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  • Rangers Make Contact to Seal Deal for ‘Superstar’ as Danny Rohl Targets First Signing

    Rangers Make Contact to Seal Deal for ‘Superstar’ as Danny Rohl Targets First Signing

    Rangers are pushing ahead with plans to sign AEK Athens defender James Penrice on loan this month, according to the Daily Mail.

    The Light Blues have endured a difficult campaign so far. Russell Martin was dismissed in October after overseeing a record-breaking poor start to the season, despite the arrival of 13 new signings during the summer transfer window. He was replaced by Danny Rohl, who is now being backed in the January window as Rangers look to get their season back on track.

    A new left-back has been identified as a top priority for the new manager.

    Rangers Want Penrice on Loan

    Penrice, who has been described as a “superstar”, joined Greek giants AEK Athens in a £2 million deal during the summer after an outstanding season with Hearts, where he was named Player of the Year.

    However, the move to Greece has not worked out as planned. Rangers are now reigniting their interest after previously believing they had a deal in place to sign him before his move abroad.

    Rohl is keen to bring the 27-year-old to Ibrox on loan this month to strengthen his defensive options.

    Left-Back a Key Area of Concern

    Currently, Jayden Meghoma is the only natural left-back in the squad following Ridvan Yilmaz’s return to Turkey in the summer. As a result, James Tavernier, Max Aarons and Derek Cornelius have all been deployed at left-back at various points this season.

    This lack of specialist options has made the position a major priority for Rangers, with fresh contact reportedly made over a Penrice deal in recent days.

    Rangers Eyeing Several January Deals

    After closing out 2025 with a win over St Mirren, Rangers sit third in the Scottish Premiership, six points behind leaders Hearts.

    Rohl has publicly stated that there is belief within the dressing room that Rangers can put together a strong run and challenge for the league title for the first time since Steven Gerrard’s reign. However, supporters are well aware that achieving this will likely require several new arrivals in January.

    Other Targets on the Radar

    Rangers are understood to be keen on:

    • A return for Josh Windass from Wrexham

    • Midfield reinforcement in the form of Jens Hjerto-Dahl

    • Belgium Under-21 defender Tuur Rommens, seen as an alternative if a deal for Penrice cannot be secured

    A new striker is also believed to be a priority amid concerns over the goalscoring output of Bojan Miovski, Youssef Chermiti and Danilo.

  • “Done Deal” – West Ham Include Sell-On Clause to Offset Transfer Embarrassment

    “Done Deal” – West Ham Include Sell-On Clause to Offset Transfer Embarrassment

    As Claret & Hugh revealed earlier today, West Ham United’s sale of winger Luís Guilherme to Sporting CP is all but complete.

    The fee, believed to be under €20m including add-ons, broadly matches what the Hammers originally paid for the youngster. However, it is the inclusion of a sell-on clause that has proven decisive in getting this deal over the line.

    Given West Ham’s long-standing habit of failing to protect themselves with sell-on clauses when moving players on, this represents a rare and welcome change. Should Guilherme thrive in Lisbon and earn himself a lucrative move elsewhere, the club will at least benefit from a future windfall.

    Damage Limitation After Poor Player Development

    The deal remains somewhat embarrassing due to how poorly Guilherme’s development was handled at the London Stadium.

    He was never fully trusted, never given a consistent run of games, and ultimately never looked like part of any long-term plan. If the young Brazilian eventually fulfils his potential, the sell-on clause may help soften the blow — but it does little to hide the club’s failure to nurture him properly.

    No Pathway to First-Team Football

    With Adama Traoré set to replace him once Fulham have players returning from AFCON, there was never going to be meaningful game time available this season for the 19-year-old.

    West Ham manager Nuno Espírito Santo reportedly made the situation clear back in November, informing Guilherme that he had no future at the club and was free to seek a move elsewhere.

    A Fresh Start — and a Lingering Concern

    Personally, I hope Guilherme does well. Sometimes, a fresh start is exactly what a young player needs to unlock their potential.

    West Ham will quietly hope that one day, it pays off for them too. The lingering concern, however, is whether situations like this might dissuade other young talents from joining the club in the future.

