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      If Arsenal lose to Liverpool, they are OUT of the Premier League title race… the gulf is massive’

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      LOSE to Liverpool, and Arsenal are out of the Premier League title race.That is according to Paul Merson, who believes the Gunners cannot afford to fall behind because the “gulf is massive” at the top.Arsenal legend Paul Merson believes Sunday’s crunch clash against Liverpool is a must win gameMartin Odegaard remains unavailable for selection with the Norway star desperate to return to trainingQuestion marks hang over Bukayo Saka’s availability after the Arsenal ace limped off during England’s 2-1 defeat to Greece in the Nations LeagueArsenal, who sit third in the Prem after a shock 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth last time out, host leaders Liverpool on Sunday.But they will do so without the spine of their team.With captain Martin Odegaard out with an ankle injury sustained on international duty, Bukayo Saka a doubt and William Saliba suspended after a red card at the Vitality Stadium last Saturday.And former Gunner Merson believes Sunday’s crunch clash could determine Arsenal’s Prem title hopes.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSMerson told Sky Sports: “This is a big football match, a huge football match. “I’d go as far as to say that if Arsenal get beat here, I think they’re out of it. I really do.”And people can say ‘Oh there’s 29 games left’ but after Manchester City beat Southampton, Arsenal will be six behind them.”And if they lose on the weekend, they’re going to be seven behind Liverpool.Most read in FootballArsenal suffered their first defeat of the season after going down to 10 men at BournemouthFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”These teams put up figures and don’t look like they’re going to get beat by the lesser teams. The gulf is massive. I think this is a huge game.”Arsenal could also be without Riccardo Calafiori, who came away from their cagey 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk injured, and Jurrien Timber, who picked up a knock against PSG, when Liverpool come to town.Mikel Arteta admits Arsenal suffered with tiredness against Shakhtar Donetsk Mikel Arteta admitted his side were tired in the second half against Shakhtar, who could have earned themselves a point were it not for David Raya’s excellent save to deny Pedrinho’s long-range shot in the 92nd minute.Liverpool have a couple of injury problems of their own and have a day less to recover after their 1-0 trip to RB Leipzig in the Champions League on Wednesday.Goalkeeper Alisson is out with a hamstring injury while question marks remain over Diogo Jota, after the Portugal star limped off in the opening stages of their 2-1 win over Chelsea last weekend.It may not be must-win just yet, but it’s close to must-not-lose for Arsenal.Because while the gulf is massive, the margin for error is small. Mikel Arteta’s side are already four points off leaders Liverpool and three points behind last season’s title rivals City, who host 19th place Southampton, who are winless this term.But Merson might be being too hasty as Arsenal suffered four defeats by New Year last season, going onto to lose five games all season.Arsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A More

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      ‘I’m not a Man City, I’m not a Liverpool – but I am a cold night away in Stoke’ says viral boxer in threat to opponent

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      BOXER Johnny Fisher described himself as a cold night away in Stoke – in a warning to whoever shares the ring with him.Fisher, whose dad Big John has become a sensation on TikTok, is 12-0 with 11 knockouts. Johnny Fisher next to Moses Itauma at the big London press conferenceCredit: GettyAnd he returns on December 21 on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s rematch with Oleksandr Usyk. He faces 22–1 Aussie Demsey McKean – a former sparring partner of Anthony Joshua’s – on the bill in Saudi Arabia.But already talk has turned to a future battle of the British unbeatens against 10-0 Moses Itauma. And Fisher responded with: “I will fight anyone. Anyone out there I will fight.READ MORE IN BOXING”What they’ve got to realise is my value I bring to the table but listen, I’m not a Man City, I’m not an AC Milan, I’m not a Liverpool but I am cold night away in Stoke.”And to beat me you’ve got to pull your socks up and put your on to beat me. “But listen, Moses Itauma, a great talent I’ve got so much respect for him and that is a massive fight for the British public down the line and I think that can happen.”CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe pair have sparred in the past and even agreed to go out for Fisher’s trademark Chinese takeaway after. Most read in BoxingAnd Itauma added: “Me and Johnny have had a few conversations. “I don’t hate the man but listen I feel like the fight will there on the table if we want it. “One day we’ll have it. Maybe a Chinese after.” Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk II Launch Press Conference More

