More stories

  • in

    Man Utd going ‘all out’ for £55m Pau Torres transfer, Varane latest, Sancho WILL NOT wear number 7, Pogba £104m new deal

    MANCHESTER UNITED are going ‘all out’ for £55m-rated Pau Torres, according to reports.And the Red Devils want to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104m contract, as exclusively reported by SunSport.
    Meanwhile, the club are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with a reportedly improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund.
    But he is not set to wear the famous number 7 shirt if he signs, as it is already held by Edinson Cavani.
    CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    CAL ME MAYBE
    Arsenal have reportedly joined Man United in the hunt for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
    The Telegraph claims Mikel Arteta is ready to offload several players to raise funds for the England ace.
    Everton are holding out for a £50million fee for their star man.
    And SunSport understands Carlo Ancelotti would like to sign Calvert-Lewin for Real Madrid.

    CANDY KANE
    Man City are the leading contenders to sign Tottenham talisman Harry Kane.
    That’s according to bookmakers Betfair, who’ve installed Pep Guardiola’s side as 10/11 favourites to clinch his signature ahead of Chelsea and Man United.
    But Arsenal are only a 250/1 shot to land Spurs’ star man.
    Harry Kane next club odds – Betfair

    Not to sign or agree a contract with any other club – 10/11
    Manchester City – 10/11
    Chelsea – 9/2
    Manchester United – 5/1
    Paris Saint-Germain – 16/1
    Real Madrid – 40/1
    Liverpool – 40/1
    Barcelona – 50/1
    Juventus – 50/1
    Arsenal – 250/1

    ROO AWAKENING
    Man United will reunite with club legend Wayne Rooney to play his Derby side in a pre-season friendly.
    The Premier League giants have released their warm-up fixtures before the season kicks off against Leeds on August 14.
    After facing the Rams on July 18, the Red Devils will participate in a week-long UK training camp before taking on Queens Park Rangers on July 24.
    United will then face Premier League newcomers Brentford before playing Everton with both fixtures to take place at Old Trafford.

    WINNING MENTALITY
    Will Man Utd add some trophies to the cabinet this season?

    MAGUIRE TO START
    Harry Maguire is expected to start tonight in place of Aston Villa’s Tyrone Mings.
    The Athletic’s David Ornstein says boss Gareth Southgate wants to give the Man Utd captain some minutes before the knockout stages.
    Ornstein also says that Jack Grealish is set to start, presumably in place of Mason Mount.
    Harry Maguire expected to replace Tyrone Mings at centre-back as Gareth Southgate makes changes for England’s final group game v Czech Republic later. Gives Maguire minutes ahead of knockout stage. Jack Grealish also in line to start #EURO2020 #ENGCZE #ENG https://t.co/xecrI8rqss— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 22, 2021

    MOUR PLEASE
    Jose Mourinho thinks Bruno Fernandes has gone missing for Portugal and wants more from the Manchester United star, writes SUNNI UPAL.
    Ex-Red Devils boss Mourinho said the 26-year-old ‘was not there’ in the first two matches against Hungary and Germany.
    And Mourinho, who is writing for The Sun this summer, wants the Red Devils creative genius to show up in Portugal’s huge clash with France on Wednesday.
    He said on talkSPORT: “Portugal at its highest level can beat anyone.
    “But we need to play with eleven players, in these two matches Bruno Fernandes was on the pitch but not playing.
    “I hope he turns up against France, because he’s a player with incredible potential.
    “He can pass, he can score. He can get penalties, he can score penalties, he can score free-kicks.
    “He has a lot to give, but the reality is in these two matches he was not there.”

    PHOTO OF THE DAY
    A young, fresh-faced Wayne Rooney!

    HEAD TURNED
    Declan Rice has had his head turned by the prospect of playing for a bigger club.
    Eurosport are reporting that sources close to the player believe he is interested in pursuing a move to a bigger club.
    Chelsea – his boyhood club – are his most likely destination, but his price tag is proving to be difficult to match.
    The Hammers value Rice north of £70million, and he’s a mainstay in Gareth Southgate’s England midfield adding to his price.
    The report states that Rice would want wages worth £150,000 a week and a sizeable signing on fee.
    Chelsea aren’t the only teams tracking Rice, they’re joined by the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United.
    WHERE THERE’S A WILL
    Southampton and Newcastle both want Manchester United’s Brandon Williams on loan, writes GARY STONEHOUSE.
    The full-back, 20, struggled for match action last term after enjoying a fine breakthrough campaign in 2019/20.
    The arrival of Alex Telles last year limited Williams to 14 appearances in all competitions – with just four of those coming in the Premier League.
    Luke Shaw’s strong form has kept Williams out of the side, with the England international barely missing a match.
    A host of clubs were keen on taking the defender on loan back in January but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer decided to keep the ace at Old Trafford.
    But the United manager is now confident he has enough cover at left-back so is willing to let Williams leave.
    GREAT SCOT
    Aston Villa star John McGinn is reportedly being chased by Manchester United and Liverpool after impressing at Euro 2020, writes JAKE LAMBOURNE.
    The Scottish midfielder, who has started in the opening two games for Steve Clarke’s side, is tied down at Villa Park until 2025.
    But according to the Sunday Post via HITC, the 26-year-old could be on the move later this summer after three years spent with the Midlands side.
    As well as his impressive performances for Villa in the last two Premier League seasons, his starring displays for Scotland have caught the eye of Liverpool and United.
    McGinn was superb during the 0-0 draw against England on Friday, leading the news outlet to suggest the Premier League giants could step up their interest in him.
    It has been stated that Villa value the player at £50million, though the report claims that a fee of £20m could be enough to secure his services.

    EL MATADOR
    Edinson Cavani looks back at the turnaround at St Mary’s.

    TEEN SPIRIT
    Man Utd will be hoping that Amad Diallo has a breakout season!
    He is their second most expensive teenage signing after Anthony Martial.

    PSG EYE VARANE
    Manchester United target Raphael Varane looks set to leave Real Madrid this summer.
    The four-time Champions League winner has been reluctant to extend his contract at the Spanish giants.
    And Real would rather cash in on him now, rather than let him leave for free next summer.
    According to MARCA, PSG have joined a list of clubs who admire Varane, including United.
    The Parisians are looking to strengthen their defence as they look to reclaim the French title from Lille.
    And PSG want to build towards winning their first Champions League.
    Should Varane leave Madrid alongside Sergio Ramos – Real will be left with newboy David Alaba, Eder Militao and Nacho.
    SHIRT NUMBER
    Man Utd have a new shirt number for Jadon Sancho should the transfer go ahead this summer.
    If the transfer would have gone through last summer, Sancho would have worn the No7 shirt, now occupied by Edinson Cavani.
    But according to the Express, it seems likely that the England international will wear the No16 shirt.
    The likes of Michael Carrick and Roy Keane have worn the number.
    Sancho is a long-term target for Man UtdCredit: GETTY IMAGES
    Keane wore the No16 during his time at Man UtdCredit: PA
    Carrick also wore the No16Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    MAGUIRE TRAINING
    Harry Maguire is nearing a return to action, and he could play a part in England’s game against the Czech Republic!

    IN DEMAND
    Manchester United Academy player performance manager Les Parry, confirmed that one young player has over 20 teams after him.
    And they’re all looking to do a deal with United, which would see him spend the 2021-22 campaign on loan.
    Speaking to Man Utd’s official website, he said: “We have players, for instance, that the manager has not yet made a decision on whether they can go out or not.
    “They will go on the pre-season and we’ve got five or six; well, in the case of one player, 20-odd clubs are interested in him.
    “They’ll be holding on and holding on but the manager will make the decisions after the pre-season.
    “Others can also come up on the blind side. There might be players who go with the first team and the manager is thinking, at this point in time, they can go on loan but, suddenly, he sees them at close hand, and it might be one back from a loan, and think alright, I’ll keep hold of him for six months and have a closer look.
    “It changes all the time. It really does change all the time.”
    Although the player wasn’t named by Perry, the player who would be highly sought after and would benefit the most from a loan move is Hannibal Mejbri.
    POG TOP
    Paul Poba is still top of Man Utd’s record transfer list!

    BIG FLAW
    Caglar Soyuncu is a target for Man Utd and Chelsea this summer, after impressing yet again for Leicester City.
    Interest was confirmed by Turkish journalist Erken Konur on Twitter.
    He said: “Continuing their search for a stopper, Manchester United have put Caglar Soyuncu on the transfer list.
    “Talks with Leicester City are scheduled to take place soon. He is closely following Caglar Soyuncu at Chelsea.”
    Legendary United and England defender Rio Ferdinand did, however, highlight some flaws in his game.
    Speaking on BBC’s coverage of Euro 2020, he said: “Soyuncu, for me, will play a part in leading this team.
    “He’s a very, very quick, very assured defender.
    “In the first season in the Premier League he was outstanding, possibly the best defender in that team. It’s been a bit stop-start since.
    “What he’s got is an abundance of pace and he covers the other centre-back, which is a fantastic thing to have in your armoury.
    “At times he does jump in and over-commit, even if he has the pace to get back and recover.
    “At the top level, against the top teams, sometimes you don’t get the chance to come back for a second bite of the cherry.
    “What you’d say is that he puts himself on the line, he’s brave, he comes out with big headers and he can defend the box.
    “Turkey are going to need him to perform. They only conceded three goals in qualifying, the best record alongside Belgium.
    “He is a warrior. He likes to win the first ball, he loves to go in and pressure the first ball and sometimes a striker will like that – (Shearer) would have rolled him, maybe?”
    MAIN MAN
    Bruno Fernandes registered 30 goal contributions in the Premier League last season.
    Will he have the same impact in the 2021-22 season?

