All posts by z3u9t.icu

Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final game against fellow London outfit Chelsea proved to be an interesting tactical encounter.

In order to make the game more difficult for Thomas Tuchel, Patrick Vieira decided to fight fire with fire and matched up in a 3-5-2 set-up to limit the Blues’ attacking threat.

It was a tactic that initially played out for the Eagles, with 34-year-old James McArthur restored into the line-up in place of Conor Gallagher.

What’s the news?

Conor Gallagher will make his return to the Crystal Palace starting XI against Newcastle United, after sitting out Sunday’s FA Cup tie versus Chelsea due to a clause in his loan agreement that forbids him from taking part in fixtures against his parent club.

Palace were hopeful that Chelsea would give Gallagher the green light to feature, having previously made the exception for Fikayo Tomori and Mason Mount when they were on loan at Derby County, though this was unfortunately not the case.

Current Champions League champion, Thomas Tuchel, apologised to the 22-year-old Chelsea loanee after bumping into his over the international break and recalled their conversation.

Tuchel said: “I had the chance to speak to Conor, I could also see his frustration. We met some weeks ago, after the national break by coincidence. We ran into each other in a restaurant and we had a chat.

“The subject came up, I apologised because I know how competitive he is and I like him a lot.

“This is the way it is. We play to win the game and the rules were clear when we made the loan.”

Gallagher return is a boost

The midfielder’s return to first-team action will be music to the ears of the Palace faithful and his manager.

His impact for the Eagles this season cannot be underestimated, with his part in Vieira’s set-up this season proving vital in the attacking third.

The £17k-per-week dynamo has produced eight goals and three assists in 27 Premier League appearances for the Selhurst Park side this season.

Though his defensive ability has been a shining light for Palace, with his average of 6.6 pressures in the attacking third per 9o placing him within an astonishingly high percentile of 98 amongst positionally similar places across the top five leagues in Europe through out the last year, as per FB Ref.

Gallagher’s return serves as a major boost for Crystal Palace, who will be making the most of his time with the Eagles, amidst his uncertain future.

In other news: Vieira eyes CPFC move for “sensational” £14k-pw maestro, it could be bye-bye Gallagher

A number of Liverpool supporters are happy with the news that Nat Phillips is set to start the Reds’ upcoming Carabao Cup clash against Norwich City.

Jurgen Klopp’s side continued their impressive start to the season on Saturday afternoon, beating Crystal Palace 3-0 at Anfield in the Premier League. It means Liverpool have dropped just two points and conceded only once in their opening five league matches, suggesting that a title challenge is on the cards.

[freshpress-quiz id=“359326”]

Attention switches to Carabao Cup commitments on Tuesday evening, however, as the Reds make the trip to Carrow Road to face Norwich, where they won 3-0 at the start of the league season just over a month ago.

Klopp is expected to make a number of changes for the game, and according to The Athletic’s James Pearce [via Anfield Edition on Twitter], Phillips will make his first start of the season against the Canaries.

The 24-year-old had a prolonged spell in the first team in 2020/21, a defensive injury crisis helping to propel him into the side, and he repaid Klopp’s faith with some tremendous performances.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-liverpool-transfer-news-3/” title=”Latest Liverpool transfer news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=“none”]

Liverpool fans react to Phillips claim

These Liverpool fans on Twitter reacted positively to the update from Pearce, with the centre-back something of a cult hero after his efforts last season.

“Nat Phillips szn has started. We move”

Credit: @drivelikejesu

“PHILDINI IS BACK”

Credit: @Twoguaps

“I’m actually excited about it”

Credit: @quarterluke

“Norwich won’t know what hit them”

Credit: @LangatGodwin_LG

“Bolton Maldini”

Credit: @schkuba

“He deserves to play few games at least. He was so good for us last season”

Credit: @ajithf808

In other news, some Liverpool fans are worried after an injury update emerged. Read more here.

Celtic are set to make an approach for Legia Warsaw defender Josip Juranovic after a loan move for Manchester City defender Yan Couto collapsed, as per Sky Sports’ Transfer Centre.

The Lowdown: Celtic look for further reinforcements

Following some good recent results, new Hoops manager Ange Postecoglou has left the impression thus far that no stone will remain unturned in his quest for domestic and European success.

One area which he may see as a priority is the right-back berth, with Anthony Ralston currently the only figure on the Parkhead books with first team experience in the position.

Could the Celts now be set to tick another recruitment box before the transfer window closes?

The Latest: Hoops look to Juranovic as Couto move collapses

Celtic are mooted to be readying an opening offer for Juranovic following the capitulation of their loan move for Brazilian youngster Couto, as per Sky Sports.

