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    Man Utd will up Jadon Sancho transfer bid to £80m as England star agrees five-year £350k-a-week deal

    MANCHESTER UNITED are closing in on an £80million deal to buy Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund.The Old Trafford club made a £72m bid yesterday but they are prepared togo to £80m to get their man.
    ⚽ Follow ALL of the latest news and updates from Euro 2020 with our live blog
    Manchester United are closing in on long-term target Jadon Sancho
    Personal terms based on a five-year deal worth £350,000-a-week have already been agreed.
    Despite reports of wrangling, United have long been comfortable about the transfer going through smoothly after a year-long pursuit of the England international, 21.
    This time last year they embarked on a summer of bartering before refusing to meet an asking price of £110m from the Germans.
    United also spoke to Erling Haaland before the Euros, but the Dortmund striker has his heart set on a move to Real Madrid.
    Sancho has thrived at Dortmund after spending his youth career with Watford and then Manchester City.
    In his last two seasons in the Bundesliga he has hit 36 goals and provided 40 assists in 82 games.
    But he has only played six minutes of England’s three Euros group games so far, coming on as a substitute against the Czech Republic.
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    Sancho has 20 England caps but has scored just three times for his country.
    The winger last played in England in 2017, featuring for City’s under-18s.
    His arrival on the other side of Manchester could be a boost in more ways than one, as the Red Devils look to climb above their rivals to win the Premier League next term.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Wayne Rooney’s son Kai wears Man City hoodie as United legend Rio Ferdinand asks ‘what’s he doing in that top’ More

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    Man Utd going ‘all out’ for £55m Pau Torres transfer, Varane latest, Maguire RETURNS for England, Pogba £104m new deal

    MANCHESTER UNITED are going ‘all out’ for £55m-rated Pau Torres, according to reports.And his potential centre-back partner Harry Maguire has returned to fitness with England at the perfect time in their 1-0 win over Czech Republic.
    Meanwhile, the club are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with a reportedly improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund.
    But he is not set to wear the famous number 7 shirt if he signs, as it is already held by Edinson Cavani.
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    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    ROY OF THE ROVERS
    Man United legend Roy Keane revealed he drank ‘six or seven’ pints the night before his Nottingham Forest debut almost thirty years ago.
    Keane said: “I went over pre-season and was obviously doing a lot of training with the reserves.
    “Forest had played their first league game at home on the Saturday against QPR and I went to watch it, and I was on the bench for the reserves on the Monday night.
    “I got on for the last ten minutes and the first-team were playing Liverpool on the Tuesday night.
    “Went out that night with the players, as you do after a reserve match, I didn’t drink too much – maybe six, seven pints after the game. Came in on the Tuesday and was told ‘get dressed up’.”

    RAM RAID
    Chelsea have joined Man Utd in the transfer race to land Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos, according to reports.
    AS claims Thomas Tuchel wants Ramos to add depth to his centre-back options.
    But the Spaniard would prefer a move to Paris Saint-Germain as he wants to play alongside Neymar.

    CASE FOR DEFENCE
    Man Utd captain Harry Maguire has defended England’s defensive march to the Euro 2020 knockout stage – claiming they are playing the football needed to win tournaments.
    Maguire said: “I know everyone wants to play well and create numerous chances but teams are well drilled and organised.
    “It’s not all perfect, we can improve but you can’t argue with seven points from three games.
    “Can we play better? Of course we can. Will we improve? We will do everything we can to improve.
    “The fundamentals are there and now we’ve got to tidy up in every part of our game when we’re on the ball and there is a little bit more we can get out of each other and push each other.
    “If we are going to progress in this tournament we’re going to have to do that.”

    OPENING DAY MADNESS
    Man Utd kick-off the 2021-22 Premier League season against fierce rivals Leeds!

    LONG-TERM FUTURE
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insists Donny van de Beek has a future at Man Utd.
    But the Dutch international is constantly being linked with a move away from Old Trafford.
    Should van de Beek leave, it would see him leave the English giants after just one season.
    One place van de Beek is being linked with a move to is Italy.
    But FCInterNews say Inter Milan are unlikely to make an approach for the player, ruling them out.
    STAYING PUT
    Paul Pogba will NOT leave Man Utd this summer despite being linked with a move away.
    And United are not locked in any negotiations with any clubs over the Frenchman, according to Fabrizio Romano.
    United want to tie Pogba down to a new deal, but negotiations are not in the advanced stage yet.
    Manchester United are currently not negotiating with any club for Pogba – despite rumours about €50m value with 1 year left on his contract, Man Utd won’t sell Paul for this fee. 🔴New contract negotiations not advanced yet – but #MUFC will try to keep Pogba this summer.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 23, 2021

    CHIEF CREATOR
    Man Utd left-back Luke Shaw has created the most chances for England in the group stages despite playing two of the three games.
    Despite only playing two games, Luke Shaw ended the group stage as the leading chance creator for England.He created twice as many as the next highest player. pic.twitter.com/OtX3JRsNKw— Footy Accumulators (@FootyAccums) June 23, 2021

    ‘I THOUGHT HE DID FANTASTIC’
    Former England striker Emile Heskey praised Man Utd captain Harry Maguire for his performance against the Czech Republic last night.
    Maguire completed his first 90 minutes of football since early May, and he helped England pick up another clean sheet.
    Speaking on the official England podcast, Heskey said: “I thought he did really well, considering I don’t think he’s had loads of training sessions.
    “I thought he did fantastic. Controlled it, bossed it in there.”
    MAIN MAN
    Bruno Fernandes finished top of both goals and assists for Man Utd last season.

    MAGUIRE RETURNS
    Harry Maguire returned to action after a spell on the sidelines with an injury.
    The Man Utd captain missed the last few weeks of the season, and missed Man Utd’s Europa League final against Villarreal.
    But Maguire returned to action for England last night, playing a pivotal role in keeping a clean sheet against the Czech Republic.
    90 minutes under his belt and England are through to the knockout stages!
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    LEW BEAUTY
    Arsenal are interested in signing Man Utd and Real Madrid target Dominic Calvert-Lewin, according to reports.
    The Gunners are looking to bolster their attacking options this summer in a bid to fire themselves back into European contention. 
    According to The Telegraph, Arsenal will push to sign the England international with Alexandre Lacazette’s future at the club uncertain. 
    The striker scored 21 goals in 39 appearances for Everton last season.
    SMILE
    Gerard Pique spent four years at Man Utd, but left for Barcelona in 2008!

    MOURINHO’S MAGUIRE ASSESSMENT
    Former Man Utd boss Jose Mourinho assessed Harry Maguire’s return to football.
    He said: “I keep saying when you have an option to take 26 players, you have to risk, gamble and take an injured player if the player deserves that. Maguire is one of those players.
    “He was confident, he was stable, he was intelligent, read the game well, and has a good partnership with [John] Stones.
    “[Tyrone] Mings is doing a fantastic job, you could feel he was happy to come in for 10 or 15 minutes, he is a team player.
    “I wouldn’t be surprised if the next game is against Germany, the way they play with three at the back – I wouldn’t be surprised if England went with Stones, Maguire and Mings at the back.”
    PSG PLOT MOVE FOR VARANE
    PSG are plotting a move for Man Utd target Raphael Varane, according to reports.
    Spanish outlet MARCA are reporting that Varane is expected to leave Real Madrid this summer.
    And there will be serious competition for the four-time Champions League winner’s signature.
    United have already seen a £50million bid turned down for the Frenchman.
    But Madrid want closer to £80m.
    And now PSG have enquired about bringing the French international back to his home nation.
    TORRES ON FUTURE
    Man Utd target Pau Torres was asked about his future, but he insisted that he has a contract with Villarreal.
    Quizzed by Goal about speculation, the 24-year-old said: “I have a contract at Villarreal, I just won the first title for the club, we have qualified for the Champions League and it is something that excites me a lot.
    “Now I’m focused on the Euros. Then the Super Cup and nice things will come, so I’m totally calm.”
    But there is a growing belief that Man Utd could get a deal done for around £51million.
    POG TOP
    Man Utd need to try and close the gap on league winners and city rivals Man City

