Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Somniloquism on March 24, 2026, 10:33:31 PM
-
Probably close enough to June to use its own thread for signings rather then the Winter one.
Aston Villa are among several Premier League clubs considering a move for Paris St-Germain's Senegal forward Ibrahim Mbaye, 18, this summer. (Sky Sports)
-
"We'll be sitting in the Holte cheering Mbaye,
Watching defenders roll away...."
-
They’re on about us being skint again in the Daily Heil.
Wilson, Sancho, Sinesi, Mingueza on frees? Dougie and Mbaye in?
Guessand, Malen and Elliott out?
Senesi being linked again today.
-
They’re on about us being skint again in the Daily Heil.
Wilson, Sancho, Sinesi, Mingueza on frees? Dougie and Mbaye in?
Guessand, Malen and Elliott out?
Senesi being linked again today.
Barrenechea out as well, really. Might well see us looking to move on Dobbin and Iling-Junior as well.
Senesi and Mingueza in would likely mean a couple of defenders going out.
I wouldn't be surprised if we're open to offers for Bailey and Buendia as well, so it might be a busy summer.
-
Think it depends on how we do for the rest of the season - going in to the Champions League having just won the Europa League and finishing 3rd in the PL (i.e. looking like an outside shot for Champions League winners) is a very different proposition from finishing 6th & getting knocked out of the QF of the Europa League to a mid-table Serie A side.
Definite outs:
Guessand, Malen, Elliott, Sancho, Barrenechea. Quite probably one or both of Buendia and Bailey. Should get us about £50m-£60m (assuming nothing from the 2 loans, very little from Bailey & Buendia, and pre-agreed fees for the others). There's a few players who clearly aren't going to make it with us (Dobbin, Iling-Junior, Gauci, Ned, ..), so if we can punt all of those out for £10m or so combined that'll probably represent decent business for us.
Can't see us letting go of many/any of the current first team if I'm honest.
Definite ins:
Dougie is the only one I think we'll definitely get. At the price - what is it? £20m? - he's a bargain. We're not going to find a better player at that price point.
Probably wages will be more of a thing than transfer fees, so can see us going for young & promising rather than free transfers (at least ones that are likely to come with big wages attached). Assuming the UEFA sanctions are lifted, of course. But maybe that's why we've been holding off playing Elliot ... no way can we spend 70% of our transfer budget on 1 player when realistically over the next few years we're going to have to completely overhaul the majority of our first team.
-
Think it depends on how we do for the rest of the season - going in to the Champions League having just won the Europa League and finishing 3rd in the PL (i.e. looking like an outside shot for Champions League winners) is a very different proposition from finishing 6th & getting knocked out of the QF of the Europa League to a mid-table Serie A side.
Definite outs:
Guessand, Malen, Elliott, Sancho, Barrenechea. Quite probably one or both of Buendia and Bailey. Should get us about £50m-£60m (assuming nothing from the 2 loans, very little from Bailey & Buendia, and pre-agreed fees for the others). There's a few players who clearly aren't going to make it with us (Dobbin, Iling-Junior, Gauci, Ned, ..), so if we can punt all of those out for £10m or so combined that'll probably represent decent business for us.
Can't see us letting go of many/any of the current first team if I'm honest.
Definite ins:
Dougie is the only one I think we'll definitely get. At the price - what is it? £20m? - he's a bargain. We're not going to find a better player at that price point.
Probably wages will be more of a thing than transfer fees, so can see us going for young & promising rather than free transfers (at least ones that are likely to come with big wages attached). Assuming the UEFA sanctions are lifted, of course. But maybe that's why we've been holding off playing Elliot ... no way can we spend 70% of our transfer budget on 1 player when realistically over the next few years we're going to have to completely overhaul the majority of our first team.
Maybe we can ask juve for another loan of dougie to save money? So we can spend the money on another position
As good as barkley has been he is unreliable. Only plays half a season.would happily take dougie as a replacement otherwise.
-
I believe the prearranged fees for those account for about £70m on their own.
-
I am not one to gossip but massive dependent on ECL qualification. £50m minimum income difference assuming we win 3 or 4 matches.
Other unknown is Rogers who we could glean well over 100m + for - whether he wants to stay.
Out
Of the established ones - Bailes and Buendia. I think Digne and probably Watkins and Emi are all likely departures. Those 3 are high earners but depends on who comes in for them.
In
Trafford would be a good shout to replace Emi IMO but anyone filling those boots is gonna be hard for all concerned. Other than that no idea if I am being honest. Depends on Emerv - I thought Elliot was a great fit and Lindelof an expensive stocking filler.
-
This is going back to the time when we were delighted to get Kevin Philips as our only signing.
-
Think it depends on how we do for the rest of the season - going in to the Champions League having just won the Europa League and finishing 3rd in the PL (i.e. looking like an outside shot for Champions League winners) is a very different proposition from finishing 6th & getting knocked out of the QF of the Europa League to a mid-table Serie A side.
Definite outs:
Guessand, Malen, Elliott, Sancho, Barrenechea. Quite probably one or both of Buendia and Bailey. Should get us about £50m-£60m (assuming nothing from the 2 loans, very little from Bailey & Buendia, and pre-agreed fees for the others). There's a few players who clearly aren't going to make it with us (Dobbin, Iling-Junior, Gauci, Ned, ..), so if we can punt all of those out for £10m or so combined that'll probably represent decent business for us.
Can't see us letting go of many/any of the current first team if I'm honest.
Definite ins:
Dougie is the only one I think we'll definitely get. At the price - what is it? £20m? - he's a bargain. We're not going to find a better player at that price point.
Probably wages will be more of a thing than transfer fees, so can see us going for young & promising rather than free transfers (at least ones that are likely to come with big wages attached). Assuming the UEFA sanctions are lifted, of course. But maybe that's why we've been holding off playing Elliot ... no way can we spend 70% of our transfer budget on 1 player when realistically over the next few years we're going to have to completely overhaul the majority of our first team.
Maybe we can ask juve for another loan of dougie to save money? So we can spend the money on another position
As good as barkley has been he is unreliable. Only plays half a season.would happily take dougie as a replacement otherwise.
Maybe as a straight replacement for Barkley, but that's about it. Would say he's behind Tielemans and Onana in the 'number 8' position. What we really need is a back-up to Kamara in that defensive midfielder position as we haven't got another player like that. Unfortunately Bogarde hasn't really taken his chance, so I'd be looking to sign that type of player rather than Luiz really.
-
Aston Villa ‘very attentive’ to 27-year-old – Want him, will get big discount on clause
Aston Villa’s long-standing interest in Pedro Gonçalves is back in the conversation again, with fresh claims from Portugal suggesting the Premier League club remain attentive to the Sporting CP attacker.
https://sportwitness.co.uk/aston-villa-very-attentive-to-27-year-old-want-him-will-get-big-discount-on-clause/
Can we finally buy this guy
-
Aston Villa eye 18-year-old Ligue 1 sensation in bold summer plan
Aston Villa are interested in signing the highly talented PSG attacker Ibrahim Mbaye at the end of the season.
According to a report from Sky Sports, the 18-year-old has attracted the attention of the Premier League club, and Aston Villa are hoping to get the deal done in the coming weeks.
&t=153s
Should be our number one target
-
Aston Villa ahead of Newcastle United in Gabriel Sara race
Aston Villa have leapfrogged Newcastle United in the pursuit of Galatasaray midfield mainstay Gabriel Sara.
Gabriel Sara looks set to return to England in the near future, as he has emerged as a potential target for multiple Premier League clubs following his impressive performances for Galatasaray.
The media said we were looking at him last year.
-
^^ Quite a reel for an 18-year-old.
Edit: I meant the Mbaye one. By the time I posted the Sara one had appeared.
-
Aston Villa Lead Chase for €25M-Rated Sunderland Attacker
Aston Villa Plans a Surprise Move to Sign Brian Brobbey
For Sunderland, the outstanding performances this season from several of their players have put them on the radar of various clubs interested in potentially acquiring some of them for the next season.
https://www.si.com/soccer/sunderland/sunderland-nation-transfers/aston-villa-lead-chase-for-25m-rated-sunderland-attacker-01kmkbqza9re
Noooooooooooooooo
-
Is that the fella who did well against us for AZ?
-
That was Pavlidis. Brobbey is the one who looked grindingly mediocre when we played Ajax.
-
Brobbey’s a tough one.
I actually think he could be a good fit for us, but not as a main starter.
What Sunderland would want wouldn’t make it a great deal for what would be, initially, a back up
-
^^ Quite a reel for an 18-year-old.
Edit: I meant the Mbaye one. By the time I posted the Sara one had appeared.
I think that video is a bit out of date ans is from when he was 17.
To me he looks like a very good, but very 'normal' young winger in that he's quick and has a decent trick which has made him stand out at youth level but he now needs to learn how to adapt to senior football where the defenders are quick enough and experienced enough to nullify those advantages. If he does that he can be special, if not he'll be another who gets stuck at being decent with the odd great game. If the price is right I'd still take him but I think I'd prefer us to put that sort of time into Burrowes who I reckon has similar potential.
-
Have to be honest, only links I've really liked so far are Senesi and Wilson.
-
Have to be honest, only links I've really liked so far are Senesi and Wilson.
Gonçalves would be a superb replacement for Buendia, he'd be top of the list for me of everyone that's been linked.
-
Where we finish (and what we qualify for) is crucial; last summer it felt like we had a plan for staying in the Champions League only and spent most of the summer running around with no aim.
Hopefully this year we’ve a blend of targets who are gettable based on being in the Champions League, those who are focus regardless of what European competition we are in, and those for Europa league only etc.
-
Have to be honest, only links I've really liked so far are Senesi and Wilson.
Gonçalves would be a superb replacement for Buendia, he'd be top of the list for me of everyone that's been linked.
Yeah i like him too. Wont be cheap but a good player and knows where the back of the net is
-
Brobbey seems to thrive on roughing up defenders and attacking crosses. The latter doesn't seem like a thing we do much of.
-
Brobbey’s a tough one.
I actually think he could be a good fit for us, but not as a main starter.
What Sunderland would want wouldn’t make it a great deal for what would be, initially, a back up
£17.3m plus £4.3m in add-ons on a 5 year contract. Swap deal for Tammy or Watkins?
-
This is going back to the time when we were delighted to get Kevin Philips as our only signing.
He was very disappointing afterwards. Errik Bakke around then too, grim!
Was it Lamberts last transfer window we went deep into the bargain basement? Cole, Senderos, Richardson et al
All going well it would be great to get the Luiz deal done early. Pre season going to be disrupted with the WC hangover so good to have midfield sorted early.
-
I'd forgotten Senderos played for us. Fucking hell.
-
Seem to recall he and Vlaar looked like a pretty decent partnership for about three games until one, or both of them got injured.
-
Yeah, the signing of Senderos was greeted with a sub-euphoric response, but he was mostly fine, IIRC. Think he might have scored our winner at Anfield once.
-
Yeah, I don't remember him being bad, I just don't remember him. Ally Cissokho and Carlos Sanchez, however...
-
Aston Villa eye 18-year-old Ligue 1 sensation in bold summer plan
Aston Villa are interested in signing the highly talented PSG attacker Ibrahim Mbaye at the end of the season.
According to a report from Sky Sports, the 18-year-old has attracted the attention of the Premier League club, and Aston Villa are hoping to get the deal done in the coming weeks.
&t=153s
Should be our number one target
Him and Brian should reduce our average age considerably! Nothing like a bit of youthful exuberance in the attacking line to get behind defences and get the crowd on their feet.
-
Although by the time Brian is cleared to play for us........
-
Seem to recall he and Vlaar looked like a pretty decent partnership for about three games until one, or both of them got injured.
I'd forgotten all about it, but this sounds about right. Stirs something anyway, whereas if you nudged me toward the contributions of Bret Holman I'd laugh.
-
Take a bow Big Phil. Should have scored, helped his defensive partner who also had a great game, but importantly used all of his experience, savvy and muscle to harass and intimidate Balotelli who has historically killed us. We'd be rightly fucked off if the opposition CB treated our main forward like that, but by the end he completely nullified a major threat . Well done and huge reason for our great start this season.
-
You must have access to a special search function on this site Dave, because when I use it I'm presented with dead ferrets, a kick in the testicles and a message saying "hahaha, you fucking dick. Imagine searching for that."
-
Not saying we should sign these players, but expecting things will be tight for another 12 months: Mingueza, Senesi and Wilson on frees seem logical
Pau and Martinez out seem logical
Try and get Trafford and Nic Jackson in on loan
If we’ve got some money then Bergvall will be a target surely
-
I don't see anything logical or likely that Pau gets shunted out.
-
I don't see anything logical or likely that Pau gets shunted out.
Not sure he's still the teachers pet either. No harm maybe.
-
That was Pavlidis. Brobbey is the one who looked grindingly mediocre when we played Ajax.
Yeah, Ajax, it was him I was thinking about. Although I seem to remember him causing us problems. Maybe it was someone else I was thinking of after all.
-
I don't see anything logical or likely that Pau gets shunted out.
Seconded. At his best he’s a very good CB with excellent ball playing skills. We will be replacing Ty at the end of the season too can’t see us ripping up the whole back line e.
-
Sell Pau. We could probably get a couple of million for Youri let’s sell him as well…..
We are many times better as a time with Pau at defence, he’s crucial to how we play. We’d be unable to replace him with without spending more on a younger version.
-
Senesi's more likely a replacement for Mings isn't he?
-
Selling Pau would be an error. He’s integral to us when we play well.
-
I don't see anything logical or likely that Pau gets shunted out.
No! We’re so much better when he plays. We just been good cover as he seems a little fragile and needs the rest.
-
Half watching the Wales game, Wilson is quicker than I remember and could be ideal for us. Therefore we'll sign him on big money and be utter shite.
-
Half watching the Wales game, Wilson is quicker than I remember and could be ideal for us. Therefore we'll sign him on big money and be utter shite.
Mustapha Hadji just needs a run of games.
-
Half watching the Wales game, Wilson is quicker than I remember and could be ideal for us. Therefore we'll sign him on big money and be utter shite.
Mustapha Hadji just needs a run of games.
He'll be on fire once we've signed his mate Kachloul/Ampadu
-
And a H&Ver sells him a piano.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
-
Don't forget The Unsworth (I thought B6 was in Cheshire) and The Balaban (the video looked good)...
-
Don't forget The Unsworth (I thought B6 was in Cheshire) and The Balaban (the video looked good)...
Doh. How could I forget those two spectacular examples?
-
Seem to recall he and Vlaar looked like a pretty decent partnership for about three games until one, or both of them got injured.
I'd forgotten all about it, but this sounds about right. Stirs something anyway, whereas if you nudged me toward the contributions of Bret Holman I'd laugh.
Scored in a 1-1 draw against QPR I think. I'd forgotten about him though.
-
Seem to recall he and Vlaar looked like a pretty decent partnership for about three games until one, or both of them got injured.
I'd forgotten all about it, but this sounds about right. Stirs something anyway, whereas if you nudged me toward the contributions of Bret Holman I'd laugh.
Scored in a 1-1 draw against QPR I think. I'd forgotten about him though.
Scored a stunner vrs Norwich
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
What category is The Emile Heskey…??
-
Aston Villa will also move for Rashford if they fail to sign England forward Jadon Sancho, 26, who is on loan from Manchester United but out of contract this summer. (SportsBoom)
- SportsBoom????
Barcelona and Spain left-back Alejandro Balde, 22, is attracting interest from Manchester United, Manchester City and Aston Villa. (Mundo Deportivo - in Spanish)
Sunderland could face a battle to keep on-loan RB Leipzig utility player Lutsharel Geertruida, 25, at the club next term, with Liverpool, Aston Villa, Everton, Tottenham and Crystal Palace all interested in the Netherlands international. (Teamtalk)
A few links. Two sites are definite clickbait places. Not sure on Mundo Deportivo's links but I can't see us beating the other two teams if they are interested.
-
Don't forget The Unsworth (I thought B6 was in Cheshire) and The Balaban (the video looked good)...
'The Coutinho' where the selling club halves its asking price and we think we've pulled their pants down, but it turns out to be an expensive mistake.
-
Aston Villa will also move for Rashford if they fail to sign England forward Jadon Sancho, 26, who is on loan from Manchester United but out of contract this summer. (SportsBoom)
- SportsBoom????
Barcelona and Spain left-back Alejandro Balde, 22, is attracting interest from Manchester United, Manchester City and Aston Villa. (Mundo Deportivo - in Spanish)
Sunderland could face a battle to keep on-loan RB Leipzig utility player Lutsharel Geertruida, 25, at the club next term, with Liverpool, Aston Villa, Everton, Tottenham and Crystal Palace all interested in the Netherlands international. (Teamtalk)
A few links. Two sites are definite clickbait places. Not sure on Mundo Deportivo's links but I can't see us beating the other two teams if they are interested.
I'd also be surprised if another expensive young left-back is where we'd be focusing our limited transfer abilities this summer.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
The Juninho (“in the ground”)
-
The Louie Barry - Speculate to sell on.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
We’ve had quite a few players who’ve joined, left, joined again. Staunton, Young, Gray, Cowans… Is that the boomerang category?
-
I know I'm in a minority, but if we had of signed Carton Palmer at the time, we'd have won the league that year. He was exactly what we needed
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
The Mathieu Berson ("Chase him for more than year and then never play him")
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
The Mathieu Berson ("Chase him for more than year and then never play him")
Ahhh. Berson. The best player on the pitch in a 3-0 defeat away at Boro. Which is all I remember of him.
-
Aston Villa will also move for Rashford if they fail to sign England forward Jadon Sancho, 26, who is on loan from Manchester United but out of contract this summer. (SportsBoom)
- SportsBoom????
Barcelona and Spain left-back Alejandro Balde, 22, is attracting interest from Manchester United, Manchester City and Aston Villa. (Mundo Deportivo - in Spanish)
Sunderland could face a battle to keep on-loan RB Leipzig utility player Lutsharel Geertruida, 25, at the club next term, with Liverpool, Aston Villa, Everton, Tottenham and Crystal Palace all interested in the Netherlands international. (Teamtalk)
A few links. Two sites are definite clickbait places. Not sure on Mundo Deportivo's links but I can't see us beating the other two teams if they are interested.
I'd also be surprised if another expensive young left-back is where we'd be focusing our limited transfer abilities this summer.
Nothing would surprise me when it comes to Villa and fullbacks.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
We’ve had quite a few players who’ve joined, left, joined again. Staunton, Young, Gray, Cowans… Is that the boomerang category?
I still find it hard to believe Axel Tuanzebe has joined us 3 separate times. Such a non-entity of a player.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
We’ve had quite a few players who’ve joined, left, joined again. Staunton, Young, Gray, Cowans… Is that the boomerang category?
I still find it hard to believe Axel Tuanzebe has joined us 3 separate times. Such a non-entity of a player.
I don’t get why he didn’t try to force a move to us at the end of the 2018-19 season.
He was still in his early 20s at the time. With our inevitable squad churn that summer, we’d have signed him just to keep a bit of consistency (rather than that Danish(?) defender from the Belgian league … Engels was it?) and he’d have probably had a half decent Premier League career.
Instead he signed a contract with Man Utd where it was clear he’d struggle for games at just the point in his career where he needed to play 30+ games a season. Thought at the time it was a bizarre choice from him & pretty much consigned him to knocking about in crap sides for the rest of his career (which he may well have done anyway, but he killed any prospect of a decent PL career)
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
We’ve had quite a few players who’ve joined, left, joined again. Staunton, Young, Gray, Cowans… Is that the boomerang category?
I still find it hard to believe Axel Tuanzebe has joined us 3 separate times. Such a non-entity of a player.
I thought he was better than Mings in the promotion year and like Algy says, should of stayed with us. Instead he became a lower prem/upper championship journeyman
-
We will soon know which supermarket we are shopping in if the ‘Oyvind Leonhardsen’ signing rocks up.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
We’ve had quite a few players who’ve joined, left, joined again. Staunton, Young, Gray, Cowans… Is that the boomerang category?
I still find it hard to believe Axel Tuanzebe has joined us 3 separate times. Such a non-entity of a player.
I liked his song, though.
-
I was watching the Wales Bosnia game the other night and the commentators mentioned a Bosnia player called Kerim Alajbegović who looked very decent for his age (18). Just signed a 5 year deal with Leverkusen but one to keep an eye on I reckon.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
We’ve had quite a few players who’ve joined, left, joined again. Staunton, Young, Gray, Cowans… Is that the boomerang category?
I still find it hard to believe Axel Tuanzebe has joined us 3 separate times. Such a non-entity of a player.
I thought he was better than Mings in the promotion year and like Algy says, should of stayed with us. Instead he became a lower prem/upper championship journeyman
Don't think he had the physicality to compete as a centre half in the top division. Neither did likes of Engels, Shane Long ruined him.
-
Sell Pau. We could probably get a couple of million for Youri let’s sell him as well…..
We are many times better as a time with Pau at defence, he’s crucial to how we play. We’d be unable to replace him with without spending more on a younger version.
More just realism. We need a big sale. Martinez is the obvious one but maybe won't attract a big enough fee considering his age an wage demands. Barca have interest in Pau so +£30m and maybe £50k in wages in exchange for Senesi could be something they look at. I'm a big Pau fan but I'd let him go before Konsa/Rogers/Youri etc.
Regardless of CL it seems that there will be a rquirement to reduce the wage bill and generate a big transfer fees in. Shite tbh.
-
I was watching the Wales Bosnia game the other night and the commentators mentioned a Bosnia player called Kerim Alajbegović who looked very decent for his age (18). Just signed a 5 year deal with Leverkusen but one to keep an eye on I reckon.
Played against us for Salzburg in January, seem to remember the commentators extolling his virtues. To be fair a number of their side were very decent young players.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
I raise you a Najwan Ghraib?
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
Nothing will surpass the “Ivo Stas”.
I raise you a Najwan Ghraib?
Was his deal with Spurs really hijacked at the airport?
-
This years Benni McCarthy chase will be Jonathan Davis.
-
Could we please not make any jokes involving signing Carlton Palmer. I have only just got over the the times when some thought it a real possibility.
-
This years Benni McCarthy chase will be Jonathan Davis.
I don’t follow. Isn’t he the singer from Korn?
-
Still do a better job than Watkins.
[/Smirker]
-
This years Benni McCarthy chase will be Jonathan Davis.
Jonathan David?
According to wiki scored 7 goals in 39 appearances for Juve this season. He didn’t really impress me that much when we played Lille.
-
Did very little over the two legs, apart from one save from Emi.
-
prefer Castro
-
This years Benni McCarthy chase will be Jonathan Davis.
I don’t follow. Isn’t he the singer from Korn?
Damn it.
-
prefer Castro
We would have to Fidel the books to make that one happen.
-
We should agree on categories for each type of rumour e.g.
The Carlton Palmer ("please no"),
The Benni McCarthy ("him again?"),
The Gareth Barry ("definitely sold/tapped up" - was Ollie Watkins now Morgan Rogers),
The John Fashanu ("wtf?"),
The Didier Six ("bit random that"),
The David Ginola ("past it, last paycheck"),
The Savo ("interesting, let's see how this turns out...")
The Alpay ("I've been to the World Cup I'm too good for this" - looking at you Amadou)
how about the Coutinho "loan then buy after 6 good games to disappear forever"
-
Selling Pau would be an error. He’s integral to us when we play well.
Agree - Mings will go before him. Konsa and Pau are partnership for next 2 seasons. They are on paper coming into their prime
-
Coots did a lot more than Sancho.
-
Coots did a lot more than Sancho.
yeah but we haven't signed Sancho
-
I think, as seems to be the way, it will be defined by which players we sell.
From that regard:
Will stay because they dont fancy Saudi (too big wages and/or too good for most options):
- Mings
- Digne
- Emi
- Bailey
- Watkins
Worth more to us than to others
- McGinn
- Cash
- Matasaan
- Tammy
Prime Meat
- Rogers
- Konsa
- Youri
- Kamara
- Onana
- Malen
Offcuts
- Guessard
- all the rightbacks that arent Cash
- Emi2
I think well sell the offcusts, Malen and at least 1 other Prime player, most likely Rogers (though Ezri to Liverpool wouldnt surprise me).
Some of the players may go out on loan (bailey etc)
I think well see probably Dougie come back, 2 new forward options and a couple squad players.
-
I'd forgotten Senderos played for us. Fucking hell.
Wait, what the Arsenal guy? This feels like new information.
Did he know?
-
I think, as seems to be the way, it will be defined by which players we sell.
From that regard:
Will stay because they dont fancy Saudi (too big wages and/or too good for most options):
- Mings
- Digne
- Emi
- Bailey
- Watkins
Worth more to us than to others
- McGinn
- Cash
- Matasaan
- Tammy
Prime Meat
- Rogers
- Konsa
- Youri
- Kamara
- Onana
- Malen
Offcuts
- Guessard
- all the rightbacks that arent Cash
- Emi2
I think well sell the offcusts, Malen and at least 1 other Prime player, most likely Rogers (though Ezri to Liverpool wouldnt surprise me).
Some of the players may go out on loan (bailey etc)
I think well see probably Dougie come back, 2 new forward options and a couple squad players.
That all feels mostly right. Bits I'd quibble:
I think that we'd be very comfortable letting someone else pay Emi £200,000 per week and paying a new young goalkeeper £100,000 per week. I don't think we'd be forcing him out the door, but I reckon it we were asking for £20m rather than £50m, a deal could very easily be done now, unlike in previous summers.
I think Rogers is on the verge of being in the group above. Obviously he's more valuable (in a monetary sense) than the others, but I think we're getting to that point in global football finance where most clubs don't want to spend £100m+ on a player, and those who do...probably have two Rogerses (pl?) of their own already. I think his future depends massively on June and July. But I don't see us selling him for less than £100m, and I think he needs to have a pretty impressive World Cup for the three or four clubs who would pay that to WANT to pay that.
Feels harsh on Emi2. It's one of those where loyalty feels like it shouldn't be a one-way street. If we expect Kamara or Tielemans or Rogers or any future player to feel an affinity to the club, maybe we shouldn't just want to bin out anyone who becomes a mild inconvenience because they've had six weeks of poor games during a bad run. At time of writing, the season looks like it will be a very good one, and could potentially be the best in nearly half a century. And Emi is one of half a dozen players that over the course of it, picked it up by the scruff of the neck and dragged us into a position where that was a possibility. He probably shouldn't be a starter in our best side, but if he is an option from the bench and starting ten games a season for us for the rest of his contract, I'll be very happy with that. And doesn't really deserve to be on a list of misfits.
-
I'd forgotten Senderos played for us. Fucking hell.
Wait, what the Arsenal guy? This feels like new information.
Did he know?
Doubt it, he looked like he had a bony head where brains should be.
-
Recent criticism of Buendia on here is way OTT. He hasn't been playing well in a team that's struggling, still better than Rogers Id argue, Sancho or Bailey obviously or Watkins during that time. Can't ignore his contribution earlier in the season. But he loses the ball...sure but brilliant goals v likes of Arsenal, Feyenoord and Newcastle aren't easily forgotten.
I guess then there's the business reality. He's had a serious injury, only this season has consistently showed the form that made him our record signing and we need to lower the age profile of the squad. He's in that group with Mings, Digne, Barkley, Bailey, Bizot, Lindelof, 12 months left on their deals, where we either extend their deals this summer or move them on. We can't address the age profile of the squad by continuing to extend them.
Both Martinez and Watkins are in decline. Hope they shine down the stretch but the evidence is there. Both will go I reckon, Martinez definitely. I'm not sure we get crazy money for Rogers, bar an unbelievable World Cup, so think/hope he stays and we strengthen around him.
-
I like the guy but he's been garbage and a real problem for us with the constant ball turnover. He's a useful impact sub and maybe when we have Tielemans and/or Kamara playing, when he can get some space and be found where he can really shine, but outside of those ideal circumstances he's a liability, and to be honest it's the case since he walked through the door.
-
Emi2’s best position is as an angry impact sun with something to prove when he gets on the pitch. He doesn’t seem to be able to sustain his hood form if he plays too much. I’d cash in if we can get the money for him. He’s had some great games but too inconsistent.
-
Emi2’s best position is as an angry impact sun with something to prove when he gets on the pitch. He doesn’t seem to be able to sustain his hood form if he plays too much. I’d cash in if we can get the money for him. He’s had some great games but too inconsistent.
He's put together a tidy highlights reel this season so it would be the best time to cash in on that and move on.
-
Emi2’s best position is as an angry impact sun
Some people on here want the moon on a stick.
-
Buendia is definitely in the “useful sub” category. He’s better when teams tire, but if we were offered decent money I’d sell.
-
Buendia is definitely in the “useful sub” category. He’s better when teams tire, but if we were offered decent money I’d sell.
Agreed 100%.
He could be worth a lot of money to a newly promoted club.
-
Emi2’s best position is as an angry impact sun
Some people on here want the moon on a stick.
When he's on form, I reckon he's one of our star players
-
What would constitute good money for Buendia?
-
I like the guy but he's been garbage and a real problem for us with the constant ball turnover. He's a useful impact sub and maybe when we have Tielemans and/or Kamara playing, when he can get some space and be found where he can really shine, but outside of those ideal circumstances he's a liability, and to be honest it's the case since he walked through the door.
Gets judged to different standards to Rogers and Watkins regarding constant ball turnovers!
Highlight reel this season aside, he's a good scrapper too. Having a stinker at Lille and still out jumps their centre back to put Ollie in. He's not an elite player but he's made a big impact this season. Covers a couple of positions too.
Harsh business reality though and unlikely we offer him a juicy contrast extension in the summer. Particularly if CL football is secured. Time might be right to cash in and replace with a younger option.
-
Has Rogers been all that this season? Seems to have had one purple patch around November to January then all a bit meh.
-
Has Rogers been all that this season? Seems to have had one purple patch around November to January then all a bit meh.
But as with West Ham where they had Wan-Bissaka chase him all game his presence and threat should make space for others who haven’t stepped up as much as they should.
My only gripe with Rogers is the same as with Sancho, they seem more obsessed with being the assister than the scorer.
-
Saw some bollox that Chelsea have slapped a 200 million quid price tag on Cole Palmer to fend off interest from Man U and other clubs.
So that's like, what, 600 million for our Morgan?
-
Saw some bollox that Chelsea have slapped a 200 million quid price tag on Cole Palmer to fend off interest from Man U and other clubs.
So that's like, what, 600 million for our Morgan?
No. Rogers isn't three times as good/valuable as Palmer and Chelsea aren't as desperate for income as we are.
-
Emi2’s best position is as an angry impact sun
Some people on here want the moon on a stick.
When he's on form, I reckon he's one of our star players
I think in the form he was in earlier this season he would be. But I think that’s a level above good form for him, I suspect it was a bit of an exceptional freak period. He was brilliant but I wouldn’t be surprised if he never hits those heights again. I think in terms of reasonable expectation of him, good form gets him to be a useful squad player.
-
Yep. Buendia, like Bailey, is all about confidence. When things are going well he can look a really useful player but as soon as the mistakes drift in he falls apart. That's the difference between players like them and the likes of Rogers, McGinn and Watkins (and Sancho recently), who also give the ball away cheaply at times but all 3 of them you can trust to keep going and try to make amends.
If you're having a bad day then you at least need to fall back on the basics and do a job, Buendia often goes the other way and starts trying to do ever more complicated things and gets more and more frustrated as things don't go his way.
-
Saw some bollox that Chelsea have slapped a 200 million quid price tag on Cole Palmer to fend off interest from Man U and other clubs.
So that's like, what, 600 million for our Morgan?
No. Rogers isn't three times as good/valuable as Palmer and Chelsea aren't as desperate for income as we are.
Ok, they can have home for £500m then.
-
Interesting point - forgive me if done previously.
What value would you put on each of our main players by todays market value considering age etc
Rogers - £100M +
Watkins - £20m
McGinn - £25M
Digne - £15M
Cash - £20M
Kamara - £80 - £100M
Martinez - £30M
Konsa - £70+
Maatsen - £40M
Pau - £40m
Tielemans - £60m+
Bailey - £15
Buendia - £20M
Barclay - £6m
Bizot - £3m
Mings - £5m
Garcia - £5m
I personally think we could cash in on Konsa / Rogers and buy some more than adequate replacements in
Ndiaye - Everton
Lacroix - Palace
Bade - Leverkuesen
Gibbs-White - Forest
-
Harsh on Bailey. I wouldn't sell Rogers, as it would send out the wrong message if we're aspiring to move to the next level.
-
Assuming we qualify for the CL, we need to keep Rogers and Konza, not sell.
I also feel a few of your valuations maybe on the high side Hookey.
-
I'd spend £15 on Leon just to hear that beautiful voice every day. Maybe he could replace Alexa/Hey Google.
-
Yep. Buendia, like Bailey, is all about confidence. When things are going well he can look a really useful player but as soon as the mistakes drift in he falls apart. That's the difference between players like them and the likes of Rogers, McGinn and Watkins (and Sancho recently), who also give the ball away cheaply at times but all 3 of them you can trust to keep going and try to make amends.
If you're having a bad day then you at least need to fall back on the basics and do a job, Buendia often goes the other way and starts trying to do ever more complicated things and gets more and more frustrated as things don't go his way.
You're job has never been so safe, Unai.
-
(https://i.ibb.co/WWhqBFQh/Screenshot-20260330-180654-Instagram.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WWhqBFQh)
(https://i.ibb.co/9kNWBDGJ/Screenshot-20260330-180637-Instagram.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9kNWBDGJ)
-
Why have we signed David Gower?
-
David Gower, I thought Unai had signed up for the latest Star Trek film.
-
RB Leipzig decide against exercising purchase option for Kosta Nedeljković
As reported by Bild, Leipzig will not exercise their €10m purchase option on Nedeljković, who joined the Saxony club on loan from Aston Villa in February 2025, after falling behind Ridle Baku and Benjamin Henrichs in the pecking order.
https://www.getfootballnewsgermany.com/2026/rb-leipzig-decide-exercising-purchase-nedeljkovic-aston-villa-bundesliga-premier-league/
-
Shit, does that mean we have to sell Buendia?
-
I'd assumed he'd be coming back for a while, it'll be interesting to see what happens next because I suspect we're going to have to take a loss on him if we want to sell.
