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      Onana once looked like another Man Utd flop but is now one of Prem’s best keepers and making huge difference off pitch

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      FROM looking like just another expensive flop to one of the best goalkeepers in the Prem.It has been some year for Andre Onana, arguably Manchester United’s most improved player.Andre Onana has stepped up his game after a difficult debut season at Man UtdOnana kept out Liam Delap on several occasions on SundayOnana became the subject of scrutiny after several high profile howlers last seasonIn fact, Onana is leading the race for the Golden Glove with five clean sheets in 12 Prem games this season,.This is one more than Liverpool’s Alisson, Everton’s Jordan Pickford, Arsenal’s David Raya and Nottingham Forest stopper Matz Sels.Although Onana, 28, saw Ipswich’s Omari Hutchinson find a way past him to level in Sunday’s 1-1 draw, Ruben Amorim would have been staring at defeat in his first game as United boss but for his keeper.The Cameroonian made two brilliant saves to deny Liam Delap.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAt one time you only needed to get it on target to beat Onana, signed in a £47.2million deal. He arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2023 with a big reputation having just reached the Champions League final with Inter Milan, losing 1-0 to Manchester City.But eyebrows were already being raised in pre-season when he called out former skipper Harry Maguire after conceding a goal in a friendly with Borussia Dortmund in Las Vegas.United were quickly looking like they had gambled and lost, having let David de Gea leave when his deal ran out.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIn Onana’s first outing at Old Trafford in a pre-season game against French club Lens he was lobbed from 50 yards.Then in the opening match of that Prem season he was very lucky not to concede a late penalty after clearing out Wolves’ Sasa Kalajdzic.Man Utd player ratings vs Ipswich The next month Onana allowed a weak shot from Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane to crawl under him in a 4-3 Champions League defeat in Germany. He was recruited for his distribution skills as well as his shot-stopping but a hospital pass to Casemiro led to a red card for the Brazilian in a 3-2 home defeat to Galatasaray.He conceded two savable free-kicks in the 3-3 return against the Turkish side, having let another shot squirm under his body against Brentford.Onana admitted he found the switch to a different country, league and team a problem at first. But United fans would eventually see why Erik ten Hag signed his former Ajax No 1.By the end of his debut campaign he had made more saves than any other keeper in the Premier League with 149.United are a lowly 12th now after the Portman Road draw but Onana boasts the most league shut-outs.Onana has the most clean sheets in the Prem this season as United sit 12thHe looks more like an athlete than when he arrived and has grown into someone United can rely on.Onana has been achieving things off the field, too — yesterday the international players’ union Fifpro gave him the Player Impact Award.That is for setting up the Andre Onana Foundation, which provides free medical care and surgeries for underprivileged children and adults in his native Cameroon and other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.Doctors have performed more than 1,200 operations since 2021. The foundation also provides schools for orphans.Onana said: “The foundation means a lot to me. It makes me see things differently.READ MORE SUN STORIES“You see people who have nothing, yet they look happier than people who have everything. “They didn’t want to be in that position but destiny made it that way and they are making the best out of that situation.”Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Onana saves Amorim from embarrassment in first game as bossMANCHESTER UNITED began the Ruben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw away at Ipswich.Marcus Rashford needed just 81 seconds to put the Red Devils in front at Portman Road, tapping home an Amad Diallo cross.But Ipswich hit back when Omari Hutchinson’s strike flew in via a deflection off Noussair Mazraoui.And it was the newly-promoted side who looked likelier to get a winner in the second half.Here is how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett saw the performances of the Man Utd players…ANDRE ONANA – 7/10United’s best player. Two key stops to deny Liam Delap but no chance for the deflected Omari Hutchinson goal.Then delivered an 87th minute save to keep out an effort from Conor Chaplin.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 5Slotted in on the right of the three-man defence but unfortunate with the deflection for the goal.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 5Has been suspect this season and will probably be better suited to a back three although still given a tough time by Delap.JONNY EVANS – 5The 36-year-old was targeted by Ipswich for his lack of pace and no surprise he was replaced.AMAD DIALLO – 6Did incredibly well to bomb past Jens Cajuste and deliver the cross for Rashford’s early goal but offered little else.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 5Some nice touches going forward but too lightweight in this position in front of the back three.CASEMIRO – 4Lucky to start ahead of Manuel Ugarte and was really poor.Struggled throughout before being subbed and could maybe have got a block to the Hutchinson shot.DIOGO DALOT – 5Not suited to left wing-back although stayed there when Luke Shaw arrived because the English international replaced Evans in the back three.BRUNO FERNANDES – 5Some of his link-up play was fine but United need a captain who can inspire this team and Fernandes is not the man.Sent a free-kick flashing past the post with 12 minutes left.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5Twice called over by Ruben Amorim in the first half for instructions.Denied by a decent save from Aro Muric 50 seconds into the second half.MARCUS RASHFORD – 6Criticised for his basketball trip to New York so to score after 80 seconds was two fingers up at his critics – but did not offer much after that.SubsUgarte (for Casemiro 56 mins) – 6Shaw (for Evans 56 mins) – 6Hojlund (for Rashford 67 mins) – 5Zirkzee ( for Eriksen 67 mins) – 5Mount (for Garnacho 87 mins) – 5 More

