La Liga

Subterms

    More stories

    • 200 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea reignite Jules Kounde transfer interest and could move for Barcelona star or Premier League ace

      by

      CHELSEA have rekindled their transfer interest in Barcelona star Jules Kounde… while they keep eyeing Bournemouth ace Dean Huijsen.The Blues have been looking for a highly-rated centre-back ever since Thiago Silva’s departure from Stamford Bridge last year.Chelsea are planning to rekindle their interest in Barcelona star Jules KoundeCredit: GettyChelsea are also keeping tabs on Bournemouth ace Dean HuijsenCredit: AlamyAccording to Sport, the West Londoners are planning another bid for Kounde, 26, whom they tried to sign from Sevilla in 2022 before Barca hijacked the deal with a £42million swoop.The same source claims Chelsea need a central defender that can also cover at full-back, making the France international the perfect pick for manager Enzo Maresca.Kounde was initially supposed to play at centre-back under previous Barcelona boss Xavi but the Spanish tactician quickly realised how good he is at right-back as well and changed his position.Current Blaugrana manager Hansi Flick has continued to field the Frenchman on the right flank of his defence and the player has proven to be among the best in Europe.Read More on ChelseaKounde is “very happy” in Catalonia and is keen to sign a new contract.His current deal is set to expire in 2026.However, the defender is fully aware he could earn more at Stamford Bridge amid Barcelona’s ongoing financial woes.Plus, Kounde would almost certainly play in his natural position at centre-back with the Premier League giants.Most read in FootballBarcelona are full in that position and are planning a move for Bayer Leverkusen ace Jonathan Tah this summer.Chelsea, though, are prepared for another potential transfer blow involving the ex-Bordeaux star.Former Chelsea star Demba Ba talks about his role as director of football of USL And that is why they are also eyeing Bournemouth’s Huijsen, 19, ahead of the summer transfer window.However, the same source claims Real Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Spain international. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid ‘plot shock £90MILLION Bruno Fernandes transfer’ with scouts at every single Man Utd game watching him

      by

      REAL MADRID are reportedly readying a record swoop for Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes this summer.Fernandes has been scouted by Carlo Ancelotti’s representatives at every “virtually every single Man Utd home and away game” this season.Bruno Fernandes is on Real Madrid’s wanted list this summerCredit: GettyFernandes is United’s top goalscorer this termCredit: ReutersFernandes is being eyed as a top signing who could also be a potential successor to Luka ModricCredit: GettyMadrid are expecting Fernandes to cost in the region of £90million, according to The Star.That would be United’s record sale, eclipsing the £80million that Real paid for Cristiano Ronaldo in June 2009.Real are planning a squad overhaul at the end of the season, which includes the signing of Liverpool right back Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free.And Fernandes is being eyed as a top signing who could also be a potential successor to Luka Modric, 39, whose contract expires this summer.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSFernandes’ form has been one of the few shining lights in another poor season for the Red Devils, who sit 13th in the Prem and are on course for a record low finish.He was linked with a move away last summer after he admitted that it was “possible”.But the 30-year-old midfielder ended up signing a new bumper £3250,000-per-year contract until 2027 in August.However, his desire to win trophies could make a move to the Bernaebu irresistible.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordFernandes is United’s top producer with 16 goals and assists this term, including eight goals in the Prem and four in the Europa League.The club regularly turn to him to produce a moment of magic in games and he is almost always available for selection. Roy Keane slams Man Utd in angriest ever rant and has bust-up with Wright over BrunoFernandes’ form in the Prem this seasonHe recently revealed he had an offer on the table to leave last year , but he wanted to stay because he believes the club can be successful.Ruben Amorim will be desperate to keep him, but any approach from Madrid could create a dilemma for the cash-strapped club hierarchy.Minority co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has not been shy in revealing United’s financial problems.Ratcliffe sensationally claimed that United were on track to run out of money this year while defending his controversial cost-cutting.And the club are allegedly open to listening to serious offers for every single player in the squad. But Fernandes – who is arguably United’s only successful signing since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 – is different.The Portugal international has scored 95 goals and provided 82 assists for the Red Devils in 227 games in all competitions since joining from Sporting Lisbon for £47million in January 2020.How Madrid could line up with FernandesHe does, however, divide opinion with some pointing to his poor body language and petulant moaning. Former United captain Roy Keane is among those who feel Fernandes should not wear the armband.When talking about Fernandes often being United’s saviour, Keane exploded: “Save us? They’re 15th in the league and he’s saving them?”Praise the lord. You have to have a starting point. I go back to it all – talent is not enough. Bruno’s a talented player, but talent’s not enough.”But the passionate Irishman’s co-host on Stick to Football Ian Wright disagreed and said: “No, no, not Bruno. United would be relegated without him.”Keane flopped back in his chair and snarled: “You know what Wrighty? I’ve had enough of that rubbish man.”Roy Keane unleashed a furious tirade in the direction of Man Utd players, including FernandesBut since Keane’s scathing attack, Fernandes has successfully silenced his critics, while admitting it “wasn’t nice too hear”.He bagged a hat-trick in the 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad in the Europa League at the start of this month.And followed it up with a great – but controversial- free-kick against Arsenal in the Prem a few days later.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe recently spoke of his desire to overtake Andy Cole and Ole Gunnar Solskajer in the United goalscoring charts and to reach 300 appearances for the club.But many United fans believe he deserves more, including fighting for major trophies – to add to his one FA Cup and Carabao Cup won at Old Trafford. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta is the transfer guru behind some amazing deals… but also some major flops

