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    Man Utd ‘considered £58m transfer for Barcelona star in January’ but wonderkid snubbed move

    MANCHESTER UNITED considered a move for Barcelona wonderkid Fermin Lopez in January – but he reportedly rejected the switch.The Red Devils were allegedly willing to offer £58m for the 21-year-old midfielder, with Aston Villa also interested.Man Utd considered a move for Barcelona wonderkid Fermin Lopez in JanuaryCredit: RexFermin Lopez opted to stay at BarcelonaCredit: RexUnited wanted Lopez to bolster their midfield options amid another dismal Premier League campaign, according to The Mail.While Villa – who brought in five new players, including Marcus Rashford on loan- were also keen to add Lopez to their ranks.But the Spaniard made it immediately clear that he wouldn’t entertain a move and was desperate to continue at Barca.United are known to be long-time admirers of Lopez’s talents amid their recent changes in midfield.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSChristian Eriksen is expected to leave Old Trafford as a free agent in the summer and Casemiro is no longer considered a regular starter.Roma expressed interest in Casemiro in January and United could loan the legendary midfielder out in June.That could mean that Ruben Amorim’s side could go for Lopez again in the next window in a few months time. In October 2024, Lopez signed a new contract at the club until 2029, and it is understood that he has a £416.5m release clause.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLopez wants to fight for his future at Barca after seeing his playing time reduced under new gaffer Hansi Flick.He has scored two goals and provided two assists in 14 LaLiga games this season, having been named in the starting XI on five occasions.Roy Keane breaks silence on Marcus Rashford’s shock transfer to Aston Villa and has MAJOR concernLopez – who came through the ranks at Real Betis before moving to La Masia – returned from the Olympics with an injury, which left him out for the first few weeks of the season. The youngster has to battle fierce competition in Barca’s midfield which includes Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Marc Casado, Gavi and Pablo Torre.Meanwhile, United loaned out Rashford and Antony to reduce their wage bill.But Old Trafford chiefs spent £29.9m on wing-back Patrick Dorgu, while Ayden Heaven joined from Arsenal’s under-21s.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

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    Sergio Ramos’ wife ‘refuses to move with Real Madrid legend, 38,’ following shock transfer after six months unemployed

    SERGIO RAMOS has reportedly made his shock move to Mexico without wife Pilar Rubio.The Spanish legend signed for Mexican side Monterrey after six months as a free agent.Sergio Ramos has moved to Mexican club MonterreyCredit: AFPThe Spanish legend was a free agent after leaving Sevilla last summerCredit: AFPReports suggest Ramos’ wife Pilar Rubio has not made the switch to Mexico with himCredit: Getty – ContributorRamos was without a club after leaving Sevilla over the summer.The 38-year-old penned a surprise one-year deal with the Liga MX outfit last Friday. Ramas married Rubio, a popular TV presenter and model in Spain, in 2019. The pair have four children – but Pilar has reportedly chosen not to join her husband on his new South American adventure. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAccording to Bild, Rubio will remain in Spain during Ramos’ time in Mexico for “professional reasons”.The outlet cites a source close to Pilar, who claims she is “tired of moving.”Ramos left Real Madrid to join Paris Saint Germain in 2021 before switching back to LaLiga with Sevilla in 2023. Pilar is now reportedly back in Madrid and living there for the foreseeable future. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPer the report, Rubio said: “This time I will not give in, I have already given in twice. “Now I am staying here, in Madrid. The family is staying here, Sergio is going alone.”Furious Sergio Ramos goes berserk at Sevilla fan as he stops live TV interview Monterrey are currently 12th in LigaMX with just one win from their opening six matches. They will compete in the revamped Club World Cup, set to start in the USA in June. Monterrey will face Inter Milan, River Plate, and Urawa Red Diamonds in the group phase. Ramos has opted to wear the No. 93 shirt during his time in Mexico.The World Cup winner scored a dramatic 93rd-minute winner for Real Madrid against Atletico in the 2014 Champions League final.READ MORE SUN STORIESExplaining his choice, he said: “The 93rd minute was epic. “It is a tribute to Real Madrid and to my career.” More

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    Jude Bellingham caught by pitchside microphones screaming very X-rated rant at LaLiga linesman in Madrid derby

