Rangers have reportedly sent scouts to watch a young striker in action, with the player in question having a release clause of just £42,000.

Rangers eyeing signings amid manager search

The Gers’ search for their next permanent manager continues, with Barry Ferguson expected to move on from his interim role at the end of the season. Russell Martin has been mentioned as an option in recent days, with the Englishman a talented young coach, despite being sacked by Southampton earlier in the season.

Current Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl has also emerged as a contender to come in as Rangers’ next manager, with the German looking increasingly likely to depart Hillsborough when the current campaign reaches its conclusion. Southampton are also reportedly keen on him, though.

England legends Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard have both been mentioned, too, with the latter impressively guiding Coventry City into the Championship playoffs this season.

In terms of possible new signings, Kevin Boma has been backed to join Rangers this summer, as they look to boost their defensive options. The Estoril centre-back has enjoyed a good season, averaging 2.9 aerial duel wins per game across 27 Primeira Liga appearances.

Rangers send scouts to watch young attacker

According to 24Sports [via Ibrox News], Rangers have watched Anorthosis striker Evagoras Charalampous in his last three appearances, with scouts sent to monitor him. The 19-year-old has a release clause of just £42,000 and the Gers are now weighing up the idea of triggering it this summer and bringing him to Ibrox.

Charalampous isn’t exactly a world-renowned name who Rangers supporters will know a huge amount about, but the young Cypriot has already scored five goals in 16 appearances for Anorthosis, making the jump up to senior level impressively, and he is a three-cap Cyprus Under-21 international, netting once in that time.

Meanwhile, Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg has said that Charalampous is “regarded as one of the top striker talents in Cyprus”, further highlighting why Rangers like the look of him.

Additional firepower is something the Gers need to focus on in the summer transfer window, giving their new manager more options in the final third and hopefully allowing them to narrow the gap on Celtic that has been so evident in the Scottish Premiership throughout this season.

Their own Postecoglou: Rangers shortlist "exciting" 4-3-3 manager

Rangers have drawn up a shortlist of new potential managers

ByRoss Kilvington May 11, 2025

Cyriel Dessers is Rangers’ top goalscorer in the league with 15 strikes this season, which shows there has been no prolific attacker for them, and they could see Charalampous as a future star.

Crystal Palace have now emerged as dark horses to sign a “future Ballon d’Or winner” as a possible replacement for Eberechi Eze this summer, according to a report.

Eze's future at Selhurst Park in doubt

Eze has once again been very impressive in a Palace shirt this season, picking up four goals and eight assists in the Premier League, while he also played a major role in the 3-0 FA Cup semi-final victory over Aston Villa, scoring the opening goal in the rout.

As such, the England international is now starting to attract widespread attention from elsewhere, with Premier League rivals Liverpool recently being named as the frontrunners for his signature.

There could be fierce competition for the 26-year-old, however, with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur also in the race, and there is a feeling he could be “open” to a move to north London.

Would cost £0: Crystal Palace now open talks to sign versatile 6'4 colossus

The Eagles have made contact over a move for a defender, who is capable of playing in five positions.

By
Dominic Lund

Apr 24, 2025

With Eze contracted until 2027, it remains to be seen whether the Eagles are willing to sanction his departure this summer, particularly considering Marc Guehi, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Adam Wharton are also attracting interest.

However, should Palace decide to cash-in, they will need to bring in a replacement, and a report from Caught Offside has now revealed they are now emerging as dark horses to sign Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki.

Cherki is being targeted by a number of Europe’s top clubs, with Lyon prepared to let him leave for a fee of €30m – €35m (£25m – £30m) this summer, which is viewed as a bargain sum by a number of the potential suitors.

With the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham also in the picture, it may be difficult for Oliver Glasner’s side win the race, but the Lyon star is keen on a move to the Premier League this summer.

