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Looking towards the summer transfer window, Manchester United have now reportedly been offered the chance to sign a serial winner represented by the same agency as Patrick Dorgu.

Man Utd's summer plan taking shape

Whilst step one of Manchester United’s transfer plan will be to win the Europa League later this month and confirm their shock place in next season’s Champions League, they simply need to invest no matter the outcome against Tottenham Hotspur. Ahead of his first full season in charge, Ruben Amorim will have the chance to prove doubters wrong, but will finally need players who suit his system to do exactly that.

The new Amrabat: Amorim must axe 4/10 Man Utd man who lost the ball 15x

Manchester United booked their place in the Europa League final last night, setting up a clash with Tottenham Hotspur.

6 ByEthan Lamb May 9, 2025

If recent rumours are anything to go by then it will, indeed, be a busy summer for the Red Devils on both the incomings and departures front. Already, players like Antony and Marcus Rashford could be heading for the exit door as the start of a hefty clear-out at Old Trafford, which Amorim will be desperate to see end with plenty of fresh faces.

Meanwhile, on the incomings front, names such as Ronald Araujo and Yann Bisseck have threatened to steal the headlines as of late. Two defenders who squared off in one of the best Champions League semi-finals in recent memory, as Inter Milan came out on top to win 7-6 on aggregate, both would undoubtedly improve the current Manchester United backline.

Amorim is well aware of the need for improvement too, having told reporters in the build-up to his side’s Europa League semi-final victory over Athletic Bilbao: “For me, in that moment and you look at Premier League, we are the worst team since I arrived in terms of results. That is my idea. In the end of the season, we can be the worst team in Premier League history with a European title.”

However, despite that admission, the lure of Old Trafford remains there to exploit amid reports that Manchester United have now been offered the chance to sign a serial winner.

Man Utd offered chance to sign Kingsley Coman

According to Caught Offside, Manchester United have now been offered the chance to sign Kingsley Coman from Bayern Munich this summer by the winger’s agent. The Frenchman’s representatives have been knocking on doors around European football hoping to seal a move this summer, with Old Trafford seemingly among those.

A serial winner having won league titles at Bayern, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus as well as the Champions League in Bavaria, Coman may not be at the peak of his powers but he would help change the mentality in the Manchester United dressing room.

What’s more, a deal could be made easier by the fact that Coman is represented by the same agency as Patrick Dorgu, who completed a move to Old Trafford in January. With contact already established and a relationship already built between both parties, the Red Devils have an ideal opportunity.

Dubbed a player who has “incredible talent” by former Bayern manager and current Barcelona boss Hansi Flick, Coman could yet rediscover his most clinical form at Manchester United this summer.

Unfortunately for the Tottenham Hotspur faithful, last night was a return to what has become their new normal this season.

Ange Postecoglou’s side played host to Champions League-chasing Nottingham Forest in the Premier League and found themselves two goals down within 20 minutes.

Now, Richarlison did manage to pull one back late on and, in all honesty, they created enough chances to turn the game around, but in the end, they fell to their 18th league defeat of the campaign and their eighth at home.

In all, it was just another disappointing night for the North Londoners, one in which most of the starters let themselves down, including one ace who should probably be dropped after yet another shocking showing.

Spurs' poor performers

So, before we get to the player in question, it seems only fair to go over some of the other Spurs players who let the manager and fans down last night, starting with Cristian Romero.

Player ratings via Sofascore

After his sensational showing against Eintracht Frankfurt last week, there was some hope that he’d carry that into the rest of his appearances this season, but it was very quickly evident that wasn’t going to be the case against Forest.

Not only did the World Cup winner look determined to get himself sent off, but he also lost track of Chris Wood for the striker’s headed goal, making the 4/10 match rating he received from Alasdair Gold more than fair, and his substitution at half-time the correct call.

However, the Argentine wasn’t the only dire defender, as it was also a first 45 to forget for the usually impressive Micky van de Ven.

