All posts by h716a5.icu

Celtic have the chance to win the domestic treble for the second time in three seasons when they travel to Hampden Park to take on Aberdeen in the final of the SFA Cup this weekend.

The Hoops have already won the Scottish Premiership title and won the League Cup, beating Rangers on penalties, in the first half of the campaign, which means that a win on Saturday would clinch the treble.

Brendan Rodgers is seemingly not satisfied with that, though, as the Scottish giants are already eyeing up players to come in and bolster the squad in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Motherwell central midfielder Lennon Miller has been linked with a cross-Scotland switch to Glasgow, whilst Peterborough star Kwame Poku was recently linked with a move to the club.

The Scottish giants have, however, already wrapped up one signing before the summer transfer window even opens for business, as Kieran Tierney will be joining the club on a free transfer at the end of June.

Why Kieran Tierney is an exciting signing for Celtic

The Scotland international’s contract with Arsenal is due to expire this summer, and it has already been confirmed that the defender will be returning to Parkhead for a second spell in Glasgow.

This is an exciting signing for the Hoops for multiple reasons, not least because of the emotional backdrop to it. Tierney came up through the academy system and made his breakthrough in the first-team before starring for many years.

As you can see in the graphic above, the defender made 170 appearances for the club before his £25m move to Arsenal in the summer of 2019, and won five Scottish Premiership titles in that time.

He came up through the academy as a Celtic boy and achieved great success with the team, which is why his return could be an emotional one for him and the supporters heading into next season.

It could also be an exciting signing because of the quality that Tierney can provide from a left-back position, as shown in the impressive highlights package above.

The flying full-back scored eight goals and provided 37 assists during his first spell at the club, which shows that he is a defender who likes to burst forward to make an impact at the top end of the pitch.

This means that he could provide Rodgers with another attacking outlet down the left side, due to his ability to score and create goals from a left-back role, to support the winger ahead of him.

However, it is also worth pointing out that the 27-year-old is due to return to Celtic with a concerning injury history that suggests that he could miss a lot of matches for the Hoops.

24/25

1

160

18

23/24

3

103

21

22/23

0

0

0

21/22

2

116

17

20/21

4

87

19

19/20

1

97

19

18/19

5

140

27

17/18

1

23

5

16/17

1

86

16

As you can see in the table above, Tierney has been absent for at least 16 games in seven of the last nine seasons of his career for Arsenal, Real Sociedad, and Celtic combined.

This means that there may also be a degree of concern over the move, as his injury history suggests that the defender may not be a consistent performer, due to a lack of availability, for Rodgers.

With this in mind, Celtic could land an even more exciting signing than Tierney by swooping for Blackburn Rovers attacker Tyrhys Dolan on a free transfer, having been linked with an interest in the English forward.

Why Dolan would be more exciting than Tierney for Celtic

Whilst the Championship winger would not arrive at Parkhead with the same emotional connection with the supporters that Tierney has, Dolan could be a more exciting signing for Rodgers and the Hoops for footballing reasons.

Transfer Focus

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

Firstly, at the age of 23, the English star would be more of a long-term signing for the Hoops because he is four years younger than the Scottish dynamo. This means that he could be a part of Rodgers’ team for many, many, more years to come, making him an exciting signing for the future, as well as the present.

Dolan would also arrive as a durable and dependable performer from a physical perspective, as he has not had any notable injuries that have kept him out for significant periods, unlike Tierney.

This suggests that the Blackburn star, described as “absolutely terrific” by journalist Elliott Jackson, would be far more likely to be available week-in-week-out during the season, which is backed up by his statistics for the English side in the 2024/25 campaign.

Appearances

44

Touches per game

38.1

Goals

7

Conversion rate

14%

Big chances created

7

Key passes

44

Assists

6

As you can see in the table above, Dolan featured in 44 of their 46 league matches in the Championship, and contributed with 14 goals and ‘big chances’ created combined.

Whilst that return in front of goal may not be hugely exciting on paper, it is worth taking into account that Blackburn averaged 49.1% possession per game and only racked up 51.7 xG in 46 matches, the 16th lowest amount in the division.

This means that Dolan has not been playing in a dominant, successful, and attacking side with Blackburn, which is why his personal numbers are not particularly amazing.

