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The 2025 MLB season has rounded the All-Star break turn and is headed for the home stretch. There is a glut of teams still in contention for playoff spots, which means the July 31 trade deadline could get hectic.

There are contending teams with glaring holes that must be plugged over the next couple of weeks. Here's a look at the biggest needs among the leaders in the American League—we’ll follow up with the National League on Friday.

New York Yankees: Third base

The Yankees moved Jazz Chisholm Jr. to second base and released DJ LeMahieu. It was a dramatic shift for a team battling for first place in the AL East. The third base job is now open and there is no good fit at the position currently in the Bronx. It may be the most obvious hole a contender has. Oswald Peraza isn't the solution.

General manager Brian Cashman is almost certain to go all-in this season after his team fell three games short of a championship in 2024. There should be several options available to to fill the spot before the deadline, and first among them is Diamondbacks slugger Eugenio Suárez. The veteran third baseman is in the final year of his contract and has 31 home runs and 78 RBIs. But there are several guys who could fill that role if the Yankees look elsewhere.

Detroit Tigers: High-leverage relief pitcher

The Tigers entered the All-Star break with the best record in baseball but they're not a finished product. Detroit's offense is fantastic and doesn't need help, other than maybe a bench bat. The front office's focus over the next few weeks should be finding help for the relief corps. The Tigers' bullpen carries an ERA of 4.13, which ranks 21st in the league, and has the third-lowest strikeout rate (19.6%). Other than Will Vest (2.30 ERA) the team's bullpen arms have all been shaky at times.

Detroit should attempt to find at least one big-time relief pitcher, and perhaps another arm for depth. Chatter around the league is that the price for pitching will be exorbitant this season, so the Tigers will have to pick their targets well.

Toronto Blue Jays: Starting pitching

The Blue Jays enter the second half one game ahead of the Yankees in the AL East. While José Berríos, Chris Bassitt and Kevin Gausman have been solid, Toronto needs another starter for the stretch run. As a group, the team's starters have a 4.60 ERA, which ranks 25th in baseball. The Blue Jays simply don't have the depth to compete down the stretch as the season wears on, and another top tier guy could push them from a nice, surprising story to a true contender.

Even if Toronto isn't willing to give up what it takes for a top-of-the-rotation guy, it must find at least one starter to lengthen the rotation. Again, prices will be high, but it could be worth it.

Houston Astros: Starting pitching

Yes, another team in need of pitching (maybe you're starting to understand why prices will be so high). It will be an extreme seller's market this year. Houston's starters have been pretty good this season, as they rank 11th in MLB in ERA (3.80) but they don't have the depth they'll need in October. Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez have been elite this year, but Spencer Arrighetti and Cristian Javier have both dealt with injuries, while Ronel Blanco and Hayden Wesneski are out for the year.

Getting another starter they’re confident turning to in October to add to Brown and Valdez could make the AL West-leading Astros a favorite in the AL.

Seattle Mariners: Corner infielder

The Mariners enter the second half holding on to the final wild-card spot, but with Cal Raleigh having a potentially record-breaking season, rumors suggest they'll be aggressive. If that's the case, upgrading the corners is what they need to do. Ben Williamson (79 wRC+) isn't good enough at third base, and Luke Raley (0.7 fWAR) could be improved upon at first. One of those spots has to be upgraded.

Like the Yankees, Suárez makes sense for the Mariners, as does Diamondbacks first baseman Josh Naylor.

Ashley Cole has lifted the lid on the dramatic crossroads that shaped his career, revealing he felt “underappreciated” at Arsenal and even had opportunities to join European superclubs before ultimately choosing Chelsea. The former England defender admitted both Real Madrid and Barcelona were serious options, but personal circumstances drove his eventual west London switch.

• Barcelona and Real Madrid wanted Cole

  Cole has reflected on the turbulent final months of his Arsenal career, explaining how frustration over contract talks played a major role in his decision to pursue a move away from the club. As negotiations stalled and the left-back felt increasingly undervalued, he became open to opportunities abroad, with both Real Madrid and Barcelona showing interest. However, despite preparing for a potential move overseas, his eventual decision to remain in London set the stage for his now-famous transfer to Chelsea.

  During this period, Cole found himself caught between career ambition and personal stability, especially after marrying Cheryl Cole, which made a relocation abroad less appealing. As interest from Spain cooled and his dissatisfaction at Arsenal deepened, his representatives received an unexpected call from Chelsea, an option that ultimately changed the trajectory of his career. A year and a half after initial issues surfaced, Cole completed his move to Stamford Bridge in a £5 million deal involving William Gallas going the other way.

