All posts by z3u9t.icu

Few things beat a dramatic stoppage-time goal in football, but which one ranks as the best in the history of the game?

From gripping Champions League nights, to dramatic Playoff ties, so many crucial fixtures have been decided right at the death. Is there anything sweeter than a goal in ‘Fergie time’?

It’s got us thinking about the greatest late goals throughout history, so here are our choices for the top 10…

10 Alisson v West Brom (2021) Goalkeeper's header keeps Liverpool's CL dream alive

You cannot beat a goalkeeper scoring in the last minute to save his side, can you?

Alisson’s last-second header for Liverpool at West Brom late in the 2020/21 season wasn’t only a great moment, but it was also huge for the Reds in terms of their Champions League qualification hopes.

It’s just a shame there were no fans inside The Hawthorns.

9 Sergi Roberto v Paris Saint-Germain (2017) Barca star completes the comeback of all comebacks

There have been so many epic Champions League encounters over the years – and Barcelona’s 6-1 win against Paris Saint-Germain could top the pile.

Having lost 4-0 in the first leg of their last-16 clash back in 2017, Barca produced a stunning turnaround after looking doomed, culminating in Sergi Roberto scoring right at the death, before being mobbed by his teammates.

8 Lucas Moura v Ajax (2019) Brazilian completes iconic turnaround to send Spurs to final

Tottenham Hotspur may have gained a reputation for being ‘Spursy’, though this was anything but, as they reached the 2019 Champions League final in the most dramatic of circumstances.

Having trailed 2-0 at Ajax in the semi-final second leg and needing three goals to progress – having lost 1-0 in the first leg in north London – Spurs won 3-2, thanks mainly to Lucas Moura’s hat-trick.

The Brazilian’s winner in the dying seconds is surely one of the best moments in the club’s history.

7 Rodrygo v Man City (2022) Real Madrid blitz City at the death on way to semi-final victory

Real Madrid simply never know when they are beaten in the Champions League, and their mental resolve was never on show more than against Manchester City in the semi-finals in 2022.

Even by Madrid’s standards, this was remarkable, with Rodrygo scoring twice in stoppage time, with the latter goal taking the tie into extra-time. They progressed to yet another final, of course.

6 Troy Deeney v Leicester City (2013) Classic breakaway goal settles play-off semi

This could arguably be the greatest moment in the history of the Championship, on a day that etched Troy Deeney’s name into football folklore forever.

Having looked within seconds of bowing out of the play-offs against Leicester City, Watford progressed to the final following an unbelievable passage of play.

Anthony Knockaert’s missed penalty blew the Foxes’ chance to win in the last seconds, only for the Hornets to burst clear up the other end, leading to Deeney eventually firing into the net from Jonathan Hogg’s knockdown. The scenes inside Vicarage Road were unrivalled.

5 Andres Iniesta v Chelsea (2009) Spaniard ends controversial tie with sucker-punch equaliser

In terms of sliding doors moments, Andres Iniesta’s strike for Barcelona against Chelsea back in 2009 is right up there. How successful would they have been under Pep Guardiola without that goal?

Somehow, Barca managed to scrape past the Blues in the semi-final second leg, despite being outplayed and being on the right end of some terrible refereeing decisions.

Iniesta fired a superb strike into the top corner in the last minute, with Guardiola and his players losing their minds in the celebrations. They went on to beat Manchester United in the final.

4 Jimmy Glass v Plymouth (1999) On-loan 'keeper rescues Carlisle from Football League demotion

If you’ve never heard of or seen this goal, you’re missing out!

On the final day of the 1998/99 season, Carlisle United knew they needed to win to stay in the Football League, and all hope appeared to be lost heading into the final seconds of the campaign.

On-loan goalkeeper Jimmy Glass made himself the most unlikely hero, coming up for a corner and firing home following a scramble in the penalty area. There have been few more dramatic moments in the history of English football.

3 Ole Gunnar Solskjaer v Bayern Munich (1999) Norwegian seals treble in quickfire United comeback

The best night in Manchester United’s history also had the most unforgettable conclusion imaginable, as they were almost improbably crowned Champions League winners.

Having trailed Bayern Munich 1-0 heading into stoppage time, Teddy Sheringham equalised to seemingly take the game to extra-time. However, United didn’t stop there, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer gaining legendary status with one touch of his right boot from their next attack.

It was the crowning evening of Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary career, and the manner of his side’s win couldn’t have been a better advert for ‘Fergie time’.

