While it failed to culminate in any silverware, this season wasn’t all doom and gloom for Arsenal.

For example, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly broke into the first team, with the latter establishing himself as a regular starter and now a full-fledged England star.

Moreover, despite missing almost four months of action, Bukayo Saka once again proved he’s a world-class attacker by racking up a haul of 12 goals and 14 assists in 37 games.

Saka’s 24/25

Appearances (Starts)

37 (30)

Minutes

2619′

Goals

12

Assists

14

Goal Involvements per Match

0.70

Minutes per Goal Involvement

100.73′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

Yet, it’s impossible to overlook that, in the end, a lack of invention in the final third prevented the team from winning anything, so it’s a good thing that reports have now linked Arsenal to someone compared to Saka and Rodrygo.

Arsenal transfer news

With Arsenal creating just the seventh-highest expected goals figure in the Premier League this season, per FBref, it’s easy to understand why there has been such an emphasis on the club signing players capable of both scoring and creating more goals in recent weeks.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

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Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo has been one name linked with the club, as has Aston Villa and England star Morgan Rogers, although a player touted more heavily for a move to the Emirates than both this summer has been Rodrygo.

The Real Madrid star scored 14 goals and provided ten assists in 51 games for Los Blancos this term.

However, with a price tag of at least £84m and murmurs that he does not want to leave the Spanish capital, the North Londoners may be forced to sign another attacking talent from the Santiago Bernabéu, a talent who’s won comparisons to the Brazilian.

According to a recent report from Spain, Arteta has asked Arsenal to inquire about Brahim Diaz, who he believes could thrive at the Emirates.

Moreover, the story has revealed that the North Londoners are now willing to make an offer of €50m for the Moroccan international, about £42m, despite Xabi Alonso wanting to keep him in Spain.

It might not be a straightforward transfer to get over the line, but Diaz is undeniably talented, and as he’s already won comparisons to Saka and Rodrygo, he could be just what Arsenal need.

How Diaz compares to Saka & Rodrygo

Now, there are a number of reasons why Arsenal should be looking to sign Diaz this summer, but before getting to them, it’s important to address these comparisons to Saka and Rodrygo and where they come from, for that matter.

Well, in both cases, the comparisons stem from FBref, which looked at players in similar positions in the Champions League this season and then created a list of the ten most comparable players for each.

In this instance, it concluded that the Brazilian international was the fifth most similar attacking midfielder or winger to the Morccan star, while the Englishman came in as the seventh most similar.

Diaz & Rodrygo

Statistics per 90

Diaz

Rodrygo

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.48

0.48

Goals per Shot

0.20

0.20

Passing Accuracy

84.8%

85.1%

Live Passes

45.7

44.3

Tackles Won

1.11

1.13

Successful Take-On %

56.5%

58.1%

Carries

42.0

41.3

All Stats via FBref for the 24/25 UCL Campaign

The best way to see how these conclusions were reached is by looking at the underlying numbers in which the players ranked closely, which, for the case of his Real Madrid teammate, included things like non-penalty expected goals plus assists, goals per shot, passing accuracy, carries, tackles won and more, all per 90.

For the Gunners’ own number seven, the metrics that overlapped with the former Manchester City gem included things like shots on target, goal-creating actions, key passes, passes into the penalty area, non-penalty expected goals and more, also per 90.

Diaz & Saka

Statistics per 90

Diaz

Saka

Non-Penalty Expected Goals

0.28

0.34

Shots on Target

1.31

1.42

Key Passes

1.11

1.19

Passes into the Penalty Area

1.30

1.19

Goal-Creating Actions

0.80

0.83

Miscontrols

2.04

2.02

All Stats via FBref for the 24/25 UCL Campaign

Usually, being so statistically similar to two of the most exciting wingers in the modern game would be reason enough to sign someone, but away from these comparisons, there are other reasons the North Londoners should be looking to recruit the Málaga-born maestro this summer, such as his versatility.

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For example, while the 25-year-old does tend to play out on the right at the moment, his most played position across his entire career is attacking midfield, but even then, he’s also capable of playing off the left and has spent time as a second striker and up top to boot.

Moreover, while he has mainly been kept to substitute appearances in Spain, he’s got the ability to do something seriously special, with former professional turned pundit Owen Hargreaves describing a goal he scored in the Champions League last season as “Messi-esque.”

However, Hargreaves doesn’t limit the comparison to strictly that goal, pointing out that it’s his “low centre of gravity” and “way he can dribble”, which also makes the 5 foot 7 magician similar to the Argentine legend.

