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Leeds United have reportedly handed Jesse Marsch a huge show of faith, with the World Cup break now in full flow…

What’s the latest?

As per Dean Jones, it seems as though the Whites will be keeping the American as their manager for the foreseeable future, despite claims suggesting he might have been sacked circulating at the end of October.

His recent form has seemingly changed opinions, and the transfer insider had the following to say on reports coming out of Thorp Arch, speaking to GIVEMESPORT: “I still think it’s unlikely that they get rid of him, the talk a few weeks ago was like he’s got until the World Cup break and then they’ll assess things.

“But we also know that Leeds really want to stick by Marsch, and since they sent out those messages about him, Leeds have been more entertaining, they’ve scored more goals.”

It’s good news

In what has been a tumultuous season thus far for fans at Elland Road, it seems that in recent weeks Marsch finally began to inspire some good performances from his side.

Having started the season well, winning two and earning a point on the road in their opening three Premier League fixtures, it seemed like the hefty turnover in the transfer window might instantly pay dividends.

However, a seven-match winless run, including four straight losses, unsurprisingly brought about pressure.

It therefore made their incredible victory away at Liverpool even more special, as they scored late to snatch their first win since they had massacred Chelsea in August.

Marsch’s side then backed that up with another good result, battling from 3-1 down to secure a famous win at Bournemouth.

Despite their narrow loss to Tottenham Hotspur just before the break, they still denoted a spirit unforeseen throughout the season beforehand.

To spark such a sensational turnaround is indicative of a manager still boasting the full backing of his squad, even if they are looking somewhat leaky at the back.

Historically, it has always been the sides who struggle to score that end up in a relegation battle.

But with seven goals scored in their last two games, and a big break and transfer window looming, there can only be improvements that should help steer them from another miserable campaign.

Manchester United are reportedly interested in a move for Chelsea winger, Christian Pulisic, with the United States international having fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.

What’s the word?

According to ESPN, the Red Devils are said to be ‘open’ to bringing the 24-year-old to Old Trafford on a loan deal, with the forward seemingly set to be ‘allowed to leave’ west London in the January transfer window.

The report suggests they are seeking a new attacking addition following the recent departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, with the American’s ability to feature all across the frontline seemingly an attractive prospect for Erik ten Hag’s side.

The 54-cap gem – who is also said to be attracting interest from both Arsenal and Newcastle United – was previously linked with a temporary switch to the Theatre of Dreams over the summer, as well as prior to his £58m move to England in 2019.

Ditch Sancho

As per the report above, new attacking additions are seemingly needed for Ten Hag and co amid what was a seemingly inevitable exit for the aforementioned Ronaldo, although the failings of other members of the forward line have also meant that further recruits are required.

£73m man Jadon Sancho, in particular, has continued to underwhelm in a United shirt since his move from Borussia Dortmund last summer, with the fleet-footed Englishman’s woes having been laid bare by omission from Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad.

The 22-year-old has scored just eight goals and registered only four assists in 52 games for the club in all competitions to date, including a measly tally of just three goals and one assist under the new manager so far this term.

Having arrived amid high expectations after previously lighting up the Bundesliga – with 114 goal involvements to his name in 137 outings for the German side – the former Manchester City ace now appears something of a “flop”, in the words of journalist Jason Soutar, amid his current struggles.

As pundit Gabby Agbonlahor previously stated, the youngster is simply “not performing” at present, having seemingly lacked the confidence to take defenders on and try and beat his man.

The addition of his former Dortmund teammate, Pulisic, could well prove the final nail in the coffin as far as Sancho is concerned, with the Blues “magician” – as described by Al Butler – likely to be a direct rival to slot in on that left-wing berth.

The Hershey-born menace has also endured his struggles so far this term – with just three goals and assists to his name – although that tally has come despite being reduced to just five starts, highlighting that a more consistent run of games could prove fruitful.

The £150k-per-week man – who has 26 goals and 21 assists in 133 games for Chelsea – has been highlighting his undoubted quality for his country in Qatar, teeing up teammate Timothy Weah with a clever assist in the draw with Wales in his side’s opening game, before being awarded the Man of the Match award after starring against England.

