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West Ham United's pursuit of Denis Zakaria "makes sense" and a deal for the player could be finalised at a "decent price", claims transfer insider Dean Jones.

West Ham United transfer news – What's the latest on Denis Zakaria?

It has been a whirlwind summer for the Hammers so far, with the team winning the Conference League and ending their 43-year trophy drought to being the sellers in the first big transfer saga of the summer.

That transfer saga, of course, involved their captain Declan Rice, who they have reportedly accepted a £105m offer from Arsenal to let go.

With the England international gone and £105m burning a hole in their pocket, the Hammers have started to turn their attention to potential replacements for their departing star.

However, whether it's the market in general or the fact that teams are fully aware of the Irons' recent windfall, the targets the club have been pursuing keep getting more expensive.

For example, it has been heavily reported that the East London side were seriously interested in the services of Fulham's Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha. However, they have since had to cool that interest after it was revealed that the Cottagers demanded £90m for their player.

That said, there could be one target that David Moyes could get through the door without spending most of the Rice money, Zakaria.

According to reports from Italy, the Hammers have offered Juventus £13m for their midfielder, and whilst that offer was rejected, they have reportedly asked for just £17m to get the deal done.

What has transfer insider Dean Jones said about Denis Zakaria to West Ham United?

Jones was straight to the point in explaining that West Ham moving in for the player was the most likely scenario compared to Palhinha.

Speaking to Football FanCast, he said: "Zakaria probably makes a bit more sense for them. To be honest, he seems like a player that can be brought at a decent price."

Would Zakaria be a good signing for West Ham United?

Zakaria has, at points, proven he has the ability and skills necessary to make it at a side in the top half of a major European league, and to judge him based on his limited appearances for Chelsea last season would be unfair.

According to WhoScored, the Swiss international has averaged a season rating of at least 6.52 in every season in which he has started at least 15 matches, peaking at an average rating of 7.15 during the 2019/20 season for Bundesliga outfit Borussia Mönchengladbach.

His underlying numbers are also very impressive with FBref, who compare players in a similar position across Europe's top five leagues, placing him in the top 5% for pass completion, the top 11% for clearances, the top 19% for progressive carries and the top 22% for non-penalty goals, all per 90.

Granted, his limited minutes over the last 12 months will have influenced those numbers, but it shows that there is something worth taking a risk on for a team outside the traditional top six.

He has picked up rave reviews from those who have worked with him as well, with Adam Owen, the current assistant manager at Hibernian, particularly taken aback by the player when he was at Swiss side Servette FC at the same time, telling Sky Sports:

"Physically, he was an absolute machine even then. Good with the ball. It does not surprise me that he has gone on to do so well. He can drive with the ball, decent in defence, solid. As a teenager, he had all those characteristics. He probably reminds you of Patrick Vieira."

With a review like that, maybe spending £17m on Zakaria shouldn't be considered a gamble at all, and if West Ham can get it done, it could make the transition away from Rice a lot easier.

Tottenham Hotspur seem to be closing in on a new defensive target…

What's the latest on Edmond Tapsoba to Tottenham Hotspur?

That's according to Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, who added to the words of his compatriot Fabrizio Romano from mid-June.

The latter first noted: "I keep saying that Tapsoba is a priority target because they [Spurs] love Tapsoba. Tottenham's scouts have been there many times this year to follow Tapsoba. So, he is a player they really love, and they feel he is perfect for Premier League football.

“He is a leader. So, there are many factors in a deal and Tottenham think he is a fantastic option."

However, the latest comes from Galetti, who told GIVEMESPORT: "On the table, there are around €25m (£21m) and the German club is concretely evaluating this proposal. Last winter, Arsenal asked them for him but then now they decide to go for Timber, who is close as well.

“So, the Burkina Faso player [Tapsoba], we can say that is one step away from joining Tottenham. In the next few days, they will push and close the deal positively."

Who could Tapsoba emulate at Spurs?

Given how Mauricio Pochettino kickstarted his reign in north London, which has been comfortably the most successful of any in recent history, perhaps Ange Postecoglou could seek to take a leaf out of his book as he continues his summer spending.

