All posts by z3u9t.icu

Lincoln have reportedly made a move to sign “interesting” Gillingham attacker Jordan Graham on a free transfer this summer.

What’s the talk?

According to Football League World, Lincoln have taken a step above their rivals in the race to sign the 26-year-old in the upcoming transfer window. He is out of contract at the end of the month and has decided to move on from Gillingham, opening him up as a free agent target for the Imps.

The report claims that Lincoln have been in talks with Graham and have now made an offer for his services as they attempt to snap him up before other clubs have a chance to do so. Their League One rivals Charlton, plus Championship side Birmingham, are also said to be keen on the 26-year-old but are both yet to make their own proposals to him.

Speaking about Graham during his time at Wolves, Kenny Jackett labeled the attacker an “interesting” player. He told the Express and Star: “He’s been an interesting player for me during the course of this season.

“I think the loan has helped him, as it has other players that have come into the side. It’s given him some confidence and we’ve seen a difference in him training since he’s come back. Cloud nine for Lincoln fans

This news will surely leave Lincoln fans on cloud nine. Brennan Johnson enjoyed a brilliant season with the Imps on loan from Nottingham Forest, and his departure could leave a gigantic hole to fill in Appleton’s squad. There has been nothing to suggest that he will be returning for a second loan spell, which means that there could be a berth out wide to be filled in the upcoming transfer window, and that could be where Graham comes in.

Lincoln fans may be upset at the prospect of Johnson not playing for the club next season, but Graham could arrive at the LNER Stadium and propel them to the Championship. The 20-year-old was directly involved in 16 goals in 41 League One starts for Lincoln, with 11 goals and five assists, which is why the signing of Graham could be so crucial for the club as that is a huge contribution from a wide player.

The 26-year-old was directly involved in 18 goals in 36 League One starts for Gillingham throughout the campaign, with 12 goals and six assists. Therefore, he could be a slight upgrade on Johnson, as he contributed to more goals despite starting fewer games than the Forest loanee.

The £2,100-per-week ace could be a fantastic signing for Lincoln. Graham has proven to be a quality player at League One level, and the Imps could land a terrific deal if they can bring him in on a free transfer next month.

AND in other news, Lincoln dealt transfer blow over £3.9k-p/w ace, Appleton will be devastated…

Aston Villa have become one of the more active clubs when it comes to being busy in the transfer market over the past few years.

The previous January window saw the Midlands club bring in five new players on permanent or loan deals as well as moving some other players out in the other direction.

However, one player that the Villans were not able to secure over the winter was Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Yves Bissouma.

After being mentioned with a potential £50m move away from the south coast club, Bissouma remained at Brighton and continues to play for Graham Potter’s side.

Once the window had closed, Steven Gerrard revealed that Villa had a bid of £25m rejected for the Mali international.

Since arriving at Brighton back in the 2018 summer transfer window from Lille in a deal worth a reported fee of £15m, the midfielder has become a pivotal figure for the Seagulls.

With 120 appearances under his belt for the club across all competitions, the 25-year-old has chipped in with five goals and two assists.

To highlight how important he is for his side, no other Brighton midfielder has been able to match the combined total of tackles and interceptions (115) he’s been able to rack up in this Premier League.

Labelled as an “exceptional” player in the past by Gary Lineker, Bissouma also showed during Brighton’s recent 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur just what he’s capable of on the pitch.

During the 90 minutes, the former Lille ace made four interceptions, three tackles, won seven of the nine duels he was involved in and completed all three dribbles he attempted.

This shows just how talented he is on and off the ball against an Antonio Conte team that, not long before, had put four goals past Gerrard’s side at Villa Park.

This also led to Potter describing his player as being at “Champions League level” in terms of his performances on the pitch.

Moving forward, it would be sensible for the Villans and Johan Lange to not only reignite their interest in Bissouma but to not consider giving Brighton the money that they would want for him.

In other news: “Gerrard wants..“: Journo drops teasing transfer claim, AVFC supporters surely buzzing

Watford are interested in signing Joe Pigott this summer, according to recent reports…

What’s the word?

