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Paddy Kenny thinks Everton have a chance of pulling off ‘an unbelievable deal’ for Real Madrid’s Isco. 

The former Sheffield United and Leeds United goalkeeper was speaking to Football Insider.

The lowdown

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo last week, Isco is facing an ‘untenable situation’ at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Real Madrid are keen to sell him in January in order to prevent him walking away for nothing when he reaches the end of his contract come June.

And so it’s down to the player to decide whether he’ll leave mid-season, with Everton one of his ‘more likely’ destinations.

Isco was limited to just eight La Liga starts last season in Zinedine Zidane’s final season at the helm, and new boss Carlo Ancelotti has only picked him for two of the first eight top-flight fixtures (via WhoScored).

The 29-year-old, who’s valued at £16.2million by Transfermarkt, has made 342 appearances for Los Blancos, scored 52 goals and provided 56 assists.

The latest

Kenny was effusive in his praise of Isco despite his struggles for gametime in the Spanish capital.

He thinks the player’s previous experience of working with Rafael Benitez could give Everton an ‘edge’ if there proves to be a battle for his signature.

“I think if this one comes off, it would be an unbelievable deal,” he said.

“You don’t play all those games for Real Madrid over the last ten years without being an absolute superstar.

“He is a talented player, someone I’ve always looked up to as a fantastic midfielder. What a player.

“If there is an opportunity to sign him, he’s someone the fans would like to see play for them.

“Benitez managed him when he was at Real Madrid too, which could give them a bit of an edge.”

The verdict

The parallels with the James Rodriguez are hard to ignore.

James was also 29 when he swapped Madrid for Merseyside, having fallen down the pecking order.

The Colombian did show his quality on the pitch, but his wages soon become a real problem for Everton.

Isco’s £225,000 pay packet should force the Toffees to think twice, especially when they compare his extensive injury history to that of Rodriguez.

In other news, Greg O’Keeffe offers his insight on reported Donny van de Beek interest.

Rangers will face Premier League outfit Tottenham Hotspur in a pre-season friendly at Ibrox this summer.

The lowdown

Rangers will likely be preparing for Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s first full season at the helm. In addition to drawing up transfers, they’ll also have to arrange friendlies to help the squad build fitness for competitive fixtures.

If Rangers finish second in the Scottish Premiership and fail to win the Europa League, then they’re likely to enter the second round of Champions League qualifiers, scheduled for the second half of July.

Meanwhile, the start of the SPFL season is pencilled in for the weekend of 30/31 July.

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The latest

Football London’s Alasdair Gold writes that Rangers held talks with Spurs this week over a potential summer meeting at Ibrox.

The Lilywhites are due to jet off to South Korea for two matches, and wanted to line up a game in Glasgow on their return.

And those efforts have been a success, with the ‘excited’ Spurs officially confirming the fixture for Saturday July 23.

The verdict: Exciting indeed

This can only be good news. Rangers’ players get the chance to test themselves against elite opposition, and the added intensity should be of benefit to Van Bronckhorst’s side.

Last summer, when they faced Spurs’ North London rivals Arsenal, they could only welcome 2,000 spectators amid coronavirus restrictions, but this year, there’s no reason why they can’t get close to a full house and generate considerable funds too.

And the club hierarchy will be looking for alternative revenue sources this pre-season after backing out a friendly against Celtic in Australia following a backlash from fans.

In other news, read this journalist’s concerning Alfredo Morelos claim. 

According to reports by Voetbal24 (via SportWitness), West Ham are a ‘serious candidate’ for Club Brugge star Hans Vanaken, who is expected to make a Premier League move if he wins the Belgian Golden Shoe.

The Lowdown: Vanaken having a fantastic season

Attacking-midfielder Vanaken signed for Brugge in 2015, having already spent five seasons playing in Belgium – first at Lommel United, then at KSC Lokeren.

The Belgium international is currently having a fantastic campaign in the Jupiler Pro League, having scored five goals and producing two assists.

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He has also performed on the European stage, scoring three times and assisting once in six Champions League games this season – drawing international attention.

The Latest: Vanaken linked with the Hammers

The Hammers have long been linked with the midfielder, having previously been rejected by the player following a £15 million bid. Vanaken cited that if he were to move to the Premier League, he would want only want to do so to win trophies.

However, according to a report by Voetbal24 (via SportWitness), if Vanaken is able to bring home the Belgian Golden Shoe, it is expected that he will move to the Premier League, with West Ham now once again considered a serious candidate.

This arises after a previous report Voetbal24 (via SportWitness) claimed that the move was no longer out of the question despite the previous rejection.

The Verdict: A fine addition for David Moyes

The attacking-midfielder could prove to be a fantastic addition to David Moyes’ side, who have struggled for goals recently, with Michail Antonio failing to score in his last seven Premier League games.

