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      Liverpool ‘could hijack Man City transfer for £50m star’ as replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold

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      LIVERPOOL face a £50million transfer duel with Manchester City as they battle to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold.TAA appears certain to join Real Madrid this summer on a five-year deal worth £240,000 a week.Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to join Real this summerCredit: GettyAnd the Reds are looking abroad in their hunt to find a new right-back.Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport reckon Juventus star Andrea Cambiaso is high up Liverpool’s wishlist.The 13-cap Italian reportedly came close to a big-money switch to Pep Guardiola’s City in the January transfer window.And there’s now an extra reason why Cambiaso, 25, is tipped to spark huge interest at the end of the season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLJuventus sacked Brazil-born manager Thiago Motta and his staff this week.In total, it’s understood the Serie A giants will have to pay them 15million euros (£12.5m) in compensation.That means Juve might need to find £25m by the end of June to meet all their financial targets.And they know ex-Genoa ace Cambiaso could raise twice that sum.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKMan City were reportedly close to signing Andrea CambiasoCredit: GettyThe Old Lady brought in former Lazio manager Igor Tudor to succeed Motta, albeit just for the remaining nine games this term.So Juve are likely to delay any major decision on outgoing players until the summer.’Reminded me of Gerrard at Liverpool’ – Cole Palmer told he needs to LEAVE Chelsea and has outgrown the club alreadyCambiaso has been one of their brightest lights this season as they sit a mediocre fifth in the Italian top flight.Similar to Alexander-Arnold, he can operate both on the right of a four-man defence or as a wing-back.After joining Juve in July 2022, Cambiaso is enjoying his best campaign yet. More

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      Chelsea send chief scout to watch explosive Colombia wonderkid with controversial trick ahead of transfer window

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      A SENIOR Chelsea scout witnessed an incredible moment during a spying mission to assess a top South American target in Colombia last night.The Blues’ official was in Bogota to track the progress of teenage forward Neyser Villarreal, who sparked chaos in a derby clash against Santa Fe by standing on the ball.Chelsea are keeping tabs on Millonarios wonderkid Neyser VillarrealCredit: ConmebolVillarreal sparked chaos in a derby clash against Santa Fe by standing on the ballCredit: XThat led to a brawl while Chelsea’s chief scout was watching from the standsCredit: XThe 19-year-old winger was immediately booked by the referee for showboating as tensions between the two rival clubs flared on the pitch and in the stands.Villarreal was the standout player for Colombia’s team at this year’s South American Under-20 championships, where he finished as the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals and four assists.But the Millonarios starlet is no stranger to controversy in his short professional career, having missed training with his club after being inundated with offers to move overseas last month.Porto, Inter Miami and Watford are all keen to sign the talented attacker, who can play in any position across the frontline and has a contract that is currently set to expire later this year.Read More on ChelseaBut now Chelsea have stepped up their interest in Villarreal by sending their top scout in the region all the way from Sao Paulo to Bogota to check up on him.Stamford Bridge is already home to a huge contingent of South American stars and many more have been signed by the Blues and farmed out for experience elsewhere.That number includes Colombian U20 teammate Oscar Perea, who was signed by BlueCo-owned Strasbourg last summer.Villarreal’s ceiling appears to be higher as he caught the eye with his dynamic dribbling and shooting at the South American Under-20 championships.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHis ability to maneuver in tight spaces often saw him draw the attention of multiple defenders, but he easily beat opponents in one-on-one situations with body feints and quick changes of direction.His pace made him a constant threat when Colombia counterattacked and he proved adept at instigating one-twos to break defensive lines around congested penalty areas.Ben Chilwell opens up on being bombed out by Chelsea before Crystal Palace lifelineScouts noted his explosive acceleration made it look like he had an extra gear while the power and accuracy on his shots was also impressive.The teenager may need to work on the consistency of his final ball, but he demonstrated a variety of driven and floated crosses during the tournament as well as some astute decision making in the final third.Although naturally stronger shooting with his right foot, Villarreal showed a tendency to cut inside from the right and attempt curling left-footed shots towards the far post, which showed room for improvement. More

