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      in Soccer

      Man Utd in 50m Frenkie de Jong talks EXCLUSIVE, Pogba £3.8m LOYALTY BONUS, Rashford ‘to stay’ – transfer latest

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      FRENKIE DE JONG appears to be edging closer to a Barcelona EXIT, with Manchester United hot favourites to sign the Dutch midfielder.Barca have a headache if they are to meet their FFP obligations and selling the former Ajax man could help swell the coffers.
      A reunion with Erik ten Hag would be on the cards and United would be able to rebuild their midfield around the 25-year-old.
      United have officially CONFIRMED the departures of Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata.
      Former world record signing Pogba will still pocket a £3.8m loyalty bonus from the club.
      And Marcus Rashford is set to stay at United with Ten Hag ready to give him the chance to prove himself.
      SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
      Stay up to date with all the latest from Old Trafford…
      Cavani talks with Spanish clubs
      Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani is in talks with two Spanish clubs over a potential move, according to El Chiringuito TV.
      The Uruguay legend’s deal at Old Trafford expires at the end of the month and his representatives are said to be discussing terms with Atletico Madrid and Sevilla.
      Mata thanks United fans
      Juan Mata has sent a classy farewell message to Manchester United fans.
      The former Chelsea midfielder, 34, will leave United as a free agent this month.
      In a social media video message, he said: “I wanted to say thank you very much to all of you for your support over the years and especially during the difficult times that we lived together.
      “I will never forget you. Thank you very much. All the best from the bottom of my heart and goodbye.”
      Allegri dig at Dybala
      Juventus boss Max Allegri says Manchester United target Paulo Dybala thinks he is better than he is.
      The Argentina forward, 28, is a free agent after seven years at Juve and has been linked with a move to Old Trafford.
      Allegri told DAZN: “Paulo needs to go back to being himself. There was a time where he got all carried out by those who labeled him as ‘the new Messi’.
      “A player can’t go around trying to play, to think or to be like someone else.”
      United’s heartfelt farewell for Mata
      Manchester United confirmed Juan Mata’s exit from the club with a nice send-off message.
      The former Chelsea midfielder, 34, has been with the Red Devils for nearly nine years and is now a free agent.
      A Red Devils statement said: “His team-mates and members of staff never tired of praising his professional attitude and positivity.”
      Pogba bonus with United exit
      Manchester United will pay Paul Pogba a £3.8million loyalty bonus when he leaves at the end of the month, according to reports.
      Sportsmail report the free agent midfielder will get the bumper payout as part of the terms of his deal at Old Trafford, as he closes in on a potential move back to Juventus.
      Di Maria shines for Argentina
      Angel Di Maria continues to prove his disappointing year at Manchester United was just a blip in his otherwise stellar career.
      The mercurial midfielder shone alongside Lionel Messi as Argentina beat Italy 3-0 in Finalissima on Wednesday.
      Di Maria, 34, is regarded as one of the Red Devils’ most disappointing signings after arriving for £60million in August 2014 from Real Madrid.
      But after picking up his fifth Ligue 1 winner’s medal with Paris Saint-Germain this spring it is fair to say he has underlined the maxim that form is temporary – but class is permanent.
      Parker: Garner needs another loan
      Manchester United legend Paul Parker says Red Devils prospect James Garner would benefit from another loan move to a Prem club next season.
      The 21-year-old midfielder has been on a temporary placement at Nottingham Forest and helped fire the Reds to promotion via the Championship play-offs last month.
      Former Red Devils defender Parker, 58, told BonusCodeBets: “I think he needs to go on a loan.
      “Should it be in the Premier League? Yes, it has to be I think for his own sanity, to be given the opportunity to play in that league.”
      Brentford eye ‘United target’ Aarons
      Brentford have joined the growing list of suitors for Norwich full-back Max Aarons.
      Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand recently urged the Red Devils to sign the ex-Luton star, who has also been linked with a move to Leeds United.
      Now Bees boss Thomas Frank has reportedly added the versatile wing-back to his summer transfer shortlist.
      Morning, United fans
      Recruiting Frenkie de Jong could be much tougher than saying goodbye to Paul Pogba.
      United have opened talks with Barcelona on a £50million swoop for Holland midfielder De Jong and confirmed £89m enigma Pogba is departing on a free transfer.
      Former Ajax hero FDJ wants to stay at cash-strapped Barca – but they need him out to fund a squad revamp.
      Meanwhile, United ‘congratulated’ their outgoing French World Cup winner Pogba. 29, for his ‘successful career’ at Old Trafford.
      Juventus are favourites to re-sign the 29-year-old, although PSG are also interested.
      England midfielder Jesse Lingard is also leaving United, following Edinson Cavani and Nemanja Matic out.
      But Three Lions’ striker Marcus Rashford is now tipped to stay – with a fresh start under new manager Erik ten Hag.
      Several other stars are tipped to go, though.
      Centre-back Phil Jones and frontman Anthony Martial look the most vulnerable, while second-choice keeper Dean Henderson expecting at least a loan exit.
      But Spanish playmaker Juan Mata could win a final year’s swansong.
      Wolves ‘want £60m for Neves’
      Wolves want Sporting Lisbon duo Matheus Nunes and Joao Palhinha — if £60million Manchester United target Ruben Neves is sold this summer.
      Barcelona also want ex-Porto midfielder, Neves, 25.
      Wolves have held initial talks over deals for Neves’ Portugal team-mates Palhinha, 26, and Nunes, 23.
      Jones and Henderson could join Utd ‘exodus’
      Paul Pogba will be Manchester United’s third big-name exit on a free transfer – and there could be at least five more significant departures.
      Edinson Cavani and Nemanja Matic have already gone, with Jesse Lingard to follow.
      Centre-back Phil Jones looks the most vulnerable of the rest, while second-choice keeper Dean Henderson is tipped for at least a loan move.
      Spanish playmaker Juan Mata, 34, could yet win another year’s contract.
      But frontrunners Anthony Martial – who finished the season on loan to Sevilla and Marcus Rashford – floundered when trying to impress interim chief Ralf Rangnick.
      Rio grand honour
      Ex-England ace Rio Ferdinand is among a string of sports stars to get a gong in the Queen’s Jubilee Honours.
      The former Manchester United defender gets an OBE for his activism and charity work helping disadvantaged kids.
      Other winners include Gareth Bale, made an MBE days before he attempts to send Wales to the World Cup for the first time in 64 years.
      Liverpool ace James Milner also gets an MBE, along with England cricketer Moeen Ali.
      Team GB’s Olympic gold-winning curling captain Eve Muirhead is awarded an OBE. Her triumphant Beijing team-mates Vicky Wright, Jennifer Dodds, Hailey Duff and Mili Smith, plus the head coach David Murdoch, all get an MBE.
      Utd starlets snubbed for PFA gong
      THE PFA Young Player of the Year shortlist has been announced with a number of top Premier League stars nominated.
      Chelsea‘s Reece James will be rivalled by fellow England international and Premier League winner Phil Foden.
      Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe have also been nominated.
      On-loan Chelsea star Conor Gallagher has been recognised, as has Aston Villa‘s Jacob Ramsey.
      Foden is the frontrunner, having picked up his fourth Prem crown.
      The 22-year-old made 28 Prem appearances this term, scoring nine and assisting five. Across all competitions, Foden reached double figures in both goals and assists.
      Should Foden win the award again, he will join Dele Alli in being one of only five players to have won the award in consecutive seasons. Ryan Giggs did it at United in 1993, Robbie Fowler in 1996 and Wayne Rooney a decade later.
      Theatre of Dreams? Fantasy, more like
      THEY call it the Theatre of Dreams yet Manchester United’s famous home has surely now become a place of pure fantasy, writes KEN LAWRENCE.
      Or at least that is the conclusion many of the club’s fans came to following yesterday’s gushing goodbye to Paul Pogba.
      The Frenchman will, as has been long expected, leave on a free transfer at the end of this month.
      There were few tears for souvenirs at the free transfer loss of the £89million record buy who returned in 2016.
      Big Hag-gle to make Frenkie welcome
      New Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is determined to make Barcelona hero Frenkie De Jong welcome.
      But the Dutch midfielder may need more persuading to leave than Barca do to let him go.
      The financially-crippled Spanish club need to cut costs and manager Xavi is understood to be prepared to let him leave.
      Yet De Jong, 25, said this week he still believes he is at his “dream” club and wants to stay.
      Ten Hag hopes he can convince him to change his mind, with Barca wanting the £65.4m they paid Ajax in 2019 — though United believe they can cut that fee significantly.
      Utd open talks with Barca on £50m De Jong deal
      Manchester United have opened talks with Barcelona in a £50million bid for Frenkie de Jong — as they issued a gushing farewell to £200m flop Paul Pogba, writes KEN LAWRENCE.
      Pogba departs Old Trafford as one of the costliest under-achievers in the club’s history.
      Once wages and bonuses are added to his £89m club-record fee, United will have forked out more than £200m on Pogba at a cost of over £800,000 a game.
      The 29-year-old is now expected to return to Juventus on a free transfer, though Paris Saint-Germain have shown an interest.
      He joined Jesse Lingard in being confirmed as departing Old Trafford.
      Rashford backed to stay
      Marcus Rashford is tipped to stay at Manchester United.
      The £63million-rated England striker, 24, only started six Premier League matches in 2022.
      He’s denied being frustrated at his childhood club.
      But speculation has grown over his limited opportunities and erratic performances.
      Now, though, journalist Jacque Talbot predicts Rashford will stay to start afresh under new manage Erik ten Hag.
      Credit: Rex
      Cheeky Devil?
      Lazio could duel Manchester United for Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
      The ten-cap England star, 26, has revived his Blues’ career this season under Thomas Tuchel.
      But new United boss Erik ten Hag has been linked with a move.
      And  Italian outlet Gazzetta Dello Sport says ex-Blues’ chief Maurizio Sarri is ready to rev up his interest in a reunion with Loftus-Cheek, who might cost at least £17million.
      Fight for Aarons and Hickey
      Brentford have put ‘Manchester United target’ Max Aarons and Arsenal-linked Aaron Hickey on their transfer shortlist.
      Bees boss Thomas Frank has made the full-backs his top priority.
      Aarons, 22, is tipped to leave relegated Norwich to stay in the Premier League.
      And Bologna’s Scotland left-back star Hickey, 19, is also wanted by the Gunners – for around £21.25million.
      Wolves line up Neves replacements
      Wolves want Sporting Lisbon duo Matheus Nunes and Joao Palhinha — if £60million Manchester United target Ruben Neves is sold this summer.
      Barcelona also want ex-Porto midfielder, Neves, 25.
      Wolves have held initial talks over deals for Neves’ Portugal team-mates Palhinha, 26, and Nunes, 23.
      Pogba exit could mean EIGHT stars leaving
      Paul Pogba will be Manchester United’s third big-name exit on a free transfer – and there could be at least five more significant departures.
      Edinson Cavani and Nemanja Matic have already gone, with Jesse Lingard to follow.
      Centre-back Phil Jones looks the most vulnerable of the rest, while second-choice keeper Dean Henderson is tipped for at least a loan move.
      Spanish playmaker Juan Mata, 34, could yet win another year’s contract.
      But frontrunners Anthony Martial – who finished the season on loan to Sevilla and Marcus Rashford – floundered when trying to impress interim chief Ralf Rangnick.
      Utd in ‘£47m Sergej bid’
      Manchester United have turned their interest in Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic into a £46.7million bid.
      That’s the claim from Italian outlet Il Tempo, who rate the Red Devils favourites for the Serbia star.
      But Lazio are said to rate the former Genk ace, 27, at £76.5m.
      Torres is Carmo alternative
      Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres is rated a back-up option if Manchester United miss out on Braga’s David Carmo.
      Spaniard Torres, 25, capped 17 times, helped his LaLiga club win the Europa League in 2021, ultimately beating the Red Devils on penalties.
      The Yellow Submarine also made the Champions League semis this term with Torres ever-present.
      Utd ‘in Carmo talks’ in case Timber move collapses
      Manchester United have reportedly held talks over Braga centre-back David Carmo in case a deal for Justin Timber collapses.
      The Red Devils are in the market for a new defender with new boss Erik ten Hag hoping to bring Timber with him from Ajax.
      But United have held talks with 22-year-old Carmo, according to the Daily Mail.

