All posts by z3u9t.icu

Wesley Fofana’s long-term knee injury has scrambled Chelsea’s pre-season plan.

The Blues had been planning to offload Trevoh Chalobah this summer, with Levi Colwill looking set to play a prominent role in first-team action this season.

However, Fofana’s absence means that the former Ipswich loanee may now play an integral role in Mauricio Pochettino’s plans, with Benoit Badiashile also set to miss the start of the upcoming campaign.

Nevertheless, the Blues are still exploring their options in the current transfer market and Marc Guehi’s has been thrown into the mix.

Who wants to sign Marc Guehi?

According to Fabrizio Romano’s CaughtOffside column, Chelsea are interested in the possibility of resigning Guehi:

“Marc Guehi – There’s a lot of interest in the Crystal Palace defender, but it’s still too early to say where he will go," Romano began.

"Palace players are always linked with moves away but it’s important to underline that Palace have to be respected and they want important money or they keep their stars. Chelsea had some contacts on the player side 15 days ago, but again, no concrete negotiations or anything advanced.”

Crystal Palace will reportedly demand £50m for the 23-year-old’s services, who wants to be a regular starter at his next destination.

It is understood that Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are also plotting a move for Guehi to make it an enticing saga.

How good is Marc Guehi?

The Eagles star, who has been lauded “incredible” by BBC Sport’s Alex Howell, has been a wonderful addition to Selhurst since his £18m in 2021.

Guehi has appeared in 73 of the club’s last 76 Premier League games – he has become synonymous with reliability, consistency, and defensive solidity.

Furthermore, in the 2021/22 season, the £50k-per-week titan became Palace’s youngest captain in ten years.

His past manager Steve Cooper has also hailed his talent, labelling him as “outstanding” and someone he really believes in, whilst he was on loan at Swansea City.

Cooper’s prophecy has come to fruition as Guehi has become an instrumental figure in Palace’s consolidation as a sturdy mid-table outfit.

If Chelsea managed to complete this signing, they would have another player who mirrors the composure and defensive reliability of Badiashile.

Despite the Blues’ horrendous recent past, the Frenchman emerged from the club’s worst Premier League season with a commendable degree of respect.

In just 11 top-flight outings, the former Monaco gem recorded the fourth-highest average rating in the squad, won 64% of his duels, and managed a 90% pass accuracy. Clearly, he is proficient in passing and winning physical battles.

The centre-back also ranks impressively across the continent, as he sits within the best 18% for progressive passes and interceptions per 90.

Joao Tralhao, who has previously coached Badiashile in France, has showered the Frenchman in praise, saying:

​​​​​​​"He is going to one of the world's biggest clubs. But Badiashile is excellent. He is very strong in the air and in the duels. He can read the game because he is intelligent. He is a very good defender on the floor and in the air. He is the complete defender."

Guehi, by comparison, completed 84% of his passes and won 67% of his defensive duels to outline their similarities.

Although the exciting Pochettino era will eventually be tainted by Thiago Silva’s inevitable departure, the prospect of boasting Guehi, Badiashile, and Colwill is tantalising.

Granit Xhaka's Arsenal career appeared to be heading for a rather unsavoury end when he tossed his armband to the floor in disgust and marched off the Emirates pitch after being substituted.

That, however, was in November 2019. Since that clash against Crystal Palace, Xhaka's revival has been the stuff of legend.

He won't necessarily leave Islington a legend, but he will no doubt be remembered as a cult hero at the club.

Is Granit Xhaka leaving Arsenal?

Last term was his best yet after a move from Borussia Monchengladbach, with the Swiss midfielder scoring nine goals and registering seven assists.

Leaving on a high is the best way of bowing out and indeed he will do just that after moving to Bayer Leverkusen for £21.5m.

Declan Rice, a slightly more expensive mover at a whopping £105m, will come in as a result, but the Gunners won't stop there in their pursuit of success.

Jurrien Timber is due to arrive from Ajax but it's also thought that a move for Jeremie Frimpong could be on the table, a deal potentially set to be worth in the region of £34m.

His club? Rather coincidentally, Bayer Leverkusen.

How good is Jeremie Frimpong?

Adjusting to English football should not be an arduous task for the right-back, who like Xhaka did all the way back in 2014, could trade the Bundesliga for Premier League life.

