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Aston Villa have suffered a major blow with the latest transfer update involving England international Jack Grealish.

What’s the story?

Villa’s club captain is currently on international duty with the Three Lions as he looks to enjoy his first taste of international tournament football this summer at the EUROs.

But, according to Football Insider, “Grealish has told friends he remains very interested” in a move to Manchester City, and that his “head has been turned by the strength of City’s interest behind the scenes”.

The report adds: “His future will not be resolved until after this summer’s European Championships but he is said to be very attracted by the possibility of a glamour move to the Premier League champions. Grealish wants to play regularly in the Champions League as well as develop his game under master coach Pep Guardiola.”

Fans will be gutted

Having gotten their transfer window off to the perfect start by beating Arsenal to the signing of Emi Buendia, Villa have now been struck by this reported blow.

Grealish’s importance to this Villa side is well known – in the 12 games that he missed last season in the Premier League, they won just three – and losing him this summer would be a hammer blow to their chances of breaking into the European places next year.

The England star has been with Villa through their time in the Championship and now in the Premier League, and as the side’s skipper, heis Dean Smith’s main source of inspiration on the pitch.

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News that Grealish remains “interested” in a move to the Premier League champions will surely have Villa fans absolutely gutted as they quite rightly adore their home-grown superstar captain, the prospect of him playing anywhere else must be very painful for them to even consider.

Of course, Villa still have Grealish under contract and they could simply refuse to sell him, but in an age of player power, it could be very difficult to keep a player who’s seemingly had his head turned.

In a summer where Villa are hoping to develop and become a stronger side, the prospect of losing their best player to the champions seems very real and that will be a bitter pill for Villans’ fans to swallow if City do come knocking.

Meanwhile, Ashley Preece has dropped an exciting claim on Villa’s pursuit of James Ward-Prowse…

Marcelo Bielsa’s decision to leave out Illan Meslier at the end of the season was ‘really harsh’, according to former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan.

The Lowdown: Meslier left out by Bielsa

The Whites goalkeeper was one of his side’s outstanding players in 2020/21, starting 35 Premier League games and playing a key role in them finishing in ninth place.

Meslier was axed for Leeds’ final two matches of 2020/21, however, with Kiko Casilla starting against both Southampton and West Brom.

The Latest: Whelan unhappy with decision

It seemed a slightly baffling decision by Bielsa, considering what a consistent player the Frenchman has been throughout the campaign, and someone who wasn’t impressed was Whelan.

He told Football Insider that it felt needless on the manager’s part:

“Meslier deserved to play, there is absolutely no doubt about that in my mind. It is really harsh on him to not get to play in front of the fans after the season he has had. He’s been brilliant.

“Bielsa will have sat down and spoken to him regarding the decision before the game. He is a level-headed player so I think he will have taken it on the chin and moved on.

“I hope he understood Bielsa’s reasoning for leaving him out, whatever they were.”

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The Verdict: Water under the bridge

There is unlikely to be any great issue between Bielsa and Meslier, so this is more than likely something that has been blown out of proportion.

That being said, it made little sense to take out such a key player at the end of the campaign, especially when European football wasn’t completely out of the question.

Leeds won both games, of course, so Bielsa will feel vindicated in his decision, but the greater worry may be the exit links that have emerged for the young Frenchman in the past few months, which are bound to intensify with the summer window now looming.

In other news, one Leeds player has been tipped to leave the club this summer – find out who it is here.

Freddie Woodman could leave Newcastle United this summer because ‘there is no clear path for him’ to the first team, according to Chronicle Live journalist Mark Douglas.

The lowdown

Woodman impressed on loan at Championship side Swansea City this season, keeping a league-high 21 clean sheets.

The 24-year-old also featured in The Athletic’s team of the season for the division as a result of his heroics as he helped the Swans to reach Saturday’s play-off final, in which they were beaten 2-0 by Brentford.

The latest

Douglas reported that Swansea are keen on a permanent move for the 24-year-old, who has signalled that he wants to play regular football and ‘is hinting’ that he wants to stay in south Wales.

That may not be possible at Newcastle given that Martin Dubravka signed a six-year contract during the 2019/20 season and ‘is an important voice in the dressing room’. Karl Darlow is then ‘next in line’ behind the Slovakian.

Arsenal, where Woodman’s father previously worked as a goalkeeping coach, could also be among his suitors.