The Croatian full-back is said to be keen on the move, whilst is valued at a cool £2.5m by his current employers Legia Warsaw. [Sky Sports]

Juranovic will be a familiar face to many within Scottish football, as he played against Scotland for his native country in their 3-1 win over the Tartan Army at Euro 2020 [BBC].

The Verdict: Juranovic would represent a real coup for Celtic

Juranovic would seem to be a real coup for the Hoops should any move come to fruition, as he would add quality to Celtic in an attacking and defensive sense.

The 26-year-old excelled in Poland last season, registering nine goal contributions in 32 appearances with one goal and eight assists [Transfermarkt], a fine return for a defender. He is also renowned for his pinpoint crossing ability, something which Celtic could utilise when struggling to play through low-block defences.

Performing solidly in his two appearances at the European Championship over the summer, he managed to complete six ball recoveries and three clearances for Croatia during the finals [UEFA.com].

Given his wide range of attributes and their need for more experienced right-back depth, Celtic should definitely try to seize upon Juranovic’s apparent desire to join the Hoops and submit an offer to meet Legia Warsaw’s asking price.

In other news, Celtic are closing in on this 23-year-old defender 

Manchester United made a solid start to the new Premier League campaign, picking up seven points from a possible nine before the international break, and several of their top performers have continued to shine for their countries on international duty.

Summer signing Cristiano Ronaldo broke the men’s international goalscoring record with a fabulous brace against the Republic of Ireland, while Jesse Lingard notched up two goals and an assist in an impressive display against Andorra.

However, both were arguably outperformed by Bruno Fernandes after the 27-year-old magician fired his nation to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Azerbaijan in their World Cup qualifying fixture.

The Portuguese ace set up Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva for his nation’s opening goal in their Group A encounter after just 26 minutes and continued to be at the heart of proceedings for the remainder of the night.

As per SofaScore, Fernandes received a match rating of 9 out of 10, the highest total received by anyone on the pitch in the Baku Olympic Stadium.

And when taking a look at his underlying numbers, it’s easy to understand why. He made a whopping six key passes for his teammates during the 90 minutes, created two big chances and had two shots on target.

The United maestro also recorded a passing accuracy of 80%, pulled off two successful dribbles and had a whopping 110 touches, highlighting his importance to Fernando Santos’ side.

Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be hoping his talismanic attacker can bring this sort of form back to Old Trafford over the weekend, with Newcastle United the next opponents to visit the Theatre of Dreams.

And, in other news…Bye-Bye VdB: Latest Man United transfer update could spell the end for £40m Dutchman 

Aston Villa gem Cameron Archer bagged a stunning hat-trick as the Midlands outfit defeated Burton Albion in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday night.

The 19-year-old was in ruthless form at the Pirelli Stadium, delivering an absolute goalscoring masterclass in front of first-team manager Dean Smith, his assistant Craig Shakespeare and sporting director Johan Lange.

Having gone two goals down, it was the young forward who kickstarted the comeback ten minutes before the break.

The Walsall-born teenager fired a low-driven effort past the home goalkeeper before doubling his tally to put Villa into the lead just after the hour mark. He beat the Brewers’ backline with a nicely-timed run before slamming the ball into the net once again.

He completed his hat-trick with less than 20 minutes to go, it was yet another clinical and impressive finish from the striker.

BirminghamLive reporter Ashley Preece described Archer’s display as “absolutely sensational” in his post-match ratings column.

“It was finishing of the highest order with Archer being applauded off by Smith, Shakespeare, Danks and Lange in the stands. Archer was levels above here, whacking home his trio past Balcombe in the Burton net,” he added. “Villa need to get his contract sorted now. His development since the summer has been staggering. The boy’s some finisher.”

It merely continues his electric form in 2021/22, having been given a proper opportunity for the senior side in the Carabao Cup, where he bagged another hat-trick against lowly Barrow and a magnificent header against the Champions of Europe, Chelsea.

The Claret and Blue Army have witnessed many a young talent break through the system and become regular first-team stars over the years, with the likes of Gareth Barry and Jack Grealish being prime examples.

But it’s been a while since a proper frontman went onto become a hero at Villa Park – perhaps the last being Gabby Agbonlahor. Whilst Archer and the former Lions star aren’t like-for-like, the young prospect could well be the man to break the trend.

Archer has “genuine pace” but is also “stocky”, according to Preece, so he can combine sheer speed and physicality to dominate opposing defences for years to come, and just like Agbonlahor, he had to go out on loan to the lower divisions before getting his chance.

The 19-year-old marksman enjoyed a successful stint at local side Solihull Moors, where his former boss Jimmy Shan waxed lyrical about his ability.

“He’s a centre-forward. His movement is excellent but it’s his pace that makes him such a threat,” he said. “He was rapid, let me tell you. He doesn’t look quick but he just pulls away from defenders with ease. He’s a bright and intelligent guy and very inquisitive.”

