Sport Live Blogs

LIVERPOOL are reportedly ready to make a £43m bid for Barcelona wonderkid Gavi if he turns down a new contract.Such an offer would meet the 17-year-old’s current release clause, obliging the Catalans to sell.
However, the expectations in Spain are that the midfielder will sign a new deal to remain at the Nou Camp.
Meanwhile Sadio Mane is said to be ready to agree terms with Bayern Munich as soon as the Germans agree a fee with Liverpool.
And Juventus have reportedly scheduled new contracts for free agent Paul Pogba as they step up their pursuit on luring him back to Turin.
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London calling for Oleksandr Zinchenko?
Manchester City ace Oleksandr Zinchenko is reportedly being eyed up by Arsenal and West Ham.
That is according to the Evening Standard, who state that the Citizens would not stand in the way of the Ukraine international departing.
They state that both the Gunners and Hammers like the idea of Zinchenko being able to operate as a left-back or central midfielder.
Mikel Arteta is understood to be a huge admirer of the player having worked with him at the Etihad.
Walsall set for huge investment
Walsall have announced that an American investment group have purchased a majority stake in the club.
Club chairman Leigh Pomlett, who has owned 76 per cent of shares since 2019, transferred 51 per cent over to Trivela Group LLC following a year-long period of discussions.
The Saddlers announced the takeover in a statement on their official website on Monday morning.
It read: “Walsall Football Club (WFC) is pleased to announce that a transaction has been completed to transition majority ownership of the Club’s shares from Leigh Pomlett to Trivela Group LLC, a sports investment firm based in Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
“The parties have been in discussion for approximately one year and have agreed to a transaction which will take place in two phases.
“In Phase 1, which was executed last week, Trivela has purchased 51 per cent of the shares of WFC, and has injected additional capital directly into the Club for strategic investments.
“In Phase 2, which will take place within two years, Trivela will acquire an additional 25 per cent shareholding from Leigh Pomlett, and will bring forward additional resources to allow the Club to execute the existing purchase option on Poundland Bescot Stadium and the surrounding property.
“Facilitating and completing the purchase of the stadium freehold is a top priority for the new ownership group.”
Uefa eye legal action against Madrid, Barca and Juve
UEFA chiefs are confident they will be cleared to take action against the remaining Super League rebels after a landmark legal case next month.
The European Court of Justice has announced it has scheduled a two-day hearing for the case accusing Uefa of “abuse of a dominant position” by blocking the creation of the breakaway competition.
Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus were backed by the Spanish capital’s “Mercantile Court” in what was seen by Uefa bosses as an “in-house” ruling.
That court’s judgement that Uefa had no right to impose any punishment on the three rebels was subsequently overturned by a higher court in Spain.
Uefa, though, made clear it would await the outcome of the trio’s ECJ case, which will now be heard in Luxembourg on July 11 and 12, before taking its next steps.
And with Judges indicating they will give an “expedited” verdict, Uefa’s Nyon hierarchy expect to get a legal win and the green light to go after the three clubs in a matter of weeks.
Man Utd boss Ten Hag joins Twitter
New Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has joined Twitter but his account is on private and only follows one account.
The 52-year-old was confirmed as the new United boss before the end of last season.
Ten Hag was in attendance for United’s final fixture against Crystal Palace.
And with a change of scenery, Ten Hag has decided to also dip his feet into the digital world.
The Dutchman is now on Twitter under the username of @eriktenhag.
His account has been verified, but he’s yet to add any photos or expand his followers with his account locked on private.
Tomkins signs new Palace deal
James Tomkins has signed a new one-year deal at Crystal Palace, write Tom Barclay and Jack Rosser.
While SunSport understands James McArthur has also agreed to fresh terms with the South Londoners.
Both long-serving players were out of contract this summer and so would have left on frees had agreements not been reached.
Defender Tomkins, 33, has been with Palace since 2016 and has racked up 128 appearances.
He will provide back-up to first-choice centre-back pair Marc Guehi and Joachim Andersen.
Cardiff eye move for Bale
Cardiff have stepped up their interest in signing Gareth Bale on a free transfer, writes Phil Cadden.
