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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

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    Emi Martinez ‘up for challenge of joining Man Utd’ to replace Onana but ‘big clubs queuing up’ to sign Aston Villa star

    EMI MARTINEZ is the kind of huge character Manchester United need to restore their battered reputation as a global superpower.And the good news for United boss Ruben Amorim is the world’s No 1 keeper would be up for the challenge — if Aston Villa decide to cash in this summer.Emi Martinez could leave Aston Villa this summerCredit: GettyAndre Onana has endured a difficult season at Man UtdCredit: GettyThat is  the word from Neil Cutler, Martinez’s old coach at Villa, who remains close pals with his former star pupil.Cutler, 48, said: “This summer is pivotal for Emi in terms of his career.“He’s been voted the best goalie in the world twice and there seems to be an opportunity for him this summer, with all of his options open.”Big clubs are queuing up to speak to him and he either stays at a massive club like Villa or he goes to a truly world-class club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I don’t think it’s about money with Emi so I don’t think he is ready to move to Saudi yet.“If he does move it would be to a much bigger club — one of the really big-hitters like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico… or even Manchester United.”Martinez, 32, fuelled speculation 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.Some feared it was a farewell and since then he was  linked with a  lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKUnited, Arsenal, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also rumoured to be keen.Martinez’s contract runs until 2029 but a bid of £40million or more would ease Villa’s PSR concerns.Emi Martinez in tears as he waves goodbye to fans after Aston Villa’s final home gameThe Villans have been linked with moves for Lille stopper Lucas Chevalier, Espanyol’s Joan Garcia and Nice’s Marcin Bulka.Cutler believes this could be one of the rare moments in football when a move could suit everyone.Amorim certainly needs a new keeper after Andre Onana looked weak at Tottenham’s Europa League final winner again and Martinez could be the inspirational figure he is searching for.”United can’t offer him Champions League football but the sheer size of the club and the size of the challenge might appeal to Emi,” said Cutler, now in charge of Wolves’ goalkeepers.”Emi has the confidence required to play for a massive club like United and would feel he could affect the club in a really positive way.”He would look at United and say: ‘Right, I can make this place better. I can help this club get back to where it was.”HE THRIVES ON THE BIGGEST OCCASIONS'”He’s all about the challenge, he’s all about the drive and the desire so I think United would suit him.”He thrives on the biggest occasions and could play for any team in the world as he’s shown by winning the World Cup and Copa America with Argentina.”He would be a comfortable fit at United and would hit the ground running.”It’s all down to what Villa want but, at 32, they will know this is when they can get the maximum return on him. If they hold off until next year they’d get less.”Unai needs a possession-based goalie and the keepers he’s been linked with are top class and younger.”It could be one of those times when it suits all parties.Read More on The Sun”I’m a big Villa fan so I’d love to see him stay – and I wouldn’t be surprised to see Emi lifting the Europa League trophy for Villa in 12 months time.”But I also want to see him play at the highest level possible and, if one of the really big hitters comes knocking, then he could have a huge decision to make.”Martinez, 32, has become renowned for his unusual anticsCredit: GettyThe Argentine is a fan favourite at Villa ParkCredit: Getty More

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    Ruben Amorim certain Bruno Fernandes will REJECT £100m Saudi transfer as he needs to play in ‘best league in the world’

