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Arsenal are enjoying a strong start to the 2023/24 campaign under Mikel Arteta, after concluding the previous season on a high note following their Premier League title charge.

The Gunners will feel some disappointment in not winning the league after leading for so long last term, however what was evident was the progression that the squad has experienced during the manager’s tenure.

Despite sitting in fourth and only three points off the summit of the table, there have already been glaring comparisons to the club’s weaknesses last campaign, as lack of squad depth has hit Arsenal early.

From injury woes to lack of performance, Arteta has some questions to answer with reference to the Gunners’ recent dip in form, which has entailed some rotation to the favoured XI.

Luckily for the Spaniard, the January transfer window is looming, and with the chance to welcome reinforcements in the winter, the north Londoners could finally identify the personnel needed to help them close in on their first league title in almost 20 years.

Arsenal's January transfer targets

Placing the recurring theme of a need for a clinical striker aside, another area that is likely to be bolstered in January is the midfield.

Despite signing Declan Rice for a club-record fee of £105m in the summer, Arteta and Edu could look to strengthen the engine room further, particularly as rumours regarding Thomas Partey’s future circulate.

One player that was audaciously identified as a potential target is Real Madrid enforcer Aurelien Tchouameni, who Football Transfers claim is the Gunners’ primary target for 2024.

With a market value of €100m (£87m), the Frenchman would be a blockbuster signing for Arteta to acquire, however, the probability of a move of that stature coming in January could prove to be financially difficult.

Fortunately, the 23-year-old isn’t the only midfielder said to be on Arsenal’s radar, as Brazilian sensation Andre Trindade has been identified as a point of interest for January.

The 22-year-old was said to be a target for the north Londoners by 90min last month, after Liverpool failed to sign the Fluminense star in the summer.

Latest news from Brazil, relayed on Twitter X by an Arsenal source, has named the Gunners as one of the clubs that sent scouts to watch the midfielder in action in the Copa Libertadores final last week.

It’s added that representatives from Liverpool and Fulham were also in attendance, with the stance there that Fluminense 'have an agreement' to sell the 22-year-old in January for a price believed to be in the region of €35m (£30m).

Considering that Jurgen Klopp’s side padded their squad out with four new midfielders in the summer window, Arsenal could be in good stead to capture Andre, if the club act fast in paying the fee desired by Fluminense.

Andre’s playing style

In Andre, Arteta could discover the missing piece to his puzzle in the engine room in a player capable of being silky in possession and distribution, as well as having the combative edge to defend the back line.

Dubbed an “unbelievable” talent backed to “flourish in the Premier League” by South American football expert, Nathan Joyes, £30m could prevail to be a steal for the magnitude of player that the Gunners could capture.

As for his playing style, the nimble 5 foot 9 extraordinaire has been identified by scouting site Breaking the Lines as the 'modern-day defensive midfielder that almost any club in world football would want'.

Why? Well, Andre is noted as a 'dynamic and mobile' ball carrier by Breaking the Lines, with his favoured strength being his ability to be seen 'waltzing forward' from deeper areas to progress play into advanced areas.

The site describes his role in the engine room as Fluminense 'recycling play through him', with reference to his tireless movement in the middle channels to ensure the game ticks on both defensively and offensively.

Due to his tidiness when deployed as in the ‘number six’ role, U23 scout Antonio Mango handed the Brazilian the title of “the orchestrator” for his no-nonsense approach to controlling the midfield.

How Andre compares to Premier League midfielders

While the praise surrounding the 22-year-old paints an encouraging picture for Arsenal, his impressive statistics are another thing to be hailed.

On paper, the Brazil international is a robust and precise asset in the midfield, however as many players find, the Premier League can pose a challenge for new arrivals which can halt progression while one adapts.

When comparing Andre to a selected midfielder from each of the Premier League’s current top four clubs, it’s clear to see why Joyes expects the promising maestro to fit into the English top flight with ease.