      Carmo was a transfer target for Liverpool last season and nearly made the switch to Anfield but the deal collapsed.
      The centre-back helped Braga to a fourth-placed finish, qualifying for next season’s Europa League.
      His fine form has earned Carmo a call-up to Portugal’s squad for their June Nations League fixtures.
      Ron in, Son out for top PFA gong
      Manchester United legend Cristiano Ronaldo has received a shock nomination for the PFA Player of the Year award.
      But there is no room for Tottenham ace Son Heung-Min, despite the South Korean finishing as joint-top scorer this season.

      Elsewhere, Spurs striker Harry Kane and Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne are also in the mix.
      But it’s Liverpool who lead the way with three nominations in Sadio Mane, Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
      Ronaldo endured a mixed first campaign upon his return to Man United despite scoring 18 Premier League goals.
      The Portuguese legend was criticised for failing to adapt to the team’s tactics.
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      in Soccer

      Italy 0-3 Argentina LIVE RESULT: Lautaro Martinez, Di Maria and Dybala net as Albiceleste run riot in Finalissima

      by

      ITALY have been hammered by Argentina in the ‘Finalissima’. Lautaro Martinez scored the first from a Lionel Messi assist before Angel di Maria doubled the South Americans’ lead on the stroke of half time.
      Paulo Dybala then rounded things off with a strike on the final whistle as the Copa America winners routed the European champions.
      Italian classic meets harsh end
      Giorgio Chiellini is not just an Italian legend, but a true maestro of the game of football.
      Often so well versed in the ‘dark arts’ of defending, he was an intelligent defender who could read the game and opponents like no one else.
      His final and 117th Italian cap came to a disappointing end as he was substituted at half-time by Mancini with his side suffering a 3-0 heavy defeat in tonight’s final.
      Failure could be very Messi
      All things that wow about this Argentina team seems to revolve around their magic man being on song.
      When he is pulling the strings and running at opponents there are no better players in the world.
      At 34 years of age, fitness will be critical in Scaloni’s hopes of a third FIFA World Cup win.
      Managing his game time in the lead up to the tournament and will require a good relationship with PSG also to ensure that the player is not overused in the months leading up to the showpiece finals.
      Bringing the good times back
      Argentina will be looking to win their third World Cup this winter in Qatar.
      Having won the Copa America beating Brazil in the final and now disposing of Italy in such comprehensive fashion, Lionel Scaloni’s side will be one of the bookies’ favourites for the tournament.
      Winning breeds a positive mindset and this Argentina side are unbeaten since 2019.

      Italians need to create an empire
      With some key players coming to their twilight years in their international careers, Giorgio Chiellini bowing out this evening, Mancini has a huge task on his hands.
      The Italian manager has to build a new team, using a new generation of players from the ruins of failure to qualify for the World Cup.
      Azzurri fans demand success from their country.
      Keep your eyes on the prize
      The aim for Lionel Scaloni will keeping his players playing at the level they currently are in the build-up to the World Cup.
      With part of the domestic seasons being played before the tournament starts, injuries will no doubt play a huge part.
      Argentina will need to keep their big-hitters fit if they hope for glory in Qatar.

      Stand up for the champions
      There has been no doubt as to the quality in the Argentina for some time but due to the fact they had not won any trophies, questions were always asked about this crop of players.
      Despite all their domestic honours and achievements, the players seemed to be lacking confidence on the international stage.
      Winning the trophies they now have should make them feel ten feet tall whenever they step onto the pitch along with an unbeaten run to put fear into any opponent.
      South American flair shines through
      Argentina are UEFA Cup of Champions winners.
      Comfortably disposing of European champions, Italy 3-0.
      Martinez, Di Maria and Dybala with the goals.

      Don’t drop him lads
      Lionel Messi came alive in the game today and took it by the scruff of the neck and created chances for his teammates that at times were harder to miss than score.
      With Messi firing on all cylinders, this team is a match for anyone in the world.
      Lionel Scaloni may want to wrap him in cotton wool until October.

      Make Maradona proud
      Having won the countries first trophies since the ‘little genius’ took them to World Cup glory, this generation can make big waves in Qatar this winter.
      Success breeds confidence and Messi and co are bubbling.
      32 games unbeaten in all competitions and it will take some team to stop them.
      Show me the silverware
      Argentina have answered their critics in recent time bringing the Copa America title home and now the UEFA Cup of Nations trophy.
      Two year ago Lionel Messi had won nothing in his international career and now he has two trophies.
      It’s like they say, they’re like buses.

      FT: Italy 0-3 Argentina
      Argentina are the UEFA Cup of Nations champions.
      They have dominated the European champions here tonight.
      South America wins the battle of the continents today.
      Italy 0-3 Argentina
      90+4. Messi goes on a mazy run which the defender manages to get a foot to the ball.
      Sadly for Italy it breaks to Dybala who slots the ball home into the bottom corner.
      Icing on the cake time for Argentina.
      Goal – Paulo Dybala (Argentina)
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      90+2. Di Maria comes off to huge applause.
      The PSG man has been brilliant tonight along with his club teammate Lionel Messi.
      Italy have possession have too little time to do anything.
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      90. This game is beyond Italy now.
      We have seen some wonderous things in football but this would be miraculous.
      Unless someone in The Vatican is listening right now…..
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      88. Bastoni charges into Lo Celso from behind.
      He uses the chance to run the clock down.
      Back up on his feet, Argentina are back on the attack.

      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      86. Alvarez has a shot from distance but Donnarumma saves.
      Good movement by the Man City player.
      Italy looking leggy now.
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      84. It is more a question of when Argentina will score their third at the moment.
      Italy need to find some inspiration from somewhere.
      A goal now would make for a nervy end to this game for Argentina.
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      82. Argentina break down the left hand side.
      Di Maria whips a cross in and Martinez slips leaving the ball to Lo Celso.
      He steps inside and looks to bend one in the top corner with his left-foot but the ball is headed clear.
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      80. Argentina have had 52% of possession this evening.
      They have caused Italy problems from the first whistle.
      Now they are just making sure Italy cannot find a way back into this game.

      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      78. Argentina know that retaining possession frustrates their opponents are is forcing them into fouls.
      This is a tough end to the game for the European champions.
      Lionel Scaloni’s side have been a nut too tough for them to crack.
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      76. Time is ticking away for Italy.
      More worryingly for their fans is that they haven’t looked like scoring.
      Mancini looks perplexed on the touchline.
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      74. The free kick gives Argentina a chance to punish Italy further.
      Messi takes the set piece, looking to bend the ball into the corner.
      The ball goes wide of the upright.
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      72. Argentina are frustrating Italy more and more.
      Skipping passed rash lunges and opening play up.
      Eventually Di Lorenzo crunches Messi.
      He gets a yellow card for his troubles.
      Italy 0-2 Argentina
      70. There is still time left here for The Azzurri to turn things around.
      Italy need to find a spark from somewhere quickly.
      Messi is starting to cause havoc, shooting again from distance and drawing a full-stretch save from the Italian keeper.

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      in Soccer

      Scotland 1-3 Ukraine LIVE RESULT: Dobvyk finishes Scots off as brilliant Ukrainians progress- World Cup play-off latest