Douglas reckons that £15m is a realistic price tag if Newcastle were to sanction a sale. That deal, though, should include ‘smart clauses’ such as first refusal on future moves or a ‘hefty sell-on’. [Chronicle Live]

The verdict

Newcastle need to box clever here. Dubravka is a more than capable number one who delivered some strong performances after his return from injury in the spring and, right now, it makes little sense to deny Woodman a lucrative move in order to keep him as a rarely-used backup.

It has been reported that, with Mike Ashley intent on selling the club, Newcastle may have as little as £12m to spend this summer – this deal could more than double their transfer budget.

If they can insert one of the clauses mentioned above, it would be a no-brainer for the Magpies to cash in on the 24-year-old.

In other news, Newcastle are in pole position to land this teenage forward.

According to an update Corriere della Sera, via Sport Witness, Tottenham Hotspur have made contact with yet another name as Daniel Levy’s hunt for a new manager goes on.

The Lowdown: Gasperini emerges as new Spurs candidate

Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini has now emerged as a new name linked with the Tottenham vacancy with reports only just coming out in the last 48 hours.

Indeed, journalist Duncan Castles first claimed that Spurs have made an approach for the Italian and it is believed that the reply from him was a positive one (Transfer Window Podcast).

Spurs have been linked with a host of names since former boss Jose Mourinho was shown the door, a list which includes Julian Nagelsmann, Brendan Rodgers, Erik Ten Hag, Scott Parker, Graham Potter and Ralf Rangnick (Daily Mail).

However, reports have now come to light of yet another new name in Gasperini.

The Latest: Contact for Gasperini backed in Italy

Now, backing up the claim from Castles, Italian news outlet Corriere della Sera (via Sport Witness) have dropped their own update and also believe an approach has been made by Spurs ‘in the last few hours’ (reported Wednesday evening).

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However, the report isn’t quite as positive when it comes to the 63-year-old being named as the new manager of Tottenham – with an exit from Atalanta looking ‘unlikely’ regardless of Levy’s move to make contact.

It is believed that the only club with enough pulling power to lure Gasperini away from the Gewiss Stadium is Serie A giant Juventus.

The local news outlet, therefore, believe Tottenham could be thwarted in their fresh manager interest.

The Verdict: Spurs should go all out…

Despite this report claiming a move away from Atalanta is unlikely, if Levy could pull out all the stops and somehow make a move happen, there is plenty of evidence to suggest he is a brilliant dark horse for the job.

Winning Serie A coach of the year in both 2019 and 2020 (TEAMtalk), Gasperini has also managed a very impressive 53% win rate since taking charge at Atalanta in the summer of 2016.

It is known that Spurs are on the look out for an attack minded manager and he certainly could fit the bill, favouring the 3-4-3 formation and possession-based football (TEAMtalk).

He has also guided his side to Champions League football in each of the last two seasons and is on course to do it yet again this campaign, an incredible feat for a club nowhere near the size of its competitors in Serie A.

Despite not being ‘young’ or ‘dynamic’, with technical performance director Steve Hitchen allegedly wanting that criteria of boss (The Mail), Gasperini still comes as a very qualified new name to be linked.

In other news: Sky reporter lifts lid on Levy summer plan for Spurs, find out more here.

Dean Windass has exclusively told The Transfer Tavern that Josh King would snap up the chance to join Eddie Howe at Celtic.

The pair spent five successful years together at Bournemouth, even though their time on the south coast ended on a sour note following the Cherries’ relegation last season.

But they could be reunited north of the border, with Howe the favourite to be named the new Celtic manager despite weeks of ongoing talks at Parkhead, whilst reports believe that the 43-year-old has already identified the Norwegian striker as a potential replacement for Hoops talisman Odsonne Edouard.

King is currently at Everton, but only on a short-term contract, and having failed to score in 11 substitute appearances following his January move from Bournemouth, appears unlikely to be offered a full-time deal by the Merseysiders.

He’s already been strongly linked with Galatasaray and several Premier League sides, but Windass was asked by The Transfer Tavern whether a move to Scotland might perhaps be the perfect fit, he said:

“Right away. If that was me, if I were Josh King.

“He’s probably got a great relationship with Eddie; he would pack his bags straight away if Eddie gets the job. I can see that.”

