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    Player who has never played for Newcastle receives Carabao Cup winners’ medal due to little-known rule

    A TEENAGER who is yet to make his Newcastle debut was given a Carabao Cup winners medal following Sunday’s 2-1 win over Liverpool.The Magpies ended their 70-year wait for a domestic trophy at the weekend by winning the Carabao Cup at Wembley.Sean Neave was on the bench for Newcastle during the Carabao Cup finalCredit: GettyThe 17-year-old was handed a winners medal despite not playing a single minute for the senior teamCredit: GettyDan Burn put his team 1-0 up on the brink of half-time with a composed header before Alexander Isak increased the advantage in the 52nd minute.Federico Chiesa got one back for Liverpool in added time, but it was not enough and Eddie Howe’s side went on to clinch the victory.Academy graduate Sean Neave was on the bench for Newcastle but did not get any minutes.Although he was denied the chance to make his senior debut at Wembley, the 17-year-old still received a winners medal.Read More on NewcastleNeave penned his first professional contract for Newcastle last summer.He said: “Ever since I was young, it’s been my dream to play for Newcastle United so to sign a professional deal here is surreal.”I was really pleased to make my debut for the under-21s as it means next year, I can push on and try to make a few more appearances and hopefully score a few goals.”Making my international debut was a really proud moment for me and my family. Playing for your country is one of the biggest things in football and I’m hoping that, next season, I can gain more appearances for England.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I’m more than happy about my goals this season at under-18 level and I was really pleased to be the top goalscorer at the club.”I’m hoping I can push on, score a few more next season and be up there with the top goalscorers in the league.”Liverpool 1 Newcastle 2: Jubilant Toon finally end 70 years of heartache to win Carabao Cup in week from hell for RedsNeave scored less than two minutes into his Premier League 2 debut in November and is now one of the most highly-regarded young prospects at the club.Meanwhile, goalkeeper Martin Dubravka also received a medal despite not making an appearance.And reports are claiming that Miguel Almiron is poised to be given one despite leaving St James’ Park in January.Almiron made four appearances for the Magpies in the Carabao Cup this season before joining Atlanta United. More

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    Liverpool vs Chelsea legends: CONFIRMED line-ups with Gerrard and Zola among stellar names for Anfield charity match

    LIVERPOOL AND CHELSEA legends will clash at Anfield THIS WEEKEND for a charity match.Liverpool will host an enthralling legends charity match with the likes of Steven Gerrard and Gianfranco Zola among the stellar names in action.Liverpool hero Steven Gerrard will play in the matchChelsea icon Gianfranco Zola is going to be back in action for the BluesOld rivalries will be rekindled 20 years on from the astonishing 2004-05 season. That year was the memorable Champions League semi-final between these two teams, which ended in a 1-0 win for the Reds after Luis Garcia’s controversial ‘ghost goal’.Rafa Benitez’s team went on to win the competition that year, with the Spaniard back in the dugout for Liverpool on Saturday.Gerrard will also return to Anfield and is looking to roll back the years on Saturday.read more fooball newsThe midfield icon enjoyed a glistening career making over 700 appearances for the Reds, bagging 186 goals and winning nine major trophies.Fans will also be excited by the prospect of Gianfranco Zola starring.The Italian maestro is best remembered for his incredible close control and dribbling skills and helping transform Chelsea in the late 1990s.With Benitez in Liverpool’s dugout, Chelsea will also have a Champions League-winning manager guiding them.Most read in FootballClub legend Roberto Di Matteo was the man responsible for Chelsea’s first ever Champions League in 2012 and he takes charge of the legends again.One hundred per cent of the money raised from the charity fixture will support the LFC Foundation, Forever Reds, Chelsea Foundation and Chelsea Players’ Trust.Rafa Benitez won the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005Credit: Getty – ContributorRoberto di Matteo took Chelsea all the way in Europe in 2012.Other players making an appearance for the sides include Robbie Keane, Jerzy Dudek, Dirk