    JUDE BELLINGHAM was caught screaming a very X-rated rant by pitch-side mics during Real Madrid’s 1-1 derby draw with Atletico.The England star unleashed a foul-mouthed tirade at a linesman as his side earned a point in the capital on Saturday night.Jude Bellingham’s foul rant during the Madrid derby was picked up on micsCredit: RexBellingham was raging after a decision by the assistant refereeCredit: LaLiga TVBellingham risked punishment with the X-rated rantCredit: LaLiga TVTensions were high as superstars including Kylian Mbappe and Julian Alvarez traded blows in a thrilling match.But with just 11 minutes on the clock, Real icon Bellingham was in furious form.A ball went off for a throw-in, which both sides tried to claim.The decision went the way of Atletico Madrid, which infuriated home supporters.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut nobody was angrier than Bellingham.Turning to the linesman, he let rip with a very rude outburst that made it perfectly clear he disapproved of the throw-in decision.Unfortunately for Bellingham, his rant took place right next to pitch-side mics.And his message to the linesman was caught clearly for fans on TV to hear.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSBellingham shouted: “F**k you man! F**k off!”Even though he swore at an official, the midfielder escaped any punishment.Jude Bellingham’s furious reaction to Valencia goalkeeper after Vinicius Jr sent off in heated Real Madrid clashJulian Alvarez opened the scoring for AtletiCredit: GettyKylian Mbappe levelled things up after the breakCredit: ReutersThat’s despite Mason Greenwood seeing red last season while at Getafe for appearing to tell a referee to “f**k off.”The former Manchester United forward denied those words, instead claiming to say “don’t f**k with me.”And his red card was eventually rescinded by LaLiga after an appeal.Bellingham’s fiery incident saw shocked fans flock to social media.One said: “I heard it and immediately came to X to read reactions.”Another declared: “Class act.”One noted: “He’ll be fined surely.”Another added: “That’s not nice.”Bellingham will have had even more reason to rage when Atletico took the lead.Former Man City star Alvarez netted a penalty in the 35th minute to put the visitors ahead.But Real regrouped after half time.And the 50th minute saw French ace Mbappe hit the target to level things up.Neither side could find an ultimate breakthrough though, and the points were shared as the game ended 1-1.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe result saw Real maintain their one-point lead over Atleti at the top of LaLiga.But Barcelona have the chance to close to gap if they win their game in hand against Sevilla tomorrow. More

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    Real Madrid ‘make William Saliba No1 transfer target’ but Arsenal convinced he would be world’s most expensive defender

    REAL MADRID are prioritising a transfer swoop for Arsenal star William Saliba.Saliba, 23, has been established as one of the best defenders in the Premier League where he has formed a rock-solid duo with Gabriel Magalhaes at centre-back.Real Madrid see Arsenal star William Saliba as an ‘absolute priority’Credit: GettyArsenal wopuld only let Saliba leave for a record transfer feeCredit: RexAnd that has led to immense interest from some of the world’s elite clubs for the Gunners’ star.According to RMC Sport, Real have made the France international an “absolute priority” ahead of the summer transfer window.However, the North Londoners are demanding a massive fee for their star Frenchman.Arsenal see Saliba as the best centre-back in the world following two goals in 33 appearances across all competitions this season.Read More on ArsenalMikel Arteta’s side is not keen to sell the ex-Saint-Etienne star any time soon.However, if Arsenal have no option then they are planning to demand a hefty fee.The same source claims the Premier League giants are convinced Saliba will go down in history as the most expensive defender if he leaves the Emirates.That means Arsenal won’t consider any bid worth less than £80million.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat is how much Manchester United splashed to sign Harry Maguire from Leicester in 2019 and made him the most expensive defender in football history.Saliba has a contract with Arsenal until 2027, which means the club is in no rush.Meet Ayden Heaven: Arsenal’s next William SalibaThe Frenchman joined the Gunners in 2019 from Saint-Etienne but was immediately sent back on loan to the French outfit to gain more experience.That led to more loan stints to Nice and Marseille until he was finally established in Arsenal’s first team in 2022.Since then, Saliba has stood out for Arteta’s side with a total of seven goals and two assists in 116 appearances. More

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    Man Utd flop Antony SCORES in second game for Real Betis after making MOTM on his debut of loan spell in Spain

