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      A Premier League footballer will DIE if clubs don’t protect players from gangs, investigation warns

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      A‌ ‌PREMIER‌ ‌League‌ ‌footballer‌ ‌will‌ ‌die‌ ‌if‌ ‌clubs‌ ‌don’t‌ ‌wise-up‌ ‌to‌ ‌the‌ ‌increasing‌ ‌security‌ ‌threat‌ ‌from‌ ‌gangs‌ ‌bursting‌ ‌into‌ ‌their‌ ‌homes‌ ‌and‌ ‌stealing‌ ‌from‌ ‌them,‌ ‌an‌ ‌investigation‌ ‌has‌ ‌warned.‌‌Experts‌ ‌have‌ ‌told‌ ‌talkSPORT‌ ‌that players‌ ‌are‌ ‌spending‌ ‌as‌ ‌much‌ ‌as‌ ‌£30,000‌ ‌a‌ ‌month‌ ‌on‌ ‌ineffective‌ ‌security‌ ‌measures‌ ‌and‌ ‌for‌ ‌every‌ ‌five‌ ‌reports‌ ‌of‌ ‌theft‌ ‌there‌ ‌are‌ ‌100.‌ ‌
      Man‌ ‌Utd‌ ‌ace‌ ‌Chris‌ ‌Smalling‌ ‌and‌ ‌his‌ ‌wife Sam were‌ ‌held‌ ‌at‌ ‌gunpointCredit: Getty – Contributor
      It‌ ‌comes‌ ‌days‌ ‌after‌ ‌Man‌ ‌Utd‌ ‌ace‌ ‌Chris‌ ‌Smalling‌, 31, ‌and‌ ‌his‌ ‌wife Sam, 35,‌ ‌were‌ ‌held‌ ‌at‌ ‌gunpoint.‌
      Alex Bomberg, CEO of Intelligent Protection International, said: “I think the clubs have got a duty of care.
      “Footballers, politicians and people like that, they’re always representing their brand, their club. So there isn’t really an off time.
      “Footballers are an asset to the club. They essentially are the property of a club. So really the club should be taking the lead in this.
      Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti’s home was burgled by “two masked men who stole a safe” in FebruaryCredit: Getty
      “Whichever way you’re looking at, whether it’s from a legal duty care point of view or even just from an employment point of view, I think it’s down to clubs to turn around and say, ‘Right, this is what you need to do. We need to get security risk assessments done on all our players, find out when they’re most exposed and find out how we can protect them’.
      “Because it’s only a matter of time before a family member gets killed or a player gets killed. I absolutely believe that.”
      Last week The Sun revealed Chris was forced to hand over £100,000 worth of jewellery while he and Sam were held at gunpoint in Rome.
      Last week The Sun revealed Chris was forced to hand over £100,000 worth of jewellery while he and Sam were held at gunpoint in RomeCredit: PA:Press Association
      The former Page 3 model had her bracelet ripped from her wrist by the armed raiders.
      She later slammed them as “rats” and admitted she and the family were “shaken”.
      Chris was the latest footballer in a long list of stars who have become victims of crime.
      Last May, Spurs ace Dele Alli was robbed at knifepoint and punched at his homeCredit: EPA
      Last May, Spurs ace Dele Alli, 25, was robbed at knifepoint and punched at his home.
      Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti’s home was burgled by “two masked men who stole a safe” in February.
      And his goalkeeper Robin Olsen’s Greater Manchester house was targeted by a masked gang armed with machetes who stole jewellery.
      Everton goalkeeper Robin Olsen’s Greater Manchester house was targeted by a masked gang armed with machetes who stole jewelleryCredit: Getty
      talkSPORT’s investigation, which airs today on the Jim White & Simon Jordan show, found that football’s ‘security problem’ is much worse than realised.
      Asked if threats had gone up, Simon Roberts, the Director of Operations at Security Alert UK which looks after a Premier League club, said: “Massively, massively. I would say for every 100 attempts, five will make the media.
      “Personal theft and the home attacks are getting higher and higher and higher. They’re increasing.
      “A lot of them never makes the press or the papers because it’s dealt with internally by a private security company or by lawyers.”
      It also found that big stars are paying as much as £30,000 a month on ineffective security at their homes.
      Alex Bomberg said: “Very often you’ll find with footballers is they’ll say, ‘I’ve got a really good CCTV system and alarm system’.
      “And I say, ‘Great. So that CCTV will tell you whether somebody on your premises and in your house? Yes. It’s already too late. If someone’s in your house or on your premises, unless you’ve got an immediate physical response, as in a security guard or residential security team or close protection team, it’s already too late.
      “We had a client we took over a couple years ago who’d spent hundreds of thousands of pounds on a state-of-the-art CCTV system that’s monitored 24/7, but these people lived in the middle of Oxfordshire and the police response time was about 20 minutes.
      “Someone only really needs a few minutes in your house and the damage is already done.”
      Security experts recommend dogs that players, including Dele, have spent thousands on to guard their homes.Credit: Instagram/dele
      The security experts recommend dogs that players, including Dele, have spent thousands on to guard their homes.
      Simon Roberts said: “The dogs have gone to the next level.
      “You get a couple of guys masked up, hoodied up, that are going to come and try and do someone over. They’ve got two security guards — they’re going to try and have a go.
      “And then it’s 50-50. It’s man on man.

       “With the dogs, they’ll go nowhere near a dog. The smell, the sight, the hearing is far greater than human beings.
      “So where we could maybe see a perpetrator from, in the daylight, 150 to 250 yards, a dog, at night, will pick somebody up three, four or 500 yards away, which then gives us an extra 30, 40, 50 seconds to be in place with the dog units to stop any attack or physical threat.
      “So for me, dogs in personal protection has just gone through the roof for us.”
      Chris Smalling held at gunpoint with wife and son at Italian home More

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      Tottenham Hotspur Fires José Mourinho

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      The Portuguese coach’s 17 months in charge at the North London club failed to deliver the successes that marked his career at teams like Chelsea and Real Madrid.Tottenham Hotspur said on Monday that it had fired José Mourinho, the manager it hired as the closest thing European soccer has to a guarantee of trophies, six days before he was to contest his first major final with the club.Spurs appointed the Portuguese manager in November 2019 in the hope that he would turn the team into serial contenders for honors. He was, as the club’s chairman, Daniel Levy, explained, “one of the most accomplished managers in world football,” and had delivered success at every previous stop in his illustrious career, winning championships at F.C. Porto, Chelsea (twice), Inter Milan and Real Madrid.His 17 months in North London, though, have been anticlimactic. The club finished sixth last season, and sits one place lower in the current standings after a run of just one win in its last five Premier League games. In that time, Mourinho also suffered what he described as one of the most humiliating nights of his career: an exit from the Europa League at the hands of Dinamo Zagreb.Tottenham’s players had been growing increasingly restless under his reign, taking particular exception at his frequent attempts to blame them for Spurs’ struggles, rather than accepting at least a portion of the responsibility for himself. Last week, when asked why his team did not have the defensive solidity of some of his championship-winning sides, he responded: “Same coach, different players.”Levy decided on Friday night — after a 2-2 draw with Everton — to part company with Mourinho, appointing two of his coaching staff, Ryan Mason and Chris Powell, to take charge of the club for the remainder of the season.Their first week will end with Sunday’s league cup final, the first domestic trophy to be decided in England, against Manchester City — precisely the sort of occasion that Mourinho was hired to reach and to win. He will not, now, be given the chance. More

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      Gary Neville calls European Super League talks CRIMINAL, Varane talks, Haaland contract boost, Milenkovic EXCLUSIVE

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have been blasted as CRIMINAL by former great Gary Neville over talks of a European Super League.Meanwhile the Red Devils have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of Erling Haaland and are also reportedly chasing Rafael Varane.
      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      WE HAVE MOVED
      SunSport have a new Man Utd blog where we will be keeping you up to date with all things Red Devils related.
      Click HERE to follow.
      GOAL OF THE DAY
      What a neat finish this was from Donny van de Beek on his debut for Man Utd.
      Just a shame his goal came in a 3-1 defeat against Crystal Palace.

