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      Arsenal ‘interested in signing Leroy Sane’ in free transfer with ex-Man City yet to be offered new contract

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      ARSENAL are reportedly interested in signing Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane.Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is in desperate need of some attacking reinforcements.Arsenal are interested in Leroy SaneCredit: GettyThe club’s recent injury crisis has highlighted the lack of squad depth at the Emirates, with 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard and on-loan winger Raheem Sterling the only available options in attack.Arteta is determined to strengthen his squad when the summer transfer window opens.And German outlet Bild has claimed that Sane could be a top pick.The 29-year-old’s Bayern Munich contract is set to expire at the end of the season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe is yet to agree terms for a new deal so could become available on a free transfer come July.Arteta is understood to be keen on the prospect of signing Sane.The German winger joined Bayern from Manchester City for around £55million in July 2020 and has since managed 106 goal contributions in 209 appearances.Prior to his time in Munich, Sane spent four years with Man City and won two Premier League titles.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsArsenal are also interested in signing Joshua Kimmich in a free transfer from Bayern.The German side allegedly withdrew his contract offer last month.Leroy Sane PUNCHES TV camera after Bayern Munich concede third goal in devastating defeat to Bayer Leverkusen More

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      William Saliba ‘really happy’ at Arsenal but admits he must win silverware to be considered world’s best defender

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      WILLIAM SALIBA says he is “really happy” at Arsenal amid interest from Real Madrid – and wants to cement his North London legacy with trophies.However, the Gunners defender insists there is “no rush” to begin contract negotiations, despite his Emirates deal expiring in June 2027.William Saliba admits this season has not gone to planCredit: GettyThe Arsenal defender is gunning for glory in the Champions LeagueCredit: GettySaliba, 23, has become one of the most talented centre backs in Europe since breaking into Mikel Arteta’s side, making his Prem debut in August 2022.Meanwhile, Spanish giants Madrid are monitoring from afar, hoping to lure the Frenchman away over the next few transfer windows with his contract running down.But ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League last 16 clash with PSV, Saliba said: “I’m really happy here. I’ve been here for two years and a half as well.”There is nothing [to discuss]. I’m happy and I want to continue here.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe French defender signed a four-year deal in July 2023. That contract did not include an option to extend by a further 12 months, but crucially did not include a release clause either.On if there have been talks over extending his contract, Saliba added: “Not yet, because we have some years [to go]. There is no rush at the minute. I’m happy here. That’s it.”Saliba joined Arsenal in the summer of 2019 for £27m before being sent out on three loan spells – at former club St Etienne, OGC Nice and Marseille.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsHis move was powered by his aspirations of lifting major silverware and becoming the best defender in the world. So far, neither of those dreams have come true.In Europe this term, Arsenal have conceded just four goals in nine games, and have the best defence in the Prem with just 24 goals conceded – three less than Liverpool. Mikel Arteta walks out of Sky Sports interview moments after Arsenal lose further ground in Premier League title raceYet Saliba admits his performances have been below par, in comparison to his idol Sergio Ramos, Liverpool’s “unbelievable” Virgil van Dijk and his own defensive partner Gabriel.Saliba continued: “This season I have not been so good. I have to work on my game.”I have to focus on myself and work more on my concentration, I have to score more and help my team more to win trophies. I have to push, to demand more of myself.”I have to watch my partner, Gabriel, who has been so, so good this season. There are a few [defenders better]. Van Dijk is unbelievable.”I want to one day be the best defender in the world. When you win trophies, you can say you’re the best.”The Champions League dream is still alive this campaign, heading into tonight’s Emirates second leg with a 7-1 lead from last week’s trip to Eindhoven.Arsenal ratings vs Man Utd as Rice runs Gunners midfield but wonderkid Nwaneri falls below high standardsDECLAN RICE rescued a point for Arsenal after David Raya failed to stop a Bruno Fernandes freekick.Fernandes’ set piece was followed by a brilliant Rice strike in the second half, leaving the sides with a point apiece.After a quiet first half, both sides woke up and provided more going forward after the break but lacked quality in the final third.Raya’s display in the second half more than made up for his earlier error and, alongside Rice, kept his side in the game.Coming off the back of a riotous 7-1 victory over PSV, Arsenal reverted to their goal scoring woes and proved once again that they desperately need a striker.But, who was on the mark for the Gunners?Can Mikel Arteta push for the title without an out-and-out striker?And did anyone shine off the bench for Arteta’s side?Here, SunSport’s Conor Jones delivers his Arsenal player ratings against Manchester United…A quarter final spot awaits early next month, against one of Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid – having been knocked out at the same stage last year against Bayern Munich.But Arteta’s men are on course for a third-straight Prem campaign in second place, currently 15 points adrift of Arne Slot’s runaway Liverpool with 10 games remaining.Saliba said: “This season we don’t deserve to be top [of the Prem].