More stories

  • in

    Man City to step up £120m Harry Kane pursuit, Chelsea eyeing deals for Saul and Kounde, Haaland LATEST – live updates

    KYLIAN MBAPPE is once again being linked with Real Madrid after being pictured alone while his PSG team-mates went to training in a group.Meanwhile Bernardo Silva has reportedly refused to be used as a makeweight in a deal to bring Harry Kane to Man City from Tottenham.
    And Cristiano Ronaldo has taken to Instagram to furiously deny rumours that he will join Real Madrid.

    BETTING SPECIAL – GET SEVEN £5 FREE BETS FOR THE PREMIER LEAGUE THIS WEEKEND

    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    MAR-KO
    Galatasaray ace Marcao has been slapped with an eight-game ban after his shocking attack on his own team-mate during a league match on Monday.
    The centre-back confronted Kerem Akturkoglu during their side’s 2-0 victory at Giresunspor and went on to headbutt and aim two punches in the winger’s direction.
    Following a brief VAR review, the Brazilian was immediately sent off in the 63rd minute of the match and the Turkish Football Federation decided to hand him a lengthy suspension along with a fine of around £1,800 for the shameful incident.
    Galatasaray fans were outraged by the 25-year-old’s actions and demanded his dismissal from the club.
    However, manager Fatih Terim urged for cooler heads to prevail as he stated that Marcao would apologise to Akturkoglu and the rest of the team.

    AR-MAGEDDON
    Arsenal are struggling to sell tickets for their first home game of the season against Chelsea.
    The London derby is usually one of Arsenal’s most anticipated matches of the season but there is a lack of enthusiasm amongst fans on this occasion.
    The Gunners opened their campaign with a dismal performance in a 2-0 loss to Premier League newcomers Brentford last week.
    And it seems apathy has set in amongst the fanbase, with large sections of the stadium still yet to be sold for Sunday’s clash, per Arsenal’s ticket website.
    It is possible many fans are expecting a loss to European champions Chelsea, despite Arsenal securing a league double over the Blues last season.

    NERVOUS WAIT
    Liverpool are sweating over the fitness of Trent Alexander-Arnold after the full-back seemed to pick up a knock in the closing stages of the Reds’ 2-0 win against Burnley.
    It’s not yet clear what the apparent injury is, or how serious it may be though.
    After the final whistle blew at Anfield, BT Sport commentator Steve McManaman said: “He’s just limping a bit, hopefully he’ll be alright.” in reference to Alexander-Arnold.
    The BT cameras didn’t show the Liverpool right-back receiving any treatment, so Reds fans face a nervous wait to discover the extent of the apparent injury.
    The 22-year-old missed England’s Euro 2020 campaign with a thigh injury after being injured late-on in a warm-up game against Austria.
    And Liverpool could do without the injury to Alexander-Arnold being of real note, with his fellow full-back Andy Robertson currently on the sidelines.

    HALF-TIME
    Here are how the teams go into the break at half-time from today’s four Premier League 3pm clashes.
    And Jack Grealish has his first Manchester City goal!

    GUNNAR SIGN MORE
    Manchester United still want to make one more signing this summer but need to sell first, according to reports.
    The Red Devils have enjoyed a busy transfer window, adding Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane and Tom Heaton to their star-studded squad.
    According to the Manchester Evening News, United are exploring the possibility of signing another midfielder before the end of August.
    Doubts have been raised about the strength of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s midfield, with many unconvinced by Fred and Scott McTominay.
    There are also huge question marks over Paul Pogba’s future, with the Frenchman entering the final year of his Old Trafford contract.
    And some believe Nemanja Matic’s best days are behind him after the ex-Chelsea star turned 33 last month.
    It’s believed United would like to bring in another top-class player but need to shift some deadwood before they can do anymore business.
    SUPER SADIO
    Liverpool hosted a full crowd for the first time in 18 months and Liverpool fans were treated to three points after a comfortable 2-0 win against Burnley.
    And in the process Sadio Mane became the fourth-highest African goalscorer in Premier League history.
    He scored Liverpool’s second of the game after 69 minutes, firing past Nick Pope after an excellent pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold.
    The goal was Sadio Mane’s 96th in the Premier League.
    Only three African players have scored more goals in the English top flight than the Senegalese international, including his Liverpool compatriot Mo Salah.
    Didier Drogba is currently the highest African goalscorer in Premier League history – netting 104 times during his time at Chelsea.
    Salah is then second on the list with 98 goals, with Emmanuel Adebayor third on 97.
    Sadio Mane is just one behind Adebayor on 96 Premier League goals, and it’s now a race between him and Salah to see who can overtake Drogba’s record first.
    DONE AND DUS-TED
    Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic his reportedly set to stay with the Italian club.
    Both Arsenal and Man City have been linked with a move for the 21-year-old.
    And Atletico Madrid have also been rumoured to lure the Serbian ace to Spain.
    But according to Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Italiano, Vlahovic is poised to sign a new deal.
    He said: “Dusan wants to stay. We’re in talks to extend his contract.
    “I’m 100 per cent sure, he’s staying.”
    FULL-TIME! LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    Liverpool have put themselves top of the Premier League table with two wins from two.
    The Reds, who won the title in 2020, beat Burnley at Anfields 2-0 thanks to goals from Diego Jota and Sadio Mane.
    It gives them maximum points, having beaten newly-promoted Norwich last week.
    Read more from SunSport’s match report by clicking HERE.
    CRIS CROSS
    Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo will be staying at the club.
    The Man Utd legend has been linked with a return to Old Trafford, as well as moves to join Real Madrid and PSG.
    With just one year left on his contract in Turin, it has been rumoured that Ronaldo could seek a new challenge.
    However Allegri has rubbished those reports, as he said: “Cristiano told me he’s staying at Juventus.
    “He’s not leaving the club and it was never a problem, he’s training so well.”
    LU BEAUTY
    David Luiz has emerged as a transfer target for Flamengo with the club reportedly looking to add more top football stars to their ranks. 
    The Brazilian champions’ interest in the former Gunners centre-back, 34, comes in the same week as their loan deal for Man United’s Andreas Pereira.
    Brazilian news outlet Globo reports the club have made contact with Luiz’s representatives. 
    The Daily Mail claims the player – who has 57 Brazil international caps – has had meetings with Flamengo’s football director Bruno Spindel and vice president Marcos Braz. 
    It is thought the duo are keen on strengthening their ranks by bringing some of football’s biggest names to the Marcarana. 
    And Globo claims the financial details of a contract has already been agreed upon.
    However, it is thought Luiz, who is currently residing in Brazil, wants to have more time to weigh up his options.

    BACK ON TORR
    Lucas Torreira has been told to leave Arsenal this summer with the Uruguayan keen on a return to Serie A, according to reports.
    The Gunners midfielder, 25, was loaned out to Atletico Madrid last season following the arrival of Thomas Partey.
    Despite Mikel Arteta making it clear Torreira was not in his plans, the former Sampdoria star had vowed to break back into the Arsenal set-up this summer.
    But after being told his time at the Emirates was up, the 31-cap Uruguay star is now targeting a return to Italy, according to football.london.
    Torreira’s agent Pablo Bentancur has revealed his client is keen on a move back to Serie A having spent three years at Sampdoria and two at Pescara.
    Roma and Lazio are both believed to be keen on him, but only on loan.
    ATTABHOY
    Celtic have announced the signing of Croatian right-back Josip Juranovic from Legia Warsaw.
    The 26-year-old has agreed a five-year deal with the Scottish giants.
    Commenting on the move, Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou said: “We are absolutely delighted to be bringing Josip to the Club and we are sure he will be a great addition to the squad.
    “As I have said before, everyone at the club has been working hard to add to our squad and we have made good progress. I am really pleased to bring Josip in to support the rest of the boys.
    “We have so many challenges ahead of us and Josip will add important quality and depth. I am really looking forward to working with him.”
    🇭🇷 𝗝𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗰 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗕𝗵𝗼𝘆 🟢🔥We’ve reached an agreement to sign Croatian international, Josip Juranovic, subject to conditions! 🍀Full details ⤵️#WelcomeJuranovic ✍️— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) August 21, 2021

