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      Dani Alves supermodel wife Joana Sanz turned down TWO proposals before their secret fancy Ibiza wedding

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      SPANISH supermodel Joana Sanz made Dani Alves work before she walked down the aisle.
      The 27-year-old, who has strutted her stuff for Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Philipp Plein, turned down TWO proposals before eventually saying ‘I do’ to the Brazilian legend.

      Joana Sanz turned down two marriage proposals from Dani Alves before they eventually got marriedCredit: Instagram @joanasanz

      Sanz (right) is a supermodel who has appeared for Jimmy Choo and GucciCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Sanz, who boasts almost 750,000 Instagram followers, lived in Paris with former PSG star husband Dani Alves, who moved back to Brazil in 2019.
      WHEN IT STARTED
      Joana and Dani, 37, started dating in 2015, after they were introduced by a mutual friend while the galloping right-back was still at Barcelona.
      Joana had been sharing a flat with the girlfriend of one of Alves’ business partners.
      After a year in Turin, where Alves won Serie A and the Coppa Italia and got to the final of the Champions League with Juventus, the pair hooked up.

      Joana, 27, has followed Alves all around the worldCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      The 27-year-old grew up in Tenerife, in the Canary IslandsCredit: Instagram @joanasanz
      WEDDING BELLS
      Dani and Joana flew to Ibiza in 2017, where they were married in secret.
      The wedding took place on the island of Formantera, but little is known about who was in attendance or what went on.
      Despite posting often to their social media channels, both Joana and Dani stayed remarkably silent for their secret ceremony.
      Few pictures have been seen.

      Joana and Dani were married in a secret wedding in Ibiza in July 2017Credit: Splash News

      Joana says the secret to her and Dani’s marriage is humourCredit: AFP – Getty
      And Alves – a six-time La Liga and three-time Champions League winner – broke a cardinal rule at a wedding… he wore white.
      We suppose it’s OK if you’re the groom, but Alves then made another fashion faux pas by matching his white three-piece with trainers.
      There was some pre-wedding drama as well.
      TURNED DOWN TWICE
      In Spanish gossip magazine La Vanguardia, Joana revealed that she actually turned down TWO Dani Alves proposals before deciding to marry him after a third.

      She revealed in 2016: “Dani asked me in the hotel room alone. We do not like [putting on a show].
      “It was splendid… he already asked me three times.”
      The glossy also revealed that Joana was wearing two of her engagement rings.
      Joana has been a frequent visitor at the Fifa Best and Ballon d’Or awards evenings, rocking up to the red carpet alongside arguably the best right-back of his generation.

      Born in September 1993, Joana shot to fame as a model at 17 after appearing in the Supermodel of the World contest for top modelling agency Ford.
      Joana and Dani are yet to have children of their own, but she has become like a second mother to his two kids, Daniel and Victoria.
      She says the secret to their relationship is laughter.
      Joana said it would be ‘impossible’ for the couple to not find each other funny.

      “There is humour for a while and I think that over the years it will be more,” she said.
      “It also unites us a lot that we think exactly the same.
      “We finish [each other’s] sentences. It’s scary.”

      PSG and Brazil star Dani Alves plays the bongos as he prepares for music career after football More

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      Neville, Zidane, Gullit, Maldini, and their 12 sons aiming to follow in legendary fathers’ footsteps

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      THEY were born with great expectations.
      Offspring of legends like Zinedine Zidane and Patrick Kluivert are looking to make their own way in the footballing world while dealing with the pressure of their iconic surnames.

      Justin Kluivert, son of Patrick, is one of a group of young footballers aiming to follow in their fathers’ legendary footstepsCredit: Instagram @patrickkluivert9

      And Maxim Gullit, son of Ruud and great nephew of Johan Cruyff, became the latest last year when he came off the bench for Jong AZ Alkmaar for his first taste of senior action.
      Here, SunSport takes a look at the 12 youngsters aiming to follow in their fathers’ giant footsteps:
      Joe van der Sar, 22

      Joe van Der Sar, left, is son of Man United legend Edwin
      Joe van der Sar is the son of legendary father Edwin.
      Joe began his career at Man United, where his dad starred for six years, and then moved on to Noordwijk before signing for Ajax in 2013 where Edwin is CEO.