The Argentine added some key defensive assets to his side within the first three transfer windows, but the likes of Kieran Tripper, Eric Dier and Toby Alderweireld offered far more than mere solidity.

All boasted fine ball-playing skill sets that made them integral to the style of play he sought to implement, which worked to great effect.

Now, with their new boss looking to kickstart a revolution of his own, Tapsoba could seek to mimic the latter of that aforementioned trio as the skilful centre-back to underpin his all-action and possession-dominant philosophy.

After all, when compared to others in his role across Europe, the Bayer Leverkusen star ranks in the top 10% for passes attempted, the top 5% for progressive passes, the top 8% for progressive carries and the top 6% for successful take-ons, via FBref.

The 24-year-old is the quintessential ball-playing centre-back, yet boasts the physicality to take to English football with ease too.

This was exactly the case for Alderweireld too, who arguably enjoyed the pinnacle of his Spurs career during the 2015/16 campaign.

Maintaining a 7.28 average rating, which made him the third-highest-rated defender in the whole division for that season, he would record six goal contributions, a 70% dribble success rate, 1.7 interceptions and a mammoth 7.2 clearances per game, via Sofascore.

His presence as a rock at the back for Pochettino aided his title charge massively, which ultimately ended in failure.

Postecoglou will be keen to replicate some of the hallmarks from that tenure but add his own cutting-edge to push them over the line. Tapsoba's arrival would mark a key step towards achieving that goal.

Manchester United are in talks with Inter goalkeeper Andre Onana and are currently in pole position to bring him to the Premier League – but this could spell the end of David de Gea's time at Old Trafford.

What’s the latest on Andre Onana to Manchester United?

A new update on United’s pursuit of the shot-stopper has emerged, with Football Insider claiming the Red Devils are now the frontrunners to sign Onana during the transfer window.

A fee of around £50m will be enough to secure his signature as the uncertainty surrounding the future of De Gea rumbles on. The £375k-per-week star is out of contract at the end of this month and a new deal is yet to be signed off by Erik ten Hag.

Could Andre Onana replace David de Gea at Manchester United?

The Spaniard won the Golden Glove award for the 2022/23 Premier League season having kept 16 clean sheets – the second time he had claimed the award.

Despite this, he made a few high-profile errors, most notably against West Ham United, where he fumbled a weak Said Benrahma shot that resulted in a goal for the Hammers. This ended up being his fourth error that led to a goal – the joint-most of any player in the league, alongside Hugo Lloris.

He arguably should have done better during their defeat in the FA Cup final to Manchester City, as he failed to stop Ilkay Gundogan's shot from the edge of the area in the 2-1 loss, and a move for Onana could spell bad news for the United No 1.

The Cameroonian enjoyed a stellar year for Inter, especially in the Champions League, as his performances allowed the club to reach their first final since 2010, narrowly losing to City.

Across 13 matches in the competition, Onana averaged a Sofascore rating of 7.41/10, while conceding just 0.8 goals per game and managing to keep eight clean sheets, demonstrating his shot-stopping abilities well.

The ‘keeper ranks in the top 11% for touches per 90 (43.81) across Europe’s big five leagues and ranks in the top 10% for passes attempted per 90 (35.46), suggesting he is extremely comfortable with the ball at his feet and regularly plays passes, and he could certainly fit in well with Ten Hag’s philosophy of playing out from the back.

His ability was even lauded by Pep Guardiola, who claimed that Onana was “exceptional with his feet” before the Champions League final, proving just how highly regarded he is.

It would be a wonderful signing for United and he could play an integral role in the side next season as Ten Hag chases more silverware next term.

Chelsea have "shown interest" in bringing FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa to the Premier League, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.

Is Diogo Costa leaving FC Porto?

Since graduating from FC Porto’s academy back in 2019, Costa has been a regular feature between the sticks having clocked up 109 senior appearances to date, and his impressive form has also increased his profile on the international stage.

The Portugal international represented his nation at the 2022 World Cup, during which his displays caught the eye of Mauricio Pochettino who, alongside Todd Boehly, is reportedly in the market for a new number one shot-stopper this window.