Bale, 32, is on the hunt for a new team when his Real Madrid contract expires at the end of this month to keep himself ticking over before the November finals in Qatar 
When Bale was asked about his options at club level on Saturday, he grinned and said: “I’ve got loads”.
MLS clubs have already declared an interest in the forward but it is believed Tottenham are not considering Bale for a third spell in north London.
Another of Bale’s ex-clubs Southampton have also been linked with Wales’ record goalscorer.
But Bale’s hometown club of Cardiff have put themselves in the frame with Bluebirds chairman Mehmet Dalman set to lead negotiations over the audacious transfer.
Nkunku boost for Man Utd and Chelsea
RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku has revealed that he is ‘flattered’ by interest from a number of top clubs.
Chelsea, Manchester United and Paris-Saint Germain are rumoured to be keen on signing the £80million-rated star.
Nkunku told Telefoot: “It’s no secret. There are clubs interested in me.
“Yes it’s flattering, but it’s also flattering to have a club like Leipzig do everything to keep me as well.
“I’ll have to reflect and make a decision. The World Cup is on the way and that’s another factor to take into account.”
The attacking midfielder enjoyed an incredible season in Germany, scoring 35 goals and registering 20 assists in 52 matches.
No Champions League football an issue for Jesus
Transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio has revealed Gabriel Jesus would be perfect at Arsenal but that no Champions League football could be an issue.
He told wettfreunde: “I understand Gabriel Jesus wants to play more, wants to stay in a team that wants to have him as an important striker of the team.
“And Man City will have to sell players because they have to buy other players.
“If I have to choose for him, Arsenal would be perfect because Arsenal has a new project. They need to have a striker like him.
“They’re not playing the Champions League so this could be a problem for Gabriel Jesus.
“He is a Champions League player. He played very well in the Champions League with Man City.”
Liverpool eye Barcelona midfielder Gavi
Liverpool are reportedly willing to meet Gavi’s release clause if he refuses to sign a new deal at Barcelona.
The teenager is believed to be negotiating a new contract at the Catalan giants with his deal expiring at the end of next season.
The contract saga has reportedly put Liverpool and Manchester United on alert.
According to Sport, Jurgen Klopp’s side would pay the £50million release clause to sign the central midfielder.
However it appears Liverpool’s hopes may be diminishing with the player rumoured to be close to committing his long-term future to Barca.
The club’s president Joan Laporta previously said to L’Esportiu: “Gavi’s agent has the new contract proposal on the table for a long time but he has not accepted yet.”
Marseille ready to sell Kolasinac
Marseille are reportedly looking to offload former Arsenal left-back Sead Kolasinac just months after joining the Ligue 1 outfit.
The Gunners ripped up the 28-year-old’s contract in January to allow him to join the French club after being deemed as surplus to requirements by Mikel Arteta.
He penned a contract at Stade Velodrome until the summer of 2023, but he could now already be on the move.
Kolasinac appeared in 17 games in all competitions for Marseille, but didn’t complete the 90 minutes in any match.
And according to Foot Mercato, boss Jorge Sampaoli has been left unimpressed by his performances.
Tottenham lead race for Spence
Tottenham are reportedly closing in on a deal for Middlesbrough right-back Djed Spence.
The 21-year-old recently enjoyed a successful loan spell with Nottingham Forest in the Championship.
He played an integral part in helping Steve Cooper’s side earn promotion to the Premier League for the first time in 23 years via the play-offs.
His outstanding form has attracted the attention of numerous clubs such as Brentford, Arsenal and even Bayern Munich.
Nottingham Forest are also attempting to strike a deal which will keep him at the club on a permanent basis.
But according to the Express, Tottenham are currently leading the transfer race for the star and will push ahead with an offer in the coming weeks.
Man Utd target Eriksen
Christian Eriksen has emerged as a target for new Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman saw the Denmark star’s skills first hand when he trained with the Eredivisie giants, as he fought back to fitness following a cardiac arrest during the Euros.
And he must have been further impressed by his spell at Brentford – with the playmaker excelling during his six-month deal.
According to the Mirror, United have now entered the race for his signature.
Blues legend to join board?
New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is reportedly considering adding a former player to the club’s board.
Boehly led the consortium who purchased Chelsea for £4.25billion and he wants to reshape the hierarchy.