      These are giant gloves to fill and the expectations are high. He’s now back at Noordwijk aiming to work his way to the top.
      Maxim Gullit, 19

      Maxim Gullit, left, is son of Chelsea icon Ruud, right, and great nephew of Johann Cruyff
      Son of Ruud and great nephew of Johan Cruyff, Maxim Gullit could hardly hope for better footballing genes.
      Maxim, a defender and son of Estelle Cruyff, predominantly played for AZ’s Under-19 side in 2018/19 – but was handed an Easter treat – being called up a level.
      The talented teen came on for the final 19 minutes of the AZ second team’s clash with champions Twente in the Netherlands’ second tier and helped his side keep a clean sheet.

      He has since gone on to become a regular for their Under-21 side this season, while he made his debut for the first team in the Europa League against HNK Rijeka in the Europa League in October.
      Zidane (Luca, Enzo & Theo)

      Zinedine Zidane has three footballer sons but Luca, left, was handed a Real Madrid debut by his dad in March last year
      Zinedine Zidane has three sons aiming to follow in his giant footsteps.
      Midfielder Enzo, 25, was most recently at Almeria, and 18-year-old Theo is looking to develop in Real Madrid’s academy.
      Goalkeeper Luca, 22, made two appearances for Los Blancos, but he left in search of game time.
      He is now at second-tier side Rayo Vallecano.
      Gudjohnsen (Andri Lucas, Sveinn Aron & Daniel Tristan)

      Eidur Gudjohnsen has three sons aiming to make it in football including Andri Lucas, left, at Real Madrid
      Former Chelsea, Tottenham and Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen has one son at Real Madrid, one son at Barca and another in Italy.
      Sveinn, 22, and the spitting image of his father, is on loan at Danish outfit OB from Serie B side Spezia while younger brother Andri Lucas is in the big time at the Bernabeu.
      The 18-year-old, who is starring for Iceland’s U19s, joined Real’s La Fabrica academy in Valdebas last summer while 12-year-old Daniel Tristan is in Barca’s Infant B.
      Eidur famously came on for his father, Arnor, while playing for Iceland, in 1996.
      Tyrese Campbell, 20

      Stoke’s Tyrese Campbell, left, is son of former Arsenal, Everton and West Brom striker Kevin
      Stoke’s young star Tyrese Campbell made a huge breakthrough last season – appearing 33 times in the Championship for the Potters.
      The forward, who joined Stoke from Man City’s academy in 2016, is son of former Arsenal, Everton and West Brom striker Kevin Campbell.
      Tyrese scored his first goals for Stoke in the FA Cup last season before being loaned out to League One Shrewsbury for the remainder of the campaign.
      He bagged five goals for the Shrews, and managed nine in the Championship.
      Campbell has found the back of the net seven times in 19 games this term.
      Harvey Neville, 18

      Harvey Neville, left, has good family genes with father Phil, right, and uncle Gary ex Man United players
      With TWO Manchester United Treble winners as father (Phil) and uncle (Gary), plus England’s netball head coach for an aunt (Tracey), there was little chance of Harvey going into auditing.
      Harvey, who plays in midfield or on the wing, began his career at United before moving to rivals City where he won the Premier League International Tournament as an Under-13.
      He moved to Valencia when his father and uncle took charge of the first-team before returning to Old Trafford in 2018.
      Maurizio Pochettino, 19

      Tottenham’s Maurizio Pochettino, left, was (almost) named after his father Spurs boss Mauricio
      Definitely a name that Tottenham fans can immediately warm to, Maurizio is the offspring of former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino.
      And the Argentine youngster, described as a wide player with an eye for goal, has continued to play for the Lilywhites last term – despite his dad getting the sack in November.
      He even signed a new contract with the club earlier this year.
      Justin Kluivert, 21

      Justin Kluivert, left, is already showing the talents of his father Patrick who was a Barcelona striker
      The name may have got him noticed but it is Justin Kluivert’s talent that has seen him thrive at such a young age.
      Son of Patrick, left winger Justin was nurtured by the Ajax academy and is now starring in Serie A for Italian side Roma after signing in 2018 for £14.9million.
      Manchester United were also believed to be after the youngster – who bagged five goals and two assists last campaign.
      He is currently on loan at RB Leipzig, where he has scored twice in ten games.
      Daniel Maldini, 19