Like his defensive partner, the Flying Dutchman came off second best for the Tricky Trees’ second goal as he lost the aerial duel with the free-scoring Kiwi and certainly warranted the 5/10 rating he received from Gold.

Minutes

45′

Expected Assists

0.01

Blocks

0

Tackles

0

Interceptions

1

Duels (Won)

4 (2)

Long Balls (Accurate)

2 (0)

However, as poor as the two centre-backs were, another member of the back five was even worse and should, therefore, probably be dropped ahead of the game against Liverpool on Sunday.

The Spurs star who should be axed

So, even though there were a number of other starters who also endured a torrid time last night, such as Richarlison, Dejan Kulusevski and Pape Matar Sarr, when it came down to it, the worst performer for the hosts was Guglielmo Vicario.

It really was a night to forget for the Italian shot-stopper, as he probably could have done better for Elliot Anderson’s opening strike and then definitely should have done far better for Wood’s header.

In fact, had the former Empoli star not come rushing off his line to fly into thin air, there is a real chance that he would have been able to either parry the ball out of danger or perhaps even hold onto it. Instead, he gave the in-form forward practically an open net at which to aim.

Unsurprisingly, Gold was left unimpressed and awarded the 28-year-old a 3/10 match rating, which was more than justified by his stats, as in 95 minutes of action he made a single save, prevented -0.60 goals, made one error leading to a goal, made just 18 passes and failed in 100% of his long balls.

Now, if this display was a one-off, then suggesting he be dropped ahead of the game on Sunday would be unjust, but it’s not the only time he’s failed to perform in recent weeks, as he put on yet another horror show away to Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this month.

Minutes

95′

Saves

1

Goals Conceded

2

Goals Prevented

-0.60

Errors Leading to a Goal

1

Passes

18

Duels won

0

Long Balls (Accurate)

1 (0)

In fact, that match saw Gold justifiably award him a 2/10 match rating, as he also made an error that led directly to a shot and, on top of that, managed to prevent -1.05 goals.

Ultimately, Vicario might be a better keeper than Antonín Kinský, but at the moment, he is a liability, so Postecoglou should be bold and drop him from the starting lineup for the next game.

Otherwise, it could be a third shambolic league performance on the bounce for the “unbelievable” Italian ace, as the legendary Gianluigi Buffon once described him.

The best signing since Kulusevski: Spurs have hit gold on "ridiculous" star

He has been Tottenham Hotspur’s best signing since Dejan Kulusevski.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 21, 2025

Manchester United are set for a crucial summer under boss Ruben Amorim, with the off-season the first real opportunity to get his feet under the table to make the changes he desires.

January was the first chance he had to make the changes he wanted, signing Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven to add to the first-team squad, with more additions expected in the coming months.

However, alongside new signings, departures are desperately needed to free up the wage budget and create funds to allow for the potential arrivals ahead of the Premier League season in 2025/26.

Countless players may be moved on and allowed to kickstart their careers elsewhere, as the owners look to avoid a repeat of the current campaign, which has seen them occupy a place in the bottom half.

With the window rapidly approaching, Amorim has already wasted no time in identifying potential targets to bolster his chances of being a success during his first full year at the helm.

An update on United’s hunt for new signings this summer

The cost-cutting operation in place at Old Trafford in recent months could make funds difficult to come by for the manager over the summer, restricting the additions he could possibly make.

However, Atalanta midfielder Ederson has already emerged as a key target for the club, with progress already being made in an attempt to provide needed depth in the middle of the park.

It was confirmed that the Red Devils were already in talks with the Serie A outfit over a potential move for the 25-year-old who’s made 29 league starts this season.

He’s not the only player who has appeared on their radar in recent days, with Real Betis sensation Jesus Rodriguez another player on their list ahead of the summer.

According to one Spanish outlet, United have made a swap offer for the 19-year-old forward, which would see big-money attacker Antony move in the opposite direction on a permanent basis – allowing them to bypass the Spaniard’s £42m release clause.

The Brazilian is currently spending the second half of 2024/25 on loan with the LaLiga side, with Amorim’s men looking to take advantage of their interest in signing him by moving for youngster Rodriguez.