Kuyt, Ramires, Eidur Gudjohnsen, Florent Malouda and many more.Football fans are in for a treat and will not want to miss this one with all these phenomenal names taking part – it’s due to be a cracker of a game and a great event. What are the lineups?More names could well be announced but here are the current confirmed names:Liverpool legends:Jerzy DudekSander WesterveldFabio AurelioDjimi TraoreMartin SkrtelRagnar Klavan Mark GonzalezSteven GerrardJay SpearingDirk KuytDjibril CisseRobbie KeaneSami HyppiaDavid JamesBjorn Tore KvarmeGregory VignalMohamed SissokoIgor Biscan Florent Sinama PongolleNatasha DowieRafa Benitez (Manager)Chelsea legends:READ MORE SUN STORIESCarlo CudiciniGary Cahill RamiresJohn Obi MikelGianfranco Zola Loic Remy Florent MaloudaJesper GronkjaerJimmy Floyd HasselbankRyan BertrandKatie ChapmanRoberto Di Mateo (Manager)When is Liverpool vs Chelsea legends and how can I watch it?Liverpool Legends vs Chelsea Legends will take place at Anfield on Saturday, March 22.Kick-off is at 2pm.The game will be screened on LFCTV which is an additional subscription.The match can also be watched on the Chelsea app or Chelseafc.com, with fans paying a pay-per-view fee of £5.99.Alternatively, all the action will be live blogged by SunSport. More

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    Powers of new football regulator could be scaled back amid concerns it will ruin Premier League

    DOWNING Street may clip the wings of the new Independent Football Regulator amid concerns that it will ruin the ­Premier League.The powers of the planned watchdog could be scaled back to avoid hampering investment, Bloomberg reported.Keir Starmer may clip the wings of the new Independent Football Regulator amid concerns that it will ruin the ­Premier LeagueCredit: GettyThat followed The Sun’s revelation that there are growing fears the project is duff, amid PM Sir Keir Starmer’s clampdown on red tape.On Monday a top ­minister refused three times to confirm if the regulator will go ahead.Legislation to set it up is currently working through Parliament.Officials are said to fear it could dissuade foreign investors from buying football clubs, which in turn would restrict growth in the footy sector.read more on Premier LeagueThe Prem is the most watched football league in the world, broadcast into 900 million homes in 189 countries.In February Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe, former chairman of Southampton FC and FA Board member, warned the organisation would destroy the Premier League.Speaking to The Sun’s Never Mind The Ballots show, he said: “The Premier League’s an unbelievable success.“It brings huge soft power to Britain, it brings huge amounts of tax revenue to the Exchequer.”Most read in FootballHe then warned that London’s once world-beating financial centre was “destroyed by regulation”.He asked: ““Will the Government take responsibility if football goes the same way as our financial markets after they introduce a regulator?“Light touch self-regulation built the Premier League. Regulation will destroy it.”Officials are said to fear it could dissuade foreign investors from buying football clubsCredit: GettyUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

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    Which Premier League team has the hardest run-in? All 20 sides ranked as race for European places hots up

    THE Premier League season is rapidly drawing to a close with runaway leaders Liverpool set to win only their second crown.The bottom of three of Southampton, Leicester and Ipswich also look resigned to relegation.Liverpool are the runaway league leaders and look almost certain to regain their Premier League crownCredit: EPAMan Utd look unlikely to land a European spot for next season with a trickier run-inCredit: GettyBut there’s plenty to fight for in terms of European places.With five Champions League spots – and even a chance that 11TH PLACE could grab a European berth – no club will be giving up just yet.Opta’s supercomputer has crunched the numbers, working out a rating for each team out of 100, with the higher the number, the tougher the team.And we can bring you the results – starting with the easiest run-ins and working our way to the toughest…READ MORE SPORT STORIES20. Man City – 87.8 (average opponent rating)Currently fifth, just one point below Chelsea in fourth and yet a mere four points above TENTH-PLACED Bournemouth, City will be thrilled by having statistically the easiest run-in.April 2 – Leicester (h) April 6 – Manchester United (a)April 12 – Crystal Palace (h) Most read in