Bringing in such a “massive talent” – as described by club legend Gary Neville (ITV Sport, 25/11/2022) – on a loan deal could well prove to be something of a low-risk option as far as Ten Hag is concerned, with Pulisic’s arrival potentially set to nudge the misfiring Sancho out the door.

Manchester United will be on red alert after hearing that one of their top offensive targets hailed the Premier League as the premium division in European football, amid heated interest in his services. 

What’s the word?

In comments cited by The Independent after Canada crashed out of the World Cup in the group stage, LOSC Lille striker Jonathan David lauded the “best league in the world”, suggesting that he would like to play in England someday.

When asked about the interest in his services, the 22-year-old said: “I am aware of nothing (interest in him).

“When I am at the World Cup I am just focused on trying to enjoy the World Cup and enjoying the moment, and what happens after I do not know, we will have to see.

“The Premier League is the best league in the world and I think every player would want to play there someday.”

With United reportedly interested in the player since last season, a move could certainly be revisited in the coming weeks, as the anticipation before the January transfer window increases, magnified by the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. 

And with reports from France reaffirming the club’s stance in recent weeks, there truly could soon be a new centre-forward in Manchester ready to take the division by storm. 

Solskjaer 2.0

With United’s offensive edge looking oiled and refined, David could enter the fold and have an instant impact at Old Trafford, with his sharpshooting prowess and slick movement going in tandem with the style that the support at this esteemed club demands. 

But with the acrimonious departure of Cristiano Ronaldo last month, the club are in need of firepower up front, with Marcus Rashford’s eight strikes this term doubling anyone else in Ten Hag’s squad.

Solskjaer might not have enjoyed the most fruitful spell as United manager – averaging a mere 1.79 points per game during his tenure as the Red Devils’ permanent boss – but he was certainly a resounding success as a player of the club, netting 126 goals and serving 50 assists in 366 appearances and winning a plethora of major honours, including the Champions League.

Like the Norwegian, David is a “predator in the box” – as heralded by football writer Austin Ditlhobolo – and would flourish with the likes of creative maestros such as Bruno Fernandes behind him.

The “beast” – as dubbed by Gregg Evans – would certainly be capable of providing a devastating impact within Ten Hag’s team, with his goal record simply sublime.

With 41 goals and eight assists across 111 appearances in total for Lille, and a remarkable 22 in 37 for his national side, the “silent assassin” is well on the way to becoming a lethal presence at the forefront of the game.

And with nine goals and three assists in 15 appearances for Lille this season, David is proving that he is improving with the turn of each season. 

As per FBref, he ranks within the top 10% for pass completion of forwards in Europe’s big five leagues over the past year, an indication that he can contribute effectively in the offensive manoeuvres, which would serve Ten Hag and his free-flowing philosophy well.

With his club asking for £43m, he will not come cheap, but should Man Utd snap him up, he could slowly be integrated into the fold and prosper as an offensive demon for years to come, taking a page out of Solskjaer’s book and taking the league by storm.

West Ham have been credited with an interest in Marseille midfielder Gerson recently and the Brazilian could be David Moyes’ own version of Newcastle United sensation Miguel Almiron.

The Hammers have been linked with the 25-year-old recently and considering he has played just 541 minutes of football so far this season for Marseille, he could be available in January for a fee of around €20m (£17m).

It is something of a surprise that the Brazilian has featured so little recently, as he has an impressive return of 13 goals and ten assists in just 61 appearances for the Ligue 1 side, meaning he has contributed a goal or an assist every three games he has played.

However, he provides far more than just goals and assists and admitted himself that he feels able to influence the game in other ways.

He said: “I only played to score goals or provide assists, but I realised I could influence the game even without the ball and I’m glad: I feel much more complete now.”

Should Gerson arrive at the London Stadium in January, he could emulate Newcastle’s Almiron, who has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League so far this campaign, contributing eight goals and one assist in 15 top-flight appearances for Eddie Howe’s side.

According to FBRef, the Paraguayan is the second most similar player to Gerson when compared to other attacking midfielders across Europe’s top leagues.

The duo have registered extremely similar numbers with regard to goals per shot (both 0.22), aerial duels won (both 57.1%) and fouls drawn (16 vs 13). That final statistic in particular is extremely useful with the pair clearly canny operators capable of drawing opponents close to them.

