Villa advancing in talks for £25m gem who’d shine with Philogene

da imperador bet: Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is still trying to strengthen his squad despite signing eight players already this summer.

da dobrowin: Qualifying for the Champions League has given the club a major boost with regard to the type of players they could lure to Villa Park and Emery is taking full advantage of this.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery

Amadou Onana and Ian Maatsen are the two signings which have stood out the most this summer, but could the Spaniard make another statement signing by luring a Dutch defender to the Midlands?

Aston Villa advancing in talks with Eredivisie star

Fabrizio Romano provided an update on Villa’s interest in right-back Lutsharel Geertruida when speaking with GIVEMESPORT, saying: "It's ongoing [Geertruida negotiations], it's not that close yet, it's well advanced on the player's side, because the player is keen on the move to the Premier League and to the Champions League.

"Also in this case, with Aston Villa, he's really attracted by the project of Unai Emery. But with Feyenoord it's always complicated to negotiate for Geertruida.

“He's a really important player for them and every time important clubs try to approach Feyenoord in recent years, Leipzig last year, PSG at the beginning of this summer transfer window, it has always been a tough story.”

Lutsharel Geertruida for the Netherlands.

This suggests that Villa are closing in on the defender, despite a lack of an agreement with his club as of yet, due to the positive talks with the player's side of the deal.

Lutsharel Geertruida’s season in numbers

The defender, who could be available for £27m this summer, enjoyed a stunning season in the Dutch top flight during 2023/24.

Across 47 matches in all competitions, the 24-year-old scored an impressive nine times from right-back, along with chipping in with five assists, demonstrating his attacking prowess down the right flank.

Lutsharel Geertruida's Eredivisie stats during 2023/24

Goals

8

Assists

5

Key passes per game

1.2

Big chances created

7

Successful dribbles per game

0.7

Total duels won per game

3.6

Via Sofascore

With Leon Bailey likely to be operating on the right-wing this term, new signing Jaden Philogene could slot in on the opposite flank. While Geertruida and Philogene won't play on the same side, they could both offer Villa a solid attacking threat going forwards from both sides of the pitch.

Virgil van Dijk and Lutsharel Geertruida on international duty

Philogene scored 12 goals and registered six assists for Hull last term. Can he replicate this in the Premier League during 2024/25?

He is certainly a wonderful option to call upon and so will Geertruida should he make the move to Villa this summer.

When compared to his positional peers in the men’s next 14 competitions, the Dutchman ranked in the top 1% for non-penalty goals and progressive passes per 90, along with ranking in the top 15% for shot-creating actions and the top 14% for touches in the opposition box, clearly indicating how impressive he was at bursting forward from the defence.

With Philogene doing the same from the opposite flank, albeit from a more advanced position, the pair could create plenty of chances for the club next season, while chipping in with plenty of goals.

U23 scout Antonio Mango hailed the defender for his “sublime tactical nous” late last year, and it is clear this is a trait which could stand Emery in good stead ahead of the new season.

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Maresca could fix Lavia hole by unleashing "very important" Chelsea star

da dobrowin: Chelsea have the chance to close the gap between themselves and Liverpool in the Premier League table to just two points with a win against Brentford, which would also move them four points ahead of third-place Arsenal.

da bet esporte: Enzo Maresca continues to say Chelsea are not in a title race, but a victory against the Bees would make it very hard for him to continue with these notions. Chelsea are averaging the fourth-highest possession in the league this season with 56.4%, are taking 15.3 shots per game (fourth most again), and are only conceding 11.6 shots per game (sixth fewest in the division).

However, the Italian will be fully focused on going one game at a time, with this game against Brentford being treated the same as any other, which could include some more tactical tweaks, especially in the absence of Roméo Lavia.

Chelsea team news pre-Brentford

Three players who will certainly be out for the Blues are Reece James, Wesley Fofana and Pedro Neto. James and Fofana both missing through injury, whilst Neto is suspended after picking up six yellow cards in the Premier League.

Mykhailo Mudryk is another who possibly won’t be involved, as he has missed Chelsea’s last three games, being out through illness. Lastly, it also seems Lavia will have to be monitored after being taken off at half-time against Tottenham, suffering from hamstring pain.

