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Leicester City have reportedly renewed their interest in Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Palhinha as Brendan Rodgers looks to bolster his first-team squad.

What’s the story?

According to SportsLens (as reported by the Leicester Mercury), the 25-year-old has attracted the interest of several top teams across the continent after helping Sporting secure their first league title in 19 years.

The report claims that a £25.7 million price tag has been placed on Palhinha’s head, with fellow Premier League outfit Everton and Italian giants Napoli also interested in securing his signature.

Rodgers needs him

Leicester were first credited with an interest in the Portugal international back in January, although nothing materialised in the winter window.

However, with the 2020/21 campaign now complete, the Foxes may look to secure their man as they plan for another assault on the Champions League qualification spots.

Palhinha made 32 league appearances last season, achieving a highly impressive WhoScored rating of 7.22 along the way.

The defensive-minded midfielder may not grab the headlines through goals or assists, finding the back of the net just once last term, but he’s very effective at breaking up opposition moves and kickstarting attacks of his own.

He recorded 3.3 tackles per league game for Ruben Amorim’s title-winning side, by far the most in the first-team squad, while also completing 83.4% of his passes.

While Palhinha is certainly more comfortable operating in the middle of the park, his versatility has seen him deployed at centre-back on occasion throughout his career and that may be an asset that appeals to Rodgers.

Qualification for next term’s Europa League means the Foxes will have to fight on multiple fronts next season, meaning the addition of a talented utility player could prove to be extremely useful.

After the departures of Wes Morgan and Christian Fuchs, Rodgers needs reinforcements, and Palhinha could provide competition for Wilfried Ndidi while providing cover at centre-half.

Whether the King Power Stadium outfit can justify or afford to spend such a figure on someone who would likely be a back-up player remains to be seen, but the current FA Cup holders need extra bodies and Palhinha is an exciting option.

And, in other news…Rudkin can find Leicester’s ideal Morgan heir in £9m-rated monster, Rodgers needs him 

Birmingham City manager Lee Bowyer will utilise the loan market sparingly at St. Andrew’s this summer.

What’s been said?

In recent comments cited by Birmingham Live, the Blues manager insisted that his current squad of players does not need all that much work in the upcoming transfer market, before suggesting that he is slightly reluctant to sign a number of players in the loan market.

The 44-year-old said: “Loans you have to be careful because some clubs put rules in there and try to punish you if a player doesn’t play. I believe if you bring a player in and he isn’t doing enough or playing well enough to play, then you get punished – that’s wrong.

“You can’t just play a player because you don’t want to affect the club financially, some people would play a player because they want to save money but if you play that player, you are probably going to lose the game.

“I understand why clubs do it, they want their player to go out on loan, get experience and play the game but again, it all comes down to picking the right people. If you pick the right people then you won’t have those problems to worry about.”

Fans will be buzzing

Lee Bowyer has been saying all the right things in recent weeks, having recently revealed that the club’s owners are happy with his plan to build a side capable of a promotion push slowly, rather than spending big on a number of short-term signings that could fire the club up the table, while these latest remarks would also suggest that the former Charlton manager really has his head screwed on when it comes to the club’s transfer strategy.

And, considering how poorly Birmingham have acted in the transfer market in recent years, the 44-year-old’s remarks are likely to leave the St. Andrew’s faithful buzzing.

Indeed, with the Blues having spent a total of £43.62m in the past five seasons on incoming transfers, and the club finishing in 19th, 19th, 17th, 20th and 18th place in the Championship standings over the same period, this would very much appear to have been money largely wasted.

Furthermore, as a result of their careless spending on fees and wages, Birmingham were also found to have broken the EFL’s Financial Fair Play rules in 2019, subsequently being handed a nine-point deduction and having a business plan imposed on them by the governing body.

However, with the extremely level headed Bowyer at the helm, it would seem as if the days of frivolous spending are now well behind Birmingham, with the Blues very much appearing to be a club on the up under their new gaffer.

In other news: Bowyer drops Trillion Trophy Asia update that will surely have Birmingham fans buzzing – opinion

Bruno Fernandes has been voted the GiveMeSport Fans’ Premier League Player of the Season.

