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Liverpool are 'frontrunners' to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia this summer despite interest from elsewhere in the Belgium international, according to journalist Dean Jones.

What's the latest transfer news involving Romeo Lavia and Liverpool?

As per Telegraph Sport, Liverpool are willing to offload veteran midfielder Thiago Alcantara this summer and the Reds are considering making a 'formal approach' to try and sign Southampton youngster Lavia.

The report states that his valuation of £50 million is considered as 'too prohibitive' to make a move, though he is a 'long-term target' who fits the mould for Jurgen Klopp as he eyes midfield reinforcements.

Earlier this year, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano detailed that Lavia's former club Manchester City are believed to have a buyback clause that they can activate next year, stating on Twitter: "Romeo Lavia will be one to watch in the summer. Man City £40m buy back clause, valid in 2024. Chelsea [wanted him last summer] and Arsenal [still keen on Caicedo too] among clubs interested – Southampton hope to keep him."

FootballTransfers have claimed that alongside Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal are also keen to snap Lavia up in the off-season. Arsenal want Lavia, though will need to sanction an exit for Thomas Partey before being able to act on their interest.

Intriguingly, the outlet claim that Lavia would prefer a move to the Emirates Stadium to join the Gunners over Chelsea or Liverpool due to Arsenal's upward trajectory under Mikel Arteta and involvement in the Champions League.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, journalist Jones has indicated that Liverpool lead the race to sign Lavia from Southampton this summer.

Jones said: “You’re left wondering what else they’ve got up their sleeve and basically within hours of signing Szoboszlai, they’ve been linked with Romeo Lavia, who, of course, has been in that conversation too as a player they would like this summer. But suddenly, they are pretty widely considered the frontrunners.”

Would Romeo Lavia be a suitable fit for Liverpool's engine room?

Following on from the purchases of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, Lavia would be another exciting signing at Liverpool, offering plenty of room for development and an element of protection to Klopp's backline.

In 2022/23, the Belgian gained plenty of experience on the South Coast and managed to make 34 appearances in all competitions, scoring once and laying on a solitary assist, as per Transfermarkt.

Lavia, who was hailed as Southampton's "shining star", is a comfortable presence in possession despite only being 19 and showed maturity in his debut Premier League campaign, retaining a pass success rate of 86.7%, as per WhoScored.

FBRef illustrate that Lavia got through plenty of work in the middle of the park last term, making 93 tackles and interceptions combined over the course.

Liverpool will need to start phasing out their more experienced midfielders, with Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and Thiago Alcantara all at risk of losing their places.

Bringing in someone like Lavia could offer them the perfect balance in that respect, as Klopp would be able to slowly integrate Lavia into first-team action to give him the requisite skills to step into a starting berth in the coming years.

Newcastle United are ready to make an offer for Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos, but the Portuguese side are set to hold out for at least €80m (£69m), according to reports from Portugal.

What's the latest Newcastle transfer news?

Newcastle have already made a major statement in the summer transfer market by bringing in Sandro Tonali, in a deal worth a reported £55m, and Eddie Howe has now started to turn his attention towards strengthening in attacking areas.

The Magpies have made a call over a potential deal for Barcelona's Ferran Torres, who is on the La Liga club's list of "transferrable" players this summer, due to their present financial situation.

In the same report, former Leeds United man Raphinha is also named as a potential option, however Torres seems to be the more viable of the two.

In recent days, it has been reported that Newcastle are considering a swoop to bring Ramos to the Premier League, and according to a new update, an offer could be on the table very shortly.

As reported by Correio da Manha (via Sport Witness), the Magpies are about to "attack" for the 22-year-old, and they are currently preparing an offer, however he will not come cheap.

The striker has a €120m (£103m) release clause included in his contract, although the report makes it clear Benfica would be willing to start negotiating if an offer of €80m (£69m) is tabled.

Manchester United are also in the race for the Benfica star, as they continue to "follow him closely", while an unnamed club were willing to offer €60m (£51m) at the weekend, so there may be fierce competition for his signature.

With Newcastle set to "heavily invest" in their squad this summer, it remains to be seen whether they are willing to meet the huge asking price for the Portuguese forward.

