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    Victor Lindelof casts doubt on Man Utd future as he reveals he will hold transfer talks with Erik ten Hag

    VICTOR LINDELOF has cast doubt over his Manchester United future and indicated he will hold talks with the club at the end of the season. The Swedish defender has been at Old Trafford for six years after being signed by Jose Mourinho.
    Victor Lindelof has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford this seasonCredit: Alamy
    But this season he has found first-team football hard to come by as the club brought in reinforcements to strengthen their backline.
    Lindelof is now fourth-choice behind Rafael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and club captain Harry Maguire.
    The 28-year-old is currently away on international duty but faced questions from reporters on life at Old Trafford and what the future could hold for him.
    Asked if he found it frustrating to not be playing more regularly, Lindelof said: “Well of course like every player, you want to play every game and obviously I have not done that this season.
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    “But I haven’t thought about that, right now I’m focusing on the national team and then of course the rest of the season with the club and then in the summer we’ll have to re-evaluate and see what’s best.
    “But like I always say when I come here, it’s a pleasure to be here and I’m very happy to represent my country and I’m really looking forward to the games that we have.”
    The impressive partnership of Varane and Martinez for United has seen Lindelof relegated to the sidelines.
    The star has also had to watch left-back Luke Shaw occasionally cover for one of the centre-backs while he’s been left on the bench.
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    Lindelof has made 217 United appearances but only has nine Premier League outings to his name this season, compared to 28, 29 and 35 appearances in the past three campaigns.
    His contract expires at the end of next season and reports have indicted a potential move to Inter Milan could be on the cards.
    Speculation also surrounds Maguire who may be facing similar frustrations over his lack of football.
    The former Leicester defender has been linked with a shock move to PSG in recent weeks. More

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    Man Utd set to be fined record amount after being charged by FA for failing to control players against Fulham

    MANCHESTER UNITED face their FOURTH player misbehaviour fine of the season after ALSO being charged by the FA for their part in last Sunday’s mayhem against Fulham.Wembley beaks are set to hand Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic a potentially season-ending ban for shoving and then confronting referee Chris Kavanagh.
    Manchester United are set to land another fine for player misbehaviourCredit: Rex
    It comes after the mayhem during the FA Cup clash against Fulham last SundayCredit: Rex
    The Craven Cottage outfit and boss Marco Silva will join Mitrovic in the FA dock for the lawless response to Kavanagh’s decision to follow VAR advice and send off Willian for a goalline handball offence.
    But now United have been hit by an FA rap for their players surrounding Kavanagh when he initially awarded only a corner.
    An FA spokesperson said: “Manchester United FC has been charged after its players surrounded a match official during the 71st minute of The FA Cup tie against Fulham FC on Sunday 19 March.
    “It’s alleged that Manchester United FC failed to ensure its players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and/or do not behave in a way which is improper.
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    “Manchester United FC has until Monday 27 March to respond.”
    SunSport revealed earlier this week that Prem and EFL clubs have already been fined almost £1.3million for on-field rucks and abuse of officials.
    United have been fined £137,000 for three separate previous offences of failing to control their players, in the matches against Newcastle and Chelsea in October and Crystal Palace last month.
    The fourth offence is likely to bring the Old Trafford club a further fine of around £75,000.
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    This will equal the biggest single player misbehaviour fine levied so far this term, against Manchester City for surrounding ref Anthony Taylor in their win at Arsenal.
    The Gunners have paid out the biggest sum this season, totalling £185,000. More

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    Man Utd takeover LIVE: TWO new bids for the club emerge as DEADLINE EXTENDED, Rashford stalling over new deal EXCLUSIVE

    MANCHESTER UNITED have received an offer from Elliott Management to buy a minority stake in the club, according to The Independent.Another potential buyer has also emerged, with Finnish entrepreneur Thomas Zilliacus set to submit a bid for the Red Devils.
    SunSport can exclusively reveal that Manchester United star Marcus Rashford is stalling over a new deal at Old Trafford.
    The England international is waiting until a takeover is complete, as the Glazers are currently enforcing a wage cap.
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    Stay up to date with all the latest from Old Trafford
    Lindelof to ‘re-evaluate’ his Utd position
    Victor Lindelor has cast doubt over his Manchester United future and indicated he will hold talks with the club at the end of the season.
    The Swedish defender has been at Old Trafford for six years after being signed by Jose Mourinho.
    But this season he has found first-team football hard to come by as the club brought in reinforcements to strengthen their backline.
    Lindelof is now fourth-choice behind Rafael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and club captain Harry Maguire.
    The 28-year-old is currently away on international duty but faced questions from reporters on life at Old Trafford and what the future could hold for him.
    Asked if he found it frustrating to not be playing more regularly, Lindelof said: “Well of course like every player, you want to play every game and obviously I have not done that this season.
    “But I haven’t thought about that, right now I’m focusing on the national team and then of course the rest of the season with the club and then in the summer we’ll have to re-evaluate and see what’s best.
    “But like I always say when I come here, it’s a pleasure to be here and I’m very happy to represent my country and I’m really looking forward to the games that we have.”
    Takeover in doubt
    United could remain in the hands of the Glazer family – after US hedge fund Elliott Management made an offer to take a minority stake in the club.
    In what would be a U-turn that would leave many Old Trafford fans aghast, there are increasing suspicions that the planned sale could be OFF – unless bidders match the Glazers’ £6bn valuation.

