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Newcastle United will be looking for new additions that can add quality to the squad ahead of their Champions League campaign next season and now a new update has emerged on a potential transfer target.

What's the latest on Newcastle's interest in Conor Gallagher?

According to The Daily Mail, Newcastle are interested in signing Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher this summer.

As per the report, the Magpies have identified a number of targets ahead of the summer transfer window and Gallagher is among several Premier League players that the club's hierarchy are considering.

Would Gallagher be a good signing for Newcastle?

Whilst securing the services of a defensive midfielder should be the highest priority for Newcastle this summer, there is no doubt that Gallagher can offer the club another young, hard-working and explosive player for Eddie Howe to deploy in the centre of the pitch.

The Newcastle boss has unlocked the full potential in his impressive squad this season with a League Cup final at Wembley and Champions League qualification making dreams become a reality for the St James' Park faithful, but now it will be important to keep building and adding quality to find success in the next steps of their journey.

Having strong depth in every position will be hugely advantageous when it comes to competing on the domestic and European stage next season, allowing Howe to rotate with confidence and without compromising on the quality of the performance.

Indeed, Gallagher – dubbed "Kante with goals" by talkSPORT's Tony Cascerino – could be the perfect player to add competition to Joelinton's position with the Brazilian midfielder named as the second most comparable player to the Chelsea talent, as per FBref.

The positional peers have shared a number of similarities in their output this season including shots on target rate (39.3% v 37.3%), pass completion rate (81.1% v 81.6%), shot-creating actions per 90 (2.61 v 2.71) and successful take-ons (42.6% v 47.7%).

Due to the fact that Joelinton often drops into the left-wing role, Gallagher – who has a reported price tag of £44m – could even find himself playing alongside the Newcastle talisman and if they could form a good connection on the pitch together by doubling up on their similar attacking attributes, it could cause chaos for opponents.

With that being said, the signing of Gallagher would be a great way to bolster one of the most important positions in Howe's successful team and would give the manager a player he can trust to rotate into the team next season when competing in multiple competitions.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is set to enter his first summer transfer window in charge of the club and it provides him with a chance to make big changes to his squad.

The Spaniard helped the club to secure European football for next season by earning qualification for the Europa Conference League and the roster may need upgrading in order to deal with playing in multiple competitions.

Portuguese outlet A Bola recently reported that the Villans are interested in a deal to sign Sporting attacking midfielder Pedro Goncalves ahead of the 2023/24 campaign and he could improve Emery's team significantly.

The report claimed that the club have been tracking the ace since 2020 and have contacted the Liga Portugal side to enquire about his price, with his side demanding that potential suitors pay up his release clause of €80m (£69m).

How did Pedro Goncalves perform this season?

Emery could land a big upgrade on current Villa playmaker Emiliano Buendia by signing Goncalves as the 24-year-old star enjoyed an exceptional campaign with Sporting in his home country.

In the Portuguese top flight, the magician averaged a Sofascore rating of 7.51 across 33 matches and contributed with 15 goals and 11 assists.

The dynamo proved himself to be a reliable goalscorer from an attacking midfield or wide position, after scoring eight goals in 27 league outings last term, and could provide a greater goal threat than Buendia, who managed just five strikes in 38 matches in the Premier League in 22/23 and four in 35 games in 21/22 for the Villans.

Goncalves, whose form was once hailed as "incredible" by talent scout Jacek Kulig, also created 16 'big chances' and provided 2.6 key passes per match for Sporting in the league. This shows that the former Wolves maestro is consistently opening up the opposition's defence to create quality opportunities for his teammates, to go along with his own goalscoring ability.

Buendia, meanwhile, created eight 'big chances' and made 1.4 key passes per game for Villa in the league and these statistics indicate that the Argentine does not offer as much as the Portuguese talent when it comes to creating for others.

Therefore, Emery could improve his squad heading into the 2023/24 campaign by swooping for Goncalves in the coming months as the playmaker has the potential to provide far more quality in the final third than the ex-Norwich man.

There is no guarantee that he will be able to translate his form from Portugal over to England but his eye-catching form in front of goal suggests that it is a gamble worth taking this summer.

YouTuber Mark Goldbridge has praised Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag for his recent comments on Marcus Rashford.

What did Ten Hag say about Rashford?

It's been a pretty impressive season for the Englishman and after he scored in the week against Chelsea, he became the first player in a decade – since Robin van Persie – to net 30 times in a single campaign for the Red Devils.

Unsurprisingly, Rahsford has earned plenty of plaudits over the past few months but it seems his manager, isn't satisfied just yet.

Indeed, Ten Hag recently told Viaplay (via Goal): "I am happy that finally a player of Manchester United is able to score 30 goals again. But next year the numbers have to be higher."