How many goals has Goncalo Ramos scored?

It is clear to see why Benfica are holding out for such an astronomical fee, as the Olhao-born striker was indispensable for them last season, scoring 27 goals in all competitions, including 19 in the Primeira Liga, the second-highest figure of any player.

Not only did the 6-foot forward impress at club level, he also put in a fantastic performance out in Qatar at the World Cup, scoring a hat-trick against Switzerland, despite being under heavy pressure after getting the nod over Cristiano Ronaldo in the starting XI.

Gary Lineker hailed the Portugal international as "remarkable" in the wake of his performance, and goal-scoring is not his only quality, with teammate Bruno Fernandes saying: “He’s a player that runs and works a lot, helps the team defensively, he’s that type of striker that is everywhere.

“He had the chance to score three goals, but he’s a striker that creates space for others, fights, has the ball and is strong. Today was his day to score the goals and we’re happy for that.”

Ramos has all the qualities to be a success at St. James' Park, and it is exciting news that Newcastle are pursing a move.

Chelsea are believed to be preparing an offer for highly-rated Lyon youngster Rayan Cherki in the summer transfer window, according to a new report.

Who is Rayan Cherki?

The 19-year-old is arguably one of the most exciting young prospects in Ligue 1 currently, bursting onto the scene at Lyon and wowing with his attacking quality, on a regular basis.

Cherki, who currently earns just £28,000 per week, scored four goals and registered six assists in the league last season, already showing that he can perform in one of Europe's top five divisions at this early stage in his career. He already has 30 goal contributions (14 goals and 16 assists) in a Lyon shirt, and he has netted five times in 12 caps for France's Under-21s, with a senior call-up surely arriving at some point in the future.

The attacking midfielder isn't out of contract at his current club until the summer of 2025, but that doesn't mean that a move away is out of the question this summer. Chelsea have been linked with a move for him in recent past, and it is a rumour that is refusing to go away.

Could Chelsea be set to bid for Rayan Cherki?

According to ESPN, Chelsea could be about to bid for Cherki imminently, as they look to bring in the attacking starlet as a replacement for Christian Pulisic:

"Chelsea are preparing to make an opening offer for Lyon wonderkid Rayan Cherki as they seek a replacement for Christian Pulisic, sources have told ESPN. Pulisic is closing in on a move to AC Milan, with the United States midfielder due to undergo a medical with the Serie A giants in the next 24 hours, ESPN reported Tuesday.

"Cherki is keen to join Chelsea, sources have told ESPN. Born in Lyon and a product of the club's youth system, he is valued at around €40 million and is under contract until June 2025 after an automatic one year extension was triggered in April when he reached 15 Ligue 1 starts."

Cherki looks like a serious prospect with a massive future in the game, so he could be considered a hugely exciting signing for Chelsea this summer, as new manager Mauricio Pochettino looks to acquire the services of young talent and rebuild the Blues' squad after a bitterly disappointing 2022/23 season.

He could come in as a strong squad option from the off, although not necessarily a definite starter, given his age, before maturing into something truly formidable over time. The fact that Kylian Mbappe has expressed his admiration for him in the past says a lot about his ability, while Laurent Blanc has lauded him as "very talented" and "exceptional".

Predominantly used as a central attacking midfielder, Cherki could help make up for the loss of Mason Mount to Manchester United, linking the midfield and attack at Stamford Bridge, but he has also taken up a left-sided role for Lyon at times, and this versatility is an extra attribute that could further appeal to Pochettino.

Celtic and former player Mohamed Elyounoussi 'could end up speaking' about the possibility of the Norway international returning to Parkhead, according to Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph.

Is Mohamed Elyounoussi returning to Celtic?

Elyounoussi is a free agent following the expiration of his £60k-a-week contract at Southampton and left St Mary's Stadium alongside veteran winger Theo Walcott last month, as per BBC Sport.

Spanish outlet Relovo claimed earlier this month that Celta Viga boss Rafael Benitez was plotting a move to land the 28-year-old on a free transfer; however, he is said to be 'handling other proposals' from the United Kingdom.