-
Shit, does that mean we have to sell Buendia?
Apparently not as Valencia are said to be interested in both Garcia and Kosta Nedeljković. Expect an offer of €4m for the pair.
-
Rogers ‘open to leaving Villa’ according to today’s rags with the usual subjects interested in him.
It’s not necessarily selling him that bothers me, it’s selling him to one of those cunty clubs (arse,Liverpool, Chelsea and Man U) that does.
-
Morgan Rogers, 23, would be open to leaving Aston Villa this summer - with Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United all in the mix to sign the England midfielder. (Sun)
-
If he goes at top price we need to spend wisely, not like this season.
But no games for a while, the newspapers have to talk about something, one of best young talents in the league being linked with all the money machines, hardly news.
-
If he goes at top price we need to spend wisely, not like this season.
But no games for a while, the newspapers have to talk about something, one of best young talents in the league being linked with all the money machines, hardly news.
Yes, the same every fecking transfer window. The money machines just hoover up the best of the rest and the gap gets wider and wider.
Doesn't take a genius to put bids in for the likes of Guimaraes, Tonali, Garner, Anderson, Wharton, Rogers and Konsa.
We have to qualify for the Champions League and hope Unai convinces them that Villa are the future.
-
I'd imagine Villa are just as open to selling him as he is to being sold.
-
It's in The Sun, so it must be true.
-
I'd imagine Villa are just as open to selling him as he is to being sold.
Everyone is available at the right (or release clause) price.
-
I'd imagine Villa are just as open to selling him as he is to being sold.
Everyone is available at the right (or release clause) price.
Yep. I hope when he sold, it’s to a club in a different country, but it almost certainly won’t be.
-
I imagine we've never had a player in our entire history who hasn't been "open to leaving" us.
That's how the lives of footballers operate.
-
That's not new, it's just a (likely accurate enough) guess, worded vaguely enough for deniability. It's as much news as a horoscope is.
I mean, journalists have famously low trust-ratings among the public, the habit of hacks to just make shit up is at this point proverbial, and yet I would say a majority of people still believe pretty much anything they read.
-
Shame they couldn’t wait until the end of the season, but him playing for England is probably enough for the inevitable rumourmongering to be click worthy outside of ‘worried’ villa fans. He’ll go to Man Utd or Liverpool (hopefully playing for a new manager).
-
I imagine we've never had a player in our entire history who hasn't been "open to leaving" us.
That's how the lives of footballers operate.
Spoke with the chaplain at Wrexham a few years back. Lovely bloke, Everton supporter. From what he was saying, it’s quite hard being a footballer - certainly at that level (non-league at the time) but a lot of it would be appropriate further up the chain.
Down there it was all 1 or at most 2 year contracts, or worse (for the player) a loan. It’d meant that you’d have lads coming from all over the country, or from other countries, staying for a year or two then moving on. No chance to put down any roots anywhere, few friendships that last any amount of time, a long way away from their families with limited opportunities to visit them during the season, … tbh it sounded a bit of a shit, unfulfilling life to me considering the amount of dedication it must’ve taken to even get to the bottom rung of being a professional footballer.
I suppose what I mean is that as a footballer it must go with the territory, and perhaps one thing that might’ve upset (for example) Big Emi is that he was settling down in to a vaguely normal life and then we tried to shunt him out last spring/summer.
-
You really think he wasn't keen to move on, himself? And still is, presumably.
-
No chance to put down any roots anywhere, few friendships that last any amount of time, a long way away from their families with limited opportunities to visit them during the season, …
Back when Bury FC were a football league club and just prior to their financial collapse, we had a player who regularly came in to the school where I was teaching to do coaching sessions with the kids. I had a conversation with him about this and he said that many players in the lower echelons tended to base themselves in Greater Manchester/West Yorkshire as there are plenty of clubs within commuting distance. He subsequently moved to... Plymouth!
-
Two and two makes Unique Sports Group.
‘Time to go’ – Roberto Olabe can now secure Aston Villa transfer cheaply
Celta Vigo’s Óscar Mingueza has been on Aston Villa’s transfer agenda for a long time.
The right-back has parted ways with his long-time agent Josep María Orobitg and is now represented by British agency Unique Sports Group.
https://sportwitness.co.uk/time-to-go-roberto-olabe-can-now-secure-aston-villa-transfer-cheaply/
And
Aston Villa join open race for Harry Wilson – Unique Sports Group client’s free-agent summer could ignite bidding war
https://www.footballagencies.com/news/aston-villa-join-open-race-for-harry-wilson-unique-sports-group-clients-free-agent-summer-could-ignite-bidding-war/
Passed and present players with Unique Sports Group
Jacob Ramsey
Cameron Archer
Bradley Burrowes
Finn Azaz
Arron Ramsey
Axel Tuanzebe
So we clearly do business with Unique Sports Group, am I putting two and two together and getting five?
-
What about our old pal Jorge Mendes and his stable of Shetland showponie, is he still hawking Felix around?
-
What about our old pal Jorge Mendes and his stable of Shetland showponie, is he still hawking Felix around?
Emery seemed to have a weird fascination with Felix. If ever there was a guy stealing a living at a very high level - showpony!
-
Don't think we're hugely worse off for not having Paqueta and his famous disappearing routine at VP either.
-
What about our old pal Jorge Mendes and his stable of Shetland showponie, is he still hawking Felix around?
Emery seemed to have a weird fascination with Felix. If ever there was a guy stealing a living at a very high level - showpony!
15 goals in 26 games so far this season
-
In a joke league.
-
What about our old pal Jorge Mendes and his stable of Shetland showponie, is he still hawking Felix around?
Far too good for us, more suited to a top club like Chelsea.
-
I imagine we've never had a player in our entire history who hasn't been "open to leaving" us.
That's how the lives of footballers operate.
Yep. If Man U at the height of their powers, winning just about everything at the time could sell Beckham or Ronaldo, then it's likely not a shocker a player might want to leave Aston Villa who have won nothing in a very long time. It's the nature of the industry. Our job as it has always been is to provide players with the best opportunity of career success and for a long time we have failed in that regard. It's the closest we have been right now with Unai but truthfully, as wonderful as it probably is to be a Villa player today, the chance of trophies consistently lies elsewhere. So whether it is back in the day with Yorke, Barry, Milner, Jack or possibly now Morgan Rogers, they will always be opening to leave us for club x. That's pretty much the case for any footballer further down the food chain looking to maximize their short careers.
-
Rogers ‘open to leaving Villa’ according to today’s rags with the usual subjects interested in him.
It’s not necessarily selling him that bothers me, it’s selling him to one of those cunty clubs (arse,Liverpool, Chelsea and Man U) that does.
That's a massive coup for the "journalist" who has unearthed this news. No one could have come up with this on a quiet week or two in football news.
-
we need a replacement option for McGinn if we can box off other priorities this summer and we have a bit to spare. Not easy, mind you.
-
we need a replacement option for McGinn if we can box off other priorities this summer and we have a bit to spare. Not easy, mind you.
Wilson on a free. Keep Luiz and we’ve got one of the best midfield mini-squads in the world.
-
we need a replacement option for McGinn if we can box off other priorities this summer and we have a bit to spare. Not easy, mind you.
Wilson on a free. Keep Luiz and we’ve got one of the best midfield mini-squads in the world.
Harry Wilson has really come on this past year or so, he'd be a fantastic option in the attacking midfield options.
as a free transfer :D
-
Harry Wilson is flavour of the month. He’s 29.
It’s taken him this long in his career to have a half decent season and suddenly he’s in massive demand.
I watched closely in that World Cup playoff game, and he disappeared for large parts of that game.
Decent enough squad player but not someone who we should be expecting to take us to the next level.
-
Harry Wilson is flavour of the month. He’s 29.
It’s taken him this long in his career to have a half decent season and suddenly he’s in massive demand.
I watched closely in that World Cup playoff game, and he disappeared for large parts of that game.
Decent enough squad player but not someone who we should be expecting to take us to the next level.
Yeah, never been convinced by him either.
On a free - and realistically on his last chance to earn his biggest contract - he'll be on an inflated wage n'all.
That's a problem for us anyway. But becomes a bigger problem when better players we currently possess want parity. Or other new signings use it as a benchmark.
Kamara and Tielemans were smart deals.
This one wouldn't be.
-
I'd take Casemiro on a free if he could be persuaded. Can cover for Kamara until he's back and then we would have competition all over midfield. We also need more nasty twats. No more than a two year deal, though, given his age.
-
I'd take Casemiro on a free if he could be persuaded. Can cover for Kamara until he's back and then we would have competition all over midfield. We also need more nasty twats. No more than a two year deal, though, given his age.
Wages would kill us
-
That's why only on a one or two year deal. No different to loaning Rashford/Sancho as we have done in the last two seasons.
-
That's why only on a one or two year deal. No different to loaning Rashford/Sancho as we have done in the last two seasons.
Agree with the logic but feel that money should be spent on a winger/AM.
-
Hmm, winger you say? I could be persuaded.
-
I'd take Casemiro on a free if he could be persuaded. Can cover for Kamara until he's back and then we would have competition all over midfield. We also need more nasty twats. No more than a two year deal, though, given his age.
Wages would kill us
And doesn’t help the age profile of the squad either
-
Casemiro would also get sent off regularly once the protection he receives by playing for Utd disappears.
-
No to Wilson...coming off a fantastic season no doubt but going to demand a massive contract. Casemiro, that's a piss take? 22-25 year olds needed.
-
Wilson won’t demand a “massive” contract. He’s worth it as a squad player.
-
Our form fell off a cliff when the midfield got injured. Can't let that happen again. Need younger players for the future and to keep the wage bill manageable but also sign some immediate impact players, doesn't matter if one or two are older so long as you don't give them stupid length contracts.
-
I’m absolutely fine with Wilson on a free. Hard working midfielder who has played well all season at PL level. He’d come in to replace Barkley is my guess if we signed him. But a bit of quality is absolutely needed. CL qualification is critical for us to do that. And if we do need to sell Morgan, then for it needs to be someone like MGW at Forest. A player of that quality.
-
20 yr-old Reece Walters looks like a very lively midfield operator for Port Vale...
... just saying.
-
Some good players at the relegated clubs. Wolves and West Ham have good young DCMs. Summerville and MGW in attacking positions.
-
Wilson won’t demand a “massive” contract. He’s worth it as a squad player.
He certainly won't be looking for a squad player contract. Even Barkley managed a 3 year deal off the back of a decent season with relegated Luton. Wilson is 29 and this will be his biggest contract of his career. 3-4 years easy on big wages to account for the lack of a transfer fee.
-
I normally concur with a lot of your views CD, but Casemiro is exactly the sort of signing we should not be making.
-
Isn't Wilson a bit of a Henders, playing better when a new contract/move is on the cards? What's he done for the last 7 years?
-
Henders?
-
Henders?
Little Lee.
-
Henders?
Little Lee.
Ahhh. Cheers.
-
I wonder how useful Henderson would have been as a back-up to Kamara and playing a significant role once that Spurs twat ended Kamara's season. Also the leadership he could have given behind the scenes.
-
Wilson is bait. He's been non descript for years and is too old for a breakout year. He's just having his Michael Ricketts moment.
-
I was impressed by the Southampton goalkeeper last night.
-
Wilson has always been good but lacked consistency. It’s been around 18 months now. I share the concerns of others, but transfers do go wrong and ultimately, 29 with 18 months of good form and years of OK form prior. It’s a worthwhile gamble I think.
Mingueza would be a coup, I’ve seen a bit of him and he looks good. Great passing range, good offensive runs, tall and versatile. Lacks pace which may be a problem in the Prem
-
Wilson is bait. He's been non descript for years and is too old for a breakout year. He's just having his Michael Ricketts moment.
Football's littered with players who only realised their potential later in their career. It could be he's just having a good season, or he could be going full Di Natale. You definitely need to take each case in isolation though.
There's a bit of a checklist isn't there? Does he have quality? Undoubtedly. Is he in form? 100%. Does he seem like a prat? No. Is he affordable? Yep. Feel like it's a low risk no-brainer personally. Saves money for the other players we need in attack too.
One thing I've noticed is he seems to keep doing it when the pressure is on as well. You can't teach that.
-
Isn't Wilson a bit of a Henders, playing better when a new contract/move is on the cards? What's he done for the last 7 years?
He's been great for Wales for quite a significant part of those last 7 years. I don't think he'd be a regular starter for us, but as others have said he's very affordable and he'd be an excellent squad player.
-
Wilson is bait. He's been non descript for years and is too old for a breakout year. He's just having his Michael Ricketts moment.
Football's littered with players who only realised their potential later in their career. It could be he's just having a good season, or he could be going full Di Natale. You definitely need to take each case in isolation though.
There's a bit of a checklist isn't there? Does he have quality? Undoubtedly. Is he in form? 100%. Does he seem like a prat? No. Is he affordable? Yep. Feel like it's a low risk no-brainer personally. Saves money for the other players we need in attack too.
One thing I've noticed is he seems to keep doing it when the pressure is on as well. You can't teach that.
Football really isn't littered with players who came good in their late 20's. It's a tiny percentage. Our biggest problem at the moment is wages. I think he'll want big money. He's light weight and it's his first good season in 7 years. It's a definite no for me but if we did sign him and he's finally found his feet then great.
-
What level of wages is acceptable and what would be taking the piss?
He might be better off asking for a massive signing on fee and then reasonable wages. Big wages could trap him at a club. Bit like Martinez with us.
-
I'm not sure what wiggle room we have but I'd imagine whoever he is replacing he'd need to be on less wages than them as we need the bill down.
-
I'm not sure what wiggle room we have but I'd imagine whoever he is replacing he'd need to be on less wages than them as we need the bill down.
Decent strategy but would mean a replacement for Sancho or not at all I suspect.
-
Mingueza looks a really good fit for us, he's very good and competes with both Cash and Konsa to really round out our options. Add in Rowe coming back in and the right side of the defence looks sorted for a while, even when/if Lindelof leaves next summer. The left side is a bit more of a worry as I'd really like to see another one in to start the plan to move on from Mings and Digne. I love them both but they're at the age now where their replacements (in the squad) should be starting to become clear or we should be looking at signings.
I'd take Wilson in midfield simply because I think he'd offer similar to McGinn and make us less vulnerable to a drop in form with injuries. If Alysson can settle and start getting involved and Young and JJA come back and push on in pre-season our option there suddenly look pretty decent.
Those 2 signing on frees would help a lot with bulking the squad out and wouldn't be as harmful as most seem to think on the SCR calculations because too many people seem to miss that transfer amortisation and agent fees are part of that calculation and get completely fixated on the wages part.
With incoming fees for Malen, Barrenechea and Guessand accounting for something like £70m in cash and knocking a big chunk of wages and amortisation off the bill. If we can move on a few other fringe players as well (Bailey, Iling-Junior, Dobbin, Ned and Garcia, maybe Buendia) I could see that being enough for a couple of signings on top whilst not really having any net spend or any major sales and not really removing any real depth from the squad. Another option up-front/10 and that left sided defender and I'd be pretty happy with where things are, especially if those 2 are a little younger. We do have an older squad but it's mostly because of the number of players in the 26-30 range rather than a load pushing into their mid-30s which does give us a few years to plan for the big rebuild we'll need.
-
These are the types of singing, along with loans, that ramp-up agents fees which is why we're near the top of that list. Rashy and Asensio were probably worth the CL punt but what difference did Disasi really make last year for the c£10m we spunked on him and his entourage for four months?
But then we can't afford to pay the going rate of a Harvey Elliott on a permanent either so we're buggered either way, it seems.
-
Wilson will NOT offer similar to Mcginn.
Ginny is a machine, he just keeps going.
Wilson drifts in and out of games and disappears for long periods.
The Wales / B&H playoff was a very good example.
I’d much rather have Barkley on an extended deal.
-
There was talk about us being in the lead to get Senesi too who would be a good option to Torres on the left side.
-
Wilson will NOT offer similar to Mcginn.
Ginny is a machine, he just keeps going.
Wilson drifts in and out of games and disappears for long periods.
The Wales / B&H playoff was a very good example.
I’d much rather have Barkley on an extended deal.
Barkley will already be here he's got another year and what I mean by offering similar to McGinn is that he'll play wide but largely as an auxiliary midfielder rather than a winger, which allows us to keep up the box midfield a little easier than we do now if McGinn is out and we end up with a more traditional winger of Bailey or Sancho out there.
-
Wilson will NOT offer similar to Mcginn.
Ginny is a machine, he just keeps going.
Wilson drifts in and out of games and disappears for long periods.
The Wales / B&H playoff was a very good example.
I’d much rather have Barkley on an extended deal.
Barkley will already be here he's got another year and what I mean by offering similar to McGinn is that he'll play wide but largely as an auxiliary midfielder rather than a winger, which allows us to keep up the box midfield a little easier than we do now if McGinn is out and we end up with a more traditional winger of Bailey or Sancho out there.
Good point, well made.
Wilson would be fine on a free on a realistic and reasonable wage, but WHEN we qualify for the CL next season I hope we will target the type of players who can elevate us to the next level.
-
Ive always thought Wilson flattered to deceive a bit, from his days at Derby in the championship onwards. However, he has had a very impressive season.
I wouldn’t be distraught at signing him, if it was backed up by other more high profile signings, but if that was the calibre of our main signings this summer, if we have qualified for the CL, it would be a bit under whelming (not as much as last summer mind). Wouldn’t have that Asensio wow factor.
-
Ross Barkley had his best game for us v West Ham but he's 32 and has started I think 5 x PL games for us in the past two seasons. Strong finish to the season and he's the ideal player to sell on for a few quid this summer. Barkley gets a 2 year deal at Coventry or Leeds.
If transfermarkt is a reliable source ...the market for out of contract players across Europe is weak this summer. But midfield players with 12 months left on their deals include Ampadu (25), Hackney (23). I'm a big Ampadu fan, think he's the perfect player for Emery, similar to Kamara in that he can play CB at a stretch. Was really impressed with him at Villa Park recently. I've never seen Hackney play so can't comment there bar we have a strong relationship with Boro so if Emery is keen we will be high up the list of buyers. An interesting one maybe is Curtis Jones (25), technically strong, PL winner and maybe an option in a few positions including the sides of our midfield where we struggle without McGinn. What I can't figure out is if he this seasons equivalent of Tom Cleverley, decent in a winning team but very average elsewhere. That Liverpool squad will be breaking up this summer so could be a useful addition at a decent price. 4 years younger than Wilson.
Luiz + Ampadu + Jones > Onana + Barkley + Bailey
-
Wilson is an ideal fit for Emery's system ,a goalscorer who adds width.I thought he impressed against us last season .It surprised me that he wasn't a regular starter then for Fulham.
Most of his career has been in the Championship but he's always been a consistent goalscorer.
He's not a speed merchant nor is he a great dribbler and he's rather lightweight and it's easy to see why ,until recently,he's never imposed himself against top flight defenders. Playing for a midtable team hasn't helped.He 's now very experienced knows the game better and being a lightweight is no longer a disadvantage.
His career trajectory is similar to Ray Graydon's who didn't play in the top flight until he was 28 and who was also a consistent goalscorer.
The other wide player who would fit our system is Harvey Barnes,not the most gifted winger but one of the best for getting into goalscoring positions and finishing.
As the lone striker is now prevalent,goals need to come from other areas.A goalscoring wide plsyer would be an asset.
-
I hope we're looking further afield than players in lower mid-table (or on the bench of good teams) in the PL.
-
Ampadu would be a good addition. He has had a strong season at Leeds and for about £22m would really improve our squad in an area we get a lot of injuries.
Hackney in the championship looks special but not better than Youri. Its how much we can throw at our strongest area when they are all fit.
We need more goals without a doubt.
-
Ampadu is shite.
-
Ive always thought Wilson flattered to deceive a bit, from his days at Derby in the championship onwards. However, he has had a very impressive season.
I wouldn’t be distraught at signing him, if it was backed up by other more high profile signings, but if that was the calibre of our main signings this summer, if we have qualified for the CL, it would be a bit under whelming (not as much as last summer mind). Wouldn’t have that Asensio wow factor.
Absolutely, the important part is upgrading the squad as whole.
Not including players already out on loan I expect to see Sancho, Elliott, Garcia and Bailey leave, and Luiz will need to be considered after his loan.
Garcia > Mingueza is a clear upgrade
Elliott > Wilson is an upgrade if only because he'll actually be available to play
Luiz staying for the reported fee
So we'd already be in a strong position.
So any funds that come in (again £70m-ish for Malen, Guessand and Barren is pretty much confirmed and I can see another £10-20m in from fringe players that would pretty much cover the fee for Dougie) can all be targeted to the wings. Personally I'd be happy to let a combination of JJA, Young and Alysson fight for 1 of those spots and throw the money at Ferran Torres (supposedly available for about €60m).
The following summer sees Onana and Maatsen drop off the SCR calculations as far as I can tell (because UEFA amortise fees in and out over 3 years) which takes a lot of pressure off and gives us scope to focus on replacing the likes of Mings, Digne and Barkley with a little less pressure on the finances.
-
Curtis Jones is a cocky cvnt who's been useless this season. At least Harvey is a nice young man.
-
Ampadu is shite.
He's better than that. But he's the sort of player Martin O'Neill would have signed to move us from tenth to sixth.
An "if we shat the bed this season, needed to sell Kamara or Tielemans for £80m and needed a £20m replacement to make sure we hung around in mid-table next season" player.
-
What level of wages is acceptable and what would be taking the piss?
He might be better off asking for a massive signing on fee and then reasonable wages. Big wages could trap him at a club. Bit like Martinez with us.
Fullham have offered him between £120-£140k per week to stay, according to various reports and he's turned them down so far.
I don't think he's going to accept a whole lot less from us or any other side he ultimately opts for.
-
Fullham have offered him between £120-£140k per week to stay, according to various reports and he's turned them down so far.
I don't think he's going to accept a whole lot less from us or any other side he ultimately opts for.
We've offered him a starring role in our Xmas video, plus he's allowed to keep the jumper.
-
... Personally I'd be happy to let a combination of JJA, Young and Alysson fight for 1 of those spots and throw the money at Ferran Torres (supposedly available for about €60m).
I don't see F Torres as a net talent improvement for us. Maybe I'm missing something; just don't see it.
-
16 goals already for Barcelona this season.
Might just edge out Sancho, Bailey, Little Emi or Watkins etc.
Not that I think it's likely for the fee and wages involved.
-
Some good players at the relegated clubs. Wolves and West Ham have good young DCMs. Summerville and MGW in attacking positions.
Summerville under Unai is yes from me.
Cassimero now way.
Wilson - not sure
-
Might just edge out Sancho, Bailey, Little Emi or Watkins etc...
when you put it like that ... ;D
-
Amadou Onana: Aston Villa could accept ‘huge’ offer after his confession
https://www.footballinsider247.com/amadou-onana-aston-villa-could-accept-huge-offer-after-his-confession/
a bit of clickbait here - but he'd be one I think we could cope with selling over Rogers etc
-
A few days ago West Ham announced a loss of 104.2 million for the 2024 - 2025 season. Commentator yesterday said they may be forced to sell.
Bowen or Summerville should be on our radar.
Re Onana, yes, if we get a good offer let him go.
-
Amadou Onana: Aston Villa could accept ‘huge’ offer after his confession
https://www.footballinsider247.com/amadou-onana-aston-villa-could-accept-huge-offer-after-his-confession/
He’s the one big sale, >£40m, that would not impact the quality of the first team. Of course squad depth would be weaker but Bogarde is a year older and Hemmings is coming through. Not sure there’s many clubs that could find in excess of £40m though.
-
Yes, Onana is one i think we could replace. Shame really, as he's at a good age and on his day, he's excellent.
-
Man Utd. Not shit for a couple of months and they’re buying everyone. ******.
-
The press make me laugh. Deciding who a football club is going to buy in a few months time when that football club doesn’t even know who their manager is going to be.
That said, Onana would be a decent sacrifice to keep other players. Utd would be the perfect fit really.
With their injury record they must have absolutely banging state of the art medical facilities.
-
Man Utd. Not shit for a couple of months and they’re buying everyone. ******.
Said it before, but I hope they do. Their squad is already massive, and signing new players will push existing ones to the periphary. As a result the atmosphere will become more toxic and wage burden even bigger. We need them to waste their financial advantage.
-
In fairness if the gossip column is to be believed Man Utd are going to be pretty busy this summer, they’re signing about 20 midfielders.
I found the most egregious thing about Monday’s version was us being linked to Ugarte.
-
Is he any good? Was very highly rated but was shunned by Amorim the manager he thrived under (I think).
A Man U player can look completely different once away from the chaos; in theory he could solve the DCM problem if cheap enough.
-
I have very limited info on most of their players. I’d have Rashford back though.
-
Is he any good? Was very highly rated but was shunned by Amorim the manager he thrived under (I think).
A Man U player can look completely different once away from the chaos could solve the DCM problem if cheap enough.
He's absolutely shit.
-
Is he any good? Was very highly rated but was shunned by Amorim the manager he thrived under (I think).
A Man U player can look completely different once away from the chaos could solve the DCM problem if cheap enough.
He's absolutely shit.
On a good day at that.
-
Is he any good? Was very highly rated but was shunned by Amorim the manager he thrived under (I think).
A Man U player can look completely different once away from the chaos could solve the DCM problem if cheap enough.
Goldbridge thinks he is their worst player.
-
Aren’t we still going to be badly hamstrung by UEFA rules anyway?
-
Is he any good? Was very highly rated but was shunned by Amorim the manager he thrived under (I think).
A Man U player can look completely different once away from the chaos could solve the DCM problem if cheap enough.
Goldbridge thinks he is their worst player.
Goldbridge is a fucking idiot. I’m sure the grizzling little pissflap lives in Dorridge as well.
-
Football insider is keich, so probably just rehashing rumours from circa 2024 when Onana was linked with the Red Mancs initially.
Don't think he has the conditioning to make an impact for a full PL season, sadly. So if there was any truth to that I'd bite.
The player himself might be better of in a less demanding league like Serie A, though.
Who do Juve or Inter have who might be a consideration for swapsies.
-
Onana stays for me. He’s been very good recently and can get better if he can curb the injuries. Bailey, both Emi’s, Digne, release Sancho and Elliot way before I’d consider letting Onana go. We are being linked on Instagram with a young, soon to be out of contract keeper called Benchaouch from Monaco.
-
Is he any good? Was very highly rated but was shunned by Amorim the manager he thrived under (I think).
A Man U player can look completely different once away from the chaos could solve the DCM problem if cheap enough.
He's absolutely shit.
He’s bloody awful.
-
Onana stays for me. He’s been very good recently and can get better if he can curb the injuries. Bailey, both Emi’s, Digne, release Sancho and Elliot way before I’d consider letting Onana go. We are being linked on Instagram with a young, soon to be out of contract keeper called Benchaouch from Monaco.
I’d prefer to keep Onana but we know that we probably need to make at least one significant sale and I’m not sure those listed would raise enough. I know we should take these rumours with a pinch of salt but he does strike me as one that would fit the bill to be this season’s Jacob Ramsey.
-
Is he any good? Was very highly rated but was shunned by Amorim the manager he thrived under (I think).
A Man U player can look completely different once away from the chaos could solve the DCM problem if cheap enough.
He's absolutely shit.
He’s bloody awful.
Yup he cannot pass.
-
Onana stays for me. He’s been very good recently and can get better if he can curb the injuries. Bailey, both Emi’s, Digne, release Sancho and Elliot way before I’d consider letting Onana go. We are being linked on Instagram with a young, soon to be out of contract keeper called Benchaouch from Monaco.
I’d prefer to keep Onana but we know that we probably need to make at least one significant sale and I’m not sure those listed would raise enough. I know we should take these rumours with a pinch of salt but he does strike me as one that would fit the bill to be this season’s Jacob Ramsey.
I'd keep Onana as well, still improving and one of our younger players.
-
Onana stays for me. He’s been very good recently and can get better if he can curb the injuries. Bailey, both Emi’s, Digne, release Sancho and Elliot way before I’d consider letting Onana go. We are being linked on Instagram with a young, soon to be out of contract keeper called Benchaouch from Monaco.
Yep agree. He’s never as bad as is made out sometimes and has generally had a good season. I think we’ll see him thrive in the remaining games with McGinn and Tielemans back alongside him. Agree on the sales, though would probably keep Digne and big Emi for another season if they wanted to stay. I know re sale value etc, but there still arent many better keepers than Martinez.
-
In an ideal world, most of us would probably keep Onana. But things work differently for clubs outside the so-called “Sky Six.”
If selling him helps us hold on to players like Rogers, Tielemans, Konsa, and maybe even Martinez, then he’s arguably the most valuable one we could afford to lose.
He’s a solid player, but I expected more from him—especially when our midfield was hit by injuries. He didn’t really step up when we needed him most.
-
We are being linked on Instagram with a young, soon to be out of contract keeper called Benchaouch from Monaco.
Sounds like someone getting injured as a sub
-
I like Onana, he's great.
The only slight reservation I have is that he seems quite injury-prone, which is a problem when you consider how physically demanding his role is.
-
Onana stays for me. He’s been very good recently and can get better if he can curb the injuries. Bailey, both Emi’s, Digne, release Sancho and Elliot way before I’d consider letting Onana go. We are being linked on Instagram with a young, soon to be out of contract keeper called Benchaouch from Monaco.
Isn't that the type of injury that reserve goalkeepers regularly pick-up from spending too much time with splinters in their arse?
-
That johnathan rowe looks some player
-
That johnathan rowe looks some player
We were linked with him when he was at Norwich. Looks decent.
-
That johnathan rowe looks some player
We were linked with him when he was at Norwich. Looks decent.
This could be a "rogers" moment we only knew about him after playing boro in the cup.
He reminds me of eze
-
That johnathan rowe looks some player
We were linked with him when he was at Norwich. Looks decent.
This could be a "rogers" moment we only knew about him after playing boro in the cup.
He reminds me of eze
They'll have known about him before he played for the Norwich first team.
-
Jonathan Rowe is exactly the type of player we need on the wing. Emery will know this.
-
He’s been good in 2026, I’d be wary signing a player off seeing him have a good game. That’s not saying he’s not worth it, but I’d hope our scouting is a bit longer term. Who knows maybe we’re already looking at him.
-
It was one of him or Rogers when we signed Rogers. Percy was reporting it all month but we couldn’t get it done with Norwich.
Definitely see us being back in for him.
-
He’s been good in 2026, I’d be wary signing a player off seeing him have a good game. That’s not saying he’s not worth it, but I’d hope our scouting is a bit longer term. Who knows maybe we’re already looking at him.
Exactly
-
I agree, Mustapha Hadji is exactly the player we're crying out for.
-
Rowe reminded me of Doku before he joined Man City. Let's go get him.
-
Bailey out, Sancho out and put the money towards Rowe.
Someone needs to have a quiet word in his ear when he comes to Brum for the second leg. That's what big clubs do.
-
I agree, Mustapha Hadji is exactly the player we're crying out for.
He just needs time FFS.
-
I agree, Mustapha Hadji is exactly the player we're crying out for.
It’s kachloul for me.
-
I agree, Mustapha Hadji is exactly the player we're crying out for.
It’s kachloul for me.
I always consider Kachloul as "opportunistic free transfer to show how we can still just about chuck our diminishing weight around", rather than "had one of his best ever games against us so we now need to base our whole transfer strategy around him".
As apparently Jonathan Rowe now is.
-
Rowe reminded me of Doku before he joined Man City. Let's go get him.
Doku is hit and miss, I guess that's wingers for you.
-
Rowe is only 22? Seriously Bologna, take your pick. Take anybody except McGinn from the forwards/attacking midfielders.
-
Looking forward to seeing Rowe play again next week, not sure we don’t make him look better than he is with Cash standing off him constantly, possibly because he started on a yellow and we need him next week. Did like how direct he was though. Also helpful thst he seemed to control the ball, something Bailey has really struggled with for a season and a half.
-
I agree, Mustapha Hadji is exactly the player we're crying out for.
It’s kachloul for me.
I always consider Kachloul as "opportunistic free transfer to show how we can still just about chuck our diminishing weight around", rather than "had one of his best ever games against us so we now need to base our whole transfer strategy around him".
As apparently Jonathan Rowe now is.
Yes, your memory is better than mine, I just remember the clamour to get him and it seemed linked with Hadji as they were mates.
-
Reminds me a bit of Rashford/Doku.
-
I agree, Mustapha Hadji is exactly the player we're crying out for.
It’s kachloul for me.
I always consider Kachloul as "opportunistic free transfer to show how we can still just about chuck our diminishing weight around", rather than "had one of his best ever games against us so we now need to base our whole transfer strategy around him".
As apparently Jonathan Rowe now is.
Yes, your memory is better than mine, I just remember the clamour to get him and it seemed linked with Hadji as they were mates.
Yeah like I say, he might be brilliant and we might have been scouting him for a while. But I would want a bit more evidence than a really good 90 minutes. He’s not exactly shredded Serie A has he?
-
I think they said 4 goals in 6 games after he scored yesterday so he’s definitely experiencing a purple patch.
I wonder if he was a monchi player and Emery preferred Rogers? If originally an Emery player than you’d expect we’ll have meticulous files on him regardless.
-
I think they said 4 goals in 6 games after he scored yesterday so he’s definitely experiencing a purple patch.
I wonder if he was a monchi player and Emery preferred Rogers? If originally an Emery player than you’d expect we’ll have meticulous files on him regardless.
Seeing we’ve played Bologna, I’d imagine Emery has seen pretty much everything Rowe has done as a player in the last couple of seasons - regardless of what he knew before.
-
Indeed, and for those comparing it to Hadji, the counter argument is it's similar circumstances to the lad who was in our number 10 position last night.
Rowe just set the bar very high regarding where his level is. I've never seen anyone do that to Cash, who's arguably the best right back in the league right now.
-
Indeed, and for those comparing it to Hadji, the counter argument is it's similar circumstances to the lad who was in our number 10 position last night.
Rowe just set the bar very high regarding where his level is. I've never seen anyone do that to Cash, who's arguably the best right back in the league right now.
I was just going to post similar, Cash is on top of his game and nobody has come close to giving him the runaround he got last night. Was impressed also with Rowe's physicality, that bodes well for being able to play in this league
-
He looks a bit like that lad Man City have on their left wing.
