More stories

  • in

    Arsenal’s Reiss Nelson sued after his Italian mastiff ‘attacked sports masseur’ as they posed for selfie

    ARSENAL star Reiss Nelson is being sued by his sports masseur who claims the player’s Italian mastiff attacked him as they posed for a selfie.Saeid Motaali, 50, alleges the dog went for his neck and bit him on the arm he raised to protect himself at Nelson’s pad in North London.Reiss Nelson, with his Italian mastiff, is being sued by a sports masseur who claims the dog attacked himCredit: FieldfisherSaeid Motaali claims Reiss’s dog attacked his neck and bit him on the armCredit: FieldfisherNelson playing for the GunnersCredit: GettyIt is said to have happened in 2020 after Mr Motaali finished a sports massage with the star and asked for a photo with him and his pet.According to the Evening Standard, Mr Motaali’s legal team said: “The dog was a large powerful animal.”A High Court claim accuses Nelson of failing to control the animal, which had allegedly been trained as a guard dog.The therapist says he has not been able to work for more than three years due to the incident.READ MORE ON REISS NELSONMr Nelson previously denied the accusation.Nelson also has concerns on the pitch, after penning a contract extension last summerit would be no surprise to see the club cash in this time around.The 24-year-old winger has been in the starting XI just once across both the Prem and Champions League this season.Nelson is surplus to requirements and it would take an injury to a key man like Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli for him to be handed a chance in the remainder of the campaign.Most read in FootballHis best moment in a Gunners shirt came when he scored a last-gasp winner in the 3-2 victory over Bournemouth last season.He has to come up with something similar to avoid being sold amid interest from Brighton.Arsenal’s title chances are ‘100% gone’ according to club legend who savages ‘lazy’ Gunners after Aston Villa shocker More

  • in

    Michael Owen names three Premier League players Arsenal should sign that would take them to next level

    MICHAEL OWEN has listed the three players Arsenal should bring in to improve them this summer.The former England star, 44, believes Mikel Arteta needs to add a striker to his ranks come the end of the season.Michael Owen believes Arsenal need to be looking at three strikersCredit: PAOwen has named England pair Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins as players Arsenal should go afterCredit: GettyThat is despite the Gunners having outscored everyone in the Premier League aside from Manchester City – with the champions netting just one more than them after 32 games.Owen believes Aston Villa man Ollie Watkins, Brentford’s Ivan Toney, and Newcastle’s Alexander Isak could all improve Arsenal.When discussing the Gunners’ reported interest in England man Watkins, Owen told Premier League Productions: “He is a player who is getting better and better year on year.”He’s the type of player who could go into the Arsenal team, whether or not they can buy him is another thing.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”There are a lot of players in the Premier League at the moment who would probably be an upgrade on what Arsenal have right now.”You’re looking at [Alexander] Isak up at Newcastle, maybe Ivan Toney at Brentford and Ollie Watkins at Aston Villa.”Arsenal have hit the back of the net on 75 occasions in the league.In all competitions, Bukayo Saka [18], Leandro Trossard [13], Martin Odegaard [10] and Kai Havertz [10] are the Arsenal players that have reached doubled figures.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOwen also believes Arsenal should look at Alexander IsakCredit: EPAOllie Watkins is enjoying a prolific season up front for Aston VillaIsak, 24, has been linked with a move to both Arsenal and Tottenham amid Newcastle’s concerns surrounding profit and sustainability rules.Toney has made it clear he would be open to leaving Brentford in the summer.And Watkins’ sensational campaign is bound to turn heads, although his Villa contract runs until 2028.Watkins has scored 26 goals in 45 games this season, while Isak has netted 21 times in 34 matches.Toney’s betting ban left him ineligible until January, but he has scored four goals in 13 games since returning to Thomas Frank’s side.Ivan Toney has scored four league goals since returning to the Brentford teamIsak has led the line superbly for Newcastle this season More

  • in

    Arsenal and Liverpool ‘make contact with Eintracht Frankfurt’ over mega-money summer transfer