    And some reports even claim the American owners are actually holding out for £6.5bn.
    The contest to control the club descended into farce on Wednesday evening when the Glazers’ chosen deal-makers, US banking group Raine, gave a last-minute extension to the previous 9pm bidding deadline.
    That left both the declared public bidders, Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani and Britain’s richest man, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos group, scrambling to work out their next move.
    Sheikh Jassim withdrew the £5bn offer he had made ahead of the deadline, while Ineos, which had been on the brink of making a similar offer, was forced into a rethink.
    Lindelof speaks on United future
    Victor Lindelof has dropped a new hint over his future at Manchester United while on international duty with Sweden.
    He said: “Obviously I want to play. That’s why I play football because you want to play games.
    “Right now I am focusing on the national team and the rest of the season with the club. In the summer, we have to re-evaluate and see what’s best.”
    Elliott Management make takeover bid
    Elliott Management have made an offer to buy a minority stake of Manchester United, according to The Independent
    It is claimed the bid, which was submitted before Wednesday night’s 9pm deadline, is potentially up to 40 per cent of the club.
    Figures involved with the process have long maintained that the Glazers staying on with such a deal is an option that cannot be ruled out.
    Man Utd told Osimhen price
    Manchester United are favourites to sign Napoli star Victor Osimhen, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.
    But the transfer guru claims it could take a Premier League record fee for United to get their man.
    Napoli are reportedly willing to sell Osimhen for a fee in the region of £115-£130million.
    New takeover bid emerges
    Finnish entrepreneur Thomas Zilliacus is set to submit a bid for Manchester United that will see fan ownership introduced – allowing them equal say via an app.
    The Glazers are currently open to potential sale options, which could yet involve a minority investor, with interest so far coming from Britain’s richest man, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, and Qatari businessman, Sheikh Jassim. Following Wednesday’s deadline, both have been granted an extension to submit their second bid…but now a new bidder has now come to the table.
    Zilliacus had made his fortunes through novaM Group, a new social media group, and is ready to submit his offer through XXI Century Capital, an investment firm owned by his holding company. The Finn’s unique bid comes via his fan involvement, which will be hugely appealing to supporters.
    Rooney wanted Ozil at United
    Wayne Rooney was shut down by Sir Alex Ferguson after he told him to sign Mesut Ozil.
    The former Arsenal and Real Madrid midfielder retired from football this week, aged 34.
    Recalling the story in his autobiography, Fergie wrote: “Wayne said that we should have pursued Mesut Ozil, who had joined Real Madrid from Werder Bremen.
    “My reply was that it was none of his business who we should have gone for.
    “I told him it was his job to play and perform. My job was to pick the correct teams. And so far I had been getting it right.
    “Well, he was not on our radar at the time. Ozil when at Werder Bremen played wide right, then towards the end of the season played him off the front.
    “He went to South Africa and did very well. But wasn’t on our radar. But I explained to Wayne and we get most of our decisions right.”
    Man Utd receive Veiga boost
    Celta Vigo will find it “impossible” to hold on to Manchester United and Newcastle target Gabri Veiga, reports suggest.
    The attacking midfielder has a contract with Celta until 2026 but club president Carlos Mourino confirmed that he won’t be able to keep him at the Balaidos this summer.
    Mourino insists he wants hold on to the 20-year-old ace but his £35million release clause won’t allow him.
    EXCLUSIVE: Marcus Rashford stalls over new United deal
    SunSport can exclusively reveal that the England international is holding off signing a new contract at Old Trafford.
    Rashford has 14 Premier League goals so far this season.
    He’s been a revelation under Eric ten Hag during his first season in charge at the club.
    Credit: getty
    Luxury sea Devils
    Fred’s enjoying the type of international break all footballers would love.

