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    Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes to fly to Italy to thrash out Juventus star’s future amid Man Utd transfer links

    CRISTIANO RONALDO’S agent Jorge Mendes is reportedly set to jet into Italy to discuss his client’s future at the club.The 36-year-old has been linked with a move away from Turin this summer having entered the final year of his contract.
    Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes will speak with Juventus over his future in Turin
    Portuguese legend Ronaldo has just one year left on his deal at the Allianz StadiumCredit: Reuters
    Manchester United are believed to be eyeing up a shock move to bring him back to Old Trafford – 12 years after he left to join Real Madrid.
    But they are understood to face competition from French giants Paris Saint-Germain who are keen for him to play alongside Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.
    Ronaldo, who is currently on holiday with his family in Majorca following Portugal’s Euro 2020 exit, is due back at Juve on July 14 for pre-season training.
    And according to Tuttosport, Ronaldo’s agent Mendes will soon be arriving in Milan where he will meet with Juve’s football director Federico Cherubini.
    They state that they plan to clarify what Ronaldo’s future is with the Old Lady amid rumours he could pen a new deal at the Allianz Stadium.
    It has been speculated that Mendes has asked Juventus to extend the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s contract until 2023.
    Renewal talks between the player and Juventus are not believed to have started yet.
    Ronaldo, who recently topped the 2021 Instagram rich list, has starred since arriving in Italy from Los Blancos in 2018.
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    Mendes is believed to have already asked the Old Lady to extend Ronaldo’s stay at the clubCredit: Reuters

    In just 133 games for the club he has banged in a whopping 101 goals -becoming the fastest player to reach a century of strikes for Juve.
    His 29 Serie A goals in the 2020-21 campaign saw him win the golden boot ahead of Romelu Lukaku.
    And he added the Coppa Italia title to his trophy cabinet as Juventus beat Atalanta 2-1 in the final.
    VIDEO: Watch fuming Cristiano Ronaldo KICK Portugal captain’s armband after throwing it to floor following Euro 2020 exit More

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    Man Utd transfer boost as Raphael Varane ‘gives Red Devils his word’ he will follow Jadon Sancho to Old Trafford

    REAL MADRID star Raphael Varane has ‘given his word’ that he wants to join Manchester United this summer, according to reports.The Frenchman, 28, has played for the Spanish giants for a decade.
    Raphael Varane could leave Real Madrid this summer and reportedly is interested in Man UtdCredit: AFP
    But with just one year remaining on his contract, the towering defender wants to try something new.
    The Red Devils finally wrapped up the £73million signing of Jadon Sancho this week.
    And club chiefs want to follow up the statement purchase by recruiting Varane.
    According to Spanish newspaper Sport, the feeling is mutual, with Varane eager to join United and telling them as much.
    They also claim that his Real Madrid departure this summer is ‘inevitable’.
    ABC Sports even claim that Varane has agreed personal terms with the Red Devils.
    But the two clubs are yet to agree a fee.
    Real Madrid are thought to want around £51.5m for their star centre-back’s services – despite him being free to talk to other clubs in January.
    Man Utd finally agreed a deal for Jadon Sancho this weekCredit: Getty
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    They could, however, find a compromise.
    SunSport exclusively revealed on Saturday that United could sweeten a deal by including midfielder Donny van de Beek.
    The Dutchman, 24, has struggled at Old Trafford, making just four starts in the Premier League since joining for £35m last summer.
    Real Madrid remain keen on him, however, having nearly signed him last year.
    The LaLiga giants are struggling financially, but United’s co-operation could help move along a deal for Varane.
    Madrid want to take Van de Beek initially on loan, paying a £2m fee upfront before buying him permanently next summer.
    He returned to United pre-season training this morning, but where he’ll be playing his football next term remains up in the air.
    Donny van de Beek returned to pre-season training this morningCredit: https://www.instagram.com/manchesterunited/

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    Real Madrid star Raphael Varane is in great shape on the training ground More

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    Jadon Sancho REFUSES to discuss Man Utd transfer after making first Euro 2020 start for England in win over Ukraine