Now, the thought of a player who can score seven goals and create seven ‘big chances’ in a defensive Blackburn team playing in a dominant, front-footed, Rodgers-coached Celtic side is an exciting thought, as he would have far more opportunities to showcase his ability at the top end of the pitch.

This is another reason why the 23-year-old star could be an even more exciting signing than Tierney for Celtic, because of the untapped potential that the Northern Irish boss could get out of the winger.

Dolan would arrive as a young talent with huge potential and an encouraging injury record, rather than an experienced head with a concerning availability record, and it is now down to the club to strike a deal for his services.

Worse than Scales: Rodgers must axe Celtic flop for the cup final

Rodgers must drop this Celtic flop who was even worse than Liam Scales.

ByDan Emery May 17, 2025

It’s hard to pinpoint just why this season has gone as horribly as it has for Tottenham Hotspur.

Injuries have undoubtedly played a large part, but even when the team has been close to full strength, they’ve found ways to drop points.

While it feels increasingly likely that Ange Postecoglou will be replaced in the summer, it feels just as crucial that Daniel Levy and Co bring in some genuinely talented players to help whoever the next manager is to take the team back up the Premier League table.

Fortunately, the last few weeks have seen the North Londoners linked with a whole host of extraordinary goalscorers from across Europe, including one who is just four goals behind Harry Kane and could, therefore, be a significant upgrade on Dominic Solanke.

Spurs' striker search

Before we get to the goalscorer in question, it’s worth reviewing a couple of the other strikers linked with Spurs in recent weeks, like Jonathan David and Liam Dealp.

Transfer Focus

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

The former has been in incredible form this season, racking up a tally of 25 goals and 12 assists in 48 games, and will be available for free thanks to his contract expiring in June.

However, since being linked to the Lilywhites, it would appear that Serie A giants Napoli have stormed ahead in their pursuit of the Canadian and are now in talks with him.

Delap, on the other hand, appears not to be in talks with any other teams at the moment, meaning the North Londoners might still be able to get him for around £30m, which could be a steal considering he’s scored 12 goals and provided two assists in just 35 league games this year.

However, perhaps the most gettable, and arguably most interesting, forward Spurs have been linked to in recent weeks is Daizen Maeda.

Reports from earlier this month claimed that the Lilywhites are interested in the Celtic star, who could be available for just £25m.

Now, he might not be the biggest name around, but the Hoops’ Japanese superstar has been in sublime form this season and could very well be an upgrade on Solanke.

Why Maeda would be an excellent signing

So, the first thing to clear up is that while Maeda does tend to play out wide more often than not, he’s no stranger to playing straight down the middle, having done so on ten occasions this season alone.

Therefore, we wouldn’t be surprised to see Spurs opt to play him there, which would, thus, put him up against Solanke for game time, but who comes out on top?

Well, when it comes down to the most important metric of all for a centre-forward, raw output, it’s the Celtic star who comes out on top, and by quite a significant margin at that.

For example, in 49 appearances, totalling 3891 minutes, the Osaka-born “machine,” as dubbed by previous coaches, has scored 33 goals – just four off Kane’s tally – and provided 12 assists.

In other words, the free-scoring dynamo is averaging a goal involvement every 1.08 games or, even more impressively, every 86.46 minutes.

Appearances

49

42

Minutes

3891′

3221′

Goals

33

15

Assists

12

8

Goal Involvements per Match

0.91

0.54

Minutes per Goal Involvement

86.46′

140.04′

In contrast, the North Londoners’ record signing has scored 15 goals and provided eight assists in 42 appearances, totalling 3221 minutes.

That comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.82 games, or every 140.04 minutes.

Now, it has to be said that the former Bournemouth star is playing in a far tougher league, but the difference is so stark that it at least suggests that the Japanese international is worth signing to see what he could do in a top-five league.

Ultimately, while Maeda isn’t the biggest name around, his output this season has been nothing short of spectacular, and for the price that was reported earlier this month, he’s certainly worth a gamble, as he could prove to be a massive upgrade on Solanke.

As well as Davies: 3/10 Spurs dud must be axed for the Europa League final

This Tottenham Hotspur player should be dropped for the Europa League final as well as Ben Davies.

ByDan Emery May 12, 2025

Middlesbrough missed out on a Championship playoff place this campaign, but could now raid rival top six chasers Blackburn Rovers for one of their star assets if reports are to be believed.