Why United’s £42m target could be their next Amad

Ivorian attacker Amad Diallo has endured an excellent breakthrough year at Old Trafford after the former Sporting CP boss took the reins, enjoying increased minutes within the side as a result.

He’s made 36 appearances across all competitions, registering nine goals and seven assists, including the winner against local rivals Manchester City at the Etihad.

However, his progress has been restricted in recent months, missing the last 10 weeks of first-team action after suffering an ankle issue during a training session.

Despite originally being ruled out for the remainder of the campaign, Amorim confirmed this week he’s set to return to training, potentially playing a key role between now and the end of May.

They could land another version of Amad in the form of Rodriguez, signing a talented young forward from a European club to try and push them back in the right direction.

When comparing his stats to those of the current Red Devils star, he’s managed to match or outperform him in numerous key areas – highlighting how much of a superb addition he would be.

Games played

17

22

Goals & assists

2

12

Shot-on-target accuracy

36%

32%

Shots on target per game

0.8

0.7

Take-ons completed

2.7

2

Carries into final third

3.1

2.6

Fouls won

3.3

1.3

The Betis talent, who’s been labelled “outstanding” by analyst Ben Mattinson, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but he’s notched a higher shot-on-target rate – showcasing his clinical nature.

He’s also managed to complete more of the take-ons that he’s attempted to date, along with more carries into the final third, having all of the tools to provide others in attacking areas.

Should the club manage to complete a swap deal with Antony moving in the opposite direction, it would be a phenomenal piece of business, using him as a bargaining tool to get themselves a superb young prospect.

It’s evident from the figures the Spaniard has produced this year, he is a talent who will hand Amorim the quality to try and make amends for their dismal season throughout 2024/25.

Better than Cunha: Man Utd in contact to sign another "world-class" forward

Manchester United could be about to land a star who could transform their fortunes in attacking areas.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 25, 2025

Arsenal have prepared an offer to sign a “dominant” attacking gem who’s drawn comparisons with Brazil legend Neymar, with sporting director Andrea Berta already having a fee in mind to put forward.

Arsenal targeting two wingers and a striker this summer

Berta, who’s set to work in tandem on the club’s recruitment with manager Mikel Arteta, arrives at N5 with a glowing reputation after 12 successful years at Atlético Madrid.

Arteta has "serious" wish to sign £40m star with Arsenal contact made

The Gunners boss is “huge fan”.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 16, 2025

The 53-year-old was responsible for key transfer deals at the Wanda Metropolitano, including the signings of Jan Oblak, Marcos Llorente, Rodri, Antoine Griezmann, Luis Suárez, Yannick Carrasco and noteworthy names, with supporters now hoping he can replicate his excellent pieces of business in north London.

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Arsenal’s board are set to back Berta with a significant transfer kitty this summer, which GiveMeSport estimates could be up to £300 million on as many as seven major signings before the beginning of 2025/2026.

Three items on their agenda include the potential acquisitions of a left-winger, right-winger and striker.

Arsenal have already held talks with the representatives of Nico Williams, who’s expected to leave Athletic Bilbao this summer, while it is also believed that they’re in ongoing communication with Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman’s agents as well.

Arsenal have also been told the price for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, according to Fabrizio Romano, with Berta sent a “clear” message in recent days/weeks that the Sweden international will cost around £60 million.

It is pretty evident that a new attacker or two will be coming to the Emirates Stadium, and it is now believed Berta has his eyes firmly on a rising star in Brazil.

Arsenal prepare bid for Atlético Mineiro starlet Gabriel Veneno

According to journalist Lucas Tanaka, that man is teenage forward Gabriel Veneno, who is earning quite the reputation in South America.

The 15-year-old right-winger has even drawn comparisons to Neymar due to his dribbling ability, with Future Ballers on X also branding Veneno a “dominant force” in one-v-one situations and an exceptional dribbler.

Tanaka believes Arsenal already have an offer prepared for Veneno, but he cannot reveal the exact nature of his bid for now.

