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    Cristiano Ronaldo ‘made available for just £25m by Juventus’ amid Man Utd and PSG transfer interest

    CRISTIANO RONALDO is available for just £25million this summer, according to reports.Juventus paid around four times this amount for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s services back in 2018.
    Cristiano Ronaldo could be on the move for just £25mCredit: Reuters
    But according to Gazzetta, the Old Lady are ready to bring their costly Ronaldo experiment to an end… amid rumoured interest from Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.
    Juve’s former sporting director Fabio Paratici was a driving figure in bringing CR7 to Turin in 2018.
    But with the Italian having now left and joined Spurs, the Serie A giants are set to pull the plug on their expensive No7’s time at the club.
    Juventus could save as much as £75m in salary by parting with Ronaldo this summer.
    And club chiefs have already met with the star’s agent Jorge Mendes to discuss a potential transfer.
    Even at 36, Ronaldo has remained a prolific goalscorer for club and country.
    He scored 36 goals in 44 games for Juventus last season, even as Andrea Pirlo’s side slumped to fourth.
    And the Portuguese ace also netted five goals in just four games for his country at Euro 2020 – equalling Ali Daei’s international goalscoring record of 109 in the process.

    CR7 was in red hot form for Portugal this summerCredit: AFP
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    Overall, Ronaldo has bagged 101 goals in 133 games for Juventus.
    He could now complete an emotional return to Man United – 12 years after leaving Old Trafford for Real Madrid.
    PSG are also believed to be keen – especially if Kylian Mbappe forces an exit this summer.

    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    VIDEO: Watch fuming Cristiano Ronaldo KICK Portugal captain’s armband after throwing it to floor following Euro 2020 exit More

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    Andriy Shevchenko is the Ukraine national idol planning England’s downfall who loves golf and has son in Chelsea academy

    THROUGHOUT his career and beyond, Andriy Shevchenko has had an eye for more than just football.Upon his ill-fated arrival at Chelsea in 2006, he was dubbed “The Assassin” and rightly so.
    Andriy Shevchenko has made himself a Ukrainian national treasureCredit: EPA
    Shevchenko has appeared in modelling shoots with wife Kristen PazikCredit: © GIAN PAOLO BARBIERI
    The 175 goals in 322 games during eight years in two spells at AC Milan will tell you that.
    But just as he was absorbed by goals and success on the pitch, off it the Ukrainian kept busy too.
    Fashion became a huge part of his life. He met his American model wife Kristen Pazik in 2002 at a Giorgio Armani party, and has since regularly modelled for the designer tycoon, as well as opening two branches with him.
    Days after retiring, like compatriot and ex-boxer Vitali Klitschko, he ventured into politics as he stood for election to represent the Ukrainian Social Democratic Party.
    His love for golf is well known, he owns a house near Wentworth and is often seen playing a few rounds with old Blues pals John Terry and Gianfranco Zola.
    Even during his time at Milan — where he won the Champions League in 2003 and Ballon d’Or the following year — he formed lasting relationships that attracted media attention.
    Controversial ex-Milan owner and former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is the godfather to his first-born son and the pair remain in close contact.
    The same can be said for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, with Shevchenko’s move to West London helped by the fact his wife Kristen was pals with Roman’s now ex-wife Irina.

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    Shevchenko’s American wife Kristen Pazik (pictured in 2003) is the daughter of former baseball star Mike PazikCredit: © GIAN PAOLO BARBIERI
    That unlikely Russian-Ukrainian bond still exists to this day as Shevchenko was sat with Abramovich in the stands to watch Chelsea win the Champions League in Porto.
    But for all his connections and hobbies, there was always an inner yearning to push those things aside and return his full focus back to football.
    In particular, football back home, where he is revered as a god. A national hero. An icon.
    That happened after becoming boss of Ukraine in 2016 in his first managerial stint.
    In a way, he has returned to his roots, away from the glitz and the glamour and the golf.
    And now, ahead of an historic first-ever Euros quarter-final against England, Shevchenko’s focus is clearer than ever.
    First and foremost, the 44-year-old — six years younger than Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate –— is a motivator and an inspirational leader.
    Having scored their first ever Euros goal in 2012 and leading them to a World Cup quarter-final in 2006 as captain, Ukraine’s greatest ever player is known to be incredibly demanding of his currently overperforming side.
    After winning just one game in the group stages at Euro 2020 and scraping through in third place, he told the media they did NOT deserve to qualify and needed to wake up.
    They have now and, tactically, Shevchenko is proving to be astute too, switching to a back-three for the first time to beat Sweden 2-1 in the last 16.
    The former striker’s playing career stumbled at ChelseaCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
    While he accepts England’s superiority, he will ensure Ukraine turn up knowing what they need to do to pull off an incredible upset.
    He will never admit it, but his time in England at Chelsea left his ego bruised and reputation shattered.
    There were mutterings and rumours over his overly-close relationship with Abramovich, with accusations of being the ‘teacher’s pet’.
    Then-boss Jose Mourinho failed to get the Ukrainian superstar firing on all cylinders.
    He ended up making only 48 Premier League appearances over three years, scoring just nine times.
    Some even suggest that it was against another English opponent that he first showed signs of losing his golden touch a few months before joining Chelsea.
    Shevchenko was part of the infamous Milan side that blew a 3-0 half-time lead to Liverpool in the 2005 Champions League final.
    He had the chance to win it in extra time but was denied by a wonder save from Jerzy Dudek, although many claim it was an unforgivable miss.
    And in the penalty shootout, his miss handed the Reds the crown, as he headed to West London with his tail between his legs.
    But despite his Stamford Bridge flop from 2006 to 2009, Shevchenko is fond of London, and has lived there for the past 13 years with his children all attending English schools.
    Shevchenko lifted the Ballon d’Or and three major trophies at AC MilanCredit: AFP
    But he missed against Liverpool in the 2005 Champions League final shootoutCredit: AP:Associated Press