Fergie Time: Man United's top 10 best late goals – ranked

Be it at Old Trafford or Camp Nou, Man Utd have scored goals in added time aplenty, but which are the best?

ByRobin Mumford Oct 17, 2023 2 Michael Thomas v Liverpool (1989) Arsenal midfielder slots home to win league title at Anfield

In second place is Michael Thomas’ remarkable title-winning strike away to Liverpool back in 1989, in what could be the finest moment in Arsenal’s great history.

The Merseysiders were a relentless force during that period, so the fact that the Gunners knew they had to win by two goals at Anfield to win the First Division title on the final day summed up what a mammoth task it was.

Alan Smith’s opener in the second half gave Arsenal real hope, and it was left for Thomas to seal the most dramatic end to an English season, bursting through to send the travelling fans wild.

1 Sergio Aguero v QPR (2012) Striker delivers City's first Premier League title in nick of time

Could there really be anything else at No 1?

Seeing Sergio Aguero’s unforgettable winner against Queens Park Rangers on the final day of the 2011/12 season still sends shivers down the spine.

It looked as though Man City had completely blown their Premier League title hopes as they headed into stoppage time, trailing 2-1 at the Etihad. Even worse, United were on the cusp of beating their rivals to yet more glory.

Edin Dzeko’s added-time header gave the hosts the tiniest bit of hope, but incredibly, there was still time for Aguero to find space in the area, bury his finish and inspire the most joyous of celebrations. Unless you’re a United fan, it’s impossible not to love it.

Ruben Amorim’s first six weeks in charge of Manchester United certainly haven’t been as easy as he would have anticipated, but it appears as though his ideas are finally coming to fruition.

The 39-year-old may have only won two Premier League matches to date, but managed to produce a much-improved display against league leaders Liverpool on Sunday to stop a run of four straight defeats.

Goals from Lisandro Martínez and Amad Diallo secured an unexpected point given the Reds’ imperious home form, with the 3-4-2-1 system starting to look effective in all areas of the pitch.

Despite the results, the January transfer window presents the first opportunity for the new boss to bolster his ranks, with various areas in need of drastic investment to take the club back to its glory days.

One area in particular could be heavily improved, with various names already mentioned over a move to Old Trafford, including one who’s set England’s top flight alight in recent months.

Man Utd to make £42m offer for PL star

According to one Spanish outlet, Man Utd are willing to make a €50m (£42m) bid to land Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo before the end of the January window.

The 25-year-old has been in superb form for Thomas Frank’s side in 2024/25, scoring 13 times in 20 appearances, with only Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah scoring more to date.

However, the Bees would be reluctant to part ways with the star man this window, but the report claims that the United hierarchy see the Cameroonian as the solution to their attacking issues.

He can operate in a variety of attacking roles, whether that be central, as a ten or off either flank – which could make him the perfect fit for Amorim’s current philosophy.

He certainly would provide an upgrade on one player currently plying his trade at Old Trafford, potentially ending his long-standing affiliation with the club in the process.

Why Mbeumo would be an upgrade on Rashford

Academy graduate Marcus Rashford looked as though he would be a crucial player during Amorim’s tenure at the helm after netting three times in his opening two matches under the new boss.

However, it looks as though his time with his boyhood club could be coming to an end in the near future after his recent exclusions from the first-team squad.

The Englishman hasn’t made an appearance for the Red Devils since the Europa League win over Viktoria Plzen back in the first week of December, failing to feature in any of the last six outings in all competitions.

Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Juventus are just three sides interested in signing the 27-year-old this window, opening the door for a potential move for Mbeumo.

The Brentford ace has massively outperformed Rashford in numerous key areas during 2024/25, highlighting what a superb addition he would be – even if he may cost a pretty penny in the process.

Mbeumo, who’s been dubbed “one of the best players in the Premier League” by pundit Dan Bardell, has outscored the current United forward, whilst also averaging more progressive carries and passes – highlighting his ability in the final third.

Games played

20

15

Goals scored

13

4

Progressive carries

3.2

1.8

Progressive passes

4.1

1.9

Shot-creating actions

3.8

2.7

Take-ons completed

45%

23%

Aerials won

1

0.5

On top of that, the Brentford star has completed more take-ons in 2024/25, whilst winning more aerials, further showcasing his talent to feature in a variety of different roles should Amorim complete a deal for his signature.

