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    ‘We could feel our oxygen running out’ – New Chelsea signing reveals terrifying lift ordeal left him fearing death

    CHELSEA keeper Mike Penders has revealed he feared choking to death … after being trapped in a lift with five team-mates.The Blues paid KRC Genk £17million for the Belgium Under-19 captain last August.Chelsea goalie Mike Penders was trapped in a lift with teammatesCredit: GettyPenders rejoined the Pro League club on loan and is due to begin his Stamford Bridge career next summer after penning a deal until 2032.But the 19-year-old underwent a terrifying ordeal during Genk’s midwinter training camp in Spain.He recalled: “The camp was very positive.  We trained well, and there was a great atmosphere.”But we had quite an experience.  Six of us got into a lift that was supposed to hold up to eight people.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”But it behaved very strangely, and went just a foot before coming to a stop with a jolt.  At first we had a laugh about it.”But the banter dried up once it became clear that we could not get the doors to open.”It became warmer and warmer inside the lift, and we could feel our oxygen supplies running out.  It made us think about what could happen.”We were able to get Wifi reception off and on, so I quickly began surfing on my phone.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”It turned out that we could still survive for five more hours, so that there was no need for us to panic.”Meanwhile we managed to get hold of other team-mates and club staff members.Chelsea Player Ratings”In the end, after three quarters of an hour, someone from the hotel was able to use a special key to release us.”Penders also revealed Blues boss Enzo Maresca is keeping tabs on his progress.He added: “Chelsea are following my performances for Genk closely.”Their head goalkeeping coach often gets in contact with me, and we’ll discuss the videos he was watched of my games.” More

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    Former Chelsea star’s stunning daughter strips to racy lingerie in the snow and says ‘I wonder why I’m still sick’

    JADE LEBOEUF turned into the Snow Queen to give her fans scarlet fever.Chelsea icon Frank’s daughter joked “And then I wonder why I’m still sick” as she posed in red lingerie amid white-floored Icelandic countryside. Jade Leboeuf greeted the snow in her own unique wayCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufPraise snowballed for Jade’s icy photoshootCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufAt least she made sure her warm-looking footwear was on properlyCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufBut it was only her icy offering that was contagious as admirers claimed the model put herself “at risk” with her chilly-frilly, photographic frolic.One fan claimed the reality TV star was “the cause of global warming” as, with a glow in the snow, she looked completely at ease despite the freeze.Jade’s only nod to the conditions was a pair of cosy, colourful footwear.And in one pic she was seen carefully putting on the chunky shoes, with crisp snow caking the rims.Most read in SportOne of her 271,000 Instagram followers posted: “What we won’t do for snaps… it’s true you are sublime Jade.”Another wrote: “You’re in a big risk, what a beauty.” A third added: “Beautiful and wonderful as always and who says perfect doesn’t exist.”Dad Frank was perhaps not thinking of Jade safeguarding herself from wintry weather when he suggested last year she had to “protect” herself.Most read in FootballJade might now be looking forward to more sunny shootsCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufHer followers love her contrasting range of fashion choicesCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufFrank Leboeuf appears to have mixed feelings on his daughter’s workCredit: GettyIn fact, the French World Cup winner said then: “She does a job which is not one I necessarily appreciate. She is an influencer.”I always tell her, ‘You’ve got to protect yourself, you have to know what you are doing, and why’.Chelsea legend’s daughter puts on busty display in low-cut top for stunning holiday snaps as fans call her ‘radiant'”If there are people who need advice and tips from my daughter, it’s all well and good if she reassures them.”She explains why and how she does what she does, and things are OK between us.”And if Jade had any doubts about her snow show in Iceland, one fan told her: “It was worth it these pictures are crazy.”A glimpse into the life of the influencer…Jade has built up a huge and loyal following onlineCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe stunning model is followed by over a quarter of a million peopleCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe regularly shares risque contentCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe was used to the limelight from an early age as the daughter of Frank LeboeufCredit: Instagram @jadeleboeufHer work as a model has helped her popularity growCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufJade describes herself as a digital creatorCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer posts tend to draw hoards of comments with fans often describing her as ‘beautiful’ and ‘sexy’Credit: instagram @jade_leboeufShe’s not afraid to wear revealing outfitsCredit: jade_leboeuf/instagramSee-through outfits are a favouriteCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer father Frank played for Chelsea from 1996 to 2001Credit: Instagram @jadeleboeufHe was also a World Cup winner with France in 1998, giving him legendary status in his home countryCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufHe won two FA Cups during his time in West London when Jade was still a kidCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeuf More

