All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Burnley and Brighton and Hove Albion are front-runners to lure Liverpool defender Nat Phillips away from Anfield this summer [GOAL].

The Lowdown: Liverpool re-shape their squad ahead of 2021/22

Liverpool will be looking to be back amongst the honours once again in 2021/22, following their third placed finish last term.

the Reds have already seen the high-profile departure of Gini Wijnaldum to PSG [BBC], whilst loanee Ozan Kabak has returned to Schalke after his temporary stint on Merseyside [SB Nation], so a small reshuffle of the squad could be necessary.

Interestingly, there now could now be a third exit through the famous Anfield gates, in the form of the 24-year-old Phillips.

The Latest: Burnley and Brighton and Hove Albion lead chase

Currently speaking, Burnley and Brighton and Hove Albion are leading the chase for the 6ft 3in colossus [GOAL].

Though the Liverpool hierarchy would be hesitant to sell Phillips, they understand his desire to play regular first-team football and could relinquish his services for the right price [GOAL]. No mooted fee has been established as of yet regarding his potential asking price.

Of course, these developments come as something of a fresh twist in proceedings, as Newcastle United were thought to be the team interested in the centre-back in recent weeks [CaughtOffside].

The Verdict: Phillips should be allowed to depart

There is an agreeable nature to these rumours, signifying it could be the right decision for Liverpool and Phillips to amicably part ways this window.

On one hand, the Bolton-born stopper is unlikely to be an important first-team regular in 2021/22, owing to the recent signing of highly-rated defender Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig last month [Liverpool FC] and others returning from injury.

Conversely, Phillips has proven his worth as an established Premier League defender who is too good to sit fourth or fifth in the pecking order. In 2020/21, he made 20 appearances for Liverpool, registering one goal and a solitary assist [Transfermarkt].

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Conveying his dominant prowess within the Reds backline, he won an outstanding 5.6 aerial duels per 90 minutes across the Premier League year [WhoScored]. Put into context, that was by quite a margin the highest rate of the entire Liverpool squad [WhoScored].

Once labelled as ‘brilliant’ by manager Jurgen Klopp [Liverpool FC], Phillips simply has to get out and play as a first-choice defender – he is entering the prime years of his career. Should Liverpool elect to sell him for a considerable sum, that could be a happy ending for both parties as they look towards the new campaign.

In other news, Jurgen Klopp is said to have ‘cancelled’ a move for an international defender.

As confirmed by the club, West Ham United will take on Scottish giants Celtic in a pre-season friendly on Saturday 24 July in Glasgow – with many Irons supporters raving over the ‘great news’ as they potentially get handed the opportunity to attend a prestigious encounter.

Indeed, with the club officially announcing it on social media, Hammers fans could watch their side in action as they take on 51-time SPFL champions Celtic at Parkhead.

Depending on COVID-19 protocol, supporters may be allowed to attend the match-up north of the border as West Ham gear up for what is set to be a very interesting 2021/2022 season.

David Moyes’ men qualified for the Europa League with a thrilling 3-0 home win over Southampton at the weekend and the Irons boss will now be able to watch as his current side face off against the club where he started his professional playing career.

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Flocking to social media, it’s safe to say many fans were thrilled with this announcement as one even called it ‘great news’ – and it’s little wonder given the prestige of their opponent and the potential for a memorable summer away day, depending on developments.

Find all of their best verdicts from Twitter down below.

West Ham fans rave as club confirm Celtic friendly

“Great news”

Credit: @garageland66

“Absolutely brilliant taking the Boss home for a friendly! Great history between the two clubs we have shared some outstanding players in the past. This will be a terrific day”

Credit: @ZaynafamilyMary

“Ooooooooo”

Credit: @joelitt78828048

“Buzzing”

Credit: @RileyConn_

“Cor this will have to be done”

Credit: @H_RICHY

“Oh my god…

Celtic away on my birthday – the dream weekend has finally happened

I AM SO EXCITED”

Credit: @Jacktheflippa

“The only thing standing in the way of this is Sturgeon, come on. I’m on my knees”

Credit: @DOWHU_1995

“Phwoarrrr I cannot wait for this. I’m in Blackpool the day before this as well should be a few good days!”

Credit: @AzamWHUFC

In other news: West Ham fans in awe as GSB allegedly eye this ‘perfect signing’, find out more here.

As per le10sport, Tottenham Hotspur and chairman Daniel Levy may have been gifted a possible boost as they eye Paris-Saint Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino.

