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    How Real Madrid could line up with THREE England stars next season with two players tipped for huge transfers

    REAL MADRID could include an English backbone in their starting XI next season.Los Blancos are reportedly tracking both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Adam Wharton.Jude Bellingham could be getting two more English team-mates this summerCredit: GettyLiverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold was approached by Madrid in JanuaryCredit: GettyLos Blancos are reportedly tracking Crystal Palace playmaker Adam WhartonCredit: GettyThree Lions star Jude Bellingham has already established himself as a regular at the Bernabeu.The former Birmingham youngster made the switch to Spain from Dortmund for £115million in July 2023.He has since gone on to become an England standout, helping Gareth Southgate’s men reach the Euros final last season.Bellingham could be joined in the Spanish capital by two familiar faces over the summer.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLGood pal Alexander-Arnold, 26, was the subject of interest from Madrid in the January transfer window.He is out of contract in the summer, with Carlo Ancelotti keen on a move for the full-back. Liverpool already have a ready-made replacement in Conor Bradley, with the youngster set for a mega 650 per cent pay rise at Anfield.Crystal Palace midfielder Wharton is also being “closely monitored” by Madrid scouts. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe 21-year-old recently returned to action after three months out following groin surgery.He has impressed since moving to Selhurst Park from Blackburn for £22m in January 2024.The meteoric rise of England star Adam WhartonMadrid chief scout Juni Calafat is also said to be a big fan of the midfielder.Wharton is expected to be named in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad later this month, alongside Bellingham.Madrid veterans Luka Modric and Lucas Vazquez are both out of contract at the Bernabeu in the summer.Central midfielder Wharton and full-back Alexander-Arnold would fit the bill in replacing those departing stars. But a Three Lions reunion in Madrid would not come cheap. Southgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024Wharton is also being tracked by Manchester United and Liverpool.He would cost in the region of £70m, per ESPN. Should the pair end up in Spain, Madrid’s potential XI next season could feature a strong backbone of English players.In our predicted line-up, ex-Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois starts between the sticks. Alexander-Arnold slots in at right back, alongside fellow defenders Raul Asencio, Aurelien Tchouameni and Ferland Mendy.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn midfield, Wharton could partner Bellingham and Brahim Diaz.While upfront, the feared trio of Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo would spearhead the attack. More

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    Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Get £40 in free bets to spend on Champions League football with BetMGM

    THE Champions League round-of-16 has thrown up a Madrid derby as Real host Atletico in the first leg tonight.It’s always a terrific occasion when these two come together and bookmakers BetMGM are offering brand new customers a cool £40 in free bets when you register an account and stake a tenner on the European clash!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..BetMGM £40 welcome bonusVisit the BetMGM website HERE*Select SPORTS OFFER on the websiteRegister a new account – No Promo Code necessaryOpt in for this promotion by depositing and placing at least £10 on football at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free betsReal Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here*Not got a BetMGM account? No problem!This offer is just for you, and it’s incredibly easy to claim!Simply register a new account, deposit and stake a minimum of £10 on football at odds of Evens (1/1) or greater. This must be done within seven days of opening your account with the bookmaker.Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free bets!Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here**BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1x £10 Free Bet on Football, 1x £10 Free Bet on Horse Racing, 2 x £10 Free Bet Builders. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices. For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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    LaLiga clash postponed as furious fans boo after being told to leave stadium minutes AFTER game should have kicked off

