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Sunderland journalist and podcaster Philip West has been left bemoaning some transfer news that he has now heard from Sky Sports.

The Lowdown: Interest

As per Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas, Swansea City are now ‘rivalling’ the Wearside club to sign Gooch as a free agent, as his contract at the Stadium of Light expires at the end of the month.

Preston North End are also thought to have shown an ‘interest’ in his signature, but it looks as if it is going to be between the other two clubs.

The Latest: West reacts

Taking to Twitter, West bemoaned the transfer news after hearing it, claiming that it would ‘be a real shame’ if Gooch were to move on from the Black Cats this summer:

“I think it would be a real shame to see Lynden Gooch move on this summer. He’s the ultimate team player, Alex Neil seems to value his versatility & work rate, and we all saw how much the Wembley victory meant to him, as well. Keep him if possible, for me.”

The Verdict: Keep

Given interest from a number of their Championship rivals, Neil’s side need to give Gooch a new deal and keep him at all costs.

The United States international was a mainstay in the team last season, supplying six assists on route to promotion from League One, and it would be devastating to see him leave for nothing.

Nonetheless, there is still time for the club to sort out a new contract, which in turn would also protect his market value should they wish to sell Gooch later on in his career.

In other news, find out which ‘bullish’ predator SAFC now hold an ‘interest’ in here!

Everton are the latest club to be credited with an interest in Christian Eriksen this summer, with the latest reports suggesting that Frank Lampard’s side have now made their offer to the Denmark international.

What’s the word?

After an impressive six-month spell with Brentford, the 30-year-old is a man in high demand, and Everton will be hoping that they can tempt him to Goodison Park.

However, the Dane has spoken about wanting to play Champions League football, so it could be tough for Lampard to convince him to make the move to Merseyside.

With his contract in west London set to expire at the end of this month, the Toffees were free to make their move. The Daily Mail have suggested that they have submitted a contract offer to the 30-year-old, along with Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Brentford, who are understandably keen on keeping him.

Lampard would love him

Despite only making 11 appearances for the Bees in the Premier League last term, Eriksen was able to register one goal and four assists, averaging a superb 7.37 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

This was far better than what anyone in Everton’s squad averaged in 2021/22, while Richarlison was the only Toffees player with more assists than the Dane across the campaign.

With Everton only scoring 43 goals last season, Lampard clearly needs more creativity in his side if they are to improve on their woeful 2021/22 campaign. Eriksen can provide just that, having registered an impressive 162 assists in his club career thus far.

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When the 30-year-old signed with Brentford, Thomas Frank was quick to label him “world-class”, and the Denmark playmakers’ performances for the Bees certainly emphasised his immense quality.

Of the remaining members of Everton’s squad, Andros Townsend registered the most key passes per game last season with 1.5. Eriksen contributed a superb 2.7 per game at Brentford, which was only bettered by Kevin De Bruyne and Trent Alexander-Arnold in the entire Premier League.

Therefore, it would be a huge statement signing if Everton were to sign him this summer, and he’s a player that Lampard would surely love to have at Goodison Park.

In other news… “Everton have…”: Journalist drops exciting Finch Farm transfer claim, Lampard will love it

Journalist Pete O’Rourke says West Ham United could be making a ‘really exciting signing’ if they manage to bring Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins to the London Stadium.

The Lowdown: Moyes eyeing Watkins…

The east Londoners, after just missing out on a place in the Premier League top six last season to Man United, are looking to go again for 2022/23 with fresh additions in the transfer market.

A striker is reportedly high on the agenda for Moyes with West Ham seriously short of options and alternatives to mainstay forward Michail Antonio in the attacking areas.

Reliable journalist Simon Jones of The Daily Mail backs that the Hammers are eyeing a move for Villa star Watkins, even if it will be a difficult deal to pull off.

The Latest: O’Rourke makes Watkins claim…

Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist O’Rourke says West Ham could make a ‘really exciting signing’ for Moyes if they do somehow get Watkins in.

He explained:

“I think he’d be a really exciting signing for West Ham and all their fans. He’s really proved at Aston Villa over the last couple of years that he is a top player, who I think can only get better as well.

“West Ham, obviously they’ve needed a new striker for the last few transfer windows and haven’t been able to bring the right one in.”

The Verdict: Push the boat out?

Villa are likely to demand at least £50 million for Watkins but such an investment could be worth it from West Ham’s perspective.

