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      Newcastle set to announce first summer signing after beating Real Madrid and Barcelona to stunning free transfer

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      NEWCASTLE are set to announce Spanish whizkid Antonio Cordero as their first summer signing.SunSport revealed in January that the winger, 18, would reject a contract extension at Malaga to join the Magpies on a free.Newcastle are closing in on Spanish whizkid Antonio CorderoReal Madrid, Barcelona and Porto held talks with Cordero but he has opted for a five-year deal at St James’ Park.Malaga confirmed last night the teen — who hit six goals in Spain’s second tier this season —  will leave on June 30.Newcastle have held talks with ex-Madrid executive David Hopkinson about taking over as CEO from Darren Eales, who is stepping down due to ill health.Cordero’s family visited the North East earlier this year ahead of his proposed move to Tyneside.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIt’s understood that Newcastle could initially loan him out to continue his development away from the glare of the Prem.Ajax have been listed as a potential destination for the teenager next season.Cordero, who will turn 19 in November, played 40 times for Malaga this season, with 39 of those games in the league.Meanwhile, Newcastle have checked on 19-year old Rennes centre back Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal who has starred for Morocco U20s.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBoudlal is yet to make his senior debut for Rennes and spent the second half of the season on loan at Ligue 2 Amiens. Eddie Howe’s side are also interested in Crystal Palace centre back Marc Guehi and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.Champions League places CONFIRMED after Aston Villa VAR controversy as Newcastle have to be saved by Man UtdMbeumo has reportedly said he would prefer a move to Manchester United, with Arsenal also linked.Newcastle earned a place in next season’s Champions League on the final day, but could lose goalkeeper Nick Pope to Leeds.Cordero looks set to sign a five-year deal at Newcastle More

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      in Motorsport

      ‘What do you want me to say?’ – Lewis Hamilton looks close to tears in live TV interview after ‘terrible’ race

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      LEWIS HAMILTON looked as though he might burst into tears as he gave blunt answers in his post-race interview in Barcelona.The seven-time world champion tugged on heartstrings as he blamed himself for a “terrible” performance at the Spanish Grand Prix.Lewis Hamilton was damming in his post-race interview after the Spanish GPHamilton finished the race outside the podium in P6Credit: AlamyThe seven-time world champion has endured a bedding in period at the Italian team in his debut seasonCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThings were looking up for Hamilton after qualifying on Saturday, where he secured fifth – his joint best result.But soon into the race his teammate Charles Leclerc was snapping at his heels and he was told to give his place up to the Monegasque driver after just nine laps.It was a suckerpunch moment for the Brit who finished in sixth after Max Verstappen’s 10-second time penalty.He had been overtaken by his old Mercedes teammate George Russell and, to rub more salt in the wounds, Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg.READ MORE IN F1He said after the race: “Well what do you want me to say? I’ve had a really bad day and have nothing to say. It was a difficult day,“There’s nothing else to add to it. It was terrible. There’s no point explaining it. It’s not your fault. I just don’t know what to say.”When told whether the team can find some answers, he added: “I’m sure they won’t – it was probably just me.”Hamilton’s former teammate Nico Rosberg said: “it’s hard to watch” the Ferrari driver struggle.Most read in MotorsportHe added: “Sunday was a horrible day for him because he was just slow out there, which is very unusual,”Yes, sometimes he’s off in qualifying but in races he’s usually really awesome and the race was shockingly bad.”He doesn’t have answers either. Was there damage on the floor? These floors are so sensitive and there can always be a bit there and you lose a lot of time.”When you don’t have any answers, it’s really tough as a driver then you see your team-mate race on their way to third place on the podium. In light of the whole season he’s had so far, it’s a very dark situation.” More

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      Zinedine Zidane ‘offered stunning managerial return worth €100m-a-year’ after four years out of work

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      ZINEDINE ZIDANE has been offered a stunning return to management with a contract offer worth €100million, according to reports.The claim comes from French outlet L’Equipe, who say the former Real Madrid boss has been offered a mouth-watering one-year deal by Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.Zinedine Zidane has been offered a €100m-a-year deal to manage in Saudi ArabiaCredit: ReutersHowever, it’s reported the World Cup winner turned down the dealCredit: GettyZidane, 52, has been out of work since leaving his second stint as manager of Real Madrid in 2021, having won three Champions League titles there across two spells.Saudi giants Al-Hilal have been without a permanent manager since Jorge Jesus left at the start of May.And the club were willing to give Zidane a one-year deal worth a whopping €100m (£84m).However, it has since been reported Zidane has TURNED DOWN the offer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat decision is said to stem from his desire to succeed Didier Deschamps as the manager of the French national team.Zidane firmly threw his hat in the ring for that gig earlier this week.The World Cup winner said: “I feel legitimate in the France team.”[It is] Where I played and spent almost twelve, thirteen or fourteen years as a player. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”Of course, it’s a dream, I can’t wait.”Deschamps has announced he will be stepping down from his post as France boss after the 2026 World Cup.PSG fans tear gassed in violent clashes with cops as 400 arrested and two dead after Champions League winThe 56-year-old became France boss in 2012 and has gone on to lead them to winning the 2018 World Cup and 2020/21 Uefa Nations League.They were also runners-up at Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup.Zidane wants to succeed Didier Deschamps as manager of FranceCredit: Shutterstock Editorial More

