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    Chelsea make £56m Joao Felix bid as Atletico Madrid ace says ‘yes’ to transfer that could save Conor Gallagher deal

    CHELSEA have made a £56million bid for Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix, according to reports.And the transfer could save Conor Gallagher’s transfer to Atletico as the English midfielder’s future remains in the balance.Joao Felix could be set for a return to ChelseaCredit: GettyConor Gallagher’s move to Atletico Madrid remains in the balanceCredit: GettyFelix, 24, spent the second half of the 2022/23 season on loan at Stamford Bridge, scoring four goals in 20 games.He returned to Diego Simeone’s side and then spent the last campaign on loan at Barcelona where he registered 10 goals and six assists in 44 appearances.Now, after four seasons, 131 appearances and 24 goals for Atletico, he could finally be set for a permanent switch.According to Ojogo, Chelsea have submitted an offer of £54m for the Portuguese international.READ MORE ON CHELSEAAn initial sum of £30m would be paid up front, with the remainder of the fee to be transferred at a later date.Fabrizio Romano understands Felix has said “yes” to a second stint at Chelsea as negotiations continue between the two clubs.It is also said to be a “crucial” factor in the completion of Gallagher’s move to Atletico.Chelsea looked set to offload academy product Gallagher in a £34m deal to ease the club’s concerns regarding Profit and Sustainability rules.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSGallagher featured in all but one of Chelsea’s Premier League games last seasonBut then a deal for Atletico striker Samu Omorodion to move the other way collapsed, putting the Gallagher deal in jeopardy.Now a bid for Felix has reignited hopes of the England international being offloaded.Chelsea have raked in staggering £1.6BILLION from transfers as top selling clubs of 21st Century are revealedGallagher, 24, has been at Chelsea for 16 years and broke through into the first team in 2019.He has played 95 games for the club, scoring 10 goals and providing 10 assists. More

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    Real Madrid and Barcelona in Trent Alexander-Arnold transfer battle as Liverpool bid to stop star running down contract

    REAL MADRID and Barcelona are watching Trent Alexander-Arnold’s  situation at Liverpool closely.The Liverpool vice-captain, 25, is out of contract next year and has been strongly linked with a move to the European champions.Trent Alexander-Arnold has developed into one of the world’s best right backs but his next step is unclearCredit: EPAReports in Spain say both LaLiga clubs think the England ace is willing to leave following the progress of 21-year-old right-back Conor Bradley.The Reds will offer Alexander-Arnold a new deal that would increase his £180,000-per-week wages — but they are not willing to break the bank.And rumours have swirled that he may leave to join England team-mate Jude Bellingham at the Bernabeu.The pair were also spotted holidaying in Los Angeles together last month, where Alexander-Arnold was seen signing a Madrid shirt for a fan.Read more transfer newsAnfield bosses also have to sort out what to do with Mo Salah, 32, and Virgil van Dijk, 33, who are the only two players at Anfield who earn more than Alexander-Arnold.All three players contracts will expire in June 2025.It still seems unlikely Liverpool would cash in on their academy graduate this summer as it would be a wrench for both parties.But Real and Barca, along with other top clubs, are looking at what might be possible in the next 12 months or so.Most read in FootballJude Bellingham and Trent Alexander Arnold holidayed together in LACredit: InstragramFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHis assist tally and chance creation from right back have led to calls for him to be utilised further forward despite misgivings about that from former boss Jurgen Klopp.Alexander-Arnold is arguably the most complete passer in the game bar Kevin De Bruyne, and has scored 15 goals for Liverpool and provided 58 assists, a record for defenders in the Premier League.SunSport launches weekly Football League feature called ‘What the EFL-!’New boss Arne Slot prefers a more orthodox right back, with Northern Ireland international Bradley mooted as the more natural fit there.Meanwhile, Liverpool legend Michael Owen said Madrid might prove too irresistible of a destination for Alexander-Arnold.Owen told Casino Hawks: “Obviously Real Madrid at the moment are the best team in Europe, they are the biggest team in the world and have that iconic kit and their players… It’s the best stage in Europe.”I had a similar thing at that stage of my career, and I decided that it was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. “I don’t know if it’s an opportunity for Trent or a possibility, but he’d have a lot to think about if they came in for him.”Liverpool are the only Premier League club yet to sign a player in the summer transfer window but are expected to bring in a new defensive midfielder.Real Sociedad and Spain star Martin Zubimendi – who has a £51.7m release clause – is a top-priority for new boss Arne Slot.Slot snubbed Spurs, hates defending and has a PASS named after himBy Dan KingLIVERPOOL’S new manager Arne Slot was a good enough player to have a type of pass named after him.But it is as a manager that the Feyenoord head coach is really making his mark.Like another bald Dutchman, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, Slot earned his stripes bossing smaller sides before being given a chance at one of the Netherlands’ big three.But the question Liverpool are pondering is whether Slot would make a better fist of running one of the biggest clubs in the world than Ten Hag so far has at Old Trafford.Slot, 45, was certainly easier on the eye as a player than centre back Ten Hag.“The Arne Slot Ball” was something he perfected as a silky No 10 – a back-to-goal, first-time, 180-degree spin and flick behind the defensive line for a winger to run on to deep in the opposition half.Click here to read all about the incoming Liverpool boss. More

