Rangers fans welcome back summer arrival Eros Grezda

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Eros Grezda has not played a single minute of first-team football for Rangers in 2019.

Indeed, the 23-year-old’s last appearance for the Scottish giants came against St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership in the latter stages of December.

Grezda has not even made the squad since Boxing Day, but used his social media on Thursday to announce his return to the training field.

Since arriving at Rangers from NK Osijek in August 2018, the nine-time Albania international has made just 14 appearances for the Gers.

It would be fair to say that the club’s fans are yet to really see what the 5 foot 11 winger has to offer, although he did score twice in the early stages of the campaign.

The Rangers supporters are seemingly behind the attacker, however, with many taking to social media to respond positively to Grezda’s tweet.

A selection of the Twitter reaction from the Scottish outfit’s fans can be seen below:

Tobi Omole could be Spurs’ next Skipp

Tottenham Hotspur youth prospect Tobi Omole is in advanced negotiations over a new contract at the north London outfit, according to allnigeriasoccer.com.

The 21-year-old defender joined Spurs from arch-rivals Arsenal in October 2020 following a successful trial and it appears as if he’s already caught the eye of first-team boss Antonio Conte, who recently called the academy starlet up to training.

It was Nuno Santo who first handed Omole a call-up to the first-team squad, naming him amongst the substitutes in games against Stade Rennes, NS Mura and Crystal Palace.

He was even registered as a senior option in their Premier League and Europa Conference League squads, which only goes to show just how highly thought of he is at Hotspur Way.

But who is he?

The young dynamo is a versatile starlet capable of playing at full-back, centre-back and as a defensive midfielder, and for the U23s this campaign, he has bagged two goals from 14 appearances across the Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy.

Standing at 6 foot 1, Omole could be the next youngster to break into the senior set-up, perhaps following in the footsteps of Oliver Skipp, who has become a key starter under Conte this term.

Omole, who has been described as a “top young talent” by Lilywhites insider John Wenham to Football Insider, could provide the Italian with valuable cover in defence, where he has been without Cristian Romero since the November international break.

He is not expected back until January, maybe February, at the earliest, so a player like Omole could be of huge value to Conte in the coming weeks and months, especially with the fixture list piling up this festive period.

It is certainly encouraging to see that Spurs are trying to tie him down to an extension as he is close to entering the final six months of his current deal.

Given his recent involvement in training alongside some of the club’s biggest stars, it could well be Omole who emerges as the ‘next Skipp’ and the latest success story from the academy.

AND in other news, Antonio Conte set for Spurs boost amid fresh contract claims…

Dave Harrison could replace Marcel Brands

Everton are a club at a crossroads at this moment in time, with the departure of former director of football Marcel Brands sparking an intriguing new chapter in their history.

What’s the story?

Under the Dutchman’s watchful eye, the Toffees embarked on a rather haphazard spending spree over the last three years, although he cannot be solely blamed for all of their misfortune.

However, with Brands now out the door, talk has turned to who could replace the 59-year-old in the boardroom.

And The Athletic’s Everton reporter Patrick Boyland has provided an update into the ongoing situation, suggesting the popular head of football operations Dave Harrison could fill the current void.

“There is an expectation the club’s respected head of football operations Dave Harrison will fill part of the void left by Brands as long as the strategic review takes place, ” he wrote alongside colleague Greg O’Keeffe.

“A popular, long-standing member of staff, Harrison is seen as a safe pair of hands and has experience in negotiations and other logistical aspects.”

Everton fans will be buzzing

Brands arrived on Merseyside back in 2018 after cultivating an enviable reputation for himself at PSV Eindhoven after several years worth of good work in his homeland.

Everton’s new owner Farhad Moshiri provided substantial funds for the transfer chief to improve the first-team squad, yet improvements on the pitch scarcely failed to materialise.

The likes of Alex Iwobi, Andre Gomes and Moise Kean all arrived under Brands’ doomed reign for big fees without elevating the Goodison Park outfit’s fortunes, resulting in league finishes of 8th, 12th and 10th during his time at the club.

As a result, large sections of Everton’s fanbase will be delighted to learn of Boyland’s latest behind-the-scenes revelation.

News that a ‘respected’ and ‘popular’ member of staff who already knows the club and understands the direction it wants to go in and what needs to be improved is expected to step into Brands’ shoes will fill them with hope and confidence for the months ahead.

