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Leeds United have been relegated from the Premier League after three campaigns and must now heap the emphasis on crafting a team capable of forging an immediate path back to prominence.

It's been a shoddy, shambolic season at Elland Road and while gloom lingers over the club at present, rumours touting Coventry City forward Viktor Gyokeres to United might just bear fruit.

At least, that's according to Portuguese newspaper Record (via Sport Witness), who state that playoff finalists Coventry could be set to lose their star forward after falling to Luton Town at the final hurdle last month.

The outlet also claims that Sporting CP are interested in a deal, and while the Sky Blues are demanding £20m for the Swede, his proven mettle in the Championship could be just what the Whites need to return to the top next term.

Should Leeds sign Viktor Gyokeres?

Plummeting back into the Championship has been a bitter blow for Leeds who were fighting so hard to reclaim their position at the forefront of English football, but the mistakes of the past few seasons must now be rectified with diligent work in the summer transfer market.

Sam Allardyce might've left his position at the helm after a record-short managerial stint in the smouldering embers of Leeds' late-season travails, but the slate can now be wiped clean ahead of a new chapter.

And by signing Gyokeres, Leeds would wield a dynamic attacker that boasts a commendable record in the second tier, having scored 22 goals and supplied 12 assists from 50 matches this term to complement a previous haul of 18 strikes last year.

He's certainly got the opposition talking, with Blackburn Rovers defender Dom Hyam remarking: "I don't think he's got a ceiling to be honest. I think he's so good at what he does, his attributes are so rare as well.

"Obviously strikers have their qualities, but there's nothing he's bad at. He's good in the box, he's tall, he's big, he's strong, he's technically good as well. I think as long as he keeps grounded, which I know he will, I know him personally, yeah, I think he's got a massive career ahead of him."

The 25-year-old could well emulate Marcus Rashford's role at Leeds' historic rivals Manchester United at Elland Road.

Indeed, the dynamic Coventry star ranks among the top 9% of forwards across Men's 'Next 8' divisions for rate of assists, the top 3% for shot-creating actions, the top 1% for progressive carries and the top 4% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

Rashford boasts a similarly impressive transitional prowess, with the £200k-per-week Red Devil ranking among the top 16% of forwards across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for shot-creating actions, the top 9% for progressive carries and the top 7% for successful take-ons per 90.

Pivotally, like the Man United talisman, the Swede possesses the tools to play in a wide role too, although certainly favours playing through the middle where more goal-scoring opportunities may present themselves.

Hailed as "mustard" by talkSPORT's Adrian Clarke, Gyokeres must be signed by Leeds, who will need to get it right this summer in order to ensure the return to the second tier does not result in a sink into obscurity once again.

Celtic are on the lookout for a new head coach after Ange Postecoglou officially left the Scottish giants to join the Premier League on Tuesday.

The 57-year-old has put pen to paper on a deal with Tottenham Hotspur in England and this now pushes Peter and Mark Lawwell and Dermot Desmond into the market to bring a manager in to replace the Australian.

A number of bosses have already been linked with the vacancy and one man who is reportedly in the running for the job is ex-Leeds United coach Jesse Marsch.

The 49-year-old, who won two Austrian Bundesliga titles in two seasons with RB Salzburg earlier in his career, could revive a current Celtic outcast back to his former glory if the Hoops decide to appoint him heading into next term.

How did David Turnbull perform this season?

Parkhead attacking midfielder David Turnbull endured a difficult 2022/23 campaign as the Scotsman only started six games in the Scottish Premiership and zero times in the Champions League.

He made 27 appearances as a substitute in the two competitions combined but his lack of starts limited the impact that he was able to make in the final third. The gem ended the season with four goals and six assists in the league and in Europe combined, which shows that the ace was unable to make regular contributions in attack.

Turnbull is a number ten by trade and did not fit in with Postecoglou's 4-3-3 system, which required him to play as an eight or out wide, and thus could be revived by Marsch's preferred 4-2-3-1 set-up that would allow him to play in the hole behind a centre-forward.

The American's formation would provide the 23-year-old with two holding midfielders behind him to offer defensive protection and allow the ace to push forward to link up with the two wingers and striker to create and score goals at the top end of the pitch.

