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    Iconic stadium unrecognisable amid £1.3BILLION transformation as pics spark fears it won’t be ready on time

    THE iconic Nou Camp remains completely unrecognisable as work continues on its £1.3BILLION renovation.But the latest images have sparked growing restlessness that it will not be ready for it’s planned December unveiling. The Nou Camp looks unrecognisable in its current state – and far from readyCredit: FC Barcelona via YouTube / SportsRenderIt is undergoing a £1billion pound renovationCredit: FC Barcelona via YouTube / SportsRenderNew images have stirred fears that it won’t be ready for December 2024Credit: FC Barcelona via YouTube / SportsRenderBarcelona’s home will host the largest stadium roof in EuropeCredit: FC BarcelonaBarcelona want the stadium ‘to become an architectural benchmark for the city and the world’Credit: FC BarcelonaThe world-famous arena saw work begin in June after last season’s LaLiga title victory.The third tier of the stadium was demolished as the project began to deliver a modernised 105,000 capacity stadium.It was initially anticipated that the work will be completed in time for the start of the 2025/26 season.But last month, Barcelona updated the city’s Technical Architecture Association on its ahead-of-schedule progress.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSPresident Joan Laporta told Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo that the club is on track to host a match in the Nou Camp before Christmas this year.It was hoped that the first phase of construction work would be completed in November to coincide with the 125th anniversary of the club.The fixture would reportedly see the stadium operate with a 60 per cent capacity, with the first and second tiers of the stadium open.However, new images released have provoked fear among fans who wish to return to their beloved ground this year.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERLatest pictures have shown work has continued on the remaining two tiers in the venue.All the seats have been ripped up while it sits surrounded by rubble and cranes.The footage left some supporters absolutely gutted, with one tweeting in response: “This is actually a very sad sight to see.”Another tweeted: “Hate to see it like this, it won’t be ready for a while.”Premier League club’s incredible new stand boasts ultra VIP experience with rooftop bar and POOLThe ground will not feature a 360-degree electronic board, as explained by club vice-president and spokeswoman Elena Fort.It will, however, see escalators and a roof added alongside a stadium rename in line with the club’s £237m sponsorship deal with Spotify.The Catalan giants have been playing home matches at the city’s 54,000 capacity Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.The new Camp Nou will have the largest capacity in Spain and Europe, and the second largest football stadium in the world.The Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, located in Pyongyang, North Korea, is the largest stadium in the world with a staggering capacity of 114,000.READ MORE SUN STORIESBarca, who have had well documented financial problems in recent years, are set to earn an extra £25m a year when the revamp is completed.Images were released by the club last month of the final design of the stadium, which Barcelona have claimed will become an “an architectural benchmark for the city and for the world”.Barcelona have shared computer generated footage of inside the Nou CampCredit: FC BarcelonaThe stadium’s capacity will increase to 105,000 when Barcelona’s iconic home is complete – and renamedCredit: FC BarcelonaIt will retain its current shapeCredit: FC Barcelona More

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    Chelsea and Man Utd transfer moves for French wonderkid set to be hijacked as ‘Real Madrid line up swoop’