  His transfer became one of the most controversial in Premier League history, but also one of the most successful in hindsight, as Cole went on to establish himself as one of Chelsea’s greatest modern defenders. Winning multiple domestic and European titles, he cemented a legacy that arguably surpassed his achievements at Arsenal. Yet the origins of his move remain rooted in a personal feeling of being undervalued, a sentiment he still openly discusses today.

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  Cole felt 'underappreciated' at Arsenal

  Cole explained the emotional aspects behind his decision, saying: "I felt a bit underappreciated and undervalued. So that's where my head and heart was at. I was like, 'You've taken my love away' and it didn't need to be like that." He admitted he initially planned to leave Arsenal for Europe, with major clubs ready to act.

  Reflecting on the interest from abroad, he said: "From what I was told and heard, I was going to Real Madrid. I was having conversations with agents because at that point I could pre-sign for a team abroad. So, it was Madrid and kind of Barcelona. I don't know how deep it was." But personal developments changed his priorities.

  Cole continued: "Things changed, I got married, and didn't actually want to leave the country in the end. Then, around a year and a half later, I remember sitting in my box with my agent and him calling me outside and going, 'You're never going to believe who this is, it's Chelsea.' So I was like, okay!" He added that Chelsea offered him "maybe five or six grand more" than what Arsenal were paying.

• Cole opens up on the failure of England's Golden Generation

  Cole went on to enjoy immense success at Chelsea, winning the Premier League, four FA Cups, the Champions League and Europa League during an eight-year spell in which he made 337 appearances. He became widely regarded as one of the greatest left-backs of his generation and a cornerstone of Chelsea’s European triumphs. His trophy haul at Stamford Bridge eclipsed his achievements at Arsenal, despite having been part of the legendary Invincibles side.

  On the international stage, however, Cole admitted that England’s so-called “golden generation” never found the right balance. He described the difficulties of fitting elite talents into one system, saying players were not always willing to sacrifice their preferred roles for the team. Cole highlighted the challenges of combining the traits of Paul Scholes, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and others, arguing their strengths did not naturally complement one another.

  He reflected on how the team lacked cohesion despite the presence of world-class individuals, ultimately limiting their success at major tournaments. He said: "Reflecting now and where I am now, you know working with the England seniors now and seeing what they have compared to what we had, you think now that our team just didn't work.

  "To get all of those players on the pitch – the three midfielders for example – and all the top players on the pitch together, I don't think it works and we can't all be what we are for our clubs. 

  "So Paul Scholes cannot be Paul Scholes with Steven Gerrard in the team, because Stevie G cannot be Stevie G with Paul Scholes, Lampard can't be the Frank Lampard for Chelsea with those two in the team. 

  "So were the players open enough to sacrifice themselves? People need to be more selfless and I don't think we were. Scholes wanted to hit his Man United diagonals, so did (David) Becks, Stevie G wanted to drive and push us up the pitch. Us defenders wanted to get forward."

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  Helping the next generation with England

  Cole’s comments reignite a longstanding debate about his Arsenal exit and the choices that shaped his career, especially given how close he came to leaving England altogether. His account may prompt renewed reflection from supporters on both sides of the London divide, as well as fresh discussion about the so-called 'Golden Generation' and its shortcomings. As Cole continues to work within England’s coaching setup, his experiences—both domestic and international—are likely to inform the next era of national-team development.

