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Tottenham Hotspur are interested in a deal to bring Kalvin Phillips to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the summer transfer window.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by The Telegraph, who claim that the Leeds United defensive midfielder is one of a number of players on Antonio Conte’s list of transfer targets in the summer market, with the signing of a new player in the 26-year-old’s position believed to be a priority for the 52-year-old ahead of Spurs’ 2022/23 campaign.

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However, further reports claim that the likes of Manchester United, Aston Villa, West Ham United, Liverpool and Manchester City are also interested in a move for the England international this summer, with the Whites’ expected to demand a figure in the region of £60m in order to part with their academy graduate.

Conte’s next Kante

Considering just how impressive Phillips has been for Leeds since the Whites’ promotion to the Premier League back in 2020, it is easy to see why Conte would be interested in a deal to bring the deep-lying playmaker to north London this summer.

Indeed, while a hamstring injury kept the £45m-rated talent sidelined for a large portion of 2021/22, the 26-year-old undoubtedly proved his ability over 29 Premier league appearances in the season prior, scoring one goal, providing two assists and creating five big chances, as well as making an average of 1.2 key passes, taking 0.5 shots and completing 0.7 dribbles per game.

The £38k-per-week defensive midfielder also impressed in metrics more typical of his position, making an average of 1.6 interceptions, 2.6 tackles, 1.7 clearances, completing 41.0 passes and winning 5.3 duels – at a success rate of 52% – per fixture.

These returns saw the player who Scott Saunders dubbed “unreal” average a quite astonishing SofaScore match rating of 7.21, not only ranking him as Leeds’ best player in the league but also as the ninth-best midfielder in the top flight as a whole.

For comparison, over N’Golo Kante’s – a player who is widely considered to be one of the best holding midfielders currently playing the game, as well as being a former disciple of Conte – 26 Premier League outings in 2021/22, the £45m-rated France international scored two goals, registered four assists and created three big chances, as well as making an average of 0.9 key passes, taking 0.7 shots and completing 1.3 dribbles per game.

The 31-year-old also made an average of 1.2 interceptions, 2.3 tackles, 0.3 clearances, completed 43.1 passes and won 4.6 duels – at a success rate of 57% – per fixture – with these metrics seeing the Chelsea star average a SofaScore match rating of 7.12.

As such, it is clear for all to see that, should Paratici manage to fight off the competition for Phillips this summer, the Italian sporting director could well have landed Conte his next Kante at Spurs – something that would undoubtedly provide Tottenham’s chances of success in the upcoming campaign with a substantial boost.

AND in other news: Contact made: Paratici now in talks for £43m Spurs target, he’s “out of the ordinary”

Everton are in need of reinforcements this summer to improve the squad ahead of next season following a difficult season in the Premier League, and now a transfer insider has dropped a major update.

What’s the latest?

According to journalist and transfer insider Dean Jones, Frank Lampard could tempt Armando Broja into a move to Goodison Park this summer.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT:

“Lampard obviously can use his contacts to get into Broja early, speak to him himself, and just try and convince him that Everton is a club that’s going to be in transition but in a good way. That’s going to be the big message that they send out.”

Supporters will be excited

Broja has been one of the most exciting young talents in the Premier League this season and already has a connection with Frank Lampard from his days as Chelsea manager, so supporters will surely be delighted by at the prospect of signing the player.

The Toffees boss actually gave the Chelsea youth player his debut in the Premier League and has always given high praise to Broja, recently hailing him in an interview ahead of Everton’s game against Southampton this season;

“He’s a very good lad, very talented young boy,” he said.

“He’s fast, strong, has a real eye for a goal. He’s a very good young player, so I’m very aware of his strengths.”

Broja has had an impressive season on loan with Southampton scoring nine goals and contributing one assist in all competitions, the forward also ranks third for the highest aerial duels in the league this season.

Lampard’s experience with the player can ensure an instant impact is made in the team should he join the Merseyside club this summer as the manager is well aware of his strengths and ability, and could ultimately bring out the best in the youngster in his attacking-minded set up.