There’s no debating that signings are desperately needed at Old Trafford if the Red Devils are to salvage anything from the current campaign, but it’s crucial that any additions are smart and not just for the sake of it.

The Cameroonian is a player who could thrive should he move to the North West, having all the tools to be a success under the guidance of the former Sporting CP manager.

£42m is a phenomenal price for a player of his calibre, subsequently handing the side the new dimension of attacker they’ve desperately been craving for in recent months.

He wants to leave: INEOS must sell Man Utd flop who earns more than Mainoo

Man United need to make some changes in the transfer market this year.

ByAngus Sinclair Jan 7, 2025

Aston Villa are now in fresh talks over selling a £100k-p/w player this month, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Emery looking to strengthen his defence

Unai Emery’s first task in the January transfer window was to bring in a new forward, and with the deal for Donyell Malen now over the line, the manager has now turned his attentions towards strengthening his backline.

The Villans are keen on strengthening at full-back, with Celta Vigo right-back Oscar Mingueza believed to be of interest, while they are also closely monitoring UD Almeria’s Marc Pubill, whose release clause amounts to €40m (£34m).

In terms of centre-backs, one of Villa’s top targets is Sevilla’s Loic Bade, and they have now taken their first steps towards getting a deal done, having opened talks with the Spanish side.

Bigger coup than Malen: Aston Villa remain in the race for £21m "monster"

Aston Villa could soon pick up this in-demand attacker after finally snapping up Donyell Malen.

ByKelan Sarson Jan 15, 2025

In order to facilitate the signing of Bade, however, Aston Villa may have to create some space in the squad, and one player who has been heavily linked with a move away is Diego Carlos.

Carlos was reported to be in talks over a deal to join Fenerbahce a few days ago, and Fabrizio Romano has now dropped a new update on the Brazilian’s future.

Speaking on X, the transfer expert confirmed that Galatasaray have now approached Villa to discuss a deal for Carlos, looking to beat their Turkish rivals to the defender’s signature.

Talks are now underway, and Emery’s side have no qualms about the centre-back moving on, despite him receiving regular game time in the Premier League this season.

Reports from elsewhere had stated the £100k-per-week Brazilian could be used as part of a swap deal for Bade, but Romano has confirmed that a move of that nature is not being considered.

Carlos needs to be moved on

Although the former Sevilla man has featured regularly this season when fit, he has been hampered by injuries once again, and it is likely he is now approaching the latter stages of his career, given that he will be 32-years-old by the end of the season.

As such, it is the right decision to move Carlos on, in order to create room in the squad for the much younger Bade, who has performed better on a number of key metrics over the past year.

Statistic per 90

Diego Carlos

Loic Bade

Tackles

1.0 (13th percentile)

2.45 (96th percentile)

Interceptions

0.63 (8th percentile)

1.21 (64th percentile)

Clearances

3.68 (37th percentile)

4.21 (56th percentile)

Aerials won

1.09 (8th percentile)

2.35 (66th percentile)

As shown, Bade’s defensive displays have been very impressive, so it is promising news that Villa are taking concrete steps towards securing his signature.

Carlos has impressed at times in a Villa shirt, having been lauded as “physically imposing” in the past, but it is no great shame that his time at the club is coming to an end.

Sheffield Wednesday have now submitted an increased offer to sign a “brilliant” midfielder, moving into pole position for his signature, according to reporter Alan Nixon.

Wednesday faring well in the Championship

After flirting with relegation and finishing just three points above the relegation places in the previous campaign, Wednesday have really kicked on in the Championship this season, sitting in 11th place, just four points adrift of the play-offs.

As such, a push for the top six is not out of the question in the second half of the season, and manager Danny Rohl is now running the rule over players to improve his squad.

The Owls are in the race to sign Aston Villa forward Louie Barry, who is attracting the attention of a whole host of second-tier clubs this month, while earlier in the month they made contact over Rangers’ Rabbi Matondo, who now looks set to join Coventry City.

Sheffield Wednesday could sign "incredible" Gassama upgrade this month

Sheffield Wednesday would surely rise up the Championship table with this stunning January buy.

ByKelan Sarson Jan 22, 2025

It has been a relatively quiet month for Wednesday, with one of the only major developments coming in the form of Shea Charles being recalled by parent club Southampton.

Since then, rumours the midfielder could cross the Sheffield divide have emerged, with United boss Chris Wilder confirming the Blades’ interest is very real.

