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Sky Sports have claimed that Manchester United could walk away from a move for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

The Lowdown: De Jong now keen on a move?

The Red Devils want to make the 25-year-old their first major summer signing but have had an opening offer of €60m (£51.2m) plus €10m (£8.5m) in add-ons rejected.

Erik ten Hag has reportedly persuaded De Jong to make the move to Old Trafford, so it looks as if United just need to agree on a fee. That appears to be the major stumbling block in regards to a transfer, though, and Sky Sports have now provided an update live on air.

The Latest: Sky Sports update

Sky Sports relayed some on-air news regarding United and De Jong on Saturday afternoon.

They outlined: “We’ve been told that Manchester United will walk away from a deal for Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong if they can’t agree what they feel is a reasonable fee for the midfielder.”

They added that “talks are ongoing”, although both clubs are still apart when it comes to a valuation.

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The Verdict: Need to be quick

De Jong has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford ever since Ten Hag was announced as manager at the end of April.

Seven weeks on, a transfer still hasn’t been agreed upon, so United may have to set a deadline when it comes to their pursuit of the Dutch midfielder before moving on to alternative targets.

Ten Hag is rather short of midfield options after it was announced that Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata will all leave; and with time ticking, United chiefs need to get the ball rolling with a number of signings if they are to be adequately stocked for the start of the 2022/23 campaign.

In other news – Fabrizio Romano: Man Utd and Ten Hag are now in ‘new’ talks for ‘huge talent’ as well as De Jong

According to a recent report by Italian media outlet La Lazio Siamo Noi (via TEAMtalk), Leeds United are interested in a move to bring Takumi Minamino to Elland Road in the summer transfer window.

The report claimed that Liverpool are now prepared to part with the 27-year-old in the coming months, with an offer of around £17m believed to be enough for Jurgen Klopp to sanction the Japan international’s departure.

This development has apparently seen Leeds, Inter Milan and Lazio all make contact with the Reds concerning a deal for the winger, with Minamino himself believed to be open to a move away from Anfield in a bid to secure regular first-team football.

Raphinha replacement

While it is true that the 27-year-old has not enjoyed a huge amount of game-time following his £7.25m move to Liverpool in January 2020 – starting just 21 of his 55 appearances for the Reds – this should not be seen as a reflection of the forward’s talent, but rather a huge compliment to the likes of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz.

Indeed, it would be an extremely difficult task for the £12.5m-rated attacker to have made more of the minutes Klopp has afforded him, with FBRef data showing that Minamino averaged 1.45 goals per 90 this season, as well as 0.88 non-penalty xG, 0.25 xA and 1.13 npxG+xA, while he made 30.5 pressures per game.

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For comparison, looking at the same metrics, FBref shows that Raphinha – who is reported to be an all but certain departure from Leeds this summer – averaged 0.34 goals per 90 this term, in addition to 0.25 non-penalty xG, 0.21 xA and 0.56 npxG+xA, while he made 17.7 pressures per match.

As such, should the Whites go on to receive their £60m asking price for the Brazil international this summer, it would appear a wise move for Victor Orta to spend £17m of this income on a move for the £72k-per-week Minamino.

The player who Klopp dubbed a “machine” and “outstanding” would very much look to be something of a perfect – not to mention cost-effective – replacement for Raphinha at Elland Road.

AND in other news: Orta can now seal “eye-catching” Leeds signing with £20m bid for “sensational” talent

Malik Ouzia of The Evening Standard has now shared an exciting West Ham United transfer update as manager David Moyes edges closer to a signing.

The Lowdown: Moyes eyeing moves…

The Scotsman, after just missing out on a 2022/2023 Europa League place, has set his sights on improving West Ham’s squad as he steps up talks.

Having already announced four departures, the Premier League side could be on for a real overhaul this summer window as the Irons reportedly chase a left-back, central midfielder and striker (The Evening Standard).

They’re also tipped to strengthen in other areas as they eye a permanent deal for loanee shot stopper Alphonse Areola, all while having their eyes on a central defensive addition in Rennes star Nayef Aguerd.

The Latest: Hammers closing in…

According to Ouzia, writing on Twitter, the Irons are now ‘confident’ of sealing a deal for the Morocco international as a ‘key priority’ for Moyes.

He explained:

“West Ham confident of sealing €15m deal for Nayef Aguerd of Rennes. Highly-rated in France, left-sided centre-back a key priority for Moyes this summer.”

The Verdict: Exciting…

The 26-year-old has been a phenomenal player in Ligue 1 for Rennes over the last season, being described as one of the division’s best in his position and a real bargain.

