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    Roma 1 Leicester 0 (agg 2-1) LIVE RESULT: Abraham’s stunning header sends Foxes crashing out of Conference League

    LEICESTER missed out on the chance to fight for European glory as they were marginally beat by Jose Mourinho’s men in the Conference League semi-final.The Foxes fell behind to a stunning header from former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham early on in the game.
    And they were unable to break down Roma’s resilient defending all night.

    RESULT: Roma 1-0 Leicester (Roma 2-1 on agg)
    TV/Live stream: BT Sport 3 and BT Sport Ultimate
    Roma XI: Patricio; Mancini, Smalling, Ibanez; Karsdorp, Cristante, Oliveira, Pellegrini, Zalewski; Zaniolo, Abraham
    Leicester XI: Schemichel; Perreira, Fofana, Evans, Justin; Maddison, Tielemans, Drewsbury-Hall; Lookman, Vardy, Barnes

    Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
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    European finals inspire passion
    The much-lamented third-tier European competition has given us a semi-final this evening to be proud of.
    At the final whistle the Roma players showed how much it meant to them to make it to the final this evening.

    First final awaits in Albania

    Rome is where the heart is
    Tammy Abraham adds to the list of Chelsea players who have not had successful careers at Stamford Bridge but then blossom in Italy’s capital city.
    His move in the summer has reignited his career.
    Abraham’s performance this evening had everything….confidence, talent, composure and passion.
    Who has two hands and was man of the match tonight?

    All roads lead to…….Albania
    Roma will play Feyenoord in the final on May 25.
    Jose Mourinho will be looking to add another trophy to his impressive resume in Tirana.
    Disappointing night for Leicester fans.
    No doubt we will hear from Brendan Rodgers soon on how he has a ‘wonderful group of players who are fantastic human beings’.
    FT: Roma 1-0 Leicester (Agg: 2-1)
    The referee blows his whistle.
    Jose Mourinho’s Roma will go to the final in Albania.
    It is all over for Leicester.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester – Oliveira chance!
    90+4. Oliveira has a shot from distance into the bottom corner.
    Schmeichel saves but cannot prevent the corner.
    That is probably it now for Leicester.

    Roma 1-0 Leicester – Maddison chance!
    90+3. Maddison has the ball outside the box and tries to stab a shot towards goal as he is closed down.
    The ball squirms wide in the wrong direction.
    Leicester will be hoping they can create one more chance.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    90+2. Some of the decision here have been terribly harsh on Leicester.
    Perez backheels the ball on the byline to win a corner.
    The referee gives a goal kick.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    90. Maddison whips the corner in right along the six-yard box.
    Smalling does brilliantly to head clear.
    We are going to have five added minutes.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    88. Time is running out.
    If Leicester are owed a favour by any genies, now is the time to call in such a favour.
    Two minutes remaining and added time.
    Abraham comes off for Shomurodov.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    86. Leicester win a corner and send everyone bar Schmeichel up.
    Smalling heads it clear.
    Justin is tackled and Roma given the decision for the throw-in.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    84. Abraham is feeling the fatigue also now.
    He is attacking and defending like a basketball game from end to end.
    You can see how much this win would mean to the striker.
    Zalewski comes off for Viña.

    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    82. Not much time left for The Foxes.
    Mourinho is well-versed in the dark arts of defending.
    He can set sides out to prevent the opposition from having shots on goal despite dominating the game.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    80. The ball comes out to Maddison some distance out.
    He manages to bend the ball around a wall of players.
    The shot is straight at Patricio.
    Leicester register their first shot on target in the 80th minute.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    78. Perez brings some urgency to Leicester’s play.
    They can’t keep faltering in the final third.
    If they do, their season ends today.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    76. Both sides seem to want to play their final hands.
    Dewsbury-Hall comes off for Perez.
    Zaniolo comes off for Veretout.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    74. Some of the Roma players are starting to feel the fatigue.
    Ibañez gives the signal that he needs to come off.
    He falls to the floor holding his hamstring.

    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    72. Tammy Abraham is giving it all he can defend when needed.
    If Roma win this game you would struggle not to find him getting man of the match.
    The Foxes are struggling for ideas.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    70. Dewsbury-Hall gets the ball around 25 yards out again.
    He must have some premonition that he nets from that distance in a dream last night in the team hotel.
    It troubles ball boys more than goalkeepers again.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    68. Maddison is try to find something on the edge of the box.
    There is no movement offering options.
    Roma are just blocking off any run.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    66. Dewsbury-Hall is keen the get the ball going forward.
    Leicester are still lacking that final pass.
    Abraham wins a free kick on halfway from Fofana.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    64. Roma are knocking the ball around now.
    With no urgency to attack they are happy to use the space of the pitch to frustrate their opponents.
    Always looking to slow play down is there is nothing in front of them.

    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    62. What a ball by Pellegrini out to the right.
    He finds Karsdorp who looks to cut it back to Abraham.
    Justin manages to block for a corner.
    The resulting corner is headed over by Chris Smalling.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    60. Roma are posing more of an attacking threat now.
    For a split second before they realise they have not given the ball away needlessly for some time so gladly oblige.
    Leicester are playing the ball around like a side 1-0 up in a second leg of a semi-final.
    They may know something we don’t.
    Roma 1-0 Leicester
    58. Mourinho must be content at the moment.
    He looks slightly less dour than normal.
    Should they win the tournament, rumour has it he will break into a wry smile.
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    Forlan URGES Nunez to join Man Utd, Red Devils ‘submit offer’ for Dembele, Ronaldo EXCLUSIVE – latest updates