      by

      ARSENAL fans have been crying out for an experienced, ready-made figure to lead the club to major trophies and continental domination.That elite striker still eludes them, but for now, they have the next best thing: a man with a proven record of getting those sorts of players through the door for instant success.Andrea Berta puts pen to paper on a deal of his ownCredit: GettyThomas Lemar ranks among Berta’s less succesful buysCredit: AFP – GettyBerta’s time at Atletico Madrid ended in disappointment as they were knocked out of the Champions League by Man CityCredit: GettyMeet Andrea Berta – the 53-year-old Italian businessman turned transfer guru who has been tasked with just that in his new role of sporting director at the Emirates.He has big shoes to fill. His predecessor Edu worked tirelessly with manager Mikel Arteta to transform the Gunners into Prem title challengers through astute recruitment during his two-year spell in the role, having initially arrived as technical director in July 2019.The next step is clear: to build on that progress and deliver the Holy Grail of English football back to North London, ending their 21-year wait for a league title.And in Berta, Arsenal have – on paper – the ideal man for the job.READ MORE ARSENALHis 12-year affiliation with Atletico Madrid alongside Diego Simeone was littered with overachievement and success on and off the pitch, his dealings in the transfer market the envy of the European heavyweights, developing a reputation as one of the most football-savy operators on the continent before being appointed sporting director in 2017.In the eight years that followed, Atletico won La Liga in 2021, as well as the Europa League and Uefa Super Cup in 2018, having also reached two Champions League finals in 2014 and 2016.Arsenal announce Andrea Berta appointmentARSENAL unveiled Andrea Berta as their new sporting director with the Italian vowing to “shape a successful future with a great team” at the Gunners.Berta, 53, replaces former sporting director Edu following his resignation last November, with the Brazilian set to take up a new role in Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ multi-club model.Ahead of a crucial summer for Mikel Arteta’s men, Berta is now tasked with bringing an elite No.9 to the Emirates, as well as negotiating contract renewals for key stars as Arsenal bid to win a first Prem title since 2004.And Berta – who left a similar post at Atletico Madrid in January – said: “I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club.“I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone into reestablishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.“The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team.“I cannot wait to get started in my new role and I am really looking forward to experiencing my first game at Emirates Stadium together with our supporters.”Co-owner Josh Kroenke added: “Anyone who knows football knows Andrea is an impressive figure. He has vast knowledge of the game, a great track record, a strong network and an insatiable desire to build winning teams.“Andrea will be a great addition to our club. He understands our values and what we stand for and we have no doubt he will help us push on and take the next steps in our bid to win major trophies.“We undertook a thorough recruitment process and we were hugely impressed with the level of all the other candidates, but it was Andrea’s experience and the success he has enjoyed that stood out.“We are really looking forward to working together and welcoming him into the Arsenal family.”During that time, Simeone would often hail Berta as one of his most trusted and influential advisors, inviting him on occasion into the dressing room for big games.Following three weeks of talks, it was also Berta that convinced Simeone not to leave the club in 2016 after a gut-wrenching Champions League final defeat on penalties to rivals Real Madrid, urging the Argentine to rebuild and go again.