More stories

  • in

    Erik ten Hag warns next Man Utd owners against Todd Boehly-like transfer splurge as he demands ‘the right personalities’

    ERIK TEN HAG warned Manchester United’s prospective new owners not to blow it like Boehly.United are facing Chelsea on Thursday at Old Trafford, needing just a point to qualify for the Champions League.
    Erik ten Hag has urged Manchester United’s next owners not to overspend in the transfer marketCredit: Rex
    He wants to avoid a situation like Chelsea after Todd Boehly’s scattergun spendCredit: AFP
    Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to purchase Manchester UnitedCredit: PA
    Sheikh Jassim is also in the running to buy the club
    They take on a club in crisis since American businessman Todd Boehly’s takeover last May, which saw a £600million-plus scattergun transfer splurge.
    He is also on his third manager — with the fourth arriving this summer in the form of Mauricio Pochettino.
    Meanwhile, the Blues have slumped to 12th  in the league,  winning only one of their last 12 games and losing eight.
    United stand on the verge of returning to the Champions League — but are also the subject of a takeover battle between Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim.
    READ MORE MAN UTD NEWS
    Yet their plans for the future are not clear and boss Ten Hag agreed Chelsea under Boehly was an example of how it can all go wrong.
    The Dutchman said: “You have to do the right things. You can have money but  have to  spend it in a smart way, and you need to have a strategy behind it — otherwise the money doesn’t work.”
    United’s strategy has improved under football director John Murtough, in tandem with Ten Hag.
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    The Red Devils manager said: “We are now in a good direction — but we can also learn from this season.
    Most read in Football
    “We must evaluate that after the season and make the right conclusions for the future.”
    The pair are already working on transfer targets for next season, with Tottenham’s Harry Kane top of the list.
    They have also been linked with Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar, which was put to Ten Hag yesterday.
    Harry Kane is a top summer transfer target of the clubCredit: Getty
    The Red Devils have also been linked with NeymarCredit: Getty
    He replied: “When we have news, we will tell you.”
    That should not be seen as a teaser suggesting they are in for the Brazilian forward, it is a standard answer from the boss on transfers.  
    Indeed, having had their fingers burnt with the return of Cristiano Ronaldo, that is the sort of Galactico transfer they are trying to avoid.
    Ten Hag said: “I want players with the right personalities who are outstanding and contribute on the highest levels  — that is what we want.”
    A return to the Champions League is now seen as a  big step for United. A long way away from the time when they reached three finals of the competition, from 2008 to 2011.
    Indeed, since that last one they have not got past the quarter-finals . . . when they have qualified.
    Ten Hag said: “We  stepped up but have a long way to go.”
    Across town, it has been a different story as Manchester City stand on the brink of emulating the Red Devils’ Treble heroics of 1999.
    Ten Hag is yet to congratulate City’s Pep Guardiola personally on the first leg of that being achieved with title glory.
    Read More on The Sun
    But he said: “I will take this opportunity to congratulate him —  the way they won is a demonstration of football.
    “Everyone likes the way they play, so attractive, so brilliant.”United hope to have Marcus Rashford back fit tonight after missing two games. More

  • in

    Southgate warns Harry Maguire ‘this can’t continue forever’ as under-fire Man Utd ace escapes England axe