Three wickets in reply keep contest in balance after first-day wash-out

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay16-Sep-2025Gloucestershire 65 for 3 (Bracey 18*, Price 16*) trail Northamptonshire 206 (Zaib 76, McManus 44, van Buuren 3-23, M Taylor 3-48) by 141 runsMatt Taylor and Graeme van Buuren produced standout performances with the ball as Gloucestershire made up for lost time on day two of their match Rothesay County Championship Second Division match against Northamptonshire at the Seat Unique Stadium, Bristol.Following a first-day washout, left arm seamer Taylor returned figures of 3 for 48 to take out the top-order, while slow left armer van Buuren claimed 3 for 23 to rip through the tail as Northants were dismissed for 206 in 63.5 overs in their first innings after losing the toss.Only Saif Zaib mustered meaningful resistance, the in-form left-hander top-scoring with 76 to take his first-class run tally for the season to 1,268 at an average of 63.4. Stubborn opener Lewis McManus contributed an obdurate 44, but too many Northants batters surrendered their wickets cheaply on a day when bowlers held sway.Gloucestershire fared no better in the final session, reduced to 40 for 3 by some incisive new-ball bowling from Northamptonshire’s seamers. Ollie Price and James Bracey then held firm to reach the close unbeaten on 16 and 18 respectively, bad light curtailing play with 11.4 overs unused. The fourth wicket pair will resume on 65 for 3 in the morning, still 141 runs behind.Stand-in Gloucestershire captain Bracey won the toss, elected to bowl and looked on from behind the stumps as Northants openers Luke Procter and McManus negotiated the first hour without any major scares on a green-tinged pitch. Only when Matt Taylor switched to the Bristol Pavilion end did Gloucestershire enjoy success, the left arm seamer hitting the top of Procter’s off stump with a ball that nipped back. Having chiseled 21 from 40 deliveries with three boundaries, Northamptonshire’s skipper departed with the score on 34. Taylor struck again three balls later, new batsman Calvin Harrison playing on as the visitors slipped to 39 for 2 in the 14th.That soon became 54 for 3, Josh Shaw locating James Sales’ outside edge and Ben Charlesworth taking a tumbling catch at first slip as the home side registered a first bonus point. Mindful of the need to shore things up, McManus continued to eschew risk as he moved to within seven runs of a half century, but Zaib adopted a more forthright approach, twice driving Ajeet Singh Dale for four and punching Zaman Akhter to the deep mid-wicket boundary as the fourth wicket partnership advanced to 46 by the time lunch was taken with the score on 100 for 3.The stand was worth 65 when Taylor made the breakthrough Gloucestershire so badly needed, McManus playing down the wrong line to a ball that hit off stump and terminated his patient innings on 44. He had faced 92 balls and accrued 3 fours and Northants were back under pressure at 119 for 4. Broad never looked comfortable against Singh Dale’s pace and was caught at the wicket for 12 with the score 147 for 5 as Gloucestershire’s seamers made further in-roads.Unfazed by events at the other end, Zaib continued to play positively, raising 50 from 78 balls with 9 fours and prompting Gloucestershire skipper Bracey to introduce spin in the form of van Buuren from the Ashley Down Road end. Zaib issued a statement of intent, hoisting the slow left armer over deep mid-wicket for six as he progressed towards three figures.Bidding to become only the fifth Northants player and the first since Rob Bailey in 1990 to score seven first class hundreds in a season, the 27-year-old left-hander fell short on this occasion, pushing defensively at a delivery from Akhter and edging a catch behind. His score of 76 from 112 balls included 10 fours and a six and served to keep his team afloat. Rob Keogh and Aadi Sharma mustered resistance thereafter, the seventh wicket pair making it through to tea with the score 194 for 6.Sharma fell soon after the restart, hitting van Buuren’s first delivery high to mid-on where Matt Taylor took a comfortable catch to reduce Northants to 199 for 7. Gloucestershire’s experienced all-rounder struck a further blow with his next delivery, pinning Ben Sanderson lbw without scoring as the visitors displayed signs of lower-order fragility. Ben Whitehouse survived the hat-trick ball, but the home side sensed an opportunity to dismiss their opponents cheaply.When Keogh was bowled for 13 in the act of playing across the line, van Buuren had claimed three wickets in a remarkable nine-ball burst and Northants were in freefall. Singh Dale wrapped up the innings in quick time, bowling Sanderson for six in the next over, at which point the visitors had lost their last five wickets for just 28 runs in 10 overs.If Gloucestershire’s intention was to see off the new-ball threat posed by Sanderson, it proved easier said than done, the veteran seamer summoning a superb in-swinger to bowl Charlesworth for 14 in an impressive spell of 1 for 10 in six overs with three maidens. Broad then accounted for Joe Phillips, who nicked off to Harrison at second slip, while Procter bowled Miles Hammond as the home side lurched to 40-3 inside 19 overs.Bracey and Price batted diligently thereafter, staging an unbroken fourth wicket stand of 25 to keep the visitors at bay.

Arsenal have now been approached over a January move for Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, following a new update on the forward’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Despite strengthening the squad considerably in the summer, Mikel Arteta currently finds himself light on options in attacking areas, with Viktor Gyokeres recently joining fellow strikers Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus on the treatment table.

Arteta has admitted he is worried about the extent of Gyokeres’ injury, which was sustained in the 2-0 victory against Burnley at Turf Moor, saying: “I am concerned because he hasn’t had many muscular issues, and he had to leave the pitch as he was feeling something. That is a concern for a player who is very explosive.”

Gabriel Martinelli is another player who has been struggling on the injury front, missing the victory against the Clarets, with Martin Odegaard and Noni Madueke also not expected to return until later this month.

It is almost unbelievable just how many of the Gunners’ forwards are currently sidelined, but the crisis is yet to have a negative impact on results, with Arteta’s side sitting pretty, six points clear at the top of the Premier League table.