      Daniel Maldini, left, is following in the footsteps of father Paolo, right, and grandfather Cesare at AC Milan
      The Maldini dynasty continues, with Daniel following in father Paolo and grandfather Cesare’s footsteps in Milan.
      Daniel operates at the opposite end of the pitch to his father and has displayed his talents as a second striker.
      The talented teen made his first-team debut against Hellas Verona in Serie A – becoming the third generation of Maldini’s to play for AC Milan.
      Giovanni Simeone, 25

      Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone’s son Giovanni, left, is a winger at Italian side Fiorentina
      Son of Atletico Madrid boss Diego, Giovanni is one of the few in this group to have already established themselves.
      Usually deployed as a second striker, Giovanni has broken into the Argentina team where he has been capped on five occasions.
      He joined Cagliari in the summer after a successful loan spell where he has scored five goals in eight Serie A matches.
      Erling Haaland, 20

      Former Man City man Alf-Inge Haaland, right, has a son Erling, left, who is starring at Dortmund

      Erling Haaland, son of Man City’s Alf-Inge whose career was ended after a horror tackle from Manchester United legend Roy Keane, is one of Europe’s hottest properties.
      The 20-year-old was mentored by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Molde, before smashing in the goals for RB Salzburg.
      The hulking centre forward then rejected interest from the Red Devils and moved to Borussia Dortmund in January.
      Since joining, he has scored 33 goals in 32 games in all competitions.
      Sydney van Hooijdonk, 20

      Sydney van Hooijdonk, left, could be on the move to a British side in January
      Son of former Nottingham Forest striker Pierre, the 20-year-old has been in fine form for NAC Breda in the Dutch second tier this season.
      The towering centre-forward has chipped in with eight goals and two assists in 12 outings.
      And football fans could see him in the UK in the New Year with Forest, Swansea and Sheffield Wednesday all keen on signing him.

      Erling Haaland in angry bust-up with Kevin Vogt during Dortmund loss to Werder Bremen More

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      Ultimate bachelor Aguero has dated beautiful ladies including Maradona’s daughter and is now with a 24-year-old model

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      SERGIO AGUERO deserves his title as one of the world’s most eligible bachelors.
      He is first choice striker for Premier League giants Man City, a hero in his native Argentina and pockets around £250,000 a week.

      Sergio Aguero’s was pictured with heavily inked Zoe Cristofoli

      Not bad. And not at all surprising that he attracts a lot of female attention.
      Etihad team-mates Benjamin Mendy and Fabian Delph admitted as much when they confirmed he is the club’s biggest ladies man in a Q&A organised by club sponsors Tinder in 2019.
      Aguero, 32, has been pictured with a bevy of beautiful ladies over the years – here are some of the most notable, including his current squeeze, model Sofia Calzetti.
      GIANINA MARADONA
      AGUERO married into footballing royalty when he got together with late Argentina legend Diego Maradona’s youngest daughter in 2008, after being introduced by the icon himself.

      They had baby boy Benjamin together in February 2009 when Aguero was still leading the front line for Atletico Madrid.

      Aguero has a child, Benjamin, with his first wife GianninaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      But things turned sour and they split in 2012, with some reports in their native Argentina claiming the pair argued over Giannina’s alleged ‘party lifestyle’.
      The Hand of God legend’s daughter – who regularly posts photos of her shapely bum online – confirmed their break-up on Twitter, saying they had ‘separated’ after a ‘difficult year with a lot of changes’.
      And it seemed like her followers took her side, with one writing: “Aguero doesn’t deserve you. He’s stupid and an idiot.”

      But Giannina defended her ex, replying: “Don’t say that, he’s the father of my son and he’s nothing like what you say he is.

      Giannina’s controversial belfie got a lot of attention onlineCredit: Golders/@giamaradona

      Maradona’s daughter was married to Aguero for four yearsCredit: Golders/@giamaradona
      “When a couple finish it’s both their faults.”
      But Maradona – who passed away after heart failure in November aged 60 – saw it differently, to say the least.
      Speaking of his former son-in-law, he called him a ‘wimp who I don’t even want to name’.
      And he blacked out a photo of Aguero holding Benjamin in a snap from inside his Dubai home with lawyer Matias Morla in February 2019.
      KARINA TEJEDA
      THE striker moved on from Giannina pretty quickly by hooking up with popular Argentinian singer Karina – known as the Little Princess – just months after his marriage ended.
      But his past could not escape him, with his new flame and Giannina having a Twitter spat.
      Aguero had to act as peacemaker when it was claimed son Benjamin had been insulted by Karina’s daughter, Sol, from a previous relationship.