However, a promising update has now been dropped by reliable reporter Alan Nixon (via Football League World), who states Sheffield Wednesday have submitted a new and improved loan offer for Charles.

The Saints are willing to sanction the 21-year-old’s departure on loan if they receive a significant offer, and the Owls’ latest proposal is believed to be worth more than the Blades’.

As such, a return to Hillsborough is the more likely scenario as things stand, with Wednesday moving ahead of their rivals in the race for the youngster’s signature.

Sheffield Wednesday’s upcoming Championship fixtures

Date

Queens Park Rangers (a)

January 25th

Luton Town (h)

February 1st

West Bromwich Albion (a)

February 8th

Swansea City (a)

February 12th

Coventry City (h)

February 15th

Shea Charles is needed back at Hillsborough

The Northern Ireland international has emerged as a vital player for the Owls this season, picking up one goal and four assists in 25 Championship outings, so it will be a real boost if Rohl is able to bring him back to Hillsborough this month.

The £6k-per-week Southampton ace could be poised to go on and achieve great things, having also received high praise for his performances at international level, being lauded as “brilliant” by members of the media.

The idea of Charles going to Bramall Lane to aid the Blades’ promotion push doesn’t bare thinking about, so it is promising news that Wednesday are better-placed to get a deal done this month.

West Ham United made a “stunning” January move for one Real Madrid player before the transfer deadline on Monday, but were ultimately foiled in their attempts, according to a reporter on social media.

West Ham set for long break after 2-1 Chelsea defeat

It was a night to forget for Graham Potter on Monday, who watched on as his side unfortunately fell to a 2-1 defeat away to London rivals Chelsea.

West Ham now want to sign "unbelievable" midfielder for free this summer

The 24-year-old is set to leave his club when his contract expires at the end of the season.

ByDominic Lund Feb 4, 2025

Captain Jarrod Bowen gave the visitors a deserved first-half lead, and performed impressively overall. However, second-half Chelsea strikes from Pedro Neto and an Aaron Wan-Bissaka own goal ensured that the Hammers left Stamford Bridge empty-handed.

For Potter, there were real positives to take away from west London, not least Bowen’s “proper captain’s” performance and their intelligent tactical performance.

“I thought the performance was really good, lots of good things,” said Potter after West Ham’s 2-1 loss at Chelsea.

Brentford (home)

February 15th

Arsenal (away)

February 22nd

Leicester City (home)

February 27th

Newcastle United (home)

March 10th

Everton (away)

March 15th

“I thought we were intelligent tactically. We felt a little bit unlucky with the first goal, we thought there might have been a foul leading up to it. Sometimes you need those things to go your way but it wasn’t meant to be. We could have nicked a point with Mo and I think we would have deserved that.

“Jarrod Bowen was fantastic, he led the team, and it was a proper captain’s performance. You see the players that we’ve got and the spirit there. We can be positive for the future.”

In the background, West Ham sealed their January deal for Brighton striker Evan Ferguson on loan, so Monday wasn’t a totally regrettable day for the club as Potter sees his desired new striker come through the door.

Ferguson’s arrival will seriously ease the pressure on Danny Ings’ shoulders, following long-term injuries to Niclas Fullkrug and Michail Antonio, with Potter hoping the Irishman can replicate his 2022/2023 form at the London Stadium.

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, via X, West Ham also made an audacious attempt to sign £60 million Real Madrid starlet Endrick during the window.

West Ham made "stunning" January move for Endrick

According to Bailey, West Ham launched a “stunning” swoop for Endrick, who has found game time difficult to come by under Carlo Ancelotti this season.

Writing for The Boot Room, Bailey says that West Ham contacted Real over Endrick’s availability, and they also approached the Brazilian’s representatives, but a transfer for Endrick ultimately fell short.

Both Ancelotti’s side and the player’s camp made it clear that they had no intention to sanction a mid-season departure, despite the fact Endrick is yet to start a single La Liga game this campaign.

The 18-year-old, who boasts 13 caps for Brazil already, has managed four goals and an assist for Real – but the vast majority of his appearances have come off the bench.

Leeds United’s recruitment team are running out of time to do some business before the winter window officially slams shut on Monday night.

The Whites are yet to make a single signing in the January transfer window but they have little over 24 hours left to bolster their squad ahead of the second half of the season.

Southampton centre-forward Cameron Archer is one player who has been linked with a late move to Elland Road on loan from the Premier League side.

However, a new number nine is not the only position on the agenda for the West Yorkshire outfit, as they are reportedly keen on another attacking midfielder.

