Tag Futebol

Leeds United have been monitoring Flamengo forward Pedro, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Pedro profiled

Pedro is an out-and-out centre-forward who signed permanently for Flamengo last year. The 25-year-old has scored 72 senior goals during his career and is valued at £10.8m by Transfermarkt.

A Brazil international, Pedro is under contract until 2025, but it looks as if Leeds are interested in bringing the player to Elland Road.

The Latest: Romano’s comments

Talking to GiveMeSport, Romano said that the Whites have been tracking Pedro but added that they’ll ‘need to be fast’ to secure a deadline day move.

The Italian stated:

“I’m told that the player they have been monitoring for a long time is Pedro from Flamengo, the Brazilian striker.

“But the problem with South American transfers is the timing. Of course, now we’re close to the end of the window, so they need to be fast if they want to do a South American deal.”

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The Verdict: Hwang and Gakpo alternative?

It seemed as if Wolves’ Hwang Hee-chan and PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo were the main deadline day targets for the Whites, but the club look set to miss out on both players despite Victor Orta’s best efforts.

Therefore, Pedro could be an alternative to the Dutchman, with Leeds in need of a new attacker before tonight’s deadline.

Time is running out, though, so a move for the Brazilian could be extremely tricky to pull off before 11pm, and it’s one that you’d expect would go down to the wire should Leeds make a move.

Liverpool journalist James Pearce has reacted to midfielder Stefan Bajcetic being handed a new long-term contract with the Premier League side.

The Lowdown: Bajcetic profiled

The 17-year-old arrived at Anfield in February 2021 before signing his first professional deal in November of last year.

The maestro was given his chance to shine during pre-season, featuring in five of the club’s six games, with his performances impressing Jurgen Klopp to the extent that he was named as a substitute for the Reds’ curtain-raiser against Fulham last weekend.

The Latest: Pearce’s praise

Taking to Twitter, Pearce heaped praise on Bajcetic and insisted that a fresh deal is nothing less than he deserves. He wrote:

“Young LFC midfielder Stefan Bajcetic’s eye-catching progress rewarded with a new long-term contract on improved terms.”

Expanding in his column for The Athletic, the reporter wrote that the teenager has made ‘outstanding’ developments since putting pen to paper on his first senior deal last year.

Fellow youngster Harvey Elliott has also penned a new deal with the Reds, extending his stay until

The Verdict: Fully deserved

Bajcetic being offered a new deal at Liverpool seems fully deserved, given the positive impression he’s made in the club’s youth squad.

The Spaniard was naturally a centre-back but managed to score two goals and provide one assist in just nine games for the Reds U18s, via Transfermarkt, and has since progressed into playing more of a number six role in the middle of the park.

This kind of versatility makes him an exciting young prospect and someone who will hopefully go on to become a future face of the Liverpool first team in years to come.

Leeds United correspondent Phil Hay has shared what he knows on the Whites’ links with Southampton’s Che Adams ahead of the club’s Premier League season opener against Wolves next Saturday.

The Lowdown: Forward wanted

The Whites have been after a new striker during pre-season but are still yet to get one through the door.

Main target Charles De Ketelaere is heading to AC Milan, while moves for Paris Saint-Germain’s Arnaud Kalimuendo and Rennes’ Martin Terrier are yet to gather any pace.

That has led to rumours resurfacing regarding a swoop for 2020 target Adams, with reports on the weekend suggesting that Andrea Radrizzani and Victor Orta are eyeing a ‘shock’ move for the forward, who has been hailed as ‘absolutely terrific’ by Josh Bunting.

The Latest: Hay’s claim

Hay stated in a Q&A for The Athletic on Sunday evening that Adams is ‘not someone Leeds are focusing on as a priority at this stage’.

However, the reliable reporter added in a story for The Athletic on Monday that Adams may ‘come onto the radar late in the window if other options fell away’.

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The Verdict: Options needed

Bringing in a high-quality striker is never easy in the transfer market, so it could be wise for Leeds to have as many options as possible in the final weeks of the window.

