Derby’s £20k-p/w Star "Not Closing Any Doors" On Future

Derby County midfielder Krystian Bielik has admitted that he is “not closing any doors” when it comes to his future at Pride Park.

What's the latest on Bielik's future?

The Poland international swapped League One for the Championship in July when he joined Birmingham City on a season-long loan, and he has become an integral member of their squad since arriving, having made 42 appearances across all competitions for the Blues.

The Rams star will be out of contract at Pride Park in summer 2024, so has just over one full year of his deal remaining, meaning that both parties will have to make a decision regarding his future upon his return.

Manager Paul Warne publicly addressed the 25-year-old’s situation during his most recent pre-match press conference and admitted that he holds “respect” for him wanting to go out and get game time – but suggested that the £20k-per-week ace’s mindset could change should they get promoted to the second tier.

Speaking to BBC reporter Richard Wilford, Bielik has delivered his own personal update on his stance on his future at Derby. He said: "I have [my] last year at Derby, and we have to sit down with my agent and with the club directors and we'll see what happens. I'm not closing any doors, I'm looking forward to it, to be honest. First time I was on loan here, I was an 18-year old kid, now I'm a grown man with more experience and this is a big club. We'll see what happens this summer."

Birmingham City's loan midfielderKrystian Bielik.

Should Derby keep or sell Bielik?

Bielik will have no doubt attracted interest from the way he’s been playing at Birmingham – he has already been lauded an “elite” talent by football scout Jacek Kulig – but we think Derby need to do everything they can to keep him, because he’s an excellent player to have in the side, and even more so if they achieve promotion.

Indeed, the Blues loanee currently ranks in the 97th percentile for blocks and the 95th percentile for aerials won compared to players in the same position over the past year, suggesting he utilises his physical presence well, not to mention that he’s won 30 of the tackles he's made on 58 players so far this season, via FBref.

Bielik would also bring wonderful versatility to the squad having operated at centre-back, central midfield and attacking midfield alongside his natural position just in front of the backline, so is a useful option to have in the building should any unexpected injuries occur with the relentless amount of fixtures in mind.

£250k-p/w Chelsea Man Not Set For Barca Move

Journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that there is little chance Reece James leaves Chelsea despite rumours linking him with an exit.

What's the latest Chelsea transfer news?

The Blues are in a bit of a state right now as they look to finish the Premier League season stuck in mid-table while the search for a permanent manager goes on.

Only adding to the potential misery, some reports in the Spanish media had suggested that James could be on his way to Barcelona in the summer.

Indeed, journalist Gerard Romero recently said (via Barca Universal): "Keep an eye on Reece James. There are people at Barça who get instant emotions.

"James is one of the best right-backs in the world at the moment, so it is no surprise that other top clubs are interested in him."

However, it sounds as though there is nothing concrete to these claims with Romano pointing out that the Englishman is viewed as "untouchable" at Chelsea.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, he explained (4:00): “I wanted to clarify because I saw many rumours and some of your questions about that.

"Reece James is not going to Barcelona. For Chelsea, he's considered an untouchable player. He extended his contract last September.

"He's a player who's appreciated in the dressing room, on the pitch, in defence, [by] the teammates, the board, and let's see the new manager.

"But I'm sure that Reece James and Chelsea will continue together."

Will Reece James leave Chelsea?

The England international is certainly appreciated by the club. After all, on £250k-p/w, only three Chelsea players currently make more than James.

With that being the case, it's not as though he'd have any financial incentive to try and leave West London in the near future. However, when you look at how things are going on the pitch, he might not be too happy.

As explained before, the Blues have had a poor season and after crashing out of the Champions League against Real Madrid recently, there is little left to play for as they sit 11th in the Premier League with seven games to go.

reece-james-arsenal-michal-roziak

Barcelona, on the other hand, look close to wrapping up their first La Liga title under manager Xavi as they sit 11 points clear at the top of the table.

Despite this, however, it seems as though James' isn't set to have his head turned by any possible proposition from the Catalan club.

Aston Villa Backed To Sign "Incredible" £50m Forward

Aston Villa completing a deal for Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams this summer "would make a lot of sense", according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.

What's the latest on Williams to Aston Villa?

The Spanish international is an academy graduate at the San Mames Stadium having worked his way up through the youth ranks to get promoted to Ernesto Valverde's first-team back in 2021, making 79 senior appearances since that time, but there's a chance that he could be on the move during the upcoming window.