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSBerta has been around the block to develop that sort of aura, starting in the financial sector for one of Italy’s largest banks, balancing his day job with a passion for football.His eye for assembling talented squads was honed at numerous amateur clubs in Brescia before being taken under the wing of Tommaso Ghirardi as a sporting director at fourth-tier side Carpenedolo in his mid-twenties, with further experiences in the same role at Parma and Genoa.Sol Campbell reveals he’d have never have made controversial transfer to Arsenal if it wasn’t for Lord Sugar By the time he met Atletico CEO Angel Gil Marin through mutual contact and super agent Jorge Mendes in 2013, Berta’s knowledge and success in the Italian market was attracting attention – enough for Marin to offer him a role as an international scout a year later.It is no wonder he was also recently linked to the likes of Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and AC Milan.Berta’s departure from Atletico in January can be linked to the club’s desire to modernise and revamp their recruitment process and overall board structure.Power and authority was something Berta had become accustomed to at Atletico, often a leading voice on recruitment and player sales over informal dinner dates with Marin and Simeone at local restaurants, taking a hands-on approach in certain complex, big-money deals thanks to his relationships with key agents.That is not to say Berta is not a team player. He would take a step back when needed, willing to work closely and take the lead from Simeone, Marin and managing director Carlos Bucero, hesitant to act as a lone wolf like famed sporting director Monchi at Sevilla and now Aston Villa.This will be key for Arteta, wanting Berta to seamlessly slip into a leadership group that includes managing director Richard Garlick, executive vice-chair Tim Lewis, co-owners Stan and Josh Kroenke, director of football operations James King and current interim sporting director Jason Ayto.Berta attracted some huge names to MadridCredit: GettyBerta is not one for the limelight, very rarely speaking in public or taking credit for successes on and off the pitch, preferring to let his work do the talking behind closed doors.His fingerprints were all over the impressive deals for Antoine Griezmann and Jan Oblak in 2014, Kieran Trippier in 2019 and Julian Alvarez and Conor Gallagher last summer, as well as profitable sales of the likes of Rodri to Manchester City and Thomas Partey to Arsenal.There have been some failures. The £113m paid for Joao Felix in 2019 and the £60m for Thomas Lemar in 2018. But ultimately, Berta seems to get more right than wrong.He is renowned for his calm, measured, analytical approach under pressure. It is why it was a shock to see him entangled in a pitchside scuffle with Man City doctor Max Sala after a feisty Champions League quarter final tie in April 2022.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe full scope of Berta’s role remains unknown. Edu was also granted authority of the Arsenal women’s team, as well as integrating academy stars to the first team.For now, Berta has the unenviable task of landing an elite No.9 this summer, raising funds through sales and extending the contracts of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel and William Saliba. More

    • 275 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I’ve never seen that’ – Kylian Mbappe scores first ever goal from free-kick – but hoard of fans claim it doesn’t count