    GOOD MORNING RED DEVILS FANS
    Sergio Ramos has told former Real Madrid team-mates that he is going to join Paris Saint-Germain, reports suggest.
    Manchester United, Manchester City and PSG have all been monitoring the Spain international after his Los Blancos deal expired.
    According to Tiempo de Juego, however, the legendary defender has told other Real players that he is on his way to Paris.
    Reports suggested that Ramos has been prioritising the French giants, who have offered him a deal that is ‘financially superior’ to what the two Manchester clubs have proposed.
    But if negotiations collapse, then the former Real captain would prefer to join United over City.
    Meanwhile, Man Utd are reportedly chasing Euro 2020 record breaker Kacper Kozlowski.
    Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport claim the Red Devils are set to rival Serie A giants Cagliari and Juventus in the race to sign the young Pole.
    The report adds that Barcelona have also expressed an interest but it is Borussia Dortmund that are leading the race for Kozlowski.
    The 17-year-old became the youngest player ever to appear at the Euros after coming on against Spain.
    Kozlowski broke England star Jude Bellingham’s record, which lasted just SIX days, when he appeared last week aged 17 years and 246 days
    Finally, Kingsley Coman’s agent and family are trying to force a move to England following rumoured interest from Manchester United.
     Sport 1 journalist Florian Plettenberg said: “Update [on] Coman: Bosses are sure that [Kingsley Coman] wants to extend.
    “But they know that his father, Benoit Menye (family’s friend) & (agent Pini) Zahavi are forcing his move to [England].
    “A boss from [Man Utd] told me: ‘We do not comment on rumours. We have scouts all over the world & Coman is very talented.’”
    MAN DOWN
    Sergio Ramos has told former Real Madrid team-mates that he is going to join Paris Saint-Germain, reports suggest.
    Manchester United, Manchester City and PSG have all been monitoring the Spain international after his Los Blancos deal expired.
    According to Tiempo de Juego, however, the legendary defender has told other Realplayers that he is on his way to Paris.
    Reports suggested that Ramos has been prioritising the French giants, who have offered him a deal that is ‘financially superior’ to what the two Manchester clubs have proposed.
    But if negotiations collapse, then the former Real captain would prefer to join United over City.

    FT – CZECH REPUBLIC 0 ENGLAND 1
    Raheem Sterling’s goal sealed top spot for England and set up a tasty last-16 clash against one of France, Germany or Portugal.
    The Three Lions controlled proceedings at Wembley as they finished the group stage unbeaten and without conceding a single goal.
    READ THE MATCH REPORT HERE

    MOUR PLEASE
    Jose Mourinho thinks Bruno Fernandes has gone missing for Portugal and wants more from the Manchester United star.
    SunSport’s columnist Jose told TalkSport: “Portugal at its highest level can beat anyone.
    “But we need to play with eleven players, in these two matches Bruno Fernandes was on the pitch but not playing.
    “I hope he turns up against France, because he’s a player with incredible potential.
    “He can pass, he can score. He can get penalties, he can score penalties, he can score free-kicks.
    “He has a lot to give, but the reality is in these two matches he was not there.”

    KING SIZE
    Kingsley Coman’s agent and family are trying to force a move to England following rumoured interest from Manchester United.
     Sport 1 journalist Florian Plettenberg said: “Update [on] Coman: Bosses are sure that [Kingsley Coman] wants to extend.
    “But they know that his father, Benoit Menye (family’s friend) & (agent Pini) Zahavi are forcing his move to [England].
    “A boss from [Man Utd] told me: ;We do not comment on rumours. We have scouts all over the world & Coman is very talented.’”

    WHERE THERE’S A WILL
    Man Utd defender Brandon Williams is a loan target for Newcastle and Southampton.
    The versatile full-back barely featured last term following the arrival of Alex Telles.
    And playing time could become even more scarce if United land top target Kieran Trippier, with Diogo Dalot also returning from AC Milan.

    ENGLAND TEAM
    Harry Maguire, Bukayo Saka and Jack Grealish get their first starts of the Euros for England tonight.
    The trio are in Gareth Southgate’s XI to take on Czech Republic, with Kyle Walker also returning to the fold.
    But there is NO Phil Foden in the match squad, while Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell are self-isolating.
    FOLLOW THE ACTION WITH OUR LIVE MATCH BLOG

    POLE POSITION
    Man Utd are reportedly chasing Euro 2020 record breaker Kacper Kozlowski.
    Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport claim the Red Devils are set to rival Serie A giants Cagliari and Juventus in the race to sign the young Pole.
    The report adds that Barcelona have also expressed an interest but it is Borussia Dortmund that are leading the race for Kozlowski.
    The 17-year-old became the youngest player ever to appear at the Euros after coming on against Spain.
    Kozlowski broke England star Jude Bellingham’s record, which lasted just SIX days, when he appeared last week aged 17 years and 246 days.

    SAN-BLOW
    Jadon Sancho will reportedly be denied the iconic No7 shirt at Manchester United should he join from Borussia Dortmund.
    The number is currently worn by Edinson Cavani, who is reluctant to give it up.
    The Express claims that’s because Cavani’s preferred jersey, the No9, is with Anthony Martial.
    And he too is unwilling to budge, with Sancho instead likely to take Marcos Rojo’s No16 after his return to Argentina.

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    Man Utd lead Raphael Varane transfer chase ahead of Chelsea and City as Real Madrid ‘resigned’ to losing £45m star

    REAL MADRID are reportedly ready to sell Raphael Varane after the Manchester United target asked for a new challenge.A summer transfer is said to be the 28-year-old’s desire following a decade at the Bernabeu.
    Raphael Varane could have played his last game for Real MadridCredit: Reuters
    Varane is out of contract in a year’s time and Los Blancos do not want to lose him on a free while battling the pandemic financial crisis.
    According to The Athletic, a bid as little as £40million could persuade Real to sell up after talks with the player’s representatives.
    And he could be one of several stars to leave Madrid, who are gathering funds ahead of a bid for Kylian Mbappe.
    The club’s mammoth wage bill needs to be cut before they can offer the Paris Saint-Germain forward a contract.
    Mbappe, 22, is also out of contract in 2022 and Real are reportedly plotting a free transfer deal with a mega salary offer.
    Varane is currently starring for France at Euro 2020 and is expected to start against Portugal on Wednesday night.

    BETTING SPECIAL: GET RONALDO OR MBAPPE TO HAVE A SHOT ON TARGET AT 30/1

    It has been suggested that United will use Paul Pogba, also out of contract in a year’s time, as a makeweight for the centre-back.
    Manchester City and Chelsea are also as tracking Varane but the Red Devils are described as the frontrunners to secure his services.
    A number of defenders have been named as targets for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team, who want a new partner for Harry Maguire.
    Pau Torres and Jules Kounde continue to be linked in deals that would cost north of £50m.