The La Liga winger's contract is set to expire at the end of next season meaning that the summer window is likely to be Athletic's final big opportunity to cash in for a sizable fee, and should that be the case, he won't be short a potential suitor having emerged as his club's overall best-performing player with a WhoScored match rating of 6.91.

The Daily Mail report that the Midlands outfit and Unai Emery are ready to reignite their interest in the 20-year-old, who has a £50m release clause, after he rejected a move to join in January, but that doesn't sound like it's stopped them from taking a second bite of the cherry in the weeks and months ahead.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Crook backed Aston Villa to secure the services of Williams and suggested that he would excel under the guidance of Emery in the Premier League. He said:

"Yeah, players that Emery knows in the Spanish market could be good for him. Nico Williams is an exciting talent so I think that would make a lot of sense. I think Villa are going to have grand ambitions this summer. I think they could be one of the busier clubs."

Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams.

Should Aston Villa cash out on Williams?

Aston Villa are clearly huge admirers of Williams if they are ready to make a second attempt for him, and having been hailed "incredible" by his brother Inaki Williams, NSWE should definitely meet his release clause considering the positive impact he would make.

The World Cup participant has clocked up 15 goal contributions (nine goals and six assists) in 37 appearances across all competitions so far this season which has seen him receive three man-of-the-match awards, but even when he's not always on the scoresheet, he's constantly looking to produce chances for his fellow squad members.

As per FBRef, Williams has recorded 150 crosses since the start of the term which is higher than any of his Athletic Bilbao teammates, alongside 91 shot-creating actions ranking him second among his peers, and with his versatility to operate on both the left and right flanks as well as in midfield, the board need to empty their pockets to beat their rivals to his signature this summer.

Arsenal: Arteta Now Wants To Sign £110K-P/W Star

Arsenal are eyeing a move for Barcelona forward Ferran Torres and manager Mikel Arteta has been a long-time admirer, according to reports.

Who could Arsenal sign this summer?

The fight for a first Premier League title in nearly 20 years is well and truly on despite current champions Man City being in the ascendency right now.

The north Londoners are still battling for domestic glory and have every chance of pipping Pep Guardiola's side, even if the Blues' imperious form of late makes it a challenge.

Arsenal simply must be perfect and win all of their remaining four games to stand a chance, and if fate is not on their side, preparation for another challenge next season will be imperative.

The Gunners have been identifying summer transfer targets in the background as sporting director Edu attempts to reinforce Arteta's squad, with central midfield stars Declan Rice (West Ham) and Brighton's Moises Caicedo believed to be of interest.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta

Arsenal could also make signings further forward, leading to links with the likes of Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus), yet it appears they could also add another ex-Man City star to their squad along with Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko.

According to talkSPORT, the title-chasers have their eyes on Torres, who has been a regular at Barca, with manager Arteta said to have a long-standing admiration.

The pair worked together at Eastlands when Arsenal's boss was Guardiola's understudy, and it appears Arteta has never lost his fondness for the £110,000-per-week star.

As well as Arsenal, it is believed that Torres is being targeted by Aston Villa, and Barca may be forced to sell their attacker to raise funds for Lionel Messi's potential re-signing.

Should Arteta go for Torres?

The 23-year-old is still years off hitting his peak and is already proven in the Premier League with City.

Torres is also a regular under Xavi, making 29 appearances in La Liga alone this season, and Guardiola has certainly expressed his admiration in the past at Eastlands, stating:

“He was fantastic all season and an incredible signing for us,”

“He’s a young player and can play in three positions up front.

“He can make incredible runs in behind but maybe we have to start to think about if he can play as a striker because every time he plays in that position he has a sense for goal, a real sense for goal.”

If the Spain international can replicate this kind of form for Arsenal, he could be a brilliant capture.

Arsenal Fans Give Mudryk Frosty Reception

Arsenal returned to winning ways on Tuesday evening as the Gunners romped to a 3-1 win over a bamboozled Chelsea.

The Gunners headed into the game winless in their last four matches as they saw their title challenge damaged by Liverpool, West Ham, Southampton and main contenders Manchester City.

However, Frank Lampard’s men were also in a typically poor run of form, with the Blues yet to win since he returned to Stamford Bridge.

It was perhaps no surprise, therefore, when Mikel Arteta’s side found themselves 3-0 up at half time.

