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      Ian Maatsen ‘tells Chelsea he wants permanent transfer’ as bargain release clause in left-back’s contract emerges

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      CHELSEA loaneee Ian Maatsen has told the club he wants to make a permanent move to Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season.Maatsen, 22, was shipped out on loan to Dortmund in January and he has since become a regular under manager Edin Terzic with the club desperate to hold on to him.Chelsea loanee Ian Maatsen has informed the club he wants to leaveCredit: GettyMaatsen wants to join Borussia Dortmund amid a successful loan stint from ChelseaCredit: GettyThe full-back helped BVB punch their ticket to the Champions League semi-finals with a goal during Tuesday’s 4-2 victory over Atletico Madrid. According to reports in Germany, the Netherlands international now wants to sign a permanent deal with the Bundesliga giants and has informed the Blues about it.However, Chelsea will command a release clause in the range of €35-40million (£30-£34m).Maatsen said after the Atletico match that he was determined to become a regular at Stamford Bridge before his loan move to Dortmund.Read More on ChelseaBut now the defender is “very comfortable” at the Signal Iduna Park and could help push a deal with Terzic’s side.Chelsea fans, though, pleaded with the club not to sell the Dutchman after his Champions League heroics amid a woeful season for Mauricio Pochettino’s side.Maatsen also stood out during his most recent loan stint at Burnley last season.The left-back helped the Clarets win the Championship and return to the Premier League.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Chelsea academy graduate’s impressive performances also landed him a place in the Championship’s Team of the Season.Maatsen said earlier this week: “I always believed [I could] play for Chelsea but unfortunately for some reason it didn’t work out how it should’ve.BREAKING: Ian Maatsen signs for Borussia Dortmund”Now I’m here I’m very grateful for the opportunity. I can say I’m very proud of myself.”I kept believing in myself and came here to experience playing my game at the highest level, playing my game. Today I think I showed a very good performance. I’m very happy.”Maatsen feels ‘very comfortable’ during his loan stint at Dortmund More

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      Rafa Benitez ‘in talks over new job thousands of miles away with club who denied ex-Liverpool boss, 64, major trophy’

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      RAFA BENITEZ is the top candidate to take over as manager at Sao Paulo.Former Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle and Everton boss Benitez, 64, has been out of a job for a month after being sacked by Celta Vigo.Rafa Benitez is the top candidate to become manager at Sao PauloCredit: GettyBenitez has history with Sao Paulo as they cost him the Club World Cup while at LiverpoolCredit: APAccording to Arquibancada Tricolor, however, the Spanish tactician is the “strongest name” linked with the top job at Sao Paulo.Talks started on Sunday and appear advanced as both parties are confident there will be a “positive outcome”.Negotiations have been brokered by super agent Giuliano Bertolucci, who represents some of the best Brazilian players like Bruno Guimaraes, Gabriel Magalhaes and Marquinhos.If Benitez signs with the Brazilian giants then he will be linking up with the same team that denied him the Club World Cup in 2005.Read More on FootballLiverpool took on Sao Paulo in the final in Yokohama just seven months after the Miracle of Istanbul.The Reds became European champions after beating AC Milan in a dramatic penalty shootout following an unforgettable 3-3 draw in the Champions League final.The Merseysiders were then looking to become world champions when they took on the then Copa Libertadores winners.However, Paulo Autuori’s men prevailed in Japan with a 1-0 victory thanks to Mineiro’s winner.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBenitez, though, did win the UEFA Super Cup with Liverpool the same year.Steven Gerrard and co defeated then UEFA Cup winners CSKA Moscow 3-1 at Stade Louis II in Monaco.11 forgotten stars who define Liverpool vs Man Utd rivalryDaniel Carvalho opened the scoring for Valery Gazzaev’s men but Djibril Cisse equalised for Liverpool to force extra-time.The Reds sealed the trophy as Cisse completed his brace before Luis Garcia scored the third. More

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      Real Madrid legend Raul’s agent reveals world record offer from Premier League giants – but he ‘didn’t consider’ it

