More stories

  • in

    Chelsea FFP woes set to worsen with £72m flop to be sent back to Stamford Bridge after disastrous loan transfer

    KEPA ARRIZABALAGA will leave Real Madrid when his season-long loan expires this summer.The 29-year-old joined Los Blancos in August after refusing a move to Bayern Munich.Kepa Arrizabalaga will leave Real MadridCredit: GettyReal Madrid wanted to sign him on a temporary basis to replace Thibaut Courtois, who suffered an ACL injury during pre-season.When he arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu, Kepa revealed he wanted to seal a permanent move at the end of the season.However, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims he will return to Chelsea instead.Kepa has been limited to just 18 appearances this season, with back-up goalkeeper Andriy Lunin taking his spot in the first team.Read More on FootballReal Madrid officials now want to reward Lunin with a new contract.They are also waiting for Courtois to return from his latest injury setback.Kepa’s return to Stamford Bridge could spell trouble for Chelsea, with the club needing to balance the books due to Financial Fair Play.The Blues could be forced into selling some key players – including Reece James and Conor Gallagher – this summer to comply with FFP regulations.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSKepa has fallen out of favour at Real MadridBut they will have to accept a huge loss to offload Kepa.The goalkeeper joined Chelsea in a £71.6million transfer from Athletic Bilbao in 2018.Andy Dillon and Will Pugh discuss where Chelsea’s transfer policy has gone wrong, the future of Conor Gallagher and The Blues’ spendingAnd according to Transfermarkt, he is now valued at just £12m.Kepa made 163 Chelsea appearances before leaving for Real Madrid.The Blues have since signed Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic. More

  • in

    Real Madrid reserves score controversial winner as TWO BALLS end up in the back of the net – did you spot how?

    REAL MADRID’S reserve team were allowed to score a controversial winner – despite TWO BALLS ending up in the net.It saw them triumph over Atletico Baleares to win the game 1-0 in the Spanish third division.Nico Paz whipped a free kick inCredit: XA second ball was thrown onto the pitch as Villapalos made contact with itCredit: XTwo balls were in the net by the time the first had crossed the lineCredit: XThe incident took place after Real Madrid Castilla midfielder Nico Paz whipped the ball in from a free-kick, and the ball was deflected by Baleares midfielder Alberto Villapalos into his own net.But just as Villapalos made contact with the match ball, a second one was thrown by a fan directly at him.And with Villapalos outstretched and helpless, the second ball bounced directly off him and into his own net too.That led to the Baleares players to appeal for the goal to be disallowed given that there were two balls on the pitch at the same time.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThis would usually lead to the game being stopped.Given the match ball was virtually already in the net when the second ball made contact with Villapalos, the referee used common sense and allowed the goal to stand.Marca asked Spanish refereeing expert Alfonso Pérez Burrull to explain the decision.The ex-ref said: “You have to award a goal. Unless it interferes, you have to consider the goal valid. You don’t have to give value to the trick from the stands.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMadrid fans on X were quick to see the funny side of the incident.One fan posted: “It should count as two goals haha.”Jude Bellingham stunned after journalist asks if he ‘wants to go home with her’ A second fan wrote: “It doesn’t influence the play, so it’s well granted, but what s****y football we have in Spain.”A third wrote: “A joke… if the ball lands half a second before the goal doesn’t count and the brainless [fans] achieve their goal.” More

  • in

    How Man Utd could line up under Zinedine Zidane with Jude Bellingham making shock transfer from Real Madrid