With the Belgian midfielder likely to miss out, Maresca will have to find another way to set his side up, moving his Chelsea jigsaw around and getting his best available players into the team.

Chalkboard

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

How Chelsea can fill the Romeo Lavia void

Maresca has labelled defender Marc Cucurella as very “important” in the past for his Chelsea side, and with Lavia missing, the Italian will likely use the Spaniard to configure his team appropriately, platforming the likes of Enzo Fernández, Moises Caicedo and Cole Palmer in order to get the best from them.

The versatility of Cucurella, who perhaps was rather “embarrassing” in the words of Jamie Carragher against Spurs last weekend, allows Maresca to move him into wide central defender positions, as we have seen often this season, playing on the left of a back three in possession – but also invert into midfield at both deeper and more advanced heights.

Cucurella vs Lavia comparison

Stats (per 90 mins)

Cucurella

Lavia

Assists

0.06

0.19

Progressive Carries

1.15

0.38

Progressive Passes

3.46

3.21

Key Passes

0.54

1.13

Passes into Final Third

3.92

5.66

Tackles

2.08

2.83

Blocks

1.62

1.13

Interceptions

0.84

2.00

Recoveries

4.15

4.53

Aerial Duels Won

0.85

1.13

Stats taken from FBref

Against Brentford, the full-back will likely invert alongside Caicedo. In turn, this will allow Fernandez to advance into the left half-space, receive the ball and dictate play from this zone, where he has found immense success in recent weeks, scoring three goals and registering three assists in his last five. Cucurella provides extra stability alongside Caicedo to cover Fernandez’s defensive qualities, having similar recovery numbers to Lavia.

Not only does the Euro 2024 winner bring the off-ball tenacity needed to sustain pressure in those central areas, but he also has the on-ball qualities that Lavia can provide, making 3.46 progressive passes per 90 and 1.15 progressive carries per 90.

Maresca can balance the team in Lavia’s absence with the utility of Cucurella inverting into midfield, allowing everyone to still occupy their best-attacking zones, and the Blues to suffocate Brentford in their own half, being aggressive off the ball, and counter-pressing with high intensity.

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Brighton now discussing £11m deal to sign talent who has wowed their scouts

da betway: Brighton are now discussing a deal to sign an exciting young talent in a move that could cost them up to £11m, according to a fresh report from a transfer insider.

Brighton stockpiling talent again

da bet7: Brighton’s impressive early Premier League form following Fabian Hurzeler’s arrival at the helm has dropped off in recent weeks, with a 1-1 draw with West Ham leaving them without a win in their last five games, all against teams below them in the top flight at the time they played.

Despite taking just three points from their last possible 15, the Seagulls sit just three points off fifth place, and still boast one of the most talented young squads in the Premier League.

Only Chelsea and Manchester United have named younger starting XIs this season than Hurzeler’s side, with the Seagulls sticking to their policy of trusting youth despite their record breaking summer transfer window.

Brighton’s next five Premier League games

Brentford (Home)

Aston Villa (Away)

Arsenal (Home)

Ipswich Town (Away)

Manchester United (Away)

The likes of Carlos Baleba, Joao Pedro and Yankuba Minteh have all impressed over the course of the campaign to date, leading to interest from clubs across Europe.

Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba

There is no shortage of talent waiting in the wings either, with Julio Enciso among those who can barely buy a game at the AMEX Stadium, while they have just announced the signing of central midfielder Diego Gomez from Inter Miami, another young talent that they hope to develop. Now, they could be set to add to their January business with a move for an in-demand forward.

Brighton want league-leading winger

That comes according to transfer insider Alan Nixon [Via Inside Futbol], who claims that Brighton are in discussions with Swedish side Hammarby over a deal to sign talented winger Bazoumana Touré in January.

The Ivorian ace has turned plenty of heads already this season, with Arsenal and Tottenham among those to have been impressed by his performances in Sweden, while Brighton’s scouts have been in attendance to watch him on several occasions.

