NEWCASTLE UNITED have been told to pay £50m if they want to sign Nathan Ake from Manchester City.
Eddie Howe wanted the centre-back in January and has identified him as a transfer target once again this summer.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich are set to lose their goal machine Robert Lewandowski this summer which has left clubs on red alert.
However, the Poland international has revealed that his preferred destination is the Nou Camp despite the deal being complex.
And Ajax are closing in on a sensational swoop for Tottenham’s Steven Bergwijn – which is where the Dutchman’s career first started.
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Pique retirement hope
Barcelona are hoping Gerard Pique will announce his retirement next summer to save them money following his shock split with Shakira.
That’s according to RAC1, who claim Barca would prefer it if Pique rolled credits on his celebrated career in 2023 to save themselves €80million (£70m) in wages over the next two seasons.
The centre-back has a contract with the Blaugrana that runs until 2024 and is one of the club’s highest-paid players.
But the 35-year-old has deferred his salary multiple times in the last three years to help his financially-stricken team cope with the economic impact of COVID-19.
The former Spain international was also one of the first Barcelona players to take a pay-cut, which helped the Catalan giants register new signings.
This comes after Pique’s 11-year relationship with Shakira came to an end after the pop star announced their separation.
Gavi’s Barça deal
Gavi is widely-regarded as one of Europe’s most talented youngsters having burst onto the scene during the 2021-22 season.
He chipped in with two goals and six assists in 47 games in all competitions, with his stunning form seeing him become Spain’s youngest ever international.
But with his contract at the Camp Nou to expire in 2023, the midfielder has been linked with a move away from Catalonia.
Manchester United are known to be admirers of the youngster as Erik ten Hag looks to bolster his midfield.
Richarlison and Vinicius Jr scrap in training
Brazil team-mates Richarlison and Vinicius Jr has to be SEPARATED during training following a heated altercation.
The pair almost came to blows on Saturday during a training session ahead of the Selacao’s friendly with Japan on Monday.
But their intervention appeared to further enrage Richarlison, who grimaced as Neymar put his hands around his neck.
Cooler heads eventually prevailed after the pair were dragged apart and went their separate ways.
Exclusive – Rangers want £5m Tymon from Stoke
Rangers are keen to sign Stoke City’s raiding left-back Josh Tymon – but may have to wait, writes Alan Nixon.
The Scottish giants are planning improvements to their side after reaching the Europa League final and Tymon, 23, is high on the list.
However, Rangers will have to either sell Borna Barisic or qualify for the Champions League group stages to fund the deal.
Stoke will want around £5million for Tymon, who has come good after signing as a teenager from Hull City.
Prem fixture release date
The Premier League 2022/23 fixtures will be announced at 9am on Thursday 16 June.
The season has been adjusted to accommodate the World Cup in Qatar 2022.
There will be a six week break in the middle of the domestic calendar for the global showpiece.
Jesus projected salary would be joint highest at the club
Arsenal are ready to offer Gabriel Jesus nearly £200,000-a-week to try and tempt him to join.
The Brazilian striker is currently on international duty, but Manchester City bosses plan to speak to his representatives over the next few days.
And even though the Gunners missed out on Champions League football on the final day, the City forward is still interested in a potential move to the Emirates.
The wedge would match the weekly salary of defensive midfielder Thomas Partey.
Milan and Juve after Pulisic
Amid reports that Liverpool are after Christian Pulisic, Serie A giants continue their chase.
The 23-year-old has reportedly sparked the interest of champions AC Milan, with powerhouse Juventus also rumoured to be interested in his services.
Currently away on international duty with the USA, Pulisic admitted his frustration at the lack of game time at the Blues.
Chelsea signed the American for £58million from Borussia Dortmund, however it’s speculated neither interested Italian side would be able to match that fee if the Blues wanted him.
Pulisic wanted by Liverpool as Mane replacement
Christian Falk at BILD Sport claims that Liverpool are interested in Christian Pulisic “as replacement for Sadio Mane”.
The American has struggled to cement a starting place under Thomas Tuchel, leaving the winger frustrated in West London.
Whilst on international duty this week, Pulisic said: “Of course, I want to get more playing time. I think I still got a lot of games, but it’s always something that I’m working at and trying to be a regular at club level. “
Exclusive – Newcastle will have to pay £50m to seal Ake transfer
Newcastle have been told to splash out £50million if they want to sign Nathan Ake from Manchester City, writes Phil Thomas.
Eddie Howe wanted the centre-back in January and has identified him as a transfer target once again this summer.
The Toon boss has made a second inquiry about Ake after City gave him short shrift when he first asked in January.
The Dutch defender obviously knows Howe well, having spent four years under him at Bournemouth, before moving to the Etihad for £40m in 2020.
Although Ruben Dias, Aymeric Laporte and John Stones are ahead of him in the pecking order, City would still want an increase on the money they paid two years ago.
Tammy pushing Kane for England spot
Tammy Abraham is ready to push skipper Harry Kane for his England place – amid links to Arsenal and Liverpool.
But Roma’s ex-Chelsea striker will also be happy to be understudy to the man who is eyeing England’s all-time scoring record.