      Aguero was with the Argentinian singer for four yearsCredit: Instagram @kariprinceoficial

      Aguero got with Karina after his marriage endedCredit: Instagram @kariprinceoficial

      The superstar couple suffered an acrimonious splitCredit: AP:Associated Press

      The singer is known as the Little Princess in her homeland
      Karina raged: “If you’ve got something to say about my daughter ring me and tell me.
      “I can put up with you trying to make me look back but don’t take it out on my daughter.”
      SunSport told you they split up after almost five years together just a month before Aguero’s car crash in Amsterdam, in which he broke two ribs.
      ZOE CRISTOFOLI
      IF you’re pulling up to a swanky Los Angeles nightclub in a £140,000 4×4, then you should not do so without an entourage.
      Aguero certainly didn’t when he rocked up to the Warwick with heavily tattooed Instagram model Zoe and pals back in 2018.

      Zoe Cristofoli and her amazing tattoos caught Aguero’s eye

      The Italian Instagram model partied the night away with AgueroCredit: Refer to Caption

      She did not appear to get serious with the striker

      She had previously dated Italian Big Brother contestant Andrea Ceroli and media personality Fabrizio Corona.
      It is unknown if she and Aguero ever attempted to get serious.
      But it appears doubtful given that she reportedly jetted back to Verona in her native Italy after the night out.
      MYSTERY BRUNETTE

      This woman’s identity was never revealed but she still enjoyed a night out with AgueroCredit: BackGrid
      NOT her actual name, of course, but it may as well have been as the identity of Aguero’s date for this Drake concert in July 2019 was never revealed.
      The forward had attended an awards bash in Hollywood, LA, before he dropped in for the VIP after-party with his female companion.
      Both were dressed all in black, with neither looking too sheepish as they were snapped by the paparazzi.
      TAYLOR WARD
      Back in March 2019, Aguero was said to have charmed stunning reality TV star Taylor Ward.
      Taylor, 22, appears on Real Housewives of Cheshire, and is famously the daughter of former Premier League star Ashley Ward.
      She was also the ex-girlfriend of Katie Price’s former lover, Kris Boyson.
      But their relationship soon fizzled out, and Aguero soon moved on.
      Incredibly, Taylor is now dating Aguero’s TEAM-MATE Riyad Mahrez and went Instagram official with her Algerian beau in October.

      Aguero had a brief liason with Taylor WardCredit: Refer to Caption

      She is the daughter of former footballer Ashley Ward

      Taylor Ward is now dating Aguero’s Etihad team-mate Riyad Mahrez
       
      SOFIA CALZETTI
      Aguero’s most recent love is 24-year-old model Sofia Calzetti.
      It was his first confirmed girlfriend since Tejeda, and they went Instagram official with a series of cute pictures on social media in 2019.
      Aguero whisked her to Miami at the tail-end of last summer, driving the gorgeous blonde in a blue McLaren Spider worth £166,000.

      They were even spied snogging in the Bahamas as their love affair continued.
      And she helped Aguero enjoy a Peaky Blinders-themed 31st birthday party, and they both shared snaps on social media.
      The picture-perfect couple enjoyed a tourist trip up The Shard while Aguero was rehabbing after the nasty knee injury he suffered in July.
      For Aguero, it seems that she’s a keeper… and we don’t mean Ederson.

      Aguero’s latest girlfriend is Sofia CalzettiCredit: Instagram

      Calzetti jetted to the Bahamas with Aguero in summer 2019Credit: Instagram

      Calzetti, 24, is a model

      Man City are willing to let Sergio Agüero leave this summer – if they fail to overturn UEFA ban More

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      Chelsea teen Faustino Anjorin idolises Frank Lampard, was named after Asprilla and is set to start in Champions League

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      FAUSTINO ANJORIN is set to make his European debut in the Champions League dead rubber against Krasnodar tonight.
      A midfield powerhouse – the 19-year-old box-to-box player grew up idolising current Blues manager Frank Lampard.