Statistic

Andre

Yves Bissouma

Rodri

Declan Rice

Dominik Szoboszlai

Pass completion %

94.2%

91.1%

94.1%

91.5%

84.8%

Progressive passes

6.71

7.45

10.48

7.05

7.27

Progressive carries

1.97

3.00

2.47

1.55

2.70

Successful take-ons

1.43

2.23

1.36

0.58

1.21

Key passes

0.80

0.56

0.99

0.77

2.42

Tackles

2.01

3.56

2.22

2.22

1.31

Interceptions

1.17

1.89

0.74

1.45

0.65

Dribblers tackled %

56.8%

78.3%

58.3%

47.4%

24.1%

Per 90 figures via FBref

The Fluminense star records the highest pass completion rate from the pack, as well as showing promising signs in both his ball-carrying and defensive attributes, reinforcing that he could be well sculpted to play in England.

For Arsenal, there are a host of reasons as to why the 2001-born gem would be a strong acquisition, with his potential partnership with Rice the driving force behind his most capture-worthy strengths.

The stats that show that Andre would be a good signing for Arsenal

As documented by Breaking the Lines, Andre thrives in assuming the ‘number six’ role, with him working primarily in a double-pivot within a 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 formation.

Arteta lines Arsenal up in identical fashion, with the likes of Rice and Partey protecting both the defence behind them, and Martin Odegaard in front of them to act as a metronome in the Gunners’ favoured XI.

Expelling Partey from the picture, Andre could be the ideal partner for the north Londoners’ £105m man, based on his opposing strengths to the 6 foot 1 commander that arrived in the summer.

As portrayed in the table above, the duo showcase exemplary passing qualities with an eye for progressive play, however the Brazilian is a strong ball carrier, attributable to his smaller frame and fluid movements between the lines.

Once lauded as one of the “biggest jewels” in South America by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Arteta could unearth the perfect combination in Arsenal’s midfield, in a move that could bolster both the squad and Rice’s role in the engine room.

With both players boasting the ability to hold their own, the pair could rotate in who assumes the role of the anchor, with the former West Ham United captain showing his recent form in the final third at the Emirates.

For just £30m, Arteta could banish the uncertainty in Arsenal’s midfield by capturing the signature of Andre, who could prevail to be one of the next top talents to grace the Premier League.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for an "incredible" Premier League player, and his current club's asking price has now been revealed.

Liverpool eyeing Premier League ace

The Reds could be in the market for a new signing or two during the January transfer window, even though Jurgen Klopp has assembled one of the strongest squads in the club's history.

While Liverpool did some excellent summer business when it came to bolstering the midfield, the lack of an elite No.6 is continuing to hold them back, with Alexis Mac Allister not looking like a natural in the role.

Elsewhere, Klopp could feel that he needs to bring in a centre-back who is also adept at left-back, providing competition for Virgil van Dijk and also acting as an upgrade on Kostas Tsimikas, who arguably isn't a strong enough deputy to Andy Robertson.

Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly has been linked with a move to Liverpool, having matured into a consistent performer for the Cherries, with his versatility at the back something that immediately stands out.

The Reds transfer target is out of contract at the end of this season, so January would be the last chance for his current club to receive a fee for him.

Liverpool learn Lloyd Kelly asking price

According to Football Insider, Liverpool will have to pay approximately £25-30m to sign Lloyd Kelly, but they aren't alone in showing an interest:

"Liverpool and Tottenham will have to pay around £25-30million for Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider. It is believed such a fee would be too good to turn down for the Cherries, with Kelly, 25, out of contract at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

[…]

"It is believed Spurs had a late £20million bid for Kelly rejected by Bournemouth in the most recent summer window as they did not have adequate time to find a replacement. And Liverpool are now ready to go head-to-head with Ange Postecoglou’s side for the former England Under-21 man as they target a versatile defender."

Kelly could be a brilliant option for Liverpool in January, not necessarily being the household name that some supporters want to come in, such as Reds target and Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio, but acting as a solid signing who can shine in a couple of positions.

This season, Kelly's statistics for Bournemouth have been impressive, with the 25-year-old averaging 2.1 clearances and 1.3 tackles per game in the Premier League, starting seven matches in the competition.

The Englishman has also been lauded by former Cherries manager Gary O'Neil, who said of him earlier this year after an impressive performance up against Mohamed Salah:

"I thought Lloyd was incredible. I think he had a 12-week ankle injury followed by a six-week calf injury. Didn't have much time in between, and then came back today having not trained much, to play left back against one of the best wingers in the world."

The fact that he held his own so well when faced with Salah last season further speaks volumes about what a good signing he could be for Liverpool, and he would also add to the Reds' homegrown quota at Anfield.