    MANCHESTER UNITED could line up with one of the most exciting teams in Europe if Zinedine Zidane becomes their next manager.The Frenchman has been out of work since 2021 after a second spell with his beloved Real Madrid.Zinedine Zidane has been tipped to take charge at Man Utd this summerCredit: AFPZidane is a huge admirer of Jude Bellingham… and the feeling is mutualCredit: GettyBut he has now been tipped to replace Erik ten Hag at United by former team-mate Julio Baptista.The Brazil icon and former Arsenal loanee told Ladbrokes Fanzone: “I think Zidane will be a Premier League manager someday.“He is an incredible coach with amazing experience having won the Champions League, so I can see that happening.“I can see him going to Manchester United.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDShould Zidane make the stunning switch to Old Trafford, he could target several players to reinvigorate United’s squad.Real Madrid and England superstar Jude Bellingham would likely be top of his list in one of the most incredible transfers in history.The midfielder only moved to Spain for an initial £88.5million from Borussia Dortmund last summer.Bellingham has been nothing short of superb with 20 goals and nine assists in 31 outings.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBut the Birmingham legend has made no secret of his admiration for Zidane.And the feeling is mutual, with Zizou saying this week: “Jude Bellingham is spectacular, we are lucky to have him in the Real Madrid. He is very good and I hope he brings many trophies.”Man Utd’s top targets for the transfer windowShould a mind-blowing deal ever go through, it would likely see Bellingham join new England team-mate Kobbie Mainoo in midfield, with captain Bruno Fernandes completing the triumvirate.Another Real player strongly linked with United is Rodrygo, who is more than capable of finally fixing the side’s problem area on the right wing.And alongside Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund, the Red Devils would finally have an attack ready to challenge for the title.As for defence, Andre Onana is unlikely to be on the move any time soon.Indeed, he has the same profile as Zidane’s former Real goalie Keylor Navas, which bodes well for his ball-playing instincts.Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw are unlikely to be muscled out of the backline anytime soon.But it could mean a reprieve for Raphael Varane, who is another player with strong links to Zidane.He still has a year left on his United contract and could fancy a last dance alongside his fellow Frenchman.Varane could be joined by a new centre-back though, with Juventus’ Gleison Bremer long linked with a switch.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis physicality and technical skills would make him an ideal presence in Zidane’s defence.But it would also leave the likes of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans sweating over their futures.Zinedine Zidane’s managerial careerThose brilliant numbers in full…

    Real Madrid Castilla, 2014-2016: P57 W26 D17 L14 GD+30

    Real Madrid, 2016-2018: P149 W105 D28 L16 GD+235

    Real Madrid, 2019-2021: P114 W69 D25 L20 GD+103

    Trophies: LaLiga x2, Spanish Super Cup x2, Champions League x3, Uefa Super Cup, Club World Cup x2 (Real Madrid) More

  • in

    Luis Diaz’s dad reveals they ‘haven’t lost hope’ of LaLiga transfer amid Real Madrid links

    THE FATHER of Luis Diaz has revealed he has not given up hope of a transfer to Spain.SunSport exclusively linked Diaz, 27, with a shock transfer to LaLiga in February.Luis Diaz has ‘not lost hope’ of sealing a transfer to LaLigaCredit: AFPAnd now the Liverpool star’s father, Mane Diaz, has revealed the Colombian winger is still very much considering a move to Spain as giants such as Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid lurk.Speaking to Cadena Ser, Diaz Sr. said: “There was never anything serious with Real Madrid or Atlético.”Liverpool were always more determined and concrete to sign Luis. “We haven’t lost our hope yet…READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Luis is playing well and Spanish clubs are always active in the market.”Diaz Sr. was taken hostage at gunpoint alongside his wife on Saturday, October 28, at a petrol station in Colombia.Diaz’s mother, Cilenis Marulanda, was rescued within hours, with Diaz Sr. eventually being released in November after 12 days of being held captive.Diaz joined the Reds from Porto in January 2022 and his contract runs until 2027. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe has scored 22 goals and added 13 assists in 86 appearances. This includes 11 goals and five assists this season. Klopp ‘yelled and screamed at’ reporter in off-air bust-up that left people ‘scared’ after storming out of TV interviewDespite being knocked out of the FA Cup by Manchester United before the international break, Jurgen Klopp’s side remain in the hunt for three trophies this season.They are level on points with Premier League leaders Arsenal and are also eyeing silverware in the Europa League.The Reds have already picked up the Carabao Cup in Klopp’s swansong campaign at Anfield.Xabi Alonso and Roberto De Zerbi have both been linked with taking over the manager’s job when the German leaves at the end of the season.Although ex-player Glen Johnson believes the club should appoint England boss Gareth Southgate. More