However, given the scale of the injury problems, the north Londoners may want to improve their strength in depth in January, and they have now been offered the opportunity to sign a new forward.

Arsenal approached over January move for Rodrygo

According to a report from The Boot Room, Arsenal have now been approached over a January move for Rodrygo, with intermediaries informing them the forward could be available, having struggled to receive consistent game time at Real Madrid.

Tottenham Hotspur have also been contacted over a potential deal for the Brazilian, who is now starting to accept that he may have to leave the Spanish club for the good of his career.

Journalist Graeme Bailey adds: “I am told that Rodrygo is again considering his options, and one possibility is a switch to the Premier League, which could become a real option in January. He is certainly one to watch as we approach the New Year.”

Lauded as a “world-class finisher” by journalist Kyle Bonn, the Madrid attacker, who can play on both wings and through the middle, has a wealth of top-level experience, having amassed 25 goals and 16 assists in 66 Champions League appearances.

Consequently, it is no surprise that Arteta is said to hold a positive opinion of the 24-year-old, who scored 14 goals for Real Madrid in all competitions last season.

That said, there are some doubts over whether the 35-time Brazil international would be a necessary signing, given that both Madueke and Odegaard are expected to return later this month.

If Arteta is still light on options in January, it could make sense to bring in Rodrygo, but on paper, Arsenal are very well-stocked in attacking areas, and the current situation should pass.

Arsenal also looking to sign Levante striker Karl Etta Eyong Arsenal looking to get ahead in Etta Eyong race as low price tag revealed

The Gunners are vying to sign a new striker.

ByDominic Lund Nov 2, 2025

MatériaMais Notícias

Durante um bom tempo o torcedor do Fortaleza não vai conseguir parar de pensar no que poderia ser diferente para o clube ganhar o título da Sul-Americana. Como ocorre com todo clube que sofre um revés traumático, fanáticos pelo Leão do Pici vão elencar culpados pela derrota para a LDU, do Equador.

+ Veja tabela do Campeonato Brasileiro-2023 clicando aqui

A resposta para saber o que faltou para o clube cearense levantar o caneco é bem mais óbvia do que em muitas situações semelhantes. O Tricolor estava com a taça na mão e um pênalti desperdiçado por Pedro Augusto veio em péssima hora (e de forma cruel).

+ Siga o Lance! no WhatsApp e acompanhe em tempo real as principais notícias do esporte

Claro, nem por isso o atleta passa a ser um grande vilão. Além disso, o Laion poderia ter alcançado o título por outras maneiras, como segurar a pressão adversária e resolver a partida no tempo regulamentar.

Entretanto, era a simples conversão de um pênalti que daria a taça para o Fortaleza. Inclusive, o capitão Tinga lamentou a falta de capricho neste momento tão importante, mas prezou pelo orgulho da campanha do time na competição.

– Estou muito orgulhoso do meu grupo, por tudo que conquistamos. Pênalti é detalhe, fizemos um grande jogo, duas, três oportunidades claras que não convertemos. Adversário é qualificado, tradicional. Seguramos até os pênaltis, e pênalti é um pouco de calma, tranquilidade, eficiência. Levantar a cabeça, temos que ficar felizes e pensar no Brasileirão – concluiu o atleta.

A Spanish manager who once sued Barcelona over his dismissal from the La Liga club is now in the frame to become the next Rangers boss, with the Ibrox hotseat vacant.

McCoist reacts to Martin's sacking at Ibrox

Russell Martin is now a former Gers manager, with the club finding it impossible to justify keeping hold of him any longer, following yet more dropped points in the Scottish Premiership.

Speaking on talkSPORT on Monday [via The National], Rangers legend Ally McCoist gave his thoughts on the decision to sack Martin, actually criticising the players in part, as well as the Englishman.

“It’s easy to blame the manager; that’s where the buck stops, that is where the responsibility is, at the manager’s door. We all know that is what happens. But the players have got to take some responsibility as well. Some of the defending…

“Sometimes when you get on the pitch, you have got to take responsibility, and Rangers just look like wee boys.”Falkirk outran Rangers, they outfought Rangers. And that can happen occasionally but it’s been happening on a regular basis. Not good enough.”

Spanish manager linked with Rangers hotseat

According to AS [via Sport Witness], Quique Setien is now a potential contender to become Rangers’ next manager, having quit his role at Beijing Guoan. Personal reasons are cited as being key to the decision, with the Spaniard finding it difficult being so far away from his family in China and wanting a return to Europe.