  • Leeds United Player Ratings vs Liverpool

    Leeds United Player Ratings vs Liverpool

    James Justin and defence shine as resilient Leeds earn hard-fought point

    Leeds United secured a valuable away point at Liverpool after a goalless draw that was fully deserved. The first half was largely subdued, although Hugo Ekitike squandered a clear opportunity, while Leeds created little in attack.

    Liverpool posed the greater threat after the break, with Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo both going close. Leeds thought they had snatched a dramatic winner when Dominic Calvert-Lewin found the net, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

    The visitors stood firm under pressure and, at times, matched Liverpool stride for stride in the second half. Overall, it was a disciplined and commendable performance from Daniel Farke’s side.

    Player Ratings

    Lucas Perri – Failed to gather a shot cleanly on 12 minutes but dealt well with other efforts. Nearly booked for time-wasting and needed a warning from Ethan Ampadu.
    Rating: 7

    James Justin – Produced two outstanding blocks to deny Florian Wirtz in the first half. Used the ball well, stood up strongly to Andy Robertson and Cody Gakpo, and made several vital headed clearances.
    Rating: 8

    Sebastiaan Bornauw – Solid on his Premier League debut, aside from one scrappy clearance that he recovered himself. Looked composed in possession and positioned himself intelligently. Came close to registering an assist.
    Rating: 8

    Jaka Bijol – Dominant in the air and calm throughout. Looked less comfortable when pulled into foot races, though this was rarely exposed. Handled Ekitike far better after the interval.
    Rating: 8

    Pascal Struijk – Had a few shaky moments against high-quality attackers, with pace not his strongest attribute. However, he dealt with several dangerous situations and finished the game strongly.
    Rating: 8

    Gabriel Gudmundsson – Won multiple fouls and showed good intent going forward, despite a few loose actions. Delivered a typically reliable display defensively, with some excellent moments in possession.
    Rating: 8

    Anton Stach – Looked slightly uncomfortable on the right side of midfield. Not poor, but well below his usual energetic standard. Dragged one effort over the bar.
    Rating: 6

    Ethan Ampadu – Relentless and committed, though spent much of the first half chasing play. Tackled well and led by example. Booked for handball, ruling him out of Sunday’s clash with Manchester United.
    Rating: 7

    Ilia Gruev – Neat and effective in the centre, filling gaps well. Brave in aerial duels and on the ground, keeping his passing simple. Gave the ball away a few times but remained influential.
    Rating: 8

    Brenden Aaronson – Pressed tirelessly, winning possession and launching counters. Worked hard throughout but had limited impact after the break aside from one late burst.
    Rating: 7

    Lukas Nmecha – Battled physically with Virgil van Dijk but rarely came out on top. More effective when receiving the ball to feet.
    Rating: 6

    Substitutes

    Jayden Bogle (83’ for Bornauw) – On too late to be fairly assessed.
    Rating: N/A

    Ao Tanaka (90’ for Gruev) – Introduced in stoppage time.
    Rating: N/A

    Noah Okafor (70’ for Aaronson) – Delivered a dangerous low cross late on that Leeds should have capitalised on.
    Rating: 7

    Dominic Calvert-Lewin (70’ for Nmecha) – Thought he had won it with a clever finish, only for the offside flag to intervene.
    Rating: 7

    Manager

    Daniel Farke – Set his team up exactly as expected: defensively strong, limited in attack. Substitutions were effective and added energy. Managed the game well while keeping one eye on Sunday, and came close to pulling off a memorable win.
    Rating: 8

  • This Miss Changed Everything: Liverpool vs Leeds Ends in Anfield Chaos

    This Miss Changed Everything: Liverpool vs Leeds Ends in Anfield Chaos

    Highlights, Man of the Match & Key Stats

    Liverpool missed the chance to pull clear in the race for fourth place as they were held to a goalless draw by Leeds United at Anfield in their opening Premier League match of 2026.

    Despite dominating possession and chances, Arne Slot’s side lacked a cutting edge, with a glaring Hugo Ekitike miss proving decisive. Leeds, meanwhile, left Merseyside with a valuable point in their fight for survival.

    Match Summary

    With fixtures piling up across the league, Leeds boss Daniel Farke made a surprise call by benching the in-form Dominic Calvert-Lewin, citing the need to “protect” the injury-prone striker.