-
I liked it when we signed Hadji.
-
I liked it when we signed Hadji.
I assume you liked it less once he’d played for us.
-
Rowe strikes me as similar to Rogers in that attributes are there and Unai could take him up another level or two.
-
I think Rowe looked very good last night, but personally I don’t think I’ve ever seen him play before that game. He looks to be in a purple patch, based on his statistical output (I know that’s not everything) which might be the start of something or it might be a purple patch. I would just hope the club would take a longer-term look.
-
Looking at his goals this season (stats)
6 goals and 3 assists more than sancho and bailey combined
-
Need convincing that his form is long-term consistent. Like with Harry Wilson, see if they can do it year in, year out.
If they're still good at 34, let them have a go at the Villa for a year before they retire.
-
Asking price will be key they paid 17m for him so i would imagine 30m would be enough. He is only 22 as well which means his value will hold
-
Looking at his goals this season (stats)
6 goals and 3 assists more than sancho and bailey combined
Not sure whether that’s supposed to be a positive comparison.
In any case, he has done well of late in Europe it seems. His Serie A returns are very modest. That might be adapting to a new league. But it certainly isn’t, this guy is the nailed on real deal.
-
He'd probably cost similar to Guessand, I know which I would prefer. As long as there aren't any doubts over him as a person, which when Marseille think you're a wrong 'un is some going.
-
He'd probably cost similar to Guessand, I know which I would prefer. As long as there aren't any doubts over him as a person, which when Marseille think you're a wrong 'un is some going.
Oh yeah, it’s coming back to me now, didnt he have a dressing room fight with Rabiot?
-
Wouldn't blame him, Rabiot is a preening tosser.
-
A little over a month ago he had 3 goals and 1 assist from 30 appearances. Yes he's in impressive form in the last 6 matches but that is all it is right now. I'd hoped we were over the period of wanting to sign anyone who had a good game against us.
As I said he reminds me a lot of Bailey in that you can see there's plenty of talent there but there's some concerning signs around his attitude.
-
Emery has always struck me as someone that will impulse buy a player based on one game.
-
I liked it when we signed Hadji.
I assume you liked it less once he’d played for us.
Was he really that bad? Memory has faded from a generally depressing time watching Villa. Kachoul was awful.
-
Rowe reminded me of Summerville, who we've been linked with recently and were when he was at Leeds after they had been relegated.
Re: the purple patch comments. Scouting departments often try to sign players when they think they're on the cusp of consistently delivering stats. He's 22 and spoken about how working with Italiano has improved his game so he may well be starting to establish himself.
-
Emery has always struck me as someone that will impulse buy a player based on one game.
Yes, like Morgan.
-
Rowe reminded me of Summerville, who we've been linked with recently and were when he was at Leeds after they had been relegated.
Re: the purple patch comments. Scouting departments often try to sign players when they think they're on the cusp of consistently delivering stats. He's 22 and spoken about how working with Italiano has improved his game so he may well be starting to establish himself.
Absolutely, and if our scouts identify him as an option then I'd be ok with it, I just think some people on here have gone a little over the top on the basis 1 one game against us.
-
Rowe reminded me of Summerville, who we've been linked with recently and were when he was at Leeds after they had been relegated.
Re: the purple patch comments. Scouting departments often try to sign players when they think they're on the cusp of consistently delivering stats. He's 22 and spoken about how working with Italiano has improved his game so he may well be starting to establish himself.
Absolutely, and if our scouts identify him as an option then I'd be ok with it, I just think some people on here have gone a little over the top on the basis 1 one game against us.
Exactly. He might be brilliant, but I suspect most on here stating we should sign him have seen more a less as much as I have - which is last night. I don’t remember what he did when he came on against us on earlier in the season. One good game against us isn’t enough to assess.
-
Seeing wingers generally that attack their man and take shots is something of a novelty for us these days so you can understand why we get a bit excited when we see one.
-
Emery has always struck me as someone that will impulse buy a player based on one game.
Yes, like Morgan.
Which would have been based on thr countless footage Unai watches before we play someone.
-
Rogers wouldn't have exactly been new to our recruitment department since he was being discussed in the Grealish deal but City valued him at £10m.
-
Seeing wingers generally that attack their man and take shots is something of a novelty for us these days so you can understand why we get a bit excited when we see one.
The last one to make an impact was Bailey for
about six months. Unless Emery changes shape a player like Rowe would struggle tactically in our midfield four. He's physically stronger and more direct than likes of Bailey, Elliot, Guessand or Sancho. But that's a pretty low bar.
-
Rogers wouldn't have exactly been new to our recruitment department since he was being discussed in the Grealish deal but City valued him at £10m.
Anyone who actually believes we signed someone on the basis of one performance is a bit of a plonker.
-
Rogers wouldn't have exactly been new to our recruitment department since he was being discussed in the Grealish deal but City valued him at £10m.
Anyone who actually believes we signed someone on the basis of one performance is a bit of a plonker.
I think we might have with Yorke.
-
Nope. He was asked to come for a trial but wasn't signed for a few months. But I suspect the op was more talking about these days when massive amounts of material is there for scouting rather then a several part timers asked to visit different matches in the lower leagues a couple of times a week.
-
Yorke was spotted by Doug, who pointed him out to Graham Taylor when we played a friendly in Trinidad. That's Doug's version; Sir Graham's tale differed slightly.
-
Yorke was spotted by Doug, who pointed him out to Graham Taylor when we played a friendly in Trinidad. That's Doug's version; Sir Graham's tale differed slightly.
Didn't SGT used to do things like that, convince Doug it was his idea about a potential signing to get him to open his wallet?
-
Can we just clarify here please, it was never Doug’s wallet we were opening it was the clubs. He never put a penny into the club other than to buy the controlling share off the Bendalls.
Never forgive, never forget.
(Yes I am bitter.)
-
Rogers wouldn't have exactly been new to our recruitment department since he was being discussed in the Grealish deal but City valued him at £10m.
MR was well known due to connection to Mark Harrison and Steve Hopcroft.
-
Can we just clarify here please, it was never Doug’s wallet we were opening it was the clubs. He never put a penny into the club other than to buy the controlling share off the Bendalls.
Never forgive, never forget.
(Yes I am bitter.)
Quite correct.
-
Happy that Guessand appears to have found his form, there's a chance we might get our money back.
-
Malen also seems to be doing well at Roma, not sure they need to finish in a euro place to be interested in signing him as he’s doing so well regardless.
-
Yes, if we can pick up 50 to 60 million total for the sale of Guessand and Malen that can only bode well.
-
Seeing wingers generally that attack their man and take shots is something of a novelty for us these days so you can understand why we get a bit excited when we see one.
That's what impressed me most running at defenders however talking to Bologna fans afterwards they were not that vocal about him. They said he's 1 in 6 player often totally anonymous.
-
Malen hattrick yesterday.
-
Can we just clarify here please, it was never Doug’s wallet we were opening it was the clubs. He never put a penny into the club other than to buy the controlling share off the Bendalls.
Never forgive, never forget.
me too
Add my Dad to that list, Iam sure he has looked Doug up and had a word
(Yes I am bitter.)
-
Yes, if we can pick up 50 to 60 million total for the sale of Guessand and Malen that can only bode well.
What will we get for Barranchea? THere’s also the young RB at Leipzig but I think I read they’re declining the option to buy him. Are there anymore?
-
Yes, if we can pick up 50 to 60 million total for the sale of Guessand and Malen that can only bode well.
What will we get for Barranchea? THere’s also the young RB at Leipzig but I think I read they’re declining the option to buy him. Are there anymore?
I think he already left for about 10 mil
-
No to Wilson...coming off a fantastic season no doubt but going to demand a massive contract. Casemiro, that's a piss take? 22-25 year olds needed.
It’s one of those situations, as with Tielemans, where Unai makes a personal visit to ascertain the player’s “sporting objectives” (i.e., gentle incitation not to take the piss).
-
From what I can find online Barrenechea, Guessand and Malen have set fees in the region of £15m, £30m and £25m. There's probably some performance clauses in amongst that but given all 3 are either confirmed or look highly likely we're looking at £60-70m incoming from them. That can be added to the removal of their wages and amortisation costs from the SCR calculations. The fees get spread over 3 seasons under the current rules but even still all told it's going to be about £40m a year freed up for the next 3 seasons.
-
Yorke was spotted by Doug, who pointed him out to Graham Taylor when we played a friendly in Trinidad. That's Doug's version; Sir Graham's tale differed slightly.
Didn't SGT used to do things like that, convince Doug it was his idea about a potential signing to get him to open his wallet?
He did, but to repeat, it was never his money.
-
Guessand's move to Palace on a permanent seems far from certain. He's got a way to go to hit those goals and assist targets they have in the agreement. And I'm not sure his form recently has been strong enough for them to dismiss the performance clause and just sign him anyway? Hopefully he scores an important goal in their winning of the Conference.
-
Guessand's move to Palace on a permanent seems far from certain. He's got a way to go to hit those goals and assist targets they have in the agreement. And I'm not sure his form recently has been strong enough for them to dismiss the performance clause and just sign him anyway? Hopefully he scores an important goal in their winning of the Conference.
No way Guesand is going anywhere he’s just no where near good enough for any prem team
I think we will be stuck with him loaning him out constantly until his contract expires
-
Guessand not in the squad today for Palace.
-
Guessand not in the squad today for Palace.
Injured midweek
-
Guessand not in the squad today for Palace.
Injured midweek
Think he is out for a while supposedly.
-
From what I can find online Barrenechea, Guessand and Malen have set fees in the region of £15m, £30m and £25m.
It's a weird, dysfunctional world where Guessand can cost more than Malen.
-
Townley tweeted today that our starting XI against Nottingham Forest had an average age of 29 years and 328 days - our oldest for a Premier League game since March 2001 under John Gregory. Im sure our owners are aware of this but it does indicate how much we are going to have reshape the squad over the next couple of years
-
Guessand's move to Palace on a permanent seems far from certain. He's got a way to go to hit those goals and assist targets they have in the agreement. And I'm not sure his form recently has been strong enough for them to dismiss the performance clause and just sign him anyway? Hopefully he scores an important goal in their winning of the Conference.
The PAlace fans love him.
-
He's out for a month and Glasner is going in the Summer. Guessand will be back here.
-
Just been looking at the expiring contracts on Transfermarkt.
https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/statistik/endendevertraege
With or without CL, we should be looking to pick up a few of these - we've done very well with free transfers recently (Kamara, Tielemans, Lindelof)
Harry Wilson - already linked
Marcos Senesi - would be a good replacement if we wanted to cash in on Konsa or Torres.
Julian Brandt - maybe a Rogers alternative/replacement if we cash in
Oscar Mingueza - previously linked, good alternative/back up for Cash and RCB.
Ryan Sessegnon - still young LB, could replace Digne
Rico Henry - older LB, could replace Digne
Yves Bissouma - was good a few years ago, and we'll need cover for Kamara's inevitable season-ending injury next January.
There's also Sancho, but I don't think he's done enough for us to be paying him £150k-£200k a week.
-
Bissouma is a knob, steer clear of him.
-
Bernado Silva, 31, up for grabs as well on a free in June 2026. Big wages though.
-
Hopefully our transfer department has a bit more imagination and a wider scope.
-
Bernado Silva, 31, up for grabs as well on a free in June 2026. Big wages though.
If he was going to stay in England, he'd renew with Man City.
I think he wants to go to Spain.
-
Hopefully our transfer department has a bit more imagination and a wider scope.
Well the media is speculating that we'll have to sell even if we're in the CL, suggesting we don't have a lot of scope. I doubt we're going to be spending £100m+ without selling Rogers.
Free transfers like Senesi, Mingueza and Wilson are cheap(er) ways of getting good quality players to strengthen the squad for a CL campaign.
I'm not suggesting that's all we do, but it leaves our budget for the likely big ticket transfers - like a replacement keeper, a striker and a winger.
-
Hopefully Guessand will hit the ground running in August having had a year to acclimatise to English turf.
-
I miss Footy's free agents lists, where he would suggest us going for a load of old duffers, some mono legged.
-
I miss Footy's free agents lists, where he would suggest us going for a load of old duffers, some mono legged.
Also the occasional dead person.
-
I miss Footy's free agents lists, where he would suggest us going for a load of old duffers, some mono legged.
I had no idea Footy went to indie clubs in the 90s.
-
Bernado Silva, 31, up for grabs as well on a free in June 2026. Big wages though.
If he was going to stay in England, he'd renew with Man City.
I think he wants to go to Spain.
I’m probably alone in this but I’ve always thought he was vastly overrated. Decent enough but not as special as many think. Maybe it’s a Silva thing as I thought the same about David Silva.
-
Bernado Silva, 31, up for grabs as well on a free in June 2026. Big wages though.
If he was going to stay in England, he'd renew with Man City.
I think he wants to go to Spain.
I’m probably alone in this but I’ve always thought he was vastly overrated. Decent enough but not as special as many think. Maybe it’s a Silva thing as I thought the same about David Silva.
Must admit I’m with you on Bernardo Silva but David Silva was a lovely player and much superior.
-
David Silva was fantastic. Bernardo was okay, but overrated.
-
Hopefully Guessand will hit the ground running in August having had a year to acclimatise to English turf.
Better suited to the flat tracks in France.
-
Just been looking at the expiring contracts on Transfermarkt.
Julian Brandt - maybe a Rogers alternative/replacement if we cash in
Brandt is on my extensive player watch list. I would take him if Barkley didn't have another year left. If we move him on in the summer we should be looking at Brandt as his replacement.
Benjamin Nygren at Celtic is who I hope we are in for this summer. His stats are excellent, he's young and he protects the ball very well almost McGinn esque.
-
Bernardo was okay, but overrated.
Really?? I had a quick check and his record is 'quite good': 1 CL, 6 PL, 2 FA cup, 5 League cup. In eight of nine seasons at city he's played more than 30 games (20/21 was 26).
I think Bernado suffers in that he's tactically disciplined, so has been used in a number of different roles over the seasons - Pep has trusted him to carry out jobs for the good of the team. I don't think it's a mistake he's had such a long career at Man City, and invariable picked in big games.
In that sense he's a bit like McGinn for us - you can't really say exactly what he does, but when he's not in the team everything else looks worse.
-
Whatever we do we need to start bringing the age profile of the squad down.
-
Bernardo was okay, but overrated.
Really?? I had a quick check and his record is 'quite good': 1 CL, 6 PL, 2 FA cup, 5 League cup. In eight of nine seasons at city he's played more than 30 games (20/21 was 26).
I think Bernado suffers in that he's tactically disciplined, so has been used in a number of different roles over the seasons - Pep has trusted him to carry out jobs for the good of the team. I don't think it's a mistake he's had such a long career at Man City, and invariable picked in big games.
In that sense he's a bit like McGinn for us - you can't really say exactly what he does, but when he's not in the team everything else looks worse.
He is a bit of a water carrier but a very good one, always available to receive the ball, rarely gives it away, keeps momentum going and covers a lot of ground with and without possession.
-
Just been looking at the expiring contracts on Transfermarkt.
Julian Brandt - maybe a Rogers alternative/replacement if we cash in
Brandt is on my extensive player watch list. I would take him if Barkley didn't have another year left. If we move him on in the summer we should be looking at Brandt as his replacement.
Benjamin Nygren at Celtic is who I hope we are in for this summer. His stats are excellent, he's young and he protects the ball very well almost McGinn esque.
I’ve always thought Brandt should offer far more than he does, he’s clearly got it all but whenever I’ve seen him play, he rarely dominates games in the way he could.
Nygren is a blank page to me.
-
Bernado Silva, 31, up for grabs as well on a free in June 2026. Big wages though.
If he was going to stay in England, he'd renew with Man City.
I think he wants to go to Spain.
I’m probably alone in this but I’ve always thought he was vastly overrated. Decent enough but not as special as many think. Maybe it’s a Silva thing as I thought the same about David Silva.
Bernado is vastly overrated (although he seems to fit into Guardiola's world well), but David was an elegant and talented player.
-
Bernardo put in one of the best individual displays I've seen from an opposition player when they beat us under Gerrard and he scored that mad volley.
-
Hopefully our transfer department has a bit more imagination and a wider scope.
Well the media is speculating that we'll have to sell even if we're in the CL, suggesting we don't have a lot of scope. I doubt we're going to be spending £100m+ without selling Rogers.
Free transfers like Senesi, Mingueza and Wilson are cheap(er) ways of getting good quality players to strengthen the squad for a CL campaign.
I'm not suggesting that's all we do, but it leaves our budget for the likely big ticket transfers - like a replacement keeper, a striker and a winger.
It's exactly the way we need to go: bring in a couple of really good free transfers and then 2 or 3 really good youngsters and blend them in to the squad. The target over the next 2-3 seasons has to be to compete in the Chumps League, do well in the Premier League and slowly churn the older players out of the squad with well-blended youngsters.
The current PSG model is a good one.
-
Bernardo put in one of the best individual displays I've seen from an opposition player when they beat us under Gerrard and he scored that mad volley.
Yeah, the McGinn comparison above is a good one. There's no specific job that he is in the team to do better than anyone else, but his presence elevates everyone else around him and the team is much worse without him in it.
-
Yep, I think he's their 2nd most important player (after Rodri).
-
Yeah, I think some on here are really underrating Bernardo.
-
I'm kind of amazed at the 'overrated' comments. He's an incredible player. The team that picks him up will easily get another two years out of him when he's not especially far off his best.
-
The current PSG model is a good one.
I agree in concept. Our difficulty will be that we’re not the same magnet as PSG for young (mainly) french players and we do not have the cash (we do, but…) to persuade/demand the clubs further down the food chain sell their best players. It is the correct route but I feel we will be fishing in the championship/lesser leagues for a few seasons yet.
-
How Unai speaks about Sancho is interesting. It might be a short term boost thing, but I do wonder if we are pursuing a permanent signing.
-
How Unai speaks about Sancho is interesting. It might be a short term boost thing, but I do wonder if we are pursuing a permanent signing.
wouldn't be surprising at all on a free transfer and on a more reasonable longer term deal. But he will likely have other offers at a better salary.
-
I suppose it will depend on how personally happy Sancho is here as its not as though UE has him firing on all cylinders .
It shows how little interest I have in seeing Man City wallop everyone in sight, Bernado Silva has been there years and I have no idea at all what sort of player he is, only that he always seems to play in most games.
-
I suppose it will depend on how personally happy Sancho is here as its not as though UE has him firing on all cylinders .
It shows how little interest I have in seeing Man City wallop everyone in sight, Bernado Silva has been there years and I have no idea at all what sort of player he is, only that he always seems to play in most games.
Same. I'm like that with most football. I saw people on here giving Ugarte the bird the other day and it struck me that, though I knew his name (and that he's from Uruguay because I'm a sucker for Uruguay), I had no idea what he looks like, where he plays, how much he cost or whether he butters bacon rolls. It largely passes me by.
-
Bernardo put in one of the best individual displays I've seen from an opposition player when they beat us under Gerrard and he scored that mad volley.
he's been superb lately
-
Bernado Silva has been there years and I have no idea at all what sort of player he is, only that he always seems to play in most games.
That's because he's good enough to be able to play most positions (and has across midfield) in Guardiola's side.
-
Bernado Silva has been there years and I have no idea at all what sort of player he is, only that he always seems to play in most games.
That's because he's good enough to be able to play most positions (and has across midfield) in Guardiola's side.
Poor mans lamare bogarde
-
With Sancho, I remember reading his agents saying that his next move will be a football decision rather than being about maximising the amount of money they can make. So it's possible that we might sign him on more favourable terms.
With Bernando Silva, I don't watch Citeh much either but I did watch the Liverpool-City league game a month or two back. Silva was brilliant. Absolutely ran the game and was obviously the man of the match.
-
Silva is an absolutely brilliant player.
-
I suppose it will depend on how personally happy Sancho is here as its not as though UE has him firing on all cylinders .
It shows how little interest I have in seeing Man City wallop everyone in sight, Bernado Silva has been there years and I have no idea at all what sort of player he is, only that he always seems to play in most games.
Same. I'm like that with most football. I saw people on here giving Ugarte the bird the other day and it struck me that, though I knew his name (and that he's from Uruguay because I'm a sucker for Uruguay), I had no idea what he looks like, where he plays, how much he cost or whether he butters bacon rolls. It largely passes me by.
I’m pretty much the same.
-
Bernado Silva has been there years and I have no idea at all what sort of player he is, only that he always seems to play in most games.
That's because he's good enough to be able to play most positions (and has across midfield) in Guardiola's side.
OK, I just think of him as one of the players on the highlights congratulating Harlaand after he's scored another tap in to complete his hat trick in a routine win.
-
Bernado Silva has been there years and I have no idea at all what sort of player he is, only that he always seems to play in most games.
That's because he's good enough to be able to play most positions (and has across midfield) in Guardiola's side.
OK, I just think of him as one of the players on the highlights congratulating Harlaand after he's scored another tap in to complete his hat trick in a routine win.
He's probably the player that's had a dozen touches of the ball in the build up before playing a great pass into the winger, who then squared it to Haaland.
-
Im all for Silva on a free but who's shirt is he taking? I doubt he's leaving city to sit on a bench, if its Tielemans no, Buendia? yes bring him in. Class player who's played 60 game seasons for years and never gets injured
-
Silva wouldn’t come here - but if he were here he starts every game.
-
Silva wouldn’t come here - but if he were here he starts every game.
Yep.
He has been talking about returning to Portugal for a long time, he will be going back to Portugal or Spain.
-
Bernardo Silva is brilliant, and will probably remain so for another year or two. But he's not coming here. My guess is it will be a big contract somewhere not particularly competitive.
He's getting plenty of games at City, so if he wanted to continue playing at the top level, he'd probably stay there for another year, at least. My guess is he's either doing one big mega-wages move to the middle-east, or he'll go back to Portugal for his family.
Shame, as he'd be a massive upgrade on Buendia.
-
Bernardo Silva is brilliant, and will probably remain so for another year or two. But he's not coming here. My guess is it will be a big contract somewhere not particularly competitive.
He's getting plenty of games at City, so if he wanted to continue playing at the top level, he'd probably stay there for another year, at least. My guess is he's either doing one big mega-wages move to the middle-east, or he'll go back to Portugal for his family.
Shame, as he'd be a massive upgrade on Buendia.
Yup, great player, not coming here. My guess would be a couple of years at Juventus, finish with a couple of years at Benfica.
-
Silva wouldn’t come here - but if he were here he starts every game.
Yep.
He has been talking about returning to Portugal for a long time, he will be going back to Portugal or Spain.
I think he has being going back to Portugal since 6 months after he arrived.
-
Silva would be the perfect tactical fit for us but there isn't a chance of him signing for us. Barca will probably find a way to squeeze him into their squad on the final day of transfer window.
-
Funny how we all see the game different - yes he is a brilliant player but it boils my piss that every time he has the ball in forward positions he never crosses it but instead chops inside then outside, then inside then lays it off
He does it that much Matty Cash must have a boner watching him
-
I suppose six-time league winner and one-time Champions League winner Bernardo Silva should've focused more energy on Whipping It In.
-
Annoys me that Erling Haaland steadfastly refuses to charge into the goalkeeper when he has the ball in his hands. It's almost like the game has changed in the last eighty years.
-
A bit like Gilberto Silva his namesake - you know they are very good players but nobody knows what they do.
-
I suppose six-time league winner and one-time Champions League winner Bernardo Silva should've focused more energy on Whipping It In.
:)
-
Silva is such a fantastic player, would love him here.
-
If Bernardo Silva wanted to stay in England, he'd just stay at Man City.
They don't want to lose him, he just wants to move to sunnier climes.
-
If Bernardo Silva wanted to stay in England, he'd just stay at Man City.
They don't want to lose him, he just wants to move to sunnier climes.
Isn't Birmingham further south than Manchester, and less rainy?
-
If Bernardo Silva wanted to stay in England, he'd just stay at Man City.
They don't want to lose him, he just wants to move to sunnier climes.
Isn't Birmingham further south than Manchester, and less rainy?
Lisbon has more rain than Birmingham 28.6 inches vs 26.8 inches, only difference is the number of days it rains, 77 vs 125. (Manchester 365).
-
Its OK to prefer crosses to short passes.
-
If Bernardo Silva wanted to stay in England, he'd just stay at Man City.
They don't want to lose him, he just wants to move to sunnier climes.
I have never thought he would come here, just had to question the Stevie Wonders on here.
-
That’s two games I’ve seen Rowe play now (don’t really remember him in the group game) - one brilliant and one not so much. Might be good, but wouldn’t put him in the “definitely sign” category.
-
That’s two games I’ve seen Rowe play now (don’t really remember him in the group game) - one brilliant and one not so much. Might be good, but wouldn’t put him in the “definitely sign” category.
Maybe. The way Bologna set up didn't favour him.
-
That’s two games I’ve seen Rowe play now (don’t really remember him in the group game) - one brilliant and one not so much. Might be good, but wouldn’t put him in the “definitely sign” category.
Maybe. The way Bologna set up didn't favour him.
Cash also was much improved and got into him very early.
-
That’s two games I’ve seen Rowe play now (don’t really remember him in the group game) - one brilliant and one not so much. Might be good, but wouldn’t put him in the “definitely sign” category.
Maybe. The way Bologna set up didn't favour him.
Cash also was much improved and got into him very early.
Cash played like last week was a personal affront and was absolutely not happening again. Tremendous.
-
Indeed - as I said last week, when he was great, he might be amazing but need to see much sustained evidence.
-
Wingers struggle to offer sustained evidence. It's part of their DNA.
-
True, but for me personally that still doesn’t say one good game against us is the answer. I’m not saying that is what you’re saying by the way.
-
Today, Barca are not buying Rashford. Is that because of him not taking a paycut or can they not afford £21m.
-
Today, Barca are not buying Rashford. Is that because of him not taking a paycut or can they not afford £21m.
If we get into the Champions League, and can make it work financially, I'd love to have him back here. But I suspect he'll have some very attractive offers from top clubs across Europe.
-
True, but for me personally that still doesn’t say one good game against us is the answer. I’m not saying that is what you’re saying by the way.
I agree, I'm not sold on him, as we're seeing, the PL looks so much stronger than other top flights across Europe.
-
Rashford will not find another club without taking a massive wage cut.
-
Rashford will not find another club without taking a massive wage cut.
Man Utd dont want to pay him £300k per week, and the only way they can stop doing so is by selling him for much less than he's worth, so his new club can put the money they've saved into paying the player.
So Rashford's next club gets a £60m+ player for £20m, and Rashford doesn't have to worry about coins to put in the meter.
-
Rashford for 20m is a no brainer if we can get the wages down. 3 year contract i wiildnt go 5 years as thats a expensive gamble
-
We wouldn't get the wages down. That's why he's available for a fraction of his actual value.
-
I think his wages go up if Man U qualify for the CL. I suspect Barcelona are very aware of that change and seeking to mess Man U about a bit.
I still thought Rowe was decent. Impactful given he barely had the ball. Cash was much better and McGinn/Konsa were much quicker to double up on him. Given those structural changes he did well to set up the chance he did (the Digne block being the best).
-
Today, Barca are not buying Rashford. Is that because of him not taking a paycut or can they not afford £21m.
If we get into the Champions League, and can make it work financially, I'd love to have him back here. But I suspect he'll have some very attractive offers from top clubs across Europe.
He probably would get attractive offers elsewhere, but, by his own admission, he really enjoyed his time with us. I think if we put ourselves in the mix we’d stand a very good chance of getting him.
How much he’d be prepared to drop his wage demands would be a major factor.
Sancho is prepared to drop quite significantly, by all accounts, so Rashford might be willing, too.
He’s never struck me as a mercenary sort.
-
I think we can calm down about the lad Rowe now
-
I think we can calm down about the lad Rowe now
I don’t know about that, I was impressed. He didnt get at Cash as much and we’d planned to starve him of the ball but I thought what he did, he did well. Good first touch, shielded the ball very well to drag players toward him before playing simple but intelligent passes, a few great whipped crosses and that little lofted ball through that set up what seemed their only decent attack.
No doubt last weeks was the game of his life, but if he hadn’t done that then, I’d have looked at last night and thought him a player to keep an eye on.
-
True, but for me personally that still doesn’t say one good game against us is the answer. I’m not saying that is what you’re saying by the way.
I agree, I'm not sold on him, as we're seeing, the PL looks so much stronger than other top flights across Europe.
Agreed, I've convinced myself that the current top 18 (eighteen) clubs in the EPL would have a genuine chance of winning the Europa League if they entered. Basing this on Man Utd and Spuds last year and Forest this year. Money talks and we are a lot stronger in depth than any other league in europe.
-
True, but for me personally that still doesn’t say one good game against us is the answer. I’m not saying that is what you’re saying by the way.
I agree, I'm not sold on him, as we're seeing, the PL looks so much stronger than other top flights across Europe.
Agreed, I'v convinced myself that the current top 18 (eighteen) clubs in the EPL would have a genuine chance of winning the Europa League if they entered. Base this on Man Utd and Spuds last year and Forest this year. Money talks and we are a lot stronger in depth than any other league in europe.
That’s because the Premier League is the Super League.
-
Aston Villa tussle to sign in ‘high demand’ Bayern Munich player
Aston Villa are in the battle to sign Bayern Munich’s Noel Aseko in the summer.
The defensive midfielder has already attracted attention of clubs in Germany and across Europe, including Aston Villa.
In February 2025, Bayern Munich allowed him to join Hannover 96 on loan and later that year, extended his stay until the end of this season.
In the event of a sale, the Bavarian club would be looking for a fee of around €10-12m, which should be affordable for Aston Villa.
https://sportwitness.co.uk/aston-villa-in-tussle-to-sign-player-in-high-demand-summer-move-could-be-on-cards/
Add this new name to the list
-
Going to have lots of fun replying "bless you" whenever anyone just posts his surname.
-
He looks good, he'd be yet another attempt to find someone to backup and later replace Mcginn from those highlights, seems suited to a slightly more free role than we play in our main central mid.
-
Have we had a Noel/Christmas Villa player before ?
-
He's described as a defensive midfielder but he looks like more of a creative player in those clips.
-
Have we had a Noel/Christmas Villa player before ?
Noel Blake, unfortunately.
-
Barcelona not taking up the option on Rashford at the end of the season, apparently. Even with a reduced fee.
Not the right fit tactically.
You’d imaging Unai will be all over that if any sort of deal is possible.
-
Don’t think we’re allowed to spend the money for his wages.
-
Don’t think we’re allowed to spend the money for his wages.
That’s our issue, more than transfer fee with scr.
Need to get some big earners out before we can plan that, Sancho going would help.
-
Don’t think we’re allowed to spend the money for his wages.
That’s our issue, more than transfer fee with scr.
Need to get some big earners out before we can plan that, Sancho going would help.
This isn't really true, the SCR calculation still includes amortised fees so we still need to consider transfer costs. The simplest way to do that now that incoming fees are also spread over 3 years is to keep net spend down to a minimum. This is why moving on Malen, Guessand, Barrenechea, Iling-Junior, Nedeljkovic and Dobbin (all players we own but are out on loan and should generate decent fees between them) is important because we remove the amortisation of their incoming fees and remove their wages without any impact on the squad.
Add in the savings on Elliott, Sancho and Luiz and we're left with, realistically, 2 useful players gone from the squad, more than half a million a week in wages freed up and a big chunk of amortised fees gone without really weakening us beyond losing a bit of cover.
-
Don’t think we’re allowed to spend the money for his wages.
That’s our issue, more than transfer fee with scr.
Need to get some big earners out before we can plan that, Sancho going would help.
We need to stop overpaying on agents fees too.
-
Don’t think we’re allowed to spend the money for his wages.
That’s our issue, more than transfer fee with scr.
Need to get some big earners out before we can plan that, Sancho going would help.
This isn't really true, the SCR calculation still includes amortised fees so we still need to consider transfer costs. The simplest way to do that now that incoming fees are also spread over 3 years is to keep net spend down to a minimum. This is why moving on Malen, Guessand, Barrenechea, Iling-Junior, Nedeljkovic and Dobbin (all players we own but are out on loan and should generate decent fees between them) is important because we remove the amortisation of their incoming fees and remove their wages without any impact on the squad.
Add in the savings on Elliott, Sancho and Luiz and we're left with, realistically, 2 useful players gone from the squad, more than half a million a week in wages freed up and a big chunk of amortised fees gone without really weakening us beyond losing a bit of cover.
Fair dos’s, the sale of above will help a lot also. Point I badly made was that scr puts more emphasis on the wages as % of turnover which we have been getting in loans and free signings on higher wages, which is now not such an attractive option as before.
-
I take it a big signing on fee and reduced wages wouldn’t be a way around any financial restrictions?
-
Don’t think we’re allowed to spend the money for his wages.
That’s our issue, more than transfer fee with scr.
Need to get some big earners out before we can plan that, Sancho going would help.
This isn't really true, the SCR calculation still includes amortised fees so we still need to consider transfer costs. The simplest way to do that now that incoming fees are also spread over 3 years is to keep net spend down to a minimum. This is why moving on Malen, Guessand, Barrenechea, Iling-Junior, Nedeljkovic and Dobbin (all players we own but are out on loan and should generate decent fees between them) is important because we remove the amortisation of their incoming fees and remove their wages without any impact on the squad.
Add in the savings on Elliott, Sancho and Luiz and we're left with, realistically, 2 useful players gone from the squad, more than half a million a week in wages freed up and a big chunk of amortised fees gone without really weakening us beyond losing a bit of cover.
Fair dos’s, the sale of above will help a lot also. Point I badly made was that scr puts more emphasis on the wages as % of turnover which we have been getting in loans and free signings on higher wages, which is now not such an attractive option as before.
I don't think it makes that big a difference for free transfers. Loans I agree, we really should try to avoid unless they're Rashford/Asensio level impact. With wages and fees as they are every extra 10k on the weekly wage (assuming 5 year contracts) is the equivalent of £2.6m on the fee and given the level we're shopping at means fees in the 25-30m range the wage demands need to be huge to work out as the same costs for SCR.
-
We wouldn't get the wages down. That's why he's available for a fraction of his actual value.