    HARRY MAGUIRE faces the England axe unless he sorts out his Manchester United nightmare.The Old Trafford skipper is in the Three Lions squad for Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia — despite only making seven Prem starts this season.
    New arrivals in Man United’s defence last summer has made first-team football far harder to come by for MaguireCredit: Getty
    Gareth Southgate has made some big calls in his latest squad announcementCredit: Getty
    But England boss Gareth Southgate warned: “It’s not a situation that can continue forever.
    “It’s like Kalvin Phillips, they are important players for us.”
    Midfielder Phillips has also struggled for minutes and only made his first Prem start for Manchester City in the 1-0 win over Chelsea on Sunday.
    Southgate added: “With Kalvin, we haven’t got many players who can play as that single pivot.
    READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
    “Of course the longer that situation goes on the more concerning it is and we’ve got in Marc Guehi, Lewis Dunk, Tyrone Mings . . . players who are playing well without the same experiences of club European football or international football.
    “But we’ve got to keep searching for competition in that area of the pitch.”
    Southgate was asked if he would keep selecting keeper Jordan Pickford if Everton are relegated this weekend.
    He said: “That would depend on how well he was playing.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    “It wouldn’t be ideal because clearly the level of attacks, finishing, speed of the game would be completely different, so I think it would be difficult — but let’s see what Sunday brings.”
    Raheem Sterling once again misses out owing to his poor form for Chelsea but it was the player himself who insisted he had not been playing at the right level.
    The winger is determined to return for England after a summer break.
    Southgate said: “He didn’t feel like he was in a condition to play. I spoke with him a week or so ago.
    “He is not happy physically and has been carrying a hamstring problem.
    “He was not in consideration so we did not get to the point whether he should be in or out.
    Raheem Sterling’s debut season at Stamford Bridge has left much to be desiredCredit: Getty
    “He does not think he is operating at the level he needs.
    “But I can’t see a scenario when Chelsea aren’t in the top six next year.
    “They have an outstanding squad, so they are going to have a good season and I’m sure he will be fundamental to that.
    “I would always back him to respond strongly and to have the resilience and tenacity to prove himself.
    Read More on The Sun
    “It has been difficult for everybody with all the changes at the club. Three different managers, three different ways of training and playing.
    “They have no European football, so they will have a game a week. They will be really strong next season and I’m certain he will be a big part of that.” More

  • in

    Mason Mount ‘leaning towards Man Utd transfer’ with star set to snub Arsenal and Liverpool if Chelsea sell

    MASON MOUNT is “leaning” towards Manchester United as his preferred next club, reports suggest. It comes after United were said to be preparing a £55million bid for the 24-year-old this summer.
    Mason Mount could be on his way out of Chelsea this yearCredit: Getty
    The Athletic report Mount is “leaning” towards an Old Trafford move, with talks between Chelsea and Man Utd set to commence in due course.
    Rival suitors Arsenal, Liverpool and Bayern Munich are also said to be aware of the England International’s preference.
    Mount has been stalling on a new contract with his deal at Stamford Bridge set to expire next season.
    Ahead of Chelsea’s Thursday trip to Old Trafford to face the Red Devils, Blues boss Frank Lampard remained coy when speaking on Mount’s future.
    READ MORE MAN UTD NEWS
    He said: “I don’t know [his future].
    “That’s not my answer to make. That’s between Mason and the club.”
    Incoming Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino reportedly wants Mount as part of his project going forward.
    Chelsea hopes this will help to convince the Cobham Academy graduate that his future lies in West London.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Despite United’s interest, the ongoing ownership saga will need to be resolved before a deal can be put tangibly put into place.
    Mount is also far from the top of United’s priority list, with a new striker and central defender the most pressing issues for Erik ten Hag’s squad.
    The creative midfielder has struggled with both fitness and form this campaign.
    Indeed, just three goals and two assists in the Premier League – while adding four assists in the Champions League – is far from Mount’s usual highs.
    His best goal-involvement return in a single season at Stamford Bridge came in the 2021/22 season when he struck 13 goals and added 16 assists.
    Here’s how Mount has performed this season More

  • in

    Forgotten ex-Man Utd star once described as ‘best young player’ lined up for transfer to Championship side

    MIDDLESBROUGH are keen on a move for forgotten Manchester United youngster Ethan Galbraith, according to reports.Galbraith will leave Old Trafford this summer when his contract expires and the midfielder is starting to attract interest from the likes of Newcastle, Stoke City, Derby County and Sunderland.
    Galbraith will leave Manchester United at the end of the season and has been linked with a move to MiddlesbroughCredit: Getty
    The 22 year old spent last season on loan at Doncaster Rovers before joining Salford City on a season loan last summer.
    The United loanee featured 32 times for Salford scoring three times and providing four assists as the Ammies qualified for the play-offs.
    But, Salford suffered penalty heartache as they lost to Stockport on penalties, ending their season and seemingly Galbraith’s time with the club.
    According to The Real EFL, Middlesbrough, managed by ex United midfielder Michael Carrick are now keen on the midfielder.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    The report adds that Boro are just one of a number of clubs interested and it could be a tricky move for them to pull off.
    Carrick’s men remain in the Championship next season after losing 1-0 to Coventry City in the play-off semi finals.
    Boro will be hoping that Carrick’s links to United could help them secure Galbraith’s signature as they aim to bolster their squad for another promotion push next season.
    The midfielder took to Instagram to announce his departure from Old Trafford.
    Most read in Football
    BETTING SPECIAL – BEST SPORTS BETTING APPS IN THE UK
    He said: “After six years, my time has come to an end with this magnificent club, Manchester United. I want to thank the club, coaching staff & players for helping me become a better player, a better person and for making me feel at home.
    “My earliest ambition as a boy was to become a professional footballer and I’m forever grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity and support to fulfil that dream.
    “It’s been a privilege and I feel very fortune to have been able to represent the club.
    “I step into the next chapter of my career a more mature, round-rounded person and I’m excited for what’s next.” More