    A TRIO of Premier League clubs face a huge battle with Real Madrid to snap up French wonderkid Leny Yoro.The defender is only 18 but is already impressing in his homeland for Lille’s first-team.A host of clubs have entered the chase for Lille’s wonderkid Lenny YoroCredit: GettyHis performances have led to him being dubbed the “new Raphael Varane” due to similarities with Manchester United’s French World Cup-winning ace.We revealed previously how Liverpool were eyeing him up as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.Man United and Chelsea also have an interest in bringing him to England  while Paris Saint-Germain hope to keep him in Ligue 1. Now Spanish outlet AS claims that Real Madrid are lining up a move to add another teenage sensation to their ranks after securing the services of Endrick – the 17-year-old who scored Brazil’s winner against England on Saturday.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe same outlet also reiterates how Chelsea have been keeping tabs on Yoro and that Bayern Munich have an interest also.But they are adamant that Madrid are in pole position to land him as they look to inject youth in their ageing backline.Lille were determined to hang on to Yoro during the January window and managed to succeed with that but it could prove to be a lot harder come the summer.The French U21 international will be entering the final 12 months on his deal.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERThey were originally reported to be holding out for £85m when French rivals PSG enquired two months ago.However, this update states that his price-tag is now £51m.Football icons’ strange hobbiesThat could also make him the most expensive defender to be sold by a Ligue 1 club ever.Paulo Fonseca, his boss at Lille, has already gone on record to state that he expects big things for the starlet.He said: “He’s a very mature player and I think he has a great future ahead of him.” More

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    Vinicius Jr breaks down in tears in emotional moment during press conference after three questions about racism

    VINICIUS JR broke down in tears at a press conference after being asked about the racist abuse he’s received.The Real Madrid star has been subject to racist abuse on multiple occasions in recent seasons.Vinicius Jr broke down in tears when asked about the racist abuse he has receivedCredit: RexThe forward has been subject to racism on multiple occasions in recent yearsCredit: RexHe remained defiant as he sent a message to the racistsCredit: RexVinicius is determined not to let the abuse drive him out of Real MadridCredit: AFPJust this month he hit back at Valencia fans after he was targeted with racist abuse during a visit to the Mestalla last May.After that incident the Brazilian labelled Spain “a country full of racists”, and he became emotional when discussing the racist abuse he has received.He broke down in tears while speaking to media, saying: “I’m sorry. I just want to play football, do everything for my club and my family, never see black people suffering. I’ve thought about quitting.”But he remained defiant and is hopeful he will receive the support he needs.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe added: “I have never thought about leaving Spain, because that would be giving the racists what they want. “I’m not going to leave the best club in the world. “The racists are a minority, I’m going to remain firm and strong because the president and the club support me.“I draw strength from the family, from the people who suffer because I know where I came from, from a place that did not have much of a future.Most read in Football“Just by being here I am already a winner, regardless of winning or losing a game. There are many people still suffering.”Vinicius Jr, 23, received such support from Sevilla in October as the club removed a fan for allegedly displaying “xenophobic and racist behaviour” towards him during their match.Vinicius Jr appears to ask Bellingham for Premier League star’s shirt as Real Madrid team-mates chat after England lossThe Brazilian winger took to social media to praise Sevilla for attempting to take action, but he also condemned the racism that could be seen in the social media video.He took to X to write: “Congratulations to Sevilla for their quick positioning and punishment in yet another sad episode for Spanish football.”Unfortunately, I had access to a video of another racist act in this Saturday’s match, this time carried out by a child.”I am very sorry that there is no one to educate you. I invest, and I invest a lot, in education in Brazil to form citizens with attitudes different from these.”The face of today’s racist is plastered on websites as on many other occasions.”I hope the Spanish authorities do their part and change the legislation once and for all. These people must be criminally punished too.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It would be a great first step in preparing for the 2030 World Cup. I’m available to help.”Sorry to seem repetitive, but this is isolated episode number 19. And counting…” More

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    Vinicius Jr appears to ask Bellingham for Premier League star’s shirt as Real Madrid team-mates chat after England loss