    SAINTS ROW
    Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has promised fans that a new centre-back will be signed before the end of the window.
    The Saints have sold Jannik Vestergaard and Wesley Hoedt this summer.
    Commenting on the centre-half position, Hasenhuttl said: “Jannik was only with us one week after coming back from the Euros.
    “He has been an important player. Especially at the centre-back positions we don’t have big alternatives at the moment.
    “This is definitely a position we will want to do soon – before the end of the transfer window – and I can guarantee we will sign a player in this position.”
    KICK-OFF
    Liverpool’s clash at home to Burnley is underway.
    And you can keep up to date with all the action on the SunSport LIVE blog of the match.
    Click HERE to follow.
    KANE IS ABLE
    EXCLUSIVE – Harry Kane WILL travel with Spurs today ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League clash at Wolves.
    The wantaway Tottenham striker will be involved in a matchday squad for the first time this season and is hoping to be on the bench tomorrow.
    Nuno Espirito Santo, preparing for the game at his former clubs, takes the squad to the midlands this afternoon to stay overnight.
    Santo claimed yesterday that Kane, hoping for a £160million move to Manchester City, would have a say if he plays again for the club.
    But it is understood Kane is keen to feature although is not certain if he will be on the bench.
    PEP TALK
    Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has shrugged off questions about Tottenham’s Harry Kane and insisted fellow striker Robert Lewandowski will stay at Bayern Munich.
    City are tipped to up their original £100million bid for England skipper Kane to £120m – still well below Spurs’ £160m valuation.
    Guardiola said: “I’m not going to talk about 11 days left, about the transfer market. I don’t know what’s going to happen, nobody knows.”
    And questioned if he was happy with his squad, the Spaniard insisted: “Absolutely.
    More than happy. It is the same team, except Sergio (Aguero, who has joined Barcelona) for Jack Grealish (signed from Aston Villa), that we had last season.
    SAL SEARCHING
    Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has confirmed Mo Salah is in talks to extend his stay at Anfield.
    He said: “Two things: Mo is in a really good moment football-wise, mood-wise, how he behaves from the first day when he came back, absolutely great.
    “So we are all adults, all professionals and when there are talks, there are talks and when there’s a decision we will tell you.
    “Until then it’s unimportant how the parties work together in these things.
    “We don’t have to talk about people in the background. With two years left you can imagine that there are talks, that’s it.”
    TCHOU OF CLASS
    Man Utd are interested in signing French midfield sensation Aurelien Tchouameni, according to reports.
    Transfer guru Duncan Castles said: “He [Tchouameni] is an obvious fit for Manchester United if the change in midfield happens that we’ve been talking about for so long, which is that Paul Pogba doesn’t sign a new contract at Man Utd or is sold this summer.
    “Again, most likely avenue for that to happen is Paris Saint-Germain at present.
    “Then you bring in Tchouameni who would certainly be much lower maintenance than Pogba, should be more consistent in his performance.
    “If they have that space in their squad created by Pogba, then Tchouameni is one of the options to replace.
    “He would be cheaper than options like Declan Rice, who has been mentioned as an option for them. I’m told Monaco value him at around €40m [£34m].”
    COR BLIMEY
    Bayern Munich have reportedly offered Spurs £17million-PLUS Corentin Tolisso for wantaway midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.
    It is understood Ndombele is keen to depart North London having not been part of Nuno Espirito Santo’s plans in pre-season.
    And according to Sky Sports, Bundesliga champions Bayern are prepared to bring him to Bavaria.
    They are even willing to offer Spurs a like-for-like replacement in Tolisso.
    However they state that Spurs have turned down the offer.
    🚨 BREAKING 🚨🔁 Bayern Munich are interested in a player swap with Tottenham that involves Tanguy Ndombele for Corentin Tolisso. ❌ Spurs refused the first proposal which was €20m and Tolisso. pic.twitter.com/Zc4V6DZYfO— Football Daily (@footballdaily) August 21, 2021

    MART IN THE MAKING
    Mikel Arteta has hinted that Gabriel Martinelli could play as a No9.
    The young Brazilian is one of Arsenal’s most versatile squad members as he’s able to operate out wide and up front.
    Arteta said: “Time will tell [if he’s a number 9].
    “But I would like to develop him in both positions because I think he’s got the potential to do both.”
    MOY BIEN
    David Moyes admits he is still a big fan of Manchester United’s Jesse lingard – amid speculation West Ham will bid for the England midfielder before the transfer window shuts.
    Hammers’ boss Moyes confirmed he “hopes to do some more business” in the next 11 days.
    And asked about Lingard he said: “The questions are not for me, the questions are for Manchester United. 
    “But you know we enjoyed having him.”
    And of possible upcoming transfers, Moyes added: “We have been trying hard and we are trying to add to a good group of players and give ourselves more options at different times.”
    LAP OF HONOUR
    Man City are ready to let Aymeric Laporte leave but only if their £60million valuation is met, reports say.
    The defender has seen his game time slashed after the signing of Ruben Dias last summer and recent emergence of John Stones.
    And according to The Mail, the Premier League champions have agreed not to prevent Laporte from leaving.
    But they will demand £3m more than the £57m they paid Athletic Bilbao in 2018 when they signed the centre-back.
    It is claimed Real Madrid and Juvenuts are among the clubs interested in signing Laporte.
    SAUL ABROAD
    Chelsea are reportedly considering a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez.
    The Blues have been busy in the transfer market this summer, splashing out a whopping £97.5million acquiring the services of Romelu Lukaku and free agent Marcus Bettinelli.
    And a swoop for Spain international Saul could be on the cards for the west Londoners.
    That’s according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who claims there’s a ‘possibility’ last season’s Champions League winners bring the 26-year-old to Stamford Bridge before the window closes a week on Tuesday.
    Atletico are understood to be keen on keeping Saul at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium and will reportedly make a decision on his future in the coming days.
    FRIGHT NIGHT
    Arsenal legend Ian Wright fears Manchester United could be unstoppable this season with new signing Raphael Varane at the back.
    On his show with Kelly Coates, Wrighty and Kelly, the he said: “For him to go to Manchester United now, in his prime. It’s a magnificent signing. He’s a top player.”
    And, alongside Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw in United’s defence, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer now have a world-class team.
    Wright added: “Now they’ve got world class next to Harry Maguire and, for me, Luke Shaw is world class. That’s it. It’s shored up.
    “He’ll mark the space and go and try and get into the places where they’ll try and turn and get at someone like Harry Maguire. He’ll snuffle that out.
    “We’re talking about a defensive unit now, which matches the front end in respect of quality. It’s frightening.”
    MORNING TRANSFER ROUND-UP
    Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola claims Robert Lewandowski will stay at Bayern Munich – but refused to discuss Harry Kane.
    City are still tipped to up their original £100million bid for England skipper Kane to £120m – still well below Spurs’ £150m valuation.
    And although Lewandowski has sparked interest across Europe as the Premier League champions hunt a world-class hitman, Guardiola insists the Polish legend is off limits.
    But asked if he was content with his squad, Guardiola said: “More than happy.
    “It is the same team, except Sergio (Aguero, who has joined Barcelona) for Jack Grealish (signed from Aston Villa), that we had last season.”
    Meanwhile, Old Trafford chief Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says he and Paul Pogba are focused on United’s efforts on the pitch – while leaving contract talks to the midfielder’s agent and club officials.
    Elsewhere, Arsenal have landed Sheffield United keeper Aaron Ramsdale for £30m on a six-year contract.
    Gunners’ manager Mikel Arteta hailed the 23-year-old’s “huge, huge” potential – and fates fellow newcomer Martin Odegaard as a “unique” talent
    Centre-back Ben Gibson says he chose to join Norwich permanently after his disastrous spell at Burnley on the advice of England manager Gareth Southgate.
    Lastly, Everton are reportedly set to rival Arsenal for Lazio forward Joaquin Correa.
    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Liverpool 2 Burnley 0 LIVE REACTION: Jota and Mane goals seal three points in front of packed Anfield – latest updates

    LIVERPOOL beat Burnley 2-0 at Anfield in their second Premier League game of the season thanks to goals from Diogo Jota and Sadio Mane.The Reds had to deal with a fast start from Burnley but eventually came into their own and sealed three points in a tight game.