Setien would be an intriguing choice by Rangers, with the 67-year-old having a long and distinguished career in management, and taking charge of over 500 matches.In fact, he even managed Barcelona for a short period, and sued Barca back in 2020 after his spell in charge ended with a humiliating loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League, claiming they did not fulfill his contract in regards to a payout.

“In my case, Quique Setien, it is public and well known that on August 17, both the club and the president announced my dismissal with immediate effect. However, it was not until yesterday, September 16 (one month later), when they sent me, for the first time, the written communication of said dismissal (without any settlement).”

Beijing Guoan

32

2.00

Villarreal

39

1.54

Barcelona

25

2.08

Real Betis

94

1.48

Las Palmas

78

1.23

CD Lugo

258

1.45

CD Logrones

20

1.05

Guinea

1

0.00

Poli Ejido

3

1.33

Racing Santander

36

1.78

Setien has managed 10 clubs in total, including Racing Santander and Villarreal, and if Rangers feel a hugely experienced figure is needed after the younger Martin, he could be a shrewd appointment.

Rangers bosses love "amazing" coach who makes players "roll their sleeves up"

Would he be the ideal successor?

ByHenry Jackson Oct 6, 2025

Reaction to Setien coming in could be mixed, however, with Gers supporters potentially a more proven boss in British football, and a younger choice.

Chelsea’s kids ran riot against a woeful Ajax side on Wednesday, running out 5-1 winners at Stamford Bridge. There were three penalties, a red card and untold drama on a sodden night in west London as the Blues continued their excellent form and became the first team to have three teenagers score in the same match in Champions League history.

Blues boss Enzo Maresca made wholesale changes to the team which swept Nottingham Forest aside at the weekend, but their visitors were truly dreadful, and Ajax's job was made even harder after 17 minutes when Kenneth Taylor was shown a red card for a shocking challenge on Facundo Buonanotte.

The hosts immediately took advantage as Marc Guiu slotted home from close range, and they doubled their lead nine minutes later as Moises Caicedo fired home a deflected shot from outside the box.

There was a brief moment of hope for the visitors after former Manchester United forward Wout Weghorst smashed the ball home from the penalty spot after Tosin Adarabioyo fouled Raul Moro, but that was short-lived as Weghorst's clumsy challenge on Enzo Fernandez saw referee Felix Zwayer point to the spot, and the Argentina international finished with a fierce drive past Ajax keeper Remko Pasveer.

On the stroke of half-time, there was another penalty to Chelsea after Youri Baas fouled Estevao Willian, who was handed the ball by regular spot-kick taker Fernadez and duly dispatched his strike high to the keeper’s right. Maresca rang the changes at half-time, and it was another of the Blues’ youngster’s who extended the lead as Tyrique George made it five with a shot from range which took a massive deflection on the way past the helpless Pasveer.

GOAL rates Chelsea's players from Stamford Bridge…

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  Goalkeeper & Defence

  Filip Jorgensen (6/10):

  Knows he will have to wait for his opportunities at Chelsea, and they won't come much easier than this. Was a virtual spectator for the majority of the match, only beaten by Weghorst's penalty

  Moises Caicedo (7/10):

  Showed his versatility by moving in to play at right-back and rounded off a comfortable evening with a goal, which took a sizeable deflection from an Ajax defender. Strangely, he was taken off just a couple of minutes into the second-half; he jogged off in a spritely manner, so didn't look like he'd suffered an injury. 

  Wesley Fofana (7/10):

  Maresca has hinted at managing his minutes carefully following a concussion last month and this was definitely a night where he could ease himself back into action. Cool and composed, he also popped up in the box to provide the assist for Guiu's opener. 

  Tosin Adarabioyo (7/10):

  Making his return to the starting line-up following a calf injury and was lucky to stay on the pitch after a very clumsy challenge on Weghorst while already on a yellow card. Was hooked at half-time.

  Jorrel Hato (6/10):

  Made his Champions League debut for Chelsea against his former club, but had a relatively quiet night. Will be glad for the minutes. 

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  Midfield

  Enzo Fernandez (8/10):

  Chelsea's leading goal-scorer and despite a recent knee injury scare while on international duty, he was back to his very best, winning and then scoring the first penalty. Showed real class in allowing Estevao to take the second spot-kick. Subbed off at half-time. 

  Romeo Lavia (6/10):

  Was hooked at half-time in the victory over Forest and had an easy ride here tonight. Was taken off just after the hour. 

  Estevao (8/10):

  Still early days for the young Brazilian in west London, but showed again why his reputation is growing by the day. Was a constant threat all match and took his penalty will real aplomb. Picked up a yellow card for an awkward lunge in the 56th minute. 