    VILLARREAL’S LaLiga clash against Espanyol has been POSTPONED – leaving fans furious.The Yellow Submarine were due to take on the Catalan side at the Estadio de la Cerámica tonight.Villarreal’s clash with Espanyol was postponed due to flood warningsCredit: X/dvidcostarrosaFans were told to leave the ground AFTER kick off was scheduledCredit: GettySupporters could be heard booing the official decisionCredit: GettyVillarreal were going into the match hoping to close ground on the top four while Espanyol were looking to solidify their spot in LaLiga.However, recommendations were made to postpone the match due to a risk of flooding.Fans had already entered the stadium ahead of the expected kick-off at 8pm local time. But they were urged to leave the ground AFTER the game should have started as a message was displayed on the big screen.READ MORE ON SPORTSIt said: “Due to weather alert, we ask spectators to leave the stadium calmly and follow the instructions of security personnel.”The supporter’s fury could be heard in a video that was shared on social media as they started to boo.Rain had started to fall at the ground and it was expected to get much heavier.Marca reports suggest the loudspeakers confirmed to fans in the ground that the match was suspended.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSVillarreal confirmed the decision on social media with a statement.It read: “Due to the safety recommendations because of the risk of flooding as a result of the current weather conditions in Castellón.”The Judge of Professional Competitions has decided to postpone today’s match between Villarreal CF and RCD Espanyol de Barcelona, which was scheduled to kick off at 9pm CET.”Watch incredible moment Lionel Messi’s son recreates Barcelona and Argentina icon’s goal against Getafe for inter Miami Villarreal president Fernando Roig Alfonso could be seen on the pitchCredit: GettyEspanyol players applauded the travelling fans for their effortsCredit: EPAVillarreal players showed their appreciationCredit: EPAVillarreal president Fernando Roig Alfonso could be seen taking a phone call on the pitch.Espanyol released a statement to fans thanking them for their efforts despite the game not going ahead.It read: “We want to wish our fans a safe and happy return home.”We deeply regret this. Thank you for always being there.”The team’s players still went over to applaud the travelling fans despite not kicking a ball.Villarreal players were pictured doing the same with their supporters. Fans were still left upset having made the journey to the match as they reacted on social media.One posted: “They could have warned before all those people traveled, this doesn’t make sense.”A second wrote: “Let’s see who pays for my gasoline now on this evening up and down.”A third commented: “I hope you start looking for free buses for all of us, for the next trip to Villarreal, first of all.”Elsewhere in LaLiga, Real Madrid have reportedly sent scouts to watch Crystal Palace and England midfielder Adam Wharton.READ MORE SUN STORIESBarcelona star Lamine Yamal has revealed which of his team-mates would be “impossible” to live with.He also sensationally admitted he is afraid of kangaroos. More

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    Real Madrid scouts ‘closely monitoring Jude Bellingham’s England team-mate Adam Wharton, 21, for shock summer transfer’

    REAL MADRID are interested in Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, according to reports.Wharton, 21, recently returned to action after three months out following groin surgery.Adam Wharton is attracting plenty of interestCredit: GettyThe England midfielder has impressed since moving to Selhurst Park from Blackburn for £22million in January 2024.According to the Mail, Real Madrid have been keeping tabs on Wharton’s progress.They add that the Spanish giants’ chief scout Juni Calafat is a big fan of the Selhurst star.Manchester United and Liverpool are also keen on Wharton.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile Manchester City may well have made a swoop for his services last month, had he not been injured.A move to Spain could see Wharton unite with England team-mate Jude Bellingham.The Blackburn-born star made his Three Lions debut last summer and was taken to Euro 2024.He is expected to be named in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad later this month.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSEngland are set to host Albania and Latvia in World Cup qualifiers under their new German boss.Palace, meanwhile, are set to receive enquiries for several of their star players this summer.Incredible footage shows Adam Wharton dazzling defenders aged 10 before rising to Euro 2024 stardom with EnglandIn addition to Wharton; Eberechi Eze, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Marc Guehi are all attracting interest.Palace beat Millwall 3-1 on Saturday to advance to the FA Cup quarter-finals.The match was marred by the nasty injury suffered by Mateta early on.Lions stopper Liam Roberts was sent off following a VAR check, after his reckless high boot struck Palace’s red-hot French striker in the head.Mateta required oxygen on the pitch and was taken to hospital.The forward has subsequently been discharged, having required 25 stitches on a “severe laceration”.Jean-Philippe Mateta was kicked in the head on SaturdayCredit: Rex More

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    ‘Antony’s aura is enough’ – Fans stunned as Real Madrid’s title challenge derailed at Man Utd loanee’s Real Betis side