    NO DEAL
    Real Madrid are set to reject an offer from Man Utd for Raphael Varane that would include midfielder Paul Pogba, according to reports.
    Varane is a long-term target for United, who are searching for the perfect centre-back partner for club captain Harry Maguire.
    But the serial Champions League winner is expected to cost around £80million.
    Varane does, however, have a year left on his contract at the Spanish giants, and United are hoping to take advantage of the situation.
    Spanish outlet AS, claim that United want to do a Pogba-Varane swap deal.
    But Real will turn it down as they look to raise funds for a potential move on PSG’s Kylian Mbappe, or Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland.
    GOOD MORNING MAN UTD FANS
    Manchester City have launched a £100million cash bid for Tottenham star, and Manchester United target, Harry Kane, according to reports.
    It is believed City are willing to include one or more players in the deal, such as Raheem Sterling.
    According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Citizens have offered Spurs £100m ‘guaranteed’ for Kane.
    The Premier League champions are also reportedly willing to include players in the deal, with Sterling, Aymeric Laporte and Gabriel Jesus among those rumoured.
    It is understood Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy will not accept City’s offer – and the England captain’s future will not be decided until after Euro 2020.
    Chelsea are also said to be keeping tabs on the 27-year-old centre-forward.
    Meanwhile, United are planning on making Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104million deal.
    Pogba is going into the final 12 months of his contract and the Red Devils are willing to offer him a staggering £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    The Manchester giants are desperate to keep the star midfielder and do not want him to go into the new season without him tied down.
    Old Trafford chiefs are now set to put the bumper new terms on the table – a huge increase on his current £290,000-a-week salary.
    The France international’s new pay packet would eclipse the £375,000 a week which team-mate David de Gea earns.
    And United have made an improved bid for Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho.
    That is according to Sky Sports, who claim the Red Devils have offered Dortmund more than £75m.
    The proposed bid would see the Manchester giants paying more up front with the rest in achievable add-ons.
    United’s initial offer was believed to be £67m up front plus around £8m in add-ons.
    Dortmund are thought to be considering that bid, even though they rate the star winger in excess of £80m.
    Finally, Real Madrid star Raphael Varane’s agents want to meet with United this week.
    Varane is said to have snubbed a two-year contract extension at Real and has decided he wants to move to the Red Devils instead of Paris Saint-Germain.
    The centre-back’s representatives reportedly want to finalise a deal to take him to Old Trafford ‘in the coming days’.
    And according to the Daily Mirror, Varane prefers a move to the Premier League in the near future.
    LINGARD UPDATE
    Manchester United star Jesse Lingard suggested he will decide where he will play next season depending on the opportunities on offer following his recent loan stint at West Ham.
    Lingard told Sky Sports: “Regular football is the most important thing for me.
    “After going on loan and getting a good run in the team, you started to see the real me, with the goals and the assists.
    “I’ve never doubted my ability, I’ve always believed in myself. I spoke to the manager [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] in pre-season and said, ‘I need game time'”
    ENGLAND THROUGH
    England have been confirmed as qualifying to Euro 2020’s Round of 16, with a game to spare.
    Results on Sunday and Monday evening, with each group playing out their final fixture, mean that a tally of four points is now definitely enough for any nation to progress to the knockout phase.
    Therefore, the Three Lions’ win against Croatia and draw with Scotland are enough for Gareth Southgate’s men to advance no matter what happens with the Czech Republic on Tuesday.
    The two teams are going to square off at Wembley Stadium tomorrow
    TUANZEBE LOAN
    Manchester United ace Axel Tuanzebe ‘wants’ a loan move away in the summer transfer window.
    That is according to ESPN, who claim Tuanzebe prefers to join another team as he wants regular game time that will help him continue his development.
    The centre-back’s contract at Old Trafford expires next year, but it does include an option of a further year.
    The 23-year-old amassed a total of 19 appearances across all competitions last season
    NOW OR NEVER
    Manchester United legend Gary Neville insists it is “now or never” for Harry Maguire as he can’t imagine him returning to England’s starting line-up in the knockout stages when the difficulty level picks up after his injury.
    Neville told Sky Sports: “My concern was [against Scotland] that it wasn’t just the Harry Kane thing – the rest of them lacked sharpness. Even when [Jack] Grealish and [Marcus] Rashford came on, the performance didn’t change.
    “For me, going into the Czech Republic game – understanding that I have played with England teams in tournaments that looked fatigued – that is the only thing that I’m looking at in the first five, 10 minutes.
    ‘”Is the sharpness back, and was it just a mental thing going into that Scotland game? Now’s the time for some continuity – we need to start settling on a team. That might mean that Harry Maguire comes back in.
    “If he doesn’t play tomorrow against the Czech Republic, I don’t know how he can come in against a France or a Portugal in round two. It’s now or never for Maguire”
    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Paul Pogba £104m contract EXCLUSIVE, Telles for Trippier SWAP, Sancho transfer LATEST update, Varane meeting ‘this week’

    MANCHESTER UNITED want to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104m contract, as exclusively reported by SunSport.Meanwhile, the club are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with a reportedly improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund.
    And, United have tabled a bid for Raphael Varane of £50million, according to separate reports.
    CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    KANE REACTION
    Tottenham star striker, and Manchester United target, Harry Kane has previously insisted he doesn’t let any transfer speculation shift his attention away from England and Euro 2020.
    Kane previously stated: “Absolutely not.
    “All my focus is on how I can help this team and how we can be successful in this tournament.
    “I understand from a media point of view there is speculation, but I am fully focused on the job here”
    KANE DO THAT
    Tottenham are set to reject Manchester City’s whopping £100million offer for star striker Harry Kane, who has also been linked with Manchester United.
    City are determined to sign Kane in the summer transfer window and are even willing to swap a few players, such as Raheem Sterling, Gabriel Jesus and Aymeric Laporte.
    According to The Guardian, however, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is determined to keep the England captain, who has three years left in his deal.
    Kane has informed the north Londoners he wishes to leave in the summer and has also been linked with Chelsea
    EURO STARS
    Gareth Southgate is set to stick with what he knows when England play Czech Republic tomorrow.
    Despite calls for Jack Grealish and Jadon Sancho to be involved, Southgate is instead likely to keep faith with the same group that drew 0-0 with Scotland and barely beat Croatia 1-0.
    Indeed, the only changes that are set to be made are full-backs Luke Shaw and Reece James dropping out for Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker again.

    CITIZEN KANE
    Man City have launched a £100MILLION cash bid for Tottenham striker and Man United target Harry Kane, according to reports.
    It is believed the Premier League champions are willing to include one or more players in the deal, including England star Raheem Sterling.
    According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, City have offered Spurs £100m ‘guaranteed’ for Kane, 27.
    City are also reportedly willing to include players in the deal, with Sterling, Aymeric Laporte and Gabriel Jesus among those rumoured.
    It is understood Tottenham chief Daniel Levy will not accept City’s offer – and Kane’s future will not be decided until after Euro 2020.

    MOUR’S SERG
    Jose Mourinho is reportedly looking to usurp his old club Manchester United and sign his former Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos for Roma, writes GARY STONEHOUSE.
    The legendary Spanish centre-half will leave the Bernabeu after an epic 16-year stint at the end of the month when his contract expires.
    Ramos, 35, is believed to want a two-year contract worth £200,000-a-week as he plots his next move.
    Those demands saw both Man City and Paris Saint-Germain drop out of the race to sign him.
    And with Ramos already ruling out a return to Sevilla and a controversial Barcelona switch, United appeared to be his biggest and best option this summer as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looked to partner him with captain Harry Maguire.
    However, Calciomercato claims new Roma boss Mourinho wants to bring the defender to the Italian capital.

    ONE TO WATCH
    Italian defender has revealed that he enjoys watching tricky Man Utd defender Dan James.
    Chiellini, who missed yesterday’s game against Wales, revealed before kick-off in an interview that James is someone he likes to watch.
    Speaking to ITV, he said: “I love Aaron Ramsey, we play together, he’s a fantastic player, a little bit unlucky with many injuries,” the veteran told ITV.
    “But when he is fit, he is an intelligent and fantastic player.
    “Bale… He is known by everyone.
    “Also, I like very much James, he has grown up so much at Manchester United.”
    WILLIAMS TO BE LOANED OUT
    Brandon Williams is set to be loaned out this season, according to BBC journalist Simon Stone.
    The Man Utd left-back was being tracked by the likes of Southampton last year.
    But boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer opted to keep him instead.
    It is anticipated Brandon Williams will leave @ManUtd on loan ahead of new season. Southampton were interested last year but OGS wanted to keep him.— Simon Stone (@sistoney67) June 21, 2021

    JAY-MAKER 
    Heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua has called out his next opponent… Manchester United star Jesse Lingard, writes THOMAS BLOW.
    Thankfully AJ doesn’t want to meet the winger in the boxing ring, with the two agreeing to do battle on video game FIFA.
    Lingard, 28, was the first to pipe up by tweeting: “So Anthony Joshua thinks he’s king of the ring and FIFA! 
    “Well I’m gonna show him June 21 at 11.30am UK time as part of the world’s biggest charity eSports festival Gamers Without Borders
    “Lets see who’s the real heavyweight champ.”
    ON THIS DAY
    On this day three years ago, Man Utd signed Brazilian midfielder Fred!

    ‘DISINTERESTED’
    Former Republic of Ireland forward Tony Cascarino has said that Bruno Fernandes looked ‘disinterested’ in Portugal’s game against Germany.
    Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “By the way, Fernandes… I’ve not a seen a performance like that for a long time in an international line-up. He looked disinterested completely.
    “I don’t know for what reason, it’s not like Fernandes had a bad game, he gave away the ball and made passes, he just had no impact on the game at all.
    “He looked like he was disinterested in grabbing the game by the scruff of the neck, he had no interest at all.”
    FIXTURE LIST
    Man Utd start off the 2021-22 Premier League season against rivals Leeds!

    RAM OFF
    Sergio Ramos is keen on completing a free transfer to French side PSG this summer.
    Manchester United are also high on the Spaniards list of potential clubs to move to.
    According to 90 min, the 35-year-old has received the best offer from PSG.
    But there are some hurdles in the way, with the report stating that PSG hold an interest in former team-mate Raphael Varane – similarly to United.
    FINAL 16
    Man Utd’s Dan James helped Wales to reach the Round of 16 at Euro 2020!
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    RON TOP
    Ronaldo still remains Man Utd’s record sale despite leaving 12 years ago.