      by

      UKRAINE have provided a much needed boost to their war torn population with a dominant win in Scotland.West Ham’s Andriy Yarmolenko netted a stupendous lob to put the Ukrainians ahead in the first half.
      And things went from bad to worse in the second half as Roman Yaremchuk headed Ukraine into a two-goal lead just after the break in front of a rapturous away end.
      Callum McGregor gave Scotland hope in the closing stages following a goalkeeping error, but Artem Dobvyk finished a brilliant late counter-attack as Ukraine breezed through to a final against Wales.
      That’s all from Glasgow
      Scotland’s World Cup dreams went up in smoke after losing 3-1 to Ukraine at Hampden Park.
      A tragic evening for Steve Clarke’s men marked an incredible Cinderella story for the visitors, who played their first official game after Russia’s unjust invasion in their homeland.
      Oleksandr Petrakov’s men put the horrors of war behind them and gave their nation some major joy as they booked a place for Sunday’s World Cup play-off final against Wales in Cardiff.
      The Ukrainians opened the scoring after 33 minutes when Ruslan Malinovskyi produced a stunning long ball from his own half.
      Malinovskyi found Andriy Yarmolenko who dinked the ball over Craig Gordon and sparked wild celebrations in the away stand as well as Ukraine, where some were even watching from bunkers.
      Petrakov’s men doubled their lead on 49 minutes when Oleksandr Karavaev delivered a beautiful cross from the right.
      Karavaev found Roman Yaremchuk in the far post where he headed the ball to Gordon’s bottom left corner after some abysmal defending by Scotland.
      Clarke’s men got back in the game and rekindled their World Cup hopes in the 79th minute after some horrible goalkeepeing by Georgiy Bushchan, who failed to hold on to Callum McGregor’s effort.
      The ball crossed the goaline before Taras Stepanenko had the chance to clear it.
      But that wasn’t enough for Scotland as Artem Dovbyk sealed his team’s place in Cardiff in the fifth minute of stoppage time after beating Gordon one-on-one following a stunning through ball by Oleksandr Zinchenko.
      That’s all from us here at SunSport, have a lovely night!
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Andy Robertson reacts
      Scotland and Liverpool star Andy Robertson admits his team “didn’t really show up” against Ukraine.
      Robertson told Sky Sports: “It’s hugely disappointing as we’ve waited a long time for this game. Our performances beforehand were really good but to be honest we didn’t really show up.
      “Ukraine settled into the game a lot quicker than us and it kind of just continued. We knew they were probably going to get tired and that was the case but we gave ourselves an uphill battle.
      “We had to try and stay in the game but we didn’t manage that. We left ourselves open to the counter-attack as we had to push for a goal. We didn’t play the way we wanted to play and unfortunately it’s past us by”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Souness slams Scotland performance
      Scotland legend Graeme Souness claims Ukraine made the hosts look “pedestrian”.
      Souness told Sky Sports: “Scotland got themselves back into the game and in the last 20 minutes, we had the right to say ‘if only…’ their goalkeeper doesn’t look like he’s up to playing at this level but across most of the game we were second fiddle.
      “You’ve got to give Ukraine credit for the way they’ve come into the lion’s den and performed.
      “We can point to [Callum] McGregor’s block on the goalkeeper which could’ve easily have gone in, [John] McGinn’s got to score with his header but I think it would’ve created a false picture had we got something from this game.
      “Ukraine looked a really good outfit and they made us look pedestrian for most of the first half. They could’ve put the game to bed long before the third went in”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Oleksandr Zinchenko reacts
      Ukraine and Manchester City ace Oleksandr Zinchenko insists every game feels like a final to his team as they are trying to bring joy to their country amid a difficult time.
      Zinchenko told Sky Sports: “Everyone knows the situation in Ukraine and every game is like a final. We have a dream as a team to be at the World Cup.
      “We have one more game, one more final and we need to win it. Otherwise this game won’t mean anything.
      “Scotland is a great team and have unbelievable players in each line. But we did well. We scored three and could have scored more.
      “The Wales game is going to be massive for us. We need to show our best performance in our lives and then we’ll see what happens”
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      What’s next?
      An inspired Ukraine side punched their ticket to the World Cup play-off final.
      Oleksandr Petrakov’s men are set to face Wales on Sunday at Cardiff City Stadium.
      The Dragons sealed their spot in the final after eliminating Austria with a 2-1 victory in March.
      The winner will advance to the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar and will be placed in Group B with England, Iran and USA
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Stats
      Ukraine dominated 59 per cent of possession, even though they hadn’t played an official game since November.
      The visitors also recorded a stunning 83 per cent success rate on passing accuracy.
      Oleksandr Petrakov’s men registered 15 shots, eight of which were on target.
      Scotland, on the other hand, produced 14 shots, four of which were on target.
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      FT: Scotland 1-3 Ukraine
      Scotland’s World Cup dreams went up in flames after losing 3-1 to Ukraine at Hampden Park.
      A tragic evening for Steve Clarke’s men marked an incredible Cinderella story for the visitors, who played their first official match after Russia’s unjust invasion in their homeland.
      Oleksandr Petrakov’s men put the horrors of war behind them and gave their country some major joy as they booked a place on Sunday’s World Cup play-off final against Wales in Cardiff.
      The Ukrainians opened the scoring after 33 minutes when Ruslan Malinovskyi delivered a stunning long ball from his own half.
      Malinovskyi found Andriy Yarmolenko who dinked the ball over Craig Gordon and sparked wild celebrations in the away stand as well as Ukraine, where some were watching from bunkers.
      Petrakov’s men doubled their lead after 49 minutes when Oleksandr Karavaev delivered a beautiful cross from the right.
      Karavaev found Roman Yaremchuk in the far post where he headed the ball to Gordon’s bottom left corner after some poor defending by Scotland.
      Clarke’s men got back in the game and rekindled their World Cup hopes in the 79th minute after some horrible goalkeepeing by Georgiy Bushchan, who failed to hold on to Callum McGregor’s shot.
      The ball crossed the goaline before Taras Stepanenko got to clear it.
      But that wasn’t enough for Scotland as Artem Dovbyk sealed his team’s place in Cardiff in the fifth minute of stoppage time after beating Gordon one-on-one following a through ball by Oleksandr Zinchenko
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      FT: Scotland 1-3 Ukraine
      PEEP!
      That’s full-time in Glasgow!!!
      Scotland 1-3 Ukraine
      90+5 Scotland won’t be part of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
      Zinchenko steals the ball down his own half, the hosts protest for a high challenge.
      The Manchester City star plays it through for an unmarked Dovbyk, who has no problem beating Gordon to seal a place in the play-off final
      Scotland 1-3 Ukraine
      90+5 GOAL!
      Ukraine seal it with Dovbyk!
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      90+3 SUBSTITUTION
      Ukraine boss Petrakov is winding the clock down with a late chance.
      Sydorchuk comes on for Stepanenko
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      90+3 WHAT A CHANCE!
      Ukraine almost seal it as Zinchenko finds Dovbyk unmarked in the area.
      But the substitute’s shot just misses Gordon’s right-hand post
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      90+1 CHANCE
      Scotland get a corner down the left and McGinn finds Hanley in the far post.
      But his header completely misses the target
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      90 Four more minutes of stoppage time to go.
      Can Scotland do this?!
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      88 Scotland continue to push and are getting in Ukraine’s area.
      But they are lacking that final pass and shot…
      Time is running out
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      85 Five more minutes, plus stoppage time, to go until full-time.
      McTominay has been so much more impressive after moving from defence to midfield
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      83 YELLOW CARD
      Tempers are flaring and Shaparenko is booked for a rough foul on Christie
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      83 Hampden Park is absolutely rocking after McGregor’s goal!
      Plenty of time for Clarke’s men to equalise and take this to extra-time!
      The hosts’ pressure has been incredible
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      81 CHANCE!
      Ukraine try to put this to bed but McGregor’s incredible run denies Dovbyk’s shot with a stunning tackle!
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      79 Scotland’s World Cup hopes are back in full speed!
      McGregor delivers a powerful shot and Bushchan makes a terrible error as the ball goes through his hands.
      Stepanenko clears the ball after it already crossed the goal line.
      Scotland are back in full swing!
      Scotland 1-2 Ukraine
      79 GOAL!!!
      Scotland are back in the game thanks to McGregor’s goal!
      Scotland 0-2 Ukraine
      78 SUBSTITUTION
      Ukraine boss Petrakov makes another double switch as Dovbyk takes Yaremchuk’s place.
      Zubkov also comes on for Yarmolenko, both of the visitors’ scorers are off
      Scotland 0-2 Ukraine
      78 Time is seriously running out, Scotland need a goal immediately to rekindle their World Cup hopes.
      Ukraine are holding it together, but are not as dominant as they were in the first half
      Scotland 0-2 Ukraine
      76 CHANCE!
      Scotland ace Adams picks a long ball in the area and delivers a shot that demands a difficult save from Bushchan.
      McGinn gets the rebound but his effort is blocked by Matviyenko
      Scotland 0-2 Ukraine
      75 Scotland are pressing Ukraine’s backline well and are slowly neutralising their ability to play out the back.
      The home crowd is coming alive as they see their team getting more comfortable
      Load more entries… More

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      Poland 2 Wales 1: Dragons tamed in Nations League clash as Gareth Bale not risked days before crunch World Cup play-off

      by

      WALES suffered Nations League agony after a late defeat in Poland – just days before their crunch World Cup play-off final.Jonny Williams fired Robert Page’s makeshift side ahead on 52 minutes before substitutes Jakub Kaminski and Karol Swiderski clinched victory for the hosts in Wroclaw.
      Up-and-coming Poland star Kaminski got on the scoresheetCredit: EPA
      Williams celebrating his goal in the 2-1 lossCredit: EPA
      Dragons boss Page rested captain Gareth Bale as well as experienced trio Aaron Ramsey, Joe Allen and Ben Davies with one eye on Sunday’s play-off final in Cardiff against the winners of Scotland and Ukraine on Wednesday night.
      But a second string Welsh outfit held their own for long periods on their first outing in League A of the competition. 
      Swindon midfielder Williams stunned the Poles when he lashed past Kamil Grabara with a 20-yard shot past Kamil Grabara.
      It was only Williams’ second goal for his country on his 32nd cap – his first against Bulgaria in October 2020 – but it was a well executed effort from outside the penalty box to hand the visitors the lead.
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      But Poland, with hotshot Robert Lewandowski in their ranks, hit back.
      Kaminski slotted home into the far corner with 18 minutes remaining to put the World Cup finalists level.
      Then as Wales looked set to hold on for a draw, fellow sub Swiderski netted from close-range on 85 minutes after Lewandowski’s shot was deflected off stand-in Chris Gunter.
      Captain Lewandowski started just two days after he revealed his career at Bayern Munich is over.
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      And the hotshot, who is keen to join Barcelona this summer, forced Danny Ward into a smart stop early on after a Wales defensive mix-up down the right flank.
      But the Dragons grew into the contest as debutant Wes Burns of Ipswich saw an effort deflected wide.
      Dan James looked threatening in attack alongside Kieffer Moore and the Leeds flyer flashed a shot off target.
      Wales made three substitutes at the break, Wayne Hennessey, Mark Harris and Rabbi Matondo introduced for Danny Ward, James and Moore.
      Matondo had an impact off the bench and, after a surging run stretched the home defence, the forward set up Williams for his goal.
      But that was as good as it got for Wales, who suffered only their fifth defeat in 22 matches under Page, as Poland rallied late on to secure an opening victory.
      Relive all of Wednesday’s action below…
      Attention turns to Hampden Park
      An emotionally charged Hampden Park is ready as Scotland host Ukraine in the World Cup play off semi finals.
      The winner will meet Wales for a place in the tournament on Sunday.
      You can follow the action from Scotland here:
      Page talks about debutant Wes Burns:
      I thought he was outstanding. That was his debut today and I’ve just said to the lads: “What a debut”. We’ve plucked him out of nowhere and thrown him in the deep end in many respects but we’ve been that impressed with him through the week we thought he’s more than capable of dealing with it.Rob PageWales Manager
      Page goes on:
      That was the strongest team that they could pick and we’ve gone toe to toe with them, took the lead and looked good for a point. So I’ve got nothing but praise for them. It’s a cruel game.Rob PageWales Manager
      Wales manager Rob Page:
      Really proud of them, honestly. We knew it would be a tough test even with our first 11. Unfortunately for us we’ve got this play off game in between these Nations League games so that has an impact on our team selection. We knew we were in for a battle.Rob PageWales Manager
      Premier Sports pundit Neil Taylor:
      I’m delighted with them, and I’m sure Rob Page will be the same.Neil TaylorFormer Wales defender
      Clues for Sunday
      The departure of Kieffer Moore saw a void open up that Wales just couldn’t fill in the second half.
      Countless crossing opportunities went to waste, with no presence in the middle to target.
      Food for thought for Rob Page for the weekend.
      Impressive debut from Burns
      The Ipswich Town debutant looked right at home up until he was subbed off in the second half.
      One for the future as far as Wales are concerned.
      Poland’s substitutes save the day
      It certainly wasn’t an evening to remember for Robert Lewandowski, but he was helped by some friends off the bench as Poland made a winning start to their Nations League campaign.
      They’ll turn their attention to upcoming group games with heavyweights Holland and Belgium.
      Bigger fish to fry
      Wales’ rotation let everyone know from the start where their ambitions are for this international break, however Rob Page can be more than happy with his side’s performance against one of Europe’s better sides away from home.
      Full time!
      Wales put up a good fight but a second half fightback from the hosts sees Poland start off their nations league campaign with a 2-1 victory!
      Poland 2-1 Wales
      90+2. Big chance for Smith!
      Grabara found himself in no mans land from a corner but the tiniest of touches makes things too awkward for Smith to finish on the rebound.
      Poland 2-1 Wales
      90+1. Three minutes are added on here. Will Poland become the first victors of this years Nations League?
      Poland 2-1 Wales
      90. Gunter’s effort hits his teammate Harris, who was in an offside position.
      The captain’s wait for an international goal goes on.
      Poland 2-1 Wales
      89. Do Wales have anything left in the tank? That goal would take the wind out of anybody.
      Matondo looks to make up for his error but he’s fouled just inside the Poland half.
      Poland 2-1 Wales
      86. Wow, a comedy of errors sees Poland take the lead.
      A Matondo backpass is intercepted, with Lewandowski’s terrible effort causing mayhem, and substitute Swiderski giving the hosts the lead!
      Goal! Poland take the lead!
      It’s a terrible moment for Matondo!
      Poland 1-1 Wales
      83. A mishit from range from Zielinski is dealt with easily from Hennessey.
      On the replays, a deflection made things a little more awkward for the Burnley man.
      Poland 1-1 Wales
      81. A good effort from Neco Williams from range, but it goes over. Promising from the Liverpool man though.
      Poland make a positive change, with Grosicki replacing Krychowiak.
      Poland 1-1 Wales
      79. Wales have another corner, which Thomas takes after coming off the bench.
      There’s no Moore to aim at and it’s hurting them, with this one headed away.
      Poland 1-1 Wales
      77. Wales goalscorer Williams is replaced by Huddersfield Town’s Thomas.
      Poland 1-1 Wales
      76. Poland make a couple of changes as they push for a winner here.
      Puchacz and Buksa have been replaced by Swiderski and Zalewski.
      Poland 1-1 Wales
      73. The 19-year-old has come off the bench to level things.
      A smart touch and finish is too good for an unsighted Hennessey,
      Despite no real pressure, Wales had started dropping deeper and deeper and they’ve been punished.
      GOAL! Poland level it!
      Kaminski strikes back!
      Poland 0-1 Wales
      71. Wales find themselves going forwards now, but the offside flag puts an end to that attack.
      Poland 0-1 Wales
      69. Poland’s lack of width is hurting them, with things getting very congested in the middle of the park.
      Wales survive another scrappy attack with ease.
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      Poland vs Wales LIVE: Stream FREE, TV channel, score and teams – UEFA Nations League latest

      by

      WALES are taking on Poland RIGHT NOW for their first UEFA Nations League clash of the international break. Gareth Bale and Co will have World Cup qualifying duties to complete on Sunday but will be looking to boost their confidence in the Nations League first.
      Poland have already qualified for the World Cup and will use the Nations League as the perfect way to prepare.