Back in February, 90min reported that the Blues had sent scouts to watch the 23-year-old live in action as they weigh up whether to make an official approach, and if the following update is to be believed, it sounds like they have made their feelings known.

Are Chelsea signing Costa?

Taking to Twitter, Galetti revealed that Chelsea are keen on signing Costa but are set to face competiton from two other suitors who are also looking to secure his services. He wrote:

"Diogo #Costa, #Chelsea recently shown interest in the #Porto goalkeeper. #ManUTD already approached him: at the moment his release clause (€75m) [£64m] is considered too high, but #MUFC remain on his tracks. Also #Bayern in the race for the GK: evolving situation."

Where would Costa fit in under Pochettino?

Chelsea will know that they are likely to lose Edouard Mendy this summer after reports emerged that he has agreed personal terms over a move to Saudi Arabia outfit Al Ahli so a replacement will be needed should he depart, and having been dubbed a “superman” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Costa could be the perfect successor.

The Gestifute client, who’s sponsored by Adidas, kept 16 clean sheets from 33 Liga Portugal outings last season and his outstanding displays saw him receive individual recognition by being awarded the 2022/23 Goalkeeper of the Season accolade.

The Rothrist native also made a total of 60 saves from 79 shots on target against giving him a success rate of 77.2%, which would make him a huge upgrade because that is higher than both of the current shot-stoppers who are at Stamford Bridge.

Finally, Costa will know what it takes to compete and be successful at the highest level having secured ten trophies across club and country since the start of his career so could bring a much-needed winning mentality to the SW6 outfit, who will be hoping to kick off a new era under Pochettino.

Leeds United's relegation is set to have catastrophic effects on the club should they fail to bounce back with some haste. Given how they reacted to their 2004 demotion, fans have every right to be worried.

Fortunately, they boast one key difference from the drop that left them absent from the Premier League for 16 years – as they retain the bulk of the finances of a top-flight club.

That fateful relegation nearly two decades ago was borne of years of fiscal mismanagement, culminating in a brief stint in League One, too. This time, their stature and ability to lure players with hefty monetary incentives could help them bankroll the second tier and swan back to the big time.

They will also have to balance any new additions with the likely departures, as large swathes of their squad are expected to seek an exit. Rodrigo is one such name, which will leave the Whites without their most reliable source of goals from last term.

Therefore, they must surely invest heavily in what is arguably the most important area of the field by stumping up the demanded €20m (£17m) fee and making their interest in Coventry City's Viktor Gyokeres more tangible.

Is Viktor Gyokeres similar to Erling Haaland?

Replacing the 13 Premier League strikes of their Spanish star will be no easy feat, but the Sweden international has all the qualities to continue his blistering Championship form in the white shirt of Leeds.

Last term for the Sky Blues, the 25-year-old posted 21 goals and a further ten assists in the league, blowing his 17-goal tally from the year prior out of the water.

It is this exceptional form in front of goal and his blistering speed, hulking frame, striking blond hair and Scandinavian heritage that all culminate to draw comparisons with Erling Haaland.

Manchester City's record-breaking frontman has taken English football by storm, breaking the Premier League scoring record in his debut year and notching 52 goals in all competitions.

In fact, Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray even sought to make these similarities known, noting in February: "He looks a yard more powerful and a yard quicker than everyone else, he’s a really confident boy.

"I don’t want to say he should test himself in the Premier League, but who is like him in the Premier League at the moment? Who is too fast, too strong and too big, you would suggest Haaland is like that, and Gyokeres in this league looks a yard faster and stronger than the players he plays against in the Championship."

The comparisons continue when viewing their play style, too, as the Norway international would average just 23.7 touches per game in the league – lower than the 45 touches per game of Gyokeres in the Championship.

It only takes minimal impact throughout the game to have the biggest effect on the full-time result for these lethal forwards, with the latter's teammate Maxime Biamou branding him "unplayable".

As the 49ers continue their search for a manager, it seems that this move could be their first true statement of intent, showing the rest of the country that the famous Yorkshire outfit will not be spending too much time at this level.