    FORMER Manchester United forward Diego Forlan has urged fellow compatriot Darwin Nunez to join the Red Devils this summer.Nunez, 22, has been in red hot form for Benfica all season with a lot of the top European clubs chasing his signature.
    Meanwhile, United have reportedly submitted an offer for Barcelona attacker Ousmane Dembele.
    And Cristiano Ronaldo has added to the speculation of his time at Old Trafford coming to an end.
    The Portuguese icon appeared to mouth the words “I’m not finished yet” during a post-lap of honour on the weekend.
    But the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has claimed that this was not what he said.
    Ronaldo signed for two years when he returned this season with the option of a further year.
    Much will come down to what incoming boss Erik Ten Hag’s plans are but he has yet to communicate what he wants to do about the Portuguese ace.
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    Get all the latest Man Utd news, gossip and transfer updates…
    Big Leip
    RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku wants to leave the Bundesliga club this summer amid interest from the Premier League.
    That is according to L’Equipe, who report that Nkunku believes the time is now to quit Leipzig with Manchester United, Manchester City and Newcastle all keeping tabs.
    But the Prem giants are not the only ones chasing the attacking midfielder as AC Milan, Bayern Munich and former club Paris Saint-Germain are also eyeing him.
    The France international has stood out this season with a staggering 31 goals and 20 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions.
    Transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio recently stated a Premier League move is likelier for the 24-year-old ace.
    However, Leipzig are not keen to sell Nkunku ahead of the summer transfer window
    Credit: Getty
    Dybala mobbed by Juve pleas
    Man United transfer target Paulo Dybala has been urged not to join Inter Milan by Juventus fans.
    Dybala was signing autographs ahead of Juve training when fans bombarded him with pleas of: “Please don’t join Inter,” and, “Why are you going to Inter?,” Football Italia reported.
    The hot-shot striker simply smiled but didn’t respond to the demands of the Juve supporters.
    Darwin Nunez plea
    Benfica ace Darwin Nunez has been urged to join Man United instead of Arsenal by Red Devils legend Diego Forlan.
    Forlan told Breaking The Lines: “I think that he is a very good player, a good kid who is doing really well at Benfica and is enjoying a strong season.
    “It is not just the Portuguese league where he is doing well but in the Champions League too, where he scored six goals this season and helped take Benfica to the quarter-finals.
    “He is a player who has a lot of potential and he could fit in at Manchester United. But obviously, everyone needs to have patience, although he is getting better with more and more experience.
    “He would not be a bad signing for Manchester United and it would be nice to see him there.
    “It is a club that gives you time, that makes you feel comfortable and as if you are in a familiar place, very cosy and nice. It would be spectacular having him playing for Manchester United.”
    Brazilian favourite David Beckham
    David Beckham was at the centre of a tug of war between Spanish and Brazilian stars when he joined Real Madrid.
    That’s according to Beckahm’s ex-Madrid pal and Brazil legend Robinho.
    In April 2020, he spoke of the chemistry in the team and his ex team-mate Beckham, who owns MLS side Inter Miami, saying: ”When Madrid came, I saw that they had a large Brazilian presence in the team and they had Vanderlei Luxemburgo as their coach at the time.
    ”So, why go to Barcelona? There was a great harmony among the Brazilians in the squad. Beckham was always with the Brazilians. He was part of our group.
    ”The Spaniards were jealous because he spoke more Portuguese than Spanish, so he ended up spending more time with us.”
    ‘European qualification is important’
    It’s imperative for Man United to be in the Champions League next season.
    That’s the opinion of former Man United ace Jaap Stam.
    He said to the club’s media: “I think it’s good to have European football,” Jaap told club media earlier this week, ahead of the 3-0 win over Brentford.
    “I think it’s always good to show yourself on a European platform and show what you can do and how you’re performing and if you’re making progress or not.
    “At the end of the day, it’s always nice to win trophies. Your colleagues and a lot of people are asking me how long it will take for United to win trophies.
    “It doesn’t need to be long and if you can take part in one, like a European cup, and if you can win one, then I still think you’ve done a great job for next season, if you can do that.”
    No thanks James Ward-Prowse
    Paul Parker doubts James Ward-Prowse is the man to fix Man United’s midfield issues.
    Parker told MyBettingSites: “I think he’s another name that’s been mentioned because he played well last weekend and made a difference for Southampton to come from behind.”
    “Is he what the United fans are looking for? I personally don’t think so.”
    “He’s not the kind of a midfield player that they are looking for or they would like to see.”
    Ten Hag success predicted
    Phil Neville reckons Erik ten Hag can bring success back to Man United in under two years.
    Neville said: “There obviously needs to be big changes at the whole of the club.
    “But what I would say is that it can change very quickly. I’ve heard people say five or six years…it can change within 12 to 18 months.
    “If you pick the right manager, have the right players and get the structure around the club, that can change very quickly. All it can take is two or three new signings, gain some confidence, gain some momentum.
    “You look how quickly it took Jurgen Klopp to turn it around at Liverpool – two, three seasons.
    “United need to act fast now, they’ve got a brilliant young manager and now he needs backing and he needs time. And I think at this moment in time United will give him that.”
    Maguire’s back in training
    Hary Maguire is back in training for Man United.
    Maguire, 29, has had a persistent knee issue that has kept him out of action recently.
    But the defender was all smiles as he trained with his United pals.
    Credit: Getty
    Antonio Valencia’s Man United return
    Man United have confirmed Antonio Valencia will return to the club to compete against Liverpool in a legends match.
    Speaking on his return in the Legends of the North match, Valencia told United’s media: “My time at Manchester United gave me some of the fondest memories of my career.
    “I was involved in great teams that won many trophies and it will be fantastic to see some of my former team-mates again for this special match.
    “It’ll also be a chance for me to thank the fans who always supported me through the good and bad times in my career. I’m so excited to come back.”
    Rio trolls QPR
    Rio Ferdinand trolled Queens Park Rangers after Real Madrid knocked Manchester City out of the Champions League semi-finals.
    The Manchester United legend was on punditry duty for BT Sport at the Bernabeu.
    He was part of the BT team chatting pitchside after the game as some of the Madrid squad’s children ran around on the pitch playing.
    But Ferdinand admitted his kids have no recollection of his glory days at Old Trafford.
    He revealed: “The unfortunate thing is my kids only remember when I was at QPR.”
    Elanga’s tips for United youngsters
    Anthony Elanga has revealed Man United’s youngsters can always come to him for advice although he’s only 20.
    Elanga told United’s media: “I always like to speak and give advice to anyone, even though I’m still young myself.
    “Even though I’m 20 now, I’m willing to ask for advice and I’m willing to give advice as well. That’s the sort of person I am.”
    All El to break loose
    Anthony Elanga has been tipped to have a great upcoming season under the tutelage of Cristiano Ronaldo.
    That’s the opinion of former Man United star Quinton Fortune who made the prediction to Ladbrokes.
    Fortune said: “I’m expecting Anthony Elanga to kick on next season. He’s got unbelievable pace; there aren’t many in the league who can keep up with him when he gets going.
    “He’s a great kid, he’s so humble, and for a coach I’d say he’s a perfect student. I just think he’s going to get better and better because he’s got that mindset.
    “He just wants to learn, and who better to learn from than the greatest ever: Cristiano Ronaldo?”
    Ronaldo and Ten Hag discussed
    The issues Cristiano Ronaldo and Erik ten Hag may have been deetailed by Gabby Agbonlahor.