      TV channel/live stream: Premier Sports /S4C (FREE)
      Poland XI: Grabara, Puchacz, Glik, Bednarek, Bereszynski, Klich, Goralski, Krychowiak, Zielinski, Buksa, Lewandowski
      Wales XI: Ward, Gunter, Mepham, Norrington-Davies, Burns, Morrell, Smith, Levitt, J Williams, Moore, James

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      Poland 0-0 Wales
      4. Huge chance for Poland!
      Zielinski finds himself unmarked in the middle as Klich crosses from the right, but the Napoli man can’t hit the target and it goes wide!
      Massive let off for Wales!
      Poland 0-0 Wales
      2. Some nice early possession for Wales, eventually looking for Moore in the box but the cross is too high even for him.
      Poland 0-0 Wales

      We’re underway at the stunning Wroclaw Stadium!

      National Anthems time
      The Polish national anthem is met with a fantastic reception by the home fans, after Wales’ rendition of their own is well respected.
      Here come the teams
      We’re minutes away from getting the Nations League back underway!
      Gunter captains his country again
      While he may currently be without a club, Chris Gunter is trusted with the Wales armband again tonight.
      The full-back is in line for his 108th cap.
      15 Minute Warning
      We’re almost ready to go in Poland, with both sides bringing their warm ups to a close.
      The domestic season may be over, but there’s plenty of international football to come this summer!
      Tough group for Wales
      With Poland being no pushover tonight, the other two opponents in the Dragons’ Nations League group will hardly fill them with confidence.
      Robert Page’s men will look forward to a pair of games with Netherlands and Belgium in the group stage.
      They may be lifted slightly by Kevin De Bruyne’s comments slamming the competition earlier this week however…
      Battle of Leeds United in Poland
      Both sides tonight feature stars from Premier League survivors Leeds United.
      Dan James is a surprise starter for Wales, with many believing he may be rested for Sunday’s game.
      Meanwhile, midfielder Mateusz Klich starts for Poland. Who will win bragging rights tonight?
      Dragons represented well at Wembley
      Both sides who took part in Sunday’s Championship play-off final had Welsh internationals in their camps for the game.
      Huddersfield’s Sorba Thomas is on the bench tonight after featuring at Wembley, while Nottingham Forest’s Brennan Johnson will link up with the team after this game.
      Lewandowski’s mind elsewhere?
      Robert Lewandowski is undoubtedly the danger man for Poland tonight, looking to add to his 75 international goals.
      However, his mind may be elsewhere at the moment, as he looks to secure a move away from Bayern Munich.
      Barcelona are the favourites for the wantaway forward.
      One eye on Hampden Park
      While a win in the Nations League will no doubt be on the agenda for Robert Page, there’ll no doubt be an eye on the game at Hampden Park tonight.
      The winner of Scotland vs Ukraine will play Wales on Sunday for a place in the World Cup in Qatar this winter.
      Debut for Wes Burns
      A nice moment for Ipswich Town’s Wes Burns, as he makes his Wales debut following an impressive season in League One.
      History around the corner for Page
      Rotation is the key for Wales tonight as they have their eyes firmly on Sunday’s World Cup qualifier against either Scotland or Ukraine.
      Victory will secure the nation’s first appearance at the World Cup since 1958, and will be a stronger sign that the side are still moving in the right direction.
      Lewandowski starts for Poland
      The Bayern Munich striker, who is being heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, starts for Poland.
      Poland: Grabara; Puchacz, Glik, Bednarek, Bereszynski; Klich, Goralski, Krychowiak; Zielinski; Buksa, Lewandowski
      No Bale or Ramsey for Wales
      With bigger things on the horizon, here’s this evening’s Wales team
      Wales: Ward, Gunter, Mepham, Norrington-Davies, Burns, Morrell, Smith, Levitt, J Williams, Moore, James
      Good Afternoon
      Hello and welcome to The Sun’s coverage of Wales’ first Nations League match against Poland at the Wroclaw Stadium.
      Load more entries… More

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      Marseillle ‘CLEARED’ to sign Saliba, Tielemans EXIT plan confirmed, Arsenal ‘in race’ for Calvert-Lewin – latest