      SMALL PROBLEM
      Roma defender Chris Smalling is in a race to be fit to face his former club Manchester United in the Europa League semi-finals.
      The 31-year-old missed his side’s quarter-final tie against Ajax due to knee problems.
      But according to Gazetta dello Sport there is a belief one of Smalling or fellow centre-back Leonardo Spinazzola will be fit for the first leg against Man Utd on April 29.
      Roma will already be without defenders Marash Kumbulla and Gianluca Mancini through injury and suspension.
      Earlier this week, Smalling was robbed at gunpoint in front of his wife and toddler son when three hooded men broke into his home.
      The ex-England defender was sleeping when the armed thugs broke into his home and forced him to open his safe.
      DEAFENING SILENCE
      Premier League clubs are set to agree a social media boycott, according to reports.
      Top-flight teams want to send a message that racism will not be tolerated and will launch a war against online hate.
      According to Daily Mail, teams are planning to go silent on social media for 24 hours either side of their game on the ‘Weekend of Action’ between May 1-3.
      And the report adds that the Premier League will also boycott social media for the duration of the round of fixtures.
      Clubs have been asked to confirm their support for the plans by 2pm on Monday 19 April, the report states.
      The move is a bid to ramp up pressure on social platforms to act against online hate and abuse after a spate of recent incidents.
      WAYNE’S HAVANA LAUGH
      EXCLUSIVE – Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney is having a luxury whisky and cigar room built into his £20million mansion.
      The England icon, 35, is modelling it on an exclusive jazz venue he frequents.
      Wayne and wife Coleen, 34, are usually regulars at Puffin’ Rooms in Liverpool, which has an array of wines, champagnes, cocktails and more than 200 rare whiskies.
      A vast selection of Havana or New World cigars is also available.
      A source said: “The Puffin Rooms is one of those cosy intimate places where Wayne can relax in the lap of luxury. He’s been going there for years with Coleen.
      “They love it there and always go back when they’re in Liverpool.
      “They wanted the house to feature everything they’ve ever wanted — and this was at the top of Wayne’s list.”
      How Wayne Rooney may look in his luxury whisky and cigar room
      SILVER-AWARE
      Jonny Evans reckons lifting a trophy with Leicester would be up there with anything he achieved at Manchester United.
      At the age of 21, Evans had already won world, European and English titles with the Red Devils and admits he probably took silverware ‘for granted’.
      Ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Southampton, the Northern Ireland star, now 33, said: “Winning something with Leicester is definitely a more difficult thing to do.
      “That’s not putting any slight on Manchester United’s achievements. You see now how difficult it has been for them to win the league and to win as many trophies as under Sir Alex Ferguson.
      “The resources and everything they’ve got, they’re a club set up to be a winning machine. But it’s something Leicester are trying to do.
      “Maybe winning something with Leicester would be an achievement up there with one of the best for me, on a personal level.”
      GOOD MORNING UTD FANS
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United can still pull off a title miracle.
      The Red Devils will close the gap on Pep Guardiola’s Premier League leaders to eight points with victory over Burnley on Sunday.
      And Solskjaer has not given up hope that noisy neighbours City can be reeled in during the final six matches.
      United manager Solskjaer said: “Can we catch City? Stranger things have happened in football. Bigger leads have been given away.
      “They have been strong and it’s probably too much to hope and ask for. But as long as we do our job then that’s the main thing.”
      Meanwhile, Mason Greenwood is thriving after striking a relationship with Edinson Cavani.
      Solskjaer added: “Playing with Edinson Cavani has been a top example for him.
      “Edi leads by example even though the language barrier has made it a bit difficult.
      “But Mason and Edi have struck up a very good relationship. I can see that Edi appreciates Mason’s talent, his hunger and his willingness to learn.
      “And in Cavani, he is learning from one of the very best.
      “It’s like when I speak about having Sir Alex Ferguson as a manager. If I couldn’t learn from him then there was no point in going into management.
      “If Mason, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial can’t learn off Edinson then they can’t learn from anyone. He is a very good example to every single one of them.”
      And finally, Paul Scholes believes United’s Special Bru should be combined with the flair of the Pog to produce a devastating punch.
      He told BT Sport: “Solskjaer likes the two sitting players. I don’t think there’s a need for both of them,
      “They need to get Pogba in a linking role with Bruno. If they do, it frees up another position for a forward player.
      “The awareness and cleverness they both have allows each other to link up.
      “United’s two cleverest players are Fernandes and Pogba so if you can get them close together, they’ll score a lot and provide goals for others too.”
      GRASS IS GREENER
      Mason Greenwood is thriving after striking a relationship with Edinson Cavani.
      Solskjaer added: “Playing with Edinson Cavani has been a top example for him.
      “Edi leads by example even though the language barrier has made it a bit difficult.
      “But Mason and Edi have struck up a very good relationship. I can see that Edi appreciates Mason’s talent, his hunger and his willingness to learn.
      “And in Cavani, he is learning from one of the very best.
      “It’s like when I speak about having Sir Alex Ferguson as a manager. If I couldn’t learn from him then there was no point in going into management.
      “If Mason, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial can’t learn off Edinson then they can’t learn from anyone. He is a very good example to every single one of them.”
      TITLE TALK
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United can still pull off a title miracle.
      The Red Devils will close the gap on Pep Guardiola’s Premier League leaders to eight points with victory over Burnley on Sunday.
      And Solskjaer has not given up hope that noisy neighbours City can be reeled in during the final six matches.
      United manager Solskjaer said: “Can we catch City? Stranger things have happened in football. Bigger leads have been given away.
      “They have been strong and it’s probably too much to hope and ask for. But as long as we do our job then that’s the main thing.”
      DOUBLE BRU
      Paul Scholes believes Manchester United’s Special Bru should be combined with the flair of the Pog to produce a devastating punch.
      He told BT Sport: “Solskjaer likes the two sitting players. I don’t think there’s a need for both of them,
      “They need to get Pogba in a linking role with Bruno. If they do, it frees up another position for a forward player.
      “The awareness and cleverness they both have allows each other to link up.
      “United’s two cleverest players are Fernandes and Pogba so if you can get them close together, they’ll score a lot and provide goals for others too.”

      IRON BRU
      Paul Pogba reckons his Manchester United team-mate Bruno Fernandes can do anything and everything on the pitch – except defend.
      He told MUTV: “I enjoy playing with Bruno. He’s someone who understands the game and understands the movement that can give you a beautiful pass, he can finish too.
      “He’s all over the place, he can do everything really… except defending!
      “But really, it’s always a joy to play him, to understand him. He understands me as well, he can take my position, I can take his position as well.
      “I think he suits the team, he’s a very dominant influence in our team.”
      ‘NOT ENOUGH’
      Instagram are under fire after a user who sent England star Tyrone Mings a racist message only had his account restricted – and just “for a set period of time”.
      Football fans posted messages like “Nowhere near enough” … “Should be banned for life surely?” … and “Disable his dms”.
      Sarcastic jibes included: “That’ll sort it! Pathetic!” and “Well that taught him”.
      Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford is amongst several Premier League superstars to hit out at racist abuse abuse online after falling victim.
      SHAW THING
      Luke Shaw’s goal against rivals Manchester City was one of a hundred for the Red Devils this season.
      A goal to remember for @LukeShaw23 👏We’ve racked up a century of goals so far this season — click below to watch each and every one of them! ⬇#MUFC— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 17, 2021

      GARD UP
      Jesse Lingard made no reference to any injury on Instagram after he was forced off in West Ham’s defeat to Newcastle.

      TREBLE TALK
      Manchester United were quick to throw shade at rivals City’s FA Cup exit by retweeting this post from last year.

      NICK OF TIME
      Burnley could be without star goalkeeper Nick Pope for the game against Manchester United tomorrow.
      The Clarets will make a late call on the fitness of the England International after he missed their defeat to Newcastle last weekend.
      As quoted by Lancs Live, Sean Dyche said: “Popey is touch and go. We will have a call on that one. He has made good progress this week.”
      SARR IN THE MAKING
      SunSport revealed Manchester United are on the trail of Metz teen sensation Pape Sarr.
      Here are some of his key stats…

      FRENCH CONNECTION
      Chelsea have joined Manchester United in the race for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, according to reports.
      The 27-year-old French centre-back has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford at the end of the season as he prepares to enter the final year of his contract with the Spanish giants.
      And Real will be keen to cash in on the World Cup winner rather than watch him leave for a free next summer.
      BILD journalist Christian Falk understands Chelsea are keen to acquire Varane’s signature as they look to bolster their defensive options.
      The Red Devils looked into signing the French centre-back three years ago but were told it would cost more than £100million.
      MIDFIELD MAESTROS
      Manchester United have been urged to play Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba together by Paul Scholes.
      And there’s already a lot of love between them…

      BRU BEAUTY
      Bruno Fernandes has lavished praise on ‘proper striker’ Edinson Cavani.
      The midfielder said after Man Utd’s win over Granada: “Everyone knows Cavani, everything he does, he is a proper striker, we know the qualities of our players.
      “It was a good game, Europa League is always difficult, they can create danger but we controlled the game, had the ball a lot.
      “I don’t think it was bad tempered, we keep moving, do the right things, 2-0 again is really good for us.
      “Now is the time to take the next step and win a semi final but we must focus on the next game which is the league.”
      PAUL TO PLAY FOR
      Paul Pogba’s praise of Bruno Fernandes comes after United legend Paul Scholes urged Solskjaer to ditch one of his two holding players and play the pair together.
      He told BT Sport: “Solskjaer likes the two sitting players, I don’t think there’s a need for both of them.
      They need to get Pogba in a linking role with Bruno. If they do, it frees up another position for a forward player.
      ‘The awareness and cleverness they both have allows each other to link up.
      “United’s two cleverest players are Fernandes and Pogba so if you can get them close together, they’ll score a lot and provide goals for others too.
      “If they have a more dominant centre back, they could have a more attacking midfield.
      “A lot of the time, United that attacking, flowing play, I think Pogba could bring that with Fernandes.
      “If you get him in there, it frees up the left for Rashford, there’s no way you’d want to play against that.
      “Discipline-wise Pogba isn’t always there at times but going forward he brings something different.”
      ON GARD
      Jesse Lingard hobbled off for West Ham against Newcastle but after the match, David Moyes allayed concerns the injury was serious.
      He told reporters: “I think it was just cramp, I don’t think it was anything serious.
      “I think the one thing about Jesse, Jesse is a really fit boy. He wants to play. I think I push all my players hard, Jesse is no different.
      “He won’t get any favoured treatment – certainly not for a Scotsman going into the Euros!
      “We’re really pleased with him.”

      STORM BRUING
      Paul Pogba reckons his Manchester United team-mate Bruno Fernandes can do anything and everything on the pitch – except defend.
      Fernandes, 26, has been a revelation for the Red Devils since his January 2020 move to Old Trafford, scoring 36 goals and providing 22 assists in 71 appearances.
      He told MUTV: “I enjoy playing with Bruno. He’s someone who understands the game and understands the movement that can give you a beautiful pass, he can finish too.
      “He’s all over the place, he can do everything really… except defending!
      “But really, it’s always a joy to play him, to understand him. He understands me as well, he can take my position, I can take his position as well.
      “I think he suits the team, he’s a very dominant influence in our team.”
      GREAT DANE
      Man Utd have joined the race for Fulham’s on-loan Lyon defender Joachim Andersen, according to reports.
      The Dane moved to Craven Cottage last summer, after finding opportunities limited with the French side.
      Despite Fulham’s struggles, he has hit the ground running in West London, earning the captain’s armband in just his fourth Premier League appearance.
      And his quick progress has not gone unnoticed by potential suitors.
      Danish outlet BT claim that the Red Devils have more than just a passing interest in the 24-year-old.
      SARR IN THE MAKING
      EXCLUSIVE – Man Utd are on the trail of Metz teen sensation Pape Sarr.
      The Senegalese 18-year-old won his first cap for his country in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo last month.
      That came only four months after his league debut for the French club in November.
      He has been watched regularly by European clubs including United.
      Reports in France this month suggested Nice sporting director Julien Fournier was pulling out all the stops to land Sarr.
      However it is believed Sarr – a box-to-box midfielder – has set his sights on joining a bigger club.
      Teenage ace Sarr is being tracked by a number of clubs in Europe
      Load more entries… More