    RESULT: Liverpool 2 Burnley 0
    Liverpool XI: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Tsimikas, Henderson, Keita, Elliott, Mane, Salah, Jota
    Burnley XI: Pope, Lowton, Tarkowski, Mee, Taylor, Gudmundsson, Brownhill, Cork, McNeil, Wood, Barnes

    Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
    FT: LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    Liverpool make it two wins from two after a strong second-half showing against Burnley, scoring a goal in each half.
    The away side will feel hard done by after a solid showing but were ultimately undone by some moments of real quality from Jurgen Klopp’s team.
    Credit: AFP
    Diogo Jota found the net after 18 minutes with a glancing header, thanks to a sublime cross from Kostas Tsimikas – the Portuguese scoring his second goal in as many games.
    Mo Salah had a goal disallowed for offside just before the half-hour mark and it was vintage Salah, cutting in on his left and bending one into the bottom corner.
    Credit: PA
    The Egyptian combined particularly well with Trent Alexander-Arnold throughout, with the English full-back putting in a Man of the Match performance against Burnley.
    He also did well to contain Burnley’s brightest spark, Dwight McNeil, who almost found the net but for the gloves of Alisson and was consistently brilliant with his set-piece deliveries with his left foot.
    Credit: Terry Donnelly
    Burnley had a goal of their own disallowed a minute after the half-time restart, with Ashley Barnes finding the net but being caught offside by the referee’s assistant.
    The Clarets started the second half brightly but Liverpool grew back into it and eventually took control of the game, totally dominating and sealing their win with a wonderful team goal scored by Sadio Mane.
    Credit: Getty
    Once Liverpool’s second went in after 69 minutes, they were the only team that really looked like scoring again, with a total of 27 attempts compared to Burnley’s nine.
    The Reds looked in the mood for more but Burnley managed to keep the scoreline to a modest 2-0, with two defeats on the trot for Sean Dyche’s men, who could be up against it this season.
    “We always have to be ready for a proper fight, but we were today.”Jürgen Klopp reflects on a physically demanding game at Anfield as his side triumphed Burnley 2-0…🎙@TheDesKelly pic.twitter.com/ex4JhwX1tU— 🇮🇹 Watch Serie A on BT Sport Football 🇮🇹 (@btsportfootball) August 21, 2021

    Meanwhile Liverpool have got their season off to the best possible start with two wins and two clean sheets. They face Chelsea at home next Saturday in what is set to be a huge early fixture this season.
    Burnley will hope to get their first points on the board as they take on Leeds United at home next Sunday.
    Credit: EPA
    That’s all from us! Thank you for keeping up with our live coverage of Liverpool vs Burnley in the Premier League. We’ll see you next time.
    CAPTAIN FANTASTIC
    Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson got 90 minutes under his belt after a very limited pre-season following his summer antics with England at the Euros.
    In his post-match interview the midfielder told BT Sport how he feels that Anfield can become a fortress where other teams will be afraid to come and play and how this will help their title chances.
    We’ve got the fans back now, it’s a different ballgame…Jordan Henderson
    Fortress foundations 🧱”Now we’ve got the fans back it’s a different game and hopefully, we can keep our fortress” 🎙️@TheDesKelly speaks to Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson… pic.twitter.com/dRI80JWmfb— 🇮🇹 Watch Serie A on BT Sport Football 🇮🇹 (@btsportfootball) August 21, 2021

    ELLIOTT RISING
    A solid performance from Liverpool’s exciting 18-year-old Harvey Elliott, who played the full 90 minutes for the Reds.
    With the absence of Fabinho, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Milner, the youngster could have a good chance to cement his place in Klopp’s plans for the season in the coming games.
    With Liverpool also set to lose Salah, Mane and Keita to the African Cup of Nations later on in the season, Elliott could prove a vital member of Klopp’s squad and will surely get plenty of opportunities to prove himself.

    TITLE CHALLENGERS
    Premier League champions Man City and Champions League winners Chelsea seem to be most peoples’ favourites to win the Prem this season, but Liverpool shouldn’t be taken for granted.
    With a full Anfield backing them, the Reds look a totally different proposition and after two wins in two games with five goals scored and none conceded, they look a force to be reckoned with.
    Their first real test will come next week when they take on Chelsea at Anfield on Saturday at 5:30pm.
    115 – Liverpool remain unbeaten in their last 115 Premier League games at Anfield when leading at half time (W103 D12), with their last such defeat coming back in December 2009 against Arsenal. Ascendancy. #LIVBUR pic.twitter.com/YTKRmggGPJ— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) August 21, 2021

    VIRGIL WIN DIJK
    The Dutchman has never lost a Premier League game while playing for Liverpool at Anfield in 48 attempts. In fact, he’s won 43 of them. Now that’s consistency.

    TRENT-TASTIC
    A Man of the Match display from Liverpool’s young right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who linked up superbly with Mo Salah on the right wing and caused Burnley problems all game.
    The 22-year-old England full-back played 36 times for Liverpool in the Premier League last season and was pivotal to their Champions League triumph in 2019 and Premier League win in 2020.
    He narrowly missed out on going to the Euros with England through injury this summer but will no doubt have a big future ahead of him in an England shirt.

    JOTA AT THE DOUBLE
    Two goals in two games for Diogo Jota, who also opened the scoring for Liverpool against Norwich last Saturday.
    The attacker’s debut season for Liverpool was hampered with injuries last time out, but he’s shown in these opening two games how crucial he can be to their success going forward.
    1 – Diogo Jota’s opener for Liverpool was his first Premier League goal at Anfield since November 2020 versus Leicester; indeed, each of his previous six goals in the competition had come away from home. Glanced. #LIVBUR— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) August 21, 2021

    Credit: EPA
    PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!!!!
    FULL TIME – LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    Mike Dean blows his whistle and it’s a solid home victory for Liverpool in their first home game at full capacity since 11th March 2020.
    A goal in each half gives Liverpool the points, despite a spirited performance from Burnley, who played well despite their defeat.
    Liverpool make it two from two at the start of the season ✅A goal in each half from Diogo Jota and Sadio Mane 💪 pic.twitter.com/aPMZLyBNcJ— 🇮🇹 Watch Serie A on BT Sport Football 🇮🇹 (@btsportfootball) August 21, 2021