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      Barcelona in talks over free transfer swoop for Arsenal’s Thomas Partey who ‘wants a deal that reflects his standing’

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      BARCELONA are lining up a sensational swoop for Arsenal midfield warrior Thomas Partey and he won’t cost them a penny.The La Liga giants’ representatives have opened talks with the Ghanaian hardman’s camp over a free transfer this summer with Partey’s future at the Emirates still up in the air.Thomas Partey and Mikel Arteta share a strong bond and that could tilt the balanceCredit: GettyThe Ghanaian is coming off one of his best campaigns for the GunnersCredit: GettyThe 31-year-old is settled in London but wants a good deal to stayCredit: GettyPartey, 31, is out of contract at the end of June but has yet to agree a new deal with Arsenal despite Mikel Arteta publicly confirming he would like to keep him.The complex and slow-moving nature of negotiations has encouraged clubs like Barcelona and Atletico Madrid who are both looking to bolster their midfield muscle without breaking the bank.Sources close to the player have told SunSport that Partey is seen as a cut-price fix for Barcelona’s engine room with boss Hansi Flick a big admirer of the ex-Atletico Madrid star.The Ghana international who joined the Gunners in 2020 for £45million has endured an injury-plagued spell in North London — but when fit remains a dominant presence in midfield.READ MORE FOOTBALLHe enjoyed a strong campaign, playing in 35 league games as Arsenal pushed Liverpool for the title. Sunsport understands that the Ghanaian would ideally like to stay in north London having built a strong relationship with Arteta.Partey also recently welcomed a new baby and with his family settled in London, he would love the continuity. However, he is looking for a deal that doesn’t require him to take a significant pay cut- aware that this could be his final major contract.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe turns 32 this month and is seeking a deal that reflects his status as one of the club’s most important players.Barcelona are still grappling with Financial Fair Play restrictions but they love the idea of securing a top-tier player on a free transfer.Chloe Kelly stuns Arsenal fans as she heads straight to local PUB after Champions League trophy paradeBeyond Barcelona, Partey has also attracted interest from Saudi clubs- but it’s the Catalan giants who have made the first serious move and are keeping the pressure on.One source close to the player told SunSport: “Thomas respects Arsenal massively and loves living in London, but he also knows his worth and wants a deal that reflects his standing at the club.”Partey’s potential exit from Arsenal would free up a space in the midfield for next season.And the Gunners are keen to bring Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer and are set to trigger his £51million release clause.According to reports in Spanish outlet Cope, senior Arsenal figures expect the deal to be completed swiftly.Personal terms and the relevant documents have already been signed and agreed, as well as the payment structure around the Spaniard’s release clause.Read More on The SunZubimendi is highly rated by Arteta, who convinced the Euro 2024 winner of the North London project after he turned down a switch to Arne Slot’s Liverpool last summer.It is the start of a huge summer of incomings for Arsenal as they prepare to splash around £200m on new talent to fire them to Premier League glory next term. More

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      ‘With you, I started to smile again’ – Tearful Antony announces Real Betis exit as £86m flop forced to return to Man Utd