    Villarreal and Spain ace Torres recently stated that he is ‘calm’ about his future while attempting to deliver a last-16 spot for his country.
    The 24-year-old said: “I have a contract at Villarreal, I just won the first title for the club, we have qualified for the Champions League and it is something that excites me a lot.
    “Now I’m focused on the Euros. Then the Super Cup and nice things will come, so I’m totally calm.”
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Real Madrid star Raphael Varane is in great shape on the training ground More

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    Man Utd ‘must trigger Pau Torres’ £56m release clause as Villarreal not interested in getting players in swap transfer’

    MANCHESTER UNITED will reportedly have to activate Pau Torres’ £56million release clause should they wish to sign the Villarreal defender.The 24-year-old is believed to be a target for the Red Devils following a superb 2020-21 campaign which saw him called up to Spain’s Euro 2020 squad.
    Villarreal defender Pau Torres has been linked with a summer switch to Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Former Malaga loanee Torres even starred in his side’s victory over United in the Europa League final last month.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is desperate to bring in a new centre-back to partner Harry Maguire following inconsistent performances from Victor Lindelof.
    It has been claimed that there is a ‘growing belief’ at Old Trafford that Torres can be signed this summer, despite interest from Real Madrid.
    According to Sport, Villarreal will only sell the player should a potential suitor pay his £56m buyout clause.
    They state that they will refuse to negotiate any other price, and will reject any swap offer proposal from United.
    Should United hand over that sum of money, he would become the second most-expensive defender in their history behind Maguire.
    Torres, who has started both of Spain’s Euro 2020 games, recently broke his silence over his future as he insisted he is remaining calm.
    Quizzed by Goal about speculation, he said: “I have a contract at Villarreal.

    BETTING SPECIAL: GET RONALDO OR MBAPPE TO HAVE A SHOT ON TARGET AT 30/1
    Spain international Torres has featured twice at Euro 2020 for Luis Enrique’s sideCredit: Rex

    “I just won the first title for the club, we have qualified for the Champions League and it is something that excites me a lot.
    “Now I’m focused on the Euros. Then the Super Cup and nice things will come, so I’m totally calm.”
    United are also believed to be keen on Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane, who is set to become a free agent in 2022.
    Reports have claimed that midfielder Paul Pogba could be used in a swap deal to bring his French compatriot to the Theatre of Dreams.
    Souness says Bruno Fernandes ‘would not have lasted five minutes in my dressing room’ after Man Utd star’s moaning More

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    Man Utd blow as Sergio Ramos ‘tells Real Madrid pals he’s joining PSG’ as Spain legend leaves on free transfer

    SERGIO RAMOS has told former Real Madrid team-mates that he is going to join Paris Saint-Germain, reports suggest.Real confirmed last week that Ramos will leave the club after 16 scintillating years at the Santiago Bernabeu when his contract expired.
    Sergio Ramos left Real Madrid after his contract expiredCredit: Getty
    The 35-year-old is at an advanced age but is still considered as one of the best centre-backs in the world and his departure has led to interest from some of football’s top clubs.
    Manchester United, Manchester City and PSG have all been monitoring the Spain international.
    According to Tiempo de Juego, however, the legendary defender has told other Los Blancos players that he is on his way to Paris.
    Reports suggested that Ramos has been prioritising the French giants, who have offered him a deal that is ‘financially superior’ to what the two Manchester clubs have proposed.
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    But if negotiations collapse, then the former Real captain would prefer to join United over City.
    Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking for a top defender to partner up with Harry Maguire at centre-back ahead of this coming season.
    The Spaniard held a tearful press conference last Thursday as he bid farewell to the club where he won 22 major honours.
    An emotional Ramos said: “I’ll always keep Real Madrid in my heart.

    “A marvellous stage in my life is over, but a new exciting future awaits and I am looking forward to showing my level and winning some more trophies.
    “You’re never prepared to say adios to Real Madrid but the moment has arrived. This is an ‘adieu’ as sooner or later I will return.
    “I would like to thank the fans, they carried me in their arms at all times.
    “I would have liked to say goodbye at the Bernabeu. But I will always carry you in my heart.”
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Emotional Sergio Ramos in tears as he bids farewell to Real Madrid More

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    Man Utd going ‘all out’ for £55m Pau Torres transfer, Varane latest, Sancho WILL NOT wear number 7, Pogba £104m new deal

    MANCHESTER UNITED are going ‘all out’ for £55m-rated Pau Torres, according to reports.And the Red Devils want to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104m contract, as exclusively reported by SunSport.
    Meanwhile, the club are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with a reportedly improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund.
    But he is not set to wear the famous number 7 shirt if he signs, as it is already held by Edinson Cavani.
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    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    CAL ME MAYBE
    Arsenal have reportedly joined Man United in the hunt for Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
    The Telegraph claims Mikel Arteta is ready to offload several players to raise funds for the England ace.
    Everton are holding out for a £50million fee for their star man.
    And SunSport understands Carlo Ancelotti would like to sign Calvert-Lewin for Real Madrid.

    CANDY KANE
    Man City are the leading contenders to sign Tottenham talisman Harry Kane.
    That’s according to bookmakers Betfair, who’ve installed Pep Guardiola’s side as 10/11 favourites to clinch his signature ahead of Chelsea and Man United.
    But Arsenal are only a 250/1 shot to land Spurs’ star man.
    Harry Kane next club odds – Betfair

    Not to sign or agree a contract with any other club – 10/11
    Manchester City – 10/11
    Chelsea – 9/2
    Manchester United – 5/1
    Paris Saint-Germain – 16/1
    Real Madrid – 40/1
    Liverpool – 40/1
    Barcelona – 50/1
    Juventus – 50/1
    Arsenal – 250/1

    ROO AWAKENING
    Man United will reunite with club legend Wayne Rooney to play his Derby side in a pre-season friendly.
    The Premier League giants have released their warm-up fixtures before the season kicks off against Leeds on August 14.
    After facing the Rams on July 18, the Red Devils will participate in a week-long UK training camp before taking on Queens Park Rangers on July 24.
    United will then face Premier League newcomers Brentford before playing Everton with both fixtures to take place at Old Trafford.

    WINNING MENTALITY
    Will Man Utd add some trophies to the cabinet this season?

    MAGUIRE TO START
    Harry Maguire is expected to start tonight in place of Aston Villa’s Tyrone Mings.
    The Athletic’s David Ornstein says boss Gareth Southgate wants to give the Man Utd captain some minutes before the knockout stages.
    Ornstein also says that Jack Grealish is set to start, presumably in place of Mason Mount.
    Harry Maguire expected to replace Tyrone Mings at centre-back as Gareth Southgate makes changes for England’s final group game v Czech Republic later. Gives Maguire minutes ahead of knockout stage. Jack Grealish also in line to start #EURO2020 #ENGCZE #ENG https://t.co/xecrI8rqss— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 22, 2021

    MOUR PLEASE
    Jose Mourinho thinks Bruno Fernandes has gone missing for Portugal and wants more from the Manchester United star, writes SUNNI UPAL.
    Ex-Red Devils boss Mourinho said the 26-year-old ‘was not there’ in the first two matches against Hungary and Germany.
    And Mourinho, who is writing for The Sun this summer, wants the Red Devils creative genius to show up in Portugal’s huge clash with France on Wednesday.
    He said on talkSPORT: “Portugal at its highest level can beat anyone.
    “But we need to play with eleven players, in these two matches Bruno Fernandes was on the pitch but not playing.
    “I hope he turns up against France, because he’s a player with incredible potential.
    “He can pass, he can score. He can get penalties, he can score penalties, he can score free-kicks.
    “He has a lot to give, but the reality is in these two matches he was not there.”

    PHOTO OF THE DAY
    A young, fresh-faced Wayne Rooney!

