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West Ham United may well have been left ruing their inability to sign promising Englishman, Marcus Edwards, with the former Tottenham Hotspur youth product currently thriving at Sporting CP.

The 23-year-old had risen through the academy set-up at Spurs although failed to truly break into the first team set-up, eventually making just a solitary senior appearance for the club before securing a permanent departure to Vitoria de Guimaraes in 2019, after previous loan stints at Norwich City and Excelsior.

His impressive form for the Portuguese outfit seemingly sparked the attention of those at the London Stadium, with manager David Moyes believed to have been keen to sign the fleet-footed winger on an £18m deal in January 2021.

As it proved, the former England U20 international snubbed that interest by swiftly signing a new deal until 2024, with the contract believed to have included a buyout clause of around €50m (£45m).

After netting 20 goals and providing 14 assists in 96 games at his now former club, the Enfield-born starlet was subsequently snapped up by his current side for a reported fee of just €7.5m (£6.5m) a year later, where he has since gone on to flourish for the Lisbon outfit.

Since his arrival in the winter window, the 5 foot 6 sensation has scored six goals and provided six assists in just 23 games across all competitions, with that tally including a haul of six goal contributions in just eight games so far this term.

That electric talent has been most evident in the Champions League in recent weeks, with the playmaker having been “lighting up” the competition thus far – in the words of Zach Lowy – notably registering a goal and an assist against Eintracht Frankfurt last week.

That display saw the highly-rated prospect record a mightily impressive match rating of 8.2 – as per SofaScore – with the figure by far the highest of any player for either side, showcasing the forward’s undoubted quality and confidence in what was his first start in the competition.

The diminutive gem has since followed up that stunning performance with another noteworthy display against former employers Tottenham on Tuesday evening, helping his new club secure a 2-0 victory over Antonio Conte’s side.

While not involved in either goal, Edwards caught the eye with his all-round display in that shock victory, almost pulling off what would have been a remarkable solo goal after weaving his way past a sea of Spurs defenders, only to see his effort denied by Hugo Lloris.

Such a moment of magic showcased just why he had earned comparisons to fellow left-footer Lionel Messi from Mauricio Pochettino during his time in north London, with that glowing assessment a marker of his huge potential.

With interest set to rise in the player’s signature in the near future should such performances be replicated, Moyes and co may well be left to reflect on what might have been had they managed to secure a deal just over 18 months ago.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has delivered a double transfer claim involving Manchester United ahead of the summer transfer window. 

The lowdown: United interested in Laimer and Nkunku

United have been heavily linked with a move for RB Leipzig midfielder Konrard Laimer, according to a recent report from The Mirror, as the Old Trafford squad prepares to undergo a summer overhaul.

Elsewhere, according to German publication Bild, the Red Devils have also made contact with the Bundesliga outfit regarding highly-rated forward Christopher Nkunku, who is also wanted for a return to Paris Saint-Germain.

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After incoming manager Erik ten Hag sacrificed a post-season tour to the Caribbean with Ajax in order to start work in Manchester, one reputable journalist has suggested that the proosed double raid on Leipzig could be a sensible one.

The latest: O’Rourke talks up double swoop

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke has claimed that a move for 24-year-old pair Nkunku and Laimer could be on the cards for United, particularly given the links between their current club RB Leipzig and Old Trafford consultant Ralf Rangnick.

The journalist outlined the rationale behind the potential double swoop: “I think they would be two good signings. Obviously, they’ve got the links with Rangnick there because of RB Leipzig; he knows all about these players as well. So, they’re players that he knows and trusts.”

The verdict: Smart moves

Despite the continued on-field woes since the arrival of Rangnick as interim manager, the experienced operator is expected to play a part in the new era at Old Trafford in his forthcoming consultancy role.

Although Ten Hag hasn’t stepped foot inside the United dugout as of yet, it appears that the Dutchman’s fingerprints are already across those linked with a move to the club this summer.