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      Varane talks, Haaland contract boost, Milenkovic EXCLUSIVE, ‘Cristiano Ronaldo-Pogba swap’, Rice ‘wants United transfer’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are in talks with Raphael Varane over a summer transfer, according to reports.Meanwhile the Red Devils have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of Erling Haaland
      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      PAUL TO PLAY FOR
      Paul Pogba’s praise of Bruno Fernandes comes after United legend Paul Scholes urged Solskjaer to ditch one of his two holding players and play the pair together.
      He told BT Sport: “Solskjaer likes the two sitting players, I don’t think there’s a need for both of them.
      They need to get Pogba in a linking role with Bruno. If they do, it frees up another position for a forward player.
      ‘The awareness and cleverness they both have allows each other to link up.
      “United’s two cleverest players are Fernandes and Pogba so if you can get them close together, they’ll score a lot and provide goals for others too.
      “If they have a more dominant centre back, they could have a more attacking midfield.
      “A lot of the time, United that attacking, flowing play, I think Pogba could bring that with Fernandes.
      “If you get him in there, it frees up the left for Rashford, there’s no way you’d want to play against that.
      “Discipline-wise Pogba isn’t always there at times but going forward he brings something different.”
      ON GARD
      Jesse Lingard hobbled off for West Ham against Newcastle but after the match, David Moyes allayed concerns the injury was serious.
      He told reporters: “I think it was just cramp, I don’t think it was anything serious.
      “I think the one thing about Jesse, Jesse is a really fit boy. He wants to play. I think I push all my players hard, Jesse is no different.
      “He won’t get any favoured treatment – certainly not for a Scotsman going into the Euros!
      “We’re really pleased with him.”

      STORM BRUING
      Paul Pogba reckons his Manchester United team-mate Bruno Fernandes can do anything and everything on the pitch – except defend.
      Fernandes, 26, has been a revelation for the Red Devils since his January 2020 move to Old Trafford, scoring 36 goals and providing 22 assists in 71 appearances.
      He told MUTV: “I enjoy playing with Bruno. He’s someone who understands the game and understands the movement that can give you a beautiful pass, he can finish too.
      “He’s all over the place, he can do everything really… except defending!
      “But really, it’s always a joy to play him, to understand him. He understands me as well, he can take my position, I can take his position as well.
      “I think he suits the team, he’s a very dominant influence in our team.”
      GREAT DANE
      Man Utd have joined the race for Fulham’s on-loan Lyon defender Joachim Andersen, according to reports.
      The Dane moved to Craven Cottage last summer, after finding opportunities limited with the French side.
      Despite Fulham’s struggles, he has hit the ground running in West London, earning the captain’s armband in just his fourth Premier League appearance.
      And his quick progress has not gone unnoticed by potential suitors.
      Danish outlet BT claim that the Red Devils have more than just a passing interest in the 24-year-old.
      SARR IN THE MAKING
      EXCLUSIVE – Man Utd are on the trail of Metz teen sensation Pape Sarr.
      The Senegalese 18-year-old won his first cap for his country in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo last month.
      That came only four months after his league debut for the French club in November.
      He has been watched regularly by European clubs including United.
      Reports in France this month suggested Nice sporting director Julien Fournier was pulling out all the stops to land Sarr.
      However it is believed Sarr – a box-to-box midfielder – has set his sights on joining a bigger club.
      Teenage ace Sarr is being tracked by a number of clubs in Europe
      RAPH AND READY
      Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane is reportedly Man Utd’s No 1 centre-back target for the summer.
      The Frenchman could be set to depart Los Blancos at the end of the season with his contract to expire in 2022.
      And Times journalist Constantin Eckner has declared that the 27-year-old is on the Red Devils’ radar.
      Asked by a fan on Twitter about whether United are in talks with Varane, Eckner said: “Yes, they are.
      “Once #MUFC realised that a move could be possible, he became their No. 1 centre-back target.”
      SMALL PROBLEM
      Roma defender Chris Smalling is in a race to be fit to face his former club Manchester United in the Europa League semi-finals.
      The 31-year-old missed his side’s quarter-final tie against Ajax due to knee problems.
      But according to Gazetta dello Sport there is a belief one of Smalling or fellow centre-back Leonardo Spinazzola will be fit for the first leg against Man Utd on April 29.
      Roma will already be without defenders Marash Kumbulla and Gianluca Mancini through injury and suspension.
      Earlier this week, Smalling was robbed at gunpoint in front of his wife and toddler son when three hooded men broke into his home.
      The ex-England defender was sleeping when the armed thugs broke into his home and forced him to open his safe.
      ON THE PAUL
      What an iconic header this was from Paul Scholes in the Manchester Derby in April 2010.