“If Liverpool are first it is because they did something we didn’t do. They are so good as well. Of course there’s a big gap but we have to keep going.“I want to win big things with Arsenal. If you leave this club without winning anything the fans will forget about you.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We are very close. We don’t stop working. When you are close like this, when you don’t win trophies, it’s sad but we have to keep going.“I’m really sure that we will arrive there. If we don’t believe or if we don’t dream to win the Champions League there is no point to play.” More

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      ‘That’s a concern’ – Arsenal legend Martin Keown reveals his big Ethan Nwaneri ‘worry’ with youngster ‘not a man yet’

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      MARTIN KEOWN is desperate for Ethan Nwaneri NOT to get an England call-up this month over fears of fatigue.The 17-year-old academy star has been a revelation for Arsenal in the absence of crocked Bukayo Saka so far this term, scoring eight goals in 28 games across all competitions.The Arsenal teenager has enjoyed a meteoric rise this seasonCredit: GettyWith Thomas Tuchel announcing his first England squad on Friday, Gunners midfielder Nwaneri has an outside chance of being included in his first senior Three Lions camp – having already represented the U16s, U17s and U19s.However, Arsenal legend Keown is concerned for Nwaneri’s welfare – especially given his slight drop-off in recent Prem clashes against West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Manchester United.TNT pundit Keown explained: “There’s a chance [Nwaneri] may make the international team. That’s a concern, that’s a worry.”You take it if it comes but if it doesn’t, then he gets a nice bit of time with the manager, resting up between games so there’s a balance.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”It does one thing for confidence but another for the body. When you’re 17, you’re not even fully developed in terms of your cardiovascular system. You’re not really a man yet.”There’s still some growing to do, and recently he has looked tired, like he was blowing, and this is normal for a 17-year-old kid.”So it might be a time where he needs resting. And if he doesn’t make the full squad, does he need to be involved in the U21s?”This has got to be sensibly managed between now and the end of the season.”Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsTuchel’s England have two home World Cup qualifiers coming up – against Albania on March 21 and Latvia on March 24.Another Arsenal youngster that has a chance of being in the mix is left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly after also breaking into the first team under Mikel Arteta this campaign.Mikel Arteta walks out of Sky Sports interview moments after Arsenal lose further ground in Premier League title raceGiven England’s left-back situation – with consistent fitness issues for Luke Shaw, Ben Chilwell and Lewis Hall – 18-year-old Lewis-Skelly has been earmarked for his international debut following a recent spell as U19s captain.And Keown believes he deserves it – even with a disciplinary record that Arteta has warned could make the teenager a liability.Keown said: “He’s had some issues, but in terms of physicality, he’s ready to go. “He looks like he could play and there’s a problem at left-back for England.”He’s different [to Nwaneri], more developed. I wouldn’t say he’s a freak of nature, but when you see the strength in him, he is all about power.”So he is not going to want to be denied the opportunity to play for England.”Arsenal ratings vs Man Utd as Rice runs Gunners midfield but wonderkid Nwaneri falls below high standardsDECLAN RICE rescued a point for Arsenal after David Raya failed to stop a Bruno Fernandes freekick.Fernandes’ set piece was followed by a brilliant Rice strike in the second half, leaving the sides with a point apiece.After a quiet first half, both sides woke up and provided more going forward after the break but lacked quality in the final third.Raya’s display in the second half more than made up for his earlier error and, alongside Rice, kept his side in the game.Coming off the back of a riotous 7-1 victory over PSV, Arsenal reverted to their goal scoring woes and proved once again that they desperately need a striker.But, who was on the mark for the Gunners?Can Mikel Arteta push for the title without an out-and-out striker?And did anyone shine off the bench for Arteta’s side?Here, SunSport’s Conor Jones delivers his Arsenal player ratings against Manchester United…Lewis-Skelly has been shown two straight reds already in his senior Arsenal career, first at Molineux in January – which was later rescinded – and in February at the Emirates against the Hammers.And he was lucky not to pick up a first-half second yellow in the 7-1 Champions League last 16 first leg victory over PSV last week.Keown – who was shown 6 red cards in 310 Prem appearances for Arsenal – added: “I remember at that age being impetuous, going off your feet. But you just learn.”I had to do that myself, you have to learn the hard way. You think you can win every tackle, and then suddenly you’re playing against a quicker, stronger player, a little nudge here and there, and you’re committed to it.”People now will probably be diving in and around him a little bit, because they know he might go off his feet. READ MORE SUN STORIES”So just pick and choose, but you get better at that.”Arsenal legend Martin Keown doesn’t believe Ethan Nwaneri should link up with EnglandCredit: RexWatch Arsenal in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League, live on TNT Sports and discovery+ More