"Genius" Cherki could be "future Ballon d'Or winner"

French journalist Julien Laurens is a big fan of the young Frenchman previously lauding him as a “genius” after performing a remarkable roulette during Lyon’s 3-1 victory against AS Monaco.

The 21-year-old broke into the Lyon team at a very young age, making a total of 27 appearances in the 2020-21 campaign, but this season has been by far his best to date, picking up 12 goals and 19 assists in all competitions.

Having also been described as a potential “future Ballon d’Or winner”, there is every indication that Cherki could be a real coup for Palace, but it may be incredibly difficult to compete with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United in the race for his signature.

With rumours continuing to surround Morgan Gibbs-White over his future at the City Ground, Nottingham Forest are now reportedly ready to take formal steps in the race to sign a potential replacement.

Man City plotting Gibbs-White swoop

Gibbs-White undoubtedly plays a huge role in everything positive Nuno Espirito Santo’s side do at the City Ground, meaning that clubs above them were always likely to keep a keen eye on his talents. Such is the ruthlessness of Premier League football, not even European football could stand in the way of Manchester City making their move successfully this summer.

The midfielder was once again at the centre of the action against West Ham United last time out, scoring a crucial opening goal to send Forest on their way to a crucial 2-1 victory at the London Stadium.

His seventh Premier League goal of the season to go alongside his eight assists, replacing Gibbs-White will be one of the toughest tasks that Nottingham Forest face this summer if he chooses to join Manchester City.

On that front, however, those at the City Ground have already reportedly been lining up a number of targets, including City’s own James McAtee. The young midfielder has struggled for game time at The Etihad and if Gibbs-White heads to Manchester, he could yet head in the opposite direction towards the Midlands this summer.

Unlike in recent years, it’s worth reiterating that Forest are now a European club again and should be in a far stronger position to attract top talent as a result. So, if it’s not McAtee who replaces Gibbs-White, it may well be a talented option from outside of English football.

Nottingham Forest readying Akliouche move

According to L’Equipe, Nottingham Forest are now ready to take formal steps in the race to sign Maghnes Akliouche from AS Monaco this summer in a deal worth as much as €60m (£51m). Battling against the likes of Paris Saint-Germain for the winger’s signature, Evangelos Marinakis should consider making his official move as soon as possible.

With the ability to play as both a winger and attacking midfielder, it should come as no surprise that Akliouche is on Forest’s shortlist to potentially replace Gibbs-White this summer. Even on the numbers front, the 23-year-old has almost mirrored the Forest star.

League stats 24/25 (via FBref)

Maghnes Akliouche

Morgan Gibbs-White

Starts

27

33

Goals

5

7

Assists

10

8

Key Passes

49

51

All signs point towards a player who’d be ready to step into the Premier League next season and step into European football with Nottingham Forest. Whether those at the City Ground win the competitive race to sign Akliouche remains to be seen, however.

Related Nottingham Forest ready bid for £70m England star with interest advanced

He produced a season-defining moment recently.

Posts ByHenry Jackson May 20, 2025

Described as “elegant” by Jacek Kulig, Akliouche is undeniably one to watch when the summer transfer window arrives. If Forest are looking to instantly ease their potential Gibbs-White problem, then the Frenchman should be a serious option.

In a deal that could see them replace Morgan Gibbs-White, Nottingham Forest are now reportedly set to make a serious move to sign a want-away Premier League midfielder this summer.

Nottingham Forest clarify Marinakis outburst

Whilst Nottingham Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City last weekend secured their Europa League qualification at the same time that their Champions League fate fell out of their hands, it was owner Evangelos Marinakis who stole the headlines. Marching onto the pitch at full-time, the Greek owner was seen exchanging words with manager Nuno Espirito Santo in a moment which instantly garnered criticism.

Nottingham Forest eye summer swoop to sign £6m winger after scouting trip

He’s a rising star…

ByTom Cunningham May 14, 2025

Since then, however, the Midlands club have clarified the controversial moment – revealing that Marinakis’ frustration was directed at the medical staff who allowed Taiwo Awoniyi to continue before he came off injured not long after. The forward has now reportedly undergone the first part of urgent surgery after an abdominal injury and has been placed in an induced coma with the rest of the procedure due to be completed.