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      Virgil van Dijk contract: Liverpool ace confirms talks over new deal ARE ongoing as he credits Slot’s tactical influence

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      VIRGIL VAN DIJK is in talks over a new Liverpool deal and is “having fun” under new boss Arne Slot.The Reds captain, 33, is one of a trio of stars out of contract at the end of the season, alongside Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold.Virgil van Dijk is in talks over a new contract at LiverpoolCredit: ReutersHe is enjoying life under Arne SlotCredit: ReutersAll three could discuss terms with clubs overseas from January if new contracts are not signed.But Van Dijk, who joined for £75million in January 2018, says he is speaking to the “right people” about a new deal.He said: “I can say obviously discussions are ongoing, but I don’t know, we will see what happens in the future.”My full focus is on Liverpool, wanting to win games that are ahead of me and nothing else.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”What the future will bring I have no idea at the moment. I can only tell you that discussions have been started up and we will see.”I feel very good, physically, mentally and I am having fun.”What the future brings, I have no idea at the moment, but discussions are ongoing with the right people, and when it’s time to make a decision or whatever, you guys will know it as well.”But now full commitment and focus is on Liverpool and to be successful this season. So we will see.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSLiverpool’s win over Chelsea on Sunday kept them at the top of the table, a point ahead of holders Manchester City.Van Dijk, who won the Premier League in 2020, says he is blocking out talk of a title push in Slot’s first season.David James saves penalty from young fan at half-time of Liverpool’s win over Chelsea Liverpool ratings vs ChelseaBy Ken LawrenceLIVERPOOL picked up a big 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Anfield to remain top of the Premier League.The Reds registered their first victory against a team currently occupying the top half of the Prem table.That was a major statement for the Merseysiders’ manager Arne Slot, whose team now stands a point ahead of Manchester City and four away from third-placed Arsenal at the top.Mohamed Salah opened the scoring a minute before the half-hourmark from the penalty spot.But Chelsea hit back just three minutes into the second half with Nicolas Jackson.However, Liverpool picked up the three points thanks to Curtis Jones’ winner just three minutes later.But how did each Liverpool star far? Check out Ken Lawrence’s player ratings below for more:CAOIMHIN KELLEHER – 5For the Kop – and no doubt secretly for boss Arne Slot – still surely lacking a top keeper’s presence.TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 5Didn’t look entirely comfortable throughout especially in the face of Malo Gusto’s first-half raids.IBRAHIMA KONATE – 5Caught napping by Nicolas Jackson’s run three minutes into the second half for Chelsea’s equaliser.VIRGIL VAN DIJK – 7He has his assassins back home in the Netherlands but again showed imperious defensive abilities.ANDY ROBERTSON – 6The Scotland captain is often praised more for his attacking qualities than his defensive ones, but goodness me – what a brilliant last-second block.RYAN GRAVENBERCH – 7Only played 12 games in Jurgen Klopp’s final season but showed again why he’s now an automatic choice for Slot.CURTIS JONES – 9Outstanding all over the pitch, won one pen when it should have been two, plus grabbed a poacher’s winner.DOMINIK SZOBOSZLAI– 5Again suggested he flatters to deceive, too often playing at a slower tempo than those around him.MOHAMED SALAH – 7What’s left to say about Anfield’s Egyptian king and his ultimate cool shot from the spot?DIOGO JOTA – 4Forced off after playing in pain after Tosin Adarabioyo hauled him to the deck early on.CODY GAKPO – 5Flitted in and out of the action, the Dutch wide man didn’t look that shocked to be replaced.SUBSDARWIN NUNEZ (for Jota 30) – 5Still a work in progress, says Slot – but working much harder off the ball.LUIS DIAZ (for Gakpo 65) – 5Ever-willing to shows that feisty left-sided pace of his.ALEXIS MAC ALLISTER ( for Curtis Jones 81) 5Ill in midweek but as the Argentine always does, got stuck in.JOE GOMEZ (for Trent Alexander-Arnold 81) – 5A few welcome minutes for the defender now down the pecking order.He said: “Everyone can have their opinion but I know, a lot of people know opinions can change every three days now in terms of people saying someone can win the league and someone can’t.”There is no point listening to any of that. I don’t do that.”I focus on one game at a time, I want to be successful, I want to win trophies in every competition we’re in, I want to try and win it.”We know how difficult it is but I am going to give it a very good go.”Van Dijk has also given credit to Slot for the club’s new tactical approach to matches.He added: “I think it is the work we put in and it starts up front. That is the most important thing.”You saw Darwin (Nunez) coming on against Chelsea, winning balls on the edge of our box and that is a good sign.”It’s obviously a good basis to have because if you are defensively solid and you’re not conceding many goals or any goals at all, I think that is always a good way to success.”I think at the start of the season, we saw numbers about what happens if your opponent is in the final third, how many bodies do we have behind the ball and I would say that has definitely changed.”I wouldn’t say it’s [just] the last line and the goalkeepers making a difference, especially it’s the guys in front of us again, so it’s a team effort.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I know how it works, me and Ibou (Ibrahima Konate) as the centre-backs or the goalkeepers will get the credit for the clean sheets but it’s all about everyone in the team and credit to everyone who is doing that.”And I am happy with the clean sheets, so hopefully we can get a lot more this season and be successful.” More

