Sport Live Blogs

SHEIKH JASSIM has made a world-record £5bn bid for Manchester United.And the ambitious billionaire bidder from the Middle East, is eyeing Neymar as a marquee signing this summer
Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos group both put in their THIRD bids for the club just before last night’s 10pm deadline.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
Keep up to date with the latest on the takeover saga at Old Trafford…
Unite and Chelsea ‘interested’ in £57m David
Chelsea are reportedly interested in a £57million transfer for Jonathan David, along with Man Utd and Spurs.
French outlet L’Equipe have claimed the trio are candidates to sign the Lille forward this summer.
Only Kylian Mbappe has outscored the Canadian in Ligue 1 this season, with David netting 21 goals and adding four assists in 31 games.
There is a growing expectation he will take the next step this summer.
Chelsea have suffered greatly without a clinical scorer this season.
Latest – Sheihk Jassim eyeing Neymar
Sheikh Jassim’s entourage is already sounding out their fellow Qatari owners of PSG in a bid to land Neymar as the new face of United, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Neymar, who moved to Ligue 1 in a £198m deal from Barcelona in 2017, has two years left on his current PSG contract.
His relationship with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe has been problematic at times and it is believed the South American, on a staggering £490,000 per WEEK, would be keen on a move to the Prem.
Landing Neymar would be a huge coup for Sheikh Jassim, who feels his bid, which would leave United debt-free for the first time in two decades, represents the best option for the club and fans.

Breaking – Man Utd takeover bids submitted
Qatari Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani wants Brazilian superstar Neymar to spearhead his Manchester United revolution IF he wins the battle to control Old Trafford.
Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos group both put in their THIRD bids for the club just before tonight’s 10pm deadline.
The Qatari banker’s revised proposal is understood to be worth up to £5.5bn for full ownership of the club PLUS a huge extra sum for rebuilding Old Trafford and the Carrington training ground.
Kane ‘open to running down contract’
Harry Kane is open to running down his Tottenham contract, reports tonight suggest.
SunSport revealed last month that Manchester United are confident they can sign the Spurs striker, should the North Londoners miss out on a Champions League spot.
Kane, 29, has 14 months remaining on his Tottenham deal, and figures within the club are growing doubtful over whether he will pen a new one.
According to the Telegraph, the England skipper would consider seeing out his deal at Tottenham before leaving on a free transfer.
Man United would be willing to offer him a £100,000 boost on his current £200k-a-week Spurs deal.
While players leaving on free transfers can often command huge signing-on-fees.
Ex-United star follows Dad’s footsteps
Former Man United star Nani has seen his son follow in his footsteps after signing for his former club.
Son, Lucas, has signed a contract with Sporting Lisbon, where Nani played during his youth career.
Nani joined the Sporting CP youth team back in 2003, winning the National Junior Championship in 2004-05, before making his first-team debut early in the 2005-06 season.
He signed for Manchester United in 2007, who paid about £22million for the young winger.
The current Melbourne Victory player posted a picture on Twitter of Lucas signing a contract with Sporting.
He captioned it with an emoji of a pen, a green heart and a lion.
Red Devils to face Gunners in summer friendly
The Red Devils confirmed this afternoon that they will take on Arsenal in New York this summer in a pre-season friendly.
It is the third game of pre-season to be announced by the club.
The game will take place on July 22 at MetLife Stadium, and is the first fixture on the tour of the USA.
Erik ten Hag and Co will then take on Wrexham in San Diego on July 25, and Borussia Dortmund in Las Vegas on July 30.
There is still one more tour fixture to be announced.
Maguire blow as Ten Hag calls Bruno captain
Erik ten Hag cast more doubt over Harry Maguire’s future by labelling Bruno Fernandes as Manchester United captain.
The Old Trafford boss directed the subtle blow to official skipper Maguire before Thursday’s 2-2 draw at Tottenham.
The England centre-back missed that Premier League match with what Ten Hag called a “training injury”.
But over the previous three weeks Maguire had reignited hopes of staying beyond the summer.