Frimpong, however, will arrive more well-known to a British audience.

The Dutchman came through the ranks at Manchester City before moving to Celtic from a young age, where former boss Neil Lennon described him as "one of the best kids I've ever seen at that age."

Since then, the full-back has only gone from strength to strength. The 22-year-old is now one of the best in his position around, particularly when it comes to the offensive side of the game.

As per FBref, he ranks inside the top 10% in his position across Europe's top five leagues for a host of metrics, notably non-penalty goals, shots, assists and progressive carries.

For the latter, he actually sits in the best 1%. That is a theme that regularly appears throughout Frimpong's scout report, as he is in the top 1% for successful take-ons and touches in the attacking penalty area.

Such numbers indicate that he is one of the most offensive full-backs in the game, something that would no doubt benefit Mikel Arteta's side.

Such a rampant threat could also help to ensure Bukayo Saka's performance levels stay the same, if not get better.

Saka has benefited tremendously from his partnership alongside Ben White down the right-hand side.

White isn't a marauder by any stretch of the imagination. He ranks inside the worst 37% for progressive carries as an indication. Yet, his composure is bettered by very few at the club.

Capable of drifting inside but also playing on the overlap to allow Saka to cut in on his favoured left foot, Frimpong could ensure that becomes more of a regular thing.

He is a truly "breathtaking" asset as dubbed by scout Antonio Mango, one whose exploits from right-back could only ensure Saka gets into more favourable positions himself.

Having scored 15 goals and assisted 11 himself, there is little room to get better, but a player such as Frimpong could well ensure that happens swiftly.

White has done little wrong since playing at right-back but he is not the archetypal modern full-back. Frimpong certainly is and his arrival could well be the berth of a right flank to rival the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mo Salah.

Newcastle United have placed Felix Nmecha on their wanted list for the summer transfer window having sent officials to see him play, according to Sky Germany journalist Philipp Hinze.

Are Newcastle United signing Felix Nmecha?

The player has only really burst onto the scene in the last two campaigns, having spent a lot of time in Manchester City's academy. He never made a league debut for the Premier League outfit before being sold on to Wolfsburg in Germany, where he has finally begun to get first-team football.

Having managed only one start in the Bundesliga for the side during his first season there, he really became a frequent member of the starting eleven in the 2022/23 campaign. Playing 30 times for them over the course of the campaign, he managed three goals and five assists from the centre of the field and ended up being a star member of the squad despite his age.

In addition, his showings have also led to him becoming one of the best statistically in his favoured position. When compared to other midfielders in the Men's 'Top Five' big leagues for example, he stands out as one of the very best at setting up his teammates. That's because his assist rate of 0.25 per 90 puts him within the top four percent in that area compared to other central players. It means that he clearly has excellent vision and a good eye for a pass to be able to tee up his teammates so often.

Now, according to a report from Sky Sports journalist Philipp Hinze, Nmecha may have the chance to return to England and prove himself in a first-team.

That's because Newcastle have reportedly been keeping tabs on his situation with Wolfsburg and have spent the last season sending club officials to watch him in action. He is "also" on their list alongside James Maddison and Dominik Szoboszlai.

How much is Felix Nmecha worth?

Hinze reports a potential asking price of up to 30 million Euros (or about £26m). No bid has been made yet but it does seem as if he is certainly on the Magpies' radar, and that price would surely fall within their transfer structure, having been a bit more shrewd than many would have expected since the takeover.

He's already been praised highly for his performances in Germany, with football journalist Josh Bunting stating that Nmecha has an "intelligent eye" and that also his "technical ability is good".

Despite being just 22-years-old, he already seems to possess the qualities to add some guile and playmaking ability to the Newcastle side – and considering his age, the potential is there for him to get even better for them under Howe's guidance.

Chelsea are reportedly interested in Brazilian marvel Matheus Franca, who could be a dazzling addition to Mauricio Pochettino’s side.

The Argentine will have a busy summer to operate ahead of his first season in charge at the Bridge, in the bid to get the Blues back on track after derailing last term.

A 12th-place finish isn’t where Todd Boehly would’ve imagined his club to have ended up, however, the west London side could turn things around with a successful summer window and the added expertise of Pochettino.