Celtic have been linked with a return for their former player, who spent two years on loan at the Scottish giants between 2019 and 2021 and Elyounoussi refused to rule out the notion of re-joining his old club last month.

In an interview with Viaplay Sports via Football Scotland before Norway's EURO 2024 qualification clash against Scotland, Elyounoussi stated: "We'll see. I enjoyed my time there. I didn't get much time to play with the fans, it was mostly without fans. I enjoyed my time there and you never know."

Intriguingly, Celtic have recently lost left winger Jota to Saudi Pro League Al-Ittihad in a deal worth around £25 million, opening up a slot on the left flank that boss Brendan Rodgers will need to replenish before the 2023/24 campaign gets underway competitively, as per Sky Sports.

The Hoops have already brought in two wide men in the form of Marco Tilio, who was acquired from Melbourne City earlier this window. Yang Hyun-Jun is also on his way to Parkhead this summer after Gangwon FC confirmed that the South Korea Under-23 cap will head to Glasgow despite no official ratification from Celtic, as cited by BBC Sport.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Sky Sports reporter Joseph has indicated that despite neither Celtic nor Elyounoussi being in a 'rush' to decide their next steps, there is a chance that both parties could hold conversations over a potential switch to Parkhead for the former Bhoy.

Joseph stated: “So there’s no rush for him because he’s available on a free so he’ll be weighing up his future. Celtic will be weighing up on other targets, but there’s a chance that the two parties could end up speaking and something could be done. But Elyounoussi is certainly a very good player to be available on a free transfer in this window.”

Would Mohamed Elyounoussi be a good signing for Celtic?

Elyounoussi enjoyed a productive first spell at Celtic and would certainly offer a goal threat if he was to return to Parkhead for a second go of things.

In his maiden time at the Hoops, the Norway international racked up a commendable 24 goals and 14 assists in 67 appearances across all competitions, as per Transfermarkt. The 28-year-old also played his part in helping Celtic to secure a famous quadruple treble in his second season at the Scottish giants, as per BBC Sport.

Nevertheless, former Celtic player Frank McAvennie isn't of the opinion that Elyounoussi should be brought back to Parkhead. Speaking in an interview with Football Insider, the 63-year-old said: “I think Brendan has got money. He has definitely got the money to go and buy players. I liked Elyounoussi as well I thought he was a good player but I think they have got enough players there. I do not know who is going to come in and who is going to leave. I think it is a strange situation but I think things are going to move very quickly."

Realistically, only time will tell with regard to whether Elyounoussi will be a player Celtic turn to under Rodgers this term; despite this, there can be no doubt that someone like him being available on a free transfer would represent cost-effective value at Parkhead.

The 2023 Women's World Cup has kicked off with a blaze of passion and skill, and the excitement is reaching new heights with Nike's exclusive fan gear collection. As the official kit supplier for 13 national teams, Nike has crafted a remarkable range of clothing that celebrates the diverse cultures, rich histories, and empowering spirit of the participating nations. From jerseys to lifestyle apparel, the Nike 2023 Women's World Cup collection offers a unique opportunity for fans to show their support, embrace their love for the game, and be a part of this historic tournament.

Embracing Diversity: Celebrate the Nations

Nike's design philosophy for the Women's World Cup collection revolves around embracing diversity and celebrating the unique stories of each nation. With vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and innovative materials, the jerseys and apparel reflect the distinct identities of Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, France, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Portugal, South Korea, and the USA. From the lush tropical foliage of Brazil's home kit to the Art Deco-inspired designs of England's jerseys, each piece embodies the essence of its country.

Empowerment Through Fashion: Modern & Bright Looks

The Nike 2023 Women's World Cup collection is all about empowerment. The jerseys and lifestyle apparel are designed to inspire confidence and strength on and off the pitch. The kit designs are bold and modern, reflecting the rise of women's football and the determination of players to break boundaries. Nike's focus on creating women's-specific innovation ensures that the apparel provides the perfect fit, enabling athletes to move freely and comfortably and give their best performance.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly: A Commitment to the Planet

In line with Nike's commitment to sustainability, the Women's World Cup collection is crafted with eco-friendly materials. The jerseys and shorts are made from 100% recycled polyester sourced from recycled plastic bottles. Furthermore, Nike Grind, a collection of recycled materials, is used for the federation crests, Swooshes, and trims for the first time in a Nike kit at this stage. By choosing Nike's fan gear, fans contribute to the effort to protect the planet while celebrating their love for the beautiful game.