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      Sky Sports accidentally broadcast X-rated message during Man Utd vs Arsenal clash

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      A MANCHESTER United fan’s X-rated message to the owners was accidentally broadcast by live Sky Sports cameras.The supporter’s note – possibly to the Glazers and Sir Jim Ratcliffe – was beamed across the world as United players headed down the tunnel following the 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Sunday.Fans spotted an X-rated sign during Sky’s broadcast of Manchester United vs ArsenalArsenal’s fading hopes of chasing Liverpool down took another knock, as they sit now 15 points behind the Reds with ten games to go.Declan Rice delivered heroics at both ends of Old Trafford to earn Arsenal a dramatic point against 14th place United.During the aftermath, fans spotted an X-rated sign held up by a supporter in the Stretford End as the players walked off.The capitalised message, written in a black marker on a slab of cardboard, read: “Sell United and f*** off home.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDThousands of fans gathered outside Old Trafford before kick-off to protest against the club’s ownership. Viral videos showed hundreds chanting those same words on the road leading up to the iconic stadium.There were an estimated 5,000 people taking part in the mile-long march.Scores of flares were set off as fans dressed in black sang abusive songs towards co-chairman Joel Glazer and Ratcliffe, who has spent £1.3bn for a 28.94 per cent stake in the club.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe 1958 spokesperson Steve Crompton has claimed that the club is “dying” and is “facing financial Armageddon”.Reacting on social media, one fan said: “Sky fully showing that Glazers f*** off home sign 😂😂”Amorim ‘pleased’ with Man Utd performance despite missed chances against Arsenal Another tweeted: “Well done to this man. Seen by the world.”A third fan added: “Let’s hope the Glazers saw it and for once read the room.”Speaking after the match, United boss Ruben Amorim was asked about the protest.He replied: “This club will never die, that is clear. You feel it in the streets. “This is a big business and maybe all the fans in this league sometimes feel it is harder to go to the games and pay for tickets.”We want to give them a lot of effort. In the future, we will not play like that.”United fans protested against the club’s ownership on SundayRuben Amorim spoke candidly about the pre-match demonstrationsCredit: GettyThe Red Devils looked on course for a morale-boosting victory thanks to Bruno Fernandes’ controversial free-kick on the brink of half-time.The United captain curled in a dead ball after referee Anthony Taylor set the Arsenal wall back 11.2 yards, according to broadcast technology, rather than the minimum 10 yards.READ MORE SUN STORIESRice brilliantly whipped in Jurrien Timber’s cutback to level the match with 16 minutes to go and then, moments later, slid in when sub Rasmus Hojlund was clean through on goal. The England star celebrated the tackle almost as emphatically as the goal. More

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      Rachel Yankey reflects on Chloe Kelly’s Arsenal return and her visit to Lauren James’ old school

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      RACHEL YANKEY wants Arsenal to remain a happy hunting ground for Chloe Kelly, with the forward back amongst the goals. And the Gunners legend hopes the club can return to trophy glory in Europe. Rachel Yankey hopes Chloe Kelly can continue shining for ArsenalCredit: GettyOn March 7 Yankey and Ian Wright took part in the FA’s and Barclays’ Biggest Ever Football Session event at Lauren James’ old school in TwickenhamAlong with fellow Gunners icon Yankey hopes to encourage more girls to participate in footballYankey, who took part in the FA’s and Barclays’ fourth Biggest Ever Football Session on Friday, was speaking before Arsenal’s FA Cup clash with Liverpool. Today the Gunners host the Reds in a quarter-final duel with the Cup remaining one of their strongest chances of silverware this term. The clash comes seven days after Kelly, 27, netted her first league goal this this year during Arsenal’s 4-3 defeat of West Ham .It was also her first since sealing a January loan move from Manchester City in pursuit of more game time and a spot in Sarina Wiegman’s England squad for the Euros.  Read More Football StoriesYankey, 45, has fond memories of Kelly’s early days as a senior Arsenal player. The versatile winger, who won 22 trophies during her 15-year Gunners career, was on the pitch when she made her first Arsenal debut at 17 in 2015. In July that year Kelly scored during a 3-0 League Cup match defeat of Watford. Yankey, who also netted in that game, said: “I remember her as a youngster coming through and the potential that she had. Most read in Football”It was clear to see that she’s talented.”She’s made the move because she wants to get into the England team (for the Euros).”And I hope that she can get into that England team and perform because we all know what a fantastic player she is. “Chloe with a smile on her face playing football is where I see her at the moment. “If she’s happy, then that’s a good thing.”With Kelly cup tied her Gunners pals hope to reach this year’s FA Cup semis ahead of a WSL trip to Everton on March 14. While the forward cannot feature in today’s encounter she can play in the Champions League quarters as well as the Gunners’ last seven WSL fixtures this term. The