      by

      ARSENAL’S chances of convincing William Saliba to stay has become a little more challenging with Marseille cleared to make signings for the summer.The French outfit got given the green light by Court of Arbitration for sport which could bode well for Saliba who has already made his future plans clear.
      Meanwhile, the Gunners have been put on red alert with their transfer target Youri Tielemans’ Leicester departure officially confirmed.
      Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the Belgian will leave the King Power this summer and Arsenl plans have not changed on Tielemans despite missing out on Champions League football.
      And the Gunners are reportedly in the race to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin but the Evertonian striker could be snapped up by Newcastle instead.
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      Stay up to date with all the latest from the Emirates…
      Reece battles Saka and Emile for PFA gong
      THE PFA Young Player of the Year shortlist has been announced with a number of top Premier League stars nominated.
      Chelsea’s Reece James will be rivalled by fellow England international and Premier League winner Phil Foden.
      Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe have also been nominated.
      On-loan Chelsea star Conor Gallagher has been recognised, as has Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey.
      Foden is the frontrunner, having picked up his fourth Prem crown.
      The 22-year-old made 28 Prem appearances this term, scoring nine and assisting five. Across all competitions, Foden reached double figures in both goals and assists.
      Should Foden win the award again, he will join Dele Alli in being one of only five players to have won the award in consecutive seasons. Ryan Giggs did it at United in 1993, Robbie Fowler in 1996 and Wayne Rooney a decade later.
      Hick up to be first Gunners’ signing
      Bologna left-back Aaron Hickey could be Arsenal’s first summer recruit after they reportedly bid £21.75million.
      The ex-Hearts defender, 19, wold provide strong competition for injury-hit fellow Scotland star Kieran Tierney.
      Hickey has racked up five goals in 48 games for his Serie A club.
      Lucas plan to stay at Fiorentina hits snag
      Lucas Torreira wants to stay at Fiorentina this summer.
      But agent Pablo Bentancur is not optimistic and says: “It’s not over yet, but the chances of Lucas staying in Florence are very small.
      “There is a contractual problem with Fiorentina and my priority is to find an agreement with them so he is not thinking about other teams for now.”
      Joining Arsenal a ‘fantasy’
      New Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Turner has described his transfer to North London as a “fantasy”.
      Arriving from New England Revolution this summer, the American told The Athletic: “You can imagine this stuff, but only in a fantasy.
      “You know that it’s never actually going to happen. Thinking about all the little things along the way that had to break for this to be possible, all the signs and all the omens, it’s all crazy.
      “It’s really crazy. I never thought that this would actually happen for me. I’m just so excited and blessed.”
      Gunners duo nominated for award
      Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe have BOTH been nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award.
      The duo join Conor Gallagher, Phil Foden, Reece James and Jacob Ramsey on the shortlist.
      The winner will be announced on Thursday, June 9.
      Arsenal goalkeeper opens up
      New Arsenal keeper Matt Turner has admitted that he will have to adapt his game to fit in at the North London squad.
      The American, who arrives from New England Revolution, told The Athletic: “I have to train at a higher level.
      “The style of play with the Revolution is mighty old school. If there’s pressure, we don’t really try to play out of it too much.
      “At Arsenal, the goalkeepers are required to play a little bit more with the ball, playing in the system rather than just sort of going out there.
      “They have to follow tactics and game plans a little more closely. Those are things that I know are valued with the national team that I’ll be challenged more with Arsenal.
      “In December and January, I got to spend weeks at a time with the national team in buildup to games. And in all those games, I feel like I was pretty solid with the ball at my feet.
      “Apart from the one blip in Canada, pretty solid connecting passes, making the right decisions. And then I don’t train exactly like that when I’m with the Revs, so I lose it. I get it for a couple of weeks, then I lose it. Now I’ll be training that way all the time.”
      Ben Foster wants Arsenal move
      Former England goalkeeper Ben Foster has admitted that he would like to sign for Arsenal this summer.
      The 39-year-old said on the Fozcast: “If I’m signing for a club as a number two goalkeeper, it depends on the first-choice goalkeeper.
      “Say Arsenal or Aston Villa, where the first-choice goalkeeper I know is a world-class goalkeeper – Ramsdale or Martinez – I know I have a world-class goalkeeper in front of me, who’s still at an age where they are learning and they can get there because they’ve got the potential.
      “At that point, I will go ‘I’m going to help you maximise your ability and make sure you become an absolute monster or beast’.
      “I’d love to be able to do that. I would love to do that.”
      Scotland missing Arsenal star
      The Tartan Army’s World Cup quest continues tonight… WITHOUT star full-back Kieran Tierney.
      Steve Clarke’s side host Ukraine this evening aiming to book a place in Sunday’s play-off final against Wales in Cardiff.
      Arsenal ace Tierney will NOT be available, due to the knee injury he suffered in March.
      The left-back is aiming to return to fitness in time for pre-season.
      Lucas Torreira eager to LEAVE
      The Uruguayan cost Arsenal £26million when he joined from Sampdoria in 2018 as one of Unai Emery’s first signings for the club.
      But while he was a first team regular during Emery’s 18 months in charge, he was unable to impress new boss Arteta and has not played for Arsenal for two years.
      He spent an unsuccessful season on loan at Atletico Madrid in 2020-21 and a much more productive time back in Italy with Fiorentina.
      Arsenal have already made it clear that he has no future at the Emirates after recently handing his number 11 shirt to Gabriel Martinelli.
      But now they need to sort out a transfer fee before his contract enters its final 12 months and his transfer value completely collapses.
      Torreira’s agent’s Fiorentina doubts
      Lucas Torreira wants to stay at Fiorentina this summer.
      But agent Pablo Bentancur is not optimistic and says: “It’s not over yet, but the chances of Lucas staying in Florence are very small.
      “There is a contractual problem with Fiorentina and my priority is to find an agreement with them so he is not thinking about other teams for now.”
      Lucas Torreira reveals transfer plans
      Uruguayan star has told Arsenal he wants to stay with Fiorentina even though the Italians have failed to trigger their option to buy him.
      The midfielder has just completed a successful season on loan at the Artemio Franchi stadium, helping the club to finish seventh in Serie A and qualify for the Europa Conference League.
      Coach Vincenzo Italiano is keen to keep Torreira at Fiorentina but the option to sign him permanently for £12.5million expired on Tuesday.
      Now Fiorentina are trying to negotiate Arsenal’s asking price down because they know he does not figure in Mikel Arteta’s plans and only has a year remaining on his £75,000-a-week Emirates contract.
      Torreira told supporters: “My intention is to stay at Fiorentina, but the club will need to find an agreement with Arsenal.
      “I am very happy in Italy and in Florence.”
      Wilshere on coaching dreams
      Jack Wilshere has outlined his ambitions to be a coach.
      The former Arsenal ace told the Standard: “I’d love to sit here and say I want to be England manager, I want to be Arsenal manager.
      “But I am not stupid enough to think that just happens. You have to go and start somewhere, learn your trade, build yourself up.
      “I’ve got a big desire to coach and become successful at that. You look at the managers who have been successful in the last five or six years, they started young, so I just think, why not?”
      Wilshere and Arteta ‘opposites’
      Former Gunner Jack Wilshere has admitted that he was the “complete opposite” of current boss Mikel Arteta at Arsenal.
      Speaking to the Standard, he said: “I was the naughty one and he was the teacher’s pet.
      “When I was back at Arsenal, Manuel Almunia was there.
      “I went over to him when he was talking to Mikel and we were chatting.
      “He said to me, ‘Are you the same Jack?’ Mikel said, ‘No, he’s not. He’s the complete opposite.'”
      Mourinho hails Maitland-Niles
      Jose Mourinho has said he will “miss” Ainsley Maitland-Niles after his loan spell with Roma came to an end.
      Maitland-Niles spent the second half of the season in the Italian capital on a temporary deal from Arsenal.
      The Arsenal man posted a picture of himself holding the Europa Conference League trophy to Instagram as he bid farewell to Roma.
      He wrote: “Great way to end the season thank you to the Roma fans players and staff for embracing me and believing in me as one of their own for the short period of time spent at the club what an experience and to be a part of history with the club.”
      Mourinho himself reposted the snap to his own Instagram account.
      He said: “We will miss you. One of us.”
      Ramsdale reveals toughest opponent
      Arsenal stopper has named Jamie Vardy as one of his most difficult opponents.
      Speaking to David Seaman on “Seaman Says”, the Gunners No1 revealed: “I’ll leave out the elite strikers like Man City’s and Liverpool but Jamie Vardy, the first game I played against him, he charged me down two or three times goal kicks then he lobbed me from about 25 yards.
      “The game after that was probably the first time where I was a bit worried I was playing against him, maybe I was overthinking rather than going in and playing, he’s definitely one.”
      Arsenal in Calvert-Lewin race
      Newcastle are set to make a bid for Manchester United and Arsenal transfer target Dominic Calvert-Lewin, according to reports.
      The striker, 25, had an injury-hit campaign and scored just five Premier League goals.
      But he has proven himself a reliable goalscorer in the past and Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is after a mobile target man – with Calvert-Lewin fitting the bill.
      Toon have funds to spend thanks to their Saudi ownership and could be prepared to meet Everton’s large demands, report The Mirror.
      Everton will reportedly only sell if they receive a bid that matches their valuation of the striker – one which takes into account his importance to the club and his status as an England international.
      England No1 hails Ramsdale progress
      Jordan Pickford has praised Three Lions team-mate Aaron Ramsdale for his encouraging debut season at Arsenal.
      The Everton stopper said: “Yeah ‘Rams’ has had a really good season, first season at Arsenal and he’s been unbelievable.
      “But for me, it’s always concentrating on yourself as well.
      “You always want challenges, as a footballer, you always want to be getting pushed.
      “I really enjoy those challenges, and I want to be number one for England for longer.
      “You want other people playing well, you want other people pushing, so I think when we’re training together, we’re pushing each other every day to get better and better.”
      Arsenal stay in Tielemans hunt
      Arsenal retain interest in Leicester ace Youri Tielemans despite missing out on the top four, according to reports.
      The Gunners were believed to be closing in on the Belgian’s signature in a £40million deal, IF they secured a place in the Champions League.
      Mikel Arteta and Co came fifth, but Fabrizio Romano reports that their “plans have not changed” with regards to Tielemans.
      Negotiations could take a while, however, with two other clubs interested in signing the midfielder this summer.
      Bayern star up for grabs
      Arsenal and Man United transfer target Corentin Tolisso is set to leave Bayern Munich when his contract expires this summer.
      The Frenchman, 27, joined the German giants from Lyon in 2017.
      During his five-year stint at the club he made 118 appearances across all competitions and scored 21 goals.
      Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano announced the departure on Twitter, stating: “Official. Corentin Tolisso leaves FC Bayern on a free transfer, there’s no agreement to extend the contract and both parties decided to part ways immediately.
      “Tolisso will be available as free agent this summer.”
      The midfielder’s imminent departure offers a huge transfer boost to Arsenal and Man Utd, who are both in the race to sign him.
      Gunners in Palace transfer fight
      Arsenal reportedly face a fight with club legend Patrick Vieira to sign Lens star Cheick Doucoure.
      The 22-year-old has been in fine form in the French side’s midfield this term season, providing four assists and one goal in his 34 Ligue 1 appearances.
      Now the Mali international allegedly wants a new challenge in England – and he’s not short of interest.
      We reported previously how Arsenal were plotting a swoop for Doucoure.
      The Gunners are planning a huge summer revamp this summer after missing out on Champions League football.
      Boss Mikel Arteta is desperate for reinforcements and wants to add the star to his midfield.
      However, The Telegraph claim that ex-Gunners captain Vieira has made Doucoure ‘his summer transfer window priority’ as he looks to continue improving Crystal Palace.
      Good morning Arsenal fans
      Arsenal are hoping to put together a fire sale this coming summer.
      SunSport exclusively revealed the Gunners are hoping to scrape together £60million from selling some outcasts.
      Bernd Leno is one of seven players in for the chop at a knockdown price as he has fallen out of favour after Aaron Ramsdale’s emergence.
      The North Londoners missed out on Champions League football and major funds that they need to collect in a different manner.
      Meanwhile, Arsenal are edging closer to completing a deal for Bologna ace Aaron Hickey.
      According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Gunners are “pressing heavily” to land Hickey with an offer of £21.25million.
      It appears the offer will be enough to get the deal across the line as the Serie A outfit are now said to be expecting a “very likely farewell”.
      The North Londoners are looking to bolster their backline this summer after narrowly missing out on Champions League football.
      The left-back position has been identified as one of the problematic areas to improve, especially given Kieran Tierney’s recurring injury problems.
      And Arsenal look set to miss out on a £12.5million fee with Fiorentina struggling to stump up the price to land Lucas Torreira.
      Torreira impressed during his loan spell with the Viola as he helped the club secure Europa Conference League football.
      But the midfielder’s agent Pablo Bentancur has confirmed a potential move doesn’t look like it will happen.
      Speaking to Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli, Bentancur said: “The chances of Lucas staying in Florence are very small – even if it’s not over yet.”
      Finally, Everton star Richarlison admits he is pondering his future amid interest from Arsenal.
      The forward said: “I’ve already made it clear to the board.
      “I’ve already talked to [manager Frank] Lampard too, with my agents and they know what I want.
      “Let’s wait for June. Now I can’t talk, because when we talk about leaving a club I’m kind of like this, because of the history I have at Everton, the affection that the fans have for me.
      “When we talk about leaving I’m a little speechless”
      Good morning Arsenal fans
      Arsenal are hoping to put together a fire sale this coming summer.
      SunSport exclusively revealed the Gunners are hoping to scrape together £60million from selling some outcasts.
      Bernd Leno is one of seven players in for the chop at a knockdown price as he has fallen out of favour after Aaron Ramsdale’s emergence.
      The North Londoners missed out on Champions League football and major funds that they need to collect in a different manner.
      Meanwhile, Arsenal are edging closer to completing a deal for Bologna ace Aaron Hickey.
      According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Gunners are “pressing heavily” to land Hickey with an offer of £21.25million.
      It appears the offer will be enough to get the deal across the line as the Serie A outfit are now said to be expecting a “very likely farewell”.
      The North Londoners are looking to bolster their backline this summer after narrowly missing out on Champions League football.
      The left-back position has been identified as one of the problematic areas to improve, especially given Kieran Tierney’s recurring injury problems.
      And Arsenal look set to miss out on a £12.5million fee with Fiorentina struggling to stump up the price to land Lucas Torreira.
      Torreira impressed during his loan spell with the Viola as he helped the club secure Europa Conference League football.
      But the midfielder’s agent Pablo Bentancur has confirmed a potential move doesn’t look like it will happen.
      Speaking to Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli, Bentancur said: “The chances of Lucas staying in Florence are very small – even if it’s not over yet.”
      Finally, Everton star Richarlison admits he is pondering his future amid interest from Arsenal.
      The forward said: “I’ve already made it clear to the board.
      “I’ve already talked to [manager Frank] Lampard too, with my agents and they know what I want.
      “Let’s wait for June. Now I can’t talk, because when we talk about leaving a club I’m kind of like this, because of the history I have at Everton, the affection that the fans have for me.
      “When we talk about leaving I’m a little speechless”
      Arsenal new kit
      Arsenal’s black away kit for the 2022-2023 season is expected to hit the shelves in July with fans loving the design.
      Leaked pics of the rumoured jersey have emerged online which has sent social media into meltdown.
      Snaps of the away jersey hit the internet in March, but the design has changed drastically to what it was previously thought to be.
      Initial photos had the kit in an all-black stealth design, however new pictures show that is not the case.
      The jersey is now black with an edgy pattern in the background of the top

      Mourinho targets Bellerin
      Roma are eyeing up a shock swoop for Arsenal ace Hector Bellerin following his impressive loan spell at Real Betis.
      Bellerin is facing an uncertain future at the Emirates with the player not believed to be in Mikel Arteta’s plans.
      According to Calciomercato, the right-back is seen as someone who could provide competition for Rick Karsdorp at the Olimpico.
      The Giallorossi are prepared to back Mourinho in the market and have promised him defensive reinforcements after he guided them to Europa Conference League glory
      Caitlin Foord reacts
      Arsenal ace Caitlin Foord claims she “found herself again” at the Emirates.
      Foord said: “It feels amazing. Since I joined this club, I’ve absolutely fallen in love with being here.
      “I mentioned in one of my early interviews that I had lost my way in football a bit, but since being here I’ve absolutely fallen in love and found myself again.
      “We’ve been inching towards winning lots of silverware and that’s definitely going to be the plan for next year.
      “We want to win multiple trophies and I think with the squad, the team, the players and the support we have, we have the squad to be able to do it”
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      Man Utd Pogba exit CONFIRMED, next club odds, Danjuma CLAIMS Liverpool want to sign him, De Jong BREAKS silence – latest

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have officially CONFIRMED the departure of Paul Pogba.The World Cup winner decided not to renew his contract at Old Trafford meaning that Pogba can talk to any club he chooses.
      And Juventus are reportedly the frontrunners for his signature as well as being the preferred destination of the Frenchman.
      Meanwhile, United transfer target Armaut Danjuma claims that he has been told Liverpool are after his signature.
      Plus, Barcelona midfielder Frankie De Jong has revealed that he is well aware of United’s interest in him but refused to state whether he has had contact with Erik Ten Hag.
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      Stay up to date with all the latest from Old Trafford…
      Outgoing Pogba ‘feels privileged’
      Paul Pogba says he ‘feels privileged’ to have played for Manchester United after they announced he’ll leave on a free transfer at the end of June..
      The French World Cup winner, 29, has suffered erratic form and poor luck with injuries since returning to Old Trafford in 2016 for a club-record £89million.