It appears as if Adams is one of those, and if the Whites can secure a deal for the £10m fee mentioned over the weekend, it could represent good business.

The Scotland international is valued at £16.2m by Transfermarkt and has plenty of Premier League experience under his belt, so he could be the perfect foil alongside main man Patrick Bamford and young starlet Joe Gelhardt.

Sunderland saw numerous new faces make their way to the Wearside club during the previous summer and winter transfer windows.

One figure that was brought in during the last January window that ended up helping the Black Cats get back to the Championship is Patrick Roberts.

Signed on a free transfer from Premier League side Manchester City after spending numerous loan spells away from the Etihad Stadium, the winger made 17 appearances for Alex Neil’s side.

In those appearances, the Englishman found the net on two occasions, one of which came in Sunderland’s second-leg semi-final play-off clash against Sheffield United, and provided one assist in the process.

Now that the season has ended, this period could give the Black Cats the chance to replicate a similar sort of masterclass that they pulled off when signing Roberts.

Last week, it was reported that Sunderland are one of the clubs interested in signing another City winger that has been on several loan spells away from the Manchester club – Marlos Moreno.

Signed back in 2016 from Colombian club Atletico Nacional, the 25-year-old has spent time with clubs in Spain, Mexico, Brazil and Belgium whilst away on loan.

With 189 appearances to his name, the winger has found the net 20 times and delivered 19 assists along the way, highlighting how capable he is of scoring and providing goals.

In his 32 league appearances with Belgian side KV Kortrijk last season, not only did the City winger end the campaign with the second-highest number of shots (41) at the club, he also delivered 25 crosses, made 25 interceptions and won 38 tackles.

This shows just how dangerous he can be with the ball in an attacking sense and how tough he can be when trying to win possession back.

Praised for his “wonderful” performances for Lommel SK in the 2020/21 season by journalist Sven Claes, the Colombian could be a very useful addition to Sunderland’s squad in terms of his talent and in terms of providing the club with some extra attacking depth.

If the Wearside club want to give a chance to another City outcast this summer with Moreno, as they did with Roberts, this could be a very smart move for the Black Cats ahead of their upcoming Championship season.

AND in other news: Neil can land Gooch upgrade in SAFC deal for “direct” 21yo gem who’s a “bit different”

Manchester United star striker Cristiano Ronaldo is not for sale despite reports that a move to Premier League rivals Chelsea could happen this summer.

What’s the story?

According to Sky Sports, the Portuguese striker is not for sale and United expect him to remain at Old Trafford next season. It comes as his agent Jorge Mendes met with new Chelsea owner Todd Boehly and Ronaldo was mentioned.

Despite this, new manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Ronaldo is part of his plans at the club and, with a year still to run on his contract, he is expected to see it out.

CR7 returned to the Red Devils last summer, 12 years after he originally left the club for Real Madrid.

Supporters will be buzzing

The United faithful will be buzzing with the news that their star man is staying put as he was the one positive in an abysmal campaign last season.

He scored 24 goals in 38 games making him the club’s top scorer in all competitions – a 37-year-old scoring over 20 goals in a season is impressive.

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Ronaldo bailed United out many times and was the reason they managed to make it to the knockout stages of the Champions League and secure qualification for the Europa League.

Critics say that him being in the team slows United down and that they’re less effective on the counter-attack due to his lack of pace. However, there’s no arguing with his tally, and you simply can’t drop a man who’s practically guaranteed to score.

There may be question marks over who the Red Devils turn to when he eventually does leave, and United have been linked with bringing in a new striker, but first, they need to focus on improving other areas of the squad.

Last season they conceded 57 goals which is the highest ever for the club in a single Premier League campaign – meaning stopping goals going in is the issue, not scoring them.

Many players were rightly criticised for this, but Ronaldo will always be a legend, and United fans should cherish the fact they get to witness his greatness for at least one more year.