Ultimately, Arsenal need to add more quality to their attacking and midfield options this summer, and while he might not be the biggest of names, Diaz is undeniably talented and could add that extra spark the team need.

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Glasgow Rangers have made a formal bid to sign another full-back for manager Russell Martin after an Ibrox deal for Max Aarons.

Rangers sign Aarons on loan as Gers announce deal

After confirming a deal which was agreed earlier in the year to sign midfielder Lyall Cameron, the Gers and 49ers Enterprises have moved efficiently to bring Aarons to Ibrox.

Moving to Glasgow on a straight loan deal from Bournemouth, Aarons got straight to work with Rangers and said after penning his contract:

Ahead of Rangers’ Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos and Scottish Premiership opener at Motherwell, Martin and the Gers will be looking at more additions, with further defensive signings on the agenda.

Leicester City centre-back Conor Coady is open to a move to Rangers following contact, whereas Liverpool’s Owen Beck is another transfer target. Talks were thought to be opened by Rangers over a move for Beck, and a new update has emerged.

Rangers make bid to sign Owen Beck

According to DaveOCKOP, ‘Rangers have now made their interest formal with a bid for the 22-year-old’.

Liverpool have held talks with Beck over extending his contract and sending him out on loan, whereas Rangers are interested in a permanent deal for the left-back.

Beck spent last season on loan at Blackburn Rovers and won their Young Player of the Season award after making 24 Championship appearances. Prior to his time at Ewood Park, Beck also had loan spells at Famalicao, Bolton Wanderers and Dundee United.

The Welshman was actually described as “spectacular” by scout Jacek Kulig, who also compared him to Andy Robertson when coming through Liverpool’s academy.

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Elsewhere, former Liverpool U21 coach Barry Lewtas called Beck a “consistent performer” back in 2022. “I thought Owen was fantastic. The progress he has made over his time at the Academy, but certainly the last couple of years, is a credit to him with the work he puts in [and] how coachable he is because he listens and takes on board the information we give him. He has become a real consistent performer for us and in my opinion he was the standout player against Derby.”

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Now, a move to Glasgow with Rangers could be one to keep an eye on following the update of a formal bid being submitted.

Sunderland are in talks over completing the signing of a versatile player in the summer transfer window, according to a promising new update.

Who could Sunderland sign this summer?

The Black Cats are reportedly interested in snapping up Clermont midfielder Habib Keita before next season gets underway, but they will have their work cut out getting a deal over the line.

That’s because a host of English clubs are keen on acquiring his signature, with Queens Park Rangers, Stoke City and Crystal Palace all keeping tabs on him.

Elsewhere, Sunderland are said to be leading the race to sign Vladyslav Vanat this summer, with the Dynamo Kiev striker a potentially exciting addition for Regis Le Bris, as he looks to have enough firepower in his squad to aid their chances of staying in the Premier League and avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

West Brom youngster Isaac Price has also emerged as a reported target for the Black Cats, with the 21-year-old a player who could have a bright future in the game. The midfielder has already scored six goals in 18 caps for Northern Ireland, summing up his potential.

Sunderland in talks over signing £2.5m midfielder

According to a new report from Africa Foot, Sunderland are in talks with the representatives of Yverdon Sport midfielder Moussa Baradja over a potential £2.5m summer move to the Stadium of Light.

The 24-year-old is looking for a new challenge after his team were relegated from the Swiss Super League last season, and the Black Cats are hoping to “reach an agreement” in the near future following contact.

Baradja isn’t necessarily a player who is well-known to the English audience, but he could be an astute signing by Sunderland, in what is such an important transfer window for them.

Perhaps the Frenchman’s greatest asset is his versatility, allowing him to thrive as a defensive midfielder and a more attack-minded one, as well as being able to do a job on the right wing.

This is sure to appeal to Le Bris, who knows the importance of squad depth ahead of Sunderland’s return to the Premier League, and Baradja would likely come in as a relatively cheap addition, assuming they can get him for just £2.5m.

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He has made 29 appearances for Yverdon Sport, chipping in with four goals and three assists in that time, and he will be able to offer quality at both ends of the pitch.

Granted, Sunderland also need to sign players who have proven themselves in the Premier League, but Baradji looks like shrewd business that could ultimately be effective over time.

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Still only 24, he wouldn’t be coming in as a quick fix for the Black Cats, instead arriving as a squad player and hopefully becoming a key man as time passes.