It might seem like a tough ask of Rashford but Goldbridge seemed to love the high standards being demanded at Old Trafford.

When speaking on The United Stand YouTube channel, he explained his thoughts, as he read out the quotes and then added: "I love that from Ten Hag! The obsession to make things better."

When does Rashford's contract expire?

As quoted in the ManchesterEveningNews, Ten Hag actually had even more to say on the topic. The Dutch coach explained: "There's a lot of room for improvement in his game. I'm convinced he can score even more.

"When you take, for instance, the last 10 games he didn't score many goals. I think only two or three, so yes he can improve. I am happy from what he did last season to now that he brings himself back.

"We supported him where we could, with the way we play but also in his mental mindset. We are happy with that, but we must push him more. I think he's capable of to score 40 goals in a season. So for him that's the next step."

Of course, the big concern for most Man United fans right now is whether or not Rashford will sign a new deal. Indeed, his current £200k-p/w contract end in 2024.

Thankfully, though, his manager also believes that will all be sorted soon, telling the press: "I expect Marcus Rashford to renew. He wants it. Manchester United wants it. He is a child of this club, so I assume this will happen."

All in all, it sounds as though supporters can hope to see even better and bigger things from their star player over the coming years under Ten Hag.

Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan has made a claim involving Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou’s future. 

The lowdown: Unbridled success

Since taking over the managerial reins a year ago following the departure of Neil Lennon, Postecoglou has been a breath of fresh air in Glasgow.

The 56-year-old has transformed the fading fortunes at Parkhead and guided the Bhoys to the Premiership title, having lost their grip on the crown in 2021.

Coupling smart recruitment with an impressive tactical nous, the Australian has proven to be a sensational appointment and one that the club will surely be desperate to tie down beyond a current 12-month rolling contract.

The latest: Whelan urges Postecoglou contract offer

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan has implored the Celtic hierarchy to offer Postecoglou a lengthy deal after the 56-year-old recently exclaimed that the Hoops are ‘everything I’ve ever wanted in a football club’.

The former BBC radio host said: “I think you always want that security in place with a manager. That way, he knows he has the backing to go into the transfer market and build the club over a number of seasons.

“He had a fantastic season and shut up a lot of doubters. I was one of them – I had no idea who he was when he came in. It was shambolic at the time, but he’s had an unbelievable first season – his transfer business has been spot on.

“He’s in a really strong position. I’m sure all the Celtic fans would love it if he signed a two or three-year deal.”

The verdict: No-brainer

Appointed as somewhat of a risk having never managed in Europe previously, Postecoglou has certainly silenced his detractors in his first year in Scotland.

Not only has the experienced coach guided Celtic back to Scottish top-flight glory after looking devoid of inspiration under Lennon in the latter stages of the Northern Irishman’s reign, he also ensured a return to the Champions League group stage and with it the ensuing financial windfall.

These feats alone should be enough to offer Postecoglou a lucrative new deal, along with full backing in the upcoming transfer window, having already proven to be an astute market operator.

In other news: Ex-Scotland manager makes Celtic transfer claim

Leeds United have been urged to pursue a deal to sign Chelsea striker Armando Broja in the summer transfer window… 

What’s the talk?

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has suggested that the Albanian international would be an excellent player for the club to bring in ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

The Lillywhites were linked with a swoop for the Chelsea man in January and the reporter has named him as someone who fits what the club are looking for.

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O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT:

“He fits the profile. He’s young, he’s a goalscorer and he can lead the line on his own playing upfront.

“I think he would definitely be somebody who could prove to be a good signing for Leeds United if they were to get him, but he might cost a bit of money. So financially, it might be a hard deal to do, but Armando Broja has all the attributes to be a success at a number of clubs.”

Dream Patrick Bamford heir

Victor Orta can now land the dream heir to Bamford’s throne in the number nine position at Elland Road by bringing Broja in.

In the Premier League, the England international was restricted to nine appearances due to injury and found the back of the net twice. This was after he managed to score 17 goals in 38 games in the 2020/21 campaign, with the club missing his threat at the top end of the pitch as he struggled for fitness in 2021/22.

His injuries issues are a concern and signing Broja can mean that the club have his replacement in the door and ready to play if the problems persist into next season.

The Albanian national team assistant manager, Sergio Porrini, dubbed the striker “devastating” and ex-Premier League defender Micah Richards previously lauded the gem, saying:

“He’s fearless, he’s strong, he runs in behind, he can hold it up – just at the age of 20 as well. I’ve been really impressed with him.

“Sometimes when young players go on loan, especially in the Premier League, they come off the bench and he’s bided his time a little bit but when his chance came he took it with both hands. Every time that I watch him play I’m impressed.