  • in

    Chelsea and Man Utd transfer moves for French wonderkid set to be hijacked as ‘Real Madrid line up swoop’

    A TRIO of Premier League clubs face a huge battle with Real Madrid to snap up French wonderkid Leny Yoro.The defender is only 18 but is already impressing in his homeland for Lille’s first-team.A host of clubs have entered the chase for Lille’s wonderkid Lenny YoroCredit: GettyHis performances have led to him being dubbed the “new Raphael Varane” due to similarities with Manchester United’s French World Cup-winning ace.We revealed previously how Liverpool were eyeing him up as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.Man United and Chelsea also have an interest in bringing him to England  while Paris Saint-Germain hope to keep him in Ligue 1. Now Spanish outlet AS claims that Real Madrid are lining up a move to add another teenage sensation to their ranks after securing the services of Endrick – the 17-year-old who scored Brazil’s winner against England on Saturday.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe same outlet also reiterates how Chelsea have been keeping tabs on Yoro and that Bayern Munich have an interest also.But they are adamant that Madrid are in pole position to land him as they look to inject youth in their ageing backline.Lille were determined to hang on to Yoro during the January window and managed to succeed with that but it could prove to be a lot harder come the summer.The French U21 international will be entering the final 12 months on his deal.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERThey were originally reported to be holding out for £85m when French rivals PSG enquired two months ago.However, this update states that his price-tag is now £51m.Football icons’ strange hobbiesThat could also make him the most expensive defender to be sold by a Ligue 1 club ever.Paulo Fonseca, his boss at Lille, has already gone on record to state that he expects big things for the starlet.He said: “He’s a very mature player and I think he has a great future ahead of him.” More

  • in

    Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City out to beat Man Utd to £86m transfer for Real Madrid star who could lose spot to Mbappe

    FOUR Premier League giants are ready for a huge tug-of-war transfer fight over Real Madrid star Rodrygo, according to reports.Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United are all monitoring the 23-year-old Brazilian.Rodrygo has attracted interest from four Prem giantsCredit: GettyWith Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe set to join, Spanish outlet SPORT report the LaLiga giants would be willing to open negotiations on Rodrygo if they receive offers above £86million.Treble-winners City have kept tabs on Rodrygo since his two stoppage-time goals helped to knock out the Prem champions in their dramatic 2022 Champions League semi-final.The winger, whose £205,000-a-week Bernabeu contract runs until 2028, has bagged 13 goals and provided nine assists in 41 Real games this term.United fans are keen on signing Rodrygo, who starred in Brazil’s 1-0 win over England on Saturday.But they could face a challenge for his signature from Arsenal or Liverpool, particularly if Mo Salah leaves Anfield amid links to Saudi Arabia.Interest could ramp up in the summer and Real Madrid already have a ready-made replacement for the forward in 17-year-old Endrick, who agreed a transfer to the Bernabeu in December 2022.However Rodrygo’s future will most likely be determined by what happens with Mbappe.The Frenchman is out of contract in the summer and has been tipped to swap PSG for Real Madrid.Most read in FootballRodrygo has played as a no9 at times this seasonBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBut he was expected to do the same two years ago before a dramatic U-turn led him to pen a new contract.Reports claim Mbappe has signed a five-year deal with Real Madrid which includes an £85million signing-on fee.Football stars’ weird phobias More

  • in

    Real Madrid ready to test Liverpool with £75million bid for Trent Alexander-Arnold as Reds face summer transfer exodus