The Daily Mail are claiming that a former Chelsea player could be put in a position of power.
Blues legend Petr Cech is already working behind the scenes as a technical and performance advisor.
He is believed to have worked closely with director Marina Granovskaia and chairman Bruce Buck in helping to identify and complete transfers.
Tevez retirement eclipsed by Messi
It is somehow fitting that when Carlos Tevez announces his retirement, the news is overshadowed by Lionel Messi scoring five for Argentina.
The emergence of Messi had a profound effect on the career of Tevez.
Check out Tim Vickery’s piece below on the former Man Utd and Man City striker’s career and how it was eclipsed by fellow Argentine Messi.
Bellerin keen for Betis move
Hector Bellerin wants to leave Arsenal and return to Real Betis permanently this summer, reports claim.
The 27-year-old played for the La Liga side on loan this season as they won the Copa del Rey.
And Bellerin want to make his move there permanent, claims journalist Fabrizio Romano.
He reports that the player has zero intentions of playing for the Gunners again.
However a transfer to Manuel Pellegrini’s side may prove difficult due to financial reasons.
Bellerin is a boyhood Real Betis fan and after playing his last home match at the club he was in tears on the pitch.
Liverpool join Man Utd in Nunez race
Liverpool have joined Manchester United in the race to sign Benfica striker Darwin Nunez, according to reports.
The Reds are chasing a forward this summer with Sadio Mane set to leave.
Boss Jurgen Klopp admires £68million-rated Nunez having seen his side come up against him in the Champions League last season.
According to The Times, Liverpool hold an interest in the 22-year-old but are not willing to break the bank to sign him.
Benfica are hoping to use interest in Nunez to spark a bidding war.
Nunez is believed to covet Champions League football next season which could hand Liverpool the edge over United.
Man Utd keen to secure De Jong
Manchester United are reportedly pushing on in their attempts to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
The Dutchman has been heavily linked with a move away from the Nou Camp this summer.
And a reunion with new Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag has been muted, with Mundo Deportivo the latest to report a potential transfer.
However, the stumbling block remains De Jong’s desire to play in the Champions League.
Man Utd will play their European football in the Europa League next season.
Juve close in on new De Ligt deal
Manchester United and Chelsea have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt as the Italian giants are reportedly close to agreeing a new deal.
The centre-back, 22, has a contract until 2024 with the Serie A club.
Speaking about his future, De Ligt said: “There are talks ongoing between me and Juventus.
“Once the right moment arrives, I will decide to extend or to look further.”
Jesus agrees terms with Arsenal
Arsenal have agreed terms with Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus, according to reports.
The Brazilian has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates this summer.
And now Football Insider are reporting that Arsenal have agreed terms which would see Jesus secure a “major pay rise”.
A fee between the two clubs still needs to be agreed, but contact has been made by Arsenal.
Ronaldo’s choice to stay at United, says Santos
Portugal boss Fernando Santos says Cristiano Ronaldo’s future at Manchester United is “his choice”.
The 37-year-old is seemingly set to stay at Old Trafford this summer despite last season’s poor Premier League finish.
And Santos said: “I’ve said it many times, Cristiano is the best player in the world.
“The choice to stay at Manchester United is his choice, it’s not for me to say.
“It’s a personal choice. What I do know is that there are few who have the opportunity to play for Manchester United.”
One of their own
Man Utd have sent scouts to watch Flamengo youngster Joao Gomes, according to reports.
The Red Devils are aiming to bolster their squad following the arrival of new boss Erik ten Hag.
Talent spotters were sent to Brazil to evaluate midfielder Joao Gomes.
But according to ESPN, scouts came away more impressed by one of United’s OWN players.
Andreas Pereira has spent the bulk of the last two years out on loan, first at Lazio and then at Flamengo.
He has impressed with the latter and is due back at United for pre-season next month.
Premier League fixture announcement
The Premier League fixtures for next season will be announced at 9am on Thursday 16 June.
The season has been adjusted to accommodate the World Cup in Qatar 2022.
There will be a six-week break in the middle of the domestic season for the tournament.
Premier League fixture announcement
The Premier League fixtures for next season will be announced at 9am on Thursday 16 June.
The season has been adjusted to accommodate the World Cup in Qatar 2022.