    JADON SANCHO insists he is fully focused on England – despite his £73million transfer to Manchester United.The winger, 21, was handed a shock start as the Three Lions crushed Ukraine 4-0 to reach the semi-finals of Euro 2020 barely 48 hours after his Old Trafford switch was announced.
    Jadon Sancho is giving his full attention to England’s bid to win Euro 2020 despite his Manchester United transferCredit: Getty
    Sancho was one of the stars of the show with a strong performance, despite only featuring for six minutes in the tournament prior to his Rome display.
    And speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live afterwards, he confirmed his sole attention is on all matters Three Lions with a semi-final against Denmark at Wembley on Wednesday.
    The ex-Manchester City youngster said: “To be fair, I don’t want to talk about Manchester United.
    “Right now I just want to focus on England.
    “I’ve just been focusing on myself while I’ve been at England. I’ve always been ready if I needed to come on.”
    Borussia Dortmund and United confirmed an agreement was in place for the transfer of Sancho on Thursday.
    The Under-17 world champion will complete the formalities – including a medical and signing his contract – once his involvement at Euro 2020 ends.
    Sancho scored 50 goals in 137 appearances for the Bundesliga giants and picked up the German Cup last season.

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    𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀 𝘂𝗽.We have agreed a deal in principle for the transfer of Jadon Sancho to United! 🔴⚪⚫#MUFC— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 1, 2021

    Speaking about the 4-0 win over Ukraine, he added: “I’m feeling over the moon.
    “Today was must-win and I’m just happy to have got an opportunity to play. This is a special moment for me.
    “Every time I haven’t been playing I’ve been going back to training and been giving it everything.
    “We knew today was going to be a big game, Ukraine are a very good side. I’m delighted.”
    The Match of the Day pundits waxed lyrical over the wide man, who got the nod over the likes of Jack Grealish, Marcus Rashford and Phil Foden.

    Host Gary Lineker said: “He’s a player that obviously a lot of people at home wouldn’t have seen too frequently because he’s been playing at Dortmund.
    “But I think it’s quite clear to see Manchester United have got something special.”
    L’Equipe were notoriously harsh in their ratings, giving Sancho just a four – the lowest score of any Three Lions starter.
    But Rio Ferdinand likes what he sees and added: “This isn’t a surprise. This is what German fans have been seeing for three years in the Bundesliga.
    “He dances past these guys like he’s on the dancefloor, moves and they don’t know where they are.
    “He mesmerises defenders, he’s got a confidence and balance that is very rarely seen.
    “And once he gets up to speed, this kid, he’s unplayable – and at the end of that, normally, there’s a pass and a weighted pass and decision making that goes beyond his years.”
    Sancho spent four years at Borussia Dortmund and capped off his time there by winning the German CupCredit: Getty

    Southgate explains decision to start Jadon Sancho for England vs Ukraine More

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    Van De Beek returns to Man Utd pre-season training after Euro 2020 heartache as star is linked with Real Madrid transfer

    DONNY VAN DE BEEK has returned to pre-season training at Manchester United amid speculation surrounding his future.The Dutchman, 24, endured a nightmare first season at Old Trafford that culminated in him missing Euro 2020 through injury.
    Donny van de Beek peddled away on an exercise bikeCredit: https://www.instagram.com/manchesterunited/
    The Dutchman lifts dumbbells as he gets into shapeCredit: https://www.instagram.com/manchesterunited/
    Van de Beek endured summer heartache when he missed Euro 2020Credit: https://www.instagram.com/manchesterunited/
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer still believes in the midfielder, however, and has been impressed by his dedicated attitude.
    Having got over his injury, Van de Beek is now back at Carrington to begin gearing up for next season.
    Man United posted a number of pictures of last summer’s £35million signing working out in the gym.
    In the images, he can be seen peddling away on an exercise bike and lifting weights in the Red Devils’ state of the art gym.
    Van de Beek is ready to get into peak physical fitness for the beginning of the 2021-22 campaign next month.
    But where he’ll be playing his football is anybody’s guess.
    Man United haven’t ruled out persevering with him, with Solskjaer still believing in his talent.
    They have turned down an approach from former club Ajax to take him back on loan.
    Van de Beek remains a Man Utd player… for nowCredit: https://www.instagram.com/manchesterunited/
    The £35m star was mainly a substitute during his first season at Old TraffordCredit: Getty
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    But United chiefs could be tempted by Real Madrid.
    The Red Devils are chasing a £50million move for Madrid defender Raphael Varane.
    And the Spanish giants’ interest in Van de Beek could help United drive the price down for their French star – who only has one year remaining on his contract.
    Real Madrid are big admirers of Van de Beek, having even agreed personal terms with him last summer.