After spending £600m last season, Chelsea could have another pricey window, however, the latest link could prove to be a financially friendly option.

Is Matheus Franca signing for Chelsea?

As reported by the Daily Mail yesterday, the Premier League club are ‘looking at’ striking a deal with Flamengo attacker Matheus Franca.

The report claims that the Blues are ‘exploring’ a deal worth £25m for the versatile starlet, who has had rumoured interest from Newcastle, West Ham and Crystal Palace previously this summer.

The Brazilian side issued a ‘hands-off’ approach in the winter window for the 19-year-old, who has impressed since graduating from the academy.

How good is Matheus Franca?

Lauded as an “absolute talent” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, the Rio de Janerio-born gem has excelled in his home country at Flamengo.

The teenager is mainly deployed as a central attacking midfielder, however, has capabilities in more advanced positions along the front line.

In a descriptive scouting report, scout Jacek Kulig listed the player as being ‘extremely versatile’ with ‘electric pace’ and ‘power’, demonstrating characteristics essential to a forward in the Premier League.

The youngster’s numbers support his high praise, with FBref revealing his impressive averages over the past year, including an impressive rate of 0.55 non-penalty goals per 90.

Franca also averaged a monstrous 2.54 successful take-ons per 90, showing his dangerous streak when in possession.

Premier League clubs signing talent from Brazil has proven to be a gift in the past, and Chelsea could take a page from Arsenal’s book most recently with reference to the success of Gabriel Martinelli.

The winger signed for the Gunners in 2019 at the age of 18 from Ituano, where he has since contributed to 38 goals and assists in 93 Premier League appearances, scoring 15 last campaign where he cemented himself as one of the club's best talents.

Chelsea could replicate the success of the Arsenal star by landing Franca, who has all the numbers to indicate that he could be a hit at Stamford Bridge in midfield, an area that the Blues could recruit in this summer.

In the 2022 Brazilian Serie A, the creative spark averaged 2.54 passes into the final third per 90, as well as 1.21 key passes per 90 for Flamengo, flexing his ability to identify and execute a killer pass, via FBref.

Chelsea’s departed creator Kai Havertz averaged 1.72 passes into the final third per 90 in the 2022/23 Premier League campaign, showing just how influential the Brazilian could be in west London in comparison.

At just £25m, Pochettino could strike a deal for an in-demand prospect who, if given the room to grow, could flourish just as his compatriot Martinelli has in the capital.

Aston Villa are approaching the final few days of the summer transfer window in the mood to potentially sign another one or two fresh faces.

Following the acquisitions of Moussa Diaby, Pau Torres, Youri Tielemans and Nicolo Zaniolo, Unai Emery has already secured some exciting players but in order to balance their European and domestic commitments, the squad will need padded out.

With this in mind, the Spaniard is showing interest in a former Tottenham Hotspur player who could be available for a transfer before Friday.

Who will Aston Villa sign next?

According to reports in Spain (via The Birmingham Mail), Villa have been linked with a move for Barcelona defender Clement Lenglet.

Read the latest Aston Villa transfer news HERE…

He is expected to leave the La Liga side before the end of the transfer window, either on a permanent basis or a loan move, and it looks as though the Midlands side are ready to swoop for his services.

Fellow Spanish sides Valencia and Sevilla are reportedly keen on the player. He has two years left on his contract and according to Football transfers, he is valued at €22.8m (£20m) and this could represent good business if the club could secure him for a fee in this region.

How good is Clement Lenglet?

The Frenchman spent a season on loan at Spurs during 2022/23 in what was a turbulent campaign for the club.

He did rank fourth across the squad for accurate passes per game (48.4) while also ranking in the top ten for tackles, interceptions and clearances per game, suggesting that his spell in London was decent enough, although far from the high standards expected when he arrived.

Upon arriving at the club, he was lauded by compatriot Hugo Lloris, who said: "He's a modern defender. Comfortable to be able to play from the back. He has a great left foot and can be very strong in one v one and he's strong in the air.

"Even if it's never easy when you arrive in the Premier League and he will have to adapt to the intensity of the games but he is a high level player, with experience.”

Indeed, when compared to positional peers, the 28-year-old ranked in the top 6% for progressive carries per 90 (1.53) and the top 9% for assists (0.07), further backing up Lloris’ praise.

