermediaries over his client’s future, however, those at Elland Road may need to act sooner rather than later if they want to sign the 26-year-old Bologna star. In terms of what he would add to Farke’s side, it’s clear that Lucumi could be a shrewd signing in Yorkshire.

Described as “one of the most composed” defenders that he has seen by analyst Ben Mattinson, Lucumi looks set to be one to watch this summer following another impressive individual campaign in Serie A and the Champions League.

da poker： Liverpool have opened talks over a deal for an attacking midfielder, who has now been told he can leave his club for a fee of just £19m this summer, according to a report.

Reds set sights on attacking midfielder

da betway： In recent days, the Reds’ pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong appears to have gained traction, with a move for the Dutchman, who is set to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, now edging closer after advanced talks were held.

However, Frimpong is not the only Leverkusen star who could be on his way to Anfield this summer, with Arne Slot also looking to bring in a new attacking midfielder, and talks have been opened over a deal for Florian Wirtz.

That said, the German will not be cheap, with a £126m price tag mooted, so FSG could also look at bringing in a low-cost alternative, and an approach has now been made over a different attacking midfielder, who could be available for a bargain fee.

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According to a report from France (via The Boot Room), Liverpool have now opened talks over a deal for Lyon star Rayan Cherki, who has been informed he can leave the French club for a fee of just £19m this summer.

Cherki has just 12 months remaining on his Lyon contract, which means he is set to be allowed to leave for a very low price at the end of the season, and the Reds are now in discussions to bring the attacking midfielder to Anfield.

There may be competition for the Frenchman’s signature, however, with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City also making contact to ask about a potential deal.

"Wizard" Cherki draws comparisons to Lionel Messi

The 21-year-old has enjoyed an extraordinary season with Lyon, picking up 31 goal contributions in 43 appearances in all competitions, having particularly caught the eye with his displays in the Europa League.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Ligue 1

29

8

10

Europa League

12

4

8

Coupe de France

2

0

1

Such is the starlet’s ability, he has received very high praise from teammate Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who said: “He is the best natural talent I’ve ever seen. An absolute master, a wizard with the ball.”

“He is two-footed, has no fear, keeps going and going, can get past people with such ease, such finesse.”

Former Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has even gone as far as likening the youngster to one of the greatest-ever players in the past, saying: “Cherki is comparable to (Lionel) Messi in terms of technical quality.”

A fee of just £19m could be an absolute steal for a player with the potential of Cherki, and a move to Anfield would surely be a very attractive proposition for the playmaker, given that Liverpool defied expectations to secure a record-equalling 20th league title this season.

da leao： It is make or break for Sunderland this afternoon as their 2024/25 campaign will be defined by the outcome of today’s Championship play-off final clash with Sheffield United.

da poker： The Black Cats beat Coventry City 3-2 on aggregate in the semi-finals of the play-offs, thanks to a dramatic late winner in extra-time from central defender Dan Ballard, sending the Stadium of Light into raptures.

Regis Le Bris now faces the unenviable task of selecting the right starting XI to take to the field against Sheffield United this afternoon at Wembley, and Chris Rigg is one player who should be brought back in.

Why Chris Rigg should start

Sunderland know that this is a high-stakes game and that any small errors could be the difference between another season in the Championship or playing Premier League football in the 2025/26 campaign.

Therefore, it could make sense to bring in another midfielder who can provide solidity just ahead of Dan Neil and Jobe Bellingham, making it even harder for the Blades to break them down.

In the regular Championship season, Rigg won four duels per game on average, winning 47% of his battles overall, and averaged 1.6 tackles and interceptions per game, without a single error that led to a goal or a penalty for the opposition.

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

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This means that the teenage midfielder would add another layer of defensive insurance ahead of the back four by coming into the side, but it would also mean that Eliezer Mayenda would have to drop to the bench to make way for the English ace to play behind Wilson Isidor.

Why Eliezer Mayenda should be dropped

Le Bris should ruthlessly drop the 20-year-old starlet to the bench for today’s final in order to make room for Rigg to provide a reliable presence at the top of the midfield.

This would also provide Mayenda with the opportunity to come on as an impact substitute, which suits his style of play with his directness and pace on the counter-attack, as he could cause problems for a tired Sheffield United defence late on.

His disappointing performance against Coventry in the second leg of the semi-final, though, suggests that it may be too much of a gamble to play him from the start.

