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      Ruben Amorim ‘tells Man Utd chiefs he needs Viktor Gyokeres NOW’ and transfer can’t wait until summer

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      RUBEN AMORIM is tipped to demand Manchester United buy Viktor Gyokeres RIGHT AWAY.The Old Trafford boss is reported by The Daily Star to be so worried by United’s lack of firepower that he wants to spend big this month rather than wait until the summer.Viktor Gyokeres is again attracting Prem interest, led by Man UtdCredit: GettyRuben Amorim is said to be urging instant transfer actionCredit: RexGyokeres, 26, is under contract at Sporting Lisbon until 2028 with a release clause of around £80million.It’s understood Amorim would be prepared to offload both Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee in a major shake-up of his attacking options.And Gyokeres is regarded as the man he most craves to replace them.The Sweden star has hit a staggering 26 goals in 24 matches this season.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThat includes a brilliant hat-trick as Sporting demolished Manchester City 4-1 in the Champions League two months ago.Sporting would reportedly consider selling Gyokeres for around £62m-£70m at the end of the season.And if the Red Devils come in with a firm offer this month then £80m might be the minimum offer needed to tempt the Portuguese giants.Amorim could also try to bolster his defence, notably at left-back.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSUnited have been linked with Benfica’s Alvaro Fernandez, although his £25m buy-back clause only becomes active next summer.Meanwhile, £86m flop winger Antony appears a likely leaver as the 14th-placed Red Devils look to rebuild all over the pitch.Ruben Amorim says Man Utd face a relegation battleOld club Ajax, Fenerbahce and Real Betis are amongst clubs thought to be monitoring the Brazil winger.A January loan exit appears a strong option for the 24-year-old. More

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      Former Man Utd star sent off for STAMPING on opponent’s stomach in moment of madness during Championship clash

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      EX-MANCHESTER UNITED starlet Hannibal Mejbri sparked outrage as fans demanded a season-long ban over a “disgusting stamp”.The Burnley midfielder saw red after catching Junior Tchamadeu in the STOMACH during a 0-0 Championship draw at home to Stoke.Hannibal Mejbri’s studs clearly caught Stoke’s Junior TchamadeuMejbri followed through, seemingly with no effort to avoid TchamadeuThe Tunisia star, 21, trod on the grounded Potters’ defender – rather than trying to jump over him.And some observers reckon trampling on the tummy of Tchamadeu was a deliberate act.The Stoke ace reacted to Mejbri’s wild loss of control by rolling around on the pitch.But Tchamadeu’s dramatic response didn’t appear to influence referee Gavin Ward – as the whistler had instantly sent Mejbri off.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Rightly so because that is DISGUSTING,” one viewer posted.Another fan went further: “Ban him for the season. Absolutely disgusting.”A third demanded a suspension for a “long time”.One viewer slammed summer signing Mejbri for a “terrible foul” that another fan called “idiocy of the highest order”.Most read in ChampionshipMejbri joined Burnley after three years with UnitedCredit: Willie VassFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHowever, another observer claimed: “It’s not a stamp, he walks on the player intentionally, which is still probably a red card but more stupid and petulant than dangerous or violent.”The draw left Burnley in second place, three points behind Leeds.Nathan Aspinall recalls favourite Man Utd memories Meanwhile, Stoke’s sturdy defending helped them move three points clear of the drop zone in Ryan Shawcross’ final game as caretaker boss.Former Red Devils’ striker Mark Robins – now better known for his seven years managing Coventry City – will come in as the Potter’s permanent manager.It follows the sacking of Narcis Pelach after just three months in charge. More

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      ‘Apologising is not enough’ says Amad Diallo in classy message to Man Utd fans after Red Devils plummet to new low