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      REAL MADRID legend Raul once received a world record offer to join Chelsea – but “didn’t consider it” as he opted to stay in Spain.Raul, 46, is a Bernabeu legend after spending 16 years leading Real’s attack.Chelsea tried and failed to sign Raul from Real Madrid for a then-record £70m in 2003Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdRaul opted to remain at Real, going on to become their all-time appearance makerCredit: GettyHe won six LaLiga titles and three Champions Leagues during a glittering career in the Spanish capital.Raul is Real’s third top scorer of all time with 323 goals.And he still holds the record for most appearances with 741 games.However, things could have panned out differently for Raul had he jumped ship.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSeven years before his 2010 departure for Schalke, Chelsea are claimed to have made an offer for Raul.In 2003, Roman Abramovich had just purchased club and was looking to make some statement signings.Chelsea spent huge fees on stars like Hernan Crespo, Damien Duff and Juan Sebastian Veron.And they even managed to lure superstar midfielder Claude Makelele from the Bernabeu too.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERHowever, Chelsea also tried to sign Real team-mate Raul at the same time.According to his agent, the Blues offered a then-world record £70m for the striker.7 times Arsenal vs Chelsea games EXPLODEDChelea did end up signing Raul’s team-mate Claude Makelele in the same windowCredit: GettyBut Raul, who joined Real’s academy in 1992 and is now boss of their reserves, had no interest in discussing a Stamford Bridge switch.Gines Carvajal said in 2010: “Many English clubs asked in the past for Raul, but the only formal proposal was the one of Chelsea.“(Then Chelsea manager Claudio) Ranieri wanted Makelele and Raul. So the same people of Chelsea who negotiated for Makelele made contact with me and Madrid.“They offered €100million (then a world record £70m), but Raul didn’t consider the offer because he just didn’t think of leaving Madrid.“I believe that generally clubs know that Raul is the captain of Madrid and, as it happens with players as (Ryan) Giggs, they know that there are not many options for them to change clubs.”Raul’s career statsThose numbers in full:

      Real Madrid, 1994-2010: 741 games, 323 goals

      Schalke, 2010-2012: 98 games, 40 goals

      Al Sadd, 2012-2014: 61 games, 16 goals

      New York Cosmos, 2015: 32 games, 9 goals

      Spain, 1996-2006: 102 games, 44 goals

      Trophies: LaLiga x6, Spanish Super Cup x4, Champions League x3, Uefa Super Cup, Intercontinental Cup x2 (Real Madrid); German Cup, German Super Cup (Schalke); Qatar Stars League, Emir of Qatar Cup (Al Sadd); North American Soccer League, North American Supporters’ Trophy, Soccer Bowl (New York Cosmos) More

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

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      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

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

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      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

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      Chelsea fans demand forgotten star ‘we’re crying out for’ returns after booking place in Champions League semi-final

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      CHELSEA fans are demanding the club bring back Ian Maatsen after he clinched a spot in the Champions League semi-final.The full-back played a starring role as Borussia Dortmund overcame Atletico Madrid in a thrilling quarter-final clash.Ian Maatsen starred against Atletico MadridCredit: TNT SPORTSChelsea fan have called on the club to bring him backCredit: ReutersDortmund went into the second leg trailing after leaving Madrid 2-1 down.However, the Bundesliga giants fought back to win a topsy-turvy tie 5-4 on aggregate.Julian Brandt netted the opener, but it was Dortmund’s second goal that got Blues supporters talking.Maatsen, 22, drove up from his defensive role and fired past Jan Oblak with a powerful drive into the far corner.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFans responded by flocking to social media to beg the club to make sure he returns to Stamford Bridge for next season.One fan posted: “Ian Maatsen what a goal. Don’t sell him Chelsea.”A second wrote: “Chelsea are going to sell Ian Maatsen to Borussia Dortmund for £35m when we’re crying out for a player like him.”A third commented: “Maatsen is into the semi-finals as a starting LB in the competition we can’t get into.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERA fourth said: “Ian Maatsen wasn’t given a chance by Chelsea this season and now he is scoring CL quarter final goals.”A fifth joked: “That Ian Maatsen fella looks good – we should consider buying him.”Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen looks back at his beginnings in football Another added: “Fair play to him, talented player.”Maatsen spent the first half of the season at Chelsea but struggled to break into Mauricio Pochettino’s side.This was after the club rejected a £30million offer from Burnley to sign him in the summer transfer window.The 22-year-old spent the 2022-23 season on loan at the Clarets and was a crucial cog in the machine that won promotion to the Premier League.After a lack of playing time in the first half of the season, Maatsen joined Dortmund on loan in January.Reports have already claimed that the German outfit are keen to make the move permanent in the summer. More

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      Arsenal warned Bayern Munich boast little-known English secret weapon who was non-league star and won Champions League

