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Even though Liverpool have in the past signed some of their current players for substantial transfer fees such as Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker, Naby Keita, Diogo Jota and Fabinho among others, we feel there is one player at the club currently residing in Jurgen Klopp’s squad who may have gone under the radar in recent years that we feel FSG should get a lot of praise for securing – Joel Matip.

The Cameroonian joined Liverpool in the summer of 2016 on a free transfer from German side Schalke 04 after the Merseyside club secured a deal for him the previous February.

Since then, the 30-year-old has made 133 appearances for the Reds across all competitions, scoring six goals and providing three assists along the way.

So far this season, Matip has played the full 90 minutes in all but one of Liverpool’s Premier League games and has been ever-present in their three Champions League games, cementing himself as a vital figure for Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

Shortly after arriving at Anfield in the summer of 2016, Transfermarkt had his market value listed as £16.2m, before shooting up to £36m in December 2019, highlighting a significant impact since his arrival.

At this moment in time, Matip’s market value has fallen back to £16.2m, but we feel this has more to do with him reaching the age of 30 rather than anything to do with his playing time or his quality on the pitch, especially with Klopp calling him an “unbelievable” player in terms of what he can do.

Despite this drop in market value, we feel that it should not take away from how great a signing the defender has been for the Reds considering that FSG managed to get him on a free transfer and what he has since delivered for them on the pitch.

Moving forward, while his market value may not be likely to go back up towards where it was back in 2019, we think Matip has what it takes to continue impressing for the Reds this season and beyond if injuries don’t impact his playing time as they have done in the past.

In other news – Imagine him & Salah: FSG must seal Liverpool move for “incredible” £45m-rated machine

An update has emerged on Newcastle United’s interest in West Ham centre-back Issa Diop…

What’s the talk?

According to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, the Magpies have ‘established contacts’ with the Hammers over a potential deal for the defender.

The reporter has claimed that Watford are also in the race for his signature, whilst Paris Saint-Germain colossus Abdou Diallo is another player on the radar of the Toon Army.

Philippe Albert 2.0

In Diop, Howe can find Newcastle’s Philippe Albert 2.0 by signing a defensive “monster” who can lead from the back for the Magpies.

Albert played 137 times for the club, including 97 games in the Premier League and matches in Europe, and was capped 41 times by Belgium throughout his career.

The centre-back, who has been dubbed a club legend by The Chronicle, enjoyed a fantastic spell on Tyneside and Diop could follow in his footsteps by arriving in January and excelling in the side – going on to match or better Albert’s run at St. James’ Park.

In just over three years in England, the 24-year-old has made 88 appearances in the Premier League and played 108 games for West Ham. He has also made five appearances in the Europa League this season, showing that he – like Albert – has experience of playing European football as well as in the English top-flight.

Jose Mourinho previously lauded the West Ham recruitment staff for their work in landing the centre-back, saying: “Congratulations to the scout who found Diop, a monster who dictated everything.”

Diop has averaged a WhoScored rating of 7.16 in the Europa League, making 3.0 tackles and interceptions per game from centre-back. In his first Premier League campaign for West Ham, he averaged a score of 6.89 and made 4.0 tackles and interceptions per game, showing that he has the potential to be a top-quality performer at this level for Howe if he can get him playing at his best.

Therefore, Newcastle must ensure that they are able to get a deal over the line for the £10.8m-rated gem as he could end up being a reliable, consistent, option at centre-back and end up playing many games in the top-flight for the Magpies. Albert was a European defender who managed that feat in his time at the club and Howe can find the next one on the production line by landing Diop in January.

AND in other news, “Decision has been made”: Romano drops major transfer update that’ll delight NUFC fans…

Pundit Kevin Campbell has been reacting to who could join Erik ten Hag in the Manchester United dugout, Football Insider report.

The Lowdown: Verbal agreement…

It appears to be a matter of time until the Red Devils confirm Ten Hag as their new manager after striking a verbal agreement with the 52-year-old earlier this week.

An announcement isn’t expected anytime soon however, due to Ajax’s Dutch Cup final with PSV at the weekend, reports David Ornstein.

Reports do however believe that Ten Hag wants to bring his assistant Mitchell van der Gaag with him to Old Trafford, while Steve McClaren and Robin van Persie are also under consideration.

The Latest: Campbell’s comments

Campbell, who contributes for Sky Sports, was talking to FI regarding the possibility of the former United duo returning to the club to work under Ten Hag.

He labelled it as ‘important’ and ‘a brilliant move’, while also admitting he can see move materialising.

“It would be a smart move because both of them know the club inside out.