FootballApril 19 – Everton (a) April 28 – Aston Villa (h)May 3 – Wolves (h)May 10 – Southampton (a)May 18 – Bournemouth (h)May 25 – Fulham (a)CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS19. Wolves – difficulty rating: 88.7Down in 17th and eight points adrift of West Ham in 16th, Wolves will be relieved to have a comfortable run-in, despite sitting nine points ahead of Ipswich.April 1 – West Ham (h) April 5 – Ipswich (a)April 13 – Tottenham (h) April 20 – Manchester United (a) April 26 – Leicester (h)May 3 – Manchester City (a)May 10 – Brighton (h)May 18 – Crystal Palace (a)May 25 – Brentford (h)Roy Keane fears Man Utd will get WORSE and reveals biggest red flag that could spell the end for Ruben AmorimNottingham Forest look likely to land a Champions League spot amid their terrific seasonCredit: Reuters18. Nottingham Forest – 89.1Returning to their glory days, Forest sit third, just four points below Arsenal – but with just a five-point cushion to Chelsea and ten to tenth, they’ll enjoy their simpler season finale.April 1 – Manchester United (h) April 5 – Aston Villa (a)April 12 – Everton (h) April 21 – Tottenham (a) April 26 – Brentford (h)May 3 – Crystal Palace (a)May 10 – Leicester (h)May 18 – West Ham (a)May 25 – Chelsea (h)17. West Ham – 89.2Down in 16th, 17 points above the relegation zone and miles off Europe, the Hammers’ run-in will largely be about regaining some form and momentum – a cushy run-in should help.April 1 – Wolves (a) April 5 – Bournemouth (h)April 13 – Liverpool (a) April 19 – Southampton (h) April 26 – Brighton (a)May 3 – Tottenham (h)May 10 – Manchester United (a)May 18 – Nottingham Forest (h)May 25 – Ipswich (a)16. Arsenal – 89.4The Gunners look destined to finish second AGAIN, 12 points off leaders Liverpool but 11 points above sixth – Champions League is the minimum requirement from this run-in.April 1 – Fulham (h) April 5 – Everton (a)April 12 – Brentford (h) April 20 – Ipswich (a) April 26 – Crystal Palace (h)May 3 – Bournemouth (h)May 10 – Liverpool (a)May 18 – Newcastle (h)May 25 – Southampton (a)Arsenal’s title charge appears to have faltered yet again and a tough run in won’t helpCredit: Getty15. Newcastle – 89.7Fresh off their Carabao Cup win, ending a 70-year trophy drought, the Toon are just one point off the final Champions League place – so a simpler-than-most run-in could help them return to Europe’s top table.April 2 – Brentford (h) April 7 – Leicester (a)April 13 – Manchester United (h) April 16 – Crystal Palace (h)April 19 – Aston Villa (a) April 26 – Ipswich (h)May 3 – Brighton (a)May 10 – Chelsea (h)May 18 – Arsenal (a)May 25 – Everton (h)14. Ipswich – 89.8Nine points behind 17th-placed Wolves, the Tractors Boys have impressed many with their style of play, but even with one of the easier run-ins, they look set to go down.April 2 – Bournemouth (h) April 5 – Wolves (h)April 13 – Chelsea (a) April 20 – Arsenal (h)April 26 – Newcastle (a)May 3 – Everton (a)May 10 – Brentford (h)May 18 – Leicester (a)May 25 – West Ham (h)13. Bournemouth – 89.8Tenth, but only four points behind Man City in fifth, the Champions League places are very much within the Cherries’ reach.April 2 – Ipswich (h) April 5 – West Ham (a)April 14 – Fulham (h) April 19 – Crystal Palace (a)April 27 – Manchester United (h)May 3 – Arsenal (a)May 10 – Aston Villa (h)May 18 – Manchester City (a)May 25 – Leicester (h)Bournemouth and Brighton are both vying for a European berthCredit: Alamy12. Brighton – 90.1One point of the Champions League places, the Seagulls will hope to take advantage of a not-too-tricky run-in.April 2 – Aston Villa (h) April 5 – Crystal Palace (a)April 12 – Leicester (h) April 19 – Brentford (a)April 26 – West Ham (h)May 3 – Newcastle (h)May 10 – Wolves (a)May 18 – Liverpool (h)May 25 – Tottenham (a)11. Leicester – 90.1Level on points with Ipswich but down in 18th, the Foxes have a middle-ground run-in, which will surely be too tricky for them.April 2 – Manchester City (a) April 7 – Newcastle (h)April 12 – Brighton (a) April 20 – Liverpool (h)April 26 – Wolves (a)May 3 – Southampton (h)May 10 – Nottingham Forest (a)May 18 – Ipswich (h)May 25 – Bournemouth (a)10. Liverpool – 90.2The runaway leaders are 12 points clear of Arsenal in second, so a medium-level end to the season should see the Reds get over the line to land only their second Premier League title.April 2 – Everton (h) April 6 – Fulham (a)April 13 – West Ham (h) April 20 – Leicester (a)April 27 – Tottenham (h)May 3 – Chelsea (a)May 10 – Arsenal (h)May 18 – Brighton (a)May 25 – Crystal Palace (h)9. Tottenham – 90.3An appalling season by their