    United’s Brazilian midfielder escaped back to the Maldives with wife Monique Salum and their son – three years after the couple spent their second honeymoon at the luxury location.

    That time the couple spent £3,500 a night on a sea villa.

    And since then they haven’t seen much reason to change their tastes in the high life.

    Ron a ‘better man’ after Utd exit
    Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he is now a “better man” following his exit from Man United.
    The Portuguese star left the club after his  explosive interview with Piers Morgan.

    His final months at the club were filled with trouble as he struggled to star under new manager Erik ten Hag.
    Ronaldo even refused to come on as a substitute against Tottenham before his appearance on Morgan’s TalkTV show.
    In which he criticised the Dutch manager and the club’s Glazer ownership, leading to his contract being mutually terminated.
    He has since joined Saudi Arabian football club Al Nassr on a staggering £173-million-a-year deal.
    Ronaldo has rediscovered his goalscoring form netting nine goals in his first eight Saudi Pro League games.
    And he has now claimed that he has moved on from his struggles at Man United.
    During a Portugal press conference ahead of their international fixtures, Ronaldo said of his issues at the Red Devils: “Sometimes, you have to go through some things to see who is on my side.
    “I have no problem saying, I had a bad career run, but there’s no time for regrets.
    “Life goes on and, doing well or not, it was part of my growth.
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    “When we are at the top of the mountain, we often cannot see what is below.
    “Now, I’m more prepared and learning that was important because I had never been through this, like in the last few months.
    “Now I’m a better man.”
    Henderson link could boost Utd hunt for Kane
    United could be boosted in their Harry Kane pursuit by Tottenham’s interest in Dean Henderson, according to reports.
    Spurs are believed to be eyeing a long-term successor for Huge Lloris, 36.
    They were said to be interested in England No1 Jordan Pickford but he penned a new long-term deal with Everton in February.
    Tottenham have targeted Henderson as an alternative this summer if United are willing to let him leave, report ESPN.

    And the report adds Red Devils chiefs could use that to their advantage in negotiations over Kane.
    Kane is believed to be Erik ten Hag’s no1 target this summer but United fear nightmare negotiations with Spurs chief Daniel Levy.
    The striker is understood to have an asking price of £100million but there is concern shrewd negotiator Levy could drag on talks until late in the window.
    However, Spurs’ interest in Henderson could encourage Levy to be more open to talks involving Kane.
    The shot-stopper could also be keen on a move to North London after joining Nottingham Forest on loan to get more first-team football this season.
    He has impressed at the City Ground and had become a vital member of the Forest’s progress before he picked up a muscular injury.
    Eriksen steps up recovery
    Christian Eriksen could be back for Man United soon after having his protective boot removed.
    He has been on the sidelines since the club’s win over Reading in the FA Cup in January.
    The midfielder has confirmed he is back training for the Red Devils on social media.
    The Dane posted three pictures to his Instagram story confirming the removal of his protective boot.
    The collection of snaps shows Eriksen’s progression from wearing the protective boot to trainers to his football boots.
    Eriksen was not expected back until April, but looks on course to feature again for the club before the end of the season.

    ‘Queen of Porn’ begged for Utd tickets
    Pornstar Jenna Jameson is a huge Manchester United fan and once begged for tickets to see the Red Devils.
    Known as the ‘Queen of Porn’, Jameson was once named the world’s most famous adult entertainment performer.
    And she has made no secret of her love for United, once taking to Twitter to ask for tickets to see them in a friendly against Barcelona in 2015.