  • in

    Struggling Man Utd signing is on ‘borrowed time’ as Dwight Yorke claims his spell has been ‘a mystery’

    DWIGHT YORKE believes Jadon Sancho is on “borrowed time” at Manchester United.The winger cost £73million when he was signed from Borussia Dortmund in 2021.
    Jadon Sancho is on ‘borrowed time’ at Man Utd after being a ‘mystery’ playerCredit: Getty
    Dwight Yorke reckons Sancho has not lived up to his £73m price tagCredit: Getty
    But Sancho has missed swathes of his two seasons with injuries.
    And he has just 11 goals in 76 games under three different managers.
    Reports now claim Erik ten Hag is running out of patience with the wide-man.
    United’s Dutch gaffer hopes to bring in at least one new forward this summer.
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    And Sancho could be sacrificed as United also look to raise funds for a midfielder.
    One man who believes “mystery” Sancho faces an exit is former United striker and Treble icon Yorke.
    He reckons there’s every chance Sancho will be cast aside this summer for a replacement signing.
    And even if Sancho stays, he will have to quickly prove himself or else risk being dumped in the window after.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Yorke told the Mirror: “It’s one of a mystery really. He had so much potential and hope for the likes of Man Utd.
    “Huge investment, really did an amazing job when he was at Dortmund.
    “Somehow the transition from there to Manchester hasn’t really worked out in the way that we all thought it might for him.
    “Really struggled, whether it’s from a mental point of view, which seems to be well documented. He hasn’t really lived up to the price tag.
    “So yeah he’s on borrowed time, I suppose, if you have to be fair in many respects.
    “He hasn’t really produced the goods that we expect of him.” More

  • in

    Fans say Declan Rice to Bayern is ‘confirmed’ after training clip as German club rival Arsenal and Man Utd for transfer

    WEST HAM fans are convinced Declan Rice is heading to Bayern Munich after a training clip went viral.The West Ham captain, 24, looks set to depart the London Stadium this summer.
    Bayern Munich’s interest in Declan Rice is mountingCredit: Rex
    Fans are convinced he is going there after a clip from trainingCredit: Rex
    Arsenal and Manchester United have been long-term admirers of Rice, with the Emirates side once the favourites to land him in a club-record transfer.
    However, we reported how Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel was also weighing up a move for the Hammers ace.
    And now Sky Sport journalist Florian Plettenberg has provided an update on Bayern’s pursuit of the star.
    He tweeted: “Internally it is said that the poker has begun now!
    READ MORE ON ARSENAL
    “Tuchel and the bosses want him as reported and he’s one of the targets who’s top on the list. 
    “Been told that Bayern could pay the price package demanded!”
    Although he did add that their move is “not advanced yet” as it is still unclear what is Rice’s preferred move just yet.
    Now West Ham fans are certain that he will be heading to Bayern after the club shared a clip of Rice coming out for training this morning where he produced a German greeting.
    Most read in Football
    BETTING SPECIAL – BEST NO DEPOSIT CASINO OFFERS
    As the person behind the camera shouted hello, the midfielder replied: “Guten morgan.”
    “Rice to Bayern confirmed,” wrote one.
    While another said: “He’s getting the practice in.”
    Tuchel and sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic are working on a plan to overhaul the Bayern squad this summer.
    And they identified Rice as a suitable option in holding midfield.
    Tuchel came up against Rice during his time as Chelsea boss and believes he has the quality to slot into the Bavarians’ team chasing the Champions League trophy.
    West Ham are demanding at least £100million for their academy graduate, despite his current contract expiring in 2024.
    Bayern’s record transfer fee is the £68m they paid for Lucas Hernandez.
    Read More on The Sun
    And that could prove a boost for the Premier League sides still keen on landing Rice, especially if they can offer Champions League football.
    Hammers boss David Moyes admitted last week there is a “good chance” his influential skipper could leave the club at the end of this season – with James Ward-Prowse lined up as a possible replacement. More