Abraham said: “I think for every player that’s the mentality you’re supposed to have — to be positive.
“Of course, we are all buzzing for Harry, we want him to smash the record and we’re always here to support him.
“Whenever I’m given a chance if I’m on a pitch with him, I’ll try and help him to get to his targets.
“But for me, it’s all about whenever you get the opportunity, to just try and grab it with two hands and just show what you are made of.”
De Ligt up the world
Manchester United and Chelsea have been dealt a potential blow with Matthijs de Ligt reportedly close to signing a new contract with Juventus.
The centre-back, 22, has a deal until 2024 with the Turin club.
De Ligt said: “There are talks ongoing between me and Juventus.
“Once the right moment arrives, I will decide to extend or to look further.”
Forest ready for Pope bid
Nottingham Forest are ready to try their luck with a low bid for Burnley’s England keeper Nick Pope, writes ALAN NIXON.
The Premier League new- boys want the impressive shot-stopper, who is keen to stay in the top flight after the Clarets dropped down.
Pope, 30, is valued at £40million and also fancied by promoted Fulham but neither of the outfits plan to go to that figure for their target.
Sources close to Pope think they can force through a deal at closer to £10m but that is being laughed off at Turf Moor.
But a compromise figure could be reached in the coming weeks.
Liverpool ‘want Raphinha from Leeds for £60m’
Liverpool are prepared to pay Leeds United £60million PLUS Takumi Minamino in order to land Brazilian Raphinha, according to reports.
Jurgen Klopp is a massive fan of the pacey winger, and wants to bring him to Anfield to compensate for the expected loss of Sadio Mane.
Raphinha scored 11 goals and provided three assists as Leeds barely avoided relegation from the Premier League – only securing their safety thanks to a 2-1 victory over Brentford on the final day.
The 25-year-old is also wanted by Barcelona, but their tricky financial situation means they must sell before they can buy, whereas Liverpool have far more freedom in their budget.
However, according to the Mirror, The Reds believe including Minamino as a part of a cash-plus-player transfer offer could be a deal-breaker for Leeds.
The Whites are looking to rebuild their beleaguered squad this summer, and while losing Raphinha would no doubt be a massive loss, a major player-plus-cash deal such as this would ease much of their woes.
Woodman wanted by Preston
Newcastle goalkeeper Freddie Woodman is wanted on loan by Ryan Lowe’s Preston.
Woodman, 25, is back from a spell at Bournemouth, where he had to sit on the bench.
After starting all of the Magpies’ first four games of the Premier League season, a hip injury put the keeper out of action.
And after heading to the South coast, Woodman was disappointed not to get a minute of Championship action.
Now North End are keen to take him — although that would mean them having to guarantee him game time to get approval from the Toon.
Boss Lowe’s assistant Mike Marsh worked with Woodman at Swansea which could be a contributing factor.
Preston are also in talks with Dundee United’s keeper Benjamin Siegrist.
Matondo open to Prem move
Rabbi Matondo has opened the door to a return to English football this summer.
Premier League newboys Fulham and Bournemouth as well as Scottish giants Rangers have all been linked with the 21-year-old Welsh forward.
Schalke’s Matondo spent last season on loan at Belgian club Cercle Brugge but an agreement on a permanent deal could not be reached.
But Matondo, in the Wales squad for today’s World Cup play-off final, said: “There’s always an appeal to be playing football in England.
“I grew up in the United Kingdom and, one day, if the opportunity is right, this summer or whenever, I’m open to it.
“As things stand, I’m a Schalke player. I’m here with Wales and whatever is getting done by my agent and family, we’ll see what happens.”
Ex-Manchester City trainee Matondo scored nine goals in 26 games in Belgium last term.
Barca make vow with Salah
Barcelona have promised Liverpool superstar Mo Salah they will sign him next summer on a free transfer when his contract runs out, according to reports.
Salah, 29, has one year left on his current Anfield deal, and talks have stalled over a new contract.
And the Spanish giants have reportedly promised him a huge deal in 12 months’ time if he runs down his contract and walks away for nothing.
The Egyptian King wants a 15 per cent increase to his current deal – currently worth around £200,000-a-week.
Barcelona boss Xavi is rebuilding the side for an assault on the LaLiga title next season, with Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski his top summer target.
But he is also planning ahead, and wants Salah to join in a year’s time, according the The Mirror.
The report also states that Barcelona’s interest is a major factor in Salah’s reluctance to extend his five-year stay at Liverpool, who last weekend lost the Champions League final to Real Madrid.
Exclusive – West Brom want Choudhury on loan
Leicester will let midfielder Hamza Choudhury leave on loan.
Choudhury, 24, needs game time and West Brom boss Steve Bruce is keen to take him on loan after trying to take the Foxes player to Newcastle.
There could be a sale if an offer comes in but Baggies may be able to do a loan deal with a fixed fee should they win promotion to the top flight.
The midfielder only played in six Premier League games last season and had a handful of substitute appearances in Europe.