    Asked if she was a fan, Jameson responded: “Yessss. Of course! Huge fan.”
    Jameson’s career dates back to 1993 after she started acting in erotic videos and working as a stripper.
    Over the years, she starred in a number of X-rated productions and was also seen in Eminem’s 2002 “Without Me” music video.
    In 2000, Jameson famously founded her own online internet adult company called ClubJenna, which was known for providing pictures, videos, blogs, relationship advice, and stock tips.
    The 48-year-old spent 15 years in the adult industry, performing in films such as Dirt Merchant, Zombie Strippers, Erotic Aftershock and Wicked Weapon.
    She also starred in mainstream films including Ali G, Aiii and What Love Is.
    In January 2022 Jameson revealed she was being treated for Guillain-Barré syndrome after being left “unable to walk.”
    Takeover deadline extended
    United bidders are now playing a waiting game to discover if the Glazer family REALLY want to sell – after the club EXTENDED its deadline for offers.
    Both the two declared contestants, Britain’s richest man Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos petro-chemicals group and Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani made improved bids ahead of the planned 9pm deadline set by deal organisers and US financiers Raine Group.
    It is understood that both the public bidders have increased their initial £4.5bn bid to around the £5bn mark, a world record for any sporting franchise.
    But it emerged last night that Raine are now holding open the bidding process until the end of this week – the close of New York business tomorrow – in an apparent attempt to entice more potential owners out of the woodwork.
    And it still remains to be seen if a bid in that area is enough to confirm to the Glazers, who have set a valuation of £6bn, that they should sell up.
    While both Sheikh Jassim and Ineos believe they are the only serious contenders, Raine have indicated up to another eight groups have expressed an interest. Only one of those, US hedge fund Elliott Management, has declared itself.
    Unlike Ineos – who want to buy out the Glazers’ 69 per cent share – and Sheikh Jassim, who envisages a full takeover, Elliott are merely seeking to forward funds to potential bidders.
    It is more than possible that the other interested parties are also seeking to provide funding rather than actually take over the club but giving bidders an extra 48 hours suggests Raine believe there are genuine options open to them.
    But even the two main bidders are understood to still harbour doubts over whether the Glazers will sell unless their high valuation is met in full.
    Koeman ‘doubts’ over Utd target Frimpong
    Holland boss Ronald Koeman has hit out at right-back Jeremie Frimpong’s defensive capabilities.
    Bayer Leverkusen defender Frimpong, 22, has been linked with a move to Manchester United.
    However, the former Manchester City Academy star is yet to make his Holland debut.

    He was in Louis van Gaal’s World Cup squad but was not included in Koeman’s squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against France and Gibraltar.
    That’s despite scoring seven goals and providing nine assists in 35 games from right-back this season.
    However, Koeman, 60, has questioned Frimpong’s ability to defend effectively.
    He suggested that he has “doubts” over ex-Celtic man’s capability at the back.
    When asked why the youngster wasn’t in the squad, he said: “No Frimpong? This is because of the system that we play.
    “He plays almost as a right winger.
    “My right back should be able to defend well in the first place and I have my doubts about that.”
    Frimpong was part of the Holland squad that were knocked out of the World Cup by eventual winners Argentina in the quarter-finals.
    However, he failed to make an appearance at the tournament.
    He has now lost his place in the squad for the games against France and Gibraltar.
    Muani drops United hint
    United transfer target Randal Kolo Muani has dropped the biggest hint yet he could move to the club.
    The French forward has been on United’s radar ahead of a possible summer move.

    The transfer could see the Red Devils fork out £105million to prise him away from Oliver Glasner’s Eintracht Frankfurt.
    And the 24-year-old forward has given the biggest hint yet that he may move in the summer.
    Speaking to French publication L’Equipe, he said: “We talk about it a lot already, but I try to be focused on my club.
    “We continue our performances and we will see this summer. Afterwards, I always dreamed of playing in big clubs.”
    Red Devils tipped to beat Chelsea to wonderkid
    United are reportedly set to beat Chelsea in the race for teenage wonderkid Harry Amass.
    The highly-rated 16-year-old has already managed to attract the interest of England’s biggest clubs while in Watford’s youth academy.
    Amass has shown such promise he was even included in a first-team squad for the Hornets back in January.
    But now he appears set to leave Vicarage Road and head to Man United, according to the Evening Standard.

    Chelsea had been in the hunt for the youngster to bolster their youth ranks and develop the star further.
    But Amass is in advanced talks with the Red Devils over a move.
    The England U16s star reportedly believes that training with a top-tier academy could help further his development more quickly than staying with Watford.
    Amass has been tracked by the country’s biggest clubs since breaking into the national set up at St George’s Park in 2021.
    He was part of the England U16 side who won silverware for England at a Uefa Development tournament last month.
    At club level the defender plays for Watford’s U18 side who are currently eighth in the Professional Development League.
    RVP ‘proud’ of Malacia
    Man United and Arsenal legend Robin van Persie has heaped praise on Red Devils’ full-back Tyrell Malacia.
    Malacia joined United in a £13million deal from Feyenoord last summer.

    And while he has been in and out of the first team, he has more than proven his utility as a squad player for Erik ten Hag.
    United legend Van Persie played alongside Malacia on 17 occasions while both were at Feyenoord.
    And the striker has revealed how “proud” he is at how well the defender is doing.
    He told Man Utd media: “I do believe, per window, [you have] to get a couple of the right players in, and Tyrell Malacia is one of them.

    Bellingham snapped signign Liverpool top
    Jude Bellingham has sparked transfer rumours after he was snapped signing a Liverpool shirt while on international duty.
    The 19-year-old is at the centre of an epic fight between the world’s biggest clubs who are all looking to sign him this summer.
    Another outstanding season for Dortmund and his dazzling displays for England during the World Cup have only increased his value.

