ALAN NIXON is SunSport’s Boss of Goss. Check out this week’s red-hot transfer whispers from our main man in the know…
TOFFEE TWIST
Everton’s manager David Moyes is gearing up to launch a bold bid for Scotland’s emerging talent, Ben Doak, in a surprising raid on their local rivals Liverpool. Moyes intends to make a move for the highly regarded winger when he becomes available for around £25 million this summer. The Toffees are in desperate need of a wide player, and Doak, who is just 19 years old, has emerged as a top target despite the rarity of players transferring between these two clubs. Historically, only a select few players have made the switch from Liverpool to Everton, with names like Peter Beardsley and the late Gary Ablett standing out in that elite group. Nevertheless, Moyes is a significant admirer of Doak, whose remarkable pace and dribbling skills would undoubtedly enhance his hardworking squad. Bournemouth has also shown interest in the talented teenager, as we previously reported, while Crystal Palace’s pursuit appears to be faltering. Liverpool would likely prefer Doak to join the Cherries, but Everton’s interest could sway the player, giving him a crucial role in determining his future. Meanwhile, Everton’s chief scout Dan Purdy may receive a reprieve in the club’s significant backroom shake-up. Purdy’s position is currently under review, but the incoming chief executive Angus Kinnear is reportedly a fan of his work. Following the departure of Director of Football Kevin Thelwell, a reshuffle is on the horizon, though Purdy might remain in a new capacity.
Ben Doak recently entertained fans with hilarious responses during a Q&A session in Middlesbrough.
SAIN OF THE TIMES
Sheffield United are setting their sights on securing the services of Norwich’s prolific midfielder Borja Sainz, regardless of whether they achieve promotion to the Premier League. The Blades’ American ownership is prepared to invest significantly in acquiring the 24-year-old, even if they remain in the Championship next season. Sainz is entering the final year of his contract this summer, and Norwich may be compelled to sell him if he opts not to renew. United are reportedly willing to spend over £10 million to bring in the 18-goal midfielder, despite being relatively well-stocked in that position.
SKY’S THE LIMIT
Crystal Palace are in a battle to retain their promising teenage right-back Caleb Kporha, as Frank Lampard’s Coventry City shows strong interest. Kporha, 18, has already made his debut for the first team but has yet to sign a new long-term contract. Coventry is keen to provide him with a faster pathway to regular starts, a proposition that could be tempting for the former Welling starlet. While the Eagles are eager for him to stay, they will need to offer enticing terms to convince him. In a related note, Exeter City is looking to secure Palace’s goalkeeper Joe Whitworth, 21, for another season on loan.
CITY SLICKER
Manchester City’s recent signing Juma Bah is hopeful of making his debut during the upcoming Club World Cup. The towering 18-year-old defender has impressed during his loan spell at Lens in France and showcased his talent by performing admirably for Sierra Leone in a match against Egypt last week. Bah is set to return to City next season and is eager for an opportunity to showcase his skills. While Lens is interested in extending his loan, Bah is keen on securing game time with City or potentially embarking on a loan stint in the Premier League.
WALK-OVER
Matt Holland, known for his impressive fitness levels during his playing days, is still proving he has it at 50. The former midfielder recently undertook an astonishing 113-mile walk for a charity event focused on Motor Neurone Disease (MND), the furthest distance covered by any ex-professional in the event. Holland, a former star for Ipswich and Charlton, was among numerous former players participating, while others joined in following their appearance in the Liverpool Legends game last Saturday.
KEV DOWN UNDER
Newcastle United legend Kevin Keegan is in high demand in Australia, where he is sought as a special guest for Blacktown City. Keegan famously came out of retirement to play a couple of matches for the New South Wales club in 1985. Now, the club is eager to invite their most iconic player back for a celebration marking the 40th anniversary of his brief but memorable stint with them.
SHREW-D DECISION
Shrewsbury Town’s ongoing takeover discussions with a US investment group are on the brink of collapse. A lengthy exclusivity period is set to end tomorrow, and it appears the American investors are retreating from the deal to acquire the struggling League One side, especially after the recent departure of manager Gareth Ainsworth. The current ownership may now seek new buyers at a reduced price once their relegation fate is finalized.
WICKED WHISPER
Which English player has been rumored to have leaked to friends that he would be a surprising inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s starting lineup? The squad member confidently informed his mates that he would be selected, and word circulated through the grapevine. However, the media did not pick up on this tip-off, leading to an embarrassing situation as he ended up on the bench when the match commenced.