Swansea City are reportedly one of the sides taking an interest in Sheffield United centre-back Kean Bryan ahead of the summer, and if he were to make the move to the Liberty Stadium ahead of next season, he could be the ideal replacement for Marc Guehi in Steve Cooper’s side.

According to Football Insider, Fulham, Burnley and Swansea are all plotting moves for the 24-year-old defender, who is currently set to leave The Blades at the end of the season when his contract expires.

Although the former Manchester City youngster has previously stated his desire to stay at Bramall Lane, all three sides interested in him could potentially offer him Premier League football next season, whereas the Yorkshire side look destined for a return to the Championship.

Even if Swansea were to fail in their bid for promotion this season, if they could convince Bryan to join, then it could prove to be an excellent signing, as he has earned some valuable Premier League experience with the Blades.

The season-long injury suffered by Jack O’Connell provided an opportunity for the young defender to step in as the Blades’ left-sided centre-back and he has gone on to make 10 appearances for Sheffield United in the Premier League this season, including a game where he struck the winning goal in their shock 2-1 win at Old Trafford earlier in the season.

It seems extremely unlikely that Swansea will be able to keep hold of Guehi next season as a result of his impressive performances on loan from Chelsea over the past two seasons, and therefore, Cooper may well be in the market for a left-sided centre-back for his side next season.

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Considering that Bryan has plenty of experience, is just 24-years-old and would be available on a free transfer, he could be an excellent heir to the England U21 international, so Swansea should definitely try to bring him in.

And, in other news… Forget Lowe: Swansea beast who played four key passes was Cooper’s star vs Millwall 

A number of Liverpool fans have been calling for Marko Grujic to leave the Reds permanently this summer, following reported interest from Porto.

Jurgen Klopp acquired the services of the midfielder back in January 2016, interestingly making him his first-ever signing at Anfield.

Grujic has had a frustrating time of things at Liverpool, however, making just 16 appearances to date and scoring one solitary goal.

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The 25-year-old Serb has found himself way down the midfield pecking order, leading to loan moves to Red Star Belgrade, Cardiff City, Hertha Berlin and now Porto.

According to Record [via Sport Witness],  the Portuguese giants want to sign Grujic permanently this summer, following an impressive spell there.

It is believed that Porto will try to sign the 10-time capped Serbia international for less than the €23million Liverpool wanted for him last season.

Liverpool fans call for Grujic to leave

It is a report that has gone down well with some Liverpool supporters, with a selection taking to Twitter to provide their thoughts on the matter, hoping to see their side make a quick buck off a youngster who seemingly isn’t going to break into the first team…

“Never really been given a chance for us, if we can get a good fee for him it makes sense to let him go”

Credit: @EESX1LFC

“Time for Michael Edwards to work his magic”

Credit: @velvet_thunder1

“Enter Mr. Edwards to work his magic”

Credit: @Yardie742

“Sell sell sell”

Credit: @Eric61342617

“Anything over £15million I’d take”

Credit: @TemnoLFC

“Yes please”

Credit: @ektelfc_petter

In other news, some Liverpool fans are unhappy with claims regarding two Reds players next season. Read more here.

Tottenham Hotspur have been urged to sign Sam Johnstone from West Brom by Alan Hutton after Spurs were reported to be keeping tabs on him.

Speaking to Football Insider, the former Lilywhites right-back has encouraged his old team to go out and buy Johnstone in the summer transfer window as a potential replacement for Hugo Lloris:

“Lloris has been a great servant. He’s the captain but has come under a little bit of pressure in the last season. There have been a few mistakes. Maybe it’s got to that time to move on. 

“Maybe it’s got to that stage where a new opportunity would really help him. The fact Tottenham are looking at young, English goalkeepers that have played in the league, know what it’s all about, it’s a great option.

“I really like Sam Johnstone, you know I’ve played alongside him, he’s a fantastic keeper. 

“I’d love to see him do well at a big team. He went to Villa and then West Brom and has really grown into the position.

“I think, stepping up to England, he’s ready for that big move again. I’d love to see someone like Sam Johnstone get the nod.”

Tottenham should sign Johnstone

If Lloris does end up leaving the North London club, Johnstone is a perfect replacement for the long-serving France international.

The Englishman is much younger at 28 years of age, and is more than capable of playing at a higher level than the Baggies.