That’s the word according to The Mirror’s Sam Elliot, who tweeted that the AFC Wimbledon centre-forward is “likely” to be Watford’s first signing since they secured their return to the Premier League.

Elliot also claims that the 27-year-old would earn “six times his current wage” – which is reported to be £2,100-per-week – if a move to Vicarage Road is completed, meaning that Pigott would earn around £12,600-per-week at Watford.

Astute signing

So far this season, Pigott has highly impressed over his 42 League One appearances for Mark Robinson’s side, with the striker scoring 18 goals and registering five assists, as well as averaging a rather remarkable WhoScored match rating of 7.20 – ranking him as the club’s best performer in the third tier.

What makes the former Charlton Athletic striker’s haul even more impressive is that he is currently playing in a quite poor Wimbledon team, as the Dons are currently sitting just five points above the League One relegation zone in 19th place.

And, with Troy Deeney having been sidelined for long spells of this season due to injury, something that could become a more regular occurrence as the 33-year-old grows older, it would be a smart move for Watford to begin their search to replace the club captain.

As such, despite there being an obvious difference in standards between the third tier and the Premier League, Pigott would nonetheless appear to represent an extremely astute signing for Xisco Munoz’s side, not only because of his evident eye for goal, but also because of the finances involved in a potential transfer.

With the 27-year-old’s contract up at the end of the current campaign, the only fee Watford would be required to pay for Pigott would be the striker’s wages and a signing-on fee, meaning that there is not much risk for the Hornets if they do complete the signing of a player who former Wimbledon manager, Wally Downes, once dubbed as “magnificent”.

In other news: Forget Sarr: Watford must complete blockbuster deal for ‘fantastic’ gem this summer – opinion

A number of Liverpool supporters have reacted negatively to a claim that Roberto Firmino hasn’t decided if he will stay put at Anfield or not.

The Brazilian has been a wonderful servant for the Reds, joining from Hoffenheim in 2015 and becoming one of the poster boys of the Jurgen Klopp era.

Firmino has made 311 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 94 goals and registering 73 assists, proving to be the perfect foil for Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane.

[freshpress-quiz id=“375258″]

At 30, the striker is not getting any younger, however, and his current Reds deal expires in the summer of 2023, with little sign of a new contract being agreed.

According to journalist Florian Plettenberg on Twitter, Firmino will be the man to decide over whether or not he stays at Anfield, with talks taking place in the coming months.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-liverpool-transfer-news-18/” title=”Latest Liverpool transfer news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Liverpool fans react to Firmino claim

It suggests that a Liverpool exit isn’t out of the question and these fans reacted negatively to that possibility on Twitter.

“Never want to see Bobby leave, whatever his role in the squad becomes I hope he retires here”

Credit: @JoshuaKekana

“It will be a sad, sad day when Bobby moves on. He might not be quite what he was but the integral part he’s played can’t be overstated and his personality and selflessness has been invaluable to the culture and success of the side. One of my favourite ever #LFC players”

Credit: @reid1892

“I want Bobby to stay at Liverpool”

Credit: @JuniArga2

“Really hope we keep Bobby. Legend such a great player”

Credit: @MartinT_LFC75

“He’s a legend whatever decision he takes”

Credit: @supermanelfc

“HE CANNOT GO ANYWHERE”

Credit: @dantewillz

In other news, some Liverpool fans are excited after a transfer claim emerged. Read more here.

West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has rejoined his team-mates for pre-season training.

The club’s official Twitter account posted a video of Johnstone giving a thumbs-up with the caption ‘look who’s back’.

Johnstone was a late returnee after his involvement in England’s European Championship squad. Gareth Southgate’s made it all the way to the final, with Johnstone on standby if no. 1 Jordan Pickford was unavailable.

He made 166 saves for the relegated Baggies last season, more than anybody else in the Premier League. He was a full 19 clear of his nearest challenger – Sheffield United’s Aaron Ramsdale.

Johnstone also ‘prevented’ 4.3 goals over the course of the campaign, based on post-shot xG. That placed him in the division’s top 10 (via FBRef).