Also described as a “major talent” by Guardian journalist John Brewin, Villa boss Smith could genuinely unearth the next big thing in the Midlands by unleashing Archer more frequently.

The teenage sensation could be the first homegrown talent since Agbonlahor to go onto greatness in the senior side.

AND in other news, “Sources confirmed…”: Gregg Evans drops Aston Villa update that’ll really worry fans…

Former Manchester City defender Michael Ball reckons a switch to the Etihad Stadium could hinder Antonee Robinson’s career.

According to The Mirror, the Premier League champions are targeting a move for the USA left-back, who was recently relegated with Fulham.

Robinson joined the Londoners from Wigan 12 months ago, although that deal only came around soon after the 24-year-old had seen a sensational move to AC Milan collapsed in January 2020.

But the defender put the disappointment of that failed transfer behind him to feature 28 times in the Premier League for Fulham in what was his first taste of top-flight football.

And the flying winger is now on the radar of Pep Guardiola, who’s still not been able to find a settled left-back despite having the likes of Benjamin Mendy, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Joao Cancelo, who is predominantly a right-back, at his disposal as potential options.

But former Citizen Ball doesn’t think he would play regularly at the Etihad and has advised Robinson to decide against a possible move.

He exclusively told The Transfer Tavern:

“I don’t think a move to Manchester City would help him. I think he needs to stay at a team to develop, gain experience and play week in, week out.

“Of course, he will like the links, but will he play week in, week out? I don’t think he will, so it would hinder his career.”

Everton writer for The Athletic Patrick Boyland has revealed the latest information in the Toffees’ pursuit of signing a right-back in the upcoming January transfer window.

What’s the story?

In The Athletic’s ‘Transfer Mailbag’ series, Boyland responded to a question from an Everton fan regarding the possibility of signing a right-back to challenge Seamus Coleman by saying: “That’s certainly our understanding currently — right-back is still an area of priority.

“They know it needs to be addressed and that they’re currently putting too much strain on Coleman.”

Boyland also revealed that they “continued to track Rangers’ Nathan Patterson even after the failed summer move” who “is the favourite as it stands.” Everton have also tracked “Aberdeen’s Calvin Ramsay and Metz’s Fabien Centonze” as well as Arsenal’s Ainsley Maitland-Niles being mentioned.

Everton fans will be buzzing

Seamus Coleman, now 33 years of age, is approaching the 13th anniversary of when he first signed for the Merseyside club and is still their first-choice right-back by some margin with Jonjoe Kenny making just two Premier League appearances this term.

The Irishman is still a key player for Rafa Benitez’s side having played 13 league games this season. However, with the right-back approaching veteran status, it may be wise for the Everton hierarchy to start seeking out an eventual replacement.

After 13 years of loyal service, Coleman will certainly go down as a fan favourite at Goodison Park. That said, it’s no secret that he’s is approaching the end of his lengthy spell in the royal blue.

Performances this season have largely been under par, earning a SofaScore match rating of above 6.2 just twice in his last five matches. That highlights the club’s need for a replacement with it clear that Benitez doesn’t much fancy Kenny as Coleman’s long-term successor.

The 33-year-old’s contract expires in June 2023, meaning that the Irishman will go into the final year of his contract next season, should he still be an Everton player.

This should act as an alarm bell of Everton’s hierarchy who will surely opt against handing an ageing full-back a contract extension in six months’ time.

Therefore, the news that a right-back is a priority for Benitez and Moshiri should leave fans elated.

AND in other news, Benitez heading for unforgivable EFC transfer disaster on “cold” £40.5m-rated machine…

Amid a tough start to the Premier League season, Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa will no doubt be working night and day ahead of his team’s clash against Wolves on Saturday afternoon.

The Whites suffered a dismal defeat last time out in the top flight as they fell 1-0 to Southampton on the south coast, and with a number of injury concerns to boot as well, things aren’t looking so rosy at the moment at Elland Road.

While the Yorkshire club will be boosted by the return of Raphinha, Bielsa could light a fire in his squad by making the bold call of giving talented academy starlet Joe Gelhardt his first senior start for the club.

During a Q&A for The Athletic, Phil Hay reserved special praise for the 19-year-old and stated that he could be the man to make the biggest impression.

He said: “Possibly Shackelton. I’d like to think Drameh might get a chance if Ayling gets injured or has to relocate to centre-back. But Gelhardt is the one, I feel. So much talent there. Everyone talks about it.”

The former Wigan starlet only arrived at Elland Road in the summer of 2020 but has since made a big impression behind the scenes at Thorp Arch, with Hay previously revealing that the club believe they pulled off an absolute steal.