      Faustino Anjorin made his debut for Chelsea in the Carabao Cup against GrimsbyCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Anjorin can play as a classic No10 or in a deeper midfield roleCredit: Getty – Contributor

      And the attacking midfielder is so highly-rated in West London, he made his debut in the Carabao Cup tie against Grimsby Town last season.
      Frank Lampard, who has made it his mission to promote the youngsters from the academy, has faith in the raw talent, as does his assistant Jody Morris – and the pair have been impressed by Anjorin’s rapid rise since they arrived at the club.
      The youngster also has a knack for finding the back of the net, scoring crucial goals last season in the UEFA Youth League, Premier League 2 and in the EFL Trophy.
      He managed 11 goals in 27 games last season, before the coronavirus halted youth football.

      And his progress within the Blues academy has seen him compared to fellow graduate Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
      A NOD TO TINO ASPRILLA
      Anjorin was born in Poole to a Nigerian father and a English mum.
      Amazingly, he was named after the Colombian legend Faustino Asprilla who famously became the first player to score a hat trick against Barcelona in the Champions League when he was playing up front for Newcastle.

      Born in Poole, Anjorin was named after Faustino AsprillaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      By the age of seven Anjorin was scouted by Chelsea and invited to train in their youth set-up before officially joining at the age of nine.

      It was a dream come true for the boy, who idolised John Obi Mikel and Frank Lampard and wanted to play for the same club.
      DOWNED ARSENAL
      By the age of 16, Anjorin, who stands at an impressive 6ft 1 in, lifted the FA Youth Cup in 2018.
      Not only was he the youngest player in the Chelsea side that beat Arsenal 7-1 over two legs, his goal to end the rout was the icing on the cake.
      Internationally, Anjorin’s form has been equally as impressive as it has for his club, and the FA have high hopes for him.
      He has played for England at every junior level up to the Under-19’s, but without a full cap to his name there could be a tussle with Nigeria for his services in the future.

      Goalscoring is in Anjorin’s bloodCredit: Rex Features
      ATTRIBUTES
      Both-footed, Anjorin signed a five-year contract with the Blues in the summer – reportedly turning down interest from other Premier League clubs.
      Technically sound, despite his lanky frame, he is adept at running with the ball at pace and is strong in possession.
      And he’s got decent vision, often able to pick out the perfect pass for a forward to run on to.
      But it is his finishing that helps him stand out from the crowd.
      In fact, Jody Morris once revealed he was the “best finisher at the club”.
      His father Sheriff told Goal.com his son stood out from an early age – playing against boys aged six when he was just three.
      Sheriff said: “He was always the standout player, people knew him before he even knew how to spell his name.
      “He is a goalscoring midfielder in the Frank Lampard mould. Lampard was one of his idols, but so were Lionel Messi and Zinedine Zidane.
      “He has a high level of technical ability, great finishing quality and a great passing range.

      Frank Lampard and Jody Morris expect big things from AnjorinCredit: Getty – Contributor

      “We felt that the Chelsea environment was perfect for Tino. It has really stretched him.
      “The training has always been harder than the matches, he’s highly competitive and he just wants to get on the pitch and beat his opponent.”
      And he has his chance to impress, this time at the highest level of club football.

      Is Chelsea vs Grimsby on TV? Live stream, channel and kick-off time for Carabao Cup clash More

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      Hulk is bodybuilder footballer who ditched his wife to be with her gorgeous niece and is available on a free transfer

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      HE really is incredible.
      Brazilian star Givanildo Vieira de Sousa, better known as Hulk because of his bodybuilder appearance and being a Lou Ferrigno lookalike, is available on a free transfer after leaving Shanghai SIPG.

      Hulk is attracting interest from the Premier League after leaving Shanghai SIPGCredit: Getty – Contributor

      The Brazilian international is now married to his ex-wife’s niece

      The Brazilian got his nickname because of his resemblance to bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno, who played The Incredible HulkCredit: Getty – Contributor

      After beginning his career in his homeland, the well-built forward has played in Japan, Portugal, Russia, and made a mint in China.
      At Shanghai SIPG he earned a whopping £16.6million-per-year, and was one of the Chinese Super League’s marquee signings in 2016.
      But now, after rejecting the opportunity to sign a new contract in China, Hulk is weighing up options and reportedly has several offers to show off his talents in England.
      At 34 he’s never looked better, and after lockdown he showed off a remarkable body transformation with a more defined look.

      And back in March, Hulk caused controversy when he ditched his wife and married her stunning niece.
      KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY
      Last year, the burly striker ended his 12-year relationship with ex-missus Iran Angelo.
      Five months later, reports linked Hulk to her beautiful niece Camila Angelo, 31.
      That relationship is now said to have started in October of 2019, and in March the former Porto striker wrote on his social media bio he was “married” again.