Following a moment full of emotions around a concerning injury, Marinakis also released his own statement on the matter, which read: “Everybody – coaching staff, players, supporters and including myself – we were frustrated around the injury of Taiwo and the medical staff’s misjudgement on Taiwo’s ability to continue the game. This is natural, this is a demonstration of the passion we feel for our club. Let’s all be grateful, passionate and keep on dreaming!”

The Nottingham Forest owner, like many around European football, are now simply hoping to see Awoniyi make a full recovery.

Nottingham Forest set to make serious McAtee move

Amidst the headlines away from the pitch, those at the City Ground did have Europa League qualification to appreciate last weekend and could put that to instant use in the transfer market.

According to TeamTalk editor James Marshment, Nottingham Forest are now set to make a serious move to sign James McAtee, who is reportedly looking to leave Manchester City this summer. In pole position, Forest’s move for the midfielder certainly makes sense amid rumours that Gibbs-White could be heading in the opposite direction.

What’s more, all it takes is one look at Cole Palmer and Chelsea to realise just how successful Manchester City’s academy graduates can be when given the chance to thrive. And Nottingham Forest could offer McAtee exactly that.

That’s not to say Pep Guardiola isn’t well aware of McAtee’s talents, either, having told reporters following the midfielder’s hat-trick against Salford City earlier this season: “I am so happy for him, he is a special player. A hat trick is not easy. He has an incredible sense in front of goal, he has the right tempo, he changed the rhythm to score and I am very happy for him.”

Questions have been asked about Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca during his spell in charge after being appointed as Mauricio Pochettino’s successor last summer.

The Italian led Leicester City back to the Premier League, but jumped ship to take over at Stamford Bridge, with many wondering whether he would be the right man for the job.

However, nearly 12 months on from his appointment, he’s exceeded all expectations, showcasing he’s the right man for the job based on his success to date.

The 45-year-old has secured the Blues a place in the Champions League for next season, whilst also claiming Europa Conference League glory against Real Betis on Wednesday night.

It’s been a campaign to remember for Maresca, but if he wants to continue his progress in the role, he will need added funds provided by the hierarchy to help him in his quest.

The latest on Chelsea’s hunt for new signings this summer

Over the last couple of hours, Chelsea have made huge strides in a deal to sign Liam Delap, with the 22-year-old agreeing to a move to join the Blues this summer.

It was confirmed that he has rejected offers from multiple other Premier League sides, leaving Maresca’s side to trigger his release clause and complete the formalities before announcing his move to West London.

However, despite the progress made on a deal for the Ipswich Town star, another name in the form of Viktor Gyokeres has once again entered the mix, according to Record Portugal.

The report claims that the Blues have made an enquiry to sign the 26-year-old this summer, after his stupendous record of 54 goals in just 52 matches across all competitions.

It also states that they face stern competition from Juventus for the Swedish international’s signature, with Sporting CP demanding a fee in the region of £60m to part ways with the talisman this window.

Why Chelsea’s £60m target would be a better signing than Delap

With Delap’s move appearing to be moving closer to completion, Maresca could finally be about to land the new striker that he’s been craving in recent months.

Nicolas Jackson has been his main talisman since his arrival, with the Senegalese international scoring 10 times in the Premier League during the Italian’s first year in charge.

Such a record is respectable, but if the side are to reach the next level under his guidance, they will need that proven goalscorer to fire them towards the top end of the table.

Delap has shown he’s capable of doing just that, scoring 12 times in the Premier League for the Tractor Boys, with such a record being an impressive one given their relegation this season.

However, when comparing his stats to those of Gyokeres, the Swede has showcased that his performance levels are night and day – proving that he would be a far better addition than the Englishman.