According to WhoScored, the 26-year-old finished 2021/2022 as one of Steven Gerrard’s best-performing players and top goal scorer domestically with 11 strikes and two assists.

He ranked among their top-five by average match rating per 90 with Watkins also taking the second-most shots at goal every game – just behind sensational January signing Philippe Coutinho (WhoScored).

There’s arguably few better alternatives already proven in England and we believe GSB should attempt a move at the very least.

In other news: West Ham officials dispatched as GSB eye ‘superstar’ signing for Moyes…find out more here.

Leeds United are reportedly working on a deal to sign Sporting CP forward Gonzalo Plata.

The Lowdown: Plata profiled

Plata, an Ecuador international, is a left-footed attacker who can play on either wing. The 21-year-old actually shares the same agency as six Leeds players and spent the 2021/22 campaign on loan with Real Valladolid.

Plata scored six times and provided five assists during his loan spell in Spain, with Valladolid having an option to make a move permanent this summer. However, it looks as if Leeds want to hijack a transfer by bringing him to Elland Road.

The Latest: Leeds interest

Portuguese outlet O Jojo shared a story late on Tuesday evening regarding Plata, where they name-checked Leeds. Their story claims that Andrea Radrizzani, Victor Orta and Co would have to match Valladolid’s €10m (£8.5m) option to buy the forward.

However, Plata is reportedly keen on staying at Valladolid and it remains to be seen how he feels over a possible move to Yorkshire.

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The Verdict: Needed?

Although Plata appears to be an exciting young attacker, it’s centrally where Jesse Marsch needs to strengthen, not out wide. Raphinha and Jack Harrison have been linked with moves away but remain Leeds players, so the club are currently well-stocked out wide.

A new centre-forward with Premier League experience is on the radar following Patrick Bamford’s injury struggles last season, so before the Whites look at a move for Plata, they may want to bolster their centre-forward ranks first.

In other news: After Kristensen: Radz & 49ers now ready to write Leeds cheque for ‘really exciting’ midfielder. 

West Bromwich Albion were not the most dynamic attacking side in the Championship this season.

Throughout their recent campaign in the second tier, the Baggies could only find the net 52 times, which is fewer than the likes of Bristol City, Reading and Blackpool, all of whom finished 16th or lower.

Despite this rather underwhelming return, one man in the squad who chipped in with some goals and assists throughout the season was Callum Robinson.

In 43 league appearances, the attacker scored seven goals and delivered nine assists whilst playing in numerous positions at the top of the pitch, leaving only Karlan Grant with more goal contributions for Albion.

Now that the season has come to an end, the focus will switch to the next campaign and West Brom’s hopes for getting promoted.

In terms of what Steve Bruce’s squad could look like once the season kicks off, one rarely-seen figure who could end up being West Brom’s next version of Robinson is Callum Morton.

In January 2017, Morton joined West Brom’s under-18 side from Yeovil Town. Since then, he has gone on to make 54 appearances for the Midlands club across their under-18 and under-23 sides, scoring 14 goals and delivering six assists along the way, highlighting his attacking talent.

While still awaiting his senior Albion debut, the 22-year-old has also had numerous loan spells away from The Hawthorns with clubs such as Braintree Town, Northampton Town, Lincoln City, Fleetwood Town and most recently Peterborough United.

With 76 appearances under his belt for those clubs, Morton scored 23 goals in total, once again showing his attacking prowess and his ability to deliver with different teams.

Despite predominantly being a centre-forward, the 22-year-old has played on the left and right flanks on occasion, which suggests that his versatility could make him a useful squad option for Bruce and a potential next version of Robinson, who has also played across the front three.

Labelled a “confident” player by his former Northampton manager Keith Curle, Morton could now have a great chance to impress Bruce in pre-season and put himself in a good position to finally make his breakthrough in the first team at The Hawthorns.

Should the attacker get an opportunity to play regularly for the Baggies next season, he could be the spark that they need in their attack to mount a serious promotion charge.

In other news: Bruce can secure big Ajayi upgrade as WBA plot move for “special” £14k-p/w machine

Leeds United could part ways with left-back Leif Davis this summer, The Yorkshire Evening Post report.

The Lowdown: Bournemouth loan

Victor Orta brought Davis Leeds back in 2018 from Morecambe, with Whites chiefs believing at the time they had got a bit of ‘a steal’.