20 years. That is how long Newcastle United had gone without the glitz and glamour of Champions League football, prior to their return in 2023/24.

They haven’t come all too often in recent times, but St James’ Park is a stadium made for Champions League nights – Football FanCast thought it was worth ranking Newcastle United’s greatest clashes in European football…

5 Newcastle United 1-0 Juventus – 2002-03 Champions League

If you were to ask a Newcastle fan about Andy Griffin, one moment would come to mind. That would, of course, be Griffin’s famous goal against Juventus 20 years ago.

Star-studded players such as Alessandro Del Piero, Gianluigi Buffon and Edgar Davids made the trip to Tyneside, but Griffin was the unlikely hero in a historic win for the Magpies

The full-back, who was never famed for his goalscoring exploits, saw his effort deflect in off Italian legend Buffon to hand Newcastle their first win of their Champions League campaign.

4 Feynoord 2-3 Newcastle United – 2002/03 Champions League

Another Champions League classic from the 2002/03 season saw Craig Bellamy’s last-minute winner make Newcastle the first-ever side to qualify from their group after losing their first three games.

Needing a win to book their place in the second group stage – as was the format back in the day – the Magpies raced off into a 2-0 lead through goals from Bellamy and Hugo Viana, only to let that slip midway through the second half.

Bellamy, however, would come to the rescue, with Kieron Dyer’s shot falling at the feet of the Welshman, who slotted home the winner and sent the Newcastle away end into pandemonium.

3 Inter 2-2 Newcastle United – 2002/03 Champions League

The 2002-03 Champions League season was well and truly a rollercoaster ride for the Magpies, with Newcastle’s famous trip to the San Siro providing yet another classic for the Toon Army – albeit they will have felt hard done by after the final whistle.

Needing a win to realistically stay in the tournament, the Magpies took a staggering 12,000 fans to Milan. Toon legend Alan Shearer repaid the faith of the fans by scoring two goals either side of half-time, though his brace was cancelled out by goals from Christian Vieri and Ivan Cordoba.

Despite the Inter side including the likes of Fabio Cannavaro and Javier Zanetti, Newcastle were largely the better team throughout and could have deemed themselves unlucky not to have left Italian soil without the three points.

2 Ujpest 2-3 Newcastle United – 1968/69 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup

Newcastle’s only European trophy to date was secured following the Magpies’ clash with Hungarian outfit Ujpest came way back in the 1960s – days when finals used to be played across two legs.

The Fairs Cup was a predecessor to the UEFA Cup and Europa League, and the Toon’s triumph remains their most recent taste of major silverware.

A Newcastle side including the likes of Bob Moncur and Wyn Davies soared into a 3-0 lead after the first game, going on to comfortably lift the trophy after a 3-2 second-leg victory in Budapest.

1 Newcastle United 3-2 Barcelona – 1997/98 Champions League

Newcastle’s famous win over Spanish giants FC Barcelona has to be the best of the bunch when it comes to European nights at St James’ Park.

Back in 1997, Kenny Dalglish’s side played host to a legendary Barcelona side that contained the likes of Rivaldo, Luis Figo and Luis Enrique.

The Magpies, however, came out on top thanks to a sublime hat-trick from Faustino Asprilla. The Colombian’s 49-minute hat-trick sailed the Toon Army into a shock 3-0 lead, with Barcelona eventually fighting back with two goals of their own through Enrique and Figo.

Newcastle United are hoping to leapfrog Premier League rivals Manchester United in the race for Napoli centre-half Kim Min-jae, who has been impeccable in Serie A this season.

What's the latest on Kim Min-jae to Newcastle?

Erik ten Hag's Red Devils are believed to be leading the race for the South Korean defender and are willing to meet his £42m release clause this summer, according to one Italian transfer specialist, but the Magpies could yet throw a spanner in the works.

That's according to the Sun, who claim that Toon representatives recently held 'secret' talks with the player's entourage at St. James' Park ahead of a possible hijack, with Kim's release clause activating on July 1.