    RUBEN AMORIM believes Bruno Fernandes wants to stay at Manchester United — despite a £100MILLION offer from Saudi Arabia.Fernandes’ agent, Miguel Pinho, held talks with Saudi side Al-Hilal at a Riyadh hotel on Thursday over a £700,000-a-week package for the United captain.Bruno Fernandes’ agent has held talks over a move to Al-HilalCredit: GettyRuben Amorim believes his captain will stayCredit: Shutterstock EditorialIt would make him one of the world’s highest-paid players.But Red Devils boss Amorim has a “feeling” the Portuguese midfielder, 30, will stay at Old Trafford — and that the club can raise funds elsewhere despite failing to qualify for Europe.Fernandes played the first-half of United’s 3-1 post-season friendly win over Hong Kong.And when asked if it was the skipper’s final game for the club, Amorim said: “I don’t think so. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I don’t know for sure, nobody knows, but I don’t think so.“He is seeing us taking some actions to change all the things and I think that is all that he wants to stay.“He’s saying ‘no’ to a lot of things, but it shows that he wants to win.”He’s really young, he’s really good. He needs to be in the best league in the world.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe Europa League final loss to Spurs capped a disastrous season and threatens to damage Amorim’s rebuild, which includes a £62.5m deal for Wolves’ Matheus Cunha.United player of the year Fernandes admitted after the loss in Bilbao that the club could end up cashing in on him, with Al-Hilal pushing to sign the playmaker ahead of next month’s Club World Cup.Ruben Amorim breaks silence over futures of Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro GarnachoAsked whether United could turn down such a fee, Amorim — who saw Chido Obi (twice) and Ayden Heaven score against Hong Kong — added: “Yes. We can find another way to earn money.“I’m the manager, I’m the coach but sometimes it’s the decision of the player.“I just have that feeling that he wants to stay.”Defender Harry Maguire, though, admits “a lot of players” will be shown the door after the club finished 15th in the Prem.He said: “We will make a lot of changes in the summer. There will be a lot of players who leave and hopefully a lot will come in.“And that’s down to the club to make sure they get that right and it’s down to us players to make sure we are the ones involved.”Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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    Why Liam Delap chose Chelsea transfer over Man Utd… and it’s all thanks to sacked former Blues manager

    THE reason why Liam Delap snubbed Manchester United in favour of Chelsea has reportedly been revealed.Delap, 22, is set to join the Blues and the deal could be announced as early as next week.Liam Delap has decided to join ChelseaCredit: GettyThomas Tuchel convinced Chelsea is the right moveCredit: GettyChelsea will trigger the £30million buy option in the Ipswich striker’s contract, which became available following their relegation from the Premier League.The fee and personal terms were not going to be an issue for Man Utd – but Delap has opted for a move to Stamford Bridge instead.Journalist Ben Jacobs reports that the player has chosen Chelsea due to their former boss Thomas Tuchel.He claims that the England manager told Delap that playing in the Champions League would boost his chances of making the Three Lions squad heading to next summer’s World Cup.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd those words appear to have helped him make up his mind.Everton were also in for Delap, but like the Red Devils, they could also not offer European football.Man Utd fans reacted: “Did Tuchel forget to tell him he needs to be actually playing in the Champions League not sitting on the bench.”Another added: “He made the wrong decision, if he performed as the main man in the United shirt he would definitely get the call up.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSA third wrote: “Politics in football because he has coached Chelsea before.”Delap scored 12 goals in 37 Premier League games for Ipswich this season.BBC pundit names England’s long-term successor to Harry Kane after Premier League star’s ‘bullying’ performance He is set to battle the likes of Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins and Dominic Solanke to be Harry Kane’s understudy at the World Cup.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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    ‘The last position we need’, moan Man Utd fans as they’re linked with shock Premier League defender

    MANCHESTER UNITED are interested in Brighton defender Pervis Estupinan, according to reports.Ruben Amorim is looking to overhaul his squad this summer after a woeful season that saw the Red Devils finish in their lowest ever position of 15th.Man Utd are keen on Pervis EstupinanCredit: ReutersRuben Amorim is planning a squad overhaulCredit: ReutersJournalist Ben Jacobs claims United have enquired about Estupinan as they look to bolster options at left-wing-back.The 27-year-old featured 30 times for Brighton this season, scoring once and assisting another.It is currently unclear whether the Seagulls are open to selling the Ecuadorian or what fee they may demand.Estupinan’s contract on the south coast does not expire until the summer of 2027.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut some United fans are not happy about the rumours and claim they do not need a new left-wing-back.Patrick Dorgu was signed in January for £25million and teenager Diego Leon joins this summer from Cerro Porteno in Paraguay for a reported £7m.Meanwhile, the likes of Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui and youngster Harry Amass have also filled in there.One supporter wrote: “Why are we even looking at left wing-backs. The last position we need signings for.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnother added: “We have Dorgu and Leon already. Concentrate on key positions which is striker, forwards, central midfield and a goalkeeper.”A third commented: “Definitely bigger priorities. Plenty of cover in that area, best keep the money for elsewhere.”Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho show middle finger to fans during Man Utd’s post-season tour in MalaysiaBut others disagreed, saying: “Would be a decent rotation option with Dorgu.”Though departures are currently the focus at Old Trafford as club chiefs are set for talks with Real Betis over Antony next week.And Bruno Fernandes is said to be “giving serious consideration” to a mega-money move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More