Newcastle United have bid farewell to striker Callum Wilson, who departs the Magpies after five years on Tyneside.

The centre-forward struggled with injury throughout his spell with the club, scoring 49 goals across 130 appearances.

However, with a Carabao Cup winner’s medal around his neck, he will leave Tyneside with fond memories of the club.

The positive news concerning his departure means that it does leave room for Eddie Howe to bring in another striker this summer, especially with European football on the horizon.

James Trafford and Anthony Elanga look set to move to St James’ Park in the coming days. Will another new attacker follow after them?

Newcastle in advanced talks for English striker

Howe was keen on bringing Joao Pedro to Newcastle, but Chelsea’s offer of £60m was beyond what the Magpies were willing to spend.

Despite Champions League football to look forward to next term, Howe is going to have to be diligent in the transfer market and hunt for alternatives.

Well, according to reports, the Toon are now currently in advanced talks to sign former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin following his departure from the Toffees.

The Englishman has been admired for a while now by Howe, but he will have to fend off interest from Manchester United to secure his man.

Transfer Focus

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Even though he has scored only 11 goals since the start of the 2023/24 campaign, could he return to form at Newcastle, however?

Especially with someone like Elanga creating plenty of chances for him.

Why Calvert-Lewin could be a good signing for Newcastle

Last season, Elanga notched up 12 assists for Nottingham Forest in all competitions. Furthermore, he created nine big chances and averaged 1.3 key passes per game in the top flight.

If that wasn’t enough, the Swede ranked in the top 6% for assists and in the top 3% for crosses when compared to his positional peers in the Premier League.

Thus, should Calvert-Lewin make the move to Newcastle, he would surely shine alongside a player like Elanga.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s Everton statistics

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2024/25

26

3

2

2023/24

38

8

3

2022/23

18

2

1

2021/22

18

5

2

2020/21

39

21

5

2019/20

41

15

1

2018/19

38

8

3

2017/18

44

8

5

2016/17

20

5

2

Via Transfermarkt

While the previous few years have been tough, the 28-year-old did score 13 league goals in 2019/20 and 16 the season after, proving that when he is fit, the striker is among one of the best in the country.

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It was around this time that the player received plenty of praise from Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who said:

“Calvert-Lewin, I really expected him to make big steps in the next few years and he did. He has everything you need in a top striker: size, mobility, speed, desire, technically really, really good, in the air, finishing with his head, both feet.”

Signing the former Sheffield United starlet on a free transfer could turn into a shrewd piece of business for Howe. But only if he remains fit and healthy.

Adding both Elanga and Calvert-Lewin will certainly give Newcastle more depth in their attacking department and it could well be that the Forest winger is the chance generation machine that the latter needs to revive his career.

Still only 28, the former Everton striker could shine in the northeast.

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Wolverhampton Wanderers are set to make an offer for a “sensational” forward, who is also on the radar of Real Madrid and Barcelona, according to reports.

Wolves looking to sign new forwards

In light of Matheus Cunha’s departure, Wolves have been able to splash the cash on new forwards this summer, having already secured the signature of Fer Lopez, and they are now closing in on a deal for another winger.

Such is the Colombia international’s level of interest in moving to Molineux, he is reportedly willing to take a pay cut to get a deal over the line, and with Fabrizio Romano giving his trademark ‘here we go’, the move could be wrapped up soon.

However, Wolves aren’t done there, as they are also set to make an offer for another winger, namely Real Betis’ Pablo Garcia, according to a report from Estadio Deportivo (via Sport Witness).

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The Old Gold have been closely monitoring Garcia in recent weeks, and they are now determined to secure his signature, with Real Betis’ €30m (£26m) asking price deemed to be a non-issue.

The 19-year-old has particularly impressed at the U19 Euros, recently netting four goals in Spain’s 6-5 victory over Germany, and his performances haven’t gone unnoticed, with reports from elsewhere revealing that Real Madrid and Barcelona have also expressed an interest.

"Sensational" Garcia could be exciting signing for Wolves

It would be a real statement of intent if Vitor Pereira’s side were able to secure the teenager’s signature, given his performances at the U19 Euros, with scout/analyst Jacek Kulig lauding the youngster for a “sensational” display against Germany.

The Sevilla-born winger was regularly among the goals at youth level last season, picking up five goals and four assists in 25 games for Real Betis reserves, while also providing four goal contributions in as many games in the UEFA Youth League.