“Ten Hag knows what McClaren is about. They’ve been successful. They know.

“Van Persie had great success at Man United. Getting people in who know the club and know what’s required to be successful is important.

“I think it would be a brilliant move, if I’m honest. I can see it happening.”

The Verdict: Interesting…

Along with Van der Gaag, it could be wise for Ten Hag to bring McClaren and Van Persie to Old Trafford. He knows McClaren well after serving as his assistant at FC Twente, with roles possibly reversed 14 years on.

Fellow countryman Van Persie enjoyed plenty of success as a player with the Red Devils, and could also bring something different to the coaching team.

It will be interesting to see who Ten Hag brings with him, but what is most important for United chiefs at this moment in time is that a move goes through without any late hiccups. A coaching team potentially needs to be sorted before a deal is finalised, but only time will tell.

In other news: ‘Interesting’ Man Utd news has pundit talking; says Leeds supporters ‘will be devastated’

As per le10sport, a West Ham United transfer update has emerged from France as Rob Newman and co table a fresh offer for new striker target Hugo Ekitike.

The Lowdown: West Ham in striker search…

Manager David Moyes, as things stand, is still on the search for a new striking addition over one year after club record signing Sebastien Haller departed for Ajax.

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A plethora of forwards have been linked since then, including sensational names like Brazil international Gabriel Barbosa and Lille sensation Jonathan David.

Alas, despite the reports, West Ham still haven’t sealed an alternative to Michail Antonio but that hasn’t stopped them from trying – with the Irons and Newman now tabling an offer for another new target.

The Latest: West Ham table Ekitike bid…

As per le10sport, West Ham have ‘just transmitted an offer’ of around €15 million (£12.5m) to sign Reims striker Ekitike – with the Irons and Newman even willing to loan him back to the Ligue 1 side for six months.

This bid, they claim, is the only one they have received for Ekitike despite reports of a possible €35m (£29.1m) offer from Newcastle United for the forward.

The report add that the 19-year-old is ‘very popular’ in England as he becomes a man in demand – with the Irons, Newcastle and Watford all interested.

The Verdict: Real prospect…

The teenage talent, scoring eight goals and assisting three others in 18 top flight starts this season (Transfermarkt), is in a really rich vein of form at such a young age – leaving little wonder why he is attracting major English interest.

90min reporter and transfer insider Graeme Bailey is certainly a big admirer, branding Ekitike an ‘outstanding’ forward whilst even claiming he ‘could be the next Mbappe’ (Twitter).

As Moyes and co scour France for some of the nation’s top talent, as backed by insider ExWHUemployee, they couldn’t do much better than Reims’ sensation as a real prospect to watch out for.

With any luck, West Ham and Newman can win the race in January.

In other news: ExWHUemployee: West Ham could now move for 63-goal ‘monster’ adored by Irons chiefs, find out more here.

Everton have had a busy transfer window securing three signings early into the window and with Rafa Benitez recently sacked, no further signings have been made or attempted with the Everton board distracted by finding the next manager to lead the side at Goodison Park, but the Toffees have now been linked to a huge player.

What’s the word?

Bundesliga journalist, Christian Falks, has confirmed that Everton are interested in signing Bayern Munich player, Thomas Muller, alongside Newcastle United.

Falks tweeted; “TRUE @Everton and @NUFC want @esmuellert_ (contract til 2023 at @FCBayern).”

It has not been confirmed as to whether this interest is for an immediate move in the last days of the January transfer window or if they are looking to the summer window to snatch the World Cup winner from Bayern Munich.

Imagine him & DCL

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is having a slow start in his return to the side since he endured a long term injury for the majority of this season so far and is yet to score since after missing a penalty in his first game back, with fans surely hoping he can find his form as soon as possible to help Everton climb the Premier League table back into a safe place from their current position just four points shy of the relegation zone.

Muller, who was hailed “world-class” by his former teammate Mario Gomez, has been instrumental to the success of both Bayern Munich and his German national team, winning ten Bundesliga titles, two Champions Leagues and one World Cup to name just 13 of his 30 trophies won throughout his career so far, and that kind of winning experience is something Everton are desperate for.

The £22.5m-rated star is the third-highest scoring player ever for Bayern Munich, bagging 223 goals and registering 238 assists in his time at the club, with an astonishing goal involvement every 98 minutes he has played.

This phenomenal attacking output could definitely provide Calvert-Lewin with a fierce attacking partner who can change the trajectory massively for Everton’s future in the Premier League.

If the interest is genuine, it is a no brainer for Farhad Moshiri to make a move for the 32-year-old who is still having a huge impact this season with nine goals and 20 assists already in just 29 appearances.

