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[ad_pod ]Leicester City defender Harry Maguire is set to be fit to face Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday evening, after making a full recovery from a knock sustained in the dramatic 4-3 loss to Wolves in the Foxes’ last Premier League outing, as reported by the club’s official Twitter account.

Whilst that may seem like good news for Claude Puel and Leicester, it could also be a blessing in disguise for the Reds.

Why could it be a good thing?

Whilst the England international is undoubtedly the Foxes’ best defender, his few weaknesses could be exploited to the maximum against Jurgen Klopp’s side. The 25-year-old is a commanding, physically imposing presence who is surprisingly very good on the ball, although his lack of pace and noticeable immobility could and should be taken advantage of at Anfield.

Those of you who remember this same fixture on Merseyside from last season should recall the joy Mohamed Salah had against the former Hull City man, in which he turned Maguire and made him look foolish before slotting into the back of the net.

Be sure to check out the incredible story of the man who rose from a Tanzanian refugee camp to become one of Australia’s biggest football stars in the video below…

Could the same happen again?

Maguire has since embarked on a memorable World Cup campaign with the Three Lions, becoming a household name in the process as he won admirers from all over the country, although he may not be the same player against the Reds on Wednesday evening.

Leicester are in a bit of a rut and have lost four of their last five games, and after being cut apart by Wolves like a hot knife through butter on more than one occasion last time out, the game against a Liverpool side who are top of the league could expose Maguire in noticeable fashion.

Salah is one of the quickest players in the league, and his new role as a central striker will see him come up directly against Maguire – if you were to ask me who I think would win the battle, I’d say the Egyptian could have a very fun evening against the team from the east Midlands.

Tottenham are interested in a deal to bring Lautaro Martinez to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the summer transfer window.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by Italian publication Tuttosport (via Sport Witness), who claimed that, after failing with a move for the Inter Milan centre-forward last summer, Fabio Paratici could once again launch an offensive for the 24-year-old at the end of the current campaign.

The report added that the Argentina international could view Spurs as the ideal destination if he were to secure a move away from the San Siro this summer, having enjoyed an extremely successful spell under Antonio Conte during his own time in Milan.

Finally, it is claimed that Inter may be willing to discuss a deal for the striker due to their ongoing financial difficulties, with the Serie A club’s hierarchy reportedly willing to listen to offers starting at €70m (£59m).

He’s “perfect” for Conte

Considering the quite extraordinary metrics that Martinez returned when previously working with Conte, it is not difficult to see why both Paratici and the 52-year-old coach would be interested in a move for the Inter star this summer.

Indeed, over his 38 Serie A appearances in the Nerazzurri’s Scudetto-winning 2020/21 season, the £63m-rated forward was in breathtaking form, bagging 17 goals, registering 10 assists and creating nine big chances for his team-mates, along with taking 2.9 shots and making one key pass per game.

These returns saw the €125k-per-week (£105k-per-week) sensation, who Roberto Rojas dubbed an “absolute goal machine”, average an incredibly impressive SofaScore match rating of 7.17, ranking him as Conte’s third-best player last term.

In total, the Argentine scored 40 goals and provided 19 assists in his 97 appearances under the 52-year-old, although it was not only his efforts in the final third which made him a key player for the head coach, but also his tireless work rate in a defensive capacity.

Indeed, speaking about Martinez last year, Siavoush Fallahi said of the 24-year-old: “Not many know that Lautaro Martinez was a defender back in the days. That’s why he’s so good in defence and winning the ball back. Huge resource for Inter and very appreciated by Conte for that work.”

Furthermore, it is clear that Partici is also a massive fan of the striker, with Gianluca Di Marzio stating in a recent interview with Wett Freunde: “I think Tottenham will go after Lautaro because they wanted him last summer. They want another forward to play with Kane or plan for the future without Kane. Lautaro Martinez is one of the players that Fabio Paratici loves. I think it could be Lautaro’s summer and Atletico Madrid or Tottenham could be the perfect destinations for him.”

Indeed, considering all of the above, it seems all but certain that Martinez would be something of a perfect signing to play alongside Harry Kane in the Tottenham attack, leading us to believe that Paratici simply must do all he can to get a deal over the line for the centre-forward this summer.

AND in other news: Conte can unearth his next 243-goal talent in Spurs prodigy who “runs over every blade”

Speaking to in an Anfield Watch Q&A, journalist David Lynch has made a very promising transfer claim involving Liverpool target and Fulham forward Fabio Carvalho.

The Lowdown: Liverpool reach agreement…

In the January transfer window, Liverpool were painfully close to sealing a deal for Carvalho but couldn’t complete the necessary paperwork in time to make the move official.