    ANTONY has continued his Real Betis purple patch by netting a first LaLiga goal. The Manchester United flop is on loan at the Spanish club until the end of the season.Antony has netted his first goal for Real BetisCredit: GettyThe on-loan Man Utd winger curled in against Celta Vigo after just ten minutesCredit: GettyAntony was shown the exit door at Old Trafford following a dismal spell with the Red Devils.Signed for £82million in September 2022, the Brazilian racked up more yellow cards than goals for the club.But he’s impressed since landing in Betis on a short-term loan until June. Following a man-of-the-match performance against Athletic Bilbao, Antony has finally found his shooting boots.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe 24-year-old needed just 10 minutes to find a way past Celta Vigo on Saturday afternoon. Antony received a loose ball in the box, opening up his body and bending a smart finish past Vicente Guaita. It was Antony’s first goal in any competitive game since a strike against Barnsley in the Carabao Cup back in September. On that occasion, the tricky winger fired home in a 7-0 rout of the League One side. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAntony’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain as boss Ruben Amorim plots a huge summer overhaul. Almost EVERY player in the Red Devils squad will reportedly be available for transfer. Antony leaves Man Utd with more yellow cards than goals as £86m Ten Hag flop goes down as one of worst transfers everBetis are covering 84 per cent of Antony’s sizeable £200,000-a-week wages during his loan stay.But there is no option to buy clause built into the deal.Betis extended their lead in Saturday’s contest through former Leeds United defender Diego Llorente.They were however pegged back in the second half, with Celta scoring three times to stun the visitors.Antony was subbed on 72 minutes, but received the Player of the Match for a second game running. More

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    Vinicius Jr ‘REJECTS new Real Madrid contract’ as Saudi league’s stunning £1BILLION offer edges closer

    VINICIUS JUNIOR has rejected a new contract from Real Madrid amid intense interest from Saudi Arabia, reports suggest.Vinicius, 24, currently pockets a staggering £12.5million per year at Real, with whom he has a contract until 2027 with a release clause worth a whopping €1billion (£830m).Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr has turned down a new contractCredit: RexVinicius has attracted intense interest from Saudi ArabiaCredit: RexHowever, the star forward has been receiving interest from Saudi Arabia as club chiefs are willing to break the bank for his signature with an offer close to his astronomical asking price.Meetings reportedly took place between Vini’s representatives and Saudi officials in December following an initial approach last summer.That led Los Blancos to the negotiating table as they look to tie up the Brazil international with a new long-term contract that would knock back interest from the Saudi Pro League’s riches.Meetings have been held between the reigning European champions and Vinicius’ camp as well as close family.Read More on FootballAccording to The Athletic, however, Real’s opening bid has been turned down by Vinicius and his team.The new offer included a pay rise that didn’t satisfy the Brazilian but talks will continue.Saudi chiefs are willing to take Vinicius’ earnings to a staggering £168m per year.The officials from the Middle East want to offer the Real star that amount over a five-year period, meaning his contract will be worth £865m.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe Spanish giants are desperate to keep him and insist it would take a bid close to the player’srelease clause for them to even consider selling.But they will not stand in his way should he be tempted by the cash on the table.Vinicius Jr wins Fifa The Best award after Ballon d’Or controversy while Man Utd ace Garnacho also bags top prizeVinicius is said to be generally happy at Real, where he has won three LaLiga titles, the 2023 Copa del Rey and two Champions League trophies during his successful seven-year spell in Madrid. More

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    Glamorous football presenter Kathy Valencia wears dress so daring she has to check she’s not had wardrobe malfunction

