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Incoming Leeds United manager Daniel Farke should look to bring his former players to the club this summer, according to ex-Whites goalkeeper Paul Robinson.

Is Farke heading to Leeds?

Leeds have been pushing hard to find their next boss before their 2023/24 Championship season gets underway, as they return to the second tier of English football for the first time since 2019/20.

Those high up at the club have been working hard on nailing the Whites' new manager, following the expected departure of Sam Allardyce, and numerous names have been thrown into the hat.

It now looks increasingly likely that former Norwich City manager Farke is set to be named Leeds boss, having been in charge of Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach most recently.

A recent report has claimed that the German's arrival could be announced next week, ahead of what is a crucial summer, in terms of signing the right players and ensuring the Whites are back in the Premier League in no time.

Could Farke bring former players to Leeds?

Speaking to MOT Leeds News, Robinson, who contributes for Sky Sports, backed Farke to bring some of the past players he has managed to Leeds, due to already knowing them so well as footballers:

"Managers do that. A lot of managers go back to their old teams. They have players that they have worked with in the past that they know and trust and they like them in the dressing room.

"They know they will do a job for them regardless of who comes in, there’s potential for managers to do that and target players they’ve worked with in the past."

This would certainly be a shrewd approach from Farke if he was to go down that right, with the 46-year-old no doubt well aware of which players could be beneficial to Leeds moving forward.

In many ways, it could make life easier for him from the off at Elland Road, in terms of knowing he has some trusty lieutenants alongside him on the pitch, as he gets to know the Whites squad that he has inherited at the same time.

It is vital that Farke also looks elsewhere for new signings, however, with a number additions needed all over the pitch, especially if key figures move on. Should that happen, Farke needs to spend the money received wisely, ensuring Leeds begin next season as one of the front-runners for promotion.

Newcastle United are still interested in acquiring the services of England international James Maddison, claims transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Newcastle United transfer news – What’s the latest on James Maddison?

It has been a whirlwind 18 months for Newcastle, going from a relegation battle to finishing inside the top four and preparing to embark on their first Champions League campaign in around two decades.

That new-found success has led to more attention from the footballing world and, unsurprisingly, interest from bigger names.

One of those names, AC Milan star and Italian international Sandro Tonali, now looks to be the newest member of the Toon family after Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Friday that the medical is “already scheduled” and that once the documentation is reviewed, the deal would be “completed.”

However, the player that was linked with a move north before there was even so much as a rumour of the Italian donning black and white, is Leicester City’s, James Maddison.

The Foxes star was a part of the team relegated from the Premier League this year, but that hasn’t put Eddie Howe off of the player once dubbed “world-class” by England manager Gareth Southgate.

Despite links to the Magpies alongside the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, the Telegraph have claimed any notion of them being front-runners is premature.

The publication have also revealed that Newcastle will have to stump up a hefty £60m for the player to be sold, more than the previously expected price tag of just £40m.

What has Fabrizio Romano said about Sandro Tonali and James Maddison?

Romano explained that whilst the deal for the AC Milan star was further ahead of the one to get Maddison, the Toon were very much still interested in the Leicester man.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, he said: “It’s true that they want Tonali and they are closing in on him. For sure he was on the list at Newcastle alongside of course Maddison, who remains a target for Newcastle and Tottenham.”

How could Sandro Tonali and James Maddison play together?

The double signing of Tonali and Maddison could be a masterstroke by Newcastle’s recruitment department. The pair already appear perfectly suited to one another’s playing style and could complement each other wonderfully.

Over the Italian’s last 50 games, he has played as a defensive midfielder 39 times and a central midfielder just 11. In contrast, the ex-Leicester “monster” – as once described by journalist Josh Bunting – has played as an attacking midfielder 41 times.

Unsurprisingly, the Milan midfielder’s defensive numbers are fantastic.

