The summer was a case of ‘same old Arsene’ at Arsenal, as the Frenchman opted once again to miss out on two problem areas in his squad: a prolific striker and a holding midfielder.
Danny Welbeck arrived on deadline day in a £16m deal, but the England international’s record in front of goal is not great, while an enforcer was sought for some of the window, but never found. Alexis Sanchez was signed in a big money swoop, while Mathieu Debuchy and Calum Chambers have addressed defensive issues, but Wenger’s squad is still short in key areas.
Here are FIVE players the Frenchman could turn to in January…
[ffc-gallery]
CLICK ON EDINSON CAVANI TO REVEAL
[/ffc-gallery]
[ad_pod id=’fr2rumours’ align=’center’]
William Carvalho
Since the days of Patrick Vieira, Arsenal have not really had a driving force in midfield, giving them a reputation as ‘soft’, which has hurt them on trips away from the Emirates Stadium. Carvalho was a player mooted as an option to add some steel to the Gunners’ ranks over the summer, but talk of a swoop never truly materialised, despite suggestions of a late, late swap bid involving Joel Campbell.
Sporting Lisbon are thought to be ready to sell their Portuguese international for around £25m, which is money Arsenal could have spare in January if they make it through to the knockout stages of the Champions League.
//www.youtube.com/embed/Dld9uMC2jyE
Sami Khedira
Another player rumoured to have been on the Gunners’ radar is Khedira. The German won the World Cup over the summer, but Real Madrid may lose him for a cut price fee in January with his contract due to expire at the end of the season.
Los Blancos may accept offers of below £10m, and Khedira is understood to have shown a willingness to join his international compatriots – Mesut Ozil, Per Mertesacker and Lukas Podolski – in north London. No-brainer, surely?
Sokratis Papastathopoulos
Football – Borussia Dortmund v Arsenal – UEFA Champions League Group Stage Matchday Four Group F – Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund, Germany – 6/11/13Borussia Dortmund’s Sokratis Papastathopoulos looks dejectedMandatory Credit: Action Images / Carl RecineLivepicEDITORIAL USE ONLY.
The man with the impossible name was a target for Arsenal late on in the window just gone, but a deal could not be done in time to meet the cut-off point. Sokratis has shone for the Greek national side in recent years, and his versatility – he can play on either flank at the back or as a holding midfielder as well as in his favoured centre-half role – has kept him in Dortmund’s XI for a while.
Wenger seems keen on the utility man, who could come in to replace departed captain Thomas Vermaelen, whose presence may well be missed by January.
Edinson Cavani
Football – Uruguay v Costa Rica – FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014 – Group D – Estadio Castelao, Fortaleza, Brazil – 14/6/14Uruguay’s Edinson Cavani celebrates with team mates after scoring their first goal from the penalty spotMandatory Credit: Action Images / Carl RecineLivepicEDITORIAL USE ONLY.
While Welbeck is a perfectly serviceable striker, Cavani is the sort of name to get pulses racing at the Emirates Stadium. The Uruguayan ace was the man fans called for as the clock ticked towards the transfer deadline on Monday, but a fabled swoop for him never became reality.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
With Zlatan Ibrahimvic the main man at PSG, Cavani may well be agitating for a move again in January, which could allow Arsenal to pounce with an offer of close to his £50m valuation.
//www.youtube.com/embed/ulanuMYrwk0
Marco Reus
Reus is likely to become Europe’s most sought after forward next year, with a £20m release clause in his Dortmund contract due to kick in. Reports suggest Arsenal are already plotting to trigger this, but a move in January may make more sense for the Londoners.
Although they will likely pay more than £30m, BVB may be keen to accept a greater sum if they are unable to tie Reus down to a new deal, which might allow Arsenal to avoid a war with the likes of Man City and Man United as well as Real Madrid – whom can all offer massive wages. The German star would fit Arsenal’s system well, and could allow Podolski to be shipped out.
Reports suggest that Louis van Gaal was set to offload as much as seven Manchester United players before the start of the new season. Amongst them are the likes of Javier Hernandez, Marouane Fellaini, Rafael, Nani, Anderson, Wilfred Zaha, and Will Keane.
The mentioned names are believed to not be able to fit into the plans of the Dutch boss and replacements are likely to be on their way into the clubs. Some players managed to avoid the so-called Van Gaal ‘AXE’ but that doesn’t mean their place in the squad is completely safe.