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      AMAD DIALLO has issued a classy message to Manchester United fans amid the club’s ongoing crisis.The Red Devils are toiling in 14TH PLACE in the Premier League table following a nightmare first half of the season.Manchester United are toiling in 14th place in the Premier League tableCredit: PAAmad Diallo has been a shining light in a difficult season for the Red DevilsCredit: REXThe Ivorian took to X to issue a message to fans ahead of the New YearCredit: XNew manager Ruben Amorim has failed to stop the rot, with his troops losing a whopping FIVE matches last month.United ended 2024 with a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Newcastle and were booed after the final whistle.And Diallo – who has been a rare shining light in a torrid season – took to social media to send a message to the frustrated Old Trafford faithful.Along with an image of himself looking dejected, the Ivorian winger wrote on X: “A very difficult year, apologizing is not enough.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWS”But you have supported us and continued to do so throughout all this time. Thank you.”Diallo, who scored a sensational stoppage-time winner in the Manchester Derby, received a slew of positive messages from United fans.One commented: “You’re the only reason we still watch the games.”Another said: “We keep supporting you and the club regardless.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMan Utd ratings vs Newcastle as Joshua Zirkzee is hooked after half an hour and Kobbie Mainoo the only bright sparkKOBBIE MAINOO’S performance was the only silver lining as Manchester United suffered a fourth consecutive defeat.Newcastle struck twice in the opening 19 minutes as they threatened to tally up a cricket score at Old Trafford.Joshua Zirkzee was ruthlessly subbed after half an hour after struggling in a No10 role – but there was no recovering for Ruben Amorim’s side.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the United display…Andre Onana – 5Little he could do about both goals and was barely tested other than that.Noussair Mazraouri – 4The first two goals came down his side as he failed to close down the crosses that were turned in by Isak and Joelinton.But he was positive in possession and put in a few dangerous crosses.Matthijs de Ligt – 5Did not do much wrong for Newcastle goals but can be criticised for his failure to organise his defensive team-mates.Harry Maguire – 4Lost Isak for the opener as he was caught ball watching.Almost made amends but his diving header cannoned back off the post.Lisandro Martinez – 3A complete mismatch as he attempted to battle Joelinton for a cross the Brazilian turned in.Also lost Isak for the opener and even faced the wrong way as the cross came in.Diogo Dalot – 5Offered some much needed stability on the left flank and produced a good cross for Maguire’s headed chance.Casemiro – 3Dismal throughout. So far off the pace and barely made a pass.Missed a guilt-edge chance to pull one back on the stroke of half-time.Christian Eriksen – 4Similarly inept in protecting his defence as Casemiro, as he was overran time and time again.He did at least put a few passes together and improved after Mainoo came on.Amad Diallo – 4A tricky evening up against the hardworking Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall so was largely ineffective.Joshua Zirkzee – 2Nothing went his way and the fans quickly got on his back. He was hauled off in the 33rd minute and his substitution was greeted with cheers by the Old Trafford faithful.Rasmus Hojlund – 5Fed off scraps but did not stop running and was a rare bright spark – came very close with a low shot that whistled past the post in the first half.SubsKobbie Mainoo (for Zirkzee) – 6Turned things around after his introduction and made things happen with his accurate passing.Set up Casemiro for a chance the Brazilian should have buried.Leny Yoro (for Martinez, 64mins) – 6Had a good chance from a corner but sent his free header wide.Alejandro Garnacho (for Casemiro, 64mins) – 4Struggled to make an impact as he failed to beat a man.Antony (for De Ligt, 83 mins) – 5Not enough time to influence the match.A third fan wrote: “I love you, Habibi. Don’t post black and white, cause you have been the shining light for us.”While another said: “Don’t worry. No Manchester United fans is angry at you. So enjoy your holiday.”Fury as Sir Jim Ratcliffe cuts ties with charity helping Man Utd legendsAnd one added: “You are only of the only ones who doesn’t need to apologise Amad.”United are a mere seven points above the relegation zone following four defeats in their last five.And Amorim admits his charges are in danger of dropping into the Championship based on their current form.The Portuguese said: “I think that it is a possibility. We have to be clear with our fans.He continued: “It is also my fault. The team is not improving.“It is a little bit lost in this moment and it is a bit embarrassing to be Manchester United coach and lose a lot of games.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I think people are tired of excuses at this club. This club needs a shock.”United will be back in action on Sunday, travelling to Anfield to take on their bitter rivals and league leaders Liverpool.Ruben Amorim admits Manchester United are in danger of being relegatedCredit: GETTY More

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      Marcus Rashford sends nine-word message as Man Utd star breaks silence for first time since latest snub

