La Liga

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Franck Kessie’s agent slams ‘fake news’ linking ‘unhappy’ Man Utd target with exit six months after Barcelona transfer

      by

      FRANCK KESSIE’S agent has slammed rumours linking the midfielder with a move away from Barcelona as “fake news”.The 25-year-old joined Barca on a free transfer in the summer.
      Franck Kessie has started just two league games for BarcelonaCredit: Rex
      Kessie joined Barcelona as a free agent in JulyCredit: Getty
      But he has started just twice in La Liga since arriving at the Nou Camp.
      Reports in Italy have even linked Kessie with a quick exit from Barcelona as soon as January, with former club AC Milan claimed to be keen.
      Now Kessie’s agent, George Atangana, has put those rumours to bed.
      Atangana told Mundo Deportivo on the links: “They are fake news, totally false.
      Read More In Football
      “Kessie is very happy at Barca and in Barcelona.
      “He’s only been at the club for a few months and he’s still in the process of adapting to the team and the Barca style of play, which has nothing to do with the rest of the clubs, and, therefore, it takes time.”
      Manchester United were previously linked with Kessie before he decided to join Barca.
      But Atangana vowed Kessie will work hard to earn a place in Xavi’s team after turning down other offers in the summer in favour of the Spaniards.
      Most read in Football
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      Atangana continued: “Kessie will continue working to earn a place in the team. He is not a player who gives up easily.
      “He had other offers in the summer and bet heavily on Barca.”
      Kessie has played 12 times in total for Barcelona, but the majority of his appearances have from the bench. More

    • 275 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid to launch fresh transfer bid for Arsenal star Jesus after pulling out of deal for ex-Man City ace over visas

      by

      REAL MADRID are set to launch a bid for Arsenal star Gabriel Jesus next summer, according to reports.The Brazilian was linked with the Spanish giants in the summer, only for them to pull out of the running.
      Gabriel Jesus has scored five goals for ArsenalCredit: Getty
      Madrid reportedly decided against the move because of an “issue with Jesus’ passport”.
      Despite this, he remains a player that boss Carlo Ancelotti admires.
      According to Goal, Jesus is on a five-man shortlist compiled by the Italian.
      They claim that Ancelotti sees him as a perfect understudy, and potential successor, to Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema.
      READ MORE ARSENAL
      Jesus, 25, contributed to Arsenal’s strong start to the season.
      The former Manchester City man has scored five goals in 11 Prem outings – also laying on four assists.
      Arsenal’s form has them second in the table, with the possibility of leapfrogging City back into top spot if they beat Nottingham Forest this afternoon.
      Also on Madrid’s shortlist are Alphonso Davies, Endrick, Enzo Fernandez and Piero Hincapie.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Earlier this month, Jesus told BT Sport of the bond he already feels with Arsenal fans.
      He said: “In the first days when I signed here I went to a Brazilian restaurant.
      “I was waiting in my car outside, and a lot of Arsenal fans came to say welcome to the club.

      “It is different at Manchester City of course. City have had a lot of impact in the last 10, 15 years. Arsenal before that had a lot. It’s different, you know.
      “I feel that welcome, the way they come to talk to me. They are supporting you to the end. Exactly.
      “I was happy with the fans at City as well, but it’s different.” More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Norwich star Marcelino Nunez wanted by LaLiga giants Sevilla in shock transfer just months after arriving at Carrow Road

      by

      NORWICH’S Chilean star Marcelino Nunez is being watched by Spanish giants Sevilla.The midfielder only joined the Canaries from Universidad Catolica in the summer but is already on the radar of the La Liga club.
      Marcelino Nunez has been an instant hit in the Championship for NorwichCredit: Alamy
      The Canaries would be stunned to lose Chile midfielder Nunez so quicklyCredit: Alamy
      Sevilla sent senior scout Jose Manuel Santos Hernandez to check out the 22-year-old, who has 10 caps to his name, last week as they consider a move for the South American.
      Meanwhile, Norwich may send Republic of Ireland striker Adam Idah out on loan in the New Year after his progress has been stalled by injury.
      Derby County boss Paul Warne is a fan of the target man and tried to land him in his Rotherham days, so may go in again.
      Sevilla’s interest in Nunez comes as the Spaniards surprisingly struggle – lying fourth bottom in LaLiga and level on points with the drop zone.
      Most read in Championship
      Former Chile and Argentina manager Jorge Sampaoli was appointed boss for a second time on October 6.
      That followed the sacking of Julen Lopetegui, who is now being targeted by Wolves for a THIRD time this month.
      The Spanish coach rejected the chance of his first taste of English football straight after Bruno Lage’s axing.
      But although Wolves looked at old boss Nuno Espirito Santo and QPR’s Michael Beale, they now hope to persuade Lopetegui to change his mind. More