According to WhoScored, he ranks in Rennes’ top ten for most minutes played over 2021/2022 whilst averaging more clearances per 90 than any of his teammates – backing his obvious ability.

€15 million (£13m) is certainly an absolute snip for a player of Aguerd’s age and class defensively.

In other news: West Ham talks imminent as Moyes steps up chase to sign 6 foot 4 powerhouse, find out more here.

A crushing Rangers transfer claim has emerged over Ibrox gem Calvin Bassey heading into the summer window… 

What’s the talk?

Journalist Dean Jones has claimed that Rangers appear set to sell the central defender ahead of 2022/23 because of the timing of his impressive displays, although it remains to be seen how much the club will demand for his services.

He told GIVEMESPORT: “It’s so difficult for them with Calvin Bassey, it seems like it’ll probably be impossible to keep him.

“He’s burst through at a moment when the transfer window is about to open, and he has played the game of his life in the last game of the season pretty much.”

Gio van Bronckhorst will be deflated

After ending the 2021/22 campaign on a high by lifting the Scottish Cup, the Gers head coach will now be deflated by the prospect of losing Bassey.

The Nigeria international is a crucial player for the manager and would leave a huge hole in the squad that would be difficult to fill in the upcoming window. He has showcased both his quality and versatility throughout the campaign as he fought his way into becoming a go-to option for van Bronckhorst.

Bassey has shown that he can play at both left-back and centre-back for the Gers. He played in the heart of the defence for the Europa League final and then lined up at full-back for the Scottish Cup final later that week, which not only illustrates his versatility but also how much faith the manager has in him to do an excellent job wherever he is required.

In the Premiership, he averaged an excellent SofaScore rating of 6.97 as he won 63% of his individual duels and helped the team to keep 11 clean sheets. He also caught the eye in Europe as he averaged a score of 6.90 across 14 appearances, winning 60% of his battles and making 3.0 tackles and interceptions per game.

These statistics prove that he has the quality to impress domestically and on the continental stage, which is why losing him would be a major blow.

At the age of 22, he also has the scope to keep on improving as a player. This is another reason why van Bronckhorst will be gutted by his possible exit as he will not be able to help the youngster to reach his full potential in the years to come.

AND in other news, Imagine him & Weston: Rangers can form deadly future duo in deal for highly-rated teen…

Everton are renowned for their poor transfer decisions and reckless spending but will need to make changes to their squad and repair that damage during this summer’s transfer window.

To that effect, an intriguing update has now emerged.

What’s the latest?

According to the Daily Mail, Everton striker Salomon Rondon is a target for Spanish club Real Mallorca this summer.

Mallorca coach Javier Aguirre knows the Toffees forward well from his previous spells in Spain with Las Palmas and Malaga, and the report claimed that the manager and club will keep an eye on developments with the Venezuelan and potentially make a move when the transfer window opens.

Rondon is one of seven players who are reportedly set to be offered out to clubs this summer, as Frank Lampard plans an overhaul of his squad following a disappointing season.

Lampard must axe Rondon

There are indeed serious changes needed at Goodison Park this summer if Everton do not want to be in the position of a relegation fight yet again next season, so the Toffees manager should consider axing Rondon and accepting any offer which does come in for him.

The £28k-p/w flop has battled with injury problems and has been unable to deliver when Everton needed him most this season, with his most recent performance surely the final nail in the coffin of his career on Merseyside.

Rondon was brought onto the pitch in the 84th minute against Brentford a couple of weeks ago, with his team already down to ten men and trailing 3-2, duly in need of a goal to put them a step closer to safety from Premier League relegation.

Instead of supporting his weakened team in finding the equaliser they needed, the Venezuelan striker made a lunging two-footed tackle on Rico Henry which saw him receive a red card and three-match ban just four minutes after coming on to the pitch. It was little surprise, then, that former Everton defender Andy Hinchliffe bemoaned the “reckless” act from the 32-year-old.

Alongside this notable poor performance, Rondon only scored one goal in 20 Premier League appearances in the recently-concluded campaign, with no big chances created. He averaged just 15.2 touches per game and lost possession every 2.6 touches of the ball, further proving that he simply needs to go this summer.

AND in other news: Everton plotting summer swoop for £17.5m “fabulous finisher”, Lampard will love him

Pundit Frank McAvennie has been left hailing some news that he has now heard from Newcastle United on Eddie Howe.

The Lowdown: New deal?

As per The Daily Mail, the St. James’ Park faithful are now set to open talks talks with Howe over a new deal.

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He only has two years left on the contract that he signed when he took over in the North East, and having guided them to safety in the Premier League, he is set to be rewarded with a new one.