      Hulk divorced his wife of 12 years Iran Angelo, left, and began dating her beautiful niece Camila Angelo months later

      The pair have posted several pictures wearing what looks like wedding rings

      Angelo and Hulk have never confirmed their nuptials

      According to reports, Hulk married Angelo so she could get a visa to stay in China
      The couple have posted several pictures together since wearing what appear to be wedding rings, but never confirmed their nuptials.
      Argentine newspaper Infobae later revealed “sudden marriage was also due to” the fact Camila “needed a visa to stay in the country (China)”.

      Brazil star Hulk ‘marries his ex-wife’s stunning niece in whirlwind ceremony to get visa and stay together in China’
      THE BIG MAN
      When Hulk first emerged on the scene in Europe with Porto, his staggering size always stood out on the football pitch.
      He was renowned for being built like an ox, and it was impossible to shrug him off the ball because of his strength.
      In China, especially during the lockdown period, he seems to have become supersized.
      Fans were left agasp when he returned to training with Shanghai SIPG somehow looking even more muscular.
      Hulk shared video and pics of himself staying fit by hitting his home gym.
      And the benefits were there for all to see.

      Hulk was always renowned for his huge physiqueCredit: Getty – Contributor

      The beefy forward was a hulking presence

      Today’s Hulk is more defined
      HE’S GOT GOALS
      The misconception of Hulk is that he’s a novelty footballer, because of his gargantuan size.
      However, as they say, never judge a book by its cover.
      Capped 47 times by Brazil, he’s scored 11 international goals – playing mostly as a winger.
      His career took off in Japan’s second division with Tokyo Verdy in 2007, before he moved to Porto in 2008.
      It took him two seasons to find his feet in Portugal, and there was bother along the way.
      Following a tunnel brawl during a 1-0 league loss to fierce rivals Benfica, Hulk was suspended for four games.
      But in the 2010-11 season he began to push on. 35 goals in 53 games during Porto’s treble year, in which they also lifted the Europa League, elevated him to new heights.
      Trouble still followed him wherever he went though, in 2014 he was forced to pay £42,000 fine for assaulting two stewards.

      Hulk made his name in Europe at PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

      Hulk went to Russia to play with Zenit Saint Petersburg after PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

      In 2016 he became one of the world’s highest paid players joining Shanghai SIPGCredit: Rex Features
      PREMIER LEAGUE INTEREST
      It’s not a surprise that Hulk has been linked to a move to the Premier League, with his status as a free agent approaching soon.
      Before he moved to Zenit Saint Petersburg, he revealed Chelsea were interested in adding him to their squad.
      “In my first season at Porto, I started well and remember hearing some talk about Manchester United, but I never received anything concrete on that,” he told FourFourTwo.
      “At the time, I was too young and left those things for other people to sort out, so I didn’t get to know which offers arrived.
      “Only after I signed for Zenit was I told Chelsea had been interested, but I can’t tell you how serious they were.”
      HE’LL COST MEGA WAGES
      Although clubs will be enticed by the fact there’s no transfer fee for Hulk, he won’t come cheap.
      His salary was believed to be in the region of £320,000-per-week – making him the second highest paid player in China. The first is former Chelsea star Oscar on an astonishing £400,000-per-week.

      Hulk stands outside his private jet, which bears the striker’s signature on the outsideCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

      Inside the aircraft there are sketches of the Brazilian scoring goals throughout his careerCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

      At 34 Hulk still has lots to offer amid Premier League interest
      And he lives some life off the pitch, as you can imagine.
      In 2018, he was pictured on board his own private jet, which features his signature on the side.

      Inside, the cabin is decorated with his own image.
      Hulk is also a keen art collector, spending his wages on rare paintings by renowned artists.
      The runway is clear for his arrival on our shores. More

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      Former Diego Maradona pal Ramon Diaz was hired by Botafogo and fired a month later after his surgery was delayed

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      RAMON DIAZ was a left footed striker who came through the youth ranks with Diego Maradona.
      Diaz was top scorer, Maradona was chosen as best player when Argentina won the first World Under-20 Cup in 1979. 