    ROCK SOLID
    Luke Shaw is the strongest player in the England squad, according to team-mate Reece James.
    In an interview with the FA’s Lion’s Den YouTube channel, James was asked who would win in a strength test.
    And it appears that the Man Utd left-back is stronger than he looks.
    James said: “Luke Shaw is strong. They (Mings, Maguire) are definitely strong but Luke is a beast, a brick.
    “If there’s one guy I play against that I know is going to be strong, it’d definitely be him.”
    TOP POG
    Manchester United plan to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104MILLION deal, writes DANIEL CUTTS.
    The France star, 28, is going into the final 12 months of his contract and United are willing to offer him a staggering £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    The Red Devils are desperate to keep midfielder Pogba and do not want him to go into the new season without him tied down.
    Old Trafford chiefs are now set to put the bumper new terms on the table – a huge increase on his current £290,000-a-week salary.
    His new pay packet would eclipse the £375k a week which United team-mate David de Gea earns.
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    SANCHO LATEST
    Man Utd have made an improved bid believed to be worth more than £75million for Jadon Sancho, according to reports.
    Sky Sports are reporting that the structure of the deal will see Man Utd pay more money up front.
    The original bid was believed to be in the region of £67m up front with rightly £8m in add-ons.
    Borussia Dortmund are considering the offer, but reports in Germany suggest they value him in excess of £80m.
    RED DEVIL’S WISH LIST
    Man Utd are keen on Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane and Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho.

    MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWS
    New speculation over Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos has been overshadowed by talk of making Paul Pogba the Premier League’s highest-paid player.
    France midfielder Pogba could land a £104MILLION deal – £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    United are desperate to keep the 28-year-old as he enters the last 12 months of his contract
    Reports earlier had suggested Old Trafford chiefs are prepared to consider a part-exchange deal involving Pogba and his Euro 2020 team-mate Varane.
    Varane is rated United’s preferred option as a new central defender to partner skipper Harry Maguire.
    And it’s also claimed Varane’s Real Madrid side-kick Sergio Ramos, 35, is another alternative – especially as Prem champs City have reportedly rejected signing the legend.
    Finally, it’s claimed United are willing to sell left-back Alex Telles to fund a move for Atletico Madrid defender Kieran Trippier.
    United are already thought to have had a £10m bid rejected for the versatile England ace.
    ‘UTD & LIVERPOOL WERE SUPER LEAGUE DRIVING FORCES’
    Barcelona chief Joan Laporta claims Manchester United and Liverpool were the ‘real founders’ of the controversial European Super League.
    The football world was stunned in April when 12 of the continent’s top clubs – including the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’ – announced they were forming a breakaway division.
    The closed-shop project would have replaced the Champions League and guaranteed annual participation for its ‘Dirty Dozen’ founders.
    However, a furious fan backlash prompted nine members to swiftly withdraw, leaving just Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus in the ESL.
    But despite looking like one of the main guilty parties, Barcelona president Laporta insists that English giants United and Liverpool were the original orchestrators of the ESL.
    Laporta claimed: “Liverpool and United were the real founders of the Super League.
    “Uefa threatened and was demagogic. The clubs have still not paid the compensation for leaving.
    “The Super League project is alive. It will be the most attractive competition in the world, and it will be based on meritocracy and solidarity.”
    ENGLAND’S ‘YIKES!’ TO DYKES
    Scotland hardman Lyndon Dykes claims England did not like it up ’em when they collided at Wembley on Friday night.
    The Aussie-born striker made his intentions clear right from the off when he clattered Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw in the first minute of the cross-border clash.
    And England’s spiky reaction to the physical approach left Dykes convinced he had rattled Gareth Southgate’s men.
    He said: “It set the tone when I smashed into Shaw and I think that a few of the boys from the England team didn’t really want it.
    “It was right from the kick-off and it was up to me to win the first challenge and I’ve taken him out as well, so it was a good start for us.
    “It wasn’t deliberate but I caught him with my knee on his leg and I knew he didn’t like it.
    “Shaw didn’t say anything but the referee tried to make me say sorry after I’d got him.
    “The ref had actually pulled me in the warm-up before the game had even started and tried to warn me about my headers and stuff.
    “But if the ball is there to be won I’m going to challenge for it and that’s what I did.”
    UTD TO RESIST POGBA EXIT WITH HUGE PAY OFFER
    Manchester United plan to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104MILLION deal.
    The France star, 28, is going into the final 12 months of his contract and United are willing to offer him a staggering £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    The Red Devils are desperate to keep midfielder Pogba and do not want him to go into the new season without him tied down.
    Old Trafford chiefs are now set to put the bumper new terms on the table – a huge increase on his current £290,000-a-week salary.
    His new pay packet would eclipse the £375k a week which United team-mate David de Gea earns.
    United will wait until after the Euros with France, before finalising the structure of his new terms.
    Pogba has been in talks with agent Mino Raiola over the last year on what his plans are for the future.
    He could demand huge wages and a hefty signing on fee if he was to become a free transfer next summer.
    The £89m superstar revealed earlier this week no agreement had been settled with United yet. But SunSport understands that could not be far away, and the early noises between both camps have been positive.
    ‘POGBA FOR VARANE SWAP TALK’
    Manchester United are prepared to offer Paul Pogba to Real Madrid in exchange for Raphael Varane, according to reports.
    The France defender, 28, has been on United’s radar for some time and is said to be one of the club’s top targets this summer.
    Previous managers Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho both wanted to bring Varane to Old Trafford.
    Ed Woodward was even prepared to spend £100million on the defender in 2018, but never came close to striking a deal.
    But Varane now reportedly prefers a move to United over PSG, and his representatives are keen to hold a meeting with the Red Devils.
    And according to AS, via the Express, United could offer up Pogba in order to get a deal over the line.
    United fear Pogba will not agree a new contract and leave on a free next summer.
    The club had previously placed a £150million asking price on the midfielder to ward off interest from Juventus and Real Madrid.
    Talks opened over a new contract for Pogba earlier this month, while the Italian press claim a swap deal involving Cristiano Ronaldo is also on the cards.
    ROONEY MISSES ULTIMATE UTD TOURNAMENT XI
    Manchester United stars have shone on the international stage down the years.
    Ryan Giggs may have never made it to a tournament with Wales, but plenty of other United greats have.

    The Red Devils are well represented once again at Euro 2020, with the likes of Paul Pogba, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford hoping to sprinkle their stardust on the biggest stage.
    Prior to the tournament, United themselves compiled an XI of players that have thrived for their countries while turning out for the Red Devils.
    There’s no place for the likes of Wayne Rooney or Paul Scholes – so let’s take a look at who DID make their cut.
    JAY-MAKER
    Heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua has called out his next opponent… Manchester United star Jesse Lingard.
    Thankfully AJ doesn’t want to meet the winger in the boxing ring, with the two agreeing to do battle on video game FIFA.

    Lingard, 28, was the first to pipe up by tweeting: “So Anthony Joshua thinks he’s king of the ring and FIFA!
    “Well I’m gonna show him June 21 at 11.30am UK time as part of the world’s biggest charity eSports festival Gamers Without Borders
    “Lets see who’s the real heavyweight champ.”
    Gamers Without Borders is a charity aiming to distribute the Covid-19 vaccine to underdeveloped countries.
    Several celebrities have agreed to get involved in the scheme, including Joshua and Lingard.
    AJ couldn’t believe the audacity of Lingard’s tweet, responding: “No chance, Jesse Lingard [followed by a laughing emoji]. See you there.”
    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Paul Pogba £104m contract EXCLUSIVE, Man Utd Jadon Sancho transfer LATEST updates, Varane meeting ‘this week’

    MANCHESTER UNITED want to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104m contract, as exclusively reported by SunSport.Meanwhile, the club are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with a reportedly improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund.
    And, United have tabled a bid for Raphael Varane of £50million, according to separate reports.
    CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    ‘UTD & LIVERPOOL WERE SUPER LEAGUE DRIVING FORCES’
    Barcelona chief Joan Laporta claims Manchester United and Liverpool were the ‘real founders’ of the controversial European Super League.
    The football world was stunned in April when 12 of the continent’s top clubs – including the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’ – announced they were forming a breakaway division.
    The closed-shop project would have replaced the Champions League and guaranteed annual participation for its ‘Dirty Dozen’ founders.
    However, a furious fan backlash prompted nine members to swiftly withdraw, leaving just Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus in the ESL.
    But despite looking like one of the main guilty parties, Barcelona president Laporta insists that English giants United and Liverpool were the original orchestrators of the ESL.
    Laporta claimed: “Liverpool and United were the real founders of the Super League.
    “Uefa threatened and was demagogic. The clubs have still not paid the compensation for leaving.
    “The Super League project is alive. It will be the most attractive competition in the world, and it will be based on meritocracy and solidarity.”
    ENGLAND’S ‘YIKES!’ TO DYKES
    Scotland hardman Lyndon Dykes claims England did not like it up ’em when they collided at Wembley on Friday night.
    The Aussie-born striker made his intentions clear right from the off when he clattered Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw in the first minute of the cross-border clash.
    And England’s spiky reaction to the physical approach left Dykes convinced he had rattled Gareth Southgate’s men.
    He said: “It set the tone when I smashed into Shaw and I think that a few of the boys from the England team didn’t really want it.
    “It was right from the kick-off and it was up to me to win the first challenge and I’ve taken him out as well, so it was a good start for us.
    “It wasn’t deliberate but I caught him with my knee on his leg and I knew he didn’t like it.
    “Shaw didn’t say anything but the referee tried to make me say sorry after I’d got him.
    “The ref had actually pulled me in the warm-up before the game had even started and tried to warn me about my headers and stuff.
    “But if the ball is there to be won I’m going to challenge for it and that’s what I did.”
    UTD TO RESIST POGBA EXIT WITH HUGE PAY OFFER
    Manchester United plan to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104MILLION deal.
    The France star, 28, is going into the final 12 months of his contract and United are willing to offer him a staggering £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    The Red Devils are desperate to keep midfielder Pogba and do not want him to go into the new season without him tied down.
    Old Trafford chiefs are now set to put the bumper new terms on the table – a huge increase on his current £290,000-a-week salary.
    His new pay packet would eclipse the £375k a week which United team-mate David de Gea earns.
    United will wait until after the Euros with France, before finalising the structure of his new terms.
    Pogba has been in talks with agent Mino Raiola over the last year on what his plans are for the future.
    He could demand huge wages and a hefty signing on fee if he was to become a free transfer next summer.
    The £89m superstar revealed earlier this week no agreement had been settled with United yet. But SunSport understands that could not be far away, and the early noises between both camps have been positive.
    ‘POGBA FOR VARANE SWAP TALK’
    Manchester United are prepared to offer Paul Pogba to Real Madrid in exchange for Raphael Varane, according to reports.
    The France defender, 28, has been on United’s radar for some time and is said to be one of the club’s top targets this summer.
    Previous managers Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho both wanted to bring Varane to Old Trafford.
    Ed Woodward was even prepared to spend £100million on the defender in 2018, but never came close to striking a deal.
    But Varane now reportedly prefers a move to United over PSG, and his representatives are keen to hold a meeting with the Red Devils.
    And according to AS, via the Express, United could offer up Pogba in order to get a deal over the line.
    United fear Pogba will not agree a new contract and leave on a free next summer.
    The club had previously placed a £150million asking price on the midfielder to ward off interest from Juventus and Real Madrid.
    Talks opened over a new contract for Pogba earlier this month, while the Italian press claim a swap deal involving Cristiano Ronaldo is also on the cards.
    ROONEY MISSES ULTIMATE UTD TOURNAMENT XI
    Manchester United stars have shone on the international stage down the years.
    Ryan Giggs may have never made it to a tournament with Wales, but plenty of other United greats have.