Johnstone’s West Brom future uncertain

The 28-year-old has now entered the final year of his contract at The Hawthorns.

West Brom are said to have reduced their price-tag to £12million having initially asked for £20million.

West Ham United unsuccessfully made a bid, and have now signed Alphonse Areola from Paris Saint-Germain.

West Brom fans flock to Johnstone video

“Admin you can’t do this to us if he’s leaving. That’s just cruel stuff that.”

Credit: @James18209464

“Hopefully to stay where you’re loved and appreciated Sammy J”

Credit: @shelleex5

“SIGN CONTRACT”

Credit: @WbaOllie

“Not for long tho”

Credit: @WBADyl

“Admin if he leaves after this tweet I’ll never forgive you”

Credit: @OkayGreatThanks

“Announce new contract”

Credit: @WbaNathan_

In other news, the Baggies are eyeing up this move. 

Ezgjan Alioski’s potential move to Galatasaray this summer isn’t yet guaranteed, with the Turkish giants also interested in Patrick van Aanholt.

The Lowdown: Alioski expected to leave

Alioski is widely expected to leave Leeds United at the end of the season, having made 168 appearances for the Whites and being a key man for a number of years. He has scored 22 times and registered 18 assists for the club.

Galatasaray have emerged as the strong favourites to acquire the 29-year-old’s signature, with some reports claiming a deal has already been agreed.

There could be a potential twist in the saga, however, following the emergence of a fresh report on the Turkish outfit.

The Latest: Van Aanholt also a target

According to Sporx [via Sport Witness], Galatasaray also see Crystal Palace left-back Van Aanholt as a possible option, with the Dutchman ironically linked with Leeds in the past, too.

The Turkish giants are set to decide between him and Alioski in the coming weeks.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-leeds-united-news/” title=”Latest Leeds United news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

The Verdict: Replacement still required

Whatever the eventual outcome, it appears highly unlikely that Alioski will end up staying put at Elland Road, so a replacement will be needed.

Leeds could do with bringing in a similarly experienced figure – someone who is actually a natural left-back, such as Nicolas Tagliafico, who has got three assists and averaged two tackles per game for Ajax in the Eredivisie this season.

Alioski did admirably in an auxiliary role, but signing someone who knows the position inside out could help make the Whites an even more balanced outfit.

In other news, Leeds are believed to be interested in signing a Premier League attacker this summer. Find out who it is here.

Former Premier League striker Dean Windass has told The Transfer Tavern in an exclusive interview that he can imagine Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey at Tottenham.

Lamptey, 20, is currently being linked with a move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Sky Sports reporting earlier this month that the north London club are interested in signing the right-back.

Meanwhile, talk of Serge Aurier returning to Paris Saint-Germain to reunite with Mauricio Pochettino has emerged, meaning a move for Lamptey really could be on the cards.

Asked by TT whether Lamptey would be a good addition to Spurs’ squad, Windass said:

“Yeah, he’s got bags of pace, hasn’t he? You know, I was surprised that Chelsea let him go. And Brighton, they’d have been delighted probably or surprised as well that Chelsea let him go. So, yeah, I can see it.”

If Tottenham can land Lamptey this summer, he would surely be a smart capture. The English youngster was brilliant down that right flank last season before picking up a serious injury.

He earned recognition from Gary Neville, arguably one the greatest right-backs the Premier League has ever seen, after his display against former club Chelsea, where his quality was on show.

Especially if Aurier does end up leaving this summer, Lamptey could be a great a signing for this Spurs team.

Taking to Twitter, these Nottingham Forest fans were less than impressed with the performance of midfielder Philip Zinckernagel as their side snatched a last gasp 2-1 victory away to Bristol City last night.

Looking to gather momentum under new boss Steve Cooper, Forest took on City yesterday evening in what ended up being a thrilling encounter.

The Reds sealed a last second victory to keep some pace with the Championship play-off chasers and it is super substitute Lyle Taylor who deserves the acclaim.