Leeds eyeing late deal for midfield maestro

According to Russian journalist Ivan Karpov, on his Telegram channel, Leeds United are one of the teams interested in signing Krasnodar attacking midfielder Eduard Spertsyan.

The report claims the Whites and fellow Championship promotion hopefuls Sunderland are eyeing up the Armenia international in a last-gasp move before the deadline.

It states that Daniel Farke worked with the 24-year-old magician during his short spell in charge of Krasnodar earlier in his career and would like a reunion with the playmaker this season.

Karpov’s report does not, however, reveal how much money it would take for the Russian side to consider cashing in on their star midfielder in the next day or so.

Why Leeds should sign Eduard Spertsyan

The Whites should, now, push to win the race for the Armenian wizard before the deadline passes because he could come in as a dream signing for Joel Piroe.

Farke’s current centre-forward took his tally to 12 goals for the season, from an xG of 8.36, in the Championship with a brace against Cardiff on Saturday.

The Dutch centre-forward has proven his ability to consistently find the back of the net at an efficient rate, given the quality of chances created for him.

In Spertsyan, Leeds could sign an attacking midfielder with the quality to create even more opportunities for the former Swansea man to score goals.

After Ajax once failed to sign the Armenia international, the Dutch side’s technical director Sven Mislinta compared him to Kevin De Bruyne. He said: “It wasn’t about his abilities but that he plays in Russia. He could’ve been at Ajax similar to what Kevin De Bruyne is at Man City. A special player, you can’t find someone like him for this amount of money.”

That was incredibly high praise, given that the Belgian star has 104 goals and 173 assists for Man City, but his form in recent seasons for Krasnodar explains the comparison.

Appearances

28

29

18

Goals

10

11

6

Key passes per game

2.2

1.9

2.6

Big chances created

8

8

3

Assists

11

3

3

As you can see in the table above, Spertsyan may not be on de Bruyne’s sensational level but he is an attacking midfielder who can score goals and create chances on a regular basis in a number ten position.

Meanwhile, no current Leeds player has managed more than 1.7 key passes per game in the Championship this season, which suggests that Spertsyan, who has averaged 2.6 key passes per match this season, could come in as Farke’s best creator.

Their next Chris Wood: Leeds step up move to land “ball-striking monster”

Leeds are looking to add attacking firepower

1 ByJoe Nuttall Feb 1, 2025

That would, therefore, make him a dream for Piroe in the second half of the 2024/25 campaign, as they could form a terrific partnership in the final third.

Celtic’s European campaign is on the cusp of coming to an end, but what an adventure it has been.

The Bhoys reached the Champions League knockout phase for the first time in 12 years, collecting 12 points and remaining unbeaten at home, most memorably beating RB Leipzig 3-1 at Parkhead in early November.

However, the first knockout round looks set to be a bridge too far, beaten 2-1 by Bayern Munich in Glasgow on Wednesday night, although Daizen Maeda’s late header does give them a slither of hope heading to Bavaria on Tuesday.

Domestically, Brendan Rodgers’ side sit 13 points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership, on course for yet another treble, having already hoisted aloft the League Cup, but just imagine how good this team would be if they hadn’t lost their most highly-rated academy graduate.

Jota's return to Celtic

To much excitement, Jota returned to Celtic in the January transfer window, returning from Stade Rennais for a reported £8.5m, 18 months after departing for a Saudi Pro League for a joint-club-record fee of £25m.

The Portuguese winger marked his second debut in hoops with a goal against Motherwell at Fir Park, after which he actually burst into tears, so delighted to be back in Glasgow having endured, as he put it, countless “difficult moments” since departing.

Speaking on TNT Sports prior to Wednesday’s clash with Bayern, Rodgers admitted that Jota “is not quite at the physical level yet” to start as he looks to rebuild his fitness, hence why he’s largely been reduced to cameos off the bench so far.

As noted by Josh McCafferty of the Herald, Jota was “delighted” to be back at Celtic Park, starting as the Hoops smashed Dundee 6-0 last mid-week.

However, despite being widely known as a “superstar”, the returning hero faces some serious competition to get into this team on a regular basis.

Maeda, who currently occupies Jota’s preferred position on the left, has scored 11 goals since Boxing Day, with right-back Alistair Johnston describing him as “one of the most in-form players in Europe”.

