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    Man Utd on Jadon Sancho transfer alert as Dortmund CONFIRM ‘gentleman’s agreement’ to leave… but not for Haaland

    BORUSSIA DORTMUND have confirmed a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ to allow Jadon Sancho to leave in the summer.Manchester United tried to sign the England winger last year and are tipped to renew their interest if he becomes available.
    Jadon Sancho may be allowed to leave Borussia Dortmund this summerCredit: Getty
    And it is reported that Borussia may drop their valuation of the 21-year-old to the £85million mark – having previously demanded £108m.
    Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc confirmed the situation on Saturday after his side’s 5-0 DFB-Pokal win over Holstein Kiel.
    But he confirmed that no such agreement is in place with Erling Haaland.
    Zorc told German portal ARD: “We already had a gentlemen’s agreement with Jadon last year that he can move under certain conditions.
    “However, this agreement doesn’t exist with Erling.”
    According to Sport1, Borussia are willing to accept a smaller fee ahead of Sancho’s contract expiring in 2023.
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    It is not known what ‘conditions’ Zorc alluded to but the club are struggling to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
    With three games to go, Dortmund sit fifth in the Bundesliga table and a point off the qualification places.
    Fourth-place Eintracht Frankfurt also have the easier run-in as Borussia face top-six rivals RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen in the final weeks, and Leipzig again in the German Cup final.
    Sancho has once again enjoyed an impressive year in front of goal, contributing 12 strikes and 18 assists, two of which came against Kiel.
    Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc has confirmed the ‘agreement’Credit: AFP

    Manchester United are ready to up the ante in their market dealings after Eric Bailly signed a new contract, with Edinson Cavani not far behind.
    A huge triple deal for Sancho, Haaland and Jack Grealish has been rumoured.
    But competition for the ex-Manchester City winger could be high with Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool previously tipped to bid.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Man Utd plot shock triple transfer swoop for Haaland, Sancho and Grealish after extending Bailly deal More

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    Solskjaer will ensure Man Utd stars Cavani and Pogba are enjoying their football to boost contract talks

    FOR Ole Gunnar Solskjaer the equation is simple — a smile on the face of his dynamic duo over the next few weeks means a beaming grin on his own for months.With an added bonus of convincing Manchester United’s third musketeer that the Theatre of Dreams is indeed the place to turn them into reality.
    Edinson Cavani and Paul Pogba combined to thrash Roma in midweekCredit: AP
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is desperate to keep the pair amid transfer speculationCredit: Getty
    Solskjaer himself has no doubts about that, and United are edging towards being genuine title challengers for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson left.
    They have a four-point cushion in second place and on Thursday put one foot in the Europa League final with a 6-2 first-leg thrashing of Roma.
    Ironically, the key figures in that semi-final masterclass were Paul Pogba and two-goal duo Edinson Cavani and Bruno Fernandes.
    For the future of the first two remains up in the air… and convincing both to stay will stop Fernandes getting itchy feet as well.
    Solskjaer, whose side face Liverpool today, knows the best chance of a happy camp is with a flying finish, even if Uruguay striker Cavani is hinting at a return to South America.
    Yet for Pogba in particular, it is vital to show him United is smiles ahead of the rest, with just a year on his deal.
    Solskjaer said: “Edi and Paul are winners but are also human beings. So it’s important they enjoy playing for this team.
    “If we can play like we did against Roma, if we go again against Liverpool and they can feel our progress, our chances are bigger to keep them.

    “I have always said with Paul I enjoy managing him, I enjoy coaching him, I enjoy talking to him and I also enjoy challenging him.
    “You can see he’s enjoying himself here, he has a smile on his face.”
    While the three big guns have shone, just as crucial has been the form of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof at the heart of the defence.
    They have not lost in the Prem for six months when in tandem and conceded five in nine league games, as United aim to go a season unbeaten away from home.
    BETTING SPECIAL – 80/1 FOR A PENALTY FOR EITHER SIDE

    Yet boss Solskjaer said: “Victor and Harry have been very reliable.
    “But if there are players who come in and challenge them or take their place, that’s great.
    “We sign players to challenge the ones we have already and if you don’t step up, players will take your place.
    “That fear of losing your position has to be there. I felt that when the gaffer signed new strikers, I had to step up.”
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Dean Henderson reveals what Paul Pogba is like in Man Utd dressing room and how he helped Man Utd goalkeeper improve More

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    Hazard-Pogba swap mooted by Raiola, Pau Torres ‘£43.4m advanced talks’, Cristiano Ronaldo transfer LATEST

    MINO RAIOLA has pitched a hypothetical swap deal between Paul Pogba and Eden Hazard in an interview with the Spanish press.Meanwhile Man Utd are in advanced talks over the £43.4m signing of Villarreal’s Pau Torres, according to reports from Spain.
    The centre-back impressed in the Yellow Submarine’s 2-1 win over Arsenal last night and is reportedly seen as an ideal partner for Harry Maguire.
    And reports in Italy claim that United are the only club interested in Cristiano Ronaldo.
    Agent Jorge Mendes has sounded out PSG, Real Madrid and the Red Devils – the only three clubs who can afford the Portugal captain.
    Get all the latest Man Utd news, updates and transfer gossip here…
    PAINFUL RASH
    Marcus Rashford has reportedly been playing through the pain-barrier for Manchester United and England for the last TWO YEARS.
    The 23-year-old has been a key player for United this season, where he has featured in an incredible 51 games in all competitions.
    And he has 33 goal contributions to his name this term for the Red Devils having scored 20 times as well as providing 13 assists.
    His stellar form is even more impressive considering his long-term injury battles, with ESPN stating he has not played a game pain-free in over two years.
    They claim that the striker is managing shoulder and foot problems, but is determined to keep playing as he looks to compete at the delayed Euro 2020.
    And the news outlets adds that Rashford will only consider having surgery after the conclusion of the European Championships in July.