As such, while Garcia’s first-team experience is very limited, there are clear signs the starlet could go on to be a top player, so he could be a real coup for Wolves this summer.

Having already reinforced their frontline with the addition of Thierno Barry, Everton have also reportedly joined the race to sign an impressive 27-goal striker.

The latest in Everton's incomings

The Toffees commenced the transfer window in statement fashion – welcoming Carlos Alcaraz in a permanent deal and talented forward Barry – and have since also welcomed new No.2 Mark Travers. But, if reports are anything to go by, they’re only just getting started. Recent rumours have suggested that The Friedkin Group could even spend as much as £150m on additions this summer.

Top of Everton’s wishlist on that front seems to be Manchester City’s James McAtee. The young midfielder is reportedly looking to leave the Etihad in pursuit of much-needed game time this summer, with a permanent switch to the Hill Dickinson Stadium now among his options.

Even as he struggled to hand McAtee a consistent place in his plans, Pep Guardiola took the time to praise the 22-year-old after he scored a hat-trick against Salford City.

The Spaniard told reporters: “I am so happy for him, he is a special player. A hat trick is not easy. He has an incredible sense in front of goal, he has the right tempo, he changed the rhythm to score and I am very happy for him.”

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McAtee’s not the only name on Everton’s shortlist, however. The Toffees have also reportedly set their sights on Douglas Luiz and former Real Madrid gem Takefusa Kubo.

Attacking targets seem to be the priority in Merseyside too, whether it’s Kubo who arrives or an impressive 27-goal striker this summer.

Everton now battling to sign Mika Biereth

As reported by Caught Offside, Everton are now battling to sign Mika Biereth from AS Monaco this summer. The Toffees are joined by Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Wolves in a very busy race, but the fact that the forward is represented as the same agent as Barry could yet hand those at the Hill Dickinson Stadium an advantage.

League stats 24/25 (via FBref)

Biereth

Barry

Minutes

2,495

2,559

Goals

24

16

Assists

6

4

Scoring a combined 40 goals between them last season, Biereth and Barry would form quite the partnership at Everton. In two moves, David Moyes would go from a fairly blunt attack to an underrated and dangerous frontline.

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After watching on as Biereth missed a penalty then went on to score in a 2-1 victory against rivals OGC Nice last season, Monaco boss Adi Hutter told reporters: “This is his mentality, his character. He never gives up and he fights for the team. It is fantastic.”

Six months on from welcoming the Dane into his side, however, and Hutter could be forced to bid farewell if Everton or others get their way this summer. And just like when he swapped Sturm Graz for France in January, Biereth would be more than ready to hit the ground running elsewhere.

Derby County have already shown they mean business this summer and are closing in on another signing to strengthen ahead of the Championship season, according to John Percy.

Derby County back themselves to make Championship statement

With six new arrivals through the door and John Eustace restoring the feel-good factor at Pride Park, there is every reason for Rams’ supporters to feel optimistic heading into the new campaign.

Captain Ebou Adams shares the sentiment that Derby County can make a ‘statement’ in the second-tier, claiming his side will allow themselves to dare to ‘dream’ as he feels the fans, manager and players are united in their vision to thrive.

Owen Beck has arrived from Liverpool on loan and Derby aren’t keen to stop there after lining up Coventry City’s Jake Bidwell as their latest target, with the Sky Blues open to selling the 32-year-old this summer.

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The Rams also saw a £1 million bid turned down for Bristol City’s Zak Vyner. It remains to be seen whether his future at Ashton Gate is resolved, but their attempt to land his services illustrates that Derby are targeting reinforcements across all areas of their squad.

Now, a familiar face could be set to link up with Eustace again at Pride Park as their recruitment drive accelerates ahead of the competitive kick-off.

Derby County set to re-sign David Ozoh

Taking to social media platform X, reliable reporter Percy of The Telegraph has confirmed that Derby County are set to re-sign midfielder David Ozoh on loan from Crystal Palace, with confirmation expected later this week.

The 20-year-old made 12 appearances during a loan spell last term, but a hamstring injury alongside muscular problems limited his chances of earning further minutes.

Nevertheless, Eustace has previously labelled Ozoh a “fantastic player” back in February, signalling that he will have every chance to shine under his stewardship despite his stint being cut short last time out due to fitness issues.

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All parties now appear to be close to a deal and his parent club seem to be happy with the arrangement, which will enable the Valencia-born man to develop away from the spotlight of Premier League football.

More importantly, Derby will inherit a talented youngster determined to prove a point while also shoring up their midfield at little financial cost.