Celtic's Scotland international predominantly played as a number ten for Neil Lennon in the 2020/21 campaign, before Postecoglou's arrival, and enjoyed a terrific year in the Premiership, which the Australian later described as "outstanding".

The £16k-per-week magician averaged a Sofascore rating of 7.47 and contributed with nine goals and six assists in 30 starts. He also created 12 'big chances' for his teammates and made 2.9 key passes per match, which is more than any Celtic player averaged in the league this year.

Therefore, Marsch, whose style was described as "aggressive" by journalist Josh Bunting, could revive the Hoops wizard by making him the attacking midfielder in his 4-2-3-1 system, which could allow the ace to thrive and get back to regularly scoring and creating goals in the Premiership.

Aston Villa are in talks with the agent of the Real Madrid midfielder Marco Asensio over a potential summer transfer to the Premier League.

How much does Asensio earn?

It was a season to cherish for Villa with the arrival of Unai Emery seeing their fortunes change dramatically as their relegation fears turned into European ecstasy.

Although Villa have finished in the European spots, they still need to qualify for the Europa Conference League.

However, on the back of their showings this season, there will be a lot of confidence oozing out of this current Villa side.

But with potential European football to consider, the Spanish manager may be hoping to add further quality and strength in depth over the coming months.

And it seems they are already looking to address the extra quality with the links to the likes of Asensio who is expected to depart Real Madrid this summer.

Indeed, the £163k-per-week star is believed to be subject of interest from the Premier League side who have held talks with Jorge Mendes ahead of the summer window.

And speaking on his Here We Go podcast, the Italian journalist has shone some light on the latest surrounding the Spaniard's future:

"His agent, Jorge Mendes is speaking to Aston Villa to Paris Saint-Germain, where Luis Campos was already informed of the situation of Asensio last summer then in January, he's always been around this Asensio situation and Italian clubs. But Aston Villa and PSG looks like they are really determined to sign Marco Asensio."

How old is Asensio?

The 27-year-old is expected to become a free agent over the coming weeks which will allow him to depart the Bernabeu as a free agent.

And whilst he still has plenty of years left in the tank, he would arrive at Villa Park with plenty of experience playing at the ver top level.

Indeed, the Spaniard has played a whopping 285 times for Madrid across all competitions and 59 of those games have come in Europe's elite competition.

However, this could potentially raise some concern as to whether Villa may prove the most desirable option for Asensio over the coming weeks/months with Paris Saint-Germain said to be showing an interest.

The Ligue 1 champions would be able to offer Asensio the ability to showcase his talent in the elite European competition, whereas, Villa still need to qualify for Europe's third-tier competition.

But one thing which may work in their favour is having Emery in the dugout as their manager with the Spaniard potentially proving a real plus point in Villa's approach.

The 51-year-old was hailed by Gary Neville earlier in the season with the Sky Sports man suggesting the Spaniard was viewed as a "god" back in his homeland.

If this is the case, could this make Villa a real option for Asensio this summer?

West Ham have recently been linked with a move for Manchester City ace Oleksandr Zinchenko and the 25-year-old could be a superb addition to David Moyes’ side this summer.

What’s the word?

According to the Evening Standard, West Ham and Arsenal are expected to step up their interest in Zinchenko after his World Cup dream with Ukraine came to an end following their 1-0 defeat against Wales last weekend.

They claim that City are unlikely to stand in his way should he ask for a move away from the Etihad, with West Ham planning to utilise him at left-back as a competitor for Aaron Cresswell, with Arthur Masuaku likely to depart.

Perfect for Moyes?

Although he has primarily featured as a left-back for Manchester City, for whom he has made 128 appearances in all competitions, contributing two goals and 12 assists, his performances for Ukraine in World Cup qualifying emphasised his quality in midfield.

In the win against Scotland, SofaScore ranked him as the top performer on the pitch with an 8/10 rating as he contributed three key passes and created two big chances, including the assist for Artem Dovbyk’s late goal.

He also impressed despite defeat against Wales, earning a 7.2 rating from SofaScore, contributing another two key passes which further highlights his technical ability, while he was also unfortunate to see a goal chalked off as his clever free-kick found the net, but was deemed too quick for the referee’s liking.