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Still just 18-years-old, he has managed nine goals and four assists in 23 outings so far this campaign. Football Analyst Ben Mattinson highlighted his decision making, which he dubbed “quality” while adding that he is an “intelligent, direct dribbler” who possesses a “knack for scoring goals”.

Widely anticipated to be on the move this winter, Nixon claims that Brighton are leading the race for his signature and are discussing a deal that could rise up to £11m with add-ons. It remains to be seen whether or not his arrival would be in January, or if the winger would be sent out on loan immediately.

As it stands, Kaoru Mitoma is the regular choice on the left hand-side, while the likes of Brajan Gruda, Simon Adingra and Joao Pedro can also all play in that role.

Still just 18-years-old, Toure is seen very much as a talent for the future, and it would be no surprise to see Brighton once more snap him up on the cheap before selling him on at a massive profit in several years time.

Leeds struck gold on “electric” star who’s worth millions more than Archer

da betsul: The race for promotion in the Championship is heating up. Leeds United currently hold the advantage and are one point clear of second place Sheffield United, with 59 points to the Blades’ 58. However, Daniel Farke’s side have a game in hand, which could be crucial as they look to extend their lead.

da dobrowin: However, the Whites are yet to do any business in the transfer market, and with just days remaining of the January window, they are cutting it fine. Football League World’s Leeds pundit Kris Smith explained that it is a “real concern” they have not done any business yet.

However, that could all be about to change in the final days of the window, with Leeds linked to striker Cameron Archer.

Archer’s potential move to Leeds

The former Aston Villa and Sheffield United striker Archer was first linked with a move to Elland Road by Nizaar Kinsella, a journalist for BBC Sport.

Kinsella explained that the move is a possibility, with ‘early talks having taken place’ for the centre forward. It is thought he would be willing to make the move to the Championship side.

If there is one thing that Archer could add to this Leeds side, it is experience in the second tier of England. He has already experienced the Championship with two different sides, Preston North End and Middlesbrough, where he scored 18 goals and grabbed seven assists in 40 games.

However, the former England under-21 international has also shown he can do it in the Premier League. This season, despite being part of a struggling Southampton side, he has managed to score twice, with one of those goals coming against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

There has not been a clarification of the price should Leeds attempt to bring Archer in on a permanent deal. However, he joined the Saints for £15m in the summer, and they surely want to recoup that money, if not make a profit.

Cameron Archer

Interestingly, the Whites have an attacker who is worth way more than their winter transfer target.

The Leeds player worth more than Archer

The player in question here is Italian international Wilfried Gnonto. The 21-year-old has impressed again under Farke this term, playing a crucial part in Leeds’ title challenge for a second consecutive season.

This season, the attacker, who hails from Verbania in northwest Italy, has scored four times and registered five assists in the Championship.

He began the season on fire, with eight goal involvements in 16 games. That included a goal and assist against Coventry City in a 3-0 win at Elland Road.

However, that does mean that, in his next 11 games, the youngster has only managed to find the back of the net once. With that being said, he has not been a regular starter in recent weeks, and at only 21 years of age, is still putting up some impressive numbers.

When looking at Gnonto’s stats, courtesy of FBref, from the 2024/25 Championship season it is clear to see that he is a talented player. For example, on average, he creates 1.94 chances per game and completes 1.83 take-ons per game. Football statistician Statman Dave described him as “electric” for a reason.

Gnonto stats in 2024/25 Championship

Stat (per 90)

Number

Percentile

Chances created

1.94

83rd

Progressive passes

5.06

90th

Shot-creating actions

4.36

92nd

Carries into final third

2.8

96th

Take-ons completed

1.83

80th

Stats from FBref

With all that considered, it might not be a surprise that the young winger is valued as highly as £30m by CIES Football Observatory. That is double the fee that Archer cost Southampton in the summer, and perhaps double what he could cost the Whites.

This has been a brilliant investment from the Yorkshire side, who originally paid £3.8m for the youngster, back when Jesse Marsch was the manager at Elland Road. To see his value not only rise by almost ten times but also to see him worth so much more than their current transfer targets, is impressive.