    One of his sons Kristian, 14, is in the Chelsea youth academy, and could one day play for England through his residency status.
    Yet any warmth towards England will be put to one side on Saturday in Rome’s footballing colosseum.
    Italy is where his greatest triumphs as a player took place. As a manager, he is eyeing yet another.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Shevchenko and Andersson have ugly touchline row as Sweden manager accuses Ukraine stars of diving in Euro 2020 game More

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    Man Utd sent scout to watch Juventus star Adrien Rabiot in France’s shock Euro 2020 defeat to Switzerland

    MANCHESTER UNITED sent a scout to watch Adrien Rabiot in France’s Euro 2020 defeat to Switzerland, according to reports.The 26-year-old midfielder played for the world champions at left wing-back during their shock loss.
    Adrien Rabiot, 25, is currently playing for Italian giants JuventusCredit: Getty
    According to the Daily Star, a United scout was at the game in Bucharest to watch Rabiot in action.
    It was a nightmare evening for Rabiot and his French teammates, losing on penalties in a shock result.
    His mum Veronique, who is also his agent, has come under fire for arguing with the families of Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe in the stands after the final whistle.
    Although the Juventus star has featured 62 times in Serie A since his move from Paris Saint-Germain in July 2019, reports claim the club are willing to let him leave for just £17million.
    United, along with Chelsea and Barcelona, are believed to be interested in signing the player.
    Rumours suggest the Red Devils are considering offering flop Donny van de Beek to the Italian giants as part of a swap deal for Rabiot.
    And there has been speculation about a swap deal involving the France international and United defender Alex Telles.

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    Rabiot is known for his ability to play anywhere in midfield and at wing-back – versatility United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may desire.
    The 19-cap international spent a few months at Manchester City’s academy in 2008 before returning to his native France.
    He went on to become a promising talent at PSG, making 150 Ligue 1 appearances and winning five league titles before joining Juve.
    Rabiot has won Serie A, the Italian Cup and Italian Super Cup during his spell in Turin, earning a place in Didier Deschamps’ Euro 2020 squad.
    Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sacho remains United’s No1 transfer target this summer, with a deal for the England winger reportedly close.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Midfielder Adrien Rabiot arrives in Turin after transferring from PSG to Juventus More

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    Arsenal star Granit Xhaka wanted by Juventus as they look to hijack Roma transfer and could hike up midfielder’s price

    ITALIAN giants Juventus are interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka, according to reports.The Switzerland captain has been linked with Juve’s Serie A rivals Roma, who will be coached by ex-Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho next term.
    Granit Xhaka, 28, has led Switzerland to the quarter-finals of Euro 2020Credit: The Mega Agency
    According to CalcioMercato, Juventus are admirers of Xhaka and may make a move for the Arsenal star if they fail to sign Manuel Locatelli from Sassuolo.
    The 28-year-old has impressed for the Swiss at Euro 2020, picking up the Star of the Match award for his performance in his country’s famous win against France.
    Xhaka has reportedly agreed terms with Roma ahead of a potential move but the Italian side are struggling to meet the Gunners’ asking price.
    Mourinho’s new club are understood to have offered €12million plus €3m in add-ons for the player – around £13m in total.
    But Arsenal are believed to have rejected Roma’s advances and want at least €20m in cash – around £17m – and the price could increase following Xhaka’s European exploits and Juve’s reported interest.
    The Premier League side paid a reported £30m for Xhaka five years ago.
    Rumours suggest the midfielder won’t wait for Roma to meet Arsenal’s valuation, giving Juventus the chance to make a move.

