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Everton’s transfer window hasn’t exactly been fireworks and excitement.

They’ve recruited smartly to land the likes of Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend but supporters will be hoping for some marquee additions at Goodison Park in the weeks to come.

What’s the word?

Everton were interested in Leon Bailey this summer but the Jamaican has now signed for Aston Villa, handing the Toffees a crushing blow.

However, they could make up for that shortfall by signing Lazio’s Joaquin Correa instead.

The attacker has caught the eye of the Toffees in recent months and according to recent reports from Tutto Mercato Web (via Sport Witness), they are now leading the race to acquire his signature.

It’s thought that Everton are at the front of the queue to sign Correa but will have to stump up a fee of between €30m-€35m (£25.5m-£30m).

Fans would love him

If you assess the qualities and dazzling ability of Correa then he has the potential to really light up Goodison Park and catch the imagination of supporters.

He can play in a multitude of positions, mainly out wide or through the middle as a number 10, but it’s his capability to score goals and assist teammates that stands out most.

The Argentine has scored 30 times during his Lazio career, 11 of which came during the 2020/21 season.

On top of that, the 26-year-old assisted six strikes, proving he can be a solid supply line for those around him.

Described as a “menace” in an analysis piece by Breaking the Lines, he is an incredibly tricky individual, something that would go down well with fans.

Last season, he produced 1.3 dribbles per game and was fouled on 1.9 occasions per match. For context, only Richarlison, Alex Iwobi and James Rodriguez were more successful when it came to take-ons.

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In terms of the second statistic, Correa would have been the second most fouled player in the entire Everton squad.

Now in the prime of his career, this would be an eye-catching swoop from the Toffees, one that would significantly improve their attacking ranks.

AND in other news, Benitez could discover his new Fernando Torres if Everton land 58-goal “nightmare”…

An update has emerged regarding Everton’s pursuit of Burnley winger Dwight McNeil.

What’s the talk?

According to the Liverpool Echo, the Toffees remain interested in a deal for the 21-year-old and could battle it out with Aston Villa for his signature this summer.

The report claims that Burnley do not want to sell the winger but realise that he will leave to join a bigger club in the near future. Earlier in the window, a fee of £25m was touted for the England under-21 international.

Bernard’s replacement?

Everton are in the market for a left winger with Bernard leaving the club earlier this month, and McNeil could be the perfect addition to the squad. He is proven in the Premier League and still has plenty of scope to develop further, whilst he would also suit the style of play Benitez wants to employ.

Earlier this summer, the Spaniard outlined his aim for the transfer window by pointing out that Dominic Calvert-Lewin – a scorer of seven headed goals last season – requires quality crosses from out wide. The manager said: “We have to be ambitious and we have to manage the situation. It is very easy to see that we have a great centre-forward. He’s very good in the air, he can score goals. But we have to provide him with good crosses, good passes.

“So the objective is to add the players to improve. We can improve in these areas and, from the wide areas, the crosses will come. When we can do that, the team will be better.”

Farhad Moshiri could therefore land a coup for the Toffees if he is able to secure a deal for McNeil, who is adept at crossing. WhoScored lists it as his biggest strength and he has provided 16 Premier League assists in the past three seasons for Sean Dyche’s side. This means that he could be able to routinely put balls into the box like Benitez wants, which is why he could be a terrific signing for the Blues.

His current Burnley teammate Ashley Westwood hailed him as a special talent and highlighted his progression since coming into the first team. He said: “He’s really mature. I think the world of him; he’s a special talent. It’s been good to see him grow up because when he first came training with us, he was really quiet.

“He’s already racked up more than 50 games in the Premier League now, which at his age is phenomenal. He’s producing as well, so if he keeps doing that and we all keep doing what we’re doing then there will be teams circulating.”

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Therefore, he could be a superb addition to Everton’s squad and he might be exactly what Benitez needs to fulfil his ambitions of providing Calvert-Lewin with the service he requires to keep scoring goals in the Premier League. It is now down to Moshiri to get on the phone to Burnley in order to reach an agreement for the 21-year-old.

AND in other news, Imagine him and Godfrey: Benitez must seal dream Everton deal for £124k-p/w “monster”…

Sunderland are interested in a deal to bring George Edmundson to the Stadium of Light this summer.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by The Glasgow Evening Times, who claim that Sunderland have joined the race for the Glasgow Rangers centre-back, with Charlton Athletic, Portsmouth and Ipswich Town also believed to be keeping a close eye on the defender ahead of a potential move in the summer transfer window.

However, the report goes on to state that, out of the interested parties, only Ipswich are keen on a permanent deal for the 23-year-old, with Steven Gerrard thought to much prefer the idea of selling Edmundson, rather than sending the centre-back on another loan deal ahead of next season.