Coming on for Lewis Grabban with just under 10 minutes remaining, the 31-year-old international buried a brace in added time to nick all three points after Forest spent much of the game trying to breakthrough.

Before this dramatic finish, one man who certainly didn’t help Cooper’s side on the night was Zinckernagel – and it is clear to see why some fans were less than impressed.

According to SofaScore, before he was hauled off with under 15 minutes to go, the attacker completed just two out of six take-ons, lost the overwhelming majority of his ground duels and gave possession away a massive 26 times in total.

Taking this into account, Forest fans voiced their criticism on social media – find all of their verdicts down below.

Forest fans slam Zinckernagel…

“Someone tell Zinckernagel to put some effort into his corner”

Credit: @Jaffaca22393862

“put mighten on zinck thinks he’s messi today”

Credit: @NFFCRadfordinho

“Zinckernagel’s been greedy so far”

Credit: @OliverAdkin

“I’d love to see abit of Mighten. Zinckernagel looks off it tonight.”

Credit: @ConorCrossland_

“Right sub there, probably Zinckernagel’s worst game for us.”

Credit: @NiallSav98

“Zinckernagel has been absolutely woeful”

Credit: @BrummieTricky

Newcastle United have not held any talks over potentially re-signing Valentino Lazaro, Shields Gazette journalist Liam Kennedy insists.

The lowdown

It was reported by Gazzetta Dello Sport (via Sport Witness) on Monday that negotiations over a potential comeback were underway.

Inter Milan’s Lazaro spent the latter half of the 2019/20 campaign on loan at St James’ Park, earning four Premier League starts and nine substitute appearances.

He remains on the Serie A champions’ books but was sent to Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach last term.

Lazaro, who played one game for Austria at the European Championships, still has three years left on his Inter contract and is valued at £9million by Transfermarkt.

The latest

Kennedy reports that Newcastle are yet to open talks with Inter over a deal, nor have they made contact with the player and his representatives ‘so far this summer’.

He does, though, corroborate the claim that Lazaro would be open to returning to Tyneside.

Still, there ought to be ‘scepticism’ over whether Newcastle’s stance has changed 12 months on from deciding against a permanent move.

The verdict

Interestingly, Gazzetta’s report mentioned that Lazaro had ‘admirers’ in Germany on the back of his stint at Monchengladbach. Perhaps these believable rumours have been spun by his agent in an attempt to draw a better offer from the speedster’s Bundesliga suitors.

But what if Newcastle are genuinely considering it? Well, a report from The Mirror (via The Mag) suggested that Matt Ritchie was keen to leave this summer, and Lazaro could be viewed as both a sensible and familiar replacement.

Like Ritchie, he is valuably versatile, capable of operating up and down the flank, so perhaps we could yet see a move if Ritchie does depart.

In other news, Steve Howey has placed a value on Joe Willock.  

Aston Villa fans would have hailed the signing of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Axel Witsel as a real coup, says Express & Star journalist Luke Hatfield.

Witsel was linked with a surprise move to Villa at the end of the summer transfer window, with Italian outlet Tuttosport claiming that Juventus, AS Roma and the Midlands club were all interested in signing the Belgian.

Witsel has remained at Dortmund, however, and will now be looking to help Marco Rose’s side end Bayern Munich’s dominance of the Bundesliga.

Had the 32-year-old signed for Villa, though, Hatfield is certain he would have been a welcome addition.

“Witsel would’ve obviously fitted into the position Villa probably needed to address,” Hatfield told FFC. “But he’s not the youngest in the world and he’s just coming off a really serious Achilles injury.

“Obviously he would’ve been an amazing signing for fans and the fans would’ve been right behind it. On paper, it would always look good, but in practice, I’m not too sure. But Villa fans would’ve been hailing it as a real coup.”

While Villa did not end up bringing in a midfielder like Witsel, you would have to say it was still a pretty successful transfer window for the Premier League outfit.

Yes, they lost Jack Grealish to Manchester City, but they were still able to make significant attacking additions after signing Danny Ings, Emiliano Buendia and Leon Bailey.