    EDIN FOR A NEW DEAL
    Edinson Cavani has reportedly decided to STAY at Manchester United.
    The Uruguayan was unplayable as he helped himself to two goals and THREE assists in United’s 6-2 thrashing of Roma in the Europa League semi on Thursday.
    And according to ESPN, the 34-year-old has made a U-turn and ‘decided to stay at United’.
    The decision will reportedly be ‘announced next week’.
    Uruguayan journalist Rodrigo Romano is even reporting the forward will agree a contract extension TODAY.
    PAINFUL RASH
    Marcus Rashford has reportedly been playing through the pain-barrier for Manchester United and England for the last TWO YEARS.
    The 23-year-old has been a key player for United this season, where he has featured in an incredible 51 games in all competitions.
    And he has 33 goal contributions to his name this term for the Red Devils having scored 20 times as well as providing 13 assists.
    His stellar form is even more impressive considering his long-term injury battles, with ESPN stating he has not played a game pain-free in over two years.
    They claim that the striker is managing shoulder and foot problems, but is determined to keep playing as he looks to compete at the delayed Euro 2020.
    And the news outlets adds that Rashford will only consider having surgery after the conclusion of the European Championships in July.
    Rashford – who missed 14 games last campaign with a back injury – pulled out of the Three Lions squad in March due to his foot trouble.
    It is understood that his injury will be closely monitored until now and the end of the season with Gareth Southgate sweating over his fitness.
    WIELD THE AXE
    Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe is reportedly wanted by Aston Villa.
    The centre-back has been starved of game time after falling behind Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly in the pecking order to partner skipper Harry Maguire.
    Tuanzebe spent two spells on loan at Villa Park between January 2018 and May 2019 but Football Insider suggests they are aiming to land a permanent deal for the 23-year-old this summer.
    The report states Dean Smith’s side are hopeful a £7million bid could do the trick.
    Credit: Getty
    ONE FOR THE FUTURE
    Manchester United youngster Charlie McNeill is causing quite a stir.
    The 17-year-old can’t stop scoring for the Under-18s.
    He has bagged an incredible 22 goals in 23 academy games.
    His latest game saw him bag a double in a 4-2 win over Leeds.
    Credit: Getty
    MAG OF THE MATCH
    Harry Maguire could make Manchester United history against Liverpool on Sunday.
    If the Red Devils skipper completes the 90 minutes he will become the first United player to ever play 72 consecutive full games in the Premier League.
    The current record is held by Gary Pallister who achieved the feat between 1993 and 1995.
    Maguire has been an ever-present under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer since he signed for £80million from Leicester in 2019.
    HAA HAA LAND
    Mino Raiola has revealed the two things Erling Haaland is looking for in a potential transfer.
    Manchester United are believed to have earmarked the Norwegian hotshot as their No1 summer transfer target.
    And his agent told AS: “Haaland is interested in two things: scoring goals – because he is like a Cristiano or a Zlatan, he has that positive obsession – and winning titles.
    “He will choose, surely, where those two things together happen more. It is very difficult to lie.
    “When a club like Barcelona or Madrid arrives, with so much history and so great, it is difficult to say no. PSG is entering this group of greats, City is trying to get there, Juve has always been there.
    “The championship they play also matters. PSG plays the worst league of the greats. Bayern are already in an attractive league, but we know that they always win it. In Spain there are three with options.”
    Credit: Getty
    RED HOT FORM
    Manchester United have scored 17 more goals than Liverpool since Christmas.
    The Red Devils have smashed home 36 goals in 20 games.
    While Jurgen Klopp’s men have managed just 19 in 19 as their title defence collapsed.
    The two sides do battle on Sunday afternoon at Old Trafford.
    KEEP THE PEACE
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made a plea for peace with up to 10,000 Manchester United fans set to march on Old Trafford in protest.
    The mass gathering will take place outside the Red Devils ground ahead of Sunday’s match against rivals Liverpool which kicks-off at 4.30pm.
    Extra police and security have been called in with fears the match may not go ahead if things spill over.
    But Man Utd manager Solskjaer said that while the fans should be heard, he has been backed by the Glazers and any protests should remain peaceful.
    Solskjaer said: “It’s important that the fans’ views are listened to and we communicate better. My job is to focus on the football side and that we have the best possible team.
    “As I’ve said before I’ve been backed, I’ve had great support from the club and the owners and I’m sure I will get the backing again to go one step further. But I’m so happy all the clubs have agreed that this shouldn’t be the way of moving forward.
    “Then again, when the protests are on, it’s important they go in a good fashion and that we keep it peaceful.”
    OUT OF LUC
    Real Madrid have reportedly offered Lucas Vazquez a bumper new deal to ward off interest from Manchester United and Chelsea.
    The winger, 29, is out of contract at the end of the season and negotiations have been slowed by the club’s financial trouble.
    The coronavirus pandemic and expensive Bernabeu revamp initially led to talk of his existing £60,000-a-week contract being offered again, only with a ten per cent pay cut due to the circumstances.
    However, Spanish outlet AS now report of a fresh proposal worth £84,000-a-week.
    It is said Vazquez wants to stay in Madrid having come through the club’s famed La Fabrica academy to make his debut in 2015.
    Since then, he has become a vital option on the right side of midfield and defence for Zinedine Zidane, playing 34 times this season.
    Interest was reportedly strong from both United and Chelsea as they look to formulate a Premier League title bid next campaign.
    Credit: PA
    TONE IT DOWN
    Manchester United are criticised too much, according to Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher.
    The Sky Sports pundit told the Pitch to Post Preview Podcast: “How much of a leap would it be for Man Utd to win the title next season? It would be a jump, of course it would be.
    “But I actually think Man Utd get too much criticism for what they’re doing right now. Man City are phenomenal – we’re talking about a team who were on the verge of doing the quadruple and could still do a treble.
    “Man Utd are ten points behind but when you see the distance that some teams in second and third have been behind (the champions in the past), ten points doesn’t sound too bad to me.
    “But I don’t think they’re as far away as people speak about, really. Some of the things they’ve done this season I don’t think some of the most famous teams in Man Utd’s history have achieved, in terms of going so long away from home without defeat.”
    TEAM NEWS
    Manchester United host Liverpool at 4.30pm on Sunday.
    And Ole Gunnar Solskjaer appears to have no fresh injury concerns after the thumping 6-2 Europa League demolition of Roma in midweek.
    The Norwegian said: “Team news, I think everyone should be available. No fresh injury reports from the semi.”
    And Jurgen Klopp is similarly just waiting on players to recover with the Anfield giants again likely to be without Nathaniel Phillips who has been missing with a hamstring injury.
    GARDEN OF EDEN
    Paul Pogba’s agent Mino Raiola jokingly suggested a Real Madrid swap deal with Eden Hazard could come to fruition.
    Manchester United’s French midfielder has regularly been linked with a move to Los Blancos.
    And Raiola told AS: “For Pogba, Madrid always had a great attraction … Zidane is his idol. The important thing now is to know what United want, what project United are proposing to Pogba.
    “Pogba is interested in one thing, winning the Champions League and winning titles, and we are going to see where this is possible, whether at United or at other clubs.
    “At one time Pogba felt a lot of love and trust from United, and there were several other clubs… But then, it is very difficult for United and Madrid to come to an agreement over a big transfer, because strong clubs do not want to sell strong players to other strong clubs.
    “And I’m not going to fool him, for Pogba playing for Madrid was always a very attractive thing for Zidane too. He is his young idol.
    “I don’t know. I believe nothing is impossible, but football depends on the day. And you have to be flexible and consider all possibilities.
    “Suppose tomorrow Madrid want to make a Hazard-Pogba exchange? It is just an example. And if all four parties liked it, why not?”
    Credit: AFP or licensors
    GOOD MORNING UTD FANS,
    Paul Pogba reckons Manchester United are good enough to win the Premier League title again after closing the gap on rivals City.
    The French midfielder told the BBC’s Football Focus: “We are getting closer and closer.
    “We see that we were struggling a little bit, we know that, but we don’t have to look back. We have to look forward.
    “What’s forward now is second [place], now we get closer to City, who were, before, to be honest way ahead of us.
    “Now we show them that we can compete. We show that we are here and that we have a team to go and win the title.
    “It’s just a few details. We can do it, for sure.
    “Liverpool did it, City did it and now we’re there. We have to show that we can make it as well. That’s the next goal.”
    Meanwhile on the transfer front, Edinson Cavani has reportedly decided to STAY at United.
    The Uruguayan was unplayable as he helped himself to two goals and THREE assists in United’s 6-2 thrashing of Roma in the Europa League semi on Thursday.
    And according to ESPN, the 34-year-old has made a U-turn and ‘decided to stay at United’.
    The decision will reportedly be ‘announced next week’.
    Uruguayan journalist Rodrigo Romano is even reporting the forward will agree a contract extension TODAY.
    And finally, United are willing to offer Donny van de Beek to Roma in a swap transfer for Nicolo Zaniolo, according to reports.
    The Dutchman, 24, arrived from Ajax last summer in a £39million deal but has struggled to make his mark at Old Trafford.
    Van de Beek’s tally of one goal and two assists from 32 appearances in total mean United may look to cut their losses by shipping him back out this summer.
    And La Repubblica via Sport Witness state they could try and do a trade with Roma for Zaniolo.
    The report says the Red Devils were ‘pressing and testing the water’ and have now ‘proposed an exchange’ with the Serie A side.
    KARREN BRADY
    “The refereeing itself has been poor this season, possibly the worst I have seen in the Premier League.
    “No doubt there will be statistics that prove me wrong but, subjectively, I can remember no time when the whistle was so out of tune with the game.
    “VAR was sold to us as a way of perfecting decisions.”
    Read more HERE.
    CAN’T GO RON
    Cristiano Ronaldo has become ‘nervous and irritable’ at Juventus – and has ‘given up’, according to reports.
    The 36-year-old has not enjoyed the best season of his career this time around, despite still managing 25 goals in 29 Serie A outings.
    And according to Gazzetta dello Sport, his entire demeanour around the club has changed.
    Ronaldo has failed to reach a single Champions League semi-final during his three years in Turin, the competition he was signed to win.