Imagine him & O’Nien

While Edmundson may not have quite made the grade at Rangers, should Sunderland manage to get a deal over the line for the defender this summer, it would undoubtedly be quite a big coup for the club.

Indeed, while a hernia injury limited the number of appearances the 23-year-old made while on loan at Derby County last season, he nevertheless impressed over his 10 Championship fixtures, helping his side keep one clean sheet, as well as making an average of 0.5 interceptions, 1.4 tackles, 3.5 clearances and winning 6.1 duels per game.

These returns saw the £450k-rated man earn an average SofaScore match rating of 6.78, ranking him as Wayne Rooney’s 12th-best player in the second tier of English football.

As such, it would appear to be a fair statement to make that the £4k-per-week centre-back’s level of performance would only improve if he were to drop down a division, with it very much seeming as if, should Kyril Louis-Dreyfus go on to secure the defender’s services this summer, Edmundson could play a huge role in Sunderland’s push for promotion next season.

Indeed, the thought of the man Gerrard dubbed a “faultless” player partnering up with Luke O’Nien – who thrived in the position last season, despite naturally being a midfielder – in the heart of the Black Cats’ defence should be a mouthwatering prospect for fans of the club and Lee Johnson alike.

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And, with centre-back having been something of a problem position for the 40-year-old Mackems boss last time out, the signing of Edmundson could well be the solution, leading us to believe Louis-Dreyfus should do all he can to get a deal over the line for the Rangers man in the coming weeks.

In other news: Johnson drops Sunderland transfer update that will be music to the ears of fans

Rangers have been linked with a move for Caleb Chukwuemeka recently and the 19-year-old could be the man to replace Jermain Defoe in Steven Gerrard’s side at Ibrox.

What’s the word?

According to the Daily Mail, Rangers are interested in signing the Northampton Town striker, although it is Aston Villa who have made the first official move to sign him, as they saw an offer rebuffed by the League Two side recently.

The Villans arguably hold an advantage over Rangers in the race to sign him, as his younger brother Carney plays for their academy, but Gerrard will be hoping that he can be tempted into a move to Ibrox.

Despite featuring 28 times for the Cobblers’ senior side, Chukwuemeka is yet to sign a professional deal with the club and will reportedly become a free agent in January, which suggests that he could be a very cheap option for the Gers this summer.

Jermain Defoe’s heir?

Defoe recently signed a new one-year contract at Rangers but will take on some coaching work as his influence in the first-team dwindles, and Chukwuemeka could be the man to step up as his replacement when he does eventually retire from professional football.

The 38-year-old has scored 32 goals in his 72 appearances for Rangers thus far and is always likely to pop up with a goal when he does play due to the incredible goalscoring instincts that he possesses.

It bodes well for the future that he will be coaching some of Rangers’ brightest prospects and if Chukwuemeka were to arrive at Ibrox, Defoe would no doubt be in regular conversation with him on how he can improve his game.

The teenage forward has scored twice in his senior career thus far but is highly regarded at the League Two club, with former manager Keith Curle singing his praises last season, saying:

“Caleb has got an unpredictability about him and he can be unorthodox at times. What we’re trying to do is get the fundamentals in place in his play without taking away that excitement and that freedom in his play.”

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[freshpress-quiz id=“593776″]

If Chukwuemeka does arrive at Ibrox and starts to score consistently, there’s no reason why he can’t be the long-term replacement for Defoe at Rangers, so Ross Wilson should definitely be looking to bring him in.

And, in other news… Jordan Campbell drops big update on Ibrox “mountain”, Rangers fans will be buzzing

Carlton Palmer admits the contract situation hanging over Julian Borner and Sheffield Wednesday is “going to get messy”.

The German defender is attempting to force through a move to Hannover 96 following the Yorkshire club’s relegation into League One.

Financial difficulties had seen some members of Wednesday’s squad not paid, resulting in a number of senior players considering handing in their two-week period of written notice.

The PFA have also got involved as it has been reported that players have not been paid either in full or on time for the past three months.

Borner, who made 30 appearances for the Hillsborough club last season, believes he should be able to walk away from Wednesday on a free transfer and is supposedly opening arbitration proceedings as a result of unpaid wages.

Hannover have already agreed a contract with the 30-year-old but Wednesday are holding firm and insist he cannot rip up his deal, which still has a year to run.

Palmer, who had two spells with the Owls during his playing career, does not see how the situation can be resolved amicably.

Speaking exclusively to Football FanCast, he said: “It’s going to get messy because it’s an interpretation. If the players haven’t been paid for a period of time then they are entitled to exercise the right to cancel their contracts.