AND in other news: Man Utd now eyeing swoop for £43k-p/w “bulldog”, Ten Hag desperately needs him

Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph has delivered a fresh update on Celtic’s interest in Lommel SK midfielder Vinicius Souza.

The Lowdown: Celtic monitoring Souza

The Brazilian first joined the Belgian outfit when he made the move from Flamengo two years ago, but ended up spending the entirety of the 2021/22 season out on loan at KV Mechelen in a bid to find some much-needed game time.

Even though the 23-year-old’s contract with Lommel isn’t set to expire until 2025, this need for regular minutes has seen him being linked with a move away from the Limburg-based side in recent weeks, in particular to the Scottish Premiership, with the maestro believed to be on the wish-list of the Hoops.

The Latest: Joseph’s transfer update

Taking to Twitter, Joseph shared a new update on Celtic’s interest in Souza, with the player ‘keen’ to assess all his options before making a decision. He wrote:

“Celtic are interested in Lommel SK defensive midfielder Vinicius Souza but face competition from a number of clubs, including PSV, Fenerbahce, Club Brugge and Bologna.

“PSV made a formal approach to Lommel earlier this week.

“It’s understood the player wants to play in Europe next season, but has some reservations about moving to the Scottish Premiership.

“However, he is keen to take time to explore all his options.”

The Verdict: Bitton replacement

Despite Souza having doubts about making the switch to Glasgow as a result of wanting to play at the highest level, let’s not forget that the Bhoys have qualified for the Champions League and will be showcasing their talent on the world stage next season, something that surely has to attract potential new signings.

The Rio de Janeiro-born talent was once dubbed “incredible” at breaking up attacks by Belgian footballer Steven Defour, and the evidence supports that – his 3.8 tackles per game in Belgium are far more than any Celtic player managed last season.

He could be an ideal replacement for Nir Bitton, with Ange Postecoglou now on the lookout for a new holding midfielder since the 30-year-old’s departure.

Lommel, his parent club, are owned by the City Football Group, which the Hoops’ new head of recruitment, Mark Lawwell, was involved in before arriving at Parkhead – could that existing link prove to be essential in Celtic’s chase to secure their man?

In other news… a BBC pundit has backed Celtic to complete the signing of a highly-rated transfer target this summer.

Leeds United are on the hunt for a new striker this summer and their search could take them to manager Jesse Marsch’s home country…

What’s the word?

According to Manchester Evening News journalist Conor McGilligan, the Yorkshire outfit are keen on signing New York City FC frontman Valentin Castellanos, and have been looking at him for a while now.

“Leeds are apparently going head over heels for a striker at the minute. He sort of fits the mould, he’s the best striker in the MLS at the minute, looks very complete, Argentinian,” he told the ‘One Leeds Fan Channel’ this week.

“A few links there, apparently, Leeds have been looking at him for a while as well. So yeah, Valentin Castellanos.

“Keep an eye on that name.”

It’s thought that the MLS champions have set an asking price of around £12.8m, as per The Mirror.

Striker desperation

The Whites suffered from multiple problems during their near-fateful 2021/22 campaign, ranging from persistent injury issues to the second-leakiest backline in the top-flight.

Marcelo Bielsa and then Marsch were also pegged back by their troubles in the final third. Patrick Bamford, fresh off a 17-goal season, was absent for the majority of 2021/22 with an array of injuries. He only managed nine games in total, leaving Raphinha and co to take the mantle.

A lack of an alternative almost cost the Yorkshiremen their place in the big time, something they waited nearly two decades for prior to their promotion in 2020.

It’s no wonder Leeds appear to be desperate for another option up top and Castellanos is a very interesting candidate indeed.

His goalscoring record in the US cannot be disputed. He bagged eight assists as NYCFC clinched their first-ever title, with the Argentinian also raking in the Golden Boot.

He has since continued that form this year, delivering 11 goals and five assists across 17 appearances in the MLS and CONCACAF Champions League, taking his total for the American giants to 53 goals and 23 assists, as per Transfermarkt.