This could allow him to forge a solid partnership alongside Torres, especially with Tyrone Mings injured.

The former Villarreal defender is also a forward-thinking defender, ranking in the top 1% for successful take-ons per 90 (0.8), the top 2% for progressive carries per 90 (2.17) and the top 7% for progressive passes per 90 (5.48) when compared to positional peers.

This suggests both are always looking at playing the ball out from defence in order to start attacks, giving Villa and Emery the chance to constantly dictate the play during matches.

WhoScored also states that both Torres and Lenglet like to dribble often and this could be a huge advantage for Emery, giving him something different at the heart of defence as opposed to the robust nature of Mings.

With just a few days left, the former Arsenal manager will need to act swiftly to get a deal over the line.

Zion Suzuki has reportedly rejected the chance to make the move to Manchester United this summer, according to reports.

This comes after the Premier League giants reached an agreement with the goalkeeper's current club Urawa Red Diamonds.

What's the latest on Zion Suzuki to Manchester United?

Manchester United have agreed a deal with Urawa Red Diamonds for Suzuki, and a move seemed likely. According to Manchester Evening News, however, a major problem has emerged as the shot-stopper has rejected the Red Devils in favour of completing a move to join STVV in the Belgian Pro League.

Rejecting United is certainly a bold move, but Suzuki may have made the decision based on potential game time. As per Manchester Evening News, the Manchester club felt as though the goalkeeper needed two more years to make an impact in the Premier League.

Read the latest Man United transfer news HERE…

Erik ten Hag must now search elsewhere to find a back-up to recent summer signing Andre Onana. The former Inter Milan man completed the move for a reported £47.2m this summer.

Suzuki, meanwhile, looks increasingly-likely to complete a move to STVV in the coming weeks.

Who is Zion Suzuki?

The first thing that comes to mind about Suzuki is how bold he is, reportedly turning down a big move to Old Trafford this summer. On the pitch, however, it's no real surprise that the goalkeeper has attracted such interest this summer.

Football Talent Scout spoke about Suzuki in their look at the best players in Japan, saying: "Widely considered as one of the most exciting goalkeeping prospects coming out of Japan, however it is across the Pacific in America where most of this hype has been garnered as many supporters of the national team are keen for the Arkansas-born stopper to be called up for the USMNT.

"He is also eligible to play for Ghana and of course Japan, whichever lucky nation calls him up first and secures his name in their nation's goalkeeping ranks has hit the jackpot with a special goalkeeper.

"Zion’s distribution is exceptional, he makes passes which would be talked about for weeks if it were Ederson as seen here.

"Due to his age he is still prone to a few errors as he can sometimes be seen rushing out too early but these characteristics will slowly fade as Zion progresses and matures whilst gaining experience in games. A good alert goalkeeper, Zion’s speed and agility allow him to be both a good shot-stopper and a good distributor of the ball."

That potential looks set to be seen in the Belgian Pro League, rather than at Old Trafford, though, in what will ultimately leave Ten Hag bitterly disappointed.

The Dutchman has, at the very least, welcomed the majority of his summer targets so far in the current window, with Mason Mount making the move from Chelsea, Rasmus Hojlund joining from Atalanta, and Onana making the move from Inter Milan.

So far, United have spent a reported €192m (£166m) so far in the current window, and were willing to add to that with the signing of Suzuki. As per reports, however, it simply wasn't meant to be this time.

Leeds United once again failed in their pursuit of a first Championship win of the season, as Daniel Farke's problems were devastatingly emphasised…

How did Leeds get on vs West Brom?

Hosting Carlos Corberan's impressive but threadbare West Bromwich Albion outfit, there was a quiet confidence that the Whites would be able to secure all three points at the third time of asking.

After all, a disappointing opening-day draw with Cardiff City and a subsequent defeat to Birmingham City hardly have fans excited for the new campaign.

Last night marked yet another spirited display, but once which lacked that cutting-edge to see off the travelling Baggies.

Read the latest Leeds transfer news HERE…

They enjoyed 57% of the ball and rained down 16 shots, yet found themselves behind just after the restart and searching for an equaliser, via Sofascore.

