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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

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    Tyson Fury says he’ll be ‘ridiculed’ for Francis Ngannou loss like Man Utd were after 7-0 hammering by Liverpool

    TYSON FURY has compared the prospect of losing to Francis Ngannou to the battering his beloved Manchester United suffered at the hands of Liverpool last season.The Gypsy King locks horns with the former UFC heavyweight champion in a controversial crossover clash in Saudi Arabia next month.
    Tyson Fury locks horns with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou next monthCredit: Getty
    The Gypsy King knows losing to Ngannou would be a stain on his legacyCredit: GETTY
    He’s likened the embarrassment to that suffered by Manchester United when they lost 7-0 to Liverpool last seasonCredit: GETTY
    Fury is an overwhelming favourite to come out of the desert dust-up victorious but insists he’s not taking the boxing novice lightly.
    And he’s all too aware of the stain losing the Saudi showdown will leave on his career, much like Manchester United’s 7-0 loss to Liverpool in March has done with Erik ten Hag’s reign as Red Devils boss.
    He told TNT Sports: “He’s about 6ft 5in tall, he’s about 278 pounds, he’s about 18 or 19 stone, a dynamite puncher with both hands.
    “He’s recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the hardest puncher to have ever punched anything, so there’s that risk.
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    “The biggest risk of all is fighting an MMA fighter, and I’m the world heavyweight champion, so what happens if he beats me? Ridiculed.
    “It would be like getting beat by Liverpool for Manchester United, 7-0, wouldn’t it?
    “How do you come back from that?”
    Despite Ngannou’s lack of professional boxing experience, Fury, 35, is treating the MMA man-mountain the same way he has all his previous opponents.
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    He said: “All of these opponents I face, they are all risky fights, or are all big men – like anyone over 14 stone is a big man.
    ‘All of these guys are big lumps and when I fight them the risk is always the same, they’ve got a puncher’s chance.
    “But I never leave a stone unturned.
    ‘That’s one thing I do. I always do everything I can in my power to be successful.
    “The way I look at it is, if this guy is going to beat me then fair play to him I will shake his hand, he must be a good fighter because I’m no easy man to beat as I’ve shown over the years.
    ‘So if I can bump into somebody that can beat me, I would say, ‘Fantastic, fair play to you, well done,’ take them for a beer and that’s it.”
    Fury is set to perform a quick turnaround after his ten-rounder with Ngannou for a historic undisputed heavyweight title fight with former pound-for-pound king Oleksandr Usyk.
    SunSport understands the fight is on course to take place in Saudi on December 23, although it could be pushed back to January. More

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    Forgotten former Man Utd star, 33, signs for Greek minnows after lasting just TEN DAYS at previous club

    FORMER Manchester United midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin has signed for Greek Super League side Kifisia.Schneiderlin, 33, arrived at the club earlier this week and has now been officially announced as a Kifisia player.
    Morgan Schneiderlin has joined Greek side KifisiaCredit: Getty
    The midfielder left Konyaspor just 10 days after joining the club this summerCredit: Getty
    He could make his debut during Kifisia’s league match against Aris on Sunday.
    The midfielder initially joined Turkish side Konyaspor on a free transfer in August, but his contract was mutually terminated after just 10 days due to “family reasons”.
    An official statement from the Super Lig side read: “Professional football player Morgan Schneiderlin, whose transfer we have announced recently, conveyed to our management that he wanted to leave due to family reasons.
    “As a result of the consultations and evaluations, our club approached Morgan Schneiderlin’s request positively and terminated his contract by mutual agreement.”
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    Prior to his move, Schneiderlin enjoyed a short stint with Western Sydney Wanderers after being loaned out by OGC Nice.
    He’d spent two-and-a-half years with the French side prior to that loan and made 59 appearances across all competitions.
    During the peak of his career, the defensive midfielder spent 12 years in England.
    He joined Southampton in 2008 when the South Coast club were in the Championship.
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    They then dropped down to League One, before Schneiderlin helped them return to the Premier League in 2012.
    The Frenchman signed for Man Utd in 2015, where he won the Europa League and the FA Cup during his two year stint before joining Everton in 2017.
    Schneiderlin spent two years with Man UtdCredit: Rex Features More

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    Man Utd’s Antony WON’T be picked for Crystal Palace match despite return to training after police quiz on ‘abuse’ claims