In a poll run by fan engagement experts Snack Media, the midfielder earned an impressive 30% of the vote after scoring eighteen goals and assisting twelve more in his first full season at Old Trafford. Chelsea’s Mason Mount was in second place with 22%. 

In the first of five votes carried out over seven days via Snack Media’s digital and social networks, the midfielder’s performances were enough to win over Premier League fans up and down the country. 

The full list of contenders from the final shortlist polled as follows: 

● Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) – 30% 

● Mason Mount (Chelsea) – 22% 

● Ruben Dias (Manchester City) – 15% 

● Stuart Dallas (Leeds United) – 14% 

● Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur) – 13% 

● Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa) – 7% 

The Championship vote opens at 11am on Monday 7th May. To vote go to: http://bit.ly/36EBNZ6   

And in other news; Manchester United have been linked with a move for this star man…

Southampton made it two home wins in a week as they beat Fulham 3-1 at St Mary’s on Saturday afternoon, with goals from Che Adams, Nathan Tella and Theo Walcott doing the business for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side.

Although it was a promising display from the Saints, there were still some disappointing performers against Scott Parker’s team, with Nathan Redmond, in particular, below-par.

The former Norwich City man has produced some of his best performances of the season in recent months after a terrible first half of the campaign,  but still has just two goals and three assists in 27 top-flight appearances this season.

As per SofaScore, the 27-year-old would earn a shocking 6.6/10 rating for his performance, with only Stuart Armstrong (6.0) and Takumi Minamino (6.4) rated lower.

During the 90 minutes, Redmond, who reportedly earns £60k per week at Southampton, would complete just 28/40 of his passes, resulting in a less than impressive 70% pass accuracy, which is below the 76.4% he has averaged in the top-flight so far this season.

Despite it being arguably his most dangerous trait, the winger failed to complete a single dribble during his time on the pitch, with Fulham right-back Kenny Tete’s five tackles and 7.1 rating suggesting that he had the better of him throughout the game.

Perhaps most frustratingly for Southampton was Redmond’s inability to keep hold of the ball. He lost possession on 26 occasions at St Mary’s which was the most of any Saints player, something that would have perhaps been punished more by a better side.

[snack-amp-story url= “https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/latest-southampton-news%2c-transfer-rumours-and-more” title=“Latest Southampton news, transfer rumours and more!“]

The Englishman also won just three of his 11 duels during the game, whilst he wasted a glorious chance to score after being played through by Adams. It was a surprise to see him last the full 90 minutes, considering substitutes Nathan Tella and Theo Walcott both made much more of an impression on the game.

In his player ratings following the game, Hampshire Live journalist Tom Leach was less than impressed with Redmond, awarding him a 6/10 and writing:

“It was a well-involved but frustrating start for Redmond against Fulham. He fought hard but was wasteful at times. That improved during the second half but he still could have done more.”

Therefore, it is clear that Redmond was one of the worst performers against Fulham and needs to improve if he wants to keep his place for the final two fixtures of the campaign.

And, in other news… Southampton Player Ratings vs Fulham

Aston Villa don’t rate West Brom star Matheus Pereira as highly as other targets, according to The Athletic’s Villa correspondent Gregg Evans.

And, as to be expected, the latest update has had plenty of Villa fans talking on social media.

Villa have been linked with a move for Pereira recently, however, it seems as if sporting director Johan Lange has two other players higher up on his summer wishlist.

According to Evans, Villa have already laid extensive groundwork over deals for Burnley’s Dwight McNeil and Norwich City’s Emiliano Buendia.

Evans adds that Pereira could still come into the reckoning regarding a Midlands switch, however, at this moment in time, the Brazilian isn’t rated as highly as McNeil or Buendia.

Villa reportedly want two or three signings ahead of the 2021/22 season, but it seems as if Pereira may not be one of those going off the latest update.

Villa fans react

@villareport shared Evans’ claims on Pereira on social media on Friday morning. This is what these fans had to say in reply, with many not exactly thrilled and one describing the call as ‘stupid’.