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      Man Utd make history with major change to Old Trafford in ‘fantastic step forward’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have made history after becoming the first Premier League club to offer male sanitary facilities.The Red Devils will provide designated bins and products such as pads for men at Old Trafford.Manchester United have made history by becoming the first club to offer male sanitary facilities to match-going fansThe decision came after a fresh study from Prostate Cancer UK and phs GroupIt comes after a study found that 50 per cent of those with male bladder weakness attend fewer games due to a lack of facilities and anxiety about leaks.While one in seven (14 per cent) said they had stopped going to games altogether, according to Prostate Cancer UK.But United have now set the benchmark after becoming the first top-flight club to commit to Gold BOG STANDARD accreditation – the minimum requirements that charities are asking organisations to implement to support men with incontinence.Nick Ridgman, head of support services at Prostate Cancer UK, praised the Red Devils for their initiative. READ MORE ON MAN UTDHe said: “Manchester United’s commitment to supporting men with incontinence is a fantastic step forward.”And we hope their action will inspire change across the whole football community, from the top of the Premier League to local non-league games.”The report was published last week came from Prostate Cancer UK and phs Group.United, who sit 12th in the Prem after drawing at Ipswich, are leading the charge by providing designated bins and essential products such as pads.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFormer BBC sports presenter Steve Rider, who has battled prostate cancer himself, remarked: “Incontinence can become a real social barrier.”Imagine going to watch your local football team, you’re halfway through the second half and suddenly you feel the need to get rid of something a bit more substantial than your season ticket.Is Amad Diallo the key to transforming Ruben Amorim’s attack at Manchester United?”The ability to do that hygienically, with security and dignity, is so important. “And that’s why I’m a strong supporter of the Back in the Game initiative to get clubs up to the BOG STANDARD, to enable men to live a better life.”The next phase of plans to re-build Old Trafford and redevelop the surrounding area has been launched.United’s proposed regeneration of Trafford Park could boost the UK economy by up to £7.3billion.While United are consulting with the local community, they have NOT ruled out building a brand new 100,000-seater stadium away from the Theatre of Dreams.Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to build a new ground on the land adjacent to Old Trafford and pics of what the stadium could look like have been released.The Red Devils distributed a survey to season ticket holders and club members and received more than 50,000 responses.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club have confirmed that 52 per cent of respondents are in favour of demolishing Old Trafford and building an entirely new stadium.While 31 per cent would rather redevelop the current ground, and 17 per cent are unsure.Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury. More

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      Chelsea looking to re-sign star they sold for just £18million but face transfer battle with Newcastle