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    Xhaka dropped a huge hint over his future following Switzerland’s stunning win against France.
    When asked by the press if he will be answering questions in Italian, the Arsenal star said: “Not yet… It is always interesting to learn a new language.
    “Let’s see, everyone knows what Roma represent. Now I am an Arsenal player, I will speak after the tournament.”
    Xhaka has split opinion among Arsenal fans during his five-year spell at the Emirates, with many unconvinced of his quality.
    The former Borussia Monchengladbach star has made 161 Premier League appearances for the Gunners, winning two FA Cups.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds More

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    Chelsea transfer blow as Achraf Hakimi’s agent confirms Inter star is set for PSG move

    CHELSEA have been dealt a transfer blow with Achraf Hakimi’s agent confirming his client is set for Paris Saint-Germain.The right-back, 22, has been linked with a move away from the San Siro in recent months.
    Achraf Hakimi is expected to complete a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain from Inter MilanCredit: Getty
    But the Moroccan looks on course to link up with Mauricio Pochettino at the Parc des Princes rather than Thomas Tuchel in West London.
    His agent did not reveal a contract is signed just yet with the French giants – but hinted it is very close.
    Alejandro Camano told reporters: “We talked about several things, we can’t say yet that Hakimi is a new PSG player.
    “We talked about everything.
    “If Hakimi is sad to leave Inter? Those who leave Inter are always sad.”
    Hakimi spent 14 years with hometown club Real Madrid before joining Inter last summer on a five-year deal for around £36million.
    But just one successful season later – he racked up seven goals and ten assists in 37 Serie A appearances as the Nerazzurri won the league – the defender will move on.
    European champions Chelsea were interested and reportedly offered £52m plus Marcos Alonso.

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    But Poch has swooped with a £59.8m bid and that is expected to be enough to land the attack-minded wing-back.
    Camano also represents Inter striker Lautaro Martinez, who is another player linked with a move away.
    But he insisted the Argentina international striker is settled in Milan.
    The agent added: “Martinez stays here, now he’s in Argentina for the Copa America.
    “Lautaro is an Inter player, he has a two-year contract and is happy here.”
    Mauricio Pochettino looks set to add the attacking wing-back to his squad ahead of the new seasonCredit: AFP

    Chelsea and PSG both want Inter Milan wing-back Achraf Hakimi More

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    Arsenal target Andrea Belotti but face transfer battle with four Italian clubs for £29million-rated Italy striker

    ARSENAL reportedly want to bring Torino ace Andrea Belotti to the Emirates this summer.But the North London club will have to battle it out with several Italian teams for the striker’s signature.
    Arsenal will face competition from several Italian clubs to sign BelottiCredit: Getty
    Mikel Arteta’s side face stiff competition from Serie A giants AC Milan, Napoli, Fiorentina and Jose Mourinho’s Roma who are all interested in the 27-year-old, according to Tuttosport.
    The Italian hot-shot’s contract runs out next summer and Torino are said to be holding out for £29million to prevent the risk of losing him on a free transfer.
    Arsenal were also linked with a move for Belotti a few months ago, amid reports that Alexandre Lacazette was heading for the exit.
    Arteta wants to bolster his squad this summer after finishing a lowly eighth in the Premier League last season.
    Belotti scored 13 times for Torino in the previous Serie A campaign, and his goals could help fire the Gunners back up the table.
    Arsenal will also have to fend off attention closer to home with Premier League rivals Manchester United and Liverpool reportedly vying to secure his services.
    United are said to view the centre-forward as a possible replacement for Edinson Cavani.
    But it’s believed that Belotti’s future will not be decided until after Euro 2020.

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    He’s featured in three of The Azzuri’s games so far in their progression to the quarter-finals of the competition.
    Although he’s not managed to score yet, Belotti’s had seven attempts on goal.
    Kieran Tierney signs bumper new five-year Arsenal contract More

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    Chelsea interested in Barcelona outcast Miralem Pjanic but face three-club transfer battle with Juventus and PSG

    MIRALEM PJANIC is reportedly attracting interest from Chelsea, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain ahead of a Barcelona fire sale.The LaLiga giants are facing mounting debt and have been told to drastically cut their wage bill.
    Miralem Pjanic reportedly favours a move to JuventusCredit: Getty
    Samuel Umtiti, Philippe Coutinho and Martin Braithwaite are just some of the players linked with moves this summer.
    According to ESPN, midfielder Pjanic is among them.
    The 31-year-old signed only 12 months ago from Juventus in a contrived swap deal for Brazilian playmaker Arthur Melo.
    Yet he has failed to light up the Camp Nou and did not score a goal during their failed LaLiga title bid.
    Therefore Barcelona are said to be ready to accept a reasonable bid for Pjanic.
    Massimiliano Allegri signed the Bosnian for Juventus in 2016 and helped turn him into one of the world’s top central midfielders.