Foxes keen on £20m Diop
Leicester are pondering a move for Monaco left winger Sofiane Diop, who is available for around £20million.
Frenchman Diop, 21, who qualifies for Senegal, has emerged as one of the best prospects in Ligue 1 this season.
Exclusive – Newcastle will have to pay £50m to seal Ake transfer
Newcastle have been told to splash out £50million if they want to sign Nathan Ake from Manchester City, writes Phil Thomas.
Eddie Howe wanted the centre-back in January and has identified him as a transfer target once again this summer.
The Toon boss has made a second inquiry about Ake after City gave him short shrift when he first asked in January.
The Dutch defender obviously knows Howe well, having spent four years under him at Bournemouth, before moving to the Etihad for £40m in 2020.
Although Ruben Dias, Aymeric Laporte and John Stones are ahead of him in the pecking order, City would still want an increase on the money they paid two years ago.
But at least his £80,000-a-week salary will not be an issue for Newcastle, even if keeping up his regular flow of winners’ medals – two titles and a League Cup so far – may be.
And although Pep Guardiola doesn’t want to lose the centre back, City won’t stand in his way if he does decide he wants to move, given it will mean regular first-team football.
Overnight transfer talk
Gabriel Jesus and Ousmane Dembele could be heading to London – but for the time being Declan Rice looks unlikely to leave the capital.
Arsenal are prepared to pay Brazil striker Jesus £190,000 a week plus bonuses – way above his Manchester City wage of £110k.
Chelsea have emerged as favourites to sign ex-Gunners and Manchester United target Dembele from Barcelona.
The France winger, 25, is also wanted by PSG.
But it’s claimed Barca have offered Arsenal and Tottenham the chance to borrow centre-back Clement Lenglet.
But West Ham reportedly rate England midfielder Rice at £150million as they fight to ward off Chelsea and the Red Devils.
RB Leipzig midfielder Christopher Nkunku says PSG are his ‘heart club’ – another blow for the Blues and United.
Nottingham Forest are dreaming of capturing Old Trafford midfielder James Garner for a THIRD spell – and this time not necessarily on loan.
And Chelsea striker Christian Pulisic is being talked out in some quarters as a replacement for Sadio Mane if Liverpool fail to keep the Senegal hitman.
Forest in cheeky Pope bid
Nottingham Forest are ready to try their luck with a low bid for Burnley’s England keeper Nick Pope, writes ALAN NIXON.
The Premier League new- boys want the impressive shot-stopper, who is keen to stay in the top flight after the Clarets dropped down.
Pope, 30, is valued at £40million and also fancied by promoted Fulham but neither of the outfits plan to go to that figure for their target.
Sources close to Pope think they can force through a deal at closer to £10m but that is being laughed off at Turf Moor.
But a compromise figure could be reached in the coming weeks.
Burnley will sell at the right price and boss Vincent Kompany would ask old club Manchester City for Arijanet Muric, 23.
The Kosovo international, who had a loan spell at Forest in 2019-20, was in Turkey on loan last season and Kompany rates him highly.
Forest launch ANOTHER Garner bid
Nottingham Forest want Manchester United midfielder James Garner for a THIRD time, writes ALAN NIXON.
Promoted Forest Reds would be happy with another loan – or a permanent deal – after Garner’s key role this term.
For now, the 21-year-old is going back to United and will definitely be in Erik ten Hag’s squad when pre-season training and games begin.
But Forest are optimistic that they lead the queue for Garner but that will mean waiting for an answer and possibly starting the season without him.
Boss Steve Cooper will need to shelve moves for alternatives until that point but Forest may be willing to take that gamble.
Tammy pushing Kane… – but will pull for him too
Tammy Abraham is ready to push skipper Harry Kane for his England place – amid links to Arsenal and Liverpool.
But Roma’s ex-Chelsea striker will also be happy to be understudy to the man who is eyeing England’s all-time scoring record.
Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate challenged Abraham, 24, to prove he is the right striker to put the pressure on 49-goal Kane to keep on delivering as he chases Wayne Rooney’s record mark of 53 — or even replace him.
Abraham said: “I think for every player that’s the mentality you’re supposed to have — to be positive.
“Of course, we are all buzzing for Harry, we want him to smash the record and we’re always here to support him.
“Whenever I’m given a chance if I’m on a pitch with him, I’ll try and help him to get to his targets.
“But for me, it’s all about whenever you get the opportunity, to just try and grab it with two hands and just show what you are made of.”
City want £50m for Toon target Ake
Manchester City want £50million for Newcastle target Nathan Ake.
The 26-cap Holland centre-back, 27, played under Toon boss Eddie Howe at Bournemouth.
Tevez quits playing after dad’s death
Carlos Tevez has retired from playing because he could not cope with the loss of his No 1 fan — his dad.
The ex-United, Manchester City and West Ham striker, 38, quit boyhood club Boca Juniors last June after the death of his adopted father Segundo Raimundo, who contracted Covid.
The Argentine has not played since and revealed he turned down offers from the MLS.
Tevez said: “I stopped playing because I lost my No 1 fan. I’ve been offered many things — but that’s it, I have given everything.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