“Here’s some exclusive information on Gabriel Veneno. The jewel of Atletico is considered a jewel by the people who follow the youth team,” said Tanaka on YouTube.

“Remember he’s in the under-16s, he’ll be 16 in July. He was called up to the Brazilian national team under-16s last year. If I’m not mistaken he’s an attacking midfielder who likes to play on the right wing, pulling inside.

“Gabriel Veneno is being watched and approached by a big European club, Arsenal.

“Arsenal in England is keeping an eye on Gabriel Veneno. I already have the value of the possible offer that they’re thinking of sending in the middle of the year, but I can’t give you the value yet.”

Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero is being repeatedly linked with an exit this summer, but he could be joined by an “underrated” Spurs teammate.

Cristian Romero attracting Atlético Madrid interest

The Lilywhites face a very real prospect of losing Romero once the transfer window reopens, as reports are suggesting that the Argentine wants to move on for a fresh challenge amid interest from Atlético Madrid.

Contact made: Tottenham targeting "exciting" manager likened to Pochettino

Spurs have reportedly approached his circle.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 2, 2025

As per some media sources, Romero is “pushing” to leave Tottenham, with chairman Daniel Levy postponing talks over a new contract for the 26-year-old as a result (The Boot Room). Meanwhile, others claim that Atlético boss Diego Simeone has reached out to the £165,000-per-week defender in an attempt to entice him with a move to La Liga (Uriel Lugt).

Sky Sports have also backed these reports that interest in Romero from Atlético is there, so the prospect of him departing N17 is seemingly looking more and more possible by the day.

Chelsea (away)

April 3rd

Southampton (home)

April 6th

Wolves (away)

April 13th

Nottingham Forest (home)

April 21st

Liverpool (away)

April 27th

Tottenham are out of both domestic cups and sitting 14th in the Premier League table after 15 top-flight defeats, with a good run in the Europa League coming as their only chance to win silverware and qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Atlético undoubtedly provides the pull of regular European football and the chance to compete for major honours, and the same can certainly be said of their cross-city rivals, with Real Madrid also considering a summer move for Romero.

The former Atalanta star’s exit would be a blow for manager Ange Postecoglou, if he is even in the job by next season, but Romero isn’t the only Spurs player attracting real interest heading into an important summer window.

Tottenham open to selling Richarlison as three clubs plan bid

Injury-ridden striker Richarlison is among the players who could quit Tottenham with Romero, according to journalist Jorge Nicola.

As per the reporter, speaking on his YouTube channel, rumours are surrounding Brazilian Serie A trio Palmeiras, Fluminense and Flamengo are all plotting a bid for Richarlison, who cost Levy £60 million to sign from Everton in 2022.

However, the cost of an operation could prohibit these sides from moving, even if Nicola states that Tottenham are considering the permanent sale of Richarlison from July.

“In the last few hours, speculation has been that Palmeiras, Fluminense and Flamengo are preparing a proposal to buy the player in the middle of the year,” said Nicola.

“The big news on this subject is that Tottenham, very bothered by the center forward’s series of injuries, is considering negotiating him permanently starting in July.

“I can rule out Palmeiras being interested in Richarlison. When Verdão spends 155 million reais to buy Vitor Roque, they stop looking for the player,” he added.

“Even if Tottenham admits a loss and loses, for example €18m, Richardson would still cost €40m. This number is completely out of line with the reality of any football club in Brazil, not to mention Pombo’s salary. Richarlison earns around R$3,900,000 at Tottenham, much higher than the salary of any active player in the country.”

The 27-year-old, called “underrated” by pundit Micah Richards, enjoyed a terrific purple patch of goalscoring form under Postecoglou midway through last season. However, fitness issues have caused him to miss the vast majority of 2024/2025.

After a frustrating campaign, don’t be surprised to see Richarlison follow Romero out the door.

Former USMNT star Brad Friedel has, in an exclusive interview with GOAL, explained why “workaholic” Mauricio Pochettino could walk away from international management after the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine tactician holds the honour of leading the United States into another major tournament on home soil, but inevitable questions are being asked of his future.