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      ANTONY hailed his Real Betis loan spell as “one of the most beautiful chapters of my life” as he prepares for his return to Manchester United.The Brazil winger scored nine goals and provided five assists in 26 appearances for Betis in his reviving six-month loan move.Antony said goodbye to Real Betis with an emotional videoThe winger must return to Man Utd this summerBut Antony and Betis endured a painful last dance, losing 4-1 to Chelsea in the Uefa Conference League final in Poland.He is set to return to Man Utd, who would not accept a cut-price deal or another loan move.The 26-year-old was grateful for his time at Betis as he penned an emotional open letter on Instagram.Antony said in Spanish: “Today is the day to give thanks for one of the most beautiful chapters of my life.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWS”As I write this page of my story, I need to tell you why you have been —and always will be —so special to me. “Since I was a child, football wasn’t just a dream, it was my only chance to change my life. “Life took me far, from the favela to the world. I left Brazil, played in the Netherlands, played in England, and went from being a boy to becoming a father.”A lot has changed, but football has always been there, always my safe harbour. Until one day, everything collapsed. Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford”From heaven to hell. The ball stopped going in, the joy faded, my world darkened, and I began to doubt myself, my talent, and my passion for the game.”That’s when football gave me one last gift: Real Betis. From the first step into this club, I felt something different. ‘Leaving Man Utd works wonders’ – Fans love Antony’s wild Real Betis celebrations as he goes topless and waves huge flag”It was like coming home, like finding a piece of myself that I thought I had lost. With you, I started to smile again.”Thank you for welcoming me as one of your own. Thank you for giving me back the joy of playing football. “And thank you for reminding me why I fell in love with the game. My home, my people, thank you so much.”Antony captioned the heartwarming post with: “My world. My people.”The video started with Antony walking around an Villamarin Stadium, soaking his final days with the club who desperately wanted to keep him.Football gave me one last gift: Real Betis.AntonyThe goodbye video showed Antony’s best moments in a Betis shirtHe was wearing his Betis jersey, with his young kids popping up in the green and white kits too.It then showed his best match highlights, including his incredible goal against former Man Utd team-mate David de Gea at Fiorentina. Dramatic Hans Zimmer-like piano music played in the background throughout.Read More on The SunAntony endured a torrid first half of the season in the Premier League, compounding what had been a frustrating two seasons at Old Trafford following his £86million from Ajax in 2022.While he might not be accepted back into the fold at Old Trafford, Antony attracted interest from Bayer Leverkusen, now managed by former United boss Erik ten Hag. More

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      Tottenham confirm first transfer of the window after triggering loan star’s option to buy on a permanent deal

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      TOTTENHAM have confirmed that Kevin Danso’s initial loan move is set to become a permanent transfer.The centre-back, 26, joined Spurs from RC Lens in January on an initial six-month loan.Kevin Danso helped Tottenham win the Europa LeagueCredit: Shutterstock EditorialDanso, 26, poses with the Europa League trophyCredit: GettyThe transfer included an obligation to buy, with Tottenham spending £21million to make the move permanent.Updating fans, Spurs confirmed their Danso switch while also referencing Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s permanent move to Marseille.Their statement read: “As previously announced, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s loan to Marseille will become a permanent transfer this summer, while Kevin Danso’s loan to us from RC Lens becomes a permanent move.”Danso made 10 Premier League appearances for Spurs either side of a hamstring injury.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe former Southampton youngster made his debut in Tottenham’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg defeat at Liverpool, while he also featured in their FA Cup exit at Aston Villa.Danso appeared three times in Spurs’ victorious Europa League campaign, including as a substitute in the 1-0 final win over Manchester United.Upon joining at the end of the January transfer window, Danso said: “It feels amazing. I’ve always wanted to play for a big club in the Premier League and Tottenham Hotspur is exactly that… I think as soon as you hear Tottenham Hotspur is interested, the only thing you can do is say yes.”On what attracted him to Spurs, the 6ft 3in defender added: “Just everything, especially through the last few years, how big the club has become — they’ve got into a Champions League final before.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKDanso came on in the Europa League final in BilbaoCredit: Reuters”It’s just an amazing project to be a part of and I’m happy to be here.”There’s opportunities to win trophies. I think that is every kid’s dream growing up — to win trophies at a Club like Tottenham Hotspur.”Ange Postecoglou drops huge hint over Tottenham future with incredible mic-drop moment at Europa League paradeIn addition to Hojbjerg, Spurs formally announced the departures of Fraser Forster, Sergio Reguilon, Alfie Whiteman and Timo Werner.Forster, 37, featured 34 times for Spurs in three seasons, including four times in this year’s Europa League campaign.Reguilon signed from Real Madrid in 2020 and played 73 times for Tottenham, either side of loans with Atletico Madrid, Man Utd and Brentford.Goalkeeper Whiteman, 26, came through the club’s academy and made one first team outing.Tottenham have unsurprisingly opted against making Timo Werner’s loan deal permanent.Academy starlets Will Andiyapan, Archie Baptiste, Jahziah Linton, Maxwell McKnight, Max Robson, Jaden Williams, Timileyin Adekunle, Dante Orr and Charlie Warre have also departed.Fraser Forster poses with the Europa League trophyCredit: GettySergio Reguilon waves goodbye to the Tottenham fansCredit: GettyAlfie Whiteman came through Tottenham’s academyCredit: AFPTimo Werner’s 18-month loan spell at Spurs has come to an endCredit: Getty More

