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It’s unlikely that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will shed many tears over being dumped out of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

The Gunners were defeated 3-1 by Brighton in what was a laboured display by a team who currently sit at the top of the Premier League.

It’s not a competition that Arsenal will have held high in their list of priorities at the beginning of the campaign but there should be cause for concern after such a loss.

Indeed, it demonstrated again that their squad depth beyond their regular set of starters leaves a lot to be desired.

The north Londoners finished top of their Europa League group but it wasn’t without a scare, as Arteta’s men dropped three points against PSV Eindhoven.

On that night, the likes of Rob Holding, Fabio Vieira and Albert Sambi-Lokonga found life difficult.

That has been the story of the season so far, particularly for Lokonga, but Vieira’s lack of form is now also becoming a worrying trend.

The Portuguese playmaker was signed from Porto in the summer and looked an underrated addition to the squad.

A fizzing goal against Brentford showed the immense quality in his locker but unfortunately, that’s as good as it’s got for the 22-year-old since arriving in England.

His performance against the Seagulls in midweek was again poor, with the Gunners succumbing to goals from Kaoru Mitoma, Tariq Lamptey and former Gunner Danny Welbeck who scored from the spot after debutant goalkeeper Karl Hein gave away a penalty.

The Estonian stopper, who became the first player from that nation to play for the club since Mart Poom in May 2007, was given a golden opportunity to prove himself but failed to take advantage.

Vieira, however, was equally as bad with the dynamic midfielder now making it nine successive matches without a goal contribution.

The youngster is still learning his trade and adjusting to English football so an element of patience must be applied to his displays.

That said, he needs to up his levels if he is to make an impression after the World Cup.

Vieira’s display was best typified by Goal’s Charles Watts who notably said he was having an “absolute howler” in the first half, with the attacking midfielder struggling to make an impression during his 72 minutes on the pitch.

Indeed, he lost the ball every 4.7 touches while just about seeing the ball more than the aforementioned Hein. Arsenal’s stopper took 40 touches and played 22 accurate passes to Vieira’s 43 and 27.

Considering he is meant to be the heartbeat of the team in his central role, it was a truly uninspiring set of numbers.

Furthermore, he made just one key pass and failed to accurately find a man with any of his three crosses. He made no notable defensive contributions, participating in just seven ground duels throughout the contest.

This was a night for Vieira to really prove himself to the manager but he spurned his opportunity and let his team down.

Manchester United are looking ahead to the future as Erik ten Hag eyes up a swoop for a Premier League goalkeeper…

What’s the news?

According to TEAMtalk transfer expert Graeme Bailey, the Dutchman is interested in signing Brighton and Hove Albion goalkeeper Robert Sanchez as a replacement for David De Gea.

“Robert Sanchez has proven himself as one of the best keepers in the Premier League over the last 12 months. He’s one of those who has pushed David De Gea out of Spanish contention,” said Bailey on the shot-stopper. “Brighton will demand a big price, little doubt,” he then added.

De Gea’s contract expires at the end of the current season and would likely have to take a wage cut to extend his deal.

Ten Hag can boldly ditch De Gea

There is no doubt the Spaniard has been a club stalwart for United, joining back in the summer of 2011, however his form recently suggests that a change may be required between the sticks for the Old Trafford side.

Last season, the 32-year-old kept just ten clean sheets in 46 matches, conceding a staggering 66 goals in all competitions as the Red Devils struggled yet again.

In contrast, Sanchez kept 11 clean sheets, conceding 45 goals, all while playing just one match fewer than his compatriot.

The 25-year-old has continued his fine form from last term into the current season, conceding 19 goals (one fewer than De Gea) while also having a higher save percentage (68.8% to 66.7%).

Former Brighton manager Graham Potter lavished praise on Sanchez following an impressive performance against Burnley in 2021, saying:

“He is a monster in terms of his physicality.

“He’s not just big but he is powerful, he is fast.

“In terms of attributes as a goalkeeper, he has got everything to be a top goalkeeper.” Going by his recent displays and the fact he has been called up to the Spanish World Cup squad, Potter’s assessment appears to be spot on.

Brighton will demand a big fee for one of their star talents, however, with Ten Hag looking to put his own stamp on this United side, he may well splash the cash on the talented Spaniard and boldly ditch De Gea in the process.

West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice will leave the east London club next summer, according to journalist Matt Law. 

The Lowdown: Rice linked with West Ham exit

The England international has been linked with a move away from the London Stadium in the past, with a report last April claiming that he had turned down a third offer from West Ham to sign a new deal and is instead looking to leave the club.