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      HARRY KANE and Eric Dier will not be the only Englishmen gunning for Arsenal on Wednesday.Anthony Barry, who started his coaching career at Wigan, is Bayern Munich’s assistant manager and one of the most sought-after coaches in Europe.Bayern Munich assistant manager Anthony Barry could cause major issues to ArsenalCredit: GettyThe ex-Accrington, Yeovil and Fleetwood midfielder was brought to Germany from Chelsea by Bayern chief Thomas Tuchel, with the pair having worked together at Stamford BridgeAnd if Bayern score from a corner or a free-kick against Mikel Arteta’s side, that will be down to Barry who is in charge of the team’s set-pieces.Barry will leave the German club with Tuchel at the end of the season and the offers have already come in.He has just turned down a second approach from Ireland to replace boss Stephen Kenny,  who was sacked in November.Read More on FootballBut Barry, who combined his role at Chelsea as a part-time coach for the Irish, will be assisting Roberto Martinez with Portugal at Euro 2024.Barry, who also worked for Martinez with Belgium at the 2022 World Cup, wants to be a manager in his own right so is waiting for the right offer for next season.However, he is not the only Englishman currently coaching in the Bundesliga.Craig Fleming, assistant coach at Southampton for four years under Ralph Hasenhuttl, has linked up with the Austrian to become Wolfsburg’s No 2.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTicket disparityLIVERPOOL have been given just 750 tickets for Thursday’s Europa League tie with Atalanta.To enter the ballot, Reds fans had to have bought tickets for 22 of the previous 24 European away games over the last five seasons.Huge Arsenal concerns as two key stars facing late fitness test before Champions League second leg with BayernThat is some loyalty, whatever team you support.Meanwhile, Arsenal will have just under 3,800 supporters against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday — and they have all paid a relatively affordable £42.80 a ticket.To watch the first leg at the Emirates, supporters had to fork out between £70 and £103.If you needed proof of the disparity between English and German ticket prices, here it is.Broadcaster outsmartedA WELL-KNOWN broadcaster did not see the funny side after a telling off in the posh seats at Chelsea.In an exclusive area behind the home dugout at Stamford Bridge, he caused a bit of a stir by shouting at the home bench during a game.The television and radio presenter was told to calm down by security and during the heated exchange, he trotted out the infamous line: “Do you know who I am?”The unimpressed official pretended to switch on his lapel microphone and shouted: “Can I have the welfare department? There is a Chelsea fan who doesn’t know who he is.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFlying highTOTTENHAM fans were left frustrated by the cost of the £150 train to get to Newcastle for Saturday’s Premier League game.So a few Hertfordshire-based supporters found it cheaper to get a bus to Stansted Airport and take a Ryanair flight to Edinburgh (£70 return) before getting a train from Scotland to Newcastle (£40 return).This one will have stung Kane the most… what’s the German for schadenfreude?, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      OF all the trophies Harry Kane has missed out on, this one will have stung the most.
      This was supposed to have been a dead cert. This was nailed-on.
      Bayern Munich had won 11 successive Bundesliga titles, so when the England captain signed for the great Bavarian powerhouse last summer, we all said: “Well, at least he’ll finally win something.”
      Yet on Sunday evening, there were Bayer Leverkusen — known in Germany as ‘Neverkusen’ because they hadn’t previously won the league thanks to several late implosions — cavorting around, 16 points clear, unbeaten in all competitions and confirmed as champions with five games to spare.
      And so the greatest trophy curse in footballing history continues.
      And this one really is freakish because Leverkusen’s story is almost as extraordinary as Leicester City’s miracle title in 2015-16 — the season when Kane won his first Premier League Golden Boot and Tottenham ended up ‘third in a two-horse race’ behind Arsenal.
      Kane is always the runner-up, always the nearly man, always the fall guy, too often a figure of fun for those taking pleasure in the misfortune of others.
      Does anyone know the German word for schadenfreude…?
      Click here to read Dave Kidd’s column in full.
      To read more from Dave Kidd, click here. More

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      Chelsea should ‘definitely’ sign Raphael Varane on a free transfer when legend quits Man Utd, says ex-Blues star

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      FORMER Chelsea star Glen Johnson has told the Blues should sign Manchester United flop Raphael Varane.The United defender’s contract is up at the end of the season and appears set to leave as a free agent in the summer.Ex-Chelsea star Glen Johnson says the Blues should sign Raphael VaraneCredit: GettyVarane’s will leave Man Utd as a free agent this summerCredit: RexArriving from Real Madrid in 2021, as a multiple Champions League winner, Varane has endured an underwhelming three seasons at Old Trafford.Cursed by injuries, the Frenchman has made 93 appearances for United scoring just two goals.But, despite Varane’s underwhelming performances in Manchester, former Chelsea star Johnson still thinks his old team should move for him in the summer.Asked about a potential deal, he told Betfred: “Yes, definitely. Good players like that don’t come around often and they certainly come around less often on a free transfer. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I know he’s not the Varane he was three or four years ago but he’s still a bloody good player. “Yes, he’s had his injury problems but that’s what outweighs the transfer fee.”If you’re buying him on a free and he’s only playing 50% of the games, then that’s still a good deal to do.”While Varane did not feature in Erik ten Hag’s teamsheet in United’s last two games the defender’s experience in top-flight football will prove valuable to Mauricio Pochettino’s side.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERVeteran centre-back Thiago Silva is set to depart at the end of the season as the 39-year-old ‘s contract.Meaning Chelsea will be in the hunt to find a replacement for the Brazillian.Jamie Carragher and Dele Alli give verdict on Chelsea penalty rowJohnson continued: “As we saw with Thiago Silva, those sort of players who have done everything, played for top teams and clubs, they get the attention of the dressing room.”They’re the big names that the younger players want to look up to and obviously they’re great to have around.” More