    Agbonlahor told Football Insider: “I don’t think Ronaldo being there is going to be a problem.
    ‘What’s going to be a problem is Ten Hag is going to come in and say to Ronaldo.
    “I want you to stay but I’m going to play you in the games I want you to play in, I’m going to bring you off when I want to bring you off.
    “I want to choose a team to win a game and you might not be starting that game. If you show dissent walking off the pitch, I’m not going to play you.”
    ‘Lingard’s the architect of downfall’
    Jesse Lingard has only got himself to blame for his career decline at Man United.
    That’s the opinion of talkSPORT host Simon Jordan who compared Lingard’s demise to former Arsenal star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who went on to shine at Barcelona.
    Jordan said: “Jesse Lingard is the architect of his own downfall. He has reaped precisely what he has sown, and it’s not just with Ralf Rangnick, it was with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer too.
    “We can all go somewhere for five minutes. [Pierre-Emerick] Aubameyang has been at Barcelona for five minutes, and he will revert to type.
    “We all knew he would do that for five minutes and when he comes back down to reality and not proving the point, he’ll be back being late to training and doing precisely what he wants.
    “Now, Jesse Lingard is in the situation where he could have left Manchester United whenever he wanted, it’s only his performances that have dictated him not being in the side.”
    Agbonlahor’s Champions League support shock
    Gabby Agbonlahor spoke of his shock after witnessing English fans celebrating Man City’s Champions League demise against Real Madrid.
    And Man United supporters were among the culprits, Agbonlahor revealed.
    The retired striker said on talkSPORT: “Whenever Real Madrid scored, 99 per cent of the bar, there could have been about 1000 people in the bar, jumping up and celebrating for Real Madrid which baffles me.
    “I spoke to a couple of them around me who said to me ‘why are you not celebrating?’ and I said ‘I’m supporting the English team’.
    “There were a few Man United fans, Chelsea, other teams, but it really disappointed me, strange because you want to support the English teams and get an all English final, it was strange for me to see that.”
    Cavani set for Europe stay
    Edinson Cavani is eager to stay in Europe when he leaves Man United this summer.
    There had been reports that the Uruguayan might be returning to his native South America.
    But that’s been ruled out by his brother and agent Walter Guglielmone.
    He told El País: “At the moment that is not true… Everything is dynamic. The priority is to continue in Europe.”
    Ronaldo’s shock omission from list
    Cristiano Ronaldo was left out of Arsene Wenger’s list of best strikers over 30.
    Karim Benzema, Robert Lewandowski, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic were all heralded as the game’s best forwards – but there was no sign of Ronaldo on Wenger’s list.
    Wenger said to BeIN Sports: “Lewandowski, Benzema, Ibrahimovic, all these players score goals at 40 or 35.
    “The best strikers in Europe are all over 30-years-old because they use every mistake of the opponent.
    “I would say Benzema until 30, I think he had two or three kilos too many. Now he’s a real athlete, and that’s why today certainly he is one of the two or three best strikers in the world.”
    Man United legend’s claims
    Man United legend Peter Schmeichel claims Real Madrid have no right to be in the Champions League final.
    The Denmark legend said on CBS Sport post-match: “The first chance was the first goal in the 90th minute, the second goal was the second chance and the third goal was the third time they hit the target.
    “Real Madrid have got no right to be in that final. They were the poorest team by a mile over the two games.”
    Man United sign eight-year-old
    Man United have added an eight-year-old boy to the club’s ranks.
    The latest addition to United’s academy programme is schoolboy Jack Maguire, the Yorkshire Post reported.
    The report states the Red Devils scouted Jack when he was just five.
    And after wowing scouts with his talents, the Halifax-born youngster started playing with United’s pre-academy.
    Phil Nevilles slams Man United
    Phil Neville has slammed Man United for not giving David Moyes more time as club boss after he took over from Sir Alex Ferguson.
    He said to Sky Sports: “Ten months at Manchester United in a difficult period when the greatest manager of all time had just left wasn’t enough.
    “Moyes had unbelievable plans to take the club forward in that summer. I’d say that was one of the biggest mistakes United made, not giving Moyes more time.
    “If you look back now, it was totally wrong the lack of time he was given, totally wrong,’ the former Manchester United defender and current Inter Miami boss told Sky Sports.
    “The lack of time, the lack of backing, the lack of investment that other managers have had…
    “That’s the biggest thing. When we both left the club, we both needed another season, we both deserved another season.”
    Man United’s elite defender
    Paul Parker claims Man United have the best defender in the Premier League in the form of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
    But Parker urged the Red Devils to snap up Nottingham Forest starlet Djed Spence if they’re looking for variety.
    Parker said to BonusCodeBets: “Is Manchester United looking for a right-back? I think they are, maybe, looking for that, but I don’t really know enough about (Erik) ten Hag.
    “But if you are looking for a defender, a hundred per cent defender, Aaron Wan-Bissaka is the best in the league.
    “But if you are looking for a mix, then you might not be getting what you want with him.
    “So if you are looking for someone dynamic, he (Djed Spence) is the person to do it.”
    Lingard linked with Serie A
    Jesse Lingard is preparing to leave Manchester United amid “advanced” transfer talks with multiple clubs, according to reports.
    The Daily Mail claim that there is “no chance” of new gaffer Erik ten Hag persuading the winger to stay.
    Premier League rivals Newcastle are “in talks” with the England international, after failing to sign him in the January window.
    Serie A giants Juventus and AC Milan have also opened transfer discussions, as well as newly-crowned French champions PSG.
    Negotiations with two of the clubs are in an “advanced stage” and it was reported earlier this week that the Italian clubs were “leading the chase” .
    Moussa Diaby sparks Premier League interest
    A trio of Premier League clubs are reportedly preparing a swoop for Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby.
    Sport Bild claims that Bayern Leverkusen want to keep their attacking star, but they will demand a fee of at least £63m should he depart.
    And he could be on his way to England with several Premier League teams circling.
    This latest report states that Arsenal have concrete interest in signing Diaby.
    Manchester United are also keen on him as are Eddie Howe’s Newcastle.
    However, that trio will face competition from Jose Mourinho’s Roma in Serie A.
    Take a Bow
    Man United aren’t in the race to sign Jarrod Bowen from West Ham.
    That’s according to Fabrizio Romano who said to CaughtOffside: “For now my understanding is that Man United are not in the race, despite some speculation elsewhere.
    “The Red Devils are not in the final player selection process until Erik ten Hag makes final decisions.”
    Rashford’s Man United future discussed
    Marcus Rashford is yet to decide his future with Man United and is waiting to speak to incoming boss Erik ten Hag before committing to the club.
    That’s the view of Fabrizio Romano who claims Rashford would like to stay at Old Trafford.
    He said to CaughtOffside: “Marcus Rashford has been considering his future since February, along with his agent. The player has not made a final decision and is waiting for a direct dialogue with Erik ten Hag before he can understand the next step.
    “Rashford’s priority is to remain at Man United only if he will have guarantees of game time, Marcus wants to be important for the club and hopes for the World Cup with England. Ten Hag will decide together with the player.
    “So far there have been no negotiations with any other clubs, but only an interest of Paris Saint-Germain for the last year. In the summer of 2021 he was on the list as a potential replacement in case of Kylian Mbappe leaving for a transfer to Real Madrid.”
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    Boehly closes in on Chelsea deal, Ratcliffe still wants to buy Blues, Tuchel ‘open’ to Lukaku sale – latest