The Swede, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one analyst, has massively outscored him in 2024/25, whilst also posting a higher shot on target rate – showcasing the clinical nature he possesses.

He’s also managed to complete more of the passes he’s attempted, whilst also registering more progressive carries per 90 – having the skillset to hand other players around him the best chance of improving their own tallies.

Games played

33

37

Goals & assists

46

14

Shot-on-target accuracy

52%

43%

Pass accuracy

72%

61%

Progressive carries

4.3

2.1

Take-ons completed

1.9

1.3

Aerials won

51%

42%

Fouls won

2.5

1.7

Gyokeres has also won more of the aerials he’s entered and draws more fouls, offering Maresca that focal point he’s craved, something which Delap may struggle to provide.

Given the progress on the deal for the Ipswich talisman, the hierarchy will have to act quickly to complete a deal for Gyokeres, or they could potentially miss out on his signature.

Nothing suggests that the club may not target both talents in the coming months, handing the Blues an added dimension in forward areas that could bolster their title charge in 2025/26.

As bad as Gusto: Chelsea's 4/10 flop must never play for the club again

Chelsea secured the Europa Conference League last night, but multiple players failed to deliver.

ByEthan Lamb May 29, 2025

Newcastle United have now joined the race to sign a “very quick” defender who’s among the “world’s best”, according to a report.

Newcastle's summer transfer plans taking shape

Should Newcastle manage to secure Champions League qualification by finishing in the Premier League’s top five, the 2024-25 campaign is likely to go down as a resounding success, having also ended their 70-year trophy drought by lifting the EFL Cup.

However, the PIF have grand plans for the Magpies, and having enjoyed their first taste of success, they are likely to be even more inspired to compete for more major honours, which means some new additions to the squad could be required this summer.

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo could be a key target in attack, with the right-winger recently being identified as the ideal option to bolster Eddie Howe’s frontline, while the PIF are now racing to sign Girona’s Yangel Herrera to reinforce the midfield.

In-demand player would rather join Newcastle despite offer from Barcelona

The Magpies could land his signature…

1

By
Sean Markus Clifford

May 4, 2025

A new centre-back has also been of interest for quite some time, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi a long-standing target, and there has now been a new update on the Tynesiders’ pursuit of a defender.

According to a report from The Sun, Newcastle have now joined the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, having announced his intention to leave the German club when his contract expires.

Guehi remains the Magpies’ top target, with the Palace captain set to leave Selhurst Park this summer, but Tah has now been identified as an alternative option, with Howe desperate to bring in a new defender this summer.

There could be stiff competition for the 29-year-old’s signature, however, with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich also keen, in light of his impressive performances for Bayer Leverkusen…

"Very quick" Tah among "world's best" defenders

Leverkusen were unable to retain the Bundesliga title this season, but they did an incredible job to pip Bayern to top spot in the 2023-24 campaign, going the entire season undefeated, and it would be fair to say the German defender impressed Xabi Alonso.

Alonso said: “Jonha is performing at the highest level and I am really happy for him because he deserves all the praise and all the good moments he’s living – that he keeps playing for us and happily for the national team as well. I think he is one of the world’s best defenders.”

Former Germany boss Joachim Low once described the 29-year-old as “very quick”, while he is also very impressive in possession of the ball.

Tah’s availability on a free transfer makes signing him an even more attractive proposition for potential suitors this summer, and it is promising news that Newcastle have now joined the race.

Despite losing their last five games of the regular Championship season, Sunderland are Premier League-bound once more after Wembley produced yet more drama in a play-off final.

Tommy Watson would break Sheffield United hearts right at the death to hand his hometown club a passage up to the big time, but all these jubilant celebrations will soon be met by the crashing fear of realism as Sunderland attempt to stay afloat in such a brutal division.

Already, however, the Wearside high-flyers have been active in the transfer market to try and boost their young squad, with Enzo Le Fee about to pen a permanent Stadium of Light contract.