“He holds the line by himself, his hold up play, constant threat running in behind, his aerial ability as well. He’s really growing in stature.”

The comments show how much he has caught the eye of pundits throughout the campaign and he has the statistics to suggest that he has the potential to grow into a star in the top flight.

Broja, 20, produced nine goals in 24 starts for Southampton – on loan – in all competitions as he proved that he has the quality to score goals at the top level. The youngster has shown great maturity at such a young age and this is why he can develop into being the dream heir to Bamford, whilst providing competition for him in the short term.

AND in other news, Huge transfer twist emerges that will have Leeds United supporters buzzing…

Derby County goalkeeper Ryan Allsop has attracted interest from Cardiff City, according to a report from Football Insider. 

The lowdown: Allsop’s career so far

Signed from Wycombe Wanderers as a free agent in 2021, the ‘keeper has become somewhat of a journeyman across English football.

The 29-year-old started out at West Brom before spells with Blackpool, Bournemouth, Coventry and Lincoln City among others before eventually pitching up at Pride Park.

It now appears that yet another club could be added to the list in the near future, as his contract comes to an end at Derby…

The latest: Cardiff want to sign Allsop

As per a Cardiff source for Football Insider, the Bluebirds are ‘in talks’ to sign the experienced stopper.

It is claimed that ‘negotiations are underway’ over a deal which would take the Birmingham native to south Wales at the end of his current deal.

The report added that Cardiff are ‘well placed’ to reach an agreement for Allsop, who was described by journalist Jake Barker as being a ‘massive breath of fresh air’ in Wayne Rooney’s side earlier this season prior to relegation from the second tier.

The verdict: Another blow for Derby

Whilst such departures from Pride Park are inevitable following the drop into League One and the ongoing off-field issues surrounding the takeover, there is no doubt that losing Allsop is a damaging blow.

This season, the Englishman kept nine clean sheets in 33 appearances overall, earning a 6.92 Sofascore rating and making 2.7 saves per game in a valiant attempt to stave off relegation.

As things stand, Allsop’s departure would leave Kelle Roos as the last remaining senior goalkeeper at the club, albeit that there are likely to be additions over the coming weeks and months as the new-look squad take shape. That is another reason why it’s imperative that Chris Kirchner’s mooted takeover is brought to a swift conclusion.

In other news… a journalist has delivered this huge update on the potential sale of Pride Park

Tottenham Hotspur, and by extension Fabio Paratici, could be ‘in the mix’ to sign a £51 million star for Antonio Conte this summer, hints Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.

The Lowdown: Lilywhites officials spotted…

According to a report from 90min, Lilywhites officials were recently sent on a mission as they were tasked with running the rule over certain transfer targets.

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Spurs scouts were allegedly in attendance for both of Villarreal’s clashes with Liverpool in the Champions League semi-finals recently as the Premier League top four chasers eye both defender Pau Torres and winger Arnaut Danjuma.

The latter man has been in fine form under Unai Emery in Spain since joining from Bournemouth last summer as transfer chief Paratici is now linked with a potential swoop.

The Latest: Bridge drops Tottenham hint…

Speaking to GiveMeSport, reporter Bridge of Sky Sports now hints Spurs, and by extension Paratici, could be ‘in the mix’ for Danjuma if he becomes available – despite not hearing anything ‘concrete’ concerning them yet.

He explained:

“I do think he would be [an upgrade on Bergwijn]. He’s a real talent and another level to Bergwijn.

“But I don’t think there’s anything concrete on Tottenham, I’ve not heard anything, but would they be in the mix if he became available? Maybe.”

The Verdict: Hopefully…

Depending on developments, Spurs joining the race for Danjuma comes as an exciting proposition.

Villarreal have apparently slapped a €60 million (£51m) price tag on his head given the ex-Championship forward’s sensational form this season, a valuation which could arguably be worth it.

Branded ‘near enough unplayable’ earlier this season by pundit Owen Hargreaves, Danjuma has racked up the most goals and assists combined under Emery domestically whilst also attempting the most shots at goal per 90 (WhoScored).

His signing would be a major upgrade for Conte in the forward positions and supporters could be hoping their side do indeed enter the mix.

In other news: Conte green-lights Spurs move as he now gives ‘unbelievable signing’ absolute priority, find out more here.

A former Glasgow Rangers manager is now targeting a move for Calvin Bassey in the summer.

The Lowdown: Solid season

Bassey has been a mainstay in the team that has managed to reach both the UEFA Europa League and Scottish FA Cup final this season, which his ability to play at both left-back and as a central defender coming very useful to both Steven Gerrard and Giovanni van Bronckhorst.

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He has managed a handy three assists in the Scottish Premiership, and ranks highly among his teammates in terms of aerial duels won and average tackles, clearances, blocks, passes, crosses and long balls per game (WhoScored).