    SIR JIM RATCLIFFE is not giving up on his Chelsea bid without a fight and has begged the club to consider his offer.The British petrochemicals mogul, 69, has vowed to improve Stamford Bridge as it exists rather than build a new stadium as Roman Abramovich had planned to.
    Boehly has reportedly been named as the preferred bidder for Chelsea despite a last-gasp £4billion bid from Ratcliffe.
    And Boehly’s team were told they had been granted a “period of exclusivity” to discuss the final terms and conditions of a takeover package.
    However Russian Oligarch Roman Abramovich is reportedly “attempting to renege on his promise to write off a £1.6 billion debt”.
    This is despite the 55-year-old saying he would NOT be asking for any loans to be repaid when he put the club up for sale.
    Which could see any future deal between Boehly and the West London outfit fall through.
    Or in a worst case scenario, Chelsea could LOSE their Premier League status.
    Meanwhile, Blues boss Thomas Tuchel has claimed that Chelsea are stronger without Lukaku and is ‘open’ to selling the Belgian this summer.
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    Todd Boehly takeover reminder
    Los Angeles Dodgers owner Todd Boehly is “very close” to taking over at Chelsea with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s late rival bid allegedly “not under consideration”.
    That is according to CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs,  who claims the US-based bank Raine, who are handling the takeover for departing owner Roman Abramovich, are not exploring any other “alternative options”.
    Jacobs tweeted: “Boehly-Clearlake takeover of Chelsea is now very close to completion. Raine sources tell me Wednesday talks were ‘highly productive and no alternative options are being explored’.
    “Sources within Boehly-Clearlake say they’ve remained ‘calm’ and are confident they will own”
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    Man of the Match
    Mason Mount has been Chelsea’s best performer this season, stats have revealed.
    The England star has received six Man of the Match awards, according to Who’s Scored.
    Behind Mount is Hakim Ziyech, Jorginho, and Reece James, who all have won the prize three times, the report added.
    Emerson Palmieri Chelsea return
    Emerson Palmieri will return to Chelsea this summer.
    The defender is on loan at Lyon but is set to jet back to London when the season ends.
    But his return to Stamford Bridge will be fleeting as Juventus are keen to sign him, according to TuttoSport.
    Tuchel ‘open to Lukaku sale’
    Thomas Tuchel reckons Chelsea are stronger without Romelu Lukaku in the side.
    The Blues are a more ‘potent force’ when Lukaku’s on the bench, according to ESPN.
    Which is why Tuchel’s open to offloading the Belgium international to spend the money on other areas that need strengthening, the report also claims.
    Dybala mobbed by Juve pleas
    Chelsea transfer target Paulo Dybala has been urged not to join Inter Milan by Juventus fans.
    Dybala was signing autographs ahead of Juve training when fans bombarded him with pleas of: “Please don’t join Inter,” and, “Why are you going to Inter?,” Football Italia reported.
    The hot-shot striker simply smiled but didn’t respond to the demands of the Juve supporters.
    Hak some of that
    Chelsea have been dealt a huge blow in their pursuit of PSG ace Achraf Hakimi.
    The Blues have been tracking the right-back for a while.
    But he’s got no intentions of leaving PSG anytime soon, according to his agent Alexandro Camano.
    Camano said, via Fabrizio Romano: “He’s happy there, we have 4 years left on our contract with PSG.
    “Achraf’s young and wants to continue growing at Paris Saint Germain.”
    Chelsea issued top-four warning
    Chelsea could lose their spot in the league to Arsenal.
    Chelsea are in third at the moment, but Gunners legend Michael Thomas reckons his former club can pip the Blues for the position.
    He said to CaughtOffside: “Chelsea are in a tough position because they had third wrapped up for so long that they took got too relaxed and now it’s looking very open again.
    “I do think they will still qualify for the Champions League, but as you can see, it can quite easily change at any game week.
    “As for Arsenal, they should just be looking to win all their remaining games and see where that leaves them.”
    Chelsea’s European might claims
    Chelsea have been named as one of the six clubs stronger than Juventus in Europe.
    That’s the opinion of Juve boss Max Allegri.
    Allegri told Football Italia: “Juventus have reached the Final twice in the last 10 years.
    “Of course, we have changed a lot and we can’t always obtain the same results.
    “I’ve said it many times. Six teams are much stronger than others: Real Madrid, PSG, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool.”
    Boehly close to Chelsea takeover 
    Todd Boehly’s Chelsea takeover is reportedly “close” with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s late rival bid allegedly “not under consideration”.
    CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs has offered a fresh update on Twitter – and it looks to be good news for the Stamford Bridge faithful.
    He wrote: “Boehly-Clearlake takeover of Chelsea is now very close to completion. Raine sources tell me Wednesday talks were ‘highly productive and no alternative options are being explored’.
    “Sources within Boehly-Clearlake say they’ve remained ‘calm’ and are confident they will own #CFC.”
    Havertz and Liverpool clash explained
    Liverpool star Harvey Elliot has opened up on his square-up with Kai Havertz in the Carabao Cup final.
    He said to Soccerbible about the incident: “To see Trent and Havertz square up… you’ve just got to back your teammates at the end of the day. You’re there and you fight with them.
    “That thing with Havertz was just the heat of the moment; emotions were high for both teams as we both wanted to win.
    “Then obviously the penalty shootout came and that’s when you let it all out.”
    Merson on Chelsea ownership
    Chelsea’s ownership situation needs to be resolved so the club can move on, according to Paul Merson.
    Merson told Sky Sports: “They’ve [Chelsea] got to sell the club before they do anything else. Until they sell the club, they can’t bring anyone in.
    “If you went and bought a house for £300,000 tomorrow it would take three months, now we’re talking about £4bn. It’s not going to be done quickly – it’s worrying really.
    “It needs to be done before the end of the season or they’re in danger of getting left behind.
    “They’ve got to bring players in, they’re behind Man City and Liverpool, we’ve seen that. They’ll want to bring players in and offload players.”
    Chelsea ownership plans
    Jim Ratcliffe claims owning Chelsea isn’t about making money – but to put the club on par with Europe’s finest.
    He added in his chat with the BBC: “We’re not interested in making money out of Chelsea. The investment in Chelsea is a long-term thing.
    “Can we run that club really well and turn it into one of the finest clubs in Europe?
    “I don’t think it has consistently been where you would put a Real Madrid, Barcelona or Bayern Munich.
    “It is a notch below Liverpool and Manchester City. It is about consistency.”
    Ratcliffe makes Boehly claim
    Jim Ratcliffe has tore rival Todd Boehly’s business plan to shreds.
    Ratfcliffe has emerged as a late opponent to Boehly’s bid to buy Chelsea, and the Brit has claimed to have found holes in the LA Dodgers owner’s stratergy.
    Ratcliffe explained to the BBC: “I spent quite a few years in the world of venture capital and private equity, which is where I partly learned my trade of buying businesses.
    “It’s a simple business: you persuade a pension fund or an insurance company to give you money, which you manage with the intention of increasing in value, and if you do that you get a share of the profits.
    “So your focus is always on, ‘How do I make that money grow?’, and it’s typically a five-year time horizon — and their [Boehly’s] main funder is private equity and venture capital.
    “In America, the big sports clubs won’t allow those people to come in and buy the clubs, but in the UK you can.”
    Court we can do it
    Ex-Chelsea star Thibaut Courtois reckons Real Madrid’s schedule could give them the edge against Liverpool in the Champions League final.
    Real stopper Courtois told beIN Sports: ““Liverpool are playing really amazingly this season, so it will be a really hard game.
    “The only good thing for us is that we aren’t playing anymore for anything, we can rest really well for that game, whereas they are playing for the Premier League, so for them it will be a bit harder.
    “But we just need to keep training well and do our best and hopefully win it.”
    Broja transfer race heats up
    West Ham are planning a move for Chelsea striker Armando Broja this summer following his loan spell at Southampton, JACK ROSSER WRITES.
    The Saints also discussed a permanent deal in January – but pushed any move until the summer before sanctions put a stop on any Chelsea sales.
    No transfers can happen before Chelsea’s ownership crisis is solved but, once resolved, SunSport understands that Saints could quickly tie up a deal if they are willing to offer Broja similar wages to teammates Che Adams and Adam Armstrong.
    But the Hammers are set to rival Southampton and could win the tussle with the offer of European football. Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund have also registered an interest in the past.
    Agbonlahor’s Champions League support shock
    Gabby Agbonlahor spoke of his shock after witnessing English fans celebrating Man City’s Champions League demise against Real Madrid.
    And Chelsea supporters were among the culprits, Agbonlahor revealed.
    The retired striker said on talkSPORT: “Whenever Real Madrid scored, 99 percent of the bar, there could have been about 1000 people in the bar, jumping up and celebrating for Real Madrid which baffles me.
    “I spoke to a couple of them around me who said to me ‘why are you not celebrating?’ and I said ‘I’m supporting the English team’.
    “There were a few Man United fans, Chelsea, other teams, but it really disappointed me, strange because you want to support the English teams and get an all English final, it was strange for me to see that.”
    Hazard could bring Chelsea cash
    Chelsea will be hoping Real Madrid can topple Liverpool in the Champions League final and net themselves a tidy windfall.
    However, they won’t be the only ones celebrating if they overcome Jurgen Klopp’s Reds.
    Chelsea will be laughing too thanks to a clause in Eden Hazard’s transfer deal from back in 2019.
    The Blues accepted an £88.5million offer from Los Blancos for the winger – with the deal having significant extra payments that could take the full price to a massive £130MILLION.
    And one of those included an extra cash windfall should Madrid taste Champions League success while Hazard is at the club.
    Chelsea have already benefited in the past, scooping nearly £20m in 2020 as Madrid claimed the LaLiga title and qualified for the Champions League.
    Tchou and go
    Chelsea are one of the clubs being linked with Aurelien Tchouameni this summer.
    And the Blues’ pursuit has been given a boost as Tchouameni is heading for the Monaco exit when the season wraps up, according to RMC Sport.
    But the Blues will also have to contend with competition from Champions League finalist Real Madrid and Liverpool.
    ‘Rudiger will be a huge loss’
    Paul Merson claims Antonio Rudiger will be a huge loss for Chelsea whilst comparing the German to former Blues centre-back David Luiz.
    Merson said: “Rudiger will be a massive loss, I can’t express how big that’s going to be.
    “If they played a four at the back, he wouldn’t be missed.
    “He can only go and play somewhere in a three, for me, he reminds me of a David Luiz – he’ll go and chase the ball, close down, go out of position – but in a three he can go and take that chance.”
    All hail king Cesar
    Petr Cech has hailed Chelsea skipper Cesar Azpilicueta as ‘captain material.’
    Cech told Chelsea’s media: “When it comes to captain material, there is something in the player, and with experience, it comes out.
    “One thing that has always struck me about Azpi is that he is an honest player, he goes on the pitch and does his best, no matter what.
    “He plays with the right commitment, with the right attitude, with his full heart. This is what makes him consistent.
    “He is a very good trainer. He prepares the same way as he plays, and that’s the key to his level of performance. You know what you get.
    “He might occasionally make a mistake like everybody does, he might not always have a spectacular game, but you always know you will get a high level of performance from him.
    “This is what is precious.”
    Lukaku tipped for Chelsea stay
    Paul Merson reckons Chelsea have no choice but to keep hold of disgruntled striker Romelu Lukaku due to their financial woes.
    The Blues spent £97.5m on the Belgian but Merson fears they’ll struggle to recoup half of his fee.
    Merson told Sky Sports: “Chelsea haven’t got much choice but to keep going with Romelu Lukaku.
    “They’re getting sold, they haven’t got any money, they can’t be buying people for £100m and selling them for half that.”
    Wannabe Chelsea owner’s plea
    Wannabe Chelsea owner Jim Ratcliffe has told the Raine Group not to brush off his offer to buy the club.
    Raine are handling the sale of the Blues, and Ratcliffe wants the group to factor in that his company is British and want the best for the club.
    He said, reported by the BBC: “My message to Raine is don’t discount our offer.
    “We are British and have great intentions for Chelsea. If I was Raine I wouldn’t close any door.”
    Declan Rice’s Europa League vow
    Chelsea transfer target Declan Rice has vowed to give everything for West Ham in the Europa League final.
    Rice told West Ham’s media: “Our mood is fantastic and it has been all season.
    “Our mood hasn’t dropped, we’ve been really positive and really confident. We’re obviously one goal down in the tie but, for us, we’re positive.
    “We lost the first game to Sevilla and the first game against Lyon was only a draw, so I feel like you’ll see the best of us in the second game, one hundred percent.
    “I don’t know [why we have played well in the second legs], but I always feel like in the first games you’re always looking at the opposition and sizing them up.
    “We had plenty of opportunities to score in the first game, their ‘keeper made some fantastic saves and we hit the woodwork loads of times, so we’re going to come here, really attack and try and get the job done.”
    Chelsea stars want contract discussions
    Several Chelsea stars have been waiting for months to discuss new contracts with the clubs.
    That’s the claims made by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano who also reckons Mason Mount wants to stay at Stamford Bridge despite links to Liverpool.
    Romano told CaughtOffside: “There’s been some speculation about Mason Mount’s situation at Chelsea, but I don’t think Blues fans have too much to worry about, despite the uncertainty surrounding the club ownership.
    “Mason Mount’s priority has always been to stay at Chelsea. There are no doubts about his commitment, but certainly his situation is to be monitored like those of Marcos Alonso, Jorginho and N’Golo Kante.
    “In fact, all these players have been waiting for months to discuss the extension of the contract with Chelsea but there have been no changes; the sanctions have slowed down the contract renewal process.”
    Jim Ratcliffe’s plans for Chelsea stadium
    As part of Ratcliffe’s bid, Ineos pledged the £2.5bn asking price for Abramovich’s stake, with a further £1.75bn investment in the club over the next decade.
    Ratcliffe envisages a staged revamp of Stamford Bridge into a potential 60,000-plus capacity stadium, rather than knocking the ground down.
    Ineos believe the bid represents the best deal for Chelsea. And Ratcliffe pledged to continue what Russian oligarch Abramovich has done in terms of investment.
    Asked why his offer was late, he told the BBC: “That is simple — it is a big decision to buy a national asset and big commitment in terms of time and money.
    “We’re there for the long term and that’s a lot of responsibility to take on.
    “It takes time to reach a decision to be fully committed. We got there at the end of the day and are committed. We’re not giving up.”
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    Real Madrid vs Man City LIVE REACTION: Incredible Real fightback sets up Liverpool Champions League final – latest