Wont happen then unfortunately
We aint gonna destroy our wage budget to fuck ourselves for years on rashford
-
The loan/delayed sales is smart business. A chunk more of the fee is amortised and their fees covered. The down side is the loan club get to ‘try before they buy’ but on a human level I think that makes sense too.
-
I take it a big signing on fee and reduced wages wouldn’t be a way around any financial restrictions?
A lot don't know this about signing on fees.
https://www.tiktok.com/@benfcyclinggk/video/7274955738399657248
-
We wouldn't get the wages down. That's why he's available for a fraction of his actual value.
Wont happen then unfortunately
We aint gonna destroy our wage budget to fuck ourselves for years on rashford
I still think it's more likely that we don't sign him than we do, but there's quite obviously a set of circumstances where we are prepared to offer him what he wants to join us permanently, because last January we did just that.
Had we decided our finances were in a suitable place to sign him, then it was all agreed with both Rashford and Man Utd that he would join us. Quite obviously the thing that stopped our finances being in a suitable place was finishing outside the Champions League places.
So assuming we don't screw up the next six weeks, if we still want him and he's happy with us, logic would suggest that there's a way to make the finances work, because it would have worked last season.
I imagine that the main barrier is likely to be someone potentially shinier (Bayern? Atletico?) thinking they might be getting a bit of a bargain.
-
Rashford might factor in his 25% pay rise into any newly negotiated deal. Carrick has suggested the door is open for him to stay.
I suspect this is all a game of bluff at the moment, including Barca pulling out.
-
I suspect this is all a game of bluff at the moment, including Barca pulling out.
Yup, me too. I reckon it’s a tactic for Utd to sweeten the deal a little and he’ll be back at Barca.
-
Rashford will be 29 this year and we already have an aging squad. For this reason, I reckon we won't go for him.
Whatever limited money we can spend will be concentrated on younger players who Unai can develop over the next two or three years.
Otherwise, in two or three years time we will be f*ucked with a capital F.
-
How long has Rashford got left on his contract at Manure?
Rather than buying him, if we lose Sancho, Bailey, Elliott, and maybe Digne off the wage bill, it could be a good option to get him on a season long loan if his wages are not crazy.
At his age and on big wages, I wouldn’t want to offer him a contract of 3 years or more. UTV
-
Aston Villa plan ‘concrete move’ for Liverpool midfielder who’s ready to ‘leave’
Curtis Jones is preparing to leave Liverpool this summer, with TEAMtalk understanding that Aston Villa are ready to step up their interest in the midfielder.
The 25-year-old, a product of Liverpool’s academy, is entering the final stages of his current deal, with just over 12 months remaining.
https://www.teamtalk.com/liverpool/aston-villa-plan-concrete-move-for-liverpool-midfielder-whos-ready-to-leave
12 months left on his contract could be the JJ replacement?
-
Rasford's contract expires in 2028. He'll be 30/31. He was very good for us, but with SCR and how things are for us, I'd say it's too costly for what is essentially a short term fix. I'd actually be disappointed if we signed him for those reasons.
Don't think I've ever watched Curtis Jones and thought "player".
-
Aston Villa plan ‘concrete move’ for Liverpool midfielder who’s ready to ‘leave’
Curtis Jones is preparing to leave Liverpool this summer, with TEAMtalk understanding that Aston Villa are ready to step up their interest in the midfielder.
The 25-year-old, a product of Liverpool’s academy, is entering the final stages of his current deal, with just over 12 months remaining.
https://www.teamtalk.com/liverpool/aston-villa-plan-concrete-move-for-liverpool-midfielder-whos-ready-to-leave
12 months left on his contract could be the JJ replacement?
Wonder if they'd be prepared to enter into a convoluted loan-with-an-option/obligation-to-buy mechanism to help us sign him?
-
Aston Villa plan ‘concrete move’ for Liverpool midfielder who’s ready to ‘leave’
Curtis Jones is preparing to leave Liverpool this summer, with TEAMtalk understanding that Aston Villa are ready to step up their interest in the midfielder.
The 25-year-old, a product of Liverpool’s academy, is entering the final stages of his current deal, with just over 12 months remaining.
https://www.teamtalk.com/liverpool/aston-villa-plan-concrete-move-for-liverpool-midfielder-whos-ready-to-leave
12 months left on his contract could be the JJ replacement?
Wonder if they'd be prepared to enter into a convoluted loan-with-an-option/obligation-to-buy mechanism to help us sign him?
Good idea. I don’t see why not.
-
Rasford's contract expires in 2028. He'll be 30/31. He was very good for us, but with SCR and how things are for us, I'd say it's too costly for what is essentially a short term fix. I'd actually be disappointed if we signed him for those reasons.
Don't think I've ever watched Curtis Jones and thought "player".
I'm not exactly sure I'd be disappointed with signing a quality player. I get the age thing but signing this summer should mean 3/4 seasons at a top level.
-
Wonder if they'd be prepared to enter into a convoluted loan-with-an-option/obligation-to-buy mechanism to help us sign him?
Yes, one of those wonderful if he plays 10 there is obligation to buy sort of deal would be nice.
-
Everton apparently interested in signing Toney.
-
That feels like a really good fit for all parties.
-
The loan/delayed sales is smart business. A chunk more of the fee is amortised and their fees covered. The down side is the loan club get to ‘try before they buy’ but on a human level I think that makes sense too.
Not sure too many clubs (or players) will want to humour us on that one after the Harvey Elliott fiasco.
-
The loan/delayed sales is smart business. A chunk more of the fee is amortised and their wages covered. The down side is the loan club get to ‘try before they buy’ but on a human level I think that makes sense too.
Not sure too many clubs (or players) will want to humour us on that one after the Harvey Elliott fiasco.
I meant from a sales perspective but suspect you’re right when buying.
-
I liked Curtis Jones. We should get him on loan and play him for 10 games.
-
I liked Curtis Jones. We should get him on loan and play him for 10 games.
Couldn’t we swap him for Harvey Elliott?
-
I liked Curtis Jones. We should get him on loan and play him for 10 games.
Couldn’t we swap him for Harvey Elliott?
Good idea. Tell him he’ll be in important part of our plans domestically and Europe, then drop him from the CL squad.
-
I want a different player for 10 games every half a season. Can we get Ben Mee and make sure he enjoys training? Imagine Kerplunk but the needles are two footers.
-
The loan/delayed sales is smart business. A chunk more of the fee is amortised and their fees covered. The down side is the loan club get to ‘try before they buy’ but on a human level I think that makes sense too.
Not sure too many clubs (or players) will want to humour us on that one after the Harvey Elliott fiasco.
I just think teams will structure the loan deals differently, rather than not do them at all. i.e. "there'll be a loan fee if you don't sign them, and none if you buy them at the end of the loan for the price agreed." They get a sale or some loan income, we get a player where we don't have to count appearances.
-
That feels like a really good fit for all parties.
Bambi on Ice Beto is finally coming into his own. Weird goal celebration, mind.
-
I like Curtis Jones and think he's a good player, but they'd want too much and I worry he's a bit of a 'jack of all trades'.
-
I like Curtis Jones and think he's a good player, but they'd want too much and I worry he's a bit of a 'jack of all trades'.
A good, solid, jack-of-all-trades midfielder would allow us to thin the herd a little in midfield, where we're probably blessed with riches we don't need (when everyone is fit, obviously). I'm not sure Jones is that player, btw, but I'm certainly not averse to having a player in the squad who can play a few different roles pretty well without ever becoming top, top class in one of them. Bogarde might become that player, of course.
-
Like the rest of you, I hate the thought of having to sell another top player to comply with PSR, FFP, WTF rules. But we do have stock in reserve, a few players that have come to mind if we sold them;
Malan - 25 million (doesn't want to play for the Villa)
Guessand -25 million (hopefully)
Bogarde - 12.5 million (solid, but I do not see top 4 quality)
Mings - 5 million (Fantastic servant and would be invaluable to a newly promoted club)
That's nearly 70 million plus other fringe players to sell. With Europa League money (and hopefully Champions League money next year), increased sponsorship and commercial revenue (as our profile increases), increased TV revenue and EPL prize money we could have a big chunk of change at our disposal.
Hopefully, it will be enough to reward our existing squad and give generous wage increases when required (Morgan Rogers). Also buy two or three promising youngsters and possibly two established quality players.
I'm not an accountant but would hate it if we were forced to sell a player. If a player wants to go that is different but in Unai we trust.
-
I like Curtis Jones and think he's a good player, but they'd want too much and I worry he's a bit of a 'jack of all trades'.
A good, solid, jack-of-all-trades midfielder would allow us to thin the herd a little in midfield, where we're probably blessed with riches we don't need (when everyone is fit, obviously). I'm not sure Jones is that player, btw, but I'm certainly not averse to having a player in the squad who can play a few different roles pretty well without ever becoming top, top class in one of them. Bogarde might become that player, of course.
I'm not against it either but they'd want more than it's worth paying for such a player.
-
I like Curtis Jones and think he's a good player, but they'd want too much and I worry he's a bit of a 'jack of all trades'.
A good, solid, jack-of-all-trades midfielder would allow us to thin the herd a little in midfield, where we're probably blessed with riches we don't need (when everyone is fit, obviously). I'm not sure Jones is that player, btw, but I'm certainly not averse to having a player in the squad who can play a few different roles pretty well without ever becoming top, top class in one of them. Bogarde might become that player, of course.
What does Jones offer that Luiz wouldn't, assuming he'd cost more? Genuine question, as I have no recollection of ever having seen him play (which is the case for me with most players in other teams).
-
He did have a few good moments in an England match recently but mainly he’s very meh. I’d prefer Luiz who has an affinity with the club and should be available cheap if juve make all the rumoured purchases.
-
Jones is a bit meh for me. He’s not quick of mind and often gets caught out fo being too slow.
-
Jones is a bit meh for me. He’s not quick of mind and often gets caught out fo being too slow.
He also has abysmal hair style so it's a no from me. I would prefer to continue to develop Bogarde
-
We don’t need any midfielders IMO.
-
Juventus set sights on Ligue 1 revelation wanted at Aston Villa
According to Tuttosport, Juventus have joined the queue for Baidoo, who has been one of the best revelations of the Ligue 1 campaign.
The 22-year-old began his career in his native Austria. After various experiences around the country, he was poached by RB Salzburg in 2022.
Last summer, RC Lens purchased the young defender for €8 million and tied him down with a contract valid until June 2030. However, his value has already soared to €25 million according to Transfermarkt.
https://www.juvefc.com/juventus-lens-samson-baidoo/
&t=150s
-
Jones is a bit meh for me. He’s not quick of mind and often gets caught out fo being too slow.
Agreed.
-
Sunderland’s RW Chris Rigg hasn’t had the breakout season people were expecting but is still highly rated from media reports.
His style reads very similar to SJM (apparently) so could be one to watch today. Still only 18 yrs old.
-
Sunderland’s RW Chris Rigg hasn’t had the breakout season people were expecting but is still highly rated from media reports.
His style reads very similar to SJM (apparently) so could be one to watch today. Still only 18 yrs old.
Shiiit Sorry.
-
I like Curtis Jones and think he's a good player, but they'd want too much and I worry he's a bit of a 'jack of all trades'.
A good, solid, jack-of-all-trades midfielder would allow us to thin the herd a little in midfield, where we're probably blessed with riches we don't need (when everyone is fit, obviously). I'm not sure Jones is that player, btw, but I'm certainly not averse to having a player in the squad who can play a few different roles pretty well without ever becoming top, top class in one of them. Bogarde might become that player, of course.
What does Jones offer that Luiz wouldn't, assuming he'd cost more? Genuine question, as I have no recollection of ever having seen him play (which is the case for me with most players in other teams).
Not saying I'd swap them (I like Luiz), but Jones also plays full-back and can play wide in midfield. So with that sort of utility player, you're getting cover for 4 or 5 positions in our formation, instead of 2 or 3.
Again, not saying "get Jones", just that there is value in having players like him in your squad.
-
We don’t need any midfielders IMO.
I think we need a number 10 and a winger. Bailey, Buendia, Barkley and Sancho all to be gone. Not often I disagree with you Percy!
-
No thanks to Jones. Some fella on Youtube that works at John Lennon airport (Above us only sky), said that he's the one grade-A cvnt celebrity he's had to deal with. I only want respectful lads at the football club.
-
Sunderland’s RW Chris Rigg hasn’t had the breakout season people were expecting but is still highly rated from media reports.
His style reads very similar to SJM (apparently) so could be one to watch today. Still only 18 yrs old.
Shiiit Sorry.
You weren't wrong though.
-
We need a right winger with pace, who is direct. We also need an all action, physical left sided midfielder to help cover McGinn.
-
We don’t need any midfielders IMO.
I think we need a number 10 and a winger. Bailey, Buendia, Barkley and Sancho all to be gone. Not often I disagree with you Percy!
I am absolutely content with keeping Barkley and Buendia.
-
Sunderland’s RW Chris Rigg hasn’t had the breakout season people were expecting but is still highly rated from media reports.
His style reads very similar to SJM (apparently) so could be one to watch today. Still only 18 yrs old.
Shiiit Sorry.
Please don't praise Morgan Gibbs-White just before we play Forest in the Europa League.
-
We need a right winger with pace, who is direct. We also need an all action, physical left sided midfielder to help cover McGinn.
Yeah, we need to bring Ramsey back
-
Ramsey can't stay fit and takes five or six games to get up to speed when he's been out. I can't see us signing any PL players outside loans, kids or frees.
-
We don’t need any midfielders IMO.
I think we need a number 10 and a winger. Bailey, Buendia, Barkley and Sancho all to be gone. Not often I disagree with you Percy!
I was thinking about centre-mids really. I do think we need wingers.
-
I think a midfielder comes in. Don't see us signing Luiz. Love the guy but can't get in, not up to speed and big wages.
-
With bailey, Sancho and Guessand likely to be off I think we need a winger. He might not be integral to Emery’s tactic but will be very useful as a tactical point of difference. Feels pointless questioning Emery’s tactics but having one player that threaten the spaces behind the oppositions defence would add a further dimension to our play.
I wonder whether a deal could be done for Madueke. Can play both wings so offers tactical flexibility and Arsenal are rumoured to be jettisoning players to free up cash.
-
I think a midfielder comes in. Don't see us signing Luiz. Love the guy but can't get in, not up to speed and big wages.
Wouldn’t be surprised if Doug plays away at Forest where Barkley is not available. Emery might be managing minutes by rotating them depending on the competition rather than not rating Doug.
-
I think a midfielder comes in. Don't see us signing Luiz. Love the guy but can't get in, not up to speed and big wages.
Thought he was playing well but Barkley came in from relatively nowhere to start at Old Trafford and Luiz hasn't got much of a chance since. Should definitely have come on for Tielemans today. Didn't start during the week. Omens not great for starting permanently.
Still can't find a mini McGinn. That has to be the priority. No more wingers
-
I don't think we're far away. Someone to start either wide left or 10, depending on where Rogers plays. Back up to McGinn. Back up to Cash. Ideally young and potential replacements over time. Buendia and Barkley are more than capable in reserve, as hopefully is Alysson. Tielemans needs cover if Barkley's a 10, so I'd sign Luiz.
Other than that, try and cut our cloth and start looking to the future.
-
... a mini McGinn. That has to be the priority.
I agree, but it must be a nightmare of a request for the scouting dept.
His combination of attributes, ability, and attitude must be tricky to find.
-
... a mini McGinn. That has to be the priority.
I agree, but it must be a nightmare of a request for the scouting dept.
His combination of attributes, ability, and attitude must be tricky to find.
Maybe that’s why we have been linked with Conor Gallagher so often?
-
Gibbs-White or Bruno Guimares are players with that engine and desire.
-
Gibbs-White or Bruno Guimares are players with that engine and desire.
Neither of whom are likely to join us.
I suspect we will stick with Barkley and Luiz for CMF cover next season and look to Alysson and one of our youngsters to cover the right side of MF / attack - Burrowes, Broggio, Rowe and KY are all in the play-or-sell part of their career with us now.
The players we really need top-class medium-term replacements for are McGinn and Kamara, and they will probably need to be purchased.
-
Sunderland’s RW Chris Rigg hasn’t had the breakout season people were expecting but is still highly rated from media reports.
His style reads very similar to SJM (apparently) so could be one to watch today. Still only 18 yrs old.
He was one of the few that caught the eye but I didn’t see any similarity to SJM, he bore more comparison to Harry Wilson, who would cost nothing.
-
Gibbs-White ...
Neither of whom are likely to join us.
I'd love Gibbs-White but he's become a key part of their team - we really need them to be relegated to have a chance of getting him... which now doesn't seem likely.
-
This might be a bit parochial on my part, but I wouldn't be against the idea of giving Troy Parrott a chance.
-
He may do a serviceable job lower half but just don't see him anywhere champions league level.
-
Gibbs-White or Bruno Guimares are players with that engine and desire.
Neither of whom are likely to join us.
I suspect we will stick with Barkley and Luiz for CMF cover next season and look to Alysson and one of our youngsters to cover the right side of MF / attack - Burrowes, Broggio, Rowe and KY are all in the play-or-sell part of their career with us now.
The players we really need top-class medium-term replacements for are McGinn and Kamara, and they will probably need to be purchased.
Sorry but I completely disagree with the bold bit, and reinforcing this sort of thinking is probably the worst thing Purslow ever did. They are 18, 19, 19 and 20 respectively. Play-or-sell is really what you should be considering when they're hitting 22-23. In the meantime it's about giving them opportunities to grow, either by training with the seniors under Emery, getting a loan or being allowed to grow by taking on leadership roles in the U21s (as Burrowes has). We don't need to be in such a rush with these players so long as they're happy with how things are going.
-
This might be a bit parochial on my part, but I wouldn't be against the idea of giving Troy Parrott a chance.
Not sure PL football would suit him. Not the strongest or quickest. Leading the line for a Moyes or Nuno would be a disaster. Fantastic touch, movement and electric in the box. AC Milan, Dortmund or somewhere instead.
Azaz form for Ireland has been mixed but he's top half PL quality. He's going up regardless of how Soton finish the season.
-
Gibbs-White or Bruno Guimares are players with that engine and desire.
Neither of whom are likely to join us.
I suspect we will stick with Barkley and Luiz for CMF cover next season and look to Alysson and one of our youngsters to cover the right side of MF / attack - Burrowes, Broggio, Rowe and KY are all in the play-or-sell part of their career with us now.
The players we really need top-class medium-term replacements for are McGinn and Kamara, and they will probably need to be purchased.
Sorry but I completely disagree with the bold bit, and reinforcing this sort of thinking is probably the worst thing Purslow ever did. They are 18, 19, 19 and 20 respectively. Play-or-sell is really what you should be considering when they're hitting 22-23. In the meantime it's about giving them opportunities to grow, either by training with the seniors under Emery, getting a loan or being allowed to grow by taking on leadership roles in the U21s (as Burrowes has). We don't need to be in such a rush with these players so long as they're happy with how things are going.
I take your point, Paul, but my comment merely reflects where the club seems to be at, and it also mirrors my cynicism that we'll not give any of them a chance to make the role theirs.
-
Yesterday was my first proper look at Sunderland, and it looks like they've bought pretty well since promotion, and a bit like we did in our first year back up, with a few players in the 15-20-25m range, who've all taken to premier league football pretty well.
I liked the look of Enzo Le Fée yesterday. Technically he seemed very assured. He was also the one pressing Cash and Sancho high up the pitch to allow Hume in for their second goal, and he was the one who robbed Sancho in the midfield and played a great through ball for their third. Pretty good shot on him, too.
Decent age at 26, and if we're looking for players who can play in a notional 'front 3' while also being able to tuck in and play through the middle, he fits the profile. Joint highest assists this season for Sunderland, and he doesn't mind getting stuck in (demonstrably so yesterday).
One performance means little, obviously, but worth keeping an eye on him, I think.
-
This might be a bit parochial on my part, but I wouldn't be against the idea of giving Troy Parrott a chance.
Not sure PL football would suit him. Not the strongest or quickest. Leading the line for a Moyes or Nuno would be a disaster. Fantastic touch, movement and electric in the box. AC Milan, Dortmund or somewhere instead.
Azaz form for Ireland has been mixed but he's top half PL quality. He's going up regardless of how Soton finish the season.
Surprised he didn’t make the Championship team of the season.
-
Gibbs-White or Bruno Guimares are players with that engine and desire.
Neither of whom are likely to join us.
I suspect we will stick with Barkley and Luiz for CMF cover next season and look to Alysson and one of our youngsters to cover the right side of MF / attack - Burrowes, Broggio, Rowe and KY are all in the play-or-sell part of their career with us now.
The players we really need top-class medium-term replacements for are McGinn and Kamara, and they will probably need to be purchased.
Sorry but I completely disagree with the bold bit, and reinforcing this sort of thinking is probably the worst thing Purslow ever did. They are 18, 19, 19 and 20 respectively. Play-or-sell is really what you should be considering when they're hitting 22-23. In the meantime it's about giving them opportunities to grow, either by training with the seniors under Emery, getting a loan or being allowed to grow by taking on leadership roles in the U21s (as Burrowes has). We don't need to be in such a rush with these players so long as they're happy with how things are going.
Agree, however i think there another option: Selling with favorable buy-back clauses. Our resources are finite and reducing the total number of players may increase the time and quality of the coaching for the remaining players. Plus there's the cash in the bank that can be reinvested.
-
Gibbs-White or Bruno Guimares are players with that engine and desire.
Neither of whom are likely to join us.
I suspect we will stick with Barkley and Luiz for CMF cover next season and look to Alysson and one of our youngsters to cover the right side of MF / attack - Burrowes, Broggio, Rowe and KY are all in the play-or-sell part of their career with us now.
The players we really need top-class medium-term replacements for are McGinn and Kamara, and they will probably need to be purchased.
I'd keep Barkley, but there's no way we should be spending £20m on Luiz to be our 5th/6th choice midfielder. He doesn't operate at the required level anymore.
Kamara, Tielemans, Onana, McGinn, Barkley and Bogarde is a very good CL/PL midfield selection. If we're adding to that, I'd be looking for someone who doesn't get a lot of injuries and can take a penalty.
-
This might be a bit parochial on my part, but I wouldn't be against the idea of giving Troy Parrott a chance.
I think the physicality would go against him. And I love him as a player
-
Gibbs-White or Bruno Guimares are players with that engine and desire.
Neither of whom are likely to join us.
I suspect we will stick with Barkley and Luiz for CMF cover next season and look to Alysson and one of our youngsters to cover the right side of MF / attack - Burrowes, Broggio, Rowe and KY are all in the play-or-sell part of their career with us now.
The players we really need top-class medium-term replacements for are McGinn and Kamara, and they will probably need to be purchased.
Sorry but I completely disagree with the bold bit, and reinforcing this sort of thinking is probably the worst thing Purslow ever did. They are 18, 19, 19 and 20 respectively. Play-or-sell is really what you should be considering when they're hitting 22-23. In the meantime it's about giving them opportunities to grow, either by training with the seniors under Emery, getting a loan or being allowed to grow by taking on leadership roles in the U21s (as Burrowes has). We don't need to be in such a rush with these players so long as they're happy with how things are going.
Agree, however i think there another option: Selling with favorable buy-back clauses. Our resources are finite and reducing the total number of players may increase the time and quality of the coaching for the remaining players. Plus there's the cash in the bank that can be reinvested.
Yeah, I think Young might be getting to the point where that's an option, not the others though, unless we're offered ridiculous money.
-
I’m a bit concerned that Chelsea appear to be ready to offload Garnacho already.
-
I’m a bit concerned that Chelsea appear to be ready to offload Garnacho already.
I expect Chelsea will have to offload quite a lot of players this summer.
-
Nacho is another flakey winger. Where are all the good, committed and emotionally available ones ?
-
I’m a bit concerned that Chelsea appear to be ready to offload Garnacho already.
I expect Chelsea will have to offload quite a lot of players this summer.
Obviously it will be hard to tell if it is deliberate as Rosenior is doing such a good job anyway, but it wouldn't surprise me if Chelsea suddenly miss out on Europe totally, especially if we either pull well ahead of 5th or lose the semi-final. They come under the extended rules they paid millions to delay next year and Europa/Conference won't help their cause in making the money to help. I'm not sure what happens with the UEFA judgement when the team isn't in Europe, is it delayed until they come back in or does the 3 years continue?
-
As I understand it, if Chelsea are upfront about cocking the finances up again they get an additional £200 million poured into the coffers and automatic passage to the next club World Cup.
-
I’m a bit concerned that Chelsea appear to be ready to offload Garnacho already.
I expect Chelsea will have to offload quite a lot of players this summer.
Obviously it will be hard to tell if it is deliberate as Rosenior is doing such a good job anyway, but it wouldn't surprise me if Chelsea suddenly miss out on Europe totally, especially if we either pull well ahead of 5th or lose the semi-final. They come under the extended rules they paid millions to delay next year and Europa/Conference won't help their cause in making the money to help. I'm not sure what happens with the UEFA judgement when the team isn't in Europe, is it delayed until they come back in or does the 3 years continue?
This chap seems to think that if they don't get Champions League this season then they are pretty much screwed:
https://x.com/slbsn/article/2045425088049057803
If people don't want to click on the shit link, he suggests that they'll need to make €80m of profit on transfers sales in June alone, even with the Club World Cup / Champions League money coming in from the last 12 months. That's just to keep up with what they need to do because of their existing dodgy finances.
Given it looks probable that neither of those incomes sources will be there next season and UEFA won't count any of their dodgy Strasboug dealings, they're looking properly banjaxed.
-
Let's finish top four so as not to help them, then.
-
When Chelsea broke the Premier League record for pre-tax losses for 2024/25, posting a £262.4m deficit I thought at the time that they are taking a massive gamble, almost relying on Champions League football.
-
When Chelsea broke the Premier League record for pre-tax losses for 2024/25, posting a £262.4m deficit I thought at the time that they are taking a massive gamble, almost relying on Champions League football.
PLEASE OH PLEASE OH PLEASE DO A LEEDS
-
When Chelsea broke the Premier League record for pre-tax losses for 2024/25, posting a £262.4m deficit I thought at the time that they are taking a massive gamble, almost relying on Champions League football.
PLEASE OH PLEASE OH PLEASE DO A LEEDS
It would be incredible, if despite the prem league effectively letting them off with a slapped wrist, they go tits up.
Please let it happen.
-
Did I read somewhere that a lot of the money behind Chelsea is from the Saudi PIF, there is already talk of them getting a bit fed up with sport and pulling our of the Golf and Newcastle.
-
Did I read somewhere that a lot of the money behind Chelsea is from the Saudi PIF, there is already talk of them getting a bit fed up with sport and pulling our of the Golf and Newcastle.
I’ve definitely read that too. From memory there’s a chunk of the Clearwater ownership which is thought to be funded by PIF. Not sure whether just rumours or proven.
If true and without the kudos/sports washing benefit you’d think this would be the funding they pull first.
-
It would be a damn shame.
-
Seems Doug was right.
It will all go tits up, or words to that effect
-
The writing has been on the wall for PIF stepping back for a while because the entire purpose of it all was to diversify their economy using sports to drive new interest to attract businesses but it isn't working and the funding for things like NEOM is miles short of their projections. They've already scaled most of that back about as much as possible without outright cancelling it so the failing sports investments will be next. Football will go well before golf and boxing which both come much closer to breaking even.
-
The Jaudis might be in for a rough ride as well then, could have a similar affect as it did when the Chinese pulled investment. A nice slow decline a la Wulvz for them would be handy, them Chelsea and Spurs out of the picture gives us an easier ride going forward.
-
One part of "The Line" was supposed to host one of the stadiums for the world cup. It will be interesting what they do to replace that location.
-
One part of "The Line" was supposed to host one of the stadiums for the world cup. It will be interesting what they do to replace that location.
Vape shops, Dixi Chicken and Betfred are lined up to take it's place.
-
One part of "The Line" was supposed to host one of the stadiums for the world cup. It will be interesting what they do to replace that location.
Vape shops, Dixi Chicken and Betfred are lined up to take it's place.
Sounds like the Sports Quarter.
-
Thinking about it, PIF have been pulling up since the sPorTs QuARteR was unveiled, they've probably just thought 'what's the point trying to compete?'.
-
One part of "The Line" was supposed to host one of the stadiums for the world cup. It will be interesting what they do to replace that location.
That section is the bit they're still committing to currently. In total it's about a 1km section that will be built if they stick to the plans.
-
The Jaudis might be in for a rough ride as well then, could have a similar affect as it did when the Chinese pulled investment. A nice slow decline a la Wulvz for them would be handy, them Chelsea and Spurs out of the picture gives us an easier ride going forward.
Gives the "big 4/5" an easier run of it too which isn't in our favour. Newcastle similar to ourselves with 2 from 3 CL league finishes, a cup win too to be fair but have dropped off hugely this season. Disastrous transfer window despite the crazy money they got for Isak. Howe didn't really address what seems to be an aging squad - Trippier, Schar, Pope, Burn. No cover in midfield and overly stacked in the wide positions.
I really thought we were in danger of a similar season early on. Great credit to Emery for turning it around spectacularly with the same players pretty much considering our terrible transfer window. Do think we need to overhaul the squad in the summer to avoid a Newcastle type fall off next season.
-
The Jaudis might be in for a rough ride as well then, could have a similar affect as it did when the Chinese pulled investment. A nice slow decline a la Wulvz for them would be handy, them Chelsea and Spurs out of the picture gives us an easier ride going forward.
Gives the "big 4/5" an easier run of it too which isn't in our favour. Newcastle similar to ourselves with 2 from 3 CL league finishes, a cup win too to be fair but have dropped off hugely this season. Disastrous transfer window despite the crazy money they got for Isak. Howe didn't really address what seems to be an aging squad - Trippier, Schar, Pope, Burn. No cover in midfield and overly stacked in the wide positions.
I really thought we were in danger of a similar season early on. Great credit to Emery for turning it around spectacularly with the same players pretty much considering our terrible transfer window. Do think we need to overhaul the squad in the summer to avoid a Newcastle type fall off next season.
Was talking about this with my mate the other night, we've improved with a much weaker squad than we finished with last season, it's absolutely mental, even moreso when you factor in last seasons champions are likey to finish behind us having spent the best part of £500m.
But I agree, we do need to do a bit of work this summer, and I think we will cash in on someone big this summer to fund it, though I think we'll fight to keep Rogers and if my dark horse tip is Konsa going instead.
-
But I agree, we do need to do a bit of work this summer, and I think we will cash in on someone big this summer to fund it, though I think we'll fight to keep Rogers and if my dark horse tip is Konsa going instead.
I think this is going to be a World Cup that could have quite a big bearing on our 26/27 season. I think we'll see one big sale, and it'll be whoever our biggest "star" of the tournament is
Konsa / Rogers / Tielemans / Martinez / Onana
(with respect to McGinn and Lindelof, who aren't likely to find themselves on that list)
-
I don't think Martinez commands a big enough transfer fee to for it to be 'him', and if he went it would be and one of the others.
Liverpool are wanting one or two centre halves having mugged signing Guehi and Konsa kind of fits the bill, if we bought in Mingeuza and on the back of Lindelof being great I could see us doing business if the price is right.
-
Liverpool are offering Konate a new contract I think. Can't see an experience international wanting to go there and compete.
-
Liverpool are offering Konate a new contract I think. Can't see an experience international wanting to go there and compete.
Are they? Really? Ha brilliant, he's fucking useless.
-
I don't think Martinez commands a big enough transfer fee to for it to be 'him', and if he went it would be and one of the others.
Probably not, but what he doesn't bring in transfer money he does saves a bit more in wages - which if Emery did want a Rashford or similar, would be pretty important.
I'm still pretty sure that they plan last summer was to nudge Emi out the door and give Rashford his wages, which is how the whole thing would have been workable had it been supplemented with Champions League money this season.
-
Liverpool are offering Konate a new contract I think. Can't see an experience international wanting to go there and compete.
Are they? Really? Ha brilliant, he's fucking useless.
They also bought Jacquet from Rennes in January for £60m with him joining in the summer.
-
Liverpool are offering Konate a new contract I think. Can't see an experience international wanting to go there and compete.
Are they? Really? Ha brilliant, he's fucking useless.
Only 26 so don't want to lose him for nowt - I suspect the wages won't be discounted.
If Spuds go down I suspect they will go for VanDerVen or the Greek lad if West Ham go
-
Liverpool are offering Konate a new contract I think. Can't see an experience international wanting to go there and compete.
Are they? Really? Ha brilliant, he's fucking useless.
They also bought Jacquet from Rennes in January for £60m with him joining in the summer.
I forgot about that one. As you were then.
-
Liverpool are offering Konate a new contract I think. Can't see an experience international wanting to go there and compete.
Are they? Really? Ha brilliant, he's fucking useless.
They also bought Jacquet from Rennes in January for £60m with him joining in the summer.
I forgot about that one. As you were then.
they also signed a young Italian lad that instantly got injured.
-
As magnificent as Emi is and has been unless he restructured his deal (as some others have done) then we need to move on from him. Take the £20m or so and reinvest that in other areas. There are other excellent keepers out there but none or very few will the presence of Emi. We will lose that. Getting in a Rashford, mind you, gives it back to us in another area of the pitch.
-
I don't see that many excellent keepers to be honest, most of them look shite in comparison
-
As magnificent as Emi is and has been unless he restructured his deal (as some others have done) then we need to move on from him. Take the £20m or so and reinvest that in other areas. There are other excellent keepers out there but none or very few will the presence of Emi. We will lose that. Getting in a Rashford, mind you, gives it back to us in another area of the pitch.
Trafford is the obvious player looking to move.
At some point Emi's wages will be an issue. Right now, his performances and presence justify the £200k but I doubt he can maintain this level to the end of his contract. Therefore, if someone did offer £20m (Bayern is my guess) then we must take it (sadly) and also cap the new signing's wages at £100k.
-
Martinez and Konsa will move on in the summer, I think. Mings, Bailey and possibly Digne will go too. Rebuild time.
-
Selling Pau could be another possibility.
Senesi is available on a Bosman, and is a left-sided centre back who makes progessive passes. Also has a similarly extensive injury history.
-
Selling Pau could be another possibility.
Senesi is available on a Bosman, and is a left-sided centre back who makes progessive passes. Also has a similarly extensive injury history.