      Ramon Diaz, left, was sacked by Botafogo without taking charge of a game after a monthCredit: AFP – Getty

      Famously, Diaz fell out with Diego Maradona after the 1982 World Cup and he never played for Argentina againCredit: AFP – Getty

      Afterwards they fell out, and the international career of Diaz did not extend beyond the 1982 World Cup, but he was a consistent goal scorer in Italy and France during the 80s, before later embarking on a successful coaching career.
      He won the Copa Libertadores, South America’s Champions League, with his beloved River Plate in 1996, and has taken charge of other Argentine giants such as San Lorenzo and Independiente.
      There are two unusual moments in his coaching CV. The first is a spell as manager of Oxford United in 2004/5. The second has just happened – he was sacked by Brazilian club Botafogo before he had even started work.
      Now 61, Diaz was hired by the Rio de Janeiro club in November. Now 61, he had to undergo a surgery before he could take charge. So he sent his assistant, his son Emiliano, and his back up staff to Rio to get the ball rolling until he was free to join them.

      The original hope was that he would be given the all clear in the last week of November.
      But that was then put back to December 7 – and Botafogo decided that they were not prepared to wait.
      Under Emiliano Diaz Botafogo had played three matches, and lost them all.  He was sent on his way, and his father Ramon had lost a job that he had not even started performing.
      There are obvious reasons for the Botafogo administration to push the panic button. They are one of the famous names of the Brazilian game, supplying an extraordinary array of talent to the national team.

      Diaz’s arrival at Botafogo was delayed by surgery, and Botafogo couldn’t wait any longerCredit: AFP or licensors
      Brazil’s three World Cup winning sides between 1958 and 70 were built on a combination of players from Pele’s Santos and the Botafogo of Garrincha, Zagallo, Nilton Santos, Didi, Amarildo and Jairzinho.
      But the club’s support base is passionate but relatively small – especially compared to local giants Flamengo or even Vasco da Gama.
      Botafogo are in deep financial trouble – there have been hopes, so far unfounded, that the club might be saved by being turned into a business. 
      And, inevitably, the financial problems make their way through to the field, where in recent times Botafogo teams have tended to be limited and workmanlike rather than inspired.
      They have been relegated to the second division twice this century, and are in grave danger of going down once more. Well over half way through the season, Botafogo are second from bottom.
      Two coaches had quickly come and gone when Ramon Diaz was appointed.  Political infighting is common in Brazilian clubs, and it would seem likely that the decision to go with Diaz did not meet with universal approval.
      The slight delay in his arrival, then, became the justification for those who did want a foreign coach to push for dismissal.

      Botafogo are struggling in the league and sit second from bottomCredit: Reuters

      But there is a delicious irony in the story.  Ramon Diaz was substituted by the return of Eduardo Barroca for his second spell in charge of the club. 
      Barroca then went down with coronavirus, and will be in isolation until Thursday, by which time Ramon Diaz would already have been at work. 
      The club that could not wait is being forced to do just that.

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      Meet Aston Villa’s Matt Targett’s stunning Wag Jasmin Buckle, who loves fashion and sells clobber on Depop

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      HERE’S one reason for Aston Villa fans to get excited.
      Not only is left-back Matt Targett impressing on the pitch, but he’s also had great success off it.

      Jasmin Buckle is the stunning Wag who dates Matt TargettCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      England youth international Targett and Jasmin are childhood sweetheartsCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      The 25-year-old is dating Jasmin Buckle – who is no stranger to turning heads thanks to her sculpted bikini body and sultry looks.
      The pair began dating long before Targett established himself in the Southampton first team, and are childhood sweethearts who met in Hampshire.
      And as the defender has gone on to become a professional footballer, he’s made sure his other half has become accustomed to Wag life.
      SHE LOVES DEPOP
      Jasmin, 24, is your typical footballers’ missus, who loves expensive clothing – with her favourite designer being Fendi.

      Jasmin loves wearing designer clothes and her favourite brand is FendiCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      But when Jasmin is bored with her outfits she sells themCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      Jasmin is a fan of shopping app Depop, and uses it to sell her clobberCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      Targett’s Wag Jasmin has even sold some of his clothes on DepopCredit: Instagram @jlbx_
      But, to make a bit of money on the side, the enterprising stunner uses social shopping app Depop to flog designer clothes she no longer needs.
      From Michael Kors handbags to ASOS thigh-high boots, Jasmin’s page has a variety of offerings.
      And she’s even sold some of Targett’s threads too – listing his Kenzo sweater, DSquared2 jeans and Giuseppe Zanotti trainers for a tidy sum.
      FANCY HOLIDAYS ARE THE NORM
      When she’s not making extra space in their wardrobes, Jasmin can often be seen enjoying a fancy holiday with her beau.