    ARSENAL and Liverpool have “made contact” with Eintracht Frankfurt over a deal for defender Willian Pacho, according to reports.The centre-back, 22, has started all but one of the German club’s Bundesliga games this season.Willian Pacho only joined Eintracht Frankfurt last summer but has had a superb seasonCredit: GettyPacho has been ever-present for Frankfurt in the 2023/24 campaignAnd his impressive displays have seen his asking price skyrocket as some of the Premier League’s biggest clubs circle for his signature.Pacho joined Frankfurt from Royal Antwerp last summer for just £7.6million.Now Sky Sports are reporting the 2022 Europa League winners want between £43-51m in the summer.Pacho, who has already earned 10 caps for Ecuador, is under contract with Frankfurt until 2028.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLArsenal and Liverpool are both understood to have “held discussions”, with Frankfurt “aware” of their interest.But the strength of Frankfurt’s contractual situation with the player means they can demand a substantial fee.And manager Dino Toppmoller recently revealed he believes the centre-half can become one of the best in the world.Toppmoller said: “He’s doing a great job, and is getting better all the time.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”He’s really reliable and has world-class potential.”Frankfurt sit sixth in the Bundesliga table and are poised to qualify for the Europa Conference League.Arsenal’s title chances are ‘100% gone’ according to club legend who savages ‘lazy’ Gunners after Aston Villa shockerBut they are just three points ahead of Augsburg, so could still miss out on European football. More

  • in

    Bayern Munich’s private training session leaked as Thomas Tuchel appears to plan shock tactical tweak against Arsenal

    BAYERN MUNICH could be about to spring a tactical shock against Arsenal.After a 2-2 draw at the Emirates, the last-16 tie is delicately poised going into this evening’s clash.Thomas Tuchel is plotting Arsenal’s downfall with a sneaky tactical switchCredit: ReutersBukayo Saka is Arsenal’s dangermanCredit: GettyAnd Bild claim Thomas Tuchel is ready to shake things up in a bid to ensure the Gunners’ sights are off.Alphonso Davies is suspended after being booked in the first leg with one of Noussair Mazraoui and Raphael Guerreiro expected to replace him.But Bayern’s pre-match training session saw the pair both feature in what is expected to be the first team, with Thomas Muller playing for the reserves.Arsenal talisman Bukayo Saka is the visitors’ main driving force and it appears Tuchel, 50, is planning to double up on the danger man.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSBild believe Mazraoui will play at left-back with Guerreiro playing higher up.Bayern will still have plenty of firepower with Jamal Musiala  operating behind Harry Kane.The former Tottenham hitman will need no extra motivation to face his former club’s bitter rivals.But a chance to go all the way in Europe and finally break his trophy duck is a huge factor.Most read in Champions LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSKane, who was a beaten finalist with Tottenham in 2019, said: “For sure (it is unfinished business), whenever you reach the final of a competition and don’t quite get over the line there’s always that burning fire inside you to get back there and go that one step further.”Spurs fans may have mixed feelings, however, as the Premier League is in real danger of losing its fifth Champions League spot next season.Huge Arsenal concerns as two key stars facing late fitness test before Champions League second leg with BayernIf the Gunners KO Bayern, it will be a massive boost England’s battle with Germany to have five clubs in the competition.Tottenham currently sit fifth in the league – three points off in-form Aston Villa in fourth. More

  • in

    Man Utd, Arsenal and Chelsea in major Victor Osimhen transfer boost as Napoli move for replacement

    CHELSEA, MANCHESTER UNITED and Arsenal have been given a boost in their battle to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.The Italian club are reported to have lined up a replacement for the Nigerian centre forward, paving the way for him to make a big-money move to the Premier League this summer.Victor Osimhen could be set to leave Napoli this summerCredit: AlamyLille frontman Jonathan David, himself a target for a number of Premier League clubs, is the man Napoli want to fill Osimhen’s boots.According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Canada international David is ready to join the Italian club even if they fail to qualify for European football next season.Napoli and Lille are said to be haggling over David’s transfer fee, with the Italians said to be offering £30m plus bonus payments while the Ligue 1 side want £42.7m up front.But the negotiations appear to signal that Napoli are resigned to losing Osimhen, the striker who fired them to the Serie A title last season, this summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOsimhen’s release clause is believed to be up to £110m, putting him within the reach of only a small number of clubs.Long-term suitors Chelsea and United would have to raise money through sales to be able to afford the 25 year old. Inside Victor Osimhen’s life as a footballerArsenal would also have to think hard about breaking the club transfer record they set when Declan Rice arrived from West Ham for £105m.The Premier League trio are also likely to face stiff competition from Champions League semi-finalists Paris Saint-Germain.Most read in FootballThe French side regard Osimhen as the best candidate to replace star striker Kylian Mbappe, with the Frenchman all but certain to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer.Napoli are prepared to triple David’s wages at Lille to nearly £60,000 per week and to give the 24 year old a five-year deal.New York-born David helped Lille win a shock French title in his first season at the club  in 2020/1 and has continued to bang in the goals.The former Gent striker has found the net 81 times in 175 appearances for Lille.Lille hotshot Jonathan David has been linked with a Premier League move but is now set to join NapoliCredit: Alamy More

