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    Man Utd in Joao Felix transfer boost with Atletico Madrid ‘willing to listen offers for £106m Portuguese striker’

    MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of long-time target Joao Felix, with Atletico Madrid willing to listen to offers in January.The 2021 LaLiga winners have been knocked out of Europe entirely after finishing bottom of their Champions League group.
    Felix has spent the majority of his time this season on the benchCredit: Getty
    And the European disaster could see Atletico sell a number of top stars in January.
    Atletico are in desperate need of cash following their elimination from the Champions League which has huge financial implications.
    So much so, Spanish outlet Cadena SER claim Atletico are willing to listen to offers for Man Utd target Felix, who joined the club in 2019 for around £113million from Benfica.
    Felix has not been featuring as regularly as he would like at the Wanda Metropolitano this season and his relationship with boss Diego Simeone has soured.
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    Atletico had previously considered the player “untouchable” after United approached them over a mega-money summer transfer.
    The Portugal international could prove to be a pricey acquisition despite his lack of goals.
    Felix has just two in 16 games for Atletico this term.
    He made no impact in Atletico’s Champions League campaign either.
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    Despite playing in five of Atletico’s six group games, Felix failed to register a goal or an assist.
    He has started the majority of the Spanish giant’s games from the bench, similar to compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo at United.
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    Man Utd keeper De Gea makes incredible double save including deflecting ball away with his HEAD vs Real Sociedad

    MANCHESTER UNITED are once again indebted to David de Gea after a superb double save against Real Sociedad. With United leading thanks to Alejandro Garnacho’s opener, Real were pushing for an equaliser.
    David de Gea has once again been busy saving Man Utd’s baconCredit: Getty
    And they almost found it when a dipping volley was fired towards the bottom far corner, with De Gea just about able to get a hand on it and push the ball away.
    However, his work was not done as he reacted to try and smother a follow up shot.
    Miraculously he managed to prevent an equaliser as the ball cannoned off of his face and over the bar.
    While United have looked more defensively solid this season. the loss of Raphael Varane has seen United’s foundations wobble in recent weeks.
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    This has led to De Gea needing to put in a string of top class performances in order to win games.
    The game against West Ham is one such example.
    A fine pair of saves against West Ham ensured United secured three points against the Hammers.
    The first saw De Gea deny Kurt Zouma from close range with a superb diving save.
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    This was then followed up by a last minute pile driver from Declan Rice which was destined for the top corner were it not for De Gea’s reaching hand.
    In addition, De Gea appears to have improved his distribution since Erik ten Hag’s arrival, which has been a common criticism of his time at United.
    United needed to win by two clear goals in order to avoid a potential horror draw in the round of 32.
    And while De Gea’s heroics helped them to keep a clean sheet, The Red Devils were unable to find a second and consequently came second in their group. More

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    Fans all say the same thing as Alejandro Garnacho scores first ever Man Utd goal against Real Sociedad in Europa League

    THE past, present and future blended together for the “ultimate dream” – as teen wonder Alejandro Garnacho hit a superb opener for Manchester United supplied by his idol Cristiano Ronaldo.Argentinian winger Garnacho, 18, netted his first United goal in his seventh game – a gem of a team strike in Thursday’s Europa League clash at Real Sociedad.
    The master congratulates the apprentice as goal-maker Cristiano Ronaldo hails goal-taker Alejandro Garnacho for scoring against SociedadCredit: AP
    Garnacho finished clinically for Man Utd’s breakthrough goalCredit: EPA
    What better way to mark your first Red Devils’ goal than a reference to your hero’s own celebration as Garnacho does a RonaldoCredit: Getty
    And after the Red Devils’ starlet added a hint of a Ronaldo-style “Siuu” celebration, fans on social media seemed as excited as him by his perfect moment.
    One posted: “Imagine that your first goal as a professional is at 18 years of age, with the Manchester United shirt, in a European competition and it happens to Cristiano Ronaldo, who is your greatest idol in the world of football. The kid Alejandro Garnacho fulfilled the ultimate dream. EPIC.”
    That said it all but another observer tweeted: “Great finish by Garnacho. Why on earth did Man Utd ever waste so much money on the over-rated Sancho when they’ve got this lad? He’s better than Sancho.”
    This message spoke for many too: “What a moment that is for Alejandro Garnacho… The timing of the run and the finish is brilliant, the pass from Cristiano Ronaldo is also perfect, weighted to perfection and Garnacho scores. Superb goal from Manchester United.”
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    One fan noted: “Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first Manchester United goal before Alejandro Garnacho was born.”
    That was of course when Portugal legend Ronaldo, 37, was at his flying best in his first spell with the Red Devils from 2003-9.
    And although Ron is struggling to tie down a regular start in the Premier League this season, he showed on Thursday that he could be turning back time while Garnacho winds it forward.
    As one supporter posted: “Not a bad pass that from CR7 and what a finish from Garnacho.”
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    But another fan fears Garnacho won’t get the chance to fulfil his potential at Old Trafford.
    He posted: “The hype around Man United youngsters, last year it was Elanga and now Garnacho, eventually will leave just like James Garner.” More