    REAL MADRID will face Liverpool in the Champions League final after fighting back to sensationally defeat Man City 3-1 (6-5 on aggregate).A Karim Benzema penalty plus a Rodrygo quickfire double sent the 13-time champions into the final in stunning fashion, and deny an all-British clash for City.
    Riyad Mahrez had scored first for City, before Rodrygo’s late goals sent the tie to extra-time.
    The mouthwatering final is in Paris on May 28.

    Result: Real Madrid 3-1 Man City (6-5 agg)
    Real Madrid XI: Courtois, Carvajal, Militao, Nacho, Mendy, Kroos, Casemiro, Modric, Valverde, Vinicius, Benzema
    Man City XI: Ederson, Cancelo, Dias, Laporte, Walker, Rodri, De Bruyne, Silva, Mahrez, Foden, Jesus

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    Your finalists
    Real Madrid march on to face Liverpool in the final in what promises to be another corker on May the 28th.

    Pep reacts
    Pep discussed his side’s performance, who had victory snatched away from their grasp at the very last minute.
    In the last ten minutes, we did not attack and attack and you suffer. It did not happen. They put a lot of players in the box. They made crosses and scored two goals. We didn’t play our best, but that is normal, players feel the pressure because they want to do it. Football is unpredictable, and sometimes you have to accept it. Now we need time to process it, come back home, and we have four games left.Pep Guardiola, Manchester City boss
    .Credit: Getty
    “I never thought we had lost” – Ancelotti
    This evening, Carlo Ancelotti reaches his fifth Champions League final (3 with AC Milan, 2 with Real Madrid), the most of any manager in the competition’s history.
    The boss shared his thoughts after the game. Naturally, he was as cool as a cucumber.
    It’s the big history of the club, which helps us to keep going when things are gone. The game was close to finished, but we were able to find some energy. We played a good game against a really strong rival. Psychologically we were better in extra time. i never thought we had lost, I had no time to think about it. I am really happy to be in Paris against a really great rival. i think it will be a fantastic game of football.Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid boss
    .Credit: EPA
    King Karim
    Simply inevitable.

    The golden boy
    The substitution that changed everything.
    Ancelotti sent Rodrygo on in the second half to help salvage something for his side.
    He went on to score two goals in a matter of seconds, both in stoppage time, to level the scores, making him the first player to do so in Champions League knockout history. He then played the ball across for Benzema who was fouled, leading to the penalty.
    Rodrygo, another name to add to Real Madrid’s incredible Champions League story.
    .Credit: Getty
    Serial winners
    So, Real Madrid have done it again.
    PSG, Chelsea, and now Manchester City have all been in the driving seat against Ancelotti’s men, on the edge of victory. But Los Blancos have always found a way.
    Nerves of steel.
    A buzzing Bernabeu
    Nobody is leaving their seats here, apart from those who left earlier, thinking their team were out of it.
    The players are doing lap after lap of the pitch, soaking up every last second of the applause.
    There’s not a Manchester City player in sight.
    .Credit: AP
    City heartbroken
    Guardiola and Ancelotti shake hands and embrace. Pep goes over to comfort his players, some of whom are in tears. Others are walking the pitch, wondering how they got here.
    Meanwhile, Madrid are arm in arm, jumping up and down. Another truly historic night for those fans.
    FULL TIME Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    In the most dramatic of circumstances, Real Madrid have beaten Manchester City 6-5 on aggregate to march on to the Champions League final.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    120, Courtois claims the ball and falls to the floor. The Madrid players are celebrating already.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    120, Every clearance is cheered now. Asensio boots it out and punches the air.
    Whistles ring around he stadium. The fans can taste victory.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    119, Grealish wins a corner off Vazquez.
    There will be three added minutes here. Guardiola is losing his mind. He thinks there should be more.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    117, Sterling accelerates down the left and gets in between Vazquez and Rodrigo. He looks bemused at the referee who points for a goal kick.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    116, Grealish lets his frustration show, cursing the air after fouling Valverde. Not long for Madrid to hold on now.
    Then again, I’ve said that before…
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    115, Militao finally calls it a day. Vinicius then falls to the floor with cramp. Both are replaced by Vallejo and Vazquez.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    113, Zinchenko clips Rodrygo as the as the Brazlian glides past him.
    His name is currently being etched into Real Madrid’s history books. What an inspired substitution.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    112, Gundogan sends in a deep free kick.
    Eventually Rodrygo puts an end to Sterling’s run.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    11, Militao does come back on, and the game can resume.
    Time for City to do what Real did to them.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City – Madrid change
    111, Militao hobbles off after a nice lie-down and chat with the medics.
    I think he wants to continue.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    108, Militao is limping around the field now with cramp. Nacho is the next t go down. The time wasting has begun.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    107, Militao jumps all over Foden, and Foden is deemed to have fouled him. A difficult one to explain. But the referee seems sure of himself.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    We are back underway for this second period of extra time.
    Extra time, half time – Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    Just time to for a manager’s speech, a sip of water and a chance for all of us to scratch are eyes. This really is happening.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    105, Oh my word that was too close for words!
    Cancelo curls a ball in, Foden flicks on to the back post where Fernandinho was stretching at the back post. but with an empty net ahead of him, he pokes it wide.
    Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City
    105, Carvajal floats a ball into the area. Asensio heads it straight on to Dias’ arm, but no penalty this time, despite the Madrid players’ questions.
    I am still getting my head round how Manchester city are in this position.
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    Ronaldo DENIES camera gesture, Lingard’s brother FUMES at club, Jamie Carragher’s Rangnick VERDICT – latest updates

    CRISTIANO RONALDO has added to the speculation of his time at Old Trafford coming to an end.The Portuguese icon appeared to mouth the words “I’m not finished yet” during a post-lap of honour on the weekend.
    But the 5x Ballon d’Or winner has claimed that this was not what he said.
    Meanwhile, Jesse Lingard’s brother has gone on a rant as he believes that the United forward didn’t get the send off he derserved.
    And former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher doesn’t believe that the infusion of Ralf Rangnicks role in Manchester and Austrian managerial role will work.
    Get all the latest Man Utd news, gossip and transfer updates…
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    Varane has no United regrets
    Raphael Varane insists he made the right choice to join Man Utd – despite his struggles this season.
    The ex-Real Madrid star declared: “The experience it’s amazing. The feeling to be a United player is something special.
    “I am very happy to play in the Premier League and it’s a great experience.
    “Obviously, it’s not the result what we expected but I’m still positive and I think that the next season will be better.”
    “I think I need a full pre-season to be fit but I think next season will be better.
    “I think this season was not bad but we can improve and we can do better.”
    Too good to be Tchou
    Premier League clubs have been given a boost in the hunt for Aurelien Tchouameni.
    That’s because the Monaco star reportedly wants a move to England’s top flight this summer.
    Di Marzio claims Tchouameni is ready to snub interest from Spain for a Prem switch.
    Man Utd, Chelsea and Arsenal are among those keen on the £60million-rated France midfielder.