Whilst it eventually came, they were forced to settle for the 1-1 draw, with a few standout individuals having let the side down.

Of all that disappointed, Jamie Shackleton was arguably the weakest of the toothless bunch.

How did Jamie Shackleton play vs West Brom?

Making his 82nd appearance for the Yorkshire outfit, it should have marked a triumphant return to the starting lineup for the 23-year-old seeking to stake his claim within the senior side.

However, he likely has ended up denting his chances of further opportunities, with an underwhelming display on the wing where he created little.

In fact, his 6.8 Sofascore rating throughout the clash was the third-worst of all of Farke's starting side, made especially terrible due to his anonymity in a game where he should have excelled.

After all, they did enjoy the bulk of the possession, exacerbating his dismal 39 touches. Even Illan Meslier, who was one of the two worse performers than the young wide man, managed more touches (43), via Sofascore.

The French shot-stopper even managed to complete more passes (29) than Shackleton (24) too, suggesting that his lack of influence also fed into an inability to even link up with his teammates sufficiently.

The £1.5k-per-week earner was offensively lacking throughout as well, failing in both of his attempted dribbles and failing to register a single shot, striking the woodwork after a slice in fortune. Had he offered something defensively the academy graduate could have been forgiven, but even then he won only three of the six total duels he competed in, a 57% failure rate, via Sofascore.

It seems that journalist Beren Cross shares this sentiment with regard to his profligacy, as he briefly lauded his physical assets before suggesting an area of improvement in his post-match ratings: "His pace, intensity and work rate really shone in the first half as his pressing drove errors from the visitors. Still lacking a little quality on the ball when he's playing in this final-third role."

Although Shackleton is only young, this should mark a damning indictment for Farke, who has seen his squad slowly dismantled before his very eyes.

Even now Wilfried Gnonto has compounded such misery by finally handing in a transfer request, with his exit surely now looming amidst the exit of numerous other first-team stars.

Shackleton may well offer a fine option in the future, but if performances like last night are to become a regular feature, his starting spot could be in jeopardy.

However, if it forces them into the market, fans will remain elated. They certainly need reinforcements regardless.

Liverpool star Mohamed Salah is unlikely to leave the club this summer and would be priced out even if he wanted to, transfer expert Dean Jones has claimed.

The Lowdown: Salah back in the goals

The 30-year-old has been short of his best by his incredibly high standards this season, with his dropoff playing a part in the Reds’ campaign of woes.

That being said, Salah returned to scoring ways during Monday’s 2-0 win at home to Everton in the Merseyside derby, in what was still his 18th goal of 2022/23 to date.

The Egyptian superstar is contracted at Anfield until the summer of 2025 and now a key update has emerged regarding his future.

The Latest: Summer exit unlikely

Speaking to Give Me Sport, Jones said that he doesn’t expect Salah to be going anywhere this summer:

“Even if somebody like Salah wanted to leave Liverpool, I think he’d probably be priced out of a move because I don’t see who would be buying Mo Salah at this moment in time.”

The Verdict: Surely he stays put?

It would be an enormous surprise if Salah suddenly looked for a move away from Liverpool at the end of the season, having only signed an extension last July.

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The Reds legend remains one of the most important players at the club, being hailed as a ‘world-class’ footballer by Arsene Wenger earlier in the week and comfortably topping the scoring charts in all competitions this season.

Salah may be 30 now but he should be in and around the peak of his powers for several years to come, especially given the shape he keeps himself in and his lack of injuries.

Granted, he has looked off the pace at times this season but the midfield struggles certainly haven’t helped him, as well as Trent Alexander-Arnold not being at his best behind him. Once that area is improved this summer, the Liverpool ace should find his top form again.

Everton midfielder Amadou Onana could be the 'most likely' player at Goodison Park to be sold this summer, according to journalist Paul Brown.

What's the latest transfer news involving Amadou Onana?

As per The Guardian, Chelsea have emerged as suitors for Onana this summer as they look to add some steel in the middle of the park at Stamford Bridge.

The report states that the £100k-a-week ace could be a natural replacement for veteran Chelsea anchorman N'Golo Kante, who is set to move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad at the end of the month.

Manchester United have also been monitoring Onana's situation as Erik Ten Hag seeks to add some more power to his options in the engine room and the Dutchman has signalled his intention to bring the Belgium international to Old Trafford, as per Football Insider.