    HEAD TURNED
    Declan Rice has had his head turned by the prospect of playing for a bigger club.
    Eurosport are reporting that sources close to the player believe he is interested in pursuing a move to a bigger club.
    Chelsea – his boyhood club – are his most likely destination, but his price tag is proving to be difficult to match.
    The Hammers value Rice north of £70million, and he’s a mainstay in Gareth Southgate’s England midfield adding to his price.
    The report states that Rice would want wages worth £150,000 a week and a sizeable signing on fee.
    Chelsea aren’t the only teams tracking Rice, they’re joined by the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United.
    WHERE THERE’S A WILL
    Southampton and Newcastle both want Manchester United’s Brandon Williams on loan, writes GARY STONEHOUSE.
    The full-back, 20, struggled for match action last term after enjoying a fine breakthrough campaign in 2019/20.
    The arrival of Alex Telles last year limited Williams to 14 appearances in all competitions – with just four of those coming in the Premier League.
    Luke Shaw’s strong form has kept Williams out of the side, with the England international barely missing a match.
    A host of clubs were keen on taking the defender on loan back in January but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer decided to keep the ace at Old Trafford.
    But the United manager is now confident he has enough cover at left-back so is willing to let Williams leave.
    GREAT SCOT
    Aston Villa star John McGinn is reportedly being chased by Manchester United and Liverpool after impressing at Euro 2020, writes JAKE LAMBOURNE.
    The Scottish midfielder, who has started in the opening two games for Steve Clarke’s side, is tied down at Villa Park until 2025.
    But according to the Sunday Post via HITC, the 26-year-old could be on the move later this summer after three years spent with the Midlands side.
    As well as his impressive performances for Villa in the last two Premier League seasons, his starring displays for Scotland have caught the eye of Liverpool and United.
    McGinn was superb during the 0-0 draw against England on Friday, leading the news outlet to suggest the Premier League giants could step up their interest in him.
    It has been stated that Villa value the player at £50million, though the report claims that a fee of £20m could be enough to secure his services.

    EL MATADOR
    Edinson Cavani looks back at the turnaround at St Mary’s.

    TEEN SPIRIT
    Man Utd will be hoping that Amad Diallo has a breakout season!
    He is their second most expensive teenage signing after Anthony Martial.

    PSG EYE VARANE
    Manchester United target Raphael Varane looks set to leave Real Madrid this summer.
    The four-time Champions League winner has been reluctant to extend his contract at the Spanish giants.
    And Real would rather cash in on him now, rather than let him leave for free next summer.
    According to MARCA, PSG have joined a list of clubs who admire Varane, including United.
    The Parisians are looking to strengthen their defence as they look to reclaim the French title from Lille.
    And PSG want to build towards winning their first Champions League.
    Should Varane leave Madrid alongside Sergio Ramos – Real will be left with newboy David Alaba, Eder Militao and Nacho.
    SHIRT NUMBER
    Man Utd have a new shirt number for Jadon Sancho should the transfer go ahead this summer.
    If the transfer would have gone through last summer, Sancho would have worn the No7 shirt, now occupied by Edinson Cavani.
    But according to the Express, it seems likely that the England international will wear the No16 shirt.
    The likes of Michael Carrick and Roy Keane have worn the number.
    Sancho is a long-term target for Man UtdCredit: GETTY IMAGES
    Keane wore the No16 during his time at Man UtdCredit: PA
    Carrick also wore the No16Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    MAGUIRE TRAINING
    Harry Maguire is nearing a return to action, and he could play a part in England’s game against the Czech Republic!

    IN DEMAND
    Manchester United Academy player performance manager Les Parry, confirmed that one young player has over 20 teams after him.
    And they’re all looking to do a deal with United, which would see him spend the 2021-22 campaign on loan.
    Speaking to Man Utd’s official website, he said: “We have players, for instance, that the manager has not yet made a decision on whether they can go out or not.
    “They will go on the pre-season and we’ve got five or six; well, in the case of one player, 20-odd clubs are interested in him.
    “They’ll be holding on and holding on but the manager will make the decisions after the pre-season.
    “Others can also come up on the blind side. There might be players who go with the first team and the manager is thinking, at this point in time, they can go on loan but, suddenly, he sees them at close hand, and it might be one back from a loan, and think alright, I’ll keep hold of him for six months and have a closer look.
    “It changes all the time. It really does change all the time.”
    Although the player wasn’t named by Perry, the player who would be highly sought after and would benefit the most from a loan move is Hannibal Mejbri.
    POG TOP
    Paul Poba is still top of Man Utd’s record transfer list!

    BIG FLAW
    Caglar Soyuncu is a target for Man Utd and Chelsea this summer, after impressing yet again for Leicester City.
    Interest was confirmed by Turkish journalist Erken Konur on Twitter.
    He said: “Continuing their search for a stopper, Manchester United have put Caglar Soyuncu on the transfer list.
    “Talks with Leicester City are scheduled to take place soon. He is closely following Caglar Soyuncu at Chelsea.”
    Legendary United and England defender Rio Ferdinand did, however, highlight some flaws in his game.
    Speaking on BBC’s coverage of Euro 2020, he said: “Soyuncu, for me, will play a part in leading this team.
    “He’s a very, very quick, very assured defender.
    “In the first season in the Premier League he was outstanding, possibly the best defender in that team. It’s been a bit stop-start since.
    “What he’s got is an abundance of pace and he covers the other centre-back, which is a fantastic thing to have in your armoury.
    “At times he does jump in and over-commit, even if he has the pace to get back and recover.
    “At the top level, against the top teams, sometimes you don’t get the chance to come back for a second bite of the cherry.
    “What you’d say is that he puts himself on the line, he’s brave, he comes out with big headers and he can defend the box.
    “Turkey are going to need him to perform. They only conceded three goals in qualifying, the best record alongside Belgium.
    “He is a warrior. He likes to win the first ball, he loves to go in and pressure the first ball and sometimes a striker will like that – (Shearer) would have rolled him, maybe?”
    MAIN MAN
    Bruno Fernandes registered 30 goal contributions in the Premier League last season.
    Will he have the same impact in the 2021-22 season?