    Pogba tipped for European transfer
    Paul Pogba will have no problem finding a new club this summer if he leaves Man United.
    That’s the opinion of ex-Unite star Luke Chadwick who reckons top clubs such as PSG and Real Madrid will be eager to snap the ‘world class’ Frenchman up.
    Chadwick said, via Caught Offside: “I’d imagine at the end of the season there’ll be big clubs who’ll be interested in him, even if his stock has fallen a bit.
    “That might cost him a few grand a week in whatever contract he receives, but it does look like he’ll move on and it’s the right time to do so.
    “I still think we’ll see the big clubs like Real Madrid and PSG trying to take him on and get the best out of him, which United haven’t managed to do.”
    Jaap Stam backs Maguire
    Man United legend Jaap Stam has backed Harry Maguire to rediscover the form that drove the club to splurge £100m on him.
    Stam told the PA news agency: “I still think Harry is a good player, is a good defender.
    “You need to understand, every player – and I’ve had it myself as well – goes through rough spells that he’s having a hard time, the confidence is a bit low, he’s not feeling well, making mistakes.
    “But when you cost 100 million and you’re making a mistake, yeah, the pressure on you is a lot more than when you’re costing a few quid.
    “He’s played this season good games as well. Having this season now and maybe a new coach coming in, having a fresh start, (he will be) learning a lot from this season as well and what he’s done and what he needs to do.
    “Does he need to make a change or not? Maybe having different players next to him or in front of him can help him out as well in terms of feeling more confident, so maybe next season you’ll see a total different player.”
    McKen you believe it
    Former Manchester United coach Kieran McKenna is being touted as the next Watford boss.
    The Hornets’ position will be open when Roy Hodgson leaves the club at the end of the season.
    And McKenna is one of the front-runners to replace the 74-year-old, as reported by The East Anglian Daily Times.
    The 35-year-old is currently managing at League One Ipswich just four months after leaving his role at United.
    Man United face Ronaldo battle
    Man United are facing a battle to keep Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford.
    The 37-year-old legend is considering a move away after just a year back at the club with the Red Devils’ Champions League qualification hopes over.
    The hierarchy at United are aware of this but are desperate to keep one of the most marketable names in the game.
    Ronaldo signed for two years when he returned this season with the option of a further year.
    Much will come down to what incoming boss Erik Ten Hag’s plans are but he has yet to communicate what he wants to do about the Portuguese ace.
    Ten Hag does not want to discuss any player plans with the club until he has concluded the title race with his Ajax side in the Eredivisie.
    Man City fear revealed
    Gary Neville has revealed what he thinks rivals Man City will fear the most when they take on Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final second leg.
    Man United legend Neville said: “This is a monstrous game in midweek for City.
    “Manchester City versus Real Madrid is an event.
    “The game last week was, but this on Wednesday is like a heavyweight boxing clash of the century. Real Madrid were on the canvas a couple of times but they got up, and that is the thing Pep will fear most.”
    Mourinho plans Man United raid
    Jose Mourinho is eyeing another English raid by targeting Aaron Wan-Bissaka at old club Manchester United.
    Former Red Devils boss Mourinho has had great success with the signing of Three Lions striker Tammy Abraham, who has blasted 24 goals this term.
    Now he is considering a move for Abraham’s compatriot Wan-Bissaka.
    The full-back is also drawing admiring glances from Spanish giants Atletico Madrid.
    AWB is waiting to speak to incoming Red Devils boss Erik Ten Hag to see if he is in the Dutchman’s plans.
    The defender, 24, has endured a difficult campaign at Old Trafford.

    Lingard tipped for Prem stay
    Jesse Lingard has been tipped to remain in the Premier League even if leaves Man United.
    Lingard’s fallen out of favour at Old Trafford and has most likely kicked his last ball in a Man United shirt.
    However, Newcastle or West Ham could provide solace for Lingard.
    That’s the opinion of former Premier League ace Charlie Austin.
    He said to talkSPORT: “You’d have to say West Ham [as a destination], you’d have to put Newcastle in the mix.
    “Every player that’s part of the top six that’s no longer wanted by their clubs, Newcastle’s name is going to pop up.”
    Didn’t Mata at Real Madrid
    Juan Mata is one of the Premier League’s most decorated stars with stints at Man United and Chelsea – but he failed to make the grade with Real Madrid.
    Originally a Real Oviedo youth product, Los Blancos pounced on attacking midfielder Mata when he was 15.
    He played his way through the youth ranks to the second string, where he scored ten goals in a team that was relegated from the Spanish second division.
    Mata had a release clause in the final year of his contract that allowed him to talk to other clubs – and in 2007 he moved to Valencia.
    It was at Valencia where Mata made his name, before moving to the Premier League with Chelsea and then on to the Red Devils.
    Season ticket changes revealed
    Man United have announced a series of changes to the stipulations of a season ticket for fans.
    The new rules allow for flexibility for fans when choosing a season ticket.
    United’s media said: “From next season, Season Ticket-holders will be able to opt in or out of each of the cup competitions the team competes in.
    “The changes have resulted from consultation with the Manchester United Fans’ Advisory Board (FAB) and Fans’ Forum, whose members have worked closely with the club to develop the revised policies.”
    Dybala’s future plans revealed
    Paulo Dybala is reportedly on the verge of joining Inter Milan on a free transfer.
    According to Italian outlet La Gazzetta delo Sport, Dybala has chosen Inter Milan as his next club.
    He will earn a staggering £5million per-year at LEAST.
    He has been at the centre of a four-way Premier League transfer battle with Manchester United, Arsenal, Newcastle and Tottenham.
    Ramsdale defends Fernandes taunt
    Aaron Ramsdale has defended taunting Bruno Fernandes after the Man United star missed a penalty against the Gunners.
    Ramsdale said on Peter Crouch’s podcast: “It was good sh**housery, but I think it got blown out of proportion because there was five or six Arsenal players in front of me so I celebrated with them.
    ‘It looked like it, I probably had that a bit in my head then stopped halfway, but it’s just emotion.
    ‘Nothing to do with him or to do with the football club or anything like that. It was just pure emotion.”
    Mat some of that
    Juan Mata is set to leave Man United this summer when his contract is up.
    But the midfield veteran isn’t short on offers it’s been claimed.
    According to Sport, Valencia, Real Sociedad, and Real Betis are all interested in giving Mata a new home.
    Match made in heaven
    Erik ten Hag is the perfect match for Man United.
    That’s the opinion of ex-Brighton star Joel Veltman.
    Veltman told Sky Sports: “I think it’s a good choice only because he’s tactically really good, and I think that’s the most important thing that they need right now.
    “They have the major players. Every player showed already they are amazing and can perform well in this league at the highest level,
    “So they just need a gaffer who is like, ‘Guys, you have to do this, this and this.’
    “He needs time of course, but I think he’s probably the perfect match.”
    Man United in transfer blow
    Man United look set to lose out on Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly to Barcelona.
    Man United have been tracking the defender over the last few years.
    But AS claim Koulibaly’s in advanced talks with Barca over a summer switch.
    Rice in charge
    Man United will reportedly miss out on Declan Rice this summer.
    The England ace is set to snub a move away from West Ham, the Mail reported.
    The Hammers plan to reward Rice’s loyalty by naming him the club’s captain.
    In Kroos control
    Real Madrid ace Toni Kroos has revealed how close he was to joining Man United when David Moyes was boss.
    Koss told the Daily Mail: “I knew beforehand that MUFC wanted me, and Moyes absolutely underlined that. It was a really nice afternoon with very pleasant people.
    We talked a lot about United’s football plan, which convinced me.”
    “United is too big a club to be there for a year or two. This is not a club where you go to finish your career.
    “You have to be there for three or four years and both the player and club must have a clear idea.”
    Man United players tax revealed
    Several Man United players pay less in yearly tax than Cristiano Ronaldo.
    Figures show that Jadon Sancho, David De Gea, and Raphael Varane’s tax bills are considerably lower than Ronaldo’s.
    De Gea coughs up £9.40m, while Sancho’s tax bill is £8.77m, and Varane departs with £8.52m, City AM reported.
    Ronaldo’s tax figures revealed
    Half of Cristiano Ronaldo’s wages are dished out to the taxman, figures reveal.
    Ronaldo reportedly rakes in just over £26.52m a year.
    But he pays out £12.78m to HMRC tax and revenue department, City AM reported.
    Tchou of luck
    Man United’s transfer pursuit of Aurelien Tchouaméni has been given a huge boost as he’s reportedly interested in a move to the Premier League.
    That’s the view of transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio who told wettfreunde: “A lot of clubs in the Premier League are following him (Aurelien Tchouaméni) also. Arsenal, Manchester United to name a few.”
    “He prefers to play in the Premier League.
    “Nowadays the players want to play in the Premier League. He stayed another year in Monaco because he was waiting for the possibility of going to the Premier League.
    “I think this could be the summer for him to go.”
    Serg of interest
    Lazio are reportedly willing to lower their asking price for Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
    His consistent performances this season have made him one of the most sought-after players in the world.
    He is out of contract in summer 2024, but Lazio are willing to let him go in the summer.
    And according to Italian outlet CalcioMercato, the club have lowered their asking price.
    Milinkovic-Savic was originally valued at £85million, but The Eagles will now consider offers of around £67million.
    Ronaldo/Ten Hag success predicted
    Cristiano Ronaldo has been tipped to have a successful relationship with Erik ten Hag at Man United next season.
    That’s the view of Luke Chadwick who told CaughtOffside: “We all talk about his age but I think he’s certainly got the energy levels to keep on doing it at this level.
    “I think the main issue this season has been his frustration with how things went under Ole, and the results not really coming under Rangnick either.
    “Hopefully now we’re seeing that he’s a bit more positive, and hopefully the new manager can come in and bring everyone together. At his best, he’s obviously someone you’d rather have at the club than not.”
    Time to modernise
    Ralf Rangnick wants Man United to rebuild their attack with modern strikers with less reliance on Cristiano Ronaldo.
    He said: “Cristiano isn’t a central striker or does not want to play in that position.
    “It’s obvious the club needs at least two new strikers who give this team more quality and more options. I wouldn’t even call it wingers.
    “Two strikers and modern strikers, that do not necessarily have to be wingers.
    “If you look into international football, there aren’t many top teams who still play with two strikers. Most play with either three strikers or a false nine.”
    Berbatov demands Ronaldo respect
    Dimitar Berbatov has demanded that Cristiano Ronaldo is given more respect at Man United.
    Berbatov, who also thinks Ronaldo can play for another three or four years said to United’s media: “To be honest, I’m not surprised.
    “I just had the pleasure of playing one year with him, which was a short period, but I saw how he prepared himself when he was at United. And then I followed him up into his career and it’s not surprising to see him play like this.
    “I am sure if he continues taking care of himself, like he is doing now, he can play for another three or four years for sure.
    “Yes, time is waiting for no-one and, with time, some of your qualities are getting less but then you need to be smart and adjust your way of playing football.
    “You can still be good and Ronaldo is a case of this, 18 goals at 37 years of age, in the best league in the world, come on! You need to show the respect there.”
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    Boehly closes in on Chelsea deal, Blues’ Premier league status in JEOPARDY, Abramovich could cause bid to COLLAPSE