Martin Odegaard scored two pretty identical goals from the edge of the area before Gabriel Jesus notched his tenth of the campaign.

Noni Madueke bagged a late consolation goal for Chelsea in the second period but by that point, the game was already done and dusted.

While those at the Emirates will rub their hands with glee at the result, it also came as some delight to see Mykhailo Mudryk on the losing team.

What happened between Arsenal and Mudryk?

The Gunners were rampant in their pursuit of the Ukrainian during the January transfer window with the winger seemingly keen on a move.

He made several come-and-get-me pleas on social media but ended up signing for Chelsea, where his time has been met with severe struggle so far.

Indeed, having being acquired for £88.5m as Todd Boehly and co met Shakhtar Donetsk’s asking price for the player, Mudryk has been woeful in London, failing to score and registering just two assists in 12 outings.

After a move fell through, Arsenal fans were far from pleased and they voiced their true feelings at the Emirates on Tuesday, booing the 22-year-old as he entered the pitch as a substitute.

In rather poor taste, one fan even decided to shine a layer at the player’s face during a free-kick.

It was an incredibly unsavoury reaction from supporters, with the moment drawing plenty of chatter from various users on Twitter. You can see the best of the reaction below…

Everton Send Scouts To Watch "Composed" £8m Striker – Report

Everton have sent scouts to watch Real Betis striker Raul Garcia ahead of a potential move to the Premier League, according to reports.

What's the latest on Garcia's future?

The Toffees failed to sign a single player in January and Sean Dyche’s need for attacking reinforcements is clear as his side are the third lowest-scoring team in the division this season even despite the thumping win at Brighton, so the 22-year-old has been highlighted as a potential summer target to help change their fortunes.

The Spaniard normally plays his football at the Benito Villamarin Stadium but is currently out on a season-long loan at CD Mirandes, where during his 36 appearances to date, he has caught the eye of the boss at Goodison Park.

Manuel Pellegrini‘s forward’s contract with his parent club isn’t set to expire for another two years, but the high standard of his performances on the road have alerted potential suitors, in particular the hierarchy on Merseyside.

According to Estadio Deportivo (via Sport Witness), Everton, alongside top-flight rivals Brighton and Hove Albion, are both “closely watching” Garcia ahead of the 2023/24 term. The Toffees and the Seagulls have already deployed officials to assess the striker, with the duo “convinced” that he will be a “good signing” and confident that he will be able to perform in the Premier League.

Real Betis are expected to “accept any offer” that gets put in front of them, and it’s stated that Farhad Moshiri is “more than capable” of meeting his target’s price tag which has been set at €10m (£8m).

Everton manager Sean Dyche.

Should Everton splash the cash on Garcia?

Garcia has only made 99 senior appearances since the start of his career so Everton would be taking a risk by gambling on a centre-forward with limited experience, but having been hailed a “composed” finisher by journalist Josh Bunting, it’s absolutely one worth taking if he can provide cover to Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The 6 foot 3 colossus has clocked up 26 goal contributions (19 goals and seven assists) in 36 outings for CD Mirandes and has recorded a total of 91 shots since the start of the campaign, which is higher than any other member of his squad, as per FBRef.

Garcia also won his first piece of silverware in the form of the Spanish Cup in 2021/22 so will know what it takes to compete and be successful at a high level, and putting this alongside his prolific form and hunger to achieve, he would be the perfect profile of player in the final third for Dyche.

Tottenham Hotspur Eyeing "Outstanding" £41k-p/w Ace

Tottenham Hotspur are now eyeing a summer move for Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, according to a recent report from Football Insider.

What's the latest Tottenham transfer news?

Hugo Lloris' Tottenham future is looking very uncertain as we approach the summer transfer window, with the Daily Mail reporting he may have played his last game for the club, having suffered a season-ending thigh injury against Newcastle United in April.

As such, Spurs are now tasked with replacing the club captain, with it recently being reported they are preparing to make a £35m offer for Napoli's Alex Meret, a bid that will be "too tempting" for the Serie A side to refuse.

The Lilywhites are also said to hold the most serious interest in signing Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez, with a move "in the pipeline", however, he is not the only Premier League goalkeeper who has emerged as a summer target.

According to a report from Football Insider, Tottenham are keeping close tabs on Bazunu for a move in the upcoming window, having been impressed with the impact he has made between the sticks for Southampton this season, despite their relegation.