His generally strong form standing in for crocked regulars Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez has helped the Red Devils reach the FA Cup final and move six points clear of fifth-placed Spurs.
In Maguire’s absence, Luke Shaw once more switched inside from left-back to partner Victor Lindelof at Tottenham.
But having swaggered to a 2-0 lead through Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford, United were pegged back by Spurs’ second-half transformation.
Pedro Porro and Son Heung-min earned a draw that meant the Red Devils fell two points behind Newcastle in third spot.
And ahead of that clash Ten hag revealed his delight at Fernandes shaking off an injury suffered in last Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final success over Brighton.
The Dutchman said: “He’s tough, he takes responsibility, he wants to play and, of course, we’re happy he’s there because he’s a big players for us and he makes a big impact in every game.
“He’s our captain, so we’re really happy.”
Harry ‘just focussed on this season’
Harry Kane says he heard Manchester United supporters’ chants regarding a potential transfer move as he opened up on Daniel Levy’s meeting with the Tottenham squad.
The England captain played a key role in helping Tottenham come from behind to earn a 2-2 draw with United on Thursday.
And at half time of the game, when the Old Trafford club were leading by two, the visiting supporters were heard chanting: “Harry Kane, we’ll see you in June.”
When asked about the songs from the away end last night, the star said: “I heard what they were saying but I’m just focussed on this team and trying to finish strongly.”
Read the full story here.
Garnacho seals new deal
United starlet Alejandro Garnacho has penned a new five-year contract with the Red Devils.
And eagle-eyed fans have spotted a similarity with Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Old Trafford faithful haven’t seen Garnacho in action for a while, with the 18-year-old having been out with an ankle injury since early March.

It hasn’t been a case of out of sight, out of mind, however, with fans thrilled to have him signed up for the long term.
As Garnacho – who has five goals and six assists from his 32 games this season – beamed for pictures upon agreeing his new deal, United supporters noticed his pearly whites, likening them to Ronaldo’s.
One wrote: “Garnacho got the Ronny teeth transformation… we’re loading.”
And a second observed: “Ronaldo had bad teeth. He fixed them. Garnacho had bad teeth. He fixed them. 👀😂”
United could go for Neymar AND Kane
United might launch a sensational summer double bid for Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar and Tottenham striker Harry Kane.
SunSport understand United could pull off a double megadeal if Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al Thani takes over the club from the Glazers.

Sheikh Jassim is eyeing a marquee signing to show his intention of restoring the Red Devils at the top of the Premier League as well as Europe.
And the Qatari billionaire is planning to start with Neymar, who could be on his way out of PSG due to a raft of injuries, his mammoth salary and club’s decision to change direction.
A move for the Brazil international does not necessarily rule out a bid for long-time target Kane.
The England captain is still thought to be at the top of United’s transfer list this summer.

