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Nottingham Forest have already made four signings this summer and are currently on the cusp of signing Omar Richards and Neco Williams too, now Steve Cooper’s next transfer target has been identified by a reliable source.

What’s the latest?

According to Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor, Nottingham Forest are now interested in signing Southampton striker Che Adams this summer.

Taylor tweeted;

“Nottingham Forest set to wrap up signing of Omar Richards from Bayern Munich in deal worth around £9m.”

“More: Che Adams among striker targets of interest to Steve Cooper but Southampton unlikely to sell.”

Imagine him & Johnson

Cooper is clearly looking to bolster his squad ahead of Forest’s return to the Premier League next season, and getting in players who have experience in the top flight would be massively advantageous, so Adams could be the perfect fit for the squad.

The 25-year-old centre-forward has scored 38 goals and delivered 13 assists over 123 appearances for Southampton, with a goal contribution every 165 minutes and last season in particular Adams has been a consistent attacking threat for the Saints.

In the Premier League, Adams scored seven goals, delivered three assists and created five big chances, taking 1.6 shots and winning 4.5 duels on average per game, as well as successfully completing the majority of his dribble attempts (57%) over 30 appearances.

The £15m Saints striker has been the recipient of high praise from his manager Ralf Hasenhuttl who hailed Adams as the “ketchup bottle phenomenon” in an interview via the club website.

“Maybe again we have the ketchup bottle phenomenon. A long time nothing, but then maybe everything comes at once. So let’s see,” he said.

If the Forest boss could seal a deal for Adams he could unlock a fantastic attacking partnership between the Scotland international and Cooper’s star player Brennan Johnson, it could be the perfect match to ensure the newly-promoted side can retain their top-flight status next season.

With that being said, the powers at Nottingham Forest would need to make a lucrative and tempting offer to tear Adams away from Southampton this summer, but if they could secure his signature the player would be a great addition to the team.

AND in other news: “Expected to…”: David Ornstein drops big NFFC transfer claim, Cooper will be buzzing

CBS Sports Golazo journalist Ben Jacobs has now dropped some exciting Newcastle United transfer news regarding Youri Tielemans.

The Lowdown: Transfer tussle

There is somewhat of a transfer tussle going on with the 25-year-old at the moment, with Arsenal, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur all battling it out for his signature.

The Belgium international only has one year left on his contract at Leicester City, so the Foxes may be tempted to sell him this summer at the risk of losing him for free next year.

The Latest: Newcastle interest

Taking to Twitter, Jacobs has revealed that Newcastle ‘could enter the Tielemans race’ as well, adding that the Magpies’ sporting director Dan Ashworth has ‘already made enquiries’ about the 25-year-old.

The journalist tweeted: “There is a growing feeling Newcastle could enter the Tielemans race, too. Dan Ashworth has already made enquiries. Challenge for #NUFC would be convincing Tielemans how he fits into a midfield with Joelinton, Bruno and Shelvey. One to watch…”

The Verdict: No-brainer

Given that he only has a year left on his contract at Leicester, Tielemans is likely to be available for a cut-price fee, so this is a deal on which Newcastle should be pouncing.

Comparing the Belgian to the Magpies’ current midfield options, he scored more goals (six) and supplied more assists (four) in the Premier League last season than Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes and Jonjo Shelvey, and also averaged more shots and key passes per game than the Tyneside trio.

Furthermore, his top-flight experience (120 Premier League games) means that Tielemans should be able to adapt fairly quickly under Eddie Howe at St James’ Park.

Leeds United have had a bid rejected for FC Porto midfielder Otavio, according to Portuguese newspaper Record (via Sport Witness).

The lowdown: Orta not messing around

Having already added Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Marc Roca to Jesse Marsch’s squad this summer, Director of Football Victor Orta is seemingly showing no signs of letting up with the search for reinforcements.

Whilst some of the additions over the coming weeks could prove to be replacements for highly sought-after duo Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha, the Whites are certainly getting their ranks in order in a timely fashion.

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Now, it appears as though the Elland Road hierarchy have pinpointed their next target in the shape of 27-year-old Porto star Otavio…

The latest: Bid made

As per Record, transcribed by SW, Leeds have seen a €30milion (£25million) offer to sign the seven-cap Portugal international turned down.

It’s claimed that there is an ‘indication’ that Porto would only sell Otavio should a €60million (£51million) release clause be met, having recently also cashed in on the move that saw Luis Diaz arrive at Liverpool.

The report states that Leeds are looking to add ‘reinforcements of weight’ after a disappointing 2021/22 campaign. They apparently view the man recently lauded for an ‘exciting’ standout display for Portugal against Turkey as a candidate to strengthen Marsch’s options.