Fan-Focused Design: Stand Out & Be United

The Nike Women's World Cup fan gear is not just another piece of clothing; it's a statement of support and unity. With unique designs and customizations, fans can proudly stand out while showcasing their love for their team. The bespoke badges and authentic labels with subtle dotted designs add a touch of elegance, while the multicolor dot design of the authentic badge takes the excitement to a whole new level. Fans can join the ranks of the passionate supporters of Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, France, and other nations and feel connected to the global football community.

Essential Products

Nike Pegasus 40 (USWNT)

Priced at $140 Offers a springy, responsive ride suitable for all types of runs Designed with improved comfort in arch and toe areas Features neutral support for a balanced, natural stride Includes medium cushioning with Nike React technology High responsiveness for energy return with every step Uses Nike React technology paired with 2 Zoom Air units Improved midfoot strap for a molded fit suitable for all arch sizes New design features include a midfoot band for a secure, forgiving fit Available in Loyal Blue/Hyper Red/Hyper Blue/White colorway

USWNT (4-Star) 2023 Match Home

Priced at $170 Unique, abstract art-inspired paint-splatter design Commemorates team's 4 world championships with gold accents and hidden details Equipped with lightweight, quick-drying technology for enhanced comfort Incorporates body-mapped, data-driven pattern for optimal airflow and moisture-wicking Features a computer-generated cross-knit pattern for unprecedented mobility Made from 100% recycled polyester fibers, reflecting a commitment to sustainability Utilizes Nike Dri-FIT ADV technology to keep you dry and comfortable Authentic design identical to the kits worn by professional players Available in White/Loyal Blue/Metallic Gold colorway

USMNT 2023 Match Away

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As the 2023 Women's World Cup captures the world's attention, Nike's exclusive fan gear collection allows fans to participate in this historic tournament. With innovative designs, vibrant colors, and a commitment to sustainability, Nike's Women's World Cup apparel reflects the empowerment and unity that define the essence of women's football.

Gear up, show your support, and celebrate the game with Nike's exceptional collection. Whether you're cheering for your favorite team from the stands or watching from the comfort of your home, wearing the Nike Women's World Cup fan gear will make you feel like a part of the action. Don't miss the chance to participate in this extraordinary sporting event – get your Nike Women's World Cup gear today!

Newcastle United have bolstered their attacking ranks with the signing of Harvey Barnes this summer, while addressing the need for a first-rate midfielder by swooping for Sandro Tonali.

The respective signings have cost Eddie Howe's side just short of £100m, but given the club's affluence and imminent Champions League journey after finishing fourth in the Premier League last term, there are likely to be further incomings.

I news have reported this week that Magpies supporters should expect two more signings to arrive at St. James's Park this summer, and while one place will likely be taken by a defender, the soon-confirmed departure of Allan Saint-Maximin opens the door for another offensive move.

Should Howe indeed decide to target that area of the pitch again, Galatasaray's Nicolo Zaniolo could be the man for the job…

What's the latest on Nicolo Zaniolo to Newcastle?

According to Tuttomercatoweb, United technical director Dan Ashworth has requested information from the Lions regarding the availability of the Italy international, who only joined from Roma last winter.

Galatasaray are reluctant to part with the 24-year-old and will not even consider offers below €35m (£30m), and it's now up to the Premier League side to decide whether they can afford to part with such a sum for another offensive talent.

How good is Nicolo Zaniolo?

Previously hailed as "incredible" by Daniele De Rossi, Zaniolo burst onto the scene as a first-rate prospect but saw his rise detrimentally hampered by two anterior cruciate ligament injuries in 2020, ruling him out of 67 matches throughout the 19/20 and 20/21 campaigns.