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      MARCUS RASHFORD sent a brief message to Manchester United fans ahead of the New Year.The forward shocked supporters when he admitted he is ready for a new challenge in an unauthorised interview during a surprise visit to his old primary school in November.Marcus Rashford revealed his intention to leave Manchester United late last yearCredit: AlamyThe striker sent a message to the Old Trafford faithful on New Year’s EveCredit: INSTAGRAM@MARCUSRASHFORDRashford, 27, has since been exiled from the United squad under new boss Ruben Amorim, returning only as an unused substitute in the 2-0 loss to Newcastle on Monday.Rashford has remained silent in the immediate aftermath of his bombshell transfer plans.But he took the time to send a message to United fans and his social media followers on New Year’s Eve.Along with a snap of himself sat on a sofa and a framed matchday shirt behind him, he wrote: “Happy New Years. May 2025 bring you all happiness.”READ MORE ON RASHFORDThe England international was inundated with messages of support, with one United fan saying: “Still love you Rash.”Another said: “Manc born and bred.”And another said: “Till the end of the line, Rashbeans.”One remarked: “Happy new year, Rashy. My GOAT.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhy Rashford joining Arsenal is perfect fitBy Martin LiptonMARCUS RASHFORD is at a crossroads.But now the England star has to make the biggest choice he has ever faced – does he care about cash, or about his career?Rashford’s shock admission that he is “ready for a new challenge” after some two decades under the Manchester United umbrella has altered the dynamic around his future.That Rashford might not fit the blueprint of Ruben Amorim – who has now responded to Rashford’s comments – was not exactly a surprise.The Portuguese coach prefers a 3-4-3 formation but appears to have settled on Rasmus Hojlund as his starting central striker and wants two “narrow” inside forwards, with the width coming from the wing-backs.Rashford has always wanted to play through the middle but is often at his best exploiting spaces out wide – and that skillset does not necessarily suit the way Amorim wants to play.Even so, going public with his evident dissatisfaction at being bombed entirely from the squad for the Manchester derby was a major move, even if he vowed there would be “no hard feelings” if he does leave his boyhood club.In truth, Rashford has been leaving United almost from the moment he signed that new £325,000 per week contract in 2023.Something was broken in his connection to the club. His form dropped, his threat dissipated, his issues with the hierarchy deepened.When Erik ten Hag dropped him for hosting a birthday party after a derby defeat, and he later pulled a sickie to miss the FA Cup game with Newport, it felt even then that the writing was on the wall.The facts suggest the love affair has ended. After scoring 30 in all competitions to earn that new deal, he has scored just 15 in the 18 months since it was signed.Amorim’s arrival seems merely to have accelerated what was increasingly inevitable.Now, though, it is up to Rashford to determine what his future will bring.If it is only about the money, then his options might be somewhat limited.It is hard to see a Prem rival coughing up the same £16.9m annual salary – although Rashford’s comments have probably knocked £20m-plus off any transfer fee, even next month.But Real Madrid have their fill of big-money strikers and Barcelona’s budget remains restricted by La Liga financial controls.In Europe, then, that probably leaves PSG – but a move to a one-club league.Or, in the wider world, he could follow the likes of Ivan Toney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Firmino and Co and head to the Saudi desert.Lucrative, yep. Certainly a different environment – and that may be exactly what Rashford both wants and needs. But the football? Not in a million years.What Rashford needs, above all, is to be able to play for trophies and showcase his talents.There is no better stage than the Premier League – which has far more global eyeballs on it than any other domestic competition.And in that Premier League there is one club crying out for a goalscoring No 9, especially if he can also play down the left channel to balance out the side and widen its threat.Rashford has always been more Longsight than London.Yet Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta, might be the perfect fit.The Gunners’ lack of a proper scorer is one of the major factors many fans feel has hurt their title challenge this year.Gabriel Jesus has never been a natural finisher, while Kai Havertz is still a converted midfielder.And while the link-up between Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka makes their right flank deadly, faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left is waning.There have not been too many who succeeded at Arsenal after leaving United – although Danny Welbeck was not a flop.Rashford has all the attributes to change that history, if he can reproduce what everybody knows is inside him.And by breaking free, giving himself the chance to start all over, Rashford can make a point to Amorim that will resonate for a very long time.Another chimed in: “MBE.”Several then tried to tug on Rashford’s heartstrings in a bid to convince him to stay at the Theatre of Dreams.Former Man Utd star slams Rashford and says he should move to MLS One commented with a love-heart emoji: “Stay and tear it up in 2025.”Rashy a Red for life.”Another said: “Happy New Year, Rashy. I’m hoping 2025 is another year as a Red.”Their attempts to convince Rashford to stay could fall on deaf ears as SunSport exclusively revealed he’s stepped up his efforts to leave the club.The striker in currently talks with top sports agency Stellar in a bid to land a winter transfer.His brother Dwaine currently acts as his agent but he’s keen to get more bodies working on what will no doubt be an emotional Old Trafford exit. More

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      SIX Premier League clubs to fight for free transfer of Barcelona’s Dani Olmo including Man Utd with star available NOW