    CHELSEA’S takeover seems to have taken a turn for the worse as there are now fears that a deal with Todd Boehly could COLLAPSE.Boehly has been named as the preferred bidder for Chelsea despite a last-gasp £4billion bid from Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
    And Boehly’s team were told they had been granted a “period of exclusivity” to discuss the final terms and conditions of a takeover package.
    However Russian Oligarch Roman Abramovich is reportedly “attempting to renege on his promise to write off a £1.6 billion debt”.
    This is despite the 55-year-old saying he would NOT be asking for any loans to be repaid when he put the club up for sale.
    Which could see any future deal between Boehly and the West London outfit fall through.
    Or in a worst case scenario, Chelsea could LOSE their Premier League status.
    SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
    Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the takeover in our live blog…
    Exclusive by SunSport’s Andy Dillon
    Todd Boehly’s first job if he gets control of Chelsea will be to head off the threat of a player exodus.
    Several senior players are “gutted” defender Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen are leaving on free transfers.
    Club captain Cesar Azpilicueta may also still quit despite an automatic extension to his contract.
    Meanwhile, N’Golo Kante and Jorginho are about to enter the final year of their deals and could also move on.
    Too good to be Tchou
    Premier League clubs have been given a boost in the hunt for Aurelien Tchouameni.
    That’s because the Monaco star reportedly wants a move to England’s top flight this summer.
    Di Marzio claims Tchouameni is ready to snub interest from Spain for a Prem switch.
    Chelsea, Man Utd and Arsenal are among those keen on the £60million-rated France midfielder.

    Fab a good birthday
    Chelsea have wished former star Cesc Fabregas a happy birthday.
    The Blues midfielder has turned 35 today and the Blues were on hand to send him some birthday love.
    Fabregas joined the Blues in 2014 after a spell with Barcelona, and he went on to score 22 goals and provide 57 assists in 198 appearances across all competitions.

    Chelsea delivered stark ownership warning
    Chelsea have been warned against keeping Roman Abramovich’s cronies Marina Granovskaia and Bruce Buck at the club.
    The stark warning was delivered by Julian Knight, chair of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee.
    He told the Financial Times: “Any continuity with the Abramovich regime at Chelsea is certainly an unsettling development.
    “There needs to be clarity surrounding the process to ensure that everything is being done to the letter.”
    Cab you Kep up
    Chelsea stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga has revealed that Formula One is a hot topic at Cobham.
    Kepa’s an avid watcher of the sport and he revealed that he’s joined in regular discussions about the F1 with Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Mason Mount.
    Speaking to Chelsea’s press, he said: “I am a big fan of cycling, F1 and Moto GP, and I also follow basketball. I like Formula 1 and we talk at Cobham every Monday after a race.
    “We have a few players who like it, like Timo, Kai and Mason, so we discuss what’s happened in the race and talk about it, which I enjoy.”
    Missed the Marc
    Another Chelsea star who failed to impress at Real Madrid is Marcos Alonso.
    Alonso was born in Madrid and joined La Fabrica as a kid.
    He rose through the youth ranks, before he was handed his debut by Manuel Pellegrini in 2010.
    But with chances hard to come by, Alonso moved to England – signing for Bolton Wanderers that same year.
    He was sold to Fiorentina, also enjoying a loan spell at Sunderland, before later joining the Blues, where he plays to this day.
    Ratcliffe still keen on Chelsea
    Jim Ratcliffe has no plans on giving up his bid to own Chelsea despite getting knocked by the Raine Group.
    A director at a Ratcliffe-owned company said, via BNN Bloomberg: “We’ve been rejected out of hand by Raine, but we will keep reminding people we are still here.
    “We will continue to engage with the fanbase,” said Crotty. “We see ourselves as a fan-based bid.”
    Didn’t Mata at Real Madrid
    Juan Mata is one of the Premier League’s most decorated stars with stints at Man United and Chelsea – but he failed to make the grade with Real Madrid.
    Originally a Real Oviedo youth product, Los Blancos pounced on attacking midfielder Mata when he was 15.
    He played his way through the youth ranks to the second string, where he scored ten goals in a team that was relegated from the Spanish second division.
    Mata had a release clause in the final year of his contract that allowed him to talk to other clubs – and in 2007 he moved to Valencia.
    It was at Valencia where Mata made his name, before moving to the Premier League with Chelsea and then on to the Red Devils.
    ‘Drogba was my idol’
    Bolton Wanderers forward Elias Kachunga has revealed that Didier Drogba was his idol growing up.
    Kachunga said on Twitter: “Didier Drogba was always my idol when I grew up. The way he played for Chelsea, I always liked to see how he played.”
    Kachunga’s revelation will be welcomed by Drogba who was overtaken as the highest-scoring African player by Liverpool ace Sadio Mane.
    Lukaku’s Chelsea struggles revealed
    Romelu Lukaku admitted to Chelsea’s staff that he couldn’t keep up with Thomas Tuchel’s physical demands earlier this season.
    The Belgian reportedly preferred playing under Antonio Conte instead.
    He had more freedom in Conte’s free-flowing attack as opposed to Tuchel’s high pressing formation, The Athletic reported, via Absolute Chelsea.
    Keep hold of Jorginho
    Chelsea have been urged to keep hold of Jorginho at all cost by Glen Johnson.
    Johnson said to GGrecon: “I don’t think it’s time for Jorginho to leave Chelsea. He’s possibly not playing as much football as he would like but I still believe he’s a fantastic player and certainly a great squad player.
    “If I was Chelsea, I’d extend his contract and make sure you keep him.”
    Drogba loses record to Mane
    Sadio Mane has become the highest-scoring African player of all time in the Champions League knockout stages.
    The Liverpool star scored the third goal as Jurgen Klopp’s men secured a 3-2 away win against Villarreal on Tuesday night.
    Mane’s 74th-minute strike saw him move onto 15 goals, overtaking Chelsea legend Didier Droba’s haul of 14.
    The Ivorian reached that total in 46 knockout appearances for the Londoners.
    Mane has reached 15 in 26 games in the knockout stages.
    Hardest decision ever made
    Drew Spence says calling time on her Blues career after a 14-year spell is one of the toughest calls she has had to make.
    The WSL ace, who is Chelsea’s longest-serving player, tearfully announced she would leave this summer in an emotional video.
    Speaking to Chelsea’s website, the midfield ace said: “This is probably one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make.
    “It’s like leaving your family.”