Red Devils, Chelsea and Spurs in for Jonathan
Manchester United have been joined by Chelsea and Tottenham in the pursuit of Jonathan David, according to reports.
French outlet L’Equipe have claimed the trio are candidates to sign the Lille forward for just over £57million.
Only Kylian Mbappe has outscored the Canadian in Ligue 1 this season, with David netting 21 goals and adding four assists in 31 games.
United are desperate to stock up on striker options this summer, with David representing an intriguing alternative to the likes of Victor Osimhen and Harry Kane, who likely cost north of £100m.
And there is a growing expectation he will take the next step this summer.
Man Utd announce third pre-season friendly
The Red Devils confirmed this afternoon that they will take on Arsenal in New York this summer in a pre-season friendly.
It is the third game of pre-season to be announced by the club.
The game will take place on July 22 at MetLife Stadium, and is the first fixture on the tour of the USA.
Erik ten Hag and Co will then take on Wrexham in San Diego on July 25, and Borussia Dortmund in Las Vegas on July 30.
There is still one more tour fixture to be announced.
Breaking: Garnacho signs new deal
Alejandro Garnacho has signed a new five-year deal at Man Utd.
A club statement confirming the news said: “Manchester United is pleased to announce that Alejandro Garnacho has signed a new contract that will extend his stay at the club until 30 June 2028.
“The Academy graduate has already made 31 appearances for the senior team, at the age of 18.”
Garnacho himself added: “When I joined this incredible club, I dreamt of achieving my debut, playing at Old Trafford, scoring my first goal and winning trophies with this badge on my chest. 
“I feel very proud and emotional to have experienced these moments already, together with my family who have supported me every step of the way.”
Ex-United star follows Dad’s footsteps
Former Man United star Nani has seen his son follow in his footsteps after signing for his former club.
Son, Lucas, has signed a contract with Sporting Lisbon, where Nani played during his youth career.
Nani joined the Sporting CP youth team back in 2003, winning the National Junior Championship in 2004-05, before making his first-team debut early in the 2005-06 season.
He signed for Manchester United in 2007, who paid about £22million for the young winger.
The current Melbourne Victory player posted a picture on Twitter of Lucas signing a contract with Sporting.
He captioned it with an emoji of a pen, a green heart and a lion.
Nani pictured with his sonCredit: Twitter
The lowdown on Neymar
The Brazilian attacker is considered one of the biggest talents in the world.
He is also his nation’s joint top goalscorer ever, matching Pele’s 77 goals.
And he would be a marquee signing for the club to signal the new owners’ intentions moving forward.
He has scored 18 times in 29 games this season, but he has been hampered by ankle injuries.
And his inconsistent availability and reportedly mammoth £616k-per-week contract have led to rumours that PSG would be willing to part ways with him.
Neymar is still the most expensive player in world football following his £198million transfer from Barcelona to the Ligue 1 giants.
His contract at the Parc des Princes is set to run until 2025, although he has the option to extend it to 2027.
More on Neymar
Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al Thani, the ambitious billionaire bidder from the Middle East, is eyeing the Brazilian as a marquee signing this summer.
It comes with the Glazers, the current club owners, currently seeking further investment in the club with a third round of bidding today.
Some suiters such as Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe are targeting a full buyout of the Americans – however, neither party are yet to match the Glazers’ £6billion price tag.
Should Sheikh Jassim be able to complete a takeover of the club SunSport understands that one of his first actions will be to make an incredible move to sign Neymar.
EXCLUSIVE: Qatar owners to move for Neymar
Manchester United will make a stunning transfer move to sign Neymar if the Qatari bid to buy the club is successful.
Read the full story here.
Kane reveals he heard United fan chants
Harry Kane says he heard Manchester United supporters’ chants regarding a potential transfer move as he opened up on Daniel Levy’s meeting with the Tottenham squad.
The England captain played a key role in helping Tottenham come from behind to earn a 2-2 draw with United on Thursday.
And at half time of the game, when the Old Trafford club were leading by two, the visiting supporters were heard chanting: “Harry Kane, we’ll see you in June.”
When asked about the songs from the away end last night, the star said: “I heard what they were saying but I’m just focussed on this team and trying to finish strongly.”
Read the full story here.
David attracts interest
Manchester United have been joined by Chelsea and Tottenham in the pursuit of Jonathan David, according to reports.
French outlet L’Equipe have claimed the trio are candidates to sign the Lille forward for just over £57million.
Only Kylian Mbappe has outscored the Canadian in Ligue 1 this season, with David netting 21 goals and adding four assists in 31 games.
United are desperate to stock up on striker options this summer, with David representing an intriguing alternative to the likes of Victor Osimhen and Harry Kane, who likely cost north of £100m.
And there is a growing expectation he will take the next step this summer.
Man Utd Mount blow
Manchester United have suffered a blow in their pursuit of Mason Mount after reports revealed Arsenal have held “exploratory talks” over a transfer.
The Telegraph claim the Gunners opened discussions with Chelsea as they look to pack out their squad with quality ahead of a season in the Champions League.
It will come as a blow to United, who are understood to be interested as they look to add numbers to their own squad.
Levy issues hands-off warning on Kane
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has issued a hands-off warning over Harry Kane.
United fans chanted they would see Kane in June during the 2-2 between United and Spurs last night.
However, the Daily Mail have now reported that Levy and Spurs will do everything in their power to ensure Kane stays put this summer.
Kane put in an impressive display against United despite not scoring
Maguire to be stripped of captaincy says Winterburn
Ex-Arsenal star Nigel Winterburn has warned Harry Maguire he will stripped of his captaincy if he does not leave Man United in the summer.
Speaking to Paddy Power, he said: “It’s unlikely that Harry Maguire will be Manchester United’s club captain next year because you want your club captain to be playing regular football.  
“He certainly won’t be club captain, but whether he looks for a move away depends on whether he feels he’s getting enough game time or can force his way back into the team. 
“My gut feeling is that he’ll move on from Manchester United if he doesn’t get the reassurances that he’ll be after.  
“It’s a difficult situation because modern players are used to playing less and still being part of the squad.”
‘We lacked control’ – blasts Eriksen
Christian Eriksen has admitted complacency played a part in United throwing away a two-goal lead over Tottenham.
Eriksen was controversially hooked in the 61st minute of the match, but did not hold back when talking about the loss.
He told BT Sport: “I think we took a bit of the gas off.
“That was our problem. I think it has been [like] that for a few games, where we are sharp and [have not] kept it going.
“I think we lost a bit of energy, a bit of control, and they got belief, and it went the other way. That’s how it goes normally. When you are 2-0 down, anything can change quickly.
“We didn’t have the control to finish them off, [and we] gave them the chance to score the first goal. That gave [them] belief.”
Super prediction
A supercomputer has predicted how the Premier League season will end.
Man City are tipped the win the title over Arsenal while Man Utd’s 2-2 draw will fortunately not their dent top four hopes too much.

Stat attack
Marcus Rashford’s goal last night has distinguished him apart from his Man Utd colleagues.
His goal was not just significant for being his 29th of this season but also for being his 50th away goal in all competitions.
And this means he has now scored 19 more away goals for the Red Devils than any other player since his debut back in February 2016.
50 – Marcus Rashford has scored his 50th away goal for Manchester United in all competitions, at least 19 more than any other player for the club since his debut in February 2016. Arrow. pic.twitter.com/W680MNKE6a— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 27, 2023

Load more entries… More