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“The problem is when they have been paid part of their salary. My understanding is that the players have been paid part of their wages. As long as they’ve been paid part of their wages, they’re in a situation where they’re owed money but they can’t cancel their contract.

“Obviously you’re going to get some agents who are going to try to be clever and say he hasn’t been in full so we’re entitled to cancel the contract. My understanding is they can’t do that.”

Alex McLeish has backed Jesse Lingard to be a good signing for Tottenham Hotspur should he make a move to the North London club.

The Lowdown: Lingard eyed

As per Football Insider, Lingard is one of two players from Manchester United wanted by Nuno Espirito Santo in negotiations over a potential swap deal for Harry Kane.

His future at Old Trafford is currently in doubt as he only has a year left on his deal, and other clubs in the Premier League are interested in signing him.

The Latest: McLeish backs Lingard move

Speaking to Football Insider, McLeish, who is now a pundit having previously been a manager in the top flight, has backed Spurs in their move for Lingard, and cited how ‘amazing’ he was while on loan at West Ham United in the 2020/21 season:

“Well, if he plays to the level he played at West Ham, he will be an absolute improvement.

“I don’t think there’s any doubt about that. Jesse obviously kind of slowed down the last couple of years, when he was an England regular. That can hurt a player very badly.

“To do what he did at West Ham last season and help them to a fifth-place finish was amazing. It was a rise from nowhere, really.

“He was getting criticism at Man United, he was not involved in the team, never really picked at all.

“Then to come and play almost instantly at the level he played that then of course. I think if he continues that form, then he’ll be an asset to Spurs.”

The Verdict: Sign

There is no doubt that a whole host of teams will be queuing up to fight for Lingard’s signature given his impressive displays while with the Hammers, and that is precisely why the Lilywhites need to pounce, and fast.

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The 28-year-old scored no fewer than nine goals and made a further five assists in just 16 games in the Premier League with the Irons (Transfermarkt), which are exactly the kind of numbers that THFC could do with from midfield.

Nonetheless, having just missed out on the final England squad for Euro 2020, he will no doubt want to kick on even more this term in order to get himself back into contention.

In other news, find out what move Fabio Paratici has made for this ‘incredible’ star here!

Get French Football News writer Adam White insists Duje Caleta-Car would need to be a regular starter if he is to thrive in the Premier League.

The Croatia international has been linked with a move away from Marseille, with England being touted as a potential destination for the central defender.

Caleta-Car made 39 appearances for the French club last season but is expected to depart as Jorge Sampaoli prepares for his first full season in charge.

West Ham United have been long-term admirers of the 24-year-old, but he turned down a move to the London Stadium last September as he wanted to remain in the Champions League.

However, with David Moyes’ side preparing for a return to European football in the Europa League, the Hammers have revived their interest.

While Fabian Balbuena has departed the club following the expiry of his contract, Angelo Ogbonna, Craig Dawson and Issa Diop provide Moyes with plenty of options.

White believes Caleta-Car, 24, would struggle in his new surroundings if he is not in the starting line-up regularly.

Speaking exclusively to The Transfer Tavern, White said: “He’s very physical, he’s a really big bloke, but not particularly nimble or pacey.

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“He has improved at Marseille but I think he’s one of those players that would need to be playing every game to get rhythm and consistency. If he was expected to drop in and out, I would worry about his sharpness.

“You could argue that he’s maybe found his level at Marseille.”

Dean Windass doesn’t see any reason as to why Raphinha would want to leave Leeds, who he believes could be right up there if Marcelo Bielsa stays.

Following an excellent first campaign in the Premier League, the Brazilian winger has attracted interest from the top three – Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool.

After breaking into Bielsa’s XI in late-November, Raphinha remained there for the entire season, and provided 15 goals in 30 league appearances, scoring six times and laying on an impressive nine assists.

He still has three years remaining on the deal he signed last summer, meaning any of those top sides would surely have to pay a premium to prise Raphinha away from Elland Road.

But with Bielsa in the hot-seat, Windass doesn’t see any reason as to why the wide man would seek a move away from Yorkshire.

Asked whether working under Pep Guardiola could tempt Raphinha, former Sheffield United striker Windass exclusively told Football FanCast:

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“I don’t think so. If Bielsa does sign that contract I think he will stay and give him that opportunity to push on to the next level.

“He can keep players there if he wants to, and if Bielsa stays, they could be up there next year, so why would he want to leave?”

Manchester United have been linked with a move for Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos after he announced his imminent departure from the Spanish giants.

What’s the story?