    MANCHESTER United winger Antony will not play in Saturday’s match against Crystal Palace after being quizzed by cops on domestic abuse allegations.Earlier today the Red Devils said its £85million Brazilian ace would return to training following an agreed leave of absence.
    Antony will not be involved in training or play in today’s match against Crystal Palace, Man United announcedCredit: PA
    The announcement comes after Antony was seen leaving a police station in Manchester where he was quizzed by cops over domestic abuse allegationsCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    The ace, 23, was spotted leaving the cop shop yesterday following a five-hour grillingCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Man United boss Erik Ten Hag said: “I don’t think it’s a distraction. We will focus on the games. He will do as well.
    “On Saturday, he will be back in training, so tomorrow.”
    The star faced a voluntary police interview yesterday following allegations of assault by his ex Gabriela Cavallin.
    He is currently being investigated by police in both Manchester and Sao Paulo – and was axed from the Brazil national team for their World Cup qualifiers this month.
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    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.
    And she claimed he threw a glass at her in May, injuring her finger.
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    In a statement today, the Premier League club confirmed the £85million winger’s return to training at Carrington.
    But the star won’t be involved in training today or in Saturday’s match against Crystal Palace.
    Man Utd said: “Since allegations were first made in June, Antony has cooperated 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.
    “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, who has made 31 appearances for United since the alleged assaults, has denied all wrongdoing and vowed to clear his name.
    The announcement comes after the player was pictured leaving a Manchester police station following a five-hour grilling by cops.
    The winger landed at Manchester Airport on Monday night after flying in from Sao Paulo, Brazil to face the music.
    Antony allegedly contacted Greater Manchester Police and volunteered to meet them for questioning.
    The Man United ace is said to be planning to hand his phone over to officers to aid their investigations, The Times reports.
    And exactly 20 days ago, 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 can’t just know what they know now and not do anything. He needs to be removed.”
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    Earlier this month, Antony was granted an indefinite leave of absence from the Red Devils.
    Club sources had insisted he had not been suspended and would remain on full pay during his time away from Old Trafford.
    Antony’s ex Gabriela Cavallin accused him of domestic violenceCredit: Instagram More

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    Man Utd stars Sancho and Martial on Barcelona’s budget transfer shortlist of flops and outcasts along with Arsenal duo

    BARCELONA have Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial on their six-man transfer shortlist, it’s claimed.The Spanish champions are also said to be eyeing moves for Arsenal duo Kai Havertz and Jorginho next summer.
    Jadon Sancho is on Barcelona’s stunning six-man transfer shortlistCredit: Getty
    Anthony Martial has struggled for consistent minutes this seasonCredit: Getty
    Barca’s financial problems have had a direct impact on their transfer business in recent seasons.
    In order to manage their issues, the club have been forced to look at free agents, flops, and out-of-favour players from top teams in Europe.
    According to Mundo Deportivo, they have already applied that approach to their plans for next summer.
    The report claims that Barca have drawn up a six-man list of potential targets, which includes Sancho and Martial.
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    Sancho has not played for United since August 26 following his public falling out with Erik ten Hag.
    The Red Devils boss has even banished the winger from attending any first-team activities as their feud continues.
    As a result, Sancho’s future at Old Trafford appears to be over, with Roma joining Barcelona in being linked with a move.
    Meanwhile, Martial has also struggled for consistent opportunities so far this season and is into the final year of his contract.
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    The Frenchman was also booed by his own fans as he replaced Rasmus Hojlund against Brighton earlier this month.
    Xavi is not just looking at United players, though, with the report adding that he has his eye on Arsenal pair Havertz and Jorginho.
    The former Chelsea duo have both joined the Gunners this year, with Jorginho arriving in January ahead of Havertz’s summer move.

    Mikel Arteta has yet to start Jorginho in the league this season and the Italian was linked with an exit in the summer as his contract expires in 2024.
    Havertz, on the other hand, has struggled for form since joining the club and is yet to register a goal or an assist this term.
    He was also dropped for the trip to Everton earlier this month and again started on the bench in last weekend’s North London derby.
    Barcelona’s six-man shortlist does include players from outside the Premier League, though.
    Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt is their sole defensive target, having complained about his playing time with the German giants.
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    The Blaugrana are also one of a number of clubs tracking Athletic Club forward Nico Williams.
    With less than a year remaining on his deal, the Spain winger has provided four assists in four LaLiga matches this season.
    Jorginho is out of contract at the end of this seasonCredit: Getty
    Kai Havertz has struggled for form since joining Arsenal in the summerCredit: Getty More