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    West Ham hold talks with two alternative bosses alongside Graham Potter with Lopetegui in limbo over his future

    WEST HAM have held talks with Christophe Galtier and Paulo Fonseca as alternatives to Graham Potter.Potter, 49, is the first choice candidate to replace Julen Lopetegui at the London Stadium.Julen Lopetegui’s job at West Ham is dangling by a threadCredit: RexGraham Potter is the first-choice option to replace Lopetegui at West HamCredit: GettyEx-PSG boss Christophe Galtier is one alternative to PotterCredit: GettyPaulo Fonseca, recently axed by AC Milan, is also on West Ham’s radarCredit: AFPThe Hammers board are ready to axe Lopetegui, but have left the Spaniard in limbo until a successor is ready.Former Brighton and Chelsea boss Potter met with the club on Monday and was offered the East London job.Talks are ongoing over a deal, with alternatives being explored in case an agreement is not reached.Fonseca was an outside candidate to replace David Moyes in the summer, while Galtier has been tracked by the club for some time.READ MORE SPORT STORIESThe former PSG manager is currently managing Al-Duhail in Qatar while Fonseca was sacked by AC Milan last month.Lopetegui took West Ham training on Tuesday morning despite it being public knowledge that his job had been offered to Potter.The former Wolves boss is currently due to hold a press conference on Wednesday afternoon ahead of Friday’s FA Cup tie with Aston Villa.Chairman David Sullivan is leading the search for a new manager, though technical director Tim Steidten has also been involved.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSteidten has been asked to stay away from the training ground by Lopetegui after their relationship deteriorated.It remains unclear who will take charge of the Cup tie against Villa on Friday night, with Lopetegui’s position feeling increasingly untenable.Graham Potter lands new job as West Ham await decision on whether he will replace Julen Lopetegui as manager West Ham will not have long after Friday night if they want a new man in charge for their next Premier League game.Fulham visit the London Stadium on Tuesday. More

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    Fans only just realising they can watch Arsenal vs Newcastle for FREE as they are hit with broadcasting dilemma

    FOOTBALL fans will be able to watch the Carabao Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Newcastle for FREE tonight.Two channels will battle it out for ratings in a major broadcasting change.Tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final will be broadcast live on ITV and Sky SportsCredit: GettyArsenal host Newcastle at the Emirates StadiumCredit: GettyNewcastle will be missing some key playersCredit: GettyThe Carabao Cup is typically shown on Sky Sports – which costs at least £20 per-month.However, ITV has agreed to show two of the four semi-final games this season.The free-to-air network will show the first leg of Arsenal vs Newcastle and the second leg of Liverpool vs Tottenham – which takes place on February 6.Sky Sports will continue to broadcast all four matches.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe final is also set to be shown live on ITV as well as Sky, making it free to view for British audiences.ITV’s agreement with the EFL and Sky also includes 10 Championship matches each full season.Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport said: “This deal brings viewers free to air coverage of top level knockout football over the coming years, as well as standout matches from the EFL, adding regular live matches to our highlights shows.”We’re looking forward to bringing fans some superb action and insight from this new, fuller EFL package across the next few seasons.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMark Pougatch is in line to front ITV’s coverage alongside Arsenal legend Ian Wright and former Newcastle star Les Ferdinand.Sam Matterface and Lee Dixon will be on commentary for the semi-final clash.Arsenal player ratings: Ethan Nwaneri is perfect Bukayo Saka replacement but Gabriel Jesus goes missing against BrightonArsenal approach tonight’s match with a series of illness and injury doubts.Bukayo Saka remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, with his replacement, Ethan Nwaneri, also unavailable due to a muscle injury.Meanwhile, Kai Havertz could return after missing back-to-back games through illness.As for Newcastle, Fabian Schar and Bruno Guimaraes will not feature due to their respective suspensions.How Howe turned Toon around WITHOUT Saudi billionsBY GARY STONEHOUSEEDDIE HOWE has got “the richest club in the world” fighting for honours regularly again despite not being able to blow the big Saudi bucks.The 47-year-old achieved legendary status at Bournemouth by guiding the then-skint Cherries all the way from League Two into the Premier League promised land.Now he is potentially on the verge of writing his name into Newcastle’s history books if he can end their 70-year wait for a major trophy.Howe came mightily close two years ago when he and the Magpies suffered heartbreak in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United.Qualifying for the Champions League with a fourth-placed finish softened that blow, and now he is eyeing more than just another Wembley outing as he takes Toon to Arsenal for the first-leg of the Carabao Cup semis.Of course, it has been nothing like those early days at Bournemouth for Howe since he took charge in November 2021 just weeks after their Saudi takeover.There was a big outlay that January transfer window in order to assure the club’s Premier League status, but despite reaching the Champions League, PSR rules have delayed their path straight to football’s top table.Though, despite the purse strings being tightened and even being forced to sell young starlets against his wishes, Howe still has Newcastle punching with the big boys for silverware.The question is though – how has he done it and how far can he go? More