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    The Italian is now back in Turin for the new season and is reportedly interested in securing Pjanic’s return.
    But the Old Lady are thought to not be too keen on a permanent transfer with a significant fee.
    Whether a loan deal is of interest to Barcelona remains to be seen.
    Earlier in the summer, the player was said to want a move back to Italy.

    Chelsea and PSG have also been named by Le10Sport as considering a loan bid.
    Thomas Tuchel is preparing to spend big to turn his Blues team into Premier League title challengers.
    On the German’s wishlist is a new centre-back with Sevilla’s Jules Kounde strongly linked alongside Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.
    Former striker Romelu Lukaku has also been lined up but is not thought to be ready to leave Inter Milan.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
    Barcelona ‘want to offer Chelsea Miralem Pjanic in swap transfer for Jorginho’ after career revival under Thomas Tuchel More

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    Who is Cristiano Ronaldo’s girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez? Mum of daughter Alana and Spanish-Argentine model

    GEORGINA RODRIGUEZ has been by the side of superstar footballer Cristiano Ronaldo for almost five years.The couple now have a daughter together, Alana, while also raising Ronaldo’s other three children –  here is all you need to know about the Spanish-Argentine model.
    Ronaldo and partner Georgina Rodriguez often use their private jet to zoom around EuropeCredit: Instagram @georginagio
    Who is Georgina Rodriguez?
    Georgina Rodriguez grew up in Jaca, a city in north eastern Spain and part of the province of Huesca, near the Pyrenees.
    She was born to a Spanish mum and Argentine dad.
    Georgina learned dance before changing careers to modelling after studying English in London.
    The Sun revealed that her father is a convicted cocaine trafficker named Jorge Rodriguez, 71, who spent ten years in jail.
    The 27-year-old was first spotted on a string of dates with then-Real Madrid superstar Ronaldo towards the end of 2016.
    Cristiano Ronaldo shared a cosy family picture of him cuddling three of his children with Georgina RodriguezCredit: Instagram
    Georgina has claimed that her first meeting with the football star was “love at first sight.”
    “Our first meeting was at Gucci, where I worked as a sales assistant,” she recalled in an interview with The Sun .
    “Days later, we saw each other again at another brand’s event.
    “It was then that we could talk in a relaxed atmosphere, outside my work environment. It was love at first sight for both.”
    Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez have a baby girl togetherCredit: Twitter
    News of her relationship with the footballer began to emerge in November 2016 when they were snapped walking around Disneyland Paris arm-in-arm and publicly showing their affection for one another.
    And despite putting on a disguise, the Italian magazine Chi was able to identify Ronaldo as he cuddled up to his new love interest.
    Georgina gave birth to baby daughter Alana Martina on November 12, 2017, with Ronaldo posting a picture on Instagram, writing: “Alana Martina is just born! Both Geo and Alana are doing great! We are all very happy!'”
    And just over two years later, the pair were forced to deny rumours that they had got hitched in a low-key ceremony in Morocco.
    Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez are on lockdown together in MadeiraCredit: AFP or licensors
    Georgina Rodriguez posted her home workout on InstagramCredit: Instagram / @georginagio
    How did Georgina Rodriguez and Cristiano Ronaldo meet?
    Before meeting Ronaldo, Georgina worked at a Gucci store in the Spanish capital of Madrid.
    It’s believed the Spanish beauty caught the eye of Cristiano Ronaldo in the VIP area of a Dolce & Gabbana event.
    How long have Georgina Rodriguez and Cristiano Ronaldo been dating?
    The couple appeared to start dating a few months after Ronaldo was caught cuddling up to fitness model Cassandre Davis in August 2016.
    And, while it’s difficult to know exactly how long Ronaldo and Georgina have been together, their first public date was in mid-November 2016.
    On February 23, 2017, Ronaldo joked to a friend telling him to “be careful” when he uploaded a photo alongside Georgina.

    How many children does Cristiano Ronaldo have?
    The star now has four children after the birth of Alana Martina.
    Ronaldo, 36, welcomed twins – Eva and Mateo – into the world in June 2017 after a surrogate mother allegedly gave birth to them in America.
    He is also a father to seven-year-old son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.
    In May 2020, an update to her Instagram story showed a blurred photo of her chewing gum with the words “Baby Girl” typed above alongside a heart wrapped in a bow emoji.
    Rodriguez did not confirm she is expecting but the hint certainly suggested there was a possibility she was pregnant. More