    SHER MADNESS
    Tim Sherwood has slammed Manchester United’s decision to sell Romelu Lukaku.
    He told Premier League productions: “What [Man United] do need is a centre forward. They’re going to need someone.
    “They had someone and it was the biggest mistake they’ve ever made getting rid of Romelu Lukaku, who’s on fire now at Inter Milan.”
    CROWN JULES
    Real Madrid are reportedly looking to fend off competition from Manchester United and Chelsea in the race to sign Sevilla star Jules Kounde.
    The 22-year-old has been heavily linked with a move in the summer after two impressive years in Spain since joining from Bordeaux in 2019.
    SunSport exclusively revealed last month that United were weighing up a move for Kounde to pair him alongside Harry Maguire.
    But according to AS, Madrid are looking to keep Kounde in Spain as Zinedine Zidane eyes up a summer swoop.
    GET ZAN IN
    Manchester United are willing to offer Donny van de Beek to Roma in a swap transfer for Nicolo Zaniolo, according to reports.
    The Dutchman, 24, arrived from Ajax last summer in a £39million deal but has struggled to make his mark at Old Trafford.
    Van de Beek’s tally of one goal and two assists from 32 appearances in total mean United may look to cut their losses by shipping him back out this summer.
    And La Repubblica via Sport Witness state they could try and do a trade with Roma for Zaniolo.
    The report says the Red Devils were ‘pressing and testing the water’ and have now ‘proposed an exchange’ with the Serie A side.