    NO DEAL
    Real Madrid are set to reject an offer from Man Utd for Raphael Varane that would include midfielder Paul Pogba, according to reports.
    Varane is a long-term target for United, who are searching for the perfect centre-back partner for club captain Harry Maguire.
    But the serial Champions League winner is expected to cost around £80million.
    Varane does, however, have a year left on his contract at the Spanish giants, and United are hoping to take advantage of the situation.
    Spanish outlet AS, claim that United want to do a Pogba-Varane swap deal.
    But Real will turn it down as they look to raise funds for a potential move on PSG’s Kylian Mbappe, or Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland.
    GOOD MORNING MAN UTD FANS
    Manchester City have launched a £100million cash bid for Tottenham star, and Manchester United target, Harry Kane, according to reports.
    It is believed City are willing to include one or more players in the deal, such as Raheem Sterling.
    According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Citizens have offered Spurs £100m ‘guaranteed’ for Kane.
    The Premier League champions are also reportedly willing to include players in the deal, with Sterling, Aymeric Laporte and Gabriel Jesus among those rumoured.
    It is understood Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy will not accept City’s offer – and the England captain’s future will not be decided until after Euro 2020.
    Chelsea are also said to be keeping tabs on the 27-year-old centre-forward.
    Meanwhile, United are planning on making Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104million deal.
    Pogba is going into the final 12 months of his contract and the Red Devils are willing to offer him a staggering £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    The Manchester giants are desperate to keep the star midfielder and do not want him to go into the new season without him tied down.
    Old Trafford chiefs are now set to put the bumper new terms on the table – a huge increase on his current £290,000-a-week salary.
    The France international’s new pay packet would eclipse the £375,000 a week which team-mate David de Gea earns.
    And United have made an improved bid for Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho.
    That is according to Sky Sports, who claim the Red Devils have offered Dortmund more than £75m.
    The proposed bid would see the Manchester giants paying more up front with the rest in achievable add-ons.
    United’s initial offer was believed to be £67m up front plus around £8m in add-ons.
    Dortmund are thought to be considering that bid, even though they rate the star winger in excess of £80m.
    Finally, Real Madrid star Raphael Varane’s agents want to meet with United this week.
    Varane is said to have snubbed a two-year contract extension at Real and has decided he wants to move to the Red Devils instead of Paris Saint-Germain.
    The centre-back’s representatives reportedly want to finalise a deal to take him to Old Trafford ‘in the coming days’.
    And according to the Daily Mirror, Varane prefers a move to the Premier League in the near future.
    LINGARD UPDATE
    Manchester United star Jesse Lingard suggested he will decide where he will play next season depending on the opportunities on offer following his recent loan stint at West Ham.
    Lingard told Sky Sports: “Regular football is the most important thing for me.
    “After going on loan and getting a good run in the team, you started to see the real me, with the goals and the assists.
    “I’ve never doubted my ability, I’ve always believed in myself. I spoke to the manager [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] in pre-season and said, ‘I need game time'”
    ENGLAND THROUGH
    England have been confirmed as qualifying to Euro 2020’s Round of 16, with a game to spare.
    Results on Sunday and Monday evening, with each group playing out their final fixture, mean that a tally of four points is now definitely enough for any nation to progress to the knockout phase.
    Therefore, the Three Lions’ win against Croatia and draw with Scotland are enough for Gareth Southgate’s men to advance no matter what happens with the Czech Republic on Tuesday.
    The two teams are going to square off at Wembley Stadium tomorrow
    TUANZEBE LOAN
    Manchester United ace Axel Tuanzebe ‘wants’ a loan move away in the summer transfer window.
    That is according to ESPN, who claim Tuanzebe prefers to join another team as he wants regular game time that will help him continue his development.
    The centre-back’s contract at Old Trafford expires next year, but it does include an option of a further year.
    The 23-year-old amassed a total of 19 appearances across all competitions last season
    NOW OR NEVER
    Manchester United legend Gary Neville insists it is “now or never” for Harry Maguire as he can’t imagine him returning to England’s starting line-up in the knockout stages when the difficulty level picks up after his injury.
    Neville told Sky Sports: “My concern was [against Scotland] that it wasn’t just the Harry Kane thing – the rest of them lacked sharpness. Even when [Jack] Grealish and [Marcus] Rashford came on, the performance didn’t change.
    “For me, going into the Czech Republic game – understanding that I have played with England teams in tournaments that looked fatigued – that is the only thing that I’m looking at in the first five, 10 minutes.
    ‘”Is the sharpness back, and was it just a mental thing going into that Scotland game? Now’s the time for some continuity – we need to start settling on a team. That might mean that Harry Maguire comes back in.
    “If he doesn’t play tomorrow against the Czech Republic, I don’t know how he can come in against a France or a Portugal in round two. It’s now or never for Maguire”
    Load more entries… More

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    Paul Pogba £104m contract EXCLUSIVE, Telles for Trippier SWAP, Sancho transfer LATEST update, Varane meeting ‘this week’

    MANCHESTER UNITED want to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104m contract, as exclusively reported by SunSport.Meanwhile, the club are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with a reportedly improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund.
    And, United have tabled a bid for Raphael Varane of £50million, according to separate reports.
    CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    KANE REACTION
    Tottenham star striker, and Manchester United target, Harry Kane has previously insisted he doesn’t let any transfer speculation shift his attention away from England and Euro 2020.
    Kane previously stated: “Absolutely not.
    “All my focus is on how I can help this team and how we can be successful in this tournament.
    “I understand from a media point of view there is speculation, but I am fully focused on the job here”
    KANE DO THAT
    Tottenham are set to reject Manchester City’s whopping £100million offer for star striker Harry Kane, who has also been linked with Manchester United.
    City are determined to sign Kane in the summer transfer window and are even willing to swap a few players, such as Raheem Sterling, Gabriel Jesus and Aymeric Laporte.
    According to The Guardian, however, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is determined to keep the England captain, who has three years left in his deal.
    Kane has informed the north Londoners he wishes to leave in the summer and has also been linked with Chelsea
    EURO STARS
    Gareth Southgate is set to stick with what he knows when England play Czech Republic tomorrow.
    Despite calls for Jack Grealish and Jadon Sancho to be involved, Southgate is instead likely to keep faith with the same group that drew 0-0 with Scotland and barely beat Croatia 1-0.
    Indeed, the only changes that are set to be made are full-backs Luke Shaw and Reece James dropping out for Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker again.

    CITIZEN KANE
    Man City have launched a £100MILLION cash bid for Tottenham striker and Man United target Harry Kane, according to reports.
    It is believed the Premier League champions are willing to include one or more players in the deal, including England star Raheem Sterling.
    According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, City have offered Spurs £100m ‘guaranteed’ for Kane, 27.
    City are also reportedly willing to include players in the deal, with Sterling, Aymeric Laporte and Gabriel Jesus among those rumoured.
    It is understood Tottenham chief Daniel Levy will not accept City’s offer – and Kane’s future will not be decided until after Euro 2020.

    MOUR’S SERG
    Jose Mourinho is reportedly looking to usurp his old club Manchester United and sign his former Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos for Roma, writes GARY STONEHOUSE.
    The legendary Spanish centre-half will leave the Bernabeu after an epic 16-year stint at the end of the month when his contract expires.
    Ramos, 35, is believed to want a two-year contract worth £200,000-a-week as he plots his next move.
    Those demands saw both Man City and Paris Saint-Germain drop out of the race to sign him.
    And with Ramos already ruling out a return to Sevilla and a controversial Barcelona switch, United appeared to be his biggest and best option this summer as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looked to partner him with captain Harry Maguire.
    However, Calciomercato claims new Roma boss Mourinho wants to bring the defender to the Italian capital.

    ONE TO WATCH
    Italian defender has revealed that he enjoys watching tricky Man Utd defender Dan James.
    Chiellini, who missed yesterday’s game against Wales, revealed before kick-off in an interview that James is someone he likes to watch.
    Speaking to ITV, he said: “I love Aaron Ramsey, we play together, he’s a fantastic player, a little bit unlucky with many injuries,” the veteran told ITV.
    “But when he is fit, he is an intelligent and fantastic player.
    “Bale… He is known by everyone.
    “Also, I like very much James, he has grown up so much at Manchester United.”
    WILLIAMS TO BE LOANED OUT
    Brandon Williams is set to be loaned out this season, according to BBC journalist Simon Stone.
    The Man Utd left-back was being tracked by the likes of Southampton last year.
    But boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer opted to keep him instead.
    It is anticipated Brandon Williams will leave @ManUtd on loan ahead of new season. Southampton were interested last year but OGS wanted to keep him.— Simon Stone (@sistoney67) June 21, 2021

    JAY-MAKER 
    Heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua has called out his next opponent… Manchester United star Jesse Lingard, writes THOMAS BLOW.
    Thankfully AJ doesn’t want to meet the winger in the boxing ring, with the two agreeing to do battle on video game FIFA.
    Lingard, 28, was the first to pipe up by tweeting: “So Anthony Joshua thinks he’s king of the ring and FIFA! 
    “Well I’m gonna show him June 21 at 11.30am UK time as part of the world’s biggest charity eSports festival Gamers Without Borders
    “Lets see who’s the real heavyweight champ.”
    ON THIS DAY
    On this day three years ago, Man Utd signed Brazilian midfielder Fred!

    ‘DISINTERESTED’
    Former Republic of Ireland forward Tony Cascarino has said that Bruno Fernandes looked ‘disinterested’ in Portugal’s game against Germany.
    Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “By the way, Fernandes… I’ve not a seen a performance like that for a long time in an international line-up. He looked disinterested completely.
    “I don’t know for what reason, it’s not like Fernandes had a bad game, he gave away the ball and made passes, he just had no impact on the game at all.
    “He looked like he was disinterested in grabbing the game by the scruff of the neck, he had no interest at all.”
    FIXTURE LIST
    Man Utd start off the 2021-22 Premier League season against rivals Leeds!