With that being said, Broja is attracting interest from a number of clubs with Newcastle United, West Ham United and AC Milan named as potential suitors, so the Everton manager will need to present an attractive offer to the young player this summer.

AND in other news: Everton plotting move to sign “world class” £97k-p/w gem, Lampard needs him badly

Celtic have been linked with a move for Gent defender Joseph Okumu ahead of the upcoming summer window.

What’s the news?

Speaking to People Daily (via Daily Record), the Kenyan’s agent was discussing the current situation regarding the player and his future with the Belgian club.

He said: “We’ve had informal interest from Arsenal [and] Scottish giants Celtic, but Borussia Dortmund is the first to make an official inquiry about Okumu. He’s open to a move if an agreement is reached.”

Gent signed the centre-back from Swedish outfit IF Elfsborg last summer. During his debut season with the Belgian club, the 25-year-old made 47 appearances across all competitions, chipping in with three goals in the process.

Postecoglou would love him

To highlight his defensive talent, the Kenyan racked up the third-highest number of interceptions (49) and tackles (41) in Gent’s squad. He also ended the season with his team’s second-highest average for blocks per game (0.9) and the third-most clearances per match (3.2).

Standing at 6 foot 3, the £2.1k-per-week defender clearly has what it takes to be a solid defensive unit, and he has shown why Ange Postecoglou would undoubtedly love to have a strong player like him in the ranks at Parkhead.

Speaking about the player prior to his move to Belgium, Elfsborg sporting director Stefan Andreasson said: “We understood that this was a very good player, then he showed maybe the whole of Sweden last year, and also Europe. It is clear that Okumu is one of the best.

“I have said it once before, that he is the best centre-back that has ever been in the Allsvenskan – you can say that sometimes.”

In terms of a potential move to Celtic, the Hoops are reportedly working on securing Cameron Carter-Vickers on a permanent basis after his recent loan spell. However, if these efforts end up being unsuccessful, then Okumu could be an ideal replacement for the American in Glasgow.

However, if the 25-year-old’s agent is being truthful with his reported comments, and the likes of Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund are indeed interested in signing the defender, then Celtic could have a challenge on their hands to secure his signature.

If Postecoglou and the Bhoys are in the market for a centre-back this summer, then the Gent titan should definitely be near the top of their target list.

In other news: Ange can sign the next Roberts as Celtic eye £1.8m wizard who’s “Mourinho’s nightmare”

Journalist Bruno Andrade of UOL Esporte and CNN Portugal has now shared the latest development as West Ham United eye a move for Watford centre-forward Joao Pedro.

The Lowdown: Moyes step up transfer talks…

David Moyes could be set for his most crucial summer window in years as he seeks to maintain his side’s place among the Premier League’s most elite sides.

The Hammers just missed out on a Europa League place to Manchester United at the end of 2021/2022, instead having to settle for a place in the Conference League, with reliable reports claiming Moyes has stepped up transfer talks early.

This comes as four departures have already been confirmed as West Ham seemingly get the gears in motion for a real overhaul.

A striker is said to be high on the agenda with Andrade now sharing what he knows on east London target Pedro.

The Latest: Hammers quoted eight figure fee…

According to the reporter, West Ham will have to fork out ‘between €30m-40m (£26m-£34m)’ to sign the Hornets striker as the club, and by extension GSB, eye a move.

As reiterated by Andrade, Pedro has been ‘closely watched’ by the Irons, who wish to sign an alternative forward option to Michail Antonio.

The Verdict: Pay it?

The Brazilian’s best moment in England’s top flight over 21/22 arguably came against Man United, where he bagged a goal for Watford in their shock 4-1 demolition of the Red Devils.

An indicator of his potential, Pedro is still just 20-years-old and possesses a glowing reputation, with ex-manager Xisco Munoz branding him an ‘exciting player’.

However, having scored four goals whilst assisting one other last season, this move may well be an investment for the future rather than a prolific marquee striker signing.

The only question is whether GSB and co are willing to shell out up to £34m to seal a deal for Pedro this summer.

In other news: ‘Priority for Moyes’ – West Ham now believe they can sign ‘highly-rated’ star, says reporter…find out more here.