standards have Spurs in 14th – safe from relegation but surely too far off the European places to consider a late charge.April 3 – Chelsea (a) April 6 – Southampton (h)April 13 – Wolves (a) April 21 – Nottingham Forest (h)April 27 – Liverpool (a)May 3 – West Ham (a)May 10 – Crystal Palace (h)May 18 – Aston Villa (a)May 25 – Brighton (h)While Spurs languish in the bottom half, Aston Villa are enjoying a fine seasonCredit: Getty8. Aston Villa – 90.3Poised just three points behind City, Champions League quarter-finalists Villa will hope to keep their spot at Europe’s top table next year with a tricky but manageable run-in.April 2 – Brighton (a) April 5 – Nottingham Forest (h)April 12 – Southampton (a) April 19 – Newcastle (h)April 28 – Manchester City (a)May 3 – Fulham (h)May 10 – Bournemouth (a)May 18 – Tottenham (h)May 25 – Manchester United (a)7. Southampton – 90.5Dead last and one of the worst teams in Premier League history with just nine points from a possible 87, the Saints could have the easiest run-in available and still go down.April 2 – Crystal Palace (h) April 6 – Tottenham (a)April 12 – Aston Villa (h) April 19 – West Ham (a)April 26 – Fulham (h)May 3 – Leicester (a)May 10 – Manchester City (h)May 18 – Everton (a)May 25 – Arsenal (h)6. Chelsea – 90.5Sitting in fourth, for now, the Blues will hope to cling on to their place despite a congested 4th-10th in the table, but a trickier run-in won’t help their Champions League cause.April 3 – Tottenham (h) April 6 – Brentford (a)April 13 – Ipswich (h) April 20 – Fulham (a)April 26 – Everton (a)May 3 – Liverpool (h)May 10 – Newcastle (a)May 18 – Manchester United (h)May 25 – Nottingham Forest (a)Chelsea are still in the Champions League places as things standCredit: Reuters5. Brentford – 90.8Down in 11th but only seven points off the Champions League places, the Bees won’t have completely given up hope, but a Conference League spot is more likely, even if tricky given their run-in.April 2 – Newcastle (a) April 6 – Chelsea (h)April 12 – Arsenal (a) April 19 – Brighton (h)April 26 – Nottingham Forest (a)May 3 – Manchester United (h)May 10 – Ipswich (a)May 18 – Fulham (h)May 25 – Wolves (a)4. Man Utd – 91.0A lowly 13th after an abysmal season, United look unlikely to play in Europe next season, at least through their league place, and a tough run-in will only hurt their cause.April 1 – Nottingham Forest (a) April 6 – Manchester City (h)April 13 – Newcastle (a) April 20 – Wolves (h)April 27 – Bournemouth (a)May 3 – Brentford (a)May 10 – West Ham (h)May 18 – Chelsea (a)May 25 – Aston Villa (h)3. Everton – 91.5Looked almost-certain to go down at one stage, the Toffees are vastly improved under David Moyes and now look safe – a tough run-in shouldn’t prevent them from maintaining their Premier League status.April 2 – Liverpool (a) April 5 – Arsenal (h)April 12 – Nottingham Forest (a) April 19 – Manchester City (h)April 26 – Chelsea (a)May 3 – Ipswich (h)May 10 – Fulham (a)May 18 – Southampton (h)May 25 – Newcastle (a)Everton looked to have avoided relegation after a horror start to the seasonCredit: Getty2. Crystal Palace – 91.8Mid-table, unlikely to grab a European spot with this run-in but the Eagles are almost certain to survive, despite the second-toughest end to the season.April 2 – Southampton (a) April 5 – Brighton (h)April 12 – Manchester City (a) April 16 – Newcastle (a) April 19 – Bournemouth (h)April 26 – Arsenal (a)May 3 – Nottingham Forest (h)May 10 – Tottenham (a)May 18 – Wolves (h)May 25 – Liverpool (a)1. Fulham – 91.8Currently eighth, the Cottagers harbour dreams of a late charge into the Champions League, just three points off City – but with the toughest run-in, they could miss out on Europe altogether.April 1 – Arsenal (a) April 6 – Liverpool (h)April 14 – Bournemouth (a) April 20 – Chelsea (h)April 26 – Southampton (a)May 3 – Aston Villa (a)May 10 – Everton (h)READ MORE SUN STORIESMay 18 – Brentford (a)May 25 – Manchester City (h) More

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    ‘Trent’s replacement sorted’ – Fans convinced Frimpong will join Liverpool after spotting his Holland camp antics