    RAM OFF
    Sergio Ramos is keen on completing a free transfer to French side PSG this summer.
    Manchester United are also high on the Spaniards list of potential clubs to move to.
    According to 90 min, the 35-year-old has received the best offer from PSG.
    But there are some hurdles in the way, with the report stating that PSG hold an interest in former team-mate Raphael Varane – similarly to United.
    FINAL 16
    Man Utd’s Dan James helped Wales to reach the Round of 16 at Euro 2020!
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    RON TOP
    Ronaldo still remains Man Utd’s record sale despite leaving 12 years ago.

    ROCK SOLID
    Luke Shaw is the strongest player in the England squad, according to team-mate Reece James.
    In an interview with the FA’s Lion’s Den YouTube channel, James was asked who would win in a strength test.
    And it appears that the Man Utd left-back is stronger than he looks.
    James said: “Luke Shaw is strong. They (Mings, Maguire) are definitely strong but Luke is a beast, a brick.
    “If there’s one guy I play against that I know is going to be strong, it’d definitely be him.”
    TOP POG
    Manchester United plan to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104MILLION deal, writes DANIEL CUTTS.
    The France star, 28, is going into the final 12 months of his contract and United are willing to offer him a staggering £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    The Red Devils are desperate to keep midfielder Pogba and do not want him to go into the new season without him tied down.
    Old Trafford chiefs are now set to put the bumper new terms on the table – a huge increase on his current £290,000-a-week salary.
    His new pay packet would eclipse the £375k a week which United team-mate David de Gea earns.
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    SANCHO LATEST
    Man Utd have made an improved bid believed to be worth more than £75million for Jadon Sancho, according to reports.
    Sky Sports are reporting that the structure of the deal will see Man Utd pay more money up front.
    The original bid was believed to be in the region of £67m up front with rightly £8m in add-ons.
    Borussia Dortmund are considering the offer, but reports in Germany suggest they value him in excess of £80m.
    RED DEVIL’S WISH LIST
    Man Utd are keen on Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane and Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho.

    MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWS
    New speculation over Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos has been overshadowed by talk of making Paul Pogba the Premier League’s highest-paid player.
    France midfielder Pogba could land a £104MILLION deal – £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    United are desperate to keep the 28-year-old as he enters the last 12 months of his contract
    Reports earlier had suggested Old Trafford chiefs are prepared to consider a part-exchange deal involving Pogba and his Euro 2020 team-mate Varane.
    Varane is rated United’s preferred option as a new central defender to partner skipper Harry Maguire.
    And it’s also claimed Varane’s Real Madrid side-kick Sergio Ramos, 35, is another alternative – especially as Prem champs City have reportedly rejected signing the legend.
    Finally, it’s claimed United are willing to sell left-back Alex Telles to fund a move for Atletico Madrid defender Kieran Trippier.
    United are already thought to have had a £10m bid rejected for the versatile England ace.
    ‘UTD & LIVERPOOL WERE SUPER LEAGUE DRIVING FORCES’
    Barcelona chief Joan Laporta claims Manchester United and Liverpool were the ‘real founders’ of the controversial European Super League.
    The football world was stunned in April when 12 of the continent’s top clubs – including the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’ – announced they were forming a breakaway division.
    The closed-shop project would have replaced the Champions League and guaranteed annual participation for its ‘Dirty Dozen’ founders.
    However, a furious fan backlash prompted nine members to swiftly withdraw, leaving just Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus in the ESL.
    But despite looking like one of the main guilty parties, Barcelona president Laporta insists that English giants United and Liverpool were the original orchestrators of the ESL.
    Laporta claimed: “Liverpool and United were the real founders of the Super League.
    “Uefa threatened and was demagogic. The clubs have still not paid the compensation for leaving.
    “The Super League project is alive. It will be the most attractive competition in the world, and it will be based on meritocracy and solidarity.”
    ENGLAND’S ‘YIKES!’ TO DYKES
    Scotland hardman Lyndon Dykes claims England did not like it up ’em when they collided at Wembley on Friday night.
    The Aussie-born striker made his intentions clear right from the off when he clattered Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw in the first minute of the cross-border clash.
    And England’s spiky reaction to the physical approach left Dykes convinced he had rattled Gareth Southgate’s men.
    He said: “It set the tone when I smashed into Shaw and I think that a few of the boys from the England team didn’t really want it.
    “It was right from the kick-off and it was up to me to win the first challenge and I’ve taken him out as well, so it was a good start for us.
    “It wasn’t deliberate but I caught him with my knee on his leg and I knew he didn’t like it.
    “Shaw didn’t say anything but the referee tried to make me say sorry after I’d got him.
    “The ref had actually pulled me in the warm-up before the game had even started and tried to warn me about my headers and stuff.
    “But if the ball is there to be won I’m going to challenge for it and that’s what I did.”
    UTD TO RESIST POGBA EXIT WITH HUGE PAY OFFER
    Manchester United plan to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104MILLION deal.
    The France star, 28, is going into the final 12 months of his contract and United are willing to offer him a staggering £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    The Red Devils are desperate to keep midfielder Pogba and do not want him to go into the new season without him tied down.
    Old Trafford chiefs are now set to put the bumper new terms on the table – a huge increase on his current £290,000-a-week salary.
    His new pay packet would eclipse the £375k a week which United team-mate David de Gea earns.
    United will wait until after the Euros with France, before finalising the structure of his new terms.
    Pogba has been in talks with agent Mino Raiola over the last year on what his plans are for the future.
    He could demand huge wages and a hefty signing on fee if he was to become a free transfer next summer.
    The £89m superstar revealed earlier this week no agreement had been settled with United yet. But SunSport understands that could not be far away, and the early noises between both camps have been positive.
    ‘POGBA FOR VARANE SWAP TALK’
    Manchester United are prepared to offer Paul Pogba to Real Madrid in exchange for Raphael Varane, according to reports.
    The France defender, 28, has been on United’s radar for some time and is said to be one of the club’s top targets this summer.
    Previous managers Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho both wanted to bring Varane to Old Trafford.
    Ed Woodward was even prepared to spend £100million on the defender in 2018, but never came close to striking a deal.
    But Varane now reportedly prefers a move to United over PSG, and his representatives are keen to hold a meeting with the Red Devils.
    And according to AS, via the Express, United could offer up Pogba in order to get a deal over the line.
    United fear Pogba will not agree a new contract and leave on a free next summer.
    The club had previously placed a £150million asking price on the midfielder to ward off interest from Juventus and Real Madrid.
    Talks opened over a new contract for Pogba earlier this month, while the Italian press claim a swap deal involving Cristiano Ronaldo is also on the cards.
    ROONEY MISSES ULTIMATE UTD TOURNAMENT XI
    Manchester United stars have shone on the international stage down the years.
    Ryan Giggs may have never made it to a tournament with Wales, but plenty of other United greats have.

    The Red Devils are well represented once again at Euro 2020, with the likes of Paul Pogba, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford hoping to sprinkle their stardust on the biggest stage.
    Prior to the tournament, United themselves compiled an XI of players that have thrived for their countries while turning out for the Red Devils.
    There’s no place for the likes of Wayne Rooney or Paul Scholes – so let’s take a look at who DID make their cut.
    JAY-MAKER
    Heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua has called out his next opponent… Manchester United star Jesse Lingard.
    Thankfully AJ doesn’t want to meet the winger in the boxing ring, with the two agreeing to do battle on video game FIFA.