The 52-year-old is widely expected to oversee a major sea change on player departures and incomings with the help of newly-appointed Austria coach Rangnick, particularly focusing on clearing out deadwood and signing youngster alternatives.

With 34 goals and 20 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions this term, Nkunku would be a sensational capture for the Dutchman’s new-look squad.

Meanwhile, Laimer – who holds a strong stylistic likeness to Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Jude Bellingham (as per FBRef) – would serve as an adequate replacement for the exit-bound Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic.

Valued at a combined £81.8m by Transfermarkt, the double swoop would be an expensive one for United, but one which could certainly kick-start a much-needed revival at Old Trafford.

In other news: Man Utd now eyeing move for ‘world class’ Premier League star. Read more here

Liverpool head to Wembley for their second domestic cup final of the season against Chelsea this afternoon, and all eyes will be on Jurgen Klopp’s team selection for the FA Cup showpiece.

The Reds still have two Premier League games and the Champions League final in Paris left to play this season. They are out again on Tuesday night, so it will be interesting to see how the manager lines up his front three in particular, with the attacking positions becoming even more competitive after the arrival of Luis Diaz in January.

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That being said, Klopp must drop Diogo Jota from the starting line-up this afternoon and look to his other attacking options to secure a second trophy of the season for Liverpool.

Remarkably, the Portuguese forward has been rotating in and out of the team despite scoring 15 goals and contributing three assists in the Premier League this season, but it is his link-up play and ball control which could see the forward losing out when Klopp names his FA Cup final line-up today.

His goal-scoring abilities are undeniable, but when it comes to being effective in other areas of the game, he is underperforming compared to his fellow Liverpool forwards.

According to SofaScore, the 25-year-old has lost possession of the ball every 6.5 minutes in the Premier League this season, has a 75% pass accuracy, is dribbled past 1.2 times on average per match and has been unsuccessful in the majority of his dribbles (62%), which suggests that he could potentially struggle against a very experienced Chelsea defence.

In this particular match, it would be more beneficial to play Roberto Firmino, who has returned to fitness just in time for the final and can offer a more controlled approach to the game than the Portugal forward.

Compared to Jota, the 30-year-old is a bit more reliable in his link-up play and ball control, with an 80% pass accuracy, has only been dribbled past 0.7 times on average per game and is successful in 44% of his dribble attempts.

The Brazilian has been the lynchpin in Liverpool’s forward line for many years working alongside Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, offering a wealth of experience which could be exactly what the Reds need in order to take control of the game early and secure a second trophy of the season.

Ultimately, Klopp will be hoping that he can unlock the formula in claiming victory from Thomas Tuchel’s side within 90 minutes today, as his team has drawn three times with Chelsea this season already.

AND in other news: Liverpool eye summer move for £144m-rated “golden boy”, he’s even better than Haaland

A shock Tottenham Hotspur transfer update has now come to light involving Bayern Munich striker and big name Robert Lewandowski.

The Lowdown: Conte sets sights on summer…

Spurs head coach Antonio Conte, finishing the 2021/2022 Premier League season in style, guided his side to fourth-place and qualification for next season’s Champions League in a huge boost for the north Londoners.

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A resounding 5-0 win away to Norwich City sealed the Lilywhites’ spot in Europe’s most prestigious competition, coming courtesy of goals from Dejan Kulusevski (2), Son Heung-min (2) and Harry Kane.

All eyes will now be on how chairman Daniel Levy backs Conte in the summer market ahead of the Italian’s first full season in charge as the former Inter Milan boss eyes ‘at least’ six major incomings, according to reports.

The signing of a forward is reportedly among the Tottenham manager’s priorities for the next transfer window with a surprise claim now emerging involving Bundesliga superstar Lewandowski.

The Latest: Tottenham eye shock Lewandowski move…

According to French news outlet Foot Mercato, transfer chief Fabio Paratici has joined the mix for Bayern’s household name with Spurs now eyeing a move alongside their rivals Arsenal.