      In 233 appearances for Man Utd he recorded 39 goals and 51 assists.
      He also helped the club to Europa League and EFL Cup success.
      Now, in a heartfelt statement on Instagram, Pogba stated: “I feel privileged to have played for this club.
      “Many beautiful moments and memories but most importantly an unconditional support from the fans. Thank you.”
      There was no desire from Pogba or United to renew his current deal, which has less than a month remaining.
      However, he is still expected to pick up over £1million in wages before he moves on.
      Red Devils confirm Lingard’s leaving
      Manchester United have confirmed that Jesse Lingard will leave the club this summer.
      The attacking midfielder is out of contract at the end of June.
      And Lingard will depart Old Trafford on a free transfer, having joined his boyhood team aged 7 in 2000.

      But the ace’s time at United ended on a sour note after his brother branded the club “classless” for not giving Lingard a send-off in front of fans on the field.
      The FA Cup and Europa League winner was left on the bench against Brentford as Nemanja Matic, Edinson Cavani, Juan Mata and Phil Jones were greeted for the last time at the Theatre of Dreams.
      But in a lengthy statement detailing his playing career and achievements, United thanked Lingard for all the “memories” while wishing him luck at his next club.
      Man United still owe Pogba
      Paul Pogba is set to be paid more than £1million by Manchester United even after his exit was confirmed.
      United announced the midfielder will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the month.
      But with four weeks left to go on his deal Pogba is set for one last bumper payday at Old Trafford.
      The Frenchman reportedly earns £290,000 a week which means the Red Devils will have to fork out another £1.16m.
      Pogba will not have to do anything to earn the money either and instead will be focused on picking his next club.
      Man Utd boost in Neves chase
      Wolves are closing in on signing Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Palhinha.
      The Portuguese international – who is a new client of super-agent Jorge Mendes – was originally holding out for a bid from Manchester United.
      Palhinha was even considering waiting until after his country’s Nations League fixtures were over on June 12.
      But with interest from Old Trafford failing to materialise, SunSport understands the 26-year-old has agreed to join Wolves with the move expected to be confirmed in the coming days.
      The fee is believed be around £20m on a long-term deal, with Mendes leading the negotiations.
      Wolves boss Bruno Lage has been a huge admirer of Palhinha for years and sees him as the perfect replacement should £50m-rated Ruben Neves leaves the club.
      Ironically, it is United who are eyeing up Neves having sparked fresh interest in the player following failed attempts to nab him from the midlands in the last two transfer windows.
      New boss Erik ten Hag is a big fan of Neves, 25, as he hopes to start his new dynasty in Manchester with a top signing to bolster his midfield.
      Pogba United’s most creative player
      Manchester United will miss Paul Pogba’s creativity, now that he is leaving Old Trafford.
      According to Opta, the Frenchman created more chances, 231, and laid on more assists, 38, than any other Red Devils player during since stint at the club since joining in August 2016.
      Pogba breaks silence
      Paul Pogba has spoken for the first time since his Man United exit was announced.
      Accompanying a compilation video, he wrote: “I feel privileged to have played for this club.
      “Many beautiful moments and memories but most importantly an unconditional support from the fans. Thank you @ManUtd”
      Ten Hag on Maguire
      Erik ten Hag has waxed lyrical over Man United skipper Harry Maguire.
      The Dutchman said: “I have to repeat that next season is a different season, but I think he did a great job,” the Dutchman explained to reporters.
      “He’s a great player, he’s achieved already a lot really also [with his] contribution to Manchester United.
      “So I’m looking forward to working with him.”
      Harry Maguire on Ten Hag
      United’s skipper believes that the new boss will bring a “positive energy” to Old Trafford.
      He said: “It’s been a tough campaign, no hiding away from that. It was a disappointing season individually and as a group.
      “Football’s my life. I care about the club so much. I care about winning matches and taking the club to where it should be, where the fans deserve it to be.
      “I’m sure on the first day of pre-season, everybody will be buzzing around, doing their best to impress and coming back in shape. We have a big season ahead.
      “We know we are going to improve because last season was nowhere near good enough. The new manager will bring positive energy and the lads will go with that.”
      Man Utd Phillips blow
      Leeds remain hopeful Kalvin Phillips will sign a new deal with them – despite interest from Manchester United.
      Jesse Marsch’s side are still battling to persuade him to commit his long-term future to them after they avoided relegation on the final day of the season.
      His current deal runs until summer 2024 and any move might be complicated by the fact he is due to change agents this summer.
      Leeds were resigned to losing their homegrown star had they gone down to the Championship – particularly with the World Cup looming this autumn.
      But there is a quiet optimism now they might be able to persuade Phillips, 26, to give them at least another 12 months.
      Pogba next club odds
      Juventus are favourites to secure Paul Pogba’s signature following his Man United departure.
      The Old Lady are as short as 2/9 to re-sign the midfielder.
      PSG are also in the running at 2/1, while Real Madrid are 20/1 and Chelsea are 22/1,
      Man Utd thank Pogba
      The Red Devils have paid tribute to their departing No6 on their official website.
      They wrote: “It was a low-key end to a United career that had brought so many individual high moments, so many beautiful goals, assists and pieces of skill.
      “But for a boy that joined the Academy at 16 to make over 200 United appearances and lift the Youth Cup, along with two major pieces of silverware – not to mention the World Cup at international level – is something that should be applauded and celebrated.
      “Everyone at the club would like to congratulate Paul on his successful career, and thank him for his contributions to Manchester United.
      “We wish him all the best for the next steps on a remarkable journey.”
      Paul Pogba leaves Man Utd
      Manchester United have CONFIRMED Paul Pogba’s exit after six years with the club.
      The Frenchman repeatedly turned down new contract offers and is now a free agent.
      Juventus have been most strongly linked with the 29-year-old, while PSG and Real Madrid have also previously been keen.
      Barnes on Rangnick debacle
      Liverpool legend John Barnes has described Ralf Rangnick’s United appointment as ‘ridiculous’.
      In the aftermath of the German’s Old Trafford departure, Barnes told BonusCodeBets: “Ralf Rangnick was never going to work out at Manchester United. The whole appointment was ridiculous from the start.
      “Having a manager for the rest of the season, before moving into a consultancy role isn’t professional.
      “It’s not the way to run a football club, having an ex-manager who would have been seen as a failure to then be above the new manager.
      “The best thing for all parties was for Rangnick to leave, let the new manager come in and for it all to be about Erik ten Hag, and nobody else.
      “It was a ridiculous scenario to begin with, regardless of how it transpired. It looks shoddy but it’s the right decision.”
      Rashford and Sancho need ‘miracles’
      It would take “miracles” for Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho to earn back their England places, claims former Red Devil Paul Parker.
      Speaking to BonusCodeBets, he said: “For those two to get back in, they’ve got to work miracles. Work miracles from August onwards, from the first game, that is if they get into the team.”
      “They’ve got to work miracles to be honest, because Jarrod Bowen had a fantastic season and he would’ve been in England squad earlier if he didn’t get an injury.
      “He would’ve been in the England squad for the previous window of games. But, he got an injury and not many deserve it (and England call-up) more than him. So, they’ve got to get past him. He is a new boy in, last in and first out, maybe.
      “But you think of the work they’ve got to do to get past him, and the assists he makes and the opportunities he’s made and the goals he’s scored in the wide area. Those two will be nowhere near him.”
      Man Utd should enter Raphinha race
      The Red Devils have been told to target Leeds star Raphinha this summer.
      Their former Paul Parker, speaking to BonusCodeBets, said: “So, yes I have to say that he (Raphinha) would be a very good signing and the fact that he’s playing in the Premier League is a fact that makes even more sense.
      “They haven’t got to worry about integration. You know, into playing that football.
      “So, common sense says, if he’s available, when you talk money I think he’s like £35million.
      “I would say he would be a very, very good signing for Manchester United.”
      Toon enter Calvert-Lewin race
      Newcastle are set to make a bid for Manchester United and Arsenal transfer target Dominic Calvert-Lewin, according to reports.
      The striker, 25, had an injury-hit campaign and scored just five Premier League goals.
      But he has proven himself a reliable goalscorer in the past and Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is after a mobile target man – with Calvert-Lewin fitting the bill.
      Toon have funds to spend thanks to their Saudi ownership and could be prepared to meet Everton’s large demands, report The Mirror.
      Everton will reportedly only sell if they receive a bid that matches their valuation of the striker – one which takes into account his importance to the club and his status as an England international.
      Chelsea legend on Man Utd
      Blues icon Joe Cole has had his say on top four rivals Manchester United.
      On Erik ten Hag’s task next season, the former attacking midfielder told Coral: “He’s got a huge job. Probably the biggest job in world football at the moment trying to revive Manchester United.
      “It’s staggered me watching them from afar and watching the capitulation such a promising start.
      “I was at Old Trafford the day Varane was presented first game of the season. Fernandes got a hat-trick. Pogba was outstanding. There was so much positivity and it’s just fallen to pieces.
      “It’s a real head scratcher because there’s so many things wrong there. It doesn’t need just a little bit of keyhole surgery.
      “It seems like it needs a complete rebuild. So hopefully they’re on that path and Ten Hag is going to be given the tools to do it.”
      Man Utd star in play-off battle
      Scott McTominay is set to be in action tonight as Scotland face Ukraine in an emotional World Cup play-off semi-final.
      The Man United midfielder has been a regular for Steve Clarke’s men in their quest to make it to Qatar.
      Should McTominay and Co beat Ukraine at Hampden this evening, they will travel to Wales for Sunday’s final.
      Frenkie de Jong reveals intentions
      Man United target Frenkie de Jong has admitted that he wants to stay at Barcelona this summer.
      The Dutchman has been linked with a £65million transfer to Old Trafford.
      But asked about his future, he said: “Well.. I prefer to stay at Barcelona.
      “I said this before, Barcelona is the club of my dreams ever since I was little.”
      Bayern star up for grabs
      Man United and Arsenal transfer target Corentin Tolisso is set to leave Bayern Munich when his contract expires this summer.
      The Frenchman, 27, joined the German giants from Lyon in 2017.
      During his five-year stint at the club he made 118 appearances across all competitions and scored 21 goals.
      Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano announced the departure on Twitter, stating: “Official. Corentin Tolisso leaves FC Bayern on a free transfer, there’s no agreement to extend the contract and both parties decided to part ways immediately.
      “Tolisso will be available as free agent this summer.”
      The midfielder’s imminent departure offers a huge transfer boost to Arsenal and Man Utd, who are both in the race to sign him.
      Liverpool enter Danjuma transfer race
      Man United transfer target Armaut Danjuma claims he has been told that Liverpool also want to sign him.
      The former Bournemouth winger, 25, has been linked with a return to the Premier League following a stunning campaign at Villarreal.
      A number of clubs have been linked with a swoop after he helped the LaLiga club to reach the Champions League semi-finals.
      And now, with Sadio Mane potentially set to depart Anfield for Bayern Munich, one of those is allegedly Liverpool.
      Speaking to Dutch broadcaster Ziggo Sport, he said: “I was informed that Liverpool were following me closely.
      “I have never had contacts with clubs or anything like that during the season – I always know about the situation after the season. I will never lie and I think it’s a bad quality if you are not ambitious.
      “If a club came along that offered me a higher platform to play on sport-wise, I would always have to consider it.”
      Good morning Man Utd fans
      Manchester United have appointed Andy O’Boyle as the new Deputy Director of Football.
      O’Boyle has left his role as Head of Elite Performance at the Premier League to work with United’s Football Director John Murtough.
      He will help with the Red Devils’ strategy across the first team, academy as well as youth team.
      O’Boyle is well acquainted with Carrington having worked in the academy 16 years ago helping to develop stars, such as Marcus Rashford.
      Meanwhile, United manager Erik ten Hag is watching Mason Mount’s contract situation at Chelsea as he considers a shock move.
      Mount has seen contract talks at Stamford Bridge hit a snag after the protracted takeover of the club by new owner Todd Boehly.
      Ten Hag is well aware of the 23-year-old’s predicament and the Red Devils’ interest has already been registered with the forward’s camp.
      The Dutchman first became aware of Mount’s skills when he impressed on loan with Vitesse in the Netherlands.
      The former Ajax manager has tracked the England international’s progress closely ever since, and given the chance, it is believed he would jump at the opportunity to try to tempt him to Old Trafford.
      And Leeds star Raphinha wants to join arch-rivals United instead of Barcelona.
      The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from Elland Road after playing a key role in keeping the Whites up in the Premier League.
      The winger chipped in with 11 goals and three assists from 35 Premier League matches to help Leeds beat the drop on the final game of the campaign.
      Should the Yorkshire club have been relegated, the Brazil international would have been available for £21million due to a clause in his contract.
      But it is argued that the forward will now cost in excess of £40m.
      The figure hasn’t put off Barca, with the Blaugrana still prepared to bring the player over to the Nou Camp.
      Finally, Ajax star and United target Jurrien Timber says he wants assurances over playing time before making a decision on any move this summer.
      Timber said: “In the end, my gut feeling will be the deciding factor. The picture has to be right.
      “You can go to a big club. But if you’re not going to play there it’s better to stay with Ajax. And Ajax is also a big club.
      “We play football in the Champions League and I play there together with the best players in the Netherlands. That is not nothing.”
      Good morning Man Utd fans
      Manchester United have appointed Andy O’Boyle as the new Deputy Director of Football.
      O’Boyle has left his role as Head of Elite Performance at the Premier League to work with United’s Football Director John Murtough.
      He will help with the Red Devils’ strategy across the first team, academy as well as youth team.
      O’Boyle is well acquainted with Carrington having worked in the academy 16 years ago helping to develop stars, such as Marcus Rashford.
      Meanwhile, United manager Erik ten Hag is watching Mason Mount’s contract situation at Chelsea as he considers a shock move, as per SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse.
      Mount has seen contract talks at Stamford Bridge hit a snag after the protracted takeover of the club by new owner Todd Boehly.
      Ten Hag is well aware of the 23-year-old’s predicament and the Red Devils’ interest has already been registered with the forward’s camp.
      The Dutchman first became aware of Mount’s skills when he impressed on loan with Vitesse in the Netherlands.
      The former Ajax manager has tracked the England international’s progress closely ever since, and given the chance, it is believed he would jump at the opportunity to try to tempt him to Old Trafford.
      And Leeds star Raphinha wants to join arch-rivals United instead of Barcelona.
      The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from Elland Road after playing a key role in keeping the Whites up in the Premier League.
      The winger chipped in with 11 goals and three assists from 35 Premier League matches to help Leeds beat the drop on the final game of the campaign.
      Should the Yorkshire club have been relegated, the Brazil international would have been available for £21million due to a clause in his contract.
      But it is argued that the forward will now cost in excess of £40m.
      The figure hasn’t put off Barca, with the Blaugrana still prepared to bring the player over to the Nou Camp.
      Finally, Ajax star and United target Jurrien Timber says he wants assurances over playing time before making a decision on any move this summer.
      Timber said: “In the end, my gut feeling will be the deciding factor. The picture has to be right.
      “You can go to a big club. But if you’re not going to play there it’s better to stay with Ajax. And Ajax is also a big club.
      “We play football in the Champions League and I play there together with the best players in the Netherlands. That is not nothing”
      Nkunku addresses future
      RB Leipzig star and Manchester United target Christopher Nkunku has spoken about his future.
      Nkunku said: “Paris [Paris Saint-Germain], I’ve always said it, it’s my home, my heart club. I don’t close any doors. Everything is possible in football.
      “It’s flattering to have the biggest clubs in the world interested in me. But it’s also flattering that Leipzig is doing everything to keep me.
      “We are in June, and I am focused on this gathering”
      Timber addresses transfer speculation
      Ajax star and Manchester United transfer target Jurrien Timber has stated he will decide on his future after his holiday.
      Timber told De Telegraaf: “In the end, my gut feeling will be the deciding factor. The picture has to be right.
      “You can go to a big club. But if you’re not going to play there it’s better to stay with Ajax. And Ajax is also a big club.
      “We play football in the Champions League and I play there together with the best players in the Netherlands. That is not nothing.
      “Of course, I can develop further [at Ajax]. I am 100 per cent sure of that. I don’t feel like I’m done at the club. But I can also develop at other clubs.”
      “I am now focusing on the upcoming international matches and then go on holiday. Then I’ll have to think about it some more”
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      United hire new deputy director of football, Man Utd ‘very close’ to Nunez signing, Raphinha interest – latest updates