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      Jose Mourinho appears to take ANOTHER dig at Allan Saint-Maximin as he congratulates Marco Silva on reaching 500 games

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      JOSE MOURINHO appeared to take another dig at Allan Saint-Maximin as he congratulated Marco Silva on managing his 500th game.Mourinho, 62, has coached Saint-Maximin at Fenerbahce this season.Jose Mourinho made scathing comments about Allan Saint-MaximinCredit: GettyThe winger has endured a tough loan spell in TurkeyCredit: GettyThe former Newcastle favourite signed on loan from Al-Ahli last summer but has since had his professionalism questioned by his boss.When Mourinho dropped the winger for their Europa League clash with Rangers earlier this month, Saint-Maximin wrote on Instagram: “When a lie takes the elevator, the truth takes the stairs. It takes longer, but it arrives in the end.”The Portuguese subsequently hit back: “I didn’t know Saint-Maximin had a gift for poetry. I’m not bad at it either.”When a footballer works well, works hard and trains every day, he can be in good form and climb up the stairs. He doesn’t need to use the lift.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”By contrast, if a player doesn’t train well, turns up late, is overweight and isn’t ready to play a match, then he needs to use the lift – as he’ll soon get tired on the stairs.”When contacted by Portuguese paper A Bola about Silva’s milestone, Mourinho echoed Saint-Maximin’s phrase.The experienced boss said: “Five-hundred? A beautiful number, which with more grey hairs will reach 600… 700…”Congratulations Marco, for a beautiful career, based on talent, work, seriousness, discretion.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKMourinho, 62, has not been impressed with Saint-Maximin’s applicationCredit: GettyThe Portuguese boss did battle with his younger compatriot in EnglandCredit: Getty”You climbed the stairs, where many had the elevator at their disposal.”Congratulations for a career made of results and not perceptions. I admire and applaud you.”Jose Mourinho’s secret Ibrox visitSilva, 47, has also been very complimentary of his compatriot.The Fulham boss said of how Portuguese bosses are viewed in England: “We are certainly well regarded. And we all agree that Jose Mourinho’s influence was transcendent.”After having won what he won in Portugal, arriving in England, having that triumphant entrance and getting Chelsea to play and win titles 50 years later, he ended up being fundamental for the arrival of other Portuguese coaches.”Andre Villas-Boas followed, who had won the Europa League, and I was the third to arrive.”But it was Jose Mourinho who opened the doors for us.”Fenerbahce beat Rangers 2-0 at Ibrox in Saint-Maximin’s absence but were dumped out on penalties having lost the first leg 3-1.They subsequently drew 0-0 at home to Samsunspor ahead of the international break, with Saint-Maximin again not making the matchday squad.The winger has made just four appearances since before Christmas, often being left as an unused substitute.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe has denied Mourinho’s claims about his fitness, claiming to be the same weight as he was in 2022.The Frenchman also wrote on Instagram: “Lies give you flowers – but they don’t bear fruit.”Saint-Maximin has hardly featured in recent weeksCredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal Champions League boost as Mbappe leads FOUR Real Madrid stars under Uefa investigation for ‘indecent conduct’