    PAUL-ING BACK
    Paul Pogba reckons Manchester United are good enough to win the Premier League title again after closing the gap on rivals City.
    The French midfielder told the BBC’s Football Focus: “We are getting closer and closer.
    “We see that we were struggling a little bit, we know that, but we don’t have to look back. We have to look forward.
    “What’s forward now is second [place], now we get closer to City, who were, before, to be honest way ahead of us.
    “Now we show them that we can compete. We show that we are here and that we have a team to go and win the title.
    “It’s just a few details. We can do it, for sure.
    “Liverpool did it, City did it and now we’re there. We have to show that we can make it as well. That’s the next goal.”
    ED ON BLOCK
    Ed Woodward was blasted at a fans’ forum after Manchester United’s attempts to break away into a European Super League.
    In a lengthy speech read to him on behalf of nine of the eleven forum members, Ian Stirling of the Manchester United Supporters Trust did not hold back.
    Stirling said: “We are disgusted, embarrassed and angry at the owner’s actions in relation to the planning, formation and announcement of the European Super League.
    “Once again this clearly demonstrates that the club’s owners are only interested in maximising their own profits and do not care about or respect the views of Manchester United fans.
    “The complete lack of engagement with fans, our players and manager is a gross mishandling of club affairs and one which we cannot forgive.
    “It was an attack on fans and on clubs across the whole of football and we have simply had enough.
    “Joel Glazer’s subsequent apology is not accepted.
    “Actions speak louder than words and he and his family have shown time and again that their sole motivation is personal profit at the expense of our football club.
    “We should not need to explain to anyone involved in the ownership or running of Manchester United Football Club why the European Cup is an integral part of our club’s history and how this proposal has betrayed it. Yet we clearly need to.”
    EDIN FOR A NEW DEAL
    Edinson Cavani has reportedly decided to STAY at Manchester United.
    The Uruguayan was unplayable as he helped himself to two goals and THREE assists in United’s 6-2 thrashing of Roma in the Europa League semi on Thursday.
    And according to ESPN, the 34-year-old has made a U-turn and ‘decided to stay at United’.
    The decision will reportedly be ‘announced next week’.
    Uruguayan journalist Rodrigo Romano is even reporting the forward will agree a contract extension TODAY.

    KNOCKED BACK
    Manchester United have had a bid for Dejan Kulusevski rejected by Juventus, it’s been claimed.
    The Red Devils are still in the market for a winger following their failed pursuit of England international Jadon Sancho last summer.
    Sweden international Kulusevski is said to be one of the names on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s list of targets.
    And according to reports, the Red Devils have had an approach for the 21-year-old knocked back by the Old Lady.
    Italian outlet Calciomercato claim Juve said ‘no’ to the Premier League big boys as they’re eager to retain Kulusevski’s services.
    ED NOT TURNED
    Reports in Edinson Cavani’s homeland claim the Uruguayan is set to pen a one-year extension with Manchester United today!
    #Renovado Edinson Cavani firmará hoy su extensión de contrato con el Manchester United hasta junio 2022. Sus goles, experiencia y personalidad positiva en la interna lo llevan al nuevo vínculo. ✍⚽️🔝 pic.twitter.com/S4cw6Wm5e3— Rodrigo Romano (@RodrigoRomano76) April 30, 2021

    TELE ME MORE
    ITV are preparing a bid to bring top flight English football back to free-to-air TV as they contemplate buying a stake in BT Sport, according to reports.
    It was revealed earlier this week that BT Sport was being put up for sale.
    And streaming platforms Amazon, Disney and DAZN were all touted as potential buyers for the TV network in a deal that would be worth billions.
    But according to The Telegraph, ITV have now emerged as another possible buyer.
    Both ITV and BT Sport have attempted to diversify in recent times, with ITV a partner in YouView and BT considering investing in ITV’s streaming service BritBox.
    BT Sport is believed to be worth around £2billion.
    Load more entries… More

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    Man Utd and Chelsea in Lucas Vazquez transfer blow as Real Madrid offer him bumper new £84k-a-week contract

    REAL MADRID have reportedly offered Lucas Vazquez a bumper new deal to ward off interest from Manchester United and Chelsea.The winger, 29, is out of contract at the end of the season and negotiations have been slowed by the club’s financial trouble.
    Lucas Vazquez is reportedly nearing a new Real Madrid contractCredit: Getty
    The coronavirus pandemic and expensive Bernabeu revamp initially led to talk of his existing £60,000-a-week contract being offered again, only with a ten per cent pay cut due to the circumstances.
    However, Spanish outlet AS now report of a fresh proposal worth £84,000-a-week.
    It is said Vazquez wants to stay in Madrid having come through the club’s famed La Fabrica academy to make his debut in 2015.
    Since then, he has become a vital option on the right side of midfield and defence for Zinedine Zidane, playing 34 times this season.
    Interest was reportedly strong from both United and Chelsea as they look to formulate a Premier League title bid next campaign.
    Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Everton were also named in gossip column rumours.
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    I was and will always be a Real Madrid man.Lucas Vazquez
    But all signs now point to Vazquez putting pen to paper on a three-year deal with Real, which also includes the option of a further season.
    He declared in a pre-match press conference last month: “What I concentrate on is the present.
    “I’m really enjoying myself this season because I’m playing and that’s what makes me happy.
    “I was and will always be a Real Madrid man.”