The Lowdown: Pochettino and Spurs, the saga…

The Athletic first broke news of Pochettino’s talks with Tottenham a fortnight ago in what was a pretty seismic managerial development at N17.

Pochettino was said to be keen on a return to the English capital amid these discussions but current club PSG would fight tooth and nail to keep him (The Athletic).

As the Ligue 1 giants dug their heels in, Spurs turned to other targets with the clock ticking over a long-awaited heir to former boss Jose Mourinho.

The Latest: Glimmer of hope?

Now, French news outlet le10sport have come out with an encouraging claim involving Pochettino and one that could possibly reignite hope of his return to N17.

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Indeed, they state that PSG have taken the foot off their originally firm stance on his exit and now ‘wouldn’t oppose’ his departure from the club.

This is apparently due to the availability of former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane who they see as a ‘dream’ successor to Pochettino.

It is also stated that PSG are ‘already in working’ on an offer for Zidane if the Argentine leaves for Spurs this summer with the Lilywhites maintaining an interest.

The Verdict: Promising claim…

As Spurs continue the hunt for their next manager, it is arguable that Pochettino is the perfect candidate – especially considering he already knows the club and fits into Levy’s managerial checklist. 

Former Lilywhites winger Andros Townsend, speaking to talkSPORT, lauded him as ‘one of the best managers, if not the best manager in the world’ – namely due to his fine job at Spurs over the five-year tenure.

Amid the financial strains brought upon clubs by coronavirus, with Spurs needing to adopt a sell-to-buy policy this summer, a boss like Pochettino is exactly who they need given his ability to work under limited resources.

In other news: Tottenham ‘monster’ now ‘open’ to leaving N17, find out more here.

Lots of Manchester City fans are delighted after it was revealed that the Citizens could offer Gabriel Jesus in part-exchange for Harry Kane.

The Tottenham striker dropped a bombshell on Monday as he revealed to Spurs his intention to leave the club this summer (Sky Sports). The England international has had a wonderful career at Tottenham from a personal point of view, scoring 220 goals in 334 games for them (Transfermarkt), but he is yet to win a single trophy. As such, the Citizens have been linked with a move for his services.

It has been reported that they could offer Jesus plus cash to take Kane to the Etihad Stadium (Daily Mail). The Brazil international has 81 goals in 192 matches for City, but he has come in for criticism from some supporters due to his performances this season.

The news was shared on Twitter by @City_Xtra, and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters. These fans took to the social media platform to share their thoughts, imploring director of football Txiki Begiristain to do all he can to pull off the swap deal.

Let’s see what the fans had to say about the Jesus news below

“Wow! deal of the decade! Win-win for City to be honest!”

Credit: @ancvalu

“YES PLS”

Credit: @mcfcbalz

“Txiki must make this happen!”

Credit: @MogaleMokoena

“What a move….What a move I’m loving this news”

Credit: @Trishent44

“Yeeeeees! We take the Kane, they the Jesus, the Torres at 9, and the Grealish wing, Perfect plan for us”

Credit: @Dred17738856

“ON MY KNEES”

Credit: @mcfcbyron

In other news, a number of Man City fans loved this man’s comments.

According to a report in the paper edition of La Repubblica (via Sport Witness), Tottenham Hotspur are keen on former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte. 

The Lowdown: Conte quits Inter

Speculation arose over Conte’s future in recent weeks despite the 51-year-old guiding Inter Milan to a first Serie A title in 11 years.

Reports now indicate that the Italian is set to quit the San Siro over Inter’s financial situation and he will be available for hire (Fabrizio Romano).

The Latest: Spurs and Levy eyeing Conte

Bringing the latest on football’s managerial merry-go-round, La Repubblica have dropped an interesting claim involving Tottenham and Conte – with the Italian newspaper believing Spurs are keen on him as well as La Liga giants Real Madrid.

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This has apparently happened in ‘recent hours’ as Daniel Levy and co carry on the search for a new manager over one month after sacking previous boss Jose Mourinho.

Conte to Tottenham apparently depends on one big factor in what direction Madrid choose to take regarding Zinedine Zidane and the future of their club.

They would most likely have first pick of Conte while the Lilywhites sit second in line.

The Verdict: Outstanding candidate for Tottenham?

Out of the long list of candidates linked to Spurs, one could argue that Conte is certainly one of the more prestigious names.

Having won four Serie A titles overall and two Italian Super Cups abroad, as well as a Premier League crown and FA Cup medal in England (Transfermarkt), Conte’s silverware haul certainly marks him out above other names.