Pochettino contract: When USMNT deal ends

Ex-Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain boss Pochettino stepped into a prominent post on American soil in September 2024. He was charged with the task of ensuring that a so-called ‘Golden Generation’ of talent is ready to fulfil undoubted potential on the grandest of stages.

That process has not been without the odd challenge, but the USMNT are confident that they can compete with the very best in the business when the global elite descend on their own backyard. Pochettino is only under contract until the World Cup finals come to a close.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportStay or go: What will Pochettino do after the World Cup?

Coaches in international football tend to work on tournament cycles, with clear beginnings and ends to any given era being easy to find, so will Pochettino follow that trend and bow out when his current deal comes to a close – regardless of how the U.S. fare next summer?

When that question was put to Friedel, the ex-USMNT goalkeeper – speaking in association with – told GOAL: “That’s a great question. I’m quite close with one of his assistant coaches. I think that because he has had to come in and change the culture in the States, if they do well then I could see him staying for another cycle.

“I know he is a guy that likes to build, he likes to have continuity and stability. But he also likes to know that he has quality. I don’t know what he thinks of the next four years on his paper, of what’s going to happen when – as happens with national teams – a few people age out, and are the wrong people ageing out to be successful for the next four years.

“It’s a really good question. I would probably say this: If it doesn’t go well, probably ‘no’. If it goes incredibly well and they win it, I don’t think he stays. If it’s somewhere in the middle and it’s good and building, then I think there is probably a chance. That would be my guess.”

Premier League return? What Pochettino misses

Pochettino has admitted that he intends to head back to club management at some stage, telling : “The Premier League is the best league in the world. Of course I am missing it. I am so happy in America but also thinking one day to come back to the Premier League. It's the most competitive league.”

On missing the day-to-day interaction of working at domestic level, with international camps often months apart, Friedel added on Pochettino’s professional drive: “He’s a workaholic, and his whole staff are. I can say from personal experience, not at the senior level but the U19 national team, you do miss the day-to-day because you are scouting and meeting with people and talking a lot more than you are on the pitch.

“I can see how any manager, especially on the younger side, would miss club management. When the tournament comes around, then you want to be nowhere else except for there because it’s the big stuff. I can see two things. I can see, one, big clubs wanting him. And two, I can understand him wanting the day-to-day because he is a workaholic and very good at his job.”

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Getty/GOALWorld Cup focus: Pochettino and USMNT looking at draw

Pochettino’s stock remains high, so there is every chance that a “big” club will come in for him during the summer of 2026. Teams around the world will be assessing their options at that stage, with many opting for a change in the dugout.

The USMNT will not be worrying themselves about interest from afar just yet, though, as collective focus there is locked on the group stage draw for the 2026 World Cup – which is set to take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC on December 5.

Mikel Arteta has built a truly world-class squad at Arsenal over the last few years.

From front to back, the likes of William Saliba, Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze would comfortably get into any side in the Premier League.

Yet, even though he’s not been at his very best this season, Bukayo Saka still stands as the club’s most important player.

The Hale Ender is their talisman, someone capable of winning games on his own, so fans should be delighted by reports linking Arsenal to someone even better than Saka.

Arsenal target a better player than Saka

Arsenal have already been linked with several truly brilliant players ahead of the winter window.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

For example, Juventus’ Kenan Yıldız has been touted for a £88m move to the Emirates, as has Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.

However, while both of these wingers are sensational talents and would undoubtedly improve the Gunners’ squad, neither one is better than Saka.

Vinícius Júnior, on the other hand, just might be.

Yes, according to a recent report from Spain, Arsenal are now interested in the Madrid superstar.

The report has revealed that with talks over a new deal at the Bernabéu going poorly, the Gunners are now ‘pursuing the Brazilian.’

A potential price is not mentioned, but with Transfermarkt valuing the winger at €150m – about £132m – it would likely require a new British record transfer fee.