Championship playoff battle ends in despair for Boro and Blackburn

The race for a shot at Premier League promotion is now over in terms of the regular season, and supporters of concerned clubs will now look forward to a heated battle to claim a place in the top-flight. Sheffield United, Sunderland, Coventry City and Bristol City secured a chance to reach the big time and the glamour that comes with it. However, for every success story, there are always hard-luck tales to offer some balance.

Michael Carrick will be feeling a sense of frustration after Middlesbrough missed out by a four-point margin following a run of one victory in their final six fixtures. Ultimately, the club’s decision to cash in on Emmanuel Latte Lath in January may have come back to bite officials at the Riverside Stadium.

The Ivorian striker scored 11 times before moving to Atlanta United, leaving a shortage of goals present in Carrick’s line-up barring Finn Azaz and Tommy Conway.

Middlesbrough’s unfateful run of results during Championship run-in

Middlesbrough 0-1 Leeds United

Millwall 1-0 Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough 2-1 Plymouth Argyle

Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough 0-0 Norwich City

Coventry City 2-0 Middlesbrough

Rangers midfielder Tom Lawrence could be an early arrival at Middlesbrough on a free transfer to add an offensive threat from midfield, and the Wales international is likely to be one of a number of targets under Boro’s watch over the coming weeks.

In similar fashion, Carrick’s men are now said to have another bargain deal up their sleeve that may come at the expense of rivals Blackburn.

Middlesbrough in pole position to sign Tyrhys Dolan

According to EFL Analysis, Middlesbrough could sign Tyrhys Dolan on a free transfer from Blackburn, and they are leading the race for his signature as his contract veers closer to expiring at Ewood Park.

Set to become available as a free agent, talks have taken place between his camp and Boro representatives. It has been made clear that he is primed to seek a new challenge away from the Lancashire outfit.

Carrick loves him: Middlesbrough keen to seal deal for "fantastic" PL ace

He’s been in solid form as of late.

ByTom Cunningham Mar 26, 2025

Labelled “outstanding” by John Eustace, Dolan has registered seven goals and six assists across 47 appearances in all competitions this season, playing a major role in Rovers’ own close shave with earning a playoff place. Despite competition from a number of sides, Boro are at the front of the queue and are taking a proactive approach to atone for missing out on a shot at promotion to the top-flight.

Completing an average of 1.3 dribbles per match on Championship duty, Dolan has emerged as a rising talent and reportedly fits the bill as Middlesbrough seek depth to put the building blocks in place for a better season next time out.

Crossing paths to join another club in the same league may sour relations with his current employers, but it would also be a mark of Carrick’s ambition heading into pre-season.

Manchester United have, to put it simply, not been good enough in the Premier League this season, under the management of Erik ten Hag or Ruben Amorim.

The Red Devils are currently 14th in the table and level on points with Wolverhampton Wanderers, who beat them 1-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday, despite Vitor Pereira’s side having battled relegation for most of the campaign.

United are miles off the European places, 20 points behind Manchester City in fourth, and will not be competing in Europe unless they win the Europa League.

Amorim’s side saw off Lyon in extra-time in dramatic fashion to secure a place in the semi-finals against Athletic Bilbao, with plenty of work left to be done to salvage the club’s season.

Those behind the scenes will already be looking ahead to the summer transfer window and how they can make moves to improve the squad going into next season.

One of the players who has already been linked with a move to Old Trafford played against the Reds on Sunday, as Matheus Cunha caught the eye for Wolves.

Why Manchester United want to sign Matheus Cunha

It was reported earlier this month that Manchester United are already in talks to sign the Brazil international to bolster their squad in the summer window.

Cunha started as one of the two attacking midfielders behind Jorgen Strand Larsen on Sunday, and ended the match with three of four dribbles completed, one chance created, and a 91% pass completion rate.

Being secure on the ball and completing a few dribbles is not why Manchester United may want to sign the attacker, however, as they are more likely to be interested in his ability to score and create goals.