WhoScored also suggests that both Gerson and Almiron excel at holding onto the ball – a fact evidenced by the number of fouls drawn. They’re also both good at finishing and long shots, while they both like to play short passes rather than going long.

Therefore, considering how impressive Almiron has been in the Premier League so far this season, Moyes would surely be foolish to turn down a player so similar, especially with West Ham’s current attackers toiling in front of goal.

The Scottish manager should definitely be looking to bring Gerson, who earns £66k-per-week at Marseille, to the London Stadium next month.

Tottenham Hotspur are ‘ready to open negotiations’ for Fiorentina star Sofyan Amrabat as sources from Italy share Spurs’ chances of signing him.

The Lowdown: Paratici interested…

Lilywhites sporting director Fabio Paratici is thought to hold a serious interest in signing the Morocco international, who played a starring role in the African side’s run to this year’s World Cup semi-finals.

The Premier League side are eyeing a move for Amrabat after his brilliant individual campaign in Qatar, but they’re not the only ones, with Liverpool also thought to be in the mix.

Antonio Conte is tasked with clinching a second-successive top four finish for Spurs and potentially silverware, highlighting the need for quality reinforcements ahead of January.

The Latest: Spurs ready Amrabat talks…

Italian reports now share Paratici’s chances of signing the 26-year-old next month as the club prepare to enter discussions.

La Repubblica claim the north Londoners are in fact ‘ready to open negotiations’ for Amrabat with Spurs, and Paratici by extension, ‘trying’ to make a move.

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Fiorentina, it appears, are very reluctant to sell mid-season but an offer of ‘at least’ £44 million could sway them.

The Verdict: Right man?

There is little denying Amrabat’s quality given he has emerged as one of this World Cup’s breakout stars, with footballer Jamie Smith calling him ‘sensational’.

However, Conte already has many quality options in central midfield, including Rodrigo Bentancur, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Yves Bissouma and Oliver Skipp – making the need for another body questionable.

Instead, perhaps Paratici should focus his efforts on the signing of a central defender or further attacking options to support the likes of Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Richarlison.

West Bromwich Albion had been forced to wait around for their next Championship venture following three straight victories but showed no signs of rust as they dispatched Sunderland on Monday.

It was not the cleanest of performances but brings them to within just eight points of the playoff spots.

However, one of the few detractors of the results was the personal display of Jayson Molumby in midfield.

Deployed alongside Okay Yokuslu, the Irish ace was expected to be the hard-working foil to his Turkish teammate’s defensive steel.

However, he endured a torrid day at the Stadium of Light, recording a 6.4 rating in a game where he only managed 39 touches and would lose two of the three duels he competed in via Sofascore.

This performance could be the catalyst to allow an academy graduate some game time in the near future, with Quevin Castro knocking on the door with his displays at Notts County.

What the World Cup break will have afforded the Baggies was a much-needed rest, and to watch some of the world’s best footballers battle it out on the biggest stage.

It seems like it has been a tournament which has seen the older players star, with Lionel Messi leading his side to the final once again.

However, as always Luka Modric has garnered praise for taking his Croatia team to another semi-final despite their defeat at the hands of Argentina.

With the latter, Castro’s profile actually draws similarities that could spur Carlos Corberan into action.

Described as a “midfield runner” by Kevin Campbell, the 21-year-old has seemingly found his goalscoring touch of late, with back-to-back strikes bringing his tally for the campaign up to four.

Boasting an eye for goal, the ability to create for others, and the work rate to blend it all together, these attributes could well be describing the 37-year-old hero.

In Qatar, the midfield maestro was averaging a phenomenal 7.25 rating, having created two big chances alongside 1.0 key passes per game per Sofascore.

As he has aged, his style has adapted to his increased physical demands. As such, his influence on the game is often limited to offering a relentless metronome-like presence in midfield.

Whilst Castro currently operates further up the pitch, it is clear he boasts the skillset to follow a similar path to Croatia’s captain with regard to his ever-changing technique.

With competition for places in the Baggies midfield fierce, this loanee will have to maintain this blistering form to return to his parent club and assume the Modric-esque role.

Chelsea are now monitoring the contract talks taking place between Manchester United and Alejandro Garnacho, according to a new report.