Here are FIVE Manchester United players that must prove themselves this season or risk losing the chance altogether…
[ffc-gallery]
CLICK ON ANTONIO VALENCIA TO SEE THE FULL LIST [/ffc-gallery]
Ashley Young
Name: Ashley Young
Age: 29
Position: Winger
Nationality: England
Price: £12 – £14 million
Ashley Young was a step away from joining the list of players Louis van Gaal didn’t need at the club but, due to his impressive form during the USA tour, he could even be given a first team role. He excelled playing as a wing back in Van Gaal’s 3-5-2 formation and would be an ideal candidate to compete with Luke Shaw.
With Rafael likely looking at a club exit, Young could even play on the right side, either as a regular or serve as back-up to Antonio Valencia. However, any drop in form during the Premier League season could see him be replaced completely in the January window.
Danny Welbeck
Name: Danny Welbeck
Age: 23
Position: Striker
Nationality: England
Price: £13 – £16 million
Throughout the summer Danny Welbeck was being linked with a move away from Manchester United, with Tottenham Hotspur believed to be a possible destination. The biggest problem for him now is that Louis van Gaal doesn’t have any advance wingers, meaning he can play nowhere else except as a striker.
We have seen him on the wings in the past, but with two wing backs, Welbeck has little chance to excel in that role. Now, with Javier Hernandez likely to leave, he will be the first in line to replace either Wayne Rooney or Robin van Persie should anything happen to them.
He will have to prove himself to Van Gaal before his manager decides to bring in another striker, therefore his time to impress is now.
Adnan Januzaj
Name: Adnan Januzaj
Age: 19
Position: Winger / Centre Attacking Midfield
Nationality: Belgium
Price: £40 million (Rejected bid from Paris Saint-Germain)
Adnan Januzaj was one of the stand-out players in their chaotic previous season, but with the arrival of Louis van Gaal, he looks to have lost a first team place. Being hailed as a Manchester United wonderkid, it is unlikely that the club will sell him, but we could see him loaned out for more first team experiences.
His place in the squad is currently safe, but if he doesn’t take advantage of his chances, he could slowly drop further down the pecking order. With a wing role unlikely, he now needs to compete with Juan Mata and Shinji Kagawa for a place behind the two strikers.
Antonio Valencia
Name: Antonio Valencia
Age: 29
Position: Right Winger
Nationality: Ecuador
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Price: £10 – £15 million
From Manchester United’s best player of the year in the 2011-2012 campaign, Valencia has seen a huge drop in performance over the past two seasons. As of now his place is quite secured due to his ability to be deployed into the Louis van Gaal’s 3-5-2 formation at wing back. His experience as a right back during Sir Alex Ferguson’s reign may now come back to save his career.
However, if United can secure the signing of Juan Cuadrado, Valencia’s place in the squad will be under heavy threat. The Colombian star is tailor-made to play as a right wing back and could easily overtake the Ecuadorian to a place in Van Gaal’s starting 11.
Luke Shaw
Name: Luke Shaw
Age: 19
Position: Left Back
Nationality: England
Price: £30 million
Luke Shaw’s £30 million move to Manchester United doesn’t instantly mean that he will become a top class player as he still needs to prove himself despite his huge price tag. There were some fitness concerns early on as Louis van Gaal began putting the young star on extra workout routines.
With Ashley Young picking up form, if Shaw fails to make an immediate impact down the left flank, both in an attacking and defensive sense, he could easily see his role the squad being replaced. Many people have been questioning his price, his salary, and his abilities, so there is no better way to silence his critics than by proving his worth on the pitch.
Despite only leaving England to return to his homeland earlier this year, Yohan Cabaye is already being linked with a stunning Premier League comeback. The former Newcastle pass-master has not enjoyed the most fruitful of spells in Paris, and talk in the media – on both sides of the Channel – suggests that January could provide a turn in the 28-year-old’s career.
Manchester United are one of a few teams sniffing around, and we here at FFC Towers think that Cabaye could be a massive player for Louis van Gaal. Not convinced? Here are FIVE reasons why he could be…
[ffc-gallery]
CLICK ON THE MAN HIMSELF TO REVEAL THE FIVE
[/ffc-gallery]
[ad_pod id=’ricco’ align=’center’]
Premier League experience
Whatever way you look at it, Cabaye was a success at Newcastle. Signed for a bargain rate, the Frenchman was excellent in the North East, playing a vital role in the Magpies’ impressive run to fifth place in 2011/12.
Upon his exit earlier this year there was an alarming drop off in Newcastle’s performances, illustrating just how important he was…
Wants to leave PSG
Despite only moving to PSG in January, Cabaye is understood to be ready to end his adventure in Paris. The silky 28-year-old has struggled for game time, with the majority of his performances having been from the bench.
