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Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek has been linked with a move to Arsenal after a difficult first season in English football.

What’s the story?

According to 90min.com, the Gunners have made contact with United over the future of the 24-year-old and have asked to be kept updated regarding his situation at the club.

Van de Beek was forced to withdraw from the Netherlands squad with an injury on the eve of the European Championships, topping off a hugely disappointing 2020/21 campaign.

Woodward heading for a mistake

Things didn’t quite go to plan for the Ajax academy graduate last season following his £40m move from Amsterdam to Old Trafford.

Despite arriving with high expectations, Van de Beek only made four Premier League starts for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side in the recently concluded campaign, registering a solitary goal and assist in all competitions.

The Dutchman’s underwhelming displays have been enough for some people to write the midfield maestro’s United career off already, but doing so would be a potentially huge error.

Many of the English top-flight’s best foreign imports have taken 12 months to settle into their new surrounding and become accustomed to the unique demands of Premier League football. For example, Nicolas Pepe only scored eight goals last term following a £72m move to Arsenal but ended this term with 16 in all competitions.

The fast-paced, physical nature of the division is in sharp contrast to the technical Eredivisie, and therefore, Van de Beek shouldn’t be judged until he’s had a few more months at United to showcase his true ability and potential.

It’s easy to forget just how impressive the former Ajax ace was at the Johan Cruijff ArenA prior to his exit.

A return of 27 goals and 24 assists from his final two seasons in his homeland highlights Van de Beek’s quality, and he played a pivotal part in his boyhood club’s domestic double in 2018/19 when they also reached the Champions League semi-finals.

He managed to show glimpses of that form at the beginning of 2020/21, combining well with Juan Mata in a 3-0 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion in the EFL Cup back in August.

“It was a very clever assist. He’s a very clever player,” Mata told Sky Sports (as reported by Goal). “I love playing with him because he finds pockets and spaces.

“He understands football in a way that I like, which is playing one-twos, passing and moving, and the goal was like that.”

There’s no reason why Van de Beek can’t get back to his old self at Old Trafford, and United will need significant strength in depth in order to compete for major honours next term.

Therefore, departing chief executive Ed Woodward would be heading for a sizeable mistake if he sanctioned the sale of the Red Devils ace to a domestic rival.

And, in other news…Imagine him and Maguire: Woodward must sanction Man Utd swoop for “complete defender” 

Manchester United have an exceptional talent on their hands in Alejandro Garnacho.

It’s been a tough decade for the Red Devils, but class is permanent and is clearly embedded into the roots of the club – as can be seen with their academy product portfolio.

Despite the emerging talents of youth players such as Hannibal Mejbri, Shola Shoretire, Anthony Elanga and Charlie McNeill – there is a bigger buzz around former Atletico Madrid prospect; Alejandro Garnacho.

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The Manchester United youngster has achieved a cool 18 goal returns (12 goals, six assists) in 30 appearances that span from the U18s to the U23s in Premier League 2.

Despite not making a first-team appearance for the Red Devils, the 17-year-old was called up to the Argentina national team last month in what looked to be a bid to get the starlet to secure allegiance – with Garnacho also able to play for Spain having been born in Madrid and growing up there.

Garnacho was described by the Spanish media (via Playmakerstats.com) as the “jewel in the crown” of Atletico Madrid’s academy, though, that was until Manchester United beat several top European outfits to his signature.

The youngster has also been described as “rampant” by Manchester United themselves, after a performance against Stoke City in which he bagged a hat-trick in the U18s’ 6-1 win.

With his record healthy, his reputation growing, and the fact that he is 17-years-old plying his trade with the U23’s – the main hype around the starlet is his adoration and subsequent comparison to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Taking to Instagram, Garnacho has already stated: “Greatest of all times… @Cristiano” after the great Portuguese gave the youngster the match ball after hitting a hat-trick against Norwich City.

The United starlet has also been seen emulating Ronaldo’s “Siuu” celebration after netting in the academy whilst his deal with Nike is yet another resemblance of the famous attacker.

The fact that Garnacho has trained with both Lionel Messi and Ronaldo at the age of 17-years-old is incredible but he has earned the right to do so with his performances for the youth set-up.

His goal in the FA Youth Cup win over Wolverhampton Wanderers served as a fantastic example of his prowess as a player.

Ten Hag could instantly impress the fanbase by utilising the youngster in what looks to be a major rebuild for the club.

In other news: Ten Hag’s first blow: Romano relays big update that will leave MUFC supporters gutted…

Speaking to Football Insider, pundit Frank McAvennie has been left excited by a Tottenham Hotspur managerial development as Roberto Martinez has been placed on the shortlist to replace Jose Mourinho. 

The Lowdown: Martinez linked to Spurs

The Spaniard has been sporadically linked to Spurs over this last month with Football Insider claiming he has been added to the managerial shortlist in north London.