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      CHELSEA are considering a summer swoop to re-sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, according to reports.Guehi came through the youth ranks at Chelsea before moving to South East London for £18m during the 2021 summer window. Marc Guehi has now attracted interest from his former club ChelseaBut Chelsea could find themselves in a battle with Newcastle, who also want to land their former star next summer.He agreed to leave Stamford Bridge three years ago after finding his first-team opportunities limited.However, Guehi, who joined Chelsea at the age of six, has since established himself as one of the Prem’s best centre-backs.He has come on leaps and bounds since arriving at Selhurst Park, with the defender breaking into Gareth Southgate’s England side last season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSGuehi started five of the six games during the Three Lions’ Euros campaign, including the final 2-1 defeat to Spain.But the Palace star only missed the Switzerland game through suspension after picking up two yellow cards.The 24-year-old’s Palace contract expires at the end of next season.This has alerted the Enzo Maresca’s side to the fact he could be available for a cut-price fee next summer, according to talkSPORT.Most read in FootballGuehi is now a staple in England’s defenceFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe centre-back was wanted by Newcastle this summer, but Palace refused to lower their £70m price tag.Guehi, capped 22 times by England, was recently praised by interim Three Lions boss Lee Carsley for being “fast and aggressive”.’Referees don’t understand football!’ Ex-Prem ref slams PGMOL for serious Chelsea & Liverpool errorsHe only played two first-team games for Chelsea and was loaned out to Swansea City, before leaving to join Palace, who were then managed by Patrick Vieira.But transfer journalist Graeme Bailey has tipped Guehi for a possible return to the Blues. He said: “Guehi is someone who they like, he’s high up on the list. Palace have got issues, a January deal is not something Guehi is pushing for.“He’ll have a year left on his deal next summer, and will be a very attractive proposition for one of the top six. “He’s one to keep an eye on for sure, we know Chelsea like him, and Chelsea do want to upgrade the options behind Fofana and Colwill.”Chelsea player ratings vs LeicesterBy Graham HillCHELSEA survived a late Leicester fightback to win 2-1 at the King Power Stadium.SunSport’s Graham Hill rated each of the players in action.Robert Sanchez – 6He had a few shaky moments playing out from the back, which gave Leicester hope of getting back into the game before the break, but he will not be happy to have missed out on a clean sheet in stoppage time.Wesley Fofana – 7Booed on his second return to Leicester – but he refused to let it unsettle him, the fans could not put him off producing an assured display in the Chelsea defence.Benoit Badiashile – 7Controlled display at the back, he showed some superb vision at times but, apart from a spell in the first half, he was rarely troubled.Levi Colwill – 7Cool, calm and collected in defence – even when Leicester threatened to get back on level terms. A controlled second half display helped keep the Foxes at bay.Marc Cucurella – 7Looked a threat out left going forward and created some of Chelsea’s best opportunities of the game – including their second goal and he knew how to frustrate Leicester when he needed to.Moises Caicedo – 8Booked for dissent at a time when Leicester almost came back into it, but kept his head to make sure Chelsea stayed firmly in command of the game.Enzo Fernandez – 8Set up Jackson’s goal and is making a habit of providing key assists – this was fifth in his last three games.Headed number two from close range for good measure.Noni Madueke – 7Brought an excellent first half save from Mads Hermansen – who then stopped him scoring Chelsea’s second before the break.Blocked a certain Palmer goal though.Cole Palmer – 8Got some unwanted attention midway through the first half after a terrible challenge from Wilfred Ndidi – hit Maduke when he should have scored, otherwise he was excellent.Joao Felix – 6Peppered some shots in early on and proved a thorn in Leicester’s side, but drifted in and out of the game despite being part of a dominant Chelsea display.Nicolas Jackson – 7The opening goal – his seventh of the season – rounded off a powerful run and clinical finish after some help from Fernandez in the build-up. Also had a hand in Chelsea’s second.SubsChris Nkunku: for Joao Felix 81mins – 6Romeo Lavia: for Caicedo 81 mins – 5Jadon Sancho: for Maduke 84mins – 6Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: for Jackson 90 + 1mins – 5 More

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      Newcastle star reveals how new bedroom routine can help him avoid more agony after six-month injury hell