The former Atletico Madrid forward has scored 14 goals and provided four assists in 25 starts in the Premier League so far this term, which means that he could end the campaign with 20 or more goal contributions in the division.

xG

7.30

9.43 (Bruno Fernandes)

Goals

14

8 (Bruno Fernandes)

Big chances created

12

13 (Bruno Fernandes)

Assists

4

9 (Bruno Fernandes)

Key passes per game

1.7

2.4 (Bruno Fernandes)

Dribbles completed per game

2.0

1.6 (Amad Diallo)

As you can see in the table above, Cunha has outscored every player in the United squad by at least six goals and has been compared to Bruno Fernandes, in terms of ‘big chances’ created, as a creative force.

These statistics suggest that the Brazilian dynamo is a player who has the quality to be an excellent addition to the squad, which may be why the club are keen to sign him.

However, former United scout Mick Brown recently claimed that Arsenal, another team interested in Cunha, “will have questions about his attitude now” after he hit out at Wolves supporters on social media, along with his six matches missed through suspension.

Manchester United hopeful of deal for Premier League star

The Red Devils could avoid those concerns about the Wolves star by swooping for their own version of him this summer, which is what they could do with the latest reported target.

According to The Sun, Amorim wants to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace to bolster his attacking midfield options, and is hopeful of winning the race for his services.

The report claims that Manchester United have identified the England international as a key target for the summer transfer window, as they believe that he can bring the ‘class’ that they currently lack on the pitch.

Transfer Focus

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

It adds, however, that they are not the only club interested in landing the former QPR star. Aston Villa would also be in the running to snap him up if they decide against signing Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal.

The Sun reveals that Palace are bracing themselves for offers of around £50m this summer, and United must stump up the cash to land the Eagles star to come in as their own version of Cunha.

Why Eze would be Man Utd's own Cunha

The 26-year-old maestro, who was dubbed “frightening” by Joel Ward, could be an excellent addition to the club’s midfield ranks without bringing any potential disciplinary problems along with him, as Eze has not been shown a single red card in 296 career club matches to date.

Purely from a footballing perspective, though, Cunha is one of the most similar players to Eze in the Men’s Big 5 Leagues, as per FBref, over the past 365 days of action.

As you can see in the chart above, both players rank very similarly in several statistics during that time, particularly when it comes to creating chances and progressing the ball into the penalty area via passes and carries.

This shows that they are both attacking midfielders who are constantly looking to probe and create for their respective teams, which could provide Amorim’s side with a boost at the top end of the pitch.

Eze has only scored three goals from 7.90 xG in the Premier League this season, but his form in the previous two campaigns – particularly 2023/24 – suggests that it should not be a huge concern for United.

Appearances

38

27

29

xG

7.32

9.12

7.90

Goals

10

11

3

Big chances created

6

7

9

Key passes per game

1.5

2.0

1.8

Assists

4

4

8

As you can see in the table above, the Palace star is a proven Premier League performer who has delivered quality in front of goal as a scorer in two of the last three seasons, whilst delivering consistent quality as a creative force in all three of those campaigns.

Eze, who was called a “wizard” by England teammate Declan Rice, has the potential to provide goals and assists as an attacking midfielder in the top-flight if he can get back to his best in front of goal.

Big upgrade on Zirkzee: Man Utd agree personal terms to sign £30m "monster"

Manchester United have reportedly reached an agreement to sign a star who would send Joshua Zirkzee packing.

1 ByDan Emery Apr 21, 2025

This is why the Red Devils should push to get a deal over the line for the Eagles superstar this summer, because he could be their own version of Cunha, without the disciplinary question marks.

Sheffield United are believed to be interested in signing a “very good” attacking player in the summer transfer window, along with Championship rivals Leeds United.

Sheffield United suffer 3 Championship defeats in a row

The Blades suffered yet another damaging result on Saturday lunchtime, losing 2-1 away to struggling Plymouth Argyle, despite taking the lead in the first half.

It means Chris Wilder’s United side have now lost their last three matches in the league, going from top of the table to third place, now trailing both Leeds and Burnley by five points after their respective victories on Saturday.

The Blades’ defeat led to angry scenes at the end, with Wilder involved in heated discussions with Plymouth players after the hosts’ players celebrated in front of the travelling supporters.

While the manager has played down the post-match drama, it was arguably a sign of the pressure getting to him and his players, and they now have a huge amount of work to do if they want to get into the Premier League without the stress of the playoffs.