Sheffield Wednesday are in a state of constant change, but their internal situation hasn’t slowed the Owls’ mission to bring in new blood as they now have a potential recruit on trial.

Danny Rohl leaves Sheffield Wednesday

Following a summer of turbulence, David Ornstein has confirmed that Danny Rohl has left his post at Sheffield Wednesday after informing his players and staff this morning of his intention to depart Hillsborough.

“Danny Rohl exits position as Sheffield Wednesday head coach. Agreement finalised for 36yo to depart SWFC – players + staff being informed this morning. German boss free to pursue next steps; expected to take some time to consider options.”

Financially, Sheffield Wednesday are in a frail position and have been unable to pay players on time in recent months. Rohl opting to leave is just the latest in a long line of exits, including Josh Windass and Michael Smith.

Dejphon Chansiri’s mismanagement of club affairs has left fans irate. On the same token, uncertainty over whether club captain Barry Bannan will commit to the Owls is another frustrating element of the current state of play.

With no imminent takeover in sight, it is hard to envisage when things will start to take a turn in the other direction. Sheffield Wednesday are in a dark period, but supporters will cling on to the hope that light exists at the end of the tunnel.

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Finding a manager to steer the club through difficult moments will be a stern task, though there is one small nugget of positivity for the Owls to cling on to amid recent developments.

Sheffield Wednesday take Reece Clairmont on trial

According to The Star, Sheffield Wednesday have signed former Arsenal winger Reece Clairmont for a trial after he left the Gunners on a free transfer at the end of last season.

The 18-year-old winger is reported to have started for an Under-21 Owls side in a 2-0 defeat to Derby County over the weekend. Whether or not he earns a contract remains to be seen, though the academy pathway is set to be heavily utilised this term in light of off-field problems.

Reece Clairmont in 2024/25 – Under-18 Premier League

Appearances

6

Goals

0

Assists

0

Alexander Asaba has also been at Sheffield Wednesday on a trial basis and started the clash, and it remains to be seen if either are set to be involved in Friday night’s clash against Scarborough Athletic.

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Cost-effective solutions on the pitch will need to come into effect this season. Ultimately, budget restrictions and the threat of a Championship points deduction don’t help matters whatsoever.

Nevertheless, there is still talent in the building at Hillsborough and allowing youth a chance to flourish under new management may unearth some prodigious talent that can be sold later down the line, potentially easing the financial situation while Chansiri attempts to find a buyer.

Everton’s search for a match-winning centre-forward is heating up.

The club’s recruitment team are pushing hard to secure a signing who can both lead the line with authority and bring a clinical edge in front of goal.

The profile they are targeting is clear: a striker in the mould of Romelu Lukaku – a player who can bully defenders with physicality and convert chances at a prolific rate.

The Toffees have been crying out for a reliable forward since the Belgian’s departure in 2017.

Now, with David Moyes at the helm and a summer recruitment strategy shaped by ambition, Everton appear ready to act decisively.

Everton's looking at signing their new Lukaku

The club have already turned heads with the loan signing of Jack Grealish from Manchester City, adding star quality to their forward line.

But there is a growing acceptance that, without a proven striker to convert those chances, Everton’s attacking rebuild will be incomplete.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

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The latest target fits the brief, and reports suggest the Merseyside outfit are prepared to make a significant financial commitment to get their man.

According to Football Insider, Everton have submitted a £37m bid for AS Roma’s powerful Ukrainian striker, Artem Dovbyk.

Dovbyk, 28, has been the subject of widespread Premier League interest this summer, with clubs such as Leeds United, West Ham United and Sunderland all linked to him.

However, Everton appear to be leading the race, aided by the fact that Roma are also owned by the Friedkin Group.

The striker is reportedly keen on a move to England, just 18 months after joining Roma from La Liga side Girona.

His final audition came in a 1-0 pre-season win over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, where Dovbyk featured for 80 minutes.

The Lukaku Comparison

Everton’s interest in this “elite target man”, as he’s been referred to by European football expert Zach Lowy, comes alongside other forward-thinking moves in the market.

They are keeping tabs on right-wing options such as Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo and Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, both of whom could operate alongside the Ukrainian in a new-look attack.

Dovbyk’s arrival would also provide valuable mentorship to 22-year-old French striker Thierno Barry, recently signed from Villarreal for £27.6m and boasting a similar physical style of play.

The comparison to Lukaku is an obvious one – and for good reason.