    FANS are convinced Jeremie Frimpong is on his way to Liverpool after he hilariously attempted a Scouse accent.The Bayer Leverkusen right-back has been linked with replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold at Anfield amid interest from Real Madrid.Jeremie Frimpong did his best Scouse accent for Ryan GravenberchCredit: @OnsOranjeFrimpong was also all smiles with Virgil van DijkCredit: @OnsOranjeLiverpool fans reckon he could replace Trent Alexander-Arnold at AnfieldCredit: GettyDutchman Frimpong linked up with the rest of his international team-mates earlier today ahead of the Nations League quarter-final against Spain.And the 24-year-old seemed on particularly good terms with the Liverpool contingent in the Holland squad.Frimpong beamed at Ryan Gravenberch, greeting him by doing his best Scouse accent.He got the accent spot on while saying: “You alright la?”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFrimpong and Gravenberch then burst into laughter and gave each other a huge hug.Virgil van Dijk was seen giggling and he was then welcomed with a shout of “my G”.It made fans convinced that Frimpong is on his way to Liverpool, with one saying: “That’s Trent’s replacement sorted.”Another reacted: “If he ends up at Liverpool this summer, the announcement video is sorted.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWith four goals and 11 assists for Leverkusen this term, Frimpong could step into Alexander-Arnold’s shoes.Real Madrid are set to swoop for the England star this summer after seeing a £20mllion bid rejected in January.’He’s going to Tranmere after this’ – Roy Keane rips into Trent Alexander-Arnold after ‘school boy’ defending vs Man UtdAlexander-Arnold’s contract expires at the end of the season and there is no sign he will agree to an extension. Despite him being set to leave on a free, SunSport exclusively revealed that Liverpool could still receive a fee as Real Madrid are keen to get the deal done in time for the new Club World Cup.The tournament in the US starts on June 15 and his contract does not end until June 30. More

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    Champions-elect Liverpool face most important transfer window in club history with TWELVE stars facing uncertain future

    LIVERPOOL are facing a seismic summer exodus – whatever happens in the remaining weeks of the season.The Reds are still odds-on favourites to welcome the Premier League title back to Anfield, but within weeks could also wave goodbye to up to a whole team’s worth of players in the busiest and most important transfer window in recent club history.Mo Salah is poised to lead an exodus of star names from Liverpool this summerCredit: GettyLiverpool fans have told owners FSG to pay their stars whatever they want to stayCredit: ReutersThe future of Mo Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil Van Dijk, the out-of-contract big three, has been a sub-plot for the whole of Arne Slot’s debut campaign.And it is no longer unthinkable that all three will leave and be followed out of the Anfield exit door by a number of others.Kop boss Slot and Anfield chiefs are also on alert as European rivals circle around first-teamers like Ibrahima Konate and Luis Diaz. Then there are bit-part players like back-up goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, Harvey Elliott and Joe Gomez who want regular football.Read more in footballAnd even if the Reds would welcome offers for underperforming stars such as Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota, they would still need to find high-quality replacements to give Slot the chance to maintain momentum.Despite Liverpool’s Champions League exit and defeat in the Carabao Cup Final, the Dutchman’s season will be judged a huge success if he delivers the Premier League crown that would put the club level with Manchester United But Slot has relied on the core of players who revived the Reds under Jurgen Klopp.If this is to be the start of a glorious new era at Anfield, Slot will need chief executive of football Michael Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes to deliver a new-look squad that is fit for purpose.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSOn his way – Mo Salah is one of three key men yet to sign a new Reds dealCredit: AlamyMOHAMED SALAHWhether the Egyptian King opted to join a European rival like Inter Milan or to take the money from Saudi Arabia, he would be absolutely irreplaceable.With 27 goals and 17 assists, Salah has been involved in 63.7 per cent of Liverpool’s Premier League goals this season.Mo Salah appears to confirm Liverpool transfer exit live on Sky Sports after ripping Man Utd to shredsThere is no like-for-like option to step into the shoes of the third highest scorer in club history and a legend of English and world football. The Reds pulled a rabbit out of the hat when they signed Kenny Dalglish to succeed Kevin Keegan as their main man in 1977. This is a bigger task.Down and out – Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to leave Liverpool