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED have announced they have hired a new deputy director of football to work under John Murtough.Andy O’Boyle has quit the Premier League, where he was head of elite performance, to work at rebuilding the Old Trafford squad.
      Meanwhile, the club are very close to striking a deal to sign sought-after forward Darwin Nunez, according to reports from Portugal.
      The Benfica talisman was in red hot form last season and United are said to be the front runners in luring the Uruguayan.
      Meanwhile, the club are also interested in a deal for Leeds winger Raphinha, who is said to be more keen on a move to United than he is Barcelona.
      And the Red Devils are said to be considering activating Arnaut Danjuma’s £38m release clause.
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      Stay up to date with all the latest from Old Trafford…
      More from Souness
      Liverpool great Graeme Souness added he even went to bed after the meeting thinking he was going to be appointed Manchester United manager.
      That was before Sir Alex Ferguson managed to win a trophy at Old Trafford.
      Souness concluded: “I went to bed thinking I was going to be the next manager of Man United.
      “That would have gone down well wouldn’t it!”
      Graeme Sou close
      Liverpool legend Graeme Souness claims he came close to replace Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager in the late 1980s before Fergie lifted a trophy.
      Souness told Virgin Sport: “What happened [was] Michael Knighton appeared in Glasgow, he had an option for Martin Edwards.
      “I think it was 75 per cent of Man United that Martin Edwards’ family had. He was getting out.
      “There was a meeting with lawyers and it was agreed that David [Murray] would buy Man United and they shook hands on it and went to bed.
      “And what was going to happen I was going to manage Man United, when Fergie was having a very difficult time”
      Raphinha transfer reminder
      Leeds star Raphinha wants to join arch-rivals Manchester United instead of Barcelona.
      The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from Elland Road after playing a major role in keeping the Whites up in the Premier League.
      The winger chipped in with 11 goals and three assists from 35 Premier League games to help Leeds beat the drop on the final game of the campaign.
      Should the Yorkshire outfit have been relegated, the Brazil international would have been available for £21million due to a clause in his contract.
      But it is believed that the forward will now cost in excess of £40m.
      The figure hasn’t put off Barca, with the Blaugrana still prepared to bring the player to the Nou Camp
      ‘Very close’ to Nunez
      Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag looks set to secure Benfica star Darwin Nunez as the first signing of his reign.
      An agreement between United and the Portuguese giants is said to be “very close” for Nunez, according to O Jogo.
      The report claims the striker is a “priority” target for Ten Hag as he tries to find a centre-forward to bolster the Red Devils in attack.
      The Uruguay international scored 34 goals across all competitions this season for the Eagles as they came third in the Primeira Liga and progressed into the Champions League quarter-finals
      Andy O’Boyle reminder
      Manchester United appointed Andy O’Boyle as the new Deputy Director of Football.
      O’Boyle has left his current role as Head of Elite Performance at the Premier League to work with United’s Football Director John Murtough.
      He will help with the Red Devils’ strategy across the first team, academy and youth team.
      O’Boyle is well acquainted with Carrington having worked in the academy 16 years ago helping to develop stars like Marcus Rashford
      EXCLUSIVE – Erik ten Hag watching Mason Mount’s contract situation at Chelsea
      Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is watching Mason Mount’s contract situation at Chelsea as he considers a shock move for the England star.
      Mount has seen contract talks at Stamford Bridge stall following the protracted takeover of the club by Todd Boehly.
      And his long-term future in West London is no longer secure.
      New United boss Ten Hag is well aware of the 23-year-old’s predicament and United’s interest has already been registered with the player’s camp.

      Ten Hag first became aware of Mount’s abilities when he impressed as a teenager on loan with Vitesse Arnheim in Holland.
      The Old Trafford chief has tracked his progress closely ever since, and given the chance, it is believed he would jump at the opportunity to try to tempt him to the North West.
      Despite being named the London club’s player of the year for a second time, Mount is one of the lowest paid in the squad at Stamford Bridge.
      He still has two years left on his £88,000-a-week existing deal.
      But the need for the Blues to completely rebuild their defence this summer has seen his contract talks fall down the list of priorities.
      David Kidd Comment: Rangnick exit ends one of the oddest chapters
      …Judging by Rangnick’s highly entertaining public criticisms of everyone and everything at United, as well as his team’s disastrous  performances, we can have a decent stab at imagining how the call went. Ten Hag: “Heh, Ralfie, how’s it hanging?”
      Rangnick: “Erik! Yeah, so, basically the players are egotistical wasters and the board are incompetent muppets.”
      Ten Hag: “OK, so what do you reckon I should do about it?
      Rangnick: “F***ed if I know, mate.”
      The Rangnick experiment was one of the oddest chapters in Premier League history.
      A bookish German, who’d been ranked as a 12-1 shot alongside Alan Curbishley for every managerial vacancy in the previous decade,  suddenly handed the keys to Old Trafford.
      It is easy to forget United finished second in the Premier League last year, then signed the greatest goalscorer the world has ever seen, Cristiano Ronaldo.
      Then finished with their lowest-ever Premier League points total.
      David Kidd Comment: Rangnick exit ends one of the oddest chapters
      While Liverpool and Real Madrid were parading trophies, days after Manchester City had done the same, Manchester United were announcing the severance of all ties with Ralf Rangnick.
      And with barely so much as a ‘See you later, innovator’.
      Manchester United, surely you remember them? They used to win titles. Even after that, they still topped the Deloitte Football Money League.
      And they still ‘do great numbers’ on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
      In the actual football, not so much. Under Rangnick, United finished with six successive away defeats, an overall goal difference of zero and conceded a 35-point deficit to champions City.
      When Rangnick was appointed interim manager in November, United’s ‘football director’ John Murtough heralded him as “one of the most respected coaches and innovators in European football”.
      He also announced that Rangnick would take up a two-year consultancy after his caretaking was complete.
      That consultancy role has now been scrapped, with Rangnick taking over Austria’s national job.
      Instead, we’re told Rangnick held a two-hour ‘handover’ conversation on the phone with his successor, Erik ten Hag…
      Pre-match kit leaked
      Images of Manchester United’s reported pre-match kit for the 2022-23 season have leaked online, and fans are loving it.
      The warm-up shirts for the new campaign incorporate a red, black and white “tyre-track” design.
      Pictures released by Footy Headlines show off a 1990s-inspired design.
      One simply replied to the post of the new design saying: “Wow.”
      Another added: “Right up my alley this.”
      While a third even said: “Better than the home and away which I’ve seen so far.”