Liverpool can secure their place in the Europa League round of 16 on Thursday night when LASK visit Anfield.

For that to happen, the Reds must better Toulouse's matchday five result, with the French outfit hosting Union Saint-Galloise.

Jurgen Klopp's side are still in pole position to avoid the extra two games that come with finishing second and entering the knockout play-off round. They're two points ahead of Toulouse while four points from their remaining two fixtures will confirm their status as group winners.

Klopp has used this competition as an opportunity to rotate his side and give key first-team stars a chance to rest. This has opened up the door for several youngsters, including Ben Doak, Jarell Quansah and Harvey Elliott to shine.

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With the above trio expected to be three of ten changes from the recent draw with Manchester City, here's what a predicted Liverpool XI could look like tomorrow evening…

1 GK – Caoimhin Kelleher

Kelleher has played in three of Liverpool's four Europa League outings this term and although he hasn't painted himself in the brightest of lights, conceding five goals, his place in the team against LASK is solidified.

First-choice goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, picked up a hamstring injury in the draw against Man City, so the 25-year-old must now impress in Europe to fill Klopp with confidence moving forward, especially if the Brazilian is out for a lengthy period.

2 RB – Joe Gomez

Etihad hero Trent Alexander-Arnold will be wrapped up in cotton wool on Thursday which means Joe Gomez should get the nod at right-back. The Englishman has featured across all four matches in this competition and captained the side in their 3-2 defeat against Toulouse last time out.

Once dubbed by Klopp as a "sensational footballer", Gomez has been a reliable back-up this term and whilst he can't offer the same attacking threat to Trent, he does provide steeliness defensively having made 2.5 tackles per game and won 63% of his duels in Europe.

3 CB – Ibrahima Konate

A man-mountain of a centre-back, who has suffered multiple spells on the sideline this term, Ibrahima Konate has a chance to show Klopp he's a better option than Joel Matip at the heart of the Liverpool defence.

Hailed by defensive partner Virgil van Dijk as "incredible", the Frenchman is held in high regard at Anfield and considering he ranks in the top 15% against his positional peers for tackles per 90 across Europe's top five leagues in the past year, it is clear to see why those close to him have waxed lyrical about his talents.

4 CB – Jarell Quansah

Quansah has made a seamless transition into the Liverpool first-team this term and the 20-year-old has impressed with his exceptional ball-playing abilities and defensive attributes.

Lauded as "absolutely phenomenal" by fellow academy graduate, Alexander-Arnold, the centre-back has starred across his three appearances in Europe, registering an impressive 91% pass completion and he's only been dribbled past 0.3 times per game. If he continues to perform at a high, the world is Quansah's oyster.

5 LB – Kostas Tsimikas

Left-back stalwart Andrew Robertson is expected to return from his shoulder injury in January 2024 but until then, Kostas Tsimikas will continue to deputize for the Scot on the left side of defence – acting as the only player to keep his place from the trip to the Etihad.

The Greek international is unable to match Robertson's quality down the left flank having yet to create a big chance and has only registered 0.7 key passes per game across three matches in Europe.

6 CM – Wataru Endo

Wataru Endo has yet to truly impress since arriving from Stuttgart in the summer, but he'll get another chance to demonstrate his qualities on Thursday night.

The Japanese international was expected to become the ball-winning machine to replace Fabinho, however, Alexis Mac Allister has been preferred by Klopp in that position. Having made four appearances in this competition, it's unlikely he'll get dropped against LASK.

7 CM – Ryan Gravenberch

Ryan Gravenberch was starting to come into his own in a Liverpool shirt, especially in the Europa League, having supplied an assist and scored twice across his first three matches.

The 21-year-old had since suffered a minor knock, which meant he didn't start on Saturday, however, the silky Dutchman has averaged the highest Sofascore rating of any Reds player in this competition (7.97), made the most key passes per game (3) and created the most big chances (2).

8 CM – Harvey Elliott

Harvey Elliott has been dubbed as "exceptional" by Jamie Carragher for his performances this term and although he hasn't been awarded the requisite game time to go with that praise, another audition awaits on Thursday night.

The midfield metronome, who has started in all four Europa League matches, has terrorised opposition defenders with his tremendous low centre of gravity. He is capable of gliding past his opponents with ease, completing 75% of his attempted dribbles in this competition.