Sheffield United battling Leeds for "very good" ace

According to journalist Graeme Bailey for EFL Analysis, Sheffield United are eyeing a move for Go Ahead Eagles winger Oliver Antman ahead of the summer window.

Leeds are also in the mix to snap up the 23-year-old ahead of next season, with Leicester City, Southampton and Sheffield United all mentioned as suitors to acquire his signature, too.

Aside from the entertaining, superhero-like surname, Antman is an excellent young player who could thrive for the Blades, although much may depend on their potential promotion to the top flight.

The 20-cap and sevel-goal Finland international has bags of quality in wide attacking areas, with football talent scout Jacek Kulig describing him as “very good”:

This season, Antman has a highly impressive 14 assists in just 24 starts in the Eredivisie, outlining the creativity he possesses, and he has also scored six goals in the competition for good measure.

While at his most dangerous on the right flank, his versatility also allows him to do a strong job on the left wing, with such versatility likely to appeal to Wilder.

Championship Table: Latest standings for the 2024/25 season

Latest English Football League Championship standings 2024/25.

ByStephan Georgiou Apr 22, 2025

As mentioned, though, if the Blades fail to reach the Premier League and Leeds, they could face an uphill battle to secure his services ahead of next season, making the next few weeks crucial.

Everton responded well at the weekend, clawing back to draw against Arsenal after losing the Merseyside derby at Anfield, a result which ended David Moyes’ nine-game unbeaten run in the Premier League.

Things have changed at Goodison Park, which is preparing for its emotional swansong not in the throes of a relegation battle but instead playing with a freedom that has come from Moyes’ return to the dugout and the consequent tactical and mental improvements.

However, Everton’s owners, The Friedkin Group, know that a range of signings are needed this summer, and with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and loanee Armando Broja both set to leave in a few months, bagging a striker has got to be the first port of call.

Everton join race for coveted striker

It’s an ambitious one, but TEAMtalk have revealed that Everton have joined the race for Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, with neighbours Liverpool also keen, along with many more top-flight sides.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, both the Toffees – and Brighton and Hove Albion – are said to have gathered ‘updated information’ on the youngster in recent days, with the two clubs keeping ‘close tabs’ on his situation.

Delap has been one of the Premier League’s breakout stars this season despite his team’s woes. That plays into the forward’s suitors’ favour, though, for his £40m release clause activates upon the Tractor Boys’ relegation.

And Ipswich will be relegated. Valiant fight, but the gulf in quality between England’s top two tiers continues to yawn wider, and now a team like Everton could strengthen further at their rival’s expense by stocking up with a young striker, 22, who’s demonstrated his high-ceilinged potential superbly this year.

Why Everton want Liam Delap

Tussling with such high-profile competition, you’d be forgiven for taking the news that Everton are interested in Delap with a pinch of salt.

Ipswich have played well in the Premier League this season, competitive after back-to-back promotions, but it has proved a step too far for Kieran McKenna’s men, whose defeat at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday has stretched the gap from safety to 12 points.

Delap, of course, got his name on the scoresheet in that 2-1 loss, and it was a fine goal at that. The 6 foot 1 striker is powerful and athletic, ranking among the top 17% of positional peers across Europe over the past year for progressive carries and the top 12% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

Is it any surprise that the Manchester City youth product has been described as a “wrecking ball” by Sky Sports’ Lewis Jones? These talents highlight exactly why the Toffees should make a concerted push for his signature, especially since FBref have suggested that Moise Kean is among his most tactically similar players.

Kean flopped hard during his stint on Merseyside but has built himself back up in Italy, thriving for Fiorentina. He’s scored 22 goals and provided five assists for La Viola this season, also hailed for his “remarkable” hold-up play by Serie A reporter Marco Messina.

Matches (starts)

28 (27)

30 (29)

Goals

17

12

Assists

3

2

Shots (on target)*

3.1 (1.4)

2.0 (1.0)

Big chances missed

14

10

Pass completion

72%

62%

Big chances created

4

3

Dribbles*

1.4

1.2

Duels won*

4.8

4.7

Above, you can see Kean and Delap’s statistics across respective league campaigns this year. Both rank similarly across clinical, ball-carrying and duelling metrics.

It’s also important to note that Delap is competing within the Premier League, an ostensibly tougher division, for imperilled Ipswich, whereas Kean’s Fiorentina are eighth, fighting for European qualification.