Both players stand at over 1.88 and combine their physical power with an instinctive eye for goal.

Career Goals

Romelu Lukaku

286

Artem Dovbyk

131

Source: FBref

Dovbyk’s stats from his 2023/24 season with Girona underscore just how effective he can be.

The Ukrainian scored 24 goals and provided 8 assists in 36 league appearances, helping the Catalan club secure Champions League qualification for the first time in their history.

According to FBref, he ranked in the 97th percentile for goals per 90 (0.83) and the 97th percentile for expected goals per 90 (0.84), demonstrating the kind of consistency that Everton have been missing for years.

Crucially, Dovbyk isn’t one-dimensional. His link-up play is strong, as shown by his 82nd percentile ranking for expected assists per 90 (0.13), and he is deceptively adept with the ball at his feet, completing 68% of his take-ons.

He also wins nearly half of his aerial duels, adding to his utility as both a hold-up player and a set-piece threat.

When comparing him to Lukaku’s time at Everton, the parallels are striking.

Lukaku scored 87 goals in 166 appearances for the club, registering double figures in the league for four consecutive seasons.

His best campaign, the 2016/17 season, saw him score 25 league goals and claim six assists – earning him Everton’s Player of the Season award.

Like Dovbyk, Lukaku thrived on using his physicality to dominate defenders.

Dovbyk offers a similar promise – a striker who can be the focal point of the attack, hold off multiple defenders, and still find the back of the net with regularity.

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The timing of this potential transfer could be transformative for the club.

Moyes’ side start their Premier League campaign on Monday against Leeds United and adding a striker of Dovbyk’s calibre before the window closes would give the squad a major psychological lift.

The prospect of linking him with Grealish, as well as emerging talents like Barry, hints at an Everton attack that could be both physically overwhelming and tactically versatile.

Furthermore, Everton’s recent struggles in front of goal have been as much about chance creation as finishing.

With Grealish capable of threading passes through tight defences and potential additions on the flanks to stretch play, Dovbyk could find himself in the kind of service-rich environment that allows him to replicate his Girona numbers.

For Everton, this feels like more than just another signing.

It’s a chance to reconnect with an identity that once made them a feared opponent – a team built around a powerful, relentless striker who can decide games almost single-handedly.

In Dovbyk, they may have found their next Lukaku.

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Celtic have been chasing a striker all window and could now be set to land an experienced goalscorer who has his heart set on a move to Parkhead, according to a report.

Brendan Rodgers responds to Celtic transfer speculation

Brendan Rodgers has been asked plenty of times about transfer speculation this window and the questions aren’t about to stop any time soon, given his side need to secure arrivals to prepare them for a two-legged Champions League playoff against Kairat Almaty.

Speaking after his side saw off Falkirk in the Premier Sports Cup last week, the Irishman stated in his press conference that he is hopeful arrivals will come in sooner rather than later to bolster his squad.

He said: “Hopefully would be the answer to that. We have right up until, I believe it’s the day before the game, to change our squad so hopefully that can be the case. We hope that we can improve it, and hopefully by then we will do.”

Jahmai Simpson-Pusey’s loan from Manchester City was the last signing Celtic made, albeit West Ham United star Andy Irving is open to joining the Bhoys if he is allowed to leave the London Stadium before the end of the window.

Royal Antwerp star Michel-Ange Balikwisha is also on the Bhoys’ radar and may be a solution out wide. However, it remains to be seen how the Scottish Premiership champions go about strengthening in the forward areas.

Plenty of work remains to be done ahead of the close of play, and Celtic could now be well in contention to land a striker who has seen and done it all across his distinguished career.

Jamie Vardy has his 'heart set' on move to Celtic

According to The Sun, Jamie Vardy has his heart set on a move to Celtic and is reportedly desperate to reunite with Rodgers before the window closes, with the Hoops boss hoping to make a move.

West Ham United, Wrexham and Brentford are also keen on the free agent, who has enlisted the help of a personal trainer to keep fit since his departure from Leicester City.

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The youngster has already captained his national team.

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The ex-England international believes he can play on for another season or two and will hope to replicate his goalscoring exploits south of the border, where he has netted 244 times across all competitions for club and country.

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Last term, he hit the net ten times in 36 appearances, showing he still has plenty left to give in someone’s forward line despite turning 38 at the start of the year.

Now, it remains to be seen if Celtic can push a deal over the line, though the fact Vardy is seemingly relishing a shot at life north of the border will fill supporters with optimism.