    Los Blancos are also targeting a new deal for captain Sergio Ramos.
    The centre-back is reportedly tussling over his future with the offer of a one-year extension on the table before his deal runs out next month.
    Currently sat second in LaLiga, the Spanish giants face Osasuna on Saturday before travelling to Chelsea for the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Thibaut Courtois caught joking with Chelsea star Olivier Giroud over Timo Werner miss by secret Real Madrid tunnel cam More

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    Man Utd ‘willing to offer Donny van de Beek to Roma in swap transfer for Nicolo Zaniolo’ after flop first season

    MANCHESTER UNITED are willing to offload Donny van de Beek after just one season, according to reports.And they may try to use the flop transfer as a makeweight in a deal for Roma sensation Nicolo Zaniolo.
    Donny van de Beek could be on his way out of Manchester United after just one seasonCredit: Getty
    Nicolo Zaniolo could be eyed as part of a swap deal from Roma despite being out injuredCredit: AFP
    Van de Beek, 24, arrived from Ajax last summer in a £39million deal but has struggled to make his mark at Old Trafford.
    The Dutchman has made just three Premier League starts with Bruno Fernandes the clear first-choice No10.
    And Van de Beek’s tally of one goal and two assists from 32, largely substitute appearances mean United may look to cut their losses by shipping him back out this summer.
    And La Repubblica via Sport Witness state they could try and do a trade with Roma for Zaniolo.
    The report says the Red Devils were ‘pressing and testing the water’ and have now ‘proposed an exchange’ with the Serie A side.
    Zaniolo, 21, was linked with United and Paris Saint-Germain back in 2019 before Tottenham reportedly had a £45m bid rejected last summer.
    The attacking midfielder is under contract until 2024 but has not played a single minute of club football this season due to a cruciate ligament injury.
    But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer still appears interested in the seven-cap Italy international.
    And on top of that, it is thought his price tag will have dropped as a result of his injury woes – despite the Roma hierarchy insisting he ‘cannot be touched’.
    BETTING SPECIAL – 80/1 FOR A PENALTY FOR EITHER SIDE

    The offer of sending Van de Beek the other way could make a deal even more likely.
    He is understood to be well liked by Roma but his wage demands could prove a stumbling block.
    United and Roma could use the Europa League semi-finals as the perfect chance for negotiations.
    Edinson Cavani helped fire the Red Devils to a 6-2 win in the first leg at Old Trafford on Thursday.
    Van de Beek was an unused sub as United put one-and-a-half feet in May’s final in Gdansk.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Rio Ferdinand questions why Man Utd made £40m Donny van de Beek transfer and feels sorry for ‘intelligent’ midfielder More

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    Edinson Cavani ‘set to make Man Utd transfer U-turn and STAY at club next season despite Boca Juniors interest’

    EDINSON CAVANI has reportedly decided to STAY at Manchester United.The Uruguayan was unplayable as he helped himself to two goals and THREE assists in United’s 6-2 thrashing of Roma in the Europa League semi on Thursday.
    Edinson Cavani is now reportedly set to STAY at UnitedCredit: AP
    After a performance like that, it’s not surprising thoughts would turn to his future.
    Cavani is yet to agree another year, with his deal up in the summer.
    It was widely reported that the striker had his heart set on a move back to South America, with Boca Juniors leading the chase.
    And his father claimed Cavani had been left angry and upset at an FA charge for using the word ‘negrito’ in a social media post, which the board accepted he had not meant in a racial tone.
    But according to ESPN, the 34-year-old has made a U-turn and ‘decided to stay at United’.
    The decision will reportedly be ‘announced next week’.
    Uruguayan journalist Rodrigo Romano is even reporting the forward will agree a contract extension TODAY.
    Cavani has impressed throughout the season after joining the Red Devils on a one-year contract in October.
    FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE

    United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to keep Cavani for another yearCredit: PA

    Boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been eager to tie him down to a 12-month contract extension.
    Despite reports of his desire to leave Old Trafford, Solskjaer had not given up hope of persuading him to stay.
    Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano said: “Manchester United will do ‘everything they can’ to keep Edinson Cavani.
    “The board and everyone in the club want Edi to stay – as they told him in last meeting. Solskjaer is pushing with the player.
    “Cavani will communicate his decision after speaking with his family.”
    It is believed Cavani has a deal worth £200,000-a-week on the table.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Man Utd star Edinson Cavani enjoys time with his son on fishing trip More

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    Pau Torres ‘£43.4m advanced transfer talks’, Cavani ‘to extend contract TODAY’, ‘only Man Utd want Cristiano Ronaldo’