At the moment, the 23-year-old is focused on international duties as he has played every minute of action for England in the World Cup ahead of tonight’s concluding group match against Wales.

However, it appears as though some behind-the-scenes details have emerged regarding what the future could hold for the £60k-per-week Hammers star.

The Latest: Rice to leave West Ham in 2023?

Speaking on a recent episode of the London Is Blue podcast (via TEAMtalk), Matt Law made an emphatic claim about Rice’s medium-term future.

He said: “Rice, he will definitely, definitely leave West Ham at the end of this season. I’m 100% confident on that. West Ham are preparing to sell Declan Rice. I think it’ll be about £70m.”

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The Verdict: Disappointment for West Ham

As the only West Ham player to feature for every minute of Premier League action this season, it’s safe to say that the midfielder – who has been labelled an “unbelievable talent” in the past by 90min journalist Toby Cudworth – is a crucial member of David Moyes’ squad.

With more progressive passes (61) made than any other Irons player, along with the second-highest combined total of tackles and interceptions (60) at the club, it’s clear to see what Rice gives to the team and what they could be losing if they do sell him next summer.

Taking all that into account, it would definitely be disappointing for West Ham to see their midfield star leaving the club in 2023.

However, if they do cash in on him for the price that Law mentioned, they would need to use that money to bring in someone who could be a suitable replacement for him and what he offers on the pitch.

Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur will be assessed by Uruguay’s medical team following an injury scare in Friday’s win over Ghana in the World Cup.

The Lowdown: Group stage elimination

The 25-year-old started every World Cup game for his country in Qatar, but despite a 2-0 win over Ghana in their final group game, Uruguay were eliminated on goals scored.

It meant heartbreak for Bentancur but joy for his Spurs team-mate Son Heung min, who produced a brilliant late assist to help South Korea qualify alongside Portugal.

The Latest: Bentancur injury scare

Bentancur only played 34 minutes on Friday and was substituted after feeling discomfort in the first half.

The midfielder was visibly upset when leaving the pitch, and Sport Witness relayed an update from Uruguayan outlet El Pais on his condition. They claimed that Uruguay’s medical team are set to assess Bentancur, with an official report in the ‘next few hours’.

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The Verdict: Fingers crossed

Bentancur has been a key member of Antonio Conte’s squad this season, starting 19 games in all competitions.

He has been the club’s second-best performer in the Premier League behind Harry Kane, as per WhoScored, highlighting his importance in Tottenham’s midfield.

Therefore, with club action set to return later this month, everyone associated with Spurs will be hoping for a positive update on the Uruguayan’s condition; and by the looks of it, they’ll know sooner rather than later.

Tottenham Hotspur could land an exciting talent in mooted transfer target Andreas Skov Olsen, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

In recent weeks, the north London outfit have been linked with a move for the 22-year-old dynamo, with Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad revealing that Spurs had sent scouts to watch him at the ongoing World Cup in Qatar.

He, and his national side Denmark, struggled to make much of an impression, leading to Danish tabloid B.T. to slam his performance in their final group stage defeat to Australia. They questioned his ability on the world’s biggest stage after failing to inspire much in the final third.

However, despite this disappointing display, O’Rourke believes that Spurs could still do little wrong in swooping for the Club Brugge sensation.

“He’s a very talented player, Skov Olsen,” he told Football FanCast.

“He’s playing in Belgium with Club Brugge at the minute and helped them win the title last year, and now also helped them qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League, which is an incredible feat for the Belgian club.

“Very highly regarded in Denmark. We obviously didn’t see the best of him at this World Cup where he got a few chances but obviously, Denmark weren’t able to qualify.”

Whilst his exploits for De Rød-Hvide won’t have left Lilywhites scouts too impressed, there is no denying at just 22, Skov Olsen is a talent for the future.

Such publications are quick to forget his involvement at Euro 2020, where Denmark reached the semi-finals of the competition. His ability and quality even led Danish legend Brian Laudrup to laud him as a “crowd-pleaser” and a “real creative force.”

That’s exactly what Spurs have been missing in the final third in recent seasons.

The £18m-rated attacker has been in electric form domestically this campaign, having registered eight goals and four assists across 21 appearances, including contributions against Bayer Leverkusen and FC Porto in the Champions League, as per Transfermarkt.

Skov Olsen is clearly capable of impacting a game at the front end of the pitch, so it would be foolish to write off his ability based on one mid-season international tournament, in which bigger stars such as Christian Eriksen and Joakim Maele underwhelmed.