team are set to face Real Madrid in the contest’s last eight with the first leg away on March 18.And Yankey, who helped Arsenal become the first English club to win the Women’s Champions League in 2007, hopes the team can triumph in Europe again. The former England play, who has 129 caps,  added: “We saw from the Lionesses’ Euros win, if you win a major tournament or if you win a Champions League or the league, success brings you an audience. “For me, historically, Arsenal Football Club is the biggest in women’s football, so they need to win something.”Before today’s match and ahead of International Women’s Day Yankey paid a visit to Lauren James’ old secondary school in Twickenham. Along with fellow Gunners icon Ian Wright, Yankey ran a football session encouraging girls to get involved in the sport.Last year 475,000 girls took part in similar events in 5,000 schools across the country.This year’s session took place a week after the FA’s launch of the Made for this Game campaign which aims to provide more chances for women and girls to participate in football.”If we don’t do projects like this then who knows where the next grassroots ethnic minority player will come from.Rachel Yankey James, who began her senior career at Arsenal in 2017 before joining Manchester United a year later and then switching to Chelsea in 2021, is one of the most high profile players in the WSL. Since her return to London almost four years ago, the forward has won three league title with the Blues and two FA Cups.  In 2023 James was part of an England side that competed in a World Cup final for the first time in the team’s history with the team narrowly beaten 1-0 by Spain. Since that final was played in Sydney Australia she is one of five players from Black and mixed race heritage to have featured for the Lionesses. The other players are Brighton and Tottenham forwards Nikita Parris and Jess Naz and Man United and Gotham defenders Gabby George and Jess Carter. Yankey hopes events like the Biggest Ever Football Session will encourage  more girls from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds getting involved in the sport.  Yankey said: “If we don’t do projects like this then who knows where the next grassroots ethnic minority player will come from.”Sessions like this give girls the opportunity to get involved and that’s why it’s so important.”Aside from playing football Yankey hopes to see more girls get involved in other aspects of the sportCredit: Action Images – ReutersBy 2028 the FA hopes to have 90 per cent of schools providing girls with equal opportunities to play football in curricular and extracurricular set-ups.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd beyond encourage more girls to play the game, Yankey hopes the FA’s efforts can influence them to get involved in the sport in other ways. She adds: “We need to make sure we educate the young girls, their parents, and everybody, that football and sport can be so powerful in helping people in different ways in their life.” More

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      Arsenal files: Update on Raheem Sterling’s future after impressing coaches and historic North London derby on the cards

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      RAHEEM STERLING joined Arsenal on loan with the hope of getting more minutes under his belt and lifting his confidence.However, it hasn’t quite worked out that way.Raheem Sterling has had limited minutes at Arsenal this seasonCredit: GettyHaving fallen out of favour at Chelsea, the winger was looking for a new challenge to get his smile back.But with limited minutes to his name, Sterling could leave the Emirates feeling disappointed.In this weeks edition of Arsenal Files, Jordan Davies looks at Sterling’s time at the club as well as Ethan Nwaneri’s influence and potential pre-season tour plans.STERLING’S LACK OF CHANCESMore than anything, Sterling was desperate to build a real bond with the Arsenal fans when he joined on Deadline Day last summer, excited to start over after falling out of favour with Chelsea’s ownership.A player in much need of love and support, the Emirates could have been the perfect fit.Sterling has started just nine games so far this seasonCredit: GettyThe forward is yet to score in the Premier League this seasonUnfortunately, seven months into the season, it feels like he will never feel it – purely because he has had very few chances to build any momentum to leave a lasting impression on the Gunners supporters.The call to switch from West to North London was a late one, and so the expectations of what Sterling was going to achieve had to be rational and realistic.A unique opportunity presented itself that Sterling took with open arms, especially because the alternative was sitting in the reserves with Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca wanting a different profile of winger, or going to the Middle East – something that was never a considerationAt 30 years old, Sterling knew what his role would be under Mikel Arteta – a man he grew to respect and admire when working under him at Manchester City as an assistant under Pep Guardiola.It was not about being the main man, the hero – a title he earned during an impressive seven-year stint at City that saw him lift four Prem titles and score 131 goals in 339 appearances.Mikel Arteta makes light of Arsenal goal rush after PSV thrashing At Arsenal, it was more about being a valuable asset to an already talented squad, using that winning mentality to help Arsenal go on to do the same.And in many aspects, off the pitch in particular, he has executed that part as well as anyone.SunSport understands that he is highly rated and respected by the coaching staff purely for his professionalism and work rate in training, setting standards high.He has worked tirelessly