It is claimed that they wish to partner Lewandowski with Kane and are ‘interested in the idea’ of offering the Poland international a route out of Bayern.

The Verdict: Ambitious?

The 33-year-old is quite simply one of the best strikers in world football, as evident by his ridiculous haul of 35 goals and three assists across 34 German top flight starts over 2021/2022 (WhoScored).

His 13 goals and three assists in Europe further back just how relentless Lewandowski can be in the forward positions, with Football Analyst Statman Dave, as seen on Sky Sports, calling him ‘unplayable’.

Former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has called the attacker a ‘huge player’ in the past also, but given he is widely believed to be eyeing a move to Barcelona, it appears Paratici could face an uphill battle to bring him to N17.

In other news: Fabrizio Romano: Spurs make contact to sign ‘monster’ player as his agents plan imminent club meeting, find out more here.

Celtic have reportedly agreed personal terms with loanee Cameron Carter-Vickers over a permanent summer move to Parkhead, acting as a huge boost.

The Lowdown: Carter-Vickers superb for Celtic

The American joined the Hoops on loan from Tottenham last summer and has proved to be a huge hit, making a massive impact at the heart of the defence.

Carter-Vickers has helped Ange Postecoglou’s side win both the Scottish Premiership and Scottish League Cup, making a total of 40 appearances in all competitions.

There is a scramble to sign the 24-year-old permanently from Spurs, however, with Celtic desperately trying to extend his stay at Parkhead for a fee believed to be around £10m with add-ons included.

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The Latest: Personal terms agreed

According to The Daily Record, Carter-Vickers has now agreed personal terms with the Hoops, in what is a major step in the right direction.

He is believed to ‘have his heart set’ on remaining with Celtic, who now have three weeks to get the 8-figure deal done before other clubs can swoop in around £10m.

The Verdict: Massive boost for Hoops

This is a huge piece of news for Celtic, with signing Carter-Vickers permanently arguably more important than any new addition that could come in this summer.

He has been a defensive rock alongside Carl Starfelt all season, averaging a whopping 4.2 clearances per game in the league, while Sir Kenny Dalglish has hailed him as ‘excellent’.

The fact that Carter-Vickers is happy at the club and sees his future in Green and White is massive and it is now a case of completing a move and ensuring he is part of Celtic’s long-term future.

In other news, Frank McAvennie is delighted by one thing he has seen at Celtic. Read more here.

If there is one person on this earth who has lived and breathed the very mantra of never giving up, it’s former Arsenal star Ian Wright.

The ex-striker was a marvel in the red and white at Highbury, scoring as many as 185 times in 288 outings for the Gunners.

That record puts him second only to Thierry Henry on Arsenal’s list of all-time goal scorers.

However, the move to north London came relatively late in his career. Wrighty as he’s become affectionately known was a late bloomer, as he laid down the foundations for the Jamie Vardy’s of this world to show that no matter how old you are, there is always more potential to be extracted.

When it comes to players who found their touch late into their career, Wright and Vardy are two of the most famous examples of the Premier League era.

Back in March, the Leicester forward overtook the former with 94 goals after turning 30 – the most out of any player who has played Premier League football.

They both have Arsenal in common too, although Vardy’s association is that of rejection, with the jovial attacker once turning them down.

But what, I hear you ask, is the relevance to this in the modern-day?

Well, Wright joined Arsenal from Crystal Palace and this summer, the Gunners could raid their fellow Londoners again.

They have previously been interested in a deal for Wilfried Zaha but it’s not the Ivorian on their radar this time. Instead, it’s Michael Olise who has captured the interest of Arsenal according to reports.

The young France youth international joined Palace last summer in a bargain £8m deal and it’s thought as though his valuation has now risen to around £35m.

It’s a considerable sum of money but one Arsenal won’t be afraid to pay. After all, France and the Islington club go hand in hand after Arsene Wenger’s time in the English capital.