Former Spurs striker Fernando Llorente, speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport (via Goal), lifted the lid on his ‘crazy mentality’ and how he ‘gets in your head’ – potentially highlighting Conte’s effective man-management style.

Meanwhile, Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni also told La Gazzetta (via sempreinter.com) that Conte is ‘the Messi of coaches’.

All these accolades point to an impressive candidate, but given Real’s alleged interest, he could yet be out of Tottenham’s reach.

In other news: Spurs could now be offered this ‘phenomenal player’ for Kane, find out more here.

Sheffield Wednesday are set to lose one of their key stars this summer, according to reports…

What’s the word?

Football League World claim the Owls have given up hope of keeping hold of Adam Reach, with him out of contract at the end of the season and many of their Championship rivals circling with interest.

Promotion favourites Watford are admirers of the versatile 28-year-old, whilst it’s thought Cardiff City are another club that could tempt Reach out of South Yorkshire.

With Wednesday sitting seven points adrift of safety, it’s no wonder the club are resigned to losing out on some of their biggest stars.

Bad news for Moore

Reach has emerged as one of Darren Moore’s most-trusted starters, especially as he’s able to play in a wide variety of positions but in the absence of a true out-and-out left-sided defender, he has stepped up to the plate.

Despite “inconsistent” claims from Hillsborough legend Carlton Palmer, the former Boro ace has been a major source of goals in what has been a poor season across the board.

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Only one other Owls player has managed to contribute more than eight goals this season (Callum Paterson, ten), so evidently, he’s crucial to Moore’s fortunes in the attack.

Reach is just two goals behind the trio of top goalscorers, whilst Barry Bannan is the one player ahead for assists, which is understandable.

Again, the 28-year-old wing-back rates out impressively for attacking returns, managing 1.2 shots and 0.8 key passes each outing in the league this campaign, via WhoScored.

It means he’s firing more shots at goal than centre-forward Jordan Rhodes and is a more creative influence than Josh Windass and Kadeem Harris.

Reach also offers leadership qualities, according to teammate Chey Dunkley, who told the official website earlier this season: “To me, Adam Reach is a leader when he comes up with something special.”

Whilst ex-caretaker Lee Bullen believes he has a major influence at either end of the pitch. “[Reach is] “so, so effective in the jobs he does because he does both attacking and the defensive roles brilliantly for the team.”

The £20k-per-week dynamo will be a big loss to Moore, and this update should worry him going into next season, regardless of if they go down to the third tier or stay up.

AND in other news, Imagine him and Iorfa: Sheffield Wednesday eye League One gem…

Manchester City take on PSG away from home in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday night, with Pep Guardiola’s side looking to secure a positive result ahead of the return leg at the Etihad next week.

The Citizens have never reached the Champions League final so will be looking to make history over the next couple of weeks, although they face a tough test against Mauricio Pochettino’s side, who were edged out against Bayern Munich in last year’s final.

Guardiola’s side are fresh from winning their fourth consecutive Carabao Cup final at the weekend, where the Spanish manager selected a strong team, which suggests that a few changes are likely ahead of the trip to Les Parc de Princes.

Here’s how Football FanCast expects Guardiola to line his side up on Wednesday evening, with three changes from the side that started the 1-0 win against Spurs…

Although he managed a clean sheet in the final, Zack Steffen will sit this one out to allow first-choice Ederson to reclaim his place in goal.

Despite John Stones being available after missing the final through suspension, we feel that Guardiola will stick with the same back four for this one, as Aymeric Laporte deserves to keep his place after scoring the winner, whilst Stones’ last performance against Aston Villa was less than impressive.

There is one change in midfield, as Rodri comes in for Fernandinho after being rested for the final, and he features alongside the magnificent Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan.

Finally, there is one change in attack, as Raheem Sterling is replaced by Bernardo Silva, with the “exceptional” former AS Monaco man playing as a false nine, with Phil Foden and Riyad Mahrez supporting him from the wings.

And, in other news… Guardiola must ruthlessly axe “remarkable” Man City star or risk dire Lyon repeat

Plenty of Leicester City fans have been reacting to a transfer update regarding Cengiz Under on social media.

According to the reliable John Percy of The Telegraph, the Foxes won’t exercise their option of making the 23-year-old’s deal at the King Power sTADIUM permanent in the summer.

Under, who arrived on loan from Roma last year, could have joined on a full-time basis for a fee in excess of £20m. However, his performances haven’t justified that price tag, and it seems as if the Turkish forward will return to Italy in the summer.

He has made 19 appearances under Brendan Rodgers this season, scoring twice and registering three assists. Under has been out through injury since March and has started just one Premier League game all season.