Now 22, the left-back has made 14 appearances for Leeds and was sent out on loan to Bournemouth at the start of the 2021/22 campaign.

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Scott Parker labelled Davis as ‘brilliant’, with the full-back making 12 Championship appearances for The Cherries as they earned promotion back to the Premier League.

The Latest: Exit claim

Leeds journalist Joe Donnohue shared a story on The Yorkshire Evening Post on Saturday morning, looking at the club’s busy summer plans.

When it came to returning loan players, Donnohue said that Davis, along with Kiko Casilla, Ian Poveda, Alfie McCalmont and Helder Costa, faces an uncertain future at Elland Road and may not have a role to play at all.

The Verdict: Left-back to come in?

Junior Firpo is Jesse Marsch’s only senior left-back at Elland Road, with youngsters Leo Hjelde and Liam McCarron in the background. Firpo was the club’s marquee signing last summer but struggled in his first campaign, picking up 11 yellow cards.

Some may have thought that Davis could return and rival Firpo ahead of Marsch’s first full season in charge, especially with Stuart Dallas sidelined with a long-term injury.

However, with Davis entering the final 12 months of his Leeds contract and now facing an uncertain future, perhaps the club will look to bring in a new left-back this summer and cash in on the Cherries loanee while they still can.

In other news: Phillips partner: Leeds now want ‘extraordinary’ int’l for free; Orta’s already spoke with agent

Soccer betting has become one of the most popular forms of gambling in recent years. This is because it offers punters the chance to have plenty of fun and maybe even make some money from their bets.

However, before you start placing your soccer bets, it is important to understand the different types of bets that are available. This will help you make more informed decisions about your bets and better your chances of winning. You must also try your best to play only at secure sites, like Pickasino for example. But, have you ever wondered why soccer betting is so popular?

Today we are going to show you why people love soccer betting so much.

The camaraderie of betting with friends on soccer matches

There’s nothing quite like the camaraderie of betting with friends on soccer matches. Whether you’re cheering on your favourite team or rooting for the underdog, the thrill of the game is amplified when you have skin in the game. And what better way to show your support than by putting your money where your mouth is?

Of course, betting with friends comes with its own set of rules and etiquette. For starters, it’s important to be clear about the stakes before placing any bets. Will you be betting for fun or for money? If it’s for money, how much are you willing to potentially lose? It’s also important to agree on a format for the bets. Will you be betting on the outcome of the match or on individual players’ performances?

The chance to make some extra money

Many people love soccer betting simply because it is a wonderful way to make some extra money. Of course, that shouldn’t be your career, but a hobby. People who know soccer can win a lot of money by betting on the sport. But if you’re not careful enough, you can also lose a lot.

The satisfaction of correctly predicting the outcome of a match

There are not many things more satisfying than correctly predicting the outcome of a match. Whether it’s a close game or a blowout, correctly guessing the winner is a great feeling.

But, if you want to predict the scores you must know the recent form of the clubs. You must also know if there are injuries or other factors that could affect the outcome of the match.

Correctly predicting the outcome of a match can be complicated, but it’s definitely possible with some effort and knowledge. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have more success in picking winners!

Soccer betting is a wonderful hobby, but you must only play at secure sites and take good care of your money.

Photo from Pexels

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has delivered a double transfer claim involving Manchester United ahead of the summer transfer window. 

The lowdown: United interested in Laimer and Nkunku

United have been heavily linked with a move for RB Leipzig midfielder Konrard Laimer, according to a recent report from The Mirror, as the Old Trafford squad prepares to undergo a summer overhaul.

Elsewhere, according to German publication Bild, the Red Devils have also made contact with the Bundesliga outfit regarding highly-rated forward Christopher Nkunku, who is also wanted for a return to Paris Saint-Germain.

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After incoming manager Erik ten Hag sacrificed a post-season tour to the Caribbean with Ajax in order to start work in Manchester, one reputable journalist has suggested that the proosed double raid on Leipzig could be a sensible one.

The latest: O’Rourke talks up double swoop

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke has claimed that a move for 24-year-old pair Nkunku and Laimer could be on the cards for United, particularly given the links between their current club RB Leipzig and Old Trafford consultant Ralf Rangnick.