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      CALLUM WILSON says he even changed his bedroom routine in order to solve his injury woes.The 32-year-old made his long-awaited return after a five-month absence as a late substitute for Newcastle in Monday’s defeat to West Ham.Callum Wilson made his return from injury for Newcastle against West HamCredit: GettyHe revealed how much he changed during his rehab – including his sleeping habitsCredit: GettyWilson is Toon’s second top scorer in Premier League history behind only Alan Shearer despite suffering numerous physical setbacks over recent years.His latest was a back and hamstring problem picked up right at the start of pre-seaon and he says that he has done “a lot of different things” on his recovery this time to try to avoid any further agony.The striker said: “I’ve done a lot of analysis into the body, changed a lot of things and hopefully now put an end to the setbacks.“Nobody likes to get injured, you try your best and nobody can guarantee anything but I think to get to this point in my career with the setbacks I’ve had I have to give myself credit for keeping bouncing back. But it’s about not having to now.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPressed on what he had done in rehab this time, Wilson revealed he had even changed the way he sleeps as he targets firing the club to a top four finish.He said: “Nothing specific really, just lots of different things. Seen a lot of specialists, different analysis into the body, how you run, how you move, how you sleep, how you eat to put an end to the setbacks you have to go through.“For me now I had a spell out, missed a fair few games so it’s about staying fit, helping the team.“There’s a lot of potential in that dressing room, a strong squad and it’s about making sure we can put the club where it deserves to be and where the squad warrants.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“We had a taste of Champions League football and want to get back there.”Boss Eddie Howe is a huge fan of the star who he also managed at Bournemouth, however, Wilson knows he has to deliver and stay fit in order to earn a new deal with his current contract expiring in June.Callum Wilson slams Newcastle pre-season training under Steve Bruce and says they weren’t ready for first game He says: “I’m not thinking about it to be honest. You can only focus on the current situation – the first and foremost was getting fit, from there you build on that, stay fit, score your goals and then it’s down to the club on how things progress and like I say, as a striker you score goals and get yourself longevity don’t you?”I love playing for this club, I joined many years ago and helped the club numerous times throughout the years and I want to be a part of it.“It’s about getting going and getting out there – as long as I’m on the pitch I’ve no doubt I’ll score goals but it’s about staying on the pitch.”And with Thomas Tuchel taking over as England manager, Wilson also admitted his desire to build on his nine caps and two goals for the Three Lions.He added: “Of course you always have one eye on international football. There’s a long period of time now until the next camp and there’s a lot of games to be played before then.“I never really would shut down anything like that but your football for Newcastle takes care of that.“If I’m on the pitch I’ll score goals, if I score goals you get yourself in the England squad.”How ‘big angel’ Joelinton rescued boss after he fainted in SubwayNEWCASTLE cult hero Joelinton rescued his old boss after he fainted in Subway.And coach Pellegrino Matarazzo still calls the Brazilian his ‘angel’.Matarazzo was Joelinton assistant manager during the midfielder’s spell in Germany with Hoffenheim.Recalling the scary incident, the Matarazzo revealed: “I was standing in the queue and I wasn’t feeling well.“I tried to go over to the Coca-Cola machine to quickly get a drink.”I realised I was about to faint, and I did faint.“When I opened my eyes I saw Joelinton! ‘Rino, Rino, are you okay?'”He was like a small, no a big, angel – Joelinton, what are you doing here?”Read the full story… More

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      Man Utd draw up four-man striker transfer shortlist for January including Osimhen and Boniface but fans fume at omission

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have four strikers on their shortlist ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports.Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored fewer goals than the Red Devils in the Premier League, with new boss Ruben Amorim identifying the position as a problem area.Victor Boniface is highly-rated by Man Utd chiefsCredit: GettyVictor Osimhen is also on United’s shortlist with Napoli star currently on loan at GalatasarayCredit: ReutersRandal Kolo Muani is set to be made available in JanuaryCredit: GettyOmar Marmoush is also on the Red Devils’ radarCredit: APSummer signing Joshua Zirkzee has scored just one goal in all competitions and Rasmus Hojlund has found the back of the net twice this season.Marcus Rashford scored as the striker against Ipswich, but Amorim is still keen on getting in a new No9.Sky Germany report that United have drawn up a four-man shortlist for moves in January.Bayer Leverkusen star Victor Boniface is admired by Man Utd after he fired Xabi Alonso’s side to an undefeated domestic double last season.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut Boniface, 23, who has struggled with injuries, could prove too expensive and would only become available in the summer.His Nigerian compatriot Victor Osimhen is another being talked about at Old Trafford.He is on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli after his move to Chelsea collapsed before the start of the season.Osimhen, 25, has a £110million release clause, though clubs could get him for less as the Italian giants want to sell. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMan Utd’s four-man striker shortlist Stats this season:Victor Boniface: 15 games, eight goals, one assist (Bayer Leverkusen)Victor Osimhen: 10 games, eight goals, four assists (Galatasaray)Randal Kolo Muani: 13 games, two goals, one assist (PSG)Omar Marmoush: 17 games, 14 goals, ten assists (Eintracht Frankfurt) PSG star Randal Kolo Muani is also on Man Utd’s shortlist after struggling in the French capital.He has found the back of the net 11 times in 53 games since his £77million deal from Eintracht Frankfurt.Gary Neville admits he ‘can’t see what’s going to happen’ with Man Utd conundrum as he names likely winners under Amorim Kolo Muani, 25, could be open to a move to the Premier League, having started just two PSG games this term.A January loan is seen as realistic and a permanent move possible if United can find the cash.His replacement at Frankfurt was Omar Marmoush, who is second at the top of the Bundesliga goalscoring charts behind only Harry Kane.The versatile Egyptian has eleven goals and seven assists this season and his contract expires in 2027.Marmoush, 25, is rumoured to be available for between £42m to £50m.Man Utd fans have been left baffled by the omission of Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres, with many hoping the Swede follows Amorim to Manchester. One supporter said: “Why is Gyokeres not on the list? He would suit us perfectly.Another added: “Gyokeres is still the best striker in the market.”READ MORE SUN STORIESIt is not just a striker the new manager wants as he also has his eye on a new left-back.Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies is reportedly first choice, with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez the alternatives. Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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      Arne Slot bursts out laughing after reporter tells him what Liverpool fans have been singing about him