United cannot offer Champions League football right now, so targeting players keen to move – as they did with Radamel Falcao – is a wise strategy.
Mix of creativity and solidity
While his renowned for his attacking flair, Cabaye is actually a remarkably solid player in a deeper midfield role. The French ace provides a good screen in front of his backline, and, although not a fierce tackler, is decent at winning the ball back to build attacks.
United currently lack such a player, with Daley Blind very much an unorthodox option, so snapping up Cabaye could solve a pressing concern for Louis van Gaal.
Keep him away from rivals
United are not the only side chasing Cabaye, with Arsenal and Liverpool also in the hunt. The 28-year-old is a wanted man thanks to his Premier League track record, and is likely to be the subject of multiple bids.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Letting Cabaye head to the Gunners or the Reds is likely to put United on the back foot again, so snapping him up just to keep him away from a foe may be wise…
In his peak
Central midfielders, typically, enjoy their peak years between 27 and 31. Cabaye is slap bang in the middle of that range now, and is likely to be at the very top of his powers for the coming few seasons. It’s all well and good looking into the distance with younger players, but the Red Devils need to get results right now.
Throughout the summer, Louis van Gaal has put a number of Bundesliga stars at the top of his transfer wishlist and could once again plan a few more January signings in the upcoming window.
Primary Manchester United are in need of a centre-back, a right-back, and possibly another holding midfield as their manager could even consider keeping a close eye on another potential striker as well.
So, here are five mega Bundesliga stars United should sign in January if they are to maintain their goal of finishing in the top four, if not aiming to win the entire league.
Ilkay Gundogan
Name: Ilkay Gundogan
Age: 23
Position: Centre Midfield
Nationality: Germany
Club: Borussia Dortmund
Price: £20 – £25 million
Ilkay Gundogan has been a target for Manchester United over the course of the summer and since returning from injury, he isn’t guaranteed a starting spot, opening up a chance that Borussia Dortmund may let him leave. Despite already signing a number of midfielders in the summer, Louis van Gaal will still be keen to add more quality players into his squad as he accomplish a top four finish.
He only made four league starts this season scoring one goal, but if United want to sign him, they may need to cash in on him now or risk his price rising if he manages to pick up form later in the campaign.
Arjen Robben
Name: Arjen Robben
Age: 30
Position: Right Wing
Nationality: Netherlands
Club: Bayern Munich
Price: £30 – £35 million
Another summer target Louis van Gaal was considering is the likes of Bayern Munich’s Arjen Robben, a player he is already familiar with during his time as the Netherlands manager. The Dutch star earlier rejected a move to Manchester United, but with his club naming Marco Reus as a transfer target, he may have to make way.
It was revealed that Van Gaal has been in constant contact with Robben as he tries to convince his fellow countryman to make the switch to Old Trafford. Despite his age, the 30-year-old has been getting better and better as he gets older and would be a great addition to United’s struggling attack force.
Roberto Firmino
Name: Roberto Firmino
Age: 23
Position: Attacking Midfield
Nationality: Brazil
Club: Hoffenheim
Price: £20 – £25 million
Dubbed the ‘new Kaka’ Roberto Firmini is another attacking prospect Manchester United have been monitoring as a number of other Premier League clubs are also chasing his services. Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea are believed to all be interested in signing the attacking midfielder to add to their ranks.
He started all his Bundesliga matches for Hoffenheim, scoring three and also assisting three in 14 appearances. His dribbling and passing ability in the final third of the field could be just what Louis van Gaal needs as his current crop of midfielders are mostly being deployed in a holding role.
Atsuto Uchida
Name: Atsuto Uchida
Age: 26
Position: Right Back
Nationality: Japan
Club: Schalke 04
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Price: £5 – £10 million
Manchester United were previously interested in signing Atsuto Uchida to provide Rafael with some competition as well as add some cover in right side of Louis van Gaal’s defence. He recently signed a contract extension at Schalke 04, but that shouldn’t stop the club from trying to sign him.
Rafael has been in and out of the squad through injury with Antonio Valencia often being deployed in his place. Uchida is a regular face in the Bundesliga, starting 10 out of 14 league matches and appearing in five Champions League matches for his side. His very reasonable price tag along with his experience in Europe could be seen as a very good addition into the United back line.
Mats Hummels
Name: Mats Hummels
Age: 25
Position: Centre Back
Nationality: Germany
Club: Borussia Dortmund
Price: £25 – £30 million
Mats Hummels very well tops Manchester United’s shopping list as they have been in heavy pursuit of the Borussia Dortmund centre-back. Louis van Gaal seems to be unhappy with his current group of defensive players and along with the large number of injuries to his back line, the German World Cup winner will be a huge asset if the club can finally confirm his signing.