As well as that report, journalist and reliable source of information Alasdair Gold said on his YouTube channel (May 5) that he is ‘certainly one’ the Lilywhites have been looking at alongside Graham Potter.

It is also claimed Spurs chiefs ‘really like’ his style of football amid reports he has entered the fray (Alasdair Gold).

The Latest: McAvennie excited by Martinez links

In reaction to the recent development of Martinez entering Tottenham’s shortlist, former West Ham United and Celtic striker McAvennie has certainly been left in awe.

“Wow, he’d be a great appointment,” he told Football Insider.

“Martinez has certainly got the stature to go into Tottenham. He’s worked with the biggest players on the planet with Belgium.

“It won’t frighten him. I’d imagine Martinez misses the day-to-day, the training with the boys.

“It’ll be great when you’ve got your players there but a good manager wants to be doing things every day.

“His stock is so high but Tottenham is a big club.”

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The Verdict: McAvennie right to be excited

Of all the managers linked to Tottenham over this past month, Martinez is arguably one of the names who have garnered the least discussion despite his experience both in the Premier League and at international level.

He even guided Belgium to a 2018 World Cup semi-final place where they only narrowly lost out to eventual winners France.

On the road, his Red Devils side knocked out five-time world champions Brazil in an impressive performance. 

The 47-year-old also has trophy-winning experience in England, clinching a memorable FA Cup triumph for Wigan in 2013 as they upset Manchester City at Wembley.

His accolades, therefore, could highlight the fact he is a strong outside contender.

In other news: Spurs keen to sell this 66-cap ace as Levy makes transfer call, find out more here.

Sheffield United manager Slavisa Jokanovic has confirmed his club’s interest in signing Liverpool centre-back Ben Davies.

The lowdown

Liverpool spent £2million to bring Davies to Anfield in the January transfer window. It was something of an emergency signing, with Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip all sidelined until the end of the season (via BBC Sport).

Davies, though, didn’t see a minute of action in the latter half of the campaign, sitting behind Nathaniel Phillips, Rhys Williams and loanee Ozan Kabak in Jurgen Klopp’s pecking order.

He did don the Liverpool shirt at the beginning of pre-season, featuring in a 30-minute mini-game against Austrian outfit Wacker Innsbruck, but he’s since returned to the UK to address a personal matter.

According to journalist David Lynch, the Reds are keen to arrange a permanent exit for the 25-year-old but accept that a loan deal is more likely.

The latest

Speaking ahead of United’s Championship season opener against Birmingham City, Jokanovic said (via Yorkshire Live): “Yes, I am interested in both players [the second being Sampdoria midfielder Ronaldo Vieira].

“People are on their way. We move and are expecting in these next few hours there can be some news.

“We are in different battles, but I hope we will bring in as soon as possible a new addition into the squad.”

The verdict

If a sale isn’t possible this summer, then Liverpool should look to line one up next year. They could do so by inserting a clause into the loan whereby the Blades would have to sign Davies if he played a certain number of games over the course of the season.

He cost just £2million but that was largely because he had only six months left to run on his deal. On the ability and experience he’s shown in the second tier, you’d think the Reds could at least double their money if he impresses on a temporary deal.

If Davies is to go elsewhere, Liverpool should ensure they keep Phillips around as an insurance option in the event of another injury pile-up.

In other news, fans react to a contract update from James Pearce. 

Steven Gerrard confirmed recently that Rangers have offered Glen Kamara a new contract and it would undoubtedly be a huge boost for the 41-year-old manager if the mifielder comitted his long-term future to the Ibrox club.

What’s the word?

Kamara has been the subject of a lot of interest from Premier League sides this summer after his impressive performances for club and country, but it seems as if Rangers are doing everything they can to keep him at Ibrox.

Ahead of their 1-0 defeat against Dundee United at the weekend, Gerrard confirmed that:

“There is a real, strong, good offer on the table for Glen, so the speed in which this happens is totally on Glen. The ball is firmly in his court.

“The offer is really good from the club – his advisors are happy with the offer so now it is totally down to Glen. I’m sure the question should go in Glen’s direction because we are ready, waiting and hoping that it’s done as soon as possible.”

“He’s extremely important to keep at the football club.

“I think his progress since we took him in from Dundee has been clear for everyone to see. He’s gone on to become a real established international player.

“We know he can handle any football game here. I love the kid, I love the player and I’ve made it abundantly clear how much I want him to stay from a personal point of view.”

Will Kamara stay at Rangers?

Kamara has established himself as a key player in Gerrard’s side since joining from Dundee, making 108 appearances in total, in which he has contributed four goals and five assists.

The 25-year-old, who was labelled as a “class act” by Gerrard when he initially signed, has impressed with his close control and ability on the ball for both Rangers and Finland, playing a key role for his country at the European Championships this summer.