He said: “He’s been hugely impressive in the (Under-23s). Every time I see him, he looks like a massively talented player. Leeds have been quite honest in saying that the money they paid for him, around about £700,000 up front, from what I was told, is a small fee for somebody with massive amounts of talent.”

With 17 goals in just 23 games at Premier League 2 level, including a stunning hat-trick in a 5-0 win over West Brom last season, Gelhardt is doing everything he can to make waves at academy level.

With Rodrigo not in the greatest form either – the Spaniard has yet to score or assist all season in the Premier League – Wolves today could be the perfect springboard for Gelhardt to make his mark.

While all the talk and focus will be on Raphinha’s potential return to the starting line-up, Bielsa could spring a surprise and really catch the eye by giving Gelhardt the chance to start up front after giving him a cameo against the Saints last week.

The pair could breathe some fresh life into this Leeds team if paired together.

Meanwhile, Leeds could sign a huge Dan James upgrade in this star…

Liverpool will announce the signing of Fulham midfielder Fabio Carvalho in the ‘coming weeks’, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Liverpool agree Carvalho deal

The Reds came close to snapping up the 19-year-old in January but they failed to get a deal over the line in the final hours of the transfer window.

It was widely expected that Liverpool would go back in for Carvalho, though, and recent reports suggest that a deal is agreed to bring him to Anfield this summer.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-liverpool-transfer-news-27/” title=”Latest Liverpool transfer news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

The youngster has chipped in with seven goals and seven assists in the Championship this season, helping Fulham to top the table by a distance.

The Latest: Romano provides Carvalho update

Taking to Twitter on Monday morning, Romano provided a fresh update, saying that Liverpool would wait to announce Carvalho’s arrival out of respect for the Cottagers:

“Liverpool have decided to announce Fabio Carvalho’s signing in the coming weeks to respect Fulham, their fans and player still focused on Championship.

“The negotiation is 100% completed, as exclusively reported last Thursday. No chance for other clubs to hijack the deal.”

The Verdict: Brilliant long-term addition

Harvey Elliott was a hugely exciting capture from Fulham back in 2019, already becoming a fixture in Liverpool’s senior squad, and the hope is that Carvalho could do exactly the same.

He has caught the eye in the notoriously difficult Championship and he is someone who will be viewed as long-term capture, hopefully ensuring that the Reds remain a force well into the future.

It could be that Carvalho comes in as a like-for-like replacement for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, with the ex-Arsenal midfielder potentially leaving this summer and the Fulham starlet similarly capable of playing in a number eight role or out wide.

In other news, another Liverpool transfer is also thought to be nearly complete. Read more here.

This hasn’t exactly been a mind-blowing transfer window for Rangers but when the Gers are undoubtedly the best side in Scottish football right now, what exactly can Gio van Bronckhorst add to Ibrox that the club doesn’t already have?

Of course, Nathan Patterson has left while there is still the threat of Alfredo Morelos leaving Glasgow behind but they have done some business, adding James Sands has been added to their ranks.

Further arrivals seem unlikely in the grand scheme of things but one player at van Bronckhorst simply has to lure to Ibrox is Andreas Skov Olsen.

The Danish winger has electrifying qualities and it’s thought the club are interested in a deal to bring him to Scotland this month.

However, they could be beaten to the 22-year-old signature by Club Brugge who are understood to be closing on a £5m deal for the attacker.

This is disappointing news for the Gers but if Ross Wilson and the club’s manager can still convince him to join then he’d be a terrific signing.

In fact, not only would it be an eye-catching signing for the Glasgow giants but the league as a whole.

Journalist Josh Bunting told his Twitter followers: “If because I don’t know the details and if it’s true Rangers sign Andreas Skov Olsen then wow, that’s actually groundbreaking for Scottish football. Shows that players really respect that league, beautiful footballer, would fit the side and the way that they want to play so well.”

Indeed, it’s incredibly hard to argue with those sentiments. The Dane may have failed to score in Serie A this term but you can’t ignore the rate at which he scored goals for Nordsjaelland, finding the net on 27 occasions in 51 outings.

Blessed with a lethal left foot, it’s easy to see why he’s modelled his play style on Netherlands great Arjen Robben.

Yet, under van Bronckhorst, it’s another Dutchman that he could replicate, that of Robin van Persie.

The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker played under the current Rangers boss at Feyenoord, where he was a revelation, bagging 25 times in 45 matches.

Therefore, with Skov Olsen possessing a similarly dangerous left foot and the ability to score goals on a regular basis, the club’s head coach could well find his next van Persie this winter.

The Scottish champions may already have the likes of Ryan Kent and Morelos in their ranks but Skov Olsen could take their attack to the next level. Rangers must complete a deal if one is still there to be done.

AND in other news, Rangers can finally replace Gilmour by signing “phenomenal” 18y/o who “has everything”…