The journalist outlined the rationale behind the potential double swoop: “I think they would be two good signings. Obviously, they’ve got the links with Rangnick there because of RB Leipzig; he knows all about these players as well. So, they’re players that he knows and trusts.”

The verdict: Smart moves

Despite the continued on-field woes since the arrival of Rangnick as interim manager, the experienced operator is expected to play a part in the new era at Old Trafford in his forthcoming consultancy role.

Although Ten Hag hasn’t stepped foot inside the United dugout as of yet, it appears that the Dutchman’s fingerprints are already across those linked with a move to the club this summer.

The 52-year-old is widely expected to oversee a major sea change on player departures and incomings with the help of newly-appointed Austria coach Rangnick, particularly focusing on clearing out deadwood and signing youngster alternatives.

With 34 goals and 20 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions this term, Nkunku would be a sensational capture for the Dutchman’s new-look squad.

Meanwhile, Laimer – who holds a strong stylistic likeness to Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Jude Bellingham (as per FBRef) – would serve as an adequate replacement for the exit-bound Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic.

Valued at a combined £81.8m by Transfermarkt, the double swoop would be an expensive one for United, but one which could certainly kick-start a much-needed revival at Old Trafford.

In other news: Man Utd now eyeing move for ‘world class’ Premier League star. Read more here

Everton could reportedly now sell as many as three of their players to Tottenham Hotspur as some transfer news has emerged in Mike McGrath’s column for The Telegraph.

The Lowdown: Poor season

Even though the Goodison Park faithful now look quite likely to survive the relegation threat, they have still had a poor season by their standards.

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Sitting just above the bottom three, they have not finished lower than 12th since the 2004/05 campaign, and with the amount of money that they have spent over the years, they really should not be in this position.

Given their troubles with Financial Fair Play, it would not be a surprise to see the Blues offload some players even if they stay up.

The Latest: Tottenham lurking

As per The Daily Telegraph’s McGrath, Spurs have now been keeping an eye on Richarlison, Ben Godfrey and Anthony Gordon ahead of potential moves in the summer.

Given their situation, it is likely that the Merseyside club could look to move on some of their players for big money, in order to help fund a rebuild.

The Verdict: Difficult to keep

If a club like the Lilywhites, who are pushing for UEFA Champions League qualification, come calling for some of the Toffees’ best players, then it will be difficult to keep them.

Richarlison currently ranks as their best performer in the Premier League, while Gordon has come on leaps and bounds this term with four goals, two assists and two man-of-the-match awards, and Godfrey ranks highly among his teammates in some key defensive areas (WhoScored).

Rated at £45m, £14.4m and £19.8m respectively, a value totalling £79.2m, selling them would increase the transfer budget significantly, although the Blues supporters would surely see keeping Gordon in particular as a big priority this summer.

In other news, find out what huge in-house EFC update has now emerged here!

Tottenham Hotspur boss Antonio Conte is now closing in on a ‘very likely’ major summer signing, according to a reliable source.

The Lowdown: Conte eyeing major rebuild…

The Italian has reportedly laid out his transfer demands as he gears up for an end-of-season meeting with chairman Daniel Levy and sporting director Fabio Paratici (The Telegraph).

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It is believed that Conte has as many as six fresh faces on his wish list, including the signing of a right-wing-back, central defender, two midfielders, a forward and reserve goalkeeper.

Sharing an update on the latter position, reliable reporter Dan Kilpatrick now has his say on the club’s chances of landing West Bromwich Albion shot stopper Sam Johnstone on a free deal.

The Latest: Kilpatrick shares exciting update…

The journalist, taking to Twitter, shares his article that Tottenham are in pole position as Conte seemingly closes in on the signing of Johnstone.

It is also believed that the ‘deal’ to sign West Brom’s ace is rated as ‘very likely’.

The Verdict: Great news…

Landing the 29-year-old on a Bosman kills so many birds with one stone, not least signing a back-up and eventual heir to long-term mainstay Hugo Lloris.

At zero cost, Johnstone’s likely addition will go some way to solving Tottenham’s homegrown quota issue whilst also adding proven Premier League quality to Conte’s ranks.

Ex-Sheffield United and QPR keeper Paddy Kenny has called the Baggies ace ‘unreal’ and a potentially ‘top signing’ for Spurs and the pundit may well be right in more ways than one.

In other news: Fabrizio Romano: Conte could now lose ‘monster’ Spurs player who’s ‘expected to leave’…find out more here.