According to OptaPaolo, his 56 tackles are the most in the squad across all competitions and add to that his 3983 minutes played – also the most in the squad – and Newcastle could have a real engine at the base of their midfield.

According to FBref, who compare players in a similar position across Europe’s top five leagues, the 23-year-old is in the top 11% for dribblers tackled, suggesting he has a knack for snuffing out attacks.

With the Lodi-born midfielder at the base of midfield, Maddison will have the opportunity to maximise his best qualities, his attacking threat.

Also, per FBref, the 27-year-old sits in the top 1% of midfielders for non-penalty goals, total shots, assists, expected assists, shot-creating actions and touches in the opposition’s penalty area, all per 90.

The combination of Tonali’s boundless running and defensive nouse with Maddison’s excellent attacking output could turn Eddie Howe’s midfield into one of the best in the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur could reportedly be set to rekindle their interest in Galatasaray star, Nicolo Zaniolo, having been heavily linked with a move for the promising playmaker in the recent past.

What's the latest on Zaniolo to Tottenham?

According to journalist Nevzat Dindar – via Turkish outlet Milliyet – the Lilywhites are seemingly the frontrunners in the race to sign the 23-year-old this summer, having suggested a fee in the region of €35m (£30m) for the signing of the Italy international.

Speaking about the midfielder's future, Dindar revealed: “Zaniolo is evolving into a world star. English club are asking €30-35m for Zaniolo. Galatasaray are not taking Juventus’ offers seriously at this point. Tottenham are the closest club to sign Zaniolo.”

This follows reports from back in January which claimed that the north Londoners were in talks to prise the 6 foot 3 ace from Serie A giants, AS Roma, with speculation having also been rife last summer that former Spurs boss Antonio Conte was keen to bring his compatriot to N17.

Would Zaniolo be a good signing for Tottenham?

Previously described as a "frightening talent" by CBS reporter, Ben Jacobs, Zaniolo has thrived since making the move to Istanbul during the winter window, having scored five goals and laid on one assist in just 11 games for the Super Lig side in all competitions in the second half of last season.

Prior to that, the versatile asset – who can feature in an advanced midfield role or on the flanks – had chipped in with 42 goal contributions in 128 outings during his time at the Stadio Olimpico, despite having been cruelly plagued by injury in recent years.

While there had been claims that Conte was looking to bring the 13-cap gem in as a possible wing-back option last year, Zaniolo would likely take on a different role in Ange Postecoglou's preferred 4-3-3 formation, with there a potential for him to line up in one of those two attacking midfield berths.

If Postecoglou is able to get the one-time Inter Milan asset in the door, he could well partner the Italian in the centre of the park with another exciting talent in the form of James Maddison, with Tottenham said to now be leading the race for the Leicester City man's signature ahead of Newcastle United.

That left-foot, right-foot combination could well work a treat at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next season, with Zaniolo able to offer a real goal threat in that central role – as his form in Istanbul of late would indicate – while Maddison can be the man to supply the goods as a creative force, having ranked tenth in the Premier League in 2022/23 for chances created (69).

Having a figure such as the Englishman in the side does appear something of a necessity as Spurs have seemingly "still not replaced [Christian] Eriksen" according to BBC Radio London's Phil Parry, while Zaniolo's desire to get forward can also put him ahead of the club's current options, with Rodrigo Bentacur leading the way among his midfield colleagues with just six goals across all fronts last season.

Therefore, the addition of both Maddison and the Galatasaray whiz could be a dream partnership in the making for Postecoglou and co.

Leeds United's manager search has dragged on now, mainly halted by the progress of Andrea Radrizzani's sale of the club.

With new ownership now in place, and a brighter future promised at Elland Road, the 49ers' first move must be to secure a capable boss who can lead them back to the Premier League of which they struggled away from for so long last time.

To make things more beneficial, it would be useful if this new boss could also work towards keeping the top stars of this current squad before they are slowly picked off by various clubs, seeking a cut-price deal for a top-quality player.