      RACE FOR RAPHA
      Chelsea have joined Manchester United in the race for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, according to reports.
      The 27-year-old French centre-back has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford at the end of the season as he prepares to enter the final year of his contract with the Spanish giants.
      And Real will be keen to cash in on the World Cup winner rather than watch him leave for a free next summer.
      BILD journalist Christian Falk understands Chelsea are keen to acquire Varane’s signature as they look to bolster their defensive options.
      The Red Devils looked into signing theFrench centre-back three years ago but were told it would cost more than £100million.
      Madrid value him in the £60m bracket, but that figure is still likely to be viewed as high, particularly with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the transfer market.
      Varane could be set for a move to the Premier League this summer
      RULES DON’T MATTER
      David Beckham’s Inter Miami violated MLS budget rules to sign World Cup winner Blaise Matuidi, an investigation has confirmed.
      The 34-year-old Frenchman signed for the American outfit back in August but was not confirmed to be one of the three allocated high-priced players that the league permits each club and was instead classified as a ‘target allocation money’ player (TAM).
      Matias Pellegrini, Rodolfo Pizarro and Gonzalo Higuain were the three ‘designated’ high-priced players in the 2020 Inter Miami squad, meaning Beckham’s side needed to think creatively in order to get Matuidi on board.
      They did so by buying Pellegrini out of his contract in order to get back in compliance with the rules.
      And the league said Pellegrini is being loaned to Fort Lauderdale – the affiliate of Miami in the third tier United Soccer League’s League One.
      “Matuidi’s compensation was above the compensation limit for a TAM player and he should have been classified as a designated player,” the MLS said in a statement.
      “As a result, Inter Miami violated the designated player limit as the team had three designated players in addition to Matuidi during 2020.”
      CHRIS CROSS
      Chris Smalling’s wife has slammed the “rats” who held her at gunpoint during a terrifying £100,000 raid as she spoke out for the first time.
      The former Manchester United defender, 31, and ex-Page Three girl Sam Cooke, 35, were woken in the early hours by three hooded men who burst into their bedroom.
      The former model said on Instagram: “I’d just like to suggest that those living their lives like these thieves who came into our bedroom at 4am pointing guns at our heads, rethink their choices in life and live in a more respectable and conscious way like real men, not rats (disrespectful to rats I know).
      “I suspect your life hasn’t been easy but there’s always another way. A way that will lead to blessings and not karma biting you on the ass, which I’ve no doubt it will!
      “And for the record, anyone thinking of coming near me and my family again, we have no jewellery or watches left and don’t intend to buy any more!
      “If you see us wearing anything it’s likely fake. So don’t bother”.
      Three hooded men broke in while the couple and their two-year-old son slept
      PAUL THE OTHER ONE
      Jose Mourinho insists he “couldn’t care less” about Paul Pogba’s criticism of his management style.
      The French midfielder hit out at his former manager and suggested he ‘goes against his players’ unlike current Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
      He also revealed details of the ‘strange relationship’ he had with the Portuguese during his time in charge of the Red Devils between 2016 and 2018.
      Pogba and Mourinho had a famous training ground clash in 2018 after the United boss thought Pogba had been laughing at the club’s defeat to Derby.
      And Pogba has revealed it is tough to explain his relationship with the Tottenham boss even now.
      However, when asked after Tottenham’s 2-2 draw at Everton about the ex-Juventus star’s remarks, the Spurs chief said: “I would like to say that I couldn’t care less what he said.
      “I couldn’t care less – not interested at all.”f
      CAV SOME OF THAT
      Bruno Fernandes has lavished praise on ‘proper striker’ Edinson Cavani.
      The midfielder said after Man Utd’s win over Granada: “Everyone knows Cavani, everything he does, he is a proper striker, we know the qualities of our players.
      “It was a good game, Europa League is always difficult, they can create danger but we controlled the game, had the ball a lot.
      “I don’t think it was bad tempered, we keep moving, do the right things, 2-0 again is really good for us.
      “Now is the time to take the next step and win a semi final but we must focus on the next game which is the league.”
      HAA LA LAND
      Man Utd have received a boost in their boost of signing Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland in the summer.
      According to Goal, Real Madrid and Barcelona have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of the Norway international.
      They claim that the LaLiga clubs are unable to meet his £30million-a-year salary demands.
      The player – who is available for £65m in 2022 – will be allowed to leave BVB of the German side receive a £130m fee at the end of the season.
      FORWARD PLAN
      Paul Scholes wants Manchester United to bring in a new striker this summer and boost their forward options.
      He told BT Sport: “I think they’ve got really good forwards but are any a real-centre forward? They look better in wide areas.
      “[Edinson] Cavani has only started 15 games, can they keep him another year? It will cost a lot of money but they have to sign someone eventually.
      “If Cavani was to stay, he wouldn’t want to sit on the bench, I think he’s waiting to see if United sign a centre-forward. He hasn’t played a lot due to injuries and that is a concern given his age.”
      The ex-Red Devils midfielder added: “I don’t see Mason Greenwood as a centre-forward, I just see him in wide areas, not a great link up man, not making clever runs or tap ins, I see him in a wide right area that none of the other players like.
      “He is devastating when facing a player up on the right side, that’s what makes him such a dangerous player.
      “As a kid he wasn’t like a traditional centre-forward but always scored spectacular goals. He’s a wide player and that’s why United need to sign a top class centre-forward.”
      RASH RUSH
      Marcus Rashford remains a doubt for Manchester United’s clash with Burnley on Sunday.
      But Eric Bailly could be in store for a recall after completing his self-isolation for coronavirus.
      Rashford, 23, is recovering from a foot injury and was an unused substitute on Thursday night.
      His potential absence could see Solskjaer stick with the front four that started the 2-0 win over Granada.
      Edinson Cavani led the line – grabbing his second goal in five days – with Mason Greenwood, Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba in support.
      Here is how United could line-up.
      Here is how Man Utd could start against Burnley on Sunday
      MORNING, UNITED FANS
      Wesley Fofana is the latest centre-back linked to Old Trafford – while United have reportedly met Erling Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola.
      That’s the latest transfer speculation as boss Ole Gunnar Solskajer prepares for Sunday’s Premier League clash at home to Burnley.
      French star Fofana, 20, has shone alongside ex-United defender Jonny Evans since his £36.5million arrival at Leicester from Saint Etienne last September.
      But it’s claimed the Foxes rate Fofana in the £80million bracket United paid them for Harry Maguire two years ago.
      Meanwhile, the saga over £150m-rated goal machine Haaland’s future has been ramped up by suggestions United have held tentative discussions with Raiola.
      It’s previously been suggested that Haaland’s father Alf-Inge and Raiola went to Spain to speak to both Barcelona and Real Madrid.
      United are also tipped to decide Edinson Cavani’s future over the next few weeks – with Boca Juniors said to be offering the 34-year-old a two-year deal.
      Reports in Germany say Old Trafford scouts have monitored Eintracht Frankfurt striker Andre Silva, valued at £35m, as a possible replacement for Cavani.
      Finally, Marcus Rashford remains a fitness doubt for Sunday after he was an unused sub in Thursday’s Europa League triumph over Granada.
      ROCK OF CAGES
      There was a time Dwight McNeil and Mason Greenwood would fight it out in the cages at Manchester United’s training ground.
      Now the old friends have both been unleashed on the Premier League and their teams go head-to-head at Old Trafford on Sunday.
      Burnley winger McNeil, 21, had dreams of making the grade with his boyhood club — but his time with the Red Devils ended in disappointment, aged 14.
      The Rochdale-born star is not surprised by the progress of pal Greenwood, 18, at United as he pushes for a spot in England’s Euros squad.
      McNeil, a doubt for the clash after picking up a knock, said: “The main thing was training in the cage at night.
      “It was all a bit of fun, really, just playing games in this small area. But it improved me as a player in tight areas.
      “Mason was younger than me but he played up with us. He was always good with both feet — you could tell with Mason at a young age.
      “It’s great that we’ve both achieved our  dream to play in the Premier League and,  obviously, Mason is doing so well at United and I’m really happy for him.
      “He’s had some criticism but I know what kind of guy he is. Mason’s a good guy and he’s come back scoring goals so I’m happy for him.”
      SMALLING ROBBED WHILE WIFE HELD AT GUNPOINT
      Roma’s ex-Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was forced to hand over £100,000 of watches and jewelry while his wife was held at gunpoint.
      Former England star Smalling, 31, and ex-Page Three girl Sam Cooke, 35, were woken in the early hours by three hooded men who burst into their bedroom.
      Chris Smalling and his wife Sam Cooke were held at gunpoint during a raid on their home
      Police searched the home in Appia Antica, Rome
      Police say the gang entered by ripping off a window grille and may have drugged the couple’s two dogs.
      Smalling’s mum, sister and two-year-old son were also at the villa in Rome, where the star now plays for Roma.
      Smalling was ordered to open a safe. The gang then raced off in a waiting car with three Rolexes, gold jewellery and 300 euros.
      Sam raised the alarm and cops arrived quickly to the home in the exclusive suburb of Appia Antica. A police car remained outside while a forensic team searched for clues.
      Smalling currently has a knee injury and had just returned from watching Roma draw with Ajax — setting up a Europa League semi-final with United.
      A police source said they could not rule out him being followed home after the match.
      SLEEVE IT OUT
      Paul Pogba has explained why he wore a long black sleeve on only his left arm against Granada.
      The Manchester United midfielder’s armwear beneath his short-sleeve top sparked mystery as Thursday’s 2-0 away win completed a 4-0 aggregate route to the Europa League semi-finals 
      French World Cup winner Paul Pogba created a mystery over his armwearCredit: Getty
      But the 28-year-old says he’s been doing it most of the season following injury.
      Pogba told United’s website: “It started with the pain, I had the pain [left elbow].
      “It actually started with my right elbow, so I put it on my right, and I had the same problem with my left.
      :So I started playing with this to get it warm instead of the strapping. It’s tight on my elbow. I’ve been playing with this and it’s just natural now, just for security.”
      UTD ARE FRIENDS OF FO
      Manchester United have reportedly made contact with Leicester City about signing Wesley Fofana.
      The French defender, 20, has been a revelation for the Foxes this season after signing from Saint Etienne for £36.5million last September.
      French centre-back Wesley Fofana is reportedly a target for Man UtdCredit: Reuters
      And his partnership with Jonny Evans has helped Brendan Rodgers side remain in contention for a Champions League spot.
      According to Foot Mercato, his form hasn’t gone unnoticed by Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who would like to partner record-signing Harry Maguire with the France U21 international.
      The report says that Solskjaer isn’t convinced that Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly have the qualities to compliment Maguire at the back.
      United are said to have made initial contact with the Leicester ace, but the next step could be complicated.
      Leicester are believed to want a similar fee to the £80million United paid for Maguire in 2019.
      ‘UTD MEET HAALAND AGENT’
      Manchester United have reportedly met Erling Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola over the Borussia Dortmund striker
      Gazzetta dello Sport have previously suggested Haaland’s father Alf-Inge and Raiola went to Spain to speak to both Barcelona and Real Madrid.  
      And Manchester City have also been linked with the Norway superstar, 20.
      But any formal move for the £150million-rated goal machine still seems some distance away.
      Erling Haaland have been linked with a whole host of European giantsCredit: EPA
      CHELSEA ‘TOP OF QUEUE FOR JUDE’
      Chelsea are reportedly eyeing a huge summer transfer raid for Dortmund’s England starlet Jude Bellingham.
      The midfielder, 17, further strengthened his burgeoning reputation with another fine performance against Manchester City in the Champions League.
      Former Birmingham City ace Bellingham was chased by City’s neighbours Man United last summer but the Red Devils lost out to the Bundesliga side.
      But Dortmund are bracing themselves for another tricky summer as they aim to hold on to their young talent, including previous Manchester United target Jadon Sancho.
      Now Eurosport claims Chelsea are the Premier League club currently displaying the most interest in their latest starlet – with links to Declan Rice having seemingly cooled since Thomas Tuchel’s arrival as boss
      Now it is claimed they feel Bellingham would be more suited to the style that the German is trying to implement at Stamford Bridge.
      Dortmund are said to believe they will recoup a fee of around £100m when they do eventually decide to sell.
      WES HELPS OUT
      Former Manchester United and England defender Wes Brown chipped in with the club’s Easter holiday camps.
      The ex-Sunderland star, 41, holds the Uefa ‘A’ Licence for coaching – so his qualifications as much as his pedigree should stand the young participants in particularly good stead.

      CAVANI D-DAY LOOMING
      Manchester United are tipped to decide Edinson Cavani’s future at a meeting over the next few weeks
      Journalist Fabrizio Romano says the Uruguay legend, 34, will also make up his own mind in the same timescale – with Argentine giants Boca Juniors keen to lure him away with a two-year contract.
      Ex-PSG striker Edinson Cavani’s Man Utd future could be sorted out within weeksCredit: Getty
      Edinson Cavani’s on fire… and Manchester United have a meeting scheduled in the next weeks to decide about his future as they wanna keep him for the next season. Cavani will decide soon with his family and agent. Boca Juniors would offer him a two-years contract. 🔴 #MUFC— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 15, 2021

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      in Soccer

      Barnsley’s USA superkid Daryl Dike has Championship defences for breakfast and is destined for Premier League top table

