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    Man Utd transfer blow as right-back target is set to sign new long-term deal with Bayer Leverkusen

    MANCHESTER UNITED have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong.Frimpong, 22, is a long-term target for United with the club having tracked him in the summer.
    Frimpong is a long-term Manchester United targetCredit: Getty
    The Dutchman is no stranger to Manchester, having played for United’s rivals City from 2010 until 2019 as a youngster.
    The right-back represented City regularly in the UEFA Youth League and Premier League Two but never played a senior game for the Cityzens.
    He then moved to Celtic in 2019 where he made 51 appearances before joining Bayer Leverkusen in 2021 for a fee of up to £11.5million.
    United looked at signing the defender in the summer but were quoted prices of up to £34million so cooled their interest to focus on other targets.
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    Fabrizio Romano now reports that the defender is set to sign a new long term deal with Leverkusen to extend his stay in Germany.
    Romano says the deal is set to be signed imminently and will see the defender extend his contract in 2028.
    He also claims that there is keenness on Frimpong’s side to seal the deal quickly.
    Top clubs across Europe, including United, have been tracking the defender but he appears to be happy in the Bundesliga.
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    The 22-year-old has played 103 times for Leverkusen, scoring 13 times and assisting 23 times.
    Leverkusen are the surprise package of the Bundesliga this season and currently sit top of the table.
    They play Molde on Thursday in the Europa League. More

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    Wilfried Zaha set to face ex-team-mate he played with in his last Man Utd appearance 10 YEARS AGO on Old Trafford return

    GALATASARAY star Wilfried Zaha is set to return to Old Trafford for a rather bizarre reunion.Manchester United take on Gala on Tuesday in the Champions League at Old Trafford.
    This is Manchester United’s starting line-up ten years ago when Wilfried Zaha played his last Red Devils game, as a substitute
    Zaha had an unsuccessful two-year stint at Man UtdCredit: PA:Empics Sport
    Galatasaray star Zaha returns to Old Trafford on Tuesday in the Champions LeagueCredit: Getty
    Zaha faces a reunion with Jonny Evans, with whom he played in his last ever Man Utd gameCredit: PA
    Zaha had an unsuccessful two-year stint at the Red Devils who signed him from Crystal Palace in January 2013 but let him stay at Selhurst Park until the end of the season.
    The winger moved to Manchester six months later but never managed to win over then manager David Moyes, who shipped him out on loan to Cardiff in January 2014.
    The Ivory Coast international returned to Palace on August and made his comeback permanent a year later to spend a whopping eight seasons with the Eagles until his move to Galatasaray last summer.
    The 30-year-old’s last ever match with United took place on December 15, 2013 in a Premier League clash against Aston Villa at Villa Park.
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    Zaha came off the bench and helped the Manchester giants win 3-0 thanks to a goal by Tom Cleverley and a Danny Welbeck double.
    All of his team-mates from that day have either joined other clubs or called time on their careers.
    That is except one of them – whom the forward will meet in the Champions League in a reunion no one would ever expect before the start of the season.
    That is Jonny Evans, who returned to United in the summer at the age of 35 eight years after his departure.
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    Evans started that match at Villa as he teamed up with Phil Jones at centre-back in a 4-4-2 formation.
    David de Gea was in goal with Rafael at right-back and then captain Patrice Evra on the other side.
    Cleverley and Ryan Giggs teamed up in midfield with Antonio Valencia covering the right wing and Adnan Januzaj on the other side.
    Welbeck and Wayne Rooney spearheaded Moyes’ attack against the Villans.
    Zaha came off the bench to replace Rooney, while Darren Fletcher and Ashley Young came on for Giggs and Januzaj respectively. More

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    Director of football who signed Christopher Nkunku and Son Heung-min LEAVES top job as fans say ‘coming to Man Utd soon’