With that said, if Arsenal have the chance to sign Vini Jr, they should take it, not least because he’s one of the few attackers in the world better than Saka.

How Vini compares to Saka

Now, the first thing to make clear is that Saka is a genuinely world-class footballer, and not only that, but he has the chance to become a legend at Arsenal.

However, what is equally true is that Vini Jr might just be a marginally better player, but one who could form a devastating partnership with him on the opposite flank.

With that out of the way, which international superstar comes out on top when we look at their output this season?

Well, so far this year, the Gunners’ number seven has scored six goals in 15 appearances, totalling 1053 minutes, coming out to an average of a goal every 2.5 games, or every 175.5 minutes.

For his efforts, the former Flamengo gem has scored five goals and provided four assists in 17 appearances, totalling 1172 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.88 games, or every 130.22 minutes.

Which game-changing wideman comes out on top when taking a look under the hood, at their underlying numbers?

Well, perhaps a little surprisingly, the Brazilian dynamo doesn’t just come out better in most metrics, but practically every single relevant one.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.57

0.47

Progressive Passes

4.80

2.21

Progressive Carries

8.90

4.07

Shots

3.21

2.22

Shots on Target

1.40

1.05

Passing Accuracy

79.9%

72.4%

Key Passes

2.90

2.21

Passes into the Penalty Area

2.10

1.74

Shot-Creating Actions

6.92

4.55

Goal-Creating Actions

0.80

0.12

Tackles Won

0.80

0.58

Successful Take-Ons

3.00

1.98

For example, these include metrics like non-penalty expected goals plus assists, progressive passes and carries, shots on target, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, Saka is an exceptional player, but as Ronaldo once pointed out, Vini Jr is arguably “the best player in the world”, and therefore, if Arsenal have even the slightest chance to sign him, they should go all out to do so.

Trossard upgrade: Arsenal hold talks to sign "one of the world's best wingers"

Despite his brilliant form, Arsenal could soon sign an upgrade on Leandro Trossard.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 25, 2025

Xabi Alonso has offered a robust defence of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s fitness, form, and future at Real Madrid, as the English defender prepares to make only his third league start of the season in Sunday’s away trip to Elche. The 27-year-old’s transfer from Liverpool has not yet ignited in the Spanish capital, with recurring injuries limiting him to brief cameo appearances and only two starts in La Liga.

A rocky start in Spain for TAA

Alexander-Arnold were limited to just nine minutes in Madrid’s 1-0 Champions League defeat at Anfield, where he was loudly booed by the home crowd, followed by a seven-minute appearance in the goalless draw at Rayo Vallecano. His stuttering start drew criticism in the Spanish press, adding further pressure to a player navigating a major change in club and tactical demands. His limited involvement played a major part in England boss Thomas Tuchel omitting him from the latest national squad. However, Alonso has assured that the right-back is now physically ready and mentally refreshed after two weeks of intensive work during the international break at Valdebebas.    

AdvertisementGetty Images SportAlonso puts his weight behind TAA

Alonso told reporters: "In this [international] break, we've worked with Trent, collectively and individually, after the injuries he had. Trent being in better form gives us more options in that position, and we have other players, too. Fede [Valverde] is still there. [Eder] Militao played right-back with Brazil the other day, and Raul [Asencio] can play there too."  

Madrid's attack under the scanner

While Alexander-Arnold’s absence has contributed to a lack of balance, Madrid’s bigger issue in recent weeks has been goals, or the lack of them. Los Blancos failed to score against Liverpool or Vallecano, and Kylian Mbappe did not record a single shot on target across both matches. However, Alonso refused to single out his star forward.

"We didn't score at Liverpool or in Vallecas, but it isn't just about Kylian, it's about the team," Alonso said. "When we don't score we have to look for alternatives: the wingers, the midfielders, set pieces… The goals will return, I have no doubts."

However, Mbappe has faced fresh criticism after he flew to Dubai during the international break following his exclusion from Les Bleus squad by the French Football Federation (FFF) due to an "inflammation in his right ankle, which requires further examination." His sudden trip to Dubai without visiting the medical facilities in Madrid had raised questions about his professionalism. 