There will be a six-week break in the middle of the domestic season for the tournament.
Man Utd move for Mount?
Mason Mount has been waiting on a new Chelsea contract “for months” amid interest from Manchester United.
According to Italian reporter Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea want to open contract talks with Mount “as soon as possible”.
The West Londoners view agreeing an extension as a “key move” this summer.
Romano adds that the situation isn’t “urgent”, however, as Mount’s current deal does still possess two more years.
New Man United boss Erik ten Hag is keen on the attacking midfielder.
The Red Devils’ interest has been noted by Mount’s camp, although sealing an improved deal at Stamford Bridge is likely to be the priority.
Morning football fans
Sadio Mane has hinted he may be about to snub Bayern Munich’s interest in favour of his boyhood club.
The forward has reinforced his love for Marseille in an interview after Senegal’s fixture against Benin.
Mane scored a hat-trick in his nation’s 3-1 win, and was predictably asked about his future at club level.
Departing Manchester United ace Nemanja Matic is close to a move to Jose Mourinho’s Roma.
Matic is set to leave United as a free agent once his contract expires on June 30 and he looks set to reunite with Mourinho for a THIRD time.
Raheem Sterling could run down his Manchester City contract to 2023 as Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham hover.
The England attacker wants more regular starts but champions City have just signed strikers Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez.
Etihad chiefs value Sterling at £60million but he’d go for free next summer if he declined a new deal.
City chiefs have held talks with the 27-year-old over a new contract.
But he’s reluctant to agree anything while he’s in and out of the side.
It’s also claimed the former Liverpool hero wants his weekly £300,000 pay increased.
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NEWCASTLE UNITED have been told to pay £50m if they want to sign Nathan Ake from Manchester City.Eddie Howe wanted the centre-back in January and has identified him as a transfer target once again this summer.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich are set to lose their goal machine Robert Lewandowski this summer which has left clubs on red alert.
However, the Poland international has revealed that his preferred destination is the Nou Camp despite the deal being complex.
And Ajax are closing in on a sensational swoop for Tottenham’s Steven Bergwijn – which is where the Dutchman’s career first started.
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Pique retirement hope
Barcelona are hoping Gerard Pique will announce his retirement next summer to save them money following his shock split with Shakira.
That’s according to RAC1, who claim Barca would prefer it if Pique rolled credits on his celebrated career in 2023 to save themselves €80million (£70m) in wages over the next two seasons.
The centre-back has a contract with the Blaugrana that runs until 2024 and is one of the club’s highest-paid players.
But the 35-year-old has deferred his salary multiple times in the last three years to help his financially-stricken team cope with the economic impact of COVID-19.
The former Spain international was also one of the first Barcelona players to take a pay-cut, which helped the Catalan giants register new signings.
This comes after Pique’s 11-year relationship with Shakira came to an end after the pop star announced their separation.
Gavi’s Barça deal
Gavi is widely-regarded as one of Europe’s most talented youngsters having burst onto the scene during the 2021-22 season.
He chipped in with two goals and six assists in 47 games in all competitions, with his stunning form seeing him become Spain’s youngest ever international.
But with his contract at the Camp Nou to expire in 2023, the midfielder has been linked with a move away from Catalonia.
Manchester United are known to be admirers of the youngster as Erik ten Hag looks to bolster his midfield.
Richarlison and Vinicius Jr scrap in training
Brazil team-mates Richarlison and Vinicius Jr has to be SEPARATED during training following a heated altercation.
The pair almost came to blows on Saturday during a training session ahead of the Selacao’s friendly with Japan on Monday.
But their intervention appeared to further enrage Richarlison, who grimaced as Neymar put his hands around his neck.
Cooler heads eventually prevailed after the pair were dragged apart and went their separate ways.

Exclusive – Rangers want £5m Tymon from Stoke 
Rangers are keen to sign Stoke City’s raiding left-back Josh Tymon – but may have to wait, writes Alan Nixon.
The Scottish giants are planning improvements to their side after reaching the Europa League final and Tymon, 23, is high on the list.
However, Rangers will have to either sell Borna Barisic or qualify for the Champions League group stages to fund the deal.
Stoke will want around £5million for Tymon, who has come good after signing as a teenager from Hull City.