    FOOTBALL supremo Paul Mitchell, who has been credited with scouting some of the world’s best young talent, has left his role as sporting director at Monaco.Mitchell enjoyed immense success at Southampton and Tottenham and rumours are that he has left the Ligue 1 giants for a return to the Premier League.
    Paul Mitchell has left his role as Monaco’s sporting directorCredit: AFP
    According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the French outfit has replaced the 42-year-old with new CEO Thiago Scuro.
    Scuro will oversee all the club’s activities and report to Monaco president Dmitry Rybolovlev.
    Mitchell has been previously linked with Manchester United and fans are hopeful this could lead the talented director of football to Old Trafford.
    One supporter tweeted: “Joining Manchester United, ownership about to change as well.”
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    Another commented: “He is better than [Man Utd director of football John] Murtough. Idk why we don’t go after him.”
    A third said: “@ManUtd this is who we need.”
    This fan posted: “Manchester [United] should hire him.
    “And that one wrote: “Get Paul Mitchell to #ManUtd.”
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    Mitchell started out as a footballer cutting his teeth at Manchester City and Wigan’s youth set up but spent his senior career playing for the lower leagues, mostly on loan from the Latics and MK Dons.
    The Mancunian was forced to prematurely retire in 2009 at the age of 27 due to injuries but then found success as a sporting director.
    It all started in 2010 at former club MK Dons where he carved his famous philosophy that sees him only signing players under the age of 24, starting with Dele Alli.
    After making a name for himself with the Dons he moved to Southampton two years later and pulled off a string of great signings, like Maya Yoshida, Nathaniel Clyne, Sadio Mane, Dusan Tadic and Graziano Pelle.
    That led to a job at Tottenham in 2014 and he landed Kieran Trippier, Toby Alderweireld, Son Heung-Min and of course Alli.
    Mitchell resigned in 2016 and went to RB Leipzig in 2018 where he was quickly promoted to Chief Technical Director overseeing all the Red Bull teams.
    The Stalybridge native signed Dani Olmo, Christopher Nkunku, Ademola Lookman, Patrik Schick, Dayot Upamecano and Matheus Cunha during his time at Leipzig.
    He then moved to Monaco in 2020 but had less success even though he still managed to bring in the likes of Axel Disasi and Breel Embolo.
    Mitchell is credited with scouting some of the best young talent in the world, pictured here with Chelsea loanee Malang SarrCredit: AFP More

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    You’re a Man Utd megafan if you can name the 3 current Premier League stars in squad last time they faced Galatasaray

    MANCHESTER UNITED are set to face Galatasaray in the Champions League for the first time in 11 years on Tuesday.United and Galata, who will meet at Old Trafford, last locked horns on November 20, 2012 in Europe’s elite competition at the Ali Sami Yen Stadium in Istanbul.
    Manchester United and Galatasaray’s most recent encounter took place in 2012
    Danny Welbeck started for Man Utd against Galatasaray in 2012Credit: Getty – Contributor
    Ashley Young came off the bench for that Champions League clashCredit: AFP
    Sam Johnstone sat on the bench for Man Utd 11 years agoCredit: Getty
    The Red Devils had already qualified for the last 16 and Sir Alex Ferguson rested big guns including David de Gea, Rio Ferdinand, Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie for the dead rubber.
    Ferguson opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation with Anders Lindegaard replacing De Gea between the sticks.
    Rafael started at right-back with Alexander Buttner on the other side.
    Phil Jones and then captain Michael Carrick teamed up at centre-back.
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    Anderson and Darren Fletcher linked up in midfield with Nick Powell at No10.
    Tom Cleverley covered the right flank with Danny Welbeck on the other side, while Javier Hernandez spearheaded Fergie’s attack.
    Sir Alex brought in Federico Macheda, Ashley Young and Josh King, who replaced Powell, Anderson and Welbeck respectively.
    The likes of Sam Johnstone, Marnick Vermijl, Scott Wootton and Larnell Cole sat on the bench.
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    Only three of those former United aces are still playing in the Premier League.
    They are Welbeck, Young and Johnstone, who currently ply their trade at Brighton, Everton and Crystal Palace respectively.
    Ferguson’s heavily rotated side went on to lose 1-0 following Burak Yilmaz’s winner on 53 minutes.
    Galatasaray avenged the 1-0 loss they endured on the reverse fixture at Old Trafford when Carrick’s finish gave the Red Devils their first three points in the competition that season.
    United were knocked out in the round of 16 by Real Madrid, 3-2 on aggregate, in what would be Fergie’s last tie ever in the competition. More