I think he's more in the McGinn category.
Not in terms of how important he is to us (as the last few months has shown, nobody is as important), but in that to Emery he's more valuable than he would be to other sides, meaning nobody offers us enough to mean it's in our interest to sell.
-
Pau isn't going anywhere short of a mental offer. Same with Konsa, Rogers, Kamara and Youri. Pau is critical to how Emery loves to play out from the back.
-
Pau isn't going anywhere short of a mental offer. Same with Konsa, Rogers, Kamara and Youri. Pau is critical to how Emery loves to play out from the back.
this ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
-
Well, one of them's going somewhere.
-
Is Guessand out for the season? I assume we'll struggle to shift him in the summer if so which would mean another £25m to potentially find.
-
WalesOnline reporting we're highly likely to sign Harry Wilson on a free in the summer. Relevant bit here:
Wales star Harry Wilson is ready to join Aston Villa on a free transfer this summer.
The attacking midfielder has been a long-term target for the Villans and they believe they are set to win the race to take the 69-cap Welsh star. Villa boss Unai Emery wants to add to his attack ahead of next season and believes Wilson would suit his team's style of play.
And it will give the 29-year-old the European football he is desperate for, with Villa on course for a Champions League place.
Wilson has not signed a new deal with Fulham and becomes a free agent in June. He has been considering his options due to his desire to test himself regularly in Europe, something Marco Silva's men have been unable to offer.
Now, while it's understood Wilson will wait until the end of the season before announcing any decision, he is expected to move to Villa Park, especially if Villa secure a place at European football's top table. Villa are willing to double the 29-year-old's wages, with a deal worth £100,000-a-week.
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/harry-wilson-transfer-wales-fulham-33808275
-
How reputable is this rag?
-
Why would Konsa go ?
-
Why would Konsa go ?
Both parties might welcome the extra dough.
-
I think any of them could go were we offered what we want, not many would surprise me. I guess with Konsa, he has managed to stay living down south so maybe he doesn't fancy the move up north, which would limit his options.
-
‘Serious’ – Aston Villa Face AC Milan Competition For 18-year-old
AC Milan’s interest in Red Bull Salzburg’s Kerim Alajbegovic, who is being chased by Aston Villa, is deemed ‘serious and concrete’ ahead of the summer window.
https://insidefutbol.com/2026/04/10/serious-aston-villa-face-ac-milan-competition-for-18-year-old/710208/
Play well against the Villa if you want to get a move
-
If Emi goes - & I think this might be a big if as we're getting into the CL - then Bayern keeper Daniel Peretz who's pulling up trees on loan at Southampton would be a good bet.
-
How reputable is this rag?
South Wales Echo … so it’s a proper paper at least, Birmingham Mail equivalent for down there.
-
If Emi goes - & I think this might be a big if as we're getting into the CL - then Bayern keeper Daniel Peretz who's pulling up trees on loan at Southampton would be a good bet.
If he's that good he'll surely be replacing Neuer who must be nearly 50 by now
-
How reputable is this rag?
They listed algy as the sexiest man in Wrexham, even after Ryan Reynolds came to town.
-
Why would Konsa move? Starter for a top 4 side, starter for England?
-
4th in the league and semifinal of Europa League and some people think it's a good idea to get rid of one of our established central defenders,Konsa,or his fellow defender,Pau.
Wolves are paying the cost of selling their best players.
Sell fringe players like Buendia ,Guessand or Garcia if there's a desperate need to find some money.
-
4th in the league and semifinal of Europa League and some people think it's a good idea to get rid of one of our established central defenders,Konsa,or his fellow defender,Pau.
Wolves are paying the cost of selling their best players.
Sell fringe players like Buendia ,Guessand or Garcia if there's a desperate need to find some money.
To whom? For how much?
-
4th in the league and semifinal of Europa League and some people think it's a good idea to get rid of one of our established central defenders,Konsa,or his fellow defender,Pau.
This makes me laugh when this is said. No one thinks it is a 'good idea', people are just aware that financially sacrifices are often required in our position, and people just ponder who that could be. That's it. I doubt anyone actually wants Konsa or Pau sold.
-
‘Serious’ – Aston Villa Face AC Milan Competition For 18-year-old
AC Milan’s interest in Red Bull Salzburg’s Kerim Alajbegovic, who is being chased by Aston Villa, is deemed ‘serious and concrete’ ahead of the summer window.
https://insidefutbol.com/2026/04/10/serious-aston-villa-face-ac-milan-competition-for-18-year-old/710208/
Play well against the Villa if you want to get a move
That the lad the played against Wales? If so gerrimin.
-
If Emi goes - & I think this might be a big if as we're getting into the CL - then Bayern keeper Daniel Peretz who's pulling up trees on loan at Southampton would be a good bet.
I was listening to The Totally Football Show European edition today and the German correspondent was talking about Freiburg, he mentioned their keeper would be well suited the Premier League and expected him to move soon.
-
4th in the league and semifinal of Europa League and some people think it's a good idea to get rid of one of our established central defenders,Konsa,or his fellow defender,Pau.
Wolves are paying the cost of selling their best players.
Sell fringe players like Buendia ,Guessand or Garcia if there's a desperate need to find some money.
To whom? For how much?
A billion pounds each please.
-
How reputable is this rag?
They listed algy as the sexiest man in Wrexham, even after Ryan Reynolds came to town.
Damnit, clearly bollocks then. The Fenerbache supporter at my boys’ school has been sporting their new tracksuit this week*. Tidy move, he’d got his winter fenerbache gear sorted (fenerbache woolly hat, one of those big touchline coat things), and goes with the classic Fenerbache shirt, dark blue Bermuda shorts, and Fenerbache flip flops in the summer. So the new spring collection finishes that off really, assuming he also reuses it in early autumn.
Cuts a suave and sophisticated figure on the playground. No way I’m competing with that.
* to be fair if I was in the market for some Fenerbache sportswear, the tracksuit top would be my choice - it’s dead nice.
-
I suppose it will depend on how personally happy Sancho is here as its not as though UE has him firing on all cylinders .
It shows how little interest I have in seeing Man City wallop everyone in sight, Bernado Silva has been there years and I have no idea at all what sort of player he is, only that he always seems to play in most games.
Same. I'm like that with most football. I saw people on here giving Ugarte the bird the other day and it struck me that, though I knew his name (and that he's from Uruguay because I'm a sucker for Uruguay), I had no idea what he looks like, where he plays, how much he cost or whether he butters bacon rolls. It largely passes me by.
Are you Leon Bailey?
-
‘Serious’ – Aston Villa Face AC Milan Competition For 18-year-old
AC Milan’s interest in Red Bull Salzburg’s Kerim Alajbegovic, who is being chased by Aston Villa, is deemed ‘serious and concrete’ ahead of the summer window.
https://insidefutbol.com/2026/04/10/serious-aston-villa-face-ac-milan-competition-for-18-year-old/710208/
Play well against the Villa if you want to get a move
That the lad the played against Wales? If so gerrimin.
That's him. Looked a real threat for Bosnia in that game.
-
WalesOnline reporting we're highly likely to sign Harry Wilson on a free in the summer. Relevant bit here:
Wales star Harry Wilson is ready to join Aston Villa on a free transfer this summer.
The attacking midfielder has been a long-term target for the Villans and they believe they are set to win the race to take the 69-cap Welsh star. Villa boss Unai Emery wants to add to his attack ahead of next season and believes Wilson would suit his team's style of play.
And it will give the 29-year-old the European football he is desperate for, with Villa on course for a Champions League place.
Wilson has not signed a new deal with Fulham and becomes a free agent in June. He has been considering his options due to his desire to test himself regularly in Europe, something Marco Silva's men have been unable to offer.
Now, while it's understood Wilson will wait until the end of the season before announcing any decision, he is expected to move to Villa Park, especially if Villa secure a place at European football's top table. Villa are willing to double the 29-year-old's wages, with a deal worth £100,000-a-week.
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/harry-wilson-transfer-wales-fulham-33808275
Would be a good signing, as he can play 'number 10' and on the right.
-
WalesOnline reporting we're highly likely to sign Harry Wilson on a free in the summer. Relevant bit here:
Wales star Harry Wilson is ready to join Aston Villa on a free transfer this summer.
The attacking midfielder has been a long-term target for the Villans and they believe they are set to win the race to take the 69-cap Welsh star. Villa boss Unai Emery wants to add to his attack ahead of next season and believes Wilson would suit his team's style of play.
And it will give the 29-year-old the European football he is desperate for, with Villa on course for a Champions League place.
Wilson has not signed a new deal with Fulham and becomes a free agent in June. He has been considering his options due to his desire to test himself regularly in Europe, something Marco Silva's men have been unable to offer.
Now, while it's understood Wilson will wait until the end of the season before announcing any decision, he is expected to move to Villa Park, especially if Villa secure a place at European football's top table. Villa are willing to double the 29-year-old's wages, with a deal worth £100,000-a-week.
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/harry-wilson-transfer-wales-fulham-33808275
Would be a good signing, as he can play 'number 10' and on the right.
He's also a 1-4 goal scorer across his entire Premier League career, while being at Fulham. Which is pretty solid (if unspectacular) for a wide midfielder. This year he's obviously 1 in 3, which has dragged his average up, but he's not on to go an entire season with hardly any goal-scoring contribution.
Honestly, though, can't say I've ever really noticed him when we've played against him. Not sure if that's a particularly bad thing. Will be paying attention this weekend, obviously.
-
Honestly, though, can't say I've ever really noticed him when we've played against him.
I remember he scored the winner for Bournemouth in our first home game back after promotion.
-
As a Fulham fan I’ve heard the same rumours, he’s had a brilliant season this year, and I even thought he might go back to Liverpool with Salah leaving, he will be good for if plays wide right for you, my only concern that this might be the exception, for in the last 3 seasons he’s struggled to get regular game time,
-
Franky, my impression from him is that he has a touch of the Emerys about him already, intelligent, shields the ball, bit of inspiration. As you say, question as to whether or not the penny's really dropped or if he's just having one of those big years. Looks more sustainable to me than e.g. Chris Woods miracle anus, but happy to defer. Who would Tony Khan get in to replace him?
Worst of luck on the weekend pal ;).
-
Hiya Londonfranky, we could give you a straight swap for Leon Bailey?
Bailey is brilliant. Honest.
-
Franky, my impression from him is that he has a touch of the Emerys about him already, intelligent, shields the ball, bit of inspiration. As you say, question as to whether or not the penny's really dropped or if he's just having one of those big years. Looks more sustainable to me than e.g. Chris Woods miracle anus, but happy to defer. Who would Tony Khan get in to replace him?
Worst of luck on the weekend pal ;).
we seem to like wide players Oscar Bobb and Samuel Chukwueze look likely to replace him,probably Bobb because Chukwueze is only on loan hopefully Bobb because he’s younger, hasn’t shown much since we signed him in January, but Silva never seems to start them straight away,
-
Hiya Londonranky, we could give you a straight swap for Leon Bailey?
Bailey is brilliant. Honest.
"But Wilson is on a free"
"The offer still stands"
-
Hiya Londonranky, we could give you a straight swap for Leon Bailey?
Bailey is brilliant. Honest. I get the feeling you’re nor struck on Bailey lol
-
Hiya Londonranky, we could give you a straight swap for Leon Bailey?
Bailey is brilliant. Honest.
"But Wilson is on a free"
"The offer still stands"
Better still: buy a Guessand and get a Bailey for free. BOGOF
-
As a Fulham fan I’ve heard the same rumours, he’s had a brilliant season this year, and I even thought he might go back to Liverpool with Salah leaving, he will be good for if plays wide right for you, my only concern that this might be the exception, for in the last 3 seasons he’s struggled to get regular game time,
Nice to see you again on here, Franky. Hope all's well. :)
-
As a Fulham fan I’ve heard the same rumours, he’s had a brilliant season this year, and I even thought he might go back to Liverpool with Salah leaving, he will be good for if plays wide right for you, my only concern that this might be the exception, for in the last 3 seasons he’s struggled to get regular game time,
Nice to see you again on here, Franky. Hope all's well. :)
yeah I’m good laughing at spurs and West Ham
-
As a squad option I think he’d make sense.
-
Franky, my impression from him is that he has a touch of the Emerys about him already, intelligent, shields the ball, bit of inspiration. As you say, question as to whether or not the penny's really dropped or if he's just having one of those big years. Looks more sustainable to me than e.g. Chris Woods miracle anus, but happy to defer. Who would Tony Khan get in to replace him?
Worst of luck on the weekend pal ;).
I've watched him play for Wales quite a bit and it just seems to have clicked for him the last couple of seasons. With Bale and Ramsey departing the international stage, he's become the talisman for the team and it seems to have brought the best out of him. Very good at set pieces as well.
-
As a Fulham fan I’ve heard the same rumours, he’s had a brilliant season this year, and I even thought he might go back to Liverpool with Salah leaving, he will be good for if plays wide right for you, my only concern that this might be the exception, for in the last 3 seasons he’s struggled to get regular game time,
Nice to see you again on here, Franky. Hope all's well. :)
yeah I’m good laughing at spurs and West Ham
I take it you are Spurs down first but if it happens to be Spam with their tax-payer acquired stadium and dodgy owners, that is a great consolation prize.
-
Hiya Londonranky, we could give you a straight swap for Leon Bailey?
Bailey is brilliant. Honest.
"But Wilson is on a free"
"The offer still stands"
Better still: buy a Guessand and get a Bailey for free. BOGOF
We could do with getting Bailey's wage of GBP120,000 a week off our books. A replacement in Wilson at GBP100,000 a week sounds good to me.
-
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/harry-wilson-transfer-wales-fulham-33808275
-
As a Fulham fan I’ve heard the same rumours, he’s had a brilliant season this year, and I even thought he might go back to Liverpool with Salah leaving, he will be good for if plays wide right for you, my only concern that this might be the exception, for in the last 3 seasons he’s struggled to get regular game time,
Nice to see you again on here, Franky. Hope all's well. :)
yeah I’m good laughing at spurs and West Ham
not sure really probably prefer Spurs all that bollocks about joining Europe super league when they’ve won nothing in the last 20 years , West Ham sold there soul leaving Upton Park so that would be good too lol
I take it you are Spurs down first but if it happens to be Spam with their tax-payer acquired stadium and dodgy owners, that is a great consolation prize.
-
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/harry-wilson-transfer-wales-fulham-33808275
Well done your boys.
-
Anyone else uncomfortable that these rumours are circulating in the days before the game. Feels a bit Man U.
-
Anyone else uncomfortable that these rumours are circulating in the days before the game. Feels a bit Man U.
No, there's been links for a month or two now.
-
Wilson on a free is a good signing. Gives us a good rotational option with McGinn on the right hand side, can also play in the 10, and crucially, even with the wage bump he'll get, the deal will be cheaper than Sancho currently is on our books.
He really feels like an Emery player, and has great set piece delivery too. We might actually be able to score a penalty...
Smart signing, low risk, no issues at all with it. And definitely won't be our only wide player of the summer. Look forward to that one in June.
-
You'd expect Alyson to be more involved next season too.
-
We need to get to a place where Alyson's starting to happen.
-
I suspect Alysson is Morgan Rogers' eventual replacement.
Even looks like him.
-
We need to get to a place where Alyson's starting to happen.
I know this world is hurting you.
-
Always liked Wilson but fear this is a one off season (Like the one Bailey had prior to new contract)
I would like to think Allyson is the Bailey long term replacement once we exchange his glass legs for footballers ones.
-
Always liked Wilson but fear this is a one off season (Like the one Bailey had prior to new contract)
As Smithy says above, he's been a one-in-four player for most of his career, which has been one-in-three this season. So his record is fine, and I think someone to help manage McGinn's minutes in that wide-right-but-actually-playing-in-the-middle role that they both seem to do, he'd be ideal for a couple of years while we sort out a longer-term replacement for them both.
My concern would be that he's had a such a good season because everything goes through him for Fulham - so he gets more of the ball and more of an opportunity to shoot than he would with us.
On the plus side - we've got a pretty damn good record of bringing in out-of-contract players and them hitting the ground running.
-
He'd struggle to be shitter and contribute less than the trifecta of awfulness that is Sancho, Bailey and Guessand. Even so, a bit of a meh signing.
-
I think it would be meh if it were our top/main signing for the summer, but assuming it won’t be as disastrous a situation as last summer I’d expect some improvement to the squad. Him as a squad option is pretty decent, in an area of the pitch where we do need a refresh.
-
You'd expect Alyson to be more involved next season too.
He couldn't be less involved. Something seems a bit off there in all honesty. Pre season crucial for him.
-
We need to get to a place where Alyson's starting to happen.
I know this world is hurting you.
I’m hoping his aim is true
-
Always liked Wilson but fear this is a one off season (Like the one Bailey had prior to new contract)
As Smithy says above, he's been a one-in-four player for most of his career, which has been one-in-three this season. So his record is fine, and I think someone to help manage McGinn's minutes in that wide-right-but-actually-playing-in-the-middle role that they both seem to do, he'd be ideal for a couple of years while we sort out a longer-term replacement for them both.
My concern would be that he's had a such a good season because everything goes through him for Fulham - so he gets more of the ball and more of an opportunity to shoot than he would with us.
On the plus side - we've got a pretty damn good record of bringing in out-of-contract players and them hitting the ground running.
Yep, we need to be taking the value from high level, out of contract players, like Wilson. I posted the transfermarkt link a few pages ago, and there's a handful of players there that we should be seriously considering along with Wilson - there's Sensesi, Mingueza, Brandt who would be CL level contributors; and the likes of Rico Henry, Sessegnon, Bissouma who could be serviceable backups.
Then spend whatever money we have on 2-3 big players who will make a difference in the first team.
-
Given the amount of speculation, I think there’s a good chance we sign both Wilson and Mingueza on “free” transfers.
After that, what do we need? Strikes me that could be us done unless we start selling some ‘crown jewels’.
If so, this gives us the opportunity to sign 2 or 3 genuine wonderkids, preparing us for the transition from McGinn, Mings, Watkins, Emi to ? And ? And ?.
-
How This Genius Winger Dominates Games By Walking
Can see him working well with Matty Cash and Ian Maatsen
-
He won't want to jeopardise his future employer's odds of champions league football. I won't accept anything but an own goal from the lad.
-
Wilson has had half a good season in how many years, we can do better.
-
His Fulham games and goals is below, PL, FA Cup and League cup, total columns far right
Fulham
2022–23[66] Premier League 29 2 4 1 0 0 — 33 3
2023–24[67] Premier League 35 4 2 0 6 1 — 43 5
2024–25[68] Premier League 25 6 0 0 2 0 — 27 6
2025–26[69] Premier League 31 10 2 1 2 0 — 35 11
He is having the best season of his career so far, but he isn’t inconsistent in his previous seasons IMO.
He has 11 assists this season in all competitions, with a total of 34 assists then split over the rest of his Fulham career (was on loan in the championship which I haven’t listed above) so based on the above he averages around 30+ games a season and scores 5 goals and provides the same in assists?
Seems a solid player on a free who is now at his peak, although at 29 his age won’t help reduce the overall average squad age.
-
Wilson has had half a good season in how many years, we can do better.
Yeah, we probably can, but with what? Magic beans?
-
Tom Hanks will be happy we are signing Wilson
-
Wilson has had half a good season in how many years, we can do better.
For £5m per year and no transfer fee?
-
Wilson has had half a good season in how many years, we can do better.
For £5m per year and no transfer fee?
It's sad that we have to put signings into context like this, but that's the reality. Give him a three or four year contract, and it's a total outlay of about £20m, maybe a little more with signing on bonuses. But that's the fee you'd likely pay (as a minimum) to buy someone of similar-ish ability, but then you have the wages on top of that.
I hate that the football world has made us look at transfers like accountants these days, but it's the reality, unfortunately. And if we're looking at how much bang we can get for our buck, then free transfers are a great way of making limited funds go further.
Our track record on Free transfers is pretty good, so I'd hope to continue the trend for as long as we can.
-
For anyone getting disheartened at how we have to manage our resources, always remember this is a league that contains Chelsea's owners and where Jason Wilcox calls the shots at Old Trafford.
It is choc full of wealthy divs, there to be exploited.
-
If we get him, I still reckon we need a wide player with pace as well, real quick. Can catch pigeons etc.
-
If we get him, I still reckon we need a wide player with pace as well, real quick. Can catch pigeons etc.
Given we went into the season expecting all of Elliot, Guessand, Malen and Sancho to contribute from attacking positions and the second half expecting Sancho and Bailey to contribute, if we sign Wilson I fully expect it to be him and two others.
-
Pretty incredible to end up being favourites for a CL spot when our incomings over the past year have been so poor.
-
Wilson has had half a good season in how many years, we can do better.
For £5m per year and no transfer fee?
He is no Brett Holman
-
Pretty incredible to end up being favourites for a CL spot when our incomings over the past year have been so poor.
Yep. It shows again how amazing our core squad has been over the last few years, as was also evidenced when we lost a few of them for a couple of months this season.
-
Whilst I agree about the core of the squad, I think what it mainly shows is the utter genius of Unai.
-
Whilst I agree about the core of the squad, I think what it mainly shows is the utter genius of Unai.
While those things are the most important, I think you can also add that had Spurs / Chelsea / Liverpool not all completely shat the bed (relative to the resources) at a convenient time for us then with a similar season we could be sixth right now and still be very happy with how well the season was going.
-
Wilson IN Bailey OUT and £20k better off in wages each week. It's a no brainer to me, and I don't expect Wilson to be that great either.
The difficulty will be shifting Bailey. Even then, there's some cash down the back of the sofa from Elliot and Sanchos loans ending.
-
Whilst I agree about the core of the squad, I think what it mainly shows is the utter genius of Unai.
While those things are the most important, I think you can also add that had Spurs / Chelsea / Liverpool not all completely shat the bed (relative to the resources) at a convenient time for us then with a similar season we could be sixth right now and still be very happy with how well the season was going.
Yep. We've done well, but dumb luck has played it's part as much as anything this season, particularly since January. 6 or 7 weekends where results going our way has kept us in it.
-
Whilst I agree about the core of the squad, I think what it mainly shows is the utter genius of Unai.
While those things are the most important, I think you can also add that had Spurs / Chelsea / Liverpool not all completely shat the bed (relative to the resources) at a convenient time for us then with a similar season we could be sixth right now and still be very happy with how well the season was going.
Yep agree - it is remarkable how much Unai has achieved when you look at the utter non-impact of any of the attacking signings we made in the summer. But also had the other teams not been hopeless it would have been challenging.
-
Whilst I agree about the core of the squad, I think what it mainly shows is the utter genius of Unai.
While those things are the most important, I think you can also add that had Spurs / Chelsea / Liverpool not all completely shat the bed (relative to the resources) at a convenient time for us then with a similar season we could be sixth right now and still be very happy with how well the season was going.
Yep. We've done well, but dumb luck has played it's part as much as anything this season, particularly since January. 6 or 7 weekends where results going our way has kept us in it.
Nope, that's absolute rubbish. It's nothing to do with luck, teams that are capable of winning 5-6 in a row, not winning for 5 or 6 in row and everything in between are, by definition, inconsistent. All that has happened in the last few months is a continuation of that, with us adding a little more inconsistency ourselves (mainly due to key injuries) and Man Utd have a bit of a longer new manager bounce than expected.
Putting it down as luck suggests the manager and squad don't deserve to be where we are when the opposite is true, with luck on our side to not see almost our entire midfield out injured at once we'd be clear in 3rd and likely still in the title race.
-
Whilst I agree about the core of the squad, I think what it mainly shows is the utter genius of Unai.
While those things are the most important, I think you can also add that had Spurs / Chelsea / Liverpool not all completely shat the bed (relative to the resources) at a convenient time for us then with a similar season we could be sixth right now and still be very happy with how well the season was going.
Yep. We've done well, but dumb luck has played it's part as much as anything this season, particularly since January. 6 or 7 weekends where results going our way has kept us in it.
Nope, that's absolute rubbish. It's nothing to do with luck, teams that are capable of winning 5-6 in a row, not winning for 5 or 6 in row and everything in between are, by definition, inconsistent. All that has happened in the last few months is a continuation of that, with us adding a little more inconsistency ourselves (mainly due to key injuries) and Man Utd have a bit of a longer new manager bounce than expected.
Putting it down as luck suggests the manager and squad don't deserve to be where we are when the opposite is true, with luck on our side to not see almost our entire midfield out injured at once we'd be clear in 3rd and likely still in the title race.
I think luck evens out over the course of a season (generally speaking), but it's also true to say the league is a lot closer in the mid-table this season, which in turn means it will take fewer points to get into the top 5 positions. Someone could finish in the top 5 with a points total in the 50s. Last year, we missed out on 66 points.
We still need 8 points from our last 5 games to beat our points total from last season, in which we finished 6th. Two wins, two draws and a loss from our last 5 games. It's entirely possible we don't get that, especially if CL is confirmed early, and we change focus to the Europa League. So we could quite easily end up with a higher league position, but a lower points total than last season.
I'm not saying that's "luck", but we will definitely have benefited from a much tighter league. To be clear, the title winners will also have benefited. Unless one of the top two wins every remaining game, the league winners will have the lowest points total since Leicester, and the 3rd lowest total in the last 20 years.
The entire league has benefited from the "top 6" being mostly mediocre this season, as it's brought the whole league closer together.
-
I agree with all of that and it also leans into my point that where we are isn't about luck, it's about us and Man Utd being the 2 strongest of the pack of teams that were chasing European spots, despite also being fairly inconsistent ourselves.
-
Assuming CL qualification, I can see us pushing for a Rashford-style loan again. A difference making player but without the commitment to pay them for the next 3 to 4 years.
Absolutely no idea who, other than Rashford himself I suppose. Anyone on the fringes of the Madrid/Barca squads that might be available?
-
I agree with all of that and it also leans into my point that where we are isn't about luck, it's about us and Man Utd being the 2 strongest of the pack of teams that were chasing European spots, despite also being fairly inconsistent ourselves.
Yep, agree with that. After all, you can only beat who is in front of you, and in that pack we've been slightly better at it than them. It's been over 20 years since a team finished in the top 5 with less than 60 points, and it's also amazing we're almost at the end of April, with 4 or 5 games to go, and the team in 12th still has realistic hopes of European football. It's all very congested, which makes it much more interesting, I think.
It's a bit like the Leicester season, lots of mediocre sides, but Leicester were less mediocre than everyone else. You can look at it as they beat everyone put in front of them that season with no luck involved, or you can say they were lucky that they peaked in a season when the normal challengers were all mediocre. It's a far cry from Man City and Liverpool all getting well in the 90s, season after season (thankfully). It seems bonkers today that Liverpool got 97 points one season and DIDN'T win the league... but then maybe that season they benefited from a bottom half of the league all being dross and easy to hammer week in week out.
-
I agree with all of that and it also leans into my point that where we are isn't about luck, it's about us and Man Utd being the 2 strongest of the pack of teams that were chasing European spots, despite also being fairly inconsistent ourselves.
Yep, agree with that. After all, you can only beat who is in front of you, and in that pack we've been slightly better at it than them. It's been over 20 years since a team finished in the top 5 with less than 60 points, and it's also amazing we're almost at the end of April, with 4 or 5 games to go, and the team in 12th still has realistic hopes of European football. It's all very congested, which makes it much more interesting, I think.
It's a bit like the Leicester season, lots of mediocre sides, but Leicester were less mediocre than everyone else. You can look at it as they beat everyone put in front of them that season with no luck involved, or you can say they were lucky that they peaked in a season when the normal challengers were all mediocre. It's a far cry from Man City and Liverpool all getting well in the 90s, season after season (thankfully). It seems bonkers today that Liverpool got 97 points one season and DIDN'T win the league... but then maybe that season they benefited from a bottom half of the league all being dross and easy to hammer week in week out.
This year i don't think it's about mediocrity but rather the exact opposite, it's that the quality in the bottom half has increased massively and it's dragged the top half back to condense the league. If you look at the squads for some of the teams down in 11-15th there's some really good players in there and those teams are capable of some top performances, which is hown by teams in 13th and 16th being in European Semi-finals and England topping the coefficient by miles. Where things fall down is that the very best clubs in other leagues have an easier time and more concentrated 'power' which nudges them slightly ahead at the very end of the champions league.
-
I agree with paul_e.
-
Yeah, I don't buy that the league is weaker at all.
-
I agree with paul_e.
Me too 110%
-
The league is definitely stronger on the whole. It would be a surprise if it weren't, given how much money is poured into it compared to other leagues.
But I still don't think that it's particularly controversial to think that we have also been helped out by Spurs, Chelsea and Liverpool all choosing this season to be, worse than most people expected them to be.
-
The league is definitely stronger on the whole. It would be a surprise if it weren't, given how much money is poured into it compared to other leagues.
But I still don't think that it's particularly controversial to think that we have also been helped out by Spurs, Chelsea and Liverpool all choosing this season to be, worse than most people expected them to be.
Chelsea and Liverpool maybe but I don’t think there any surprise about Spurs being crap again.
-
The only bit of luck we've had is persuading the best manager on this or any other planet to join us.
-
We under-performed for years relative to resources. To be the other side of the coin is fantastic, next stage is to establish ourselves at the top.
-
The league is definitely stronger on the whole. It would be a surprise if it weren't, given how much money is poured into it compared to other leagues.
But I still don't think that it's particularly controversial to think that we have also been helped out by Spurs, Chelsea and Liverpool all choosing this season to be, worse than most people expected them to be.
Chelsea and Liverpool maybe but I don’t think there any surprise about Spurs being crap again.
I don't think many people would have put them 18th in the league with five games to go though.
-
We're lucky Wolves and Burnley are having an off season.
-
Yeah, I don't buy that the league is weaker at all.
Yep. It was clearly much weaker a few years ago when Liverpool got 98 points IIRC and finished second. Tedious as fuck when the top teams win all the time, that's a traditional English criticism of the Scottish League. Newcastle have loads of good players and are 14th. Palace can beat anyone on their day and are 13th. Tottenham pissed the Champions League group stage and are fighting to avoid the drop. The league is stronger than it has ever been, IMO. Transplant any of those teams back ten years and they'd probably be challenging for top four.
-
Spurs have been massively shit for over 18 months, it's zero shock they could go down.
-
Spurs won 2-0 away to Man City in August. I don't recall many people tipping them for relegation back then. In fact, most of the talk was about them challenging for the title *snigger*
-
They've won 12 of their last 59 league games. As we know, when you're that shit there's a decent chance you'll drop.
-
They were mostly shit in the second half of last season because three teams were so far adrift they could afford to concentrate entirely on the Europa League. They've still been in and around the top six for most of the last two decades and have resources that dwarf most of their competitors. Their relegation would be the second biggest shock in Premier League history after Leicester winning the league.
-
I agree with all of that and it also leans into my point that where we are isn't about luck, it's about us and Man Utd being the 2 strongest of the pack of teams that were chasing European spots, despite also being fairly inconsistent ourselves.
Yep, agree with that. After all, you can only beat who is in front of you, and in that pack we've been slightly better at it than them. It's been over 20 years since a team finished in the top 5 with less than 60 points, and it's also amazing we're almost at the end of April, with 4 or 5 games to go, and the team in 12th still has realistic hopes of European football. It's all very congested, which makes it much more interesting, I think.
It's a bit like the Leicester season, lots of mediocre sides, but Leicester were less mediocre than everyone else. You can look at it as they beat everyone put in front of them that season with no luck involved, or you can say they were lucky that they peaked in a season when the normal challengers were all mediocre. It's a far cry from Man City and Liverpool all getting well in the 90s, season after season (thankfully). It seems bonkers today that Liverpool got 97 points one season and DIDN'T win the league... but then maybe that season they benefited from a bottom half of the league all being dross and easy to hammer week in week out.
This year i don't think it's about mediocrity but rather the exact opposite, it's that the quality in the bottom half has increased massively and it's dragged the top half back to condense the league.
Precisely. Premier League TV money in full effect.
-
They were shit from the 13th game. Long before they were resting anyone late on. They shouldn't be where they are based purely on resources, but we shouldn't have got 17 points with the 9th highest wage bill. Once you're in a death spiral it can be very hard to get out of it and if you're making bad decisions football doesn't care where you were X years ago or how much money your stadium generates.
I'd describe it like this, it's a shock if Spurs the club go down but it's not a surprise if this Spurs setup goes down.
-
Yeah, I don't buy that the league is weaker at all.
It's weaker at the top end anyway. Not exactly an elite level CL this season either. Maybe the lack of downtime is having an impact, the best players hardly have any pre/post season now.
-
Spurs won 2-0 away to Man City in August. I don't recall many people tipping them for relegation back then. In fact, most of the talk was about them challenging for the title *snigger*
They could have gone second I think if they beat us at WHL.
-
Spurs won 2-0 away to Man City in August. I don't recall many people tipping them for relegation back then. In fact, most of the talk was about them challenging for the title *snigger*
They could have gone second I think if they beat us at WHL.
That surprieses me. No-one mentioned it at the time.
-
With the whole winger thing.... I'm not sure Wilson is the answer. Seems to blow hot and cold like a fair few of our current players tbh, and not sure we need to add one more to the mix.
Me personally, with the disarray at Chelsea, I'd be going all out to get Neto. Now THAT'S a player who would push us on.
-
Spurs won 2-0 away to Man City in August. I don't recall many people tipping them for relegation back then. In fact, most of the talk was about them challenging for the title *snigger*
They could have gone second I think if they beat us at WHL.
That surprieses me. No-one mentioned it at the time.
:)
-
We don't care about Tottenham, Tottenham don't care about we
All we care about is A V F C
-
Spurs are on their way to Lincoln
Tottenham's going to blow it again
De Zerbi can't stop 'em
The boys from Tottenham
The boys from White Hart Lane....
-
I met with a season-ticket- holding Fulham fan today. Asked about Wilson, he said he blows very hot and cold, and this season is an unusually-long hot streak. Top scorer at the moment with 8 goals.
As a free transfer, he's probably worth a crack but I'd also be looking at J Rowe* to share wide duties (assuming all of Bailey, Sancho and Guessand do one). I'd also get a couple of our young wide lads into the squad to build depth and experience.
* Rowe is young, has had good and varied experience and could be developed into a Doku type player.