Although Olise is a winger by trade, a different position to Wright, there would be shades of the deal that Arsenal successfully completed to bring the latter to Highbury back in 1991.

Over 30 years later and Olise could become the club’s new Wright.

Scoring as many as the now television pundit would be quite the accomplishment but the Palace youngster has the same sort of swagger and confidence to his play.

He is a joy to watch and is learning the game from a certain Patrick Vieira. Wherever you look, the former Reading man is beginning to smell Arsenal and he’ll have certainly picked up a few of the club’s philosophies given his current manager.

Throughout the current campaign, the 20-year-old found the net on four occasions and registered nine assists in 32 games. It’s a fine record for someone who was playing at the highest level for the first time in his career.

So good have been his performances that he’s even earned the praise of Wright himself.

“When you watch what Zaha brings to the team, Wilf is what 29 now? Here you are talking about a youngster that has a massive future,” the former Gunner began.

“When you look at what he does in the final third. Go and do what you want. He is going to be somebody that is going to do unbelievable things,” Wright concluded.

Olise has earned further praise from Reading defender Tom McIntyre who hailed his “special ability” while Squawka writer Muhammad Butt called him a “wizard”. On that evidence, he’d be quite the capture for Mikel Arteta’s men.

Crucially, he’d also fit the club’s philosophy of buying young players who are yet to reach their ceiling.

Should the chance present itself, it would surely be a no brainer for Edu and co to bring the dazzling French star to north London.

As Wright eludes to, this is someone who is going places within the world of football.

AND in other news, Signed at £6m, now worth £34m: Arsenal struck gold on gem with “a bit of Pires” to him…

Newcastle United are still trying to sign Lille defender Sven Botman this summer after failing to do so in the January window, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: January pursuit

During the winter, the Magpies were reported with a keen interest in the 22-year-old.

According to the Daily Mail, the Tyneside club had offers around the £32m mark rejected by the Ligue 1 side in January.

It was also claimed that the player preferred to assess his options at the end of the season, rather than making the move midway through the campaign.

The Latest: O’Rourke’s claim on Botman

O’Rourke believes that Botman remains very high up on Newcastle’s wish list and that PIF are continuing to negotiate for the defender.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, he claimed: “They tried really hard in January to get him but just couldn’t get that deal done. I don’t think the interest has gone away, it’s still a position Eddie Howe wants to improve on this summer and bring in a new centre-back. So if they can land a Sven Botman who has been very high up their list of targets, it would be a great signing for Newcastle.

“There’s fierce competition from the likes of Milan for the Dutchman as well, so it’s going to be a hard one to do, but Newcastle are in there and still trying to do it. They will be hoping to lure him to St James’ Park.”

The Verdict: Could be hard to pull off

Journalist Jacque Talbot believes that any potential deal involving the Netherlands under-21 international will be difficult for Newcastle to pull off, describing the Lille defender as “probably one of the most exciting centre-backs in European football at the moment”.

Nonetheless, the Tynesiders will surely be doing all they can to try and lure the youngster to St James’ Park this summer. Standing at 6 foot 5 in height, Botman is an imposing centre-back who could strike a formidable partnership at the back alongside 6 foot 6 Dan Burn.

Therefore, whilst this deal may be difficult to secure, the Magpies should pull out all the stops to try and get it done.

In other news: Craig Hope drops exciting Moussa Diaby transfer update

West Ham United are close to securing the signature Rennes defender Nayef Aguerd, according to a report from Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Defender wanted

Following the cruciate ligament rupture sustained by defender Angelo Ogbonna early on in the Premier League season, manager David Moyes was left short of options across his backline.

With Kurt Zouma also suffering from a number of injuries, at times it was just Craig Dawson and Issa Diop left as the only senior options available for Moyes’ selection.

After a sensational run in the Europa League, the Irons became visibly fatigued as the season wore on, with the hectic schedule taking its toll on the squad.