The 26-year-old has only plied his trade for I Partenopei for one year after signing from Fenerbahce for just €18m (£16m) but has already earned a place among the pantheon of modern defensive titans for the magnitude of his performances in Naples.

Should Newcastle sign Kim Min-jae?

Newcastle finished the 22/23 Premier League season boasting a fourth-placed finish and the division's joint-mightiest defensive record, alongside champions Manchester City.

Sven Botman was signed in the summer for roughly £35m to complement the signings of Keiran Trippier and Dan Burn the previous winter.

Fabian Schar, who has made 141 appearances for the Toon, has undergone a resurgence under the stewardship of Eddie Howe and played a central role in the resounding success of the past 18 months, but at 31-years-old and with just one year left on his contract, he is unlikely to be deemed indispensable.

And with a signing of Kim's calibre entering the fray, having recorded an average rating of 7.22 in the Italian top-flight this term, as per Sofascore, posting two goals and assists apiece, completing 91% of his passes, winning 62% of his duels and averaging 1.6 tackles and 3.5 clearances per outing, he certainly deserves the acclaim that has left the likes of teammate Kvicha Kvaratskhelia dubbing him an "iron barrel".

While the 75-cap Schar has been a distinctive presence at the back over the past year, ranking among the top 6% of centre-backs across Europe's top five leagues for rate of assists and the top 2% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref, he is not of the same ilk as Kim, who has been described as an all-encompassing defender with "no flaws" by journalist Ivan Zacharoni.

Indeed, he ranks among the top 14% of positional peers for shot-creating actions but also the top 3% for passes attempted, 10% for pass completion and 12% for progressive passes and progressive carries per 90, which could play very nicely into the hands of his ostensible partner, Botman.

The Dutchman is considered a no-nonsense, traditional centre-back, and his ruthless tenacity and Kim's ball-playing aptitude could craft a perfect state of confluence and keep the club's equilibrium balanced so perfectly.

The 23-year-old has already demonstrated that his skill set matches up with the more creative air that his Swiss partner exudes, and the South Korean would only be an upgrade in this regard.

With Botman already hailed for his "incredible impact" by Leon Osman, the thought of this newfound partnership on Tyneside is a devastating proposition for rivals, and with Manchester United circling on his signature, Howe and co must act swiftly to tie up a deal that could cement the burgeoning rise.

Manchester United will likely continue their efforts to rebuild and improve the squad this summer and now a new update has emerged on a long-standing transfer target.

What's the latest on Man United's interest in Adrien Rabiot?

According to Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Man United have revived their interest in Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot.

As per the report, Rabiot's outstanding form this season hasn't gone unnoticed with the Red Devils set to compete with Newcastle United for his signature this summer.

The Frenchman will be out of contract and available for free in a few weeks' time.

Who would Rabiot replace at Man United?

Whilst the highest priority at Old Trafford this summer will be to sign a prolific centre-forward, adding quality into key areas all over the pitch will be essential to continue the progress already made by Erik ten Hag in his first season.

The Manchester giants have made positive steps forward this season with a League Cup and Champions League qualification secured, so the signing of high-quality players will be important in their pursuit of challenging at the top again domestically and also putting in a strong European campaign too.

As a result, the signing of Rabiot could be exactly what Ten Hag needs to inject some great talent and a fresh perspective in midfield next season with the France international potentially standing as a much-needed Paul Pogba replacement.

Rabiot has stepped up into Pogba's role for both the France national team and Juventus over the last 12 months to become the beating heart in midfield during the Qatar World Cup and throughout the season in the Serie A, whilst the former Man United man has been out injured.

Over 31 league appearances, the 6 foot 2 titan has been an effective presence at both ends of the pitch having scored eight goals, registered four assists and successfully completed 60% of his dribbles.

Furthermore, the Juve star has averaged one key pass, 1.5 shots on goal, two tackles and 1.2 clearances per game, proving that he has the all-round game to replace Pogba at Old Trafford.

Despite a controversial past, the Frenchman has seemingly been reborn in Italy and has demonstrated his strong midfield attributes that has led to high praise from many including his manager Andrea Pirlo, who said:

"He is a complete player, I have rarely seen someone so strong both physically and technically.