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    Luis Diaz the popular choice but is Cody Gakpo now Liverpool’s next-best attacking option?

    LIVERPOOL have provided plenty of Dream Team points so far this season but managers have been made to work for them at times.Mohamed Salah (£8.1m) is the outright top performer by a wide margin having passed the 300-point mark with his 21st goal of the campaign on Sunday.While Trent Alexander-Arnold (£6m) and Virgil van Dijk (£5.2m) are leading the way among defenders with 168 and 150 points respectively.But given the Reds are top of both the Premier League and Champions League tables, one would expect more easily identifiable Dream Team success stories among Arne Slot’s squad.Salah is a banker but he appears in the majority of teamsCredit: AlamyLuis Diaz (£4.3m) boasts a healthy tally of 162 points but even he’s blown hot and cold.In fact, gaffers have been incredibly indecisive when it comes to the Colombia international.The 27 year-old winger has been among the five most transferred-out players five times since Gameweek 8 but he’s also been among the five most recruited players the same number of times.Dream Team bosses playing hokey-cokey with Diaz has been a consistent theme this season.Elsewhere in midfield, Alexis Mac Allister (£4.1m), Ryan Gravenberch (£3.8m), Curtis Jones (£3.6m) and Dominik Szoboszlai (£3.8m) have had their moments but all average between 4.3 and 4.9 points-per-game, which is respectable but nothing more.In, out, in, out…Credit: GettyDiogo Jota (£4.4m) started the season in fine form but an injury derailed his progress; a familiar story for the unfortunate Portuguese forward in recent years.Most read in FootballBut perhaps Cody Gakpo (£4.8m) has what it takes to be a long-term option for gaffers who want another Liverpool threat to accompany Salah?At the time of writing, only the Egyptian superstar has earned more points than the Dutchman from his last three outings among all forwards.Gakpo’s emphatic strike against Manchester United was his third goal in as many games, a fruitful run that has yielded 32 points.Widening the lens, the 25-year-old has racked up 80 points from 11 appearances since the November international break, a spell that has featured six goals and two assists.Gakpo has been in good form recentlyCredit: ReutersGakpo is categorised as a forward in Dream Team but has generally been deployed as a left winger this term, a role he fulfilled for Netherlands with great effect at Euro 2024.His minutes may concern some gaffers as Slot continues to shuffle his attacking talents, with Salah being the obvious exception.Ultimately though, points are what matters most and Gakpo has provided more than his fair share of late.He’s locked in a fascinating battle with several others in a race to be the third forward to reach the 200-point mark after Salah and Erling Haaland (£7.8m).MOST POINTS AMONG DREAM TEAM FORWARDS THIS SEASON:Mohamed Salah – 305 ptsErling Haaland – 237 ptsDominic Solanke – 179 ptsAlexander Isak – 176 ptsCody Gakpo – 174 ptsMatheus Cunha – 166 ptsAmad Diallo – 160 ptsKai Havertz – 155 ptsREAD MORE SUN STORIESA quick look at the schedule suggests it might be wise to stock up on Liverpool assets.The league leaders are one of just three teams with EIGHT fixtures to fulfil across the next four Gameweeks.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More