He did demonstrate his quality and resilience by showcasing his skills during the 21/22 season, scoring eight goals and supplying nine assists for Jose Mourinho's Roma across 42 outings – netting the only goal in the Europa Conference League final against Feyenoord.

Falling out of favour last season, Zaniolo made the switch to Galatasaray in January and has impressed during his six months in Turkey, scoring five goals from 12 outings, leaving Howe hoping to bring him to the Premier League and make use of his striking ability.

His natural goal-scoring instinct is something that Howe is seemingly targetting at St. James's Park, with Barnes a player of similar profile, scoring 13 goals for Leicester City last term and likened as a 'Similar Player' to Zaniolo, as per FBref.

Given that FBref also ranks 13-cap Italy star among the top 3% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year, the fleet-footed maverick could ease the burden on Newcastle talisman Alexander Isak this season.

Signing in a club-record £63m deal from Real Sociedad one year ago, the Swede scored ten goals and supplied three assists from 27 outings across all competitions during an injury-disrupted campaign, and fans will eagerly await his performances this year as he looks to take the next step in his development.

Isak, also aged 23, ranks among the top 17% of forwards for progressive passes, the top 16% for progressive carries and the top 7% for successful take-ons per 90, which effectively illustrates his energy and exuberance that could allow Zaniolo – who finds dangerous openings with regularity – to thrive.

The dynamic forward, combined with the directness of Barnes and Zaniolo, could result in a fruitful season for Newcastle and United must look at completing a move for the Italian maverick to boost their chances both domestically and in Europe.

Jorg Schmadtke has, by and large, appeased the Liverpool support since taking the role of sporting director earlier this year, and the next month will be telling in how well he can close out his first transfer window at Anfield.

World Cup winner and Brighton & Hove Albion star, Alexis Mac Allister, joined for £35m in June, while Dominik Szoboszlai completed a £60m transfer this month in a move that rose from the shadows and was completed swiftly, in trademark Liverpool fashion.

Such incomings were necessary following the exits of James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who all left upon the expiry of their contracts this summer, but with Jordan Henderson and Fabinho now off to Saudi Arabia, the Reds' midfield feels somewhat thin despite the possible incoming of Romeo Lavia from Southampton.

If Schmadtke can navigate through the perils and perhaps secure one more signing, the Anfield side will feel well-placed to challenge at the forefront of English football once again.

Who will Liverpool sign this summer?

The latest name to enter the transfer discourse on Merseyside is Barcelona's Franck Kessie, with the Ivorian ace deemed expendable by Barcelona, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Sport previously revealed that Liverpool would be willing to part with (£30m) to secure the imposing midfielder's services, though given the work done on the transfer front thus far a move might only come into fruition if that valuation is whittled down.

How good is Franck Kessie?

Kessie is best described as a powerful midfield vehicle capable of crashing into dangerous offensive areas while also boasting a defensive sheen to his arsenal, having been once heralded for his "devastating" impact by Stefano Pioli.

The box-to-box player would bring physicality to Liverpool's midfield and could help instil a "warrior" – as called by talent scout Jacek Kulig – attitude that certainly evaded the Liverpool ranks last year as the team failed to qualify for the Champions League.

As per FBref, the £149k-per-week midfielder ranks among the top 12% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for touches in the attacking box and progressive passes received per 90, confirming his adept skill at ploughing forward and stretching the opposition lines, hailed as a "beast" by journalist Sacha Pisani.

With the dynamic Cody Gakpo occupying the centre-forward role at Anfield, this could prove to be an invaluable tool for Klopp as he devises a strategy for success this summer.

Gakpo completed an initial £35m move to Liverpool from PSV in January, arriving at a turbulent time but cementing a starting berth in the side as Liverpool enjoyed a late-season purple patch to spark renewed optimism in the forthcoming prospects.

Scoring seven goals and providing three assists for the Reds across 26 outings, the Dutchman has been hailed "magnificent" by Josh Bunting, and his set of skills could bring the best out of an ace like Kessie.

Indeed, the 23-year-old ranks among the top 10% of forwards for assists, the top 17% for shot-creating actions, the top 8% for progressive passes and the top 1% for tackles per 90, meaning that not only can he drop deep and pick out forward-surging players with slick passes, but he gets stuck in and can disrupt the play with his high tackling output.