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      ARNE SLOT burst out laughing after being told about Liverpool fans’ new song.The Reds boss has enjoyed a stunning start to life at Anfield after replacing Jurgen Klopp. Liverpool fans have come up with a brilliant Christmas song for their managerCredit: APArne Slot could not stop laughing when he found outCredit: GettyHis high-flying side sit top of the tree in both the Premier League and the Champions League.They are the only team with four wins from four in Europe’s new-look competition.And ahead of hosting holders Real Madrid in matchday five, Slot learned about the festive jingle written for him.A journalist informed the Dutchman during the press conference that Liverpool supporters have started singing: “It’s beginning to look a Slot like Christmas,” in tribute to their new touchline hero. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Slot could not help but giggle at the lyrics – but had nothing to say about the song other than he had no idea about the genius tweak.The original – It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas – was first written in 1951 by Meredith Willson and has been made popular by various artists including Michael Buble. However, Liverpool fans will not be hoping for a repeat of the 1951-52 season following their new version – because rivals Manchester United won the top flight that season.Slot was also asked about the future of Mo Salah following his bombshell comments after the 3-2 win at Southampton.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSalah revealed he is “more out than in” as he approaches the final six months of his current Anfield contract.He insisted there has been no offer on an extension amid transfer speculation linking him to Saudi Arabia. Mo Salah admits he’s ‘more OUT than in’ as he piles pressure on Liverpool to offer him a new contractBut Slot had the perfect response to the comments when quizzed by the press. Slot said: “The only thing I can say is that if I look at my line-ups Mo is more in than out.”I don’t think it distracts Mo at all, maybe it even brings the best out of him if you look at his performances until now.”Like I’ve said a few times already, my focus is the next game and another big game is coming up and it just keeps on going.”I talk to Mo about what I expect from him, like I do with all the other players, and he is in a good place at the moment. I’m not distracted by his comments and I don’t feel his team-mates are.”Liverpool will be desperate to end their rotten run against Real Madrid – managed by ex-Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti.Los Blancos have won seven of their last eight meetings – with a 0-0 draw in April 2021 – and last tasted defeat against the Reds in 2009. More

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      How Liverpool replace Mo Salah – the five best options to succeed the record-breaking Egyptian King at Anfield