Eliezer Mayenda

Vs Coventry (H)

Minutes

120

Goals + assists

0

Successful dribbles

2/6

Pass accuracy

29% (2/7)

Duels won

6/18

Key passes

0

Possession lost

15x

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Mayenda played the full 120 minutes against the Sky Blues and only completed two passes, without creating any chances, and lost the vast majority of his duels.

This suggests that he could be a liability in the final from the start if he produced a similar kind of performance, as the Sheffield United players could find it too easy to beat him in duels and to intercept his passes.

Therefore, dropping him for Rigg, who has won 47% of his duels and completed 79% of his passes in the Championship, could increase Sunderland’s chances of being solid from the start.

Le Bris would then have the option to bring Mayenda’s pace off the bench to make an impact late on, by taking Rigg off to play the Frenchman in a front two with Isidor, which is why this could be a good tactical move for multiple reasons.

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da realsbet： Celtic made the difficult decision to finally part ways with Japan international Kyogo Furuhashi in the January transfer window, as he completed a move to Ligue 1 side Rennes.

da betcris： The experienced striker, who scored his last two goals for the club in a win over Ross County in January, was reportedly sold to the French outfit for a fee of £10m.

Kyogo scored 85 goals in 165 matches in all competitions for the Scottish giants during his three-and-a-half years at Parkhead, which illustrates how impactful he was for the Hoops.

Brendan Rodgers admitted that the plan was for Celtic to dip into the market to sign a replacement for the Japanese marksman before the end of the January transfer window, but the club were unable to get a new number nine in to bolster the squad.

Adam Idah and Daizen Maeda have shared the centre-forward duties during the second half of the season, whilst youngster Johnny Kenny has also stepped in at times, but the Hoops could look for a permanent replacement for Kyogo in the summer transfer window.

With this in mind, here are three strikers Celtic could target to finally replace the Japan international ahead of the 2025/26 campaign…

1 Mathias Kvistgaarden

Potentially the most obvious target for the Scottish Premiership champions is Danish forward Mathias Kvistgaarden, who currently plays for Brondby in his home country.

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The 23-year-old marksman has already been linked with a move to Parkhead in the summer, and it was reported that the club were in talks over a deal to sign him in January, before they failed to get a transfer over the line.

Ultimately, Kvistgaarden remained at Brondby after that interest from Celtic at the start of the year, but they are now looking to snap him up this summer and it could be an excellent piece of business to finally replace Kyogo.

24/25 Superliga

Mathias Kvistgaarden

Appearances

28

Goals

17

Conversion rate

22%

Right-footed goals

7

Left-footed goals

6

Headed goals

3

Big chances created

4

Assists

4

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the Denmark youth international has been in impressive form in the Superliga for Brondby this season, with 21 goals and assists combined in 28 appearances in the division.

Seven goals with his right foot, six with his left foot, and three with his head also suggests that he is a complete striker who can score in a variety of ways, rather than being limited to his strong foot and only on the floor.

Kvistgaarden, however, is not the only centre-forward who could be a replacement for Kyogo for the Scottish this summer, as there is a former Hoops star who has opened the door to a return to Parkhead.

2 Giorgos Giakoumakis

Speaking to the Daily Record earlier this month, Giorgos Giakoumakis revealed that he would “love” to play for Celtic again at some point in his career, having left the club in February 2023 to sign for Atlanta United.

Currently playing for Cruz Azul in Mexico, it remains to be seen whether or not a return to Glasgow is realistic for the Greek international, but he could be a good option for the Hoops.

If Maeda and Idah continue to be the main starters in the number nine position for Celtic, it could make sense for the club to sign a player who can thrive off the bench, which is why Giakoumakis could be ideal.

Giakoumakis (Premiership)

21/22

22/23

Appearances

21

19

Starts

11

4

Goals

13

6

Minutes per goal

81

114

Assists

1

1

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the Greek star had an incredible minute-to-goal ratio in his two seasons in the Premiership with Celtic, which shows that he can provide a big goal threat without starting matches on a regular basis.

Of course, there is nothing at this moment in time to suggest that Celtic are interested in a deal to bring Giakoumakis back to the club, though, despite him appearing to be a good option to replace Kyogo on paper.

3 Jamie Vardy

Finally, veteran centre-forward Jamie Vardy could be an interesting striker for the club to swoop for to finally replace Kyogo, after it was confirmed that he will be a free agent this summer.