The Lowdown: Chelsea eyeing Garnacho

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea made an approach for Garnacho last week, with the Blues keen to sign the teenager after he burst onto the scene with Man United prior to the World Cup.

While it was relayed to Chelsea that the Argentinian is keen to sign a new contract to remain at Old Trafford beyond 2023, when his current deal expires, the London club have shown no signs of giving up in their pursuit…

The Latest: Garnacho monitored

As per Spanish sources, via 90min, the Blues are monitoring the ongoing discussions, with a view to luring the 18-year-old with a move to Stamford Bridge if the negotiations are unsuccessful.

However, they will face competition for the winger, as London rivals Arsenal are also detailed as an interested party.

The Verdict: Get it done?

With the £1.5k-per-week earner’s deal finishing at the end of the campaign, Chelsea have been presented with a great chance to tempt him into a move to the capital, and they should try their luck at offering him better terms than Man United to see if it turns his head.

The former Atletico Madrid youth player clearly has bags of potential, as evidenced by his top-level performances since breaking into the starting lineup at Old Trafford this season, most notably netting a coolly-taken stoppage-time winner to secure a 2-1 win away at Fulham.

After this display, talkSPORT’s Darren Ambrose hailed Garnacho as being ‘sensational’, also adding that he is the ‘next superstar’, and so the possibility of signing him should not be passed up by Potter without a fight.

In all likelihood, it seems as though he is going to commit to an extended stay at Old Trafford, but Chelsea must continue to continue to monitor the situation, and table a contract offer if the opportunity presents itself.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed that Glasgow Rangers could sign transfer target Nicolas Raskin for a ‘relatively cheap fee’ in this window.

The Lowdown: Back on radar

It was reported last week that Raskin is back on Rangers’ radar after being ‘pushed aside’ by his club, Standard Liege.

As per The Scottish Sun, Raskin looks set to leave the Belgian club in January as his relationship with them has broken down, and he is being forced to train on his own and with the B-team by his manager and former Celtic boss Ronny Deila.

The Latest: Could sign on cheap

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke has claimed that the Ibrox outfit could now sign Raskin for a ‘relatively cheap fee’, amid their need for midfielders with the season-ending injury to Steven Davis:

“They’ll need midfielders now with Steven Davis’ injury so that need has been increased.

“Raskin has been a long-term target for Rangers, they’ve monitored and tracked him for quite a while and it does seem he will be leaving Standard Liege after a big fall out there over his contract, so they could get him for a relatively cheap fee in January.“

The Verdict: Get it done?

Michael Beale’s side may have reservations over Raskin’s attitude in terms of whether they should make a move for him, but there is no doubting his quality.

Lauded as ‘monstrous’ and a ‘leader’ by Deila before their fallout, he has played nearly 100 games in Belgian football by the age of just 21, scoring five goals and making 13 assists (Transfermarkt).

Journalist Bob Faesen has also noted how ‘technically gifted‘ he is, while singling him out for his work-rate and claiming that he can play in every position in the middle of the park.

Nonetheless, Raskin would provide sufficient cover in the absence of Davis, and if they could sign him on the cheap, it could turn out to be a real bargain for the Gers.

Newcastle United are interested in a deal to bring Ivan Fresneda to the Premier League in the January transfer window.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to Guillermo Rai, with the Spanish journalist revealing in a recent post on Twitter (via Sport Witness) that Dan Ashworth is ‘seriously contemplating’ launching a bid for the Real Valladolid right-back this month, with the Magpies’ chief scout, Steve Nickson, said to have met the 18-year-old’s representatives in the last few days.

Rai goes on to suggest that a number of Premier League clubs are tracking the Spain U19 international, however, Newcastle appear to be leading the race for the youngster’s signature, with Eddie Howe’s side said to be set to make an offer in the region of €15m (£13m) in the next few days – despite Fresneda possessing a €30m (£27m) release clause.

In his tweet, the journalist said: “About Ivan Fresneda. The Real Valladolid right-back expects an offer in the next few days (or even hours) from Newcastle between €10m and €15m euros, although his clause is €30m.