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    Man Utd ‘add two men to centre-back transfer shortlist with Bundesliga ace & ex-Barcelona man among top priorities’

    MANCHESTER UNITED have added Edmond Tapsoba and Antonio Silva to their shortlist for a new centre-back.The pair join ex-Barcelona star Jean-Clair Todibo, with Erik ten Hag making it a top priority for the January transfer window.
    Manchester United have added Edmond Tapsoba to their priority list to sign over the new yearCredit: Getty
    Antonio Silva has also caught United’s eye as they search for a new centre-backCredit: Getty
    The pair join Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo on the listCredit: Getty
    The Dutchman desperately needs to reinforce his backline with the news that Lisandro Martinez will need an operation on his foot that could keep him out for months.
    Harry Maguire’s future at the club remains in doubt while Raphael Varane’s fitness record means more depth is required.
    United re-signed veteran defender Jonny Evans in a short-term deal during the summer but are desperate for a long-term option.
    And they already have three names on their shortlist, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
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    He posted: “Manchester United considering to invest on new important defender in 2024 as internal discussion start.
    “Todibo remains on the list, Tapsoba and Antonio Silva also tracked by scouts — more names could be added in the next months.”
    The Red Devils remain interested in the Bundesliga ace centre-back Tapsoba after summer interest in the Burkina Faso international.
    But they may face a battle with rivals Tottenham, who are ready to rekindle their efforts to sign the defender, who they showed an interest in in the summer.
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    United scouts are also keeping an eye on Silva, who has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising defenders after breaking into the Benfica team last season.
    The 19-year-old ace was named in the Primeira Liga Team of the Year as Benfica won the Portuguese title last term.
    The pair are joined on the list by 23-year-old former Barcelona ace Todibo, who has made over 100 appearances for French giants Nice since his arrival in 2021.
    Ten Hag is on the hunt to make serious changes to his squad after United suffered a 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday after beating the Eagles 3-0 in the Carabao Cup just a few weeks ago.
    They will hope to get back on track when Galatasaray visit Old Trafford on Tuesday night for a Champions League clash. More

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    Antony WILL be considered for Man Utd’s Champions League clash with Galatasaray, confirms Ten Hag

