More stories

  • in

    Kylian Mbappe ‘reached agreement to join Premier League giants before Real Madrid transfer but PSG wanted £338MILLION’

    KYLIAN MBAPPE reportedly reached an agreement to join Liverpool two years ago.But the move fell through after Paris Saint-Germain demanded an eye-watering £338million transfer fee.Kylian Mbappe was reportedly set to join Liverpool in 2022 before PSG demanded a £338m feeCredit: GettyMbappe, 25, left the French giants for Real Madrid this summer in a stunning free transfer after seven years in Paris.The World Cup winner left on rocky terms after initially being left out of Luis Enrique’s squad at the start of the season.Mbappe had come close to joining Real for free in 2022 before penning a new short-term contract.And PSG were unhappy they were not able to receive a fee for their star man, who cost £150m when he joined from Monaco in 2017.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, L’Equipe claims the Ligue 1 champs almost cashed in on Mbappe two years ago, shortly after he signed his new contract.It’s said that the striker quickly became unhappy with PSG’s transfer business, having allegedly been promised the arrivals of Robert Lewandowski and Bernardo Silva.With deadline day approaching, Mbappe requested a late exit.And that saw bids arrive from both Liverpool and Real.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt’s reckoned Mbappe went as far as to agree personal terms on a contract with Liverpool that would eventually allow him to join Real in the near future.Jurgen Klopp’s side were even willing to pay £169m to get a deal over the line.Watch Cristiano Ronaldo play ‘pick the better player’ out of stars including David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and MbappeBut PSG put a stop to proceedings when they demanded DOUBLE that fee — totalling a world-record £338m.Liverpool withdrew their offer, while Real also failed to follow through with an official bid.And the rest is history with Mbappe seeing out his PSG contract to join Los Blancos for free.However, it’s noted by Get French Football News that PSG denied L’Equipe’s story, claiming Liverpool “could not have the funds to sign Mbappe.”Kylian Mbappe ‘snaps up £15m mansion in Beckham’s old neighbourhood’ next door to Real Madrid legend and Hollywood starBy Gerard CouzensKYLIAN MBAPPE has reportedly splashed out more than £15million on a mansion in Madrid.The French superstar, whose drawn-out transfer to Real Madrid has finally being confirmed, is said to have finalised the purchase late last month.Respected Spanish daily La Razon says the house he has bought is in the exclusive Madrid suburb of La Moraleja, where David Beckham spent most of his time living when he was in the Spanish capital.And it says his neighbours will include former Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos and his stunning model wife Pilar Rubio as well as Hollywood star Richard Gere and his Spanish publicist wife Alejandra Silva.La Razon said Mbappe had considered the gated estate of La Finca where Jude Bellingham lives and Cristiano Ronaldo still owns property as an option.But it reported the 25-year-old, who threw an extravagant party for 250 guests at a stylish Italian restaurant a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, ended up opting for La Moraleja a 15-minute drive from Real Madrid’s Valdebebas training complex because it was “more comfortable.”Read more on Mbappe’s property hunt. More

  • in

    Watch moment Argentina keeper Emi Martinez lashes out at and SLAPS camera after fiery defeat to Colombia