Liverpool have potentially taken another vital step in securing the services of Barcelona midfielder Gavi ahead of next season.

What’s the word?

That’s according to La Porteria (via Forbes), who stated that the La Liga club offered a new contract to the 17-year-old in the region of €2m (£1.7m) per year, which he promptly rejected. The youngster reportedly wants a contract for four seasons, with the salary increasing after every year.

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Liverpool are willing to more than quadruple this offer from the Spanish giants and could pay the player’s €50m (£42.5m) release clause now, even though they could land Gavi for free next year.

Jurgen Klopp would love  him

Despite Liverpool having one of their best seasons in recent memory, Klopp is still looking at strengthening his squad ahead of another tilt at Premier League and Champions League glory next year.

With the Anfield club in the market for a central midfielder this summer, the interest in Gavi appears to be leading to a potential move.

With Liverpool missing out on one of their main targets in Aurelien Tchouameni, who looks increasingly likely to be joining Real Madrid, Klopp is quickly moving on to other players on his radar.

At just 17, Gavi has already shattered records, recently becoming the youngest-ever scorer for Spain, and he has been described as “spectacular” by his club manager Xavi following a performance against Elche in which he scored his first Barcelona goal.

The midfielder played in 34 La Liga matches last season, scoring twice and registering six assists in what was a breakthrough campaign for the £54m-rated teenager.

The teenage sensation ranks in the top 2% compared to positional peers in the top five European leagues for touches in the attacking penalty area (3.59 per 90) and in the top 6% for dribbles completed (1.56 per 90), illustrating at a young age that his focus is to break forward as much as possible.

He can also be effective in helping his team defensively, as the Spain international made 44 tackles and 573 pressures last season.

Klopp shouldn’t be waiting to get the player next year on a free transfer, as these statistics suggest that Gavi already has what it takes to succeed in the Premier League. At £42.5m, it’s a bargain not to be missed; and given the youngster’s extraordinary talents at such a young age, the Liverpool manager would surely love to have him alongside Harvey Elliott and Fabio Carvalho as astute teenage swoops.

AND in other news, James Pearce drops “laughable” Liverpool transfer development, FSG will be furious

BBC journalist Fraser Fletcher has revealed that Celtic are now in ‘advancing talks’ to bring Lanus defender Alexandro Bernabei to the Scottish Premiership.

The Lowdown: Opening bid rejected

The 21-year-old still has just over 12 months remaining on his contract with the Argentine giants, but there has been plenty of speculation surrounding his future at the Lanus City Stadium in recent days after he was left out of their match-day squad twice in a row.

The Hoops have been heavily linked with a move for the starlet, and it was reported that they even had an official opening bid for their target rejected. Following a fresh update, it appears as though the Glasgow outfit have come back for a second bite at the cherry, and it’s news that fans just might want to hear.

The Latest: Celtic close to sealing Bernabei move

Taking to Twitter, Fletcher revealed that Celtic have been ‘in contact’ with Bernabei’s agents and now have a strong chance of being able to complete a deal. He wrote:

“Celtic are now advancing talks for Alexandro Bernabei from Club Atlético Lanus. First bid was below but Celtic now back in and moving.

“They are in contact with the players representatives/Lanus and things are moving closer.”

The Verdict: A risk worth taking

Celtic are believed to be on the hunt for a new left-back as Ange Postecoglou ramps up his transfer efforts ahead of the start of the new season, and Bernabei could be the ideal candidate to provide some serious competition for Greg Taylor.

The £2.97m-rated ace has never played in Europe before, nor has he got any kind of experience at this level, but has an impressive record at Lanus, providing ten assists and scoring four goals during his time at the club, via Transfermarkt.

This kind of attacking prowess highlights the qualities and pace that Bernabei can have down the flank, and that is something that could fit the Australian’s system perfectly.

In other news… a Sky Sports journalist has dropped a major update on Celtic’s interest in one of their summer transfer targets.