The 35-year-old is set to depart the Bernabeu this summer after an illustrious 16-year spell in the Spanish capital, having failed to agree terms on a new contract.

It means Ramos will be available on a free transfer over the coming months, with Spanish outlet AS claiming that the World Cup winner is on the radar of the Red Devils.

Ole must avoid

United are targeting a new centre-back partner for Harry Maguire this summer as Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly have failed to prove their credentials over the last few years.

The Old Trafford outfit reportedly had a £50 million bid turned down for fellow Madrid man Raphael Varane earlier in the window and could now turn to his teammate after being put off by the Frenchman’s large price tag.

Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain are also credited with an interest in Ramos as they look to regain their top-flight crown.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer must think very carefully before sanctioning a move for the £312,00o-per-week beast.

Former United ace Rio Ferdinand has previously showered Ramos in praise, labelling him Madrid’s “talisman” and after collecting five La Liga titles, four Champions League crowns and two Copa del Rey’s during his time with Los Blancos, it’s easy to understand why.

Nevertheless, bringing him to Old Trafford at this stage in his career is a decision fraught with danger. Edinson Cavani may have been a success last season, but transfers like that should be the anomaly rather than the norm.

The South American striker solved a problem and proved to be an effective quick fix at the top end of the pitch and although Solskjaer may be tempted to apply the same logic with Ramos, the Norwegian tactician must avoid him this summer.

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Providing a solid foundation for United to build success off for many years to come must be the hierarchy’s priority over the coming months.

Maguire needs a partner who he can play alongside for the next five years or so in order to do that, not a player to be a quick fix for 12 months or so.

The Red Devils don’t want to become known as the dumping ground for ageing stars looking for one last paycheck and as such, they should instead focus their attentions on a younger target who still has his best years ahead of him.

And, in other news…Journalist provides major Man United update over £290k-p/w dynamo, Ole will be buzzing 

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Tariq Lamptey this summer…

What’s the word?

According to Sky Sports, Spurs are mulling over a potential move to sign the Brighton right wing-back ahead of next season, with Serge Aurier likely to depart the North London outfit.

It’s thought that the Ivory Coast international has said he is not prepared to sign a new contract and has an agreement to leave the club this summer.

The Daily Mail have since reported that the Seagulls will not sell the 20-year-old gem for much less than £50m and any funds from the sale of Aurier will be put towards clinching the England U21 starlet.

Bye-bye Aurier

Whether this is coming directly from chairman Daniel Levy or from his newly-appointed director of football Fabio Paratici remains to be seen but what is clear is that this absolutely needs to happen.

Aurier’s time in North London has been hampered by controversies off the pitch and often a string of shocking performances on it.

One example has to be the Carabao Cup final, in which Spurs were played off the pitch.

After the game, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher laid into the defender, describing him as “one of the biggest liabilities in Premier League football” and is a player that would “put you off management with the amount of crazy decision he makes,” via talkSPORT.

It’s not the first time that Aurier has been dubbed a “liability,” either.

[snack-amp-story url= “https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/read-latest-spurs-news-transfer-gossip-rumours-manager-update-fonseca-paratici-levy” title= “Read the latest Spurs news, manager gossip, transfer rumours, injury updates and more!”]

He’s a large part of why individual mistakes have been made in the backline, so it’s time for him to be shifted on this summer and there won’t be many better long-term replacements out there than Lamptey, even if his season was cut short through injury.

The young 5 foot 5 dynamo, who was formerly on the books at Chelsea, has proven to be an “unbelievably quick” threat at either end of the pitch.

Since making his senior league debut, Lamptey has averaged 1.8 interceptions and 1.3 tackles per match, displaying a great ability to read the game defensively, whilst also picking up an average of 1.4 dribbles and 0.9 key passes each outing, via WhoScored, further showing what he could add in the attack.

Speaking about his ability, Noel Whelan waxed lyrical to Football Insider, where he said:

“I have loved Lamptey since he has come onto the scene. He is very exciting, loads of energy, gets forward, gets in good areas, create chances, box-to-box and has a goal in him. He is such an exciting young player.”

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In October, Lamptey was the most-fouled defender in the Premier League, showing just how difficult it is to shake him off the ball, and that led to the Mirror’s John Cross describing him as a “phenomenal young talent” and a “terrific prospect” on Twitter.

Seagulls teammate Pascal Gross has dubbed the £18m-rated sensation a “special boy” and a “really top-class player and top-class human” to talkSPORT.

Paratici and Levy simply must sanction a move for Lamptey, whatever the cost. It’s time to wave goodbye to Aurier and look to the future.

AND in other news, Spurs set for huge boost as Romano drops exciting update, fans surely buzzing…