One such example of this would be Wilfried Gnonto, who massively caught the eye in what was his debut year in English football. However, as his starts waned near the end of the season, the Italy international would likely have grown frustrated.

Therefore, to perhaps return to an old option they considered following the sacking of Jesse Marsch, Patrick Vieira might be one of a select few that could keep the 19-year-old in Yorkshire, citing his work with Wilfried Zaha and Michael Olise as examples as to why he should stay.

Would Patrick Vieira help Wilfried Gnonto improve?

Whilst the Arsenal hero, and "legend" in the eyes of writer David Ornstein, might have seen his time at Crystal Palace cut short, the 46-year-old remains a man who earned huge success against all the odds during that first term at Selhurst Park.

Many viewed his time at New York City FC and OGC Nice as underwhelming spells, far from the requisite experience to thrive in a league where he dominated as a player. However, shrewd business allowed him to finish 12th and give his fans a trip to Wembley.

Zaha would notch 14 league goals that campaign, with Olise hitting 13 goal contributions in all competitions. It is clear that Vieira's 4-3-3 system is very conducive for wide men, suggesting Gnonto would also thrive.

Not just goal-scoring wide men, the two displayed their creative assets under Vieira too, with the Ivorian registering five assists to Olise's incredibly impressive 13.

By comparison, across all competitions of a tumultuous year for Leeds, Gntono recorded six goals and five assists, dressing his work up in that same flair and outlandish exuberance that has made the Ivory Coast international so loved by Palace fans.

When compared to other wingers across Europe, he even ranks in the top 16% for progressive carries per 90 (4.39) to further emphasise this dynamism, whereas Zaha and Olise registered 3.38 and 3.63 respectively.

Whilst the Italian's performances have understandably drawn interest from across the globe, should he be tempted to stay by this titan of the English game, he could be turned into a truly unplayable star who could propel the 49ers' club straight back into the top flight.

All he needs to do is look at how Vieira's progressed Olise's career at Selhurst Park.

Manchester United still face a waiting game in their search for new owners as 'everything is in the Glazers' hands', according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

What's the latest takeover news involving Manchester United?

As per The Financial Times, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his petrochemicals firm INEOS could perform a 'phased takeover' where all six members of the Glazer family retain shares in the club before being weeded out in the coming years gradually.

The report states that despite fan frustrations over the timeline of any potential deal, no agreement is 'expected imminently' and it may still take some time to get over the line.

Qatari businessman Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani is also in the running to buy Manchester United; however, journalist for The Guardian, Jamie Jackson, has delivered an update on his offer to buy the Premier League giants, stating on Twitter: "As I understand it, Sheikh Jassim is still waiting to hear back from Glazers regarding his last bid for Man Utd".

Sheikh Jassim wants to buy 100% of the club while Ratcliffe is keen to buy an initial 69% of Manchester United, as per BBC Sport.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, journalist Romano thinks that the Glazer family still have full control of the destiny of Manchester United.

Romano said: "Both INEOS Group and the Qatari group are still in there and still working on a takeover behind the scenes, but everything is in the Glazers' hands, so we're still waiting."

What next for Manchester United?

Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag will hope his side can recover from the disappointment of their 2-1 FA Cup final to Manchester City last weekend ahead of returning for pre-season following a well-deserved break from action.

The Dutchman will be hopeful of adding some high-profile signings to strengthen his roster, with Chelsea ace Mason Mount and Tottenham Hotspur talisman Harry Kane being identified as key targets, as per The Telegraph.

Football Insider also claim that West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice is someone that is being courted at Old Trafford and it is believed that Manchester United are 'realistic contenders' to sign the England international.

Rice is valued at £100 million by Hammers boss David Moyes and the Red Devils will also need to beat off stiff competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal to secure his services.

Next term, Manchester United will have designs on being able to put together a title challenge; however, matters off the field may have a say on the level of recruitment they can carry out if their ownership debacle is to drag on into the opening stages of the transfer window.