Following a first win since September, it finally looks as though proceedings are moving in the right direction for the Toffees. They should be left buzzing as a result.

And, in other news…Forget Coleman: Rafa must seal EFC move for £25m “warrior” with “outstanding quality” 

Rangers transfer news on Mateusz Zukowski

Many Glasgow Rangers fans have been buzzing over some transfer news on Mateusz Zukowski.

As per the Ibrox club’s official website, they have now officially confirmed the signing of the Poland youth international from Lechia Gdansk for an undisclosed fee, so long as he can get international clearance.

He has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract at the club and should now be available to potentially feature in the Old Firm derby in midweek.

Zukowski will provide sufficient cover for James Tavernier at right-back, following the departure of Nathan Patterson to Everton earlier in the January transfer window.

Despite being just 20 years of age, he has already played 81 times at club level, scoring an impressive seven goals from defence (Transfermarkt); and he has been capped many times for Poland atvarious youth levels, further highlighting his experience.

Nonetheless, supporters always love a Deadline Day signing, and this one is no different.

Rangers fans on Zukowski transfer news

These Rangers fans buzzed as the transfer news was shared on Twitter, with one Light Blues supporter going as far as to claim that Zukowski is an ‘exciting’ signing:

“Yessssss welcome to Rangers”

Credit: @R55Loyal

“GET IN”

Credit: @gers_fan55

“Brilliant”

Credit: @Lemonheid

“SUIIIIII”

Credit: @stevonevo1

“Exciting signing”

Credit: @mentalitygiant1

“What a day to be alive”

Credit: @CammyWills

In other news, find out what interesting Aaron Ramsey transfer update has emerged

West Ham interested in Filip Kostic

West Ham United are interested in a deal to bring Filip Kostic to the London Stadium in the January transfer window.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by Italian media outlet Calciomercato, who claim that David Moyes’ side have joined the likes of Inter Milan, Lazio, AFC Fiorentina, Atletico Madrid, Sevilla and Arsenal in the race for the Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder this month.

A further report by Italian publication Tuttosport claimed that the Bundesliga side would not be willing to listen to offers below €10m (£8.5m) for the Serbia international in January, although Calciomercato suggest that Frankfurt are unlikely to want to part with the 29-year-old in the winter market.

West Ham’s next Payet

Considering just how impressive Kostic has been in Germany so far this season, it is easy to see why Moyes would be keen on a deal to bring the versatile midfielder to the London Stadium this month.

Indeed, over his 17 Bundesliga outings in the current campaign, the £18m-rated man has been in astonishing form, having bagged three goals, registered seven assists and created a remarkable 14 big chances for his teammates – with no other player in the German top-flight having created more – as well as making an average of 2.8 key passes and taking 1.9 shots per game.

These returns have seen the £43k-per-week midfielder – who can also play further forward on the left-wing – average an extraordinary SofaScore match rating of 7.36, not only ranking him as Frankfurt’s best performer in the division, but also as the ninth-best player in the league as a whole.

And, while it is true that Pablo Fornals has been in improved form on the left-hand side of the West Ham attack so far this season – scoring four goals, registering two assists and creating four big chances over his 18 Premier League appearances – the Spain international’s returns still pale in comparison to those of Dimitri Payet back in 2015/16.

Indeed, over the France international’s 30 Premier League outings that season, the winger scored nine goals, provided 12 assists and created 16 big chances for his teammates, returns which saw the now-34-year-old earn an out of this world seasonal SofaScore match rating of 7.68.

As such, should Moyes and Rob Newman be able to seal a deal for Kostic this winter, and the player who Kevin Trapp dubbed a “monster” goes on to continue his remarkable form for Frankfurt at the London Stadium, the 58-year-old manager could well have the club’s next Payet on their hands – something that is undoubtedly an incredibly exciting prospect for everyone involved with the Hammers.

In other news: “We can confirm..”: Ex drops big twist in West Ham January talks, Moyes will be gutted

Spurs re-join Grillitsch race

As reported by Sky Sports journalist Marc Behrenbeck, relayed by Sky Austria, an update has come to light involving Tottenham Hotspur and Austria international Florian Grillitsch.