Castellanos has been likened to former Chelsea talisman Didier Drogba by MLS UK Show podcaster Henry Hewitt to Manchester Evening News in the past, where he also claimed: “He doesn’t just score one type of goal. He’s strong, quick, good with his head and isn’t afraid to bring his teammates into play.”

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The 23-year-old also outranks Bamford for non-penalty expected goals and shots on target per 90, via FBRef, too.

On the above evidence, it could well be worth the risk to dip into the MLS market to solve Marsch’s problems at Elland Road. After the arrival of Brendan Aaronson and soon, Rasmus Kristensen, a new forward must be the priority.

Castellanos can be the man to end Leeds’ desperation.

AND in other news, Orta can land “the next Declan Rice” as Leeds eye talent who’s “getting rave reviews”…

Villarreal attacker Arnaut Danjuma is now on the radar of Tottenham Hotspur ahead of the summer transfer window, claims transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Danjuma’s season

Since making the switch from Bournemouth last year, the 25-year-old has gone on to leave an incredible impression on the Spanish top-flight. In 34 games for the La Liga outfit, the Netherlands international has netted an impressive 16 goals.

As a result of his domestic and European form – he scored six times on route to the Champions League semi-finals – a number of transfer rumours have arisen linking the winger with a move back to England.

According to a report by 90min, Fabio Paratici and co. sent a number of club officials to watch Danjuma in the first leg of Villarreal’s semi-final tie against Liverpool earlier this month.

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The Latest: Jones’ claim

With all this information, transfer window expert Jones believes that Danjuma is on Paratici’s summer wish list.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, he claimed:

“They’ve got Danjuma on their radar. He’s a good player, but I don’t believe that he’s going to increase the ceiling of what this Tottenham team can achieve, so I think this is one they will wait and see on.”

The Verdict: Great signing

During his stint along the south coast, Bournemouth manager Jonathan Woodgate was full of praise for the 25-year-old, asserting that he is “an exceptional player”.

Former European Golden Shoe winner Kevin Phillips has also reiterated this rhetoric, claiming that Danjuma “is a nightmare for defenders”, as “he can hurt any defence with his pace and directness”.

With Antonio Conte’s side hoping to secure a top four Premier League finish and a place in next season’s Champions League, Paratici will be eyeing the likes of Danjuma, as the Lilywhites look to bolster the quality in their squad as they plan for a busier schedule next year.

In other news: Tottenham Hotspur: Levy will be ‘delighted’ with Champions League plans

Everton hosted the first Merseyside Derby of the season at Goodison Park today and Frank Lampard will surely be delighted that the Toffees managed to pick up a point from a fierce clash with their local rivals this afternoon.

As usual, the game was full of entertainment from start to finish and was an end-to-end spectacle for neutrals but for supporters in both red and blue will be frustrated with clear-cut chances missed throughout the fixture.

Despite only having 39% possession and fewer shots on targets, the Toffees had one more big chance, completed more dribbles and won more duels over the course of the game against their opponents, giving Lampard some big positives to take away from the game along with a much-deserved point.

In fact, it could’ve even been a three-pointer for Everton with former Liverpool youth player Conor Coady putting the ball into the back of the net, however, after a lengthy VAR review the defender had his goal struck off for offside in the 71st minute.

There was no doubt that Jordan Pickford was the Man of the Match today with eight important saves, leading his team perfectly from the back which played a massive part in Everton’s ability to hold the game to a stalemate, but there was also one other player who was a huge influence in the centre of the pitch.

Lampard gave Amadou Onana his third start of the season this afternoon and the decision paid off for the former Chelsea boss with the young Belgian midfielder proving exactly why the powers at Goodison Park snapped him up.

The 21-year-old – who was hailed “a natural” by Paul Brown for his contributions in the Merseyside Derby – completed 88% of his passes, made one key pass, seven tackles, one interception and three clearances, as well as won 11 of his 16 duels over his 90-minute on the pitch – passing his first big test against a star-studded Liverpool side.