    LIVERPOOL star Trent Alexander-Arnold is a £75million target for Real Madrid.The England full-back, 25, has just over a year left on his current deal at Anfield.Real Madrid are understood to be interested in Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: EPAAnd Spanish giants Real are ready to test the Reds’ resolve to hold on to their home-grown star as they continue the rebuild of Carlo Ancelotti’s team.Liverpool have no desire to sell Alexander-Arnold this summer.And they remain hopeful of tying him down to another long-term contract.But, if negotiations stall, Real are unlikely to be alone in trying to tempt the Merseysiders into cashing in.And the Reds know they are running the risk of losing the ball-playing right-back for nothing next year.Agreeing new terms with Alexander-Arnold will be one of the top priorities for Liverpool’s new hierarchy this summer.The biggest task for Michael Edwards — returning to Anfield as CEO of football in the summer — and new sporting director Richard Hughes is to appoint a successor to outgoing boss Jurgen Klopp.But Mo Salah and captain Virgil van Dijk are in the same contractual position as Alexander-Arnold.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd that could lead to a summer of major upheaval for the title challengers.All three are already among the club’s top earners but will be expecting improved terms and a suitably inspiring replacement for Klopp.Charlie Adam on watching golf with Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish instead of transfer talksThe Saudi Pro League is desperate to lure Salah in particular.There will also be interest in goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.Due to Alisson being injured, the Irishman, 25, has started each of Liverpool’s last five Premier League games and also played in their Carabao Cup final triumph over Chelsea.But he has just 43 appearances since arriving at Anfield in 2019 and could now be tempted away from Merseyside after several impressive displays.Alexander-Arnold has played 21 Premier League games this season but is currently injured More

  • in

    Top footballer aged just 24 dies from heart failure after collapsing in training as club pays heartfelt tribute

    COLOMBIAN footballer Guillermo Beltran has tragically died aged 24 after collapsing in training.The Real Santa Cruz striker complained of dizziness and nausea before falling to the floor on Friday.Real Santa Cruz star Guillermo Beltran has tragically died aged 24Credit: REAL SANTA CRUZReal Santa Cruz paid tribute to their late player with a heartfelt Instagram videoCredit: Instagram / @club_realsantacruz INSTAGAM@CLUB_REALSANTACRUZClub staff desperately tried to resuscitate the forward and promptly called an ambulance after their efforts to rouse him failed. But he tragically passed away as he was being transported to the hospital.Bolivian side Real Santa Cruz announced his passing in a statement on their social media pages.It read: “Today, at 7:30 p.m., we say goodbye to our beloved player, Guillermo Denis Beltran, at the Real Santa Cruz Club headquarters.”We extend a cordial invitation to all realistic fans to join us for our final goodbye and say goodbye to our player, who left an indelible mark on our hearts and on the history of our club.”We thank you in advance for your presence and expressions of affection at this difficult time for all of us.”In another statement, the club said of Beltran: “He was much more than a talented player: he was a friend. “A teammate and an inspiration to many. Most read in FootballReal Santa Cruz confirmed Beltran’s passing in a heartfelt statementCredit: REAL SANTA CRUZ”His passion for the game and his tireless spirit will continue to be remembered and valued forever.”Real Santa Cruz director Adolfo Soria Galvarro said of the tragedy: “He was training as usual and then he collapsed.Former Turkish footballer Ersen Martin has tragically passed away aged 44″They tried to resuscitate him but he died as he was being moved to a clinic.”Real Santa Cruz posted a touching video tribute to their late player on social media, with the accompanying caption reading: “Fly high, dear friend.”Scores of fans commented, with one saying: “How sad, may the Lord give strength to his family.”Another said: “Fly high.”And another said: “Lots of strength for your family and friends, it’s a shame.”One remarked: “God give you eternal light.”Another chimed in: “What a great talent that left us, God, I have you in his glory, champion.”Bolivian Football Federation president Fernando Costa also paid tribute to the late Beltran and has vowed to launch a full investigation into his passing.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Bolivian national team paid their respects to Beltran on Friday night with a minute’s silence before their FIFA Series match with Algeria.Beltran – who joined Real Santa Cruz last year from Paraguayan side Rubio Nu – began his career with Atletico Nacional.Bolivia and Algeria paid tribute to the late Beltran with a minute’s silence before their matchCredit: GETTY More