      by

      DARYL DIKE grew up falling in love with the Premier League and Didier Drogba while eating his mum’s pancakes for breakfast.The 20-year-old American striker is on the brink of getting there himself after a staggering two-and-a-half months having Championship defences for breakfast.
      Daryl Dike is loving life at Oakwell since joining on loan from Orlando City in February
      Dike has scored eight goals already for Barnsley as they chase Premier League football
      Little was known about this incredible talent when Barnsley boss Valerien Ismael signed him on loan until the end of the season with an option to make the move permanent.
      But his eight goals in 14 games since moving from MLS club Orlando City has attracted huge interest from Premier League clubs including Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, West Ham, Tottenham, Everton and Leeds.
      Yet, with the Tykes sitting sixth, he could be playing top-flight football at Oakwell next season instead.
      It is some story for a kid who heralds from Oklahoma – hardly a hotbed for footballers.
      But Dike comes from a soccer-mad family who persuaded him to shun playing American Football.
      His brother Bright, sister Courtney and cousin Emmanuel Emenike all played for Nigeria.
      I watched the Premier League, Championship, even League One and Two. It was a big deal for me to reach the level of playing in England.
      The striker – whose parents Jacinta and Vincent are Nigerian – said: “Football was always all around me.
      “With the time difference, all the weekend English games would start early in the morning.
      “I’d wake up every Saturday and Sunday and the first thing I’d do was watch a match live on TV. Sometimes I’d have to get up earlier than usual so not to miss the game.
      “Mum would always be making breakfast – it would be pancakes, biscuits, eggs or cereal – and I’d eat while watching the football.
      “I grew up thinking, ‘One day I’d love to get the opportunity to be a professional footballer.’
      “I watched a lot of football – Premier League, Championship, even League One and Two. It was a big deal for me to reach the level of playing in England.”
      Young Daryl (far right) with his three sisters, brother and parents back in Oklahoma, USA
      Chelsea legend Didier Drogba was Dike’s idol while he was growing up in the States
      Dike started supporting Chelsea because of Drogba and standing at 6ft 1in tall with a powerful physique he has striking similarities with his childhood idol.
      He admitted: “I loved Drogba, I enjoyed watching him. He was someone I’ve always looked up to and Chelsea was my team.”
      It was ironic Dike made his debut this side of the pond against the Blues in the FA Cup in February – coming on as a second-half sub.
      He said: “It was crazy. There I was on the field against players I had only seen on TV. I’m warming up and thinking, ‘Oh Olivier Giroud is right here!’
      “Just to make my debut in English football was crazy but to do it against Chelsea, a top European team I supported, was surreal.
      “I managed to get Callum Hudson-Odoi’s shirt and will keep that as a momento. It’s something I’ll never forget.”
      Dike only turned pro with Orlando just over a year ago.
      But in that time he scored eight goals in 17 games in the MLS and has been capped twice for the USA – coming on as a sub in a 7-0 win against Trinidad & Tobago and the 2-1 victory against Northern Ireland.
      So the burning question is why did a footballer swap the glamorous and warm surroundings of Orlando – the home of Disney World – for the chilly Yorkshire market town of Barnsley?
      Dike said: “I was on national team camp and the day before one of our games, my agent said Barnsley wanted to sign me.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      Dike won his second USA cap against Northern Ireland last month
      “I told him I’d focus on the national team and talk after. I was able to get my first USA cap and that was a phenomenal.
      “To be able to come to Barnsley I had to have won a cap. I spoke with my agent and family and felt it was a great opportunity.
      “I knew about the team as I had often watched the Championship and other leagues below the Premier League.
      “So the next day I was on the plane to London and got driven up to Barnsley.
      “I was amazed when I arrived because in Orlando it had been blistering hot – but in Barnsley it was freezing cold and snowing! I thought, ‘Wow, this is a bit different!’”
      Dike has been unable to familiarise himself with the town and surrounding area because of lockdown restrictions – and has been holed up mostly in his apartment studying a finance degree.
      He said: “I’ve been watching TV, playing video games and catching up with friends back home – but I’ve also been doing schooling.
      Dike has loved the close-knit family feel at Barnsley which has helped him settle
      “I’m trying to get into green finance and have been attending university lectures online. I’ve always been a numbers guy and interested in math.
      “Education has been a big thing in my family so I’ve kept up with that.
      “I’d love to play until I’m 75 but I don’t think the body will allow me so after football I want to pursue a career I enjoy and a degree will help me.”
      However, Dike – although he is yet to play in front of fans at Oakwell – has been bowled over by the reception he gets when walking around the town.
      Hardly a day passes without a Barnsley fan stopping for a chat or sending him a letter via the club or social media.
      The offer to come to Barnsley came out of the blue while Dike was on international duty
      Dike holds aloft his No10 Barnsley shirt when he was unveiled in February
      He said: “I’ll go to a grocery store and people will stop me and ask, ‘Are you Daryl Dike?’ and then we’ll talk a little.
      “The people here are super friendly. Every time I go on social media I can see the kind of close-knit family culture of Barnsley and also see that through my team-mates and the staff.
      “It makes me feel good to know I’ve fans here and that I’m impacting on someone else’s life in a positive way.”
      Dike is one of seven Americans currently playing in the Championship – joining Swansea’s Jordon Morris (loan), Duane Holmes of Huddersfield, QPR’S Charlie Kelman and Geoff Cameron, Rotherham ace Matthew Olosunde and Bournemouth’s Cameron Carter-Vickers (loan).
      And Dike believes that this will only increase in both the Premier League and EFL because the talent pool in the US is growing fast.
      He said: “You’ll see more opportunities arise because of what people like Christian Pulisic are doing at Chelsea. That has given more trust in American players this side of the Atlantic.”
      Dike has revealed that one of the biggest pieces of advice he was given when moving across to the Mother Country was to try Nando’s as it is so much better than in the States.
      It makes me feel good to know I’ve fans here and that I’m impacting on someone else’s life in a positive way.
      He said: “One of my Orlando team-mates Dom Dwyer is from the UK and went through what food to try. He recommended Nando’s. I managed one trip and had butterfly chicken, peri-peri sauce and fries! It was nice.”
      Former Manchester United star Nani is also at Orlando and Dike said: “He told me it was going to be difficult but was confident in what I could do.”
      Dike admits he had to adjust to a more physical and direct style of football than he had been used to.
      Surely he would not have bargained on things going as perfectly as it has on the field with his goals tally, performances and Barnsley challenging for promotion?
      He said: “I can see myself growing as a player and getting better.
      “I don’t know if I’ve exceeded expectations because I went into this with an open mind.
      “I wanted to challenge myself and live the experience day by day. I couldn’t ask for a better beginning to English football.”
      Dike has zoned out of all the speculation regarding his future but confirmed to SunSport he will sit down to discuss playing for Barnsley next season in the Premier League if the club are promoted.

      He said: “We believe we can achieve something special. Everyone has the same belief.”
      But what is his ultimate ambition?
      “I want to be the greatest player I can. I want to play in World Cups and the Champions League. I want to reach the highest of heights.
      “I’ve a long way to go to continue to grow and reach that level.”
      But he has not made a bad start.
      Referee Rebecca Welch impresses on EFL debut as Port Vale win at Harrogate More

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      in Soccer

      Milenkovic EXCLUSIVE, Andre Silva to cost Man Utd £35m, ‘Ronaldo-Pogba swap’, Rice ‘wants transfer’, Haaland LATEST

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED are targeting a sensational summer swoop for Nikola Milenkovic, SunSport can reveal.After the Red Devils booked their place in the Europa League final four last night, we’ve the very latest on Andre Silva, Erling Haaland and Declan Rice.
      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      ANDRE WOULD COST UTD £35m
      Man Utd will have to fork out £35million if they want to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Andre Silva in the summer.
      According to Bild, the Red Devils are interested in the Portugal international who has banged in 23 Bundesliga goals this term.
      It has been claimed that United are battling Atletico Madrid and Barcelona for his signature.
      Silva is seen as a cheaper alternative to Borussia Dortmund marksman Erling Haaland.
      ZLAT’S ALL FOLKS?
      Former Manchester United star Zlatan Ibrahimovic is facing a three-year ban for investing in a Malta-based betting company, it has been claimed.
      A bombshell report in Sweden says that the 39-year-old’s career could be brought to a premature end as a result of the ban.
      Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet state that he owns ten per cent of Bethard, a gambling company with offices in Malta, through his business Unknown AB.
      Both Fifa and Uefa do not let players have financial interests in gambling companies. Fifa’s ethical rules say that anyone who violates them faces a fine and a ban from all football activities for a maximum of three years.
      The report continues that the Swedish FA were aware of the problem and it’s the reason he didn’t feature in the 2018 World Cup. AC Milan striker Zlatan had already retired from international football in 2016 but made his return ahead of this summer’s Euros.
      The report adds that Zlatan’s company is the fourth largest shareholder in Bethard and it made a profit after tax of £25.79m in 2019. He was announced as a co-owner and ambassador for the brand three years ago.
      TOP OF THE KOPS
      Jamie Carragher believes Liverpool is the ideal setting for Erling Haaland.
      The Norwegian is wanted by a host of clubs, including Manchester United, this summer but the ex-defender hopes to see him at Anfield.
      He told CBS Sports: “I think Haaland should come to Liverpool, because it’s his type of football.
      “Basically heavy metal football, he relies on his pace and his power. That’s the type of football that Liverpool play.
      “Who would not want to play in front of the Kop? Liverpool, energy, Champions League football nights.”
      RASH RUSH
      Marcus Rashford remains a doubt for Manchester United’s clash with Burnley on Sunday.
      But Eric Bailly could be in store for a recall after completing his self-isolation for coronavirus.
      Rashford, 23, is recovering from a foot injury and was an unused substitute on Thursday night.
      His potential absence could see Solskjaer stick with the front four that started the 2-0 win over Granada.
      Edinson Cavani led the line – grabbing his second goal in five days – with Mason Greenwood, Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba in support.
      Here is how United could line-up.
      This is how SunSport predicts Manchester United will line up against Burnley
      EURO CASH
      Chelsea and Manchester City are cashing in the most from their European exploits so far this season after making the Champions League semi-finals.
      Chelsea have banked £79.8m for their exploits in Europe so far this season while Pep Guardiola’s Citizens have netted £76.8m, according to figures from football-coefficient.eu.
      The riches on offer in Europe’s premier competition dwarf the financial benefits of playing in the Europa League – where the rest of the Prem sides find themselves.
      Manchester United have the considerable advantage of having dropped down into the tournament courtesy of finishing third in their Champions League group.
      The Red Devils have earned £50.7m worth of prize money as it stands after beating Granada to make the Europa League semi-finals where they will play Roma.
      Arsenal started the season in the competition and have only chalked up £14.4m in winnings.

      ABS-OLUTE HUNK
      Reported Man Utd target Cristiano Ronaldo is still ripped to shreds at 36 – and wanted to remind his 276million Instagram followers.
      The Juventus superstar proved age is just a number once again with his latest social media selfie.
      Relaxing topless in what appears to be a sauna, the forward posed for the selfie with his eyes closed and bulging muscles on show for all to see.
      Ronaldo simply wrote: “Kaizen,” on the photo – which means ‘improvement’ in Japanese.
      The Euro 2016 winner has been linked with a return to Old Trafford, with Paul Pogba heading in the opposite direction.
      Cristiano Ronaldo took to Instagram to flash his abs once again for all 276m followers

      BAIL OUT
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed he is relaxed over Eric Bailly’s contract situation with the defender set to become a free agent in 2022.
      The Man Utd boss said: “Eric has played well when he’s played. I know there’s been speculation. We’re talking to him about his contract so I don’t see any issues really.”
      And the Red Devils boss is hopeful the centre-back will be ready for selection to face Burnley on Sunday.
      He added: “Eric has been isolating back home in the Ivory Coast. He’s back to England now. We hope he can be available for the weekend.
      “Hopefully he can train tomorrow, depending on how he feels within himself. He’s had his tests today so we need to get the confirmation that he’s still negative.”
      SILVA LINING
      Man Utd will have to fork out £35million if they want to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Andre Silva in the summer.
      According to Bild, the Red Devils are interested in the Portugal international who has banged in 23 Bundesliga goals this term.
      It has been claimed that United are battling Atletico Madrid and Barcelona for his signature.
      Silva is seen as a cheaper alternative to Borussia Dortmund marksman Erling Haaland.
      SILVA LINING
      Man Utd will have to fork out £35million if they want to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Andre Silva in the summer.
      According to Bild, the Red Devils are interested in the Portugal international who has banged in 23 Bundesliga goals this term.
      It has been claimed that United are battling Atletico Madrid and Barcelona for his signature.
      Silva is seen as a cheaper alternative to Borussia Dortmund marksman Erling Haaland.
      RAPH AND READY
      Former Man Utd midfielder Owen Hargreaves has urged the club to sign Leeds winger Raphinha instead of Jadon Sancho.
      The BT Sport pundit said: “I don’t think it’s realistic for Manchester United to win the Premier League next season.
      “They have to find a way to bridge that gap. You bridge that gap by getting another centre-back, getting a central midfielder, and getting a right winger.
      “A lot of people have played out on that right hand side and haven’t really found it. Jadon Sancho would be amazing.
      “You think about Raphinha at Leeds and what he could do in this United team – there’s obviously levels, and you can’t always spend £100million on a player.”
      IRN BRU
      Bruno Fernandes has his sights set on winning the Europa League after Man Utd advanced into the semi-finals.