That means Everton should not be put off by his age and should seize the opportunity if it arises to bring Muller to Goodison Park either this month or in the summer, as he’s exactly what Duncan Ferguson needs if he is to remain in charge.

In other news: Alan Myers drops two-word update on Everton manager search

Sunderland will be desperate to ensure consistency from here on in until the end of the season after picking up another three points earlier on today.

The Black Cats still find themselves in the race for an automatic promotion place in League One, but it won’t be easy as there’re a number of teams fighting for limited places.

However, it appears as if the Wearside club already have one eye on the summer, as according to The Scottish Sun (via Shields Gazette), Sunderland continue to keep tabs on Lawrence Shankland.

Of course, Sunderland splashed out on Will Grigg last month but it’s safe to say that attacking reinforcements are still required, with the Northern Ireland international not quite hitting the heights just yet and Kaziah Sterling returning to Spurs in the summer. So, it would sense for the Black Cats to move in for Lawrence Shankland as his contract is set to expire in the summer, and he’s been hugely impressive this season with 30 goals and eight assists to his name.

But, the likes of Oldham Athletic, Swansea City, Nottingham Forest and Hull City are all interested in signing him, so it won’t be easy to lure him to Wearside. Therefore, Stewart Donald can make a big statement by pipping a number of Championship clubs to secure his services, and he’s one of Scotland’s most talented forwards so he could have a huge impact at the Stadium of Light.

What do you think Sunderland fans?

Leeds United have been handed a transfer boost in their chase for Fulham starlet Fabio Carvalho.

What’s the story?

According to recent reports, the Cottagers have hit a contract impasse with the 19-year-old, whose deal at the club expires at the end of this season.

It was suggested that the likes of Leeds, West Ham, Norwich and Porto are all said to be interested in making a move for the teenager, and that “owners Shahid and Tony Khan face a difficult decision whether to cash in if they can’t reach agreement with the youngster over a new deal.”

Now, it’s been claimed that Carvalho has turned down the latest offer from Fulham over a new contract, and that the teenager looks all set to depart – potentially even in the January transfer window.

Tyler Roberts will be worried

Speaking after he watched him score his first goal for the club against Southampton towards the back end of last season, former Fulham boss Scott Parker said: “Fabio was lively, he had great amounts of energy. All round his performance was very good for a young boy that has come into the team for his full debut.

“He showed real courage and bravery, he’s earned the right to get into this team. He’s not in this team because our season’s over, he’s in the team because he deserves it.”

Able to play anywhere across midfield and further forward too, Carvalho has been at his best for Fulham’s youth sides when playing just behind the striker.

In 42 games in that position for the Cottagers, the England U18 international has smashed in an incredible 20 goals and provided another nine assists too, while he’s also equally effective out wide too (he’s scored seven goals and set up another eight from the right-hand side).

This season has seen him start off with a bang for the senior side, bagging three goals in seven Championship games, including providing one assist too.

Given the position that he plays, it’s Leeds’ Tyler Roberts who will perhaps be feeling the most worried about Carvalho’s potential arrival at Elland Road.

At 22, the Welshman is three years older than the Fulham youngster, but has shown nothing like the kind of potential or form in the Premier League to warrant him being a key part of Marcelo Bielsa’s side at Elland Road – a record of just eight goals in 95 games for the club is a testament to that.

Carvalho joining Leeds could push Roberts out of the reckoning for a first-team spot, and overtake him in the pecking order under Bielsa.

Meanwhile, Leeds are eyeing this European star…

Everton have been dealt a big blow to their festive plans as winger Andros Townsend has suffered an injury to his foot.

According to The Athletic, the ex-Tottenham man sustained the knock whilst playing against his former team Crystal Palace on Sunday and he is now set to be out for a number of weeks – missing the Christmas schedule.

Major issue

This causes a major issue for Blues boss Rafa Benitez as Townsend has been one of his standout players in the Premier League this season. Dominic Calvert-Lewin (7.53) is the only player in the squad with a higher average SofaScore rating than the winger (7.09) and he will need to be replaced in the starting XI over the coming weeks.

The Spaniard could potentially solve this problem by unleashing academy beast Anthony Gordon and giving him a further run of games from the start to prove his worth at senior level.

He has had a smattering of starts in the top-flight this season but it has been difficult for him to find consistency as he has not had a prolonged spell in the XI to build some momentum. Gordon has started six games and made a further seven appearances off the bench, having played three times in the league last season.

The 20-year-old has shown potential whilst playing in the youth sides at Goodison. He scored 24 goals and provided ten assists in 59 games for the U23 and U18 outfits combined, showing that he has the quality to score and assist goals from a wide position – albeit he is yet to prove that he can do it at senior level.