    MANCHESTER UNITED are in advanced talks over the £43.4m signing of Villarreal’s Pau Torres, according to reports from Spain.The centre-back impressed in the Yellow Submarine’s 2-1 win over Arsenal last night and is reportedly seen as an ideal partner for Harry Maguire.
    Meanwhile Uruguay’s top commentator has stated that Edinson Cavani will sign a one-year contract extension with Man Utd today.
    And reports in Italy claim that United are the only club interested in Cristiano Ronaldo.
    Agent Jorge Mendes has sounded out PSG, Real Madrid and the Red Devils – the only three clubs who can afford the Portugal captain.
    Get all the latest Man Utd news, updates and transfer gossip here…
    TELE ME MORE
    ITV are preparing a bid to bring top flight English football back to free-to-air TV as they contemplate buying a stake in BT Sport, according to reports.
    It was revealed earlier this week that BT Sport was being put up for sale.
    And streaming platforms Amazon, Disney and DAZN were all touted as potential buyers for the TV network in a deal that would be worth billions.
    But according to The Telegraph, ITV have now emerged as another possible buyer.
    Both ITV and BT Sport have attempted to diversify in recent times, with ITV a partner in YouView and BT considering investing in ITV’s streaming service BritBox.
    BT Sport is believed to be worth around £2billion.
    FAN-DEMONIUM
    Every Premier League team will be allowed fans in their stadium before the end of the season after an entire round of fixtures were moved.
    Prem chiefs today confirmed that match week 37 set for Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 May will take place a few days later.
    The round will now be played on Tuesday 18 and Wednesday 19 May – one day after the latest lockdown restrictions lift.
    From Monday 17 May sports teams can host up to 10,000 fans or 25 per cent of stadium capacity.
    That meant that teams scheduled at home on the final day of the season on Sunday 23 May could’ve potentially had an unfair advantage.
    But the Premier League today moved the penultimate set of fixtures – meaning the 10 away sides on the final day will now have a midweek home game with fans.
    Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    KLOPP OF THE POPS
    Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has praised Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba for their starring roles against Roma last night.
    Ahead of Sunday’s derby, he spoke of the likely line-up his side will face at Anfield.
    Klopp told reporters: “Fernandes is playing pretty much all games and the other three he can change from time to time. 
    “Is it Rashford up front or Greenwood up front. Is it James on the wing or Greenwood on the wing? Is Rashford on the wing or is it Pogba? 
    “Obviously Pogba played again a really good game last night. Who we will face is pretty clear. 
    “They cannot make massive changes and probably will not make if they had no injuries last night. I think that’s clear.”
    ED IN CHECK
    Outgoing Manchester United chief Ed Woodward has told a fans’ forum that the club will not reconsider its European Super League exit.
    The doomed breakaway plot featured the Red Devils and five other Premier League clubs but was stamped out amid heavy fan protests.
    And Woodward today said: “I can assure you that we have learned our lesson from the events of the past week and we do not seek any revival of the Super League plans.
    “I would like to add my personal apology to this forum. I know that you will feel angry and let down by the lack of consultation and by the way the proposal failed to recognise the vital principle of open competition. Proper discussion would have helped us avoid the mistake we made.   
    “While there would have been a substantial increase in solidarity payments from the leading clubs to the rest of the pyramid across Europe, we fully accept that there were fundamental elements which were badly misjudged.”
    KEEP THE PEACE
    Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made a plea for peace with up to 10,000 fans set to march on Old Trafford in protest.
    The mass gathering will take place outside the Red Devils ground ahead of Sunday’s match against rivals Liverpool which kicks-off at 4.30pm. Extra police and security have been called in with fears the match may not go ahead if things spill over.
    But Man Utd manager Solskjaer said that while the fans should be heard, he has been backed by the Glazers and any protests should remain peaceful.
    Solskjaer said: “It’s important that the fans’ views are listened to and we communicate better. My job is to focus on the football side and that we have the best possible team.
    “As I’ve said before I’ve been backed, I’ve had great support from the club and the owners and I’m sure I will get the backing again to go one step further. But I’m so happy all the clubs have agreed that this shouldn’t be the way of moving forward.
    “Then again, when the protests are on, it’s important they go in a good fashion and that we keep it peaceful.”
    Credit: AFP
    QUALIFY QUALITY
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side can all-but ensure their qualification for next season’s Champions League THIS weekend, if a few results go their way.
    Beating Liverpool is a big part of the mix and United fans should be wary: Lose to the Reds on Sunday and – if Manchester City beat Crystal Palace – City will be crowned champions.
    Check out the full permutations here.
    RETURN LEG
    A reminder that Manchester United will defend their 6-2 Europa League semi-final lead when travelling to Italy next week.
    The second leg kicks off at 8pm on Thursday, May 6.
    OOPS
    Paul Pogba has admitted he ‘can’t tackle’ after giving away a penalty in Manchester United’s resounding Europa League semi-final win over Roma on Thursday night.
    The Red Devils midfielder slid in to try and block a cross from Roma defender Rick Karsdorp, but instead gave a spot kick away when the ball struck his arm.
    Speaking to BT Sport, he said: “Just don’t tackle. I don’t know how to tackle – why should I tackle? That’s my problem! I try to tackle and be the English guy.
    “I need to practice more. I need to practice to tackle without my arms. It’s unlucky. I’ve been unlucky a lot this season with penalties.”