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Indeed, the Reds shook hands on £8 million to sign the scintillating teenager in winter but Anfield officials couldn’t finalise his documentation before the 11pm cut off.

Jurgen Klopp, however, hasn’t given up on signing Carvalho and is a big admirer – having previously stated to the press that Liverpool would be ‘crazy’ not to maintain their interest.

The Latest: Lynch makes Carvalho claim…

Speaking to AW, journalist Lynch backs that Liverpool are fully expected to complete the move this summer, saying that personal terms shouldn’t be an issue.

When asked for an update on the Carvalho situation, he said:

“Liverpool already reached an agreement to sign Carvalho in January, they just weren’t able to finalise things due to time restrictions. Both clubs were happy, however, to shake hands on the same agreed figure and simply push back to the summer in order to avoid going through a tribunal. With personal terms unlikely to be an issue (let’s be honest, those tend to get agreed in advance anyway) I expect Carvalho to become a Liverpool player at the end of this season.”

The Verdict: Promising update…

Judging by this update, it appears Carvalho is far more likely than not to be a Reds player this summer in a big boost for Klopp.

The 19-year-old has shown real signs of promise in the Championship for Fulham at such a young age, scoring seven goals and assisting six others over 27 appearances.

He’s also been called the ‘perfect fit’ and ‘perfect style of player’ for Klopp by ex-Leeds striker Noel Whelan, while members of the English press have lavished Carvalho with even more praise.

South London Press sports editor Richard Cawley branded the Portugal Under-21 international ‘absolutely unplayable’ earlier this season and news of his likely move to Liverpool could very well excite supporters.

In other news: ‘Told…’ – Big name journalist shares Salah update right out of the Liverpool ‘dressing room’, find out more here.

With moves for Philippe Coutinho and Lucas Digne this month showing that Aston Villa were keen on strengthening their first team, a subsequent move for young defender Kerr Smith showed that the club have aspirations of strengthening their youth sides as well, adding players who can hopefully grow and develop into future first-team stalwarts.

Taking this into account, it seems as though the Villans have their eye on another young player to come in this month as one for the future, which would be a source of great excitement for the fans.

What’s the news?

As per a recent Twitter post from Alan Nixon, Villa are “watching” Sunderland’s 20-year-old midfielder Dan Neil, who the journalist suggested could be the “new Gerrard” for the Midlands club.

Nixon also mentioned that fellow Premier League club Burnley are “already sniffing” around the Black Cats youngster over a potential transfer.

As a product of Sunderland’s youth academy, Neil has made 98 appearances for the Wearsiders across their youth and senior teams, with 41 of them coming in their first team, showing how highly he is rated at the Stadium on light.

In those 98 appearances, Neil has chipped in with five goals and nine assists along the way, showing his attacking capabilities from the midfield.

With only Ross Stewart having made more appearances in League One than Neil this season, this shows just how important the 20-year-old is for Lee Johnson’s side and why they could be reluctant to let him go, especially halfway through the season as they chase promotion to the Championship.

His performances in those gamees could be an indication as to why Villa are apparently looking at him. WhoScored list him as Sunderland’s joint-fifth highest rated player with an overall rating of 6.85/10, which would also put him fifth-highest among Villa’s squad when counting those to have featured in more than one Premier League game. Therefore, the Midlands club’s fan base may be buzzing to see such a capable player being linked with a move to Villa Park.

While the opportunity to join a Premier League club and potentially learn under the management of Steven Gerrard could be tempting for a young player like Neil, it seems a likelier scenario that he would be more open to leaving Sunderland at the end of the current season if they don’t manage to secure promotion from League One.

In other news: Villa could secure another transfer masterclass with £49k-p/w gem who “has everything”

As relayed by The Mirror, an interesting update has come to light involving Tottenham Hotspur target and West Brom keeper Sam Johnstone.

The Lowdown: Spurs enter pole position…

As previously reported, it seems Spurs and manager Antonio Conte are in pole position to sign the Englishman this summer, who is set to leave upon the expiry of his contract.

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Lilywhites correspondent and in-the-know Alasdair Gold recently claimed that they are indeed leading the race for Johnstone as Man United also eye a move.

Meanwhile, Football League World and The Sun have both shared that those within the club feel they’re in pole position to seal the 29-year-old’s Bosman signing for Conte.

Amid these plethora of reports, an interesting update has emerged.

The Latest: Johnstone axed…

As relayed by The Mirror, Baggies boss Steve Bruce has now axed Johnstone from his squad for their remaining fixtures of the Championship campaign.

Indeed, it appears the Three Lions ace has now played his final game at The Hawthorns as Bruce confirms that his keeper has decided to run down his deal.

