TalkSPORT understands Aston Villa will have to fight to keep hold of Morgan Rogers if they miss out on Champions League football next season.
England star Rogers signed a record six-year contract in November, committing his future to Villa Park until the summer of 2031.
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But The Pitch Prospect understands that several top clubs, including Chelsea, are eyeing the 23-year-old, although Villa are likely to demand more than the £100million they sold Jack Grealish for in 2021.
Chelsea’s recruitment chief Joe Shields played a big role in signing Rogers, who has scored 10 goals this season while working at Manchester City as a teenager.
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes also borrowed the creative from City when he was in charge of new signings at Bournemouth.
Sou-long, farewell?
Tomas Soucek’s six-year spell at West Ham could be coming to an end even if the Hammers manage to avoid relegation.
Fan favorite Soucek is entering the final year of his contract and sources have told The Pitch Prospect he is open to a new challenge.
The 31-year-old played regularly under Nuno Espirito Santo, but there is a feeling that he doesn’t suit the Portuguese’s playing style.
Soucek has played more than 200 Premier League games for the Hammers and was part of the team that won the Conference League in 2023.
Everton boss David Moyes, who signed the Czech for the Irons in 2020, remains a huge admirer.
Are you Shaw?
According to The Pitch Prospect, Manchester United are planning to sign a new left-back and two midfielders next season.
With United on course to qualify for Europe under Michael Carrick, the Old Trafford hierarchy have doubts about Luke Shaw’s physical ability to play more games.
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After enduring much of his career through injury, Shaw enjoyed one of his best seasons in terms of looks this season, playing 30 times in the Premier League.
Patrick Dorgu can act as cover for the Englishman but has performed best as a winger, while Tyrell Malacia is expected to be substituted.
Diogo Dalot also struggled when he was asked to move from his preferred right-back spot to the opposition’s defensive side.
As reported in the Notebook, United are expected to prioritize proven Premier League performers, just like they did last summer when they spent big on Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
Claret is eyeing the use of Koeman
Zian Flemming is making a late push for a surprise call-up to the Netherlands squad for the World Cup.
Although Burnley appear doomed for an immediate return to the Championship, Flemming has managed to score seven times in 13 league starts.
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Better yet, the Amsterdam-born attacker ranks eighth in the Premier League with the most goals per 90 minutes played, ahead of the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Hugo Ekitike.
Flemming has never played for the Netherlands and is aiming to make his international debut at the age of 27.
Ronaldo Koeman will announce his squad for the national team’s upcoming friendlies against Norway and Ecuador on Friday.
If Flemming can force his way into Koeman’s plans this summer, he will certainly be on the radar of other Premier League clubs.