    Calvert-Lewin watched on as Liverpool squandered a golden opportunity midway through the first half. Hugo Ekitike somehow headed the ball onto Lucas Perri from close range with the goal gaping — a miss that stunned Anfield.

    Leeds grew in belief as the second half wore on. Calvert-Lewin was eventually introduced and even thought he had scored, only for the effort to be ruled out. In the end, the Whites were more than happy to accept a point — one that felt like two dropped for a wasteful Liverpool.

    What It Means

    • Liverpool remain fourth, now three points clear of Manchester United and Chelsea.

    • Leeds United, sitting 16th, move seven points clear of the relegation zone.

    • Liverpool’s four-game winning run comes to an underwhelming end.

    • Leeds extend their unbeaten run in the Premier League to six matches.

    Key Highlight

    ❌ Hugo Ekitike Horror Miss (33’)

    Andy Robertson’s cross should have led to a simple tap-in. Instead, after Jeremie Frimpong recycled possession, Ekitike inexplicably headed the ball in the wrong direction from two yards out, striking Lucas Perri on the head. A huge let-off for Leeds.

    Man of the Match Candidates

    • Pascal Struijk (Leeds) – Dominant, composed, and ever-present at the back.

    • Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool) – Won all 10 of his duels (8 aerial, 2 ground) and made seven clearances in a commanding defensive display.

    Match Stats

    Possession:

    • Liverpool 69% – 31% Leeds

    Shots:

    • Liverpool 19 – 4 Leeds

    Shots on Target:

    • Liverpool 4 – 2 Leeds

    Corners:

    • Liverpool 8 – 3 Leeds

    Fouls:

    • Liverpool 10 – 8 Leeds

  • First January Celtic Exit All but Confirmed

    First January Celtic Exit All but Confirmed

    Jahmai Simpson-Pusey is set to become Celtic’s first official departure of the January transfer window, bringing an end to a quiet—and puzzling—loan spell, according to The Telegraph.

    A Loan That Never Took Off

    The Manchester City defender arrived in August as a development project with perceived upside. Instead, he leaves having barely featured and never appearing close to the Celtic first team.

    An early termination of the loan comes as no surprise. What is more striking is just how consistently he was overlooked. Simpson-Pusey was not trusted by one manager, not two, but three.

    Frozen Out Under Rodgers

    Brendan Rodgers sanctioned the move but never used the player. Even during a congested fixture schedule and early-season defensive problems, Simpson-Pusey remained on the fringes.

    Rotation opportunities never materialised, and the young defender failed to force his way into contention.

    A Brief Opening Under O’Neill

    Following Rodgers’ departure, Martin O’Neill’s interim spell offered a brief glimmer of hope.

    Simpson-Pusey started at right-back against Kilmarnock in November, was withdrawn after 64 minutes, and did not feature again during O’Neill’s short tenure.

    That match proved to be his one and only real chance.

    No Role Under Nancy

    Since the appointment of Wilfried Nancy, Simpson-Pusey has again been out of the picture.

    Despite ongoing defensive instability and constant reshuffling across the back line, the City loanee has not been used or viewed as even a short-term solution.

    In total, he made just two appearances for the Hoops—one in the Premiership and one in the League Cup. For a player signed to gain senior experience, that return is damning.

    A Deal That Never Made Sense

    This is why the loan feels so baffling.

    Celtic brought in a development player at a time when the squad required individuals ready to contribute immediately. Simpson-Pusey arrived without a clear pathway, without a defined role, and without visible buy-in from successive managers.

    The outcome now feels inevitable.

    A Symbol of a Flawed Summer Window

    Simpson-Pusey’s impending exit encapsulates the wider failures of Celtic’s summer recruitment.

    The window lacked coherence, short-term needs were ignored, and too many moves appeared reactive rather than strategic. This loan was emblematic of that drift.

    More Questions Than Answers

    January opens with an exit that raises more questions than it answers.

    Celtic will move on. Simpson-Pusey returns to Manchester City in search of minutes elsewhere. The lingering concern is simple:

    This move should never have happened.

  • Dean Saunders risks ridicule with bold Wolves prediction fans won’t agree with

    Dean Saunders risks ridicule with bold Wolves prediction fans won’t agree with

    Dean Saunders is not fondly remembered for his time as Wolves manager, but his latest prediction about the club carries a rare note of optimism — even if many supporters are likely to dismiss it.