The Verdict: Certain to move…

As Johnstone is set to leave on a free, we believe he could be a snip for Tottenham as they look for an understudy and possible eventual heir to number one Hugo Lloris.

Lauded as a ‘world class’ shot stopper by Wolves legend Steve Bull, the English second tier star mightily impressed in the top flight last year and comes as a more-than adequate alternative to loanee Spurs number two Pierluigi Gollini.

The latter man looks set to return to parent club Atalanta with Johnstone coming as an arguable upgrade given his quality and homegrown status.

In other news: Tottenham official dispatched as Conte identifies ’emerging superstar’ signing, find out more here.

Many Glasgow Rangers fans have been left buzzing over some news that has been shared by the club on Alfredo Morelos.

As per the official website of the Ibrox faithful, the Colombia international has now been named as the Scottish Premiership’s Player of the Month (POTM) for December.

Morelos scored four goals and made one assist in six games last month, helping his team win all of them (Transfermarkt), as they march on towards another SPFL title.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst praised the striker upon receiving the award, highlighting how ‘important’ he has been and is for the side ahead of a fresh set of fixtures.

Nonetheless, he will now be hoping to continue his fine form when the Teddy Bears play Aberdeen away from home on Tuesday, and pick up the award once again for January.

Rangers fans on Morelos news

These Light Blues buzzed as the update was shared on Twitter, with one Gers supporter even going as far as to claim that it is ‘superb’ news:

“The king”

Credit: @BenDixon50

“Brilliant well deserved”

Credit: @Mikey1872786

“Thoroughly deserved! Boys been different class”

Credit: @sayersy1872

“Yessssssssssssss Alfie”

Credit: @TheRealBigMurdy

“Things you love to see”

Credit: @_meganpeffers

“Superb”

Credit: @JamesCa62108199

In other news, find out why Morelos’ Instagram post has Gers gushing here!

West Bromwich Albion have sealed their first signing of the summer transfer window.

What’s the word?

That is according to their manager Steve Bruce, who has claimed that a deal to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Jayson Molumby is “done.”

After Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Coventry City Bruce revealed all when asked about Molumby’s future. He said: “Molumby’s done.

“Molumby was done weeks ago. The deal was kicked in weeks ago, so he’s our player now.

“He’s a young player who’s got a lot to learn still, but he wants to win; he’s got a bit of an attitude with him, which I like, so, yeah he’ll be here next year.”

Fans will be delighted

The capture of Molumby is promising for a West Brom side who will be eager to demonstrate their ambition to the Baggies faithful, with their Championship play-off hopes gone.

The 22-year-old, who was initially on loan from Brighton, has failed to assert himself as a Baggies regular this season, starting just 38% of their 44 games in the Championship.

Though he will surely start the final two games of the campaign with Alex Mowatt out for the season.

His statistics also demonstrate why supporters will be excited to see him sign on the dotted line, with the 22-year-old remaining composed in possession, completing 84.5% of his passes and producing 1.1 tackles per match.

Now that he has signed permanently, he will be looking to leave a lasting impression on Bruce who acknowledges that the Republic of Ireland international “has a lot to learn.”

The fact that Potter has allowed the youngster to leave on a permanent deal serves as a shock, as he spoke well of him in an interview with The Argus as recent as 2020: “Jayson is a good guy, he is ambitious and he wants to play which is a good quality to have and we enjoy working with him.”

After previous Championship loan spells with Millwall and Preston North End, Molumby boasts exceptional amounts of experience in the league, considering the fact that he is not even 23-years-old yet.

His experience can benefit the Baggies, whilst Molumby himself will mutually benefit through a platform that will aid his development.

Both parties will have big ambitions of playing Premier League football in the near future, and the fact that West Brom have made the deal permanent shows the potential that they see within the No.14 midfielder.

In other news: Bruce could now save WBA millions with £9m-rated “monster”, he’ll be key next season – opinion

Manchester United are keen on AS Monaco’s Aurelien Tchouameni, David Ornstein of The Athletic reports.

The Red Devils could apparently find themselves in an ‘intense’ battle with arch-rivals Liverpool for his signature. That is if Jurgen Klopp’s side ‘choose to take their interest further’ too.

Why might United want Tchouameni?

Tchouameni was named Ligue 1’s Young Player of the Year for 2020/21, beating Eduardo Camavinga, who left Stade Rennais for Real Madrid in the summer.

He leads the way in Ligue 1 for interceptions per 90 minutes with 2.7, edging Strasbourg’s Alexander Djiku (via WhoScored).

In fact, he intercepts the ball so frequently that team-mates at Monaco have come to nickname him ‘TchouaNgolo’, after Chelsea star N’Golo Kante.