      FORWARD PLAN
      Paul Scholes wants Manchester United to bring in a new striker this summer and boost their forward options.
      He told BT Sport: “I think they’ve got really good forwards but are any a real-centre forward? They look better in wide areas.
      “[Edinson] Cavani has only started 15 games, can they keep him another year? It will cost a lot of money but they have to sign someone eventually.
      “If Cavani was to stay, he wouldn’t want to sit on the bench, I think he’s waiting to see if United sign a centre-forward. He hasn’t played a lot due to injuries and that is a concern given his age.”
      The ex-Red Devils midfielder added: “I don’t see Mason Greenwood as a centre-forward, I just see him in wide areas, not a great link up man, not making clever runs or tap ins, I see him in a wide right area that none of the other players like.
      “He is devastating when facing a player up on the right side, that’s what makes him such a dangerous player.
      “As a kid he wasn’t like a traditional centre-forward but always scored spectacular goals. He’s a wide player and that’s why United need to sign a top class centre-forward.”
      ON THE PAUL
      Paul Pogba laughed at Jose Mourinho’s distraction tactics after United’s victory at Spurs last week.
      After the game the ex-Chelsea and Porto boss hit out at Solskjaer for saying he wouldn’t feed his son if he went down like Son Heung-min did after Scott McTominay’s hand brushed his face.
      Mourinho then said he is glad Son’s dad is a better father than Ole.
      Asked for his thoughts on the post-game reaction, Pogba said: “I don’t know what happened, I’m sure Mourinho said something that would make people speak, that’s what he does.
      “We got the result we wanted, Ole knows it and we enjoyed that moment because we know Mourinho and we know what he likes. We don’t need this [war of words], we just focus on us.
      “We won the game, he lost the game and he doesn’t want to speak about the game, he wants to speak about the dad of someone, that’s what he does. Everybody knows him, it’s very Mourinho.”
      FOOTIE RAID
      Roma defender Chris Smalling was robbed at gunpoint in front of his wife and toddler son when three hooded men broke into his home.
      The 31-year-old was sleeping when the armed thugs broke into his home and forced him to open his safe.
      Smalling, who played for Manchester United for ten years, handed over a Rolex watch and other items of jewellery, Gazzetta dello Sport reports.
      His wife Sam, 35, called the police at 5am this morning after the break-in at the home in the Appia Antica area of Rome.
      The robbery happened in front of the couple’s two-year-old son Leo.
      Roma were playing in the Europa League last night but Smalling was injured with a knee injury.
      NO RASH DECISION
      Man Utd are hopeful Marcus Rashford will be fit to face Burnley after missing the Europa League win over Granada.
      The England forward, 23, was left on the bench for Thursday night’s 2-0 semi-final win.
      And after the game, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed Rashford missed the game – which United won 2-0 to seal a 4-0 aggregate victory – with a knock and was only named on the bench in case of emergency.
      All eyes will now turn to Sunday’s Premier League game at home to Burnley, with Solskjaer admitting Rashford could miss out.
      Immediately after beating Granada, Solskjaer said: “We hope [Rashford] is going to be ready [to face Burnley].nToday was about not risking him.
      “He was on the bench just in case because you never know in a knockout tie. He’s been playing with a sore foot. I don’t know [if he’ll be ready] yet.”
      NO WAY, JOSE
      Paul Pogba has hit out at former manager Jose Mourinho suggesting he ‘goes against his players’ unlike current Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
      The World Cup winner told Sky Sports: “What I have now with Ole is different, he wouldn’t go against the players.
      “Maybe Ole wouldn’t pick them, but it’s not like he puts them on the side like they don’t exist anymore. That’s the difference between Mourinho and Ole.
      “Once I had a great relationship with Mourinho, everybody saw that, and the next day you don’t know what happened.
      “That’s the strange thing I had with Mourinho and I cannot explain to you because even I don’t know. Maybe [Solskjaer’s methods work] because he is a bit closer to the people.
      “Every coach has their own way to coach and deal with players, and as a player you have to adapt. Sometimes it doesn’t suit you and sometimes it does.”
      CAM TO THE PARTY
      Arsenal are reportedly in the transfer battle to sign Eduardo Camavinga after he refused to sign a new contract at Rennes.
      But the Gunners face strong competition from Manchester United and Real Madrid for the defensive midfielder.
      Reports earlier this week stated the 18-year-old would not put pen to paper on a new deal with the Ligue 1 side.
      With his current contract expiring in 2022, that means Rennes may be forced into selling their young star or risk losing him for free next year.
      And according to Marca, Arsenal may try their luck to lure the Frenchman to the Emirates – even if, like Rennes, they cannot offer Champions League football next season.
      Rennes midfielder Eduardo Camavinga is reportedly a target for Man Utd and Arsenal
      GREAT DANE
      Man Utd have joined the race for Fulham’s on-loan Lyon defender Joachim Andersen, according to reports.
      The Dane moved to Craven Cottage last summer, after finding opportunities limited with the French side.
      Despite Fulham’s struggles, he has hit the ground running in West London, earning the captain’s armband in just his fourth Premier League appearance.
      And his quick progress has not gone unnoticed by potential suitors.
      Danish outlet BT claim that the Red Devils have more than just a passing interest in the 24-year-old.

      GOOD MORNING UNITED FANS
      Edinson Cavani opened the scoring as Manchester United comfortably made it into the Europa League semi-finals last night.
      The 2-0 win against Granada at Old Trafford, 4-0 on aggregate, was sealed late on thanks to a Jesus Vallejo own goal.
      Marcus Rashford watched on from the bench due to a foot knock while Paul Pogba took the armband in Harry Maguire’s absence due to suspension.
      Roma are the Red Devils’ opponents in the semis after Edin Dzeko scored an equaliser against Ajax, securing a 1-1 draw on the night and 3-2 aggregate win.
      In transfer news, SunSport revealed yesterday United’s intention to push ahead with signing Nikola Milenkovic.
      The Fiorentina defender is available for £38million this summer, a fee the Red Devils will hope to negotiate down.
      Raphael Varane has also been linked with a move from Real Madrid.
      According to Spanish journalist Jose Alvarez, the Frenchman is heading to Old Trafford.
      He told El Chiringuito TV that United and Varane are in ‘advanced talks’ and that Madrid are preparing for his exit.
      ALL ROADS LEAD TO ROMA
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer cannot wait to face Roma in the Europa League semi-finals.
      Tonight’s 2-0 win over Granada confirmed Manchester United’s clash against the Italians, with the first leg on April 26.
      Solskjaer said: “We’re looking forward to it, we’re in the semis and it feels like a proper European tie.
      “Roma is club with loads of tradition and history but we’ve done well against them before.
      “We look forward to them and hope we can get to the final. If we can finish the season with a trophy that’ll be great.”

      POG REACTION
      Paul Pogba has spoken of his early substitution tonight despite taking the armband from the suspended Harry Maguire.
      He told BT Sport: “[After] some tackles, a yellow card, I had to come off obviously.
      “The yellow card was unfortunate. It wasn’t a yellow card for me but you have to accept it. We won the game, that’s the most important thing.
      “I know the foul just after it, I saw all the players trying to get me out. [The manager thought] it’s better I come off before a red card.”
      He still had time to set up Edinson Cavani’s goal, his third assist in four games – having previously taken 51 games to clock that many.
      Credit: AP
      SOL MATE
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed he substituted Paul Pogba at half-time due to fears over a red card.
      He told BT Sport: “Sometimes, Paul wants to win so much…
      “He went into a couple of tackles after his yellow card but I thought I don’t want to risk [him being sent off] even though he played so well.
      “We missed three today [through suspension]. The season has been hard enough as it is.”
      BRU ARE YA?!
      Bruno Fernandes has warned Manchester United not to underestimate Roma in the semi-finals.
      He told BT Sport: “Every team will give you problems. They have a good organisation defensively, they can create problems offensively.
      “Some of their players have played in England. We know what we have to do. If we do the right things, we will have our chances to win the game.”
      Credit: EPA
      FORWARD THINKING
      Owen Hargreaves does not think Manchester United need to sign a new centre-forward – so long as they sign Edinson Cavani to a new contract.
      The 34-year-old scored against Granada earlier but could leave at the end of the season, something former midfielder Hargreaves does not want to see.
      The ex-Red Devil told BT Sport: “Obviously everyone wants Harry Kane and Erling Haaland but they should keep Cavani and reinvest it elsewhere. 
      “They could spend that money on three other players in important positions. Cavani could get you 25 goals if he plays regularly next season.
      “They are the second highest scorers in the league already so is it the biggest issue? 
      “Their best players are attackers, I don’t think it is realistic to win the league next season but they need a new right winger and centre-back and you can’t spend £100million on every player.”
      SEMI-FINAL LINE-UP
      Here are the confirmed Europa League semi-final ties…
      First leg – Thursday, April 29. 8pm:Manchester United vs RomaVillarreal vs Arsenal
      Second leg – Thursday, May 6. 8pm:Roma vs Manchester UnitedArsenal vs Villarreal
      Credit: AP
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Prem ref Martin Atkinson reveals ex-Arsenal star Tomas Rosicky was his favourite player to deal with

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      PREMIER LEAGUE referee Martin Atkinson revealed Tomas Rosicky was his favourite player to deal with – after the former Arsenal star invited him to ref his testimonial in the Czech Republic. And Atkinson said Alan Stubbs was the toughest player he has officiated, with the Everton hard man “scaring me to death”. 
      Atkinson is a big fan of the former Arsenal favourite after the former midfielder invited him to ref his testimonialCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Speaking at a Q&A in aid of North East mental health charity If U Care Share, the Prem whistler was asked who he enjoyed reffing most. 
      Rosicky arrived in North London from Borussia Dortmund in 2006. 
      His 10 year spell with the Gunners was hampered by a series of long-term injuries but he won two FA Cups before leaving for Sparta Prague in 2016 and retiring the next year aged 37.
      And Leeds-fan Atkinson, 50, said: “I’ve been lucky that I’ve got on with the vast majority of players but one that stands out is Tomas Rosicky.
      “I always got on really well with him. We just pleasantly got on, not best mates or owt like that but he was always really respectful. 
      “And when he left Arsenal, when he retired eventually, an unknown email came through and it was from Sparta Prague asking if I will go out and referee his retirement game. 
      “You just never expect that and it was just a nice thing.” 
      Atkinson, a former police officer, made his top-flight bow in the 2004/05 season.  
      And he named burly scottish centre back Stubbs as the toughest player to try and keep under control. 

