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      Erik ten Hag reveals phone call with Lisandro Martinez which persuaded him to seal Man Utd transfer over Arsenal

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      ERIK TEN HAG has opened up on the phone call that saw Lisandro Martinez join Manchester United instead of Arsenal.Following Ten Hag’s Ajax exit, Martinez was always destined to leave the Dutch side last summer.
      Lisandro Martinez signed for Manchester United last summerCredit: Getty
      Mikel Arteta’s Gunners wanted to bring him to North London, making him a priority transfer target.
      Martinez, 24, had been all set to sign for Arsenal, but even as the deal edged closer he pined for a move to United.
      Prior to completing a mooted Gunners switch, he phoned his old mentor Ten Hag.
      Revealing all about the conversation, the 52-year-old told  Voetbal International: “Whether I found it difficult to get Martinez away from Ajax?
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      “I had such a good time there, how we experienced the process together.
      “From scratch we brought Ajax back to the European top. That project has been so dear to me.
      “But Martinez himself wanted to leave Ajax anyway. If we hadn’t taken him, he would have gone to Arsenal.
      “They wanted him anyway, he was top priority there. Licha (Martinez) called me at one point: ‘Coach, listen, I’m leaving Ajax anyway. I can sign with Arsenal, but if you want me, I’m going to Manchester United.’
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      Martinez worked with Erik ten Hag at AjaxCredit: Getty
      “Then I thought: ‘I shouldn’t shoot myself and United in the foot either’. He really wasn’t staying in Amsterdam, that was out of the question. Then we struck and it all worked out.”
      Argentina World Cup hero Martinez subsequently completed a £55million switch to United, swiftly becoming a fan favourite at Old Trafford prior to his success in Qatar.
      Arsenal, meanwhile, elected not to sign a new defender – instead giving forgotten man William Saliba a chance.
      The Frenchman has been a revelation for the Gunners, playing a huge role in seeing them enter the World Cup break top of the Premier League.
      In addition to Martinez, United also reunited Ten Hag with Ajax winger Antony.
      After a protracted transfer saga, the winger joined the Red Devils in an eye-watering £85.5m deal.
      Antony eventually completed a huge summer transfer to Man United to reunite with Ten HagCredit: Getty More

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      Erik ten Hag slams state of Man Utd squad he inherited in summer and details four key factors on why they were shambles

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      ERIK TEN HAG has given a damning assessment of the Manchester United squad he inherited in the summer and revealed what he needed to change. Coming off the back of the club’s worst ever Premier League season under Ralf Rangnick, Ten Hag was appointed to try to return the club to its former glory.
      Erik ten Hag slammed the state of the squad he inheritedCredit: Getty
      United were coming off the back off their worst ever Premier League seasonCredit: Getty
      And while it has not been all smooth sailing since his arrival, there is certainly evidence that the team and club are moving in the right direction.
      But the Dutchman has now detailed just how big the task of getting the squad up to scratch was.
      Speaking to Voetbal International, Ten Hag revealed FOUR reasons why United were in such a shambolic state last season.
      He said: “There was no spirit in it (the dressing room), I didn’t see any team dynamics in the team.
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      “The mental toughness was very low. The fighting spirit, for each other, prioritising the team, that wasn’t really in this squad.
      “Changing the culture was the most important thing for me.”
      He also revealed the one player who has made all the difference in helping to reset the culture.
      Ten Hag continued: “To get that (change of culture) in the dressing room, you need personalities.
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      “That’s why the purchase of Casemiro was so important. He can speed up the process, because he knows what you have to do to win titles.”
      The Brazilian won five Champions League crowns with Real Madrid and was an active part of Brazil’s squad in Qatar, scoring a goal in the group stage but was unable to help Brazil past a gritty Croatia.