Former teammate Onur Kaya has said that Vanaken has the technique of a much smaller player – he is 6 foot 5 – and believes that his friend ‘has his place at 16 of the 20 Premier League clubs’.

Current teammate and former Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has even claimed that Vanaken is a better finisher ‘than Roberto Firmino’ and that he is of a ‘comparable level to Mo [Salah]’.

It seems that the Belgian beast could be the perfect fit for West Ham as an alternative goalscoring option playing off Antonio, so fans will surely hope to see this deal cross the line.

Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard posted a picture in West Ham colours on his Instagram story recently.

A number of Red Devils fans have hit out at the 29-year-old as a result, with the player wanted back at the London Stadium in a possible January switch.

Lingard is yet to feature under Ralf Rangnick in the Premier League and has made just two starts all season. The Englishman is out of contract at the end of the campaign, meaning that he could technically pen pre-contract terms now with a club outside of England ahead of a free transfer in the summer.

However, the Hammers are still interested in Lingard, who relayed a Premier League post on his Instagram story alongside Declan Rice, Pablo Fornals and Tomas Soucek from when he was on loan with the east London club last season.

United fans react

The United Stand shared the screenshot of Lingard’s social media post on Twitter. Here is what these United supporters had to say in reply, with many not pleased and one describing it as ‘disrespectful’ to his current club.

Indeed, it is not the first time that the 29-year-old has enraged some of the Old Trafford fan base over his social media antics, and given his inactivity this season, some supporters feel that it is time for him to be moved on.

“Genuinely can’t believe we didn’t sell Lingard in the summer. Sell him in January. Try and get something for him.”

Credit: @Daniaal_7

“He’s becoming disrespectful”

Credit: @YourstrulyKemar

“get this man out of the club”

Credit: @lwsn___

“He should be banned from kicking ball at my club for life”

Credit: @Dope_Sbu

“Let him go, we don’t need him, we don’t play him, get him off the books”

Credit: @Acro_ManUtd

“I really hope he leave this club”

Credit: @AidanUTD7

In other news: ‘Pathetic’ – Many Man Utd fans fume over ’embarrassing’ behind-the-scenes revelation

Arsenal are one of the teams interested in Jonathan David, according to Fabrizio Romano…

What’s the word?

The Italian transfer expert delivered the exciting claim to Twitter earlier this week as the Gunners’ search for a new striker rumbles on, though it’s a move that may have to wait until the summer window.

“Jonathan David will be one of the big names on the market… in the summer. He’s not leaving Lille in January, the plan is to complete the season in Ligue 1.

“Arsenal have been mentioned among clubs interested in him – but there’s nothing advanced yet. Open and long race,” he said.

David is currently valued at £45m, as per Transfermarkt.

Vlahovic alternative

Thus far, the north London giants have been left frustrated in their pursuit to find a new talisman for manager Mikel Arteta – a need that is only going to get desperate the closer we get to next season.

That’s because Alexandre Lacazette is still out of contract end the end of the current campaign, whilst the future of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is by no means certain, having been stripped of the captaincy for behind-the-scenes disciplinary reasons.

Fiorentina forward Dusan Vlahovic has emerged as a key target for the club but they are yet to make any advances despite being linked with a £150m package for him this month.

It’s been reported that he isn’t keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium and that he could well also remain in Italy until the summer, at the earliest.

David could therefore be an intriguing and perhaps perfect alternative as he’s not going to cost as much as the Serbian and he too has been in electric form this term.

As per Transfermarkt, the Canada international has found the net 16 times from only 28 appearances, averaging one goal every 134 minutes, which is very impressive indeed.

He is finally living up to him €30m (£26m) price tag from Club Brugge, where his former boss Hein Vanhaezebrouck once dubbed him “a phenomenon” and “the best player in the country.”

Last season, he bagged 13 goals on their way to the Ligue 1 title, so the 5 foot 11 marksman has been a very important player for Les Dogues.

Strong with both feed and pace to burn, David could easily fit in with Arteta’s system as he seems the ideal mix between both Aubameyang and Lacazette.

Therefore, it would make sense for Edu Gaspar and the Gunners’ recruitment team to turn to the Lille beast in the coming weeks, if not months as the need for a new striker is paramount ahead of next season.

Arteta would surely love David at Arsenal.

AND in other news, Arsenal dealt huge transfer setback… 

West Ham United look destined to sign Maxi Gomez this month one way or another but, with Celta Vigo struggling at the foot of La Liga, the conclusion of the mooted deal is far from straightforward. 

Reports in recent days have depicted Gomez to West Ham as something of a formality, but with less than 48 hours remaining until the deadline passes time is running out for the Hammers to reach an agreement.

