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    Raheem Sterling’s son, 8, join Arsenal’s academy despite Chelsea star’s loan deal coming to an end

    RAHEEM STERLING’S son has joined Arsenal despite his dad’s loan coming to an end.Thiago, 8, is the eldest of the Chelsea forward’s two children with partner Paige Milian, who met Sterling during his QPR days before moving to Liverpool with him in 2010.Thiago Sterling has signed a deal to join Arsenal’s academyCredit: https://www.instagram.com/paigemilian/He is the eldest son of Raheem Sterling and Paige MilianCredit: https://www.instagram.com/paigemilian/Thiago is heading to Arsenal as dad Sterling’s loan from Chelsea comes to an endCredit: https://www.instagram.com/paigemilian/And youngster Thiago has now penned a deal to sign for Arsenal’s famed academy, just as dad Sterling’s loan finishes.The news was announced by Paige on social media, who also shared family pictures with her 100,000 Instagram followers.Showing Thiago holding up an Arsenal shirt alongside younger brother Thai, 6, she said: “Beyond proud of my first born son Thiago for signing with Arsenal Academy’s U9s.“The growth, dedication and hard work you’ve shown over the past year has been incredible to watch, you’ve earned this.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“This is just the beginning so keep your feet on the ground, stay humble and keep grinding.“The journey doesn’t stop here, let’s go.”Fans were quick to congratulate Thiago on his amazing feat.One said: “Wooohooo yessss congratulations, so so proud.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnother declared: “This is amazing, well done Thiago.”One noted: “Congratulations superstar.”Thierry Henry hits out at Mikel Arteta as trophyless Arsenal are shown up by ‘the Man Utd that everyone laughs at’Sterling failed to score a single league goal during his time at the EmiratesCredit: GettyThe forward still has no future at ChelseaCredit: PAAnother added: “What an exciting future you have ahead of you.”Thiago will be hoping for a longer and more successful spell at Arsenal than dad Sterling, who also has a 13-year-old daughter called Melody Rose from a previous relationship.The winger, who has been engaged to partner Paige since 2018, joined on loan from Chelsea last summer after scoring 19 goals in 81 games.However, Sterling managed just one goal in 28 outings for the Gunners, failing to hit the target in the Premier League for the first time since his maiden 2011/12 season where he played just three times for Liverpool.He now faces an uncertain future, with Arsenal opting against a permanent deal and Chelsea having no plans to keep him either. More

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    Brighton jump ahead of Man Utd and Arsenal in £34million transfer race for Greece wonderkid Babis Kostoulas, 18

    BRIGHTON have moved ahead of Manchester United and Arsenal as well as a raft of other suitors for Olympiacos wonderkid Babis Kostoulas.And the Seagulls could sign the teenage sensation as early as Wednesday.Brighton could sign Olympiacos wonderkid Babis Kostoulas by WednesdayKostoulas has also been targeted by Manchester United and ArsenalKostoulas, 18, burst onto the scene this season, which saw him amassing six goals and one assist in 21 league appearances with the Greek champions.The versatile striker played a crucial role in the Piraeus outfit winning the Double and making it to the Last 16 of the Europa League, where they finished in the top eight during the league phase.That came after another stunning 2023-24 campaign that saw the Greece Under-21 international leading the club’s Under-19s to Uefa Youth League glory, which marked the first ever European trophy won by a Greek team.SunSport reported the forward’s stunning performances have led to interest from a number of Premier League clubs, such as Man Utd, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham and Aston Villa.Read More on FootballUnited even made contact with Olympiacos but have also been facing competition from Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus, AC Milan and clubs from Spain – while there were also links with Real Madrid.But it is Brighton who have stolen a march on all of the above and are willing to splash the cash on the young prospect.SunSport can reveal Wednesday will be “crucial” regarding Kostoulas’ future and the Seagulls’ hopes of landing him.Olympiacos won’t sell on the cheap and will insist on a major resale clause for their star player, who has a contract until 2030.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNegotiations have reached a fee of €40million (£34m), which Fabian Hurzeler’s side are currently not willing to meet despite their willingness to pay good money.SunSport, though, understand Kostoulas’ fee could climb even higher to €50-55m (£42-46m).That would make Kostoulas the most expensive Greek transfer of all time as he would eclipse Kostas Manolas’ £30m move from Roma to Napoli in 2019.Brighton recently completed the second most expensive Greek transfer of all time when they landed Stefanos Tzimas from Nuremberg following a £22m deal.That would see the Seagulls continuing their impressive run of snatching some of the world’s best young talent after signing the likes of Yves Bissouma, Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and more.Kostoulas is among Olympiacos’ biggest wonderkids along with Konstantis Tzolakis and Christos Mouzakitis, who is also targeted by Brighton as SunSport recently reported.But Brighton face competition from Arsenal, Man Utd, Villa, Dortmund, Milan, Juventus, Wolves, Villarreal and Atletico Madrid for midfielder Mouzakitis, 18.Tzolakis, 22, on the other hand, has been ranked as the goalkeeper who is most ready for a top-five league competition under the age of 23 following stunning performances in the Europa League and last season’s Conference League. More