    The Red Devils are well represented once again at Euro 2020, with the likes of Paul Pogba, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford hoping to sprinkle their stardust on the biggest stage.
    Prior to the tournament, United themselves compiled an XI of players that have thrived for their countries while turning out for the Red Devils.
    There’s no place for the likes of Wayne Rooney or Paul Scholes – so let’s take a look at who DID make their cut.
    JAY-MAKER
    Heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua has called out his next opponent… Manchester United star Jesse Lingard.
    Thankfully AJ doesn’t want to meet the winger in the boxing ring, with the two agreeing to do battle on video game FIFA.

    Lingard, 28, was the first to pipe up by tweeting: “So Anthony Joshua thinks he’s king of the ring and FIFA!
    “Well I’m gonna show him June 21 at 11.30am UK time as part of the world’s biggest charity eSports festival Gamers Without Borders
    “Lets see who’s the real heavyweight champ.”
    Gamers Without Borders is a charity aiming to distribute the Covid-19 vaccine to underdeveloped countries.
    Several celebrities have agreed to get involved in the scheme, including Joshua and Lingard.
    AJ couldn’t believe the audacity of Lingard’s tweet, responding: “No chance, Jesse Lingard [followed by a laughing emoji]. See you there.”
    RAMOS OPTIONS NARROWING TO OLD TRAFFORD?
    Manchester United have received a boost in their pursuit of Sergio Ramos – with rivals City reportedly ruling themselves out a move for the Real Madrid legend.
    AS claims Ramos was offered to the Premier League champions earlier this month on a free transfer.
    But Pep Guardiola rejected the opportunity to land Ramos despite losing Eric Garcia to Barcelona.
    It’s claimed that City plan on keeping hold of new Spain international Aymeric Laporte, who has been linked with an exit.
    Pep already has John Stones, Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake at his disposal.
    And with Fernandinho also able to operate there, City will not be presenting Ramos with a contract.
    That means United could have a clear run at landing the iconic defender, 35, after his shock Bernabeu departure was confirmed this week.
    Ramos is believed to want a two-year contract on wages worth £200,000 a week. Those demands also saw Paris Saint-Germain drop out of the race to sign him.
    And with Ramos already ruling out a return to Sevilla and a controversial Barcelona switch, United could be his only option this summer.
    UTD DON’T NEED RICE
    Manchester United should NOT sign West Ham star Declan Rice, according to club legend Nicky Butt.
    The former Red Devils midfielder believes Scotland international Scott McTominay is just as good as his English contemporary.
    Speaking to Ladbrokes, Butt said: “I think Man United are solid enough in midfield.
    “I keep hearing things about Declan Rice, but is he a better player than Scott McTominay?
    “I’m not sure, I think with McTominay, Paul Pogba and obviously Bruno Fernandes, we [Manchester United] are in a good place in the middle of the park.”
    UTD WORRY IT’S PAUL OVER
    Manchester United are reportedly fearing that Paul Pogba will turn down a new contract and walk away for free next summer.
    The Frenchman arrived back at Old Trafford from Juventus in 2016 in an £89m move but only has 12 months remaining on his deal.
    United are desperately trying to convince Pogba and his agent Mino Raiola to sign a new package after they were forced into triggering a one-year extension in his current agreement.
    However, those attempts to persuade him appear to have become deadlocked.
    Now The Mirror states United are becoming increasingly worried Pogba will run out his contract and leave for nothing at the end of next season.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has refused to get into any public spats with the outspoken Raiola.
    But United have allegedly ‘made it very clear’ they would sell Pogba this summer if he has no intention of penning fresh terms.
    UTD COULD SELL TELLES TO FUND TRIPPIER DEAL
    Manchester United are willing to sell left-back Alex Telles to fund a move for Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier, according to reports.
    The Mirror are reporting that Man Utd are still keen on Trippier and a reported bid of £10m was turned down not long ago.
    And Atletico boss Diego Simeone doesn’t want Trippier to leave for anything less than what they value him at, £40m.
    Trippier’s ability to play at both right and left-back provides cover if Telles is sold.
    UTD IN PAY PAU LINK
    Manchester United are willing to launch a transfer bid for Pau Torres, according to reports, writes JOSHUA JONES. 
    But they face competition from Real Madrid for the defender’s signature.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to bring in a new centre-back this summer as a long-term partner for Harry Maguire.
    And according to AS, the Red Devils may make an official bid in the coming weeks.
    Torres, 24, enjoyed a fine season with boyhood club Villarreal and capped it off by lifting the Europa League, beating United in a marathon penalty shootout. 
    He has been with the club since 2002, aged just five, and has racked up 88 first-team appearances, earning himself a starting spot for Spain at Euro 2020.
    CHANGE OF BRAND IMAGE
    Manchester United are planning to loan out Brandon Williams to a Premier League club this summer, according to reports.
    The England Under-21 full-back was wanted by multiple clubs in January, including Southampton and West Ham.
    Brandon Williams could leave Manchester United for the first time since joining aged 7
    But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer prevented Williams’ departure as he wanted to keep him as a back up option.
    But the United boss is now confident he has enough cover at left-back so is willing to let the 20-year-old leave on a temporary basis, according to the Mirror.
    And Solskjaer reportedly believes the full-back could benefit from regular Premier League football.
    The youngster, 20, struggled for game time last season after enjoying a breakthrough campaign in 2019/20.
    The arrival of Alex Telles last year limited Williams to just 14 appearances in all competitions – four of those came in the Premier League.
    POGBA FREE EXIT FEAR
    Manchester United fear that star midfielder Paul Pogba is ready to run his contract down and leave Old Trafford for free, reports say.
    According to The Mirror, United a desperate to get the Frenchman to sign a new deal.
    But they have been unsuccessful in persuading the player and agent so far.
    TOP GEA WAGES
    David de Gea is clear at the top of Man Utd’s wages chart!

    ‘NONSENSE’
    Graeme Souness has insisted that moaning Bruno Fernandes ‘would not have lasted five minutes in my dressing room’ after his latest display for Portugal, writes GARY STONEHOUSE.
    The 26-year-old started for his country yesterday against Germany but was subbed off in the second half of their 4-2 Euro 2020 defeat.
    Speaking on ITV Sport, Souness said: “He’s an exceptionally talented boy, there is so much to like about him.
    “A great striker of the ball, when he shoots he makes the goalkeeper work.
    “I played with players that would not be accepting of the thing you just touched on [petulance], you know he doesn’t get the ball and he is waving his hands around.
    “He would not have lasted more than five minutes in my dressing room, but he is a wonderful talented boy.”
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    GREALISH WANTED BY CITY
    Man City are ready to smash the Premier League transfer record to land Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish, according to reports.
    The Telegraph are reporting that City manager Pep Guardiola is a big fan of Grealish.
    City are willing to break past the £90million mark to get the creative winger, smashing Man Utd’s record on Paul Pogba back in 2016. 
    Grealish has been linked with a move away from Villa Park for some time.
    And the likes of Man Utd are still keeping tabs on him.
    BIG MONEY
    Pogba and Maguire joined Man Utd for big money and it places them on the list as one of the biggest transfers of all time.

    MAN UTD EYE SOYUNCU
    Man Utd are interesting in signing Leicester City centre-back Caglar Soyuncu, according to reports.
    The Express are reporting that Man Utd are looking for a solid centre-back partner for club captain Harry Maguire, citing Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur.
    And although Real Madrid’s Varane is high on that list, boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking elsewhere too.
    Soyuncu is also attracting interest from Champions League winners Chelsea.
    📜Continuing their search for a stopper, Manchester United have put Caglar Soguncu on the transfer list. 👥Talks with Leicester City are scheduled to take place soon.👀He is closely following Caglar Soyuncu at Chelsea#ManUtd #Manu #Chelsea #LeicesterCity— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) June 20, 2021

    RAPH AND READY
    Raphael Varane’s agents want to meet with Manchester United this week, according to reports.
    The centre-back is said to have snubbed a two-year contract extension at Real Madrid and has decided he wants to move to the Premier League instead of Paris Saint-Germain, writes WILLIAM PUGH.
    And his representatives reportedly want to finalise a deal to take him to Old Trafford ‘in the coming days’.
    Varane, 28, has one year left on his Los Blancos contract.
    KNOCKOUT-BOUND
    Wales are ever so close to securing a place in the knockout stages of Euro 2020!

    DEMOLITION
    Man Utd have recorded two of the biggest wins in Premier League history!