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      SIX Premier League clubs are ready to battle to sign Dani Olmo on a stunning free transfer.Barcelona forked out £50million to sign the midfielder from RB Leipzig only last summer.Dani Olmo could soon leave Barcelona after the club failed in their bid to register him wth LaLigaCredit: REXSix Premier League sides are reportedly interested in acquiring Olmo’s servicesCredit: RexBut the Catalans’ crippling financial situation meant they could only register him for the first half of the season.Barca are working under strict financial constraints imposed by La Liga after falling a reported £1BILLION in debt.League chiefs gave them special dispensation to add Olmo, 26, to their squad until December 31.But they have so far REJECTED Barcelona’s attempts to register the Euro 2024 winner for the rest of the campaign.READ MORE ON OLMOAnd a legal challenge by the Nou Camp giants has also failed.Olmo is understood to have a clause in his contract which allows him to leave for FREE should he be left unable to play.And, according to reports in Spain, every one of the Premier League’s Big Six are ready to swoop.Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham are said to be set to pursue the Spain international’s signature along with rivals Manchester United, Man City and Arsenal.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDani Olmo’s immediate future is unclearCredit: RexThe Prem clubs, however, will reportedly face competition for Olmo from Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen and Paris Saint-Germain.Olmo has remained professional throughout the uncertainty over his future, which he received a bit of clarity on New Year’s Eve.Ian Wright convinced Spain star Dani Olmo is ‘taking the micky out of us’ with pre-Euro 2024 final gestureAn excerpt of a La Liga statement read: “Barcelona has not presented any alternative that would allow the registration, in accordance with La Liga’s economic control regulations, to register any player from next January 2.”Barca, however, are holding out hope they can retain Olmo after applying for a new license from the Royal Spanish Football Federation to register Olmo and team-mate Pau Victor.A club statement read: “FC Barcelona informs that it has requested a new licence from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) for the players Daniel Olmo and Pau Víctor.”‘Likewise, the Club wishes to deny that it has requested or received any moratorium from any other body for the registration requested.”Barcelona will be back in action on January 4, taking on Barbastro in the Copa del Rey.And as it currently stands, Olmo will not be eligible to play. More

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      Ten Premier League free agents-to-be who can talk to Euro clubs NOW including Liverpool trio and Man Utd’s shining light

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      LIVERPOOL could end the season with a Quadruple under new boss Arne Slot.But many Reds fans fear a treble departure might still be on the cards – and now it starts getting serious.Liverpool trio Salah, Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk are all out of contract this summerCredit: AFPSkipper Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mo Salah are all out of contract in the summer.That means, from today, they can legitimately discuss end-of-season “Bosman” free moves to overseas clubs.Prem rivals are not allowed to make formal contact although behind-the-scenes moves are hardly unprecedented.With 80-plus top-flight players now entering the final few months of their existing deals, it means the starting pistol for global interest in Prem stars was fired at midnight.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt is not just Liverpool fans who will be anxious.Kevin De Bruyne’s contract at Manchester City is up in six months, along with a host of first-team regulars across the Prem.Everton have no fewer than eight players whose deals are up at the end of June, Manchester United have six, while Fulham, Crystal Palace and Brighton risk seeing five players leave for nothing.SunSport looks at the ten stand-out names who can talk to foreign clubs from today…Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTrent Alexander-ArnoldLiverpool right-back, 26, is being courted by Real Madrid but the Anfield club rejected the Spanish club’s move last night. His departure would be a body blow for Anfield fans.Ruben Amorim responds to Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd transfer bombshell about wanting ‘new challenge’ Yet Arne Slot does have a ready-made replacement at the club in the form of Northern Ireland’s Conor Bradley.Virgil van DijkAnfield skipper appears more likely than not to sign on for a few more years. But the Dutch defensive ace, 33, may want a three-season deal — which is against the owners Fenway Sports’ financial model.Centre-halves, though, have longer footballing lives than other outfield players.Mo SalahThe Egyptian King is on course for the greatest attacking season of the Premier League era with a staggering 17 goals and 13 assists so far.But Salah, 32, has been playing a public game of contract chicken with the Liverpool hierarchy and knows he is the Saudi Pro League’s No 1 target.Mo Salah has yet to sign a new contract with LiverpoolCredit: PAKevin De BruyneManchester City’s Belgian star, 33, went public on uncertainty over his Etihad future. He has been hit by injuries again and also lost his starting spot.If the curtain is being pulled down on his City era, he would leave as a club great. Will have big  Middle East offers.Amad DialloIn a season of toil and trial for Manchester United the Ivorian, 22, has been one of the precious few bright lights and a player who seems a more natural fit for Ruben Amorim’s preferred shape.But if United do not act fast, the door will be open to leave — either to seal a European move now or get his choice of clubs next summer.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charitySon Heung-minSpurs have the option to extend their South Korean captain’s stay in N17 for a further year but recent displays – especially his shocker against Wolves on Sunday – might suggest his future is unclear.Hearing former Tottenham striker Harry Kane indicate that he would welcome Sonny at Bayern Munich might make him ponder his best move.Mario LeminaLosing the Wolves captaincy after flipping his lid at the end of the defeat by West Ham that tipped Gary O’Neil one step closer to the exit door may be the incentive for the Gabonese midfielder to look elsewhere.And at 31, former Southampton and Fulham midfielder Lemina still has a few seasons left at the top level.Mario Lemina’s future may lay away from MolineuxCredit: PAThomas ParteyGhana’s midfield powerhouse has been in and out of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side during this campaign but has also proven his versatility.Partey is not the only Gunners midfielder out of contract in the summer, with Italy star Jorginho in a similar position.But Partey, 31, did well when at Atletico Madrid and might well be a target in Spain.Christian NorgaardThomas Frank’s faith in his fellow Dane is unquestioned and the Brentford skipper has become a popular figure among Bees fans in six seasons since joining from Fiorentina.Still only 30, Norgaard will not be short of summer suitors but might fancy a return to the continent and can now look to fix up a deal.READ MORE SUN STORIESChristian Norgaard is a huge fan favourite at BrentfordCredit: GettyDominic Calvert-LewinMaybe the biggest surprise for the England striker, 27, is he is still at Everton after having been linked with a move away for at least the past 18 months.Running down his deal to join Newcastle for nothing in the summer remains his most likely move but he is also a potential target for Fiorentina, who are eyeing a Champions League return. 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      Marcus Rashford steps up bid to quit Man Utd as he holds talks with agency who landed massive £86m transfer move