Injury expert Ben Dinnery has been reacting to Leeds United’s partnership with Zone7, as per Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Leeds’ Zone7 partnership

The Whites have acted fast in the summer transfer window, with moves for Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Marc Roca already confirmed.

They have now linked up with artificial intelligence platform Zone7 in an attempt to reduce the number of injuries at Elland Road.

Zone7 confirmed the partnership via Twitter on Monday and are set to help Leeds by using their technologies to optimise player performance, seek to gain insights from data and help reduce the frequency of injuries.

The Latest: Dinnery reacts

Dinnery, who contributes for Sky Sports, was talking to Football Insider regarding Leeds’ latest partnership. He admitted that Leeds shouldn’t expect ‘overnight’ results but said that it is ‘very exciting’ news for the club.

The injury expert stated:

“We talked recently to the CEO of Zone7, Tal Brown. Their AI model is used to help reduce injury incidence and performance. They are a company that have been on my radar for a while.

“We spoke to Tal with regards to his involvement with Liverpool. We know all about their investment in the latest technologies to advance their team, minimise risk and reduce injury incidence.

“Leeds’ lack of strength in depth, as it was last season, has been discussed many times. It really came to fruition in the number of games missed.

“No team suffered more time-loss injuries in the top flight than Leeds. It was over 170. When you talk about additional strain on a threadbare squad because of injury, it’s obvious why they were struggling towards the end of the campaign.

“The important thing to remember is that this is not a magic bullet. Zone7 is not going to guarantee that it can reduce injury incidence overnight. It’s there to complement the work of the backroom staff, first and foremost.

“It doesn’t give definitive answers, it offers insights and analysis so staff can make informed decisions. The system uses millions of data points to protest conversations within the club.

“It has been highly successful across numerous teams and sports. It’s very exciting.”

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The Verdict: Good to see

The Whites missed a number of key players for large parts of the 2021/22 campaign due to injury, with just four players managing to start 30 games or more.

Patrick Bamford was hit the hardest and started just seven league fixtures, so linking up with Zone7 and looking to limit the amount of injuries that players pick up is a sensible move, and one from the Leeds striker could benefit the most out of anyone in Jesse Marsch’s squad.

Dinnery, who has a background in medicine and data analysis, isn’t expecting imminent results from the technology, but he’s clearly excited about the partnership, so it seems to be a good move to help out Leeds’ Head of Medicine and Performance Rob Price.

According to reports out of Italy, there has been a big Southampton transfer update involving Bologna star Mattias Svanberg as manager Ralph Hasenhuttl potentially edges closer to another signing.

The Lowdown: Saints busy…

Saints transfer chief Martin Semmens has been busy in this summer market already, first sealing a deal for ex-Man City goalkeeper Gavin Bazanu, who dazzled on loan at south coast rivals Portsmouth last season.

Following on from the Republic of Ireland international, Hasenhuttl then saw colossal central defender Armel Bella-Kotchap arrive from Bundesliga side VfL Bochum.

It appears Southampton mean business as they gear up for the 2022/2023 Premier League season with another promising update now coming to light involving Svanberg.

The Latest: Svanberg terms agreed…

According to Corriere dello Sport (via Sport Witness), it is believed the St. Mary’s side ‘have already reached an agreement’ on his contract and salary as they shake hands on personal terms.

Potentially edging closer to his signing, all that remains is for Southampton and Bologna to agree a fee over Svanberg.

The Verdict: Exciting?

An iNews source described the Denmark sensation as one of the top number 8’s in Europe, a potentially head-turning tag and one which could best sum up why Hasenhuttl wants him in England.

The 23-year-old, also called a ‘very talented’ player by the source in question, was a mainstay for Bologna over 21/22 – playing the sixth-most Serie A minutes out of anyone in their squad (WhoScored).

An exciting up and coming player, we believe he could be a brilliant capture after Bazanu and Bella-Kotchup if they can get it done.

Tottenham Hotspur supporters have been handed a fresh update on the club’s pursuit of Roma playmaker and marquee Serie A star Nicolo Zaniolo.

The Lowdown: Spurs make contact…

Lilywhites transfer chief Fabio Paratici was recently in Italy for summits as he discussed many different things, according to a recent report by Sky Sports.