Although he is currently contracted at Rangers until 2023, if Rangers can convince him to sign this contract offer then it will give them even more security should Premier League sides come knocking again in the near future.

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If he does leave, then Rangers are sure to make a significant profit on the £50k they reportedly paid to sign him, although Gerrard will certainly want to keep him at Ibrox for as long as possible, so fans will be delighted to hear that he has been offered a bumper new contract.

And, in other news… Rangers handed huge boost with “absolutely outstanding” gem, Wilson must deliver

Peterborough United Director of Football has told Football FanCast that he doubts West Ham manager David Moyes will spend £40m on Tammy Abraham.

The Chelsea striker is reportedly available this summer, with the Blues willing to cash in should they receive a big bid.

The Daily Telegraph has reported that he would cost around £40m, and there is said to be interest from both West Ham and Leicester City.

Abraham has scored 12 goals in all competitions this season but he has struggled for minutes at times, particularly under the management of Thomas Tuchel.

Indeed, he was not even included in the squad for the FA Cup final against Leicester, a game the Blues lost 1-0.

Fry, though, wonders just how much Moyes will have to spend this summer and, as such, doubts whether he would be willing to splurge on one player.

The Irons are currently seventh in the Premier League and are not guaranteed qualification for Europe this season despite flirting with the top four throughout the campaign.

Speaking exclusively to FFC, Fry said: “If the manager wants him, I can see them trying to back the manager.

“It depends what sort of kitty Moyes has got. If he’s got, say, £60 million to spend I don’t think he’ll spend £40 million on one player.”

Celtic are closing in on a deal for Bologna left-back Aaron Hickey after they submitted a formal approach for his services, as reported by The Scottish Sun.

The Lowdown: Celtic prepare for 2021/22 in earnest

Moving into 2021/22, Hoops supporters will be eager to see how newly-appointed manager Ange Postecoglou goes about re-shaping a team in need of surgery in order to win the Premiership next season.

Making inroads in the transfer market, the Glaswegians have tied up deals for former Sheffield Wednesday pair Osaze Urhoghide and Liam Shaw.

Parkhead chiefs could now be braced for a third signing in quick succession following recent reports.

The Latest: Celtic set to open talks with Hickey this week

Celtic are set to open talks with Hickey in the next week following the initiation of a £3.5m bid for the 19-year-old [The Scottish Sun].

His current employers are rumoured to be interested in a swoop for now free agent Aleksandar Kolarov, paving the way for the Serie A outfit to cash in on either Hickey or Dutch full-back Mitchell Dijks [The Scottish Sun].

Intriguingly, the former Hearts defender is a boyhood Celtic fan who also spent his footballing upbringing in the Bhoys’ academy. Might this prove pivotal in negotiations?

The Verdict: Hickey would be an excellent asset for Celtic

Upon reflection, Hickey would be an excellent asset for Celtic should he complete a move back to his homeland.

He endured a frustrating 2020/21 campaign in Italy, making just 12 appearances in all competitions due to injury issues and suffering from a viral infection [Transfermarkt].

Nevertheless, his eagerness to progress the ball and awareness of surroundings is commendable. Across the pitch, he recorded an impressive 88.4% passing accuracy which, would suit Postecoglou’s high-intensity possession-based style of football [WhoScored].

He also drew high praise from his former coach Austin MacPhee, who in January 2020 gushed: “He’s so young he could play a lot of positions. He could end up being like Busquets.” [The Scottish Sun]

Needing to play regular football at a critical point in his development, Hickey and Celtic may be perfectly suited should negotiations reach a successful conclusion.

In other news, this Celtic midfielder has been linked with a Premier League move.

Crystal Palace put in a magnificent performance to secure a 2-2 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League on Monday evening.

The Eagles fought back from 1-0 down to take the lead through two thunderous strikes from Christian Benteke and Odsonne Edouard after dispossessing the home side deep in their own half on both occasions.

However, an injury-time effort from substitute Alexandre Lacazette snatch an undeserved point for the Gunners, meaning Palace have now drawn three consecutive games.

It was a frustrating end to an evening full of promise for Patrick Vieira’s charges, and the French tactician will certainly have taken a lot of positives away from his trip to the Emirates Stadium.

One main encouraging aspect was Benteke bagging his first goal of the season, but it was arguably summer signing Edouard who shone the brightest in north London.

As per SofaScore, the 23-year-old was awarded a match rating of 7.1 out of ten for his eye-catching efforts, the joint second-highest total received by any Palace player.

During his 82 minutes on the pitch, Edouard made a whopping three key passes to his teammates as he continued to cause Arsenal’s defence all kinds of problems, won seven duels and achieved a passing accuracy of 88%.

The former Celtic ace was asked to play out of position by Vieira due to Wilfried Zaha’s enforced absence through injury, but that didn’t stop him from having a huge impact upon proceedings.