“Can you imagine what Jack Grealish must think of this? Dwight McNeil ahead of Matheus Pereira? It’s an absolute joke. And with our business supposedly limited to 2/3 ‘smart’ signings it’s hardly surprising he’s linked to a City move this morning. No ambition whatsoever.”Credit: @_porsalin”Madness. Absolute madness. Seriously Smith doesn’t know a good winger”Credit: @Harry34740948″We are so stupid if that’s true”Credit: @jackavfc1″McNeil over Pereira??? Really???”Credit: @willjonesavfc1″Pereira should be our main priority after Buendia”Credit: @OllyAVFC_”I really don’t understand this but I’ve got faith in Lange”Credit: @compsavfc_

In other news: Many AVFC fans react to Tom Heaton update, find out more here. 

Everton forward Richarlison has joined the backlash against the proposed European Super League.

The Premier League’s ‘big six’ – Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs and Arsenal – announced on Sunday that they were to become founding members of the breakaway continental competition.

It is a move which could see them banned from competing in the English top flight.

Liverpool, Manchester United and co. an ‘absolute joke’

Manchester United legend Gary Neville said live on Sky Sports on Sunday that he was ‘absolutely disgusted’ by the plans. He labelled the clubs involved an ‘absolute joke’ and wants to see them heavily sanctioned.

Richarlison retweeted a video of Neville’s tirade, adding five applause emojis, and the Brazilian wasn’t the only Everton player to come out in opposition on Monday. Yannick Bolasie, who is on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough, tweeted that ‘values and history’ were being thrown ‘out the window’.

According to Sky Sports News’ Kaveh Solhekol, some of the other 14 Premier League clubs are pushing for the so-called ‘big six’ to be immediately suspended from the current season, and these Everton fans loved seeing Richarlison conveying his opposition to the controversial Super League plans:

Everton fans hail Richarlison after he backs Neville

“YES RICHY”

Credit: @EvertonNewsFeed

“Yes Richy we love you”

Credit: @megxefc

“How can you not love him?”

Credit: @clarke__78

“Love this fella, always makes the effort and gets the club, the city, the fans.”

Credit: @Shippers18781

“Legend Richy”

Credit: @David42797784

“Boss Richy!”

Credit: @nickgartland

“Love you Richy. True footballer showing his true colors. That authenticity is something that can’t be bought”

Credit: @EfcShowtime

In other news, Kevin Campbell has backed Everton to make this signing.

A number of Liverpool fans have been bemoaning the choice of officials for Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Manchester United this weekend.

The Reds make the trip to Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon, in what represents a must-win clash for Jurgen Klopp’s side.

In truth, their top-four hopes are fading by the game, and failure to win against their bitter rivals will surely spell the end of their chances.

[freshpress-quiz id=“350790”]

Liverpool have been famously poor at Old Trafford under Klopp, not winning there under him in the league and getting knocked out of the FA Cup earlier this season.

A big performance is required after last weekend’s huge disappointment at home to Newcastle United, when missed chances and a late lapse cost the Reds dearly.

The officials have been confirmed for this weekend’s match, with Michael Oliver refereeing the contest and Paul Tierney on VAR duties.

Liverpool fans rue officials for Man United game

These Liverpool supporters are unimpressed with the selections, providing their thoughts on Twitter.

“We’ve lost loooool”

Credit: @K9Capalot

“Man U are definitely getting at least one penalty then”

Credit: @johnevans1977

“Well, if there was any hope that LFC gets anything from that game, that’s it gone. Personally, I know we’re losing that one, but those men will make sure of it”

Credit: @Farisalfarik

“May God help us”

Credit: @baba_sani_auwal

“We are so done”

Credit: @FplPopo

“Man United guaranteed a penalty and a clear Livepool goal will be disallowed by VAR”

Credit: @Liberatus_Mokoe

In other news, some Liverpool fans believe one player has peaked – find out who it is here.

Celtic are hoping to announce Eddie Howe as their new manager this week, according to The Sun.

Both parties are in no rush to hurry negotiations, but it does appear as if the 43-year-old will eventually become Neil Lennon’s long-term successor.