Everton will play hardball with any sides that are keen on Onana and may demand up to £60 million in order to give themselves a platform for Sean Dyche to rebuild his squad this window, according to claims from the same outlet.

Financial difficulties have engulfed the Toffees of late and it is believed that they are 'under pressure' to sell Onana due to being in 'special measures' with the Premier League as a consequence of accumulating losses of over £370 million in a three-year period, as cited by The Daily Mail.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, journalist Brown thinks that Onana is one of the 'most likely' players to depart Everton this summer.

Brown said: "We still really haven't heard exactly what the player himself wants to do. I'd like to hear from Onana whether he really is committed to Everton for the long term or whether he does fancy a move to another club. That's the big question mark here. He didn't really pull up any trees the last few weeks of the season.

"You don't really want to be see your club sell any of its regular first team players… but if it comes to it, I think he's probably the most likely one to go."

Would losing Amadou Onana come as a blow to Everton?

In all likelihood, yes it would, seeing as Onana enjoyed a promising debut campaign as an Everton player and helped them to maintain their league status in the English top-flight.

In 2022/23, the 21-year-old made 35 appearances in all competitions for the Toffees, registering one goal and two assists, as per Transfermarkt.

Onana also stood strong in the tackle across the season and successfully averaged 2.2 successful challenges per match in the Premier League, as per WhoScored.

FBRef show that he also had the capacity to get forward from deeper positions and support his teammates, laying on 45 shot-creating actions in total.

Everton will want to keep hold of Onana this summer; however, it may be difficult given the calibre of side keen on taking him off their hands.

Liverpool have reportedly made an offer to sign LASK attacker Keito Nakamura, however, the Reds have had their bid turned down.

What’s the latest Liverpool transfer news?

Jurgen Klopp and the Anfield board have been busy so far this summer, bringing in two new midfielders ahead of the 2023/24 Premier League campaign.

James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita all left on free transfers when their contracts expired, whereas Jordan Henderson has left to join Steven Gerrard in Saudi Arabia.

Fabinho could soon follow Henderson with a move to Saudi Arabia of his own, but Liverpool have brought in Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai from Brighton and RB Leipzig respectively.

A third midfield addition appears to be wanted on Merseyside, with Southampton’s Romeo Lavia seemingly a top target. The Reds have already had an opening £40m offer turned down, with the Saints wanting close to £50m, but James Pearce believes it is “increasingly likely that a compromise will be reached”.

“LFC preparing improved bid for Southampton's Romeo Lavia after initial offer rejected. Increasingly likely that a compromise will be reached. Player keen to make the move.”

The Belgian doesn’t appear to be the only player Liverpool are working on signing, though, with an update emerging on Nakamura.

According to reports from France in the last 48 hours, the Reds made an offer of €7m for Nakamura which includes a loan, but Austrian side LASK quickly rejected their bid.

Ligue 1 side Lille appear to be in pole position to secure a deal, with LASK holding out for a record-breaking €11m deal.

Who is Keito Nakamura?

Nakamura, who actually shares the same agency as Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, is a Japan international and is primarily a left-winger who can play as a second striker or as a centre-forward.

The 22-year-old has plied his trade in his native country and has also had loan spells in the Netherlands and Belgium before moving to LASK in 2021.

In total, Nakamura has made 68 appearances for his current employers, scoring 26 times and registering eight assists. The best season of his career came during the 2022/23 campaign, netting an impressive 14 times and providing seven assists in the Austrian Bundesliga.

His Transfermarkt valuation has rocketed over the past 12 months to a career-high €8m, showing how he appears to be at the top of his game.

LASK head coach Dietmar Kuhbauer praised Nakamura last year, describing him as “exceptional” player with a “really good shooting technique”.

"Keito really is an exceptional soccer player, an exceptional technician and blessed with a really good shooting technique."

However, the Reds are currently well stocked on the left-hand side with Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota all options, so it may not be viewed as a big blow if they miss out on Nakamura and sign another midfielder in Lavia.

The forward could have been seen as a versatile addition with plenty of potential, but by the looks of things, Nakamura may soon be turning out in France with Lille despite Liverpool making their move.