With this in mind, it became imperative for the Hammers to dip into the transfer market for a central defender ahead of next season.

The Latest: Aguerd close

According to a recent report by Football Insider, West Ham are now in advanced talks with Rennes to sign Aguerd, with negotiations closing in on a deal worth around £25m.

It is understood that the Premier League outfit are increasingly confident of securing an agreement with the French side for the 26-year-old, who is said to have already begun house-hunting in London as he looks to make the switch early on in the window.

The Verdict: Great signing

With a number of top clubs having monitored the Morocco international over the last two seasons, this will be a great signing for Moyes’ squad, given their desperate need to bring in an experienced defender to the London Stadium.

According to The Athletic’s Jack Pitt-Brooke, Aguerd is “the best value left-sided centre back in Europe” and “every club should be after him.”

Averaging 4 clearances and 0.5 blocks per game in Ligue 1 (via WhoScored), it is easy to see why the Moroccan has been on the receiving end of such heavy praise, having been capped by his national team on 19 occasions.

This could be a brilliant signing for West Ham.

In other news: Irons will look into signing Emmanuel Dennis

A Turkish top flight club are now very keen to sign Borna Barisic from Glasgow Rangers this summer.

The Lowdown: Not the best season

Barisic did not have the best season individually for the Ibrox outfit, despite them getting to the UEFA Europa League final and winning the Scottish Cup.

BBC Scotland’s chief sports writer Tom English described him as looking ‘punch-drunk‘ during an abject performance against bitter rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, while he was also criticised by The Rangers Review journalist Jonny McFarlane during the UEL final loss against Frankfurt.

It is safe to say that the Croatia international has struggled in big games, and so Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team may now be looking to part ways.

The Latest: Trabzonspor interest

As per Football Scotland, Trabzonspor are now ‘weighing up’ a move for Barisic, and are ‘very keen’ to lure him to Turkey.

They are ‘likely’ to come in with an offer, which comes after the Light Blues rejected a £2m bid from Watford for Barisic in the January transfer window.

The Verdict: Get rid

The Teddy Bears have been heavily linked with a move for Stoke City left-back Josh Tymon, and so should they sign him and manage to keep Calvin Bassey on their books, then Barisic will no longer be needed.

The 29-year-old only has two years left remaining on his contract with the Gers, and so the summer provides the optimum time to sell in order to get his maximum worth.

Nonetheless, some of his performances last term were quite frankly disappointing, and so his time at the club could well be up.

In other news, find out what ‘massive, massive blow’ for RFC has now emerged here!

Luke Edwards has now revealed some exciting transfer news from Newcastle United.

The Lowdown: Busy transfer window

It looks set to be another busy transfer window at St James’ Park after their splurge in January, having already signed Matt Targett on a permanent deal from Aston Villa.

The Magpies have recently been linked with the likes of Alphonse Areola, Matheus Nunes and Jules Kounde, which suggesting that they are looking to strengthen in all areas of the pitch.

The Latest: Edwards transfer update

Taking to Twitter, Edwards has revealed that Newcastle now ‘want’ to sign as many as five new players this summer, and also listed the positions that they have identified as ‘priorities’.

The Daily Telegraph journalist stated: “#nufc want 4 or 5 new players this summer. A wide forward, a CB and a striker are priorities. Will then look at other positions.”

The Verdict: Exciting

It is certainly exciting that the Tynesiders could bring in as many as five new players this summer, having already secured a permanent deal for Targett.

They have already been linked with some big names, and coupled with the January arrivals, they look set to form a very strong squad for Eddie Howe once the 2022/23 season begins.

Nonetheless, they just need to go about their business assuredly and not be bullied into paying premium prices by other clubs who know that they have the money to spend.

Talks are ongoing over Sven Botman and Hugo Ekitike, two players who fit the aforementioned priority positions, so they could well be the next ones to come through the doors at St James’ Park.

In other news, find out which deal NUFC have now attempted to ‘hijack’