O’Rourke is right in his appraisal of the 22-year-old gem and as such, sporting director Fabio Paratici must continue to monitor him heading into the January transfer window.

Liverpool have learned the price tag for midfield transfer target Sofyan Amrabat. 

The Lowdown: Liverpool linked with Amrabat

Earlier this month, it was reported by Footmercato that Amrabat’s entourage had met with Jurgen Klopp, who is keen on adding the Fiorentina midfielder to his squad.

It was also claimed that the meeting between the two parties was positive and that they plan to meet again after the World Cup.

With Morocco set to take on France in the semi-final of the tournament in Qatar on Wednesday, some behind-the-scenes details have emerged regarding Fiorentina’s stance on their midfield star.

The Latest: Liverpool learn Amrabat price tag

According to a recent report from Relevo, Fiorentina value Amrabat at €40m (£34m), following his impressive efforts in Qatar with Morocco.

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The report also name-checks that Liverpool and fellow Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the midfielder.

The Verdict: A smart signing for Liverpool

Having played more minutes in the World Cup than any other Morocco player in this tournament, this shows how important he is for the team and how much of a role he has played in seeing them reach the semi-finals.

His performances in Qatar have been the subject of heavy praise, with Richard Chambers hailing the midfielder as “outstanding” and Josh Bunting describing him as “excellent” on Twitter.

At club level, with 13 Serie A appearances to his name this season, the 26-year-old has racked up the second-highest passing accuracy percentage (90%) at Fiorentina, as well as making more progressive passes (64) than any other player at the club.

In addition to that, Amrabat also has the second-highest number of interceptions (11) and third highest number of blocks (11) under his belt at his current side, showcasing how useful he is out of possession as well as on the ball.

Taking all of this into account, and the fact that Liverpool have a significant number of central-midfielders in their squad in and around the age of 30, securing a deal for Amrabat could be a smart move for the Reds.

Leeds United have shown an interest in Manchester United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, according to 90min.

The Lowdown: Four minutes all season

Previously called a ‘monster’ by members of the media, the defender has been out of favour at Old Trafford this season under Erik ten Hag.

The 25-year-old has made just one substitute appearance in all competitions, featuring in only four minutes of action.

He seems to be hugely out of favour heading into 2023, and it seems as if an exit from Manchester could be on the cards.

The Latest: Leeds interest in Wan-Bissaka

90min provided an update regarding Wan-Bissaka, claiming that Wolves have made a move for the right-back and are leading the chase for him.

Their report adds that ‘Leeds have also shown interest’ in the defender, with the Red Devils open to letting him leave on loan with a view to a permanent deal.

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The Verdict: Not needed

Leeds are currently well-stocked at right-back, with Rasmus Kristensen, Luke Ayling and Cody Drameh all available to Jesse Marsch.

Even though there have been question marks over Drameh’s future, the Whites need to be looking at their left-back ranks, with centre-back Pascal Struijk filling in on the flank for the injured Junior Firpo.

Struijk has been the club’s best-performing player this term according to WhoScored, but you’d expect that his long-term future is viewed at centre-back, so Victor Orta and Andrea Radrizzani could do with sorting out a new left-back instead of pursuing a move for Wan-Bissaka.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for Sofyan Ambrabat recently and now a reliable source has given an update on the player’s future ahead of the January transfer window.

What’s the latest?

According to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, the Fiorentina and Morocco World Cup hero has put himself “in the shop window” after his performances on the international stage.

Sheth told GIVEMESPORT: “All of the noises he’s making are that he’s happy at Fiorentina, he’s happy with the owner, he’s happy with the staff, he’s happy with the coach and he’s happy with everything there at the minute.”

“Fiorentina, as you’d expect, are very happy with him. But he has put himself in the shop window and those performances in the World Cup were absolutely fantastic.”

Thiago heir

It is no secret that Liverpool are plotting a midfield rebuild at Anfield – with several players linked to moves to the club in 2023.

Both Jude Bellingham and Enzo Fernandez have been reportedly targeted by the Merseysiders with reports suggesting that the Premier League giants lead the race for the talented duo.

Indeed, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner will be out of contract – as it stands – at the end of the season, so it makes perfect sense for the club to be assessing their options in the centre of the pitch.

However, many members of the successful squad are coming to the latter stages of their careers with Thiago Alcantara, in particular, well into his 30s and will ultimately be out of contract in 2024.

As a result, Jurgen Klopp could land his very own Thiago heir with the signing of Amrabat in the January transfer window, as the £44m-valued midfielder could add depth to the deep-lying roles in the heart of the team.