for Real MadridCredit: GettyTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLDMost Liverpool fans accept that “the Scouser in our team” is going to Real Madrid to join new bestie Jude Bellingham.Supporters also know that recruiting a right back with the same passing range and potency going forward will be impossible. There is a reason why TAA is the most prolific assist provider from his position in Premier League history, with 62 at the age of only 25. The trick will be finding someone who can defend better yet still deliver enough at the other end of the field to give some compensation for his absence. Good luck.Stand off – Van Dijk and Liverpool are yet to agree terms to keep the skipper at AnfieldCredit: MatchDay Images LimitedVIRGIL VAN DIJKThe accepted wisdom on Merseyside remains that captain Van Dijk is the one of the big three who will sign a new deal to keep him at Anfield.The man himself, though, has given that opinion little support in recent weeks, as rumours of interest from Real Madrid, Saudi Arabia and elsewhere re-emerge, die down and then return.But for Salah’s incredible numbers, the Dutchman would be a leading candidate for player of the year. He is generally regarded as one of the best central defenders to play in England in recent decades.Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen are among those touted as successors. Neither is currently at the same level. But then again, who is?It’s all kicking off as Real Madrid, PSG and others plot moves for Ibrahima KonateCredit: GettyIBRAHIMA KONATEApart from the defeats by Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle, the most alarming and unexpected development of recent weeks has been the emergence of doubt about the future of Van Dijk’s centre back partner.You could dismiss talk that the France international would welcome a summer battle for his signature as mischief-making by the clubs with their friends in the local  media or the product of a slow news day. But it may well not be.Konate’s susceptibility to injury has been an issue in the past but the Reds could ill afford to lose him, regardless of what happens with Van Dijk.Luis Diaz has had a poor second half of the season and could be on his way outCredit: GettyLUIS DIAZThe links between Diaz and Barcelona are as long-standing as the La Liga giants’ financial problems that make any such deal challenging.Yet amid talk of a busy summer at the Camp Nou, with Barca allegedly willing to cash in on bankable stars like Frenkie De Jong and Raphinha, Diaz will be on their radar.Liverpool would not necessarily be averse to selling the Colombian after he failed to maintain his early season form and Cody Gakpo became first-choice on the left flank.Yet Slot would want someone of high calibre and/or versatility to push Gakpo and whatever other forwards he has after the summer.Darwin Nunez is one of FIVE Liverpool forwards who could leave Anfield this summerCredit: GettyDARWIN NUNEZCaptain Chaos’ time at Anfield is surely up after another season of occasional highs but even bigger lows.Liverpool are said to have turned down a bid of £62m plus add-ons from Al-Nassr in January only because they did not have enough time to find a suitable replacement for the Uruguayan.Al-Nassr signed Jhon Duran from Aston Villa instead, but other Saudi clubs remain keen on the Reds’ No 9.Rumours about Atletico Madrid won’t go away, either. Whatever fee Liverpool are able to get for Nunez will need to be re-invested more wisely than the initial £64m they spent on him three years ago.Caoimhin Kelleher is set to take his destiny in his hands and leave LiverpoolCredit: GettyCAOIMHIN KELLEHEREnough is surely enough for the goalkeeper who is the Republic of Ireland’s No 1 yet deserves to be first choice for a club, too.That’s not going to happen at Liverpool, with Georgian stopper Giorgi Mamardashvili due to arrive this summer to push Alisson for his place and, if all goes well, take it in the not-too-distant future.The Reds have turned down bids from Nottingham Forest and others in recent transfer windows and Kelleher filled in well for Alisson while the Brazilian was injured earlier in the season.But with Bournemouth now joining the ranks of clubs ready to give the Irishman his big chance, he will surely be on his way in the summer.Harvey Elliott’s winner in the Champions League at PSG was a rare highlight this seasonCredit: PAHARVEY ELLIOTTBrighton and Borussia Dortmund were among the clubs who were reported to be looking at a move for Elliott in January.The player himself was quick to play down talk of a winter