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      MARCUS  RASHFORD  stepped up efforts to find a way out of Manchester United after his latest snub.The forward admitted last month he is ready for a new challenge having spent his whole career at Old Trafford.Marcus Rashford is planning his Old Trafford exitCredit: GettyThe 27-year-old was an unused sub in Man Utd’s loss to Newcastle on MondayCredit: AFPAnd Rashford, 27, is in talks with leading sports agency Stellar in the hope of landing a move this month.He is currently represented by brother Dwaine Maynard  – but the £325,000-a-week star is now keen to get more people working on his exit.And Stellar famously paved the way for Gareth Bale’s huge £86m move to Real Madrid in 2013.Rashford was left sitting on the bench during Monday’s 2-0loss to Newcastle having been restored to the squad  — 18 days after last playing for the Red Devils.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut boss Ruben Amorim suggested before kick-off it was mainly because he was short of bodies, with Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte suspended.And even as the hosts chased a way back into the game, Amorim brought on Alejandro Garnacho and Antony instead.United would be open to selling the forward in this window if it helps their new manager bring in a signing – with Nuno Mendes a prime target.The Paris Saint-Germain wing-back, 22, is keen to answer an SOS from his former boss Amorim.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMendes worked with the fellow Portuguese at Sporting Lisbon and would welcome a reunion.PSG will want around £45million as he still has 18 months on his deal.Man Utd hero Lee Sharpe warns Marcus Rashford potential exit could come back to haunt club if he joins Prem rivals Yet United would only be in a position to buy if they can offload players.Rashford’s sale would help as he is homegrown and that would be a major boost in terms of Profit and Sustainability Rules.Asked about new signings this week, Amorim said: “We don’t have that possibility in January.Sports agency Stellar helped broker Gareth Bale’s move to Real Madrid in 2013Credit: AFPWhy Rashford joining Arsenal is perfect fitBy Martin LiptonMARCUS RASHFORD is at a crossroads.But now the England star has to make the biggest choice he has ever faced – does he care about cash, or about his career?Rashford’s shock admission that he is “ready for a new challenge” after some two decades under the Manchester United umbrella has altered the dynamic around his future.That Rashford might not fit the blueprint of Ruben Amorim – who has now responded to Rashford’s comments – was not exactly a surprise.The Portuguese coach prefers a 3-4-3 formation but appears to have settled on Rasmus Hojlund as his starting central striker and wants two “narrow” inside forwards, with the width coming from the wing-backs.Rashford has always wanted to play through the middle but is often at his best exploiting spaces out wide – and that skillset does not necessarily suit the way Amorim wants to play.Even so, going public with his evident dissatisfaction at being bombed entirely from the squad for the Manchester derby was a major move, even if he vowed there would be “no hard feelings” if he does leave his boyhood club.In truth, Rashford has been leaving United almost from the moment he signed that new £325,000 per week contract in 2023.Something was broken in his connection to the club. His form dropped, his threat dissipated, his issues with the hierarchy deepened.When Erik ten Hag dropped him for hosting a birthday party after a derby defeat, and he later pulled a sickie to miss the FA Cup game with Newport, it felt even then that the writing was on the wall.The facts suggest the love affair has ended. After scoring 30 in all competitions to earn that new deal, he has scored just 15 in the 18 months since it was signed.Amorim’s arrival seems merely to have accelerated what was increasingly inevitable.Now, though, it is up to Rashford to determine what his future will bring.If it is only about the money, then his options might be somewhat limited.It is hard to see a Prem rival coughing up the same £16.9m annual salary – although Rashford’s comments have probably knocked £20m-plus off any transfer fee, even next month.But Real Madrid have their fill of big-money strikers and Barcelona’s budget remains restricted by La Liga financial controls.In Europe, then, that probably leaves PSG – but a move to a one-club league.Or, in the wider world, he could follow the likes of Ivan Toney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Firmino and Co and head to the Saudi desert.Lucrative, yep. Certainly a different environment – and that may be exactly what Rashford both wants and needs. But the football? Not in a million years.What Rashford needs, above all, is to be able to play for trophies and showcase his talents.There is no better stage than the Premier League – which has far more global eyeballs on it than any other domestic competition.And in that Premier League there is one club crying out for a goalscoring No 9, especially if he can also play down the left channel to balance out the side and widen its threat.Rashford has always been more Longsight than London.Yet Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta, might be the perfect fit.The Gunners’ lack of a proper scorer is one of the major factors many fans feel has hurt their title challenge this year.Gabriel Jesus has never been a natural finisher, while Kai Havertz is still a converted midfielder.And while the link-up between Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka makes their right flank deadly, faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left is waning.There have not been too many who succeeded at Arsenal after leaving United – although Danny Welbeck was not a flop.Rashford has all the attributes to change that history, if he can reproduce what everybody knows is inside him.And by breaking free, giving himself the chance to start all over, Rashford can make a point to Amorim that will resonate for a very long time.”It’s not the case that I  can spend a lot of money changing the team.”Amorim views the left wing-back position as a top priority as he is currently using Diogo Dalot out of position on that side.Meanwhile, midfielder Casemiro, 32, could be the subject of fresh interest from Saudi Arabia this month. 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      Juventus to offer Joshua Zirkzee January escape route after Man Utd career hit nightmare low… but only on loan