With this in mind, Klopp may consider signing Kessie, given the support he would have on Merseyside and the duo that could be formed, with the Ivorian latching onto Gakpo's creativity and returning to the top of his game.

Manchester United could revive their interest in Leeds United defensive midfielder Tyler Adams this summer due to the fact he has a relegation release clause in his current deal at Elland Road, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

Which clubs are keen on Tyler Adams this summer?

According to The Daily Mail, Aston Villa are willing to activate Adams' £25 million release clause and Chelsea have also expressed interest in taking the USA international to Stamford Bridge.

Nottingham Forest, Brighton & Hove Albion and West Ham United are three other sides keen on the injured midfielder, who has been sidelined since March with a hamstring issue.

Last campaign, Adams was a rare positive in a dismal Leeds United side, making 26 appearances in all competitions for the Whites, as per Transfermarkt.

Earlier this year, it was reported by Football Insider that Manchester United had looked at Adams as a potential recruit for the summer and were been impressed by his 'dynamism and energy' in the engine room at Elland Road.

The Mirror claim that Fiorentina defensive midfielder Sofyan Amrabat is now in the Red Devils' sights as Erik Ten Hag aims to protect his back four and the Morocco international is believed to be desperate to move to the North West, despite additional admiration from West Ham and Saudi Arabia.

Speaking to Football FanCast, transfer insider Jones believes that Leeds United midfielder Adams may come under consideration at Old Trafford once again if Manchester United fail in their pursuit of Amrabat.

Jones stated: "It’s not that common you see Man United and Leeds looking to benefit from each other in terms of transfers and the hostility between the two clubs will always exist, but in this moment when they are in very different situations in different leagues it’s intriguing to think about how they could deal with each other.

"One big worry around Adams will be his recent injury, I know a couple of clubs have been slightly deterred by that, but it would still be a surprise if he was at Leeds by the end of the window."

What next for Manchester United?

Manchester United will hope to continue recruiting wisely this summer as Ten Hag eyes building a side capable of challenging for the Premier League title.

Northern Ireland international Jonny Evans, who signed a short-term deal with Manchester United to participate in pre-season, is reportedly close to signing a one-year contract at Old Trafford after impressing in his short stint at the club, as per Belfast Telegraph.

The Red Devils could also try to trump Liverpool to sign Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia; however, Chelsea and Arsenal have also looked at the Belgian international, as per The Independent.

Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund will be announced as a Manchester United player imminently after both parties agreed a fee of £72 million for the Denmark international, who has undergone a medical at his prospective new employers, as per Sky Sports.

Aston Villa are reportedly still in the race to sign Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams, as the club prepare for another turn in the transfer window.

It’s been a busy summer for Unai Emery and Monchi, who have obtained the signatures of Youri Tielemans, Pau Torres and smashing the club-record transfer fee to welcome Moussa Diaby in a £51.9m deal.

While the Villans’ transfer news has been heavily revolving the potential and confirmed incomings at the club, however with time left in the window, the club could also expect to see some departures.

What’s the latest on Tyler Adams to Aston Villa?

A report by The Athletic back in June noted that United States international, Adams, is ‘high on Villa’s list of targets’ as part of Emery’s projected squad rebuild.

Such claims have been reinforced this week, with Football Insider suggesting that the Midlands club are ‘ready’ to trigger the 24-year-old’s £20m release clause in the hope to lure him to Villa Park.

Despite only signing last summer for £20m from RB Leipzig, the midfielder has a tempting relegation release clause as part of his contract of the same value, making him an attractive acquisition.

How good is Tyler Adams?

Now could be the perfect time for Villa to make a swoop for the highly-rated American, who has been dubbed an “absolute beast” by members of the media.

Amid the excitement of potential new arrivals, there is some worry over the future of star player Douglas Luiz, who has been linked with a move to north London over the past few weeks.

News reported by Football Insider this week has speculated that Tottenham are ready to close in on signing the Brazilian, who was integral to the Villans’ success last season.