      The two recently enjoyed the delights of Greece last summer in a no expenses spared trip to Santorini.

      Targett and Jasmin are often travelling around the worldCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      Jasmin showed off her bikini body in Greece last yearCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      Jasmin’s attractive lifestyle has helped her gain over 4,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      A natural beauty, Jasmin is no stranger in turning headsCredit: Instagram @jlbx_
      Jasmin, a keen Instagrammer, shared her holidays snaps with her 4,000-plus followers.
      In one picture, she wrote, “Thank you for another amazing summer,” which prompted Targett to reply with a heart emoji.

      In another, she’s seen soaking up the sun wearing a sexy bikini.
      “Take me back to being on holiday with my biggest worry being what bikini I’d wear that day,” she captioned the snap.

      Jasmin recently joked on Instagram that she missed wearing a bikiniCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      Wag Jasmin is very much a typical footballers’ missusCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

      Targett and Jasmin met in Hampshire and call each other best friendsCredit: Instagram @jlbx_

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      Reading’s £40m rated Michael Olise, 18, was released by Chelsea but now is transfer target of top Premier League clubs

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      HE’S only 18, but already Michael Olise is playing with a maturity beyond his years.
      Since making his debut in 2019, the attacking midfielder who can play out wide has come on leaps and bounds for Reading in the Championship.

      Michael Olise is blossoming into one of the best players outside of the Premier LeagueCredit: Rex Features

      Blossoming under the tutelage of Serbian boss Veljko Paunović, his delivery has been his standout attribute as the French U18 international has come of age.
      His form has helped The Royals rise to third in the table, while a host of Premier League club scouts are monitoring Olise closely.
      Wolves were said to have failed in a bid to bring him to Molineux in the summer, and they might just regret that now.
      It’s been said, he could now fetch £30m-£40m in the transfer market, should a Premier League giant want to swoop on the promising talent.

      CITY AND CHELSEA WILL BE KICKING THEMSELVES
      Premier League clubs have had their opportunities with Olise.
      He trained with Chelsea – who currently boast a very competitive academy – until he was released.
      There was also a spell at Manchester City, but that failed to bring anything more concrete for the youngster.

      The French U18 international has attracted interest from Premier League sides including WolvesCredit: Rex Features

      A price tag of £30m-£40m has been placed on Olise’s headCredit: Rex Features

      Olise was once on the books of Chelsea and Manchester CityCredit: Instagram
      In 2016, Reading took him on – and within three years he made his debut against Leeds United.

      But it’s this season he’s grown into one of the most talked about footballers outside the top flight.
      STARRING IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP
      Over the weekend, Olise put on another swashbuckling display in Reading’s 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
      His superb cross for Michael Morrison’s 53rd-minute goal to make it 2-0 was his fourth assist of the season – joint second in the Championship.
      It was from his cross also in the 16th minute that led to Brice Samba flapping to allow Holmes to head the ball which led to Ryan Yates handling on the line and being sent off with Lucas Joao converting from the spot.
      Former Reading defender Matt Mills said: “For a player of that age and quality, you’ve got to say he’s worth £30m-£40m now.” 
      With the transfer window opening in January, there’s no doubt Olise will attract interest.

      With four assists this campaign, Olise has progressed nicely since his debut in 2019Credit: Rex Features

      Olise has matured this season adding quality in his delivery to his gameCredit: Rex Features

      Teenager Olise has won the praise of Reading boss Veljko Paunović this campaignCredit: Instagram
      BOSS APPRAISAL
      His manager Paunović was full of praise for the teenager’s performance against Forest.
      “Yes, he’s very talented,” he said. “In Michael we have seen a lot of progress this year. He is getting more minutes and competition and surrounded by a very good team – a group of leaders.

      “Experienced guys and younger ones are supporting him, providing him with a structure and the way we play enables him to shine in games like today.
      “But we also know with young players it’s about getting the consistency and maturity to compete on the same level in every single game.
      “That’s something that will come over time and we’ll enjoy his talent when he is at his best delivering for the team.”

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