The Latest: McAvennie reacts

Speaking to Football Insider, McAvennie has now given his reaction to the news, with the 62-year-old claiming that it is ‘brilliant’ for both Howe and the Tynesiders:

“Eddie took a chance on Newcastle, he really believes in his own ability.

“I didn’t see this happening, how good Newcastle have been. I thought he would keep them up but I didn’t see them maybe finishing in the top 10.

“The work he has done is nothing short of miraculous. It’s why he’s been nominated for manager of the year.

“I’m not sure the fans were completely sold on him when he came in, maybe the owners weren’t either.

“A new deal would say ‘he is our guy for the future’. It would be a statement.

“It’s brilliant news for him personally as well, it’s deserved.”

The Verdict: Deserved

Howe’s new contract is thoroughly deserved, having guided Newcastle to safety with a few games to spare.

When he took over from Steve Bruce in November, the Magpies were 19th in the table and five points away from safety (BBC), and the 44-year-old has since managed to steer them well clear of the relegation zone.

Howe has been shortlisted for Manager of the Year as a result, despite not being at the Toon from the start of the season, so giving him a new contract is the least that the board can do after the job that he has done.

In other news, find out what ‘late’ NUFC injury update has now been shared here!

Italian newspaper Il Giorno has now shared a significant update on Tottenham Hotspur’s chase for Atalanta defender Joakim Maehle this summer.

The Lowdown: Conte eyes new full-backs…

Spurs manager Antonio Conte has famously earmarked the signing of new right-wing-back with attempts being made to sign Adama Traore as a makeshift option in January.

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When the Spaniard opted to join Barcelona, Tottenham’s boss was left without a desired upgrade in that position, meaning he has had to turn to Emerson Royal since the in-form Matt Doherty was ruled out for the remainder of 2021/2022.

As Conte’s first full Premier League campaign looms, transfer chief Fabio Paratici will be looking to make amends and finally back the Italian with a world class RWB addition.

The Latest: Spurs could bid for Maehle…

Italian newspaper Il Giorno, sharing news, claim Conte now personally wants Denmark international Maehle in north London with the club, and by extension chairman Daniel Levy, having followed him since 2019.

The Lilywhites are apparently willing to table a €18 million (£15m) bid for the 24-year-old and will potentially hold talks when they meet with Atalanta ‘in the coming weeks’.

While the summit is set to discuss loanee goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini’s future at Hotspur Way, the report claims Maehle could well become a topic.

The Verdict: Advance…

Denmark goalkeeper and Leicester City number one Kasper Schmeichel has raved over his international teammate, branding the Serie A ace a ‘machine’ who never stops running on the treadmill.

Of course, durability and endurance are traits which could be attractive to the famously demanding Conte, and Maehle’s potential as a fairly young option could also motivate Spurs to make the offer – particularly if Atalanta agree to the £15m terms.

In other news: Reliable source: Tottenham agreement now ‘very likely’ as Conte closes in on ‘top signing’…find out more here.

Antonio Conte could see his transfer budget bolstered by a number of key departures at Tottenham Hotspur this summer…

What’s the word?

According to The Evening Standard’s Dan Kilpatrick, the Italian head coach has hinted that, in order to commit to the club for another season, he needs assurances they can build a squad capable of challenging at the top of the Premier League.

New signings will be crucial but the Lilywhites are by no means a financial heavyweight, at least not in the same bracket as Manchester City or Newcastle United.

As such, as many as ten players could be free to leave the club should a suitable offer come in for them. Of these names, both summer arrival Emerson Royal and one-time club-record signing Davinson Sanchez feature.

Both should be offloaded by the club this summer.

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Get rid!

Emerson’s struggles since his £26m move from Barcelona are perhaps most evident by the fact that Conte tried to sign a new right wing-back during the January transfer window, less than six months after the Brazilian’s arrival. Jose Mourinho flop Matt Doherty had even begun to usurp him in the pecking order prior to his injury.

Over the course of the campaign, many supporters have been left frustrated by Emerson’s displays, with some describing him as a “liability”, whilst former Lilywhites centre-back Jonathan Woodgate once dubbed the 23-year-old “horrendous”.

Indeed, the Irishman has managed a better WhoScored rating and is averaging a better passing accuracy, more shots, more key passes and fewer fouls than the Brazilian this term.

It certainly seems like £26m wasted thus far.

Meanwhile, Sanchez has barely had a look-in under the Italian head coach, despite a change to a three-at-the-back system. The left-footed Ben Davies, a full-back by trade, is often preferred.

The Colombian centre-back has made only three substitute appearances across Tottenham’s last 12 league outings, with Eric Dier and impressive Atalanta loanee Cristian Romero also getting the nod.

Throughout his time at the club, he has often been lambasted for his calamitous ways, just like Emerson.