  • in

    Man Utd ‘will launch huge Mason Mount transfer bid’ as they try to steal march on two rivals in race for Chelsea star

    MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly set to launch a £55million bid for Chelsea contract rebel Mason Mount.The midfielder, 24, looks increasingly likely to leave Stamford Bridge this summer after failing to agree a new deal.
    Man Utd are set to launch a £55m bid for Chelsea contract rebel Mason MountCredit: Getty
    And the Mail claims United are looking to steal a march on rivals as they prepare to table an offer this summer.
    Club sources have confirmed talks over a deal for Mount are set to commence once the season ends.
    Erik ten Hag has made the England midfielder his No1 priority.
    And United are ready to offer £55m to see off competition from rivals.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    Mount has plenty of suitors at home and abroad, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Bayern Munich extremely interested.
    But United hope they can move into pole position by getting talks underway after Sunday’s final Premier League matches.
    Champions League winner Mount is out of contract in 2024.
    Chelsea have made numerous attempts to get him to sign a lucrative new extension.
    Most read in Football
    BETTING SPECIAL – BEST NO DEPOSIT CASINO OFFERS
    But the two parties have been unable to agree on a wage, with Mount reportedly looking for £250,000-a-week like pal Reece James.
    Chelsea are hoping to bank £85m for Mount, who has been at the club since 2005 after coming through their Cobham academy.
    He has 33 goals in 195 games for the Blues since his 2019 debut.
    And Mount established himself as a key player under multiple managers like Frank Lampard, Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter.
    Incoming Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino has told Todd Boehly he ideally wants Mount in his squad next season.
    But Chelsea are unwilling to keep hold of players who are out of contract the following summer.
    And if Mount is unable to strike terms late on, Boehly will look to cash in.
    He isn’t the only ace whose deal is up in 2024.
    Ruben Loftus-Cheek is thought to be in advanced talks with AC Milan.
    And Mateo Kovacic could be set for a move to Prem champs Man City.
    Read More on The Sun
    The likes of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Christian Pulisic could also be sold.
    And there’s even question marks over Thiago Silva’s future despite his extension earlier this year, while N’Golo Kante could yet leave for free as his deal winds down next month. More

  • in

    Man Utd looking to swoop in to land 14-goal winger ahead of Arsenal, Newcastle and PSG as transfer race hots up

    MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly looking to pinch Moussa Diaby from under the noses of their Premier League rivals. Moussa Diaby has been the object of much attention this season and appears to have a decision to make in the summer.
    Moussa Diaby has made nine appearances for the French national team
    The Bayer Leverkusen winger has managed 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions for Xabi Alonso’s side this campaign and has attracted a lot of interest as a result.
    According to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, the Frenchman is now a target for Manchester United.
    However it is reported that the next step in any move for Diaby to join the Man Utd would depend on the ownership at the club.
    The Red Devils are in the midst of a bidding war between Sheikh Jassim and Jim Ratcliffe who both want to purchase the club off the Glazer family.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    Man Utd only just added talented wingers to their roster when they brought in Antony last summer for £85.5million and Jadon Sancho the season before for £73million.
    Regardless it would appear Erik ten Hag is keen to add attacking talent to his squad as they look all but guaranteed to finish in the Champions League places.
    Diaby has also been linked with a move to Arsenal, PSG and Newcastle United.
    With Newcastle now securing Champions League football they could be a more attractive outlet for the 23-year-old, however it has been said that their interest has not advanced in recent months.
    Most read in Football
    BETTING SPECIAL – BEST NO DEPOSIT CASINO OFFERS
    Leverkusen are rumoured to be demanding a of around £70m to pry Diaby out of their hands.
    The tricky winger’s contract isn’t due to expire until 2025 and he is supposedly considered an important player by Alonso.
    Arsenal have been linked with Diaby for a long time, but with priorities seemingly lying in midfield this summer as well as Bukayo Saka signing a new long-term contract it may be a difficult deal for the Gunners to complete. More