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      Jamie Carragher is warned ‘don’t bring that here’ live on Sky Sports after Liverpool’s win over Chelsea

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      JAMIE CARRAGHER was ordered not to bring his “CBS chat” live on Sky Sports after covering his beloved Liverpool’s win over Chelsea.The Reds beat the Blues 2-1 at Anfield thanks to a stunning display by Curtis Jones, who won a penalty that led to Mohamed Salah’s opener and scored the winner after Nicolas Jackson’s equaliser.Sky Sports presenter Kelly Cates ordered Jamie Carragher and Micah Richards not to bring their ‘CBS chat’That comment led to the entire panel laughing their socks offCarragher and Richards work together at CBS with Thierry Henry and Kate AbdoCredit: GettyCarragher provided punditry alongside former team-mate Daniel Sturridge and Micah Richards, with whom he also covers the Champions League on CBS.The ex-England international insisted Jones “should have” been awarded another penalty for Liverpool.Presenter Kelly Cates immediately responded: “You’ve firmed up a bit.”Richards addressed his fellow CBS analyst: “You were 50-50 at half-time, has someone been in your DM’s?”Read More on FootballThe panel then burst into laughter before Carragher quipped: “No it was a penalty, you leave my DMs out of it.”Cates replied: “Alright, don’t bring your CBS chat on here”And Sturridge ended the funny segment by saying: “Chill out man, what’s going on.”Carragher and Richards often find themselves taking a cheeky dig at each other live on the CBS studio alongside fellow legend Thierry Henry and presenter Kate Abdo.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, the duo are usually more subtle when working with Sky Sports.The pair will be returning for the Champions League action this coming Tuesday on CBS.Gary Neville’s sheepish reaction after Jamie Carragher says Cristiano Ronaldo has ‘pied two of us off’They will be covering Arsenal clash with Shakhtar Donetsk before Manchester City’s encounter with Sparta Prague and Liverpool’s visit at RB Leipzig on Wednesday. More

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      Is Fabrizio Romano a time traveller? Fans spot his eerie sub ‘leak’ during Liverpool’s win over Chelsea

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      FORGET mystic meerkats, uncanny octopuses and even good old-fashioned crystal balls – this eerie Anfield tale might freak you out.Fans reckon Fabrizio Romano metamorphosed from transfer guru to “time traveller” – as he spooked them out with his mid-match messages in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Chelsea.Liverpool’s Diogo Jota was at the centre of a fun ‘time-travel’ conundrum after he got injured in the 2-1 victory over ChelseaCredit: APJota had to be replaced by Darwin Nunez after just 30 minutesCredit: RexThe journalist’s millions of followers already believe he is in the loop with his transfer insights – but never before in a TIME loop.Romano saw the Reds return top of the Premier League with Arne Slot’s 10th victory in 11 matches since his summer arrival as boss.But amid a new blitz of VAR dramas, the Italian sparked a conspiracy – with the mysterious timing of his posts about Diogo Jota.The Liverpool winger was caught up in a major first-half talking point.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith the score goalless, the Portuguese hero escaped through the middle but was hauled down by Tosin Adarabioyo.The Chelsea centre-back was only booked, leaving Arsenal fans furious as they claimed William Saliba’s red-card foul 24 hours earlier was identical.Jota never fully recovered from the knock, meaning he was replaced by Darwin Nunez on the half-hour.Unfortunate, you might think, but nothing untoward.Most read in FootballHere’s how Fabrizio Romano sparked a mystical mysteryFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSExcept, as one fan posted: “16:43pm: Fabrizio Romano tweets Diogo Jota has left the pitch with an injury despite him not.”17:02pm: Diogo Jota leaves the pitch with an injury. Is this brother a time traveller…?”Watch Wolves’ incredible player announcement video that savages both Chelsea and Fabrizio Romano in single strokeA second observer added: “At least now we know why he knows all the transfer news? He’s a time traveller.”A third supporter noted: “He also got the replacement correct.”And a few went even further down the “sub leak” rabbit hole with suggestions like: “This just proves that football is scripted.”But others attempted to ease the conundrum by pointing out: “He left the pitch for a few minutes earlier and Nunez was warming up.”At least Romano didn’t share extra-early details of how Jota suffered his blow.Otherwise it might have been a case of Whack to the Future.Romano baffled his millions of followers by posting as fact something that only happened 19 minutes laterCredit: Sportsfile More