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    Inside Morgan Gibbs-White’s glam life with influencer girlfriend Britney, from fancy ski breaks to raising a son

    MORGAN Gibbs-White’s life off the pitch is just as incredible on it.The Nottingham Forest midfielder, 24, is enjoying his best season in the Premier League and was the star of the show against Wolves on Monday night.Glam Morgan Gibbs-White and Britney De Villiers enjoy an epic lifestyleCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGorgeous Britney and Gibbs-White rang in the New Year on the slopesCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney are proud parents to son GraysenCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersHe helped his side go level with Arsenal on points in second spot, as their unlikely top four charge continues.Gibbs-White has scored four goals and provided three assists in a breakout campaign for the England star.Most recently, he was spotted enjoying a well-earned break on New Year’s Eve with girlfriend Britney De Villiers on a glam ski trip.They were joined by Anthony Elanga and his girlfriend China Navana for the break away.Read more in football South African beauty Britney is a social media influencer who boasts over 270,000 followers on Instagram.She shares her amazing lifestyle with Gibbs-White on social media, with the pair clearly living their best life.SunSport looks inside Gibbs-White and Britney’s epic existence.Fancy holidaysLast week, we saw the loved-up couple wrap up warm for a holiday on ice.Most read in FootballBut it wasn’t a kids’ show they were intent on enjoying – but a fancy ski break.Influencer Britney posted a snap of her with other half Gibbs-White as they jetted off to plush French ski resort Courchevel in a private jet.Why Nuno Espirito Santo was such a flop for Tottenham before leading Nottingham Forest on Leicester-like title chargeBritney posted a series of snaps of herself and Gibbs-White onboard the plane to her Instagram on New Year’s Eve.Her accompanying caption read: “NYE trip.”The couple looked the picture of happiness, as did De Villiers as she showed off a chic-looking jacket in individual snaps.Before sharing the post, Britney posted a series of photos of the plush resort they were calling home.The pair hit the slops with Gibbs-White’s teammate Elanga and his missus, China.Usually, Gibbs-White and his partner prefer hotter climates, as Britney’s Instagram suggests.There are many trips to luxurious destinations featured on her social media accounts.This includes jaunts to Dubai, Italy AND Portugal this summer.On the Amalfi Coast the pair hired a boat and showed off their love – sharing a kiss on board.They enjoyed another boat day in Dubai, as beautiful Britney showed off her amazing bikini body.Luxury destinations, including ski resorts are the norm for Gibbs-White and BritneyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney flew privately for their ski breakCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersIn the summer, Gibbs-White and Britney enjoyed a boat trip in the Amalfi CoastCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersSouth African beauty Britney showed off her amazing bikini body in DubaiCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney got together in 2019 and have been living the high-life sinceCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersread more sport featuresGibbs-White and Britney are seemingly very close to Elanga and his partner, China.They visited the Algarve as a group, sharing snaps together, before heading out for dinner.Britney juggles her travels with a busy life in the UK.She often appears in paid partnerships for a variety of beauty products.While she also modelled Gymshark wear in another clip.First time parentsGibbs-White and law graduate Britney began their romance in 2019.They reportedly met through a mutual friend, and he soon asked her out.They have since become inseparable – and welcomed baby Graysen into their lives in November 2023.On becoming a father, Gibbs-White told BBC Sport: “It’s the best feeling in the world. No feeling can describe it. It’s the hardest thing in the world as well.Gibbs White revealed how becoming a dad changed his life foreverCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersBaby Graysen joins his parents on many of their glam tripsCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersThe happy couple celebrate their son Graysen’s first birthdayCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersBritney and Graysen cheer on Gibbs-White on England dutyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliers”It [life] has changed for the better, it’s calmed me down and chilled me out. It’s another purpose to do well in football and do well in life.”Ever since he’s been with us, everything I do is for him. Every decision I make now I think twice about. Now he’s getting to the age where he’s got personality and is starting to express himself. He has this belly laugh going, I’m loving it.”As seen on Instagram, Gibbs-White and Britney are devoted parents.They regularly share their adventures with Graysen, from celebrating his first birthday with balloons to walks in the park.Graysen also joined his mummy to cheer on daddy at the Aviva Stadium, when he played for England against Ireland.Britney shared the pic on social media, captioning it: “Memories to last a lifetime.”Defending her honourWhile she showed his support for him, Gibbs-White leapt to the defence of Britney when she came under fire at Molineux.The midfielder, a former Wolves player, was met with boos every time he touched the ball.Worse still, sections of the crowd were heard chanting: “Your girlfriend’s a s**g.”Gibbs-White was asked if the taunts fired him up, explaining why he put his fingers in his ears for his goal celebration.”I think it always has the same meaning,” Gibbs White told Optus Sport.Gibbs-White was on the receiving end of abuse from Wolves fans directed at BritneyAfter scoring, Gibbs-White put his fingers in his ears to drown out the noiseGibbs White is devoted to his stunning Wag BritneyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliers'”Just block out whatever they say.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But I don’t mind it. It sort of gives me that edge and more motivation to do better and succeed. But I love it. I think this is what is part of football.”The fans really enjoying it, giving stick, and then us performing on the pitch. I’m just more than happy that the boys got the three points tonight.” More