      United are returning to action for the first time since the World Cup finished against Burnley on Wednesday night, though a number of first team stars will be missing.
      And with the tournament in Qatar disrupting the season at a point where United were just settling into the way Ten Hag wants to play, he fears they could be negatively impacted by the break.
      Speaking ahead of the Burnley clash, Ten Hag said: “You saw in this World Cup many nations played passively, waiting and playing on the reaction.
      “We have seen against Manchester City, that was our big problem in that game.
      “We want to be dominant and proactive, but we played in a different way.
      “We are moving in a good direction, but still there is a lot of room for improvement.
      “It means keeping high standards. I always say, satisfaction makes you lazy.
      “If you are too satisfied with yourself and the team, you will not maintain those standards.”
      Following a huge spending spree in the summer, United are set to make a move for Dutch World Cup ace Cody Gakpo.
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      The 23-year-old has been tipped for a £50million move to Old Trafford with PSV boss Ruud van Nistelrooy admitting “there comes a time when you can’t say no.”
      United have accelerated plans to land Gakpo after the departure of legend Cristiano Ronaldo – who was named in the World Cup’s worst team. More

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      Mauro Icardi lined up by Newell’s Old Boys as Lionel Messi’s boyhood club look to seal marquee transfer

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      MAURO ICARDI could make a shock move to Argentine Primera Division club Newell’s Old Boys when the January transfer window opens, according to reports.The striker, 29, joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan from Paris Saint-Germain in September.
      Icardi could join Newell’s Old BoysCredit: Getty
      He had fallen out of favour at the Parc des Princes due to the attacking threat of superstar trio Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar.
      And as things stand, he might not be welcomed back into the squad when his loan spell ends.
      According to football journalist Hernan Cabrera, Icardi could make a return to Argentina.
      Newell’s Old Boys are understood to be interested in signing him from PSG.
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      Galatasaray are currently looking to sign former Manchester City star Edin Dzeko, so if a deal goes through it could allow Icardi to move on.
      Newell’s Old Boys is an Argentine Primera Division club based in Rosario, Santa Fe.
      It is also the boyhood club of Argentina icon Lionel Messi.
      The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner joined Newell’s Old Boys at the age of six and spent six years at the club.
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      During that time he scored almost 500 goals for the almost-unbeatable youth side.
      Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino also played for Newell’s Old Boys as a teenager, as did ex-Liverpool star Maxi Rodriguez. More

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      Man Utd receive Cody Gakpo transfer boost as PSV boss Van Nistelrooy says ‘there comes a time when you can’t say no’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Cody Gakpo by their former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.The Red Devils legend is now Gakpo’s manager at PSV and suggested the club would struggle to keep the World Cup star.
      Cody Gakpo is set to move to Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty
      PSV boss Ruud van Nistelrooy admitted it would be difficult to keep GakpoCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      Gakpo scored three times for Holland at the World CupCredit: Getty
      Gakpo, 23, has been a transfer target of United’s since the summer.
      And following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, the club have accelerated plans to sign a new forward – setting their sights on Gakpo.
      The striker starred for Louis van Gaal’s Holland at the World Cup, scoring three goals, while also enjoying a strong season at club level.
      And this has prompted reports of a January move for him – tipped to see a fee in the region of £50million.
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      PSV boss and Man Utd legend Van Nisterlrooy revealed he is determined to try and keep Gakpo until at least the summer, but admitted it would be difficult.
      He said: “If I have the choice, I prefer the summer, but it can also be now, you know there comes a time when you can’t say no.
      “It is wonderful how he has showcased himself.
      “I enjoyed watching him (at the World Cup), he deserves this because of how he has behaved, how he has continued to work and perform.
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      “I was able to help him from very close by and that makes me proud. I’ll give him his path when it comes.”
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      Despite boss Erik ten Hag pushing for a move last summer the Red Devils were unable to land the forward.
      Van Nistelrooy added: “There were rumours over the whole period and I admire that a lot in him.
      “He’s working on his development on a daily basis, playing in games and reaching his level.
      “He’s not distracted, he’s focused on games he has to play and focused on his next games. For a young guy like him, it’s really special to see that attitude.”
      Gakpo himself has admitted he would consider an offer from United following the failed summer move.
      Utd are back in action following the World Cup against Burnley in the Carabao Cup. More