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    Brazilian wonderkid Endrick hints at sensational Man Utd transfer after copying Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal celebration

    BRAZILIAN wonderkid Endrick has fuelled speculation about a transfer to Manchester United after copying Cristiano Ronaldo’s celebration. The 16-year-old has shot to fame with Brazilian club Palmeiras following a meteoric rise through the club’s academy.
    Endrick has enjoyed an impressive start to his senior careerCredit: Getty
    The 16-year-old copied the celebration of Cristiano RonaldoCredit: Getty
    Ronaldo has adopted a new celebration this seasonCredit: Reuters
    This rise saw him score a whopping 165 goals in 169 games in youth level before signing a pro contract.
    And it seems his youth level days were no fluke, with the exciting prospect netting three goals and an assist in just 180 minutes of football.
    And following his latest goal – scored in the 4-0 win over Fortaleza – Endrick adopted the new celebration of footballing icon Ronaldo.
    Ronaldo has mixed it up in terms of his goal celebration this season.
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    The 37-year-old has moved away from his traditional “Siiiuuu” celebration where he jumps in the air and swings his arms back upon his landing.
    Instead, a far more tranquil approach has been used, with Ronaldo looking up to the sky with his eyes shut and clasping his hands together.
    With United not the only club monitoring Endrick, it will come as welcoming news that he could be open to a Man Utd transfer via following Ronaldo.
    His agent, Frederico Pena, rubbished rumours he was close to joining Real Madrid or Barcelona.
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    He said: “Every club in the world is interested in Endrick. All of them! Which is the most normal thing in the world. With his quality, his youth…
    “But none of them have made any proposal to us or Palmeiras to buy him.
    “He has to play for Palmeiras until he turns 18. Consequently, he’ll play at Palmeiras for at least 22 more months.
    “Endrick’s contract with Palmeiras runs until July 2025… He can only move abroad from Brazil from July 2024.
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    “No player under the age of 18 can move abroad. He can be sold, but he cannot be transferred.
    “In other words, a club comes here, they do a deal with Palmeiras. But he can’t leave. He has to stay at Palmeiras even though he’s already been sold.” More

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    Erik ten Hag’s Man Utd can challenge Man City next season, says former Red Devil, Paul Parker

    ERIK TEN HAG will turn Manchester United into City’s main title rivals next season – thanks to more “amazing” signings.That’s the verdict of former Red Devils’ defender Paul Parker after seeing United rise to fifth this term despite Ten Hag losing his first two games.
    Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag is tipped to come out of the shadow of City chief Pep Guardiola, but not until next termCredit: Reuters
    Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham and Barcelona anchorman Frenkie de Jong are thought to be the Dutchman’s main summer targets.
    And Parker believes Ten Hag is gradually moving in the right players to suit his short-passing tactics.
    Ex-England star Parker told Bemybet.com: “I would say by next season Manchester United would be able to compete for the (Premier League) title.
    “Of course, Manchester City is excelling in every way and they will be very tough to challenge.
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    “But I definitely think that Man United will be able to finish second in the league and compete for the title.
    “I truly believe that Man United will challenge Man City because Erik ten Hag will keep bringing in amazing players just like he has been doing so far.”
    Parker’s assessment puts Ten Hag on a faster track to success than most pundits do.
    And former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher reckons United can’t even expect a top-four finish this term.
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    Carra told the Mirror: “I think the North London clubs [Arsenal and Tottenham] will both get in it now.
    “I have loved watching Arsenal, they’ve almost been my favourite team to watch this season.
    “I think Liverpool will get in there ahead of Chelsea and Man United and then the two North London clubs will be alongside Man City.”
    Meanwhile, Ten Hag gave starts to 18-year-old winger Alejandro Garnacho and Donny van de Beek, as well as Cristiano Ronaldo for Thursday’s Europa League trip to Real Sociedad.
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    Man Utd ‘seriously considering transfer move for Bayern Munich striker Eric Choupo-Moting to replace Cristiano Ronaldo’

    MANCHESTER UNITED are “seriously considering” a sensational swoop for former Stoke striker Eric Choupo-Moting, reports claim. The 33-year-old, now with Bayern Munich, could be the man to replace Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford.
    Manchester United are reportedly lining up a shock move for Eric Choupo-MotingCredit: Getty
    The Stoke flop could replace Cristiano Ronaldo at Old TraffordCredit: Getty
    French outlet Media Foot say Choupo-Moting has emerged as a shock target for the Red Devils.
    United boss Erik ten Hag is said to be a fan of his experience and versatility.
    He is out of contract at the end of the campaign, which could allow United to pounce for nothing.
    Bayern though are believed to be eager to tie Choupo-Moting down to fresh terms after his surprising form to start the campaign.