If he does join the Red Devils, he will easily be the first choice defender and is surely be someone who can sure up Van Gaal’s struggling defence. His exploits in Brazil shows that he is well on his way to becoming one of the best players in role and due to Dortmund’s decline in form, he could finally agree to a transfer.
In arguably the pick of the Premier League’s mid-week action, Tottenham’s visit to Liverpool sees the division’s two most in-form sides face off at 8pm this evening.
The Lilywhites boast 13 points from their last six league encounters, but the Reds have gone one better with 14 and are currently the only English side to go without defeat in the top flight since the turn of 2015.
Home advantage plays to the Anfield outfit’s favour too, but Spurs are currently four points and two places higher in the Premier League table.
So who goes into tonight’s fixture as the favourites, if there’s one at all? Perhaps these FIVE key individual battles can shed some light on the issue.
HARRY KANE VS LIVERPOOL
To label Tottenham a one-man team would be paying a huge disservice to the rest of their squad, not to mention the excellent team ethic Mauricio Pochettino has installed since taking the White Hart Lane hot seat in the summer.
Yet, there’s no question who the talk of north London is at the moment – Harry ‘Hurrikane’, ‘Kane of the Lane’ ‘he’s one of our own’ Kane, who boasts more goals for the season than any other Premier League player with a monolithic 22, including eight goals (and two assists) in his last nine top flight outings.
Indeed, it seems the 21 year-old just can’t stop scoring at the moment; if a Jan Vertonghen 50 yard piledriver hit him square in the face and knocked him unconscious this evening, the ball would still likely trickle into Simon Mignolet’s net.
Boasting an impressive all-round game and the miraculous ability to convert an incredible variety of chances, as his expertly angled header against Arsenal last weekend paid specific homage to, the duty of nullifying Kane’s goal threat can’t fall to one player or even a single department – the whole of Liverpool’s starting Xi must be wary of the England U21’s abilities in the final third and react accordingly.
In addition to his superfluous form and endless supply of goals, the 6 foot 2 forward has averaged one tackle per match in the Premier League this season, so Liverpool’s defence – who like to play out of the back as much as possible – should expect Kane pressure them in possession for the whole ninety minutes – something the eternally-unconvincing-on-the-ball Mamadou Sakho should particularly bear in mind.
DANIEL STURRIDGE VS JAN VERTONGHEN
Liverpool are slowly nursing Daniel Sturridge back to full health after a lengthy injury layoff, spanning from the Reds’ 3-0 win over Spurs in August to mid-January, but with Raheem Sterling set to miss tonight’s game due to a foot injury, it’s likely Brendan Rodgers will thrust the England striker back into the starting Xi, ahead of misfiring threesome Rickie Lambert, Mario Balotelli and Fabio Borini.
After electing Eric Dier over Federico Fazio against Arsenal at the weekend, despite the latter’s impressive form since moving to White Hart Lane in the summer, it remains to be seen who Mauricio Pochettino will opt for as Jan Vertonghen’s centre-back partner to face the Reds this evening.
In terms of eradicating the prolific goalscoring threat Sturridge offers however, now boasting 33 goals in just 47 Premier League appearances for Liverpool, the Belgium international must take specific responsibility.
Unlike Fazio and Dier, Vertonghen possesses the pace to cope with the Reds forward and will resultantly need to protect his partner from potential one-on-one situations. Sturridge also likes to drift from the right to shoot with his powerful and accurate left foot, which falls into Vertonghen’s remit once again.
That being said, Sturridge is near unstoppable when in top form – so the Lilywhites will be hoping that he’s still not fully recovered from his continuous injury problems.
ALBERTO MORENO VS KYLE WALKER
Alberto Moreno wreaked absolute havoc at White Hart Lane earlier in the season, driving from left-back to score the incredible solo goal above, and will be hoping for a repeat performance this evening.
The Spain international’s role has changed somewhat since however, moved up the field slightly from an attacking-minded full-back to a borderline left winger, as a defining characteristic of Liverpool’s exotic 3-4-2-1 formation which has produced a considerable upturn in form.
That puts him directly up against Kyle Walker, who has settled back into Tottenham’s starting Xi fairly well since first returning from a long-term injury in mid-December, since averaging an impressive 2.8 tackles, 2.8 interceptions and one successful dribble per match.
The England international will be keen to contribute going forward but so will Moreno, so this key battle is delicately poised upon who balances out their offensive and defensive duties the best, and who takes advantage of the others’ failure to track back.