    FANS have hailed Antony’s “aura” after Real Betis dented Real Madrid’s title hopes.The LaLiga hopefuls were beaten 2-1 at the Benito Villamarin and missed out on the chance to go top of the table.Antony played all 90 minutes against Real MadridCredit: APReal Madrid missed out on the chance to go top of LaLigaCredit: GettyIsco netted the winning goal from the spot for the hostsCredit: EPAAntony, 25, played the full 90 minutes for Betis as he continued his impressive run of form.The Manchester United winger did not score or assist but proved to be a constant thorn in the visitors’ side.Brahim Diaz did fire Carlo Ancelotti’s side into the lead in the tenth minute.However, Antony’s team-mates Johnny Cardoso and former Real star Isco turned the match on its head.READ MORE ON ANTONYCardoso scored the equaliser before Isco converted from the spot after Antonio Rudiger brought down Jesus Rodriguez in the box.But fans on social media are convinced that the result was down to the “aura” of Antony.One posted: “Antony’s aura is enough for a victory.”A second commented: “Antony’s impact is strong.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA third wrote: “Antony aura it is.”A fourth said: “Hail Lord Antony.”Antony shows his excitement as he joins Real Betis Antony is enjoying playing for Manuel PellegriniCredit: EPAHe has already scored twice in LaLigaCredit: ReutersAnother added: “Let’s all laugh at United for loaning out Antony.”The result leaves Real tied on 54 points with leaders Barcelona but the Catalonians have a crucial game in hand.Antony joined Betis on loan until the end of the season from the Red Devils.He has already made a good impression in Spain with two goals and two assists in his first five outings in LaLiga.His appearance against Getafe was cut short after he was sent off.But the suspension was then overturned – allowing him to play against Real.Old Trafford bosses will be hoping his good form continues so he can be sold for a hefty fee in the summer.Antony has admitted that he has regained his “confidence” since moving to Spain.He has also insisted playing under Betis boss and former Man City and West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini has helped him.He told Estadio Deportivo: “The most important thing to regain my confidence was to reconnect with myself.”I found myself here and that’s why I’m very happy at Betis. Every day I feel more secure.”Pellegrini is very important to me. Before signing with Betis, I spoke with him, and he gave me a lot of confidence.”His experience and history give me energy every day to do well.”When I made the decision to come here, it was to find myself again, as I mentioned before.”There is always pressure, but the greatest pressure I felt was when I was living in the poor neighbourhoods of Brazil, thinking about my family and everything.”The club forked out an eye-watering £85.5million on the Brazilian back in the summer of 2023.Manager Ruben Amorim has been asked about the winger’s upturn in form since leaving Manchester.The Portuguese coach has insisted the different physicality level in Spain has helped Antony to shine.He told TNT Sports: “When you play against any team in England, the physicality is there.”If you don’t have physicality, you will struggle a lot.”Antony is so much better now in Spain. It’s [because of] a lot of factors but I guarantee you it’s physicality.”The former Ajax man has also revealed that he is “happy” in Betis but has remained coy on his future.Antony has been tipped to make a permanent exit from Old Trafford in the summer, but he is remaining tight-lipped on his future.He said: “I’m very happy here, but I don’t know what will happen in the future.”I always say that I enjoy every day with the club, the city and everything that surrounds me, and I give my best for the team.”It’s still too early to talk about my future.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I know how much money they paid for me.”I worked and continue to work hard to perform at the highest level, but I don’t focus on transfer prices, neither mine nor any other player’s.”Ruben Amorim has addressed Antony’s success since leaving on loanCredit: GettyHe is not concerned with his price tagCredit: Getty More

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    Real Madrid could be forced to close part of Bernabeu as Uefa release statement after ‘homophobic Pep Guardiola chants’