      Asked who he least enjoyed reffing, Atkinson said: “Alan Stubbs at Everton. 
      “He would kick anything that moved, was hard as nails and scared me to death when I first got on. 
      “He was just so tough to referee that it was, like, impossible. I learned a lot from that – you learn how to manage players.”
      No-nonsense Everton defender making a beeline for Atkinson in 2007Credit: Alamy More

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      in Soccer

      Milenkovic EXCLUSIVE, Rice ‘wants Man Utd transfer’, ‘Cristiano Ronaldo for Pogba swap’, Kane deal OFF, Haaland latest

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are set to launch a summer swoop for Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenjovic, SunSport can reveal.Weanwhile we’ve the latest on Declan Rice’s potential switch to Old Trafford, as well as updates on Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland.

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      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      PAIN IN SPAIN
      Ten Spanish teams have come to Old Trafford on European nights before Granada make it 11 tonight.
      Yet only one LaLiga side has lost in Manchester on the last ten such visits.
      That is five draws and four defeats for United, who solely beat Real Sociedad in October 2013.
      Credit: Getty – Contributor
      ARE EU READY?
      It’s a huge night in the Europa League, here is how each tie is set up ahead of the 8pm kick-offs.
      Manchester United host Granada with a 2-0 lead after the first leg in Spain, but the LaLiga side broke a four-game losing streak when winning on the weekend.
      Slavia Prague hold an away goal over Arsenal in their 1-1 tied quarter-final, the Czech club boasting a record of six wins, three draws and one defeat in their last ten European games.
      Roma fought back from a goal down to lead Ajax 2-1 as their tie goes to Italy.
      And Villarreal took a 1-0 win away to Dinamo Zagreb last week to extend their Europa League win-streak to seven games.
      MEMORY LANE
      Something like this tonight wouldn’t go amiss…

      FAN-TASTIC NEWS
      The Premier League are pushing back their penultimate round of fixtures so every team can play a home game in front of 10,000 fans.
      It is understood the 37th round of games will now take place on May 18-19. That is the day after the third stage of the government’s Covid-19 roadmap is planned to start.
      The Prem has told clubs of the decision to move the round of fixtures – but public confirmation of the plans are not expected until broadcast arrangements are in place.
      Lockdown restrictions are set to ease on May 17, allowing outdoor venues to hold 25 per cent of capacity or 10,000 people, whichever is smaller.
      There was concern that this would mean half the teams in the Premier League would be allowed to play in front of their fans for the final day of the season – while the other half would not.
      Pushing back the second-to-last round of games means every club will be afforded the chance to play at their own ground in front of 10,000 supporters.
      STAR FISH
      They already had Captain Marvel at Manchester United, and in youngster Will Fish they have another potential leader among their ranks.
      With the Red Devils suffering a selection headache in defence for Thursday’s Europa League second leg, and the suspensions of Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, Fish, 18, has been drafted into the squad.
      The 6ft 1in defender is a commanding centre back, who will be relatively unknown to most fans.
      But, amongst his peers in the youth sides, he’s the team-mate they all look to – like the stars of the 80s and 90s did with Bryan Robson.
      And he has formed an impressive partnership with fellow youth prospect Teden Mengi at the heart of the defence for the U18’s.
      Will Fish has been drafted into Man Utd’s Europa League squad against Granada tonight
      NIK OF TIME – EXCLUSIVE
      Manchester United are ready to step up their pursuit of Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic.
      The Serbian defender has been on the radar of Old Trafford scouts for a number of seasons now. The 23-year-old runs out of contract in the summer of 2022, and it is understood he will not sign a new deal.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to bring in a new centre-back this summer, in search of a long-term partner for Harry Maguire. But it is understood the Italian side will demand at least £38m for their man, which United would not be willing to pay.
      A number of top sides are showing interest in Milenkovic, with Chelsea believed to be keen.
      Meanwhile, AC Milan would look to sign him if they can seal a permanent deal for Fikayo Tomori with the Blues.
      United are expected to offload Eric Bailly when the window opens, with talks over a new contract not progressing. The 26-year-old wants assurances over regular action, which Solskjaer has refused to give him.

      MEL OF A LIFE
      Anthony Martial’s wife Melanie has opened up on what it is really like to be a Premier League Wag.
      The stunning model has been with Man United’s No9 Anthony since his ugly split with mother of his first child Samantha Jacquelinet in 2016.
      Melanie, 29, is keen to stress that being a footballer’s wife isn’t just about the ‘latest handbags’ and ‘nice cars’ that some people perceive it to be.
      She told Konbini, via Get French Football News: “Never in my life did I imagine that I would become the wife of a footballer. Really never.
      “It was never my idea to live my life according to a man, so already that’s all wrong. I can understand people who have stereotypes around footballers’ wives, because I had them too.
      “It’s like: ‘Wow, the nice cars, handbags.’ That’s the first stereotype, but it is not at all like that. It maybe summarises one month of the year, the month where they have holidays, in June, the nice holidays, all that. For the rest of the year it is not like that at all.”

      IMPROVED MENTALITY
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says last season’s Europa League semi-final defeat to Sevilla triggered a change in mentality among his Manchester United team.
      Speaking ahead of his side’s quarter-final second-leg against Granada, the Norwegian said: “It’s not up to me to say if their mentality has changed my job.
      “Our job has been to get the best out of the players. How you do that is different in every coaching and management style.
      “I can feel change in the belief and confidence. When we started this project we knew we had a few months or a year maybe to learn and they’ve learnt on the job many of them.
      “But now you can see the focus. We want to win a trophy.
      “The disappointment of last year’s semi-final defeats have done something to the mentality of the group definitely.”

      O-LOL GUNNAR SOLSKJAER
      Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer claims he wants his team to ‘win the right way’ despite the Red Devils’ historic reputation of intimidating officials and getting favourable decisions.
      The Norwegian said ‘the game is gone’ after the farcical decision to disallow Edinson Cavani’s goal after Scott McTominay’s ‘foul’ on Heung-min Son against Tottenham on Sunday.
      And asked to elaborate ahead of United’s Europa League quarter-final second-leg against Granada, Solskjaer recalled something Sir Alex Ferguson told him when he was a player.
      He said: “I think every manager has certain values and when I got sent off against Newcastle a few years ago, many moons ago, I thought I ‘d done the right thing for the team.
      “But Sir Alex lambasted me after the game and said ‘We don’t win that way at Man Utd’ and I’ve lived by that ever since.
      “We want to win in the right manner it doesn’t matter who we play against we want to win playing by the book. I’m not saying someone else doesn’t, I’m just saying I think every manager wants to win in a fair way.”

      GREEN LIGHT TO GO!
      Mason Greenwood is confident Manchester United can get the job done against Granada at Old Trafford tonight.
      The Red Devils go into the second-leg of their Europa League quarter-final against the LaLiga side with a 2-0 lead from the first-leg in Spain.
      But the young forward says there is no room for complacency as they seek to reach the semis.
      Greenwood said: “To get a 2-0 lead, it’s given us a big boost but not an easier chance.
      “You never know what they can do in the second leg really, but it’s given us a bit of comfort. But we can’t relax on it in this next game. We’ve got to go out and finish the job to get through to the semis.
      “We’re going out to win the match; all the players are ready. We’ve done our preparation and I’m sure we’ll be ready to go.”

      WHAT’S IN A MANE?
      When it comes to the horses, Manchester United are first past the post.
      New research has found that there are more horse names inspired by the Red Devils than any other club – and they’ve also been the most successful on the track.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men might be second in the Premier League – but they have a table-topping 11 horses related to the club by name, making them the most popular and most profitable football club in racing.
      Their squad of horses are headed by the Sir Alex Ferguson-owned, top-class former Flat horse Rock Of Gibraltar, who won seven Group 1s during a brilliant career.
      The 11 horses with Manchester United-related names boast a win percentage of 26.77% in 198 starts – accumulating earnings of almost £3 million at a rate of £15,000 per race.
      That’s enough to see them claim top spot based on prize money, just ahead of Spanish giants Barcelona who have been represented by the American-trained Messi in 21 races, winning four but still making almost £14,000 per race.
      Rock Of Gibraltar enjoyed a stunning career in the colours of Alex Ferguson
      SHAW’S REDEMPTION – FAN’S VIEW by Tom McDermott
      When Luke Shaw joined Manchester United in 2014 he said in his first interview that he wanted to continue to progress his career and that United was the best place for him to do that.
      It’s only really now, seven years on, that United supporters are starting to see him fulfil such potential. It all might have been different if Shaw hadn’t suffered such a horrific injury in the Champions League game against PSV Eindhoven in 2015.
      Shaw started that particular campaign flying out of the blocks, but through the resulting years, a combination of other niggly injuries, poor form, and managerial upheaval, has caused many to question whether or not he would survive at Old Trafford.
      Even at the start of this season, fans questioned Shaw’s ability. It just felt like he was coming to the end, and that a change of scenery might suit both the club and player.
      But, for the vast majority of the campaign, Shaw has proven himself to be the best full-back in the Premier League, and one of the finest in Europe. He’s shown great mental strength too, to go from being an injury prone ‘possible’ to one of the first names on the team sheet.
      His defensive positioning and pace means he’s a nightmare for opposing wingers, but his experience also means that he’s often on hand to prevent danger further up the pitch and away from his defensive third. And going forward, he’s practically impossible to stop when in full flight, and he’s starting to add more goals and assists to his play.