    The Bundesliga outfit are poised to kick off contract discussions with Choupo-Moting in the coming months, according to Fabrizio Romano.
    After flopping in the Premier League with Stoke Choupo-Moting earned a bizarre switch to Paris Saint-Germain, before moving on to Bayern.
    And while his scoring record in recent seasons is nowhere near the level of Ronaldo, Choupo-Moting has been a man reborn this term.
    The Cameroonian striker has netted an impressive eight goals in 13 games since the summer, providing a further three assists.
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    Ronaldo on the other hand has found the net just three times in all competitions during a frustrating season so far.
    The Portuguese ace continues to be linked with a move away from Old Trafford after asking to leave the club in the previous transfer window.
    Ronaldo sparked a huge row with Ten Hag when he refused to come off the bench against Tottenham last month.
    CR7 was banished from first team training, with SunSport exclusively revealing the Dutchman wants Ronaldo out of the club for good.
    Choupo-Moting scored just five goals in 32 games for StokeCredit: AFP or licensors More

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    Man Utd set to trigger extension for Diogo Dalot to ward off interest from Barcelona and AC Milan

    MANCHESTER UNITED are ready to trigger a one-year extension with Diogo Dalot amid interest from two European powerhouses.The Portuguese defender’s current deal at Old Trafford expires next summer having been signed by Jose Mourinho back in 2018 from Porto for £19m.
    Diogo Dalot is set to stay at Manchester United beyond next summerCredit: Reuters
    Dalot has started every Prem game this season under boss Erik ten HagCredit: EPA
    Under Erik ten Hag, the 23-year-old has cemented the right-back position ahead of the maligned Aaron Wan-Bissaka – starting all 12 of United’s Premier League games this season.
    After coming close to leaving the club last summer, Dalot is now being monitored by both Barcelona and AC Milan in the hope of snatching him on a free next year.
    But SunSport understands United are determined to keep hold of Dalot while contract negotiations continue – and will extend his stay until at least the end of the 2023/24 campaign.
    Carlos Goncalves – Dalot’s agent from the age of 15 – is in constant dialogue with United over his client’s future.
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    The Portugal international hopes to be heading to Qatar this month after being named in his country’s 55-man preliminary World Cup squad.
    He said in a recent interview: “Personally, I’m not one to make long-term plans.
    “I live season by season, month by month and just want to help the team as much I can.
    “Right now, my ambitions are to be at the World Cup to help my national team, and in the end of the season to give trophies to [United] fans because they deserve it.”
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    Dalot spent the 20/21 season on loan at Milan after falling out of favour under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, scoring twice in 33 appearances and impressing in Serie A.
    Since then, he has been a regular in the side, first under Ralf Rangnick before Ten Hag’s appointment in May.
    Dalot scored his first Old Trafford goal against FC Sheriff in the Europa League last week, while only Bruno Fernandes (29) has created more goalscoring chances for United in the league this season (20).
    After United’s 1-0 win over West Ham on Sunday, Ten Hag said of Dalot: “His defending positions are growing from game to game. His timing, also his duels.
    “In possession, I think he’s really good and he has the breath to go up and down [the wing]. His development is really good.”  More

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    Man Utd starlet Facundo Pellistri set for ‘imminent’ loan transfer exit after shock call up to Uruguay’s World Cup squad

    MANCHESTER UNITED youngster Facundo Pellistri is set for an “imminent” loan move away from the club, according to his agent.The Uruguayan winger, 20, is yet to make a first team appearance for the club since joining from Penarol in 2020.
    Pellistri is eyeing a spot at the World Cup with UruguayCredit: AFP
    He has had two separate loan spells with Spanish outfit Deportivo Alaves, but returned to Old Trafford on both occasions due to a lack of opportunities.
    And now, with the expectation of making Uruguay’s World Cup squad, his agent Edgardo Lasalvia has claimed he will soon be loaned out once more.
    Speaking to ESPN Uruguay, he said: “I think with a good World Cup, as we think he is going to have, his departure [from United] is imminent.”
    Pellistri has made inroads into the Uruguay national team despite no senior appearances for Man Utd.
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    He has already been capped seven times by his country in 2022, a run which looks set to seal his spot in Qatar.
    Pellistri was linked with a loan move away from Old Trafford in the summer, but an injury prevented any deal from being completed.
    He is now fully fit once more, but is yet to feature in any of the club’s Premier League or Europa League matches.
    And a permanent move away from United could also be an option for the South American.
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    However, with three years left on his existing deal, the club hold the cards to his future and will only sell if they are happy to cash in.
    Erik ten Hag has a great deal of competition in his squad when it comes to the wide areas.
    The likes of Antony, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Anthony Elanga and Alejandro Garnacho are all currently ahead of Pellistri in the Dutchman’s plans. More