    EMILIANO MARTINEZ slapped a TV camera that was following him just minutes after Argentina were beaten 2-1 by Colombia.The fiery defeat happened in the eighth round of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, played in Barranquilla.Emi Martinez slapped a TV camera after Argentina were beaten 2-1 by ColombiaCredit: XThe fiery defeat happened in the eighth round of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World CupCredit: XAfter the clash Martinez, known for sometimes losing his cool congratulated several Colombian players on the field including his Aston Villa teammate Jhon Jader Duran.But at one point he walked directly towards the camera and slapped it with his hand which caught by the cameras broadcasting the match.Fans instantly noticed the shotstoppers lash out and rushed to social media calling out the star.One fan said: “He didn’t give a damn about anything, the son of a b**** is crazy.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnother added: “Argentines always leave a gesture when they lose, they don’t know how to lose or win.”A third then put: “This guy has a problem with anger management.”Immediatly after his lose of composure the Villa keeper walked off like had happened and went on to hug his teammates.The 2-1 victory symbolised Colombia ending a 31-year winless streak against Argentina at the Metropolitano Stadium in Barranquilla.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut fellow Argentine Cristian Romero wanted to remind his opponents who the reiging world champs are after he was seen subtly wiping the World Cup badge on his jersey.Colombia took the lead in the 25th minute when skipper James Rodriguez chipped a cross to the back post where Yerson Mosquera leapt and headed it into the net.Emi Martinez repeats obscene World Cup celebration despite Argentina star saying ‘I’m not proud of it’Three minutes after half time Argentina evened the scoreline after a misplaced pass from Rodriguez was pounced upon by Nicolas Gonzalez, who sotted past Colombia keeper Camilo Vargas.But Rodriguez converted a nerveless 60th-minute spot-kick to seal a hard-fought win for Colombia who were without injured captain Lionel Messi.It was sweet revenge for Colombia, who were beaten 1-0 by Argentina in a disappointing Copa America final loss in Miami two months ago.”I don’t think I’ve ever scored against them — there’s a first time for everything,” Colombia captain Rodriguez said of his winning spot-kick.”We want to get used to playing finals. Today was just another game, but against a team that has won everything — this victory tastes even better.”The victory at Barranquilla’s Metropolitano Stadium sent Colombia into second place in South America’s 10-team qualifying competition with 16 points from eight points, just two points behind leaders Argentina.Despite the defeat, Argentina remain comfortably on course for a place at the 2026 World Cup which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.READ MORE SUN STORIESWith the tournament expanded to 48 teams, the top six finishers in South American qualifying will win a berth to the finals.The seventh placed team in qualifying goes into an inter-confederation playoff, with the bottom three teams eliminated. More

  • in

    Man Utd star Bruno Fernandes loads boot of £200,000 Bentley with shopping bags after trip to Sainsbury’s

    BRUNO FERNANDES is back in Cheshire after featuring for Portugal in the Nations League.The Manchester United captain played twice for Portugal against Croatia and Scotland, scoring an equaliser against the latter.Bruno Fernandes paid a visit to the shops after arriving back in the UKCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHe picked up some shopping from a Sainsbury’s in CheshireCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHe packed his £200,000 Bentley with water and groceriesCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe Man Utd skipper had been away on international duty with PortugalCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHe scored against Scotland on SundayCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHis pot-shot strike from outside the area slipped under the hands of goalkeeper Angus Gunn, before former Red Devils talisman Cristiano Ronaldo notched the winner.Fernandes, 30, helped Portugal win both matches to top their Nations League group, but now his focus is back on club football.He is back in Cheshire and paid a visit to Sainsbury’s and packed the boot of his £200,000 Bentley with groceries and water.Fernandes boasts a stellar car collection which includes an £85,000 BMW X5, £64,000 Audi Q7, and even a Mini Cooper.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut his speedy Porsche Panamera Turbo S, worth around £150,000, trumps them all.And he could add to his collection after becoming United’s joint-highest paid player after signing a new contract this summer worth £350,000-a-week.Fernandes revealed how happy he is at the club after putting pen to paper, though admitted the Red Devils are a long way from being title contenders.He said following the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool: “Yes, I am perfectly aware that this Manchester United is not ready to win the Premier League.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“We are, indeed, fighting for the title with the concrete and real objective of trying to finish in the top four, in the places that give access to the Champions League.“But there is still a lot to improve for the greater objective, and for my dream, which is to one day win this championship.”Marcus Rashford releases training video during break after England snub as Man Utd fans say ‘hat-trick incoming’ More

  • in

    Fans say ‘can tell he’s been training with Trent’ as Ryan Gravenberch hits ‘most insane pass seen this season’

    LIVERPOOL ace Ryan Gravenberch went viral thanks to an “insane” pass while on international duty with the Netherlands.And many claim this is down to Gravenberch, 22, playing and training with Trent Alexander-Arnold at Anfield.Liverpool ace Ryan Gravenberch produced a stunning pass for the NetherlandsLiverpool fans claim Gravenberch’s performance was down to working with Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: GettyThe midfielder helped the Oranje pick up a 2-2 draw against Germany on Tuesday in the Nations League at the Johan Cruijff ArenA.But Ronald Koeman’s men came close to another goal on 21 minutes after a lethal counter-attack.And it was all down to Gravenberch who released Xavi Simons with an outstanding long-range pass from his own half in true TAA style.Simons then found himself alone in front of Germany goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen but his shot was denied by the Barcelona shot stopper.Read More on FootballBut that still allowed Gravenberch to make headlines worldwide thanks to what could have been the most stunning assist of the season.One fan tweeted: “Ryan Gravenberch giving Trent Alexander-Arnold vibes with that outstanding pass.”Another commented: “That is the most insane pass I’ve seen this season.”A third wrote: “Can tell he’s been training with Trent.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis fan said: “Unbelievable first time pass from Gravie.”And that one gushed: “RYAN GRAVENBERCH ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND, THAT PASS WAS ABSOLUTELY INSANE.”‘Good on him’ – Lee Carsley wins the praise of Roy Keane after very frank admission following first two England gamesGravenberch will be in action for Liverpool on Saturday when they host Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.And the Dutchman will be joined by Alexander-Arnold, who also shone bright during the international break for England.The versatile full-back particularly stood out against Finland on Tuesday as he put together a man-of-the-match performance thanks to some stunning passing that led to an assist. England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. More

  • in

    Lee Carsley ‘not speaking’ to Ben White as England manager reveals Arsenal star ‘asked not to be CONTACTED’

    ENGLAND interim boss Lee Carsley is not planning to hold talks with Ben White about an international call-up as the Arsenal ace has asked to “not be contacted”.White, 26, has not featured for the Three Lions since the 2022 World Cup as he left camp during the tournament due to personal reasons.England interim boss Lee Carsley is not planning to speak to Arsenal ace Ben WhiteCredit: GettyArsenal ace White has asked not to be contacted about an England returnCredit: GettyThe defender has been in stunning form with the Gunners this season and started all three of their Premier League matches.However, Carsley, 50, is not set to talk to the versatile full-back about a possible England return for the next round of Nations League fixtures next month against Greece and Finland.However, the caretaker manager suggested the situation could change if White comes around.Carsley said: “I’ve not planned to [speak to White], no. We spoke about this in the squad selection. Every player that is eligible to play for England is in with a chance. Read More on England”As far as I’m aware he asked to not be contacted. If that changes, that will change.”I think it is important that we have real competition all over the pitch, and the more players we have available to pick from the better it is.”Reports at the time claimed White left Qatar following an alleged bust-up with former England assistant coach Steve Holland.However, ex-manager Gareth Southgate insisted there was no rift between the two.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSouthgate said in March: “On form, I can’t say he doesn’t deserve to be here. John McDermott had a call from [Arsenal sporting director] Edu last week saying Ben didn’t want to be considered for England at this time.”That’s a shame. He’s a player I really like. I spoke to him post Qatar and there was clearly reticence from his side. I don’t know fully why that is.Gareth Southgate gives his reasons for not picking Ben White for the Euro England squad “But I want to leave the door open because he’s a good player. There is no issue between us at all.”I should say there is no issue with Steve Holland, that has been mentioned in articles and I don’t like that.”I have to accept things get said about me, and you have to stomach that, but I’m not prepared to have that for a key member of my coaching team because that is not the reason.”White has been in stunning form this t More

  • in

    Eddie Howe and Newcastle chief Paul Mitchell call truce after fears transfer guru could WALK AWAY from club