The Spurs managing director allegedly held discussions over possible exits for Joe Rodon on loan to Roma and Bryan Gil on another potential temporary deal to Sampdoria.

Paratici also travelled home to make an inquiry over signing Zaniolo, and while talks initially didn’t go further beyond that point, 90min reporter Sean Walsh says there has been a development.

The Latest: Lilywhites ‘talks’ held for Zaniolo…

As per the reporter, it is believed that the Premier League side have taken their interest in Roma’s star beyond the initial stages, already plotting a part-exchange deal.

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Walsh explained:

“Tottenham held talks with Roma over Nicolo Zaniolo this week. Spurs are huge admirers of his and they are willing to attach players to any deal that could see the 22-year-old head to north London.”

The Verdict: Make the move?

Reports suggest he could cost around €80 million (£69m), but if Paratici can whittle down the marquee man’s value with a potential part-exchange, this may be a deal worth exploring.

Called a ‘beast’ by Italian football expert and Serie A journalist Carlo Garganese, Zaniolo completed 21/22 as one of Roma’s most threatening players.

Indeed, he averaged more successful take-ons per 90 than any of his teammates whilst attracting the most fouls – proving to be extremely tough to play against (WhoScored).

Taking this into account, all the talk for Zaniolo may well be worth the effort.

Fabrizio Romano has dropped an update on reported Leeds United transfer target Tyler Adams.

What’s the latest?

In a recent post on Twitter, the Italian journalist revealed that, following a number of reports linking Victor Orta with a move for the RB Leipzig midfielder this summer, the Spanish director of football is now preparing a first bid for the 23-year-old USA international having entered into talks with the Bundesliga side.

The transfer insider goes on to state that Jesse Marsch is keen to bring the former New York Red Bulls starlet to Elland Road as a replacement for Kalvin Phillips, with the 48-year-old known to be a big fan of Adams – who is believed to be available for a figure of around €15m (£13m) this summer.

In his tweet, Romano said: “Leeds are preparing an opening bid for Tyler Adams, he’s included in the list of three potential new signings. The plan of Jesse Marsch is to replace Kalvin Phillips with Adams, he’s a big fan of USMNT midfielder. €15m needed, as Florian Plettenberg reports. Talks ongoing.”

ESPN backed up similar claims that Leeds are now closing in on a move for the American this summer.

In a further tweet, Romano also revealed that Leeds are now close to landing Feyenoord winger Luis Sinisterra, with Orta having reached full agreement on personal terms with the 23-year-old Colombia international.

Supporters will be buzzing

While the recent confirmation of Phillips’ £45m move to Manchester City will undoubtedly come as a gutting blow to the Elland Road faithful, Romano’s suggestion that Orta is already in negotiations with Leipzig in order to replace the England international in Jesse Marsch’s squad is sure to be news that will leave Whites supporters buzzing.

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While it is true that Adams found himself slipping down Domenico Tedesco’s midfield pecking order at the Red Bull Arena last season – starting just 12 Bundesliga fixtures in 2021/22 – the 19-cap international nevertheless appears to boast a number of attributes that would suggest he can help plug the Phillips-shaped hole in the Leeds squad next season.

Indeed, according to FBref data, Adams ranked in the top 2% of midfielders in Europe’s big five leagues and European competitions for blocks per 90 mins, in addition to the top 18% for passes attempted, the top 25% for passes completed, the top 20% for pressures and the top 25% for progressive carries over the past 12 months.

In comparison, in the same metrics, FBref rank Phillips in the top 4% for blocks per 90, as well as the top 39% for passes attempted, the bottom 40% for passes completed, the top 2% for pressures and the bottom 4% for progressive carries over the last 365 days.

As such, it is clear to see that the 23-year-old would make a fantastic replacement for the Whites’ academy graduate in the middle of the park next term, leading us to believe that Romano’s latest update is fantastic news for everyone involved with the club – not least Marsch himself.

AND in other news: Leeds given green light for Orta to sign “£30m player”, he’s “getting rave reviews”