David Unsworth previously backed the youngster to fulfill his potential, saying:

“If chances come along, you want them to come to Anthony Gordon because he is in such a rich vein of form.

“He’s grown in stature as a player. He can still be better physically, in terms of being able to go for 95 minutes – and he will do that. His desire and application is there.

“He is such an explosive player. He’s progressing really well and when he reaches his full potential, he’ll be some player. It’s not a question of if, he will do. He’s got that star quality.”

With Townsend now set to miss a number of matches, Benitez must unleash Gordon from the start over a prolonged period now to allow him to build up his confidence to see if he is able to make a significant impact at first-team level for Everton.

If he is able to do that then he could kick on and become an important player for the club moving forward, which is why the Spanish boss could benefit from selecting him – starting with the clash with Chelsea.

AND in other news, Rafa can kickstart Everton revival by unleashing 65-goal prodigy who “rarely misses”…

Leeds United are willing to sell centre-back Robin Koch this summer, according to Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Koch’s poor form

The German was described as ‘horrible’ to watch by Beren Cross in the opening day defeat to Manchester United, and things haven’t got much better for him in the eight months since.

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The 25-year-old has failed to nail down a regular starting spot under both Marcelo Bielsa and Jesse Marsch, making just 11 league starts. As per WhoScored, Koch has been the worst-rated senior performer this season with an average match rating of 6.32/10.

He has also missed 38 games with various injuries and illnesses since arriving from Freiburg in a £13m deal in 2020, and it looks as if Marsch and Victor Orta may have had enough of the defender.

The Latest: Elland Road source reveal

Football Insider shared a story regarding Koch after being informed by a source close to Leeds.

They claimed that the Yorkshire club would be willing to listen to offers for the centre-back as they plot a defensive overhaul. The report even adds that an offer between £10m and £11m would be enough for Leeds, who would be making a small loss on the 25-year-old in that case.

The Verdict: Defensive overhaul needed…

Should Leeds remain in the Premier League over the coming weeks, you’d expect that a big summer overhaul is required, with a number of incomings to bolster the small squad that Marsch took over.

The Whites have let in a league-high 68 goals in just 31 games, making it clear to see that they could benefit from a defensive shake-up over the coming months.

Koch has been outperformed by Liam Cooper, Pascal Struijk and Diego Llorente this season, and following links to FC Koln’s Timo Hubers in recent days, it looks as if Koch could be the man to make way.

In other news: Leeds and Marsch handed early injury boost as ‘strong’ player may now return v Watford  

A big claim has been made on Newcastle United transfer target Tyrone Mings, regarding his future at Aston Villa…

What’s the talk?

Journalist Luke Hatfield has suggested that the Midlands club could be tempted to cash in on the centre-back if an offer comes in from the Magpies, who have recently been linked with the England international.

Hatfield told GIVEMESPORT:

“You never say never with football. If an offer comes in from Newcastle or any other club that Villa see as acceptable, maybe it’s one they’ll consider.”

Delight

Newcastle fans will surely be delighted with this claim from Hatfield as he has left the door ajar for a potential move to St. James’ Park for Mings in the January transfer window. He does not think a deal is impossible for the club to complete, with Villa potentially willing to do business at the right price.

The 3-3 draw with Brentford at the weekend highlighted the need for defensive reinforcements ahead of the second half of the campaign, as the Magpies are conceding goals at an alarming rate. Eddie Howe’s team are 20th in the table and the only team in the division yet to win a game, whilst they are also without their first clean sheet of the league season.

They are currently conceding 2.3 goals per game in the Premier League, whilst scoring 1.3, and it does not take a genius to work out that they are on course to lose the majority of their games if these statistics persist. This is why signing an experienced, proven, defender in the form of Mings could be a terrific signing and one that leaves fans buzzing.

Mings, 28, has been capped 16 times by England and has made 97 Premier League appearances in his career for Bournemouth and Villa, with 102 matches for the latter in all competitions. Last season, he helped his side to keep 14 clean sheets in 36 league matches, showing that he has the quality to be a crucial part of a solid defence at this level.

This is why Newcastle fans will be delighted with the prospect of the defender arriving on Tyneside in January, with Hatfield’s comments suggesting that a deal is certainly a possibility. The Three Lions centre-back could help to improve Howe’s defence and increase their chances of keeping clean sheets and, in turn, picking up points that keeps them in the division.

AND in other news, Shearer 2.0: Howe could get St. James’ rocking with NUFC deal for “incredible” beast…