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    Tottenham confirm first transfer of the window after triggering loan star’s option to buy on a permanent deal

    TOTTENHAM have confirmed that Kevin Danso’s initial loan move is set to become a permanent transfer.The centre-back, 26, joined Spurs from RC Lens in January on an initial six-month loan.Kevin Danso helped Tottenham win the Europa LeagueCredit: Shutterstock EditorialDanso, 26, poses with the Europa League trophyCredit: GettyThe transfer included an obligation to buy, with Tottenham spending £21million to make the move permanent.Updating fans, Spurs confirmed their Danso switch while also referencing Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s permanent move to Marseille.Their statement read: “As previously announced, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s loan to Marseille will become a permanent transfer this summer, while Kevin Danso’s loan to us from RC Lens becomes a permanent move.”Danso made 10 Premier League appearances for Spurs either side of a hamstring injury.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe former Southampton youngster made his debut in Tottenham’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg defeat at Liverpool, while he also featured in their FA Cup exit at Aston Villa.Danso appeared three times in Spurs’ victorious Europa League campaign, including as a substitute in the 1-0 final win over Manchester United.Upon joining at the end of the January transfer window, Danso said: “It feels amazing. I’ve always wanted to play for a big club in the Premier League and Tottenham Hotspur is exactly that… I think as soon as you hear Tottenham Hotspur is interested, the only thing you can do is say yes.”On what attracted him to Spurs, the 6ft 3in defender added: “Just everything, especially through the last few years, how big the club has become — they’ve got into a Champions League final before.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKDanso came on in the Europa League final in BilbaoCredit: Reuters”It’s just an amazing project to be a part of and I’m happy to be here.”There’s opportunities to win trophies. I think that is every kid’s dream growing up — to win trophies at a Club like Tottenham Hotspur.”Ange Postecoglou drops huge hint over Tottenham future with incredible mic-drop moment at Europa League paradeIn addition to Hojbjerg, Spurs formally announced the departures of Fraser Forster, Sergio Reguilon, Alfie Whiteman and Timo Werner.Forster, 37, featured 34 times for Spurs in three seasons, including four times in this year’s Europa League campaign.Reguilon signed from Real Madrid in 2020 and played 73 times for Tottenham, either side of loans with Atletico Madrid, Man Utd and Brentford.Goalkeeper Whiteman, 26, came through the club’s academy and made one first team outing.Tottenham have unsurprisingly opted against making Timo Werner’s loan deal permanent.Academy starlets Will Andiyapan, Archie Baptiste, Jahziah Linton, Maxwell McKnight, Max Robson, Jaden Williams, Timileyin Adekunle, Dante Orr and Charlie Warre have also departed.Fraser Forster poses with the Europa League trophyCredit: GettySergio Reguilon waves goodbye to the Tottenham fansCredit: GettyAlfie Whiteman came through Tottenham’s academyCredit: AFPTimo Werner’s 18-month loan spell at Spurs has come to an endCredit: Getty More

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    Man Utd identify £70m ex-Premier League star as Bruno Fernandes replacement if captain leaves for Al-Hilal