    Despite encouraging performances in December against Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, Wolves have taken just one point from those fixtures. Wins have been hard to come by all season, and at the halfway stage of the campaign, they are still searching for their first league victory.

    Wolves’ Performances Better Than the Points Suggest

    Although Wolves sit bottom of the table, their performances have often been stronger than their results indicate.

    New head coach Rob Edwards was tasked with pulling off one of the most difficult survival missions in Premier League history. So far, it has not gone to plan, with just one point from eight matches under his leadership.

    Still, there has been a growing sense of optimism around Molineux in recent weeks due to improved displays on the pitch.

    Saunders: One Win Could Spark a Run

    Speaking to talkSPORT, Saunders suggested Wolves could quickly build momentum if they finally get a win on the board — a view he admits will not be popular.

    “If Wolves won one game, it would not surprise me if they went and won three games on the bounce,” Saunders said.

    “Everybody who has watched Wolves this season will go, ‘you idiot’. If you win three games on the bounce and put nine points on your total, you’re still adrift.

    “But the manager will be talking like this to them: ‘If we win one, we can go on a bit of a run.’ You can’t let them give up.”

    Upcoming Fixtures Offer a Glimmer of Hope

    A three-game winning run may sound far-fetched, but Wolves’ upcoming fixtures provide some cause for belief.

    Wolves’ Next Premier League Fixtures

    • Saturday 3 January
      Wolves vs West Ham (16:00)

    • Wednesday 7 January
      Everton vs Wolves (20:30)

    • Sunday 18 January
      Wolves vs Newcastle (15:00)

    West Ham appear the most favourable of the three opponents, and Wolves have already beaten the Hammers this season, winning 3-2 in the Carabao Cup.

    Mixed Results Against Upcoming Opponents

    Wolves have also defeated Everton in the cup this campaign, although they were beaten by them in the league. Against Newcastle, the Wanderers produced a strong performance earlier in the season but narrowly lost 1-0 at St James’ Park.

    While Wolves remain winless in the Premier League, these results suggest that victories are not entirely out of reach.

    January Could Define Wolves’ Season

    With improved performances, a manageable run of fixtures, and the potential for new signings in January, Wolves have reasons to believe their season can improve.

    Even if survival remains a long shot, a stronger second half of the campaign is still within reach — and Saunders’ prediction may not be as foolish as some will claim.

  • Leeds Scouts Watched Him, Staff Want Him — But Can 49ers Pay the Price?

    Leeds Scouts Watched Him, Staff Want Him — But Can 49ers Pay the Price?

    Leeds United are expected to be active in the transfer market over the coming weeks, with Daniel Farke’s shift to a 3-5-2 system exposing a lack of depth in several key areas.

    The failure to land an attacking midfielder late in the summer window has already left gaps, but the move to two strikers has now increased the urgency for reinforcements up front.

    Squad Gaps Highlighted by Tactical Change

    Leeds have been linked with several midfield options, including Harry Wilson, while a move for Martin Baturina was blocked by Como. Interest in James McAtee also remains.

    However, the system change has created fresh concerns:

    • Centre-back depth is thin, especially with Joe Rodon injured

    • Striker options are uncertain and unreliable

    Striker Situation Raises Red Flags

    Leeds could be forced into the market due to doubts over current options:

    • Joel Piroe is attracting interest from Leicester City and Ipswich Town

    • Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha both have worrying injury records

    With two forwards now central to Farke’s setup, signing a striker is increasingly seen as a priority.

    Troy Parrott: The Striker Leeds Staff Want

    Several names have been linked with Leeds ahead of January:

    • Joshua Zirkzee (Manchester United)

    • Taty Castellanos (Lazio)

    But the name most strongly backed internally is Troy Parrott.

    Leeds turned down the chance to sign the former Tottenham striker in the summer, yet reports suggest contact has been maintained. According to The Mail, Leeds backroom staff are keen on Parrott, particularly after his impressive performances for Ireland during the last international break, which club scouts closely monitored.

    Transfer Budget and Rising Price Tag

    There has been debate over whether Leeds can spend without breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

    While Robbie Evans suggested another signing could push Leeds over the limit, recent reports claim otherwise. Leeds are believed to have £20m–£25m available before risking PSR sanctions.