Away from the standout loanee joining for good, there are a whole host of other rumours involving incomings that will please fans of Regis Le Bris’ underdogs.

Sunderland's growing list of transfer targets

Amazingly, Le Fee might not be the only statement addition in the centre of the park this summer.

The rumour mill continues to churn out the wild possibility of Jordan Henderson returning to his hometown roots, whilst another flashy buy in the midfield department could soon come in the form of Manchester United winger Amad Diallo.

Yet, away from Henderson and Amad’s names being tentatively linked, Sunderland could look to improve defensively this summer by shopping in Le Bris’s native France.

As per a new report from the Daily Mirror, that has been relayed by the Sunderland Echo, the AS Monaco ace is being looked at by the Black Cats as part of an ambitious summer rebuild, meaning the old guard in the building might be moved to one side for the likes of Singo to shine.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Indeed, any move for the £20m-rated defender could prove to be an upgrade on long-serving hero, Luke O’Nien.

How Singo compares to O'Nien

O’Nien’s appearance at the final whistle at Wembley tells you all you need to know about his warrior-like character as the veteran defender celebrated with his arm in a noticeable sling.

Whilst that grit and determination might well be of value to the Black Cats in such a demanding league, the strong 30-year-old could soon take a back seat for a fresh body to arrive in the form of Singo.

After all, whilst O’Nien can play both as a right-back or as a centre-back like Singo, it’s clear from the numbers below that the 23-year-old target is more accustomed to being a Premier League-level defender for Sunderland right now, over the long-standing Wearside servant.

Games played

27

48

Goals scored

1

3

Assists

2

1

Touches*

65.9

73.5

Accurate passes*

45.1 (87%)

52.7 (87%)

Big chances created

3

1

Ball recoveries*

5.1

3.4

Clearances*

4.0

3.9

Total duels won*

4.7

3.9

Clean sheets

7

16

Indeed, Singo has already shown he can cut it with the top dogs in Ligue 1 when amassing one goal and two assists when lining up either in the heart of defence or down the right flank last season.

But, away from solely offering Sunderland a new expansive option out from the back, he also possesses that same hunger and drive to battle like O’Nien, with the “monster” Ivorian – as he’s been labelled by football analyst Ben Mattinson – actually bettering his ex-Wycombe Wanderers counterpart in terms of clearances, ball recoveries and duels won throughout last season, even when plying his trade in a top league.

Also capable of pulling off an audacious flick like this one, everything is pointing in the direction that landing the “freak athlete” – as he’s been further noted by Mattinson – would be a worthwhile addition for Le Bris’ men ahead of Premier League action finally returning, with a sprinkle here and there of quality giving the Black Cats a hopeful fighting chance at survival.

Sunderland could soon sign their next Amad in "unplayable" EFL star

Sunderland could finally win their next Amad Diallo with this tricky attacker.

ByKelan Sarson May 29, 2025

Chelsea are now nearing an agreement to sign a “world-class” star, and the deal could be closed as soon as “tomorrow”, according to reporter Daniele Longo.

Blues set for yet another busy transfer window

BlueCo certainly haven’t been shy to splash the cash since arriving at Stamford Bridge, and it looks as though yet another summer of heavy spending could be on the cards, with targets being identified in a number of key positions.

Given that Nicolas Jackson has just one Premier League goal to his name in 2025, a new striker appears to be of particular interest to the Blues, despite having already signed Liam Delap, and an offer has now been made for FC Porto’s Samu Omorodion.

Robert Sanchez has also been less than impressive, with Filip Jorgensen replacing the Spaniard at times last season, which means Enzo Maresca has also set out to sign a new goalkeeper, and Fabrizio Romano has dropped an update on their pursuit of Mike Maignan.

With an offer now on the table, the Blues are making progress towards securing Maignan’s signature, and Longo has now taken to X to report on a further development, stating the AC Milan goalkeeper has reached a full agreement on a multi-year contract.