    RUBEN AMORIM will make a £70million swoop for Pedro Goncalves – if Bruno Fernandes heads for Saudi Arabia.But Manchester United’s hopes of landing the Sporting Lisbon prize guy could be scuppered if the Portuguese club sell Viktor Gyokeres first.Pedro Gonçalves played under Ruben Amorim at SportingCredit: GettyBruno Fernandes has been linked with a Saudi switchCredit: PAUnited skipper Fernandes has until Friday to tell Al-Hilal if he is up for a move to the Middle East, and the Saudis are ready to pay £100m if they get the thumbs up.And if Fernandes does take the plunge on a three-year deal, the cash-strapped Reds could afford Goncalves – also known as Pote – with money to spare.Manager Amorim would still prefer to keep his captain, and insisted he was confident of doing so after United’s post-season trip to Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.But he is equally aware that a salary of more than £1m a WEEK is hugely tempting for Fernandes.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the Old Trafford money men know they will hit the jackpot by banking such a fee for a man who turns 31 a month into next season.Goncalves, 26, had two years at Wolves as a teenager, but returned to Portugal without playing a game.Amorim took him to Lisbon from Famalicao six years ago, transforming him into a more attacking midfielder who can also play wide.Goncalves, who hit 23 goals as Sporting ended a 19-year title drought in 2021, missed five months of last season with a ruptured thigh muscle.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBut he returned in April and scored in the final day victory over Vitoria which clinched the Portuguese championship again.Goncalves is also on Aston Villa’s wish list, but United believe his relationship with Amorim puts them in pole position.Ruben Amorim bursts out laughing when asked about Man Utd star’s futureThe biggest stumbling block could arise if Arsenal or Napoli can seal an early deal for £67m-rated striker Gyokeres, as Sporting would be unwilling to cash in on two of their star men.But the Portuguese side will land a £5m-plus jackpot if Fernandes heads to the Middle East, thanks to a clause giving them ten percent of any profit United make on their skipper.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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    Aston Villa keen to loan out Argentina star after midfielder’s stay at Bayer Leverkusen comes to an end

    ASTON Villa are seeking a new loan destination for midfield schemer Emi Buendia as he returns from Bayer Leverkusen.Buendia is eager for a Premier League opportunity and his availability is likely to attract the attention of his former boss, Daniel Farke, at Leeds United.Emi Buendia scored two goals in 11 appearances for LeverkusenCredit: GettyNewly promoted Leeds United have been looking at himCredit: GettyLeverkusen decided against pursing a permanent move for the ArgentineCredit: GETTYHowever, Leeds have other priorities and Buendia may have to wait to see how committed they are to bringing him in.Leeds are allowed only two Premier League loans which could limit their options.Villa missed out on Champions League football to Chelsea and Newcastle after a defeat to Manchester United on the final day of the season.Since then, all attention has shifted to the future of goalkeeper and influential team member Emi Martinez.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Argentine has been sensational for Unai Emery’s side but fueled speculation of an exit when he broke down in tears and took a bow in front of the Holte End after Villa’s final home game of the season.There had been reports suggesting a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, but recent links indicate that Manchester United are now monitoring him.Neil Cutler, Martinez’s former coach at Villa and close friend, hinted at a potential Premier League move when he said: “This summer is pivotal for Emi in terms of his career.”He’s been voted the best goalkeeper in the world twice and it seems there is an opportunity for him this summer with all his options open.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Big clubs are queuing up to speak to him and he either stays at a massive club like Villa or moves to a truly world-class club.Why these WILD Chris Wood & Morgan Rogers stats could spell disaster for Chelsea & Man Utd | Experts’ best bets – Weekend Wager“I don’t think money is the issue for Emi, so I don’t think he’s ready to move to Saudi Arabia just yet.“If he does move, it would be to a much bigger club, one of the really big hitters, like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid… or even Manchester United.”Regarding potential incomings, Villa have been linked with Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, Espanyol’s Joan Garcia, and Nice’s Marcin Bulka if Martinez were to leave. More

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    Promise that Arne Slot made to Florian Wirtz that Bayern couldn’t match was ‘decisive factor’ in star picking Liverpool

    FLORIAN WIRTZ reportedly chose Liverpool over Bayern Munich after being given an irresistible promise by Arne Slot.The highly-rated German star was courted by both clubs but in the end the guarantee of the No10 role tipped the scales in the Reds’ favour.Florian Wirtz is a man in demand but Liverpool are closing in on himCredit: AFPBayern Munich are also interested in the Bayer Leverkusen starCredit: GettyWirtz has made it clear he wants to join LiverpoolCredit: GettyAccording to Caughtoffside, Wirtz revealed that the decision was ultimately made after Slot assured him he would be THE playmaker in his Liverpool team.While Bayern offered him the prospect of competing in their world-class side, the path to regular first-team football was far from clear.Jamal Musiala’s rapid rise at the Allianz Arena and the presence of more established players such as Joshua Kimmich meant that Wirtz would have had to fight for his place in the midfield.But at Liverpool, it is a different story – he would be the main man at Anfield.READ MORE FOOTBALL The creative hub of the team, controlling the game from midfield and leading Liverpool’s attack.Slot promised Wirtz full control of the No10 role, a position that would be his alone.This clear-cut offer of a starring role was a far cry from the uncertainty Bayern offered. In the end Wirtz made his choice opting for the chance to be Liverpool’s attacking leader.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe fact that Liverpool have won the Premier League in Slot’s first season is also contributing factor as it has highlighted the manager’s ability to bring the best out of young players.The Dutch manager has been able to get the best out of both old and new faces with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk enjoying stellar campaign as well as Curtis Jones and Cody GakpoThousands of people line streets for Liverpool’s Premier League title parade as iconic DJ drafted in as special guestHow close are Liverpool to a deal?The Premier League champions have submitted a second improved bid for the Germany midfielder.Liverpool’s latest offer for the 22-year-old is about £109m, including add-ons.Wirtz is a key target for the Merseyside club and has made his wishes clear about wanting to join Liverpool before next season.Wirtz is a rising star in European footballCredit: Reuters More