Speaking to, France coach Didier Deschamps explained: "He has almost chronic inflammation because he's had this ankle problem for a while now. Even if it doesn't prevent him from playing. I believe there's no risk to take given that we've already qualified, and I've made him available to Real Madrid." 

Whereas, the president of the FFF, Philippe Diallo, shed further light on Mbappe's condition and added, "He is currently going through a delicate sporting moment. When he is the best player in the world, he becomes an irreplaceable asset for the French national team. My only wish is for him to return to his best and rejoin us in March for the next call-up, bringing everything he has always given us."

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Getty ImagesDefence boost as Rudiger nears return

There was some good news defensively after Eder Militao picked up a minor injury while on Brazil duty. Alonso confirmed that although the centre-back will miss the Elche match, his recovery is progressing well. More importantly, Antonio Rudiger is nearing a return. 

"It's very good news that [Rudiger] is close," Alonso said. "Probably not for tomorrow, but we'll see for Athens [against Olimpiacos]. With his level, and his personality, it's important to have him. Militao's injury isn't serious but we'll miss him, and having Toni as soon as possible is very good news.

"We know where we are, the demands at Real Madrid. We're demanding of ourselves after every game. We don't have to give it any more weight than that."  

Barcelona’s victory over Athletic Club on Saturday temporarily lifted them back to the top of the table, drawing level with Los Blancos on points. Real Madrid, winners of 10 of their 12 league matches so far, now must secure three points away to 11th-placed Elche to reclaim first place.

Everton have found goals hard to come by from their strikers under David Moyes this season, and they could now be set to target a clinical forward in January.

After a run of frustrating results, the Toffees knew that their clash against Fulham came with added pressure to claim three points in front of an expectant home crowd at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Cottagers had their fair share of chances, though Everton prevailed comfortably against Marco Silva’s men courtesy of goals from Idrissa Gana Gueye and Michael Keane.

Speaking post-match, Moyes made it clear that his side are keen to become more clinical to improve their Premier League position as they seek to add high-calibre stars similar to Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as part of their long-term strategy.

“We don’t want to lose what we’ve had – desire, heart, commitment – but I think we had to try to find a way of getting a little bit better at certain things, and I think we have to build. Look, I trust the owners will help us in all the windows as we go forward and we’ll try to make things better as we go along.

“We need to get people believing in Everton like we do, like the supporters here do, and what we want us to be in the future. To do that we need to keep picking up the wins and attracting top players like Kiernan and Jack Grealish and players of that ilk. We need to keep attracting that level of players to come to the club.”

Still, their profligacy in the final third is a concern. Beto has netted just twice this campaign, while £27 million summer signing Thierno Barry has yet to score since arriving on Merseyside.

There is a feeling that Everton could be further up the table than their current mid-table predicament with a little more luck in front of goal, and they may now have identified a potent answer to their scoring problem.

Everton eyeing move for FC Midtjylland striker Franculino Dju

According to Football Insider, Everton are keen on FC Midtjylland striker Franculino Dju after his haul of 18 goals this term for the impressive Danish outfit.

Adding further context, Toffees officials were present to watch the Guinea-Bissau international against Celtic last week, where he expertly beat Kasper Schmeichel with a curled strike to seal a 3-1 victory for the hosts in the Europa League league phase, where they sit at the summit.

Everton’s strikers in comparison with Franculino

Beto

2 goals in 13 appearances

Thierno Barry

No goals in 13 appearances

Franculino

18 goals in 25 appearances

Clearly, there is a vast difference between Franculino and both of Everton’s current forwards when it comes to the sole measure of goals. Iliman Ndiaye leads the way for the Toffees with four strikes this season, though the fact that Michael Keane is their joint-second top scorer tells a story in itself.

Intriguingly, Moyes is reportedly keen to offload Beto in January and Barry may not be far behind him if his poor form continues, creating room for new reinforcements in mid-season.