      by

      KYLIAN MBAPPE scored his first ever goal from a free-kick but fans have claimed it does not count.The Frenchman scored twice as Real Madrid beat Leganes 3-2 to go level on points with Barcelona at the top of LaLiga.Kylian Mbappe scored from a free-kick against LeganesCredit: GettyFans claim Mbappe’s goal does not count as a free-kick because he passed the ball firstCredit: GettyHis winner came from a free-kick with Mbappe bending his shot over the wall and into the bottom corner.However some fans claim it does not count as the first free-kick of his career because he passed the ball to Fran Garcia first.Garcia touched the ball to ensure it remained in place before Mbappe unleashed a shot that found a net.That means it was not a direct free-kick, according to some fans.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAn X account that tracks whether Mbappe has scored a free-kick shared a screenshot of a website showing Garcia’s assist.It tweeted: “I have never seen an assist on a free kick. NOPE. DAY 3409.”A fan said: “That isn’t a free kick what are we doing here.”Another added: “It’s not a direct free kick though 😭”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnd a third wrote: “That is an open play goal.”Another fan argued differently, saying: “It’s what we called an indirect free-kick. This type of free-kick does exist in football. Real Madrid star Vinicius clashes with Atletico crowd after winning Champions League game on penalties “Once another player touches the ball it will count as an assist for him and the free-kick will automatically become an indirect one. So Mbappe has still scored a direct free-kick.” More

    • 188 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Carlo Ancelotti ‘faces FOUR-YEAR prison sentence’ as Real Madrid manager is accused of tax evasion

      by

      CARLO ANCELOTTI is facing FOUR YEARS behind bars for alleged tax evasion.The Real Madrid gaffer is accused of deliberately misinforming the Spanish tax office of his earnings during his first spell in charge of the club between 2014 and 2015.Carlo Ancelotti has been accused of deliberately misinforming the Spanish tax office of his earnings during his first stint at Real MadridCredit: REXIf found guilty, the Italian could face four years behind barsCredit: REXIt’s alleged that the Italian misled the tax office to avoid paying over £833,000 in income tax.The 65-year-old is set to appear in court on April 2 to address the allegations.His court date will come the day after the first leg of Real’s Copa del Rey semi-final tie against Real Sociedad.That’s just six days before the first leg of Los Blancos’ Champions League quarter-final tie with Arsenal. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAncelotti has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, although the former AC Milan and Everton boss has previously underpaid tax.He admitted to not paying his fair share of tax in 2014 but blamed his doing so on errors from his accountants.The Italian is adamant he hasn’t broken the law, claiming he didn’t spend the 183 days in Spain required to pay tax.Prosecutors, however, will argue the bulk of his income came from Real as he didn’t take charge of Bayern Munich until December 2016.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSCarlo Ancelotti has denied any wrongdoing and believes he’ll be exoneratedCredit: REXIf found guilty, Ancelotti could face FOUR YEARS behind bars.The veteran manager, however, is confident he’ll be exonerated of any wrongdoing.Watch Carlo Ancelotti lead Real Madrid stars in wacky dance before they throw him up in air after Champions League finalHe said of his legal issues: “This is an old story.”The Prosecutor’s Office believes I was a resident in 2015, and I believe I wasn’t.”The fine has been paid, and the case is in the hands of my lawyers.”I’m convinced I’m innocent. Let’s see what the judge decides.”Ancelotti isn’t the only high-profile Spanish football star to be embroiled in a tax scandal. Barcelona icon Lionel Messi and his father, Jorge, were convicted of tax fraud for defrauding the government of £3.4million between 2007 and 2009.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn 2016, the Argentine was hit with a 21-month jail term for using tax havens to conceal his earnings from image rights. But he ended up paying a fine of £223,000 instead. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Newly-emerged footage shows ‘disgusting act’ Kylian Mbappe did that could see him BANNED for Arsenal vs Real Madrid