Prem fixture release date
The Premier League 2022/23 fixtures will be announced at 9am on Thursday 16 June.
The season has been adjusted to accommodate the World Cup in Qatar 2022.
There will be a six week break in the middle of the domestic calendar for the global showpiece.
Jesus projected salary would be joint highest at the club
Arsenal are ready to offer Gabriel Jesus nearly £200,000-a-week to try and tempt him to join.
The Brazilian striker is currently on international duty, but Manchester City bosses plan to speak to his representatives over the next few days.
And even though the Gunners missed out on Champions League football on the final day, the City forward is still interested in a potential move to the Emirates.
The wedge would match the weekly salary of defensive midfielder Thomas Partey.
Milan and Juve after Pulisic
Amid reports that Liverpool are after Christian Pulisic, Serie A giants continue their chase.
The 23-year-old has reportedly sparked the interest of champions AC Milan, with powerhouse Juventus also rumoured to be interested in his services.
Currently away on international duty with the USA, Pulisic admitted his frustration at the lack of game time at the Blues.
Chelsea signed the American for £58million from Borussia Dortmund, however it’s speculated neither interested Italian side would be able to match that fee if the Blues wanted him.
Pulisic wanted by Liverpool as Mane replacement
Christian Falk at BILD Sport claims that Liverpool are interested in Christian Pulisic “as replacement for Sadio Mane”.
The American has struggled to cement a starting place under Thomas Tuchel, leaving the winger frustrated in West London.
Whilst on international duty this week, Pulisic said: “Of course, I want to get more playing time. I think I still got a lot of games, but it’s always something that I’m working at and trying to be a regular at club level. “
Exclusive – Newcastle will have to pay £50m to seal Ake transfer
Newcastle have been told to splash out £50million if they want to sign Nathan Ake from Manchester City, writes Phil Thomas.
Eddie Howe wanted the centre-back in January and has identified him as a transfer target once again this summer.
The Toon boss has made a second inquiry about Ake after City gave him short shrift when he first asked in January.
The Dutch defender obviously knows Howe well, having spent four years under him at Bournemouth, before moving to the Etihad for £40m in 2020.
Although Ruben Dias, Aymeric Laporte and John Stones are ahead of him in the pecking order, City would still want an increase on the money they paid two years ago.
Tammy pushing Kane for England spot
Tammy Abraham is ready to push skipper Harry Kane for his England place – amid links to Arsenal and Liverpool.
But Roma’s ex-Chelsea striker will also be happy to be understudy to the man who is eyeing England’s all-time scoring record.
Abraham said: “I think for every player that’s the mentality you’re supposed to have — to be positive.
“Of course, we are all buzzing for Harry, we want him to smash the record and we’re always here to support him.
“Whenever I’m given a chance if I’m on a pitch with him, I’ll try and help him to get to his targets.
“But for me, it’s all about whenever you get the opportunity, to just try and grab it with two hands and just show what you are made of.”
De Ligt up the world
Manchester United and Chelsea have been dealt a potential blow with Matthijs de Ligt reportedly close to signing a new contract with Juventus.
The centre-back, 22, has a deal until 2024 with the Turin club.
De Ligt said: “There are talks ongoing between me and Juventus.
“Once the right moment arrives, I will decide to extend or to look further.”
Forest ready for Pope bid
Nottingham Forest are ready to try their luck with a low bid for Burnley’s England keeper Nick Pope, writes ALAN NIXON.
The Premier League new- boys want the impressive shot-stopper, who is keen to stay in the top flight after the Clarets dropped down.
Pope, 30, is valued at £40million and also fancied by promoted Fulham but neither of the outfits plan to go to that figure for their target.
Sources close to Pope think they can force through a deal at closer to £10m but that is being laughed off at Turf Moor.
But a compromise figure could be reached in the coming weeks.
Liverpool ‘want Raphinha from Leeds for £60m’
Liverpool are prepared to pay Leeds United £60million PLUS Takumi Minamino in order to land Brazilian Raphinha, according to reports.
Jurgen Klopp is a massive fan of the pacey winger, and wants to bring him to Anfield to compensate for the expected loss of Sadio Mane.
Raphinha scored 11 goals and provided three assists as Leeds barely avoided relegation from the Premier League – only securing their safety thanks to a 2-1 victory over Brentford on the final day.