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      JUVENTUS are lining up a loan move for Joshua Zirkzee after his Manchester United career hit a new low on Monday night.The Dutch international forward was subbed after just 33 minutes of the 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle on Monday night.Juventus are preparing a loan move for Man Utd misfit Joshua ZirkzeeCredit: AlamyAnd United fans welcomed the decision before jeering as the £35million forward left the pitch to be replaced by Kobbie Mainoo.Zirkzee looked to be visibly upset as he made his way straight down the tunnel but he was back in the dug-out for the second half.While Ruben Amorim has pledged to support the 23-year-old, his future at Old Trafford is looking increasingly uncertain.He is well regarded in Italy having made enjoyed an impressive spell with Bologna to earn his move to United in the summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd during that time, he worked under Thiago Motta – who is now in charge of the Turin giants and would be delighted to work with him again.However the chances of Juventus giving the Red Devils a welcome cash windfall this month are slim and any approach is likely to be on a loan basis.United are looking to raise some cash to support Amorim’s attempts to bring in new faces in the winter window.Zirkzee has appeared in all 19 of his club’s Prem games so far, scoring three goals, but has been made a scapegoat for their problems by some fans.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAmorim says he and the club will put an arm round Zirkzee’s shoulder following his ordeal.The United boss said: “You have to think about the tea, the player was suffering during the game and we needed another midfielder.Manchester United vs Newcastle: Player Ratings Revealed“It was tough to do it but I’ve talked with Joshua on it and at that moment it was important for him to come out.“I know he’s a really good guy. When he went down the tunnel, I understand some guys can be in a bad way – but it is life.“He is a really good lad. We will support him and continue.” More