to be a mentor for the young players coming through like Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly – a real calming influence in what is a pressurised, cut-throat environment.He has been a likeable and happy presence around London Colney, building a real rapport with staff, thanks partly to his son being in the academy set-up there and loving life in London.He has a great and honest relationship with Arteta.He has never felt frozen out like he did at Chelsea, even when chances have not been presented to him – which is where the real issue lies.Sterling never expected to start every week, but there is a recognition that had he been given more time to prove his worth, to build his confidence, Arsenal would be reaping more rewards, especially given their injury concerns now.He has started just two games back-to-back this term, in October at home to Southampton and then away at Bournemouth – subbed off in the first half of the latter in a 2-0 defeat after William Saliba’s early red card.From November 2 to January 12, he started just once – a 3-2 Carabao Cup victory against Crystal Palace – albeit with two weeks out during that period due to a minor knee issue.Since then, opportunities have been rare. In one of just TWO games where he has played the full 90 minutes so far this season, he put in a promising performance in a 2-1 Champions League win at Girona on January 29, seeing a late penalty saved.After a challenging display in the 2-0 Prem victory at Leicester on February 15, Arteta told reporters that Sterling needed to have a “big impact” on games with Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli all out injured.Sterling has been a mentor for young players like Ethan NwaneriCredit: APAnd yet, in the next three matches, he was given a combined 41 minutes from the bench to do so.Critics will say that one goal in 22 appearances is nowhere near good enough, but you can’t do much when you are consistently on the bench, thrown on as an impact sub looking to see out a game.This is down partly to Arteta’s stubbornness as a coach, very rarely rotating even when he has an opportunity to do so – yet that could change for the second leg of their Champions League last 16 tie against PSV next week with a comfortable 7-1 advantage.The latter stages of that competition is where Sterling has historically shown up in his career, with eight goals in the knockouts, something Arteta should take into account.Fellow Englishman Harry Kane has only recently overtaken that tally, scoring his ninth this week for Bayern Munich.So, where does his future lie? SunSport understands that Sterling remains incredibly calm and focused on the present, knowing there are still plenty of games left this season to make his mark.No conversation between club and player regarding his future has taken place just yet, nor has Chelsea been engaged.Perhaps he will only be recognised fully for his achievements for club and country – winning 82 caps for England – once he hangs up his boots, yet Sterling is far from contemplating that just yet.BAGS PACKEDArsenal’s players were filmed boarding the plane for Eindhoven on Monday afternoon following a light training session at London Colney.It is a familiar scene on Prem club social media platforms ahead of a European trip – footballers all smiles strolling across the tarmac, usually clutching a shiny leather holdall or travel bag.Riccardo Calafiori was seen boarding a flight to Eindhoven with an Arsenal-branded bag earlier this weekCredit: Instagram / arsenalThe bag is valued at £90 on Arsenal’s websiteCredit: arsenaldirect.arsenal.comSome of these bags are eye watering in price. In the clip, Brazilian defender Gabriel’s appears to be a carrying a brown Louis Vuitton bag that usually costs around £2k.And yet, when the camera flicks to Italian Riccardo Calafiori, he has – slumped over his right shoulder – an Arsenal-branded bag from the club retail shop costing just £90.SunSport understands that Calafiori sometimes opts to use club retail range luggage on match days instead of a more luxurious personalised one.It appears to be doing the trick, the full-back scoring the seventh of Arsenal’s record-breaking 7-1 win over PSV – popping up on the right wing with an Erling Haaland-style finish.With a Champions League quarter final spot all-but confirmed, Calafiori should be getting some more use out of that bag in the coming weeks.ASIA SUMMER PLANSArsenal are putting together their pre-season plans, with a switch from the United States to Asia this summer potentially on the cards. Hong Kong is an option.Last year, the Gunners played Bournemouth and Manchester United in Los Angeles and Liverpool in Philadelphia across seven days in late July.The Gunners could jet to Asia this summer for a pre-season tourCredit: GettyThe Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong could host a matchCredit: APBut the staging of the upcoming Club World Cup in the USA from June 14 to July 13 across 11 host cities has complicated another trip across the pond.There are suggestions Asia could now play host to the first ever North London Derby outside of the UK with Tottenham likely to be in that area with Aussie boss Ange Postecoglou.One of the venues that could hold the match is the newly-developed Kai Tak Sports Park – the 50,000 capacity stadium with a customisable pitch system and retractable roof was only opened on March 1.And a spokesperson from the Hong Kong government has exclusively told SunSport: “We are in active discussion to bring world-class football matches to be staged at the new Kai Tak Stadium. Details will be announced in due course.”Arsenal’s last pre-season in Asia was in the summer of 2018 – Unai Emery’s first months in charge after replacing Arsene Wenger – where they played Atletico Madrid and PSG in Singapore.WAYNE’S WORLDEthan Nwaneri