La Liga

LIVERPOOL cult hero Roberto Firmino has been linked with a sensational move to Real Madrid, reports claim.Real are looking for an experienced goalscorer to support Kylian Mbappe up top, after finishing second behind LaLiga champions Barcelona this season.Roberto Firmino is being linked with an unlikely move to Real MadridCredit: GettyFirmino could be reunited with former Liverpool team-mate Alexander-ArnoldCredit: GettyIt comes just days after Madrid swooped Liverpool boyhood star Trent Alexander-Arnold, who ended his 20-year career at Anfield for sunny Spain.And according to Spanish outlet AS Sport, Madrid are in the hunt for a new Joselu-like figure to come to the Bernabeu. The former Stoke and Newcastle forward may have flopped in the Premier League, but he’s fondly remembered in the Spanish capital.Joselu scored crucial goals en route to Real’s 2024 Champions League victory, most notably his two late notches in the semi-final win over Bayern Munich.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSJoselu, who came through the ranks at Real as a youngster, scored 18 goals in 49 appearances in all competitions as he played a vital support role after rejoining for a year aged 33.And having been without such a prolific role player this year after Joselu joined Saudi side Al-Gharafa SC, Firmino has reportedly dropped onto Madrid’s radar.The Brazilian, 33, who once featured in one of most lethal Premier League front-threes with Mo Salah and Sadio Mane, now plays in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli.Firmino was linked with a shock move to Madrid before the end of Liverpool contract in 2023.Most read in FootballJosulu became a cult hero in MadridCredit: AlamyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAfter initially struggling to find his feet, Firmino has managed 21 goals in 65 appearances, and he captained Al-Ahli to the AFC Champions League Elite title this season.Firmino is also seen as someone who could play a vital bench role for new manager Xabi Alonso, who also starred for both Liverpool and Madrid.Trent Alexander-Arnold breaks down in tears and kisses badge as he gets emotional send-off from Liverpool fansA move would allow youngster Gonzalo Garcia, 21, another year to develop after scoring 25 goals for Madrid’s academy this season. If does complete the switch, then Firmino would be reunited with former Liverpool team-mate Alexander-Arnold.The pair who won it all at Liverpool during Jurgen Klopp’s golden years, including the club’s first-ever Premier League trophy and the 2019 Champions League title.While Firmino was given a hero’s send-off when he was released in 2023, the England right-back faced heavy criticism from Liverpool fans, who were initially fuming about his free agent status.But Madrid have since paid £10million to release Alexander-Arnold a month early from this contract that was due to end on June 30.The Spanish giants were hell-bent on having the 26-year-old for the Club World Cup, starting on June 14 in the US.Firmino would also have fellow Brazilians Vinicius Jr and Eder Militao as team-mates.Firmino could also link up with Brazil team-mate Vinicius JrCredit: Reuters More

ARSENAL are interested in Real Madrid star Rodrygo as they prepare to strengthen two key attacking areas this summer.Left-wing and striker are the priority positions for Mikel Arteta and the club have a number of targets in each category.Arsenal are interested in Real Madrid star RodrygoCredit: GettyThe Gunners are prepping for a big summer window after narrowly falling short of the Premier League title for a third consecutive season.And Rodrygo is high among the left-wingers on Arsenal’s list, along with Spain star Nico Williams and Leroy Sane, who will be a free agent after leaving Bayern Munich this summer.According to reports, Rodrygo is set for crunch talks about his future with new Madrid manager Xabi Alonso this week.Despite having three years left on his Real deal, the Brazil international lost his starting place this season under former boss Carlo Ancelotti. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe arrival of Kylian Mbappe last year resulted in less game-time for Rodrygo, who’s also been linked with Chelsea and  Manchester City.Rodrygo, who has scored 68 goals and provided 50 assists for Real Madrid in 267 games, is unhappy with his playing time after winning two Champions League titles with Real.Arsenal are on red alert after Madrid splashed out £33million on Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono. No price tag has been confirmed for Rodrygo, but the 24-year-old is expected to cost at least £67million. Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesIf Rodrygo and Atletico Madrid winger Williams aren’t available, Arsenal could also move for Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers.Rogers, who scored 14 goals and provided 15 assists for Villa in the Premier League this season, would still demand a significant fee – likely north of £50million. David Raya reveals Arsenal career changed overnight following two-hour meeting Meanwhile, after finishing second three times in a row, Arteta is desperately searching for a world class No 9.Newcastle’s £150m striker Alexander Isak and Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres are two top targets to lead the line.But Eddie Howe is confident of keeping Isak after the club qualified for next season’s Champions League.RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has been linked with Arsenal since January and has been valued at £70million. More