-
I'd rather have Wilson than Sancho or Bailey.
-
Seems to be impossible to find a winger who consistently shows-up in a relationship.
-
There was a time all of us probably thought we could never in our lifetimes break into the top 4. Given the power and success of the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Man U etc. Success with our resources compared to others, the managers we had, players, owners at the time. Now, however it has come about here we are. Year after year with Unai. Punching way above our weight based on what we can spend under rules designed to keep the likes of us weighed down.
We need to better in the transfer market going forward as many of our regular team starters are aging. But we can still mix in astute experienced professionals to do a job.
-
There was a time all of us probably thought we could never in our lifetimes break into the top 4. Given the power and success of the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Man U etc
I remember the days when it was claimed that Man Utd, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal would be the top four in the Premier League until the end of time, such was their financial dominance over the rest of the league.
-
And now look at the shifting landscape, Millwall challenging for CL Spring '27!
-
And now look at the shifting landscape, Millwall challenging for CL Spring '27!
imagine their lot on European away days?...
-
And now look at the shifting landscape, Millwall challenging for CL Spring '27!
imagine their lot on European away days?...
Millwall v Celtic would be a fiery one!
-
And now look at the shifting landscape, Millwall challenging for CL Spring '27!
imagine their lot on European away days?...
Or look at 2004 and their one game which was in Hungary.
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
🚨 Aston Villa are monitoring James Trafford as a potential replacement for Emi Martínez if he decides to leave. @garyjacob
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
I imagine we'll have a lovely time fitting his £275,000 weekly wage into our system.
-
Yeah, I don't buy that the league is weaker at all.
It's weaker at the top end anyway. Not exactly an elite level CL this season either. Maybe the lack of downtime is having an impact, the best players hardly have any pre/post season now.
Even then 'we' still have a team in the semi-finals. We'll also most likely have a finalist in both of the other European comps (well, guaranteed in one!). It's weaker at the top because the middle is stronger and can take points off them with greater regularity. I don't envisage a team knocking on the door of 100 points again anytime soon.
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
🚨 Aston Villa are monitoring James Trafford as a potential replacement for Emi Martínez if he decides to leave. @garyjacob
both would be excellent signings - big wages perhaps
-
James Trafford needs a place to call home. He’s likely the future England keeper beyond Pickford. I think he’s a great long term replacement for Emi. Big presence in net and will continue to get better.
-
I like Trafford but I'm not sure the 2026 version is a best in the world contender so we'd be weakening ourselves.
If Emi wants to go then maybe but otherwise I'd be reluctant to mess with a player who is so important to us.
-
Oh if we can keep Emi on a restructured deal that’s fine by me. He’s 33 so has a few years left. My thought with the financial rules he’d be one of the salaries we would move on versus selling a top younger asset.
-
Oh if we can keep Emi on a restructured deal that’s fine by me. He’s 33 so has a few years left. My thought with the financial rules he’d be one of the salaries we would move on versus selling a top younger asset.
Win the EL and qualify for the CL, I think Emi stays and possibly on revised terms.
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
I imagine we'll have a lovely time fitting his £275,000 weekly wage into our system.
He might be willing to accept lower wages if our Egyptian owner can get him involved in some construction projects in his home country. ;)
-
I don't think Emi outside of a World Cup year is as good as the one in a World Cup year so I would move him on if there's a deal to be had.
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
I imagine we'll have a lovely time fitting his £275,000 weekly wage into our system.
He might be willing to accept lower wages if our Egyptian owner can get him involved in some construction projects in his home country. ;)
I'd love the chutzpah. "Five million quid less per year, but there's a start for you if you're outside the Crown on Cricklewood Broadway at 7 on Monday morning. Bring your own shovel now, Omar!"
-
There was a time all of us probably thought we could never in our lifetimes break into the top 4. Given the power and success of the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Man U etc
I remember the days when it was claimed that Man Utd, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal would be the top four in the Premier League until the end of time, such was their financial dominance over the rest of the league.
How could I forget? Spent years arguing against that assumption on here.
-
Isn't he a bit on the small side, Trafford ?
-
He's 6ft 6.
How tall do you want him to be?
-
He did look a little unimposing for a keeper a couple of years back when the small criticism started.
-
He's 6ft 6.
How tall do you want him to be?
Yeah but he’s a small 6ft 6.
-
He's 6ft 6.
How tall do you want him to be?
Yeah but he’s a small 6ft 6.
I recall a few years back commenting on here that he looked a prospect as a young keeper. Someone commented he was too physically weak. They did not understand how players develop. I don’t think he’s anywhere near Emi’s level currently but he could be.
-
Jesus, is he? He's always looked 12 and puny on tele. I don't have HD though.
-
Have you considered sitting closer to the television?
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
I imagine we'll have a lovely time fitting his £275,000 weekly wage into our system.
Oomarrr Marmoush-a Marmoush-a Marmoush-a bye bye
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
I imagine we'll have a lovely time fitting his £275,000 weekly wage into our system.
He might be willing to accept lower wages if our Egyptian owner can get him involved in some construction projects in his home country. ;)
I'd love the chutzpah. "Five million quid less per year, but there's a start for you if you're outside the Crown on Cricklewood Broadway at 7 on Monday morning. Bring your own shovel now, Omar!"
This is Birmingham, so he’ll have to get to the Mermaid for 7am for the start.
-
Trafford is taller then Donnarumma, but the latter has such long arms and legs he appears bigger.
-
Donnarumma also appears bigger because he's an absolutely world class goalkeeper.
That ****** played an absolute blinder against us for PSG.
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
I imagine we'll have a lovely time fitting his £275,000 weekly wage into our system.
He might be willing to accept lower wages if our Egyptian owner can get him involved in some construction projects in his home country. ;)
I'd love the chutzpah. "Five million quid less per year, but there's a start for you if you're outside the Crown on Cricklewood Broadway at 7 on Monday morning. Bring your own shovel now, Omar!"
This is Birmingham, so he’ll have to get to the Mermaid for 7am for the start.
Yes, apologies. I only knew of one legendary Paddy pick-up place, apart from the one I carry with me.
-
Sigh
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
I imagine we'll have a lovely time fitting his £275,000 weekly wage into our system.
He might be willing to accept lower wages if our Egyptian owner can get him involved in some construction projects in his home country. ;)
That's pharaoh enough.
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January.
@garyjacob
I imagine we'll have a lovely time fitting his £275,000 weekly wage into our system.
He might be willing to accept lower wages if our Egyptian owner can get him involved in some construction projects in his home country. ;)
That's pharaoh enough.
It should be enough to convince him, unless he thinks it's a pyramid scheme.
-
Donnarumma also appears bigger because he's an absolutely world class goalkeeper.
That ****** played an absolute blinder against us for PSG.
There was a time every keeper that visited Villa Park became Dino Zoff for 90 minutes. A week later back to being Peter Enkelmann.
-
I'd rather have Wilson than Sancho or Bailey.
Indeed. He’s been brilliant this season. And if you’re worried about his wages, keep in mind that as back up/rotation with SJM he replaces Guessand, Sancho, Elliott & Bailey in the squad.
-
🚨 Aston Villa have also retained an interest in Omar Marmoush having tried to sign him on loan in January. @garyjacob
Marmoush has essentially been on holiday all season, having played 90 minutes only three times—and two of those were cup matches.
I can see him going to Liverpool in the summer, and knowing us, we’ll probably be in for more of their mediocre players like Curtis Jones.
-
Have you considered sitting closer to the television?
That’s not how it works, mate. HD fits more pixels in to the same number of square inches. So you have to sit further away from the telly to improve the picture quality.
-
Marmoush, much like Ndiaye would be dream signings. He's one of those players who I tune in specifically to watch.
Neither will happen of course, but hey ho.
-
According to BBC gossip page, Sancho looking to extend his deal with Borussia Dortmund.
Reckon someone at Villa has had a word in his ear after his latest shit show.
-
Have you considered sitting closer to the television?
That’s not how it works, mate. HD fits more pixels in to the same number of square inches. So you have to sit further away from the telly to improve the picture quality.
It will make people appear bigger, though.
-
According to BBC gossip page, Sancho looking to extend his deal with Borussia Dortmund.
Reckon someone at Villa has had a word in his ear after his latest shit show.
Easier league for him. As already shown.
-
According to BBC gossip page, Sancho looking to extend his deal with Borussia Dortmund.
Reckon someone at Villa has had a word in his ear after his latest shit show.
That story has been doing the rounds for the last few months so nothing to do with last weekend.
-
If Sancho was going to be 30k a week I would take him as a squad player , but that wont happen
-
30k isn't even average PL pay now.
-
According to BBC gossip page, Sancho looking to extend his deal with Borussia Dortmund.
Reckon someone at Villa has had a word in his ear after his latest shit show.
How can he extend a deal when he doesn’t have one?
-
According to BBC gossip page, Sancho looking to extend his deal with Borussia Dortmund.
Reckon someone at Villa has had a word in his ear after his latest shit show.
How can he extend a deal when he doesn’t have one?
To be precise:
'Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho, currently on loan at Aston Villa, has given his approval for a return to Borussia Dortmund in the summer, with both parties holding concrete talks over a deal.'
-
30k isn't even average PL pay now.
crazy
-
Have you considered sitting closer to the television?
That’s not how it works, mate. HD fits more pixels in to the same number of square inches. So you have to sit further away from the telly to improve the picture quality.
It will make people appear bigger, though.
Nope, that only works with cows.
-
According to BBC gossip page, Sancho looking to extend his deal with Borussia Dortmund.
Reckon someone at Villa has had a word in his ear after his latest shit show.
How can he extend a deal when he doesn’t have one?
To be precise:
'Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho, currently on loan at Aston Villa, has given his approval for a return to Borussia Dortmund in the summer, with both parties holding concrete talks over a deal.'
Haven’t Man Yoo got a years option on him? No doubts happy to waive given his extraordinary shiteness for them.
-
According to BBC gossip page, Sancho looking to extend his deal with Borussia Dortmund.
Reckon someone at Villa has had a word in his ear after his latest shit show.
How can he extend a deal when he doesn’t have one?
To be precise:
'Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho, currently on loan at Aston Villa, has given his approval for a return to Borussia Dortmund in the summer, with both parties holding concrete talks over a deal.'
Haven’t Man Yoo got a years option on him? No doubts happy to waive given his extraordinary shiteness for them.
They do, but there's never a world that they were going to commit to paying him another £10m.
-
Does he want a lift there?
-
Trafford must be like Stuart Broad.
Looks so young that you can't imagine him being a big bugger.
-
Wouldn't be surprised if Trafford and Marmoush were part of a trade for Rogers. Gets round having to give 15% of whatever we sell him for to Middlesbrough.
-
You need money on the books even if there were a 'trade', the percentage will still be taken.
-
No reason we couldn't sell for pennies and by for peanuts. Ie Rogers sold for 8m buy Trafford for 1m and marmoush for 500k?
-
No reason we couldn't sell for pennies and by for peanuts. Ie Rogers sold for 8m buy Trafford for 1m and marmoush for 500k?
If UEFA are using a fine-toothed comb to work out correct value for money for percentage shares of women's teams and saying they'll pretty much ignore any value of transfers between Chelsea and Strasbourg, I reckon they'll definitively have opinions on it.
-
Yeah, something tells me that if billionaires with access to top lawyers and accountants haven't done it by now, then I don't think we're going to crack a workaround. Although we have BV, so who knows?
-
I doubt we have the money for Trafford. What did Man City pay, £30m? If he goes they'll want a bit on top of that. £31m with a £4m discount on buy back clause.
I like him and always believe a keeper is the most undervalued player as well as the most important but we'd need big money for Emi if he's to be replaced.
-
I also think there will be a bit of a bidding war with him, quite a few will be interested. I don't see us forking out the required. There is probably better value out there somewhere.
-
Sancho will never be a top player - we saw that last weekend. He can leave once deal runs out
Aint worth the money even on a free
-
Us, Spursy, Newcastle, Leeds and Juventus are the clubs linked with Trafford. I know which one i'd choose.
-
Turin is pretty nice tbf.
-
I suppose Trafford would only consider coming once Emi's arse was firmly out the door given what happened to him last summer.
-
Us, Spursy, Newcastle, Leeds and Juventus are the clubs linked with Trafford. I know which one i'd choose.
And Brighton, Chelsea and Liverpool. I have no idea how reputable any of the links are, but it looks like he'll be able to command a decent wage. I just think we'll find better value.
-
Us, Spursy, Newcastle, Leeds and Juventus are the clubs linked with Trafford. I know which one i'd choose.
Trafford won't come to Villa - I think he'll either stay at Citeh or go to Redscouse.
-
It’s never going to be a a case of not having the money for any player. And it’s frustrating when it’s pitched like that.
I’m sure we could buy Rice or Haaland if it was just a matter of money.
We don’t have the freedom to do it because of restrictive practices, not because we can’t afford it.
-
I also think there will be a bit of a bidding war with him, quite a few will be interested. I don't see us forking out the required. There is probably better value out there somewhere.
Man City only got involved because Burnley accepted Newcastle's bid of £31m last summer. He has huge potential, but honestly, I have no idea if that will translate into becoming a top class international keeper. He has all the right physical attributes, and his penalty saving record is already very good (I know there is luck about it, but I always judge a keeper on where they are compared to 'average' when it comes to penalty saves).
Emi has been mostly very good this season, and our chances of getting a 'better' keeper this summer are slim to none, but at 34, every year we keep him now, we run the risk of going past his peak. If the club think they can move him on and Trafford is the replacement, I'd have no issues with that.
-
Us, Spursy, Newcastle, Leeds and Juventus are the clubs linked with Trafford. I know which one i'd choose.
Trafford won't come to Villa - I think he'll either stay at Citeh or go to Redscouse.
I think his position is very similar to Emi when he came here. As in, he's the back-up keeper at a big club, good enough to be a premier league number one, and realising being a cup-only keeper isn't enough to get the recognition (including international) that he craves.
There is no better career path to point at, than Emi's with us. Short of winning a club trophy, he's done everything else here, including becoming recognised as the world's best keeper.
-
Us, Spursy, Newcastle, Leeds and Juventus are the clubs linked with Trafford. I know which one i'd choose.
Trafford won't come to Villa - I think he'll either stay at Citeh or go to Redscouse.
I think his position is very similar to Emi when he came here. As in, he's the back-up keeper at a big club, good enough to be a premier league number one, and realising being a cup-only keeper isn't enough to get the recognition (including international) that he craves.
There is no better career path to point at, than Emi's with us. Short of winning a club trophy, he's done everything else here, including becoming recognised as the world's best keeper.
As ever, Smithy, well argued. However, there'll be better financial offers than we can make.
-
Surprised when someone said he was 6'6", I've always thought of him as a little weakling.
-
Us, Spursy, Newcastle, Leeds and Juventus are the clubs linked with Trafford. I know which one i'd choose.
Trafford won't come to Villa - I think he'll either stay at Citeh or go to Redscouse.
I think his position is very similar to Emi when he came here. As in, he's the back-up keeper at a big club, good enough to be a premier league number one, and realising being a cup-only keeper isn't enough to get the recognition (including international) that he craves.
There is no better career path to point at, than Emi's with us. Short of winning a club trophy, he's done everything else here, including becoming recognised as the world's best keeper.
As ever, Smithy, well argued. However, there'll be better financial offers than we can make.
He would be coming here as an Emi replacement, rather than back-up. And that would free up a lot of our current wage obligations for that position.
And I'm not sure he would have many better options. He's not going to Liverpool to be second or even third choice. He's not going to Arsenal. Chelsea do need a better goalkeeper, but are going to be screwed by UEFA restrictions. Spurs need a better goalkeeper,but - y'know. Ditto Newcastle. Man Utd seem happy enough with Lammens.
I reckon that if we want him, we've got as good a chance as anyone of signing him.
-
The Liverpool link is if they sell Alisson. I agree that he probably still wouldn't want to chance fighting the Georgian.
-
I don't blame him. Who can be bothered with all that neoclassical bullshit anyway?
-
I don't blame him. Who can be bothered with all that neoclassical bullshit anyway?
This is your worst opinion. #JusticeForRobertAdam
-
Rogers linked with playing in Europe now .
I can see Rogers, Bailey, Elliott, Sancho and Martinez out, Trafford, Wilson, Jones and Marmoush in.
-
If Rogers does go, I hope it’s abroad. I couldn’t stand seeing him play for one of the Sky6 (soon to be Sky5). If he went to Bayern I’d at least be able to wish him well.
-
Rogers has made 45 appearances so far in the 2025 -2026 season. More than any other Villa player. There have been times we thought he needed a rest. But Unai knows his players inside out and 'weighing up the pros and cons' has never dropped/rotated Rogers.
What other elite club would do that for Rogers? None in my book.
If Rogers wants to keep on playing lots of football at the highest level, Aston Villa is his future.
All this talk of him leaving is 'click bait' and lazy journalism. Rogers has never hinted at wanting to leave. Money should not be an issue. If need be, instead of selling Rogers we can sell Guessand, Malen, Bailey etc and get a few others off the wage roll.
-
Rogers will be off. Bayern or PSG hopefully.
-
Us, Spursy, Newcastle, Leeds and Juventus are the clubs linked with Trafford. I know which one i'd choose.
Trafford won't come to Villa - I think he'll either stay at Citeh or go to Redscouse.
I think his position is very similar to Emi when he came here. As in, he's the back-up keeper at a big club, good enough to be a premier league number one, and realising being a cup-only keeper isn't enough to get the recognition (including international) that he craves.
There is no better career path to point at, than Emi's with us. Short of winning a club trophy, he's done everything else here, including becoming recognised as the world's best keeper.
As ever, Smithy, well argued. However, there'll be better financial offers than we can make.
I agree, we're not going to be the club offering the most money. But we can offer genuine footballing opportunity, under one of the best-regarded managers in the league.
I doubt anyone will offer him more than he's already earning at City, so I don't think he'll be moving for financial reasons anyway. He's unlikely to take a pay cut, admittedly, but I can see him getting £75-£100k a week at a few different places, including here.
-
It’d be disappointing to lose Roger’s but financially very beneficial of course. And I think that after the past few months you could make a strong case for saying that McGinn, Tielemans and Bouba are our most important players.
-
I doubt anyone will offer him more than he's already earning at City, so I don't think he'll be moving for financial reasons anyway. He's unlikely to take a pay cut, admittedly, but I can see him getting £75-£100k a week at a few different places, including here.
Most places have him on £70-80k per week at Man City.
-
Rogers will be off. Bayern or PSG hopefully.
Rogers is not the type who wants to take his turn sitting on the bench. Loves his football too much. Unai knows this.
-
Rogers will be off. Bayern or PSG hopefully.
Rogers is not the type who wants to take his turn sitting on the bench. Loves his football too much. Unai knows this.
It was Chelsea before they fell apart, then Man Utd, this week it's abroad.
Truth is none of the twats have a clue one way or another.
-
If Rogers goes to one of the big clubs like PSG, Bayern or even Arsenal, when he hits his twice a year dip, he'll find it a lot harder to get back into form than he would here. He'll end up playing half the amount of football he does here.
I'd prefer him to stay, have a great World Cup & we sell a load of shirts to foreigners. If we want to increase our global business we need to keep the likes of Rogers.
Unless Emery thinks he's peaked & now is the time to cash in.
-
He’s not peaked.
-
I get the optics of selling your best players and I’d rather keep Rogers but everyone has got their price. If we were offered silly money, around £90m and upwards I think we’d bite. He’s still developing and could go onto be a world beater, I’d be reluctant to think that he would at another club because of the reasons mentioned.
The key thing is getting a replacement in. Whether we’d want to spend so much on a single player is up for debate but Gibbs White has shown great consistency over a number of seasons, gets plenty of goals and assists and works bloody hard.
-
^^^ MGW would cost £60m, so we’re left with £30m to improve the team or pay off the FFP gods. It barely seems worth it.
Somehow we need to blood more youngster so when they’re sold they sell for £30m rather than our current success - and it is successful - rate of selling between £10-£20m.
-
^^^ MGW would cost £60m, so we’re left with £30m to improve the team or pay off the FFP gods. It barely seems worth it.
Somehow we need to blood more youngster so when they’re sold they sell for £30m rather than our current success - and it is successful - rate of selling between £10-£20m.
MGW £60 million on a 5 year contract is £12 million a year.
-
People say £90m is silly money. I disagree. £90m is minimum. Have you seen what price other players in his position at his level have gone for? £130m is silly money. Numbers in between are realistic.
-
People say £90m is silly money. I disagree. £90m is minimum. Have you seen what price other players in his position at his level have gone for? £130m is silly money. Numbers in between are realistic.
Agreed. £90m is peanuts when you have to give Boro 20%. £129m is a number in between.
-
I’d love us sign a player like MGB or Bruno Guimarães. Both excellent footballers, an eye for goal, gritty, tenacious, battle and wind up the opposition. We could do with some of that!
We’ve got one in goal but could do with that in the middle of midfield, would be a massive upgrade on Buendia, who I really like and has been exceptional this season, but if we’re trying to keep progressing that’s wha we need.
-
^^^ MGW would cost £60m, so we’re left with £30m to improve the team or pay off the FFP gods. It barely seems worth it.
Somehow we need to blood more youngster so when they’re sold they sell for £30m rather than our current success - and it is successful - rate of selling between £10-£20m.
I did say that he’d cost a lot of money but you’d think he could rock up and slot straight in with no drop off and possibly offer greater consistency, relatively young so plenty of longevity as well.
How likely is it to find a player, probably from abroad for £20-£30m that would have the same instant impact.
South American players who’ve never kicked a ball in Europe are making the switch for £40m +
-
People say £90m is silly money. I disagree. £90m is minimum. Have you seen what price other players in his position at his level have gone for? £130m is silly money. Numbers in between are realistic.
Indeed. Yanited paid £80 million + on the likes of Harry Maguire, Anthony and Sancho. Idiot tax should def apply to them if they're interested in any serious way.
Chelsea spunked £100+ on Caicedo and Fernandez.
We took £100 million for Grealish six years ago. £120 mill + or no dice.
-
^^^ MGW would cost £60m, so we’re left with £30m to improve the team or pay off the FFP gods. It barely seems worth it.
Somehow we need to blood more youngster so when they’re sold they sell for £30m rather than our current success - and it is successful - rate of selling between £10-£20m.
I did say that he’d cost a lot of money but you’d think he could rock up and slot straight in with no drop off and possibly offer greater consistency, relatively young so plenty of longevity as well.
How likely is it to find a player, probably from abroad for £20-£30m that would have the same instant impact.
South American players who’ve never kicked a ball in Europe are making the switch for £40m +
Yeah, if we can afford him and he's interested I can't really think of a player who would instantly fit into the way we play better than he would.
-
You have players who never let you down and always deliver goals etc. The absolute elite. They rarely move clubs, but would go for £150m to £200m now, if at their peak. Rogers is in the next bracket down.
-
We set the price and it has to be Wirtz money. Premier League proven and they'll all want him. 90m is pathetic in this market.
-
However we do it we need two or three quality players in the summer.
-
I’ve said it before, there are a few things that need improvement and you can always improve your squad - but the attribute we noticeably, and badly, lack is pace. It really limits our ability to change things up.
-
Wilson- meh! Wasn't impressed with him at all.
-
Wilson- meh! Wasn't impressed with him at all.
Absolute dog shit I thought.
-
You have players who never let you down and always deliver goals etc. The absolute elite. They rarely move clubs, but would go for £150m to £200m now, if at their peak. Rogers is in the next bracket down.
I’m probably coming across as anti Rogers, which really isn’t the case as he’s obviously one of out key players, but if you’re taking Mbappe, Harlaand, Yamal, Vinicius as the pinnacle, I don’t think he is in the next bracket down. He’s unplayable on occasions but he needs to do it much more.
It’s difficult judging players in different positions but would Bellingham be in the next bracket down?
-
The players we sign this summer need to have bottle. They want to have the guts to dig in at games, get stuck into the opposition and put them on their back foot. How many times have we seen us get into good positions in cup or league and then throw it all away because we are scared of the opposition. They need to roar at their own players if not doing it to their extremes, to need to put 100% into every game.
-
Wilson- meh! Wasn't impressed with him at all.
Nah, he’s ok, but not good enough for us.
-
The players we sign this summer need to have bottle. They want to have the guts to dig in at games, get stuck into the opposition and put them on their back foot. How many times have we seen us get into good positions in cup or league and then throw it all away because we are scared of the opposition. They need to roar at their own players if not doing it to their extremes, to need to put 100% into every game.
Like an Anderson
-
I think replacing Rogers with MGW + £40m would be about right for us, if we could do it.
That's the game these days and would give us some room to start reducing some of the older players. I am mindful it takes players time to become established team members and mindful of McGinn, Youri, Mings, Digne, Cash, Watkins and Martinez all leaving the team around the same period.
We do need a couple of sub 25 year olds to replace them over the next 1-3 years. Doesn't to all be in one go.
Wilson and Mingueza on frees hopefully.
We need to explot the loan market and CL should hopefully do that. Who knows who could be available... Rashford, Nic Jackson, Marmoush... Maybe even Gallagher might be available on loan.
-
Be quite nice to have two nasty bastards who hated losing. sometimes we just seem too nice.
-
Marmoush, no thanks
-
Be quite nice to have two nasty bastards who hated losing. sometimes we just seem too nice.
A midfield duo of Trump and Netenyahu would certainly raise our profile worldwide.
-
Marmoush failed his Villa audition.
-
Don't think Forest will be letting MGW go now they're safe TBH.
-
Interesting suggestion BV but could could leave us a bit weak on the left wing.
-
Don't think Forest will be letting MGW go now they're safe TBH.
They’re not safe after today’s results.
-
Be quite nice to have two nasty bastards who hated losing. sometimes we just seem too nice.
A midfield duo of Trump and Netenyahu would certainly raise our profile worldwide.
We'd have all the cards.
-
Be quite nice to have two nasty bastards who hated losing. sometimes we just seem too nice.
A midfield duo of Trump and Netenyahu would certainly raise our profile worldwide.
Probably be better to have people in the tent who didn't always lose though.
-
Coventry are planning to spend £200m to prepare for life in the Premier League, with Aston Villa and Spain defender Pau Torres, 29, and Tottenham's England midfielder Conor Gallagher, 26, among their targets. (Fichajes - in Spanish)
Hahahaha, and hahahahafuckingha
-
Bless ‘em.
-
I would take £175m for Torres.
-
Emery has performed miracles with the players we have but even he must wonder if he's reached his limits. What Rashford bought to us last season shows the skill lever needed to play at the top consistently, problem is we can't afford them. At one time last season I looked at our bench and thought wow, it was that strong, but now we know that Bailey will come on at some time.
-
from BBC Gossip - Cov are going to spend £200mil and want Pau Torres - blah blah blah
-
Emery has performed miracles with the players we have but even he must wonder if he's reached his limits. What Rashford bought to us last season shows the skill lever needed to play at the top consistently, problem is we can't afford them. At one time last season I looked at our bench and thought wow, it was that strong, but now we know that Bailey will come on at some time.
It’s pace as well. See Rashford’s goal yesterday as a great example.
-
The players we sign this summer need to have bottle. They want to have the guts to dig in at games, get stuck into the opposition and put them on their back foot. How many times have we seen us get into good positions in cup or league and then throw it all away because we are scared of the opposition. They need to roar at their own players if not doing it to their extremes, to need to put 100% into every game.
Like an Anderson
Or, an Alex Scott - he makes Bournemouth tick.
-
I have a feeling that was Conor Gallagher for Unai
-
I have a feeling that was Conor Gallagher for Unai
Poundland, compared to others.
-
Any rumours about Torres to Cov?
-
Yep, I think Unai wants to win something and thats foremost on his mind.
-
Agent - oh hi Pau, I’ve got a deal sorted. You’re leaving Villa and joining Coventry!
Pau - am I fuck mate. Oh, and by the way - you’re fired.
-
Bayern not taking Chelsea up on the 65M option for Nicolas Jackson, so imagine we'll be linked again.
-
Agent - oh hi Pau, I’ve got a deal sorted. You’re leaving Villa and joining Coventry!
Pau - am I fuck mate. Oh, and by the way - you’re fired.
Haha! The oddest rumour so far I reckon.
-
Bayern not taking Chelsea up on the 65M option for Nicolas Jackson, so imagine we'll be linked again.
That wouldn’t be a bad move.
-
Bayern not taking Chelsea up on the 65M option for Nicolas Jackson, so imagine we'll be linked again.
He's managed 10% of Kane's output this season, send him to Coventry.
-
Bayern not taking Chelsea up on the 65M option for Nicolas Jackson, so imagine we'll be linked again.
He's managed 10% of Kane's output this season, send him to Coventry.
I wouldn’t have thought he’s played that much. I do think he’s decent, misses quite a few chances but he does plenty of running and is pretty quick. I don’t think he’d be worth £65m, could be a loan option though.
-
I doubt we'd move for Jackson now having signed Tammy, but if Ollie left then maybe.
-
A straight swap for Guessand would be the only real reason to go for Jackson and even then I haven't seen anything to get excited about. Unai obviously loves him from their time at Villareal but one decent season at Chelsea I can't see what all the fuss is about. Chelsea should be looking to try and get their €32m investment back and get him off their wage bill. Ha! He's contracted until 2033.
-
Bayern not taking Chelsea up on the 65M option for Nicolas Jackson, so imagine we'll be linked again.
Certainly not at £65M we won’t.
-
And Chelsea aren't going to loan him to us, so we either stump up or do some type of PSR player swap fudge.
-
A straight swap for Guessand would be the only real reason to go for Jackson and even then I haven't seen anything to get excited about. Unai obviously loves him from their time at Villareal but one decent season at Chelsea I can't see what all the fuss is about. Chelsea should be looking to try and get their €32m investment back and get him off their wage bill. Ha! He's contracted until 2033.
Unai would know him from Villarreal, as he gave him his debut - but Jackson only really kicked on once Unai had left.
-
Yeah, think Emery played him as a winger and only after he left did he become a fairly decent striker
-
He's still only 24 as well. Having someone who can play through the middle and out wide wouldn't be a bad thing.
-
If people think Watkins is profligate in front of goal then I think they'd have fun with Jackson.
-
If people think Watkins is profligate in front of goal then I think they'd have fun with Jackson.
I can only speak for myself, but the frustration with Watkins isn't (entirely) around missed chances, it's that when he's bad he's made entirely of tibia and kiils any and all momentum.
-
If people think Watkins is profligate in front of goal then I think they'd have fun with Jackson.
I can only speak for myself, but the frustration with Watkins isn't (entirely) around missed chances, it's that when he's bad he's made entirely of tibia and kiils any and all momentum.
I don't really disagree, he can be a frustrating watch.
-
When a player ends up at Chelsea on the money and length of contract they are on it makes it very tough for sides like us, who have loads of money but cannot spend it, to bring those players in. The deal will need to match what they are on, have them agree to significant a pay/total compensation reduction, or have the selling side subsidize the deal which they aren’t likely to do.
-
A player I’d like us to go back in for is Nico Williams who seems to be a bit frozen out at Bilbao. We’ve been linked with him in the past, only 23.
-
Well amortisation is only across 5 years regardless of the length of contract and Jackson only went for around £32m. They also don't really pay 'crazy' wages so he probably isn't on as much as you think.
-
Well amortisation is only across 5 years regardless of the length of contract and he only went for around £32m. They also don't really pay 'crazy' wages so he probably isn't on as much as you think.
£100k a week reportedly, although I have no idea how reliable those reports are.
-
When a player ends up at Chelsea on the money and length of contract they are on it makes it very tough for sides like us, who have loads of money but cannot spend it, to bring those players in. The deal will need to match what they are on, have them agree to significant a pay/total compensation reduction, or have the selling side subsidize the deal which they aren’t likely to do.
I’ve never bothered to check, but I thought the new Chelsea model was players on reasonable weekly wages BUT for a very long time. If true Jackson might not be on crazy money.
However I feel Chelsea would be awful to deal with and seek profits on their peripheral players.
-
Jackson wouldn't need to be sold for much at all now for them to have a 'profit' on the books (not that we'd get him cheap, but it won't be obscene). I don't particularly want him, but he's one of those where if he's available then we'll always be linked with Emery at the helm. His market value is around £35m, for whatever that is worth.
-
I'd rather take a punt in Mudryk when he's drug-free. Chelsea can't expect much for him.
-
I've just looked at how long Mudryk is suspended for and it doesn't seem to be finalised yet because he is still appealing the length of the ban. His suspension could last for between another 8 months and two years and 8 months apparently
-
I'd rather take a punt in Mudryk when he's drug-free. Chelsea can't expect much for him.
I'm guessing this is a joke? He was fucking terrible before his ban.
-
I'd rather take a punt in Mudryk when he's drug-free. Chelsea can't expect much for him.
I'm guessing this is a joke? He was fucking terrible before his ban.
Probably because he was off his tits!
-
I'd rather take a punt in Mudryk when he's drug-free. Chelsea can't expect much for him.
I'm guessing this is a joke? He was fucking terrible before his ban.
Probably because he was off his tits!
The enhanced games are coming up, I want to see if he can break the sound barrier.
-
Mudryk could clearly play, he made an appalling choice going there.
-
Mudryk could clearly play, he made an appalling choice going there.
He hasn't exactly shown what he can do at Chelsea, though, at all. If anything he was being mocked for how shit he had been before his ban.
-
Yeah but like I say, terrible choice. There’s quite a lot of younger players who looked like they’re could play before they went there.
-
Football insider claims Everton back in for SJM. 🙄
-
Yeah but like I say, terrible choice. There’s quite a lot of younger players who looked like they’re could play before they went there.
I don't know, felt like more than just a terrible choice to me.
-
Wouldn't be surprised if Trafford and Marmoush were part of a trade for Rogers. Gets round having to give 15% of whatever we sell him for to Middlesbrough.
There is no such thing as a swap deal so no way to avoid sell on fees.
From a financial point of view, that would be treated as 3x transactions, each with a value attributed. Sell on would be calculated on the value attributed to Rogers.
-
I'd rather take a punt in Mudryk when he's drug-free. Chelsea can't expect much for him.
I'm guessing this is a joke? He was fucking terrible before his ban.
Probably because he was off his tits!