Whether or not they bring Archer in, Leeds will always have Gnonto who is worth so much to the club, both financially and as a player.

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Chelsea now closing in on deal to sign "exciting" £20m+ midfielder

da betsson: Chelsea are now closing in on a deal to sign an “exciting” midfielder, and they are eager to wrap it up quickly as other clubs are starting to show interest, according to a report.

Blues eyeing more talented youngsters

da cassino: The Blues have developed a reputation for signing young players, who are often sent out on loan to prove themselves at sister club Strasbourg, and they are continuing to scour the market for talented prospects ahead of the summer transfer window.

Sunderland’s Chris Rigg is the latest young player to be linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, having now been cleared to leave the Championship side this summer, should a potential suitor be willing to fork out £25m.

However, there is now a feeling the west Londoners’ transfer approach could be deterring young players from joining the club, as revealed when it emerged Arsenal are set to win the race for Santos left-back Joao Victor de Souza.

De Souza and his agent were unimpressed with the Blues’ ideas about his future, which opened the door for a move to the Emirates Stadium.

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According to a report from The Sun, Chelsea could face a similar problem in their pursuit of Sporting CP’s Dario Essugo, although they are now closing in on a deal.

Essugo is only keen to join the Blues if he is going to be a part of the squad, rather than being shipped out on loan to Strasbourg, with the midfielder having reservations about the move.

Despite the 19-year-old’s concerns, however, a deal is now close to completion, with Enzo Maresca’s side eager to agree a fee as quickly as possible, as he has started to attract interest from other clubs, having impressed on loan at Las Palmas.

Benfica's Nicolas Otamendi in action with GD Chaves's DarioEssugo

Essugo is one for the future

The teenager is keen to be a part of the Chelsea squad immediately, and there are some indications he could be capable of making an instant impact at Stamford Bridge, given the level of his defensive performances over the past year.

The Portuguese starlet, who could cost around €25m (£21m) ranks in the 98th percentile for interceptions per 90, the 87th percentile for clearances, and the 81st percentile for tackles, when compared to his positional peers.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig has also tipped the central midfielder for future success, having made a solid start to life in La Liga, calling him “one of the most exciting DMs in Europe”.

Having also signed Mathis Amougou in the winter transfer window, Chelsea have a multitude of options in midfield, but if Essugo is able to replicate his performances in La Liga in the Premier League, he could push for a starting spot sooner rather than later.

Wolves keen to win race for "imperious" £25m defender who pocketed Vlahovic

da winzada777: Wolverhampton Wanderers are now keen to win the race for an “imperious” defender, who is expected to cost over £25m, but there could be competition for his signature from rival Premier League clubs, according to a report.

Wolves eyeing centre-back signings

da brdice: Wolves have managed to steer themselves six points clear of the relegation zone due to an uptick in form under Vitor Pereira, putting themselves in a strong position to avoid the drop with 10 games left to play.

However, Pereira will be keen to avoid being in a relegation dogfight again next season, and given that his side have one of the worst defensive records in the league, new defenders are now being eyed ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Old Gold are showing an interest in Everton centre-back Michael Keane, who is set to be available on a free transfer at the end of the season, with the Toffees looking unlikely to renew the Englishman’s contract.

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Keane is proven in the Premier League over a number of years, but there are also indications Wolves may take a gamble on more of an unproven quantity, with a report from GiveMeSport revealing they are keen on winning the race for Genoa’s Koni De Winter.

There is widespread interest in De Winter from the Premier League, with West Ham United, Nottingham Forest and Manchester United also named as potential suitors, although the Red Devils are not expected to make a move.

The Genoa defender is expected to have a price tag of over £25m, having put in some impressive performances in the Serie A this season, and there is also a feeling he could also end up remaining in Italy, with AC Milan recently expressing an interest.

Wolves’ upcoming Premier League fixtures

Date

Southampton (a)

March 15th

West Ham United (h)

April 1st

Ipswich Town (a)

April 5th

Tottenham Hotspur (h)

April 12th

Manchester United (a)

April 19th

"Imperious" De Winter impressing in Italy

The 22-year-old has put in some top displays in Italy since making the move to Genoa, with journalist Sacha Tavolieri describing him as “imperious”, while also praising the way in which he was able to hold off Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic.