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      ‘I’ve been asked 500 times’ – Sporting Lisbon boss snaps over Cristiano Ronaldo transfer questions and rules out move

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      SPORTING LISBON manager Ruben Amorim has refused to make any further comments regarding a potential swoop for Cristiano Ronaldo.The former Portugal international has repeatedly been questioned about the possibility of a January transfer.
      Ronaldo has been linked with a return to SportingCredit: Reuters
      Amorim is growing increasingly frustrated with questions relating to the possible moveCredit: AFP
      But, on Monday he made it clear that he is growing tired of the speculation.
      In his press conference following Sporting’s 5-0 Taca da Liga win over Braga, Amorim said: “Ronaldo was in Qatar, they had the opportunity to ask him and they didn’t. I’ve been asked 500 times and I already answered.”
      Ronaldo has been linked with a sensational return to Sporting ever since he requested to leave Manchester United in July.
      And a move could still possibly be on the cards with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner currently a free agent.
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      Ronaldo’s Man Utd contract was ripped up last month following his bombshell interview with Piers Morgan, so he is now on the hunt for a new club.
      But, few are willing to take him on.
      The forward has been linked with a move to Chelsea, although new boss Graham Potter is understood to be opposed to the transfer.
      Newcastle, LA Galaxy and Real Madrid have also been linked with a potential swoop for the out-of-favour superstar, but Saudi Arabia could be his next destination.
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      The president of Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr is reportedly willing to make the ex-Man Utd star the highest-paid sportsperson of all time.
      Ronaldo could earn a staggering £173million-a-year in Saudi Arabia.
      But, there is a possibility that he could decide to remain in Europe.
      While Amorim has refused to make any further comments about a potential move for Ronaldo, Sporting Lisbon sporting director Hugo Viana has hinted that it could be possible.

      He said: “He can decide where he can go. But you never know the future…so whatever he decides, let’s see.”
      Ronaldo scored five goals in 31 games for Sporting before joining Man Utd in 2003 at the age of 18. More

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      Man Utd told to pay £65m transfer release clause for Diogo Costa by Porto as Erik ten Hag looks for new long-term No1

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will have to pay £65million to sign Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa, according to reports.The club have been linked with a move for the 23-year-old since it emerged the Red Devils may allow David de Gea to leave on a free transfer.
      Diogo Costa is wanted by Man Utd but could cost £65mCredit: EPA
      Erik ten Hag could allow David de Gea to leave on a freeCredit: Reuters
      The current No1’s contract expires at the end of this season and if the Spaniard does depart, United seemingly want Costa to replace him.
      But Costa has a release clause worth £65million in his contract – and Man Utd will have to stump up the cash to force Porto into offloading him.
      Correio da Manha report Sergio Conceicao’s team do not have plans to sell in January, with the player having recently signed a new contract.
      Costa put pen to paper in November, keeping him at Porto until 2027.
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      Erik ten Hag has been impressed by his performances for Portugal at the World Cup.
      Costa has also played 19 times for his club this season, not missing a game in the Portuguese top flight or Champions League.
      He also featured in every match for his country at the World Cup before they were knocked out in the quarter-final.
      Man Utd have reportedly been scouting Costa for some time and like that he is comfotable with the ball at his feet.
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      United are expected make contact with Porto representatives soon.
      Unai Simon of Athletic Bilbao and Spain is an alternative option.
      The 25-year-old stopper has been the national team’s first choice ahead of De Gea in recent years.
      Simon has also attracted attention from Tottenham – who see him as a potential long-term option to replace Hugo Lloris.
      Meanwhile, Yann Sommer has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford. More

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      Man Utd, Liverpool and Chelsea transfer blow with Real Madrid confident of £100m-plus Jude Bellingham signing