***applause***
-
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7218667/2026/04/27/newcastle-yoane-wissa-sale/?source=bsky_uk
Newcastle explore Wissa sale, less than 12 months after signing him for £55m.
If we can get him cheap..?
Toon paid well over the odds last summer - they'd cycled through their striker shopping list trying (and failing) to bring in a player, and were desperate for a signing to keep their fans happy when they lost Isaak late on in the window.
Bit of a shit show from their perspective
Not for me.
Turns 30 in September.
Seems injury prone.
Wonder if they need to raise money because of missing out on Champs League/ECL or the Conference?
-
They definitely need to sell this summer, Wissa would not be a priority from their squad imo. In fact there’s not many I’d want. We seem to be strong in the same positions and I don’t rate Barnes. The rest don’t justify the likely fee.
-
No, age/cost mix just doesn’t work.
-
I want Rashford. Incredibly unlikely, but if Barca can't afford him, then I'd like us to take another shot at it. I can't think of a better signing.
-
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7218667/2026/04/27/newcastle-yoane-wissa-sale/?source=bsky_uk
Newcastle explore Wissa sale, less than 12 months after signing him for £55m.
If we can get him cheap..?
Toon paid well over the odds last summer - they'd cycled through their striker shopping list trying (and failing) to bring in a player, and were desperate for a signing to keep their fans happy when they lost Isaak late on in the window.
Bit of a shit show from their perspective
Not for me.
Turns 30 in September.
Seems injury prone.
Wonder if they need to raise money because of missing out on Champs League/ECL or the Conference?
If you look at their transfer business last summer, it gives the impression of a club completely unprepared for Isak leaving. They naturally got hosed on the costs of the replacement players but they were strange signings to start with.
Isak, Kelly, Longstaff, Wilson out
Woltemede, Wissa, Elanga, Ramsey, Thiaw, Ramsdale (not sure if obligation to buy) - in
Very tough summer window ahead with Trippier and Schar leaving on frees, Willock, Murphy, Burn, Pope with only 12 months left on their deals, having to sell a star player (Gordon or Tonali probably) and move on under performers like Wissa at a huge loss.
-
I want Rashford. Incredibly unlikely, but if Barca can't afford him, then I'd like us to take another shot at it. I can't think of a better signing.
Not beyond the realms of possibility if we're a Champions League team next season, and Man Utd agree to sell him at a price close to previously agreed. If Barcelona don't want him, I think the biggest risk to us signing him is that he might be happy to 'have another go' at United under a new manager (maybe Carrick), and with the club back in the Champions League. I don't know his history there well enough to know if the bridges have been well and truly burned, or not.
But yes, I'd take him in a heartbeat.
-
I want Rashford. Incredibly unlikely, but if Barca can't afford him, then I'd like us to take another shot at it. I can't think of a better signing.
Not beyond the realms of possibility if we're a Champions League team next season, and Man Utd agree to sell him at a price close to previously agreed. If Barcelona don't want him, I think the biggest risk to us signing him is that he might be happy to 'have another go' at United under a new manager (maybe Carrick), and with the club back in the Champions League. I don't know his history there well enough to know if the bridges have been well and truly burned, or not.
But yes, I'd take him in a heartbeat.
The talk was always that Ratcliffe wanted his wages off the books, rather than any big personal issues.
I'd assume that the dynamic is that if a new manager came in and said that they really wanted him and that he was going to be an important player then everyone would be happy to crack on with it.
But if he's not there, I think he's just as likely to be with us as he is to be anywhere else.
-
I want Rashford. Incredibly unlikely, but if Barca can't afford him, then I'd like us to take another shot at it. I can't think of a better signing.
Not beyond the realms of possibility if we're a Champions League team next season, and Man Utd agree to sell him at a price close to previously agreed. If Barcelona don't want him, I think the biggest risk to us signing him is that he might be happy to 'have another go' at United under a new manager (maybe Carrick), and with the club back in the Champions League. I don't know his history there well enough to know if the bridges have been well and truly burned, or not.
But yes, I'd take him in a heartbeat.
Think it's clear Rashford is done at Man United no matter who is in charge. Let himself down badly at the end of his time there. Stats suggests he's had a decent season at Barca but probably needed a spectacular one to get a permanent deal. Good chance he comes back with us in the summer, another loan deal.
-
Asensio has been on fire this year, only signed a 2 year deal there so is probably looking for an out this summer. 13 goals and 13 assists in 37 apps this year suggests he's not a spent force. 2 or 3 year deal for the CL next season.
-
I want Rashford. Incredibly unlikely, but if Barca can't afford him, then I'd like us to take another shot at it. I can't think of a better signing.
Not beyond the realms of possibility if we're a Champions League team next season, and Man Utd agree to sell him at a price close to previously agreed. If Barcelona don't want him, I think the biggest risk to us signing him is that he might be happy to 'have another go' at United under a new manager (maybe Carrick), and with the club back in the Champions League. I don't know his history there well enough to know if the bridges have been well and truly burned, or not.
But yes, I'd take him in a heartbeat.
Think it's clear Rashford is done at Man United no matter who is in charge. Let himself down badly at the end of his time there. Stats suggests he's had a decent season at Barca but probably needed a spectacular one to get a permanent deal. Good chance he comes back with us in the summer, another loan deal.
Be happy with that, quality player!
-
I'd love Rashford back, but if it's a loan, you'd assume it would be a deal done at the end of the window as both Man U and he may wait for better offers (plus I think Barca would like another loan). I'm not sure with CL next season we can afford to risk waiting until the death to sign key players.
Ideally, I'd just offer a decent amount of our budget for him (£30-40m) and try to get it done, but move on quickly if it's clearly a non-starter.
-
Ideally, I'd just offer a decent amount of our budget for him (£30-40m) and try to get it done, but move on quickly if it's clearly a non-starter.
Barcelona's option to buy is £26m, so I'd imagine if we offered that they'd have no reason not to accept it.
-
Ideally, I'd just offer a decent amount of our budget for him (£30-40m) and try to get it done, but move on quickly if it's clearly a non-starter.
Barcelona's option to buy is £26m, so I'd imagine if we offered that they'd have no reason not to accept it.
We might be a be able to afford the transfer fee, but his wages?
-
Ideally, I'd just offer a decent amount of our budget for him (£30-40m) and try to get it done, but move on quickly if it's clearly a non-starter.
Barcelona's option to buy is £26m, so I'd imagine if we offered that they'd have no reason not to accept it.
We might be a be able to afford the transfer fee, but his wages?
I think his rumoured £325k a week might be a bit beyond us!
-
I have never thought Rashford would be a permanent option for us; too much of the wage bill on one player.
As for Asensio's run of form, how strong is the Turkish League compared to the EPL?
-
He's generationally wealthy now. I guess it depends what he wants next in life, but either way he won't be getting £300k + from anyone in his next contract.
-
Wasn't it reported by the Athletic that he took a pay cut to play for Barca, putting him closer to 10m a year? Still an extortionate amount of money, but when we paid Disassi 5m, everything starts to look sensible...
-
Ideally, I'd just offer a decent amount of our budget for him (£30-40m) and try to get it done, but move on quickly if it's clearly a non-starter.
Barcelona's option to buy is £26m, so I'd imagine if we offered that they'd have no reason not to accept it.
We might be a be able to afford the transfer fee, but his wages?
There must be a way that we thought we could make it work - we had an option to make his transfer permanent last summer (which we all said at the time was obviously predicated on Champions League qualification).
But to even have that option in the deal, we needed Rashford and his people and our money people to all have been happy with the terms for the potential permanent deal when it was all agreed in January.
-
Any Rashford deal would be a saga. Not sure it is wise to save all our money, flirting with Rashford, and risk him joining Barca anyway. By which time we'll have missed out on more getable targets.
-
In the next 2 summer transfer windiws6 and the January window next year, we're going to have to bring in/replace about 8-9 players.
We should be looking at players with a price range of £35-45m if we're really going to build the overall quality of the squad.
With an average of £40m each, that's, £320m
This can be reduced if a couple of kids come through the ranks - unlikely given our recent history, or if we can unearth a couple of Morgan Rogers ( @ £12-15m apiece), and even if we can play the free transfer/loans market, it'll still need a spend of £200m-£250m?
We definitely won't have that amount of money available
So, we'll have to raise something in the transfer market - the question is - who can we ship out for decent fees without weakening the squad ?
-
Wasn't it reported by the Athletic that he took a pay cut to play for Barca, putting him closer to 10m a year? Still an extortionate amount of money, but when we paid Disassi 5m, everything starts to look sensible...
Not sure how he took a paycut as his contract with ManU is he gets paid that amount, and between Barca/Manu, he would be paid that unless he altered his contract.
-
Wasn't it reported by the Athletic that he took a pay cut to play for Barca, putting him closer to 10m a year? Still an extortionate amount of money, but when we paid Disassi 5m, everything starts to look sensible...
Not sure how he took a paycut as his contract with ManU is he gets paid that amount, and between Barca/Manu, he would be paid that unless he altered his contract.
Apologies, just located the article. States that the wage reduction came about as a result of failing to qualify for UCL with United.
-
Wasn't it reported by the Athletic that he took a pay cut to play for Barca, putting him closer to 10m a year? Still an extortionate amount of money, but when we paid Disassi 5m, everything starts to look
Not sure how he took a paycut as his contract with ManU is he gets paid that amount, and between Barca/Manu, he would be paid that unless he altered his contract.
Apologies, just located the article. States that the wage reduction came about as a result of failing to qualify for UCL with United.
Don't imagine he needs to sell his medal collection just yet?
Guessing thst as ManU will be back in the Champs League next season his wages will rebound?
Failing that, and if he's a bit short, then he can pull some dividends from his investment, image rights and property companies.
-
I’m not sure about Rashford at all.
I was ok with the last loan, and he was ok, bordering on good for much of his time, but he wasnt scintillating.
Personally I’d go for Johnny Rowe. Still only 22, has shown he has it, and Unai would harness it and improve him.
-
I’m not sure about Rashford at all.
I was ok with the last loan, and he was ok, bordering on good for much of his time, but he wasnt scintillating.
Personally I’d go for Johnny Rowe. Still only 22, has shown he has it, and Unai would harness it and improve him.
Would you still have been going for him, had you not seen one really good game that he just so happened to play against us?
-
If we sell Rogers we can afford Rashford. Rogers didn’t thrive when Rashford was in the team either, so it makes footballing sense.
-
Anyone see much of the young lad Fatawu at Leicester this season? 9 goals 8 assists this season in a poor Leicester side isn't so bad. I seem to remember him being raved over a couple years back. Right winger, I believe.
-
I’m not sure about Rashford at all.
I was ok with the last loan, and he was ok, bordering on good for much of his time, but he wasnt scintillating.
Personally I’d go for Johnny Rowe. Still only 22, has shown he has it, and Unai would harness it and improve him.
Would you still have been going for him had you not seen one really game that he just so happened to play against us?
Yes I could see the argument to an extent - although my view was Rashford was noticeably high class and clearly gave us something different. But to then argue for Rowe seems odd.
-
Rashford didn't really play out wide in midfield though, he struggled in that position from memory for us against the better teams. Maybe with a full pre season with us that wouldn't be an issue. He did have that raw acceleration up front that caused a lot of problems but not sure he would have worked medium/long term as the 9 either. His back to goal play isn't that strong. Does have a summer transfer saga written all over it.
-
I've seen the argument against Rashford coming back pop up a lot recently. Perhaps he wasn't quite as enthralling as some where hoping, but he still had one of the most electric debuts of any signing of the last 10 years and backed that up with a fair amount of excellent performances.
I can't remember a player dragging the eye so often as he did. There was always a sense that he'd so some wizardry and unlock a defense for us. A daft part of me still thinks that we'd have gotten past Palace if he hadn't gotten injured...
-
I’m not sure about Rashford at all.
I was ok with the last loan, and he was ok, bordering on good for much of his time, but he wasnt scintillating.
Personally I’d go for Johnny Rowe. Still only 22, has shown he has it, and Unai would harness it and improve him.
Would you still have been going for him, had you not seen one really good game that he just so happened to play against us?
I’d love to see us take a chance on obvious potential
-
I’d hope we were a bit more scientific than that given we can’t exactly chuck money about.
-
Seems Barca might want him on loan again, but SSN think it unlikely Manure will agree to that.
-
I’m not sure about Rashford at all.
I was ok with the last loan, and he was ok, bordering on good for much of his time, but he wasnt scintillating.
Personally I’d go for Johnny Rowe. Still only 22, has shown he has it, and Unai would harness it and improve him.
Would you still have been going for him, had you not seen one really good game that he just so happened to play against us?
I’d love to see us take a chance on obvious potential
Is 2 goals and 1 assist in a worse league 'obvious potential', though? Loads of players are capable of the odd good game. I'm sure Adama Traore has looked thrilling at times.
-
Ok. Hopefully we aren’t interested in Rowe.
-
I’m not sure about Rashford at all.
I was ok with the last loan, and he was ok, bordering on good for much of his time, but he wasnt scintillating.
Personally I’d go for Johnny Rowe. Still only 22, has shown he has it, and Unai would harness it and improve him.
Rashford as much as any player pushed us almost all the way against PSG. When he and McGinn went off that almost unstoppable drive in the second half faded a bit. He was also really good in most games he played that I remember.
There was a a game or two when him, Asensio and Rogers were playing interchangeable positions and it was hard to fathom how good it was.
Probably all irrelevant as can’t see him wanting to come back after a year at Barcelona
-
If we sell Rogers we can afford Rashford. Rogers didn’t thrive when Rashford was in the team either, so it makes footballing sense.
Great post
-
I’m not sure about Rashford at all.
I was ok with the last loan, and he was ok, bordering on good for much of his time, but he wasnt scintillating.
Personally I’d go for Johnny Rowe. Still only 22, has shown he has it, and Unai would harness it and improve him.
I’d agree with this. It’s (sadly) still vital that we consider wages and future sale values in most of our purchases.
Rashford, whilst a good player, would exhaust our available wages and provides no future income. A decent option on loan if we have CL money but I think we’d be foolish to commit £200k/week for 3 or 4 years.
-
In the next 2 summer transfer windiws6 and the January window next year, we're going to have to bring in/replace about 8-9 players.
Trying to think which players could tip over the edge in the next 18-months:
1. Mings
2. Digne
3. Martinez
4. McGinn
5. Barkley
6. Lindleoff
7. Watkins
Given most are reserves I don’t think there’s the urgency you imply because their minutes can naturally be managed.
In fact, it might be logical to ‘sweat the assets’ whilst youth payers are given the chance to develop and young signings adapt to the UK/Villa way etc. Furthermore, a fair few are integral to our current DNA so should not be jettisoned lightly.
-
In the next 2 summer transfer windiws6 and the January window next year, we're going to have to bring in/replace about 8-9 players.
Trying to think which players could tip over the edge in the next 18-months:
1. Mings
2. Digne
3. Martinez
4. McGinn
5. Barkley
6. Lindleoff
7. Watkins
Given most are reserves I don’t think there’s the urgency you imply because their minutes can naturally be managed.
In fact, it might be logical to ‘sweat the assets’ whilst youth payers are given the chance to develop and young signings adapt to the UK/Villa way etc. Furthermore, a fair few are integral to our current DNA so should not be jettisoned lightly.
4 of them are first-picks ...
-
maybe they won't be in the next 18 months
-
maybe they won't be in the next 18 months
Well, yes ... you're probably right!
-
In the next 2 summer transfer windiws6 and the January window next year, we're going to have to bring in/replace about 8-9 players.
Trying to think which players could tip over the edge in the next 18-months:
1. Mings
2. Digne
3. Martinez
4. McGinn
5. Barkley
6. Lindleoff
7. Watkins
Given most are reserves I don’t think there’s the urgency you imply because their minutes can naturally be managed.
In fact, it might be logical to ‘sweat the assets’ whilst youth payers are given the chance to develop and young signings adapt to the UK/Villa way etc. Furthermore, a fair few are integral to our current DNA so should not be jettisoned lightly.
I too think the core that has served us well over the last few years should be largely retained. Use the Malen/Guessand/Barrenechea money to sprinkle some wing/forward magic into the squad and we’re well set IMO.
-
In the next 2 summer transfer windiws6 and the January window next year, we're going to have to bring in/replace about 8-9 players.
Trying to think which players could tip over the edge in the next 18-months:
1. Mings
2. Digne
3. Martinez
4. McGinn
5. Barkley
6. Lindleoff
7. Watkins
Given most are reserves I don’t think there’s the urgency you imply because their minutes can naturally be managed.
In fact, it might be logical to ‘sweat the assets’ whilst youth payers are given the chance to develop and young signings adapt to the UK/Villa way etc. Furthermore, a fair few are integral to our current DNA so should not be jettisoned lightly.
4 of them are first-picks ...
Replace “most” with “some” and the point still stands (imo).
-
I have never thought Rashford would be a permanent option for us; too much of the wage bill on one player.
As for Asensio's run of form, how strong is the Turkish League compared to the EPL?
Apparently York and Rochdale would only get 60 points in the Türkiye Süper Lig. But they'd play 12 league games less :)
-
Asensio might have dipped a bit, but you could tell he was complete class. Not only his actual output, but some of his touches and movement were sublime. We’d have been a stronger squad with him in it.
-
Looks like we won't get Rashford now...
Tottenham have shown a "genuine interest" in signing Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, 28, if they avoid relegation amid reports Barcelona have doubt about making the England international's loan permanent. (Sport - in Spanish)
-
Newcastle and Aston Villa are interested in signing Maxi Araujo, 26, from Sporting, with the Uruguay international able to play left-back and on the left wing. (Sport Witness)
-
Looks like we won't get Rashford now...
Tottenham have shown a "genuine interest" in signing Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, 28, if they avoid relegation amid reports Barcelona have doubt about making the England international's loan permanent. (Sport - in Spanish)
They're also looking at Rogers so they'll be strong next season.
-
Looks like we won't get Rashford now...
Tottenham have shown a "genuine interest" in signing Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, 28, if they avoid relegation amid reports Barcelona have doubt about making the England international's loan permanent. (Sport - in Spanish)
They're also looking at Rogers so they'll be strong next season.
They’ll have one of the stronger squads in The Championship for sure.
-
Looks like we won't get Rashford now...
Tottenham have shown a "genuine interest" in signing Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, 28, if they avoid relegation amid reports Barcelona have doubt about making the England international's loan permanent. (Sport - in Spanish)
This would make me puke.
I'm still disguted that Sinesi seems to be keen to join if they stay up.
-
Looks like we won't get Rashford now...
Tottenham have shown a "genuine interest" in signing Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, 28, if they avoid relegation amid reports Barcelona have doubt about making the England international's loan permanent. (Sport - in Spanish)
This would make me puke.
I'm still disguted that Sinesi seems to be keen to join if they stay up.
well he would be guaranteed to get in that backline
-
Asensio might have dipped a bit, but you could tell he was complete class. Not only his actual output, but some of his touches and movement were sublime. We’d have been a stronger squad with him in it.
Moving Rogers to accommodate him though, that would have seen a drop off in Rogers output. Buendia's resurgence has more than made up for Asensio's absence in any case. Very skilful player and to be fair hasn't had a Coutinho like career collapse since.
-
Newcastle and Aston Villa are interested in signing Maxi Araujo, 26, from Sporting, with the Uruguay international able to play left-back and on the left wing. (Sport Witness)
I want this to happen, so choose to believe it is true.
-
Asensio might have dipped a bit, but you could tell he was complete class. Not only his actual output, but some of his touches and movement were sublime. We’d have been a stronger squad with him in it.
Moving Rogers to accommodate him though, that would have seen a drop off in Rogers output. Buendia's resurgence has more than made up for Asensio's absence in any case. Very skilful player and to be fair hasn't had a Coutinho like career collapse since.
It’s more about options and Emi has done great, but Asensio is a better player and across the season I suspect would have delivered more.
-
Araujo looks good but isn't he more of a left back than a winger, feels like a lot of money when we have Maatsen already as the long-term fix and Digne who is still playing well but with limited options in font of them. I guess it depends on whether we see 1 of them starting on the wing regularly as a good idea.
I wouldn't be against it because he's very good but for me that's 3rd or 4th on the priority list for signings this summer (because I'd like to push Rogers left and get new options at 10 and on the right) and then I think I'd prefer to add some depth at RB as well (Mingueza seems perfect for that though and I think him or Wilson are the most likely of all the links we've seen so far). Even then I think I'd also lean towards a more defensive option there as someone who can cover LCB as well as LB because Mings is starting to look like we need to replace him sooner than later, Lindelof stepping over and doing a decent job makes it less urgent though.
-
Asensio might have dipped a bit, but you could tell he was complete class. Not only his actual output, but some of his touches and movement were sublime. We’d have been a stronger squad with him in it.
Moving Rogers to accommodate him though, that would have seen a drop off in Rogers output. Buendia's resurgence has more than made up for Asensio's absence in any case. Very skilful player and to be fair hasn't had a Coutinho like career collapse since.
Although there has been no specific player moved to 10 this season and Rogers form has dropped off, so maybe like this year, he is over-played and not rested.
-
Asensio might have dipped a bit, but you could tell he was complete class. Not only his actual output, but some of his touches and movement were sublime. We’d have been a stronger squad with him in it.
Moving Rogers to accommodate him though, that would have seen a drop off in Rogers output. Buendia's resurgence has more than made up for Asensio's absence in any case. Very skilful player and to be fair hasn't had a Coutinho like career collapse since.
Although there has been no specific player moved to 10 this season and Rogers form has dropped off, so maybe like this year, he is over-played and not rested.
Don't see it that way, Rogers has played mostly at 10 or off the left. You can debate where his best position is of the two. But he was shifted to the right to accomodate Asensio last season and definitely wasn't happy about it. Buendia is more tactically flexible than Asensio as he covers the same positions as Rogers. I reckon it's worked out well for us. Emery clearly doesn't think Rogers is overplayed, again debatable but he hardly even gets taken off not to mind rested.
-
Aston Villa ‘set their sights’ on 23-year-old attacker – 7 goals and 8 assists
Matias Soule has grown into an important player for AS Roma this season and is now attracting attention from Aston Villa.
LaRoma24 report the Giallorossi could have to deal with some major exits by the end of June. This is because of financial regulations, and Roma want to stay within the limits to escape any bans or fines.
Amidst all that, Soule’s situation is gathering attention. Aston Villa have ‘set their sights’ on the 23-year-old, with Bournemouth also in the picture.
https://sportwitness.co.uk/aston-villa-set-their-sights-on-23-year-old-attacker-7-goals-and-8-assists/
He's good, but will he stand up to the physical nature of the league
-
At least it looks like we finally have a better class of co-conspirator than Juventus or effing Chelsea.
-
I reckon that Soule will be this summer's much linked, seemingly inevitable signing that ends up somewhere else.
-
Aston Villa ‘set their sights’ on 23-year-old attacker – 7 goals and 8 assists
Matias Soule has grown into an important player for AS Roma this season and is now attracting attention from Aston Villa.
Looks good, and his terrance chant is already sorted.
-
I'm pretty sure we've been linked with Soule before.
-
I'm pretty sure we've been linked with Soule before.
He was one of the Juventus offcuts that would have potentially been part of the Douglas Luiz deal.
Then the story was that they wouldn't let him join us, which was contradicted by Juve agreeing a few weeks later to sell him to Leicester, who then lost out when he rejected them to go to Roma.
-
I'm pretty sure we've been linked with Soule before.
He was one of the Juventus offcuts that would have potentially been part of the Douglas Luiz deal.
Then the story was that they wouldn't let him join us, which was contradicted by Juve agreeing a few weeks later to sell him to Leicester, who then lost out when he rejected them to go to Roma.
Cheers, I thought we had. Not too sure, but I reckon Leicester could have done with him. Just a hunch.
-
If Bournemouth are after him too, he must be decent.
-
If Bournemouth are after him too, he must be decent.
Likewise, if Spurs are interested, stay well away.
-
Soule played well in the pre-season friendly at Walsall.
-
We need to buy Carlos Vinicius. He played for Fulham for a bit but now at Gremio. He would fit right in.
https://xcancel.com/futsheriff/status/2049660843780870385?s=46
-
If Bournemouth are after him too, he must be decent.
Likewise, if Spurs are interested, stay well away.
That rules out Rashford then
-
Soule played well in the pre-season friendly at Walsall.
Yes, I was just going to say that. He also did very well on loan in the same Frosinone team as Barreachea. (Spelling guess)
-
We need to buy Carlos Vinicius. He played for Fulham for a bit but now at Gremio. He would fit right in.
https://xcancel.com/futsheriff/status/2049660843780870385?s=46
Would be nice to sign someone who scores penalties.
-
We need to buy Carlos Vinicius. He played for Fulham for a bit but now at Gremio. He would fit right in.
https://xcancel.com/futsheriff/status/2049660843780870385?s=46
Would be nice to sign someone who scores penalties.
Why would we need that?
-
We need to buy Carlos Vinicius. He played for Fulham for a bit but now at Gremio. He would fit right in.
https://xcancel.com/futsheriff/status/2049660843780870385?s=46
The post you linked to is a little unfair as all three were tremendous saves from the keeper, even the slip one. (I think the keeper pushed the first one onto the post otherwise no need to penalise the move forward).
-
We need to buy Carlos Vinicius. He played for Fulham for a bit but now at Gremio. He would fit right in.
https://xcancel.com/futsheriff/status/2049660843780870385?s=46
Would be nice to sign someone who scores penalties.
We should buy Alajbegovic from RB Salzburg. Bosnian, 18 years old, scored both his penalties v Wales and then Italy in the World Cup play offs recently. Looks a real prospect.
-
We should buy Alajbegovic from RB Salzburg. Bosnian, 18 years old, scored both his penalties v Wales and then Italy in the World Cup play offs recently. Looks a real prospect.
Never heard of him until now but Salzburg apparently turned down €25m for him in January. Clubs interested include Roma, Lazio, Befica, Sporting, Bayer Leverkusen and Man U - if Vinícius Júnior refuses to take a massive step down. Bayer Leverkusen sold him for €4m and have a buy-back clause for €8m. Other PL clubs and top Spanish clubs also said to be interested according to his father/agent.
-
I've seen reports linking us to that Bosnian kid.
-
We should buy Alajbegovic from RB Salzburg. Bosnian, 18 years old, scored both his penalties v Wales and then Italy in the World Cup play offs recently. Looks a real prospect.
Never heard of him until now but Salzburg apparently turned down €25m for him in January. Clubs interested include Roma, Lazio, Befica, Sporting, Bayer Leverkusen and Man U - if Vinícius Júnior refuses to take a massive step down. Bayer Leverkusen sold him for €4m and have a buy-back clause for €8m. Other PL clubs and top Spanish clubs also said to be interested according to his father/agent.
He was the best player on the pitch by miles in the Wales game
-
Unai has preformed miracles but I think the time has run out with this squad to be challenging for top 6 & CL next season. Needs a massive overhaul in the summer to make us competitive particularly if we’re in the CL. Rogers sale is a must imo at £100m plus which together with the CL money and selling some squad players could allow us to make some quality additions. The WC won’t help us unfortunately although it could push up Rogers value if he does well
-
Unai has preformed miracles but I think the time has run out with this squad to be challenging for top 6 & CL next season
Which six teams would you say are in a better position to finish ahead of us?
I think a solid argument can be made for four, beyond that they mostly have our problems but worse.
-
It's quite possible that Rogers has a Stéphane Guivarc'h of a World Cup. If we're banking on selling him it might be better to get it done ASAP.
-
I reiterate again, my god we need pace in this side.
-
We should buy Alajbegovic from RB Salzburg. Bosnian, 18 years old, scored both his penalties v Wales and then Italy in the World Cup play offs recently. Looks a real prospect.
Never heard of him until now but Salzburg apparently turned down €25m for him in January. Clubs interested include Roma, Lazio, Befica, Sporting, Bayer Leverkusen and Man U - if Vinícius Júnior refuses to take a massive step down. Bayer Leverkusen sold him for €4m and have a buy-back clause for €8m. Other PL clubs and top Spanish clubs also said to be interested according to his father/agent.
He was the best player on the pitch by miles in the Wales game
That sort of player should be the blueprint. Transition from say McGinn to this fella* over the next 2/3 years. Will cost a fraction of the amount and keeps the core of the squad together.
*No idea what position he plays but there’s no rush to jettison our tried and tested squad if we have a plan in place to transition from a to b.
-
Unai has preformed miracles but I think the time has run out with this squad to be challenging for top 6 & CL next season. Needs a massive overhaul in the summer to make us competitive particularly if we’re in the CL. Rogers sale is a must imo at £100m plus which together with the CL money and selling some squad players could allow us to make some quality additions. The WC won’t help us unfortunately although it could push up Rogers value if he does well
We need to get rid of the dead wood first.
-
It's quite possible that Rogers has a Stéphane Guivarc'h of a World Cup. If we're banking on selling him it might be better to get it done ASAP.
Newcastle still bought him
-
Unai has preformed miracles but I think the time has run out with this squad to be challenging for top 6 & CL next season
Which six teams would you say are in a better position to finish ahead of us?
I think a solid argument can be made for four, beyond that they mostly have our problems but worse.
The current top 4 plus Chelsea and Spurs if they stay up. De Zerbi will get them playing given time.
-
They'd already bought him.
-
They'd already bought him.
Nope, he was signed November 1998 so after the WC
-
They'd already bought him.
Nope, he was signed November 1998 so after the WC
Look, you can prove anything with facts. I think my post was closer to the spirit of the thread and, not to be too grandiose, the age.
-
Unai has preformed miracles but I think the time has run out with this squad to be challenging for top 6 & CL next season
Which six teams would you say are in a better position to finish ahead of us?
I think a solid argument can be made for four, beyond that they mostly have our problems but worse.
The current top 4 plus Chelsea and Spurs if they stay up. De Zerbi will get them playing given time.
While things can obviously change, but as things stand Chelsea are properly screwed in the summer. They have to have the same net positive transfer balance like we did this season, will have to make some pretty massive sales and probably take some pretty massive losses on players. There's talk that they need to make £60-80m in transfer profit before the end of June or their UEFA punishments get worse than they are already.
Whatever problematic state we might find ourselves in, Chelsea's is far worse.
As for Spurs, maybe. Emery managed to drag Gerrard's players into a far better position than when he found us. But it is still *that* Spurs squad that has finished in the bottom four / five for two seasons in a row. And de Zerbi record is much more one of chucking petrol on massive fires rather than putting them out.
-
Their best players will have been out for a long time when they finally return - Kulusevski, Maddison aand Kudus. No guarantee they'll be as good as before.
-
Their best players will have been out for a long time when they finally return - Kulusevski, Maddison aand Kudus. No guarantee they'll be as good as before.
Once back, the squad will be pretty bloated too. There will be a few big egos sitting on the bench or in the stands.
-
And all of these is with the assumption that Spurs are even staying up.
-
And all of these is with the assumption that Spurs are even staying up.
Indeed and we have the opportunity to heavily influence this.
-
They'd already bought him.
Nope, he was signed November 1998 so after the WC
Look, you can prove anything with facts. I think my post was closer to the spirit of the thread and, not to be too grandiose, the age.
You great big fibber, Rudy65, they sold him to Rangers in the November. Newcastle signed him before the World Cup.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St%C3%A9phane_Guivarc%27h
-
Sick of the proliferation of fake news on this site. Back to Twitter I go, have been reading some interesting things about Joe Biden faking the moon landings to cover up a paedophile ring.
-
Stach from Leeds? - decent player.
-
They'd already bought him.
Nope, he was signed November 1998 so after the WC
Look, you can prove anything with facts. I think my post was closer to the spirit of the thread and, not to be too grandiose, the age.
You great big fibber, Rudy65, they sold him to Rangers in the November. Newcastle signed him before the World Cup.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St%C3%A9phane_Guivarc%27h
That just states "Signed in the close season". A lot of transfer sites have it as 1st July but that is just to cover the starting the season date. Most other sources state he was signed after the World Cup though which was 12th July and "4 months later" he was sold on, which also puts it back to July.
-
He was signed before the World Cup. Do you know how I know? I remember it.
-
I didn't realise we had been visited by the Memory Man (https://xcancel.com/RealBobMortimer/status/330738474791612416).
-
Bolton. White Horse Final, innit. We lost to Newcastle the following year.
-
Unai has preformed miracles but I think the time has run out with this squad to be challenging for top 6 & CL next season
Which six teams would you say are in a better position to finish ahead of us?
I think a solid argument can be made for four, beyond that they mostly have our problems but worse.
The current top 4 plus Chelsea and Spurs if they stay up. De Zerbi will get them playing given time.
While things can obviously change, but as things stand Chelsea are properly screwed in the summer. They have to have the same net positive transfer balance like we did this season, will have to make some pretty massive sales and probably take some pretty massive losses on players. There's talk that they need to make £60-80m in transfer profit before the end of June or their UEFA punishments get worse than they are already.
Whatever problematic state we might find ourselves in, Chelsea's is far worse.
As for Spurs, maybe. Emery managed to drag Gerrard's players into a far better position than when he found us. But it is still *that* Spurs squad that has finished in the bottom four / five for two seasons in a row. And de Zerbi record is much more one of chucking petrol on massive fires rather than putting them out.
Good opportunity to see if we cab poach any of their players at a good rate. Would t mind chalobah for example
-
Any from West Ham?
-
Summerville, Bowen, Diouf and Fernandes are the names that people suggest will probably be picked up.
-
Summerville, Bowen, Diouf and Fernandes
Yeah yeah yeah yeah.
-
They are good players but don't think they play in positions that are a priority for us. Bowen at 29 wouldn't be helping reducing our age profile either.
A lot more PL quality players at a good age in the Spurs squad, granted injury prone and temperamental most of them. All with scope to improve under a top coach like Emery. Van der Ven, Porro, Udogie, Bergvall, Gray, Kulusevski, Kudus, Spence. Would take Kulusevski and Van der Ven for sure.
-
Summerville, Bowen, Diouf and Fernandes are the names that people suggest will probably be picked up.
Wan Bissaka too, decent alternative to Cash..... better than he's given credit for.
-
Summerville, Bowen, Diouf and Fernandes are the names that people suggest will probably be picked up.
Wan Bissaka too, decent alternative to Cash..... better than he's given credit for.
I concur.