In a struggling side, Johnstone has often kept Albion in games this season, averaging no fewer than 4.1 saves per game in the Premier League so far in the 2020/21 term (Sofascore).

He has also made no errors that have led to goals in the top flight, suggesting that he is as reliable as he is acrobatic.

If Sam Allardyce’s team were to get relegated down to the EFL Championship as expected, Johnstone may also be available for a cheaper price, something that THFC should really look in to.

With Lloris getting on a bit now at 34 years old, Jose Mourinho’s side will surely have to be looking at a replacement ‘keeper sooner rather than later, and Johnstone may well fit the bill.

In other news, find out what enticing transfer claim a Sky Sports journalist has dropped on Spurs here!

After West Ham United secured a memorable 3-2 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux on Monday evening, Declan Rice sent a heartfelt tweet after he missed the game through injury, with many Hammers fans responding on Twitter. 

January loan signing Jesse Lingard put on another memorable display for the Hammers, first scoring a sensational early opener with his mazing run through the Wolves half.

Thereafter, his brilliant little flick around Nelson Semedo near the corner flag set up Arthur Masuaku – who fired the ball towards Pablo Fornals as the Spaniard buried West Ham’s second of the night with a neat finish.

Jarrod Bowen made it 3-0 before half time, but Wolves eventually threatened a late fight, luckily to no avail for Irons supporters.

Rice, speaking after the game he missed through an ill-timed knee injury, sent a heartfelt tweet explaining how huge the win is for West Ham as they chase European football next season – stating (via Twitter): “Do not underestimate how big a win that is for the boys! Into the top 4, 8 games to go! Special group this! Love it.”

In response, many Irons have been in full agreement over how crucial those three points were – sending message after message to the Englishman as most also pray for a speedy recovery.

Find all of their best responses down below.

West Ham fans flock to Rice tweet

“Huuuuuuuuuge”

Credit: @_TomStroud

“Absolutely tremendous, everyone outstanding again. What a team spirit we have! COYI”

Credit: @neilbadger1

“Massive. I think we needed to show we can get the win without you as much as we needed to take those 3 points before the next run of games.”

Credit: @Nobby_1977

“Pls come back”

Credit: @ScoutSoucek

“Can’t wait to have you back Dec!”

Credit: @WHUKasp

“Very special group. Love this team”

Credit: @karenbeardy

“Massive game on Sunday Dec… win that and top 4 is ours to throw away. Hope your recovery goes well and we have you back soon”

Credit: @PaulCumby76

“The boys done us proud tonight”

Credit: @whu1515

In other news: West Ham are also warming up in the race to sign this 6 foot 4 powerhouse, find out more here.

Manchester United have made it clear that one of their transfer priorities is to sign a centre-back in the summer.

It is no surprise, then, that the Red Devils have consequently been linked with a number of Europe’s most promising centre-backs – the latest name in the frame being AS Roma’s Gianluca Mancini.

According to the Daily Express, Manchester United and Premier League rivals Chelsea are interested in making a move for the 24-year-old – and the Italian would be the perfect partner for current United defender Harry Maguire at Old Trafford.

Mancini has certainly had a stark rise in Italian football in recent seasons. Starting his career at Fiorentina, he has also represented Perugia and Atalanta before earning his big move to the Stadio Olimpico. That should stand him in excellent stead should a move to Manchester come to fruition.

Since his arrival in the Italian capital, he has played a key role in their 2020/21 season under Paulo Fonseca, making 23 appearances in Serie A and scoring four goals, as well as keeping seven clean sheets.

When looking at his personal statistics, Mancini seems even more impressive. According to WhoScored, the £22.5m-rated defender is averaging 6.3 defensive contributions per match in all competitions this season – 1.7 tackles, 2.1 interceptions, 2.1 clearances and 0.4 blocks.

This ranks the Italian higher than current Red Devils defender and the man he would likely replace in the starting lineup, Victor Lindelof, who only averages 5.7 defensive interventions per match. His numbers are also just marginally lower than the statistics racked up by Harry Maguire and Eric Bailly this season; 6.8 and 6.4 respectively.

Should Ole Gunnaer Solskjaer elect to bring in a centre-back during the upcoming summer transfer window, the evidence all points to that man being Mancini, a move the club should very much pursue.

In more news, read how instead of signing a centre-back, the Red Devils could potentially turn their attentions to one of their youth options at Old Trafford…