Liverpool are interested in completing a swoop for Juventus winger Federico Chiesa this summer after the Italian's recovery from a long-term injury…

What's the latest on Federico Chiesa to Liverpool?

That's according to Italian outfit Gazzetta dello Sport (via Paisley Gates), who claim that Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool – with competition from Bayern Munich – will attempt to complete the transfer of the 25-year-old Old Lady star for €45m (£39m).

Chiesa has been plagued with injury over the past few seasons and it remains to be seen whether the Reds hierarchy deem it to be an auspicious move.

However, the £155k-per-week gem is one of the most creative wingers in Europe and could create a new dimension to Klopp's system, with just two years left on his current deal too

Should Liverpool sign Federico Chiesa?

Liverpool's recent transfer activity has been harangued by supporters inside and outside the club alike, with the loan signing of Arthur the only central midfield acquisition last summer despite the glaring need for central reinforcements.

The offensive calibre has been rekindled, if not quite at the imperious best of Liverpool's prime period under Klopp's reign, and Darwin Nunez (£85m), Cody Gakpo (£35m), and Luis Diaz (£37m) have all been signed over the past 18 months, yielding more than a few tantalising flashes of a world-class strikeforce.

Despite the emphasis now fixing on the bolstering of the midfield this summer, Chiesa's name continues to churn around the whirring rumour mill, with reports from January tethering the Italy international to links to Anfield.

And what creativity he would bring to Merseyside, hailed as a "wizard" by broadcaster Roger Bennett for his feats on the pitch and registering ten direct goal contributions from just 11 starts across all competitions following his comeback from a detrimental injury layoff that has left him on the sidelines for, incredibly, 62 matches across the past two terms.

It's a gamble, no doubt, but one that might pay off as Klopp crafts a world-class sheen to a team that has fallen from prominence this season, languishing in fifth place in the Premier League as the campaign pulls its drapes closed.

The rich pool of attacking talent at Anfield would allow Chiesa to effectively manage his game time, while still maintaining a "potent" aura – as stated by Rio Ferdinand – ranking among the top 4% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for rate of assists, the top 15% for progressive carries and the top 16% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

He could make a resurgence to the very forefront on the alternate flank to Diaz, who has endured a similarly injury-stricken time of late, having sustained an injury against Arsenal in October and missing 31 matches as a result.

Diaz, described as a "livewire" by journalist Peter Hall, is one of Europe's most fleet-footed and enterprising wide vehicles around, himself ranking well despite his hampered year, sitting among the top 12% of positional peers for pass completion and the top 12% for successful take-ons per 90.

With such first-rate driving forces down the flanks, Liverpool could reach their zenith once again; Mohamed Salah, imperious goalscorer and devastating offensive phenomenon, has plundered 30 goals and 16 assists this season despite his outfit's woes, but finds fruit cutting inside and wreaking havoc in the danger areas – ranking among the top 1% of peers for touches in the attacking box per 90, and a wide player more suited to a more traditional wing role could pay dividends.

Injecting the fresh dimension that Chiesa would indeed bring could only enhance Liverpool's prospects of success, with the 40-cap international's dynamism perhaps proving the difference between a rekindling of the fire and a resplendent Anfield renaissance next term.

Glasgow Rangers must reignite their interest in forward Lyndon Dykes following a recent contract development.

What’s the latest on Lyndon Dykes to Rangers?

Back in January, journalist Darren Witcoop stated that Rangers were “watching developments” regarding Dykes, as he appeared to be on the move from QPR during the transfer window.

Nothing materialised however, yet new developments regarding the Scotland international have surfaced, as Football League World have now claimed the Championship side could sell the player after he failed to agree terms over a new deal.

This should spark Michael Beale’s interest in the player again, and as Dykes only has one year left on his current contract, the Ibrox side could perhaps land him for a knockdown fee this summer.