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Attack

  Jamie Gittens(8/10):

  A night for Gittens to finally recreate the sparkling form he showed for Borussia Dortmund, but will be pleased with his work. Held a very high position on the left and earned himself an assist for the rangy pass cross-field to Caicedo for the Blues' second. 

  Facundo Buonanotte (7/10):

  Another Blues squad player who has had to remain patient for playing time so far this season, he took a hefty blow on the ankle from Taylor – who was shown red – and was lucky to walk away from the challenge. Showed neat touches 

  Marc Guiu (8/10):

  His first start for the Blues this season after making a positive impact in recent wins over Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. It wasn't the cleanest of connections for his goal, but he won't care about that. Was subbed off at half-time. 

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  Subs & Manager

  Andrey Santos (6/10): 

  Recent thigh injury has hampered his progress, but was lively in and around the box, though he failed to create a decisive moment or killer pass. 

  Tyrique George (8/10):

  Brought on at the start of the second half, his deflected shot hit the back of the net just minutes after coming on.

  Trevoh Chalobah (6/10):

  Was left with very little to do after coming on at half-time. 

  Josh Acheampong (7/10):

  Had acres to roam into as Ajax virtually gave up in the second-half. Saw a shot from outside the box well saved by the keeper. 

  Reggie Walsh (7/10):

  Became Chelsea's youngest ever Champions League player and the second-youngest Englishman ever, behind Arsenal's Jack Wilshere.

  Enzo Maresca (8/10):

  Knows Chelsea will face much sterner tests than the one posed by Ajax. Everything his side touched turned to goals and will be pleased to see some of his fringe players perform so professionally on the night. 

When it comes to summer transfer windows, Arsenal haven’t always been a club that like to go big.

However, this year saw the thrice Premier League runners-up smash open the war chest and make the addition that could finally get them over the line come May.

Andrea Berta oversaw the arrival of eight first-team quality players, and while several of them have the potential to be real game-changers, Viktor Gyokeres might just be the most exciting.

The Swedish shot-stopper could be the missing piece in Mikel Arteta’s attack, but he’ll have to take the league by storm to see his valuation match that of one of his new teammates.

Gyokeres' start to the Premier League season

To describe Gyokeres as prolific during his time with Sporting CP would be a colossal understatement.

In 102 appearances, totalling 8417 minutes, he scored 97 goals and provided 28 assists, which comes out to an average of 1.22 goal involvements every game, or one every 67.33 minutes.

With numbers like these, it’s easy to understand why Arsenal spent £64m on him and why there are such high expectations about what he could do at the club.

Yet, while it is still early days, it would be fair to say that he’s not exactly got off to a flyer in red and white.

For example, in the games against Manchester United and Liverpool, he failed to have a single shot, let alone one on target.

Moreover, while his teammates weren’t providing him with adequate service, he was not helping himself with some lacklustre runs and heavy touches.

Fortunately, we got to see what he can do in the game against Leeds United, as he opened his account with a lovely run early in the second half and then doubled his tally with a thunderous strike from the penalty spot towards the end of the game.

In all, Gyokeres could be a huge difference-maker for Arsenal this season, although there is already someone in the team competing with him who is worth millions more.

The Arsenal star worth millions more than Gyokeres

Even before this summer’s spending spree, Arsenal could boast a team overflowing with sensational talent.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

From William Saliba in defence, to Declam Rice in midfield and Bukayo Saka in attack, there are superstars all over this team.

However, in this instance, the attacker in question is none other than Kai Havertz, and while he might divide opinion at times, his valuation remains incredibly high.

For example, the CIES Football Observatory prices the German international at a whopping €91m, which is about £79m, or £15m more than Gyokeres cost the Gunners.

That might sound like an awful lot of money for a player who has quite the reputation for being wasteful in attacking situations, but contrary to how many view him, the 26-year-old has quite an impressive record for the club.

For example, since making the move to North London, the former Chelsea ace has scored 29 goals and provided 13 assists in 88 appearances, which is an average of a goal involvement every 2.09 games.

However, when you look purely at the games in which he played as the team’s striker, the numbers become even more impressive.

Appearances

48

Minutes

4004′

Goals

19

Assists

13

Goal Involvements per Match

0.66

Minutes per Goal Involvement

125.12

In those 48 matches, totalling 4004 minutes, the “magnificent” ace, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has scored 19 goals and provided 13 assists.

In other words, when he has played as a striker, the Aachen-born monster averages a goal involvement every 1.5 games, or every 125.12 minutes, which is a brilliant rate of return.