Not only is the centre-back solid defensively, but he also poses a real attacking threat, ranking in the 97th percentile for non-penalty goals per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

The Belgian’s aerial ability was also on show when he scored a back-post header in his side’s 2-0 victory against Monza back in January.

As such, it is clear to see why a number of Premier League clubs are queuing up for the Genoa star, and Wolves should continue to monitor his performances between now and the end of the season.

Liverpool plotting summer hijack of £60m star Chelsea have a bid ready for

da blaze casino: Seeking attacking reinforcements, Liverpool now reportedly want to hijack Chelsea’s move to sign a rising Premier League star when the summer transfer window swings open.

Liverpool champions in waiting and planning for summer

da luck: Champions in waiting set to win the Premier League title race, Liverpool have seemingly set their sights on winning another battle against their rivals, which would see a key attacking upgrade arrive this summer. Even at the top of English football, Arne Slot is reportedly keen on an overhaul within his frontline, likely spelling the end of Darwin Nunez and perhaps even Diogo Jota.

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Aiming to finally make his mark on the Reds following a quiet summer last time out, Slot could yet welcome blockbuster signings such as Ousmane Dembele. Anfield needs little introduction to the Frenchman these days after he scored Paris Saint-Germain’s equaliser on their way to knocking Liverpool out of the Champions League last 16 on penalties.

Now, having seen his quality for themselves, reports have gone as far as to suggest that Liverpool are ready to table a hefty £85m offer in pursuit of the winger’s signature. And he’s not the only one on the Reds’ radar.

According to The Boot Room, Liverpool are now plotting to hijack Chelsea’s move to sign Liam Delap this summer after sending scouts to watch the Ipswich Town forward throughout the current campaign.

Ipswich Town'sLiamDelapapplauds fans after the match

Despite reports indicating that the Blues are preparing an opening bid for the striker, who Ipswich value at around £60m, those at Anfield could yet use their Premier League glory to lure the former Manchester City man to Merseyside.

At 22 years old, Delap has been an impressive standout in a struggling Ipswich side and looks destined to stay put in the Premier League with or without The Tractor Boys. Whether it’s Liverpool, Chelsea or another club who come calling remains to be seen, however.

"Powerful" Delap would be an instant upgrade

Whilst Nunez has struggled in front of goal, Delap has thrived in a side creating less chances than a free-flowing Liverpool sides awaiting their crowning ceremony. For £60m, the Reds would undoubtedly be signing an instant upgrade and getting one over on rivals Manchester City by signing their former young star this summer.

Premier League stats 24/25 (via FBref)

Liam Delap

Darwin Nunez

Minutes

2,094

970

Goals

10

5

Assists

2

2

Expected Goals

8.1

5

What instantly stands out is just how ruthless Delap has been in front of goal. The Ipswich star has outperformed his expected goals by two, whilst Nunez has only taken the chances expected of him – albeit just five – in the current campaign.

Earning plenty of praise as a result of his goalscoring ability, former England U21s interim boss Ben Futcher told reporters in October: “Liam was an absolute handful. If you want to go and fight him, he’ll match you. If you want to race him, he’ll win the race.

“He’s very difficult to deal with, he’s quick, he’s powerful, he’s in good form in the Premier League. Liam’s a top number nine and he’s going to keep developing.”

103 touches, 87% passing: 9/10 Newcastle star is now as undroppable as Isak

da brdice: Newcastle United have now won their last six matches in all competitions, with last night’s home success over a shaken Crystal Palace side very much the pick of the bunch.

da realsbet: The rampant Magpies would show no mercy in the 5-0 demolition job that was handed out to the hapless Eagles, with four different goalscorers all getting in on the act during a glorious night on Tyneside, alongside Marc Guehi also awkwardly scoring an own goal.

Alexander Isak would, of course, add to his ever-growing Premier League tally during the comprehensive victory, with the Swede now up to a bountiful 25 league strikes and counting.