Gomez reportedly has a £43.5 million release clause in his contract, but the fact Celta want West Ham to loan him back to the club after completing a deal is complicating matters, according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.

Indeed, while speaking on Sky Sports’ Transfer Talk podcast, Sheth claimed that one of his sources close to the deal revealed that West Ham are looking to secure a transfer for a fee below the £43.5 million release clause because they will not be benefiting from his presence until the summer. Crucially, though, Celta are reluctant to accept a reduced fee.

“The information I was getting for someone who was close to the deal was saying that there were 2 different prices: one if they bought him in January and they’d want the full release clause, but if West Ham waited and bought him in the summer then there would be a reduction in the price.

“But what Celta are trying to do is a combination of both, they’re saying we’re selling to you in January so give us the full release clause but what we want is him to be loaned back.

“The discussions that are happening now, I’m led to believe, is that West Ham want a reduction in what they’re paying because they’re effectively not getting him until the summer but they’re securing his services now.”

Murmurs emerging from the media suggest that Manuel Pellegrini is more than willing to allow Gomez to stay in Spain until the end of the season, with Marko Arnautovic’s peculiar contract extension also lending reason to believe that the Austrian hitman has agreed to stay until the La Liga goal-machine moves to east London.

That Celta are playing hardball on the figure is far from surprising considering the circumstances; they hold all the cards given Gomez’s obvious attraction and the tentative situation regarding Arnuatovic’s future.

But, with time still remaining in the window, the powers that be at West Ham will be hoping to knock a few million pounds off the eventual figure to ensure something of a straight footballing and financial swap in the summer when Arnautovic renew his effort to leave the club.

It’s a complicated time for West Ham in the transfer market but, even with Celta’s tough stance on Gomez in mind, it seems Pellegrini is in a strong position to secure a massive signing for the club – whether it be for £43.5 million or slightly less.

West Ham fans – thoughts? Let us know below!

Fabrizio Romano has revealed the latest on Newcastle United’s search for a new manager, including the latest on Paulo Fonseca.

What’s the story?

Having finally come to terms with the removal of Steve Bruce, the Magpies can now firmly turn their attentions towards hiring a new boss, and Romano has indicated that the race is still very much open at the moment.

Writing on Twitter on Wednesday lunch-time, he initially said: “Paulo Fonseca and Lucien Favre are still among ‘options’ on Newcastle list for manager role. No talks with Antonio Conte as things stand now. Fonseca, open to discuss. #NUFC Talks opened few days ago with Fonseca, Favre is waiting too. Nothing agreed yet. Race still open.”

Then, on early Thursday morning, he added: “Newcastle decision on new manager will take some days. Paulo Fonseca would be open to accept and excited for this opportunity after Spurs job chance collapsed at final stages last summer – but Newcastle are in talks with many candidates. #NUFC Race still open for Magpies job.”

A new era at Newcastle United

Perhaps the most exciting thing for Newcastle United fans – aside from the obvious of Bruce being out – is the sheer calibre of managers being linked with the top job at St James’ Park.

Both Fonseca and Lucien Favre have won big trophies at their previous clubs, while Antonio Conte is arguably the biggest of the lot.

He led Inter to the Serie A title last season, and has already of course won the Premier League and FA Cup in his previous stint as manager at Chelsea. His experience of the English game could also be a major drawing point for PIF.

While Amanda Staveley and co will be looking for a rebuild, targeting proven European managers with considerable experience managing in the top leagues and competing in the Champions League too, is something that will surely delight Magpies supporters.

Meanwhile, Craig Hope has delivered his own Newcastle United manager update…

Speaking on live TV, Sky Sports have shared a transfer update out of Tottenham Hotspur involving Manchester United attacker Jesse Lingard.

The Lowdown: Spurs eye playmaker…

Tottenham have arguably failed to replace former fan favourite Christian Eriksen since he joined Inter Milan in 2020, leading to links with names who could finally fill that void.

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Juventus man Dejan Kulusevski, who can operate as an advanced playmaker, is thought to be held in high esteem by both manager Antonio Conte and sporting director Fabio Paratici.

Lingard has also been mentioned before amid his precarious contract situation at United with Sky now making an exciting claim on live TV.

The Latest: Sky make Lingard to Spurs claim…

As per the reliable broadcast giant, Tottenham have made contact with the 29-year-old’s entourage over a potential move.

“This will get Tottenham fans excited, they’ve been screaming for a creative midfielder, someone to replace Christian Eriksen, someone who can score goals, set up goals, and be really dynamic,” as said on Sky.

“Tottenham fans will like this one, potentially, Jesse Lingard is on their radar.