9 RW – Ben Doak

One of the most exciting prospects to be unleashed from the Liverpool academy in recent years, Ben Doak is one of several blessings in disguise to come from Thursday jaunts to rogue destinations.

A direct and pacey winger, who has been described by van Dijk as a "Tasmanian devil" for how he strikes fear into opposition defenders, Doak's precocious talents have rewarded him with two appearances in Europe and a third is looking likely.

10 LW – Luis Diaz

For what Luis Diaz has had to go through off the field this term following the kidnapping of his father – who has now been released – it is remarkable that he has still managed to focus on delivering excellent performances on the pitch.

Dubbed by Klopp as a "special" talent, Diaz scored and assisted in the return fixture against LASK and will be looking to terrorise his Austrian opponents once more.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have been inconsistent this season under head coach Gary O'Neil, proven by a massive 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur before the international break, followed by two consecutive defeats to Fulham and Arsenal.

Scoring goals is not necessarily an issue for the Midlands club. Hwang Hee-chan is the joint-fifth top scorer in the Premier League this term and Wolves as a team have found the net more than any other side in the bottom nine.

The issue comes primarily at the back for O'Neil's men. Only five teams in the top-flight have conceded more goals than Wolves but the manager has one glaringly obvious solution to their defensive woes.

Craig Dawson's stats this season

Craig Dawson joined Wolves back in January for a mere £3.3m, having been an integral part of West Ham United's defence for several seasons under David Moyes.

The centre-back brought experience and Premier League know-how, something that was lacking in the team last term as Wolves sat rock bottom of the division heading into the winter World Cup.

Nevertheless, nearing his mid-30s, the veteran was always going to be a stop-gap signing amidst plenty of turnover, including the departures of Conor Coady and Nathan Collins.

Having played primarily in a back three this season, the 33-year-old has struggled to keep up statistically with his defensive partners Toti and Max Kilman.

Progressive Passes

2.42

2.71

3.21

Progressive Carries

0.08

0.82

0.86

Passes To Final 1/3

2.42

2.47

3.36

Passes To Penalty Area

0.16

0.24

0.50

Pass Completion %

86.8

81

82.1

Tackles

1.56

1.88

1.29

Tackles Won

0.94

1.41

0.64

Blocks

1.88

0.71

1.79

Interceptions

0.55

0.94

1.14

Errors

0.08

0

0.07

Aerial Duels Won %

75.6

73.3

74.5

Dawson is still performing better than the pair next to him in metrics such as aerial duels and blocks which are his bread and butter.

However, the centre-back offers very little in possession and could be replaced by the end of the campaign by one man currently in the squad.

Craig Dawson's potential replacement at Wolves

Santiago Bueno moved to Wolverhampton Wanderers during the summer transfer window for £10m with high hopes after an excellent spell in Spain with Girona.

Sporting Director Matt Hobbs called the centre-back a "perfect fit" for the team and labelled him as a "front-footed" player.

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However, the Uruguayan has made merely one Premier League start for the Old Gold since his arrival which came in a 3-2 defeat away at Fulham last Monday.

Nevertheless, the 25-year-old put a decent shift in, although he certainly wasn't helped by his right wingback Nelson Semedo who dropped a 5.9 Sofascore rating, which was the lowest of any player on the pitch, and gave possession away 19 times while also conceding a penalty.

Minutes

90

Passing Accuracy %

84

Touches

72

Passes To Final 1/3

2

Dispossessed

0

Tackles Won %

50

Clearances

7

Defensive Actions

12

Ball Recoveries

5

Ground Duels Won %

60

Kilman primarily plays on the right of Wolves' back three when Dawson is in the starting lineup as the latter isn't quick enough to cover the wide spaces. However, Bueno started on the right in his absence, with skipper Kilman pushing into the centre.

While Bueno has played just 276 minutes of football since arriving in England, the £30k-per-week defender's stats last season compared to Dawson this time around show that he can be a more valuable member of the backline under O'Neil.