      ZLAT’S ALL FOLKS?
      Former Manchester United star Zlatan Ibrahimovic is facing a three-year ban for investing in a Malta-based betting company, it has been claimed.
      A bombshell report in Sweden says that the 39-year-old’s career could be brought to a premature end as a result of the ban.
      Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet state that he owns ten per cent of Bethard, a gambling company with offices in Malta, through his business Unknown AB.
      Both Fifa and Uefa do not let players have financial interests in gambling companies. Fifa’s ethical rules say that anyone who violates them faces a fine and a ban from all football activities for a maximum of three years.
      The report continues that the Swedish FA were aware of the problem and it’s the reason he didn’t feature in the 2018 World Cup. AC Milan striker Zlatan had already retired from international football in 2016 but made his return ahead of this summer’s Euros.
      The report adds that Zlatan’s company is the fourth largest shareholder in Bethard and it made a profit after tax of £25.79m in 2019. He was announced as a co-owner and ambassador for the brand three years ago.

      ‘STEP BY STEP’
      Tahith Chong is set to have crunch talks with his parents before making a decision on his Manchester United future.
      The winger’s contract with the Premier League big boys is set to expire next summer. Fierce competition for a place in United’s starting XI prompted the 21-year-old to join Belgian side Club Brugge on loan in January.
      Brugge are said to be interested in acquiring Chong’s services on a permanent basis, although the Dutchman is refusing to make any hasty decisions.
      Chong told De Kraant van West-Vlaanderen: “I look at it step by step. If I start thinking about where I want to be next year, I wouldn’t be focused on Anderlecht next Sunday.
      “I can only do my utmost. And enjoy the game. I always try to play football with a smile. My focus is now on the two remaining matches and the play-offs. You will have to prove yourself there anyway.
      “(If I could choose) then I would go home and discuss it with my mum and dad. Then I’ll listen to the pluses and minuses. Then we’ll work it out as a family.”

      ERLING’S KINGS
      Manchester United target Erling Haaland named the seven strikers he thinks are better than him – but would back himself in a crunch tie.
      The Borussia Dortmund star, 20, has burst on to the scene with a series of stunning displays over recent years. Scoring goals for fun, Haaland made his transfer to the German giants in the winter transfer window of 2020.
      And in an interview with VG, the Norwegian sensation could only think of seven centre-forwards in world football currently better than him – and it is some list.
      The seven is made up of five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski from rivals Bayern Munich.
      All of the remaining five strikers all ply their trade in the Premier League including Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as well as Tottenham hero Harry Kane.
      Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero, Roberto Firmino of Liverpool and Chelsea new boy Timo Werner – who arrived from RB Leipzig in the summer – complete the elite group.

      WE’LL BE BARC
      Barcelona have made Manchester United target Erling Haaland their No1 priority this summer.
      And the Blaugrana are willing to wait until his £65million release clause triggers in 2022. But their preference is to negotiate down Dortmund’s current rumoured asking price of around £130m.
      The German side, who were eliminated from the Champions League by Manchester City last night, are currently fifth in the Bundesliga. And, sitting seven points off the top four, their strong stance on keeping Haaland may alter if they fail to qualify for Europe’s top prize.
      According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are also battling to convince Haaland’ representatives that he is better off in Catalonia, rather than Madrid.
      Their logic centres around the benefits of the 20-year-old potentially getting to play with Lionel Messi in his first years at the club. Before he can then take the mantle as the face of the club upon the Argentine’s exit.
      They argue that, at Real Madrid, 22-year-old fellow young gun Kylian Mbappe will always be No1 in president Florentino Perez’s eyes. Leaving Haaland to constantly have to play second fiddle.

      ANDREA FIGHT
      Manchester United and Arsenal face a transfer fight with Tottenham if they want to land Andrea Belotti.
      The 27-year-old Torino striker is wanted by a number of top clubs around Europe. But Premier League sides are leading the chase with Man Utd, Arsenal and now Tottenham at the front of the queue.
      TuttoSport in Italy claim the Prem trio are keeping an eye on Belotti ahead of a possible summer deal. Reports earlier this month also claimed West Ham and Everton were interested in the striker, who has scored 12 times this season.
      Belotti has an £85m exit clause that only applies to foreign clubs, although he could be available for far less. Belotti’s good relationship with the club’s hierarchy means it is unlikely any sides would have to activate the clause.
      Instead reasonable offers are likely to be discussed by all parties.
      The striker’s contract expires in 2022 and Torino are believed to be preparing to offer him significantly improved terms to ensure he extends his deal for two years with the option of a third.

      PAUL THE OTHER ONE
      Paulo Dybala has signed a new contract, but it’s not all bad news for his transfer suitors.
      The 27-year-old Juventus striker has become an ambassador for finance group Skrill.
      But in all seriousness, Juve will hope that a new contract with the club is not too far away.
      Man Utd and Chelsea had been linked with his signature with PSG also in the mix.
      Manchester United have been long-term admirers of Juventus star Paulo Dybala
      DON’T MISS OUT
      Europa League football is back tonight as Manchester United and Arsenal will look to progress to the semi-finals.
      Manchester United welcome Granada to Old Trafford with a two-goal lead while Arsenal travel to face Slavia Prague with the scoreline 1-1 on aggregate.

      RICE ON BOIL
      Declan Rice sounded out Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw on what it is like at Manchester United while away with England, according to reports.
      The Manchester Evening News reports Rice, 22, asked his England pals some questions about aspects of life at Old Trafford during the international break last month as he contemplates his future.
      A number of United players are thought to be very popular within the England group and club chiefs may hope that senior stars could help swing a deal.
      United are said to have been monitoring his progress for over two years as they look to land a young defensive midfielder.
      The report states the club believe Rice – who can also slot in at centre-back – could develop into more of a box-to-box style player at United.
      Declan Rice asked England pals like Harry Maguire about life at Man Utd
      AXE TO GRIND – ICYMI
      Manchester United are set to ring the changes for the Europa League quarter-final second leg against Granada with a TRIO of starters suspended.
      Captain Harry Maguire, left-back Luke Shaw and influential midfielder Scott McTominay are all out of Thursday’s game at Old Trafford after picking up yellow cards in the 2-0 win in last week’s first leg.
      And Axel Tuanzebe could be the beneficiary with the 23-year-old in line for a rare start. Youngster Will Fish, 18, has also been promoted to the senior squad for the game with Eric Bailly still unavailable after testing positive for Covid-19.
      Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Tuanzebe can slot into the back four seamlessly despite having seen just 554 minutes of action in all competitions this season.
      The Norwegian said: “Axel has always been a very positive boy and hardworking. Victor and Harry have played, they’ve formed a very good partnership.
      “Eric’s come in and played really well when he’s played so his [Axel’s] chances have been limited, but he’s been training well and he’s ready for this opportunity.”

      NEW JERSEY
      Manhester United target Erling Haaland got his hands on a Man City shirt last night – but it was just an end-of-game swap.
      The Dortmund goal machine is at the centre of a massive transfer tussle between Europe’s big clubs including City.
      He swapped shirts with Oleksandr Zinchenko at the end of the quarter-final second leg.
      And Haaland was also seen chatting with Man City’s match winner Phil Foden after the game and United fans will hope he wasn’t begging him to sign.

      POGMENTARY
      Paul Pogba has signed an exclusive deal with Amazon, and will be the subject of a docuseries over the next year.
      Manchester United fans will be treated to a behind the scenes look at their No6, when ‘The Pogmentary’ releases in 2022
      Viewers will be treated to never before seen Pogba content, featuring footage from his childhood, as well as a deep dive into his passions and accomplishments.
      The series will also feature intimate conversations with his family, friends and team-mates, as the audience learns more about the French superstar.
      Produced by Black Dynamite, ‘The Pogmentary’ will allow fans to get closer than ever before to their favourite footballer.

      GOOD MORNING RED DEVILS FANS
      Manchester United face Granada tonight in the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie.
      The Red Devils are 2-0 up from the first encounter.
      And they are set to ring the changes with Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Scott McTominay all suspended.
      Axel Tuanzebe is in line for a rare start, while teenager Will Fish will be on the bench.
      Meanwhile, Declan Rice sounded out Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw on what it is like at Manchester United while away with England, according to reports.
      The Manchester Evening News reports Rice, 22, asked his England pals some questions about aspects of life at Old Trafford during the international break last month as he contemplates his future.
      A number of United players are thought to be very popular within the England group and club chiefs may hope that senior stars could help swing a deal.
      United are said to have been monitoring his progress for over two years as they look to land a young defensive midfielder.
      The report states the club believe Rice – who can also slot in at centre-back – could develop into more of a box-to-box style player at United.
      Finally, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has blamed Old Trafford’s red banners for Manchester United’s erratic home form – after his players complained the colour was too distracting.
      He said: “You’ll see a change now. If you see the banners around the club it’s not red anymore.
      “We’ve looked into this. There shouldn’t be a reason, really.
      “But some of the players have mentioned that split-second decision you have to make where you look over your shoulder to see if your teammate is there or not and the red shirt is on a red background with red seats.
      “So we’ve tried to change that, along with the anti-racism campaign.
      “It was important that it wasn’t red anymore.”
      ED NOWHERE
      Edinson Cavani should snub a Boca Juniors transfer and stay at the top level in Europe, according to his Uruguay manager.
      The Manchester United striker, 34, continues to be linked with a return to South America at the end of the season when his initial Old Trafford contract expires.
      But the Uruguay national team boss reckons Cavani is better off plying his trade among Europe’s elite.
      As reported by Depo in Argentina, Oscar Tabarez wants his 118-cap striker to stay with United for another season and test himself against the best defences ahead of the 2022 World Cup.
      Remarkably, those views come in stark contrast to Tabarez’s assistant Mario Rebello who believes Cavani should quit Old Trafford and play where he is ‘comfortable’.
      Edinson Cavani has been urged to stay at Man Utd by his Uruguay boss
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