    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    93 – Mike Dean should blow the whistle any minute to seal two wins on the bounce for Jurgen Klopp’s side and no goals conceded.
    CHANCE! One final go for Burnley as Ashley Barnes breaks into the area, but it’s a great stop from Alisson from close range.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    92 – BT Sport have awarded the Man of the Match award to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been excellent today.
    Tsimikas receives a big show of appreciation from the Liverpool fans as he comes off, having put in a great shift for the home side today, as well as assisting their first goal.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    91 – LIVERPOOL SUBSTITUTION
    OFF: Kostas Tsimikas.
    ON: Joe Gomez.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    90 – Four added minutes.
    CHANCE! Liverpool chasing a third as Pope makes a good stop from a shot from just inside the area and Burnley struggle to get out of their own half.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    89 – Tsimikas shows great determination to win the ball back for Liverpool and receives a huge show of appreciation from the Liverpool fans.
    It looks like the Greek might be withdrawn for Joe Gomez for the final minutes.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    88 – CHANCE! A great volley from Barnes from distance is well saved by Alisson.
    The assistant raises his flag to indicate that he would have been offside anyway, but something to raise the spirits of the away fans after a dominant Liverpool second half performance.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    87 – Tsimikas has a coming together with Cork and looks like he’s hurt his shoulder. He gets some treatment and it looks like he might be able to carry on.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    85 – CHANCE! Liverpool break again on the right flank and it’s excellent play from Salah, who fizzes one across the face of goal and Mane can’t quite get a foot to it.
    It lands to Thiago on the edge of the box, who has a pop which is blocked and goes out for a corner. Close again from Liverpool.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    84 – McNeill finds himself on the edge of the Liverpool area and tries to curl one in with his left foot but it goes horribly wrong and way, way over.
    It’s met with a chorus of jeers and whistles from the Liverpool fans.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    83 – CHANCE! Salah finds Alexander-Arnold on the edge of the area who hits it first time and tries to curl it in rather than smash it, but it’s straight at Pope.
    Liverpool have had 24 attempts to Burnley’s four.
    50 – Sadio Mane has become the fifth Liverpool player to score 50+ Premier League goals at Anfield alongside Robbie Fowler, Steven Gerrard, Michael Owen and Mo Salah. Greats. #LIVBUR pic.twitter.com/LXVYPqiuBn— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) August 21, 2021

    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    82 – Free-kick for Liverpool after Elliott is brought down during a Liverpool counter-attack.
    A promising performance from the Liverpool youngster, who has more than held his own against a well-drilled and strong Burnley side.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    79 – LIVERPOOL SUBSTITUTIONS
    OFF: Naby Keita, Diogo Jota.
    ON: Thiago Alcantara, Roberto Firmino.
    Only Mo Salah (23) has scored more PL goals for Liverpool than @DiogoJota18 (11) since the start of last season.His 11 PL goals have come in 21 apps for @LFC – only 3 players have scored 11 goals in fewer PL apps for the club14 Salah15 Sturridge19 Torres21 Diogo Jota pic.twitter.com/SmfFCMRleo— Sky Sports Statto (@SkySportsStatto) August 21, 2021

    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    78 – BURNLEY SUBSTITUTION
    OFF: Johan Berg Gudmundsson.
    ON: Erik Pieters.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    76 – The atmosphere in Anfield is absolutely electric now as the fans really get behind their team.
    There’s a bit of friction on the touchline as Dyche has a pop at Klopp after a heavy challenge on Barnes and Andy Madley tries to calm them down. Neither manager is very happy.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    75 – Salah finds himself in space in the box on the right side and he has the option of trying to find both Jota and Mane, but the Egyptian goes for goal and it goes wide for a goal-kick.
    Mane not happy he wasn’t found by his team mate there.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    74 – BURNLEY SUBSTITUTION
    ON: Jay Rodriguez.
    OFF: Chris wood.
    LIVERPOOL 2-0 BURNLEY
    73 – CHANCE! Henderson plays a lovely ball to Tsimikas on the left flank, who floats one into the box and Matip heads it wide.
    Liverpool think they should have a corner but the ref says goal-kick.
    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Brest 2-4 PSG LIVE RESULT: Di Maria lob secures thrilling win for Parisians with Messi not featuring against brave hosts

    PSG have picked up a second 4-2 win in two games despite Lionel Messi once again not being involved as they triumphed at Brest.Ander Herrera volleyed home after a goalkeeping error before a cushioned header from Kylian Mbappe added a second.
    The hosts then got back into the game after Franck Honorat capped off a brilliant move by firing into the bottom corner.
    But a third for PSG came from the unlikeliest of sources with Idrissa Gana Gueye shooting into the top corner from 35 yards out.
    Brest then got back into it again through ex-Huddersfield man Steve Mounie before Di Maria made the game safe with a carbon copy of his Copa America final winner against Brazil.
    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
    AU REVOIR
    Paris Saint-Germain end the evening where they expect to end the season: at the very top of Ligue 1.
    Their 4-2 victory at Brest lacked Lionel Messi and conviction, but served up enough teasers to indicate that this will be a season to remember for the Parisians.
    An arrowed Herrera volley, an explosive Mbappe header, a 40-yard thunderbolt from Gueye and Di Maria’s late lob proved that whatever their frailties elsewhere, this club is the very definition of box office.
    Both the players and supporters of Paris celebrated joyously together as they left Stade Francis-Le Ble. Just think how happy they’ll be when Messi is finally ready to join them out on the pitch.

    CASE FOR THE DEFENCE
    Despite their attacking riches, questions are again being asked of the Paris Saint-Germain defence after another two goals conceded at Brest this evening.
    The Parisians are yet to keep a clean sheet this season, and have now been breached five times in their opening three games.
    Yet while the rest of Europe’s big guns are rubbing their hands in delight at this potential glitch, the level-headed PSG followers are urging others to stay calm.
    Achraf Hakimi apart, Mauricio Pochettino’s first-choice goalkeeper and defence is likely to be completely different going forward with Gianluigi Donnarumma, Sergio Ramos, Marquinhos and Layvin Kurzawa all waiting to come in.
    PSG don’t have their top 2 CB’s or their top LB, which should be taken into account for all of this, but the trend line here isn’t great. Especially for Navas, who seems to be losing out in the 50/50 saves he’s been so good at over the years. #SB29PSG— Marc Damon (@MarcDamon9) August 20, 2021

    STAT’S MAGIC
    There may have been no Lionel Messi, but six goals, 27 shots, a couple of goalkeeping blunders and a former Huddersfield striker on target points to a memorable night at Stade Francis-Le Ble.

    MAXIMUM IMPACT
    PSG have registered nine points from their opening three games for the first time in three years.
    The Parisians cantered to the title that season, and will be expecting more of the same following their summer transfer activity.
    3 – Paris have won their first three games of a Ligue 1 season (2-1 v Troyes, 4-2 v Strasbourg and 4-2 v Brest) for the fourth time in their last seven seasons in the top-flight (2015/16, 2017/18, 2018/19 and 2021/22). Boss. #SB29PSG pic.twitter.com/yCbf9Xh8Vv— OptaJean (@OptaJean) August 20, 2021

    FT: BREST 2-4 PSG
    PSG prevail 4-2 for the second league match in succession, and once again it was a game that they made unnecessarily hard work of. First half goals from Ander Herrera and Kylian Mbappe had them well in charge, and a second half scorcher from Idrissa Gueye will be long remembered. Yet Brest were never out of touch, and strikes from Franck Honorat and Steve Mounie kept them in contention for an unlikely draw all the way into injury time when Angel Di Maria sealed victory with a delightful lob. It’s three wins from three for Mauricio Pochettino’s men, but their all-star cast can – and must – do better.
    PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE FINAL WHISTLE GOES!
    BREST 2-4 PSG
    90. Off the bench, Angel Di Maria settles PSG nerves and seals another three points with a delightful lob on the counter-attack.
    Throwing the kitchen sink at the visitors, Brest had looked poised to find a dramatic equaliser. Yet PSG held firm when it mattered, and when Keylor Navas punched away a final cross, they flooded forward in numbers.
    Di Maria was the driving force, moving through the midfield and exchanging passes with Achraf Hakimi. The Moroccan’s return was delightful, and left the Argentine through on a goal vacated by Marco Bizot.
    The substitute looked up, and then lifted his effort beautifully over the oncoming goalkeeper to score his side’s fourth.

    GOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLLL!!ANGEL DI MARIA SEALS IT FOR PSG!!
    BREST 2-3 PSG
    88. Brest are giving it a real good go, and Honorat is running riot down the right.
    The winger is getting the better of Diallo time and time again, and has so much room to pick out a cross. He finds Mounie at the back stick, but his header is blocked by Kehrer.
    BREST 2-3 PSG
    86. A Brest change as Jean-Kevin Duverne takes over from Ronael Pierre-Gabriel.
    BREST 2-3 PSG
    85. With just under five minutes remaining, Brest have renewed hope.
    Once again, the PSG defence are architects of their own downfall. Romain Faivre is afforded plenty of space to roam and pick out Steve Mounie, who evades the ball-watching Presnel Kimpembe.
    The former Huddersfield man chests down to control, and then slams his shot through the legs of Keylor Navas.
    What a finale this could be!

    GOOOOOOAAAAAAALLLLL!!STEVE MOUNIE FIRES IN FOR BREST!!
    BREST 1-3 PSG
    83. Brest still aren’t giving this one up. What have they got left in the tank?
    BREST 1-3 PSG
    81. Here’s Di Maria, on for a throughly fed-up Mbappe. The forward certainly hasn’t looked his usual content self.
    BREST 1-3 PSG
    79. Di Maria is receiving some final instructions from the PSG coaching staff, probably along the lines of “Once Neymar and Messi return, you’re going to really struggle to get a game so don’t mess this opportunity up.”
    BREST 1-3 PSG
    77. Brest almost pull one back straight away!
    Honorats cuts a cross back for the arriving Pierre-Gabriel, but the defender’s first-time shot is straight at Navas.
    BREST 1-3 PSG
    76. What’s the French for “Don’t bother closing him down, it’s only Idrissa Gueye and he’s miles out”?

    BREST 1-3 PSG
    75. With their two-goal advantage restored, surely there will be further changes from Mauricio Pochettino in the final fifteen minutes.
    BREST 1-3 PSG
    73. A surprise goalscorer, whose method of scoring is an even greater surprise!
    Idrissa Gueye takes charge of a partially-cleared PSG corner 45 yards from goal, allows himself a couple of steps to steady himself, and then lets fly.
    The ball swerves from left to right, and creeps just inside the near post beyond a stunned Marco Bizot, who once again has not covered himself in glory.
    Gueye celebrates a scorcher, and PSG will celebrate the points.

    GOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLLLL!!IDRISSA GUEYE SCORES FROM 40 YARDS!!
    BREST 1-2 PSG
    72. A first substitution for PSG. Julian Draxler replaces Marco Verratti.
    BREST 1-2 PSG
    68. Chance for Brest! A big chance! Well saved!
    Cardona breaks on to Uronen’s pass forward, and finds himself clean through. He cuts across Hakimi, who dives in with a missed tackle, and eyes up Navas in goal. This time, however, the Costa Rican stopper is up to the task and makes the block.
    The offside flag goes up retrospectively, but I’m not convinced.
    BREST 1-2 PSG
    66. The visitors are still enjoying 76% of possession if enjoying is the right words.
    Very few of the PSG players look pleased with the hard work they’re making of this one.
    BREST 1-2 PSG
    64. Mbappe goes into the book.
    The PSG forward leaves a boot in as Honorat releases a pass, leaving the Brest man rolling around in agony on the turf.
    BREST 1-2 PSG
    62. Di Maria is surely imminent given that PSG’s attackers have either run out of ideas or willing.
    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Chelsea eyeing deals for Saul and Kounde, Messi NOT in PSG squad, Mbappe pictured ALONE in training – live updates

    KYLIAN MBAPPE is once again being linked with Real Madrid after being pictured alone while his PSG team-mates went to training in a group.Meanwhile Bernardo Silva has reportedly refused to be used as a makeweight in a deal to bring Harry Kane to Man City from Tottenham.
    And Cristiano Ronaldo has taken to Instagram to furiously deny rumours that he will join Real Madrid.

    BETTING SPECIAL – GET SEVEN £5 FREE BETS FOR THE PREMIER LEAGUE THIS WEEKEND
    ⚽️Dream Team 2021/22 – pick a team now for the chance to win £100⚽️

    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    EVERTON AND ARSENAL ‘IN FOR CORREA’
    Everton are reportedly set to rival Arsenal for Lazio forward Joaquin Correa in a bid to boost their attack. 
    The speculation follows Rafa Benitez’s surprise swoop for Andy Lonergan with the ex-Liverpool stopper becoming the Toffees’ fourth summer signing.

    Italian football journalist Alfredo Pedulla claims the Goodison Park side are pursuing Correa who has attracted interest from Tottenham as well as the Gunners. 
    The player, who is 27 and has eight international caps for Argentina, netted 11 goals and provided six assists across all competitions last season. 
    Correa, who joined Lazio from Sevilla for £13.5million in 2018 is rumoured to have fallen out of favour with Stadio Olimpico boss Maurizio Sarri.
    And it is claimed the Argentine is considering his options despite the coach publicly expressing his wish for the star to stay and fight for his place. 
    Reports in Italy suggest Everton are gearing up to make an improved offer for the Serie A player who helped Argentina to win this year’s Copa America. 
    Gazetta dello Sport claims the Toffees, who play Leeds next, had an initial £21.5m bid rejected by the Italian giants.
    PALMED OFF ON LOAN
    Emerson Palmieri has joined French club Lyon on a season-long loan after signing a new two-year deal at Chelsea.

    The Italian Euro-winning left-back was attracting a lot of interest from Serie A outfit Napoli.
    But Lyon have won the race for the 27-year-old’s signature, announcing it on Twitter.
    The French club have also reportedly agreed an option to sign Emerson permanently at the end of the season-long switch.
    Lyon boss Peter Bosz is over the moon with the signing of Emerson, and has revealed that the Italian is already impressing in training.
    He said: “Damien Da Silva has a lot of experience. He gives his desire to win, to work, to the team.
    “I am happy that Emerson Palmieri happened. He was in a big club, where you always have to win, like with the Italian team.
    “Emerson has a good left foot. It was his first training.
    “I’ll chat with him to see how it went. We will see tomorrow if he will be fit for the match against Clermont. If he’s ready, that will be an added possibility. ”
    YOU’VE BEEN TANG-KO’D
    Nuno Espirito Santo will be keeping Tanguy Ndombele in the cold amid reports of Tottenham’s record buy handing in a transfer request.
    And the Spurs boss says a decision will also be made on Saturday regarding Harry Kane’s involvement against Wolves.
    Midfielder Ndombele has endured a torrid start to his Tottenham career after arriving for £55m under Mauricio Pochettino in 2019.
    He was an outcast under Jose Mourinho and is now facing the same treatment from Nuno as he looks to force a move.
    He was axed from the club’s Europe Conference League squad ahead of their midweek trip to Portugal.
    And when asked whether Ndombele would be involved for the first time this season for the trip to Molineux, Nuno said: “He was not part of the squad in the Conference League because he was not included in the list.
    “But I will be honest with you, Tanguy will not be involved on Sunday.”
    Star striker Harry Kane’s future also remains up in the air with a £125m move to Manchester City on the cards.
    UTD’S GORETZKA BLOW
    Manchester United’s hopes of signing Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka have been dashed after he reportedly agreed a new Bayern Munich contract with the club.
    The 26-year-old, who had been high on United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s wishlist, will remain with the German giants until 2026, according to Goal journalist Ronan Murphy.