The Japanese forward nodded home from close range on Wednesday, thereby becoming the first Celtic player since Joe Craig in 1977/78 to score four or more goals in a single European Cup campaign; Mo Johnston, Henrik Larsson, Chris Sutton, Kenny Miller, Georgios Samaras and Moussa Dembélé all reached three.

Having said all of that, as much as the Celtic support love both Maeda and Jota, as well as Nicolas Kühn too, they may have let the best winger of the lot slip through their fingers.

Celtic lost Scotland's next great superstar

Ben Doak did not spend much of his youth career at Celtic, but his introduction to senior football did come bedecked in hoops, debuting as a late substitute during a must-win match against Dundee United in January 2022, before also coming off the bench for Ange Postecoglou’s team during a famous Old Firm victory three days later.

However, this did not convince the teenager to sign professional terms with Celtic, departing for Liverpool for just £600k in compensation soon after.

During his first two seasons on Merseyside, Doak saw first-team opportunities limited, making only ten appearances, but has exploded onto the scene since joining Middlesbrough on loan last summer.

Still only 19 years old, he has scored three goals and provided seven assists in the EFL Championship for Boro, while Jota, meanwhile, boasts just two goals and two assists across his time at Rennes and Celtic in 2024/25. There’s a reason why journalist Henry Winter has lauded him as a “huge prospect”.

This may not sound amazing, but let’s have a deeper look at his season stats.

Statistics

Doak’s tally

Championship rank

Goals

3

84th

Goals – xG

+0.45

30th

Assists

7

5th

Expected assists per 90

0.23

17th

Shot-creating action

82

18th

Goal-creating actions

11

13th

Progressive carries

134

3rd

Shots on target %

51.9%

10th

Passes into the penalty area

37

12th

As the table shows, Doak is a high-level dribbler and excellent chance-creator, and his performances on Teesside have certainly caught wider attention, with Don Smith of the Evening Standard reporting that Liverpool rejected a £15m bid from Crystal Palace for his services in January.

Meantime, he’s also made his senior international debut in recent months, trusted by Steve Clark to start all four of Scotland’s UEFA Nations League matches in October and November, repaying the manager by setting up John McGinn’s last-gasp winner against Croatia at Hampden, that helped save the Tartan Army from relegation.

That night, as noted by Gregg Evans of the Athletic, he gave the world’s most-expensive defender of all-time Joško Gvardiol nightmares, with Ewan Murray of the Guardian adding that the Man City man left Hampden ‘bamboozled’ by Doak’s ‘searing pace’.

Martin Watt of BBC Sport labels him a ‘wonderkid’, while Sam Blitz of Sky Sports hails him as Scotland’s ‘new superstar’, hence why Celtic supporters must be wondering what could’ve been had Doak chosen to stay.

Worth 2x more than Kyogo: Celtic star proved that he could play for Bayern

Celtic fell to a narrow defeat in the Champions League on Wednesday night…

ByRobbie Walls Feb 13, 2025

The Scottish Premiership has been a tale of Celtic domination over the last decade or so, with the Hoops capitalising on the woes of their Old Firm rivals, Rangers, to brutal effect.

While it is those at Parkhead who have had the most to shout about of late, it would be wrong to suggest that they are the only reason for excitement in the division.

Indeed, there are a raft of other notable talents operating across the top-flight, with it easy for most to be overlooked due to the often intense scrutiny surrounding those in Glasgow.

The 12 most expensive signings in Scottish Premiership history

We have taken a look at the biggest transfers in the history of the Scottish top flight, so expect Celtic and Rangers to dominate.

2 ByRoss Kilvington Dec 31, 2024

We have taken a look at the best players in the Premiership right now, based on their ability and current form. The usual suspects appear, but there are a couple of surprises…

10 Will Ferry Dundee United

Will Ferry joined Dundee United from Cheltenham last summer, and the left-back adapted well to Jim Goodwin’s tactical system, which saw the Arabs occupy the heady heights of third place at one stage.

This season, the defender created nine big chances, averaged 1.8 key passes and succeeded with 54% of his dribble attempts – impressive indeed. Keep this up, and the 24-year-old will attract attention from elsewhere.

9 Alistair Johnston Celtic

Alistair Johnston was one of the biggest improvers at Celtic this past season. The right-back featured in 32 of their league games, scoring four goals and grabbing 10 assists in the process – excellent numbers for a full-back.

The Canadian also created an impressive 15 big chances for Celtic while keeping 12 clean sheets and winning 55% of his duels. He is going from strength to strength under Rodgers.