      by

      NEW footage showing a “disgusting act” from Kylian Mbappe could boost Arsenal’s Champions League hopes. Mbappe, plus Real Madrid team-mates Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger and Dani Ceballos, already face a Uefa probe and possible ban.Kylian Mbappe is being investigated after this act in front of Atletico fansCredit: X / Rory_Talks_BallMbappe broke off from other Real players as they faced Atleti supportersCredit: X / Rory_Talks_BallAntonio Rudiger and Co didn’t holdback with their victory celebrationsCredit: ReutersIt follows Real’s controversial celebrations after beating neighbours Atletico in the last 16.A Uefa Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector is investigating claims of “indecent conduct” by the four superstars.Any suspension for those key men would surely improve Arsenal’s chances of seeing off Real in the quarter-finals.The Gunners host the reigning Champions League kings in the first leg on April 8, before visiting Spain for the return tie eight days later.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNow Mbappe could be in even hotter water – after a clip emerged appearing to show him mimicking a lewd act in front of Atletico fans.Fellow Real aces were jigging with delight towards the angry home fans, apparently taunting them over Atletico’s shootout agony.In the newly-shown video, the 26-year-old can be seen away from that pack of jubilant team-mates.The France striker is captured mouthing something towards the crowd and making a rude had movement that certainly won’t help his case with Uefa.Most read in Champions LeagueAntonio Rudiger is under investigation following this gestureCredit: GettyBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHe already stands accused of touching his genitals in a derogatory way.A man who posted the latest footage wrote: “Such a disgusting act from Mbappe.”Trent Alexander-Arnold has agreed terms on a move to Real Madrid this summer, according to reports A tense atmosphere at the Metropolitano became worse after Atletico’s Julian Alvarez had a shootout penalty ruled by VAR.Atleti are since understood to have formally complained to Uefa about behaviour ON the pitch.Vinicius is accused of taking six “shots” at home supporters amid two separate confrontations during and after the game.The Brazilian, 24, has long been long targeted by opposition fans and has been a regular victim of racist abuse.Rudiger is alleged to have made a throat-slitting gesture to Atleti fans.And Ceballos is also being investigated, over claims he made an obscene gesture with a clenched fist.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, ex-Chelsea defender  Rudiger began a jubilant high-knee dance after hitting the winning spot-kick.Many Real team-mates, including subs, joined in as the bitter rivalry between the two clubs boiled over. More

    • 175 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Barcelona victory ‘could be overturned with LaLiga leaders suspected of fielding an ineligible player’

      by

      BARCELONA are set to be investigated for fielding an ineligible player during their 3-0 win over Osasuna on Thursday.Osasuna have filed an appeal to the Spanish FA on the grounds of ‘improper fielding” of centre-back Inigo Martinez.Barcelona are reportedly being investigated for their win over OsasunaCredit: RexIt’s claimed that defender Inigo Martinez could have been ineligible to play in the fixtureCredit: RexMartinez, 33, played the full 90 minutes in the LaLiga clash despite withdrawing from international duty with Spain the week prior.The former Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad defender withdrew from Luis de la Fuente’s squad after a medical report from Barcelona detailed that he was suffering from a knee injury, as per a statement from the Spanish national team.Martinez was then replaced in the Spain squad by Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen.And Osasuna claim that Martinez’s inclusion in the LaLiga tie breaches Article 5 of Fifa’s rulebook.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA rule within that article effectively stipulates that any player who withdraws from international break with injury cannot play for their club within the five days following their nation’s last international match – unless explicitly agreed by the national federation.That could spell trouble for Martinez, who featured against Osasuna just four days after Spain’s Nations League second leg against Netherlands on Sunday.Now Barcelona could face punishment if found to have breached the regulations.A points deduction or a reversal of the result have both been touted as potential punishments.Most read in FootballBournemouth’s Dean Huijsen replaced Martinez in the Spain squadCredit: RexCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat could have a detrimental impact on Barca’s season after the win over Osasuna sent them three points clear of rivals Real Madrid at the top of LaLiga.Osasuna, meanwhile, are desperate for points as they sit just one point above the relegation zone.Horror moment Barcelona star finds his tooth on the pitch after losing it in battle with Real Betis defender For now, it is unclear if the Spanish FA granted permission for Martinez to withdraw from the camp or not.While the last-minute nature of the match could also be a mitigating factor for the 27-time La Liga champions.Both Barcelona and Osasuna were given less than a week to prepare for the match after the fixture was rescheduled to Thursday night from it’s original date of March 8 last Friday, following the sudden death of Barcelona club doctor Carles Minarro Garcia.What does Article 5 say?Here’s a look at the working of Annex 1 of the regulations on the status and transfer of players…”A player who, due to injury or illness, is unable to attend a call-up of the association of the country of his or her nationality, must, if requested by that association, undergo a medical examination by a doctor designated by the association. “If the player so wishes, such medical examination will be carried out in the territory of the association where he or she is registered.”A player called up by his association for one of its representative teams is not entitled, unless otherwise agreed by the association concerned, to play for the club to which he belongs during the period that his release lasts or should last, in accordance with the provisions of this Annex, plus an additional period of five days.” More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Bukayo Saka returns to training with two word-post as Arsenal get major boost ahead of Real Madrid clash