Delap boasts a profile that seems perfect for Moyes’ dynamic but gritty system, and if TFG manage to pull this off, it might just go down as one of the biggest coups in Everton’s modern history.

Everton struck gold on “constant threat” who’s worth more than Longstaff

Everton made a good investment with the signing

ByJoe Nuttall Apr 7, 2025

Celtic are into the final stretch of the 2024/25 campaign after coming out on the other side of the last international break of the season with a 3-0 win over Hearts.

The Scottish Premiership leaders secured all three points against the Jam Tarts thanks to two goals from Daizen Maeda and one strike from Jota last weekend.

Celtic are 13 points clear at the top of the Premiership table and are looking to wrap up the league in the next few weeks, as they close in on their fourth successive title.

The Hoops also have the semi-finals of the SFA Cup, where they will face St. Johnstone later this month, to look forward to as they attempt to win a domestic treble this season.

Brendan Rodgers may, however, have one eye on the upcoming summer transfer window and how he can improve his Celtic squad to perform even better in the 2025/26 campaign.

The likes of Arne Engels, Paulo Bernardo, Kasper Schmeichel, Adam Idah, and Auston Trusty all came through the door last year, and they have helped the Hoops to continue their domestic dominance.

Brendan Rodgers' demand for the summer transfer window

According to Football Insider, the Northern Irish manager wants ‘huge’ backing from the board in the summer to ensure that the team can progress in Europe next season.

The report claims that the manager’s future is uncertain at Parkhead, with his contract due to expire in the summer of 2026, and that the club’s performance in Europe is the key to keeping him in Glasgow.

It states that Rodgers wants the board to improve the team to make them more competitive in the Champions League, after they were knocked out in the play-off stage by Bayern Munich this term.

Football Insider, however, does not mention any active transfer targets for the Scottish giants, beyond pointing out that Scotland international Kieran Tierney will arrive at Parkhead on a free transfer from Premier League side Arsenal when his contract at The Emirates expires this summer.

There is a fresh report, though, that reveals one of Celtic’s targets for the upcoming summer transfer window, and it is a player the Bhoys have been linked to in the past.

The latest on Celtic's interest in £5m forward

According to The Scottish Sun, Celtic are still interested in a deal to sign Belgian winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha from Pro League outfit Royal Antwerp.

The report claims that the Premiership leaders sent scouts to watch the forward in action against Union Saint-Gilloise, as Antwerp were hammered 5-1 last weekend.

It states that the 23-year-old whiz has been a long-time target for Rodgers, who is now plotting a fresh swoop for his services, as the manager wanted him in the recent January transfer window and last summer.

The Scottish Sun adds that the right-footed speedster is valued at £5m by Royal Antwerp, but it remains to be seen how much Celtic are prepared to spend on the winger.

Transfer Focus

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

This latest report also reveals that the Belgian side are prepared to cash in on him in the upcoming summer window because the forward will only have 12 months left on his contract, and it could be their last chance to sell the gem before they lose him for nothing in 2026.

Celtic must now push to get a deal over the line for the Pro League attacker ahead of next season, as the winger could be the club’s next version of Mohamed Elyounoussi.

Why Celtic should sign Michel-Ange Balikwisha

The Scottish giants have had many impressive left-sided wingers over the years, including the Norway international they had on loan from Southampton in the 2019/20 and 2020/21 campaigns.

Elyounoussi scored 25 goals and provided 14 assists in 67 appearances in all competitions for the Hoops, predominantly playing as a left winger but also being deployed as a second striker and as a right winger at times.

The Norwegian dynamo provided a regular threat as both a scorer and a creator of goals from the left flank, and Balikwisha could follow in his footsteps.

In fact, the Belgian star was the second-most similar player, as per FBref, to Elyounoussi in the 2023/24 edition of the Champions League, with the chart below highlighting their statistical similarities – mainly out of possession and as ball carriers.

This suggests that Balikwisha could arrive at Celtic and remind supporters of their former loanee with his similar style of play, whilst his form for Royal Antwerp last season suggests that he can also deliver in the final third.

The Pro League ace, who was once described as one of a number of “incredible” young talents by U23 scout Antonio Mango, has missed a large part of this season through injury, starting two games and creating three ‘big chances’, but he featured in 33 of the club’s 38 league matches in the 2023/24 campaign.