The 21-year-old has climbed up the pecking order of suitable replacements for Lloris, who is expected to depart the club in the summer, despite the fact he will still have a year left on his contract.

The Frenchman is weighing up his future in north London, having recently been offered a mega salary by a Saudi Arabian club.

Should Tottenham sign Gavin Bazunu?

It is fair to say the young goalkeeper has had a mixed campaign, having put in some very solid performances, being hailed as "outstanding" by members of the media, but he was also criticised for some of his other displays.

Jamie Carragher has described the Southampton shot-stopper as a "big problem" for the Saints, particularly due to his inexperience, which the pundit believes has cost Ruben Selles' side on a number of occasions.

As such, Tottenham signing the £41k-per-week Irishman would undoubtedly be a risk, as while he is capable of putting in some top-level performances, he has not done so on a regular enough basis for Southampton this season.

Although he is not entirely responsible for the Saints' poor defensive record this season, Bazunu's performances have indicated he may not ready to make the step-up to a club like Spurs, averaging a SofaScore match rating of 6.58 in the Premier League, placing him 24th in the squad.

Spurs Could Make Major Transfer Decision On £200k p/w Ace

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy may decide to keep hold of Harry Kane for another year despite interest in his services and risk the Lilywhites' talisman leaving on a free transfer next summer, according to journalist Dean Jones.

What's the latest transfer news involving Harry Kane?

The Guardian report that Manchester United are keen on signing Kane this summer and will step up their efforts to try and land the England international by bidding for his services in the early portion of the forthcoming transfer window.

Kane has a year left on his £200k-a-week contract at Hotspur Way and it is said that the Red Devils are aware that Levy will not be an easy person to negotiate with as they try to acquire the striker.

As per The Telegraph, Kane is believed to be open to seeing out the final 12 months of his deal at Tottenham before potentially being able to leave on a free transfer.

Speaking to talkSPORT with co-host Laura Woods, former Spurs midfielder Jamie O'Hara has boldly suggested that his old side could end up in a relegation battle without Kane to lean on for goals, stating: "Obviously, we all hope that he sticks around and signs a new contract. Because Laura, without Harry Kane, I seriously think we could be fighting relegation next season. We are that bad without him. We have been solely dependent on Harry Kane to score us goals and do stuff for us."

Journalist Jones recently signalled his belief in his column for GIVEMESPORT indicating that Spurs' chairman Levy would be willing to 'gamble' on keeping hold of Kane this summer despite the threat of him being able to depart his boyhood club on a free transfer the year following.

Jones stated: "Kane has one year remaining on his Spurs contract and has interest from Manchester United, Chelsea, Real Madrid, PSG and Bayern Munich if he wants a move. Spurs are hopeful they can avoid that situation by appointing someone with a blueprint for the future that gives Kane fresh hope of winning a trophy but also that he can continue to thrive as he closes in on the Premier League’s goalscoring record.

"Keeping him is a gamble—this summer he could fetch £90-100million in the market whereas if he does not agree a new contract in the next 12 months he will be leaving as a free agent in one year. Usually Levy would not take such a business risk yet there are indications he might do as – from a footballing point of view – Spurs cannot afford to let him leave.

"As of this moment there is no plan to replace him by signing a new striker and with so much upheaval behind the scenes, as they hunt for a new sporting director as well as a new boss, the team are looking like they could fall behind in their preparations for next season."

How has Harry Kane faired this season for Tottenham Hotspur?

Kane has been in brilliant form for Tottenham this season, registering 30 goals and five assists from 48 appearances in all competitions, as per Transfermarkt.

As per talkSPORT, the 29-year-old has earned praise from high places this campaign and has been labelled as "one of the best strikers I have ever seen in my life" by Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.

WhoScored shows that Kane has been a hard presence to contain for opposition backlines in the Premier League, detailing that he has had an average of 3.4 shots per match this term.

Spurs chairman Levy may feel that the risk of keeping hold of Kane and him not signing an extension is worth taking; however, it would make bad business sense and potentially stop his side from being able to reinvest a large sum of money into replacing the talismanic forward.

Manchester United Submit Enquiry To Sign £226k-p/w "Baller"

Manchester United have made contact to enquire about a summer deal to sign Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, according to reports.

Is Jules Kounde leaving Barcelona?

The France international only arrived at Camp Nou from Sevilla last summer and has been a regular feature under Xavi having made 38 appearances across all competitions during his debut season, but despite him still having another four years to run on his contract, his future is already uncertain.