Howe’s specific Celtic assurance

However, the report also reveals a specific assurance Howe needs before putting pen to paper over a Parkhead deal.

Howe wants to bring Bournemouth man Richard Hughes with him to Glasgow in a director of football role.

That would mean the Hoops hierarchy ripping up their plans they originally had in place, with Football Insider revealing a deal for Manchester City’s Fergal Harkin was 90% done last month.

Transfer Tavern take

To us, Howe needs to have a major say on who the director of football is, and if a deal for Hughes is possible, it could prove to be a shrewd appointment.

Howe and Hughes enjoyed great success on the south coast, and the manager and director of football will need to work closely in a Parkhead rebuild.

Plenty of key on-field decisions will need to be made ahead of the 2021/22 season, and the pair having full trust in each other could make that process easier.

In other news: Premier League side set to bid for Celtic midfielder, find out more here. 

Speaking to Football Insider, pundit Kevin Phillips has been wowed by an alleged West Ham transfer development that the Hammers are ‘laying the groundwork’ to sign Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard this summer.

Indeed, as per the same outlet, West Ham are in pole position to sign the forward and they claim he could also be available for a fee in the region of £8-10 million. 

Edouard has been a prolific goal scorer north of the border over the last few seasons, scoring 57 goals in 100 SPFL appearances for the Hoops (Transfermarkt).

Phillips wowed by alleged Edouard development

This has allegedly prompted GSB and West Ham to lay the groundwork for his possible capture, and Phillips believes securing him for around £10m would be a ‘huge bargain’ and a ‘no brainer’.

“For £10m it would be a huge bargain,” explained Phillips to Football Insider.

“If he is available for a fee in that region it will not just be West Ham sniffing around, there will be a lot of other clubs interested and that could drive up the price

“West Ham play good football and they have some fantastic players at the moment so they are an attractive proposition. They are a club heading in the right direction.

“If they can grab hold of Edouard for that sort of money, it is a no-brainer for me. If it works, you have a bargain and if it doesn’t you have not lost too much money. £10million is nothing for a player in this day and age.”

Transfer Tavern take

Given his impressive record and the fact he is still only 23-years-old, a fee in that region would indeed be huge value for money.

He is only likely to get better and has proven to be clinical in front of goal, meaning a West Ham swoop for that price is surely a certainty for the club.

David Moyes missed out on signing a striker in January, but if the Irons can pull off a cut price move for Edouard, you could say it was a masterclass to avoid rushing into an panic deal for an inferior player.

In other news: West Ham fans flocked to this ExWHUemployee claim, find out more here.

According to a report by the Daily Mail, the process of identifying potential replacements for Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho has ‘already begun’ – with RB Leipzig boss Julian Nagelsmann viewed by many at Spurs as the ‘perfect candidate’.

Nagelsmann, who has previously been linked with Tottenham through the media, has lead Leipzig to a Bundesliga title challenge this season, with Die Roten Bullen currently just four points behind Bayern Munich as they contend for the trophy.

Tottenham identify perfect Nagelsmann behind the scenes

The 33-year-old German coach could also be appointable for a bargain salary of £6m per year, which is less than half of what Mourinho is currently earning at Tottenham according to the Daily Mail (£13m per year).

As the process of identifying potential replacements for Mourinho has seemingly already commenced, Nagelsmann is apparently viewed by many behind the scenes at Spurs as the perfect managerial successor should their current coach be shown the door.

Transfer Tavern take

The club’s financial position is reportedly emerging as a crucial factor in potentially appointing a new manager, and Spurs would attempt to put Mourinho on gardening leave rather than pay his entire compensation package in one go should he be sacked.

Whether or not chairman Daniel Levy parts with the current boss remains to be seen, but it could weigh on how strongly Tottenham finish this campaign.

With Nagelsmann turning RB Leipzig into Bundesliga title contenders and Champions League semi-finalists, Spurs could do a lot worse in terms of Mourinho’s successor.

In other news: Tottenham starlet has suffered a ‘severe’ fresh injury blow, find out more here.