    POG FEAR
    Man Utd fear that star midfielder Paul Pogba is ready to run his contract down and leave Old Trafford for free.
    According to The Mirror, United a desperate to get the Frenchman to sign a new deal.
    But they have been unsuccessful in persuading the player and agent so far.
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    PAU WOW
    Manchester United are willing to launch a transfer bid for Pau Torres, according to reports, writes JOSHUA JONES. 
    But they face competition from Real Madrid for the defender’s signature.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to bring in a new centre-back this summer as a long-term partner for Harry Maguire.
    And according to AS, the Red Devils may make an official bid in the coming weeks.
    Torres, 24, enjoyed a fine season with boyhood club Villarreal and capped it off by lifting the Europa League, beating United in a marathon penalty shootout. 
    He has been with the club since 2002, aged just five, and has racked up 88 first-team appearances, earning himself a starting spot for Spain at Euro 2020.
    HIGH WAGE
    David de Gea is clear at the top of Man Utd’s wages chart!
    The wages of Manchester United’s current players
    TROUBLE BRU-ING
    Lee Dixon took a swipe at Bruno Fernandes for ‘strolling’ around with ‘zero energy’ as Portugal were thumped by Germany on Saturday, writes DAVE FRASER.
    The Manchester United star, 26, was utterly anonymous as the Germans powered their way to a 4-2 victory in Munich.
    Fernandes was hauled off after a miserable hour, replaced by Wolves’ Joao Moutinho, having made absolutely no impact.
    Shortly before he was hauled off – with Portugal losing 3-1 – Lee Dixon slated the Red Devils ace for his desperately poor afternoon, taking particular aim at his woeful work-rate.
    Speaking on ITV, fuming co-commentator Dixon said: “I think someone needs to tell Fernandes he’s 3-1 down.
    “He is just strolling on the ball.
    “He had a chance then to run into space and commit a few players ahead of him.
    “No energy in his run at all.”
    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Man Utd Jadon Sancho transfer LATEST, Pau Torres offer, Varane UPDATE, Rio tips Ramos for Utd, £43m Trippier interest

    MANCHESTER UNITED are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with an improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund. Meanwhile, United have tabled a bid for Raphael Varane of £50million, according to separate reports.
    And Rio Ferdinand has tipped the club to snap up free defender Sergio Ramos.
    CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    GREAL DEAL
    Man City are reportedly eyeing a Premier League transfer record move for Jack Grealish.
    The Telegraph claims Pep Guardiola wants to raid Aston Villa for their talismanic captain.
    And he is ready to shatter the £89million fee Man United paid for Paul Pogba in 2016.
    Grealish has been linked with United too, as well as Chelsea and Arsenal.

    TRIPP’S IT
    Manchester United are willing to sell left-back Alex Telles to fund a move for Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier, according to reports.
    The Mirror are reporting that Man Utd are still keen on Trippier and a reported bid of £10m was turned down not long ago.
    And Atletico boss Diego Simeone doesn’t want Trippier to leave for anything less than what they value him at, £40m.
    Trippier’s ability to play at both right and left-back provides cover if Telles is sold.

    ZLAT’S THAT
    Zlatan Ibrahimovic has had keyhole surgery on his left knee and could be out for two months.
    The AC Milan star is missing the Euros after suffering an ACL injury in May.
    And former Man United ace Ibra has now gone under the knife as he attempts to be fit in time for the new Serie A season.

    DEM BONES
    Ousmane Dembele is an injury worry for France after he hobbled out of his country’s 1-1 draw with Hungary at Euro 2020.
    The Barcelona star – himself on as a sub – appeared to pull a muscle as he left the field holding his hamstring.
    Dembele has just one year left on his Barca deal and has been linked with a move to Manchester United.

    TROUBLE BRU-ING
    Lee Dixon  took a swipe at Bruno Fernandes for ‘strolling’ around with ‘zero energy’ as Portugal were thumped by Germany.
    He told ITV: “I think someone needs to tell Fernandes he’s 3-1 down. He is just strolling on the ball.
    “He had a chance then to run into space and commit a few players ahead of him. No energy in his run at all.”

    NEVER SAY NEVILLE
    Gary Neville admits he is ‘mesmerised’ by old Man United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo’s heading.
    Neville said: “It’s mesmerising. Honestly the way he heads the ball is like a League Two centre half – he’s absolutely incredible.
    “His spring, his timing, the technical aspect… everything is absolutely perfect.
    “This didn’t exist when he first came to United, this has been developed, grown, nurtured, it’s just perfection.”

    YOUR IN DEMAND
    Leicester are hoping Youri Tielemans will sign a new contract amid transfer interest from Manchester United and Liverpool.
    He has just two years left on his deal after a £40million move from Monaco and is now valued at £70m.
    United and Liverpool are thought to be fans after Tielemans’ fine season.
    But the Leicester Mercury claims Brendan Rodgers is eager to secure the playmaker’s future on a long-term contract.

    IN THE DEP END
    Barcelona have confirmed the signing of Netherlands star Memphis Depay.
    The Dutch forward joins on a free transfer after his Lyon contract expired.
    Ex-Man Utd flop Depay is Barca’s second freebie of the summer after they snapped up Man City legend Sergio Aguero.

    NEY BOTHER
    Man United and Scotland star Scott McTominay has shed light on his on-field row with PSG’s Neymar.
    He told The Athletic: “He ended up grabbing me. You could see his head was gone for a moment in the way he was so aggressive.
    “There was a lot of talking going on — words that your mum or dad might not like to hear.
    “But that is part of the enjoyment of football, of competition. He’s trying to beat me, and I’m trying to stop him.
    “If you have to say certain things to people to take their eye off the game, then fair enough — that is the way it’s going to be.”

    LIN IT TO WIN IT
    Jesse Lingard has been urged to leave Man United on a permanent deal to West Ham.
    Lingard scored nine goals and bagged five assists in just 16 games on loan at the Hammers this year,
    Trevor Sinclair told TalkSport: “Can I just say, Jesse Lingard, get to the capital of England rather than the capital of France.
    “You are loved at West Ham. Get yourself there, boy.”

    PAU WOW
    Man Utd are willing to launch a transfer bid for Pau Torres, according to reports.
    But they face competition from Real Madrid for the defender’s signature.
    According to AS, the Red Devils may make an official bid in the coming weeks.
    Torres was in the Villarreal side which beat United in the Europa League final.
    And he is currently starting for Spain alongside Aymeric Laporte at the Euros.

    RAM RAID
    Manchester United have reportedly been given a clear path to sign Sergio Ramos after Paris Saint-Germain dropped out of the race, writes ANTHONY CHAPMAN.
    RMC claims Mauricio Pochettino is keen on signing the former Real Madrid captain, whose shock Bernabeu departure was confirmed this week.
    However, Ramos is demanding a two-year contract on wages worth £200,000-a-week.
    And PSG are refusing to enter talks unless Ramos, 35, has a change of heart and drops his demands.
    That means United could now be frontrunners for the veteran defender after he also refused to entertain an offer from former side Sevilla.
    Ramos is seen as an ideal partner for Red Devils captain Harry Maguire.
    FERDINAND ON SANCHO
    Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand has questioned whether Jadon Sancho has upset important people behind the scenes.
    The outstanding creative winger hasn’t played one minute of football at Euro 2020.
    And the decision to leave him out has left fans, ex-pros and pundits scratching their head.
    On his Five YouTube channel, he said: “The substitutions, I thought they were poor.
    “You can make a lot of substitutions now, he only made two substitutions when you can make five.
    “Utilise that bench, that’s what it’s there for. We’ve got all these players. Sancho? What’s he done? He must have done something behind the scenes.
    “He [Sancho] for the last three seasons has the second most goal involvements in this England squad after Sterling and Harry Kane.”
    IMPROVED BID
    According to Sky Sports, Man Utd have made an improved bid for Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho.
    An offer believed to be in the region of £75m has reportedly been submitted to the German club.
    Dortmund are believed to be looking to to get a sum of £80m, but there is a willingness to sort the situation out.
    GETTY IMAGES
    FIXTURE LIST
    Man Utd start the 2021-22 Premier League season against rivals Leeds United.

    ‘HE WAS MY IDOL’
    Man Utd newboy Amad Diallo has revelased that team-mate Paul Pogba was his hero.
    Speaking in an interview with the club’s official website, he said: “I met him when I was a kid at that trial at Juventus.
    “After the session, they asked me who I would like to have a photo with, and I asked for Paul. He was my idol!
    “Then, when I received the bid from United and I realised that Paul was here, I didn’t have to think twice and I wanted to come here straight away.
    “To be playing with him five years later is incredible.
    “I could not possibly ever imagine it happening. But these things happen once in a lifetime and, when such occasions come along, you have to seize them.
    “To play with Paul five years later is unbelievable, and hard to describe, really.”
    Diallio (left), Bailly (centre) and Pogba (right)Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    SHAW BACKS KANE
    Man Utd defender Luke Shaw has backed his England captain Harry Kane after his poor performance against Scotland yesterday.
    Kane was substituted in the late stages of the game by Marcus Rashford, and he has failed to score in the opening two group games.
    When asked if he is concerned over Kane’s performance, Shaw said: “No concern at all, for me personally I think he is the best striker in the world.
    ‘He is a very important part of the team, in fact the most important part.
    “I think whether he has not been at his best or not he is a massive part and a crucial player for us.
    “We need him whether his performances are as people expected or not, but this happens in tournament football, you can score a goal at any moment and he is such a crucial player – not just on the pitch but off the pitch, he has got all of our backing and I’m not worried at all.”
    VARANE DEAL
    Man Utd are still keen on signing Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, despite his £80m price tag.
    According to the Manchester Evening News, Man Utd made a £50m move but it was swiftly turned down.
    The report states that despite club captain Sergio Ramos leaving, they are prepared to sell Varane this summer with free agent David Alaba arriving.
    Real Madrid are trying to tie Varane down to a new deal, but if things don’t work out they wan’t a sizeable transfer fee.
    Worst case, Man Utd wait until next summer to sign the Frenchman for FREE.
    SANCHO CLOSER THAN EVER
    According to Si Lloyd, Man Utd are closer than ever to signing Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho.
    Jadon Sancho to Manchester United is nearly done. It’s been nearly done for a long, long time, but this time it really is a lot more nearly done than ever before.— Si Lloyd (@SmnLlyd5) June 19, 2021

    POST-FERGIE
    A lot of money has been spent this Sir Alex Ferguson left Man Utd.
    Here’s who Manchester United have signed since Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down
    TRIPP’S IT
    Manchester United are willing to sell left-back Alex Telles to fund a move for Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier, according to reports.
    The Mirror are reporting that Man Utd are still keen on Trippier and a reported bid of £10m was turned down not long ago.
    And Atletico boss Diego Simeone doesn’t want Trippier to leave for anything less than what they value him at, £40m.
    Trippier’s ability to play at both right and left-back provides cover if Telles is sold.
    ‘A BOY WITH SOME FEARS’
    Former Man Utd manager Jose Mourinho talked about his relationship with Luke Shaw.
    He said: “I found a boy. I found a boy after an incredible injury that put his career at risk.
    “A boy with some fears and scars from that awful night.
    “Then to work with me in a club where I was trying to improve mentalities and make ambitions and responsibilities to grow up.
    “It was not easy for him. I push players to the limit and sometimes players aren’t ready to follow me in that mentality. We had good periods.”
    FORMER REDS
    Cristiano Ronaldo will captain Portugal tonight when they face Germany!