      by

      BUKAYO SAKA is on the verge of an Arsenal return.The Gunners star was pictured for the first time back in full training at London Colney today after undergoing hamstring surgery in December.Arsenal superstar Bukayo Saka has returned to full trainingCredit: Instagram / bukayosaka87The England star is in contention to play in the Gunners’ upcoming games after recovering from surgeryCredit: ReutersSaka teased fans in an Instagram post showing him smiling with his thumbs up alongside the caption: “Hello again.”And SunSport understands he is in contention to be included in the squad to face Fulham on Tuesday night ahead of vital clashes against Everton and Real Madrid.Saka, 23, tore his hamstring in a 5-1 Prem win over Crystal Palace on December 21 before having surgery to fix the issue days later.He has missed 19 games in all competitions since then, a run that saw Arsenal knocked out of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, as well as lose ground in the Prem title race.Read More on ArsenalThe target was always for Saka to make it back for the Champions League quarter final first leg at home to Real Madrid on April 8 – and he looks on course to achieve that.Arteta is keen for Saka to get some minutes under his belt before then, with opportunities to do so at the Emirates against the Cottagers next week before a trip to Goodison Park to face Everton on April 5.Despite his impressive recovery and rehab so far, Arsenal remain wary over pushing Saka too hard too soon. He will likely be given cameo appearances off the bench to prove his fitness and get back up to speed.Saka has stepped up his training load during the international break while his teammates have been away with their countries.Most read in FootballBefore the break, asked how Saka would be progressing, Arteta explained: “Hopefully with more ball at his feet than he has had. “That will mean he is passing the ball and shooting and running and everything. He has done quite a lot already on the pitch working on his own. “Next we need to arrange it with people around him in a more competitive training session and see how he goes with that.”Despite his absence, Saka has been a constant presence in and around the team during his rehab, seen on crutches at the turn of the year supporting from the stands at the Emirates.On the club’s warm-weather retreat to Dubai last month, Saka flew out with the squad to carry on his individualised solo training plan with light gym work.He was also spotted in the Wembley tunnel speaking to Three Lions coach Thomas Tuchel after England’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Latvia on Monday.Saka’s return has been aided by some much-needed rest, spending time abroad on holiday with his family in late January.Arsenal are in need of some attacking inspiration after Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus were ruled out for the season with hamstring and knee issues respectively, forcing midfielder Mikel Merino to deputise as a centre forward.And manager Mikel Arteta received yet another blow during the international break as Riccardo Calafiori had to withdraw from Italy’s squad after hurting his knee.Saka’s influence cannot be understated. Even after a three-month lay-off, he remains the leading provider of goals and assists in all competitions for Arsenal this term [nine goals and 13 assists].Three points adrift of Prem leaders Liverpool at the time of his injury, Arteta’s men now find themselves 13 points behind with nine games to play.Arteta was desperate to bring in reinforcements during the January window, linked with Red Bull Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but could not get a deal over the line.Arsenal could be set for another major boost as Real face being without four stars for the first leg.Superstar strikers Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior as well as former Chelsea ace Antonio Rudiger and ex-Gunner Dani Caballos face an official Uefa probe for allegedly making obscene gestures after their victory over Atletico Madrid in the Last-16.Join SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesVinicius was the most high-profile case as he reportedly took six “shots” at Atletico supporters during and after the clash at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.Rudiger, on the other hand, was accused of making a throat-slitting gesture to Atleti supporters.READ MORE SUN STORIESCeballos, who spent two years at Arsenal before his return to Madrid in 2021, is accused of making an obscene one-armed gesture with a clenched fist.And Mbappe was reported for touching his genitals in a clearly derogatory manner.Saka underwent surgery on his hamstring and has missed the last three monthsCredit: Getty More