Aged just 21, he’s already joined the Blues midfielder in the French senior side after Didier Deschamps handed him his debut in September.

How much would he cost?

Tchouameni is under contract for another two and a half years at the Stade Louis II.

Transfermarkt value him at £36million, though perhaps Monaco will hope to drum up a bidding war between United and Liverpool.

Fan feed Utd Report relayed Ornstein’s claim, and here’s how supporters reacted.

United fans flock to Tchouameni link

“These are the things I want to hear”

Credit: @slik_noni

“Yessssss, keep it real”

Credit: @ducanhle12991

“Please sign him @ManUtd”

Credit: @day_vinny

“Brilliant player”

Credit: @ClarksonGombani

“Would be a great first signing for Richard Arnold”

Credit: @UtdPatrick_

“We’re actually going for him?”

Credit: @mufcaware

In other news, fans flocked to this talkSPORT claim.

Crystal Palace were narrowly defeated 2-1 by a strong Leicester City side at the King Power Stadium in the Premier League today. Patrick Vieira’s side failed to repeat their great performance against Arsenal last week, and lacked the belief and effort needed to get anything from the game.

One player that Palace have looked to all season to provide that moment of magic is star midfielder, Conor Gallagher. However, today he was nowhere to be seen.

The on-loan Chelsea player registered only 29 touches which was far fewer than goalkeeper Vicente Guaita. He also lost a whopping 86% of his duels throughout his time on the pitch according to SofaScore.

He was finally substituted in the 58th minute making way for Eberechi Eze, and in the half an hour or so that Eze was on, he had impacted the game just as much as Gallagher.

The highly-rated Englishman let Vieira down but he’ll be hoping it’s a one-off, and if it isn’t Palace aren’t short of players who will be knocking on the door to start ahead of him.

It’s an unusual performance from Gallagher who has shone for the Eagles this season scoring eight goals and assisting five. He also has the highest amount of goal creating actions in the whole squad this season with 13.

Today was one to forget with the 22-year old also failing to register a single dribble as he lacked in an area he usually thrives in, driving forward with the ball.

The performance comes after his parent club Chelsea rejected Palace’s request to play him in the FA Cup semi-final where the two sides face each other.

With his run of form this season, there has been much speculation about whether he will return to West London and be involved in Thomas Tuchel’s plans, or whether he will move to Selhurst Park permanently.

Chelsea have already stated that if there are to be any talks over a transfer for Gallagher, then at least £50m would need to be offered.

All of this could be affecting the player’s game as his mind might be elsewhere.

Whatever might happen in the summer, at the moment the player needs to focus on his form on the pitch. Today’s performance doesn’t define how good he is overall, but he needs to make sure it isn’t a regular occurrence.

IN other news: Crystal Palace: Vieira lining up potential Tyrick Mitchell replacement…

An update has emerged on Newcastle United’s pursuit of Dutch centre-back Sven Botman…

What’s the talk?

According to Telegraph journalist Luke Edwards, the defender is interested in a move to St. James’ Park in the January window. Lille, however, are keen to keep hold of their man after holding initial discussions with the Magpies over a potential £30m deal.

The reporter quote Tweeted his article with this claim: “Also contains some better news on Trippier, update on Wijnaldum and Tarkowski too. Based on conversations on the phone with people who know what’s going on. It’s going to be a very long month.”

Elation

Newcastle fans will surely be left elated by this news for multiple reasons. For starters, Edwards claims that people in the know have provided these updates, suggesting that Botman is genuinely interested in making the switch to Tyneside in the coming weeks.

This shows the pull that the takeover from PIF has given the club, as he is now prepared to leave the reigning Ligue 1 champions to fight relegation in England. It proves that the Magpies can attract quality players this month, which should give supporters hope that Nick Hammond and Eddie Howe will be able to complete key deals to strengthen the squad before the window ends.

Fans will also be buzzing as Botman could be a brilliant signing for the side. He has been in fine form for Lille in Ligue 1, averaging a SofaScore rating of 7.02, and could come in and improve the defence. The centre-back has shown that he can perform consistently in the French top-flight and that suggests that he could be a strong performer for the Magpies, should he be able to adapt to English football.

Newcastle have conceded the most goals in the Premier League (42), joint with Norwich, this season and are in dire need of an improvement at the back. This is why the signing of Botman could be a major piece of business by the club and fans will be delighted to read that the Dutchman is interested in the potential switch.

Supporters will now need to cross their fingers and hope that Hammond can iron out a deal with the Ligue 1 giants to bring Botman to St. James’ Park. The window still has a few weeks left to run and Newcastle have time to convince Lille to part ways with him.

AND in other news, “Expecting” – Pete Graves drops Newcastle transfer claim that’ll leave fans delighted…