Not only that, but the west Londoners are “close to an agreement with Milan”, and the deal could be closed by “tomorrow”, suggesting it could be finalised before the June 10th deadline, meaning the Frenchman would be available for the Club World Cup.

Alongside Gittens: Chelsea submit bid for £63m star who's Mata 2.0

Chelsea have reportedly lodged another bid, alongside their pursuit of Jamie Gittens

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 7, 2025 "World-class" Maignan could be exactly what Chelsea need

With the Blues set to return to the Champions League next season, it would make sense to bring in a goalkeeper who is proven at the top level, and the Milan shot-stopper certainly fits the bill in that regard.

The France international has 32 appearances to his name in Europe’s elite competition, while also catching the eye over a sustained period of time in the Serie A, once being lauded as “world-class” by writer Carlo Garganese after impressing in the Milan derby.

Maresca is also well-known for playing out from the back, which means it is important for his goalkeeper to be comfortable in possession of the ball, and the 29-year-old ranks in the 91st percentile for touches per 90 in the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

All the signs indicate that Maignan could be a fantastic signing for Chelsea this summer, but it remains to be seen whether they are willing to stump up Milan’s valuation of €30m (£25m), given that the Cayenne-born goalkeeper will turn 30 in July.

Everton and rival Premier League club West Ham United are fighting to complete the signing of a “brilliant” player this summer, according to a new transfer rumour.

Who are Everton linked with?

There is plenty of optimism in the air among Blues supporters about a productive summer transfer window lying ahead, with plenty of funds set to be made available for new signings.

Everton have been linked with sealing a reunion with John Stones, amid doubts over his Manchester City future, which could prove to be extremely popular. Granted, his injury problems have been well-documented at times, but he would feel like a statement signing by Moyes.

Another City player, this time James McAtee, has also been mentioned as an option, with the Englishman unlikely to be able to force his way into Pep Guardiola’s plans moving forward. He could be ideal for the Blues, adding creativity in attacking areas.

With reported Everton target Liam Delap off to Chelsea, Tammy Abraham is considered an alternative option for Everton, as he potentially looks to seal a return to the Premier League this summer. The former Chelsea man has fallen out of favour at Roma, spending this season on loan at AC Milan, scoring just three goals in 28 Serie A appearances for the latter.

Everton battling West Ham for Brownhill

According to a fresh claim from Claret & Hugh, Everton and West Ham are locking horns over the signing of Burnley Player of the Year Josh Brownhill this summer, as the Clarets look to keep hold of him after their return to the Premier League.

It is described as a “straight shootout” between the two clubs, even though Leeds United get a mention in the report, with the Blues linked with signing the 29-year-old multiple times in the past and Moyes thought to be a big fan.

Brownhill feels like a player right at his peak, following an outstanding season for Burnley that saw him score 18 times in the Championship from midfield, playing a huge role in their promotion from the Championship.

The fact that Moyes wanted him during his time at West Ham can only bode well, as the update states, and the Englishman would bring box-to-box quality to Everton’s team, being hailed by Clarets manager Scott Parker early in the campaign.

“There are not enough words to compliment Browny. He’s a driving force in this team, he’s got brilliant box habits and he’s always in and around the right areas. He’s got huge quality and he’s now got nine for the season, so he’s been fundamental for us.”

Ndiaye 2.0: Everton take first steps to sign £25m ace who's "like Odegaard"

Everton appear to be targeting a player who has shades of Iliman Ndiaye…

ByRobbie Walls May 31, 2025

Granted, some may look at Brownhill’s age and wonder if a younger option should be the priority, but he could offer plenty for the next three or four years, coming straight in as a key starter, as Moyes plans for both the short-term and long haul on Merseyside.

Arsenal need a striker. Andrea Berta knows it, Mikel Arteta knows it, the fanbase knows it, the whole world knows it.

So, who will that man be? Well, with dream target Alexander Isak out of the running, it looks like it has come down to two candidates.