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      MO Salah is irreplaceable at Liverpool – but so were Kevin Keegan, Fernando Torres and Roberto Firmino.Salah is going to leave Anfield one day and if that day is soon, the Reds urgently need to find a player or players who can match the Egyptian winger’s incredible attacking contribution.Baring his soul – Mohamed Salah’s complaint about a lack of contract offer has Liverpool fans in a panicCredit: APWhen Keegan moved to Hamburg in 1977, Liverpool signed Kenny Dalglish from Celtic and the super Scot became a club legend as a player and manager.On the same transfer deadline day that Fernando Torres left for Chelsea for £50m, the Reds brought in Luis Suarez for £22.8 from Ajax.But the jury is still out on whether Darwin Nunez, who cost an initial £64m, will spearhead the club to the same level of achievement as previous No 9 Firmino.And finding someone to step into the shoes of Salah, Liverpool’s record Premier League and Champions League goalscorer, is arguably the greatest challenge Kop bosses have ever faced. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSalah’s contract situation puts his current employers in a tough situation.Chief executive of football Michael Edwards and director of football Richard Hughes will be doing their best to find a way to keep their main man at the club beyond next summer, when his existing contract expires.But regardless of the outcome of those negotiations, they will also have been working on a succession plan.Here SunSport looks at five leading pretenders to the throne of the Egyptian King.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMOHAMMED KUDUS – West HamThe Hammers’ left-footed Ghanaian international, 24, is probably the closest thing in the Premier League to a potential like-for-like replacement for Salah. Liverpool were sniffing around in the summer and are known to rate Kudus highly, although his numbers this season suffer badly from a five-game suspension. But reports of a release clause of £85m don’t help his cause when there may be better value elsewhere in the market.JOHAN BAKAYOKO – PSV EindhovenLeft-footed right winger? Check. Well-known to Arne Slot? Absolutely, after playing a big role in PSV dethroning Slot’s Feyenoord as Dutch champions. And an exciting young talent with the potential to become a superstar? At 21 and already a Belgium international, very much so. Bakayoko ticks a lot of boxes, including a contract that runs out in less than two years. PSV’s fee demands would determine how much of a gamble he is.KARIM-DAVID ADEYEMI – Borussia DortmundThe Reds have been keeping an eye on Adeyemi for a long time, since even before he joined Red Bull Salzburg as a 16 year old. After showing only flashes of his potential in his first two seasons at Dortmund, the Germany international, 22, really hit the ground running in this campaign before suffering an injury that has kept him out since October. His stats are miles off Salah’s – but so were Salah’s before he came to Liverpool.BRYAN MBEUMO – BrentfordThe least sexy option but could the versatile Cameroon international, 25, be the best? There are good reasons why Arsenal have also been linked with Mbeumo. He is tucked in just behind Erling Haaland and Salah this season in the race for the Golden Boot with eight goals, already almost matching his best Premier League tally. Would he get even better in a more front-foot team? With his contract up in 2026, it is a tempting punt.OMAR MARMOUSH – Eintracht FrankfurtWho better to replace the Egyptian King than his countryman, especially given the red-hot form he is in so far this season? READ MORE SUN STORIESWith 11 goals and seven assists in 11 Bundesliga matches, Marmoush is one of European football’s ’s hottest properties. Not being an out-and-out winger should not be a deal-breaker for a coach like Slot. But the price might be if competition for the 25 year old’s services proves really fierce. More

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      Arsenal transfer blow as Barcelona make Isak top transfer target with Gyokeres set to snub Nou Camp for Man Utd move

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      BARCELONA have made Alexander Isak their number one summer target, SunSport can reveal.The Spanish giants will make a mega-money offer for the Newcastle striker at the end of the season.Barcelona have identified Alexander Isak as a top transfer targetCredit: GettyViktor Gyokeres has his sights set on a move to the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyIt comes days after Eddie Howe said Sweden star Isak could go on to be one of the world’s best forwards.Directors at the Nou Camp have switched their focus to Isak after learning they will struggle to secure the services of his international team-mate Viktor Gyokeres – another player they covet.SunSport understands Sporting Lisbon striker Gyokeres has his heart set on a move to the Premier League and a reunion with ex-boss Ruben Amorim at Manchester United.But Isak is viewed as a plan B by Barcelona who think he can help lead them to success in Spain and in Europe.Read More in FootballArsenal have also been heavily linked with a move for Isak, who is yet to agree terms for a new deal with Newcastle.He is said to be one of Mikel Arteta’s top targets for 2026.Last week, speaking in the build up to their game with West Ham, Newcastle manager Howe said: “He’s building momentum into his season and has scored some big goals of late for us. His general performances I think have continued to improve.“He’s gone away to Sweden and played very well, I’m delighted with how he has looked on international duty as well, to continue that good form.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“I think being a striker, having not been one myself, but just from my experience it’s all about confidence and how you feel.“Alex has got undoubted qualities. I would put him right up there in terms of world strikers that are currently playing.”Rúben Amorim talks about the future of Viktor Gyökeres at Sporting Asked if he could be the best in the world, Howe added: “I feel that his potential is great.“I think he can really, if he can continue on the path he has been the last few seasons, continue to go and prove himself as one of the world’s best.”That would be, without putting pressure on him, my target if I was him. More