    ENGLAND superstar Jude Bellingham linked up with Real Madrid team-mate Vinicius Junior after last week’s friendly at Wembley.Brazil defeated the Three Lions 1-0 on Saturday thanks to a goal by Endrick, who will be joining Bellingham and Vinicius at Real in June from Palmeiras.Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior met backstage at WembleyCredit: X @EnglandBellingham and Vinicius embraced after Brazil’s win over EnglandCredit: X @EnglandBellingham and Vinicius have stood out at Real Madrid this seasonCredit: GettyBut there were no hard feelings between the two superstars as they exchanged a warm embrace and a friendly chat backstage after the full-time whistle.And the star midfielder was even willing to indulge his Brazilian pal with a series of England jerseys.But Vinicius was very impressed with one particular player during their match.And that was none other than Arsenal star Declan Rice, who put together another stunning performance.Read More on FootballBellingham asked Vini if there was any other shirt he wanted to take with him back to Madrid.And the star striker wasted no time as he immediately responded: “Rice.”Rice has been spearheading Arsenal’s Premier League title bid after his £105million arrival from West Ham last summer.The star midfielder has amassed a total of six goals and seven assists in 39 appearances.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBellingham and Vinicius have also shone bright this season at the Santiago Bernabeu.The Brazil international has registered a staggering 18 goals and eight assists in 28 matches this season.How Jude Bellingham is key to England winning Euro 2024Bellingham, on the other hand, has set the world alight with a whopping 20 goals and nine assists in 31 appearances.Vinicius asked for Arsenal star Declan Rice’s jersey after the matchCredit: Rex More

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    Saudi side look set to continue mega-money spending spree as Al-Hilal ‘target £86MILLION for former Leeds forward’

    AL-HILAL are chasing former Leeds star Raphinha, according to reports.The Saudi Pro League side forked out over £300million on new signings last summer.Raphinha has been linked with a Barcelona exitCredit: RexTheir most high profile acquisition was Neymar, who arrived in a £77.6m deal from Paris Saint-Germain.While they also signed the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic, Ruben Neves, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Kalidou Koulibaly, Renan Lodi and Malcom.According to Spanish outlet Sport, Al-Hilal are targeting a big-money swoop for Raphinha.They add that the Saudi side are willing to splash £86m on the Barcelona star.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAl-Hilal could go “all out” for Raphinha, who may be available as Barca look to ease their financial woes.The Brazilian joined the Catalan giants from Leeds in a £57m deal in the summer of 2022.He has so far played 78 times for Barca, scoring 15 goals and laying on 22 assists.This season he has been limited to 12 LaLiga starts, having suffered with muscular injuries.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERLast night he was in action for Brazil at Wembley, as the Samba Boys beat England 1-0.He played 78 minutes at the national stadium before being replaced by Savio.Watch Raphinha PUNCH Marcos Alonso’s seat repeatedly in meltdown after Barcelona star is subbed against Man UtdRaphinha, 27, has also been linked with a Prem return this season.Back in November it was claimed that Newcastle and Chelsea are keen.While Tottenham were also claimed to be showing an interest. More

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    Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City out to beat Man Utd to £86m transfer for Real Madrid star who could lose spot to Mbappe

    FOUR Premier League giants are ready for a huge tug-of-war transfer fight over Real Madrid star Rodrygo, according to reports.Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United are all monitoring the 23-year-old Brazilian.Rodrygo has attracted interest from four Prem giantsCredit: GettyWith Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe set to join, Spanish outlet SPORT report the LaLiga giants would be willing to open negotiations on Rodrygo if they receive offers above £86million.Treble-winners City have kept tabs on Rodrygo since his two stoppage-time goals helped to knock out the Prem champions in their dramatic 2022 Champions League semi-final.The winger, whose £205,000-a-week Bernabeu contract runs until 2028, has bagged 13 goals and provided nine assists in 41 Real games this term.United fans are keen on signing Rodrygo, who starred in Brazil’s 1-0 win over England on Saturday.But they could face a challenge for his signature from Arsenal or Liverpool, particularly if Mo Salah leaves Anfield amid links to Saudi Arabia.Interest could ramp up in the summer and Real Madrid already have a ready-made replacement for the forward in 17-year-old Endrick, who agreed a transfer to the Bernabeu in December 2022.However Rodrygo’s future will most likely be determined by what happens with Mbappe.The Frenchman is out of contract in the summer and has been tipped to swap PSG for Real Madrid.Most read in FootballRodrygo has played as a no9 at times this seasonBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBut he was expected to do the same two years ago before a dramatic U-turn led him to pen a new contract.Reports claim Mbappe has signed a five-year deal with Real Madrid which includes an £85million signing-on fee.Football stars’ weird phobias More