The Lowdown: Pochettino keen…

Back in the summer of 2019, former Lilywhites boss and fan favourite Mauricio Pochettino actually had his eye on the Hoffenheim ace who has gone on to become a mainstay in the Bundesliga.

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Indeed, according to Sky Sports, the Argentine was eager to bring Grillitsch to north London during his last year in charge of the club as he searched for an heir to Mousa Dembele in his midfield.

Now, as per the same reliable source, it appears Tottenham are back in contention again.

The Latest: Spurs re-join race…

According to Sky reporter Behrenback, as relayed by SSA, Spurs have joined Roma and another former boss, Jose Mourinho, in the race to sign Grillitsch on a free transfer next summer.

His contract is set to expire in 2022 as things stand with the tough-tackling midfielder seemingly having no shortage of suitors for a transfer at the end of 2021/2022.

The Verdict: Get it d0ne?

The 26-year-old, who can play as a central defender or in a defensive or central midfield role (WhoScored), could come as an absolute bargain who may well fill many gaping holes in manager Antonio Conte’s team.

For free, this certainly seems like a move worth considering, especially since Grillitsch has averaged an impressive rate of 2.5 tackles per 90 in the German top flight so far this season (WhoScored).

Compared to Tottenham’s squad, only Emerson Royal has managed more, and Conte could certainly benefit from another combative presence in his team ahead of his first full season in 2022/2023.

Lauded as ‘extraordinary’ by Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann, we strongly advise Tottenham to beat Mourinho to his signature.

In other news: Paratici backed by Levy as he tries to seal Spurs agreement for ‘sensational’ ace, find out more here.

Hatfield drops Traore transfer claim

The future of Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore lies away from Molineux.

What’s been said?

That’s according to the Express & Star’s Luke Hatfield, with the journalist stating his belief in a recent interview with GIVEMESPORT that, with the 25-year-old winger being heavily linked with a move away from the club this January, it would appear more than likely that the Spain international secures a move away from the club sooner rather than later.

Speaking about the current situation of the Wolves forward, Hatfield said: “If I was a betting man, I would probably say that his future lies away from Molineux.”

Shi must act

While it is undeniable that Traore has become an integral part of the Wolves side since his £18m move to the club back in 2018, considering just how much of an impact the 25-year-old’s reported contract negotiations are having on his playing time this season, Jeff Shi simply must call time on the Spaniard’s spell at Molineux this winter.

Indeed, the winger scored one goal and provided one assist over his 25 Premier League appearances back in 2018/19, bagged four goals and nine assists over 37 league fixtures in 2019/20 and netted two goals and three assists over 37 top-flight games last season – with his returns playing a key role in reestablishing Wolves as a Premier League side.

Even in the current campaign, despite yet to contribute directly to a goal, the £17m-rated man has impressed over his 11 Premier League appearances, averaging 5.4 successful dribbles per game – the highest amount of any player in the league – while also taking an average of 1.5 shots and making 1.3 key passes per fixture.

These metrics have seen the man who Jurgen Klopp dubbed “unplayable” average a SofaScore match rating of 7.13, ranking him as Wolves’ second-best performer in the top flight.

However, over the club’s last three league fixtures, the £43k-per-week forward has featured for a grand total of just 36 minutes, with reports suggesting that, while his contract discussions are at a stand-off, Bruno Lage is less inclined to afford the 25-year-old game time ahead of Wolves’ other options out wide.

As such, with no resolution close regarding the contract discussions between him and the club, it would seem a very good idea for Shi and Wolves to cash in on Traore while interest in the winger is high, as the club will more than likely make a very tidy sum on the Spanish international.

In other news: Lage can save Shi millions by unleashing “magnificent” 19 y/o Wolves gem, “he’s ready”

Rice attracts media praise vs Man United

Reacting to the performance of star midfielder Declan Rice, various figures in the media have been left blown away by West Ham United’s ‘only shining light’ against Manchester United.

The Lowdown: Rice continues to shine…

The England international, following on from his performances for the Hammers last campaign and at the Euros, has been a revelation yet again so far this campaign under manager David Moyes.

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According to WhoScored, the 23-year-old tops West Ham’s charts in terms of tackles and interceptions averaged per 90 – highlighting his real defensive prowess in midfield over 2021/2022.

It’s little wonder many big clubs, including today’s opponents Man United, are apparently interested as figures in the media shower praise on his performance today.