Starts

27

xG

6.46

Goals

7

Big chances created

6

Key passes per game

1.5

Assists

5

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.1

Duel success rate

54%

As you can see in the table above, Balikwisha offered quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals for Antwerp last term, averaging three chances created every two games and outperforming his xG.

These statistics also show that he can hold his own in physical battles, winning the majority of his duels, and this suggests that the forward would be able to deal with the physicality and intensity of the Scottish top-flight.

Like Elyounoussi, Balikwisha likes to come infield onto his right foot from a left wing position to cause problems for opposition defenders at the top end of the pitch, as shown in the clip below.

Rodgers could, therefore, land Celtic’s new version of the Norway international by pushing the board to seal a £5m deal for the attacker when the summer transfer window opens for business, whilst adding another excellent wide option to his arsenal – alongside the likes of Hyun-jun Yang, Daizen Maeda, Nicolas Kuhn, and Jota.

Celtic gem was "the next Van Dijk" but Postecoglou sold him for just £1m

The former Celtic star was described as “the next Van Dijk” by his former manager.

ByDan Emery Apr 3, 2025

At the age of 23, Balikwisha also has plenty of time left on his hands to develop and improve, which means that he could be an excellent long-term addition for the Scottish giants.

Overall, the Antwerp star could be a fine addition to the Celtic squad because of the quality he could provide in the final third, as well as the potential he has to progress and grow in value in the future.

The Holliday family had a full circle baseball moment when Ethan Holliday, the son of former seven-time All-Star Matt Holliday, was selected by the Colorado Rockies with the No. 4 pick in the 2025 MLB draft on July 13. Not only was Ethan Holliday the second son of Matt to be drafted into the big leagues, but he was selected by the team where the elder Holliday began his baseball career.

But Holliday's selection was far from just a marquee moment for his career, as well as a monumental one for his family. It also led to the phenon making MLB history.

The Rockies signed Holliday to a $9 million deal, according to MLB.com. The deal set a draft bonus record, surpassing the previous mark, which was set by 2025 No. 1 pick Eli Willits of the Washington Nationals. The record before that was held by none other than Holliday's older brother Jackson, of the Baltimore Orioles.

Holliday, a 6' 4" infielder, is regarded by MLB Pipeline as the top prospect in the 2025 draft. He hit .617 with 16 home runs in just 32 games during his senior year at Stillwater High School.

Now, he'll literally be following in his father's footsteps.

"This is a really incredible opportunity," Holliday said on MLB Network after being selected in the draft. "I'm so driven by faith, I'm so grateful. The Lord has really been the centerpiece of my life. I don't even know what words I can put to this. The Rockies organization, I'm so thankful, obviously with the family, the background, and my dad being drafted by them, that just adds such a cool thing. Knowing everyone in the organization since I was born, I'm just so grateful."

The captain said playing against better teams this year has helped Zimbabwe grow

ESPNcricinfo staff22-Oct-2025It’s been a great 2025 for Zimbabwe. Having missed out on the last three ICC events, they secured qualification to the upcoming T20 World Cup. Three weeks later, they wrapped up their first Test win at home in over a decade. Senior players like Brendan Taylor have come back into the fold. Junior(ish) players like Brad Evans and Ben Curran are showing what they can do. The captain Craig Ervine had a lot to be happy about, though in the end he only felt relief.”We’ve been in good positions before and we have let it slip,” Ervine said at the post-match press conference. “So, you know, in this case, we get into a good position, we want to drive the advantage home, and fortunately we do that. And at least it gives you the impetus the next time around, you know, how did you do it? And it’s something that you can put in your pocket to remember for the next time. So these sort of experiences are great for us because at least it gives you the confidence that, yes, you can do it, and you can get over the line, especially when you get into those positions.”Zimbabwe were already on a high coming into the only Test against Afghanistan, because it was their tenth in 2025. Only once have they played more red-ball cricket in a calendar year. Ervine was able to see the gains that they had made, slowly, incrementally, through series against higher-ranked sides like Bangladesh, England, South Africa and New Zealand, as his men rolled Afghanistan over for 127 in the first innings and found a top-order batter to push that advantage further. Curran scored his maiden Test century to provide a 232-run lead and Richard Ngarava used that cushion to blow Afghanistan away.Ben Curran made 121, almost matching Afghanistan’s first-innings total of 127•Zimbabwe CricketErvine also believed they had an advantage in Afghanistan playing only two frontline fast bowlers – one of whom was on debut, though Ziaur Rahman did pick up a seven-for – on a seamer-friendly Harare pitch. Zimbabwe picked four.Related