Progressive Passes

4.43

2.42

Progressive Carries

0.90

0.08

Passes To Final 1/3

4.43

2.42

Passes To Penalty Area

0.15

0.16

Pass Completion %

86.5

86.6

Tackles

1.89

1.56

Tackles Won

1.14

0.94

Blocks

1.02

1.88

Interceptions

0.93

0.55

Aerial Duels Won %

64.3

75.6

Dawson comes out on top in aerial duels and blocks but this would be less of an issue with the latter featuring on the right side of the defence. Bueno is a superb defender, as shown by his stats last season and should be given a run of games in the team to shine.

Barring recent frustration against Manchester United, Liverpool have been far closer to their best this season compared to the misery of the last campaign, which saw them finish outside of the Premier League's top four. The Reds rebuilt their midfield during the summer transfer window and have been reaping the rewards ever since when some may have believed their smart nature in the market had dwindled. As the January transfer window approaches, those at Anfield could once again prove that's anything but the case.

Reports suggest that Liverpool have made a concrete move to sign one particular gem who could provide Jurgen Klopp's side with a winter boost in pursuit of another title win under the German.

Liverpool transfer news

Liverpool's mentality has again been the standout under Klopp this season, even when performances haven't been there to match. The Reds have secured last-gasp victories over Newcastle United, Fulham and Crystal Palace in the current campaign, showcasing that never-say-die attitude that has become a constant feature ever since Klopp's arrival. Perhaps looking to ensure that the performances start to help avoid the need for such heroics, however, Liverpool are reportedly eyeing up a January move for another gem.

According to Corriere dello Sport, via Paisley Gates, Liverpool have concretely moved to sign Juventus youngster Kenan Yildiz. The 18-year-old has reportedly asked his agent to find him a new team amid a struggle for minutes in Italy and has attracted solid interest from those at Anfield.

If Liverpool do want to sign the Turkish forward, however, then they will have to meet Yildiz's price tag of £34m, according to Paolo Bargiggia, via Calcio Mercato. When the winter window swings open, it will certainly be one to keep an eye on, especially if Liverpool want to invest in their future attacking options.

"Brilliant" Yildiz is one for the future

As much as Liverpool's focus may well be on the here and now when it comes to picking up crucial silverware in the current campaign, securing deals for those who will have an impact in the future would do them no harm. And Yildiz is among those who could become a key man, wherever he ends up. The teenager is yet to make a start in Serie A for Juventus this season but has already made six appearances, albeit only featuring for a combined 38 minutes. With reports suggesting that frustration is kicking in too, Liverpool could make their move.

Yildiz has plenty of fans already, including Football Talent Scout's Jacek Kulig, who took to X to praise the Juventus forward for his work with the youth side.

If Yildiz did manage to secure a move to Liverpool, then he'd already have Bayern Munich, Juventus and the Reds on a glowing CV before he even reaches his 20s. A highly-rated player, Klopp could yet get the chance to work with a future star.

Everton have taken the first step in their quest to sign a new goalscorer in January as reports from Italy share news of talks this week.

Everton transfer targets

The Blues have found some impressive form in the Premier League of late, but that's not to say that the idea of making new signings in the January transfer window should be ignored. Sean Dyche would surely love to bring in a number of new faces to bolster his options, and Everton have certainly been linked with plenty of signings in recent weeks.

The Merseysiders have been backed to make a move for Aston Villa midfielder Leander Dendoncker, for example, while Juventus defender Federico Gatti is seen as a strong option to replace Jarrad Branthwaite, should the latter leave the club soon, albeit that is an outcome fans would prefer to avoid of course.

Everton begin agent talks for Boulaye Dia

According to a fresh update from Il Mattino [via Sport Witness], Everton are interested in signing Salernitana striker Boulaye Dia, with the Blues one of several teams in the hunt to snap him up, having been keen on him in the summer, too.

Salernitana want to raise funds and see the 27-year-old as someone who can generate them, meaning they could be willing to offload him in the January window. The Blues are believed to have taken the first move by entering talks with his agent, and the player is valued at €22m (£18.9m) currently. In fact, a separate report claims there is a €21m (£18m) clause in his contract that would allow him to join a Premier League side, while Salernitana president Danilo Iervolino recently talked up the idea of certain players leaving:

"It doesn’t seem to me that those we bought have played badly, it’s those who stayed who have disappointed so much. The problems lurk in a torn environment. Unfortunately, we can’t create the right harmony and there are factions. Many players want to leave, they don’t like Salernitana.