    Parrott was valued at £25m during the summer window. Leeds walked away from the deal, but after:

    • 16 goals in 22 games

    • Strong international performances for Ireland

    His value has surged. Former midfielder Karim El Ahmadi believes over £10m has now been added to Parrott’s asking price.

  • Leeds United’s Clever Clause Could Trigger a Multi-Million Payday

    Leeds United’s Clever Clause Could Trigger a Multi-Million Payday

     

    You said:
    ChatGPT said:Leeds United are set to earn a significant windfall thanks to a smartly structured transfer deal involving academy graduate Charlie Cresswell.

    Leeds United are set to earn a significant windfall thanks to a smartly structured transfer deal involving academy graduate Charlie Cresswell.

    Cresswell has thrived in France since completing a £3.8 million move to Toulouse in the summer of 2024. The former Leeds defender is now drawing strong Premier League interest during the January transfer window, putting his old club in line for a potential financial boost.

    The centre-back chose to pursue a new challenge abroad last year and has since become a regular starter in Ligue 1. During his time at Elland Road, Cresswell made just 14 senior appearances, but Leeds wisely included a sell-on clause in the agreement. This clause guarantees the club 15 percent of any future transfer fee above the original £3.8 million they received.

  • Tottenham Handed January Opportunity to Secure Five Free-Transfer Targets

    Tottenham Handed January Opportunity to Secure Five Free-Transfer Targets

    From January 1, Tottenham Hotspur and other clubs across the Premier League and Europe will be allowed to negotiate with players whose contracts expire on June 30, 2026. These players are free to discuss pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs ahead of next summer.

    With the transfer window opening, a wealth of talent and experience becomes available, although competition in the free-agent market is always intense.

    With this in mind, football.london has highlighted five of the most valuable players potentially available and assessed whether Spurs could realistically pursue them. It is worth noting that Tottenham have not signed a free-transfer player since Manor Solomon arrived in July 2023.

    Dayot Upamecano

    The Bayern Munich centre-back is widely expected to extend his contract in Bavaria. However, should circumstances change, Upamecano would easily become the highest-profile free agent in world football.

     

    While a move to Tottenham appears unlikely, Spurs are legally permitted to open talks from January 1 if they choose to do so. The French international has also been strongly linked with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain in recent months.

  • West Ham Table Bid for Moussa Yeo as Relegation Battle Intensifies

    West Ham Table Bid for Moussa Yeo as Relegation Battle Intensifies

    West Ham United’s Premier League struggles have continued this season, with little improvement since Nuno Espírito Santo replaced Graham Potter in September.

    After 18 league matches, the Hammers have managed just three wins and currently sit 18th in the table, five points adrift of 17th-placed Nottingham Forest. With survival now the priority, the London club are preparing for a busy January transfer window.

    Hammers Target Salzburg Winger Moussa Yeo

    West Ham have identified Red Bull Salzburg winger Moussa Yeo as a potential solution to their attacking problems.

    According to Africa Foot, the Premier League side have already made contact with the Austrian club regarding the 21-year-old Malian international. The report claims West Ham have tabled an €8 million bid and are keen to complete the deal as soon as the winter window opens.

    Salzburg Open to Sale, Talks Ongoing

    Yeo joined Red Bull Salzburg in 2022 after moving from Malian side Guidars FC and remains under contract until 2027. However, Salzburg are reportedly open to selling the winger.

    The main sticking point in negotiations appears to be a 10% sell-on clause, which the Austrian club are demanding. Discussions between both clubs are ongoing, with this clause believed to be the key issue.

    Player Decision Still Needed

    While Yeo’s camp is said to be in favour of a move, West Ham must still convince the player himself to make the switch to the Premier League next month.

    Yeo Could Replace Luis Guilherme

    Meanwhile, Portuguese side Sporting CP are pushing to sign West Ham winger Luis Guilherme. Reports from Record suggest the Hammers are open to a permanent transfer and have placed a price tag of €15–18 million on the Brazilian.

    Should Guilherme depart, Yeo could step into Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad as a lower-cost replacement, giving West Ham added pace and depth on the flanks during their relegation fight.