is growing into his role as one of the Prem’s most exciting young players, scoring his eighth goal of the season in all competitions away in Eindhoven.He is now just one behind matching Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen’s record of netting nine senior goals before turning 18.Nwaneri is on the verge of matching a record held by Wayne Rooney and Michael OwenCredit: GettySeventeen-year-old Nwaneri has 14 days to go and beat that before his birthday on March 21.Rooney – the Manchester United and England great – was a pundit for Amazon at the Philips Stadion to watch Nwaneri find the net in the 7-1 thumping of PSV, and was very impressed.But how do the pair compare? There is a pleasing symmetry in terms of their first senior goals – both scoring twice in a League Cup tie.Rooney got his for Everton away at Wrexham in a 3-0 win in October 2002. Nwaneri bagged his brace in September 2024 in a 5-1 victory at home to Bolton.Where Nwaneri perhaps has the edge is that Rooney’s other seven came solely in Prem games – home and away against Arsenal as well as the likes of Leeds and Newcastle.Nwaneri meanwhile has strutted his stuff in the Champions League already, scoring against PSV and also Girona in January.Rooney would likely argue that he was scoring against the reigning Prem champions Arsenal in October 2002 when he was still only 16.Owen perhaps was on another level entirely, scoring a hat-trick against Grimsby in the League Cup in November 1997 as part of his nine, going on to share the Prem Golden Boot with Dion Dublin and Chris Sutton with 18 goals as well as the Prem Player of the Season.How fitting would it be if Nwaneri scores his ninth goal to equal the record at Old Trafford against Manchester United on Sunday – the place where Rooney become a global superstar.Also, both Rooney and Owen had their breakthroughs a year before going to light up a major tournament for England at Euro 2004 and the 1998 World Cup respectively.Will Nwaneri do enough to get his chance under Thomas Tuchel in 2026? 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      Harry Kane can return to Premier League to make history, so could Man Utd, Chelsea, Spurs or ARSENAL move be on cards?

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      ALL English eyes were on Harry Kane this week as he bagged a brace in Bayern Munich’s Champions League grudge match against Bundesliga rivals Bayer Leverkusen.Xabi Alonso’s side were the latest ones to make Kane wait for that elusive first major title of his career when they ended Munich’s decade of domestic supremacy last term.Harry Kane scored a brace as Bayern Munich beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 clashCredit: GettyKane’s double on Wednesday night inspired Bayern Munich to a 3-0 win in the Champions League last 16, putting them in good stead for advancing past their German counterparts in Europe’s elite competition. But irrespective of what happens in next week’s second leg, there seems nothing that can prevent that German title medal going round his neck within a few weeks.Bayern are eight points – effectively nine given their hugely better goal difference – clear of Leverkusen with ten games to play.And their remaining opponents including six of the bottom eight and only Mainz and Leipzig in the top six.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt means Kane is on course to lay that bogey to rest – and think about the OTHER main club goal of his career.That would be for him to overhaul Alan Shearer’s Prem record tally of 260 goals – and potentially set a mark that might NEVER be broken.Kane scored 213 goals in 320 top flight games for Spurs before his £100m move to Bavaria in 2023, meaning he is just 47 goals behind Shearer’s tally – set in 441 appearances for Blackburn and Newcastle.Despite his impressive stats at Bayern, with 57 goals in 58 Bundesliga appearances and 73 in 78 matches in all competitions, Kane is not universally popular, being questioned over his contribution outside the 18-yard box and in the “big” games.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLast month, claims that he might be available this summer if a club matched his £67m release clause were not denied.That looked to open the door to a Prem return. So where could Kane, who turns 32 in July, go?Harry Kane’s ‘fugly’ £7,200 statue branded ‘stuff of nightmares’ finally unveiled after sitting in storage for almost five years TOTTENHAMA return to N17 would be the dream of Spurs fans – even if the club splashed out £65m to land Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth last summer.Kane became Tottenham’s all-time record scorer in his final season at the Lane, ending on 280 goals from 435 games as he went past Jimmy Greaves’ mark.Many Spurs fans remain convinced they would have been playing Champions League football this season if the club had put faith in Ange Postecoglou working his magic with Kane in the side – even if that would have risked him leaving for nothing last summer.Kane was desperate to land silverware with Tottenham – he spent nearly two decades at the club and will always be “one of our own”.But Kane also felt let down by Daniel Levy when his proposed move to Manchester City fell through in 2021 and it is unclear if he would consider a return to the club while the current hierarchy are in place.Or if Spurs would be willing to meet that asking price.Kane is Tottenham’s all-time top goalscorerCredit: GettyHe never managed to lift a trophy in North LondonCredit: GettyARSENALUnthinkable, surely.Kane knows how Sol Campbell is remembered by Tottenham fans after he walked out on the club to join the Gunners in 2001 – and even if it was not a direct swap he would risk destroying his reputation.But one of the most famous pictures of the young Kane was him wearing an Arsenal shirt