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    Real Madrid ready to test Liverpool with £75million bid for Trent Alexander-Arnold as Reds face summer transfer exodus

    LIVERPOOL star Trent Alexander-Arnold is a £75million target for Real Madrid.The England full-back, 25, has just over a year left on his current deal at Anfield.Real Madrid are understood to be interested in Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: EPAAnd Spanish giants Real are ready to test the Reds’ resolve to hold on to their home-grown star as they continue the rebuild of Carlo Ancelotti’s team.Liverpool have no desire to sell Alexander-Arnold this summer.And they remain hopeful of tying him down to another long-term contract.But, if negotiations stall, Real are unlikely to be alone in trying to tempt the Merseysiders into cashing in.And the Reds know they are running the risk of losing the ball-playing right-back for nothing next year.Agreeing new terms with Alexander-Arnold will be one of the top priorities for Liverpool’s new hierarchy this summer.The biggest task for Michael Edwards — returning to Anfield as CEO of football in the summer — and new sporting director Richard Hughes is to appoint a successor to outgoing boss Jurgen Klopp.But Mo Salah and captain Virgil van Dijk are in the same contractual position as Alexander-Arnold.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd that could lead to a summer of major upheaval for the title challengers.All three are already among the club’s top earners but will be expecting improved terms and a suitably inspiring replacement for Klopp.Charlie Adam on watching golf with Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish instead of transfer talksThe Saudi Pro League is desperate to lure Salah in particular.There will also be interest in goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.Due to Alisson being injured, the Irishman, 25, has started each of Liverpool’s last five Premier League games and also played in their Carabao Cup final triumph over Chelsea.But he has just 43 appearances since arriving at Anfield in 2019 and could now be tempted away from Merseyside after several impressive displays.Alexander-Arnold has played 21 Premier League games this season but is currently injured More

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    Champions League giants baulk at ‘outrageous’ asking price for Mason Greenwood transfer with Man Utd exit imminent

    ATLETICO MADRID have been left stunned by Manchester United’s “outrageous” asking price for Mason Greenwood, according to reports.The forward is set to be sold by the Red Devils this summer.Mason Greenwood has spent this season on loan at GetafeCredit: GettyUnited’s stance is a blow for Getafe, who had hoped to take Greenwood on loan again.But Greenwood has received interest from a number of other LaLiga clubs.Among them are Atletico, who want to bolster their forward line.According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Diego Simeone’s side have been left appalled by United’s “outrageous” asking price.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey claim that the Red Devils want £51.3million for their academy product.Greenwood, 22, will have a year left on his Man Utd contract at the end of the season.The one-cap England international has not played for the Red Devils since a police investigation into him was launched in January 2022.Charges of attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour were later dropped.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBut United opted to loan him to Getafe last summer.He has played 24 times in LaLiga thus far, scoring six goals and laying on five assists.Mason Greenwood wants an investigation into whether Jude Bellingham called him a “rapist” droppedSpeaking at the Financial Times business of football summit last month, LaLiga president Javier Tebas said of Greenwood: “I’m a lawyer, for someone that has come out of a legal case innocent, there’s nothing to say.”I think it’s good because he’s another great player. Maybe the circumstances have made it easier for him to come, but he’s a great player and I have got no other comments to make.”He’s doing really well at Getafe as a player and I hope he continues to be successful and continues to stay in Spanish football, because that’s always good for us.”When someone isn’t condemned, what should we have done? This is what courts exist for. It is not up to me to know his case in detail.”He is just another player.”Tebas later added: “Greenwood was not condemned, so I don’t care.” More