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      Real Madrid plot shock raid on Newcastle for £100million star who has ‘burning desire’ to play in Champions League

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      REAL MADRID are reportedly readying a swoop for Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes.The 26-year-old Brazilian midfielder moved to St. James’ Park in January 2022 for £35m and has become one of Europe’s most sought-after players.Real Madrid reportedly scouted Bruno Guimaraes against Man City last weekendCredit: AlamyThe former Lyon ace has scored 13 goals and assisted another 13 in 96 appearances for the Magpies.And we revealed earlier this month how Guimaraes is now attracting interest from a host of teams across the continent.He remains under contract with Newcastle until 2028 after signing an extension earlier this season.However, that deal reportedly includes a £100m release clause on the star’s own insistence.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLNow talkSPORT claims that Eddie Howe and the Toon “are bracing themselves for Real Madrid to step up interest” this summer.They claim that the LaLiga giants had scouts watching him in last week’s 2-0 FA Cup quarter final loss to Manchester City.Guimaraes also allegedly has a “burning desire” to be playing regularly in the Champions League.He did achieve that on Tyneside before theory group stage exit this term, but Newcastle will need a miraculous turn of results to qualify for it again next season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERThe Magpies are also looking at the prospect of having to offload a star name in order to help them remain on the right side of Premier League spending rules.And any figure they receive close to his release clause would result in a huge profit on the Samba ace.Lee Clarke wants son Bobby to make ‘dream’ move to NewcastleNewcastle are currently 10th in the Premier League and out of all cup competitions, something Guimaraes has admitted has left him “disappointed” when quizzed about the campaign this week.Ahead of Brazil’s clash with England at Wembley, he said: “This season we have been struggling.“I think we’ve had many problems with injuries and suspensions but this is part of the process. When I signed for the club I knew that this would happen.“Things have happened too quickly. During my two years at the club, we reached a final, unfortunately, we didn’t win but we got there after 20 years which was massive for the club.”When he was asked about Newcastle having to sell in order to meet PSR rules, Guimaraes said: “I don’t know. I am not involved in that.“We never know what is going to happen but I’m happy at the club. Of course, I’m disappointed about our season but I think we still have a chance to finish at least seventh, Europa League or Conference League.“But about the club staff, I cannot speak too much. I don’t know what is going to happen in the future but what I can say is I am so grateful for Newcastle.” More

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      Man Utd make Mason Greenwood decision in huge blow to Getafe after transfer talks with Spanish club

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      GETAFE’S hopes of borrowing Mason Greenwood for another season are set to fail with Manchester United not interested in another loan.Greenwood, 22, has been rebuilding his career in Spain after being farmed out to the La Liga side for the campaign.Mason Greenwood is currently on loan in Spain with GetafeCredit: GettyThe switch came after charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault against the striker were dropped in February last year.Getafe are keen on another loan for Greenwood, who has eight goals and five assists in 27 matches this term, and have held talks with United.But the Red Devils are only focused on selling the forward – if they are to let him go at all – and know there are other clubs interested in a permanent deal.New co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has not shut the door on what would be a controversial return to United’s squad for Greenwood next term either.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking about Greenwood’s future last month, the billionaire said: “It’s quite clear we have to make a decision.“There is no decision that’s been made.”Bradford-born Greenwood scored 35 goals in 129 games for United between 2018 and 2022 before the police investigation brought his Old Trafford career to a standstill.He also won his one and only England cap back in 2020.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWhere might Greenwood be next season?
      Manchester United
      Greenwood still has a year remaining on his contract at Old Trafford and could return to the squad if the club decide he is allowed back.
      Getafe
      The Spanish side have made it clear they want to keep hold of Greenwood after his success on loan this season but would be priced out of a move if he is sold.
      Barcelona
      Barcelona have been strongly linked with a summer transfer for Greenwood but may also struggle to afford the winger.
      Atletico Madrid
      Greenwood has also attracted interest from Atletico Madrid this season, who could swoop if United decide to cash in this summer.

      Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate did not rule out a return for the striker after this summer’s Euros when asked about the prospect last week.Southgate said: “I don’t think it’s something for pre-Euros.Who could be Man Utd’s next manager after Ten Hag?“Allowing him to get his career going again abroad appears to have been a good move. But I have to say I have not tracked it closely.“At this moment in time it would be a big distraction for the team (to select him ahead of the Euros) and let’s see where that leads next season.” More

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      I played with both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo – Barcelona legend was just something different

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      BARCELONA icon Gerard Pique has revealed why he believes Lionel Messi is the best player in the world.The 37-year-old spent 13 years playing alongside Messi for Barcelona.Lionel Messi is the best player in the world, according to Gerard PiqueCredit: ReutersBefore going pro, the pair had also grown up together at Barcelona’s world-renowned La Maisa academy.Both players were crucial elements of a golden generation for the Spanish giants, winning four Champions League titles and nine La Liga titles together.But before he moved to the Nou Camp, Pique enjoyed a four-year spell at Manchester United.During his time at Old Trafford, the Spaniard played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.READ MORE ON RONALDOHaving been one of the few people to line up alongside both players, Pique has now weighed in on who he believes is better.And speaking to Sky Sports, he claimed Messi has always been “different” from any other star.The former defender said: “Leo Messi, I think, was another thing. Totally different from the rest.”It’s true that in the games I can watch and see what he does. But in training sometimes I had to suffer him!Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSunSport’s XI of Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s best team-mates”It wasn’t good, I tell you! You had to run!”But I think that he was totally different from the rest I’ve seen.’He’s just taking the p**s,’ say fans as they spot ‘savage’ Messi’s ‘disrespectful’ skill against injured opponent”I had the opportunity to share a dressing room with Cristiano Ronaldo, for example, at Manchester United.”He was also very very good. I mean, top level. He demonstrated in his whole career that he competed with Leo, related to the Ballon d’Or and all the trophies he won.”But I think that Leo was something different.”The likes of Angel Di Maria, Henrik Larsson and Ezequiel Garay have also previously claimed that Messi is the best in the world.Meanwhile, former Liverpool loanee Arthur Melo has praised the mentality of both players.Messi currently stars for MLS side Inter Miami.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Argentina legend joined the club on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last summer and has since scored 16 goals in 19 appearances.Ronaldo joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in January 2023 and has since made 52 appearances, scoring 44 goals and providing 13 assists.Messi vs Ronaldo: Who is best?Below are 12 stars who played alongside both during their careers – and who THEY believe to be the best ever…

      Paulo Dybala – Draw
      Deco – Draw
      Angel Di Maria – Messi
      Gabriel Heinze – Ronaldo
      Gonzalo Higuain – Draw
      Fernando Gago – Messi
      Ezequiel Garay – Messi
      Andre Gomes – Draw
      Henrik Larsson – Messi
      Gerard Pique – Messi
      Nelson Semedo – Draw
      Carlos Teves – Draw More

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      Joao Cancelo tested for heart problem before being cleared to return to Barcelona following ‘serious personal problem’

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      JOAO CANCELO has been cleared to continue playing football after the emergence of a potential heart problem.It was reported by Spanish outlet RAC1 on Wednesday that a family relative of Joao Cancelo was diagnosed with a heart problem.Joao Cancelo has been cleared to play football againCredit: GettyCancelo was sidelined over the weekend for precautionary tests on his heart after a family member was diagnoised with a heart conditionCredit: RexThis prompted Barcelona chiefs to leave him out of their match against Atletico Madrid on Sunday as a “precaution”.The on-loan Manchester City star underwent tests to check whether he had a similar condition and had kept him sidelined from football while it was assessed.Fortunately for the 29-year-old, he has now been given the green light from doctors to return to football activity, with the results coming back declaring he was in good health.It means Cancelo is clear to join up with Roberto Martinez’s Portugal squad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBefore Cancelo had been cleared to play, former Wigan and Everton boss Martinez said: “We need to look natural. The noise is not a right noise. “We are working, Cancelo is on the list for the second game, we are working on how to monitor the players as we do, we work with the club like Barcelona, but now there is no reason to be alert.”The 2016 Euros champs have friendlies with Sweden and Slovenia over the international break, with their first game coming tomorrow.Cancelo has played 50 games for his national team, scoring 10 goals.Most read in FootballMeanwhile, he has played 32 games in all competitions for Barcelona this season with four goals and four assists to his name.However, Cancelo may have ruffled a few feathers in the Portugal camp after claiming legendary figure Cristiano Ronaldo was past his best.Joao Cancelo in classy gesture as he refuses to step on Man City badge before Champions League return with Bayern Munich He told Portuguese outlet RTP: “He is an important player and spent 15 years competing with [Lionel] Messi for the Ballon d’Or, but the peak of a footballer’s career is between the ages of 25 and 32. “He is an important player for us, but the national team does not depend entirely on him.” More