Nonetheless, there will likely be no shortage of admirers for Bassey come the opening of the transfer window.

The Latest: Villa target

As per The Daily Telegraph, Gerrard is now targeting a move for Bassey for Aston Villa, as they seek a new left-back to give competition to Lucas Digne.

Aaron Hickey is also thought to be under consideration, but Bassey is certainly of interest.

The Verdict: Keep

With the money that they have gained from their European journey, added to the fact that Bassey is under contract at Ibrox until 2024, there is no need for the Teddy Bears to sell him this summer.

Dubbed an ‘explosive’ player who is ‘as quick as anything’ by his former coach and Leicester City U23s manager Steve Beaglehole (The Athletic), he can get himself out of a lot of difficult situations with his pace, which is a valuable asset to have as a defender for the Light Blues.

Incidentally, the 22-year-old shares the same agent as Villa star Jacob Ramsey, and so they may be confident that they can push through a move, but the Gers must not be bullied by the Premier League club.

In other news, find out what ‘really bad call’ RFC have now made here!

Celtic are likely to receive a transfer boost thanks to a Ryan Christie windfall off the back of Bournemouth’s confirmed promotion back to the Premier League, according to journalist Alan Nixon.

The Lowdown: Promotion clause triggered

The 27-year-old joined the Cherries in a three-year permanent deal from the Hoops last summer for a fee believed to be in the region of around £2.5m, as he entered the last six months of his contract at Parkhead.

Christie has been a big hit on the South coast, providing 11 direct goal involvements in 36  starts.

Scott Parker’s men officially secured promotion back to the top-flight following a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the Vitality Stadium in midweek, and as result of the Glasgow outfit having a reported promotion clause in Christie’s contract, Celtic look to have earned a tasty sum as part of Bournemouth’s glory.

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The Latest: Bonus incoming

When asked if Postecoglou’s side would receive any money off the back of the midfielder’s recent success, Nixon took to Twitter late on Tuesday night and revealed:

“Potential 2m extra on promotion AND then survival.”

Whether Nixon meant the initial £2m depends on survival or that survival would grant an additional windfall is not yet clear.

The Verdict: Ideal for future transfer funds

The £8.1m-rated star had a very successful spell with the Hoops after arriving from Inverness back in 2015, making a staggering 85 goal contributions in just 151 appearances, via Transfermarkt.

And this news will undoubtedly come as a huge boost to chief executive Michael Nicholson, who will hopefully be able to use this fee to help fund any potential transfers that might be taking place in the summer.

With Celtic close to securing the league title, having already got their hands on the Scottish League Cup this campaign, a return to domestic dominance would surely attract some of the biggest names in football to make the move to the Bhoys in the upcoming window.

In other news… a Celtic ace has been backed to make a permanent move away from Parkhead this summer.

Manchester City have a lot going on at the moment in terms of what’s happening on the pitch over the next few weeks.

In addition to their Champions League semi-final second leg clash against Real Madrid, Pep Guardiola’s side can’t afford to drop points in the Premier League, with Liverpool breathing down their necks.

However, it seems as though things are quite busy behind the scenes too at the Etihad Stadium in terms of one potential transfer which could take place in the near future.

What’s the news?

According to a recent tweet from journalist Samuel Luckhurst, sharing a corresponding report for Manchester Evening News, City officials have been visiting Mino Raiola, the agent of Erling Haaland, in hospital to progress the negotiations which could see the striker move to the Etihad this summer.

Considering how Raiola was taken ill recently, the fact that the City officials have been in contact with the agent in hospital shows just how keen they are to seal a deal for the centre-forward.

Since Haaland joined his current club Borussia Dortmund in January 2020, the 21-year-old has been nothing short of a goalscoring revelation. With 86 appearances to his name for the German giants, the Norwegian has scored an impressive 82 goals and provided 23 assists along the way.

To further highlight how deadly a striker he is, only Robert Lewandowski (2.35) and Patrick Schick (1.82) have a higher average for shots on target per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga this season than Haaland (1.58).

Fans will be delighted

Even though City are currently top of the Premier League table prior to this weekend’s round of fixtures, there have been times this season where they have failed to find the net, notably in both clashes against Crystal Palace.

With that in mind, having a clinical figure up front such as Haaland could be just what the reigning champions need in order to continue being successful into the future, which would surely delight a lot of supporters.

If City are able to secure a deal for the Dortmund hitman in the coming weeks, this would surely be a massive coup for them and make them an even more fearsome opponent for the rest of the Premier League, and indeed for whoever they come up against in Europe.

In other news: Man City eyeing “swashbuckling” £12.5m starlet, could be Guardiola’s next Kyle Walker