STEVEN GERRARD VS CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN
Lucas Leiva’s recent injury is a huge blow to Liverpool’s ambitions this season. Not only has the Brazilian produced some stellar performances since his reintroduction into Liverpool’s starting Xi in December, averaging an incredible 4.1 tackles per match in the Premier League, but he’s also a fairly unique member of the Reds roster in terms of the kind of service he provides, offering an unrivalled sense of tenacity, energy and defensive awareness in the middle of the park.
It’s an almighty loss for this evening’s fixture particularly, with Liverpool coming up against one of the Premier League’s most in-form No.10s in Tottenham’s Christian Eriksen, who boasts nine goals and one assist in 24 league outings this term.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Also creating 2.5 chances per match this season, the most of any Spurs player by quite some distance, the Danish prodigy is a focal point of his side’s attacking play and nullifying him is essential to stopping Tottenham getting up the field.
In Leiva’s absence, logic suggests the role of anchoring Liverpool’s midfield will go to their captain Steven Gerrard – although Joe Allen, a revised role for Emre Can or even the introduction of academy product Jordan Rossiter remain viable alternatives. He’s been used in more offensive capacities recently but the Anfield icon’s credentials as a defensive midfielder remain undoubted.
That being said, Eriksen’s elusive playmaking style and his agile mobility could leave Gerrard unstuck. Most imperative however is that the England centurion stays switched on for the whole 90 minutes when marking the 22 year-old; he’s scored an incredible late winners already this term, coming in the 88th minute or after, and appears to be developing a real knack for them.
PHILIPPE COUTINHO VS NABIL BENTALEB
In a similar style to Christian Eriksen, Philippe Coutinho is the creative presence keeping Liverpool’s midfield ticking over and connected to the front-line.
The Brazilian struggled earlier in the campaign but has bounced back in recent weeks – particularly since he’s begun to be utilised more centrally by Brendan Rodgers – bagging one goal, four assists and three Man of the Match awards in his last nine Premier League outings. In that time, Coutinho has rediscovered arguably his defining gift as a footballer; those killer passes to Liverpool’s pacey strikers.
The duty of stopping him will predominantly fall to Tottenham’s Nabil Bentaleb, a bit of an unsung hero when considering the nationwide praise Eriksen and Kane have received this term. He’s keeping the likes of Paulinho, Etienne Capoue and Moussa Dembele out of the side on merit, with impressive averages of 2.2 tackles and 2.3 interceptions per match this term, in addition to a pass completion rate of 87%.
He and Ryan Mason have struck up quite the understanding together in central midfield, so Coutinho will have to run rings around both of them to create chances regularly this evening.
After making it to Wembley at the tail-end of last season as well deserved FA cup runners-up, Steve Bruce’s plucky Tigers were expected to bring their impressive form into 2014/15, and likely record a top 10 finish as a result of their efforts.
Rarely does life in English football ever go that to plan, however, and now that Hull City currently sit in the unpopular realm the lower end of the Premier Legaue, the KC stadium faithful could do with some cause for optimism.
The January transfer window, with all the false hope and inflated expectation that comes with it, acts as a great opportunity for Hull, who despite getting the chequebook out fairly frequently in the summer, need a few fresh faces to keep the energy up at the KC.
In light of this, here are five potential transfer targets could help save Hull City’s turbulent season…
Steven Fletcher
Whilst injuries have so far played a big role in Steven Fletcher’s career, both initially with Wolves and later with Sunderland, the Scottish striker could still prove a vital asset in any Premier League relegation battle this season.
The current Sunderland no. 9 has all the hallmarks of a traditional British player – he is good in the air, can hold his own up-top, and has a distinctly keen eye for goal. Although the ex-Wolves ace has seemingly been around for a good while, at only 27-years-old, and certainly still has a good few seasons left in him.
Despite string links with the Black Cats favourite, Gus Poyet would be mad to let one of his most effective players move on to a potential rival in this season’s relegation dog-fight.
Rudy Gestede
As Blackburn’s top goal-scorer in the Championship this season, Rudy Gestede marks a potentially exciting transfer for Steve Bruce, albeit a January gamble as well.
The French-born striker is currently joint fourth for goals in his league, with an impressive 12 finishes netted already for Rovers. His tall stature makes him somewhat suited to the Premier League, but as he has failed to make an impression in the past with Cardiff City, Gestede has hardly had his game tested at top-flight level.
Steve Bruce is said to be looking at the 26-year-old with Yaya Sanogo on loan at Crystal Palace and Jermain Defoe now with Sunderland.