    The move fell through, however, after Madrid failed to shift unwanted midfielders.
    But they have remained in contact with Van de Beek’s representatives, and could ask for him to be included in a deal for Varane.
    They are willing to pay a £2million loan fee upfront, with a commitment to buy him outright next summer.
    Real Madrid are currently in financial difficulty, but expect to be in a healthier situation in 12 months’ time.

    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
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    Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes ‘asks Juventus to extend star’s contract until 2023’ despite transfer speculation

    JUVENTUS star Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent has asked his current employers to extend his contract, according to reports.The 36-year-old has been linked with a move after the Italian giants failed to retain their Serie A crown last term.
    Cristiano Ronaldo, 36, reportedly wants to stay at JuventusCredit: Getty
    According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ronaldo’s representative Jorge Mendes has asked Juve to extend his existing deal to 2023.
    Ronaldo’s contract is currently due to expire next summer but if the alleged request is accepted, he will remain in Turin beyond his 38th birthday.
    Renewal talks between the player and Juventus are not believed to have started yet.
    Reports also claim both Paris Saint-German and Manchester United are not interested in signing Ronaldo.
    The French club have been linked with the Portugal captain and his former Real Madrid team-mate Sergio Ramos in recent weeks.
    Premier League giants United are also believed to have been exploring the possibility of bringing the club legend back to Old Trafford.

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    But it is now understood that neither club will make a move for Ronaldo, despite rumours suggesting Juve will sell him for just £25million.
    Even though he’s in the twilight of his professional career, the five-time Champions League winner remains one of Europe’s most prolific forwards.
    Ronaldo scored 29 goals in 33 Serie A appearances last term and is on course to win the top scorer award at Euro 2020 after five goals and one assist.
    He joined Juventus from Real in July 2018 for a reported £88m and has since won two league titles and one Italian Cup.
    Ronaldo is also one of the most marketable athletes on the planet, topping the 2021 Instagram rich list ahead of WWE legend The Rock.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Cristiano Ronaldo first to console De Bruyne after Belgium star’s injury as Portugal legend shows caring side again More

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    England Euro 2020 hero Luke Shaw set to be rewarded for stunning form with new Man Utd contract offer ‘in coming months’

    LUKE SHAW will be offered a new contract by Manchester United, according to reports.The England left-back, 25, is currently tied down at Old Trafford until 2023 with the option of a further year.
    Luke Shaw is set to be rewarded for his strong form with a new contract at Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty
    But transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims the club are preparing to table an extension for the £150,000-a-week defender in the coming months.
    Romano said: “He’s considered a key player and [Ole Gunnar] Solskjaer wants Luke to be 100 per cent involved in the project.”
    The Romano tweet also stated there is no deal agreed between United and AC Milan for fellow full-back Diogo Dalot.
    And Atletico Madrid are refusing to budge on their £34million asking price for target Kieran Trippier.
    Shaw has enjoyed the best season of his career, making 47 appearances for the Red Devils.
    His one goal came in the derby-day win over Manchester City in March but he chipped in with six assists.
    That was enough for Gareth Southgate to recall Shaw back into the England set-up and picked him as the first-choice left-back for the Euros.
    And the ex-Southampton man has repaid that faith with more stellar performances for the Three Lions, chipping in with three assists – including two last night against Ukraine.
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    Manchester United will offer Luke Shaw a new contract in the next months. He’s considered a key player and Solskjaer wants Luke to be 100% involved in the project. 🔴 #MUFCThere’s still nothing agreed with AC Milan for Diogo Dalot. Trippier price tag from Atleti – always €40m.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 4, 2021

    That places him second in the assists table for Euro 2020 – and he now has more in the tournament’s history than French icon Zinedine Zidane.
    Shaw said: “A very strange stat! A nice one, I think. Obviously, Zidane was one of the best midfielders ever and I can’t compare to him.
    “But the most important thing for me was reaching the semi-final, getting another game at Wembley in front of our own crowd and hopefully making them happy again.”
    He added: “My main objective is to help the team as much as possible, attacking and defensively.
    “Of course, I could go through a lot of people to thank but I think the most important one is obviously Gareth for trusting me and putting me in the squad and picking me and playing me.
    “But I’ve kept my head down, kept working hard and hopefully I can keep this responsibility up for the manager.”
    Legendary left-back Roberto Carlos piled in by heaping on praise, commenting with a series of clapping emojis on Shaw’s Instagram post.
    Shaw set up club team-mate Harry Maguire for England’s second against Ukraine then Harry Kane moments laterCredit: AFP
    His only goal of the season came at the Etihad as United ended Manchester City’s winning streakCredit: Getty