and celebrating the “Invincibles” and their 2004 triumph – when the Prem was won at White Hart Lane.He was also on Arsenal’s books as a youngster, released after a year in their academy at the age of nine and who was then picked up by Watford before joining Spurs in 2004. Despite that, Kane has always insisted he grew up as a Spurs fan in a Spurs-supporting family.And Arsenal supporters loathed him with a passion when he scored goal after goal against them – accusing him of all sorts of nefarious activities because he was so streetwise on top.Yet Arsenal’s need for a proper No 9 has become a running joke in the game – even more than previously this season.There is no better authentic line leader than Kane, even into his early 30s. Can you imagine how much delight there would be from the Gooners if that happened?No player has scored more North London Derby goals than Harry KaneCredit: AFP or licensorsKane (left) celebrated Arsenal’s invincible season dressed in full kitKane (front row, far left) also spent a year on the books at Arsenal as a kidCHELSEAWhen Mauricio Pochettino was unveiled as Chelsea boss in 2023, the spectre of Kane following him into Stamford Bridge left many Spurs fans suffering nightmares.Barely 18 months on and Pochettino is long gone.But Chelsea’s need for a totemic central striker who can also be a creator supreme has not gone away.The new Chelsea transfer approach under Todd Boehly has been focused on young players, long-term deals and potential future sales value.That would not be a situation with Kane, who has maybe four seasons at the top level left in his locker, with little or no sell-on value even after a couple of campaigns.While it is hard to envisage Kane wearing Arsenal’s red shirt, the animosity towards Chelsea from Spurs fans is nowhere near as strong – even if it is arguably even deeper the other way, with many Blues supporters viewing Tottenham as their REAL rival.Todd Boehly would have to switch up his transfer strategy to sign KaneCredit: GettyMANCHESTER UNITEDUnited wheeled out the big guns to try to lure Kane on at least two occasions in the past.Gary Neville’s infamous golf course video interview caused major issues at boardroom level in N17, with anger through the roof. Both times, despite the opportunities, Kane refused the invitation – making it clear that he was committed to Tottenham first time round and then effectively choosing City on the next occasion.That Kane would consider going to a United in a state of utter flux now, if he does want to leave Germany, is even harder to imagine.But United’s need for someone who really could make a difference is unquestioned, with fans looking at Rasmus Hojlund’s statistics and shaking their heads at the Dane.Likewise for Sir Jim Ratcliffe, landing Kane would be a game-changer.READ MORE SUN STORIESRemember how Robin van Persie was signed as Sir Alex Ferguson’s last season “present” to fire United to the title.They have not won it since but if Kane has got the silverware monkey off his back at Bayern, he might be able to work a miracle at Old Trafford.Man Utd are in dire need for a new striker given the form of Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus HojlundCredit: GettyKane’s interview with Gary Neville in 2021 caused issues in the Spurs boardroomCredit: Sky Sports More

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      How Arteta’s Merino experiment is surprising defenders and crucial to Arsenal’s attack

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      ARSENAL travel to Manchester United on Sunday looking to get their stuttering title challenge back on track.The Gunners went from blanking in back to back league games against West Ham and Nottingham Forest to smashing seven past PSV in the Champions League.Mikel Merino’s performances are revitalising Arsenal’s attackCredit: GettyMartin Odegaard triggering the press will be key for Arsenal against Man UtdCredit: GettyThe sudden reverse in attacking fortunes begs the question, has Mikel Arteta finally unearthed a strong attacking recipe with his makeshift Arsenal attack.Leandro Trossard, Mikel Merino and Ethan Nwaneri have lined up in the attack for the Gunners in the last three games following an injury to Kai Havertz.It has left them without Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus as forward options.But the performances of Merino up front have been leaving a surprising impact, which we will look into on our latest episode of Tactics Exposed Team Talk, brought to you by Betfair.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHow do Arsenal replace Kai Havertz?For all the criticism Havertz takes as Arsenal’s frontman, his absence is clear to see when he missing. He has done a fabulous job for Arsenal during his time there, although it may be fair to say he is not the force they need to win them the title.But Arteta likes himself a utility forward who can play in lots of positions, and while Havertz may not be a top-class forward he is a top class player.Against Man Utd, Merino will be the star asked to adapt his game to get Arsenal ticking in the final third.