“Real Madrid is an option that he does not consider in the short term. Fresneda wants to grow (he is only 18 years old) and has received interest from five more Premier teams aside from Newcastle.

“In addition, his agent was meeting a few days ago with the chief scout for the Magpies, Steve Nickson, who is seriously contemplating the signing.”

“Beastly”

Considering just how exciting a prospect Fresneda quite clearly is, it is not difficult to understand why Howe, Nickson and Ashworth would be interested in a deal to bring the right-back to St. James’ Park this month.

Indeed, over his seven LaLiga appearances this season, the £2.7m-rated talent has been something of a revelation on the right of Valladolid’s back line, helping his side keep one clean sheet, in addition to making an average of 3.3 tackles – the second-most in the entire league – 1.4 interceptions, 2.9 clearances and winning 4.7 duels – at a success rate of 58% – per game.

The 18-year-old has also chipped in for his side going forwards, creating two big chances for his teammates, as well as making an average of 1.4 key passes, playing 1.9 long balls and finding his man with 0.6 crosses per match.

These returns have seen the £2.7k-per-week starlet average a simply sensational Sofascore match rating of 7.04, currently ranking him as Pacheta’s second-best performer in the top flight of Spanish football.

Rather unsurprisingly, these displays have seen the teenager come in for a significant amount of praise, with Spanish journalist Juan Arriota dubbing Fresneda a “beastly” talent, while Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig stated his belief that the youngster is a “superb” prospect who is “one of the most talented teenage right-backs in Europe.”

As such, considering the undoubted ability Fresneda already possesses, coupled with the defender’s exponential scope for future development, it is indeed easy to see why Newcastle would be interested in a deal to bring the wonderkid to the Premier League this winter, as the Spaniard would not only be a beastly addition to Howe’s ranks, but he could very much be the next big thing in European football at right-back.

Newcastle United still hold an interest in the Brighton & Hove Albion forward Leandro Trossard amid this month’s transfer window.

What’s the latest?

The Belgian’s future on the south coast has been propelled into speculation over the last few days with Sky Sports reporting a growing interest coming from Tottenham Hotspur.

With just six months remaining on his deal, it is believed the Seagulls have covered their asset by triggering a clause in his contract to see his deal extended for another year.

However, it does not appear this is a one-horse race for the 28-year-old with Newcastle having been credited previously with an interest in Trossard.

And speaking on the latest episode of the Talking Transfers podcast, insider Graeme Bailey has suggested that interest has not gone anywhere with Dan Ashworth still keeping tabs on the forward:

(35:20) “We know Newcastle have a long-standing interest via Dan Ashworth. He likes the player, thinks he would fit in well there.”

“It’s a tough one you know, I think Tottenham/Newcastle would be looking at £30m-ish but that’s nowhere near. I think rumours we’re hearing is it’s approaching £40m/£50m. And if that is the case Trossard won’t be leaving.”

An opportunity to strengthen?

Ashworth will be all too familiar with the Belgian forward having worked with him during his time on the south coast but it is apparent the 28-year-old has taken his game to the next level this season.

With seven Premier League goals and three assists already to his name, Trossard is just one more goal away from equalling best return in a Brighton shirt.

This has seen the likes of Spurs and Chelsea show their interest in the player but it seems as if Newcastle have not given up hope of potentially adding the Belgian to their side.

Ashworth spoke on Tuesday night ahead of the Carabao Cup clash about the Toon’s strategy going into this month’s market with the 51-year-old leaning more towards the summer window as the one they plan to act more aggressively in:

“We know what we’d like to do in the summer of 23 for example, then if the right player and the right opportunity comes along and we can do it, then we’ll look at it. But, January is always a difficult window, Eddie knows that and I know that,” he said.

And although Trossard has only been outscored by one Newcastle player this season (Miguel Almiron), the Magpies remain in a strong league position and do not appear to be struggling for goals.

Only four other clubs have scored more goals than Newcastle this season in the Premier League, but Trossard could provide Newcastle with further strength up top with the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin’s future up in the air.

And given their struggles with Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak through injury this season, perhaps adding a player like Trossard could prove a masterstroke from Ashworth.

Interestingly, he broke a record as he became the first player in Premier League history to score the first five goals under a new manager when Roberto De Zerbi took charge at Brighton.