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      ARSENAL could be handed a massive Champions League boost with FOUR Real Madrid stars potentially BANNED from next month’s quarter final clash.Superstar strikers Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger and midfielder Dani Caballos all face an official Uefa probe for their antics against Atletico Madrid in the last-16.Kylian Mbappe is one of four Real Madrid stars under investigationCredit: AlamyAntonio Rudiger began a jubilant high-knee run after scoring the winning penalty against Atletico MadridCredit: ReutersRudigerappeared to aim a throat-cutting gesture at Atleti supportersCredit: GettyUEFA said it appointed a disciplinary inspector to study the unspecified allegationsCredit: GettyA Uefa Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate allegations of “indecent conduct” by all four players.The unspecified incidents occurred during Real’s second leg last-16 victory against city rivals Atletico on March 12.Their punishment, if found guilty, is not yet known.But IF they are banned, it could be a huge advantage for Arsenal, who are missing several key players through injury.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSThe Gunners host the 15-time European champions on Tuesday 8, with the return leg at the Bernabeu the following Wednesday.And Vinicius and Mbappe are joint-highest in club goals in the Champions League this season, with seven goals apiece.Madrid advanced to the quarter-finals in a controversial 4-2 shootout after Atletico won the second leg 1-0 to tie the aggregate score at 2-2.Tensions were high at the Metropolitano before, and after, Julian Alvarez’ spot-kick was disqualified by VAR.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAtletico are understood to have filed a formal complaint to Uefa, which then began its investigation.Vinicius was the most high-profile case, as he reportedly took six “shots” at Atleti supporters during and after the clash.Trent Alexander-Arnold has agreed terms on a move to Real Madrid this summer, according to reports The Brazilian, long targeted by rival fans and who has been a regular victim of racist abuse, was involved in two separate confrontations with home fans before and after the shoot-out.The 24-year-old skied a penalty in normal time and had been substituted in extra-time but taunted them by pointing to the Real crest on his coat.Rudiger was accused of making a throat-slitting gesture to home supporters.Ceballos is accused of making an obscene one-armed gesture with a clenched fist before joining Jude Bellingham in a victory dance at the very end of the match.German centre-back Rudiger – who won his first Champions League with Chelsea in 2021 – began a jubilant high-knee dance after scoring the winning penalty on the night.Most of the team followed, with subs imitating it. Mbappe was reported for touching his genitals in a clearly derogatory manner.Diego Simeone was banned for grabbing his bits during a Champions League match against Juventus.READ MORE SUN STORIESReal are likely to point out that their players were hit by bottles and other objects thrown by home supporters but the investigation could end up with serious repercussions.It remains to be seen whether Rudiger, Ceballos, Vinicius or Mbappe are charged by Uefa over these incidents.THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

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      Sir Alex Ferguson’s classy gesture to Danny Welbeck revealed 12 years after striker last played for Man Utd legend

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      DANNY WELBECK has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson still calls him after games.The Brighton star, 34, came through the ranks at Manchester United under the legendary Scot.Danny Welbeck recently scored a brilliant goal against NewcastleCredit: GettySir Alex Ferguson remains in contact with his ex-playersCredit: ReutersWelbeck won a Premier League title with the Red Devils, but was sold to Arsenal just 12 months after Ferguson’s 2013 departure.Ahead of this weekend’s FA Cup quarter-finals, the striker revealed that his old boss, 83, contacted him after his goal against Newcastle in the last round.Speaking to the BBC, Welbeck said: “[Sir Alex Ferguson] actually phoned me after the Newcastle goal.”He talked about the goal and the performance.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”He was buzzing and to have that sort of connection, he is a manager who is always looking out for his players, always wants the best for them, and still to this day is in contact.”Welbeck’s brilliant extra time winner against Newcastle set up this Saturday’s quarter-final between Brighton and Nottingham Forest.The former England star has had a productive season on the South Coast, scoring seven Premier League goals in just 17 starts.His Toon strike even prompted former Man Utd team-mate Wayne Rooney to make a big claim.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKWelbeck played under Sir Alex at Man UtdCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe Red Devils’ all-time leading goalscorer, 39, said: “Danny’s great to play alongside.”If I’m completely honest I’d probably like to still see him here, playing for Manchester United.Danny Welbeck lifts lid on ex-Man Utd players’ WhatsApp group including one huge star who just ‘chats and chats’ “He’s scored goals throughout his career. He had injuries in the early part of his career but he seems to have got over them and he’s having a fantastic season.”Welbeck recently revealed that he is part of a WhatsApp group full of former Man Utd stars.He told Sky Sports: “Everybody plays a part. It’s a lot of banter, chatting about football and a lot of banter.”Asked who the admin is, Welbeck replied: “I think it might be Rio [Ferdinand].”He just chats doesn’t he. You know what he’s like he just chats and chats.”He loves it. He’s making a career out of talking now so… we give me a lot of stick too.” More