    WAITING GAME
    Here’s a reminder of what Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Edinson Cavani’s future last week…
    He told reporters: “We’re still in the same boat with Edinson in that he’s not decided on his future yet.
    “He’s not told me he wants to leave, but I’m very aware he may be going back home to South America with the difficult year he has had.
    “If that’s his decision, I’ll understand it, but he knows my view and he knows I’d love to see him play in front of the Man United fans at Old Trafford.
    “It will be the year when we can get the fans back in and it’s important that he makes the decision not with anything else in mind.”
    EDI, SET, GO!
    Edinson Cavani is reportedly ready to commit his future to Manchester United.
    ESPN report on the Uruguayan deciding to stay in England despite huge questions over his future, ahead of his contract expiring.
    It is said he has ‘doubts’ over Boca Juniors’ willingness to meet his demands.
    And a contract renewal could be announced next week.
    Credit: AFP
    KA-PAU
    Manchester United are in ‘advanced’ talks to sign Villarreal defender Pau Torres, according to reports.
    The Red Devils are searching for a long-term centre-back partner for club captain Harry Maguire.
    And according to El Larguero they are closing in on Torres as they hope to secure his signature before he joins up with the Spain squad for Euro 2020 in June.
    It has also been reported that while Real Madrid were interested in him, they are now ‘resigned’ to the fact that he is heading to Old Trafford.
    Torres’ release clause is currently £43.4million, but that rises to £56.4m in the final 15 days of the summer transfer window.
    OH CO ON THEN
    Manchester United, Arsenal, Napoli, Juventus, Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid and MORE have all had their interest piqued by news that Bayern Munich are open to selling Corentin Tolisso.
    According to Kicker, the German giants will consider bids ahead of his contract expiring in 2022.
    An injury has kept France international Tolisso on the sidelines since February.
    Credit: Alamy
    STICK YOUR BEEK IN
    Manchester United have reportedly offered a swap deal that would see Donny van de Beek leave the club.
    Roma lost to the Red Devils last night and have been given the opportunity to sign the Dutchman in exchange for Nicolo Zaniolo.
    La Repubblica detail that deal – which the Serie A side are not interested in due to Zaniolo’s importance to the team.

    GLAZE OF GLORY
    Paul Scholes has accused Manchester United owners the Glazers of using the football club as a ‘toy’ in a furious rant.
    Speaking to BT Sport, he said: “I’m not sure there ever will be a connection with these owners.
    “I don’t think that’s just this club, I think it’s every club that started with billionaire owners that we brought into here for them to have a toy to make money with.
    “This is a great club as well to actually have that connection with the owners – the young players this club has, the young local lads coming through the academy, there’s a great chance for that connection, but as long as these billionaire owners, from America and other countries, there’s never ever going to be a connection.
    “Look at Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool – is there a connection there? I don’t think there is, I don’t think there ever will be. I think we need to stop pining for that.
    “The most important thing for the fans now is what happens on the football pitch and if you look at the last four or five years at Manchester United; the resources, the money that this club has had, and it’s not won a trophy for four years. It’s absolutely ridiculous.”
    Credit: BT Sport
    BREAKING 
    Prem clubs will be allowed 500 away fans inside stadiums for the final two matches of the season.
    With lockdown rules being relaxed in sporting venues, clubs are preparing to welcome fans back into grounds across the country.
    Turnstiles are being reopened from May 17 with 25 per cent of full capacity – or a maximum 10,000 fans – able to finally watch their side in action. And it has been revealed by the Times that 500 of those will also be away supporters.
    The Premier League’s chief exec Richard Masters has written to the 20 clubs to confirm the plans.
    The letter declares: “Government has informed us that, as Covid-19 indicators continue to improve, it is planning to relax the ‘no away fans’ stipulation from the Stage Five Guidance, governing the playing of our final match rounds in season 2020-21.
    “The Executive proposes an away ticket allocation of 5 per cent of available capacity (a maximum of 500 away fans) at round 37 and 38 matches, respecting the £30 away ticket price cap.”
    DONE AND DUSTED
    TalkSPORT host and Manchester United fan Andy Goldstein reckons the Red Devils WON the Europa League last night.
    He said after the 6-2 demolition of Roma: “One to 11, it was a fantastic performance from United, who now not only in the final of the Europa League, but tonight they’ve won the Europa League.
    “From what I saw in the other match, Villarreal beating Arsenal, it wasn’t the best match, both teams were quite poor.
    “Neither side can stop the juggernaut that is Man United. The way United played tonight, none of those teams can live with them.”
    Credit: AP
    SOCIAL SANCTIONS
    UK culture secretary Oliver Dowden has written in The Sun to detail his plans for Government punishments for social media platforms who do not do enough to tackle online hate.
    Much of the British sporting world will commit to a social media blackout today at 3pm following continued abuse.
    Dowden wrote: “I will shortly introduce legislation into Parliament that will force social media firms to stamp out abuse — or face the consequences.
    “I want footballers and everyone else to know that we heard them in Westminster and change is coming.
    “The Online Safety Bill, as it is called, is one of the first of its kind.
    “Under the legislation, if social media companies do not keep their promises to users by, for example, failing to remove racist abuse, they will face severe sanctions.”
    UNITED ACTION
    Manchester United have banned three season ticket holders, two club members and another registered fan over alleged social media abuse.
    The club investigated after Tottenham star Son Heung-min was subjected to sick taunts online following their game earlier this month.
    A statement read: “Manchester United has instigated club sanction proceedings against six individuals alleged to have breached club rules by abusing Tottenham’s Heung-Min Son on social media following the match on 11 April.
    “Regretfully, suspensions have been issued, subject to appeal, to three season ticket holders, two official members and one individual on the season ticket waiting list.”
    Credit: PA
    SOCIAL MEDIA SHAME
    Manchester United players have received a sickening 3,300 incidents of social media abuse since September 2019 – the majority of them racist.
    The astonishing figure has highlighted the rise in social media abuse of their stars, up 350 per cent in that time scale.
    In a wide-ranging investigation set out by the club they found that 86 per cent of these posts were racist, while eight per cent were homophobic or transphobic.
    It peaked in January 2021 with over 400 abusive player posts recorded.
    The disgusting racist posts contained either the ‘N word’ (and variants on the spelling) or emojis used with racist intent.
    United are joining a worldwide social media boycott by sports stars and organisations from 3pm today until 11.59pm on Monday in response to the sustained attacks.
    TOP POG
    The big man for the moment – Paul Pogba delivered at Old Trafford.