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      REAL MADRID believe they have won the race to sign Jude Bellingham in a £100million-plus deal.The teenage England star has the pick of LaLiga giants Real, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
      Jude Bellingham is one of the highest-rated youngsters in world footballCredit: Getty
      He was superb in England’s midfield throughout the World CupCredit: PA
      But Carlo Ancelotti’s Real have become increasingly confident that, after courting him throughout 2022, Bellingham, 19, will snub a Premier League move and make a big switch to Spain next summer.
      Liverpool are desperate to sign him, with manager Jurgen Klopp believing that Borussia Dortmund ace Bellingham — who enjoyed a fine World Cup with England — will soon become the world’s best midfielder.
      In Qatar, both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Henderson told the player about the merits of featuring for the Reds.
      City feel they are not out of the race and are expected to up their bid to land Bellingham, who moved from Birmingham to Dortmund for £30m in the summer of 2020.
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      But Ancelotti and Real feel the chance to become a Bernabeu icon will seal the deal.
      All of the clubs, even those with limitless pots of cash such as City and PSG, have been made aware that wages are not important for Bellingham — only how a move would benefit him football-wise.
      As SunSport revealed last week, United boss Erik ten Hag is planning a £200m double whammy to land Bellingham and Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.
      Ten Hag’s problem is Bellingham turned down United to join Dortmund.
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      Club legends Sir Alex Ferguson, Eric Cantona and Bryan Robson were all sent to meet the player but failed to persuade him to move to Old Trafford.
      Since joining the German giants, Bellingham has contributed 19 goals and 21 assists in 112 games.
      He was also handed the club captaincy earlier this season, before thriving with England in Qatar.
      Carlo Ancelotti is keen to land Bellingham in the summerCredit: The Times More

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      Harry Maguire could be handed instant Man Utd lifeline with start against Burnley with Varane and Martinez resting up

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      HARRY MAGUIRE could be handed an instant Manchester United lifeline.The England star only returned to training along with eight other club-mates yesterday following Qatar duty.
      England centre-back Harry Maguire hopes to face Burnley in the EFL Cup for an early chance to revive his Man Utd fortunesCredit: PA
      Lisandro Martinez is still on a huge high after Argentina’s World Cup gloryCredit: Rex
      But with Argentinian World Cup winner Lisandro Martinez and beaten finalist Raphael Varane still resting, Old Trafford boss Erik ten Hag is short of defenders for the  EFL Cup fourth-round clash with Burnley on Wednesday night.
      His only senior centre-back available for their return to action is Victor Lindelof, while prospect Teden Mengi, 20, damaged a knee a week ago in a friendly with Cadiz in Spain.
      And fellow centre-half Axel Tuanzebe has not figured once this season.
      Ten Hag has told £85million signing Maguire he can go if he does not want to fight for a place.
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      He headed for Qatar as fourth choice at the club.
      But while yesterday was the first United  session for him, Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw following quarter-final agony, he could be thrown straight back into action.
      Before joining up with England, Ten Hag only gave  him seven games and just one Prem start, having dropped him in the wake of their 4–0 defeat by Brentford.
      The Dutchman could deploy midfielder Scott McTominay alongside Lindelof at the back — yet the United manager is also light on  numbers in the middle of the park.
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      Meanwhile, United triggered one–year contract extensions with Rashford, Fred, Diogo Dalot and Shaw. Had the club not acted, all three could have talked to interested parties next month.
      United are desperate to keep Rashford — a target for Paris Saint–Germain.
      The forward  rubbished claims he is set to sign a new £400,000-a-week deal but Ten Hag is anxious to ensure he is tied down long-term.
      Spanish goalkeeper David De Gea’s contract expires next summer, though there are doubts over whether he will be kept on.
      Triggering an extension on the 32-year-old’s deal would mean continuing to pay him his eye-watering £375,000-a-week wages.
      Raphael Varane will take a longer break from action as he recovers from the mental and physical strain of losing the World Cup finalCredit: Rex More