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      Iconic Premier League stadium looks unrecognisable as throwback pics show how famous stand got its name

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      ONE of the Premier League’s most iconic stadiums looks unrecognisable in a re-surfaced throwback picture.Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge looks completely different these days as a 40,000-seat arena that has hosted some of the biggest teams in world football – but it hasn’t always been that way.Stamford Bridge looked completely different back in the dayCredit: Hulton Archive – GettyThe ground has been home to Chelsea since 1905 and started hosting sports in 1877Credit: PAThe ‘Shed End’ has grown more and more over the yearsCredit: ColorsportAn old photo circulating on social media showed the SW6 ground looking like it belonged to non-league minnows – with a tiny stand sitting right behind the goal.But it’s that terrace, which was originally built in 1930, that has given its name to a Chelsea stand that is still in the stadium today.The rickety old structure beard a remarkable resemblance to A SHED due to its partial covering and rustic look.The original stand had been built to house punters and bookmakers for dog racing, which used to take place on a track enclosed within Stamford Bridge in the 1930s.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans began to affectionately call the unusual stand the ‘Shed End’ – a name that ultimately stuck.So much so that when Chelsea renovated the stadium and added a new stand on that south side, they ensured that it was officially named the Shed End.In fact, the stands itself actually bears the words on it.The incredible history behind the 148-year-old stadium could be about to come to an end.Most read in FootballChelsea’s South stand still bears the name ‘Shed End’Credit: GettyStamford Bridge looks completely different nowCredit: GettyThe Blues could be leaving soonCredit: AlamyJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeChelsea owner Todd Boehly has insisted that the West London club WILL move out of their historic digs – which has been home to the club since 1905.Boehly told Bloomberg: “I think we have to think about long term, what we are trying to accomplish.Inside Chelsea’s new £1.6BILLION stadium plans with Stamford Bridge project set to rival Tottenham’s”We have a big stadium development opportunity that we have to flesh out.”Adding: “Stadium development is a theme [around the world].”Sporting infrastructure, we’re very much on the front end of the sporting wave. We have 16-20 years to figure this out.”Obviously, inside of London it’s really complex. It’s not as if we’re building something in the middle of a rural environment.”We have a lot of constituencies to make sure that we care about.”Certainly the Chelsea fanbase is one. But long term, I think we’re going to be building something new. And we’ll figure that out.”READ MORE SUN STORIESPlans for a £500million, 60,000-capacity redevelopment were initially confirmed in 2015 when Roman Abramovich was still owner, only to be scrapped three years later.While SunSport revealed last month that ambitious chief Boehly has sounded out a new site in Earls Court.Chelsea owner Todd Boehly said that the club will leave Stamford BridgeCredit: AP More

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      Reading FC reveal that transfer embargo is imminent as club break silence on EFL disqualification threat