Isak's performance in numbers

However, despite Isak being on such a healthy amount, Newcastle very rarely rely on just their 25-year-old striker to get them out of sticky situations, with the big win versus Palace very much won on a team basis.

Still, it doesn’t exactly hurt stand-in manager Jason Tindall to have such an explosive marksman leading the line, with the potent number 14 gifting the Magpies their final strike of the memorable night.

Isak would have been arguably frustrated that he didn’t find the back of the net more times than this late effort, with the former Real Sociedad attacker squandering three big chances in the game away from actually managing to get the better of a ropey Dean Henderson.

But, even when the 6 foot 4 forward is having somewhat of an off-day like he did in patches versus Palace, he still manages to contribute to Newcastle’s ongoing successes in some capacity, with his position as the Magpies’ main threat up top as concrete as it can possibly be, consequently.

Newcastle United's AlexanderIsak

Away from the frightening attacking arsenal Newcastle can boast, the Tyneside high-flyers also have defenders that they can put all their faith into when it matters, with this top defensive performer managing to cement his first team spot as even more undroppable up against Oliver Glasner’s visitors.

The 9/10 ace now as undroppable as Isak

Despite the final scoreline emphatically reading 5-0 in Newcastle’s favour, Palace did have their chances in the game to try and claw back some dignity, having ended the chaotic 90 minutes with 2.00 xG accumulated.

Unfortunately for the visitors from London, no goals would find the back of Nick Pope’s net, with Newcastle having the likes of Fabian Schar to thank at both ends of the pitch for the shut-out, but also the seriously impressive attacking display.

Schar’s performance in numbers

Stat

Schar

Minutes played

90

Goals scored

1

Assists

0

Touches

103

Accurate passes

75/86 (87%)

Key passes

2

Shots

3

Clearances

6

Interceptions

2

Tackles

1

Total duels won

5/10

Stats by Sofascore

Indeed, looking at the table above, it’s clear how well-rounded Schar’s performance was against Palace, with his goal an expertly headed home effort deep into first half-stoppage time after a perfect Jacob Murphy delivery, among other standout statistics.

The 33-year-old would further amass a staggering 103 touches of the ball and record an 87% pass accuracy as a calm and composed performer at the back, but the veteran centre-back would also roll his sleeves up and battle competently when faced with the brute force of Eagles attacker Jean-Philippe Mateta, with his five duels won on the night leading to Mateta registering just 15 total touches from a forgettable 56-minute spell.

Chronicle Live journalist Lee Ryder would hand out a high 9/10 rating to Schar post-match off the back of his excellent evening, with Ryder even heralding the Swiss star as ‘unflappable’ and a ‘vintage wine getting better and better’

With his centre-back partner in Dan Burn also on the ageing side at 32 years old, it appears Tindall and Co have the perfect mix throughout the squad at this point in time, with the more exuberant characters of Isak coupling up well with the more seasoned heads of the group.

If the Toon can keep up this blistering run of wins, another Champions League finish is surely on the cards, with faces such as Schar and Isak notably sticking out.

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Celtic must rue losing "exciting" gem who's now playing like a £100m star

da bwin: Celtic are closing in on a fourth successive Scottish Premiership title and are in the semi-finals of the SFA Cup, with a chance to clinch a domestic treble.

da dobrowin: Their ongoing success on the pitch this season has not stopped the club from looking to bolster their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window, though, as they have already agreed to sign Kieran Tierney on a free transfer.

The Scotland international is returning to Parkhead for the first time since his £25m move to Arsenal in the summer of 2019, which made him the most expensive Hoops academy graduate in history.

Most expensive Celtic academy graduate sales

Celtic have produced some excellent players from their academy, as the likes of Andy Robertson, Aaron Hickey, and Ben Doak have come through the youth set-up, but they have not always extracted great value out of their young talents.

Tierney’s £25m move to Arsenal is one of only three sales in the club’s history involving an academy graduate that was worth more than £1.6m, as shown in the table below.