    Lingard, 28, was the first to pipe up by tweeting: “So Anthony Joshua thinks he’s king of the ring and FIFA!
    “Well I’m gonna show him June 21 at 11.30am UK time as part of the world’s biggest charity eSports festival Gamers Without Borders
    “Lets see who’s the real heavyweight champ.”
    Gamers Without Borders is a charity aiming to distribute the Covid-19 vaccine to underdeveloped countries.
    Several celebrities have agreed to get involved in the scheme, including Joshua and Lingard.
    AJ couldn’t believe the audacity of Lingard’s tweet, responding: “No chance, Jesse Lingard [followed by a laughing emoji]. See you there.”
    Load more entries… More

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    Paul Pogba £104m contract EXCLUSIVE, Man Utd Jadon Sancho transfer LATEST updates, Varane meeting ‘this week’

    MANCHESTER UNITED want to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104m contract, as exclusively reported by SunSport.Meanwhile, the club are ramping up their chase for Jadon Sancho with a reportedly improved bid submitted to Borussia Dortmund.
    And, United have tabled a bid for Raphael Varane of £50million, according to separate reports.
    CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: GET £10 FREE BONUS WITH NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    ‘UTD & LIVERPOOL WERE SUPER LEAGUE DRIVING FORCES’
    Barcelona chief Joan Laporta claims Manchester United and Liverpool were the ‘real founders’ of the controversial European Super League.
    The football world was stunned in April when 12 of the continent’s top clubs – including the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’ – announced they were forming a breakaway division.
    The closed-shop project would have replaced the Champions League and guaranteed annual participation for its ‘Dirty Dozen’ founders.
    However, a furious fan backlash prompted nine members to swiftly withdraw, leaving just Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus in the ESL.
    But despite looking like one of the main guilty parties, Barcelona president Laporta insists that English giants United and Liverpool were the original orchestrators of the ESL.
    Laporta claimed: “Liverpool and United were the real founders of the Super League.
    “Uefa threatened and was demagogic. The clubs have still not paid the compensation for leaving.
    “The Super League project is alive. It will be the most attractive competition in the world, and it will be based on meritocracy and solidarity.”
    ENGLAND’S ‘YIKES!’ TO DYKES
    Scotland hardman Lyndon Dykes claims England did not like it up ’em when they collided at Wembley on Friday night.
    The Aussie-born striker made his intentions clear right from the off when he clattered Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw in the first minute of the cross-border clash.
    And England’s spiky reaction to the physical approach left Dykes convinced he had rattled Gareth Southgate’s men.
    He said: “It set the tone when I smashed into Shaw and I think that a few of the boys from the England team didn’t really want it.
    “It was right from the kick-off and it was up to me to win the first challenge and I’ve taken him out as well, so it was a good start for us.
    “It wasn’t deliberate but I caught him with my knee on his leg and I knew he didn’t like it.
    “Shaw didn’t say anything but the referee tried to make me say sorry after I’d got him.
    “The ref had actually pulled me in the warm-up before the game had even started and tried to warn me about my headers and stuff.
    “But if the ball is there to be won I’m going to challenge for it and that’s what I did.”
    UTD TO RESIST POGBA EXIT WITH HUGE PAY OFFER
    Manchester United plan to make Paul Pogba the highest-paid player in the Premier League with a new £104MILLION deal.
    The France star, 28, is going into the final 12 months of his contract and United are willing to offer him a staggering £400,000 a week over the next five years.
    The Red Devils are desperate to keep midfielder Pogba and do not want him to go into the new season without him tied down.
    Old Trafford chiefs are now set to put the bumper new terms on the table – a huge increase on his current £290,000-a-week salary.
    His new pay packet would eclipse the £375k a week which United team-mate David de Gea earns.
    United will wait until after the Euros with France, before finalising the structure of his new terms.
    Pogba has been in talks with agent Mino Raiola over the last year on what his plans are for the future.
    He could demand huge wages and a hefty signing on fee if he was to become a free transfer next summer.
    The £89m superstar revealed earlier this week no agreement had been settled with United yet. But SunSport understands that could not be far away, and the early noises between both camps have been positive.
    ‘POGBA FOR VARANE SWAP TALK’
    Manchester United are prepared to offer Paul Pogba to Real Madrid in exchange for Raphael Varane, according to reports.
    The France defender, 28, has been on United’s radar for some time and is said to be one of the club’s top targets this summer.
    Previous managers Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho both wanted to bring Varane to Old Trafford.
    Ed Woodward was even prepared to spend £100million on the defender in 2018, but never came close to striking a deal.
    But Varane now reportedly prefers a move to United over PSG, and his representatives are keen to hold a meeting with the Red Devils.
    And according to AS, via the Express, United could offer up Pogba in order to get a deal over the line.
    United fear Pogba will not agree a new contract and leave on a free next summer.
    The club had previously placed a £150million asking price on the midfielder to ward off interest from Juventus and Real Madrid.
    Talks opened over a new contract for Pogba earlier this month, while the Italian press claim a swap deal involving Cristiano Ronaldo is also on the cards.
    ROONEY MISSES ULTIMATE UTD TOURNAMENT XI
    Manchester United stars have shone on the international stage down the years.
    Ryan Giggs may have never made it to a tournament with Wales, but plenty of other United greats have.

    The Red Devils are well represented once again at Euro 2020, with the likes of Paul Pogba, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford hoping to sprinkle their stardust on the biggest stage.
    Prior to the tournament, United themselves compiled an XI of players that have thrived for their countries while turning out for the Red Devils.
    There’s no place for the likes of Wayne Rooney or Paul Scholes – so let’s take a look at who DID make their cut.
    JAY-MAKER
    Heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua has called out his next opponent… Manchester United star Jesse Lingard.
    Thankfully AJ doesn’t want to meet the winger in the boxing ring, with the two agreeing to do battle on video game FIFA.