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    Brighton eye transfer swoop for Man Utd winger Dan James with boss Graham Potter also keen on Spurs’ Joe Rodon

    GRAHAM POTTER aims to nab his former players Dan James and Joe Rodon.The Brighton manager hopes to get the nod to land speedy winger James this summer.
    ⚽ Follow ALL of the latest news and updates from Euro 2020 with our live blog
    Brighton are chasing Man Utd ace Dan James following Jadon Sancho’s arrival at Old TraffordCredit: Rex
    Brighton also want Tottenham defender Joe Rodon, who played with James at SwanseaCredit: Getty
    The Welsh midfielder, 23, has seen his chances of a game at Manchester United hit hard by the £73million arrival of Jadon Sancho.
    As well as James, Potter is on alert for his fellow Welshman, Rodon.
    The Tottenham centre-half, also 23, could be available with the North Londoners closing in on Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu.
    James came to prominence at Swansea under Potter, who used his blistering pace to lethal effect.
    The winger would be given the games he needs at this stage of his career on the south coast.
    Rodon also emerged at Swans during Potter’s reign alongside James.
    The Wales ace was a key man despite an injury-hit period at the club.
    His skills would make him a perfect replacement if Ben White is sold.

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    Graham Potter is hoping to bolster his Brighton squad for 2021-22 with James and RodonCredit: EPA

    A host of top clubs including Arsenal and Everton are chasing the £50m-rated England centre-back.
    Brighton would ideally buy both James and Rodon on permanent deals.
    But Potter would willingly take the pair on loan should they fail in their quest to buy.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Ben White shows his skills in football training with Brighton More

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    Real Madrid want Man Utd flop Donny van de Beek on loan as part of £50m Raphael Varane transfer

    OLD TRAFFORD outcast Donny van de Beek could have a pivotal role in Manchester United’s bid to land Raphael Varane.United have held initial talks with Real Madrid about signing the French centre-back, who would cost around £50million.
    ⚽ Follow ALL of the latest news and updates from Euro 2020 with our live blog
    Real Madrid want to sign Donny van de Beek on loan this summerCredit: PA
    Man United could use Van de Beek to help drive down Real’s £50m asking price for Raphael VaraneCredit: Getty
    But Real are also keen on taking Van de Beek, 24, to the Bernabeu on a year-long loan, with a commitment to buy 12 months down the line.
    And United believe that gives them a key bargaining tool in their pursuit of Varane, who tops their list of centre-back targets.
    Varane, 28, has one more season left on his deal and can sign a pre-contract agreement in January.
    As much as the Spanish giants would love to keep him, they also do not  want to lose him on a free — especially as they are in such a cash-strapped state at the moment. 
    So United are more likely to play ball over Van de Beek, if it gives them a little wriggle room in signing Varane, who is also on Paris Saint-Germain’s radar.
    Ironically the Red Devils pipped Real to sign the Dutch midfielder in a £35m move from Ajax last  summer.
    Madrid had got as far as agreeing personal terms but were forced to pull the plug when they failed to move on some of their current midfielders.
    But they have stayed in touch with Van de Beek’s advisers after his move to Old Trafford turned into something of a nightmare.

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    Man Utd’s biggest transfers ever, both in and out, including Ronaldo

    They are willing to pay a £2m loan fee and pick up all his  wages ahead of a permanent deal next  summer, when they expect to be in a healthier financial position.
    And Old Trafford top brass, keen to recoup much of their initial outlay, are prepared to bend a little if that means they get Varane, who has been with Real for ten years.
    United knocked back an earlier loan enquiry from Ajax, with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer telling Van de Beek before the end of last season that he still had faith in him.
    Van de Beek arrived in England as one of Holland’s new golden generation, yet made only four Premier League starts as he struggled to adapt.
    But he has refused to rock the boat,  impressing Solskjaer and his coaching team with his attitude and commitment.
    Meanwhile, forward Mason Greenwood has already started his pre-  season training, a few days before United officially return to work.
    Greenwood, 19, was forced to pull out of England’s Euros squad with an underlying injury — but has been working with the conditioners and in the gym this week.
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