The verdict: Not at that price

Predominantly operating as a right-winger, Otavio scored five times and provided 14 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions last season, earning an outstanding 7.48 Sofascore rating – the fourth highest in the Portuguese top-flight – whilst winning 7.4 duels, making 2.3 key passes and successfully completing 1.1 dribbles on average per league outing to showcase a well-rounded game.

However, despite this eye-catching form and excellent versatility which has seen the Portuguese ace operate in numerous positions across the midfield and frontline, spending the mooted £51million release clause on this deal would be a huge gamble from Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani.

Albeit the Whites will recoup a major profit on Raphinha should the Brazilian eventually leave, we feel that money can be reinvested in smarter ways than spending big on Otavio, despite the midfielder’s obvious talents.

Newcastle United have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Everton forward Richarlison. 

The lowdown

Richarlison is said to be ‘assessing his options’, having revealed at the end of May that he had already held talks over his future with Frank Lampard.

As well as Newcastle, he has interest from two of the Premier League’s top four in Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.

Everton are apparently seeking more than £50million for the Brazilian, who was their top scorer last season.

The latest

CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs shared ‘some NUFC news’ on Twitter on Monday afternoon.

He says that alongside the failure to sign Hugo Ekitike, Richarlison has been ‘considered’ but he’s been ‘told’ that the 25-year-old would have ‘no interest’ in the move. Instead, his preference is to move to London, where he has two aforementioned suitors.

Significantly, though, Newcastle are also pondering a move for his team-mate Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The verdict

Richarlison might well have been a popular addition among the Magpies faithful.

He’s a solid goalscorer, netting 53 in his 152 appearances for Everton (more than one every three games), but his contribution extends beyond that – he’s revered for his application.

Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler said in 2021 that ‘no one works harder than Richarlison’, while former Spurs defender Stephen Kelly has called him ‘tenacious’ and ‘feisty’.

Ultimately, Newcastle might not be in a position to compete with Spurs and Chelsea right now, but they’ll hope that changes in the coming years as they enact a hugely ambitious plan with the backing of their Saudi owners.

Liverpool have been heavily linked with Gavi during the summer transfer window, and a fresh new update has emerged on the youngster’s future amid contract negotiations with his current club Barcelona.

What’s the latest?

According to reports in Spain, while it was believed that a deal was close to being signed, there are still many differences to be ironed out between the player and the club.

[snack-amp-story url=”https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/read-the-latest-liverpool-news-transfer-rumours-gossip-salah-gnabry-isak-romano” title= “Read the latest Liverpool news!”]

As per the report, Gavi and Barcelona were reported to be almost completely in agreement on extending his contract and securing his future with the La Liga giants, but this is now not thought to be true.

It is suggested that Barcelona do not believe Gavi is a fully-fledged footballer as of yet, although the young midfielder believes he has earned enough experience to be paid on a par with his more senior team-mates at the club.

FSG must act now

With the news that Barcelona are not as close as anticipated to securing a deal for Gavi to remain at the club, FSG must act now and take their opportunity to hijack the deal and offer the youngster a future at Anfield.

Liverpool have a relatively ageing squad in terms of their midfield options, with Thiago Alcantara, Jordan Henderson and James Milner all now well into their 30s. Therefore,  injecting some youth into their team could be a good step forward for the Reds as they continue their pursuit for dominance and trophies on all fronts.

Darwin’s a Red! Get your special edition Darwin Nunez tee here.

Gavi has been impressing over the last season, with Jamie Redknapp lauding praise on the 17-year-old, who he called “talented” and a “phenomenon” in an interview on Sky Sports

The former Liverpool midfielder gushed (via SPORT): “I want to see Gavi’s birth certificate… You can’t be that good at 17! He is a phenomenon, very talented. I’m amazed, I loved watching him play, it’s a pleasure to see him. Gavi is going to be a superstar if he continues on this path. He has it all, I loved watching him play tonight.”

The Spanish talent – who has a €100m (£85.6m) release clause – scored two goals, delivered five assists and created eight big chances during the 2021/22 season, making 1.1 tackles and winning 5.6 duels per game. Also, he was successful with the majority of his dribbles (62%) in his 34 La Liga appearances, suggesting that his potential has no ceiling.

With that being said, FSG must not pass up on their opportunity to turn Gavi’s head with an attractive offer which could tempt him away from securing his future with Barcelona this summer, instead joining Jurgen Klopp’s talented squad in their pursuit for a second Premier League title and beyond.

AND in other news – “Liverpool have..”: Sky Sports reporter drops exciting update that’ll delight supporters

Ex-Premier League goalkeeper Paddy Kenny has claimed that West Ham United are now expecting Declan Rice to leave the club this summer following his omission from the Irons’ recent promotional campaign.

The Lowdown: Irons’ advertising campaign

According to Football Insider, the 23-year-old has not featured in any of the Hammers’ promotional content as the East London outfit continue to advertise their new kit ahead of the 2022/23 season.

Back in April, The Athletic reported that David Moyes’ side would only consider bids for their star man if they neared the club’s whopping £150m valuation.

This followed extensive rumours which linked Rice with a move away in January, with the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United the most prominent of suitors.

The Latest: Kenny’s claim

Kenny, 44, has reacted to Rice’s recent absence in confusion, concluding that it must mean that the midfielder is set to leave the club this summer, otherwise he would be the star of their advertising campaign.

Speaking with Football Insider, he claimed:

“I find it strange that they haven’t had him in the pictures.

“Is it a massive sign that they aren’t expecting him to be there? For me, it is. Why would you not have your main player there?

“He’s a fan favourite, an England international. To not have him on the pictures for the new kit, I just don’t get that.

“Unless they know he isn’t going to be there so there is no point in taking them.”

The Verdict: Worrying absence?

Whilst rumours of an East London exit for Rice are hardly new, the emergence of potential evidence – if you want to call it that – could be viewed as extremely worrying news for West Ham fans.

The England international has refused to sign multiple contract offers with the Irons, but it has been reported that GSB will not allow their star man to leave this summer, with the player’s current deal lasting until the summer of 2024 and an option for a further year which can be triggered by the club.

Therefore, if Kenny’s suggestion is correct and Rice is set to leave this summer, then West Ham are surely counting on an absolutely huge offer for the 23-year-old as his departure would not come without a colossal fee.

In other news: Irons interested in signing James Ward-Prowse…

Everton have not only had problems on the pitch in the Premier League this season but also financial troubles off the pitch, and now a reliable source has given an update on FFP concerns.

What’s the latest?

Reliable Everton source and former club communications director Alan Myers has given a nine-word response to a fan’s question on Twitter regarding the current situation on the FFP concerns for the Toffees.

The fan asked whether Everton needed to sell to buy players due to ongoing financial troubles and Myers responded: “I don’t think much has changed at this point.”

Supporters will be concerned

The Toffees have had their financial problems heavily speculated over the last few months, with the headache of a relegation battle hanging over the club as well over the last season.

Now that Everton have secured survival and remain in the Premier League next season it will surely lift a weight off the club’s shoulders, but they will need to make smart business moves this summer to ensure they don’t create more problems for themselves going forward.

Farhad Moshiri has reportedly spent over £600m on transfers over the last six years, and it was revealed that the club confirmed another financial loss of over £100m for the third successive year, however, it is thought that they are not considered in breach of Premier League profit and sustainability rules.

Sky Sports also reported that Everton are confident they have complied with Financial Fair Play rules amid recent threats of legal action from Burnley and Leeds United, with letters submitted to the Premier League asking for clarity on Everton’s financial movements.

With that being said, the Merseyside club have continued to rebuild and improve their team as they are close to signing James Tarkowski on a free transfer with the player reported to take his medical at the club yesterday, which is a great piece of business that is saving them millions.

The Toffees are also said to be willing to sell a number of fringe players this summer, with journalist Chris Smith tweeting last month:

“Allan, Michael Keane, Andre Gomes, Tom Davies, Jean-Philippe Gbamin, Andros Townsend and Salomon Rondon are all players Everton are willing to entertain offers for this summer.”

If Everton can continue to take advantage of free transfer opportunities and offload some players whilst identifying the right players to help the club compete at a better level next season in the top flight, it should put them in good stead to stay within the financial guidelines and reduce the concerns surrounding the club.

That said, the fact that nothing has changed regarding their dreadful financial situation, will surely be a worry to fans. Everton really need to strengthen this summer but will have to do so on a severely reduced budget.

AND in other news: Lampard must now brutally axe Everton’s £22m “walking red card”, he’s Klaassen 2.0

Leeds United are interested in signing Santos FC forward Renyer, according to a report from Portuguese newspaper Record (via Sport Witness). 

The lowdown: Prodigious talent

Only 18, Renyer has already made seven senior outings for the first team at Santos, having also been recognised at the youth level by Brazil.

Born in Rio de Janeiro, the right-winger has been likened to Manchester City superstar and four-time Premier League winner Riyad Mahrez by Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, who lists ‘pace, acceleration, dribbling, flair, close control, technique and first touch’ as the player’s strengths.

Previously monitored by UEFA Champions League winners Real Madrid, Renyer appears to have now attracted the attention of officials in Yorkshire…

The latest: Whites name-checked with interest

As per Record, translated by SW, Leeds and Benfica are now both assessing the Brazilian attacker as Director of Football Victor Orta attempts to bolster the Whites’ ranks.

The report claims that there is further Premier League interest in Reyner, who was described as a ‘wonderkid’ by scout and Santos devotee Andre Noruega.