Ultimately, he might still divide opinion among fans and pundits alike, but Havertz’s numbers are undoubtedly impressive and help to explain why he currently has a higher valuation than Gyokeres.

Arsenal sold homegrown Gyokeres for £4m, now he's one of the best in Europe

Arsenal had a promising talent in their ranks who could have been their own homegrown Gyokeres.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Sep 3, 2025

Newcastle United suffered a late defeat to Liverpool on Monday as Rio Ngumoha scored on his debut to make it 3-2. However, the loss of that point is only the second biggest problem to come out of the game for Eddie Howe.

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It looks certain that four of Monday’s starting 11 will be unavailable for their next Premier League fixture against Leeds on Saturday, as Anthony Gordon was sent off for a late challenge on Virgil Van Dijk and is currently facing a three-game suspension.

The other three absences are all injuries, with Fabian Schar having to be taken off due to a concussion. He is the most likely of the four to be available for the Leeds match, but that will depend on his recovery over the coming days.

The bigger injuries were suffered by midfield duo Sandro Tonali and Joelinton. Tonali had to be removed due to an apparent shoulder injury, and Joelinton followed ten minutes later with a muslce problem.

Post-match, Howe was asked about both injuries and said it “doesn’t look good” and “they both look threatening for us in the sense they could be out for a while”. Due to this, Newcastle are considering drastic action in the transfer market and bringing in a replacement midfielder in the final few days of the window.

Newcastle one of six Premier League teams considering Gallagher

Newcastle are considering signing Atlético Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher as a replacement for the injured Tonali and Joelinton. Graeme Bailey of TBR Football spoke about a number of teams showing interest in Gallagher but told fans “don’t rule out Newcastle” and “keep an eye on Newcastle”.

Gallagher appears to have been on Newcastle’s radar prior to this week but their interest has intensified following the injuries. How much Atlético would want for the 25-year-old is currently unknown, but they paid £33 million for him last summer.

On the personal side of things, Gallagher is reportedly on just over £150,000 a week, and Newcastle have a working relationship with his agency, Elite Management Agency, as they also represent centre-back Dan Burn.

Gallagher is receiving interest from multiple clubs hoping to bring him back to the Premier League before the transfer window ends – Newcastle and Everton currently look the most likely to make a move, but West Ham, Crystal Palace, Tottenham and Manchester United are all also considering the England midfielder.

Gallagher can ease long term depth concerns

While several clubs are interested in signing Gallagher, they’re all looking to replace slightly different midfielders. It speaks to his versatility that the six different clubs see him as a potential solution to their problems.

Manchester United and Tottenham are considering Gallagher as a typical defensive midfielder, with Tottenham considering him if Yves Bissouma moves on. Last season, he was in the top 15% of players for defensive recoveries and tackle success rate, making him more than capable of breaking up play and supporting the defence.

Crystal Palace may be looking at Gallagher as a replacement for Eberechi Eze following his move to Arsenal, in which case, he would be a far more attacking signing. During his season on loan at Crystal Palace, Gallagher registered 13 goal involvements in 39 games, demonstrating his attacking acumen when properly utilised.

Newcastle’s typical midfield of Joelinton, Tonali and Bruno Guimarães are all players who can perform both defensively and offensively. With various suitors wanting Gallagher for both of these attributes, it makes him the perfect replacement if it turns out that both injuries are long-term, also providing depth behind all three when the trio are fit and firing.

It has been a hectic 24 hours or so for Nottingham Forest. The East Midlands side have a new manager, with Ange Postecoglou now at the helm after sacking former boss Nuno Espirito Santo following a successful stint that lasted almost 18 months.

The Australian manager is back in the game after a short time away, following his dismissal from Tottenham Hotspur at the end of last season. That was despite the Europa League victory, which saw him guide Spurs to their first trophy since 2007/08.

Forest, a defensively sound and counter-attacking side under Nuno, will see what one analyst described as a “drastic shift” in style. Postecoglou is famed for his high line and intense counter pressing, a huge difference in approach.

With that in mind, here is a look at the Australian manager’s dream Forest side ahead of his new role at the City Ground….

1 GK – Matz Sels

It seems highly likely that Belgian goalkeeper Matz Sels will keep his place as Forest’s number one despite the change of manager. He was an integral part of Nuno’s side, keeping 13 clean sheets and conceding just 46 times in 38 Premier League games last season.

This term has not been quite the start he might have wanted. Sels has already let in five goals in just three appearances, but with a good campaign under his belt, there is little reason to think Postecoglou will drop him from the side.

2 RB – Ola Aina

Another one of Forest’s stars from last season was Nigerian international Ola Aina. The right-back featured 35 times for the club, chipping in with two goals and assisting another on top of that.