Onana is the 11th highest rated player in the Everton squad following his five appearances so far according to SofaScore, and Lampard will be delighted he is settling into the team very well as the manager endeavours to improve upon the relegation scare that haunted the club over last season.

Everton are now unbeaten in their last four games picking up four draws, seeing the club climb into 14th place in the Premier League table, but the team remain winless and will need that extra push to start taking all three points from their outings over the coming weeks and months.

The reactions on Twitter to Kevin Pietersen’s retirement

ESPNcricinfo staff17-Mar-2018Kevin Pietersen has called time on a legendary and, at times, controversial career. And, as you would expect, the tributes are coming in on social media

Congrats @KP24 on an unreal career. One of the very best to watch. Great to share some amazing cricketing moments with you on and off to pitch. Good luck on the next chapter. pic.twitter.com/pzTOu65grl

— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) March 17, 2018

Well done @KP24 on an fantastic career … Not everyone’s Cup of Tea but you will do for me … Best Batsman I had the pleasure to play with … 1st England batsman that put fear into the Aussies .. #WellDone

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) March 16, 2018

Didn’t know you were still playing congratulations on an amazing career and Thankyou for having a positive impact on mine too , that’s the last time I’m being nice to you https://t.co/Fqc7PoVAph

— andrew flintoff (@flintoff11) March 17, 2018

Congratulations @KP24 on a fantastic career… best player I was fortunate to play with & for me, the best batsman ever to play for England!!

— Stephen Harmison (@Harmy611) March 17, 2018

Thank you @KP24! pic.twitter.com/qzSbEPfCMJ

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) March 17, 2018

Congrats on a career you can be proud of Kev! Enjoy the family time https://t.co/3v3Y1Nkj2w

— Graeme Smith (@GraemeSmith49) March 17, 2018

..@KP24 it was a pleasure playing against you most of the time and with you with @stluciazouks.. All the best in your future endeavours champ..

— Daren Sammy (@darensammy88) March 16, 2018

Well done @KP24 on such a brilliant career!!! You have entertained millions of fans with your incredible talent! Best of luck for your future endeavours

— Dean Jones (@ProfDeano) March 16, 2018

Absolute pleasure Kelv. Most talented batter I ever saw, Greater guy, go well as I know you will..

— Simon Jones MBE (@si610) March 16, 2018

Well done Kidda what a career

— Darren Gough (@DGoughie) March 16, 2018

Great playing with u and against you legend more Life and blessings and all the best in the future champ #OneOftheBestToDoIt #kp24

— Tino95 (@tinobest) March 16, 2018

I guess my #BringBackKP campaign is now officially retired too.
Kevin Pietersen was the best England batsman I've seen.
Though only the 2nd best to play at @NewickCC, as this picture confirms.
You were treated disgracefully @KP24 – but genius always annoys mediocre dullards. pic.twitter.com/dD3i3Xw6id

— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) March 17, 2018

Happy retirement @KP24, comfortably with most entertaining & destructive batsman I’ve ever seen. Played with & against him in early years. Divided opinion throughout his career but never dull. Cricket needs rockstars, and he was one. Good luck! (However, can’t resist this pic) pic.twitter.com/xoqPYKbOMM

— Charles Dagnall (@CharlesDagnall) March 17, 2018

@KP24 a Kickass Personality both on and off the field! Congratulations on your splendid career. I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of your striking. #Respect

— Murali Vijay (@mvj888) March 18, 2018

What a career @KP24! Really enjoyed playing with and against you. I hope you hit those disgusting rhino poachers for a 6! #SORAI

— Grant Elliott (@grantelliottnz) March 17, 2018

With @KP24 retiring, its an end of an era! I am honoured and glad to have had a chance to share the dressing room with him. Learned alot from this legend and will always cherish the experience of playing along side him #TOPLAD pic.twitter.com/w1LnCBgah9

— Hassan Khan (@16hassankhan) March 17, 2018