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      Real Betis considering rare transfer gambit to complete Antony switch which would see him part-owned by Man Utd

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      REAL BETIS are considering a bold strategy to keep Antony at the club, according to reports.The Brazilian has been on loan at the Spanish side from Manchester United since January.Real Betis are exploring ways to keep AntonyCredit: GettyAntony has scored nine goals in 26 games for Betis, with both the player and club keen for him to stay.But the Conference League finalists do not have an option to buy him inserted in the current loan deal.Spanish outlet Marca report that Betis and Man Utd chiefs will hold talks over Antony’s future next week.The Red Devils will not accept a cut-price deal and the LaLiga side may therefore struggle to afford him permanently.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey will instead offer to take him on loan again and even have plans to co-own Antony with Man Utd.In a rarely-seen move, Betis could reportedly agree to purchase just a percentage of the winger’s rights.It means both teams could benefit from any future sale.But the scheme still relies on Antony cutting his £200,000-a-week salary, which Man Utd have been covering 16 per cent of.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSBetis fans are desperate to keep hold of their new fans’ favourite and chanted for him to stay after they beat Fiorentina in the Conference League semi-final.Club legend Joaquin even joked he would help Antony’s kidnapping to ensure he does not return to Old Trafford.’Leaving Man Utd works wonders’ – Fans love Antony’s wild Real Betis celebrations as he goes topless and waves huge flagHe said: “I’ll provide the car if he has to be kidnapped, but let him stay no matter what.”Meanwhile, new Bayer Leveruksen boss Erik ten Hag is supposedly open to a reunion with Antony and Alejandro Garnacho. Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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      Real Madrid announce Trent Alexander-Arnold transfer as Liverpool rake in staggering fee for letting star go early

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      LIVERPOOL have agreed to let Trent Alexander-Arnold join Real Madrid early in a deal worth £10million.The right-back was set to join the 15-time Kings of Europe for free on June 30 – but the LaLiga giants want him for the Club World Cup.Liverpool have banked £10million for letting Trent Alexander-Arnold leave earlyCredit: ReutersAlexander-Arnold won two Prem titles at LiverpoolThe expanded tournament in the USA begins 16 days before Alexander-Arnold’s contract expires – meaning he wouldn’t have been able to be registered.So Madrid have now agreed to pay over £300,000-PER-DAY to bag the 26-year-old a month early.The two-time Premier League winner will move when the special transfer window opens on Sunday. Madrid will make a single payment of £8.4m (€10m) and pay his June wages – which all adds up to £10m (€11.9m).READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSMadrid were originally offering just £840,000, but Liverpool held firm for more.Alexander-Arnold will reportedly earn £240,000-per-week on a six-year deal, with his release clause set at €1BILLION or £840million.A statement from the club read: “The full-back is now set to join the La Liga club ahead of the expiry of his Reds contract this summer.”Liverpool will receive a fee for his services, with the deal to be concluded once the window opens on June 1.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Alexander-Arnold leaves Liverpool with the club appreciative and grateful for his contribution to those successes.”Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement Xabi Alonso wanted Alexander-Arnold in his squad for their first match against Al-Hilal in Miami on June 18. Andy Robertson pays tribute to ‘best friend’ Trent Alexander-Arnold after he is booed by Liverpool fansFifa has created a special transfer window from June 1 to June 10 specifically for the Club World Cup.Madrid’s injury crisis at right-back is understood to be behind the push to get him in early.Midfielder Federico Valverde has been filling in for Spain Euro 2024 hero Dani Carvajal, who had knee surgery last October.Alexander-Arnold is due to link up with the England squad next week for the World Cup qualifier against Andorra a week on Saturday.What happened to the Englishmen who joined Real Madrid?TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD has finally completed his move to Real Madrid joins an exclusive club to pull on the famous white jersey.So how did those who came before him get on?LAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.The left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.STEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.DAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.MICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.JONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.JUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.Birmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold now alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally.England play a friendly against Senegal at Nottingham Forest’s ground three days later.Liverpool fans were fuming about losing a world-class player for free, even booing their homegrown star against Arsenal last month.Alexander-Arnold was given a more warm goodbye on the final day of the season, before breaking down in tears after 20 years with the club.Read More on The SunHe now departs Anfield after 354 appearances and 23 goals for the club, winning eight major honours.Trent won two titles, the Champions League, Fifa Club World Cup, Uefa Super Cup, FA Cup and two League Cups with his boyhood side. 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