8 Sam Dalby Dundee United

Sam Dalby joined Dundee United on a season-long loan deal last summer in a bid to improve their attacking options. He led the Premiership scoring charts until the final few months of the campaign, proving to be an excellent addition.

His contract at Wrexham expires this summer and Jim Goodwin will surely be keen on securing his services on a permanent deal ahead of next season.

Dalby turned up in the big games this term and clearly gave United’s attacking department the boost they needed, securing a place in next season’s Europa League qualifiers.

7 Hamza Igamane Rangers

Hamza Igamane’s arrival at Rangers last summer raised plenty of eyebrows, especially given that he hadn’t played senior football outside of his home country, Morocco.

Since arriving, the striker has scored 16 goals for the Gers in all competitions, including four in the Europa League, which has led to a few clubs beginning to show some interest.

Domestically, he was also impressive, recording a hat-trick against Hibs at the start of the calendar year.

6 Lennon Miller Motherwell

Lennon Miller is arguably the finest young player in Scotland right now. Still a teenager, the midfielder has played over 75 competitive matches for the Steelmen.

Recording 12 goal contributions this term shows just how effective the youngster has been from the heart of the midfield. So impressive, in fact, that Udinese made a bid of around £2.5m for the 18-year-old in the winter window.

This was swiftly rejected – not surprising as Miller is probably worth a lot more than that given his performances.

5 Nicolas Kuhn Celtic

Nicolas Kuhn has enjoyed a wonderful season for Celtic. The German notched 21 goals and grabbed 15 assists under Rodgers, including a strike against Bayern Munich which so nearly helped send the Bhoys into the last 16 of the Champions League.

His presence on the right wing gave Celtic a new dimension going forward, and the wide-man caused plenty of havoc in the Premiership this term.

4 Vaclav Cerny Rangers

Before the season started, Philippe Clement knew that signing a top-class right-winger could make all the difference at Rangers. Last term, he had to rely on Scott Wright and Ross McCausland on that side of the pitch.

Vaclav Cerny has been a revelation for the Gers in that regard. In 52 games for the Ibrox side, the Czech sensation scored 18 goals and registered nine assists. 12 of those goals have come at Ibrox, where he clearly feels at home.

Meanwhile, six of his strikes came in Europe, proving that Cerny is exactly the type of player for the big occasions.

3 Arne Engels Celtic

Arne Engels cost Celtic a club-record fee of £11m last summer, but the Belgian midfielder has proved to be an inspiring signing.

He won his first caps for Belgium during his stint with Celtic, and has registered 23 goal contributions in all competitions since arriving at Parkhead.

He will only go from strength to strength, and could one day secure the club a significant profit.

2 Kasper Schmeichel Celtic

Many felt that replacing Joe Hart after his retirement last summer would be difficult. Step forward, Kasper Schmeichel.

The Dane has kept 24 clean sheets in 48 matches for Celtic, particularly impressing in the Champions League, helping the club reach the play-off round.

He is no spring chicken at 38 years of age, but there is plenty of life in the old dog yet.

1 Daizen Maeda Celtic

On current form, Daizen Maeda was certainly one of the players of the season.

He scored 33 times this term, while the Japanese star also scored against Bayern Munich in the first leg of their play-off clash in the Champions League.

His 10 domestic assists ensured he topped the domestic charts alongside teammate Alistair Johnston and Rangers’ Nicolas Raskin.

Overall, Maeda has scored 62 times for the club in 157 appearances since joining in the summer of 2021 under former manager Ange Postecoglou.

It is fair to say that this season has not gone to plan for Wolverhampton Wanderers as they continue to fight against relegation from the Premier League.

The Old Gold started the campaign with Gary O’Neil in charge and dismissed him from his duties in December, bringing in Vitor Pereira as his replacement.

Wolves are currently five points clear of Ipswich in 18th place, with 11 matches to play, and were dealt a blow at the weekend when Matheus Cunha was sent off for violent conduct on Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez.

Wage Burners

The Brazilian is set to miss three Premier League games due to his suspension, and potentially more pending the FA’s investigation that must be concluded by the close of play on Wednesday, which comes as a big blow given his form this season.

Matheus Cunha's form this season

The former Atletico Madrid attacker has been a shining light in a dark season for Wolves with his fantastic performances at the top end of the pitch.

Cunha, who racked up 14 goals and eight assists in all competitions for the club last season, has already scored 15 goals for the Old Gold in the 2024/25 campaign.