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    Man Utd confirm men’s first-team coach is leaving Ruben Amorim’s backroom staff to ‘find a new challenge elsewhere’

    MANCHESTER UNITED have confirmed a surprise shake-up behind the scenes with Andreas Georgson leaving his role.The Swedish coach joined the club less than 12 months ago under Erik Ten Hag, but he’s decided he wants a new challenge.Andreas Georgson arrived at United during the Erik ten Hag eraCredit: GettyRuben Amorim is determined to change things at Manchester UnitedCredit: Shutterstock EditorialHe was appointed as a set-piece guru – however with United struggling this season and looking to make changes in all departments his departure was seen as inevitable.Insiders suggest one of the reasons for his departure is that responsibility for dead-ball situations was taken away from him by Ruben Amorim.Georgson arrived from Norwegian side Lillestrom, where he was head coach.But with the club finishing a disappointing 15th in the league and failing to secure European football, it is clear that changes were necessary.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSGeorgson said: “It has been a fantastic experience serving as first-team coach at Manchester United.”I will always be proud of my association with such a great football club. “This period of my career has now come to an end as I leave to find a new challenge elsewhere. “While excited about the opportunities ahead, I am sad to be leaving so many great colleagues and friends at Carrington, who make Manchester United truly special. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Even during such a tough season, the professionalism and dedication of the players and staff never wavered, and I know there will be better times ahead.”United’s technical director Jason Wilcox said: “Andreas has been a valued member of our men’s first-team coaching set-up over the past year, and we are grateful for his significant contribution. Ruben Amorim breaks silence over futures of Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho”He leaves with our thanks and best wishes for the next stage of his career.”Manager Amorim, meanwhile, is said to be reshuffling the pack behind the scenes as part of a summer overhaul, following a post-season tour which featured a loss to the Aseasn All-Stars and a win over Hong Kong. More

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    Jurgen Klopp’s former Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders set for shock move to become Pep Guardiola’s new No2

    JURGEN KLOPP’S former assistant manager Pepijn Lijnders is set to become Pep Guardiola’s new No2 at Manchester City.Lijnders, 42, has been out of work since being sacked as RB Salzburg boss last December.Pepijn Lijnders was axed as RB Salzburg boss last DecemberCredit: AFPLijnders, 42, worked as Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool assistant across several yearsCredit: GettyThe Dutchman had accepted the gig after leaving Liverpool at the same time as pal Klopp.Lijnders had worked as the German’s assistant over two spells across nine years.He coached the Reds for many seasons as they battled with Guardiola’s City for the Prem title.According to The Times, Lijnders is now set to join his former rivals’ coaching staff.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey claim that he will work closely with Guardiola following the exits of a trio of the Spaniard’s backroom team.Juanma Lillo and Inigo Dominguez have both left City, while Carlos Vicens has departed to take charge of Portuguese Europa League outfit SC Braga.Lijnders was considered for the vacant Norwich City head coaching job earlier this month.The Canaries sacked Johannes Hoff Thorup, and opted not to give the gig to caretaker boss Jack Wilshere full time.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKCarlos Vicens is among the coaches to have left Pep Guardiola’s coaching teamCredit: GettyLijnders was interviewed for the position, only for Norwich chiefs to choose Bristol City boss Liam Manning instead.The former Anfield assistant is set to join up with City for next month’s Club World Cup.’I will quit’ – Pep Guardiola gives Man City ultimatum over squad issue that is ‘impossible for my soul’Ex-City centre-back Kolo Toure was also considered for the role.The Ivorian has been working with the club’s Under-18s.Toure, 44, has experience as a first team coach under Brendan Rodgers at Celtic and Leicester.While he was also briefly in charge of Wigan Athletic.Kolo Toure has been working with City’s academyCredit: Alamy More