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    Trent Alexander-Arnold vs Conor Bradley: Liverpool stars compared with England ace linked with Real Madrid transfer

    TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD: it’s the name on the tip of every Liverpool fan’s tongue… and Real Madrid fans’ too.And that’s the problem for Arne Slot – one of many he must face in the second half of his debut season at Anfield.Arne Slot has a dilemma on his hands regarding Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: ReutersConor Bradley is showing Liverpool fans – and Slot – there may be life after TrentCredit: EPAFollowing fan-favourite Jurgen Klopp was always going to be a hell of an ask.But the Dutch chief has guided Liverpool to miles clear at the top of the Premier League at the halfway stage – with dreams of a quadruple, including the Champions League, still very much alive.However, as of January 1, foreign clubs have been able to negotiate pre-contract terms for three of the Reds’ biggest stars.Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. All Kop legends. All Premier League champions. All Champions League winners.READ MORE SPORT STORIESBut, of the three, speculation has been swirling around one more than others: the local lad, Trent.The right-back was met by groans and moans among the Anfield faithful during his disasterclass in the 2-2 draw against struggling Manchester United.His defensive frailties have long been documented, despite noticeable improvements in recent months.Despite that, Real Madrid are desperate to land the England international.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSo much so, in fact, they are believed to have bid around £20million to sign him this month rather than risk a potential dogfight with Europe’s elite in the free-for-all of pre-contract deals.There’s no doubt Alexander-Arnold fits the mold of ‘Galatico’. Big name player, big match player, passing ability of Toni Kroos, free-kick ability of David Beckham.’He’s going to Tranmere after this’ – Roy Keane rips into Trent Alexander-Arnold after ‘school boy’ defending vs Man UtdLiverpool fans are naturally devastated. To lose a player of that ability is tough to take – particularly when gunning for every major trophy available.To lose a player of that ability who’s also a local lad and entering the prime years of his career aged 26… heartbreaking.However, there’s a young lad from Northern Ireland who’s here to remind the Kop squad there’s no reason to be worried: Conor Bradley.Now this is no “oh, there’s this talented kid in the youth squad” situation… far from it.Bradley has been part of the Reds’ first-team squad since the start of the 2023-24 season following a sublime loan spell at Bolton Wanderers a year earlier.To go from League One to the Premier League, though, always meant putting faith in the unknown.And boy how Bradley, now 21, repaid Klopp’s faith and etched his name into the hearts of the passionate Liverpool fandom.Trent Alexander-Arnold is among an elite few Liverpool players to ever lift the Premier League titleCredit: AlamyTrent Alexander-Arnold played a huge role in Liverpool lifting the 2019 Champions League trophyCredit: ReutersThe 23-cap international has understandably played second fiddle, but has excelled in his 41 appearances for the club.No Liverpool fan will forget his charging run and rifled right-foot finish as the Reds ran riot over Chelsea in a 4-1 battering to move five points clear at the top of the table last term.The strike won Liverpool’s Goal of the Month competition.But despite that, he’s not quite a Trent 2.0.While Alexander-Arnold has the skills of a world-beating central midfielder – despite his struggles when playing the position itself – Bradley is more of a combative, all-action defender.The youngster is accomplished on the ball and more than happy to dart up the pitch in possession.Against Man Utd, in his brief cameo after replacing Trent, he was keen to get forward and almost scored after a wonderful bit of skill and cheeky shot which nearly beat Andre Onana at his near post from a tight angle.However, he’s not expected to drift inside and join the midfield and spray passes like Alexander-Arnold. So while his passing numbers aren’t anything like his team-mate’s, his defensive stats are arguably much better.Bradley completes fewer passes and crosses per 90 minutes – although the numbers are somewhat skewed by Trent’s set-piece responsibilities.But he’s miles ahead in duels won and tackles made.The Northern Irishman is not shy of a crunching tackle – remember his delicious sliding tackle on Kylian Mbappe – and certainly keen to dart forward.In fact, in the 2024 calendar year, Bradley had just one goal fewer than Alexander-Arnold and one more assist, with seven, while completing more dribbles and having nearly TWICE as many touches in the opponents’ box.Conor Bradley’s crunching tackle as Liverpool beat Real Madrid lives long in Reds fans’ memoriesCredit: APConor Bradley made all Liverpool fans sit up and take notice after his stunning goal vs Chelsea last seasonCredit: PASo how should we ‘define’ Conor Bradley?While Alexander-Arnold fits the mold of the modern ‘inverted full-back’, joining the midfield in the centre of the pitch in attack, Bradley is more of a throwback full-back – with a modern twist.Bradley won’t sit back quietly and focus on defending, given licence to bomb up the wing and get stuck in in attack.But he’s got the speed and, crucially, energy to get back and help out when Liverpool’s all-attack approach leaves them short of numbers on the counter.More than that, his defensive instincts – something you can’t really coach – seem to be far superior to Alexander-Arnold.Sure, Bradley lacks the experience of Trent and some of the creative spark.But he has the ability to become a Kop favourite – and that’s no easy feat.READ MORE SUN STORIESOf course, Liverpool would love to cling onto talisman and future captain Alexander-Arnold.However, Bradley proves there is life after Trent for Slot, for Liverpool and for the fans should the Merseyside man swap Anfield for the Bernabeu.How Man Utd destroyed TrentMANCHESTER UNITED finally showed some steel as they drew 2-2 at rivals Liverpool.The league leaders had to settle for a point despite going 2-1 up at Anfield.Amad Diallo’s timely effort meant the spoils were shared from a match where brilliant battles were fought all over the pitch.United targeted supposedly-Real Madrid-bound Trent Alexander-Arnold and SunSport’s Dean Scoggins has lifted the lid on why they were so effective in doing so.Watch his latest Tactics Exposed video to see exactly how United pulled off the most unlikely of draws. 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    Chelsea ‘leading shock transfer race to sign Kobbie Mainoo from Man Utd’, according to bombshell reports