The Moroccan gem – who was hailed as being a “different class” by journalist Lorenz Kohler – took the World Cup by storm this winter in Qatar, playing an integral part in his national team’s record-breaking progression to the semi-finals of the prestigious tournament.

Over seven World Cup appearances, Amrabat tallied up a 92% pass completion rate in his own half, as well as averaging 2.3 tackles per game, 1.4 clearances and 3.4 duels won per game.

All of that eventually saw him named in Football FanCast’s Team of the Tournament, voted for by readers on Twitter.

Not only that, when you compare the 26-year-old’s season so far in the Serie A to Thiago’s season for Liverpool, the pair share many similarities.

Amrabat came close to his positional peer in many attributes including pass completion rate (90% v 86.6%), shot-creating actions (19 v 19), tackles and interceptions won (26 v 32) and aerial duels won (40% v 43.5%).

With that being said, the signing of Amrabat could be a great piece of business for sporting director Julian Ward as bolstering the midfield with quality depth should be an immediate priority in the new year.

West Bromwich Albion have been linked with Hertha Berlin striker Davie Selke in recent months and the German forward could prove to be Carlos Corberan’s own version of Wolves star Raul Jimenez.

According to German publication BILD, the former Werder Bremen forward is keen to force a transfer through in January, with the report naming the Baggies as one of the interested sides in the six-foot-five forward. 

The 27-year-old has been limited to just three starts in the Bundesliga so far this campaign and clearly feels ready for a new challenge, and he could be a stellar addition at the Hawthorns as West Brom look to continue their recent resurgence under Corberan.

The Baggies have now won their last six Championship games in a row to completely distance themselves from the relegation fears that were present under Steve Bruce, with a play-off charge now seemingly on the cards.

However, much of the recent success has come down to West Brom’s strength in defence and keeping clean sheets, as Brandon Thomas-Asante’s goal against Bristol City on Boxing Day now means he is their top scorer in the second tier with just five goals to his name.

This suggests that the Baggies are lacking quality in the final third and Selke could certainly offer a different option in attack, as he has hit double figures in the German top-flight in the past, with the official Bundesliga Twitter account labelling him a “strike sensation” back in 2015.

While Selke hasn’t really lived up to the potential he showed when he was first with Werder Bremen, his physical attributes suggest that he could be a big threat in the Championship.

According to FBref, the sixth-most similar striker to Selke when compared to other forwards from Europe’s top leagues is Wolves frontman, Raul Jimenez.

The two strikers have registered very similar numbers this season with regard to non-penalty expected goals and assists (1.3 vs 1.2), progressive passes received (18 vs 15) and touches in the attacking penalty area (12 vs 16).

Considering Jimenez was once regarded as a “world-class” forward for the Old Gold and boasts 40 Premier League goals, West Brom would surely be foolish to turn down someone so similar.

While both have struggled for regular game time this season, Selke’s return of 2.55 shot-creating actions and 0.96 goal-creating actions per 90 suggests how much of a threat he can be when he is on the pitch.

Therefore, the Baggies should definitely try and bring the German forward to the Hawthorns in next month’s transfer window.

Southampton players and Nathan Jones are reportedly in conflict over a planned change of formation.

The Lowdown: Bad start

Jones got off to a bad start in his first Premier League game in charge at St. Mary’s Stadium, losing 3-1 to Brighton and Hove Albion on Boxing Day.

The result has left them bottom of the top-flight table, and Jones has a huge job on his hands to keep them up come the end of the season.

The Latest: Formation conflict

As per Football Insider, Jones is ‘at odds’ with senior Saints stars over a planned change of formation.

He wants the team to change to a new system with three central defenders, but the squad is resisting the tactical switch-up and have made it clear they want to stick to an orthodox back four.

Southampton set up in a 4-2-3-1 for what was Jones’ second game in charge, following a six-week gap from his first, a 3-1 loss at Liverpool.

Previous manager Ralph Hasenhuttl started this campaign using a 3-5-2 system after working on it during pre-season matches, but he scrapped the three-man defence just two league matches in, and got the sack in November.

The Verdict: Worth a go again?

The Saints have clearly been struggling to get results playing their four-back system, so it is worth a change again to try and change their fortunes around.

They face Fulham, Nottingham Forest, Everton, Aston Villa, and Brentford in their next five fixtures in the Premier League, which gives them a great opportunity of getting enough points on the board to drag them out of the relegation zone.

Jones needs to make his own stamp on the side after being appointed, and the January transfer window provides an opportunity for him to get his own players in that would suit his new proposed system.