Celtic’s most expensive academy graduate sales

Player

Fee

Kieran Tierney

£25m reported fee

Aiden McGeady

£10.3m

Mikey Johnston

£3m

Craig Beattie

£1.6m

Stephen McManus

£1.5m

Charlie Nicholas

£1.4m

Fees via Transfermarkt & Sky Sports

The Hoops have not been able to consistently produce high-value assets that they have been able to sell for millions, which is something that they may look to improve on in the coming years.

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Celtic, actually, had an exciting young academy prospect on their hands last season in the form of Rocco Vata, before they failed to convince him to extend his contract at Parkhead, and he left to join Watford for a compensation fee of £250k.

Rocco Vata is now being compared to a £100m talent

The Ireland international scored 23 goals in 34 B team matches for the Scottish giants, but only played three minutes in the Scottish Premiership last season before his exit last summer.

Rocco Vata

Since joining Watford, Vata has scored four goals and provided three assists in 33 first-team matches for the Hornets in all competitions in the 2024/25 campaign, and has earned a comparison to a player who has been valued at a whopping £100m.

Oxford City scout and recruitment analyst Hayden on X compared the Irish whiz to Tyler Dibling, suggesting that he would be a suitable alternative to teams interested in the Southampton teen, and that he was “impressed” by the Watford star.

The Saints have reportedly placed a £100m price tag over Dibling’s head, despite the 19-year-old having produced two goals and zero assists in 28 Premier League games this season.

Vata, who talent scout Jacek Kulig claimed has an “exciting” future, has scored three goals, created four ‘big chances’, and delivered three assists in 29 appearances in the Championship for the Hornets, showing great promise at such a young age.

It remains to be seen whether or not Southampton will sell Dibling for £100m or how much Watford would demand for their Irish 19-year-old starlet, but he appears to be on track to be another player Celtic have lost before they could extract maximum value from them.

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The Hoops must, therefore, regret not being able to keep hold of him last summer because he is a talented young prospect who could have had an exciting future at Parkhead, given his first-team emergence in the English Championship this term and the comparison to a £100m-rated starlet.

Everton are now "ready" to table £38m offer for "complete" overseas star

da doce: Everton are now “ready” to make an offer for a “complete” player this summer, according to a fresh claim from journalist Sebastien Vidal.

Everton pushing for signings from Spain and Portugal

da betobet: The Blues know the importance of getting further transfer business over the line before their return to Premier League action, in order to be a top-half team again, rather than looking over their shoulder at the relegation zone.

Some exciting names are being linked with summer moves to Everton, including Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo, who has been likened to Lionel Messi, in terms of his style of play. A new right-sided player is needed, and he could be the ideal addition for David Moyes, with contact already made over a potential move to the club.

Takefusa Kubo scores for Japan

Added midfield depth is also important for the Blues, with a dominant force needed in front of the defence, and Benfica’s Florentino Luis has been mentioned as an option.

Everton are said to have enquired about the availability of the Portuguese ace, as have Burnley and Leeds United, but they will reportedly have to pay around £22m to prise him away from the Primeira Liga giants.

Everton "ready" bid for £38m starlet

Now, according to a new update from Vidal on X, Everton are preparing a £38m offer for Como winger Assane Diao, looking to beat Nottingham Forest to his signature this summer.

At just 19, Diao is far from the finished article as a footballer, but that doesn’t mean that Everton shouldn’t be going all in on him ahead of the new season.

The Como ace has already scored eight goals in just 15 appearances for his current club, with such ruthless end product rare for teenage wide players. He also has two caps to his name for Senegal, having switched his allegiances from Spain, and scout Jacek Kulig has described him as a “complete” player.

Diao is at his most comfortable on the left wing, so he could come in as a strong backup option to the influential Iliman Ndiaye, but his versatility means he can also shine on the right flank, which is a more pressing area to add quality for Everton, hence the interest in Kubo.

Everton pushing in race to sign "superb" Douglas Luiz alternative for Moyes

Moyes is still seeking reinforcements.

ByTom CunninghamJul 31, 2025

Hopefully, the Blues are successful in their imminent bid for the Senegalese, with the Como starlet having the ability to grow into a formidable option for Moyes over time.

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