    GET IT ‘DON
    Manchester United have submitted an opening bid for Jadon Sancho, according to reports.
    As revealed by SunSport this month, £350,000-a-week personal terms have already been agreed between the player and the Old Trafford club.
    And German newspaper Ruhr Nachrichten state a formal offer has been lodged for United’s No1 summer transfer target.
    It is unclear how much the bid was but United are thought to want Sancho for just £60million.
    However, the report states Borussia Dortmund are demanding £82m plus bonuses – with the fee described as ‘non-negotiable’. 
    That figure is £26m less than the £108m the Bundesliga side wanted last summer when a deal could not be agreed.
    BIG BUYS
    Paul Pogba and club captain Harry Maguire are Man Utd’s top-two expensive signings!

    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Man Utd star Bruno Fernandes slammed for ‘strolling’ with ‘zero energy’ by Lee Dixon as Portugal swept aside by Germany

    LEE DIXON took a swipe at Bruno Fernandes for ‘strolling’ around with ‘zero energy’ as Portugal were thumped by Germany on Saturday.The Manchester United star, 26, was utterly anonymous as the Germans powered their way to a 4-2 victory in Munich.
    Bruno Fernandes was slammed by Lee Dixon for his dreadful performance during the loss against GermanyCredit: EPA
    Lee Dixon criticised Fernandes for his lethargic display as Portugal slipped to a 4-2 lossCredit: PA
    Fernandes was hauled off after a miserable hour, replaced by Wolves’ Joao Moutinho, having made absolutely no impact.
    Shortly before he was hauled off – with Portugal losing 3-1 – Lee Dixon slated the Red Devils ace for his desperately poor afternoon, taking particular aim at his woeful work-rate.
    Speaking on ITV, fuming co-commentator Dixon said: “I think someone needs to tell Fernandes he’s 3-1 down.
    “He is just strolling on the ball.
    “He had a chance then to run into space and commit a few players ahead of him.
    “No energy in his run at all.”
    Portugal had taken the lead thanks to a blistering counter-attack, polished off by Cristiano Ronaldo.
    But a pair of own goals from Ruben Dias and Raphael Guerreiro put Germany 2-1 up before half-time – creating a piece of tournament history in the process.

    EURO 2020 FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS

    Kai Havertz and Robin Gosens both scored early in the second-half to put the game to bed.
    Portugal briefly threatened a comeback after Diogo Jota smashed home a Cristiano Ronaldo cross from a yard out.
    But in truth, Fernandes and Co were second-best throughout.
    In the Group of Death, Portugal may now need a result against reigning world champions France to progress to the last-16, despite winning their tournament opener 3-0 against Hungary.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Surprised Cristiano Ronaldo gets ID’d by Euro 2020 security guard as Portugal superstar forgets to flash his pass More

  • in

    Man Utd make ‘IMPROVED Sancho bid’, Varane LATEST, Rio tips Ramos for Utd, Trippier transfer latest

    MANCHESTER UNITED are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with an improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund. Meanwhile, United have tabled a bid for Raphael Varane of £50million, according to separate reports.
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game 
    LIN IT TO WIN IT
    Jesse Lingard has been urged to leave Man United on a permanent deal to West Ham.
    Lingard scored nine goals and bagged five assists in just 16 games on loan at the Hammers this year,
    Trevor Sinclair told TalkSport: “Can I just say, Jesse Lingard, get to the capital of England rather than the capital of France.
    “You are loved at West Ham. Get yourself there, boy.”

    PAU WOW
    Man Utd are willing to launch a transfer bid for Pau Torres, according to reports.
    But they face competition from Real Madrid for the defender’s signature.
    According to AS, the Red Devils may make an official bid in the coming weeks.
    Torres was in the Villarreal side which beat United in the Europa League final.
    And he is currently starting for Spain alongside Aymeric Laporte at the Euros.

    RAM RAID
    Manchester United have reportedly been given a clear path to sign Sergio Ramos after Paris Saint-Germain dropped out of the race, writes ANTHONY CHAPMAN.
    RMC claims Mauricio Pochettino is keen on signing the former Real Madrid captain, whose shock Bernabeu departure was confirmed this week.
    However, Ramos is demanding a two-year contract on wages worth £200,000-a-week.
    And PSG are refusing to enter talks unless Ramos, 35, has a change of heart and drops his demands.
    That means United could now be frontrunners for the veteran defender after he also refused to entertain an offer from former side Sevilla.
    Ramos is seen as an ideal partner for Red Devils captain Harry Maguire.
    FERDINAND ON SANCHO
    Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand has questioned whether Jadon Sancho has upset important people behind the scenes.
    The outstanding creative winger hasn’t played one minute of football at Euro 2020.
    And the decision to leave him out has left fans, ex-pros and pundits scratching their head.
    On his Five YouTube channel, he said: “The substitutions, I thought they were poor.
    “You can make a lot of substitutions now, he only made two substitutions when you can make five.
    “Utilise that bench, that’s what it’s there for. We’ve got all these players. Sancho? What’s he done? He must have done something behind the scenes.
    “He [Sancho] for the last three seasons has the second most goal involvements in this England squad after Sterling and Harry Kane.”
    IMPROVED BID
    According to Sky Sports, Man Utd have made an improved bid for Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho.
    An offer believed to be in the region of £75m has reportedly been submitted to the German club.
    Dortmund are believed to be looking to to get a sum of £80m, but there is a willingness to sort the situation out.
    GETTY IMAGES
    FIXTURE LIST
    Man Utd start the 2021-22 Premier League season against rivals Leeds United.

    ‘HE WAS MY IDOL’
    Man Utd newboy Amad Diallo has revelased that team-mate Paul Pogba was his hero.
    Speaking in an interview with the club’s official website, he said: “I met him when I was a kid at that trial at Juventus.
    “After the session, they asked me who I would like to have a photo with, and I asked for Paul. He was my idol!
    “Then, when I received the bid from United and I realised that Paul was here, I didn’t have to think twice and I wanted to come here straight away.
    “To be playing with him five years later is incredible.
    “I could not possibly ever imagine it happening. But these things happen once in a lifetime and, when such occasions come along, you have to seize them.
    “To play with Paul five years later is unbelievable, and hard to describe, really.”
    Diallio (left), Bailly (centre) and Pogba (right)Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    SHAW BACKS KANE
    Man Utd defender Luke Shaw has backed his England captain Harry Kane after his poor performance against Scotland yesterday.
    Kane was substituted in the late stages of the game by Marcus Rashford, and he has failed to score in the opening two group games.
    When asked if he is concerned over Kane’s performance, Shaw said: “No concern at all, for me personally I think he is the best striker in the world.
    ‘He is a very important part of the team, in fact the most important part.
    “I think whether he has not been at his best or not he is a massive part and a crucial player for us.
    “We need him whether his performances are as people expected or not, but this happens in tournament football, you can score a goal at any moment and he is such a crucial player – not just on the pitch but off the pitch, he has got all of our backing and I’m not worried at all.”
    VARANE DEAL
    Man Utd are still keen on signing Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, despite his £80m price tag.
    According to the Manchester Evening News, Man Utd made a £50m move but it was swiftly turned down.
    The report states that despite club captain Sergio Ramos leaving, they are prepared to sell Varane this summer with free agent David Alaba arriving.
    Real Madrid are trying to tie Varane down to a new deal, but if things don’t work out they wan’t a sizeable transfer fee.
    Worst case, Man Utd wait until next summer to sign the Frenchman for FREE.
    SANCHO CLOSER THAN EVER
    According to Si Lloyd, Man Utd are closer than ever to signing Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho.
    Jadon Sancho to Manchester United is nearly done. It’s been nearly done for a long, long time, but this time it really is a lot more nearly done than ever before.— Si Lloyd (@SmnLlyd5) June 19, 2021

    POST-FERGIE
    A lot of money has been spent this Sir Alex Ferguson left Man Utd.
    Here’s who Manchester United have signed since Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down
    TRIPP’S IT
    Manchester United are willing to sell left-back Alex Telles to fund a move for Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier, according to reports.
    The Mirror are reporting that Man Utd are still keen on Trippier and a reported bid of £10m was turned down not long ago.
    And Atletico boss Diego Simeone doesn’t want Trippier to leave for anything less than what they value him at, £40m.
    Trippier’s ability to play at both right and left-back provides cover if Telles is sold.
    ‘A BOY WITH SOME FEARS’
    Former Man Utd manager Jose Mourinho talked about his relationship with Luke Shaw.
    He said: “I found a boy. I found a boy after an incredible injury that put his career at risk.
    “A boy with some fears and scars from that awful night.
    “Then to work with me in a club where I was trying to improve mentalities and make ambitions and responsibilities to grow up.
    “It was not easy for him. I push players to the limit and sometimes players aren’t ready to follow me in that mentality. We had good periods.”
    FORMER REDS
    Cristiano Ronaldo will captain Portugal tonight when they face Germany!

    GET IT ‘DON
    Manchester United have submitted an opening bid for Jadon Sancho, according to reports.
    As revealed by SunSport this month, £350,000-a-week personal terms have already been agreed between the player and the Old Trafford club.
    And German newspaper Ruhr Nachrichten state a formal offer has been lodged for United’s No1 summer transfer target.
    It is unclear how much the bid was but United are thought to want Sancho for just £60million.
    However, the report states Borussia Dortmund are demanding £82m plus bonuses – with the fee described as ‘non-negotiable’. 
    That figure is £26m less than the £108m the Bundesliga side wanted last summer when a deal could not be agreed.
    BIG BUYS
    Paul Pogba and club captain Harry Maguire are Man Utd’s top-two expensive signings!