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      Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris provides Jordan Henderson transfer update 13 years after £20m departure to Liverpool

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      REGIS LE BRIS refused to rule out Jordan Henderson making a romantic return to Sunderland in January – but says no transfer talks are underway.The Wearsider, 34, came through the ranks at his boyhood club before signing for Liverpool in a £20m deal in 2011.Speculation has been mounting that Jordan Henderson wants a return to SunderlandCredit: GettyThe star came the the academy on Wearside but was sold to Liverpool in 2011Credit: AFPHe went on to enjoy great success at Anfield, captaining them to the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, European Super Cup and the Club World Cup.The England midfielder’s 12-year stay with the Reds came to a controversial end in the summer of 2023 as he headed to Saudi Arabia side Al Ettifaq for mega wages.The move turned into a disaster as he played just 19 games for the team managed by Steven Gerrard due to his family being unable to settle in the Middle East.Henderson headed back to Europe in January with Ajax but he has started just twice in the Dutch top-flight this term.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThat has led to his representatives allegedly trying to engineer a move back to the Stadium of Light to help Le Bris’ young squad in their promotion charge.Ahead of Sunday’s trip to Hull City, the Black Cats boss bluntly replied “no” when asked directly whether Henderson’s name had been discussed as a potential target.However, when asked if he was the type of player that he would like to bring in, he did not rule out a potential swoop.The Frenchman said: “He’s obviously a strong and famous player.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“At the minute the transfer window is not open, so we can speak about many players but we don’t have the choice at the moment.”Sunderland legend Julio Arca certainly believes that it would be a no-brainer to snap him up if the opportunity arises.Jordan Henderson’s prickly interview goes viral after seven-word reply to reporter’s blunt question and fans love itThe 43-year-old Argentinean, who spent six years at Sunderland and helped them to the 2005 Championship title, told SunSport: “I haven’t seen Jordan play a lot recently or what standard he is at but he is someone local that has gone on to do really well.“He did great for the club while he was here and he can bring a lot of experience to Sunderland’s young players.“It’s good to have experienced players like that as, even if they don’t play all the time, they can help in the changing-room and in certain games. “Some people will think that Jordan cannot play in every game, but he can bring a lot more than just the football playing side.”Sunderland have history when it comes to reunions with ex-stars and they have produced mixed results.Strikers Jermain Defoe and Danny Graham both endured miserable second stints with the Black Cats while the likes of Grant Leadbitter and Paul Bracewell both enjoyed further success.Regis Le Bris says ‘no’ talks have taken place so far regarding HendersonCredit: AlamySunderland legend Julio Arca would love to see Henderson returnCredit: GettyAnd another ex-Sunderland fan favourite Martin Gray, who came through the ranks at Roker Park to help the club win promotion in the 1990s, issued a warning to Henderson.The 53-year-old said: “You look at his achievements since leaving Sunderland and you just think, ‘Wow, where has that come from?’“Not many thought that he would go on to become the person he has and achieve the success he has with Liverpool and England.“You need experience but you need energy as well. “He could come and take some of the pressure off of the younger lads but if it doesn’t go well for you then it can leave a bit of a sour taste due to what you have achieved since you left.Martin Gray did issue a warning to the veteran midfielderCredit: Getty“I think it’s a big decision to make and if your legs are starting to go or you start picking up little niggles then the punters can turn on you very quickly.”Meanwhile, Ajax manager Francesco Farioli, who took over in the summer, sung the praises of Henderson when asked about the Sunderland links but refused to confirm the veteran was staying in Amsterdam.He said: “He is an exceptional player who possesses great quality and leadership.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Having captained his team to a Champions League victory, I believe he can effectively communicate the essence of a winning mentality and a strong work ethic.“There are many valuable ways in which he can make a significant contribution to a young team like ours.”Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Chelsea, Liverpool and Man Utd ‘in tense academy row as they accuse each other of BLOCKING scouts from games’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED, Chelsea and Liverpool have become embroiled in an academy row following a controversial summer transfer, according to reports.It’s claimed that the dispute has led to scouts from the three clubs being denied access to academy games this season.Rio Ngumoha was highly-rated at Chelsea before making the switch to LiverpoolCredit: GettyThe issues are alleged to stem from the transfer of talented 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea to Liverpool in the summer.According to The Athletic, the Blues have been accused by several sources of denying opposition scouts access to academy matches.Chelsea are said to have denied the claim, countering that they in fact have had applications for scouts to attend games at Liverpool denied.The Reds have also denied such allegations, but added that they would likely turn Chelsea down in future, given that the agreements are supposed to be reciprocal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn addition to Liverpool, Man Utd are also said to have had applications to attend Chelsea youth matches this season denied.The Red Devils were also interested in signing Ngumoha from the Blues, prior to his Anfield switch.Figures from the three clubs are claimed to have met last week with the aim of easing tensions.But no agreement has yet been found.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSunSport has contacted Chelsea for comment.Ngumoha has featured three times for Liverpool’s Under-18s in the U18 Premier League this season.Cole Palmer has fewer touches but is more deadly thanks to Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea tactics He has also played in two Uefa Youth League matches for the Reds.The winger has been capped by England up to Under-16 level.As per The Athletic, Liverpool Under-18s boss Marc Bridge-Wilkinson said of Ngumoha last month: “He is here because he’s got potential to go and reach the first team, but besides that, there’s no pressure from us.” More