Leicester fans react to news about Under

Percy shared the news on Wednesday evening on Twitter, with the post receiving plenty of interaction. Here is what some Foxes fans had to say in reply to the update.

“Can’t believe it”

Credit: @_JoBeanCash_

“Devastated”

Credit: @liamlcfc88

“We used all our right winger luck on Mahrez. 20 years of pain from now on”

Credit: @DT1884

“The Replacing Mahrez show lives on”

Credit: @hm_Ixfc

“A cursed position for us.”

Credit: @lcfcsanny

“Bye Chunder, another right winger that couldn’t get anywhere near the level of replacing Mahrez. Hopefully the next one will.”

Credit: @SamLCFC98

In other news, Leicester are keeping tabs on this Premier League-winning midfielder.

Carlo Ancelotti’s hopes of Everton qualifying for Europe are fading fast after a run of four Premier League games without a win ahead of hosting Tottenham Hotspur on Friday night.

The Toffees were forced to settle for a point at Brighton & Hove Albion on Monday and lost centre-back Yerry Mina to an adductor injury. He joined top-scorer Dominic Calvert-Lewin in the treatment room, and he too remains out for the visit of Jose Mourinho’s side.

Ancelotti had hoped to see Calvert-Lewin return from an abductor muscle problem for the Spurs affair, with Everton now eighth in the Premier League table and seven points shy of the top-four after a run of two defeats and two draws.

But while Calvert-Lewin will again be missing, the Italian has confirmed that four players will return from injuries. So, with that in mind, here’s a potential line-up the Blues could field with three changes from Monday night’s XI…

With Calvert-Lewin on the sidelines, Ancelotti will hope to see stronger offensive displays from James Rodriguez and Richarlison after the pair failed to thrive while leading the line against Brighton.

Everton struggled for creativity for most of the game at the Amex Stadium and may look to atone for the issue by playing Lucas Digne and Alex Iwobi on the wings, with Gylfi Sigurdsson dropping to the bench having been too passive, too often on the south coast.

Ancelotti can be expected to make do without three players occupying the central midfield positions after confirming that Allan will be fit to return and partner Tom Davies, who ran himself into the ground trying to control the engine room against the Seagulls.

Andre Gomes could come in to join Allan and Davies with the Portuguese also passed fit following a hamstring injury, but is likely to have to accept a back-up role alongside the returning Joshua King while Abdoulaye Doucoure, Bernard and Fabian Delph remain out.

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Digne moving into midfield to take up the wide-left position he has occupied on seven occasions this season would see Ben Godfrey return to left-back, where Ancelotti claimed “he played really well” earlier in the campaign.

Mina’s absence will also be expected to see Mason Holgate and Michael Keane lock down the central-defensive positions with Godfrey and Seamus Coleman at full-back, marking the first time that back-four have started a Premier League fixture together in those positions.

Ancelotti is also likely to make a change in goal after confirming that Jordan Pickford has overcome an abdominal injury, which had kept the England international – who Trevor Sinclair has praised for having “excellent” reflexes – out of his side’s last two league games.

Robin Olsen opened both the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace and goalless stalemate with Brighton but has not featured in the league when Pickford has been fit since his Everton debut against Leicester City during a 2-0 win at the King Power Stadium in December.

AND in other news, an “outstanding” talent is keen to join Everton this summer, but there’s a hitch…

According to an update by reliable club insider ExWHUemployee, via West Ham News, Irons trio Angelo Ogbonna, Arthur Masuaku and Andriy Yarmolenko are all targeting a return against Wolves after the international break – with one supporter branding it ‘massive news’.

Masuaku has been out for months after undergoing knee surgery, while both Yarmolenko and Ogbonna suffered knocks recently which have kept them sidelined from the matchday squad.

Providing an update, ExWHUemployee revealed that the West Ham trio are targeting a Premier League return against Wolverhampton Wanderers after the international break.

Given that David Moyes could feasibly have all three back in time for that match, bolstering his options enormously, it is little wonder why these supporters have plenty to say.

Check out some of their verdicts down below.

West Ham fans flock to Ex’s injury update

“Great news”

Credit: @northwesthammer

“Excited to have Oggy and Arthur back.”

Credit: @luke50490576

“Sorry I think you just said all 3 are coming back? I’m getting way too excited”

Credit: @Kappanitreal

“This is good news”

Credit: @gary_killington

“Massive news”

Credit: @conwhufc03

“Good to hear”

Credit: @oreeves03

In other news: many West Ham still want this powerhouse, find out more here.