    The former Schalke star, who netted ten times and provided nine assists in 39 starts for Bayern last season, was on Solskjaer’s radar since July.
    The Norwegian was lining him up as a potential replacement for contract rebel Paul Pogba whose future is up in the air.
    And as Goretzka, who had one more year on his contract was stalling on penning a new deal with Bayern, United were ready to swoop in and sign him on the cheap.
    But Bayern weren’t willing to let their star midfielder go and boss Julian Nagelsmann told Goretzka that he wanted him to stay at the Allianz Arena.
    During the speculation about United’s interest, he said: “Of course I have talked to him about my plans for him. I’ve told him I’d be happy if he extended and I’m also confident.
    “I’ll continue to focus on the sports side of things and show him he can be one of the most dangerous midfielders in Europe. He has potential to get even better.”
    JESSE FUTURE STILL IN DOUBT
    England midfielder Jesse Lingard could still leave Manchester United before the transfer deadline – to gain regular football.
    Credit: Getty
    The former West Ham loanee, 28, missed out on the opening match of the season against Leeds due to Covid-19 but scored in a behind closed doors friendly against Burnley in midweek.
    And Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has publicly praised Lingard, stating he is part of his plans for the season.
    But, after Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick and Paul Pogba grabbed four assists in the win over Leeds, Lingard could struggle for game time.
    And that could lead the attacking midfielder to search for a move elsewhere, according to The Times.
    The report claims Lingard is keen to play his way back into the England set-up once again, but he knows he will only have a shot at that by playing regular football at club level.
    NOT IN A HARRY
    Pep Guardiola says he will be ‘more than happy’ if Manchester City do not sign Harry Kane.
    The Citizens boss declared his interest in the Tottenham striker but insists he would have no problem if the transfer window closed without any more incomings.
    Asked if he would be happy with his squad if the transfer window shut now, Guardiola said: “Absolutely, more than happy. It is the same team, except Sergio [Aguero] for Jack Grealish, that we had last season.”
    Pep also confirmed he is not interested in wantaway Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski. 
    The Spaniard managed the Pole for two seasons in Germany. 
    But when asked if he was interested, Pep shot back: “Next question.  Lewy is such an important player for Bayern Munich and he will stay at Bayern Munich.
    “I am not going to talk about 11 days left in the transfer market. I don’t know what is going to happen.”
    PAL WOW
    Emerson Palmieri has joined French club Lyon on a season-long loan after signing a new two-year deal at Chelsea.
    The Italian Euro-winning left-back was attracting a lot of interest from Serie A outfit Napoli.
    But Lyon have won the race for the 27-year-old’s signature, bringing him to the club for a season.
    The French club have also reportedly agreed an option to sign Emerson permanently at the end of the season-long switch.

    NO GO
    Manchester United’s hopes of signing Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka have been dashed after he reportedly agreed a new contract with the club.
    The 26-year-old, who had been high on United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s wishlist, will remain with the German giants until 2026 according to Goal journalist Ronan Murphy.
    The former Schalke star, who netted ten times and provided nine assists in 39 starts for Bayern in all competitions last season, was on Solskjaer’s radar since July.
    The Norwegian was lining him up as a potential replacement for contract rebel Paul Pogba whose future is up in the air.
    And as Goretzka, who had just one more year on his contract, was stalling on penning a new deal with Bayern, United were ready to swoop in and sign him on the cheap.
    But Bayern weren’t willing to let their star midfielder go and now they have finally tied him down to a new long-term contract.

    ROD FOR HIS BACK
    Everton outcast James Rodriguez admitted he doesn’t even know who the club play next as he awaits a transfer.
    The 30-year-old’s time at Goodison Park is all but over after reportedly being told he’s not in manager Rafa Benitez’s plans.
    And the disillusioned Colombian star revealed he’s not even sure of Everton’s fixture list as he lines up a summer exit.
    Rodriguez missed the opening day victory over Southampton due to Covid isolation and is ready to return this week. But he made an alarming admission on his Twitch stream.
    The 30-year-old said: “I will start training on Monday, I think. On the weekend I will not play, I don’t even know who Everton is playing, can you please tell me? I think it is away because the past was here at home.”
    He later added: “Ah, against Leeds they play, away from home, against (Marcelo) Bielsa, a difficult game, let’s see what happens, hopefully they win.
    “I have faith that this season will be good for me, big things are coming for me. Between now and August 30, anything can happen, I don’t know where I’ll play, I’ll be where things go well.”
    Speaking on Friday in his press conference, manager Benitez said: “Until August 31, he (James) is part of my plans.”

    KYL FOR HIM
    Manchester United have reportedly drawn up a four-man striker shortlist for next summer – and Kylian Mbappe is on it.
    The Paris Saint-Germain hitman’s current deal runs out in June 2022 and has been linked with a move to Real Madrid.
    United’s current leading forward Edinson Cavani, 34, is also out of contract in 10 months’ time and is widely expected to join Boca Juniors.
    According to ESPN, the Red Devils are keeping a close eye on Mbappe’s situation and are ready to meet his high salary demands.
    The World Cup winner, 22, would be a sensational replacement for Cavani after hitting 79 goals in 82 Ligue 1 appearances for PSG.
    But it’s thought Mbappe’s preferred choice is a move to the Spanish capital before September after weeks of speculation.
    The other three players rumoured to be on United’s shortlist are Erling Haaland, 21, Harry Kane, 28, and Lautaro Martinez, 23.

    GUNNERS LEADING THE WAY
    Arsenal are the Premier League’s biggest spenders this summer following back-to-back eighth-placed finishes.
    With the Gunners without European football for the first time since the 1995-96 season, Mikel Arteta has made it his mission to bolster his side.
    Left-back Nuno Tavares was the North Londoners’ first arrival after he joined from Benfica for £8million.
    Belgian midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga was then signed from Anderlecht for £17m, before Arsenal splashed out £50m to bring in Ben White from Brighton.
    Arsenal announced the £30m transfer of Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid on Friday morning, with Sheffield United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale poised to join for £24m.
    And according to Sky Sports, Arsenal have forked out £129m on the five players – £15m more than Manchester United have spent so far.

    PREMIER LEAGUE’S BEST PAID PLAYERS
    Here are the best paid players in the Premier League following the arrival of Manchester United newbie Jadon Sancho.

    ‘HERE WE GO AGAIN’
    Real Betis announced the signing of German Pezzella with a fabulous Grand Theft Auto-inspired video.
    The clip saw striker Aitor Rubial tour the LaLiga club’s grounds with the video game’s classic style, music and animations all featuring.
    Betis dubbed the video ‘Grand Transfer Announcements’ and Rubial, 25, entered the scene with a PG-version of a viral meme that came out of the game.
    He said: “Oh boy, here we go again.”
    Real Betis announce transfer of German Pezzella from Fiorentina with hilarious and bizarre Grand Theft Auto style video
    KANE-UNDRUM
    Manchester City are desperate to sign £150million-rated Tottenham star Harry Kane.
    Since losing Sergio Aguero at the end of last season, Pep Guardiola has been fixated on landing the England captain.
    As the transfer saga rumbles on, we’ve taken a look at THREE ways Man City could line-up with Kane on the books.

    MES WAIT TO START
    Lionel Messi’s first-ever Paris Saint-Germain appearance looks set to be delayed following his sensational move to France.
    Goal reports the Argentina skipper has been left out of the squad chosen by Mauricio Pochettino to take on Brest this evening.
    The PSG boss is thought to have privately conveyed which of his Ligue One galacticos will be involved in the club’s third top-flight clash of the season.
    It is reported Messi, 34, may have been left out due to the ex-Barcelona superstar needing more preparation time to return to full fitness following his summer break.
    Earlier this week Sky Sports claimed the player had only trained three times following his stunning move.
    It is thought the six-time Ballon d’Or winner could be joined on the sidelines by Leandro Paredes and his former Nou Camp team-mate Neymar.
    Both players are reported to have only recently returned to full training.
    The news means PSG fans may have to wait until the Ligue One champs’ August 29 clash with Reims to see the former Barca captain in action.

    OUT OF LUC
    Former Arsenal forward Lucas Perez has had his contract terminated by LaLiga side Deportivo Alaves.
    The 32-year-old has spent the last two years at the Estadio Mendizorroza, where he has chipped in with 15 goals and nine assists in 62 appearances.
    But the club have announced that the two parties have reached an agreement to terminate his deal.
    A club statement read: “Deportivo Alaves and Lucas Perez have reached an agreement for the separation of the Galician player, who leaves the Paseo de Cervantes entity after two seasons.
    “We thank Lucas for his commitment and involvement in achieving the goals set by the team and we wish him the best of luck in his future.
    “Thank you and good luck, Lucas!”