“Tottenham are keen to sign Lingard and they have approached his representatives over the course of this window, potentially with a view to a move in January, possibly, maybe more likely, the summer.”

The Verdict: Get it done?

Scoring nine goals and assisting four others over a very productive West Ham loan spell last year, it’s clear to see Lingard has the talent to turn it on when given the opportunity.

As well as this, Lingard could leave for as little as £15 million this month according to some reports, arguably a bargain given his quality and the fact he would also be a part of Tottenham’s homegrown quota.

On a reported £100,000-per-week, his salary is very affordable with a potential swoop for Lingard looking like a seemingly realistic transfer.

We are surprised he hasn’t actually been more heavily linked with Spurs sooner.

In other news: Spurs agree £33.4m option for ‘sensational player’ after loan spell with EPL rivals, find out more here.

Leeds United will ‘definitely’ target a new striker this summer to provide cover and competition for Patrick Bamford.

That’s according to transfer insider Dean Jones, who was speaking to This Is Futbol.

The lowdown

Bamford enjoyed a fine 2020/21 season upon Leeds’ return to the Premier League, scoring 17 goals, providing eight assists and – crucially – featuring in every single game (via Transfermarkt). However, this season he has been ravaged by injury, limiting him to just seven starts out of a possible 32 in the top flight.

An ankle injury kept Bamford out from the end of September until the start of December, and he then suffered a hamstring problem upon his return against Brentford. Having returned to the fold in March, he was forced off in the win away to Wolves and has missed the team’s subsequent two games (via Transfermarkt).

Amidst these woes, Leeds have often turned to summer signing Dan James – who is predominantly a winger – to lead the line, and the Welshman has only scored four goals.

The latest

Jones has said that Leeds believe they need a more effective centre-forward ‘backup’ for Bamford and have made it a priority ahead of the summer transfer window.

He told This Is Futbol: “Leeds are definitely going to look to sign a new striker. I think irrelevant of whether Bamford is fit or not. We’ve seen that you have to have backup for him.”

The verdict

Bamford’s availability was excellent in 2020/21 but his injury nightmare this season has exposed a hole in Leeds’ squad, so who could they potentially sign to strengthen their centre-forward ranks?

According to a recent report from TEAMtalk, the Whites have entered the race to sign Ben Brereton Diaz from Blackburn Rovers. The £9m-rated Chile international has been prolific for the Lancashire club in the Championship, bagging 20 goals in 34 appearances so far this season.

In addition to his goalscoring, the 22-year-old offers an ‘extraordinary’ work rate, according to his manager Tony Mowbray, so he could potentially be a favourite at Elland Road if he were to join Leeds and carry across that industrious trait.

In other news, Phil Hay has shared an update on this injured Leeds midfielder

A worrying report has emerged this week as West Ham struggle to find that elusive new striker addition…

What’s the word?

According to Daily Mail journalist Matt Hughes, the Irons have held talks with as many as seven different strikers last summer without completing a single deal in a bid to find a direct replacement for Sebastien Haller, who left in January 2020.

It’s thought that forwards at other clubs are reluctant to move to the London Stadium due to the form of Hammers talisman Michail Antonio. The 31-year-old’s prolific performances have effectively made him undroppable and that means David Moyes cannot find the right man to provide backup.

The Scotsman believes he is in need of a new striker to bolster their chances of Champions League qualification, with his side sat third in the Premier League standings, having also advanced into the knockout stages of the Europa League.

Recipe for disaster

This stunning development is sure to leave much of the West Ham faithful absolutely worried heading into 2022.

The east Londoners cannot afford to rely solely on Antonio for the remainder of the season as one injury could seriously curtail their progression as a club.

It’s no secret that the former Nottingham Forest star has fought with his fair share of niggles, knocks and injuries since arriving from the City Ground in 2015. In fact, he has not started more than 24 league games in any of the last four Premier League seasons, that’s 14 games missed per campaign.

The prospect of playing 14 games, for example, without a solid backup is certainly troubling.

Antonio has already missed one league outing this campaign but that was through suspension and Moyes arguably lacked his explosive work rate and goalscoring nature as they were defeated 2-1 by Jesse Lingard’s Manchester United.

If this problem rumbles on past the January transfer window, it’ll be two years with just the one 31-year-old striker and that would be inexcusable from the club’s recruitment team.

However, as evident above, it’s not entirely their problem and it could be rather tricky to find a viable solution, perhaps leaving Moyes with the need to utilise the club’s academy system instead but that’s just as big a risk if they aren’t ready for the massive step up into the men’s game.

This latest report has to be cause for concern for the London Stadium crowd.

AND in other news, West Ham could sign new Jermain Defoe in “prolific” £10.8m-rated goal machine…