move, stressing that he had had talks with Slot about his lack of game time and understood how hard it was to break into a team that was doing so well.Yet Elliott’s resolve to stay – and the Reds’ determination to keep him – would be tested by sizeable summer offers for a player with just over two years left on his contract.The attacking midfielder/forward – and doubt about his most effective position is a factor – has made just 21 appearances this season, compared to 53 in Klopp’s final campaign, with not a single start in the Premier League.Joe Gomez has never scored in 10 years at Liverpool and may leave before he canCredit: EPAJOE GOMEZGomez has gone from being a key player in Klopp’s farewell season to an outsider under Slot, although he seemed to be returning to favour before a hamstring injury sidelined him.The Reds allegedly included Gomez as a makeweight in the proposed deal to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle last year.Eddie Howe will not be the only manager interested in Gomez this summer. Aston Villa, Chelsea and Fulham have all been linked with him, along with clubs in Europe.A move back to London for the former Charlton Academy star, after 10 years at Anfield, looks a good bet. The Reds would want a replacement who matched his versatility but not his injury record.Wataru Endo is Arne Slot’s favourite late sub but other clubs would offer him moreCredit: GettyWATARU ENDOFulham, AC Milan and even Barcelona are just some of the club believed to have an interest in the defensive midfielder, who arrived for a cut-price £16m in the summer of 2023.The Japan captain has become a cult hero at Anfield because of his no-nonsense style and cameo roles in closing out games for Slot’s side.Yet sentimentality will count for little if the Reds could recoup a decent amount of their initial outlay and put it towards securing someone who might put more pressure on Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister for a starting place.Diogo Jota has struggled for fitness and form this season and could be availableCredit: AlamyDIOGO JOTAAs the Kop song goes, the man from Portugal wears the No 20 but if Liverpool win title No 20, his contribution will not have been significant.Jota’s injury issues have been glossed over in the past because of his tendency to have scoring streaks at important times.But like Nunez, the 28 year old has not done enough this season to share the burden of scoring with the incredible Salah.Despite that and his physical frailty, a number of clubs at home and abroad would be prepared to offer Jota a chance to make a new start, perhaps including former employers Wolves.FEDERIO CHIESASerie A title rivals Inter Milan and Napoli were both interested in bringing Chiesa back to Italy on loan in January, after his injury-affected lack of game time at AnfieldUntil what was only a consolation goal in the Carabao Cup final, Chiesa’s most memorable contribution to the season was his manic celebration of Nunez’s late goals at Brentford.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe potential departure of other forward options might make it worth Liverpool’s while to give the Euro 2020 winner another season to prove his worth.But after spending only an initial £10m on the Italy international, the chance to recoup that cash or even make a profit would also be tempting, probably for the player, too. 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    Luis Diaz’s Liverpool future in doubt with ‘concrete possibility’ winger leaves after Barcelona join transfer race

    LIVERPOOL star Luis Diaz could leave Anfield at the end of the season amid interest from Barcelona, according to reports.The Colombian winger was on the radar of the Catalan giants last summer.Barcelona are set to reignite their interest in Luis Diaz this summerCredit: GettyBarcelona could not strike a deal due to financial constraints while Liverpool demanded £75million.But reporter Fabrizio Romano claims it is “concrete possibility” that Diaz is shown the exit door soon.The 28-year-old’s contract does not expire until the summer of 2027, but Liverpool could cash-in to stop the player running down his deal.Romano expects Barcelona to come back in for him as he is “appreciated” by their transfer chiefs.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut he reports again that the club’s finances could prove a major stumbling block.Barca have competition from Saudi Arabian sides who will have few challenges finding enough cash.But they are also keen on persuading his Liverpool team-mate Darwin Nunez to the Middle East.It also alleged that there was “genuine interest” in Diaz from Manchester City a year ago.