    LEW FOR REAL?
    Football fans were left scratching their heads at the Uefa Men’s Player of the Year shortlist that was revealed last night.
    Bayern Munich goal-machine Robert Lewandowski was somehow omitted from the final three for the prestigious award.
    And that was despite banging in 46 goals for Bayern Munich last season – plus two more in the Club World Cup as well.
    Lewandowski, 32, has also scored three in two games to hit the ground running this season.
    He won The Best Fifa Men’s Player prize in 2020 by edging out Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
    But he will not be claiming this Uefa gong when the winner is announced during the Champions League group stage draw on August 26.
    And his future at Bayern Munich is also up in the air after reports said he wants to leave the club and has a £100m transfer fee slapped on him.
    The Uefa winner will be either Man City’s Kevin De Bruyne, or one of Chelsea’s midfield pair Jorginho or N’Golo Kante.
    Messi was fourth on the list ahead of Lewandowski in fifth place.

    ASSIST KING
    Paul Pogba can be backed to get one or more assists against Southampton at 40/1.
    The Manchester United star got FOUR assists last week as they beat Leeds 5-1 at Old Trafford.
    And he’ll be confident in supplying the United front line again this weekend when they head to St Mary’s.
    United play Southampton at 2pm on Sunday and to claim the offer simply sign up to William Hill and place a £1 bet on Pogba to get an assist.
    And if he does you will then get the enhanced winnings in free bets.
    The special offer is for mobile customers only with a £1 maximum bet, and the bet must be placed before kick off at 2pm.
    WILLIAM HILL PAUL POGBA TO GET AN ASSIST AT 40/1*

    MAD WORLD
    Manchester United are reportedly competing with Tottenham and Leicester in the race to sign PSV winger Noni Madueke.
    The 19-year-old has earned rave reviews during his time in Holland since departing Spurs’ academy for the Eredivisie side in June 2018.
    Madueke, who rejected a proposal from United three years ago, cemented himself as a regular in PSV’s first team last campaign where he chipped in with nine goals and eight assists in 32 games.
    And the England youth international – valued at around £20million by the Dutch giants – already has five strikes to his name from just seven outings this term.
    According to the Daily Mail, scouts from the Red Devils, Spurs and the Foxes were in attendance for his recent appearance in Wednesday’s Champions League qualifying clash against Benfica.
    All three clubs are said to have had representatives at the Estadio da Luz where Benfica edged out a 2-1 win in the first leg.
    They also state it’s not just English clubs that are interested in the teenager, with Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich watching the player.
    Serie A side’s Juventus, Roma and Atalanta also had the chance to see the forward in action against the Portuguese outfit.

    PER’S FLAMENGO SHOW
    Andreas Pereira is set to swap Old Trafford for Rio de Janeiro with a loan move to Brazilian giants Flamengo. 
    It is reported the club will have the choice to make a £17million permanent bid for the player who has fallen down Manchester United’s pecking order.
    And Italian football expert Fabrizio Romano claims the Red Devils will receive a 20 per cent share of a future sale of the midfielder.
    And it is claimed Flamengo will not pay a loan fee but share salary costs with the Old Trafford giants and have an option to buy the player in 2022.
    Pereira, 25, is thought to be keen to get more game time in a bid to be in Brazil’s squad for the World Cup next year.
    The versatile midfield man, who was an unused sub during United’s 5-1 demolition of Leeds, has been at the club since 2011.

    NEW LUK
    Romelu Lukaku is set to make his second debut for Chelsea during Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Arsenal.
    The Blues cruised to victory in their Premier League season opener with a 3-0 mauling of Crystal Palace.
    Since then, Thomas Tuchel has brought in £97.5million striker Lukaku with the rich getting richer.
    And already the Belgian star, 28, is set to start against the Gunners after passing himself fit to play – despite his woeful record against the North Londoners.
    Lukaku has been on fire since his £73m move from Manchester United to Inter Milan in 2019, helping the Italians win their first Serie A crown in 11 years last term.
    The ex-Everton forward has also slimmed down after a nutritionist confirmed he had been suffering from digestive problems and tweaked his diet.
    The new lean, mean Lukaku is itching to prove he can cut it in the Premier League and will surely start against Arsenal on Sunday.

    BETTING OFFER
    Bruno Fernandes can be backed to score against Southampton at a huge 40/1.
    The Manchester United ace scored a hat-trick on the opening day of the season as they beat Leeds 5-1 at Old Trafford.
    And he’ll be looking to fire United to another victory when they pitch up at St Mary’s on Sunday.
    New William Hill customers can back him to score at 40/1 with a maximum £1 bet.
    The offer is only available on mobile and must be placed before 2pm on Sunday – when the match kicks off.
    And if Fernandes does score the enhanced winnings will be paid in free bets.
    WILLIAM HILL GET BRUNO FERNANDES TO SCORE AT 40/1*
    FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS

    BOURNE AGAIN
    Bournemouth have signed former Crystal Palace and Chelsea star Gary Cahill on a free transfer.
    The veteran defender completed a medical at the Championship club on Thursday and put pen to paper this morning.
    Cherries boss Scott Parker launched a bid to sign the free agent last week, as revealed by SunSport.
    Cahill, 35, has been looking for a new club after being let go by Palace at the end of last season, as part of the Eagles’ summer overhaul.
    Rangers were also looking into signing the centre-back but a link-up with old England team-mate Scott Parker has now been confirmed.

    HAA LA LAND
    Erling Haaland could be on the move in January with his £64million release clause to reportedly become active on September 1.
    It had been thought that the Borussia Dortmund striker’s buyout clause wouldn’t come into play until next summer.
    But according to Spanish outlet Marca, potential suitors will be able to snap him up on the cheap in the winter transfer market.
    That is because they state his £64m clause comes into effect at the start of next month, though it is believed Haaland plans to see out the coming season with BVB.
    However that may not stop the likes of Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Barcelona from looking to snap him up in the New Year.

    COVIDIOTS
    Mikel Arteta has confirmed some Arsenal stars are REFUSING to take up their coronavirus vaccinations – while admitting some are not yet double-jabbed.
    The Gunners boss said: “Most of them are double vaccinated. Others have had one vaccine.
    “We are trying to encourage them to get vaccinated, but it’s a personal matter. 
    “At the end of the day it’s a personal decision.”

    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Pacos de Ferreira 1-0 Tottenham LIVE RESULT: Lucas Silva gives hosts Europa Conference League lead as Romero caught out

    TOTTENHAM are the first ever English team to compete in the Europa Conference League but they might not even make it to the group stage.Nuno’s men are have been beaten in Portugal after Cristian Romero was caught out by a brilliant ball through and Lucas Silva gave the hosts a one-goal lead to take to North London..
    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
    GOODNIGHT
    That’s all from us in Portugaln where Tottenham’s first ever foray into the Europa Conference League has ended in defeat.
    Spurs will have a chance to put matters right in their return leg with Pacos de Ferreira next Thursday, but first they have to pick themselves up for a Premier League visit to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday.
    Can Nuno’s men get back to winning ways? Will we see the return of Harry Kane? Make sure you join us this weekend for the answers to these questions and more.
    NUNO REACTION
    A disappointed Nuno Espirito Santo believes tonight’s performance has undone the good work of Sunday, and that it will now require a positive result at former club Wolves this weekend to lift spirits once again.
    “It was not a good performance. As a team we were not organised enough, and we didn’t play the ball quickly enough.
    “We didn’t underestimate them. The decision was made to use all of the squad this week.
    It impacts on us a lot. Nobody likes to lose a game and not play well. The feel-good factor is gone, but that’s football. Now we have to get it back on Sunday.Nuno Espirito Santo