    PRESENTER Kathy Valencia put the “low” in “Yellow Night” – with a daring look in front of 20,000 fans.The popular and almost popping-out broadcaster fronted a famous Ecuadorian extravaganza that peaks with big rivals Barcelona SC and Deportivo Quito clashing.Kathy Valencia was an Amarilla thriller for many fans at Barcelona SC’s match with Deportivo Quito in EcuadorCredit: XShe decided it was worth a check as thousands of viewers looked onCredit: XKathy was also the spokesperson for the event in Ecuador’s capitalCredit: XShe sparked scarlet fever not yellow with this snapCredit: Instagram @flakavalenciaecAnd Kathy’s dress was so low-cut she had to glance down to check she hadn’t suffered a wardrobe malfunction while holding her microphone out on the pitch.The traditional “Noche Amarilla” event was held in Ecuador’s capital city Quito for the second year running.The full day of music and entertainment ends with “Yellow Night” – involving a friendly match pairing two top-flight clubs.Yet Kathy matched the thrills and nearly the spills of that contest with her own colourful contribution at the Atahualpa Olympic Stadium.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShe’s also the spokesperson for the whole Amarilla occasion, so she made media appearances ahead of the special day to boost what was already guaranteed to be a sizeable attendance.World Cup winner David Trezeguet was another reason the Quito crowd was so massive.The former Juventus striker, who scored France’s Golden Goal in the Euro 2000 final, was the special guest.Barcelona SC, runners-up in last year’s Ecuador League, proceeded to fall 3-0 down against Deportivo.Most read in FootballA second-half fight-back then cut SC’s margin of defeat to 3-2.That recovery made it a game as stirring as the reaction Valencia herself received online throughout the evening.”Is Ecuador shaking?” asked one fan after seeing images of the social media star, who has 31,000 Instagram followers.Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner set to get £750k to star in Celeb Big Brother – but only if bosses agree to strict ruleOther verdicts included: “Awesome look”… “That’s amazing”… and “Tremendo” – a Spanish word that means exactly what you think.Action in Ecuador’s top-tier, LigaPro, starts on February 16 – in other words, 48 hours after Valentine’s Day and one week past Valencia’s Night!Kathy’s online following has grown to 31kCredit: Instagram @flakavalenciaecKathy impressed in front of shades of greyCredit: Instagram @flakavalenciaecShe might dream of global fame after Yellow NightCredit: Instagram @flakavalenciaecLocks amazing! Hair flair is one factor in Kathy’s imageCredit: Instagram @flakavalenciaecShe looks hip both online and on the pitchCredit: Instagram @flakavalenciaec More

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    Barcelona dressing room ‘left unimpressed at Marcus Rashford pursuit with three key stars opposing transfer’

    BARCELONA’S pursuit of Marcus Rashford has reportedly sparked revolt in the Nou Camp dressing room.The Spanish giants spent the January transfer window weighing up a swoop for the Manchester United outcast.Marcus Rashford’s negotiations with Barcelona caused unrestCredit: RexThree Barcelona stars made a stand and spoke out about the possible transferCredit: AlamyA sensational loan deal was potentially on the cards – with the player himself said to be keen.However, Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wages proved a stumbling block – especially as United wanted Barca to cover 70 per cent.The forward ended up joining Aston Villa until the end of the season – with the option of a £40million permanent summer move. But now Catalunya Radio via Sport in Spain claim even the talks over signing Rashford led to unrest among the existing players.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSAnd three key stars allegedly spoke out against the transfer.It is stated Barcelona needed to let both Ansu Fati and Andreas Christensen leave in January to free up the necessary wages to make a Rashford deal financially viable.However, both men are said to have flat-out refused to exit. And pals Pedri, Gavi and Ronald Araujo all reportedly stood up to the club to make their feelings known. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe trio are three of Hansi Flick’s most important players in a team going strong in LaLiga, the Champions League and the Copa del Rey.And all three signed new contracts in the last few days of the transfer window.Marcus Rashford says joining Aston Villa from Man Utd was an easy decisionSo it seems the trio used their bargaining power to voice their concerns as they agreed their long-term futures to Barcelona, who are currently playing home matches at the Olympic Stadium while the Nou Camp is renovated. The report suggests Pedri, Gavi and Araujo did not believe signing Rashford was a suitable option given the players already in the team, the club’s ethos with its homegrown talent and the cost of the deal – which would see them force out two members of the squad.And it appears Deco and the Barca hierarchy listened to their players as they backed out of the deal.The likes of Borussia Dortmund, Monaco and AC Milan were also linked with Rashford over the course of the January transfer window.But Rashford said it was an “easy” decision to join Villa, where he will play Champions League football again. And he is keen to make an early impression on his new boss Unai Emery.Rashford insisted on training on his first day off and has already started looking at accommodation in the West Midlands as he refuses to commute from Manchester. READ MORE SUN STORIESVilla insiders say the man who left Old Trafford under a cloud has got the bit firmly between his teeth and is ready to kickstart his career under Emery.Rashford – who has taken Jhon Duran’s old No9 shirt – could make his debut for Villa in the FA Cup at home to Tottenham on Sunday. Rashford joined Aston Villa on loan until the end of the seasonCredit: Getty More