"They are here but would like to be elsewhere. If they have no joy, they know that this risks being the grave of many players. I will have a hard time with many of them. In January, I’ll send away those who don’t want to stay. From now on, we’ll only take people who want to stay at Salerno."

Everton still look a little light in attacking areas, in terms of having numerous consistent providers of end product in the final third, so a January move for Dia could be an inspired piece of business. At 27, the Senegalese is now an experienced player who has proven himself in Serie A, with 20 goals in just 44 appearances in the competition, so he could hit the ground running at Goodison next month.

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The rumoured release clause is also far from expensive, so Everton wouldn't be spending out of their means to sign Dia, and it is a move that makes perfect sense, rather than feeling like a gamble. The fact that Liverpool legend Sadio Mane has also endorsed him recently also speaks volumes, saying he has been "really impressed by his qualities".

Aston Villa chiefs are already laying the groundwork for a “superstar" signing in 2024, according to an exciting new report.

Aston Villa striker rumours

The Villans have made a stunning start to the season under Unai Emery both in the Premier League and also in the Europa Conference League. It comes after the Spaniard was backed in the transfer market over the summer ahead of his first full season in charge, with the likes of Pau Torres and Moussa Diaby arriving in big-money deals.

On the pitch, Villa are in a sensational run of form, especially at home, with the club winning 15 straight top-flight games at Villa Park. They return to action at home to struggling Sheffield United this evening, knowing a win will take them to the top of the tree ahead of Liverpool hosting Arsenal on Saturday.

Aston Villa's 15 home wins

Game

Date

Aston Villa 1-0 Crystal Palace

4/3/2023

Aston Villa 3-0 Bournemouth

18/3/2023

Aston Villa 2-0 Nottingham Forest

8/4/2023

Aston Villa 3-0 Newcastle

15/4/2023

Aston Villa 1-0 Fulham

25/4/2023

Aston Villa 2-1 Tottenham

13/5/2023

Aston Villa 2-1 Brighton

28/5/2023

Aston Villa 4-0 Everton

20/8/2023

Aston Villa 3-1 Crystal Palace

16/9/2023

Aston Villa 6-1 Brighton

30/9/2023

Aston Villa 4-1 West Ham

22/10/2023

Aston Villa 3-1 Luton

29/10/2023

Aston Villa 3-1 Fulham

12/11/2023

Aston Villa 1-0 Man City

6/12/2023

Aston Villa 1-0 Arsenal

9/12/2023

There does seem to be an eye on additions in the New Year, though, with reports claiming Villa want to sign two new attackers in January. RB Salzburg’s Oscar Gloukh, RB Leipzig’s Timo Werner and Leicester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho were all named as targets, however, there looks to be a change of thought from Villa officials, although it still represents an exciting transfer update.

Aston Villa 2024 transfer update

According to Football Insider in the last 48 hours, Aston Villa are now eyeing a loan move for Werner in the New Year as they set their sights on a marquee addition later in 2024.

It is believed that Villa chiefs, and by extension owners NSWE and president of football operations Monchi, are also already laying the groundwork for a “superstar striker signing” next summer.

Werner could arrive in the near future to provide competition to Ollie Watkins, and by the summer, FFP concerns will have subsided, allowing the club to splash the cash once again.

Villa haven’t exactly struggled for goals this season, with 15 different scorers in all competitions. Watkins leads the way with 14 goals, whereas the likes of Leon Bailey, Douglas Luiz and John McGinn have all netted more than five times each. (Aston Villa top scorers – BBC)

However, when it comes to centre-forwards, alongside Watkins, Emery has just Jhon Duran as his only alternative senior striking option, so looking to bring an experienced forward like Werner in on loan could be a wise move.

It looks as if Villa are going to be in the race for the top four and possibly even the title in the second half of the season, as well as European glory in the Conference League, so more options in attack may make a big difference before a statement addition next summer, with work already underway in that regard.

Everton managed to stop the rot this past week. A goalless draw at Selhurst Park on Thursday in the FA Cup earned a replay back at Goodison Park against Crystal Palace and put a stop to the side’s losing streak.

However, the Toffees’ main issue of failing to tuck away chances stuck out like a sore thumb in midweek. After 13 shots and an xG of 1.32, Everton didn’t manage to convert one single opportunity and limped to the final whistle with ten men.