      Boost with Leeds star Raphinha
      Raphinha wants to join Leeds’ arch-rivals Manchester United instead of Barcelona, reports claim.
      The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from Elland Road after playing a mjor role in keeping the Whites up.
      Raphinha chipped in with 11 goals and three assists from 35 Premier League games to help Leeds beat the drop on the final game of the campaign.
      Should the Yorkshire outfit have been relegated, the ex-Rennes ace would have been available for £21million due to a clause in his contract.
      But it is believed that the forward will now cost in excess of £40m following their 2-1 win against Brentford.
      The figure hasn’t put off Barcelona, with the Blaugrana still prepared to bring the player to the Nou Camp.
      Glazers take total £18m out of club since going on NYSE
      The Glazer family have taken out £18million in dividends from Manchester United each year since 2016, according to reports.
      And a further £5m lines the pockets of other shareholders, writes Joshua Jones.
      As reported by The Times, that £23m total was even paid out during the pandemic – despite the club making a financial loss.
      The Red Devils owners drew out an £11m cash bonus in January.

      United were placed on the New York Stock Exchange in 2012, enabling investors to buy and sell shares in the club, in an attempt to try and tackle mounting debt.
      Since then, the share price has dropped by almost 10 per cent – or $1.39 (£1.10) from $14 (£11.10) to its current price of $12.61 (£10).
      It hit its peak at the end of August 2018 when the price climbed to $26.20 (£20.77).
      The Glazers put an extra 9.5m shares totalling £137m on the NYSE last October, months after co-chairman Avram Glazer got rid of £70m worth of shares.
      De Jong prefers Gunners over Man Utd
      Arsenal have advantage over Manchester United in the fight for Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong because of his hero Marc Overmars.
      The Dutchman spoke to Voetbal International back in 2019.
      De Jong said: “I actually thought Arsenal was pretty beautiful in the past.
      “In my mind, I have had the following list for a long time: Ajax-Arsenal-Barcelona, call it the Marc Overmars route.
      “But yes, if you can go directly to Barcelona, then you are also right where you want to be. Faster than you ever dared to dream.”

      Murtough on O’Boyle
      United’s Football Director John Murtough has spoken about the appointment of Andy O’Boyle.
      Murtough said: “We are delighted to welcome Andy back to Manchester United to take up this important role in the club’s leadership.
      “Andy has experience across all technical areas of football, from fitness and sports science to scouting and recruitment.
      “This will make him a valuable addition to my team at Carrington as we continue to strengthen leadership and strategic planning across all our football activities.”
      O’Boyle excited by the prospect
      New deputy director of football Andy O’Boyle – who previously spent five years as head of fitness and first team fitness coach at Liverpool – is “thrilled” to join United.
      O’Boyle told Man Utd’s official site that it was an exciting time to join the club.
      New Chief Executive Richard Arnold is making sweeping changes across the club including the appointment of new manager Erik Ten Hag.
      And O’Boyle said : “I am thrilled to be rejoining Manchester United at such an exciting time for the club, as the first team prepares for a fresh start under Erik ten Hag, and the Academy and women’s teams go from strength to strength.
      “I can’t wait to get started at United and play my part in creating the right environment for football success.”
      United hire new deputy director of football
      Manchester United’s revamp of their football department has continued with the appointment of a new Deputy Director of Football.
      Andy O’Boyle has left his current role as Head of Elite Performance at the Premier League to work with United’s Football Director John Murtough.
      He will help with the club’s strategy across the first team, academy and youth team.
      O’Boyle is well acquainted with Carrington having worked in the academy 16 years ago helping to develop players like Marcus Rashford.
      Henderson ‘good choice’ for Newcastle
      Jose Enrique reckons Man Utd’s Dean Henderson is a “good choice” for Newcastle.
      The Keeper could be available on loan this summer.
      Enrique told Genting Casino: I would definitely sign Dean Henderson. I’ve said I like him a lot in the past. He’s a great goalkeeper.
      “Dubravka is doing well but Henderson would be a good fit in the long run and Newcastle’s back-ups aren’t good enough at the moment.
      “Henderson will be looking for a move too as with the form De Gea is in now, he’s not going to play.”
      Jur in luck
      Manchester United are reportedly in preliminary talks with Ajax to bring centre-back Jurrien Timber to Old Trafford, writes Jake Lambourne.
      It was reported in April how new Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag was looking to bring the 20-year-old to the Theatre of Dreams with him.
      Timber’s representatives fuelled speculation that a transfer was on the horizon earlier this month when they posted a clip at an airport with the caption “deal closing time”.

      Bayern Munich are also interested in the Holland international, but it is claimed that United are leading the race to secure his services.
      The Guardian claims that negotiations with Ajax are at an initial stage and Ten Hag is keen to make Timber one of his first signings.
      Utd’s new 2022-23 away kit leaked
      Manchester United’s away kit for the 2022/23 season has reportedly been leaked with fans gushing over the white shirt and black shorts combination.
      According to Footy Headlines, their away jersey will be white and accustomed by black shorts and white socks.

      The white is a throwback to their away strip in 2015/16 and even their third kit from 2009/10 through until 2011/12.
      Man Utd were champions in 2010/11 with a white shirt and black shorts as their third kit during the season.

      Is Dan the man?
      Watford keeper Daniel Bachmann has revealed Manchester United have made an approach for him.
      Bachmann, 27, said he is honoured by the prospect of becoming David de Gea’s understudy at Old Trafford next season.
      Former United interim boss Ralf Rangnick, who has now left to coach Austria’s national side, is thought to have been behind the move for the keeper so it may now rest in limbo.
      Bachmann told Sky Sports Austria: “There has been contact with Manchester United.  It hasn’t just fallen out of the sky. I don’t know whether the team boss [Rangnick] has a say in transfer matters.

      “Several clubs have shown interest in me – but the most intensive contacts have come from Manchester. It is a massive honour for a club like that to be interested in you.
      “I would be second choice behind David de Gea, who has been one of the Premier League’s best keepers for years.
      “But anything can happen in football. The performance principle applies. As a result, even big stars can sit on the subs’ bench.”
      United wage bill
      Ten Hag will have Pogba, Cavani and Mata and others off the wage bill this summer.
      Cristiano Ronaldo is still Man Utd’s highest earner.

      Good morning Man Utd fans
      Erik ten Hag looks set to secure the first signing of his reign at Manchester United with 22-year-old Darwin Nunez, according to reports.
      An agreement between United and Benfica is said to be ‘very close’ for the striker according to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo.
      The report claims Nunez is a ‘priority’ target for Ten Hag as he tries to find a striker to bolster The Red Devils in attack.
      Glen Johnson claims that Declan Rice should only leave West Ham for a team challenging for the Premier League title next season.
      The former West Ham defender spoke to Bettingodds about the England international’s future.
      Johnson said: “I don’t think that he will end up at Manchester United and no disrespect to Manchester United because it’s a fantastic club and I’m sure they’ll come back and fight for titles in the coming years but City and Liverpool are absolutely miles ahead of anyone at the moment and I’m sure they’d want Declan as well.
      “Why would you go to a team that isn’t going to compete for the league next season?
      “If he goes to Liverpool or City then he’s going to win something next season. I can’t believe that Manchester United would be his first pick.”
      Man Utd have also confirmed Rangnick’s departure from the club.
      A club statement read: “We would like to thank Ralf Rangnick for his efforts as interim manager over the past six months.
      “By mutual agreement, Ralf will now focus solely on his new role as manager of the Austria national team and will not therefore be taking up a consultancy role at Old Trafford.
      “We would like to wish Ralf the best of luck in this next chapter of his career.”
      Aurelien Tchouameni has confessed his love for both Liverpool and Real Madrid – in a blow to Manchester United.
      The highly sought-after Frenchman gave his take on both Champions League finalists before they faced off in France.
      When asked about joining either Liverpool or Real Madrid ahead of the Champions League final, he told CNN: “I like both: I can watch Spanish games and English games.
      “It’s different to play in Spain and it’s different to play in England, but at the end, for me, it’s just a matter of adaptation.”
      Chelsea up Dembele chase
      Chelsea are reportedly ready to offer summer transfer target Ousmane Dembele improved terms.
      The winger is out of contract at Barcelona come the end of June and can join another club for free.
      A number of Europe’s elite including Chelsea and Man Utd are keen on the Frenchman.
      But according to Fichajes, Blues boss Thomas Tuchel has requested the club to complete the signing of Dembele.
      Comment: Rangnick exit ends one of the oddest chapters
      While Liverpool and Real Madrid were parading trophies, days after Manchester City had done the same, Manchester United were announcing the severance of all ties with Ralf Rangnick.
      And with barely so much as a ‘See you later, innovator’.
      Manchester United, surely you remember them? They used to win titles. Even after that, they still topped the Deloitte Football Money League.
      And they still ‘do great numbers’ on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
      In the actual football, not so much. Under Rangnick, United finished with six successive away defeats, an overall goal difference of zero and conceded a 35-point deficit to champions City.
      When Rangnick was appointed interim manager in November, United’s ‘football director’ John Murtough heralded him as “one of the most respected coaches and innovators in European football”.
      He also announced that Rangnick would take up a two-year consultancy after his caretaking was complete.
      That consultancy role has now been scrapped, with Rangnick taking over Austria’s national job.
      Instead, we’re told Rangnick held a two-hour ‘handover’ conversation on the phone with his successor, Erik ten Hag.
      Dybala fight
      Jose Mourinho is reportedly looking to get one over Manchester United by beating his old club to Paulo Dybala.
      TyC Sports claims The Special One has made contact with Juventus’ out-of-contract forward about a free transfer to Roma.
      Dybala’s seven-year stint in Turin comes to an end next month.
      And the Argentina international, 28, has been flooded with offers from the Premier League.
      New Man United boss Erik ten Hag is thought to be a huge fan.
      And Spurs boss Antonio Conte also rates Dybala after going up against him at Inter Milan.
      Henderson ‘good choice’ for Newcastle
      Jose Enrique reckons Man Utd’s Dean Henderson is a “good choice” for Newcastle.
      The Keeper could be available on loan this summer.
      Enrique told Genting Casino: I would definitely sign Dean Henderson. I’ve said I like him a lot in the past. He’s a great goalkeeper.
      “Dubravka is doing well but Henderson would be a good fit in the long run and Newcastle’s back-ups aren’t good enough at the moment.
      “Henderson will be looking for a move too as with the form De Gea is in now, he’s not going to play.”
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