Former Scotland international Paul Dickov suggested that a move to Parkhead could make sense, saying: “Maybe the obvious link-up is with Brendan at Celtic after his time at Leicester with Jamie. I still think he’s got a lot to offer.”

Only Scott Sinclair (95) has scored more goals under Rodgers than Vardy (70) in his managerial career, which shows how effective the English forward was under the Celtic boss during their time together at the King Power.

The former England international, who scored 145 goals in the Premier League for the Foxes, could follow in Kasper Schmeichel’s footsteps, after the Dane decided to link up with Rodgers again last summer.

As a free agent, the 38-year-old star, who was described as a “living legend” by manager Ruud Van Nistelrooy, could come in as a low-risk option and as a player who can still make a big impact at the top level, despite his age.

24/25 Premier League

Jamie Vardy

Appearances

35

Goals

9

Conversion rate

16%

Big chances created

6

Assists

4

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Vardy contributed to 13 goals in the Premier League despite his side getting relegated from the division, and he was the only player over the age of 34 to score a goal in the top-flight.

To score goals consistently at that age, whilst no one within three years of his age even scored a goal in the league, speaks to both his longevity and his quality, which is why the forward could be an excellent option to replace Kyogo.

He still has the quality to perform at the top level, as evidenced by his form this season, and Rodgers is a manager who already knows how to get the best out of him, as shown by the striker’s goal return under him at Leicester.

Therefore, signing Vardy on a free transfer could be a shrewd move by Celtic to finally replace Kyogo as another quick striker who likes to make runs in behind, which is why Rodgers should consider repeating his Schmeichel masterclass with another reunion this summer.

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da wazamba： Liverpool’s attack has been sensational throughout 2024/25, playing a huge role in Arne Slot’s success in claiming the Premier League title during his first season at the helm.

da 888casino： The Reds managed to notch a total of 86 goals in their 38 appearances – the most of any side in the division – with Mohamed Salah leading the way with 29 goals.

However, despite their success, there could be a change in the attacking department ahead of next season, with the club needing fresh impetus to maintain their performance levels.

The likes of Diogo Jota, Darwin Núñez and Luis Diaz could all leave Anfield this window, raising some key funds in Slot’s ambitions of landing new signings.

With the transfer window now open, numerous players have already been touted with a switch to Merseyside this summer, which could see the hierarchy massively back the manager during the off-season.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for new additions this summer

Since claiming the title, Liverpool have been extremely busy in the market, as seen with right-back Jeremie Frimpong, who’s already joined the club from Bayer Leverkusen.

He could be joined by the likes of Milos Kerkez, Marc Guehi and Alexander Isak, who have all also been strongly touted with a summer switch to Merseyside.

However, another name has been thrown into the mix in the form of Victor Osimhen, with the striker firmly on their radar, according to TBR’s latest update.

Their report claims that discussions have been held over a move for the Nigerian striker, who scored 37 goals in 41 appearances on loan at Galatasaray from Serie A outfit Napoli.

It also states that the Reds’ hierarchy are targeting a new striker this summer, with a big name expected, which could see the 26-year-old move to Anfield – but they would have to meet the £60m price tag on his head.

Why Osimhen would be a better signing than Wirtz

Florian Wirtz is a player who has been the subject of huge interest from Liverpool in recent weeks, with a move progressing in the right direction ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The German, who registered 30 combined goals and assists this season, could cost the Reds a pretty penny, after already having a club-record bid of £110m rejected by Bayer Leverkusen.

It would be a huge investment from the hierarchy, showcasing how much the board have faith in the manager to make the changes he desires after his first season at the helm.

If he can carry his tally of contributions over from the Bundesliga, it would be an addition that could massively bolster their ambitions of becoming back-to-back champions in the Premier League.

However, they could be about to make a better addition than the midfielder this summer in the form of Osimhen, who would solve arguably what’s been Slot’s biggest issue.

When comparing the Nigerian’s stats with those of current strikers Jota and Nunez, he’s massively outperformed the pair, handing the side that focal point they’ve been desperately lacking.

Osimhen, who’s been labelled “world-class” by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley, has massively outscored the duo, whilst registering a higher shot-on-target rate – offering the manager the clinical central option he’s been devoid of as of late.