    Fans will hope to see him in action over the coming days as he prepares to don his Three Lions shirt for Euro qualifiers against Italy and Ukraine.
    But before the action can begin, fans gathered at St George’s Park to watch the England stars train as they prepare for their first international match since leaving Qatar.
    Bellingham was pictured signing a Liverpool shirt as he greeted supporters in what Reds fans will hope is a glimmer of the future.
    The young supporter, already wearing a Liverpool shirt with Mohamed Salah’s name on the back, holds up another shirt to sign which Bellingham does.
    Anfield is among the destinations where Bellingham could end up, with Jurgen Klopp known to be a big fan of the midfielder.
    Liverpool’s hopes of landing him could rest on whether or not the club can get themselves back in the Champions League next season.
    But several other clubs with big pockets are lining up alongside Liverpool, including Chelsea, plus Manchester United and City and PSG.
    td and Liverpool target Randal would cost £100m-plus’
    Manchester United have been told Randal Kolo Muani’s price tag, according to reports.
    The Eintracht Frankfurt forward, 24, has been linked with a £105million move to Old Trafford in the summer.
    It comes during a stellar campaign for the French international – who has racked up 16 goals and 14 assists in 35 appearances.
    Chelsea, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked with a move for him.
    According to Get Football News Germany, a bid in excess of £88m would secure his services – less than the £100m being mooted for another Man Utd target Harry Kane.
    That is due to Frankfurt having a contract with him until 2027.
    Eriksen set to return?
    Christian Eriksen could be back for Man United soon after having his protective boot removed.
    He has been on the sidelines since the club’s win over Reading in the FA Cup in January.
    The midfielder has confirmed he is back training for the Red Devils on social media.
    The Dane posted three pictures to his Instagram story confirming the removal of his protective boot.
    The collection of snaps shows Eriksen’s progression from wearing the protective boot to trainers to his football boots.
    Eriksen was not expected back until April, but looks on course to feature again for the club before the end of the season.

    Barcelona see Gavi registration rejected
    Barcelona’s second attempt to register Man Utd target Gavi as a first-team player has been REJECTED in court.
    The Nou Camp giants had their original effort turned down by LaLiga back in January as the club were also banned from adding to their squad.
    However, Mundo Deportivo is reporting that the club’s appeal against overturning the first-team registration of Gavi has been rejected.
    Barcelona registered Gavi as a first-team player on January 31 after obtaining a precautionary measure from the court.
    However, LaLiga filed an appeal against the same as they cited the fact that Xavi’s side had missed the deadline.
    The court allegedly ruled in favour of the Spanish league earlier this month but no concrete verdict was reached as Gavi was allowed to continue as a first-team member.
    But this fresh update states the financially troubled club appealed against the ruling last Wednesday but had their appeal rejected by the 10th Commercial Court of Barcelona.
    That means that Gavi, who is a full Spanish international, will no longer be counted as a first-team member and must revert back to his youth contract until the end of the season.
    And in what could be a huge boost for Manchester United, the midfielder will also be deregistered for the next season as Barcelona have exceeded their salary limit.
    Man Utd hold Disasi talks
    Manchester United have held talks with Axel Disasi’s representatives ahead of a summer swoop, according to reports.
    The defender has attracted plenty of interest with his excellent performances for Monaco this season.
    Disasi’s form for Les Monegasques earned him a place in Didier Deschamps’ France World Cup squad in November.
    And according to French outlet Foot Mercato, he could soon be on the move.
    They claim that Disasi’s agents met with Man United chiefs a fortnight ago to discuss a potential transfer.
    The 25-year-old will have two years remaining on his Monaco contract this summer, with the Ligue 1 club set to demand at least £44million for his signature.

    Neves’ next club odds
    Ruben Neves looks primed to STAY in the Premier League when he quits Wolves.
    Manchester United were a very short price to sign him last summer and remain in the hunt this time around, too.
    But it’s Liverpool and Newcastle who are the 3/1 frontrunners to sign him.
    Barcelona are 9/2 as they could potentially be on the hunt for a Sergio Busquets replacement.
    That’s just ahead of United at 6/1, who have long been linked with a move for Neves.
    Arsenal are 8/1, Napoli are available at 10s and a return to Portugal with Porto is 12/1.
    Load more entries… More

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    Man Utd takeover could be OFF with Glazers staying amid concerns Qatari Sheikh and Sir Jim Ratcliffe are being ‘played’