The Brazil international, reportedly on £79k-per-week, has scored 13 goals from 6.72 xG and racked up four assists from 12 ‘big chances’ created in the Premier League this term.

In his absence, Pereira will need other forwards to step up and Goncalo Guedes is one star who needs to do just that, as his form this season suggests that the manager must finally ditch him from the club in the summer window.

Why Wolves should sell Goncalo Guedes

The Portugal international, who was signed from Valencia for a reported fee of £27.5m in 2022, has not done enough on the pitch this season to justify his reported wages at the Molineux.

Contracted till 2027, Guedes is reportedly on £91k-per-week – over £10k more per week than Cunha – but he has not secured a regular place in the starting XI, despite being the second-highest earner behind Pablo Sarabia (£110k-per-week).

The 28-year-old flop, who was described as “lightning quick” by talkSPORT’s European expert Andy Brassell, has only started seven of his 22 appearances in the Premier League this season and has been fortunate to record four assists, from two ‘big chances’ created and just 0.61 xA.

24/25 Premier League (Wolves)

22

2

4

23/24 Liga Portugal (Benfica – loan)

9

0

0

23/24 LaLiga (Valencia – loan)

17

3

2

22/23 Liga Portugal (Benfica – loan)

12

1

1

22/23 Premier League (Wolves)

13

1

1

As you can see in the table above, Guedes has consistently failed to deliver goals and assists on a regular basis, at Wolves or out on loan, since his move to England in 2022.

Therefore, given his reportedly huge wages – particularly in comparison to the far more productive Cunha – and lack of end product in the Premier League, Pereira must finally sell the winger in the summer transfer window, if there is any tangible interest in his services.

Wolves have finally found their new Raul Jimenez and it's not Cunha

Wolves may have replaced Raul Jimenez with a current first team star.

1 ByRoss Kilvington Mar 3, 2025

That is, unless Guedes can take advantage of Cunha’s latest suspension to emerge as a key man for Wolves between now and the end of the campaign to prove that he still has a future at the club. The evidence of his career at the club to date, however, suggests that is an unlikely outcome.

Newcastle United are thought to be interested in completing the signing of an exciting young attacker in the summer, according to a new transfer rumour that has emerged.

Newcastle begin huge week in their history

The Magpies have one of the biggest matches in their history to look forward to at the end of the week, after Monday’s trip to West Ham, as they take on Liverpool in the EFL Cup final at Wembley on Sunday afternoon.

For Newcastle, it has been 70 long years without a major domestic trophy, so if Eddie Howe and his players can get over the line against the current Premier League leaders, it would make them heroes forever at St James’ Park. That is clearly a tough ask, given the quality of the Reds, but they have already drawn with them in the league this season.

Regardless of what happens at Wembley, the summer transfer window needs to be far more productive than it was last year for the Magpies, and they are being linked with fresh faces already. One report has claimed that they are in talks with Tammy Abraham over a return to English football, with the striker currently on loan at AC Milan from Roma.

Meanwhile, James Trafford has emerged as a leading option to increase the competition for places in goal at Newcastle this summer, especially with Nick Pope not getting any younger and seemingly losing his form in 2024/25 too.

The Englishman has excelled for Burnley throughout the current campaign, playing a key role in a team who have conceded just 10 times in the Championship.

Newcastle eyeing move for prolific South American youngster

Now, according to a fresh update from Sport [via Sport Witness], Newcastle and Paul Mitchell are battling to sign young Millonarios FC striker Neiser Villarreal in the summer.

Barcelona and Watford are also believed to be in the mix to snap up the young Colombian, so the Magpies won’t find it easy to acquire his services. They are described as “very attentive” to the 19-year-old’s situation, though, and his current deal expires this December.

Villarreal is far from a household name, so Newcastle fans may not be as excited compared to a high-profile star being mentioned as a target, but he is a player with so much potential.

Newcastle now in talks with "amazing" in-demand UCL winner over summer move

He could complete a Premier League return…

ByTom Cunningham Mar 10, 2025

He has proven to be prolific at international youth level for Colombia, scoring 10 goals in just 14 caps for his country’s Under-20s, and he has also been hailed as “excellent” by analyst Ben Mattison.

Newcastle should always be looking at developing exciting young talent, as well as signing elite-level footballers, and if they could pip a club of Barca’s size to Villarreal’s signature, it may prove to be a major coup over time.