Former Premier League defender Kenny Cunningham once described him as a “real liability”, whilst ex-Colombia boss Jorge Luis Pinto also claimed that Sanchez “does not have the talent” to succeed.

Valued at £27m by Transfermarkt, he could be a player that garners some sort of worthwhile fee, perhaps in comparison to a Doherty or a Harry Winks.

As such, it’s time for the Lilywhites hierarchy to axe the struggling pair this summer. Conte would surely be buzzing if that happens, as it would bolster his transfer budget in his bid to keep Spurs competitive at the top end of the Premier League table.

AND in other news, Conte could land his own Jorginho in Spurs swoop for “extraordinary” £45m-rated titan…

Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on a dream signing in Bayern Munich star Serge Gnabry this summer, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Conte pushing for move…

The sensational Bundesliga forward, out of contract in 2023, has been at the centre of exit reports recently as his club still fail to agree terms over an extension.

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Bayern, as a result, are currently under some pressure and face the possibility of having to sell him for a profit in the next transfer window while they still can.

Gnabry has no shortage of Premier League suitors, including Spurs, with manager Antonio Conte personally holding a serious interest in the former Arsenal ace.

According to a report by The Daily Star, Conte is ‘pushing’ transfer chief Fabio Paratici and the north Londoners to ‘table a cut-price deal’ for Bayern’s star given his contract status.

The Star believe that Tottenham, as a result, are ‘plotting an ambitious swoop’ to appease the Italian with an update now emerging from Spain.

The Latest: Gnabry ‘most dreamed of’ at Spurs…

Indeed, according to Spanish sources, Gnabry is now the ‘most dreamed of’ signing for Spurs this summer amid reports Conte seriously wants it done.

However, despite his contractual situation, it is believed the Lilywhites ‘would still have to pay a large amount’ for the 26-year-old.

As Paratici and co eye a number of reinforcements in other key areas, this report claims a formal bid is fairly unlikely despite Conte’s affection for the player.

The Verdict: Perfect but uphill battle…

The serious competition for Gnabry’s signature could certainly drive up his price tag with interest also coming from European heavyweights Real Madrid, Liverpool and Juventus.

Regardless of the £63 million-rated Germany ace entering the final year of his deal, it may still be an uphill battle to seal and agreement at Spurs.

If Conte does get his alleged wish, though, and Spurs do attempt a cut-price move, there is little arguing he would be a serious upgrade.

Former Spurs keeper Paul Robinson has recently urged the Lilywhites to get a deal done, calling Gnabry a ‘world class’ player, and the fact he has hit double figures for goals in every single one of his Bundesliga seasons is real evidence of this (Transfermarkt).

While unlikely, it is little wonder the former West Brom winger is seen as a dream signing.

In other news: Fabrizio Romano says ‘monster’ Spurs player is now ‘expected to leave’ this summer! Find out more here.

Rangers winger Ryan Kent ‘flatters to deceive’, according to BBC Scotland’s chief sports writer Tom English. 

The lowdown

The 25-year-old played the full 90 minutes as the Gers drew 1-1 with their Glasgow arch-rivals in Sunday’s Old Firm derby, missing what may be their final opportunity to breathe fresh life into the Premiership title race.

Early in the match, with the score still 0-0, Kent beat Anthony Ralston to James Tavernier’s cross but could only steer his volley wide from around eight yards out.

Midway through the second half, though, he teed up Fashion Sakala for the Gers’ equaliser.

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The latest

Speaking on BBC Sportsound, English said that Kent simply had to convert what was a “tremendous” chance for the visitors early in the match, slamming the former Liverpool winger’s lowly goal return of just three in 42 appearances 2021/22.

The journalist chimed: “I thought Rangers started very well but Ryan Kent has got to score with that tremendous chance. It’s one of my problems with Kent, he flatters to deceive, he’s got three goals this season – it’s nowhere near good enough.”

The verdict

Kent’s assist for Sakala was his 18th of the season in all competitions – a mightily impressive tally. He has set up more goals than anybody in the Rangers squad, with James Tavernier his nearest challenger on 16.

However, it’s still fair to demand more from the club’s most valuable asset, particularly in games of this magnitude. After all, Kent’s 6.2/10 SofaScore rating was the lowest among Rangers’ outfielders on Sunday.

In addition to missing a ‘big chance’, the £18,000-per-week winger lost eight of the 13 ground duels that he contested and also committed two fouls.

Rangers fans will hope that he truly rises to the occasion at Ibrox on Thursday when they take on RB Leipzig in the second leg of their Europa League semi-final.

In other news, Alex McLeish has dropped a transfer claim concerning this Rangers youngster