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      Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni filmed in heated debate ‘arguing over Haaland and Mbappe’

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      FANS are convinced there is division at Real Madrid over the potential signing of Kylian Mbappe after a dressing room debate emerged.The French superstar looks set to join Los Blancos this summer when his contract at PSG expires.Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni had a heated debate appearing to compare two playersCredit: X Tchouameni couldn’t believe that Bellingham disagreed with himCredit: X Real Madrid have also been linked with buying Erling Haaland as an alternative amid reports he is open to leaving Manchester City in the future.A clip has now emerged of Jude Bellingham and midfield partner Aurelien Tchouameni appearing to discuss the two players.The names of the stars in question have been bleeped out but fans are convinced Mbappe and Haaland are being compared.Bellingham sides with his former Borussia Dortmund pal as Tchouameni picks his fellow France ace as the better player.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe England sensation says his man is a “great and unbelievable guy.”But Tchouameni hits back: “We don’t care.”Bellingham then appears to mock team-mate’s voice while saying: “He’s better than your boy.”A baffled Tchouameni is left lost for words and replies: “No brother, no. Please. Please. Please.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERDuring the heated debate, Eduardo Camavinga shouts across the room at the feuding duo: “Man, shut up.”Fans believe Mbappe and Haaland have to be the subject of the argument, with one saying: “Definitely.”How Jude Bellingham is key to England winning Euro 2024Another said: “Thought he was talking about an England player but realised this is most likely Mbappe-Haaland.”Others were not so certain: “I thought they were talking about Harry Kane and Karim Benzema.”Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland played together at DortmundCredit: AlamyAurelien Tchouameni and Kylian Mbappe know each other from France dutyCredit: Reuters More

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      Thibaut Courtois ‘leaves Real Madrid training in tears as ex-Chelsea goalkeeper suffers nasty new injury’

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      THIBAUT COURTOIS has suffered a nasty new injury in Real Madrid training, according to reports in Spain.The former Chelsea goalkeeper has yet to play this season after tearing his cruciate ligament in August.Thibaut Courtois was reportedly left in tears after tearing his meniscus in Real Madrid trainingCredit: EPACourtois hasn’t played a minute of action this campaign after his pre-season injuryCredit: GettyAccording to Marca, Courtois has now suffered another injury setback that will likely rule him out for the rest of the campaign.They claim that the Belgian keeper left training in tears after tearing the meniscus in his right knee.He is now set to undergo surgery on the knee injury, the report adds.Courtois had only recently returned to training following his previous setback.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 31-year-old had not been expected to feature this season after suffering the initial injury on the eve of the season.But he was understood to be ahead of schedule in his recovery as he bid to return for Madrid’s LaLiga and Champions League push.Real Madrid responded to Courtois’ injury by swooping to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan from Chelsea.However, the Spaniard has since lost his place in the side to Andriy Lunin, who has been the regular starter between the sticks since November.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSCourtois’ latest injury blow comes amid another public spat with Belgium manager Domenico Tedesco.He branded the national team boss a liar on social media as their feud continues.Belgium boss reacts after Real Madrid star Thibaut Courtois publicly calls him outThe bad blood dates back to Tedesco’s decision not to give Courtois the captain’s armband for Belgium’s matches against Austria and Estonia last June.Courtois’ outburst has thrown his international future into doubt after winning 102 caps for the Red Devils during his career.And he now appears unlikely to be fit for Euro 2024 in the summer. More