Callum McManaman
Despite being a past star of Wigan’s famous FA Cup run, Callum McManaman isn’t exactly in the highest demand with this season’s January transfer window now upon the Premier League.
McManaman, who still comes with a lot of potential at only 23-years-old, is a raw talent who has shown that he has the grit and determination required to become a top level player. He has however, since not matched the expectations many external influences had set upon him. The English winger could still perhaps do a decent job a getting Hull City to bounce forward on the break, and start profiting from their hard work.
Putting aside his potential ‘one season wonder’ status, Callum McManaman becomes the second major Championship player to be linked to the Tigers this January.
Ruben Ferreira
For all the home-grown talent and global stars to be linked with a move to the Premier League, Ruben Ferreira wouldn’t be the first name on the lips of Hull City supporters wanting to bring new faces to the KC this season.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The 24-year-old Portuguese defender plays at full back for CS Maritimo, who currently sit 10th in the Primeira Liga. Whilst many within the English footballing community can’t claim to know bundles of information about Hull’s latest transfer candidate, Ferreira, who has different qualities and international experience at U21 level, could add some much needed competition among Bruce’s somewhat stagnant back-four.
Hull City have been linked to the Portuguese defender in recent weeks, but it is expected that any potential deal that ushers Ferreira into the KC Stadium would either be on loan terms, or as a potential last minute panic buy in the wake of no other options for Steve Bruce.
Hatem Ben Arfa
Whilst Hatem Ben Arfa wouldn’t exactly be a new face with the Tigers this January, the reported breakdown of his seemingly completed deal to OGC Nice could result in the former Newcastle favourite finally pulling up his socks for Steve Bruce.
The 27-year-old attacker, who has since seen his stock fall considerably at both Hull and Newcastle, as well as on the international scene with France, has failed to match the standards that he himself just a few years ago. Hatem Ben Arfa can beat players for fun, score quite unbelievable goals, and be simply unplayable on his day.
His recent form has shown next to none of those aforementioned qualities however. As FIFA have seemingly blocked Ben Arfa’s move back to Ligue 1, on the grounds that no player can play for more than two clubs in one season, perhaps now will be his time to finally arrive at Hull City.
What an action packed 90 minutes we’ve all just seen at Anfield! But did we really expect anything less from these two Premier League giants?
The talking point will, of course, be Steven Gerrard’s moment of madness that cost his team any chance of salvaging the game just seconds after coming on. However, we’ve also got to talk about whether Manchester United’s Phil Jones should’ve been sent off? Adam Lallana, is he good enough for Liverpool? Is Raheem Sterling’s contract saga starting to affect his performances on the pitch? Why doesn’t Juan Mata start every game for United?
So much to discuss and so many things that haven’t even been mentioned! Click on through to find out what three things we’ve learnt from Manchester United’s important victory over Liverpool in the race for the top four.
Daniel Sturridge is Liverpool’s only hope
The England international was starved of service all day and you almost expected that we wouldn’t see the striker again after Steven Gerrard’s sending off gave Man United the man advantage. However, the former Chelsea striker somehow gave the Reds a lifeline when it seemed so unlikely with a well taken goal from a tight angle.
What might’ve been for Brendan Rodgers’ side had he been available all season.
Steven Gerrard is harming Liverpool
It all feels a bit embarrassing and awkward for Stevie G when Sky Sports do their usual cliche and over the top montages of the former England skipper in action.
Liverpool fans will tell you that the midfielder is still so important to them. And, sure, he does deserve credit for adapting his role but he is hardly pulling up trees there; he needed to let this season peter out and go off into the LA sunset remembered as a Premier League icon. However, following the slip and the pathetic red card today, you have to wonder whether if he stays around for much longer whether he will undo his legacy.
Juan Mata needs to play more
The undisputed Man of the Match was in fine form today, with the former Chelsea midfielder’s second goal epitomising what a wonderfully skilful player he is.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The former Valencia man hasn’t always been Louis van Gaal’s player of choice but surely he will have staked a claim for a permanent starting XI berth after today’s heroics?
Everton continued their fine of form with a comprehensive victory over Manchester United on Sunday; the third time in succession they have beaten the Red Devils at Goodison Park.
The three-nil victory meant the Toffees remain unbeaten at home in 2015, and with five wins and a draw from their last six league games has moved them into the top half after a dreadful start to the campaign.
Goals from James McCarthy and Kevin Mirallas either side of a header from John Stones condemned United to a second successive defeat, and it was the performance of the young centre-half in particular that caught the eye this weekend.