    MANCHESTER UNITED could remain in the hands of the Glazer family – after US hedge fund Elliott Management made an offer to take a minority stake in the club.In what would be a U-turn that would leave many Old Trafford fans aghast, there are increasing suspicions that the planned sale could be OFF – unless bidders match the Glazers’ £6bn valuation.
    There are fears the Glazers may not sell Man Utd after a minority stake offer from a hedge fundCredit: AFP

    And some reports even claim the American owners are actually holding out for £6.5bn.
    The contest to control the club descended into farce on Wednesday evening when the Glazers’ chosen deal-makers, US banking group Raine, gave a last-minute extension to the previous 9pm bidding deadline.
    That left both the declared public bidders, Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani and Britain’s richest man, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos group, scrambling to work out their next move.
    Sheikh Jassim withdrew the £5bn offer he had made ahead of the deadline, while Ineos, which had been on the brink of making a similar offer, was forced into a rethink.
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    But genuine concerns that both the Qatari Sheikh and Ineos are being “played” by Raine and United appeared to have been consolidated by the Elliott news.
    Elliott, formerly the owners of AC Milan, confirmed they have made an offer for a “small amount of common equity” in addition to being willing to provide financing for other bidders.

    While the New York-based firm would not disclose the size of the shareholding they are looking to purchase, nor the sum involved, it would allow a partial withdrawal of the members of the Glazer family who are looking to cash in their stakes.
    The cash injection would also enable the club’s co-chairmen, Joel and Avram Glazer, to stay on at the helm.
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    Sir Jim Ratcliffe is hoping to take charge of his boyhood clubCredit: PA
    Sheikh Jassim wants a full takeover after preparing a bidCredit: AFP
    As SunSport revealed, one option being considered by the two siblings was using external funding to create a new company and hive off the club’s merchandising and digital commercial operation into a separate concern. 
    Growing frustration at the process from some of those involved boiled over in the aftermath of Wednesday night’s chaos with a belief that the Glazers might, after all, only be interested in pushing up the price of the club to create leverage for a loan.
    Speculation over the past 48 hours saw United’s market capitalisation on the New York Stock Exchange rise to £3.4bn by the close of business on Wednesday, up from a low of £2.76bn just three weeks ago.
    It led to growing belief that there will be no sale unless the Glazers’ full valuation is reached with serious questions over whether the family have ever been serious about relinquishing control of the club.
    The alternative view is that Raine are encouraging such a view to spiral in the hope that it will force one of the bidders – probably Sheikh Jassim – to break the bank and make an offer the Glazers cannot refuse.
    What still seems evident is that despite rumours of up to eight bids and suggestions of a mystery third consortium, Ineos and Sheikh Jassim are the only contenders who want to take control of the club.
    Ineos are targeting the Glazers’ 69 per cent stake while the Qatari aims a full buy-out. 
    The other interested parties, including Elliott, are looking at stock investments or funding options.  
    Meanwhile, further reports claim Finnish entrepreneur Thomas Zilliacus is set to make a bid for United.
    The Mirror claims he will introduce fan ownership if successful, giving supporters a voice through an APP.
    As for the chaotic scenes last night, Sky Sports broke down the events that followed after the 9pm deadline…

    9.10pm – Sheikh Jassim’s Qatari delegation claimed to have made a new world record bid.

    9.45pm – Raine Group said they had received no bids from either Sheikh Jassim or Sir Jim Ratcliffe before granting extensions.

    10.25pm – Raine Group revealed they had received “many proposals.”

    Read More on The Sun

    10.45pm – Qatari bidders said they didn’t submit their offer because they were offered an extension and accepted it.

    10.50pm – Sources close to Sheikh Jassim said his bid is ready and extra time is not needed. More

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    Arsenal lining up transfer move for Serie A striker ‘who can do more than Erling Haaland’ to join Jesus in attack