Averaging a Sofascore match rating of 7.10 in the Premier League last term, the 25-year-old topped the charts in terms of the club’s best-performing individuals, making talk of his exit a grey area at Villa Park.

The rumours surrounding Luiz make the pursuit of Adams even more important, in a rare instance that Emery could recruit a carbon copy of his favoured midfielder for a price that could leave the club in profit after the exchange.

Whilst the narrative of both respective clubs' 2022/23 season was contrasting, the two players are identical in their approach to play, both providing a combative yet assured presence in the engine room.

Both averaged a pass completion rate of 82.5% per 90 last season according to FBref, the duo are competent passers of the ball, however, Emery could land a slight upgrade on the Brazilian in Adams, who excelled Luiz in a number of attributes key to the position.

As per FBref, the American averaged 5.68 progressive passes and a monstrous 3.72 tackles per 90 for Leeds last term, with the Villa sensation averaging lower in both decimals with 4.55 progressive passes and 2.24 tackles per 90.

A similar pattern is traceable further in their defensive exploits, with the former Bundesliga gem recording an average of 2.00 blocks and 1.46 interceptions per 90 to the 25-year-old’s 1.11 blocks and 1.23 interceptions per 90.

For just £20m, Monchi could ease the blow should Luiz depart in impressive fashion, however with Chelsea also rumoured to be monitoring the midfielder, Villa must make their intentions clear before it’s too late.

Tottenham Hotspur could be set to emulate one of the big acquisitions from this summer, emulating a fierce rival of theirs…

Who are Tottenham Hotspur signing this summer?

Despite things mostly going quiet on the transfer front for manager Ange Postecoglou, a huge blow in the form of Harry Kane's exit has surely seen those finances spike once again.

The Australian has already enjoyed a fine period of recruitment, but he will likely crave more wholesale changes in order to usher in his new era with more speed.

Read the latest Tottenham transfer news HERE…

Whilst this window has largely been dominated by the free-spending of Chelsea, with Moises Caicedo their latest acquisition for a British transfer record, perhaps the Lilywhites could secure their own version of the Ecuadorian general by looking at who might now be available at Stamford Bridge.

Chances are surely set to be limited for Conor Gallagher with that latest signing, and with links persisting regarding a north London switch, his £50m price tag would represent a fine coup given he could likely offer similar to what the former Brighton and Hove Albion man can.

How good is Conor Gallagher?

Whilst a slightly more offensive asset than the 21-year-old in question, the England international has showcased all of the assets that made Caicedo so sought-after this summer.

After all, that loan spell at Crystal Palace marked his finest personal campaign to date, starring at Selhurst Park with his patented energy, creativity and proficiency in front of goal.

He would maintain a 7.08 average rating that season, buoyed by his eight league strikes, 81% pass accuracy, 1.1 key passes and two tackles per game, via Sofascore.

Somehow, the 23-year-old manages to be both combative and classy, with his tireless press having been lauded by The Athletic's Mike Stavrou:

"Conor Gallagher was absolutely relentless with his pressing and energy tonight. Some player Chelsea have got."

It seems like Mauricio Pochettino has been blinded by the lucrative light that Caicedo's potential arrival offered, and seems set to overlook Gallagher and all his talents.

This is made especially frustrating when comparing that aforementioned standout campaign with the former Independiente del Valle gem's recent term, which saw him star. He would also boast a 7.08 average rating, with only his 89% pass accuracy marking a notable increase on his new teammate's figures.

With just two goal contributions all season in the league, his key passes per game stood at 1.2, whilst his tackles increased to 2.7, via Sofascore.

Few would argue with the quality that he offers, but he has hardly done enough to suggest that he is a far better option than Gallagher, especially considering Caicedo boasts just 53 senior appearances for the Seagulls, whereas the Cobham graduate has amassed 117 appearances across spells at three top-flight English clubs.

Both are clearly progressive and yet not afraid to stick their foot in when the time dictates. However, one is seemingly worth double what the other is.

Postecoglou will be hoping to maintain some semblance of financial intelligence despite the vast funds recently received, and starting off that spending with the shrewd acquisition of Gallagher could see them secure their own version of Chelsea's new energetic midfield star for a fraction of the price.