The first of which is Viktor Gyokeres. The Swede ended the 2024/25 campaign as the most goal-laden striker in Europe but there are doubts. Strange doubts at that considering how many goals he’s scored.

He is a beast, a physical player who can throw a defender to the floor and most importantly, he certainly knows where the back of the net.

Gyokeres is the finished article but clearly, Arsenal are thinking about the bigger picture too. That’s where Slovenian powerhouse Benjamin Sesko comes into the equation.

The latest on Arsenal's pursuit of Benjamin Sesko

A year ago, Arsenal were incredibly interested in bringing the RB Leipzig centre forward to the Emirates Stadium.

However, the striker decided to pen a new contract in the Bundesliga, which has seen him stay for another year.

Now, it would appear as though he’s ready to move on. Reports revealed nearly a week and a half ago that initial talks had begun and a deal has begun to accelerate in recent days.

Indeed, according to Sky Sports Germany reporter, Florian Plettenberg, the player is now ‘keen’ on signing for Arsenal this summer with advanced talks concerning personal terms in motion.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Expand Collapse

That said, actually agreeing on a transfer fee is where the deal could get challenging. Plettenberg reveals that Sesko has a €80m (£67m) release clause but the Gunners cannot ‘simply trigger’ it.

That’s because the structure of a deal is said to be ‘complicated’, meaning a fee is now being negotiated freely.

Why Sesko would be a dream signing for Martin Odegaard

The 2024/25 campaign was undoubtedly the nadir of the club captain’s time at the Emirates to date.

After suffering an ankle injury early in the season, Martin Odegaard missed the best part of two months and simply wasn’t the same since.

Odegaard scored just six times in 45 games and only three of those goals came in the Premier League. It’s a far cry from the 15-goal term he enjoyed in 2022/23, where no midfielder scored more top-flight goals in England than him.

While the Norwegian still provided 12 assists, that number could soar to dizzy heights with a proper out-and-out centre-forward leading the line, not a Mikel Merino or Kai Havertz.

With Sesko described as “the new Erling Haaland” by scout Jacek Kulig, perhaps Odegaard could strike up a relationship akin to the one he enjoys with his fellow countryman at international level.

Indeed, it was only this weekend that we got to see the very best of the Arsenal playmaker, who enjoyed a fabulous game for Norway as they beat Italy 3-0.

Odegaard was the one who supplied Haaland’s goal in the tie, sliding a lovely ball in behind for the Manchester City forward to run onto.

It’s safe to say we’ve not seen enough of this in an Arsenal shirt. Why? Two reasons, really. Odegaard’s injury has undoubtedly hampered him but the biggest reason is that Arteta’s system hasn’t relied on a striker getting in behind.

Havertz and Merino are cut from a similar cloth in this regard. They come short to bring others into the game and it largely works. Yet, the Gunners need someone playing on the shoulder of the last man.

Odegaard alongside Haaland (for Norway)

Matches

36

Wins

21

Draws

5

Defeats

10

Times Odegaard assisted Haaland

6

Minutes played

2,831

Stats via Transfermarkt.

That’s where Sesko comes into the equation. Possessing a similar build to Haaland, the Slovenia international combines pace with brute force to burst past defenders.

He’s far from the finished article, scoring 21 goals last season, but that’s a great deal better than anyone at Arsenal; no one in red and white even found the net in double figures this season.

Odegaard is one of the most creative players in the division, ranking in the top 5% of positionally similar players in Europe’s top five leagues for assists per 90 minutes and the best 4% for progressive passes. Thus, he needs someone he can actually feed.

As the captain showcased with Haaland in front of him just a few days ago, he can thrive when he’s got someone willing to make runs beyond the defence. Sesko is definitely that man. This could be a match made in heaven for Arsenal.

Related Saka & Nwaneri hybrid: Arsenal make contact for "generational" £120m PL ace

The international ace would be incredible for Arsenal.

Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 7, 2025