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      Liverpool sent a private jet to sign me and Klopp called me a mix of Fabregas and Gundogan – but I turned him down

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      NOT many players can say Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool all wanted to sign them – but Piotr Zielinski can.From the VIP treatment at Jurgen Klopp’s house to Bruno Fernandes begging him to move to Old Trafford, the midfielder is used to a convincing sales pitch.Piotr Zielinski was wanted by a host of Premier League clubsCredit: RexJurgen Klopp flew him to Liverpool on a private jetCredit: PABut despite several chances to move to the Premier League, Zielinski has always felt his home was in Italy.The Poland star was just 14 when Bayer Leverkusen and Liverpool were keen on him.But he did not want to leave his homeland and decided to stay put.Eventually, he went to Udinese in 2011 and Serie A has been his playground ever since.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 30-year-old joined Napoli five years later and went on to play 364 times for the club, winning the league title there in the 2022/23 season.He joined Inter Milan in the summer – but some of the world’s biggest clubs chased his signature during his time in Udine and Naples.He told the Foot Truck podcast: “At one time, Fernandes wanted me to end up at Manchester United. “We are still in touch and we talk quite often. We played together at Udinese and in one of the matches we practically single-handedly beat Milan.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Liverpool sent a private jet to Florence for me and I flew with my agent Bartlomiej Bolek.”We drove up to Klopp’s house afterwards, we had a great conversation. It was the first time I had flown like that. How Liverpool’s Jude Bellingham plan backfired with Trent Alexander-Arnold”He said that for him I was a mix of Ilkay Gundogan and Cesc Fabregas.”We watched a Premier League match at his place on his giant TV, I had never seen anything like that either.”Arsenal and Barcelona were also once interested, with his move to Spain not materialising because Napoli demanded players in a swap deal.And when his contract running down in 2022, West Ham tried to sign him before they ended up with Lucas Paqueta.Zielinski revealed: “It was also close, Napoli were already convinced about the offer, they threw in £30million.”They were already looking around for medical care for my wife and child and where I was going to live.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But Luciano Spalletti took me aside and asked me what was going on and I said I would rather stay to fight for the title. “He said I want you to stay and I stayed because I did not really feel London either.” More