Again, it doesn’t seem likely that Forest’s new boss will change such an important player. Jamie Carragher said at the start of 2025 that Aina “could play for a team who expects to be in the Champions League every season”, and with Europa League football now at the City Ground, Postecoglou will surely rely on that quality.

3 CB – Murillo

One half of a formidable centre-back pairing last season, 23-year-old Murillo was part of the reason why Forest were so hard to breach. He’s a fantastic box defender and will put his body on the line to keep the ball out. Indeed, in 2024/25, he averaged 6.7 clearances per 90 minutes.

Yet, there are surely question marks over his suitability to play in Postecoglou’s system in the long term. As we saw at Spurs, the Australian manager loves to push his centre-backs up as high as possible, which can leave them with a lot of running back.

It certainly doesn’t play to Murillo’s biggest strength of defending the box, albeit with the former Corinthians man no slouch in possession, having regularly been seen tearing up the field with a positive dribble and carry.

4 CB – Nikola Milenkovic

Just as there are questions raised about Murillo under Forest’s new manager, much the same can be said about Serbian defender Nikola Milenkovic. Like his defensive partner, he is a top box defender, and made 5.6 clearances each game, but it would be a huge ask to ask him to cover the large spaces he may need to.

Journalist Tom Allnutt said the pair would have to be “hugging the halfway line” under Postecoglou. That is a huge difference to sitting deep and defending the box.

Milenkovic should keep his place in the team, but whether he can keep up with the demands of the system is another question.

5 LB – Oleksandr Zinchenko

The first of Forest’s new signings to get into the team under Postecoglou could be Arsenal loanee Oleksandr Zinchenko. BBC Sport analyst Umir said he is “such a Postecoglu player”, and it is easy to see why.

Pedro Porro was tasked with playing as an inverted full-back under the former Spurs boss, and it is a role Zinchenko knows well. He has played as a midfielder for Manchester City and Arsenal, as well as playing that inverted role.

It seems that, if Postecoglou is to stick with it at Forest, the Ukraine international could be a dream option.

6 CM – Elliot Anderson

There is no doubt that new England star Elliot Anderson has to slot into the side somehow under Postecoglou. Well, that could be as the deepest midfielder, controlling play and looking to break up attacks.

The numbers behind Anderson’s excellent 202/25 season at the City Ground suggest this role could suit him well. He has the technical talent on the ball to keep things ticking over, and had an 82.3% pass accuracy last season.

Key passes

1.2

37

Dribbles completed

1.2

36

Pass accuracy

82.3%

82.3%

Accurate long balls

1.5

45

Tackles and interceptions

4

123

Out of possession, he averaged four tackles and interceptions. He is the perfect option if Postecoglou wants a controller as his number six.

7 CM – Morgan Gibbs-White

Anderson’s England teammate Morgan Gibbs-White will also be an essential part of this Postecoglou side. His influence on Nuno’s Forest side last season was incomparable, and he scored and assisted 17 Premier League goals.

Ange tends to ask two of his midfielders to push up into the half spaces and operate high up the pitch. Given the fact that Gibbs-White created ten big chances last season, his creative nous fits the bill perfectly.

8 CM – James McAtee

New summer signing James McAtee, who joined from Manchester City, could also fit the bill quite well for one of those advanced midfielders. Despite limited opportunities for his boyhood club in 2024/25, he still impressed with seven goals in 24 games across all competitions.

Last season for Pep Guardiola’s side, he averaged 0.8 key passes per game, and has already played an average of one per game in a Forest shirt. The extra goal threat and creativity between the lines should make McAtee a good option for Postecoglou.

9 RW – Dilane Bakwa

Although he is yet to make his debut for Forest, new £30m signing Dilane Bakwa could be an exciting option out wide for Postecoglou. Described as a “menace” of an attacker by football scout Antonio Mango, he managed 12 goals and 21 assists in 71 games for former club Strasbourg.

The fact he is a true playmaker out wide might pique Postecoglou’s interest when it comes to starting Bakwa, especially since he can play on either flank. However, it would mean fellow new addition Dan Ndoye is dropped, despite scoring and assisting already this season.

10 LW – Callum Hudson-Odoi

Next up in Postecoglou’s dream side for Forest this season is Callum Hudson-Odoi. The former Chelsea star was key for Nuno last term, and chipped in with eight goals and assists in the Premier League.

Under Postecoglou, his creativity in the final third from wide areas will be key, just as it is for Bakwa. Last term, the former Chelsea star averaged 1.5 key passes per 90 minutes, so he has that creative nous from out wide to provide a regular service.