Having versatile players is something which every Premier League side needs and Moyes would surely love to have a player of Zinchenko’s quality and experience in his side next season.

As regular captain of Ukraine, he would also bring leadership to the dressing room at West Ham, so this is a signing that would make a lot of sense for the Hammers.

Pep Guardiola might be reticent to see him depart City, however, having described him as “incredible” in the past, which perhaps explains why reports have suggested that he will cost as much as £40m this summer.

However, head of recruitment Rob Newman would effectively be signing a player for two positions in one and if West Ham have European ambitions again next season, he’s exactly the type of player they need in order to progress.

And, in other news… Moyes may already have his dream Rice heir at West Ham

Newcastle United could still be in with a chance of signing Lille defender Sven Botman, despite suggestions that the Dutchman is on his way to AC Milan.

What’s the word?

That is the view of journalist Jacque Talbot, who – when speaking to GIVEMESPORT – suggested that the Magpies will be in the running for his signature, should he come back onto the market this summer.

Asked whether Eddie Howe and co could come back in for him in the upcoming window if his alleged move to the San Siro doesn’t take place, the respected insider admitted that is a possibility: “I’m told that that will be the case. I think with AC Milan, it sort of depends on the takeover that’s going on there.

“And I think Sven Botman’s probably one of the most exciting centre-backs in European football at the moment, and I think a lot of clubs will have a look at him rather than just AC Milan and Newcastle.”

The northeast side had been heavily linked with a move for the 22-year-old back in January, although were ultimately unable to get a deal done, as the centre-back stayed put for the remainder of the campaign.

Supporters delighted

It would seem then that there is hope renewed that the £27m-rated gem will be plying his trade at St James’ Park next term, with supporters seemingly desperate to see the Netherlands U21 international added to their defensive ranks.

While £13m winter arrival Dan Burn has proved a revelation in recent months, the former Brighton and Hove Albion brute was seemingly not a first-choice target, with the club looking set to bolster the backline with a high profile upgrade.

In Botman, PIF could well have found the ideal fit, with the £18k-per-week colossus having enjoyed another fine campaign in Ligue 1, the 6 foot 5 giant averaging 4.5 clearances, one tackle and one interception per game in his 25 league outings.

The subject of praise from legendary defender Paolo Maldini, the former Ajax youth product appears to have all the tools to be a success at the elite level, with both his stature and his ability in possession – enjoying an 88% pass accuracy last term – making him an all-around asset to any side.

Having shipped 62 goals in the 2021/22 season – the sixth-highest in the Premier League – Newcastle are crying out for a more solid figure to shore up their defensive unit, with Botman seemingly the man to do the job.

As for supporters, his arrival would mark yet another statement of intent under the new ownership and would only serve to build excitement as to just how far this team – and this club – can go in the coming years.

IN other news, Eddie Howe can now help NUFC sign “spectacular” £64m “nightmare”, he’s better than Saint-Maximin

Fabrizio Romano has just shared a major transfer boost for manager David Moyes as news emerges on one of his key West Ham United summer targets.

The Lowdown: West Ham plans emerge…

As reported by reliable outlets, the east Londoners have already got plans in place for the looming window as club owners GSB and head of recruitment Rob Newman seemingly aim to back Moyes.

According to The Evening Standard, after West Ham failed to seal a place in the Premier League’s top six last season, it is believed that Moyes has a striker, central midfielder and left-back top of his priorities.

They’ve also been tipped to make Paris-Saint Germain loanee Alphonse Areola’s move a permanent one as veteran mainstay keeper Lukasz Fabianski enters the twilight phase of his career.

As well as this, Moyes has stepped up talks for Morocco international defender Nayef Aguerd, who has been described as a ‘key’ Moyes target.

The Latest: Romano shares Aguerd boost…

As the Hammers attempt a deal for Rennes’ star centre-half, big name reporter Romano has now shared a very promising update as Aguerd eyes a move to Rush Green.

He explained:

“West Ham are progressing in negotiations with Rennes to sign Nayef Aguerd as new centre-back. Talks ongoing with positive feelings, Aguerd wants the move – up to the clubs.

“West Ham are optimistic but still waiting to complete the agreement.”