    CHELSEA are reportedly leading the race to sign Kobbie Mainoo after talks over a new Manchester United deal reached a stalemate.The Mail sensationally claims that United’s young midfielder could be on his way to Stamford Bridge despite his starring role in Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Liverpool.Chelsea are leading the race to sign Kobbie Mainoo from Man UtdCredit: RexThe Red Devils are eager to tie Mainoo down to a new contract, despite his current run not expiring until summer 2027.But talks over an extension have apparently hit a dead end.It’s reckoned FFP constraints mean United are unable to offer Mainoo similar terms to some of their top earners and no longer see him as untouchable.While the player himself is alleged to have “concerns” over the direction of the club and their lack of challenge for Champions League football.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt reportedly means Mainoo is facing an uncertain long-term future at Old Trafford.And Chelsea are now said to be plotting a move to bring Mainoo to London.Todd Boehly has made it his business to snap up the brightest talents in football.Mainoo is already an important fixture for club and country despite not turning 20 years old until April.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd he fits the profile of a modern-day Chelsea signing.Mainoo has already made 52 appearances for United since his debut two years ago.Watch Kobbie Mainoo leave three young Man Utd fans stunned with gift in wholesome hidden camera video He’s also played 10 times for England and was a key figure in their run to last summer’s Euros final.Should he join Chelsea, Mainoo would compete for a starting spot against Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Romeo Lavia.The Blues also have Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Cesare Casadei and Carney Chukwuemeka in their squad.While Andrey Santos and Lesley Ugochukwu are away on loan. More