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      Man Utd ‘decide to sell Mason Greenwood but get hit with immediate blow as Barcelona opt out of transfer race’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are ready to sell Mason Greenwood – but Barcelona are not interested in a deal, transfer reports say. Greenwood has spent the season on loan with Getafe, hitting a run of good form with eight goals in 27 matches. Mason Greenwood remains linked with a Man Utd exitCredit: GettyHis performances attracted interest from the likes of Barca, who have been linked with a summer swoop for the ex-England international. According to Fabrizio Romano for CaughtOffside, United directors and Barca chief Deco did meet for talks. But it is claimed the Spanish giants are not plotting a move for Greenwood right now. It is said, though, that United are willing to let Greenwood go for good if the right proposal is tabled. READ MORE ON MASON GREENWOODAnd the club are actively looking at ways of offloading the forward. A police investigation into Greenwood, 22, was launched in January 2022.But charges of attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour were later dropped.United still made the decision to send the striker out on loan to Spain though new owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe controversially left the door open to a return. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe said in February: “We will make a decision. I don’t know if he (Greenwood) could still have a future.“All I can do is talk about the principle of how we will approach decisions like that.Fans spot Roy Keane’s ‘cold’ interaction with Man Utd mascot during FA Cup clash against Liverpool“Is he the right type of footballer? Are we happy with that? Is he a good person or not?“He (Greenwood) is a Manchester United footballer and we are in charge of football. “So the answer is it’s quite clear we have to make a decision. “There is no decision that’s been made. He’s on loan obviously but he’s not the only one. “We’ve got one or two footballers that we have to deal with and we have to make a decision on – so we will do that. “The process will be – understand the facts not the hype and then try and come to a fair decision on the basis of values – which is basically whether he is a good guy or not. “Could he play sincerely for Manchester United well and would we be comfortable with it and the fans be comfortable with it?“I can talk about the principle. The principle is the important one because we will have other issues going forwards. “You are dealing with young people who have not always been brought up in the best circumstances, who have a lot of money and don’t always have the guidance they should have. “What we need to do when we have issues like that is to understand the real effects, not the hype.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Then we need to make a fair decision in the light of the club’s values. That’s what we need to do and that’s how we will deal with it.”New Man Utd owner Sir Jim RatcliffeCredit: PA More

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      Fans grimace at Barcelona star’s painful celebration fail as they say ‘my ACLs would be gone after that’

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      BARCELONA midfielder Fermin Lopez was left red-faced after his goal celebration went wrong at the weekend.The 20-year-old was one of three goalscorers when Xavi’s side cruised to a 3-0 win over Atletico Madrid on Sunday.Fermin Lopez attempted a knee slide after scoringCredit: EPAThe midfielder’s knees got stuck in the grassCredit: EPALopez then flew forward and was forced into a forward rollCredit: AFPAtleti loanee Joao Felix broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, putting Barcelona in control ahead of half-time.Robert Lewandowski doubled the advantage just after the break and Lopez sealed the win with less than 30 minutes left to play.However, fans were quick to comment on the midfielder’s celebration.After scoring in the 65th minute, Lopez attempted to knee slide next to the corner flag.Read More on FootballHowever, both knees got stuck in the grass and he was forced into a forward roll.Some fans believed he was lucky to avoid injury, with one person taking to social media to write: “Close to being another midfielder out for them, kid needs to stay healthy. He is one of their key players right now.”Another commented: “Ouch! That’s gonna hurt like anything.”A third wrote: “My ACLs would be gone after that.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWhile a fourth likened it to a failed Arjen Robben celebration, adding: “I remember Robben doing something like that and ended up doing a somersault.”Barcelona currently sit second in the La Liga table, nine points above fifth-placed Atletico Madrid.Fans left stunned after Liverpool star Tsimikas ‘got a bit too excited’ celebrating Van Dijk’s Carabao Cup winnerXavi’s side are eight points adrift of league leaders Real Madrid with nine games left to play.Barcelona dedicated Sunday’s win to Joao Cancelo, who was forced to withdraw from the squad due to a reported “serious personal problem”. More