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid fans all say same thing about Jude Bellingham transfer as Vinicius, Rodrygo & Militao land Spanish passports

      by

      REAL MADRID have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham.Earlier this month, SunSport revealed that the Spanish giants were confident in winning the transfer race for the 19-year-old.
      Bellingham has been linked with a move to Real MadridCredit: Getty
      Militao, Rodrygo and Vinicius have all been granted Spanish citizenshipCredit: Getty
      While Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool are also pushing to sign the youngster, Real Madrid consider themselves in pole position to complete the deal, which is expected to be worth around £87million.
      Many fans are now convinced that Bellingham is Bernabeu-bound following the revelation that three Real Madrid stars have been granted Spanish passports.
      Brazilian trio Eder Militao, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo recently became citizens of Spain, meaning that there are three non-EU player spots now available in the squad.
      This opens up the opportunity for Bellingham – who is an English citizen – to join the club.

      Fans took to Twitter to react to the revelation, with one person writing: “Does this signing excite me? Very much. Did Real Madrid need an English player? Since a long time. Is Bellingham the ideal signing for 2023? Without a doubt.”
      Another added: “Let’s gooooo!!!!”
      While a third simply said: “Perfect timing.”
      Bellingham’s current contract with Borussia Dortmund expires in 2025, but he is expected to leave Signal Iduna Park next summer.
      Most read in Football
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      He made history earlier this month by becoming the youngest Bundesliga captain EVER as he stepped in as a replacement for Marco Reus and Mats Hummels.
      The midfielder is also on track to become one of the most expensive players in Bundesliga history. More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Barcelona eye Chelsea’s N’Golo Kante as replacement for Sergio Busquets with France star a free transfer next summer

      by

      BARCELONA are considering a move for Chelsea star N’Golo Kante, according to reports.The Catalan giants are set to be in the market for a midfielder next summer, when Sergio Busquets leaves.
      N’Golo Kante has only played twice this seasonCredit: AFP
      The legendary Spaniard has outlined his intention to depart his boyhood club upon the conclusion of his deal.
      According to Spanish outlet Relevo, Kante is Barca’s No1 target to replace Busquets.
      The Frenchman has played just twice for Chelsea this season, having suffered a hamstring injury against Tottenham in August.
      He briefly returned to training earlier this month, before suffering a devastating setback that will rule him out of the World Cup.
      Read More Football Stories
      Kante, 31, is set to be out for four months – further complicating his contract situation at Stamford Bridge.
      The 2018 World Cup winner’s current contract expires at the end of this season – and he wants a three-year deal with an option for a fourth to renew.
      Chelsea are reluctant to offer him that length of deal, given his injury woes.
      Kante is reportedly willing to join Tottenham or Arsenal if he doesn’t get the deal he covets in West London.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      But he could also move to Spain.
      In their hunt to replace Busquets, Barca have been linked with Ajax star Edson Alvarez.
      Although they will have to compete with Manchester United and Chelsea for his signature.
      On Kante’s latest injury setback, Blues boss Graham Potter said: “Again he’s due to see a consultant at the weekend. It’s a setback so it’s not good news. But anything other than that, at this stage I can’t give you any more.
      “Historically, there are things which have happened which are a concern and we need to get the bottom of that.
      “It’s a setback in the last stage of his rehab so again that’s worrying. But all we can do is get the right diagnosis, the right consultation and then try help him get back to full fitness and enjoying his football.”
      Sergio Busquets is set to leave Barcelona at the end of the seasonCredit: AP More