-
Bowen hasn’t looked that good this season either. He’s looks a bit slower than he used to.
-
After we smash Spurs tomorrow we should offer the £12m for Archie Gray. Get SJM to have a word with him.
-
Not sure that would work, he's declared for England.
-
I rate Kudas alot but speaking to a spurs season ticket holder last night Madison is fucked ,, so maybe cov wil give him a match to match contract . Bergvail might be a decent signing and please leave Conor Callagher in the championship. SHame west ham fcuked up today as Spurs will have alittle lift but they are still shite.
-
Summerville, Bowen, Diouf and Fernandes are the names that people suggest will probably be picked up.
Wan Bissaka too, decent alternative to Cash..... better than he's given credit for.
I concur.
I wouldn't be totally against the idea, but West Ham's good run of form (until today) completely coincides with him being dropped.
Even down to their one defeat (to us) being the one game that he was brought back for.
We definitely need a plausible right-back option adding to the squad (if the two or three previous punts are being sacked off), but surely it should be someone younger than Cash to eventually take over (a la Maatsen), rather someone of the same age who is probably not quite as good as the current version?
-
AWB is rubbish, no positional sense (constantly caught on back post) and as average on the ball as Bogarde. Man United spending 50m on him and whatever on Sancho was peak insanity.
-
Not sure that would work, he's declared for England.
Exactly. Tell him to sign or he's off to play for Scotland, the big traitor to the Gray clan.
I like him as a player but would have preferred him to have been Scottish. Those bright lights of London, media darlings, I bet he's become a right twat.
-
There's a reason the Tottenham badge is a cock.
-
AWB is rubbish, no positional sense (constantly caught on back post) and as average on the ball as Bogarde. Man United spending 50m on him and whatever on Sancho was peak insanity.
Strongly agree here.
-
AWB is defensively solid, but really poor going forward. That really doesn’t work for our style.
-
He wasn’t much good today V Brentford. I sometimes like him and other times think he wont improve us to any great extent. Another one who I think we should swerve is Harry Wilson. Again, sometimes very good, other times you’re not sure if he’s playing, like today for instance.
-
Goncalo Ramos, 24, wants to start more matches and could leave Paris St-Germain at the end of the season, with several clubs keen on signing the Portugal striker.
I think we were rumoured for a loan deal in the Summer weren't we?
-
Someone with a bit of pace please
Even a 66 year old Linford Christie would speed us up
-
Goncalo Ramos, 24, wants to start more matches and could leave Paris St-Germain at the end of the season, with several clubs keen on signing the Portugal striker.
I think we were rumoured for a loan deal in the Summer weren't we?
Think Rudy has been trying to sell him to us for years, dunno if he's moonlighting as a Mendes.
-
Goncalo Ramos, 24, wants to start more matches and could leave Paris St-Germain at the end of the season, with several clubs keen on signing the Portugal striker.
I think we were rumoured for a loan deal in the Summer weren't we?
I want to sign him, bit mostly as he looks like McGinn. Can take penalties too.
-
He wasn’t much good today V Brentford. I sometimes like him and other times think he wont improve us to any great extent. Another one who I think we should swerve is Harry Wilson. Again, sometimes very good, other times you’re not sure if he’s playing, like today for instance.
I think Wilson could be this years Solanke, a one season wonder.
-
He looks as flakey as the rest of our inconsistent wingers.
-
Wilson is a lazy signing.
-
Wilson is only an option because he is a free agent. If there was any fee to pay he wouldn't even be considered. Obviously he is not going to move us to the next level.
-
He'd be better than Bailey.
-
A lollypop lady would be better than Bailey
-
He'd be better than Bailey.
I don’t know, I’m sure after four or five anonymous appearances he’d be in the same Guessand and Bailey category and everyone will on his back. The position we’re in and the direction we’re going we should be aiming higher. However finances don’t allow it and we end up not improving the situation.
-
A lollypop lady would be better than Bailey
That's very unfair. What have lolly pop ladies ever done to offend you?
-
Article in the Irish Times on Owen Elding who joined Hibs from Sligo Rovers at the last window. Anyone seen him play?
-
AWB is defensively solid, but really poor going forward. That really doesn’t work for our style.
True, we've got enough of those 😂😂
-
A lollypop lady would be better than Bailey
very true - a lollypop lady can cross
-
Beeb Gossip round up has:
Possible ins - Ibrahim Mbaye, PSG, Bailey Rice, Rangers, Alex Ramero, Real Sociedad and James Trafford.
Possible outs - Tommi O'Reilly
-
Goncalo Ramos, 24, wants to start more matches and could leave Paris St-Germain at the end of the season, with several clubs keen on signing the Portugal striker.
I think we were rumoured for a loan deal in the Summer weren't we?
Think Rudy has been trying to sell him to us for years, dunno if he's moonlighting as a Mendes.
Ha! I may have mentioned him once or twice. Reports of Juventus opening talks to take him on a season long loan with an option to buy. Barca also linked as a back up if they fail to get Alvarez. One thing is for certain, PSG will let him go as he wants regular football.
We can but dream.
-
Quite a bit of talk of us signing Bailey Rice on a free transfer this summer. Left-footed defensive midfielder, 19, who's known for being composed on the ball and can play as a 6, an 8 or as part of a double pivot. Been linked with him before so seems credible. Hasn't made many first team appearances for Rangers due to injury (sounds about right).
-
Goncalo Ramos, 24, wants to start more matches and could leave Paris St-Germain at the end of the season, with several clubs keen on signing the Portugal striker.
I think we were rumoured for a loan deal in the Summer weren't we?
Think Rudy has been trying to sell him to us for years, dunno if he's moonlighting as a Mendes.
Ha! I may have mentioned him once or twice. Reports of Juventus opening talks to take him on a season long loan with an option to buy. Barca also linked as a back up if they fail to get Alvarez. One thing is for certain, PSG will let him go as he wants regular football.
We can but dream.
It’d be ideal if we could do the loan to buy option, especially with some conditional clauses, so we can try before we buy.
-
Quite a bit of talk of us signing Bailey Rice on a free transfer this summer. Left-footed defensive midfielder, 19, who's known for being composed on the ball and can play as a 6, an 8 or as part of a double pivot. Been linked with him before so seems credible. Hasn't made many first team appearances for Rangers due to injury (sounds about right).
I hope he’s more Rice than Bailey.
-
Sancho, Elliott, Luiz - don't buy
Mings, Digne, Bailey, Buendia - get what you can for them
Bogarde - see if Brighton still want to give us £20m for him
If someone wants to give us £100m for Rogers, I won't protest too much.
Fire sale all of those players we keep sending out on loan and won't ever play for us - Dobbin, Nedeljkovic, Iling-Junior - and Garcia
Watkins and Abraham are not going to be good enough for a CL/PL Top 5 challenge, we need to upgrade at least one of them.
-
The squad needs an overhaul that's for sure. I hope Olabe's contacts are better than Monchi's because a lot of our recruitment has been poor.
-
Should be looking to move on - Martinez, Mings, Digne, Garcia, Onana, Barkley, Bogarde, Bailey, Buendia, Watkins. None of the loanees will be kept. That's a huge change but contracts winding down for a number of them anyway.
Hope many of those above, if they are to go, will sign off in style in next few games.
-
Coventry boss Frank Lampard wants ex-England midfielder Ross Barkley to be his first signing of the summer, with the 32-year-old out of contract at Aston Villa at the end of the season. (Alan Nixon via Give Me Sport)
I think this aged well with Frank looking for his bargepole after tonight. (although IIRC he isn't out of contract Alan as we have an extension option like Luton did).
-
He’s got 12 months left on his contract
-
He’s got 12 months left on his contract
Isn’t it an option to extend?
-
He’s got 12 months left on his contract
Isn’t it an option to extend?
His contract length was never announced that I've seen.
Barkley himself says he's got a year left. So unless there's evidence to the contrary, we can probably assume he knows.
-
Massive Summer ahead whatever happens now.
Barkley, Buendia, Mings, Bailey, Elliott, Sancho, Garcia, Guessand are all no brainers to be moved out, maybe Digne too.
Obviously we might also lose Martinez and Rogers if they get their heads turned and the moneys right. Onana and Kamara have too many injuries to get interest so I think they’re safe for now.
That’s between 7-11 out the door. They better know what they’re doing this time.
-
A mammoth task, even more so with no champions league money.
-
Massive Summer ahead whatever happens now.
Barkley, Buendia, Mings, Bailey, Elliott, Sancho, Garcia, Guessand are all no brainers to be moved out, maybe Digne too.
Obviously we might also lose Martinez and Rogers if they get their heads turned and the moneys right. Onana and Kamara have too many injuries to get interest so I think they’re safe for now.
That’s between 7-11 out the door. They better know what they’re doing this time.
I dont disagree with the long list but we need to avoid too much change in one season. Most of that lot can leave but only three or four coming in, and maybe one of buendia or Barkley being retained for continuity. Bailey, Sancho, Elliot and Guessand becoming two signings.
-
Should be looking to move on - Martinez, Mings, Digne, Garcia, Onana, Barkley, Bogarde, Bailey, Buendia, Watkins. None of the loanees will be kept. That's a huge change but contracts winding down for a number of them anyway.
Hope many of those above, if they are to go, will sign off in style in next few games.
The squad really needs a total re-shape over the summer. For me:
GK - although Martinez has been mostly good this season, I think this summer might be the point where both parties agree to move on. So we would need a new number 1 with Bizot and young lads as back-up
RB - Cash has had a decent season, but we really need another proper option there as a succession plan
LB - Digne is starting to creak a bit, so probably need another option to go there with Maatsen, although maybe could try and get one more year out of Digne
RCB - Konsa and Lindelof are fine
LCB - time to move on from Mings unfortunately and find someone who can start a decent number of games as Torres has periods out injured
DCM - simply need to get back-up to Kamara in this position. Bogarde has struggled and doesn't look like he can make the step up
CM - Onana, Tielemans and Barkley should be fine in there for another season. Don't think we need to sign Luiz.
LM - expect Rogers to go, so we will need a starting option there and possibly a back-up as well. Buendia just isn't good enough
RAM - need back-up to McGinn. Got the young lad Alysson, but don't know if he will be ready to feature regularly next season. We need to move on from Bailey and Sancho.
ACM - need a starting player in this position. Have got back-up who can play there, but think this is a key position for us
CF - like Martinez, could be time to move on from Watkins up front. Will need to replace him with a starter as I'm not sure Abraham can fill that role. Along with the no.10 position, another key signing.
-
It's going to be even harder now with Spurs shopping in the same market.
-
Should be looking to move on - Martinez, Mings, Digne, Garcia, Onana, Barkley, Bogarde, Bailey, Buendia, Watkins. None of the loanees will be kept. That's a huge change but contracts winding down for a number of them anyway.
Hope many of those above, if they are to go, will sign off in style in next few games.
The squad really needs a total re-shape over the summer. For me:
GK - although Martinez has been mostly good, I think this summer might be the point where both parties agree to move on. So we would need a new number 1 with Bizot and young lads as back-up
RB - Cash has had a decent season, but we really need another proper option there as a succession plan
LB - Digne is starting to creak a bit, so probably need another option to go there with Maatsen, although maybe could try and get one more year out of Digne
RCB - Konsa and Lindelof are fine
LCB - time to move on from Mings unfortunately and find someone who can start a decent number of games as Torres has periods out injured
DCM - simply need to get back-up to Kamara in this position. Bogarde has struggled and doesn't look like he can make the step up
CM - Onana, Tielemans and Barkley should be fine in there for another season. Don't think we need to sign Luiz.
LM - expect Rogers to go, so we will need a starting option there and possibly a back-up as well. Buendia just isn't good enough
RAM - need back-up to McGinn. Got the young lad Alysson, but don't know if he will be ready to feature regularly next season. We need to move on from Bailey and Sancho.
ACM - need a starting player in this position. Have got back-up who can play there, but think this is a key position for us
CF - like Martinez, could be time to move on from Watkins up front. Will need to replace him with a starter as I'm not sure Abraham can fill that role. Along with the no.10 position, another key signing.
Pretty much agree with you mate. But I fail to understand any logic to suggest Buendia isn't good enough but Barkley should be fine. I'd be ok with moving Buendia on too, more to do with his age/contract situation, but Barkley has never been good enough. At 32 he isn't going to suddenly realise unfulfilled potential.
-
Should be looking to move on - Martinez, Mings, Digne, Garcia, Onana, Barkley, Bogarde, Bailey, Buendia, Watkins. None of the loanees will be kept. That's a huge change but contracts winding down for a number of them anyway.
Hope many of those above, if they are to go, will sign off in style in next few games.
The squad really needs a total re-shape over the summer. For me:
GK - although Martinez has been mostly good, I think this summer might be the point where both parties agree to move on. So we would need a new number 1 with Bizot and young lads as back-up
RB - Cash has had a decent season, but we really need another proper option there as a succession plan
LB - Digne is starting to creak a bit, so probably need another option to go there with Maatsen, although maybe could try and get one more year out of Digne
RCB - Konsa and Lindelof are fine
LCB - time to move on from Mings unfortunately and find someone who can start a decent number of games as Torres has periods out injured
DCM - simply need to get back-up to Kamara in this position. Bogarde has struggled and doesn't look like he can make the step up
CM - Onana, Tielemans and Barkley should be fine in there for another season. Don't think we need to sign Luiz.
LM - expect Rogers to go, so we will need a starting option there and possibly a back-up as well. Buendia just isn't good enough
RAM - need back-up to McGinn. Got the young lad Alysson, but don't know if he will be ready to feature regularly next season. We need to move on from Bailey and Sancho.
ACM - need a starting player in this position. Have got back-up who can play there, but think this is a key position for us
CF - like Martinez, could be time to move on from Watkins up front. Will need to replace him with a starter as I'm not sure Abraham can fill that role. Along with the no.10 position, another key signing.
Pretty much agree with you mate. But I fail to understand any logic to suggest Buendia isn't good enough but Barkley should be fine. I'd be ok with moving Buendia on too, more to do with his age/contract situation, but Barkley has never been good enough. At 32 he isn't going to suddenly realise unfulfilled potential.
Barkley would be a 3rd choice number 8 in the squad above and that's it really. I like Buendia and suppose he could do somewhat of a job as a back-up number 10 in the closing stages, but there is no.way he should be starting games for us next season.
-
Barkley's OK when midfield is congested and he hasn't got to do too much running or pressing. He lacks pace and when space opens up is easily outmanouevered.
If the SkyBlues come in with an offer of say £5m+, then we should take it.
And looking at yesterday's 'performances', I'm beginning to doubt if Bogarde has sufficient growth potential to reach the level we're looking for. He seems to have a number of suitors. £15m+ would do it for me.
Fully agree on Mings - he's been a great servant and leader, but time is catching him up. With 12 months left on his contract is time for him to find one last payday elsewhere? OR is there a non-playing role within the club for him?
-
We sold two quality players and bought in shit and thats now a big problem.
-
Unai has preformed miracles but I think the time has run out with this squad to be challenging for top 6 & CL next season. Needs a massive overhaul in the summer to make us competitive particularly if we’re in the CL. Rogers sale is a must imo at £100m plus which together with the CL money and selling some squad players could allow us to make some quality additions. The WC won’t help us unfortunately although it could push up Rogers value if he does well
Last night definitely back up what I was saying last week!
-
Bogarde + Barkley + Barrenchea = Hayden Hackney?
Apparently destined for great things and likely to become unaffordable after a decent season in the PL.
-
The summer task of evolving away from an aging squad is enormous, and given the track record, I don't know that I trust Unai Emery to lead it.
-
Bogarde + Barkley + Barrenchea = Hayden Hackney?
Apparently destined for great things and likely to become unaffordable after a decent season in the PL.
Can't say I've been impressed whenever I've seen him.
-
Scottish midfielder Bailey Rice, 19, is set to leave Rangers this summer and Aston Villa are among the Premier League clubs interested in signing him. (Football Insider)
FI so probably nothing but he has also barely played. Is he considered decent?
In related news, I thought I would check up on some other young decent player we missed out on with Nypan? I noticed he had been on-loan at Middlesboro but not heard any raving and officially hasn't contributed any goal/assists when there and seems to have been sent back in January. One we were lucky to miss out on?
-
Bogarde + Barkley + Barrenchea = Hayden Hackney?
Apparently destined for great things and likely to become unaffordable after a decent season in the PL.
Can't say I've been impressed whenever I've seen him.
He's very good with the ball, but I think he lacks a bit of pace, which is something that will get found out at the top level. Not sure we need another midfielder who is tidy in possession, but can't get around the pitch as quickly as others. All of our best ball-playing midfielders are a bit one-dimensional on the pace front (since JJ left, anyway). So it would be nice to mix that up a bit.
-
Hackney or Hemmings? £40m or Free.
-
It’s crazy to think that there are players out there right now who we could get, who we could afford, and who are going to become world class. Somehow they all end up at Brentford, Brighton or Bournemouth.
And now one of those teams is going to steal our UCL spot too
-
I don't know whether Espanyol have any good players, but if they do, now would be the time to approach them with heavily caveated, needlessly complex loan-to-buy deals that leave them worse off than when they started.
(https://i.ibb.co/JWQLHG4V/Screenshot-2026-05-11-14-19-09.png) (https://ibb.co/JWQLHG4V)
-
He can have Guessand, the useless twat.
-
Monchi was great at selling a player, scouting a talented one and buying them not so much.
-
Guessand could be the first player to win 2 European trophies in the same season.
-
Guessand could be the first player to win 2 European trophies in the same season.
That's got to add at least a fiver to his saleable value this summer.
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
Never seen him play but Restes becomes the best keeper in the world on my save of Football Manager.
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
Never seen him play but Restes becomes the best keeper in the world on my save of Football Manager.
Why are we waiting then.
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
Never seen him play but Restes becomes the best keeper in the world on my save of Football Manager.
Signed him and the Restes history.
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
Never seen him play but Restes becomes the best keeper in the world on my save of Football Manager.
Why are we waiting then.
Exactly, what more do you need?
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
Never seen him play but Restes becomes the best keeper in the world on my save of Football Manager.
I heard Changes was just as good.
-
I don't know whether Espanyol have any good players, but if they do, now would be the time to approach them with heavily caveated, needlessly complex loan-to-buy deals that leave them worse off than when they started.
(https://i.ibb.co/JWQLHG4V/Screenshot-2026-05-11-14-19-09.png) (https://ibb.co/JWQLHG4V)
Neither do I but we might be able to get them cheaper if they go down, they’re among a number of teams in contention and haven’t won for 18 games I think. I’m aware your comment was not serious!
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
Guillaume 'Big Testes' Restes - will out-Mach Martinez.
-
The amount that needs to be done this summer is pretty bloody daunting. We’ve done great in Europe, but it has been the definition of clinging on in the league.
-
Too right Paul, just totted up, since we lost 1-4 at Arsenal in December, some 18 games ago, we have amassed just 20 points in the league. By some miracle, we have only dropped two places from 3rd to 5th. Thank God for the Europa League. Desperately need some pace and quality. Scored 21 goals in that same period.
-
Too right Paul, just totted up, since we lost 1-4 at Arsenal in December, some 18 games ago, we have amassed just 20 points in the league. By some miracle, we have only dropped two places from 3rd to 5th. Thank God for the Europa League. Desperately need some pace and quality. Scored 21 goals in that same period.
Also thank god for an amazing streak of wins we did manage, and also the ineptitude of others. It’s been a really odd season for us we’ve had a period of being sublime and two really poor periods. We have to do a fair bit to address the quality in the squad and by extension Unai’s trust of the squad.
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
Never seen him play but Restes becomes the best keeper in the world on my save of Football Manager.
That is more than good enough for me.
-
I’m more optimistic. Elliot and Sancho will go. Bailey and Guessand too for buttons.
Those four can be replaced by one decent signing, given how little they’ve contributed, but Ideally two. There should be wages to spare.
After that, one in, one out, subject to what offers we receive.
-
In the event of Emi Martinez’s departure, Aston Villa are targeting several goalkeepers including Robin Risser (21) & Guillaume Restes (21).
@Santi_J_FM
Both profiles are appreciated internally & are among the options being considered by Aston Villa for the summer transfer window.
Never seen him play but Restes becomes the best keeper in the world on my save of Football Manager.
That is more than good enough for me.
I'm seething that he's not already on our books. What the eff do our scouts do all day?
-
Monchi was great at selling a player, scouting a talented one and buying them not so much.
He got blamed for all the signings that didn't work and no credit for the ones that did. Monchi's biggest failing was letting the wage bill go out of his control under his tenure.
-
Sexual, were you ever a Football Manager deviant? I just can't see it.
-
It’s crazy to think that there are players out there right now who we could get, who we could afford, and who are going to become world class. Somehow they all end up at Brentford, Brighton or Bournemouth.
And now one of those teams is going to steal our UCL spot too
Like Forest and Burnley would beat us?
-
Sexual, were you ever a Football Manager deviant? I just can't see it.
Nah, I can't make a commitment like that. I'm much more peripatetic, a kind of consulting vibe.
-
the hype about Archie Gray looks no more than a utility player
-
Sexual, were you ever a Football Manager deviant? I just can't see it.
Nah, I can't make a commitment like that. I'm much more peripatetic, a kind of consulting vibe.
Kit man.
-
*Ket
-
Sancho out, Elliot sent back. Bailey out, Guessand out, think probably its time for Tyrone to move on and I would also chuck Lindelof in their, one or two others, big summer.
We should take a look at Morgan Whittaker, Boro, 14 goals and a number of assists this season and take the opportunity of Looking at Johan Manzambi in the final.
-
Lindelof has proved a real astute signing so should be kept in my opinion.
-
Yeah, chucking in Lindelof is a bit random.
-
Too right Paul, just totted up, since we lost 1-4 at Arsenal in December, some 18 games ago, we have amassed just 20 points in the league. By some miracle, we have only dropped two places from 3rd to 5th. Thank God for the Europa League. Desperately need some pace and quality. Scored 21 goals in that same period.
Also thank god for an amazing streak of wins we did manage, and also the ineptitude of others. It’s been a really odd season for us we’ve had a period of being sublime and two really poor periods. We have to do a fair bit to address the quality in the squad and by extension Unai’s trust of the squad.
I think if we keep:
Martinez
Bizot
Cash
Digne
Maatsen
Pau
Konsa
Lindelof
Onana
McGinn
Tielemans
Kamara
Buendia
Rogers
Watkins
Abraham
Bogarde
And replace:
Sancho
Elliott
Bailey
Guessand
Malen
Barkley
Mings
…with better players who can be relied on to make more of a contribution in those positions, plus a right-back and a centre-half, we’ll be in pretty good shape.
-
Against Burnley only Rogers was under twenty eight years old, that's alarming.
-
I think if we keep:
Martinez
Bizot ...
... Bogarde
And replace:
Sancho
Elliott
Bailey
Guessand
Malen
Barkley
Mings
…with better players who can be relied on to make more of a contribution in those positions, plus a right-back and a centre-half, we’ll be in pretty good shape.
Garcia is presumably an exit-player, too. And I wonder whether Martinez will stay.
Sounds like potentially 7-8 new players; a tall order with our finances. The key is to find younger, better versions; also, how to blend into matchday squads the products of our Academy, getting gametime under the belts of 4 or 5 of the best.
We need to decide what role Bogarde should play: plugging him in as a 'universal infill' is not helping the team or him.
-
Against Burnley only Rogers was under twenty eight years old, that's alarming.
Maatsen?
-
I think if we keep:
Martinez
Bizot ...
... Bogarde
And replace:
Sancho
Elliott
Bailey
Guessand
Malen
Barkley
Mings
…with better players who can be relied on to make more of a contribution in those positions, plus a right-back and a centre-half, we’ll be in pretty good shape.
Garcia is presumably an exit-player, too. And I wonder whether Martinez will stay.
Sounds like potentially 7-8 new players; a tall order with our finances. The key is to find younger, better versions; also, how to blend into matchday squads the products of our Academy, getting gametime under the belts of 4 or 5 of the best.
We need to decide what role Bogarde should play: plugging him in as a 'universal infill' is not helping the team or him.
I'd agree with that. I think Barkley will stay so long as he is happy with the role he's got in the squad. He's similar to Lindelof in that he's an experienced option who can step in a play a few games to a decent standard but is never going to be a regular starter.
Bogarde has, in my opinion, been a victim of Garcia struggling to get fit. Without that I think he'd have been fully set as cover at DM but he's had to fill in a right back too often because he's the only option we've had for long periods.
I think Alysson and Tammy are already filling the Sancho and Malen gaps and Bailey/Guessand are 2 players for the same spot 1 replacement for them and 1 for Elliott is all the attacking recruitment I'd expect (unless we add another youngster or 2) then a CB and RB are the other big gaps and suddenly things don't look quite so difficult. Another CM is an outside chance as well but we might keep that gap free for Hemmings who Unai seems to really rate.
I'd hope Broggio and Burrowes get rewarded for how well they've done over the summer to give them a shot at being around the squad next year as well.
-
Over the next three years, we will need to replace most of our entire best 11. Bouba, Rogers and Maatsen will all still be in their 20s (Bouba only just). So that means we probably need 7 or 8 first-choice replacements in that time (plus squad players - I'm talking first-choices in our best team here). I think it's unrealistic that we do that in one go, or even two, so we probably need to be looking at 2 or 3 players this summer who are ready to become first choices in our 11. And then we need to do that in each of the next two seasons, too.
It's going to be a difficult transition from the Smith/Gerrard-era players who have served us brilliantly, to a new side moulded entirely by Unai - but this is what the great managers do, time and again. They can build multiple teams, each capable of challenging towards the top.
And it HAS to start this summer.
-
... I think Alysson and Tammy are already filling the Sancho and Malen gaps and Bailey/Guessand are 2 players for the same spot 1 replacement for them and 1 for Elliott is all the attacking recruitment I'd expect (unless we add another youngster or 2) then a CB and RB are the other big gaps and suddenly things don't look quite so difficult. Another CM is an outside chance as well but we might keep that gap free for Hemmings who Unai seems to really rate.
I'd hope Broggio and Burrowes get rewarded for how well they've done over the summer to give them a shot at being around the squad next year as well.
And, there's Brian, of course, whom we've committed a fair old transfer fee on. And Tristan Rowe has been getting paludits in the French league ....
-
Not sure who would sign Martinez now. Probably only Chelsea really need him in Prem and they're likely to be struggling financially.
-
... I think Alysson and Tammy are already filling the Sancho and Malen gaps and Bailey/Guessand are 2 players for the same spot 1 replacement for them and 1 for Elliott is all the attacking recruitment I'd expect (unless we add another youngster or 2) then a CB and RB are the other big gaps and suddenly things don't look quite so difficult. Another CM is an outside chance as well but we might keep that gap free for Hemmings who Unai seems to really rate.
I'd hope Broggio and Burrowes get rewarded for how well they've done over the summer to give them a shot at being around the squad next year as well.
And, there's Brian, of course, whom we've committed a fair old transfer fee on. And Tristan Rowe has been getting paludits in the French league ....
Oh there are loads of them that will be involved over pre-season because the first few friendlies are going to be without a lot of players. Brian will seemingly have to wain until next January but hopefully he's just putting his head down in training and getting to know the club.
I also like the look of Kone in midfield (and of course we've already got Cisse on his way who may be the Mings replacement). Meade will need a look as well after how he's played in the last few months.
And more obviously Young and JJA will be back from their loans (which haven't gone well) and how they react will be telling as well. I personally believe that JJA and Young would've offered more than Elliott and Bailey since January and hopefully they both come back determined to prove that.
-
Oh, and Redmond should be fit and hopefully will be wanting to really push on after losing a year to injury so soon after arriving.
-
Had forgotten about Redmond.
-
Over the next three years, we will need to replace most of our entire best 11. Bouba, Rogers and Maatsen will all still be in their 20s (Bouba only just). So that means we probably need 7 or 8 first-choice replacements in that time (plus squad players - I'm talking first-choices in our best team here). I think it's unrealistic that we do that in one go, or even two, so we probably need to be looking at 2 or 3 players this summer who are ready to become first choices in our 11. And then we need to do that in each of the next two seasons, too.
It's going to be a difficult transition from the Smith/Gerrard-era players who have served us brilliantly, to a new side moulded entirely by Unai - but this is what the great managers do, time and again. They can build multiple teams, each capable of challenging towards the top.
And it HAS to start this summer.
Agreed Smithy
-
Against Burnley only Rogers was under twenty eight years old, that's alarming.
Maatsen?
Give you that one but he played like he was so much older.
-
What's the latest with Rory Wilson?
-
We'll need to evolve, and adding a couple each year is key. Olabe seems to prefer younger players, which helps.
Trafford/Bizot
Cash/Garcia/New Guy Konsa/ Lindelof Torres/Senesi Maatsen/New Guy
Kamara/Bogarde Onana/Tielemans
McGinn/Wilson Rogers/Buendia Alysson/New Guy
Watkins/Abraham
Gone
Martinez
Mings
Digne
Bailey
Sancho
Malen
Luiz
You could see that sort of change this summer.
-
We'll need to evolve, and adding a couple each year is key. Olabe seems to prefer younger players, which helps.
Trafford/Bizot
Cash/Garcia/New Guy Konsa/ Lindelof Torres/Senesi Maatsen/New Guy
Kamara/Bogarde Onana/Tielemans
McGinn/Wilson Rogers/Buendia Alysson/New Guy
Watkins/Abraham
Gone
Martinez
Mings
Digne
Bailey
Sancho
Malen
Luiz
You could see that sort of change this summer.
Minguez for the right back.
Talk is that Senesi's going to Spurs provided they stay up.
-
I'm not sure there's much in Alysson's history (either in Brazil or with us so far) that suggests he's about to come in and be a regular starter.
-
Hasn’t Senesi said he’s going to Spurs if they stay up?
Edit.
Sorry, already mentioned
-
From the few times I’ve seen him Femi Azeez of Milwall looks pretty decent, 24, two footed a wide midfielder and I doubt he would cost a lot. I’d prefer him to Wilson.
-
I'm not sure there's much in Alysson's history (either in Brazil or with us so far) that suggests he's about to come in and be a regular starter.
He did look tidy enough in his fleeting appearances. Suspect there's more to his unavailability than just a series of little injuries. Pre season is huge for him.
-
Preferred the Halloumi chap for Hull. What a goal last night.
-
From the few times I’ve seen him Femi Azeez of Milwall looks pretty decent, 24, two footed a wide midfielder and I doubt he would cost a lot. I’d prefer him to Wilson.
£30m according to this - https://www.astonvillanews.co.uk/2026/05/12/aston-villa-should-be-among-30m-bidders-for-femi-azeez-after-millwall-latest-transfer-expert/.
-
I'm not sure there's much in Alysson's history (either in Brazil or with us so far) that suggests he's about to come in and be a regular starter.
You may be right, but in the fleeting glimpses we've seen, there is something there that explains why we've taken the punt.
-
Lindelof has proved a real astute signing so should be kept in my opinion.
Possibly, in my opinion he getting on, 32 in July, you could see an entirely different player next season, plus Unai considers him as a squad player, 17 games on the bench so far this season.
My main point is we need changes we need to freshen up the squad, this group of players have run their course, i would say the same for Mings, we need new blood and we need to shrink the wages bill to get young players in and be able to afford them, that means we have to move some players on, its natural we look at the older players first, don't get me wrong if he was vital to the first choice team sheet fine, but clearly he isn't. he may have worked out well for us this season, but??? ,
-
Against Burnley only Rogers was under twenty eight years old, that's alarming.
As I’ve said before, I’m less worried by this because our transfer strategy isn’t signing old players, we just happen to be getting a bigger return on our old investments. Furthermore, in the olden days, 28-32 was considered the peak years so we arguably have a 3 year transition window before it gets too critical.
-
Summerville, Bowen, Diouf and Fernandes are the names that people suggest will probably be picked up.
Liverpool, Newcastle, and Everton are after Bowen, according to the Mail.
West Ham have put a price tag of £84m on Fernandes, according to Football Insider (I know).
-
Lindelof has proved a real astute signing so should be kept in my opinion.
Possibly, in my opinion he getting on, 32 in July, you could see an entirely different player next season, plus Unai considers him as a squad player, 17 games on the bench so far this season.
My main point is we need changes we need to freshen up the squad, this group of players have run their course, i would say the same for Mings, we need new blood and we need to shrink the wages bill to get young players in and be able to afford them, that means we have to move some players on, its natural we look at the older players first, don't get me wrong if he was vital to the first choice team sheet fine, but clearly he isn't. he may have worked out well for us this season, but??? ,
So long as he's still capable of doing the same job he's done this season I'd keep him because he's the right profile to have in addition to someone much younger. I don't know what we have Cisse earmarked for but (based on youtube and reputation) I'd be happy with him slowly replacing Lindelof over the next 12 months and being a full part of the squad starting next summer. That's the sort of planning I'd like to see with all the older players, for example Hemming slowly taking over from Barkley. Madjo and/or Meade can hopefully step up in couple of years and do the same.
We probably can't really afford to do that with Mings as he's looking like he's not got it in him for the level we are any more so we will need a new CB anyway but I'd rather not have to go after 2 this summer.
-
From the few times I’ve seen him Femi Azeez of Milwall looks pretty decent, 24, two footed a wide midfielder and I doubt he would cost a lot. I’d prefer him to Wilson.
To satisfy my own curiosity I’ve looked at the Championship Teams of the Year to see how the players develop. I’ve concluded we could do worse than just hoovering selected targets each summer.
2020/21 - Olise / Buendia / Toney
2021/22 - Solanke / Antonee Robinson / Spence
2022/23 - Gyokeres / Maatsen / Ndiaye / Alex Scott
2023/24 - Summerville / Wilson / Whitakker
2024/25 - Trafford / Bellingham / Esteve / `Egan Riley
2025/26 - Azeez / Hackney
Give them the right amount of sunlight and water regularly… a solid conveyor belt of future talent.
-
My main point is we need changes we need to freshen up the squad, this group of players have run their course.
We’d need to be careful and avoid change for changes sake. Take Liverpool, win the league, cherry pick the best from the rest, and become a worse team. …Or Chelsea generally. Pretty sure I’ve seen data boffins also making the link that too many transfers/big transfer are detrimental (I’ll have a quick google but doubt I’ll find anything).