    Lingard, 28, was the first to pipe up by tweeting: “So Anthony Joshua thinks he’s king of the ring and FIFA!
    “Well I’m gonna show him June 21 at 11.30am UK time as part of the world’s biggest charity eSports festival Gamers Without Borders
    “Lets see who’s the real heavyweight champ.”
    Gamers Without Borders is a charity aiming to distribute the Covid-19 vaccine to underdeveloped countries.
    Several celebrities have agreed to get involved in the scheme, including Joshua and Lingard.
    AJ couldn’t believe the audacity of Lingard’s tweet, responding: “No chance, Jesse Lingard [followed by a laughing emoji]. See you there.”
    RAMOS OPTIONS NARROWING TO OLD TRAFFORD?
    Manchester United have received a boost in their pursuit of Sergio Ramos – with rivals City reportedly ruling themselves out a move for the Real Madrid legend.
    AS claims Ramos was offered to the Premier League champions earlier this month on a free transfer.
    But Pep Guardiola rejected the opportunity to land Ramos despite losing Eric Garcia to Barcelona.
    It’s claimed that City plan on keeping hold of new Spain international Aymeric Laporte, who has been linked with an exit.
    Pep already has John Stones, Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake at his disposal.
    And with Fernandinho also able to operate there, City will not be presenting Ramos with a contract.
    That means United could have a clear run at landing the iconic defender, 35, after his shock Bernabeu departure was confirmed this week.
    Ramos is believed to want a two-year contract on wages worth £200,000 a week. Those demands also saw Paris Saint-Germain drop out of the race to sign him.
    And with Ramos already ruling out a return to Sevilla and a controversial Barcelona switch, United could be his only option this summer.
    UTD DON’T NEED RICE
    Manchester United should NOT sign West Ham star Declan Rice, according to club legend Nicky Butt.
    The former Red Devils midfielder believes Scotland international Scott McTominay is just as good as his English contemporary.
    Speaking to Ladbrokes, Butt said: “I think Man United are solid enough in midfield.
    “I keep hearing things about Declan Rice, but is he a better player than Scott McTominay?
    “I’m not sure, I think with McTominay, Paul Pogba and obviously Bruno Fernandes, we [Manchester United] are in a good place in the middle of the park.”
    UTD WORRY IT’S PAUL OVER
    Manchester United are reportedly fearing that Paul Pogba will turn down a new contract and walk away for free next summer.
    The Frenchman arrived back at Old Trafford from Juventus in 2016 in an £89m move but only has 12 months remaining on his deal.
    United are desperately trying to convince Pogba and his agent Mino Raiola to sign a new package after they were forced into triggering a one-year extension in his current agreement.
    However, those attempts to persuade him appear to have become deadlocked.
    Now The Mirror states United are becoming increasingly worried Pogba will run out his contract and leave for nothing at the end of next season.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has refused to get into any public spats with the outspoken Raiola.
    But United have allegedly ‘made it very clear’ they would sell Pogba this summer if he has no intention of penning fresh terms.
    UTD COULD SELL TELLES TO FUND TRIPPIER DEAL
    Manchester United are willing to sell left-back Alex Telles to fund a move for Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier, according to reports.
    The Mirror are reporting that Man Utd are still keen on Trippier and a reported bid of £10m was turned down not long ago.
    And Atletico boss Diego Simeone doesn’t want Trippier to leave for anything less than what they value him at, £40m.
    Trippier’s ability to play at both right and left-back provides cover if Telles is sold.
    UTD IN PAY PAU LINK
    Manchester United are willing to launch a transfer bid for Pau Torres, according to reports, writes JOSHUA JONES. 
    But they face competition from Real Madrid for the defender’s signature.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to bring in a new centre-back this summer as a long-term partner for Harry Maguire.
    And according to AS, the Red Devils may make an official bid in the coming weeks.
    Torres, 24, enjoyed a fine season with boyhood club Villarreal and capped it off by lifting the Europa League, beating United in a marathon penalty shootout. 
    He has been with the club since 2002, aged just five, and has racked up 88 first-team appearances, earning himself a starting spot for Spain at Euro 2020.
    CHANGE OF BRAND IMAGE
    Manchester United are planning to loan out Brandon Williams to a Premier League club this summer, according to reports.
    The England Under-21 full-back was wanted by multiple clubs in January, including Southampton and West Ham.
    Brandon Williams could leave Manchester United for the first time since joining aged 7
    But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer prevented Williams’ departure as he wanted to keep him as a back up option.
    But the United boss is now confident he has enough cover at left-back so is willing to let the 20-year-old leave on a temporary basis, according to the Mirror.
    And Solskjaer reportedly believes the full-back could benefit from regular Premier League football.
    The youngster, 20, struggled for game time last season after enjoying a breakthrough campaign in 2019/20.
    The arrival of Alex Telles last year limited Williams to just 14 appearances in all competitions – four of those came in the Premier League.
    POGBA FREE EXIT FEAR
    Manchester United fear that star midfielder Paul Pogba is ready to run his contract down and leave Old Trafford for free, reports say.
    According to The Mirror, United a desperate to get the Frenchman to sign a new deal.
    But they have been unsuccessful in persuading the player and agent so far.
    TOP GEA WAGES
    David de Gea is clear at the top of Man Utd’s wages chart!

    ‘NONSENSE’
    Graeme Souness has insisted that moaning Bruno Fernandes ‘would not have lasted five minutes in my dressing room’ after his latest display for Portugal, writes GARY STONEHOUSE.
    The 26-year-old started for his country yesterday against Germany but was subbed off in the second half of their 4-2 Euro 2020 defeat.
    Speaking on ITV Sport, Souness said: “He’s an exceptionally talented boy, there is so much to like about him.
    “A great striker of the ball, when he shoots he makes the goalkeeper work.
    “I played with players that would not be accepting of the thing you just touched on [petulance], you know he doesn’t get the ball and he is waving his hands around.
    “He would not have lasted more than five minutes in my dressing room, but he is a wonderful talented boy.”
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    GREALISH WANTED BY CITY
    Man City are ready to smash the Premier League transfer record to land Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish, according to reports.
    The Telegraph are reporting that City manager Pep Guardiola is a big fan of Grealish.
    City are willing to break past the £90million mark to get the creative winger, smashing Man Utd’s record on Paul Pogba back in 2016. 
    Grealish has been linked with a move away from Villa Park for some time.
    And the likes of Man Utd are still keeping tabs on him.
    BIG MONEY
    Pogba and Maguire joined Man Utd for big money and it places them on the list as one of the biggest transfers of all time.

    MAN UTD EYE SOYUNCU
    Man Utd are interesting in signing Leicester City centre-back Caglar Soyuncu, according to reports.
    The Express are reporting that Man Utd are looking for a solid centre-back partner for club captain Harry Maguire, citing Turkish journalist Ekrem Konur.
    And although Real Madrid’s Varane is high on that list, boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking elsewhere too.
    Soyuncu is also attracting interest from Champions League winners Chelsea.
    📜Continuing their search for a stopper, Manchester United have put Caglar Soguncu on the transfer list. 👥Talks with Leicester City are scheduled to take place soon.👀He is closely following Caglar Soyuncu at Chelsea#ManUtd #Manu #Chelsea #LeicesterCity— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) June 20, 2021

    RAPH AND READY
    Raphael Varane’s agents want to meet with Manchester United this week, according to reports.
    The centre-back is said to have snubbed a two-year contract extension at Real Madrid and has decided he wants to move to the Premier League instead of Paris Saint-Germain, writes WILLIAM PUGH.
    And his representatives reportedly want to finalise a deal to take him to Old Trafford ‘in the coming days’.
    Varane, 28, has one year left on his Los Blancos contract.
    KNOCKOUT-BOUND
    Wales are ever so close to securing a place in the knockout stages of Euro 2020!

    DEMOLITION
    Man Utd have recorded two of the biggest wins in Premier League history!

    POG FEAR
    Man Utd fear that star midfielder Paul Pogba is ready to run his contract down and leave Old Trafford for free.
    According to The Mirror, United a desperate to get the Frenchman to sign a new deal.
    But they have been unsuccessful in persuading the player and agent so far.
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    PAU WOW
    Manchester United are willing to launch a transfer bid for Pau Torres, according to reports, writes JOSHUA JONES. 
    But they face competition from Real Madrid for the defender’s signature.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to bring in a new centre-back this summer as a long-term partner for Harry Maguire.
    And according to AS, the Red Devils may make an official bid in the coming weeks.
    Torres, 24, enjoyed a fine season with boyhood club Villarreal and capped it off by lifting the Europa League, beating United in a marathon penalty shootout. 
    He has been with the club since 2002, aged just five, and has racked up 88 first-team appearances, earning himself a starting spot for Spain at Euro 2020.
    HIGH WAGE
    David de Gea is clear at the top of Man Utd’s wages chart!
    The wages of Manchester United’s current players
    TROUBLE BRU-ING
    Lee Dixon took a swipe at Bruno Fernandes for ‘strolling’ around with ‘zero energy’ as Portugal were thumped by Germany on Saturday, writes DAVE FRASER.
    The Manchester United star, 26, was utterly anonymous as the Germans powered their way to a 4-2 victory in Munich.
    Fernandes was hauled off after a miserable hour, replaced by Wolves’ Joao Moutinho, having made absolutely no impact.
    Shortly before he was hauled off – with Portugal losing 3-1 – Lee Dixon slated the Red Devils ace for his desperately poor afternoon, taking particular aim at his woeful work-rate.
    Speaking on ITV, fuming co-commentator Dixon said: “I think someone needs to tell Fernandes he’s 3-1 down.
    “He is just strolling on the ball.
    “He had a chance then to run into space and commit a few players ahead of him.
    “No energy in his run at all.”
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