    ARSENAL are considering a move for a Serie A striker who can “do more than Erling Haaland”.Manchester City’s Norwegian forward has racked up the goals in phenomenal fashion in his first season in England and has an incredible 42 in all competitions.
    Rasmus Højlund’s reputation is growing in Italy after a strong run of formCredit: Getty
    But a new contender for his throne could emerge as pundits back Atalanta star Rasmus Højlund to be the next big thing.
    The Denmark international has become a regular for his club since the World Cup break and has hit a purple patch of form.
    The 20-year-old is reportedly being eyed by Arsenal to help boost their attack even further next season.
    Tutto Atalanta report that the Gunners are in the lead for the frontman – and are willing to cough up around £45m to land him.
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    Any deal would represent an amazing profit for Atalanta, who signed Højlund for just £15m last summer from Austrian side Sturm Graz.
    He has seven goals and one assist in Serie A so far in this campaign.
    His physical stature and Scandinavian background has seen the star compared to Haaland.
    But former Leeds winger and football pundit Mike Grella believes Højlund might have even more potential than City’s main man.
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    He said: “I will take the comparison with Haaland very lightly, because he is one of the best.
    “There is also a slight difference between them, which speaks in Højlund’s favour.
    “He can do more than Haaland. Haaland is more the type who duels with the centre-backs and just scores lots of goals.
    “Højlund can dribble past an opponent. He can keep the ball better. Højlund can better help the team on the edge (of the penalty area) or deeper in the pitch.”
    Højlund’s former manager at Sturm Graz Christian Ilzer agrees that the pair have similarities.
    He said: “In some characteristics, they are similar.
    “Both are very fast, they also share determination and the desire to always score. Both Hojlund and Haaland are two very positive youngsters and have great confidence in their abilities.” More

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    I’ve won the League Cup in England & Scotland and managed bars in Marbella & Essex… now I do something VERY different

    A FORMER League Cup winner in both England and Scotland has now hit the back of the net doing something very different after a foray into the nightlife of Marbella and Essex.This former roving left-back was born in Hartlepool in 1984 and was a graduate of Middlesbrough’s academy alongside future England winger Stewart Downing.
    This former Boro star is now enjoying huge success away from the pitchCredit: Getty
    The defender also starred for Birmingham City in the Premier LeagueCredit: Jamie McPhilimey – The Sun
    But international recognition also came our man’s way also, with his displays at youth level earning him Three Lions’ caps of his own for the under-16s.
    Despite a first-team squad packed with superstar names such as Croatian striker Alen Boksic, Brazilian World Cup winner Juninho, now England boss Gareth Southgate and Paul Ince, the defender soon found himself sitting alongside those famous faces in the Boro dressing-room.
    And it did not take long for him to get an opportunity under then boss Steve McClaren – and he even marked it with a debut goal.
    The player we are talking about is David Murphy, who burst on to the scene with a strike against Northampton in the League Cup – a competition he enjoyed great success in both sides of the border – back in 2001.
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    More appearances in the cups followed for the then teen that season before he made his Premier League bow off the bench in a 2-1 win over Fulham.
    Another eight appearances followed in the next campaign but his progress was halted by a broken foot at the start of the 2003/04 season.
    Once recovered, he headed down to League One with Barnsley in order to regain his fitness, playing ten times and scoring twice for the Terriers.
    Now with a thirst for first-team football and his contract up at Boro, he headed north to join Scottish Premiership side Hibernian that summer.
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    Murphy went on to become a legend at Easter Road throughout his four years there and played the full 90 minutes as they thrashed Kilmarnock 5-1 in the 2007 Scottish League Cup final.
    Later that year he etched his name further into Hibernian folklore as his strike sealed a famous 1-0 victory over Rangers at Ibrox to send them top of the league for the first time in seven years.
    His performances were catching the eye of several clubs back down over the border, and the lure of the Premier League proved too hard to resist when Birmingham City coughed up £1.5million to sign him in January 2008.
    Unfortunately, he was unable to stop the Blues from being relegated but he played a key role in their instant promotion back from the Championship.
    Agonisingly for Murphy, he suffered a broken kneecap and missed the entire first campaign back in the top-flight.
    But he celebrated his return to action with a goal in, yes you guessed it, the League Cup in a win over Rochdale that helped set Brum on the road to glory.
    Birmingham went on to lift the trophy that season, memorably beating Arsenal 2-1 at Wembley, where Murphy was an unused substitute.
    That also secured them European football for the first time in 50 years, and he was back amongst the goals in 2-1 victory at Club Brugge in the Europa League.
    Birmingham also suffered relegation again in the same season as their cup success, but Murphy scored seven goals to help them reach the play-offs and earn a new two-year contract.
    He was then sidelined with knee cartilage damage for ten months but bounced back again to return to the first-team fold.
    However, an adverse reaction in his knee meant he had to go under the knife again before further injury setbacks followed, leading to him announcing his retirement two days before his 30th birthday.
    David Murphy earned legendary status during his time with HibsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    During his playing career, Murphy invested some of his money earned into bars in both Marbella and Essex.
    But after meeting businessman Garry Wells, the two are now partners of the highly-successful Wells CRS commercial refurb firm who work across the country.
    And he is loving life more than he ever did out on the pitch.
    Murphy told the Northern Echo: “The last few years have been fantastic. It comes down to trust and me and Garry trust each other 100 per cent.
    “We both have the same ideas and thought processes on how we want to grow and expand. It is rare in a partnership.
    “For me it is a completely different world to what I was used to but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Even when I played I didn’t get wrapped up in the limelight, I just wanted to concentrate on football.
    “But now I am away from that world, I am still dealing with lads on a day-to-day basis and it’s been easy to transfer skills and qualities gained from my playing career into this field. Team morale is key.”
    He added: “I get a buzz dealing with the clients, keeping them all happy, and it is all worth it when you see the finished product.
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    “I was involved in bars and clubs in Marbella and Essex during my playing days and I wanted to get involved in the refurb side of the business after I retired in 2014 because of injury.
    “I did a bit in football initially, scouting, but quickly found out that staying in the game wasn’t for me. I wanted to broaden my horizons and set myself a new challenge.” More