Could Rangers sign Lyndon Dykes?

Although the Light Blues have made a solid start to their transfer business already, signing Kieran Dowell and Dujon Sterling, the departures of Alfredo Morelos and Ryan Kent has certainly given Beale a licence to bring in a host of attacking replacements, and Dykes should be one.

The Light Blues are well clued-up on the 27-year-old from his stint with Livingston during 2019/2020 as he netted nine league goals, while even scoring and grabbing an assist against eventual champions Celtic, showcasing his talents.

This form led QPR to make a move for the striker, and he has impressed during his spell in England so far, scoring 29 goals and registering 11 assists, a solid return for a player who cost just £2m three years ago.

Although perhaps not as clinical as Morelos, Dykes offers differing qualities, with his aerial ability being a key strength and he could be an effective target man under Beale.

Indeed, Beale worked with the Australian-born star during the early stages of the 2022/23 campaign, and he scored five goals during that period, suggesting the 42-year-old will know all about what qualities he can offer the current Rangers side ahead of next season.

Former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard lauded Dykes before the Gers took on Livingston in 2020, saying:

“They’ve got a forward in-form in Lyndon Dykes who’s having a real good season, who is capable of playing in the air or on the floor, he’s quite dangerous.”

It would be a dream reunion for Beale should he try and sign the £8k-per-week gem this summer and if they can land him for a reduced fee, it could allow the manager to prioritise other targets while adding some genuine quality to the team, who could offer more than just goals.

A huge Rangers update has emerged regarding Ibrox machine Connor Goldson heading into the summer transfer window…

What’s the talk?

Gio van Bronckhorst has revealed that the defender looks set to leave the club upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the month.

The Dutch head coach has not completely ruled out a new contract for the Englishman but is being realistic about the chances of the 29-year-old still being at Ibrox next season.

Van Bronckhorst told the Glasgow Times before the Scottish Cup final: “Regarding Connor, the club has been in talks with him to extend his contract. So far, he hasn’t extended it. The chance he will still be a Rangers player after tomorrow will be small.

“I would love to have Connor in the team next year. But as you see quite a lot, when players are getting out of contract, there are two possibilities – to keep playing or to move on and maybe have another challenge.

“I still have in my mind that he will be part of Rangers next year. That’s my feeling more than the reality. We will have to watch in the coming weeks. But I think Connor has been amazing for this team in all of his years as a Rangers player. Will it be his last game on Saturday? I don’t know right now.”

Supporters will be gutted

Gers supporters will surely be left feeling gutted by these comments from the manager, as they suggest that Goldson will be on his way out of the club this summer.

Van Bronckhorst states that the likelihood of the defender staying at Rangers is ‘small’, and this will be upsetting for fans as the centre-back has been a vital player at Ibrox in recent years.

In the Premiership this term, Goldson averaged an excellent SofaScore rating of 7.18 as he started 36 of the Light Blues’ 38 matches. He produced consistently brilliant performances at the heart of the defence as he made himself a reliable option for the head coach.

Last season, he started al 38 top-flight games and averaged a phenomenal score of 7.39 for the Gers as he helped the team to keep a whopping 26 clean sheets on their way to the title. He won an impressive 71% of his duels and made 2.2 tackles and interceptions per game as he played a pivotal role in their success.

Goldson also showcased his quality on the continental stage as he caught the eye in the Europa League, with an average Sofascore rating of 7.00 across 14 starts as Rangers fell short in the final against Eintracht Frankfurt.

These statistics illustrate how impressive he has been for the Glasgow giants and shows why the supporters will surely be gutted by his potential exit ahead of next season.

AND in other news, Ross Wilson plotting Rangers swoop for 16 y/o “teen talent”, GvB will be buzzing…

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe strengthened his team with a host of new signings throughout the January window.

The Magpies head coach was given the funds by PIF to make major additions to his squad in the form of Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Matt Targett, Bruno Guimaraes and Dan Burn.