    ANTONY will be available for Manchester United’s Champions League clash with Galatasaray – despite the domestic abuse allegations hanging over his head.The Brazil international has been accused of physical assault by an ex-girlfriend and was questioned by Greater Manchester Police for five hours last week.
    Manchester United star Antony is currently facing domestic abuse allegationsCredit: PA
    Antony hasn’t played since September 3 but returned to training on SundayCredit: GETTY
    Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag has revealed he’ll be available for tomorrow’s Champions League match with GalatasarayCredit: GETTY
    The £85million signing was granted a leave of absence to address the allegations – which he vehemently denies – but returned to training on Sunday.
    And Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag has confirmed he will be considered for selection for tomorrow’s visit of the Turkish champions.
    The Dutchman said in his pre-match press conference: “Antony will be in consideration but yesterday was his first time back in team training.
    “We have a final training, then we’ll make a decision.”
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    Antony, 23, hasn’t played since United’s 3-1 defeat to Arsenal last month.
    The former Ajax man has been accused of assault by his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin, who claims he assaulted her when she was pregnant with his baby.
    Cavallin reacted to the news of Antony’s return to training in a statement via her legal team.
    It read: “Gabriela Cavallin’s attorneys inform that the crimes committed by the player are still being investigated by the Manchester Police and also the Brazilian Police.
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    Anthony has vehemently denied the allegations against himCredit: PA
    “Which is why we believe that he will soon be sent to court, where he will have to face a trial.
    “It seems obvious to us that fallacies would be created with the intention that the team bringing him back to training.”
    Antony has repeatedly denied the allegations, which became public in June.
    He wrote on Instagram: “Out of respect for my fans, friends and family, I feel obliged to speak out publicly about the false accusations that I have been a victim of.
    “From the beginning, I have treated this matter with seriousness and respect, providing the necessary clarifications to the police.
    “The investigation is under judicial secrecy, and therefore I cannot make its contents public.
    “However, I can calmly say that the accusations are false, and that the current evidence and the ones yet to be produced demonstrate my innocence.”
    Manchester United issued a statement on the ongoing investigation last week condemning all “acts of violence and abuse”.
    It added: “Since allegations were first made in June, Antony has co-operated with police inquiries in both Brazil and the UK.
    “And he continues to do so.
    “As Antony’s employer, Manchester United has decided that he will resume training at Carrington, and be available for selection, while police inquiries proceed.
    “This will be kept under review pending further developments in the case.
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    “As a club, we condemn acts of violence and abuse.
    “We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”
    Antony hasn’t played since Manchester United’s 3-1 defeat to Arsenal last monthCredit: GETTY More

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    Smiling Jadon Sancho seen at Carrington for first time since Ten Hag bust up as exiled star misses Man Utd defeat

    JADON SANCHO has been pictured at Manchester United’s Carrington training ground for the first time since he was exiled by United manager Erik Ten Hag.Sancho was spotted in a United training coat as he posed alongside a young fan and midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.

    Sancho has not played for United since August 26Credit: Getty
    Sancho, holding a mobile phone and cap in his hand, smiled for the camera and looked to have made the young fan’s day by stopping for the pic.
    The picture appears to have been taken yesterday, meaning Sancho would have been at the training ground while United were playing out their 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.
    Sancho has not played for the Red Devils since their win over Nottingham Forest on August 26.
    He was dropped from the squad completely for their visit to Arsenal a week later before being publicly criticised by Ten Hag.
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    The former Borussia Dortmund star then hit back on social media before later deleting his post.
    A late move to the Saudi Pro League was then floated but a transfer failed to materialise before their deadline.
    Sancho has since been exiled from the United first-team and made to train on his own.
    He has also been banned from all first-team areas at the training ground, including the club canteen.
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    Ten Hag was again asked about Sancho’s situation as he spoke ahead of United’s clash with Palace yesterday and made no secret in showing he is tired of the situation.
    Asked about the chances of Sancho resurrecting his United career, Ten Hag shook his head and replied: “Many of you ask me so often this question and I have said everything.”
    When asked how long the situation can continue for, Ten Hag said: “What I said, I have said everything.”
    It looks as though the only resolution to the saga will be a January transfer for the 23-year-old. More

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    Antony’s ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin breaks silence on domestic abuse claims – as Man Utd star returns to training