The Latest: Media rave…

Taking to Twitter, Media members were left astonished by Rice’s performance – with journalist Tyrone Marshall of The Manchester Evening News calling him ‘excellent’.

Meanwhile, MUTV and BBC analyst Statman Dave pointed out the player’s impressive first half numbers and lauded West Ham’s ‘main main’ of the afternoon.

Last but not least, YouTube celebrity and United supporter Ryan Haber, who has over 254,000 subscribers on the platform, was in particular awe – branding Rice ‘absolutely fantastic’ and ‘West Ham’s only shining light’.

The Verdict: Keep him at all costs…

Amassing the highest match rating of any West Ham man according to SofaScore, this display is yet more evidence that the Irons and GSB should not sell at any cost as he recorded a frankly ridiculous 97% pass accuracy.

The club are allegedly attempting to tie him down with fresh terms to secure his future, but this outing at Old Trafford will only attract more attention from suitors.

Based off this praise and performances this campaign, West Ham may face a battle to keep him in future seasons. but they simply must if Moyes is to maintain his side’s stay at the highest level.

In other news: Insider: West Ham agreement to sign ‘world class’ £17.1m striker ‘there to be done’, find out more here.

Leeds considering 3rd Brenden Aaronson bid

Leeds United correspondent Graham Smyth has revealed that the Whites are ‘considering’ a third bid for key transfer target Brenden Aaronson.

The Lowdown: Two offers so far

Aaronson, who was described as a ‘half-winger’ by Joe Donnohue, is the club’s top winter target and holds a Transfermarkt valuation of £10.8m.

However, it seems as if Leeds will need to pay more than double that figure following unsuccessful offers of £15m and £20m respectively.

The American was coy when asked about a possible move to Elland Road, and it seems as if Victor Orta hasn’t given up hope of forcing through a late transfer.

The Latest: Smyth’s claim

Smyth took to Twitter on Wednesday, sharing a link to a ‘transfer state of play’ piece from The Yorkshire Evening Post.

He revealed that the Whites were ‘considering’ a third offer for Aaronson, while also addressing a possible exit for Crysencio Summerville amid links of a move to Hamburg.

The Verdict: Orta harming himself?

As Smyth mentions, should Leeds go in with a third offer for Aaronson and fail, that could be the starting point when it comes to a summer fee.

Therefore, a third bid could be a gamble, but with Marcelo Bielsa not having an attacking midfielder at the club, it could be worth the risk.

We’ve seen previously that anything can happen in the final days of the transfer window with Raphinha’s move to Yorkshire in October 2020, but at this moment in time, Orta could actually be increasing Aaronson’s price tag in the summer with another offer.

In other news: ‘People I’ve spoken to’ – Journalist drops Leeds transfer news; Orta busy on more than just Aaronson

Liverpool still keen on Ismaila Sarr move

Liverpool remain interested in signing long-time target Ismaila Sarr in the summer transfer window, according to a latest transfer rumour.

The Lowdown: Sarr linked in the past

The Senegalese forward famously scored twice for Watford against the Reds back in 2019/20, ending their hopes of going unbeaten for a whole Premier League season.

Sarr remains at the Hornets currently but he hasn’t always been a regular this season due to injuries, making 15 league starts and scoring five goals in that time.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for the winger numerous times in the past and it appears as though their interest isn’t going away.

The Latest: New rumour emerges

According to Corriere dello Sport and Telelombardia [via Sport Witness], the Reds are seen as a ‘dangerous competitor’ in the race to sign the 24-year-old this summer.

He is also ‘a favourite’ of AC Milan’s but Liverpool are providing ‘competition’ for his signature, ahead of a likely exit at the end of the season.

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The Verdict: Possible replacement for superstar

Liverpool are in a situation where they have five superb attacking options currently, so it is hard to imagine Jurgen Klopp needing any reinforcements in that area.

That being said, there is a chance that one of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane or Roberto Firmino could leave this summer, which would then open up a space in the squad.

If so, Sarr would be an exciting option to come in, having scored nine goals in 39 caps for Senegal and been hailed as ‘outstanding’ by Garth Crooks, bringing the same pace and directness out wide as his mentor Mane.

In other news, one big club are ‘monitoring’ a Liverpool player’s current situation. Find out who it is here.

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