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    Former Barcelona and Real Madrid star Javier Saviola ‘spends night in prison after being arrested for drink-driving’

    JAVIER SAVIOLA reportedly spent a night in a police station after failing a breathalyser test in Andorra.Local newspaper Altaveu claim the former Barcelona striker was returning from a private party in the early hours of Monday morning.Javier Saviola has been arrested in AndorraCredit: GettyThe Argentina striker was a dominant force at his bestCredit: ReutersAndorran police reportedly pulled him over for a routine check at 4.40am, where he tested positive with 1.10 grams of alcohol in his blood.The legal limit in Andorra is 0.5.Saviola, 42, was kept overnight and faces losing his driving licence for up to a year, according to the report.The retired hitman was last employed as an assistant coach of Barca’s Under-19s.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSaviola was the most expensive teenager in the world when Barcelona signed the 1999 South American Footballer of the Year for £15million from River Plate at the age of 19 in 2001.While in Argentina, he broke Diego Maradona’s record as the youngest player to finish a season as top goal scorer.Initially, he formed a good partnership in attack at the Nou Camp with Patrick Kluivert.And it looked like he would soon become the team’s focal point when Louis van Gaal sold Rivaldo.Most read in FootballHowever, the Dutchman was sacked in 2002 and Saviola struggled under replacement Raddy Antic.Frank Rijkaard’s arrival saw the club head in a different direction and he was loaned out to Champions League finalists Monaco in 2004.But he struggled in France and was shipped off to Sevilla for the next season and played the first half of the 4-0 Uefa Cup final victory over Middlesbrough.In the following campaign, he was given a reprieve at the Nou Camp, as he started six times and hit five goals after an injury to Samuel Eto’o.However, he made the shock choice to join Real Madrid in 2007 after his Barcelona contract expired.Saviola scored just five goals in two seasons as Los Blancos brought in Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.Can you name the famous fathers?He moved to Benfica in 2009 and found some of the form which saw him join Barcelona as his goals helped the Eagles win a first league title for five years.Manuel Pellegrini brought him to Malaga in 2012 and he scored his first-ever goal in the Champions League group stage.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut he lasted just a season before moving to Verona.After one goal in 15 games he returned to River Plate, where he retired in 2016. More

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    Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham among Real Madrid stars following ‘Cristiano Ronaldo method’ in pre-season