    ANTONY’S ex-girlfriend has broken her silence on domestic abuse claims after the Manchester United star returned to training.The Red Devils confirmed the £85million star would return to the fold yesterday after he was put on a leave of absence from the club.
    Gabriela Cavallin claimed she was attacked by the playerCredit: instagram
    Antony denies all allegations against himCredit: Reuters
    Antony denies all allegations and yesterday met with officers for a voluntary interview – where he is understood to have offered to hand over his phone.
    And now his accuser and ex-girlfriend Cavallin has broken her silence since his return.
    “Gabrela Cavallin’s attorneys inform that the crimes committed by the player are still being investigated by the Manchester Police and also the Brazilian Plice, which is why we believe that he will soon be sent to Court, where he will have to face a trial,” a press release read, according to MailOnline.
    “It seems obvious to us that fallacies would be created with the intention that the team bringing him back to training.”
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    He was today seen with his girlfriend Rosilene Silva returning to the stadium ahead of the club’s match against Crystal Palace.
    Wearing a sports jacket, Antony was pictured cradling the couple’s son – named Lorenzo.
    Roseilene, 24, was holding a black Man Utd branded umbrella as she lovingly covered her partner and their little boy.
    She appears to be standing by him despite the allegations of abuse from his ex and two other women.
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    And earlier today, Antony was also pictured in the back of a black Mercedes fan as he arrived at The Carrington Training Complex.
    Man United boss Erik ten Hag yesterday insisted the embattled player’s return to the squad will not be a “distraction”.
    The club has faced numerous controversies in recent months – such as its handling of Mason Greenwood and ten Hag’s ongoing feud with Jadon Sancho.
    Dutch boss ten Hag said he has spoken to Antony.
    The Brazilian, who also faces accusations from one other woman after a third dropped their case, will not be available for selection for today’s fixture.
    The 23-year-old has not played for the club since their 3-1 defeat at Arsenal on September 3.
    He was given time off as he vowed to fight the allegations back in his native Brazil.
    And this week he returned to the UK ahead of his interview with Greater Manchester Police.
    Ten Hag will assess him to see if he is ready to face Galatasaray at home in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
    The Red Devils manager said: “I’ve spoken to him but that doesn’t give the impression how he is — how his mental status is. I can’t tell at this moment, first he has to be back.”
    Asked how he could be welcomed back while Jadon Sancho is exiled after his public bust-up with the boss, Dutchman Ten Hag replied: “Those issues are nothing to do with each other. One is internal, the other one is external.”
    United released the statement confirming the player’s return just over two hours before Ten Hag faced the media to preview the match against Crystal Palace.
    “We make the statement, so I refer to the statement,” Ten Hag said. “I think everything has been made clear in the statement.
    “No, I don’t think it’s a distraction. We focus on the games and he will do as well.”
    Asked for details on his return, the Dutchman said: “On Saturday, he will be back in the training, so tomorrow.
    “I have to see (how fit he is), but I think, yeah (he’s fit).”
    Ten Hag insisted he did not want to stray into “hypothetical” discussions about Antony or stray too far away from the club statement on Friday.
    It has been reported in Brazil that Gabriela has told police that £150,000-a-week Antony assaulted her four times.
    She previously alleged she was first attacked in June 2022 while pregnant and on holiday in Brazil.
    And she claimed in January Antony headbutted and punched her in a Manchester hotel, damaging a breast implant.
    She also alleged he threw a glass at her in May, injuring her finger.
    Cavallin led calls for Antony to be dropped from the squad in an exclusive interview with The Sun on Sunday.
    Gabriela said: “Antony needs to be taken off the pitch. It’s disappointing he’s still allowed to play while there’s an investigation.
    “I am absolutely destroyed by the whole process. How can life go on as normal for him?
    “They cant just know what they know now and not do anything. He needs to be removed.”
    Antony gave a tearful interview earlier this month in which he denied the allegations made against him, and stated he does not fear for his United future.
    He said: “It’s something that doesn’t cross my mind. I never touched her.
    “I know that many are massacring me but the truth always comes out. I am 100 per cent sure that I have never touched a woman.
    “I dream of returning to the national team and I want to show that Antony is innocent of all this.”
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    United parted ways with Mason Greenwood after charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm against him were dropped.
    Old Trafford chiefs conducted their own investigation and decided it was “appropriate” for club and player to part company.
    Antony and his girlfriend Rosilene Silva arrive at Old TraffordCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Gabriela had urged United to drop him amid the investigationCredit: The Sun
    The star was quizzed by police over allegations of abuseCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke More