More stories

  • in

    Kevin De Bruyne could leave Man City midway through tournament with Real Madrid also facing contract chaos

    KEVIN DE BRYUNE is one of a number of top stars who could leave their clubs next summer in the MIDDLE of the new Club World Cup.The newly expanded tournament will feature 32 teams – the Premier League’s representatives are Manchester City and Chelsea – playing in the United States across June and July.Kevin De Bruyne is among the stars whose contracts are expiring in the middle of the Club World Cup next summerCredit: GettyReal Madrid’s Luka Modric is another star with this problemCredit: AlamyHowever, Fifa has yet to secure a TV deal for the tournament and confirm venues the games will be played at before the July 13 final.It has been heavily criticised for adding more fixtures to an already packed calendar.And these are not the only headaches looming over the tournament.According to The Telegraph, players competing in the tournament have begun seeing clarity over their contract situations.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis is because the dates of the competition overlap June 30, which is the year-end for registrations globally recognised by Fifa.Several top stars will see their contract expire on the date next summer, meaning in theory that players could start playing the tournament for one team and end it with another.Belgium international De Bruyne is one of these.The report states many more players from the 12 Uefa clubs in the tournament have also asked for clarity over whether they would be allowed to compete due to their contracts being up.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne source said: “If this had been held last summer, Kylian Mbappe would have started the Club World Cup playing for PSG and ended it at Real Madrid.”Real Madrid have three major stars who come under this bracket, with Luka Modric, Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vasquez all out of contract next summer. Man City vs Arsenal WagsMeanwhile, Bayern Munich have six players affected by the issue, with Thomas Muller, Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich, Eric Dier, Sven Ulreich and Alphonso Davies all out of contract next summer. Davies is a long-term transfer target of Madrid, so may have his future acutely impacted.Football’s governing body have created a never-before-seen dilemma with competitive club football not usually played at that time of year, which is when contract decisions are made en masse.Numerous legal issues surrounding said contracts may also unfold, with factors such as agent fees, salary and insurance all surrounding free agents. Fifa are expected to announce the venues for the tournament in the coming weeks, with much of it set to be played in the eastern USA.The expected venues are the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey; Washington DC’s FedEx Field; Philadelphia’s Subaru Park; Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium, Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium; Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium; Orlando’s Inter&Co Stadium and Seattle’s Lumen Field.READ MORE SUN STORIESFifa president Gianni Infantino also faces problems such as audience interest in the States and a potential player revolution before it comes about.Man City star Rodri has hinted it may be a possibility for players to ensure they are heard, after persistent complaints that they are not listened to over concerns of match load.Alphonso Davies could switch from Bayern Munich to Real Madrid in the middle of the tournamentCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Jude Bellingham ‘handed £4MILLION A YEAR wage boost after one season as Real chiefs fear Kylian Mbappe friction’

    REAL MADRID superstar Jude Bellingham has received a massive pay rise following the arrival of Kylian Mbappe at the Santiago Bernabeu.Mbappe, 25, joined Real as a free agent following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain this summer and quickly became the club’s top earner at a staggering €15million (£12.6m) per year.Jude Bellingham received a pay rise as Real Madrid feared friction with Kylian MbappeCredit: GettyVinicius Junior and Bellingham both got a raise to match Mbappe as top earnersCredit: GettyThe star forward overtook Bellingham, 21, and Vinicius Junior who were joint top on the salary list as they made a whopping €10m (£8.4m) per season.According to OK Diario, however, club chiefs feared the €5m (£4.2m) difference would create friction between the three stars in the dressing room.That is why Real president Florentino Perez decided to match all three of their wages by giving Bellingham and Vinicius a significant raise.Now they are all on €15m, which is the most anyone has ever earned in Madrid.Read More on FootballThe likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Eden Hazard also received the same amount during their time with Los Blancos.Bellingham set the world alight last season during his debut campaign with Real.The star midfielder amassed an impressive total of 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 appearances.The England international didn’t have an ideal start to this season as he suffered a muscle injury in August.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat led to Bellingham missing out on Lee Carsley’s first matches in charge of the Three Lions as interim manager in the Nations League.But the ex-Borussia Dortmund star returned to action on Tuesday in the Champions League and helped Real beat Stuttgart 3-1 in Spain.Top ten Instagram rich list of sportMbappe already counts five goals in seven appearances across all competitions for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. More

  • in

    How Real Madrid could line up with Trent Alexander-Arnold as Carlo Ancelotti plots ‘new Champions League era’

    REAL MADRID could be set to field a brand new Galacticos team next season.The Spaniards have spent the last five years realigning their finances and are getting ready to splash out on a fresh wave of star signings.Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti may launch a new Galacticos eraCredit: GettyLos Blancos have identified Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold as their top targetCredit: GettyAccording to The Independent, Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold is top of the pile for Los Blancos who need a long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal.Alexander-Arnold, 25, is out of contract this summer and can strike a pre-agreement with foreign clubs in January.The Spanish champions are also hoping to boost their midfield options with an ambitious move for Manchester City star Rodri.With City facing 115 charges of Financial Fair Play breaches, the Spain international could be on the move next summer.Read More on FootballThe 28-year-old reportedly wants to return to his homeland while still in his prime and would make a fine replacement for Toni Kroos.Real also want a new centre-back following Nacho’s exit to Saudi Arabia and Arsenal star William Saliba has emerged as a top choice.Long-term target Alphonso Davies could join as well as he is out of contract at Bayern Munich and looks unlikely to pen an extension.Those potential signings would launch a brand new Champions League-winning era for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSReal Madrid could be set to field a Galacticos line-up next seasonAlexander-Arnold could be the new starting right-back with Davies on the other side, while Saliba could team up with Antonio Rudiger at centre-back in front of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.Rodri could link up with Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham in midfield.Amazing tunnel footage shows Alexander-Arnold and Gordon planning England goal against Ireland before perfect executionAncelotti could also field a fiery attack consisted of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Endrick.Real Madrid have been linked with an ambitious move for Manchester City star RodriCredit: GettyArsenal ace William Saliba is a top target to replace Nacho at Real MadridCredit: GettyReal Madrid long-term target Alphonso Davies will be out of contract at Bayern MunichCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Real Madrid ‘plot triple transfer raid on Premier League’ with Trent Alexander-Arnold spearheading ‘new era’

    REAL MADRID are reportedly plotting a TRIPLE transfer raid on the Premier League with Trent Alexander-Arnold spearheading a “new era.”Bernabeu chiefs have spent the last five years realigning their finances.Real Madrid want to sign three Premier League stars starting with Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: GettyMan City and Spain ace Rodri is also on their shopping listCredit: GettyAnd they are ready to splash out on a fresh wave of Galacticos despite adding Kylian Mbappe and Endrick to their star-studded squad this summer.The Independent claims that Liverpool right-back Alexander-Arnold is top of the pile for Real, who need a long-term replacement for veteran defender Dani Carvajal.The England star, 25, is out of contract this summer and can strike a pre-agreement with foreign clubs in January.Alexander-Arnold has already seen his inverted role changed under new boss Arne Slot.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd after winning the lot during his time at Anfield, the ace may feel it’s time for a new start.Meanwhile, Real are also hoping to boost their midfield options with an ambitious move for Manchester City anchorman Rodri.The 28-year-old is one of the first names on Pep Guardiola’s team sheet.But with City facing 115 charges of Financial Fair Play breaches, Rodri could be on the move next summer.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Spain Euro winner reportedly wants to return to his homeland while still in his prime.And Rodri would make a fine replacement for German holder Toni Kroos, who retired in July.Real Madrid star Eduardo Camavinga screams in pain after injuryReal fancy the look of Arsenal defender William SalibaCredit: GettyTottenham ace Cristian Romero is seen as an alternativeCredit: GettyFinally, Real also want a new centre-back following Nacho’s exit to Saudi Arabia.David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger aren’t getting any younger either.And Arsenal star William Saliba has emerged as Real’s top choice for the position.But at just 23 years old, the Gunners are unlikely to give up Saliba without a massive fight.So it’s added that Real have also added Tottenham’s Cristian Romero to their shortlist.The 26-year-old may want out if he has another barren season.And his criticism of the club’s failure to fly international stars back on private jets ahead of the derby defeat to Arsenal has raised questions over his long-term future.Real’s business may not stop there either.READ MORE SUN STORIESLong-term target Alphonso Davies is out of contract at Bayern Munich and looks unlikely to pen an extension.While AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan is seen as fine competition for Thibaut Courtois.Real are likely to move for long-term target Alphonso Davies on a free transferCredit: GettyIt’s reckoned they are also lining up a swoop for AC Milan goalie Mike MaignanCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Jude Bellingham reveals Real boss Carlo Ancelotti’s hilarious X-rated insult after watching his brother Jobe score twice

    JUDE BELLINGHAM has revealed how Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti got him worried with an X-rated prank about his brother Jobe.The England midfielder told how his mischievous manager trolled him after they watched younger sibling Jobe score twice for Sunderland.Jude Bellingham joked that Carlo Ancelotti had fun at his expensiveCredit: RexJobe Bellingham netted twice, with his brother and Ancelotti observingCredit: RexBellingham Senior, 21, could eventually see his 18-year-old brother follow him into the pantheon of mega-money transfers.Now Jude has explained how that move could have been scarily sooner rather than later!The 36-cap star joined Real from Borussia Dortmund for £115million in June 2023.And he’s disclosed what happened just two months later – when Jobe hit an eye-catching double, via a firm header and a calm slot-home.READ MORE TOP STORIESIt gave the Black Cats a 2-1 Championship comeback win at home to Rotherham.And it left Ancelotti purring mischievously… well enough to fool Bellingham!Jude told his YouTube channel: “I still remember when my brother Jobe scored twice, we were watching the game and Ancelotti said, ‘f***… we brought the wrong one! I’m going to bring him here’.“I said, ‘where are you going to play him?’. Carlo said, in your position!’  Most read in ChampionshipJobe Bellingham was only 17 when he notched a double vs RotherhamCredit: Getty”I was like, ‘f*** that!’ And then finally he gave me a little smirk and my heart just dropped and I thought, ‘okay, fine’. “And then I’m like, no pressure for today!”Jude Bellingham signs shirt for Kim Kardashian’s son SaintSo how DID the elder Bellingham respond?Later the very same day he too struck a couple of goals – as Real bettered Sunderland’s fightback.Los Blancos were 1-0 down at Almeria in LaLiga.Bellingham then fired home from close range and nodded Real in front, before Vinicius Junior clinched a 3-1 victory.Fast forward 13 months, and Sunderland are two points clear in the Championship, while Real are four adrift of Barca in the Spanish top flight.So maybe, come May, Bellingham Junior might get one over on Jude by being the only title winner this season!Bellingham explained how Ancelotti bantered with himCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Kylian Mbappe rift with PSG deepens as he REJECTS offer to mediate and demands club pay him £46.5million

    KYLIAN MBAPPE’S bitter rift with former club PSG deepened as the France star rejected an offer to agree to a “mediation” process in his £46.5million contract claim.Mbappe is demanding the cash despite his free transfer to Real Madrid, arguing it is owed as a signing bonus, his final three months’ salary and an “ethical” payment he believes he is due.Mbappe came on for France vs Belgium as his PSG dispute continuesCredit: GettySince departing PSG, he’s netted three goals in five games for RealCredit: RexPSG claim Mbappe’s lawyer sent a legal letter giving up his right to the payment in August 2023 if he was allowed to return to the first team for the rest of the season before being entitled to a free transfer.But the striker’s legal team have insisted the agreement became null and void because it was not signed by both parties by August 14 while the promise that he would be selected by coach Luis Enrique was then broken in the final weeks of last season.A meeting brokered by Ligue 1 chiefs saw Mbappe and his representatives invited to attend “mediation”, which was “welcomed” by the French champions.But in a withering response, Mbappe and his advisors dismissed the idea.READ MORE TOP STORIESHis lawyers said: “The eventuality of a mediation was mentioned. This possibility was rejected during the meeting by the player’s representative.”A mediation would be useless so as to record a lack of payment that would be seen from a simple analysis of the player’s payslip.”The development follows criticism of Mbappe for his response to criticism during the international break.He started France’s 3-1 loss to Italy in Paris last Friday before coming on as a sub in a 2-0 victory over Belgium in Lyon three days later.Most read in FootballAs expected, Mbappe was booed by fans in the first encounter – as it was at PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut ex-France defender Bixente Lizarazu was “embarrassed” by the the 25-year-old’s “inappropriate” reaction when questioned on his subdued display.Mbappe said: “I’m at a stage in my life and my career where I no longer care [about criticism].Mbappe is still in a fierce dispute with old club PSGCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I come, I play and I try to do my best to help the team.”What people think is the least of my worries.”Watch Cristiano Ronaldo play ‘pick the better player’ out of stars including David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and MbappeBut 1998 World Cup winner Lizarazu, 54, said: “Kylian Mbappe’s press conference surprised and embarrassed me.”The words used were inappropriate, not those of a leader and even less those of a captain.”You cannot be insensitive to the feelings of the fans of the French team, to the frustrations they may harbour, to the questions they may have.”Mbappe has ht three goals in five games for Real since his summer switch. More

  • in

    Stockport County coach’s dream move to Real Madrid COLLAPSES at last minute in blow to Carlo Ancelotti

    STOCKPORT assistant coach Andy Mangan’s dream move to Real Madrid has fallen apart.Mangan, 38, was scouted by Real and seemed set to moving to the Santiago Bernabeu after sparking up a close relationship with manager Carlo Ancelotti’s son Davide.Stockport assistant boss Andy Mangan’s dream move to Real Madrid is offCredit: RexReal Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti wanted Mangan to ‘refresh’ his coaching staffCredit: GettyCarlo’s son, who is an assistant manager behind his dad at Los Blancos, undertook a coaching course with the Stockport tactician.SunSport exclusively revealed that Mangan was in talks with the reigning European champions.According to the Sunday Times, however, the sensational move is now “off”.That is because Mangan was denied a work permit in Spain.Read More on FootballThat is a major blow to Carlo as he wanted him to “refresh” his coaching staff.The Ancelottis are understood to have been looking for an English coach with experience in the EFL.It is also reported that Davide plans to take Mangan with him when he embarks on his own managerial career.Since joining Stockport in July, Mangan has been credited with playing a key role in their rise to the top spots of the League One table.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe has built a reputation as an “attacking specialist” and that is what attracted Real’s attention.Prior to his foray into coaching, Mangan had a lengthy career in the lower leagues as a player.Watch Jude Bellingham’s expletive-laden instructions to Mbappe and Co at half-time of Real Madrid drawFollowing his two-year spell as assistant manager with Bristol Rovers, he was even given a chance to take over as caretaker boss. More

  • in

    Man Utd ‘one of three clubs who made shock transfer swoop for Tottenham’s Cristian Romero this summer’

    MANCHESTER UNITED were one of THREE clubs who moved for Tottenham defender Cristian Romero this summer, according to reports.The Red Devils, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain all asked about the World Cup winner’s availability in the most-recent window.Cristian Romero was targeted by United, PSG and Real MadridAccording to sources close to Romero’s camp, United, Madrid and PSG all showed interest in luring him away from Spurs.Romero has developed into one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League, forming an impressive partnership under Micky van de Ven in North London.United approached Tottenham for Romero as early as June, according to Argentine news outlet TYC Sports.But boss Ange Postecoglou refused to part ways with his vice-captain.READ MORE ON MAN UTDTottenham informed the three clubs that he was not for sale, refusing to enter into any negotiations or even put a price on the 26-year-old.And TYC claim interest is likely to be re-ignited next summer, when Romero will have two years left on his contract.Erik ten Hag prioritised strengthening his back-line following Raphael Varane’s exit and United’s defensive injury crisis last season.No defender has scored more Premier League goals than Romero since the start of 2023-24.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe 26-year-old’s header in Tottenham’s emphatic 4-0 win over Everton was his sixth goal since last September.Romero was chosen ahead of United defender Lisandro Martinez in every game of Argentina’s World Cup triumph in Qatar 2022, including playing all 120 minutes in the final.Piers Morgan slams ‘complete idiot’ Erik ten Hag in astonishing rant against Man Utd boss about Cristiano RonaldoMartinez and Romero are now the first choice parting for Argentina, and helped their nation win the Copa America against Colombia in July.Meanwhile, United added Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui to their squad this summer.The Red Devils were preparing a move for Romero in 2021 after he was named the best defender in the Serie A while on loan at Atalanta.But, that summer, they instead signed Varane from Real Madrid, along with Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo from Juventus.None of those three players are still at Old Trafford.Romero joined Tottenham on loan with the move made permanent the following year for £42m during that same window. More