While John Terry put in another colossal display for Chelsea that afternoon, Stones put in an equally impressive display at the heart of the Everton back-four, yet again highlighting his potential and proving that England may finally have an adequate replacement for the former Three Lions captain.
Stones arrived at Everton for just £3m back in January 2013 after signing from Barnsley, and despite failing to appear in the first-team under former boss David Moyes, he has thrived since the arrival of Roberto Martinez.
And having formed a solid partnership with Phil Jagielka, he is enjoying a great run in the team displaying all the attributes of a top class defender that mean he will now be valued at a minimum of £20m despite being just 20-years-of-age.
[ad_pod id=’ffc-video-small’ align=’left’]
Quick, strong and brave when it comes to tackling the youngster is also calm, comfortable and confident when in possession that make him a great asset to the way Martinez likes to play and makes him the perfect all-round centre-back.
His first goal capped off a wonderful performance on his 50th appearance for the club as he took care of the likes of Wayne Rooney, Marouane Fellaini and Radamel Falcao as he recorded his seventh clean sheet in the league this season.
His positioning and ability to read the game, as well as his dominance in aerial duels was hugely impressive given the form of United going to into Sunday’s clash, similar traits to the league’s best defender; Terry.
It’s no surprise Everton’s change in fortunes has coincided with the youngsters return from injury and with just two goals conceded in their last five games, there’s plenty of optimism heading into next season.
After losing Stones to a ankle injury, the Blues won just three of 12 games from October to New Year’s Day as an ageing Sylvain Distin and the unreliable Antolin Alcaraz struggled to sure up the defence.
But with Stones alongside Jagielka, Everton have proven to be a vastly improved outfit, and having already shown off his terrific leadership skills, he looks set for a bright future with both club and country; and a future captain in waiting.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The nature of the Premier League nowadays means unfortunately for Everton there will be plenty of top clubs keeping an eye on Stones and he will surely be the subject of transfer bids in the years to come.
But for now there is no doubt he is in the right place to continue his development into a world-class defender with a club that can provide him with the platform for regular first-team football in order to fulfil his potential.
With John Terry still turning out tremendous performances week after week, there’s no need for Jose Mourinho to fork out for a replacement just yet, but once the 34-year-old decides to call it a day, they may well be on the phone to Everton enquiring about his ready-made replacement.
Chelsea captain John Terry intends to finish his career at the club, but is open to making a move to the MLS, according to reports from the Express.
Terry completed the amazing achievement of playing in every minute of this season’s Premier League campaign, which ended up with the centre-back also lifting the league trophy.
WANT MORE? >> Chelsea transfer news | Latest transfer news
And the Englishman is adamant on staying at Stamford Bridge until he retires, however if he is forced to leave before he calls it quits, the 34-year-old will not go and play for another Premier League club.
“I would love to finish my career at Chelsea,” Terry said.
“I certainly don’t want to play for another club in the Premier League or England. I don’t think you get that loyalty within football anymore.
“The likes of Lamps, Didier [Drogba], Rio [Ferdinand], Stevie [Gerrard], these guys have stayed at the very top at the best clubs in the world and managed to stay in the team, stay fit and stay hungry, and it is great thing to do, so I am hoping to finish my career at Chelsea.
He would instead follow in the footsteps of fellow countrymen Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, with both legends making the switch to the United States this summer.
“If Chelsea decide otherwise, whether that be next year or the year after, and I still feel I will play, of course I will go and play [elsewhere],” he added.
“I will go to America, wherever the opportunities are there.
“At that stage of my career it would need to suit not only myself but my family as well. Ideally for me, my family are local, and I would love to finish my career at Chelsea.”
The Blues skipper joined the Chelsea youth team from West Ham United’s back in 1995, before making his senior debut in 1998.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The rest, they say, is history, as Terry went on to win four Premier League titles, five FA Cups, one Europa League Cup, and a Champions League trophy.
Largely due to the miraculous rise of Francis Coquelin since the turn of 2015, Arsene Wenger seems reluctant to spend big on a holding player this summer.
Indeed, many view a ‘big-‘n-‘burly’ defensive-mid as one of the few intrinsic differences between Arsenal and the Premier League’s other title contenders. But Wenger appears to have conceded Southampton’s Morgan Schneiderlin to Manchester United, whilst we haven’t heard much about Arsenal’s alleged pursuits of Lars Bender, Grzegorz Krychowiak or William Carvalho for some time.
Perhaps he’s in the right; Coquelin produced equal – if not superior – form to many of the Gunners’ ball-winning targets towards the end of last season and the last thing the north London outfit need is a cumbersome thug disrupting their definitive, possession-based build-up play.