The 25-year-old is also wanted by Barcelona, but their tricky financial situation means they must sell before they can buy, whereas Liverpool have far more freedom in their budget.
However, according to the Mirror, The Reds believe including Minamino as a part of a cash-plus-player transfer offer could be a deal-breaker for Leeds.
The Whites are looking to rebuild their beleaguered squad this summer, and while losing Raphinha would no doubt be a massive loss, a major player-plus-cash deal such as this would ease much of their woes.
Woodman wanted by Preston
Newcastle goalkeeper Freddie Woodman is wanted on loan by Ryan Lowe’s Preston.
Woodman, 25, is back from a spell at Bournemouth, where he had to sit on the bench.
After starting all of the Magpies’ first four games of the Premier League season, a hip injury put the keeper out of action.
And after heading to the South coast, Woodman was disappointed not to get a minute of Championship action.

Now North End are keen to take him — although that would mean them having to guarantee him game time to get approval from the Toon.
Boss Lowe’s assistant Mike Marsh worked with Woodman at Swansea which could be a contributing factor.
Preston are also in talks with Dundee United’s keeper Benjamin Siegrist.
Matondo open to Prem move
Rabbi Matondo has opened the door to a return to English football this summer.
Premier League newboys Fulham and Bournemouth as well as Scottish giants Rangers have all been linked with the 21-year-old Welsh forward.
Schalke’s Matondo spent last season on loan at Belgian club Cercle Brugge but an agreement on a permanent deal could not be reached.
But Matondo, in the Wales squad for today’s World Cup play-off final, said: “There’s always an appeal to be playing football in England.
“I grew up in the United Kingdom and, one day, if the opportunity is right, this summer or whenever, I’m open to it.
“As things stand, I’m a Schalke player. I’m here with Wales and whatever is getting done by my agent and family, we’ll see what happens.”
Ex-Manchester City trainee Matondo scored nine goals in 26 games in Belgium last term.
Barca make vow with Salah
Barcelona have promised Liverpool superstar Mo Salah they will sign him next summer on a free transfer when his contract runs out, according to reports.
Salah, 29, has one year left on his current Anfield deal, and talks have stalled over a new contract.
And the Spanish giants have reportedly promised him a huge deal in 12 months’ time if he runs down his contract and walks away for nothing.
The Egyptian King wants a 15 per cent increase to his current deal – currently worth around £200,000-a-week.
Barcelona boss Xavi is rebuilding the side for an assault on the LaLiga title next season, with Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski his top summer target.
But he is also planning ahead, and wants Salah to join in a year’s time, according the The Mirror.
The report also states that Barcelona’s interest is a major factor in Salah’s reluctance to extend his five-year stay at Liverpool, who last weekend lost the Champions League final to Real Madrid.
Exclusive – West Brom want Choudhury on loan
Leicester will let midfielder Hamza Choudhury leave on loan.
Choudhury, 24, needs game time and West Brom boss Steve Bruce is keen to take him on loan after trying to take the Foxes player to Newcastle.
There could be a sale if an offer comes in but Baggies may be able to do a loan deal with a fixed fee should they win promotion to the top flight.
The midfielder only played in six Premier League games last season and had a handful of substitute appearances in Europe.
Foxes keen on £20m Diop
Leicester are pondering a move for Monaco left winger Sofiane Diop, who is available for around £20million.
Frenchman Diop, 21, who qualifies for Senegal, has emerged as one of the best prospects in Ligue 1 this season.
Exclusive – Newcastle will have to pay £50m to seal Ake transfer
Newcastle have been told to splash out £50million if they want to sign Nathan Ake from Manchester City, writes Phil Thomas.
Eddie Howe wanted the centre-back in January and has identified him as a transfer target once again this summer.
The Toon boss has made a second inquiry about Ake after City gave him short shrift when he first asked in January.
The Dutch defender obviously knows Howe well, having spent four years under him at Bournemouth, before moving to the Etihad for £40m in 2020.
Although Ruben Dias, Aymeric Laporte and John Stones are ahead of him in the pecking order, City would still want an increase on the money they paid two years ago.