  • in

    Man Utd join transfer race for rising Brazil star, 18, as scout attends match with Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City keen

    MANCHESTER UNITED have joined Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool in the bidding war for a Brazilian wonderkid.According to The Mail, United sent a scout to Brazil to watch Gremio starlet Gustavo Nunes, 18, in action last week during the 2-0 loss to Huachipato in the Copa Libertadores.Manchester United sent a scout to watch Gremio star Gustavinho in actionCredit: AlamyManchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal are also keeping tabs on GustavinhoCredit: AlamyGustavinho, as he has been nicknamed by fans, only made his senior debut in February but quickly rose through the ranks after impressing manager Renato Gaucho.The winger came on as a half-time substitute as he replaced Everton and showed his skills in front of the Red Devils’ representative.New United shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are said to be prioritising rising young talent from South America.That is because the Manchester giants want to get more value for their money amid Financial Fair Play restrictions.Read More on FootballGustavinho has amassed a total of four goals and four assists in 18 appearances across all competitions this season.The forward’s immediate impact attracted attention from City, Arsenal and Liverpool.Wolves and Norwich are also keeping tabs on the young Brazilian’s progress.However, the Citizens appear to be leading the race for the youngster’s signature.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSNevertheless, Gremio are not keen to part ways with their wonderkid just yet.That is why the Brazilian outfit tied Gustavinho to a contract until 2028.Gary Neville ‘lost faith’ with ‘scrawny and erratic’ Cristiano Ronaldo at Man Utd before transformation into a ‘machine’Gremio, who own 70 per cent of the player’s economic rights, will also command a high fee which is said to be more than £18million City considered splashing in the summer. More

  • in

    Jamie Carragher warns Man Utd and Arsenal off transfer for Everton star as he says ‘I don’t know what he is’

    JAMIE CARRAGHER has warned Arsenal and Manchester United to steer clear of trying to sign Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.Onana, 22, has long been linked with an exit from Goodison, with the Gunners coming close to a bid in January.Carragher has warned both Arsenal and Utd chiefs against signing the Everton starCredit: RexAmadou Onana has not proven enough to be a big Premier League signing, says Liverpool legendCredit: RexErik Ten Hag’s side considered a move for the Belgium international last year, while Chelsea also disclosed their interest.The Toffees’ valuation of over £50million eventually prevented talks from going further with all three clubs.As a result of Everton’s well-documented financial issues, highly-rated players such as Onana are looked at as ideal sale income.But despite some brilliant performances last season, which helped Everton remain in the Premier League, Carragher is not convinced by Onana.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSCarragher stressed that it would be a mistake for top clubs to sign him after Everton’s humiliating 6-0 defeat at Chelsea on Monday.He told Sky Sports: “I must say this, Onana is a player who Everton may have to sell with the situation that they find themselves in financially.”He came in with a huge reputation. Frank Lampard brought him in, he looks the part, did really well for Belgium at Wembley and there was talk of him going to other big clubs.”But I don’t see it. I haven’t since he’s been there.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER”I don’t know what he is. Is he a holding midfield player? Does he get forward? Does he get involved?”The only thing I have seen him do is try to lift the crowd, that is all I ever see him do when he plays for Everton.”Onana was withdrawn at halftime by manager Sean Dyche after the team conceded four goals in the first half, with Cole Palmer securing Chelsea’s fastest ever hat-trick inside 28 minutes.Onana has made 32 appearances in all competitions for Everton this season, scoring three goals and making one assist.Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson spotted arguing with Blues team-mate after 6-0 Everton thumping as penalty row rages onThe club’s ongoing financial difficulties – which has seen them twice deducted points – may once again force them to make significant player sales this summer.Defender Jarrad Branthwaite – who was removed through injury at Stamford Bridge – has been heavily linked with a transfer to United.But Red Devils fans have urged their club to abandon a move for the England international, who Everton value at £70m.Dyche’s side currently sit 16th, just two points clear from the drop, with six games remaining.Onana’s Prem stats this season More