Nevertheless, the January transfer window offers Sean Dyche a chance to bring some firepower into his squad and the Merseyside club are currently eyeing up one former Premier League star.

Everton transfer news – Michy Batshuayi

According to Turkish journalist Levent Umit Erol, via the Liverpool Echo, Everton are eyeing up a winter move for Fenerbahce centre-forward Michy Batshuayi.

It has previously been reported that the Belgium international is keen to secure a move away from Turkey before the January window slams shut and even submitted a transfer request.

Batshuayi is a rather forgotten man in English football, having signed for Chelsea back in 2016 for £33m, but was described as "deadly in front of goal" by journalist Josh Bunting during his time at the club.

Unfortunately, after an underwhelming stint with the Blues and two loan spells with Crystal Palace in between, the striker’s market value is now merely £6m, as per the CIES Football Observatory.

Nonetheless, Everton are desperate for goals at the moment. Only five sides in the Premier League have found the net fewer times than Dyche’s side but The Athletic revealed that the club’s budget will be tight in January, meaning cheaper buys could be the manager’s best friend this month, hence why Batshuayi is a deal that makes sense.

Michy Batshuayi’s stats this season

Batshuayi has found himself as a mere squad rotation player this season at Fenerbahce. The Belgian centre-forward has played just 847 minutes in all competitions for the Turkish outfit, spread across 20 appearances, which equates to roughly 42 minutes per game only. Additionally, in 16 league matches played, the 30-year-old has started just once.

Regardless, Batshuayi's goal record across the 2023/24 campaign is still quite impressive. The experienced frontman has found the net eight times in all competitions and due to his lack of game-time, has averaged a goal once every 106 minutes which complements his three assists.

Meanwhile, Everton are struggling for a goalscorer up top. Dominic Calvert-Lewin with four and Beto with three have still managed to score fewer goals together than Batshuayi this term. Furthermore, Batshuayi has proven himself to be a much better number '9' statistically than both Calvert-Lewin and Beto this season, particularly when analysing the duo's underperformance in their expected goals.

Goals

0.91

0.27

0.44

Expected Goals

0.47

0.58

0.40

Assists

0.30

0.07

0.11

Expected Assists

0.05

0.04

0.02

Shots

4.24

2.80

3.41

Shots On Target

1.82

1.20

0.77

Shots Per Goal

0.18

0.10

0.13

Aerial Duels Won %

71.4%

44.1%

50%

In addition, left-winger Dwight McNeil is Everton's best creator in the 2023/24 campaign, having recorded five assists in total. However, the ex-Burnley is averaging 1.78 key passes per 90 and 0.36 assisted goals per 90 but has registered merely 0.25 assists per 90.

His underperformance in these metrics is down to Everton's poor finishing in front of goal which could be alleviated by Batshuayi's outperformance of his xG.

Moreover, McNeil is delivering 6.97 crosses per 90 this season under Dyche, while Batshuayi has won 71.4% of his aerial duels per 90 which means the two could be a match made in heaven. This really feels like a duo that could get Dyche's side firing on a more regular basis.

Batshuayi may not be Everton's number '9' for years to come but the striker knows where the goal is and what the Premier League is all about which could be the difference between the Toffees staying up or going down.

With the Premier League campaign now past its halfway point, it's safe to say that Liverpool's hold on first place puts them in contention for the trophy.

Of course, this might sound obvious but there's the unwritten and somewhat hackneyed rule that credible assessments of the title race cannot be drawn up until the festive period concludes, and the fact that Liverpool have emerged in pole position suggests that silver-laden success is very much attainable.

Largely, this is down to the sweeping summer changes made to the midfield by Jurgen Klopp, and while further incomings appear unlikely, news has filtered through that the Reds could yet lodge a bid for a rising star this month.

Liverpool's transfer targets – January

When Liverpool lost Joel Matip to an ACL injury last month, there was always going to be noise around a possible new centre-back, and while the likes of Goncalo Inacio and Ousmane Diomande have been linked, Anfield is unlikely to grant such an expensive outlay this month.

However, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Liverpool have 'moved into sign' Juventus prospect Kenan Yildiz alongside German sides Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig, who is believed to have a price tag of around €40m (£34m).