Everton have also entered the race for a renowned European forward

Undoubtedly, the Toffees’ boss has made comments on Everton’s ambition at a telling time, and Franculino could well be an excellent solution amid his return of 51 goals in 98 appearances for his current employers.

Veteran Thomas Muller, who joined Major League Soccer outfit Vancouver Whitecaps just months ago, has given a clear indication of where his future lies, with his contract expiring at the end of this year. The legendary former Bayern Munich attacking midfielder has made a great start to life in North America and is determined to bring unprecedented success at the BC Place.

Muller enjoying sensational start to life with Vancouver Whitecaps

After his contract with Bayern Munich expired following their quarter-final exit at the Club World Cup, Muller decided to join Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Vancouver Whitecaps on a deal until December 31, 2025. The contract includes an option to extend for the entirety of 2026.

Less than two months after arriving from Bavaria, Muller landed his hands on the Canadian Championship, with the Whitecaps beating local rivals Vancouver FC 4-2 in the final. In the process, he became the most decorated German footballer of all-time with 35 trophies to his name, overtaking former Bayern team-mate and Real Madrid icon Toni Kroos.

Muller has been in pristine form as far as his individual performances are concerned; in 10 games, the 2014 World Cup winner has scored nine goals and delivered four assists.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportMuller set to extend Vancouver Whitecaps stay

"Yes – full attack", the German enthusiastically replied when asked him if he'd be staying in Vancouver beyond 2025.

The Whitecaps will be facing rivals Los Angeles FC in the MLS Cup Playoffs, Eastern Conference semi-finals this weekend. "In the current context, it would mean a great deal; it's my here and now," Muller conceded when asked about the importance of winning more titles. "Above all, I've moved to a new league and a new country and would then have experienced an extraordinary team performance within a short period of time.

"Consequently, I can say that I am very happy here and am having a lot of fun. But it is of course much more relaxed than in Munich or the rest of Germany."

He also noted that he didn't join the Whitecaps for "vacation", asserting that he is not taking his stint in the MLS for granted. "It was very easy to jump in, they put me in good positions,” he said. “They won a penalty for me in every game. For sure you have to be ready for the competition but I was not coming here for vacation, I wanted to do a serious job and that was always my goal when I came here that I wanted to perform.

“But you never know in a different country, a new league and a new team how long this process will last till you’re a real part of the team. In the end I’ve always been able to adapt to a situation really quickly, I've adjusted my playing style in tiny ways so often. It’s nothing special.”

Bayern president wants Muller to return in operation role

Earlier this month, Bayern president Herbert Hainer confirmed that he held talks with Muller regarding a potential operational role at the club in the future after his exit was finalised. "After his departure was confirmed, Thomas Muller came to my office. I advised him in a personal conversation that if he later wanted a job in sports, he should move to MLS," he told

"He can work operationally for us. He can become a brand ambassador. He could even succeed me one day. It is the wish of the fans and the club that former players take on a leadership role at Bayern Munich."

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Getty Images SportMuller confident of beating LAFC in MLS Conference Semi-Finals

This Sunday, Vancouver Whitecaps will lock horns against Son Heung-min's LAFC in the Conference semi-finals. However, Muller was quick to remind fans that Son has never been able to get the better of him.

"The problem is Sonny was a very good player in Hamburg and Leverkusen, but the teams weren't on the same level," he jokingly explained. "It’s maybe not really fair to judge or compare the situation now. We’re in two very good teams and he’s a big player there and I’m a big player there so it’s a little bit different.

“When he was in Hamburg, whenever we came with Bayern at that time we crushed them every time, I think we had 8-2s or 9-1s, but he was still a very good, talented young player at this time, so it’s not the right discussion to look too far back.

“If you go into the details for sure we know how good this team can be. But if you look back at the last few weeks they’re very reliant on [Denis] Bouanga and Son so if they’re not scoring they don’t score. It’s very tough to keep these two quiet, but if we get it done we have a good chance. For me, it's just my first conference semi-final. We’re gonna beat them – that's what I think about this game."