  • in

    Mikel Arteta ‘in talks’ with Man Utd cult hero and ex-team-mate about becoming Arsenal assistant manager next season

    ARSENAL are in talks over appointing Gabriel Heinze as Mikel Arteta’s new assistant, according to reports.Gunners coaches Albert Stuivenberg and Carlos Cuesta have both been tipped to leave this summer to become managers.Ex-Man Utd star Gabriel Heinze could join Arsenal as a coachCredit: PA:Press AssociationMikel Arteta could need a new assistant if Albert Stuivenberg leavesCredit: ReutersWith Arsenal on the lookout for new staff, reports suggest that Heinze is in the running to replace them at the Emirates.ESPN Argentina claim Arteta has made contact with the ex-Manchester United star and is trying to persuade Heinze to make the move to Arsenal.The duo know each other from their days as team-mates at PSG in the 2001/02 season.Heinze played for Man Utd for three seasons from 2004, making 83 appearances and winning the club’s Player of the Year award in his first campaign.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 45-year-old former full-back also played for the likes of Real Madrid, Marseille and Roma.Overall, he won three league titles, including the Premier League in 2006.Since hanging up his boots ten years ago, Heinze has ventured into management.He has worked with four clubs in his homeland – Godoy Cruz, Argentinos Juniors, Velez Sarsfield and Newell’s Old Boys.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERHeinze also spent a year in charge of MLS side Atlanta United before he was axed.Meanwhile, Arteta has refused to stand in Stuivenberg and Cuesta’s way should they want to move on.Emiliano Martinez gets emotional in live Sky Sports interview while talking about his love for ArsenalThe boss explained: “You cannot stop them. I wouldn’t, no.”I think everybody needs to feel that there is a path, there is a development plan for everyone. “People don’t want to do the same thing for three, four, five years and there is a way to incentivise people, to inspire other people, and then to explore.”You don’t really know the limit of a person unless you expose him to certain things. I think curiosity is a really important quality that we have within our young staff.”How Arteta made Arsenal horrible again, with Tony Pulis tactic and gentle star turned into Diego Costa-style hate figureBy Dave Kidd
    BOTTLERS, chokers, shandy-drinking southern softies.
    These were the charges levelled at Arsenal when they blew the title last season.
    And even if the actual reason they failed was because William Saliba got injured and Rob Holding had to start, Mikel Arteta clearly took those accusations to heart.
    If his team are not crowned champions next month, the Gunners boss has categorically ensured that they won’t go down being accused of nicey-niceyness.
    Because, as well as being thrillingly entertaining and free-scoring when they want to be, this season’s Arsenal are also thoroughly horrible.They are not here to make friends. They are not interested in being anybody’s second-favourite team.
    And so, six days after stink-bombing the Etihad with a display of Mourinho-esque anti-football for a 0-0 draw, Arsenal turned up at the home of former bogey-team Brighton and s***housed their way to a thoroughly impressive 3-0 win.
    How wonderful for the travelling Gooners to witness Ben White — against his former club — going down as if he’d taken a bullet to his neck when Brighton’s Pervis Estupinan brushed against him.
    White is renowned as a gentle and decent bloke, intelligent enough to challenge the zeitgeist and claim there might be things in life other than football.
    And yet suddenly he’s become some Diego Costa-style anti-hero hate figure, his wife goading the masses by posting social-media pictures of them playing a childish card game on a sun lounger after he’d refused an international call-up.
    Because Arsenal are horrible again. Even Ben White is a villain.And that might just be Arteta’s greatest triumph.
    Click here to read Dave Kidd’s column in full.
    To read more from Dave Kidd, click here. More