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    I was a waster who played for Arsenal and Barcelona but now I build apartments in Cameroon while winning league titles

    ALEX SONG has confessed to being a “waster” during his early years at Arsenal.The Cameroonian first joined the Gunners, initially on loan, in 2005 after impressing Arsene Wenger on trial.
    Alex Song played for Arsenal between 2005 and 2012Credit: AFP
    He would go on to play for Arsenal for seven years… but claims to have been profligate with his cash in those days.
    While chatting to NBA All-Star Pascal Siakam on Instagram, Song admitted that money was his main motivating factor for leaving the Emirates to sign for Barcelona… even though he knew he wouldn’t play much.
    The midfielder said: “Most footballers live beyond their means.
    “I was at Arsenal for eight years but only began to earn a good living in the last four. That was because my salary went up a lot – but also because I came to realise what a waster I was.
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    “During my entire time at Arsenal, I couldn’t even save £100,000, while people thought I must be a millionaire.
    “When Barcelona offered me a contract, and I saw how much I would earn, I didn’t think twice. I felt my wife and children should have comfortable lives once my career is over.
    “I met Barca’s sporting director, and he told me I would not get to play many games, but I didn’t give a f*** – I knew that now I would become a millionaire.”
    After predictably limited opportunities at Barca, Song joined West Ham on two season-long loan deals between 2014 and 2016 – before spells at Rubin Kazan in Russia and Swiss side Sion.
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    Song signed for Barcelona from Arsenal in 2012Credit: AFP
    Now 35, the 6ft 1in ace plays for ambitious side Arta/Solar in Djibouti.
    Previously joined there by former Hammers team-mate Diafra Sakho, Song has won two league titles in the East African country.
    While continuing to play the beautiful game, the former Gunner has developed significant business interests.
    He has founded a property company in Cameroon – building an apartment block in Douala.
    Song also launched Canadian International School and College in Douala in October 2020.
    Still going strong after two league titles in Djibouti, Song recently shared his pride at training alongside his 18-year-old son Kaylian.
    After previously describing Kaylian as the “most talented in the family”, Song wrote on Instagram: “I realized one of my dreams training with my youngest son @kayliansong 14 years later than joy thank you Lord for making me live this training on the same ground with my son I had already thanked the sky for having me allowed to do it with @17nolan today.
    “I am a happy dad thank you for all the love you are a man @kayliansong”
    Alex Song has set up a construction firm and is beginning to build for his retirementCredit: Instagram
    He shared an artists’ impressions of the flats on Instagram More

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    Man Utd FAVOURITES to land Victor Osimhen but told they must smash Premier League transfer record for Napoli striker

    MANCHESTER UNITED are favourites to sign Napoli star Victor Osimhen, according to reports.United are in the market for a new striker this summer.
    Manchester United are favourites to land Victor OsimhenCredit: Getty
    And Osimhen fits their criteria after scoring 25 goals in 29 games this season, including four in the Champions League.
    The Red Devils are leading the race to sign the striker, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.
    But the transfer guru claims it could take a Premier League record fee for United to get their man.
    Napoli are reportedly willing to sell Osimhen for a fee in the region of £115-£130million.
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    That is a little more than the £107m Chelsea paid to sign Enzo Fernandez in January, which set a new Prem record.
    Di Marzio also reports Paris Saint-Germain could make a move for Osimhen.
    They would likely be able to afford the Nigerian, as would Chelsea who have also been linked.
    Osimhen says he dreams of playing in the Premier League at some stage.
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    However, it appears PSG could be set to leapfrog the competition during the international break.
    It is believed transfer guru Luis Campos has arranged a meeting with Osimhen’s representatives.
    And talks are already underway in the background over structuring a potential deal for July.
    PSG are bracing themselves for the possible exit of Lionel Messi, whose contract expires shortly. More