His powerful strike in the 73rd-minute was his third Premier League goal of the campaign, and it seemed as though it was going to secure a memorable victory for the capital club until the dying embers of the game.

Edouard will be hoping he can put in another eye-catching performance against Newcastle United next time out and help Palace secure just their second win of the season.

And, in other news…100% dribble success: Palace monster who won 80% duels stole the show v Arsenal 

With Dean Smith’s Aston Villa side heading into Sunday’s Premier League clash on a run of three consecutive defeats, the 50-year-old would have undoubtedly been hoping for a much better result and performance when West Ham United visited Villa Park this weekend.

However, first-half strikes from Ben Johnson and Declan Rice, in addition to an Ollie Watkins goal for Villa, saw the Hammers take a 2-1 lead into the break, before Ezri Konsa’s 50th-minute red card all but ended Smith’s chances of getting anything out of the game – with goals from Pablo Fornals and Jarrod Bowen completing the 4-1 rout late on.

As is perhaps to be expected after such a result, a number of Villa players did not fare well in terms of match ratings, with Emiliano Buendia and goalscorer Watkins being the only two players to receive a SofaScore match rating of 7.0 or above on the losing side.

Although, it will undoubtedly be Konsa most disappointed with his display on Sunday, as the centre-back cost his side dearly.

Marching orders

While the 24-year-old’s biggest fault on Sunday was quite obviously his sending off for denying Bowen a clear goalscoring opportunity early in the second half – even if this decision has caused some level of controversy in the aftermath of the fixture – the defender’s display during his 50 minutes on the pitch was far from his best performance in a Villa shirt.

Indeed, the £22.5m-rated man failed to make any tackles, any interceptions or any clearances – three of the metrics which generally determine how effective a defender has been during a match.

The former England U21 international also lost four of his eight duels, completed just 17 passes and touched the ball a grand total of 25 times – 14 times less than Aston Villa shot-stopper Emiliano Martinez.

Finally, it would be difficult to comment on the £72k-per-week centre-back’s performance without mentioning the red card properly, as, regardless of whether or not Chris Kavanagh’s call was harsh, Konsa gave the referee and VAR a decision to make – one that ultimately ended up costing his side dearly.

Indeed, this is reflected in the SofaScore match rating of the player who Thomas Frank dubbed “like a Rolls-Royce”, with the 24-year-old’s 5.8 ranking him as the worst player on the pitch on Sunday.

As such, while any Aston Villa fan will know that Konsa is a much better player than his performance against West Ham would have you believe, the fact nevertheless remains that the defender was a major factor in Villa’s breakdown against the Hammers.

In other news: Signed for £17m, now worth “quadruple”: Lange struck oil on “unreal” £47k-p/w AVFC ace

Leicester City could be forced to sell midfielder Dennis Praet this summer after the creative talent voiced his displeasure over his lack of game time last season.

What’s the story?

According to The Sun, the 27-year-old has informed the Midlands outfit that he’s not prepared to sit on the bench again next term, meaning a return to Italian football could be on the cards.

The report claims that Brendan Rodgers is prepared to listen to offers for Praet, who has made it clear his future lies away from the King Power Stadium if he can’t get regular first-team minutes for the Foxes.

He’s been shocking

Praet joined Leicester from Serie A outfit Sampdoria back in August 2019 via an £18m deal, and he could be heading back to the Genoa-based club over the coming months.

After enjoying some success in his first campaign on English shores, the Belgium international was unable to displace the impressive Youri Tielemans, Wilfried Ndidi and James Maddison throughout 2020/21.

The former Anderlecht ace made just 10 Premier League starts last season and appeared only three times following his return from injury, openly admitting he was struggling to break into Rodgers’ plans.

“It is, of course, not easy to fight back into a team that is doing quite well. In the past few weeks, I didn’t take much playing time. Of course, that’s always a shame and painful for a football player, because you just want to play,” he said.

“Last season, I was often slightly deeper. More in the eight and thus in the place of Youri Tielemans. This season I mainly played as a 10. For that position, I am in competition with James Maddison.

“We are now playing with three or five in the back, and therefore, in a different system than in the beginning of this campaign. The regular midfield with Tielemans, Wilfred Ndidi and Maddison is of course there. It really is a struggle to get a place there,” Praet concluded.

In truth, it’s hard to make a case for Praet deserves to start in Leicester’s imperious engine room. He’s scored just three goals and provided only five assists in 60 appearances for the Midlands outfit, highlighting the shocking form he’s been hampered by.

With Boubakary Soumare’s arrival expected to push the £16.2m-rated flop even further down the pecking order, an imminent departure looks to be on the cards, and it’s a solution that could suit all parties.

And, in other news…Journo drops exciting Leicester update on £33k-p/w beast that’ll leave Rodgers buzzing