    The Buck stops here
    Chelsea chiefs Marina Granovskaia and Bruce Buck will STAY at Stamford Bridge if Todd Boehly’s bid to buy the club is successful, according to reports.
    The Financial Times claim Boehly and Co want director Granovskaia and chairman Buck to remain at the West London giants if they conclude their deal.
    The pair have reportedly offered informal terms to continue their roles at the Blues.
    The Boehly group hopes the key figures staying will be good for “continuity” during the difficult transition into the new era after 19 years of Abramovich.
    The American-led consortium believes Granovskaia and Buck have been key to the club’s recent success, including the 2021 Champions League title.
    Juventus plan Chelsea raid
    Juventus are planning to raid Chelsea for three players this summer.
    The Serie A side have set sights on Jorginho, Christian Pulisic, and Emerson Palmieri.
    That’s according to Tutto Sport, via Chelsea specialist Simon Philips.
    Pick of the bunch
    Jordan Pickford has praised Everton team-mate Richarlison for his contribution against Chelsea.
    The Brazilian scored the winning goal against the Blues as Everton secured a much-needed win.
    Pickford said: “Richarlison worked hard for 45 minutes against Chelsea and had a couple of chances.
    “Then he got his reward with the goal in the 46th minute, because he’d continued working hard.”
    Rice in charge
    Chelsea will reportedly miss out on Declan Rice this summer.
    The England ace is set to snub a move away from West Ham, the Mail reported.
    The Hammers plan to reward Rice’s loyalty by naming him the club’s captain.
    Coe explains Chelsea bid
    Lord Coe has revealed why he joined Sir Martin Broughton’s consortium to buy the club.
    He added while speaking to LBC: “I joined Martin’s bid with one simple proposition – I’m a Chelsea fan of more than 50 years.
    “I was in the ground in 1967, I was born near the ground and still have a house there.
    “For me it was always about the club having the best possible ownership, one that was recognising one very simple fact- that is you don’t really own a club, you’re the stewards of a community sports organisation.
    “At this moment the one thing I hope we end up with is a swift set of solutions to this.”
    Lord Coe issues Chelsea warning
    Lord Sebastien Coe has issued the government a warning about how they’re handling the Chelsea sale.
    He told LBC: “As someone who’s been involved in sport, there is a vacuum here if we’re not careful, which is going to impact on the players, it’s certainly going to impact on the coaching.
    “To be sitting in a stadium where you’re regularly 10,000 fans down because you can’t sell seats, there is a problem here.
    “The rest of the decisions have to be made properly, there is a process and this is a one-off.
    “You don’t see clubs being sold in these circumstances so the Government will have to be really clear what it wants out of this.”
    Lukaku’s tax payment revealed
    Romelu Lukaku became Chelsea’s highest-paid player when he joined the Blues last summer.
    But new figures reveal that the Belgium international has to give up half his wages to the taxman.
    Lukaku’s wages reportedly work out to be £16.9m annually, but HMRC Tax and Revenue’s department takes £8.14 m out of the hefty amount. according to City AM.
    Reece the wheels
    Reece James would be a perfect fit in Real Madrid’s squad.
    That’s the opinion of former Blues star Glen Johnson who told ggrecon: “He would absolutely be a perfect long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal, but I can’t imagine that Chelsea would let him go and I doubt that Reece would want to leave the club anyway.
    “But yes, if Real Madrid could land him then he would be a fantastic long-term replacement.”
    Lukakau’s transfer plans revealed
    Romelu Lukaku is set to snub transfer offers from Newcastle and AC Milan, according to reports.
    Newcastle are one of a few teams who could afford the striker but Lukaku is not keen on the Magpies, report The Evening Standard.
    It is also believed he would reject a move to Milan as he does not want to upset Inter fans – having already angered many with his departure from the club last year.
    Chelsea loan stars praise
    Chelsea ace Levi Colwill has praised the abilities of fellow Blues star Tino Anjorin.
    The pair are on loan together at Huddersfield, and Colwill’s grateful to have the powerful Anjorin alongside him.
    Speaking after Anjorin’s impact against Coventry recently, Colwill said: “He is something else.
    “When he came on he changed the game. His presence is remarkable.
    “When he gets on it and turns, no one can stop him with his power. They were trying to foul him but they couldn’t get near him. We need that.
    “It has definitely helped to have him around We are good mates. We bonded straight away with each other again.
    “It’s good to have another player from Chelsea around me.”
    Chelsea line up Rudiger replacement
    Chelsea are already lining up out-bound defender Antonio Rudiger’s replacement.
    Rudiger is on the verge of joining Real Madrid this summer.
    And the Blues have reportedly lined up RB Leipzig ace Josko Gvardiol as the German’s replacement, according to Goal.
    Good morning Chelsea fans
    Chelsea may be kicked out of the Premier League next season if ongoing takeover talks fall through.
    That’s after outgoing owner Roman Abramovich demanded the £1.6billion he loaned to the club be repaid in full as part of the sale.
    LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly is understood to be the preferred bidder after being selected by US-based company Raine.
    But there is a risk of talks folding and any deal being blocked as the Blues are now demanding a change in the process.
    Abramovich initially said he did not want his mega-money loan back as part of the takeover.
    But the West Londoners now argue that the debt “owed” to him through the club’s parent company Fordstam should be part of the proceeds of sale to Jersey-based Camberley International Investment.
    Meanwhile, it emerged that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his company Ineos are frustrated at being shut out of the Chelsea sale by Raine.
    Ratcliffe expected the New York-based company to engage with Sir Jim after he launched his late bid on Friday.
    Instead, Abramovich’s representatives have so far refused to even respond to Ineos, leaving him disappointed.
    Ineos believe that Raine seem more comfortable at the idea of dealing with a US bidder but feel Chelsea fans should be concerned that Todd Boehly’s bid will be 66 per cent funded by venture capital outfit Clearlake.
    And the Blues have received a major transfer boost in their bid to sign Monaco star Aurelien Tchouameni in the summer.
    That is because Real Madrid have surrendered their lead having been put off by the Ligue 1 team’s £60million asking price.
    According to AS, Real are likely to look elsewhere as Tchouameni has been deemed too pricy.
    That is a major development for Chelsea as doubt looms over whether they could meet West Ham’s evaluation for Declan Rice.
    Finally, Andreas Christensen has reportedly agreed a five-year contract with Barcelona.
    And Christensen could be joined by Chelsea team-mates Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso at the Nou Camp next season.
    According to AS, the deal is worth a whopping £21m across the five years, even though the defender will become a free agent in June.
    Barca are also set to let go of Clement Lenglet, Samuel Umtiti and Oscar Mingueza at the end of the season.
    But the Blaugrana are hoping to add further reinforcements with Azpilicueta and Alonso being targeted.
    The pair are under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2023 but both want to move, according to Mundo Deportivo
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