Ngarava and Curran lead Zimbabwe to first home Test win in 12 years

“I think guys have taken a lot from their experiences against England, South Africa, New Zealand,” he said. “And I think what guys learnt, especially from the series against New Zealand is, it was testing conditions and they got five bowlers that are going to test you all the time.”And I think going into this game [against Afghanistan], I think we felt that you get through that new ball phase and if you’re patient enough, I think the runs do ease up. We felt that with their spin, they weren’t as accurate, so it took a little bit of pressure off and it allowed the scoreboard to keep moving. So I think that guys were a lot more composed, guys were a lot more patient. I think that only stems from the experience that you have against better sides [than Zimbabwe are]. You have to work a lot harder against the better teams. And I thought the application that guys showed in this test. I think is fruit from the test that you played against the better nations.”Ervine had initially been nervous when, after winning the toss and putting Afghanistan in, they were able to score 68 runs off the first 13 overs.Richard Ngarava’s five-for led Zimbabwe to victory•Zimbabwe Cricket”To be honest, after the first hour, I probably wasn’t too sure whether I had made the right call or not. The wicket wasn’t quite as quick as what we thought it would be at the start. But I thought there was enough in that wicket that having picked four seamers we needed to utilise.”We were able to regroup and hit better areas from drinks break to lunch. And we got the reward for that. I think it was just keeping it nice and simple. And obviously using the short-ball plan, which was effective, I think, against Afghanistan.””To bowl them out for 120-odd in the first innings, we knew that we had been in a similar position against them in Bulawayo [and lost]. So we needed to make sure that this time round we drove that advantage home. And I thought the batting unit did just that.”Where Afghanistan lost nine wickets for 50 runs in the first innings – Evans took a five-for – and six wickets for 50 runs in the second – Ngarava with five this time – Zimbabwe were able to bat once and bat big.”It was about our disciplines,” Ervine said. “I think our composure. We had a feeling that they were going to throw everything at us. But they were also one seamer short. So we felt if we were able to get through that new ball spell, we could grind them down. And I thought Ben Curran did that exceptionally well. The way he batted throughout, kept the same tempo and guys managed to bat around him. So really chuffed that he was able to get 120-odd. I think those sort of scores in a test match really make a big impact and put you on the front foot.”

After just one game at Yankee Stadium, Red Sox rookie Roman Anthony isn't leaving the Bronx with any more friends.

Anthony went 2-for-5 with three RBIs and a massive two-run home run in the ninth inning to give Boston some insurance runs to hold onto a 6-3 win in the series opener. He obliterated a ball to the second deck in right field for an absolute no-doubter.

The 21-year-old right fielder could only watch the ball sail and toss his bat to the ground, putting his mark on Major League Baseball's most bitter rivalry.

Anthony got to play the Yankees at Fenway Park during his first week with the Red Sox, but had a quiet series going 0-for-5 at the plate. After the big performance Thursday, he admitted it felt nice to break out on the road after he had 58 major league games under his belt.

"Now that I'm settled in and through that first week this time around, it felt a little bit more calm and more controlled," he said postgame Thursday via NESN. "It just felt better, it was exciting."

When speaking to his first game at Yankee Stadium, he called the atmosphere "awesome," especially as a member of the Red Sox stepping into the hostile environment. After the performance Thursday, Anthony is slashing .286/.405/.448 with five homers and 26 RBIs thus far through his first season.

The Red Sox called up the former 2022 second-round pick in early June, and he entered the big leagues as baseball's top prospect. He signed an eight-year, $130 million contract extension two weeks ago to remain in Boston long term. Yankees fans hoped Boston would delay Anthony's arrival as long as possible, but the young star put his stamp on the rivalry in his first opportunity at Yankee Stadium. And he'll have three more cracks over the weekend.

Boston and New York currently sit atop the American League's wild-card race with the Yankees a half game in front of the Red Sox for the first wild card.