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSLiverpool are set for a busy summer with Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mo Salah seeing their contracts expire.Arne Slot’s side are said to be desperate to sign Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez.Jamie Carragher and Micah Richards walk off CBS Sports set after Liverpool hero Alisson’s post-match interviewSunSport exclusively revealed that the Cherries are, meanwhile, confident of signing Caoimhin Kelleher.Liverpool chiefs have also reportedly made contact with Alexander Isak’s representatives ahead of a possible bid.But Newcastle remain adamant that their Carabao Cup final hero will remain on Tyneside and will discuss an improved contract this summer.Carabao Cup final ratingsNEWCASTLE ended their 70-year trophy drought in style by beating Premier League champions-elect Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final.The 2-1 scoreline flattered the Reds in truth, with Eddie Howe’s Toon having produced a sensational performance to flatten runaway league leaders.Local lad Dan Burn, fresh off his first England call-up, rose highest to head his boyhood club into the lead on the stroke of half-time.Alexander Isak then deservedly doubled Newcastle’s lead shortly after the break.The Toon could have further increased their advantage, only for forgotten man Federico Chiesa to hand Liverpool a late lifeline on 94 minutes.But that goal was unable to spur a further comeback as Newcastle saw out the remaining added time.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Liverpool players and Gary Stonehouse rated the Newcastle players. More

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    Bournemouth in Caoimhin Kelleher transfer chase and confident of beating Chelsea and Tottenham to Liverpool keeper

    BOURNEMOUTH are confident of beating Big Six clubs to sign Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher this summer.The Republic of Ireland international wants to leave Anfield to get first-team football, and may have played his last game for the club in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final. Caoimhin Kelleher is wanted by Bournemouth and several other Premier League sidesCredit: RexChelsea, Tottenham and Carabao winners Newcastle are also interested.Bournemouth are ready to move first however, putting them in pole position, as manager Andoni Iraola has made signing a goalkeeper a priority with Kelleher his top target.Iraola has used on-loan goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for most of the season, but there is no obligation to buy in the loan contract with Chelsea and his performances have been mixed.The Spaniard was dropped by Iraola earlier in the season for another young Irish goalkeeper, Mark Travers, who is now on loan at Middlesbrough.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIraola regards Kelleher as a big improvement on both his current goalkeepers and has asked Bournemouth to move quickly when the transfer window opens in June.Chelsea have also expressed interest, but will not commit to making a bid at this stage.Boss Enzo Maresca wants to back his current goalkeepers, Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen, despite the doubts of others at Stamford Bridge.Tottenham’s goalkeeping position is also unclear, with Guglielmo Vicario, Fraser Forster and Antonin Kinsky all being used by Ange Postecoglou this season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd while Newcastle want an extra goalkeeper and like Kelleher, the club’s PSR problems mean they may not be able to meet Liverpool’s £30million asking price.Bournemouth may also be able to offer European football as Iraola’s side are currently ninth in the Premier League, but Kelleher does not regard that as essential.Shay Given loses the rag over Liverpool’s treatment of Caoimhin Kelleher Kelleher’s priority is securing a move to a Premier League club that can provide regular first-team appearances after his career has stalled at Anfield through no fault of his own.The 26-year-old has played 17 matches so far this season, but has been restricted to appearances in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup since Alisson Becker returned from a hamstring injury in December.Liverpool are aware of Kelleher’s frustrations and will not stand in his way.Arne Slot has already signed Kelleher’s replacement, with Georgian international Georgi Mamardashvili due to arrive from Valencia at the end of the season. More