    KYLIAN MBAPPE and Jude Bellingham have been following the Cristiano Ronaldo method in pre-season, according to reports.The superstar left a lasting legacy at Real Madrid thanks to his professionalism and discipline.Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe have adopted the ‘Cristiano Ronaldo method’Credit: GettyRonaldo has maintained peak condition thanks to a strict diet and rigorous exercise regimeCredit: GettyRonaldo’s longevity is something to behold as he played at the Euros at almost 40-years-old.And now the next generation of world beaters are adopting his methods in pre-season training at Real Madrid, including Mbappe and Bellingham.According to AS the duo have adopted the ‘Cristiano method’ – a philosophy of continuous self-improvement, maintaining professionalism in training, and being mindful of nutrition.Mbappe, 25, joined Real this summer and mimicked Ronaldo’s gesture to the crowd when he was unveiled to fans.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Frenchman has made no secret of his respect and admiration of Ronaldo, who he looked up to as a kid.Mbappe said of the former Manchester United star: “He was my idol when I was a kid and now he’s a friend, I’m lucky. “He gives me a lot of advice and that’s a privilege. He always tells me to work hard and stay connected to the game.”Real Madrid reportedly wanted to transform Mbappe’s physique by placing him on a Ronaldo-style fitness regime.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFitness coach Antonio Pintus has been asked to get Mbappe into peak condition for the Uefa Super Cup against Atalanta next month.The report adds that Pintus, who has been dubbed the “Sergeant” for his toughness during sessions, has a Ronaldo-style project in mind.Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe features in advert for ‘Chinese Instagram’Ronaldo, 39, has maintained peak physical condition partly thanks to his strict diet plan, which features swordfish, chicken and five naps a day.The Portugal legend also credits regular swimming sessions and using a Cryotherapy chamber for maintaining his athleticism. More

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    Arsenal breakthrough star closing in on LaLiga transfer after move to EFL club hijacked at last-minute

    ARSENAL keeper Karl Hein is on the verge of joining La Liga side Real Valladolid on loan.The Spanish club have swooped in late to nab the Gunners No3 after League One Charlton had shown an interest.Karl Hein is set for a loan move to Real ValladolidCredit: GettyHein, 22, started all three of Arsenal’s pre-season games in the States with David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale enjoying an extended break after their Euros antics.But having signed a new deal in June, it was always the plan for Hein to go out on loan this season for some much-needed first-team experience.Valladolid are owned by former Brazil striker, Ronaldo, who knows Arsenal’s sporting director Edu from their playing days.The Estonia international was particularly impressive against Bournemouth in LA last month, saving two penalties in a spot-kick victory over the Cherries after a 1-1 draw.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis will be the second loan spell of Hein’s time at Arsenal after spending six months with Reading during the 2021-22 season.Questions remain over No2 Ramsdale, who is also looking for more first-team football after being axed as No1 last season in place of Spaniard Raya.Ramsdale has been linked with moves to Chelsea, Newcastle and Southampton in the past.But he looks likely to be involved in the Emirates Cup this week as Arsenal host Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday and Lyon on Sunday.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMikel Arteta’s men kick off their Premier League campaign at home to Wolves on August 17.They follow that up with a trip to Aston Villa, before games against Brighton, Tottenham and Manchester City.Arsenal legend Thierry Henry’s wild dancing after guiding France to Olympics 2024 finalArsenal have a tricky start to the season More

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    Chelsea ‘in pole position’ for Atletico Madrid striker transfer and could sign Victor Osimhen in stunning double deal

    CHELSEA are in pole position to sign Samu Omorodion from Atletico Madrid after Conor Gallagher agreed to move to the Spanish club.The Blues have also not ruled out signing Napoli star Victor Osimhen to Enzo Maresca’s squad this summer.Chelsea are in pole position to sign Samu Omorodion from Atletico MadridCredit: GettyConor Gallagher has agreed to move to the Spanish clubCredit: GettyThe Blues have also not ruled out signing Napoli star Victor OsimhenCredit: AlamyAtletico could let Omorodion leave for a deal of around £40million if they can sign Julian Alvarez this summer.If the transfer is made then Chelsea are the frontrunner to sign the Spaniard.The Blues have already had a £27.4m offer rejected for the 20-year-old but are still keen on the star.He spent last season on loan at Deportivo Alaves scoring nine goals and providing one assist to help them to a 10th-place finish in LaLiga.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the ongoing pursuit of Omorodion has not turned Chelsea’s heads away from Osimhen as the Blues aim to sign both stars – should Napoli allow the striker to join them on an initial loan.Napoli want to sign Romelu Lukaku if they lose Osimhen in the opposite direction.And signing both Omorodion and Osimhen could solve Chelsea’s issue of not having a right-footed winger.Meanwhile, on Monday the Blues were closing in on Conor Gallagher’s £33.7 million switch to Atletico.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGallagher had verbally agreed to fly to Madrid to complete the move with Chelsea including matching rights in the deal should Atletico agree to sell Gallagher in the future.That means Chelsea could match any bid Atletico accepted on Gallagher before the Spanish club could sell him.SunSport’s Latest Transfer Headlines More