Under contract until 2025 and possessing a perceived market value of £2.25million (Transfermarkt), despite the admiration from England and beyond, there is no mention of an asking price.

The verdict: Exciting prospect

Predominantly operating from the right as a left-footed winger, similar to Leeds favourite and compatriot Raphinha, the four-cap Brazil Under-16 starlet attempted 1.3 shots per game despite only playing 33 minutes on average in four league outings in 2021.

Amidst those fleeting displays, the skilful Brazilian teenager produced a standout 7.20 rated display against Corinthians including one key pass, two shots on target and three successful dribbles (Sofascore).

Whilst it’s almost impossible to predict how a player as young as Reyner would adapt to life at Elland Road, adding such potential to Jesse Marsch’s squad, particularly should Raphinha move on this summer, would only be a welcome boost.

In other news – £34m release clause: Leeds now interested in move for ‘special talent’ who Marsch loves

Liverpool are reportedly targeting their midfield as an area of improvement this summer, and now a previously linked transfer target has been identified as a potential interest to the club ahead of next season.

What’s the latest?

According to The Mirror, Liverpool are now prepared to rival Manchester City for the signing of Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips this summer after losing out on Aurelien Tchouameni to Real Madrid.

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As per the report, Jurgen Klopp is understood to be a huge admirer of the player and the West Yorkshire club are preparing themselves for an approach from both the Merseyside club and Man City.

Forget Tchouameni

It has been widely reported that Tchouameni prefers a move to Spain this summer and with that in mind, FSG need to move on fast to identify another midfielder that can offer dominance in the centre of the pitch, with Phillips clearly the alternative option for the Reds.

The £60m dynamo who was hailed “outstanding” by England manager Gareth Southgate has struggled with hamstring injury issues during the most recent Premier League campaign making only 20 appearances, despite that he has still shown glimpses of his talent and capabilities in the team.

According to SofaScore, the midfielder delivered one assist and created one big chance, making 2.7 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and won 4.8 duels on average per game and was successful in the majority of his dribbles (58%), proving that he can make an instant and consistent impact.

“For me, he is one of the best midfielders in the world right now,” once claimed his teammate Liam Cooper during Euro 2020 last summer.

Liverpool are looking for fresh perspectives in their midfield three and although the Kopites had one of their most successful seasons under Klopp winning the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, Thiago Alcantara, Jordan Henderson and James Milner are all well into their 30s.

Identifying younger players that can come through to succeed the current crop of midfielders can help Liverpool continue their reign of dominance and keep them fighting for trophies on all fronts for years to come preventing them from dropping off in key areas of the pitch.

With that being said, signing Phillips would be a major coup for the club and if they could complete the signing of the 26-year-old it would surely put to rest the worry that Liverpool weren’t able to secure a deal for Tchouameni.

AND in other news, Klopp could land his dream Mane heir with Liverpool bid for “unbelievable” £47m target…

Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronkhorst and Ross Wilson have been hit with a setback over Nikola Katic’s future at Ibrox heading into the summer transfer window…

What’s the talk?

According to Football Scotland, his loan club are unlikely to sign him on a permanent deal despite having a £3m option to do so in their loan agreement.

The report claims that the defender will now return to the Premiership club for pre-season in an attempt to impress van Bronckhorst and break back into the Rangers squad.

Supporters will be frustrated

This is a huge blow for Wilson and is one that will surely leave the supporters frustrated as it leaves the club £3m short of what they could have had and with an injury-plagued player remaining on the books.

Since joining the club, Katic has missed 58 competitive matches for the Gers and was ruled out for a whopping 358 days after suffering a cruciate ligament rupture in 2020.

Transfermarkt have no injury updates on his time in the Croatian top-flight in 2021/22 but the centre-back only managed 17 starts and 21 appearances for Split in the league. His statistics in the division do not suggest that his limited game time was down to form as he averaged an excellent SofaScore rating of 7.01 and won 64% of his duels in the 1. HNL.

After spending an extraordinary amount of time out injured, it is not a surprise to see that Katic did not rack up 30+ starts in Croatia. However, that does not take away from the fact that he is not a reliable option for van Bronckhorst to call upon.

His injury record means that he cannot start the season expecting to be a regular in the team as he is yet to prove that he can remain fit throughout the campaign.

This is why Split’s decision is a setback for Wilson as he would have been able to use the £3m fee to bring in a centre-back with a proven track record of fitness to bolster the team. Therefore, this update is a huge blow for the club, as it stands, and is one that will frustrate supporters who will surely want reliable options in the squad.

Of course, if Katic can come back and prove his fitness and enjoy a stellar season for the Light Blues next term then no one will be worrying about £3m. For now, though, his record suggests that he has a long way to go to get back on track with his availability.

AND in other news, Rangers can land dream Kent heir in deal for £1.5m “asset” who can “affect the game”…