    PAUL MITCHELL and Eddie Howe have called a truce and will finalise Toon’s January spending plans together.SunSport reported how Newcastle chief exec Darren Eales was backing manager Howe amid his differences with sporting director Mitchell over transfer business.Eddie Howe and Paul Mitchell have put aside their differences at NewcastleCredit: GettyIt led to doubts that the latter would continue in the role  — just two months after taking up the position.The lack of new signings — especially the long-and-public failed pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi — had left Howe frustrated.But Mitchell blamed his predecessor for the club’s “not fit for purpose” recruitment set-up as speculation intensified over his relationship with the boss. However, SunSport understands there was no major fallout between the pair.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd any differences have been ironed out as they continue to learn how each other operates.They will look to get their January transfer targets on  the same page over the next few weeks, with the Magpies needing reinforcements.One of the big decisions will be whether to reignite their interest in 24-year-old Guehi.Mitchell refuses to pay over the odds for any player — and the £70million being demanded by Palace last month was deemed excessive.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHowever, both clubs are fully aware the England star’s value will start to dwindle should he fail to sign an extension at  Selhurst Park, with his current deal expiring in 2026.Toon’s transfer business this summer was quiet by their recent standards.Meet the new Wags of the Premier League season, from a Belgian interior designer to a Portuguese modelJohn Ruddy and Lloyd Kelly arrived on free transfers, while Lewis Hall’s loan from Chelsea was made permanent.Newcastle also signed Nottingham Forest goalie Odysseas Vlachodimos.While striker William Osula joined from Sheffield United. More

  • in

    Ruud van Nistelrooy backed to be Man Utd manager if Ten Hag is sacked as former employee lifts lid on working with him

    RUUD VAN NISTELROOY is the United legend whose sniper’s eye for the target once made him the deadliest finisher in football.His single-minded self-confidence brought 150 goals in 219 games — a century in the first three seasons — and a case to be called Manchester United’s greatest modern-day striker.Ruud van Nistelrooy has been backed to replace his boss Erik ten Hag as Manchester United managerCredit: GettyThe Dutchman was a lethal goalscorer for the Red Devils from 2001 to 2006Credit: ReutersAs an up-and-coming coach, Van Nistelrooy made such an equally blockbusting impact that two separate Holland bosses made him a key figure in their backroom team.And one full season as a manager saw PSV Eindhoven win two trophies — before he quit, claiming the club were not backing him enough.So when Old Trafford chief Erik ten Hag brought Van Nistelrooy back to England as assistant boss in July, many hailed Ruud’s return as the best signing of his two-year tenure. Now, just three games in, gags that Ten Hag had appointed the man who would one day take his job no longer look a joke, after a poor start.READ MORE ON MAN UTD Despite backing from on high, bookies rate the Dutchman as favourite to be the first Prem gaffer sacked and Ruud tops their list to replace him.And one man who knows Van Nistelrooy better than most says bringing him back was a masterstroke.Javier Rabanal was working his way through the coaching ranks at Willem II, when he got the call to join the Eindhoven backroom team.Van Nistelrooy had been hugely impressed when the two met at Under-19 level and quickly added Rabanal, now boss of Independiente Juniors in Ecuador, to his staff.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Spaniard admits the focus was on harmony as much as hard work, with the manager demanding team spirit must match a fighting one.United have been accused of lacking both under Ten Hag — none more so than Marcus Rashford, a misfiring misfit.Tactical analysis of Man Utd star Manuel UgarteAs a striker himself, if anyone can get him back on track it is Van Nistelrooy.Rabanal said: “Ruud had a great connection with the players and it was great to see the relationship he had with everyone, from top to bottom.“Although he was an elite footballer, a world legend, he is such a humble guy and so calm and unaffected by difficult moments. “That doesn’t mean he wasn’t demanding but working with him was a pleasure. He was so infectious and created a really positive environment.“Perhaps another person with that standing in football would have a massive ego. But he just knows how to talk to people and enthuse them.“What really impressed me was he was available for anything, at any time for anyone and when he spoke, it was with real feeling, and I know he touched the players’ hearts.”United could certainly do with Van Nistelrooy’s magic touch to get back on an even keel.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhether that ends with their one-time centre-forward as manager remains to be seen — yet Rabanal is sure his pal will play a huge role. He added: “Ruud is going to contribute so much. Working with him was a master’s degree in elite football.”Ten Hag has endured a tough start to the seasonCredit: EPAVan Nistelrooy was previously PSV Eindhoven gafferCredit: GettyThe former striker is passing on his expertise to the United attackersCredit: GettyNine managers Man Utd considered before keeping Erik ten HagERIK TEN HAG appears to be safe as Man Utd manager, but the Dutchman edged dangerously close to the sack.Here are nine managers Red Devils chiefs are reported to have considered for the job and what allegedly happened with each.Gareth SouthgateEnjoys plenty of support among Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos chiefs but made clear he wouldn’t talk to any clubs until after Euro 2024. There is yet to be any suggestion that contact was made with the England boss.Kieran McKennaTalks were opened with McKenna’s representatives before the FA Cup final, but the former Man Utd coach opted to sign a new deal with Ipswich after Ten Hag’s Wembley win.Roberto De ZerbiAllegedly sounded out before the FA Cup final with salary expectations discussed. But Ineos chiefs concluded ex-Brighton boss was not the right fit for the project.Thomas FrankBrentford boss met Man Utd representatives the day before the FA Cup final. The Dane also dined with Ratcliffe, Roy Hodgson and Frank Lampard at the launch of a new Ineos car in February.Marco SilvaFulham boss reportedly met Man Utd representatives face-to-face two days before the FA Cup final, around the same time as Ten Hag was conducting his press conference.Mauricio PochettinoFell out of Man Utd’s thinking in the first week of June, despite being a favourite of Sir Alex Ferguson.Thomas TuchelMade a very strong impression and came across well during a Monaco meeting. Personal terms were discussed before the ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss decided to step back from the process.Ruben AmorimSporting boss was discussed by the Man Utd hierarchy but did not make the final reckoning.Roberto MartinezPortugal manager was considered in the early stages. More