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    Conor Gallagher AGREES record £34m Atletico Madrid transfer after he is banished from Chelsea

    CONOR GALLAGHER has agreed a transfer to Atletico Madrid, according to reports.The midfielder’s future has been up in the air this summer as he has just one year remaining on his Chelsea contract.Conor Gallagher has agreed a move to Atletico MadridCredit: EPAHe rejected new terms last week amid interest from Atletico, with Gallagher unhappy at the length of the deal he was offered.Atletico had a £34million bid accepted by Chelsea and gave Gallagher a Sunday deadline to decide his future.And according to Fabrizio Romano the midfielder has now agreed personal terms with the La Liga giants.Gallagher, 24, is set to fly to Spain today to hold further talks and finalise his transfer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat is a blow for the likes of Tottenham and West Ham, who were linked with a move for the England star this summer.But for Chelsea selling Gallagher will help balance the books and his fee will be pure profit for the club as he is an academy product.However fans will likely oppose the move after criticising the club’s decision to ban Gallagher from the first-team.Last week Gallagher was told he will not be allowed in the first-team building when he returned to the club from his summer break.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat meant he would have been unable to train with Enzo Maresca’s squad this week – because he rejected a new deal.Gallagher could have left earlier this summer after Chelsea accepted a bid from Aston Villa but he turned down the move.England hero Cole Palmer relaxes with mystery woman in IbizaFans have been furious with Chelsea’s handling of the situation.One said: “Whether you rate him or not the reports of him being exiled are embarrassing. Our academy products should be treated with more respect.”Another added: “What a disgrace.”A third reacted: “Absolutely insane, what a joke of a club.” More

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    Ex-Barcelona star worth £250m who played as ‘hobby’ set to buy former club who ‘disrespected’ him – weeks after leaving

    FORMER Barcelona star Martin Braithwaite is reportedly considering a takeover of Espanyol after being “disrespected” by the club.The striker departed the Spanish club earlier this summer despite helping them achieve promotion to LaLiga.Martin Braithwaite is considering buying Espanyol weeks after leaving the clubCredit: RexBraithwaite joined Espanyol in 2022 but wanted to leave last year to play first division football.But he was denied a move and was then offered what he felt was a derisory new contract, before paying up a release clause in his contract to allow him to sign for Gremio.According to Marca the Dane is now working out whether he can afford to buy Espanyol, having shared his frustration with how he was treated.Braithwaite said: “Now we have to enjoy it and see what happens in the future. I don’t know anything, I’ll talk about it in the next few days. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”A year ago the club offered me a renewal, but it was disrespectful. “Let’s see if they want me to stay here because the offer I received a year ago shows that they don’t trust me.”Former Middlesbrough star Braithwaite, 33, is one of the richest footballers in the world and he boasts a £250million fortune.His wealth is mainly thanks to his investment in a real estate business in 2017 that offers affordable housing in historically black neighbourhoods.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe striker also owns a clothing line as well as a high-end restaurant in Barcelona with entrepreneur wife Anne-Laure.Braithwaite and his brother Philip Michael invested £617,00 into NYCE Companies in the US, with their stake now said to be worth a staggering £180m.Alongside his brother Philip Michael, Braithwaite has established a huge property portfolioTheir venture NYCE Companies provides luxury and affordable housingDream Team New Season Explainer 2024-25Not content with a property portfolio, Braithwaite also has an interest in fashion and food.Alongside his gorgeous wife Anne-Laure he runs a clothing label and a restaurant.Trente is a women’s line that is believed to have enjoyed huge success in her native France, since it was set up in 2019.Braithwaite’s wife Anne-Laure runs a fashion label and they co-own a restaurantThe Braithwaite family own a beachside restaurant that serves vegan food More