    GOOD MORNING UNITED FANS
    Manchester United were handed a transfer boost when Sergio Ramos quit Real Madrid earlier this week – but could his exit actually be a negative for the Red Devils?
    The Spanish defender’s departure means Real are more likely to offer United target Raphael Varane a new deal, although rumours suggest the Frenchman still wants to leave the club.
    One man who’s on the verge of moving to Old Trafford is Aston Villa goalkeeper Tom Heaton, with his signing expected to be announced shortly.
    The Jadon Sancho saga continues to dominate headlines, with reports claiming talks have advanced between United and the player’s current side Borussia Dortmund.
    The Red Devils’ transfer budget may be limited this summer, though, as the club have posted a £21.7m loss due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was handed an injury boost as Harry Maguire made the bench for England’s 0-0 draw with Scotland at Euro 2020, although he didn’t feature at Wembley.
    Finally, United’s Premier League opener against Leeds United on Saturday, August 14 has been brought forward to 12:30pm.
    NEV’S MAGUIRE FEAR
    Gary Neville fears for Harry Maguire’s recall chances at Euro 2020 as the Manchester United skipper sat out England’s clean sheets against Croatia and Scotland.
    Maguire hoped to return against the Scots tonight but Gareth Southgate retained John Stones’ central-defensive partnership with Tyrone Mings.
    In one sense, the United centre-back might be glad to have missed the shocking 0-0 draw with Scotland, following the more solid 1-0 group win over Croatia.
    But Old Trafford legend Neville told ITV: “I think he would have started if he was fit.
    “He mustn’t be fit and that must be a concern as the tournament goes on.
    “If Gareth doesn’t think he can play against Scotland then that would cast a shadow on him across the rest of the tournament for me, as it gets to the point where you can’t bring him into a knockout game mid-way through the competition.”
    KANE WAS SOU DISAPPOINTING
    Graeme Souness has slammed England captain and United target Harry Kane after his anonymous showing against Scotland, saying: “Football isn’t coming home with this squad.”
    The England captain, 27, went missing yet again as Gareth Southgate’s team were booed off the pitch after deservedly being held 0-0 against Scotland.

    Kane struggled against Croatia on Sunday and barely had a sniff against the Scots either.
    England now sit second in Group D behind Czech Republic on goal difference and will need to win their final game to win the group.
    And ex-Liverpool and Scotland midfielder Souness took particular aim at Kane for his lacklustre showing in front of goal.
    Speaking on ITV, Souness said: “The centre-backs had an easy night again him.
    “Harry Kane looks a shadow of the player we know he is. In two games, he looks leggy, lacking enthusiasm…”
    But Kane added: “A centre-forward is 90 per cent relying on the passes he’s getting and he’s not getting a great deal from that midfield.
    “I don’t care what anyone says; that ain’t working.”
    UTD ‘£20m SHORT FOR JADON’
    Manchester United could be up to £20million short of Borussia Dortmund’s £80m valuation of Jadon Sancho.
    United are thought to have agreed personal terms with The England wideman, 21.
    But the Mirror claim there is still A BIG difference between Old Trafford chiefs and the Bundesliga giants over the total fee – AND how it will be paid.
    WARMING UP FOR HEAT
    Tom Heaton will soon be announced as a Manchester United player.
    According to BBC Sport, the anticipated deal to bring in the ex-Red Devil from Aston Villa as a free transfer is near completion.
    The goalkeeper is expected to provide back-up to David De Gea and Dean Henderson.
    ALL IN VARANE FOR UTD?
    Manchester United could miss out on long-term target Raphael Varane after Sergio Ramos’ dramatic exit from Real Madrid.
    Madrid’s decision to end Ramos’ 16-year stay in the Spanish capital has forced club president Florentino Perez to rethink Varane’s future at the club.
    The club has now opened talks with the France international over a new contract to fill the void left by Ramos, which could bring an end to Man Utd’s interest in the player.
    Talks previously haven’t progressed well with Madrid, and at one point an exit looked inevitable for the 28-year-old.
    Varane will most likely form a centre-back partnership with new signing David Alaba, who signed as a free agent from Bayern Munich.
    Either way, returning boss Carlo Ancelotti has a defensive headache to sort out.
    LUKE SORE
    Jose Mourinho claims Luke Shaw had ’emotional scars’ that he tried to help the recalled England left-back heal.
    Mourinho famously criticised Shaw’s form and fitness during their up-and-down relationship at Manchester United.
    The new Roma chief told talkSPORT: “I found a boy after an incredible injury which risked his career.
    “I found a boy with some fear and emotional scars.
    “I was trying to improve mentalities, I was trying to make ambition and responsibility – to grow up.
    “It was not easy for him and I have to admit that I pushed the players to their limits, and sometimes players are not ready to follow me.
    “We had a good period. He has a lot of talent.”
    Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    RAM RAID
    Manchester United have reportedly been given a clear path to sign Sergio Ramos after Paris Saint-Germain dropped out of the race.
    RMC claims Mauricio Pochettino is keen on signing the former Real Madrid captain, whose shock Bernabeu departure was confirmed this week.
    However, Ramos is demanding a two-year contract on wages worth £200,000-a-week.
    And PSG are refusing to enter talks unless Ramos, 35, has a change of heart and drops his demands.
    That means United could now be frontrunners for the veteran defender after he also refused to entertain an offer from former side Sevilla.
    Ramos is seen as an ideal partner for Red Devils captain Harry Maguire.
    COME BACK JESSE
    Jesse Lingard has been urged by Trevor Sinclair to seal a permanent transfer to West Ham and return to where he is ‘loved’.
    The playmaker made a move to the Hammers on loan in January after being frozen out of Manchester United’s squad.
    With nine goals and five assists in 16 games, it leaves West Ham pushing to bring the England international to the club full-time.
    And ex-Hammer Sinclair, who made 196 appearances for the Londoners, called for Lingard, linked also with PSG, to remain with David Moyes’ side.
    He told talkSPORT: “Can I just say, Jesse Lingard, get to the capital of England rather than the capital of France.
    “You are loved at West Ham. Get yourself there, boy.”

    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Man Utd star McTominay opens up on Neymar row and says duo shouted ‘words your mum or dad might not like’ at each other

    MANCHESTER UNITED and Scotland star Scott McTominay has shed light on his on-field row with Neymar.The 24-year-old has admitted there were ‘words that your mum or dad might not like to hear’ exchanged between the pair.
    Man Utd star Scott McTominay has opened up on his bust-up with NeymarCredit: Reuters
    McTominay, who starred for Scotland in their Euro 2020 Group D draw with England, clashed with Neymar during Manchester United’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain.
    And the midfielder admit he ‘likes verbal sparring’ with opponents.
    Speaking to The Athletic, McTominay said: “He ended up grabbing me. You could see his head was gone for a moment in the way he was so aggressive.
    “There was a lot of talking going on — words that your mum or dad might not like to hear.
    “But that is part of the enjoyment of football, of competition. He’s trying to beat me, and I’m trying to stop him.
    “If you have to say certain things to people to take their eye off the game, then fair enough — that is the way it’s going to be.
    “That was the way that game was going with Neymar. But he is such an amazing player, he was really good in the second half, and for us, we have to pay him respect.
    “He is possibly the most talented player I have played against. Just because you might have a bicker doesn’t mean you don’t have respect.”

    BETTING SPECIAL: GET CRISTIANO RONALDO TO SCORE VS GERMANY AT 30/1

    McTominay has revealed he ‘likes verbal sparring’Credit: The Times

    McTominay played out of position in a back three for Scotland against England – but was part of a backline that kept a clean sheet.
    Alongside Grant Hanley and Kieran Tierney, McTominay kept the usually prolific Harry Kane completely nullified.
    The draw gives Scotland a real chance of qualifying for the knockout stages. They play Croatia in their final game.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer heaps praise on Scott McTominay for passing the captaincy test with flying colours More

  • in

    Sergio Ramos to Man Utd hint from Rio Ferdinand, Trippier ‘to replace Telles’, Sancho transfer latest

    MANCHESTER UNITED are hopeful of completing their big-money transfer for Jadon Sancho NEXT WEEK, according to reports. Meanwhile Rio Ferdinand may have dropped a hint on Twitter that Sergio Ramos could be headed to Old Trafford.
    And the Red Devils are reportedly looking to sell Alex Telles to make money for Kieran Trippier.
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game 
    SANCHO LATEST
    Manchester United are ‘very confident’ of signing Jadon Sancho.
    According to the Mirror, further talks with Borussia Dortmund have provided cause for optimism despite an opening bid of £67million being turned down.
    The Bundesliga giants are said to want most of the payment up front while personal terms were already agreed last year, meaning an update to the deal will not prove difficult.

    LOU ARE YA
    Louis van Gaal is set to return to management five years after departing Manchester United.
    The 69-year-old, who was sacked by the Red Devils in 2016 after winning the FA Cup, will step back into the dugout next season with SC Telstar.
    Thougn Van Gaal will only be in charge of his former employers for one game as part of a fundraising drive.
    Supporters can buy lottery tickets for the chance to serve as his assistant during the match.
    Looking ahead to his return to football, SunSport takes a look at seven of the most mental Van Gaal moments during his coaching career.
    Click here to read more

    SPANISH INQUISITION
    Gini Wijnaldum joked that Memphis Depay speaks to him in Spanish, ahead of the forward’s impending move to Barcelona.
    Depay, 27, crashed Wijnaldum’s post-match interview, with the pair both on Netherlands duty.
    The former Manchester United star whispered something to Wijnaldum, prompting a Dutch reporter to ask the new PSG star what Depay had said.
    With a smile, Wijnaldum joked: “I do not know, I have not understood.
    “He must have spoken in Spanish.”
    Wijnaldum, who himself was in advanced negotiations with Barca before choosing PSG, was referring to Depay’s likely transfer to Catalonia.
    LION’S PRIDE
    Jesse Lingard admits watching England in Euros action with the fans has given him a new understanding of how much playing for the country really means.
    The Manchester United star said: “It’s crazy, you don’t realise until like you’re actually in it how much it means to everyone.
    “Everyone’s watching the game and everyone’s in a beer garden, and the sun was out, the drinks are flying everywhere.
    “You don’t realise how important it is to the whole nation, to be to be putting on that shirt and playing for your country.
    “It gives you a different, different perspective. It’s crazy how many people really love football and want to be part of football.”