  • in

    Austria star apologises to Martin Odegaard in 34-word message after leaving Arsenal ace in tears with ankle injury

    AUSTRIA star Christoph Baumgartner has apologised to Martin Odegaard after leaving the Arsenal skipper in tears and then on crutches.Odegaard was in agony after spraining his ankle in a challenge with Baumgartner in Norway’s 2-1 Nations League win in Oslo on Monday night.Odegaard cried with pain after a challenge from BaumgartnerCredit: RexOdegaard went back to London early on crutches following the injuryCredit: SplashThe Gunners’ main playmaker cut short his international break to fly back to London for scans.Baumgartner has now posted a 34-message on social media to stress the clash was an accident – and to praise his opponent’s talent.The RB Leipzig midfielder wrote: “Hi guys! I would like to sincerely apologize to Martin Odegaard. “It was never my intention to hurt this fantastic player. READ MORE TOP STORIES”I wish him all the best and a speedy recovery! Come back stronger.”Meanwhile, Norway manager Stale Solbakken confirmed Odegaard was forced to return to his club early.Solbakken told TV2 on Tuesday: “I only spoke to him late last night, but not today. He is having an MRI in London.”Odegaard’s problem increases Arsenal’s selection dilemma for Sunday’s huge Premier League derby at Tottenham.Most read in FootballAustria midfielder Baumgartner said sorry on social mediaCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDeclan Rice is out through suspension and new midfield colleague Mikel Merino is injured.At the back £43million summer recruit Riccardo Calafiori is a doubt.Premier League panel reveal why referee was right to send off Arsenal star Declan Rice against BrightonThe former main man for Bologna was hurt during Italy’s 3-1 Nations League win against France in Paris last Friday.But it’s Odegaard who will cause the biggest headache for the Gunners – because his injury could be the most serious.A minor ankle sprain can mean just a fortnight out, but four to six weeks is common.And if the issue is severe, Odegaard might even face an absence of three months or so. More