As much as Liverpool want to wrap a deal up this month, the Old Lady are desperate to keep a hold of their talented teenager, and it might be difficult to get it over the line by the end of the month.

Kenan Yildiz's style of play

Yildiz, aged just 18, has only made 11 senior appearances for Juventus this term but he has already posted three goals, leading talent scout Jacek Kulig to praise his "simply brilliant" start to life on the major stage.

As per Sofascore, the Turkey international has completed 84% of his passes, succeeded with 89% of his dribbles and won 71% of his ground duels in Serie A this season, highlighting a rounded skill set that could be moulded into something great under Klopp's tutelage.

A mobile attacking midfielder with an innate eye for goal, Yildiz has impressed with his breezy gait and natural strength and athleticism, with his former coach Sokyan Baskar even claiming that he's "more talented than Cristiano Ronaldo."

Of course, such effusive praise might be a little lofty, but then there's no denying that Yildiz offers flair and quality in abundance and could enjoy a prosperous career at the forefront of the European game.

Given that Liverpool would bring him in from Italy, he could even be Philippe Coutinho reincarnate, which would be quite the thing for the red shades of Merseyside.

Why Kenan Yildiz could be Liverpool's next Coutinho

Back in 2013, Liverpool completed the signing of Brazilian midfielder Coutinho for just £8.5m, and after scoring 54 goals and supplying 45 assists from just 201 outings for the club, he cemented his name as one of the most exciting and influential in the Premier League.

13

3

7

37

5

8

52

8

6

42

11

7

36

14

9

20

12

8

Rising to the next level under Klopp's wing, Coutinho plundered 20 direct contributions from as many fixtures in the first half of the 2016/17 season before Barcelona came in and offered a simply staggering fee of £142m to swipe him away from the Reds.

Liverpool acquiesced and have since gone on to reach new heights, reinvesting the money into the signings of Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk.

But none dispute the prowess that Coutinho boasted during that period, described as a "magician" by one-time teammate Lucas Leiva, and Yildiz could emulate this with a transfer to English shores.

He has the ability and is young enough to be shaped by Klopp's creation, and this would be a good time to sign Coutinho 2.0 by returning to Serie A and signing a No. 10 with a future of glittering possibilities.

Whilst Newcastle United are yet to make their first move in the January transfer window, perhaps restricted by Financial Fair Play, the potential sale of Miguel Almiron could go a long way in helping Eddie Howe to welcome some much-needed reinforcements – some of which could be stars for the future.

Newcastle transfer news – Almiron set to leave

According to reports, Newcastle and Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab have reached an agreement over a deal for Almiron in a transfer that could be worth £30m if the Magpies receive their reported asking price. The sale, whilst an attacking blow, could hand those at St James' Park some breathing room on the FFP front.

The Premier League's profit and sustainability rules state that clubs can only reach £105m in losses over the course of three seasons, meaning that Newcastle's reported loss of £155m could have left them in trouble. And although investment into their women's team, academy and charity foundation means they can technically stay below that figure, there's still cause for concern for PIF, who must sell before making their next big-money move.

It remains to be seen just who the next big player to come through the door will be, as for now, it seems as though the Magpies are focused on the future. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Newcastle have agreed a deal to sign Alfie Harrison from Manchester City for an undisclosed fee. Following the breakthrough, the young midfielder is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days, before putting pen to paper on a long-term deal at the club.

The 18-year-old will certainly be one to watch, given that the deal reportedly centred around handing Harrison a pathway to the first-team. Paul Midgley, who joined from Manchester City to become Newcastle's head of recruitment, reportedly played a role in the move.

"Exciting" Harrison is a rising star

Scoring ten goals and assisting a further eight for Manchester City's U18s this season, Harrison's talent is clear. Now, Newcastle will hope to see the young midfielder go on and realise his potential, perhaps even making his debut for the Magpies this season if all goes well, given the promised pathway to Howe's side. Harrison is certainly a highly-rated player too, drawing praise from the likes of The Secret Scout.

With just one week left in the January transfer window, Newcastle could yet add to their additions even further, especially if Almiron does complete his departure from St James' Park within that timeframe. Behind in the race to secure a European spot, the Magpies could certainly do with plenty of reinforcements. Whether that be through experienced players or stars for the future such as Harrison remains to be seen, but it could be a busy seven days on Tyneside nonetheless.