So it’s time to consider some cheaper solutions to Arsenal’s lack of height, power and defensive awareness in the middle of the park; experienced players who could step in for the big games that won’t command a sizable chunk of the club’s summer transfer budget.
With that in mind, here’s FIVE budget anchormen the Gunners should target this summer.
ALEX SONG
Arsene Wenger seems completely adverse to the idea of re-signing former Gunner Alex Song, but I struggle to understand why.
The Cameroon international was one of the top enforcers in the Premier League during his lengthy Emirates tenure and has hardly become a worse player by undertaking two years at Barcelona – the most dominant club side in world football over the last decade.
The 27 year-old spent last year on loan at West Ham, demonstrating the composure, control and quality you’d expect of a Champions League regular – which is the level the 6ft. 1″ midfielder should still be playing at, in my opinion.
Perhaps most importantly of all from Arsenal’s perspective, he’s the only player on this list who has proven himself compatible with the Gunners’ unique style of play before, recording an impressive 13 assists across all competitions during his final campaign in north London.
Furthermore, Barca are set to sell Song for an absolute pittance this summer – some sources even claim he’ll be allowed to leave for free. Currently, however, he’s expected to join the Hammers permanently.
THIAGO MOTTA
PSG’s Thiago Motta is about as proven as it gets. He’s won league titles with Barcelona, Inter Milan and claimed three in three seasons since moving to Parc de Princes in January 2012.
He’s also a regular international for Italy, featuring prominently in the squad that reached the final of the last European championships, and now has 70 appearances in continental tournaments under his belt.
In terms of height, power and defensive quality, the 6ft. 2″ midfielder represents exactly what the Gunners currently lack in midfield. But Motta’s also a smart player who uses the ball well, boasting a pass completion rate of 93% in Ligue 1 alongside one created chance per match.
Motta’s no spring chicken at the age of 32, but with just a year remaining on his contract, the Parisians would probably let him leave for a nominal fee this summer.
ESTEBAN CAMBIASSO
Esteban Cambiasso’s performances for Leicester City last season verged upon talismanic, netting five times as the Foxes staved off relegation with a miraculous great escape.
Admittedly, at 34 years of age the Argentina international doesn’t offer the Gunners much in the way of longevity.
But the midfielder looked more than comfortable at Premier League level during his King Power Stadium tenure, continually demonstrating the pedigree, intelligence and experience you’d expect from a former Champions League winner with 52 caps for Albiceleste under his belt. He averaged an impressive 2.3 tackles, 2.1 interceptions and 1.2 created chances per match.
There’s life in the old dog yet and perhaps most appealingly of all, the former Inter Milan star is currently available on a free transfer. He’s yet to extend his one-year deal with Leicester and the shock sacking of Nigel Pearson last week could convince him to consider other opportunities.
STEVEN N’ZONZI
Steven N’Zonzi may not be the most popular of figures outside of the Britannia Stadium but every club needs a gritty, irritating and provocative figure like the Stoke City enforcer.
Furthermore, the Frenchman has shown a clear progression during his Premier League spells with Blackburn and the Potters and is now one of the most formidable characters in their’ starting Xi, blending an imperious 6ft. 3″ frame with consistency, vision and occasional elegance on the ball.
FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast. FootballFanCast General Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
He was Stoke’s tempo setter last year, averaging the most passes per match of any player in their squad, and has resultantly become an integral component of Mark Hughes’ aesthetic evolution from the Tony Pulis days – suggesting he wouldn’t look awkward and out of place in the Gunners’ technically-demanding engine room.
Likewise, the 26 year-old is an ambitious character, handing in two transfer requests over the last two summers. So with his contract now into its final twelve months, he could easily force a move away before the start of next season.
Currently, however, he’s a priority target for Sevilla.
JOHN OBI MIKEL
A defender’s answer to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, John Obi Mikel has been dubbed ‘the human full time whistle’ for his world-class ability to kill off games after entering the fray from the bench.
Protecting leads is certainly his forte but the Nigerian international’s talents stem far beyond the limited role he repeatedly performs for the Premier League champions. In truth, he’s highly competent in possession, claiming a 91% pass completion rate last season, and has often demonstrated his more progressive qualities when on Super Eagles duty.
Perhaps the 28 year-old’s biggest asset, however, is his vast experience. He’s featured in the most important games English and European football have to offer – including two Champions League finals – and is now verging upon a decade in the Premier League.
The 6ft. 2″ enforcer apparently wants to leave Stamford Bridge this summer after making just six league starts this season, but whether the Blues would be prepared to further strengthen Arsenal after already surrendering Petr Cech remains to be seen.