But at least his £80,000-a-week salary will not be an issue for Newcastle, even if keeping up his regular flow of winners’ medals – two titles and a League Cup so far – may be.
And although Pep Guardiola doesn’t want to lose the centre back, City won’t stand in his way if he does decide he wants to move, given it will mean regular first-team football.
Overnight transfer talk
Gabriel Jesus and Ousmane Dembele could be heading to London – but for the time being Declan Rice looks unlikely to leave the capital.
Arsenal are prepared to pay Brazil striker Jesus £190,000 a week plus bonuses – way above his Manchester City wage of £110k.
Chelsea have emerged as favourites to sign ex-Gunners and Manchester United target Dembele from Barcelona.
The France winger, 25, is also wanted by PSG.
But it’s claimed Barca have offered Arsenal and Tottenham the chance to borrow centre-back Clement Lenglet.
But West Ham reportedly rate England midfielder Rice at £150million as they fight to ward off Chelsea and the Red Devils.
RB Leipzig midfielder Christopher Nkunku says PSG are his ‘heart club’ – another blow for the Blues and United.
Nottingham Forest are dreaming of capturing Old Trafford midfielder James Garner for a THIRD spell – and this time not necessarily on loan.
And Chelsea striker Christian Pulisic is being talked out in some quarters as a replacement for Sadio Mane if Liverpool fail to keep the Senegal hitman.
Forest in cheeky Pope bid
Nottingham Forest are ready to try their luck with a low bid for Burnley’s England keeper Nick Pope, writes ALAN NIXON.
The Premier League new- boys want the impressive shot-stopper, who is keen to stay in the top flight after the Clarets dropped down.
Pope, 30, is valued at £40million and also fancied by promoted Fulham but neither of the outfits plan to go to that figure for their target.
Sources close to Pope think they can force through a deal at closer to £10m but that is being laughed off at Turf Moor.
But a compromise figure could be reached in the coming weeks.
Burnley will sell at the right price and boss Vincent Kompany would ask old club Manchester City for Arijanet Muric, 23.
The Kosovo international, who had a loan spell at Forest in 2019-20, was in Turkey on loan last season and Kompany rates him highly.
Forest launch ANOTHER Garner bid
Nottingham Forest want Manchester United midfielder James Garner for a THIRD time, writes ALAN NIXON.
Promoted Forest Reds would be happy with another loan – or a permanent deal – after Garner’s key role this term.
For now, the 21-year-old is going back to United and will definitely be in Erik ten Hag’s squad when pre-season training and games begin.
But Forest are optimistic that they lead the queue for Garner but that will mean waiting for an answer and possibly starting the season without him.
Boss Steve Cooper will need to shelve moves for alternatives until that point but Forest may be willing to take that gamble.
Tammy pushing Kane… – but will pull for him too
Tammy Abraham is ready to push skipper Harry Kane for his England place – amid links to Arsenal and Liverpool.
But Roma’s ex-Chelsea striker will also be happy to be understudy to the man who is eyeing England’s all-time scoring record.
Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate challenged Abraham, 24, to prove he is the right striker to put the pressure on 49-goal Kane to keep on delivering as he chases Wayne Rooney’s record mark of 53 — or even replace him.
Abraham said: “I think for every player that’s the mentality you’re supposed to have — to be positive.
“Of course, we are all buzzing for Harry, we want him to smash the record and we’re always here to support him.
“Whenever I’m given a chance if I’m on a pitch with him, I’ll try and help him to get to his targets.
“But for me, it’s all about whenever you get the opportunity, to just try and grab it with two hands and just show what you are made of.”
City want £50m for Toon target Ake
Manchester City want £50million for Newcastle target Nathan Ake.
The 26-cap Holland centre-back, 27, played under Toon boss Eddie Howe at Bournemouth.
Tevez quits playing after dad’s death
Carlos Tevez has retired from playing because he could not cope with the loss of his No 1 fan — his dad.
The ex-United, Manchester City and West Ham striker, 38, quit boyhood club Boca Juniors last June after the death of his adopted father Segundo Raimundo, who contracted Covid.
The Argentine has not played since and revealed he turned down offers from the MLS.
Tevez said: “I stopped playing because I lost my No 1 fan. I’ve been offered many things — but that’s it, I have given everything.”
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