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      READING face a fresh transfer embargo amid uncertainty around their potential EFL disqualification.The club have shared an update on the ongoing crisis at the club, which saw owner Dai Yongge disqualified by the EFL due to his debts in China.Reading have provided an update amid their ongoing takeover situationCredit: Reading FCOwner Dai Yongge was disqualified by the EFLCredit: Rex FeaturesYongge failed the owners and directors test and must sell up or Reading will be disqualified from the EFL.The Royals are subject to a takeover and the sale is still ongoing.An exclusivity period is in place that will see the prospective owner buy the club, the stadium and the training ground.However an ongoing litigation case with Rob Couhig is holding up the sale process.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCouhig, who previously owned Wycombe Wanderers, had agreed a £30million deal to buy the Royals.But the deal subsequently collapsed with Couhig claiming he lost more than £12m in potential profits after Reading broke their exclusivity agreement.Reading released a statement providing an update which read: “Exclusivity remains in place with the proposed purchaser, with the sales proposal including the club, Select Car Leasing Stadium, and Bearwood Park Training Facility. “All parties remain positive in the desire to complete a transaction at the earliest possible opportunity.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”Regarding the ongoing litigation case with Mr Couhig and last Friday’s Commercial Court hearing, the club can confirm that a formal proposal for alternative security has been made to Mr Couhig via his legal representatives. “It is hoped that the proposal will be agreed quickly in resolution of the current security impasse, to facilitate the sales process.EFL goalkeeper concedes ‘most embarrassing goal ever seen’ as fans fume ‘get him off that pitch now’ “The club would also like to clarify the current position with the EFL, and Mr Dai’s disqualification as a Director. “Under the terms of the disqualification, Mr Dai must now divest his interests in Reading Football Club and is committed to doing so to meet this requirement.”Reading also confirmed their transfer embargo was lifted after they published their 2022/23 accounts to Companies House.However they face another transfer embargo if they fail to file their accounts for the 2023/24 season before the EFL’s March 31 deadline – the club state it is “highly unlikely” they will meet the requirement. More

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      Frank Lampard tipped for England job as former Premier League manager says ‘it just shines through’

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      CHRIS WILDER believes Frank Lampard should be in the running to be the next England boss.The two managers go head-to-head in a bumper Championship promotion clash when Sheffield United host Coventry on Friday night.Chris Wilder believes Frank Lampard should be in the running to be next England bossCredit: GettyLampard has taken Coventry from 15th to fifth since joining in NovemberCredit: GettyChelsea legend Lampard took over the Sky Blues in November, his fifth job in management, when they were just two points above the relegation zone.Now he takes them to the Blades sitting fifth and among the favourites to clinch a play-off spot.Wilder said: “I’ve got an enormous amount of respect for Frank Lampard, I honestly have.“His playing career is there for everybody to see but I just love the fact that he loves football and it just shines through.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“He took a tough job at Derby and got through to a play-off final and we had a couple of great games with them in that season and he had an outstanding run at it.“Tough gig at Chelsea when they didn’t sign any players and he had to play a lot of young players. Tough gig at Everton.“I don’t think he gets the credit that he deserves, I honestly don’t.“People talk about England managers and people are critical of him, I just don’t get it. He can quite easily manage England.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“The job he’s doing at Coventry, he didn’t have to do it, but he wants to get his hands dirty. “He loves football, he loves the changing room, he loves everything about football. So I’m a big fan.”Harry Redknapp rings me on the M40 after every game whether we win or lose – he’s the best uncle everMeanwhile, Wilder’s Blades are locked in a three-horse race for automatic promotion with Leeds and Burnley.A victory against Coventry would take them three points clear of Leeds, who host Swansea, and five ahead of Burnley, and he insists he is relishing every second of the run-in.Wilder said: “We have to embrace and enjoy this, and that’s everybody from staff to players to supporters.“We really have to enjoy it because there’s plenty of times where you have dark days in football and these clubs have had a few dark days over the years and even recently. So when the sun shines, you’ve got to enjoy it.“The full focus now is on to the last eight games and taking the next one in our stride.”With a sold-out crowd set to cheer them on, Wilder also called for fans to help his players “get over the line” in the promotion race.He added: “The team really deserves and needs a massive push from, from the punters.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I know I’ve always said it’s up to the players to set the tone, but the players need the help now to get over the line and I know they’ll do everything they can to help us.“I’m sure they’ll be as loud as they’ll ever have been at Bramall Lane on Friday to make that a tough place to come.” More