Earlier this week, 90min reported that the 24-year-old has a desire to leave at the end of the season due to being frustrated about being fielded primarily at right-back rather than his usual centre-back position, but he soon shut down these claims by publicly admitting that he wants to stay beyond the upcoming window.

The Red Devils, however, are likely to be in the market for central defensive reinforcements with Phil Jones set to depart as a free agent, not to mention the question marks surrounding the future of Harry Maguire, and Erik ten Hag has seemingly already reached out to one of his prime targets in the hope of enticing him to the Premier League.

Are Man United signing Kounde?

According to Spanish outlet AS (via Sport Witness), Man United have “made the first move” for Kounde and have “asked” Barcelona about him in “recent days”. Xavi “isn’t in a position to guarantee” that he’ll be able to play the defender in his natural role and the interest from the top-flight has “not gone unnoticed”, and they know that by cashing in on their prized asset, it would create funds for them to put towards new signings in the summer.

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde.

Man United have been heavily linked with a £40m deal for Napoli’s Kim Min-Jae, but Barcelona already knowing how they would spend the money from Kounde’s sale means that he could be available for a cut-price, and it would certainly be a massive coup should he move to Old Trafford.

The World Cup participant, who appears to be at the top of his game with a career-high €60m Transfermarkt valuation, currently averages two clearances per La Liga game and has won 21 of his 34 tackles made since the start of the term so is strong in the defensive aspect of his game, but having been hailed a “baller” by sports media manager Alan Feehely, he is also a threat when bursting down the flank.

The Blaugrana’s £226k-per-week ace, who has the versatility to play at left-back and right-back alongside his normal centre-back position, has seven goal contributions (six assists and one goal) to his name across all competitions this season, so for a player who can positively impact the game at both ends of the pitch, this really is a no-brainer of a deal to wrap up.

West Ham Interested In Relegated Premier League Star

West Ham are eyeing a summer swoop for Leeds United’s Jack Harrison.

What’s the latest on Jack Harrison to West Ham?

According to talkSPORT, the Yorkshire outfit are preparing for the departure of the winger following their relegation to the Championship, with the Irons and Aston Villa among those interested.

The Englishman is set to be handed a top-flight lifeline as the outlet understands that he has a relegation clause in his contract, meaning that he would be allowed to leave for a cut-price fee.

As per CIES Football Observatory, he is currently worth £17m.

Who could Jack Harrison replace at West Ham?

The 26-year-old has been at Leeds since 2018 and played in every single Championship game that saw them gain promotion in 2020.

Since arriving in the Premier League, across three seasons, the former Manchester City starlet has made 107 appearances and recorded 37 goal involvements.

Although his side has endured a hugely troubled campaign, Harrison has averaged the most key passes (1.5) and dribbles (1.3) per game in the squad, according to WhoScored.

The Londoners have already seen first-hand what the winger can do against them too, with the former New York City man scoring a rare hat-trick versus West Ham last season.

It was a performance that unsurprisingly drew a great deal of praise, notably from former Leeds star Noel Whelan, who said: “He’s a brilliant player, we know that. If you look at last season and the quality of goals he scored, we knew he had that clinical edge in his game.

“It wasn’t just the goals either, it was the workman-like performance and energy he brought, and he thoroughly deserved to get the goals.”

Harrison doesn't just provide his team with attacking contributions, but his selfless nature and defensive work has also been lauded. His teammate Junior Firpo once said:

“He’s one of the best wingers I had, in terms of helping the full-back. This is really important for the fullback when you have a winger that is committed to the work and helps you with the 2v1’s, especially here in the Premier League where every team has amazing wingers. It’s unbelievable to have him.”

From a Hammers perspective, Harrison could well replace the inconsistent Pablo Fornals, who started under half of the club’s Premier League games in a frustrating campaign.

Pablo Fornals in action for West Ham United

Disappointingly, the Spaniard dismally resides in the lowest 13% of positionally similar players across Europe's top five leagues for progressive carries per 90, as well as the bottom 7% for successful take-ons per 90.

Furthermore, the diminutive talent only offered three top-flight goals all campaign, outlining him as someone who could be upgraded upon next term.

With the possibility of European success and qualification for the Europa League next season, David Moyes’ side will require the utmost squad depth and Harrison could be a formidable addition to the pack.

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