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSWith Arteta opting to invert his full-backs and create overloads to give them a 3-2-5 shape, Arsenal will be coming against a back five with United expected to play defensive wing-backs.This means individual duels will be the key to winning the game.Mikel Arteta makes light of Arsenal goal rush after PSV thrashing In the case of Merino, who has admitted he has been watching Havertz videos, he has a bit of a striker’s instinct, as seen when he scored his brace against Leicester.But Merino has taken lesson’s from Havertz to drop into a deeper area of the pitch, which leaves the United defender with the problem of whether to follow him or potentially leave him open.Kai Havertz has been a big miss for ArsenalBut Merino has been stepping up to fill the voidHis numbers playing up front show a player capable of facilitating for his team-matesAgainst PSV Arsenal always had at least three runners beyond the ball, including Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.These runs forced defenders back and caused an issue for the goalkeeper, with Merino’s presence facilitating runners to move beyond him.If Riccardo Calafiori is selected at left-back, he will certainly run forwards into a striker type position, adding another option.Regardless, Merino is filling the Havertz role and he will be pivotal in the result at Old Trafford.Can Nwaneri replace Saka?It is a big compliment to be compared to Saka, no matter how old of a player you are. But to me compared with one of the world’s best wingers at the age of 17 earmarks Nwaneri’s quality.Against United, Nwaneri will almost certainly start from the right wing, the side Arsenal predominantly play down because their best players tend to favour that side.But what Arsenal have done in the absence of their top stars is balance the attack a lot more.And against PSV, the share of attacks was even favoured more to the left flank.This gives the opposition defence a far bigger problem than if all the attack all came down one side.Arsenal’s attack as become more balanced since Ethan Nwaneri’s introductionThis balancing act will give Nwaneri more of a chance to go one on one against rivalsCredit: GettySaka typically hugs the right touchline to open space for team-mates to run in underlapping moves. But what Nwaneri has been given the licence to do is move inside earlier.This means he is another central option to play in and around Merino, who as we already mentioned is likely to drop deeper to vacate space where the striker would normally be.Nwaneri’s movement should then attract the right wing-back more centrally, which will then give the likes of Jurrien Timber the chance to have more space to overlap with down the right flank.Another difference between the teen and Saka is his willingness to shoot with both feet and wanting to isolate his defender in one v one situation.Against United’s defence this new balancing act will give Nwaneri more of a chance to get one v one more.How will Man Utd play out against Arsenal’s high press?We spoke a bit last week about Bruno Fernandes’ new position as one of the two pivot midfielders. But unlike some rivals, Arsenal are a top side who are very comfortable without the ball.Arsenal defend mainly in 4-4-2 shape – the 1990s are back – while United play out in their 3-4-3 shape.He previously touched on how Arsenal’s press really hurt Liverpool, and this time they will set traps against United.Arsenal captain Odegaard will be the star to orchestrate and trigger the press.What he will do is have his hand up before telling his team where to play.Bruno Fernandes’ new position will make him a huge player for Man Utd against ArsenalCredit: GettyThe Red Devils success at playing out will largely be determined by how the central centre-back performsCredit: RexWhen the ball moves wide and United look to switch the play with a long cross-field pass, like they did a lot against Ispwich, they will be left in a 3v1 situation in Arsenal’s favour.The odds favouring the visiting side for winning the ball here would then allow Arsenal the chance to bomb forward down the flank with superior numbers.So what United will have to do is figure out how to play through this, with Fernandes, Ugarte and Joshua Zirkzee being the key men to solve this problem.It may be as simple as Fernandes pushing higher to keep Merino and Odegaard on their toes and potentially pushing them back to give the defenders more time on the ball to pick a pass.The Arteta defensive blueprint is successful for a reason, but ultimately United’s play will be determined by the success of the central centre-back – likely to be Harry Maguire.The central defender could drop back alongside Andre Onana against the front two of Odegaard and Merino which, once combined with the other two defenders showing for options, will open up the passing lanes going forwards.READ MORE SUN STORIESWe are likely to see a W passing shape from United to bypass Arsenal, with someone like Eriksen showing further forwards to create extra triangles between the defence and attack.If United can make these triangles against Arsenal’s box midfield then they will at least have a chance of playing out.Arsenal ratings vs PSV as Nwaneri comes of age in Champions League drubbing but rash Lewis-Skelly is hooked earlyARSENAL steamrolled a hapless PSV side to all-but book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.The Gunners started without a recognised striker once again but unlike at Nottingham Forest last week, goals were not a problem in Eindhoven.A quick-fire double from Jurrien Timber and Ethan Nwaneri around the 20th minute put the Gunners in control in what was an assured display.Every Arsenal player impressed and they were clinical with their finishing.Only Myles Lewis-Skelly will feel a little disappointed as he was hooked after half an hour to avoid him picking up a second yellow.It was a shame as the youngster was performing well on the ball – he played a key role in the build-up to the opening goal.But he could not be trusted by Mikel Arteta after he dived and caught his man with a challenge that could easily have resulted in a second booking.It was another careless moment that allowed PSV back into the match as Thomas Partey conceded a penalty that was converted on the stroke of half-time.But the Gunners did not rest on their laurels and came out racing after the break, scoring twice in two minutes to put the match, and the tie, to bed.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the Gunners’ display… More