    1️⃣ Creating for Bruno Fernandes2️⃣ Creating for Edinson Cavani3️⃣ Scoring Man Utd’s fifth goalPaul Pogba was at his best against Roma last night 👏#UEL pic.twitter.com/IWaic5NtyP
    — Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 30, 2021

    MOUR MOUR MOUR
    It’s the Special Sun! Former Man Utd boss Jose Mourinho has signed up to be our expert columnist for the Euros.
    The European Championship heads an epic sporting summer and he will pull no punches in football’s No 1 paper.
    You can also hear him exclusively on talkSPORT during the tournament.
    And there will be exclusive videos and online pieces to enjoy as well.
    So come on England, let’s make it a Special summer all round!

    CAV’S AND CAV NOTS
    Edinson Cavani’s Premier League stats this season, as Solskjaer says he’s doing everything he can to keep Uruguayan ace at the club:

    GOOD MORNING UTD FANS,
    United have more than one foot in the Europa League final after a scintillating Edinson Cavani-inspired 6-2 first leg win against Roma.
    The Red Devils were 2-1 down at half-time, but whatever boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said in the dressing room worked a treat.
    Cavani scored twice and Bruno Fernandes added to his first-half strike to make it 4-2.
    Paul Pogba got the goal his industrious performance deserved and then sub Mason Greenwood rounded off the scoring as United completed a stunning turnaround at Old Trafford.
    But manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insisted that the job is not done yet after he hailed Pogba’s performance
    He told BT Sport: “I don’t feel the job is done yet, but that was a good job done.
    “They were good and had quality, as you saw from the goals in the two moments we gave them.
    “In Rome, they’ll get chances against us, so we have to be prepared with a response.
    “We know we have creative players who can create big moments and big chances.
    “Paul’s positioning today was very good, he was allowed freedom and knew there was a good foundation behind him.
    “That’s the difference today, we took most of our chances, so I’m very pleased.”
    Meanwhile, on the transfer front, Cristiano Ronaldo’s super-agent Jorge Mendes reportedly offered the five-time Ballon d’Or winner back to United.
    Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb claim that CR7 is considering his options this summer if Juventus fail to qualify for the Champions League.
    And the report adds that Mendes offered Ronaldo to the three clubs capable of affording both the forward’s transfer fee and salary.
    Real Madrid were said to have declined while Paris Saint-Germain were not interested but United were the only club to respond.
    The Red Devils reportedly demanded that Ronaldo would have to take a 50% pay cut if there would be any chance of a deal.
    And finally, SunSport’s Charlie Wyett has revealed that Borussia Dortmund have joined the race for United target Ben White.
    Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal also remain interested in the Brighton defender.
    The Seagulls will demand about £35million for White, having turned down three bids from Leeds last summer – with the final offer totalling £25m.
    White spent a successful season on loan in the Championship with Leeds last term and has gone from strength to strength on the south coast this year.
    Brighton will demand about £35million for White, having turned down three bids from Leeds last summer – with the final offer totalling £25m.
    White spent a successful season on loan in the Championship with Leeds last term and has gone from strength to strength on the south coast this year.
    CAV SOME OF THAT
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed he will do everything to keep Edinson Cavani at Man Utd next season.
    The Uruguayan, who scored a brace against Roma tonight, has been heavily linked with a move to Boca Juniors this summer.
    But Solskjaer said: “He knows my feelings. He knows I would love to have him here.
    “I promised him Old Trafford is a different place with fans. I am doing my best. Hopefully we will see him here for another year.”

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    Man Utd in ‘advanced’ transfer talks to sign Pau Torres from Villarreal before Euro 2020 after Real Madrid give up race

    MANCHESTER UNITED are in ‘advanced’ talks to sign Villarreal defender Pau Torres, according to reports.The Red Devils are searching for a long-term centre-back partner for club captain Harry Maguire.
    Torres has impressed for Villarreal this seasonCredit: Getty
    The Spaniard impressed for Villarreal on Thursday nightCredit: Getty
    And according to El Larguero they are closing in on Torres as they hope to secure his signature before he joins up with the Spain squad for Euro 2020 in June.
    It has also been reported that while Real Madrid were interested in him, they are now ‘resigned’ to the fact that he is heading to Old Trafford.
    Torres’ release clause is currently £43.4million, but that rises to £56.4m in the final 15 days of the summer transfer window.
    If the Red Devils do wait for his price to inflate, Torres could become the club’s fifth most expensive signing of all time.
    Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has used Victor Lindelof as Maguire’s main defensive partner this season.
    But it is no secret the Norwegian would like to strengthen his back line before the start of the 2021-22 campaign.
    Torres featured for Villarreal in their 2-1 Europa League semi-final first leg victory over Arsenal on Thursday evening.
    The Spaniards take an advantage to the Emirates next week despite giving away a second half penalty, with Nicolas Pepe converting from the spot to give the Gunners a vital away goal.
    FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE

    Speaking after the match, Torres said: “They escaped alive.
    “It’s clear that we’ve won and it’s a good result, but seeing how the game went we should have killed them.
    “I can’t explain what’s happened [in the second half].
    “We’ve had clear chances. They’ve found a penalty that I haven’t seen, but I know my feet were still.”
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Solskjaer reacts to Man Utd’s astonishing win against Roma More