How Osimhen compares to Liverpool’s current strikers (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Osimhen

Jota

Nunez

Games played

30

26

30

Goals & assists

31

9

7

Shot on target accuracy

42%

25%

38%

Shots on target per game

2.2

1

1

Aerials won

3.5

1.6

1.5

Aerial success rate

60%

40%

37%

Fouls won

1.9

1.1

1.1

Stats via FBref

He’s also managed to win more of the aerial duels he’s entered this campaign, with such a talent aiding the likes of Salah in the attacking areas, which could see him improve his own tallies in the final third.

Whilst a deal for Wirtz is undoubtedly an exciting one, it’s an extra to what’s already an impressive midfield department, offering key depth alongside the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai.

However, Osimhen would undoubtedly be signed as the number one striker, looking to fill the void in a position that has arguably been a disappointing one over the last 12 months – as seen by the records of Jota and Nunez.

If the club are to have any chance of securing another league title next campaign, the signing of the Nigerian international is vital, with his skillset massively improving the goalscoring options at Slot’s disposal.

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da poker： Newcastle United’s qualification for the Champions League next season will give Eddie Howe hope that he can lure some high-profile players to Stamford Bridge.

da dobrowin： One player they are showing interest in is Jadon Sancho. The Manchester United winger looks set to depart Old Trafford this summer.

The Englishman could cost the club around £25m, and he would certainly bolster their wide options, given his return of five goals and eight assists for Chelsea this season.

It would be a massive statement of intent if Howe could secure a deal for the former Borussia Dortmund starlet. While adding wingers will help the club next season, perhaps it is other positions that require strengthening first.

Newcastle enter the race to sign Barcelona star

One position that Howe must improve is his goalkeeping department. The club conceded 47 Premier League goals last term, the worst defensive record out of any side in the top five.

Thus, bringing in a top-class goalkeeper ahead of another Champions League campaign makes perfect sense.

According to reports in Spain, Barcelona’s keeper Marc-André ter Stegen could be set to leave the club following the arrival of Joan Garcia.

PSG, AC Milan, Manchester City, and Juventus have all expressed interest in the German international, but Newcastle are also entering the race.

Beating these clubs to the signature of Ter Stegen would be a major coup for Howe; that much is certain. Indeed, he would be an even better signing than Sancho.

Why Newcastle must sign Marc-André ter Stegen

Signing Sancho could prove to be a massive gamble. For Man United, the winger scored just 12 goals across 83 matches for the club. His loan spell at Chelsea didn’t exactly see him sparkle either.

His 41 matches for the Blues saw only five goals netted, and it was no surprise that they declined to sign him permanently. Given the fact that Newcastle can call upon players such as Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon, and Jacob Murphy on the wing, do they need to splash out to sign Sancho? Especially with the risks involved with his lacklustre form.

In this instance, making a move for Ter Stegen would be seen as the smarter approach. That’s for sure.

Last season, Nick Pope kept just eight clean sheets from 35 appearances, while Martin Dubravka kept five clean sheets across ten domestic matches for the Magpies.

If Howe is serious about progressing far in the Champions League next season, making a move to bring Ter Stegen to England would be a very shrewd move indeed.

Pope and Dubravka’s PL stats for Newcastle (2024/25)

Metric

Pope

Dubravka

Clean sheets

8

5

Saves per game

3.1

2.9

Touches per game

34.8

38

Goals conceded

35

12

Goals conceded per game

1.3

1.2

Pass success rate

65%

76%

He played just nine games last season for Barcelona, keeping a solitary clean sheet. The German has been with the La Liga giants since the summer of 2014, playing over 400 competitive matches in the process.

A total of 175 clean sheets have been kept throughout that period. While he may not have featured much this term, in La Liga during 2023/24, he was excellent.

Across his 28 matches, Ter Stegen made 2.7 saves per game – a success rate of 74% – while he was also successful with 100% of his runs out per game.

He was comfortable on the ball, as evidenced by his average of 40 touches per game, while a 94% pass accuracy in his own half suggests the German moves the ball on effectively.

The player was lauded as “ice cool” by popular X page Goalkeeper.com for the way he snuffed out an opponent’s attack in the Champions League in September 2023.

Given the fact that he has a contract until 2028 with the Catalan giants, a move would cost the club, although it hasn’t been determined just how much Hansi Flick will demand for his player.

Sancho would be a fine signing, no doubt, but bringing Ter Stegen to the north-east would certainly turn heads.

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