    REAL MADRID have been fined after homophobic chants were directed towards Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. The Catalan chief watched his side crash out of the Champions League following a 3-1 defeat at the Bernabeu earlier this month.Real Madrid have been fined after homophobic chants were sung at Pep GuardiolaCredit: GettyThe club will have to close 500 seats of the Bernabeu for an upcoming European gameCredit: GettyGuardiola was targeted with vile chants after the hosts took a 2-0 lead through Kylian Mbappe. The chants referenced an area of Madrid known as the heart of the gay district.Uefa have now taken action against the Champions League holders.They have ordered the LaLiga side to pay a fine of £24,800.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd the club has been hit with a partial stadium closure for its next European match. A Uefa statement read: “The AB has decided to fine Real Madrid CF €30,000 (£24,800).”It has also ordered the partial closure of Real Madrid CF’s stadium (i.e. at least 500 adjacent seats) during the next match Real Madrid C.F. will play as host club, for the discriminatory behaviour of its supporters.”Madrid’s partial closure has been suspended for two years.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIt comes after Real’s 6-3 aggregate win over Man City secured a quarter-final showdown with cross-town rivals Atleti. Boss Carlo Ancelotti admitted the Madrid derby would be “difficult as always”.Pep Guardiola admits ‘best team won’ as Real Madrid knock Man City out of Europe But he backed Los Blancos to show their class over two legs.Ancelotti said: “It’s going to be a beautiful, entertaining, and balanced tie. “The quality of the two teams is similar.”Both sides are battling for the title in LaLiga, alongside Catalan giants Barcelona.And the ex-Everton boss is convinced the domestic season will go down to the final match. Ancelotti continued: “A competitive league like here in Spain is difficult. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Here are three teams with one point between them, and they are teams of a very high level. “It is a league that will be decided in the last game.” More

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    Man City compared to company behind one of biggest financial scandals ever and accused of HIDING losses by LaLiga chief

    MANCHESTER CITY have been accused of an “Enron-style” financial deception by Spanish LaLiga boss Javier Tebas.Outspoken Tebas stunned an audience in London as he claimed the Etihad outfit had hidden losses that would have impacted their financial fair play status by hiding them in related Abu Dhabi-owned companies. More

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    Javier Dorado dead at 48: Former Real Madrid star dies after long illness as club pays touching tribute

    FORMER Real Madrid star Javier Dorado has passed away aged 48 after a brave battle with cancer.The Spaniard was part of the Los Blancos academy system in 1996 before getting a promotion under Vicente del Bosque.Former Real Madrid star Javier Dorado has passed away aged 48Tributes have flooded in to honour and remember Dorado, who made his Madrid debut in 1999 against Valencia in the Copa del Rey.He won the Champions League a season later with Liverpool legend Steve McManaman, who scored an incredible volley in Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Valencia.Dorado was part of the squad that beat Manchester United over two legs in the quarter-finals of that winning 2000 campaign. But, in his second campaign, Dorado made only seven appearances due to a fierce competition with Brazilian icon Roberto Carlos.READ MORE FOOTBALLThe left-back was loaned out to UD Salamanca and Sporting Gijon, before leaving joining Rayo Vallecano on a permanent basis.He continued his career with other Spanish sides, such as Mallorca and Atletico Baleares, where he retired in 2012 at the age of 35.Dorado had been battling cancer since 2022, according to Spanish outlet Marca.The former defender told El Comercio a few months ago: “I’ve been here for a while now.Most read in FootballDorado won the Champions League with Madrid in 2000″And I hope that this time this nightmare will end, that we can go out and be at peace. “I’ve been fighting for years and the tough treatments take their toll , especially when they end because they leave me a little more tired and a little more affected, but I try to lead a normal life.”A club statement on Thursday read: ‘Real Madrid CF, its president and its Board of Directors deeply regret the death of Javier Dorado.”We would like to express its condolences and affection to his family, his team-mates, all his loved ones and all the clubs he was a part of.”During the two seasons he played for Real Madrid, Javier Dorado won one European Cup, the Eighth in Paris (2000).”Born in Talavera de la Reina, Dorado also featured in four matches for Spain’s Under 21s between 1998 and 2000.He made eight appearances for Madrid’s first team, while most of his career games came in the Spanish second division.A fan honoured his memory saying: “What a great player. May you rest in peace.” More