    • 213 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      PSV star Xavi Simons reveals bizarre Barcelona training routine as he opens up on Catalans’ unique approach

      by

      XAVI SIMONS has opened up on the bizarre training methods utilised at Barcelona. The PSV star was a part of the Spanish giants legendary academy set up before he was poached by Paris Saint-Germain in 2019.
      Xavi Simons has been in impressive form for PSV this seasonCredit: Getty
      However, he left the club on a free transfer earlier this year in order to pursue more playing time.
      And that decision is paying dividends with the 19-year-old scoring 10 goals in 19 games for Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Dutch title challengers.
      And in a recent interview Simons opened up on his development in the Barcelona academy.
      He told ESPN NL: “Believe me, at Barça you don’t work in the gym, you only work with the ball.
      READ MORE ON BARCELONA
      “When I went to PSG, I found out that there they worked in the gym. I saw the differences directly.”
      Barcelona graduate’s such as recent Golden Boy winners Pedri and Gavi are renowned for their technical quality on the ball.
      It is seen as part of the DNA of the club to have players who are good with the ball at their feet, with many greats of the game seeing this dimension of their game come to the fore at the club.
      It comes in contrast to many clubs who instruct players to work on their physical condition in the gym on top of their ball skills.
      Most read in Football
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      Simons starred during PSV’s Europa League clash against Arsenal, with his dangerous attacking play causing The Gunners backline a plethora of problems.
      The 2-0 win for the Dutch side mean Arsenal must win their final group game against FC Zurich in order to ensure they avoid a horror draw against the drop outs from the Champions League group stages.
      Such a clash could include horror draws against the likes of Barcelona or Juventus, who ironically make up two of the three remaining “Super League” rebels. More

    • 250 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd and Arsenal transfer boost as Xavi makes shock U-turn over Ruben Neves as Wolves man ‘can’t replace Busquets’

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED and Arsenal have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Wolves star Ruben Neves as Barcelona are no longer interested, according to reports.A number of top clubs have been keen to recruit the 25-year-old with his contract expiring at the end of next season.
      Wolves and Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves may not be heading to BarcelonaCredit: Getty
      Barcelona were one of them but they have had second thoughts and may now turn to other targets.
      Neves was reportedly on the Catalan giants’ shortlist for the January transfer window and were considering an initial loan bid with an obligation to buy for £43million.
      He was seen as part of the strategy to replace long-serving veteran Sergio Busquets in central midfield.
      But Barca boss Xavi is concerned he will not suit his side’s tactical setup, claim Spanish outlet Sport.
      READ MORE ON MAN UTD
      Xavi fears he does not have the right attributes to be a direct replacement for Busquets in the holding midfield role and will instead move for other players.
      This comes as a huge blow for Neves himself who recently flirted with a move to the Nou Camp saying it would be a “privilege” to play for “one of the world’s best clubs.”
      Man Utd are thought to be big admirers of the ex-Porto ace and they may make a bid for him.
      Erik ten Hag’s side were linked with Neves over the summer along with many other midfielders, including Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Barca pulling out is also good news for Arsenal as Mikel Arteta is expected to bolster his options after attempting to sign an additional midfielder in the summer but with no luck.
      Busquets, 34, is set to join Inter Miami at the end of this season when his deal runs out.
      Barca reportedly prefer Ajax star Edson Alvarez and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi to Neves.
      But their ability to make signings could be affected by their failure to get out the group stages of the Champions League amid a challenging financial situation. More

    • 213 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Ansu Fati ‘considering quitting Barcelona in shock transfer exit with 19-year-old upset over lack of playing time’

      by

      ANSU FATI will quit Barcelona if he doesn’t get more playing time, according to reports.The teenage wonderkid burst onto the scene as a 16-year-old, but has suffered numerous injury issues since his initial breakthrough.
      Ansu Fati is frustrated with his game time under XaviCredit: Getty
      Now 19, Fati has managed to stay fit so far this season, but has been handed just two LaLiga starts by boss Xavi.
      The 42-year-old has numerous options on the flanks, including the likes of Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Ousmane Dembele and Memphis Depay
      According to Spanish broadcaster Radioestadio Noche, Fati’s agent Jorge Mendes has threatened to take his client elsewhere if he doesn’t receive more game time.
      They add that Barca chiefs have been “warned” about the situation.
      Read More Football Stories
      Fati last extended his Barcelona contract one year ago, nearly to the day.
      He is contracted to the Catalan giants until 2027, with Barca even possessing the option to extend his stay until 2029.
      Despite the club’s position of strength, Fati’s representatives could still look to unsettle the situation.
      While starts have been rare, the winger has at least been used from the bench in every game in all competitions so far this season.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      He has scored three goals and registered a further three assists so far this term.
      In total the wonderkid has played 73 times for Barca; scoring 22 goals and setting up a further nine.
      Prior to Fati penning his new contract last year, Manchester United were one of the clubs thought to be tracking him.
      Last summer, he admitted that he hopes Lionel Messi returns to Barcelona… despite taking the Argentine’s iconic No10 shirt. More