The Verdict: Get it done…

Described as one of Ligue 1’s best defensive stars over 2021/2022, signing Aguerd for a mooted fee of £13 million could be one of the bargains of this window.

Still just 26-years-old, he has also been called an ‘excellent player’ by members of the French media (Said Amdaa), and his numbers tell the whole story.

The colossal powerhouse made more clearances per 90 than anyone in the Rennes squad, marking himself out as a reliable and assured presence (WhoScored).

It’s clear by his reputation and performances last year he could be a real potential asset for Moyes at West Ham.

In other news: Offer ready: West Ham leap ahead of European giants in race to sign £21m forward! Find out more here.

West Bromwich Albion are set to lose their St. Kitts and Nevis international midfielder Romaine Sawyers this summer.

What’s the word?

As per a report from The Athletic’s Steve Madeley, the Baggies are said to have decided against activating their one-year extension option in Sawyers’ contract.

Taking to his Twitter page, Madeley stated: “Romaine Sawyers is a free agent after Albion decided not to activate their one-year option on his contract. Sad to see his homecoming end anticlimactically after such a promising start but not hugely surprising news.”

Bruce’s summer disaster

With the likes of Sam Johnstone and Andy Carroll also running their contracts down, Bruce could be on the verge of a summer disaster, with yet another player set to depart.

Sawyers, who has scored a total of Stoke City, chipping in with two goals and three assists in 25 Championship appearances for the Potters.

Though it is worth noting that whilst he only started 44% of those aforementioned appearances, he does still have a lot to offer, even in what is the twilight of this career at the age of 30.

Amongst the Stoke City squad, Sawyers, who has been dubbed a “baller” has registered some respectable numbers that show he is still accustomed to this level of football.

In terms of accurate passes per 90, the 30-year-old ranks second in the squad with 41.6, around five passes less than Phil Jagielka who ranks first. He’s also clinical in terms of his attacking efficiency, making the most of his 25 appearances by creating 21 chances to mark himself down as City’s sixth-best chance creator at an average chance created per match metric of 1.1.

His versatility is also part of the service that he provides, which is yet another eyebrow-raiser in the wake of Bruce’s recent decision against a one-year extension.

With what is now a third notorious name who is set to run down their contract and leave in the summer, Bruce is on the cusp of a summer disaster.

In other news: Alan Nixon: West Brom in talks to sign “unbelievable” 27-goal gem, Bruce needs him 

Aston Villa have been hit with a potential setback in their hunt for Marseille’s star midfielder, Boubacar Kamara.

What’s the word?

That is according to reports in Spain, via Birmingham Live, who claim that La Liga giants Atletico Madrid are set to “close” a deal for the 22-year-old.

Kamara is set to become a free agent in the summer, with Villa touted as one of the potential clubs vying for his signature, in what was seemed to be an open race between Gerrard’s side and Atletico Madrid.

Though, according to the report, it looks as though the France starlet has signed a pre-agreement with Simeone’s side ahead of this summer’s transfer window.

Supporters will be gutted

The saga surrounding Kamara’s future, amidst interest from Aston Villa, has seemingly circulated for months. And with Gerrard looking to strengthen in the holding midfielder position, it will come as a big blow to not only him, but the Villa faithful.

Kamara boasts some serious numbers this season, so it is not wonder as to why Villa have been chasing the signature of the 22-year-old.

In comparison to Douglas Luiz, Kamara outdoes the Brazilian in the majority of metrics. The Frenchman’s passing stats are a particular standout, with his 72.09 average passes completed per 90 at a completion rate of 79.23% massively outdoing that of Luiz’s measly total of 39.69 passes per 90, with an average of 83%.

Whilst their defensive metrics are similar, with Kamara just pipping Luiz overall, it is his ability in possession that would make him such a good asset for a Villa side who look to dominate the ball, but have struggled somewhat this season – as can be seen from their rank of 14th place in the average possession charts, with just 46.2% possession averaged across 36 games.

Kamara’s average of 89.51 touches make him a metronome in the engine room, with his 60.54 carries better than the likes of Declan Rice, who has averaged 48.61 per 90.

Villa will be gutted at what will seem like a missed opportunity for NSWE to bag a star who displays potential akin to world-class.

In other news: “His priority..” Romano drops exciting transfer claim, it’s great news for Aston Villa