These players, along with the existing playing roster, have propelled the Toon clear of relegation. They are 11 points above the bottom three in the Premier League with three games left to play and look set for another year in the top flight.

The focus may now turn to the summer transfer window and the players they want to bring in to take the team to the next level.

Earlier this season, it was reported that Newcastle are interested in landing Borussia Dortmund gem Axel Witsel at the end of the campaign with a contract offer of €7m (£6m) per season.

They have recently been handed a golden opportunity to go through with that, as the Belgian midfielder has confirmed that he will be a free agent this summer, stating earlier this month: “I’ll be gone next season. I am very happy that I have played here (Dortmund) for four years at the highest level. But I am sad to leave the club. I have many friends and great teammates here.”

Howe must now pounce on this chance to swoop for the enforcer, for whom Dortmund paid €20m (£17.1m), as he would be a superb addition to the Newcastle squad with his quality and experience at the top level.

Dortmund icon Marco Reus previously heaped praise on the Belgian battler, saying: “Axel has a lot of international experience as a number six and a number eight. He radiates calmness and self-confidence – in critical situations, too. Axel showed what he can do at the World Cup. He will make us better.”

These comments show how highly Witsel’s captain rates him, which is understandable when you look at his career. The 33-year-old has played a staggering 120 matches for Belgium at senior level and featured in more than 100 games for each of Dortmund, Zenit and Standard Liege.

Throughout his career, he has averaged an impressive WhoScored rating of 6.98 across 353 outings, making 2.9 tackles and interceptions per game. This shows that the holding midfielder has played to a high standard consistently over the course of many years, which is why he would be a fine player for Howe to call upon.

Imagine him and Bruno Guimaraes lining up in the Magpies’ midfield. Whilst Witsel can use his defensive quality and experience to shield the back four and keep things ticking over, the Brazilian can go forward to inject life into the attack.

The January signing has four goals and one assist in eight Premier League starts, and his attacking flair mixed with the Belgian’s nous can make for an exciting midfield partnership, which is why Newcastle must snap up the 33-year-old on a free transfer.

AND in other news, PIF prepared to make NUFC bid for “well-schooled” £17m tank, Howe would love him…

Journalist Alasdair Gold has been full of praise for Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian Romero following his ‘superb’ performance against Leicester City.

The Lowdown: Eye-catching performance

Antonio Conte named the 24-year-old in his starting line-up for the Premier League clash against the Foxes on Sunday afternoon as the Lilywhites secured a 3-1 victory at home, with goals coming from captain Harry Kane and a brace from Son Heung-Min.

The Argentina defender caught the eye of the football.london correspondent when making a challenge which ultimately led to Son scoring Spurs’ second goal of the match on the hour mark.

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The Latest: Gold praises Romero challenge

Gold took to Twitter immediately after the goal to share his thoughts on Romero’s fateful intervention, which prompted some Leicester complaints over what they felt was a foul on Caglar Soyuncu.

Providing updates on the match for football.london, the journalist wrote: “Son fires home to double Spurs’ lead, with Kulusevski setting him up. It all came from a huge, crunching tackle from Romero in the centre of the pitch. Full commitment from the Argentine, who has been superb today once again.”

The Verdict: Romero was excellent for Spurs

Aside from that moment, the £29k-per-week Romero was a standout performer against Brendan Rodgers’ side, proving to be an absolute rock at the heart of the defence. As per SofaScore, the Argentine made five clearances, three tackles and three interceptions, along with winning both of his aerial duels and five of his ground duels.

His challenge turned out to be a pivotal moment in the game because it helped to give Spurs a two-goal safety cushion, at a time when Conte’s side were lacking a bit of inspiration while the match was very much in the balance.

This crucial win for Tottenham sees them remain firmly in the hunt for a Champions League place at the end of the season, with just four games of the current campaign left to play.

In other news… a Spurs source has shared some big in-house player news