"He doesn't even know the potential for improvement he can have, and we work on the mental side of things to make him understand that he is a champion. He is improving game after game."

With that being said, if Man United can snap up the services of Rabiot for free this summer it would be a great opportunity for Ten Hag to add some much-need quality in midfield with that Pogba-shaped void finally being filled.

Leeds United defender Robin Koch is being targeted in a surprise cut-price swoop by Tottenham Hotspur, according to reports.

Is Robin Koch leaving Leeds?

The Whites centre-back arrived at Elland Road from SC Freiburg back in 2020 and has since gone on to make a total of 77 appearances to date where he was a regular feature in the first-team last season, making 36 starts from 38 games in the Premier League.

The Germany international, however, will be out of contract at the end of next season meaning that the upcoming window could be the club's final opportunity to cash in, should they not want to lose the 26-year-old for free, but regardless, Leeds officials could be forced to sanction his sale having now been relegated to the Championship.

Are Tottenham signing Koch?

According to Football Insider, Tottenham are setting their sights on Koch this summer, with the Leeds defender having been "shortlisted" as a serious centre-back option for Daniel Levy's new permanent manager.

Spurs know that the 6 foot 3 colossus will be available for a cut-price having dropped down to the second tier and his admirers are hopeful that £15m will be enough to reach an agreement. The Yorkshire outfit's star "fits the bill" in N17 and is "keen to stay" in the Premier League, so this could be one to watch in the weeks and months ahead.

Should Leeds keep or sell Koch?

Leeds don’t have the most attacking type of centre-back in Koch having recorded zero goals or assists since putting pen to paper, but he is strong in the natural defensive aspect of his game and has even been dubbed a “leader” by journalist Josh Bunting so the board may want to do everything they can to retain his services beyond the summer.

The Whites titan, who earns £40k-per-week, was averaging 4.1 clearances, 3.1 aerial wins and 1.5 tackles per top-flight game last term, via WhoScored, so was a relatively solid performer in the heart of the backline despite the collective struggles in front of Illan Meslier and Joel Robles.

The Kaiserslautern native also brings wonderful versatility to the side with his ability to operate in six various positions over the grass, including everywhere across the backline and even three positions in the midfield, so this is yet another extremely useful attribute for the next manager to have at his disposal should any unexpected injuries occur in other roles.

Rangers could look within to Nikola Katic following the impending departure of Connor Goldson, according to Football Scotland. 

The lowdown

Katic will return to Glasgow in the summer when his season-long loan at Hajduk Split reaches its end. It’s not a certainty however, because the Croatian club do have the option to sign him permanently for £3million.

Rangers turned down the opportunity to recall Katic in January, but they are set to lose a centre-back in the summer, with Goldson ‘likely to leave under freedom of contract’.

It’s worth noting that the Gers have already secured the signing of John Souttar and can also call upon the likes of Leon King, Calvin Bassey and Leon Balogun.

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The latest

Journalist Ross Pilcher writes that Van Bronckhorst ‘may well see a place’ for Katic after Goldson moves on.

King has ‘shown promise’, he says, but the manager may value ‘the experience’ Katic provides.

As such, the Croatian may ‘still have a role to play’ at Ibrox.

The verdict

First and foremost, should Hajduk Split be expected to activate their purchase option?

Well, he’s started 17 league games during his loan spell, having joined ahead of match-day eight, so he is valued there.

But £3m is far from small change for the club. In fact, going by Transfermarkt figures, it would far outstrip their existing transfer record of £1.8million. Given that the website only values Katic at £900,000, they may not deem it a worthwhile outlay.

That could see him come back to Rangers, for whom he’s made 59 appearances and scored a memorable goal at Parkhead.

Katic could count former boss Steven Gerrard among his admirers, judging by an exchange between the pair when he moved to Aston Villa. In reply to a farewell message from the defender, Gerrard wrote: “Love you, kid.”

And the ex-Liverpool man also hailed him as an ‘immaculate’ professional during his time at Ibrox.

In other news, Rangers’ potential Europa League windfall has been broken down.