    READY TO RAM-BLE
    Jose Mourinho has backed Sergio Ramos to be a huge success in the Premier League – but believes only a ‘top club’ can afford him.
    Speaking to talkSPORT, he said: “I can imagine we will see him [Ramos] playing in a very good club.
    “Only a top club will be in a condition to fulfil his financial demands.
    “Look to Thiago Silva – he is in a similar situation.
    “He came to Chelsea, didn’t play every match, had a couple of little muscular issues.
    “But in big matches he gave great stability and you can imagine how much he helped the team to develop, the young players, the leadership.
    “Ramos is in a similar situation. He is even more physical than Thiago to compete with the Premier League demands.
    “I have no doubt he can play with intensity and the demands of the Premier League. No doubts.”
    RAMOS RULES OUT TWO CLUBS
    Sergio Ramos has immediately ruled out moving to Sevilla or Barcelona, following his Real Madrid exit.
    The defender will leave the Bernabeu for good at the end of this month after 16 years of service.
    As quoted by Fabrizio Romano, he said: “I’m not joining Sevilla, this is not even an option.
    “Barcelona? Impossible. You’ll never see me at Barca. I don’t know which club I’m joining yet.
    “When I’ll know, I’ll be the first to announce it. It’s not time to talk about my future.”
    Ramos is believed to be a target for Manchester United.
    Credit: PA
    YOUR IN DEMAND
    Leicester are hoping Youri Tielemans will sign a new contract amid transfer interest from Manchester United and Liverpool.
    The midfielder, 24, enjoyed a stunning season for the Foxes.
    As reported by the Leicester Mercury, the Foxes are doing their best to tie Tielemans down in the East Midlands.
    He has two years left to run on his current contract and the club want to improve his deal to fend off potential interest.
    BELLI RUB
    Jude Bellingham says it was an ‘easy’ decision to reject Manchester United – despite Sir Alex Ferguson giving him a guided tour of the club.
    The 17-year-old midfielder left Birmingham City for Borussia Dortmund last summer and has gone on to shine in the German top-flight.
    He said: “To be fair, it was a decision that was quite easy in the end.
    “I think if you look at Dortmund’s track record with young players and the way they develop them, it was the obvious answer.
    “Obviously at the time it’s hard to see it like that because you’ve got so many other options.
    “But my strength of character, I’d probably say it comes from my parents and stuff.”
    NEY WAY
    Scott McTominay has revealed all on his sparring match with Neymar in the Champions League.
    Paris Saint-Germain’s trip to Old Trafford last year featured plenty of toing-and-froing between the pair, which the Scot has opened up on.
    He told The Athletic: “I do quite like verbal sparring with opponents. 
    “I had a run-in with Neymar when Paris Saint-Germain came to Old Trafford last season. 
    “He ended up grabbing me. You could see his head was gone for a moment in the way he was so aggressive. 
    “There was a lot of talking going on — words that your mum or dad might not like to hear. But that is part of the enjoyment of football, of competition. He’s trying to beat me, and I’m trying to stop him.”
    Credit: Reuters
    REAL DEAL
    Manchester United could miss out on long-term target Raphael Varane after Sergio Ramos’ dramatic exit from Real Madrid.
    Madrid’s decision to end Ramos’ 16-year stay in the Spanish capital has forced club president Florentino Perez to rethink Varane’s future at the club.
    The club has now opened talks with the France international over a new contract to fill the void left by Ramos, which could bring an end to Man Utd’s interest in the player.
    Talks previously haven’t progressed well with Madrid, and at one point an exit looked inevitable for the 28-year-old.
    Varane will most likely form a centre-back partnership with new signing David Alaba, who signed as a free agent from Bayern Munich.
    Either way, returning boss Carlo Ancelotti has a defensive headache to sort out.
    BRU THE ONE
    Bruno Fernandes has paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo – but insisted the Portuguese team is paramount.
    The Juventus forward scored twice against Hungary in their opening Euro 2020 game, even bagging penalty rights over the Manchester United spot-kick specialist.
    And Fernandes said: “Ronaldo is influential, as always. 
    “He is another one who wants to do his best and is making a difference. 
    “The most valuable player in the national team is the ‘we’. The ‘we’ is the most important, there are many Is, but the ‘us’ is what counts.”
    Credit: Reuters
    THE HEAT IS ON
    Tom Heaton will soon be announced as a Manchester United player.
    According to BBC Sport, the anticipated deal to bring in the ex-Red Devil from Aston Villa as a free transfer is near completion.
    The goalkeeper is expected to provide back-up to David De Gea and Dean Henderson.
    SHAW ENOUGH
    Luke Shaw is reportedly in line for a start against Scotland tonight.
    The defender sat out England’s win over Croatia but Gareth Southgate may shift things around for this Wembley clash.
    Steve Clarke’s men play with a back five and England could follow suit with Reece James also coming in.
    According to Sky Sports, it is James and Shaw likely to set up alongside Harry Maguire in defence.
    HAK’D OFF
    Manchester United Hakan Calhanoglu is set to be offered a REDUCED deal by AC Milan.
    A lacklustre Euro 2020 performance with Turkey has left the out-of-contract midfielder’s options limited, as reported by Tuttosport.
    The Rossoneri’s new offer is said to be weighted towards performance related bonuses rather than a high basic salary.
    Credit: Alamy
    VA-RANE DANCE
    Reports in Spain suggest Real Madrid are increasingly resigned to selling Raphael Varane.
    After letting Sergio Ramos go, Carlo Ancelotti is set to have David Alaba and Jesus Vallejo introduced to his defence next season.
    And Cadena SER claim Varane has already informed them that he does not want to sign a new contract.
    With his deal up in 2022, the Frenchman rejected a renewal offer earlier this year.
    MAC BACKING
    Scott McTominay has praised Bruno Fernandes’ role in leading the Manchester United team.
    Writing in The Athletic, the midfielder talked up the instant impact his team-mate had when arriving at Old Trafford last year.
    He said: “Bruno Fernandes is always communicating. Sometimes in strong terms! 
    “But Bruno is Bruno, he can say what he wants. He is a top personality. A lot of the things we’ve been doing well at United, he’s been firmly at the heart of them. Big credit to him. 
    “As soon as he walked through the door he was practising hard, doing everything to the best of his abilities. He revels in that competitive edge. 
    “You can tackle him hard, you can talk back to him, and he still loves you. He never holds back with anything and that’s the sign of a true Manchester United player.”
    Credit: AFP
    JADON INCOMING
    Manchester United are ‘very confident’ of signing Jadon Sancho.
    According to the Mirror, further talks with Borussia Dortmund have provided cause for optimism despite an opening bid of £67million being turned down.
    The Bundesliga giants are said to want most of the payment up front while personal terms were already agreed last year, meaning an update to the deal will not prove difficult.
    WOOD YOU KINDLY?
    Ed Woodward hailed fans ‘the lifeblood of the game’ after the club’s financial losses were confirmed.
    The outgoing executive vice-chairman is optimistic about the prospect of fans returning to football grounds in much greater numbers following losses of £21.7million.
    He said: “The absence of fans over the past year has proved that they are the lifeblood of the game.
    “Following the successful return of limited numbers at the end of last season, and continued trials of increased crowds at sports events this summer, we remain optimistic about the prospect of fans returning to Old Trafford in larger numbers going forwards.
    “With the foundations for long-term success in place, including significant initiatives to strengthen engagement with our supporters, we look forward to the upcoming season.”
    Credit: EPA
    IN THE RED
    Manchester United have posted a £21.7million loss due to the coronavirus pandemic.
    The absence of fans inside Old Trafford has seen United’s matchday sales fall to just £1.6m, down from £29.1m the year prior.
    Man Utd’s matchday, commercial and sponsorship revenue slump all saw drops of £27.5m, £10.5m and £8.9m.
    Figures from January to March 2021 show that Man Utd made £118.3million compared to £123.7m the year before, a revenue fall of 4.4%.
    But an increase in broadcasting revenue – five additional games broadcasted – slightly softened the financial blow.
    IN-SAN-ITY
    Manchester City are the ‘only winner’ if they decide to go head to head with Manchester United for Jadon Sancho.
    That is according to former City star Paul Stewart, who has told Football Fancast that his old club would be streets ahead in cutting a deal.
    He said: “There’s only one winner if both clubs are going for him and that’s Manchester City, and I would like to see him back in the Premier League.
    “I think he’s one of the best right-sided players out there and he’s gone away and proved it.”
    Credit: Reuters
    WHO’S IN ACTION TODAY?
    Harry Maguire is racing back to fitness for England’s game with Scotland tonight.
    The Manchester United star last played in the Red Devils’ trip to Aston Villa in early May and missed the Europa League final.
    Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw will also hope to make the starting XI having been substitutes for the win over Croatia.
    On the other side, Scott McTominay is expected to keep his place in the Scots’ side.
    GOOD MORNING RED DEVILS FANS
    Man United target Sergio Ramos claims he wanted to stay at Real Madrid – but didn’t sign his contract extension in time.
    Speaking to the Spanish press, Ramos said: “The offer was accepted but it had a use-by date.
    “They informed us a week ago that the offer had run-out. I don’t know why it had an expiry date.
    “Maybe I interpreted it wrongly or I didn’t understand it but no one told me.”
    Meanwhile, Donny van de Beek’s agent has labelled reports linking the midfielder with a move away from Man United as ‘bulls***’.
    VI transfer expert Simon Zwartkruis said: “He [the agent] told me the rumours are complete bull**t. Donny had a discussion with his manager about next season.
    “[Solskjaer told him] he simply needs to get fully fit quickly, in order that right from day one he will be the strong Van de Beek who United signed last year.”
    Finally, Harry Maguire is ready to make his injury comeback for England against Scotland today.
    The Man United captain beamed: “I feel good. I’m back available, been training and I’m looking forward to it.
    “Obviously, the injury was a setback club-football-wise.
    “Internationally, I wanted to come into this with a lot of games under my belt with full fitness.
    “I’ve done a few sessions now and feel like my fitness is there, so I’m available for the game.”
    DEP IN THE DEEP END
    Man Utd flop Memphis Depay wasted a glorious chance for Netherlands in their 2-0 victory over Austria at Euro 2020.
    The Dutchman opened the scoring in Amsterdam before Denzel Dumfries confirmed his country’s spot in the last 16.
    But Depay won’t be able to forget this horror miss any time soon as he closes in on a free switch to Barcelona.

    RAPH RIDE
    Man Utd are kicking on with a busy summer in the transfer market amid talk of a bid for Raphael Varane.
    The Manchester Evening News claims Ole Gunnar Solskjaer failed with a £50million bid for the Real Madrid star.
    However, Varane is refusing to commit to a new deal, with his current contract expiring in 2022.
    And an offer of around £80m could be enough to bring the French World Cup winner to Old Trafford.

    DANCE A HIG
    Gonzalo Higuain claims the only way to play alongside Man Utd legend Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona icon Lionel Messi is to ‘serve’ them obediently.
    Higuain told Bobo TV: “I was fortunate to play with both. 
    “They are at a level so high that you have to adapt them to serve them.
    “With Messi and Ronaldo to the side have at the least three or four goal situations a game, if you ‘re smart and you understand. 
    “For me it was a privilege.”

    Load more entries… More