    FAN FRUSTRATION
    Questions are being asked after a much-changed Spurs side were beaten in Portugal in the first leg of their Europa Conference League play-off.
    However, while many are looking at the inclusion of so many youngsters as evidence of taking their opponents too lightly, many fans are pointing fingers at those senior players on the fringes of the first team for the manner in which they performed.
    #thfc FT, 1-0. A disappointing defeat in Portugal but hardly a disaster given the line-up and the second leg at home Thursday. More worrying than the result was that none of the senior players really stepped up and took their chance.— Dan Kilpatrick (@Dan_KP) August 19, 2021

    FT: Pacos de Ferreira 1 #THFC 0. Really poor from Spurs who created nothing all game + couldn’t sustain pressure when 1-0 downNuno may need to call on some of the cavalry next week – depending on how bothered he is about the competitionRough full debut for Romero, Gil bright— Charlie Eccleshare (@CDEccleshare) August 19, 2021

    Spurs go down 1-0 in Pacos. Pretty disappointing showing from those players wanting to force their way into Nuno’s side. Winks, Doherty, Lo Celso, Davies all poor. #THFC— Jonathan Veal (@jonathandveal83) August 19, 2021

    I’d never seen Pacos play but knew they’d have too much for the squad we took. A side that beat Porto last season… Fairly sure we’ll get past them in the second leg but still, that was pathetic and some senior players so poor. All a bit bizarre. #coys— Jonny Blain (@jonoblain) August 19, 2021

    LOSING FOCUS
    Tottenham have entered the records books this evening, but not for a reason that their fans will enjoy.
    Tottenham become the first English club to lose games in each of the Champions League / European Cup, the Cup Winners’ Cup, the Uefa Cup / Europa League, the Intertoto Cup & the Europa Conference League.— Richard Jolly (@RichJolly) August 19, 2021

    SPURS FIRE BLANKS
    Eleven changes from Sunday, yes, but Tottenham failed to register a single shot on target.
    A poor night for Spurs’ second string.
    Statistics courtesy of UEFA.com
    FT: PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    Portuguese side Pacos de Ferreira will take a one-goal lead to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next week as the sides battle for a play in the group stage of the inaugural Europa Conference League. Spurs will have to improve greatly on this evening, and are likely to call upon some of the senior players left at home tonight to get the job done – whether that includes Harry Kane remains to be seen. Pacos were well worth their victory, a win sealed by Lucas Silva’s slick finish on the stroke of half-time.
    PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE FINAL WHISTLE GOES!
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    90+3. Almost! Clark plays in Bryan Gil on the overlap, and his cross towards the far post requires some superb defending from Antunes to deny Lo Celso a point blank header.

    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    90. The board goes up to signal five minutes of stoppage time. You suspect it could be five months and this Spurs side would struggle to break through the Pacos defence.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    89. There aren’t many home fans inside Estadio Capital do Movel, but they’re making plenty of noise as the game heads towards its final minute.
    The Pacos players look tired after their 90 minutes on Monday night, and are using the energy from the crowd to see them through.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    87. Off goes Carter-Vickers, and here’s a first appearance for 18-year-old Estonian defender Maksim Paskotsi.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    86. Carter-Vickers has picked up a knock. Whether it was as a result of that sloppy piece of defending, or the reason for it, I’m unsure.
    There may only be a few minutes left but he’s not going to be able to see them out.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    84. Spurs survive! Delgado unleashes a thunderbolt that crashes straight into the wall.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    83. Shambolic from Carter-Vickers, who fails to deal with a routine pass forward. He centre-back falls over his own feet, and then denies two Pacos players possession by obstructing the ball.
    As a result, the hosts have an in-direct free-kick just outside the penalty area. Spurs do not want to concede a second goal here.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    80. Ryan Sessegnon has been one of Spurs’ brighter spots this evening so naturally it is he who is now being withdrawn.
    Nuno did similar with the standout Japhet Tanganga on Sunday although, in fairness, Sessegnon is still coming back from that hamstring problem.
    On comes the 19-year-old J’Neil Bennett, a lively performer in midfield.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    78. The home side are sitting deep when out of possession, and the visitors are lacking in ideas to break them down.
    Lo Celso attempts to dribble through a crowd on the edge of the box, but is easily blocked off by Fonseca.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    75. It’s the home side controlling the ball all of a sudden. You have to wonder whether Tottenham have settled for this scoreline, believing that they can overcome a one-goal deficit in North London next week.
    Either that, or they really hate the Europa Conference League and what out as soon as possible.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    72. A double substitution for the hosts. Pacos add some South American spice to proceedings with Chilean Juan Delgado and Brazilian Ze Uilton as Nuno Santos and Helder Ferreira depart.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    70. Pacos haven’t threatened at all from an attacking perspective in this second half. The problem is neither have Tottenham.
    The Portuguese side look comfortable, and fully believe they can see this out for a first leg lead.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    67. Winks steps up a cross, but it’s the latest in a long line of poorly delivered set-pieces this evening.
    Actually, it’s not the latest. This one from Lo Celso is the latest.

    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    66. Lo Celso skips two challenges, but there’s no escaping the third: a wild lunge from Antunes.
    The Pacos left-back is rightly booked for that one, and Spurs have a free-kick out wide with Winks standing over the ball.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    64. Sessegnon is looking lively again, roaming inward off the flank. He now needs some of his more senior teammates to follow suit.

    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    62. A first Pacos change this evening as young midfielder Matchoi Djalo replaces Nuno Santos.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    60. Sessegnon is trying to force his way into the Tottenham first team reckoning, and at the same time, hopefully get his side back in the tie.
    He skips inside off the left and goes for goal with an effort that swerves wide.
    PACOS 1-0 SPURS
    58. Romero’s difficult debut continues after being beaten to a loose ball on the halfway line by Lucas Silva.
    In his attempt to recover, the Argentine clatters the Pacos goalscorer on the calf to leave him writhing in agony.
    He gets away with just the conceding of a foul here, but almost certainly would be receiving a yellow card if this were the Premier League.
    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Lewandowski ‘wants to leave’ Bayern, Harry Kane to Man City LATEST, Cristiano Ronaldo updates- transfer news

    ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI has told Bayern Munich he wants to play abroad before the end of his career.The Polish striker, 32, says he is happy at the serial Bundesliga winners, but wants to experience football in a different country at some point.
    Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has taken to Instagram to furiously deny rumours that he will join Real Madrid.
    Meanwhile Harry Kane will miss Tottenham’s Europa Conference League tie vs Pacos de Ferreira, with Man City yet to meet Daniel Levy’s asking price.
    Kane has held talks with new Spurs boss Nuno Espirito Santo over breakfast at Tottenham’s training ground, though the Portuguese does not yet have a return date in place for the captain.
    And Tammy Abraham has been praised by Jose Mourinho after completing his transfer to Roma.

    BETTING SPECIAL – GET £60 IN FREE BETS FOR THE NEW PREMIER LEAGUE WITH WILLIAM HILL
    ⚽️Dream Team 2021/22 – pick a team now for the chance to win £100⚽️

    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    GUNNING FOR HIM
    Aaron Ramsdale has been targeted with a torrent of vile abuse by ‘pathetic’ Arsenal ‘fans’, writes DAVE FRASER.
    It’s forced the Gunners’ transfer target to limit who can comment on his Instagram posts.
    The England stopper, 23, is now just hours away from signing for the Gunners in a £30million move from Sheffield United.
    Ramsdale is expected to sign his contract at the Emirates on Thursday after the two clubs agreed on a fee on Wednesday evening.
    The move has been widely panned by pundits in recent weeks.
    Jamie O’Hara claimed selling Emiliano Martinez for £20m and signing Ramsdale for £30m a year later was a mistake.
    The talkSPORT star is not alone either, with others suggesting spending £30m for a ‘backup’ goalkeeper is paying over the odds.
    But a small section of sick Arsenal supporters have gone too far, trolling and even appearing to threaten Ramsdale on Instagram.

    TCHOU OF CLASS
    Man Utd are interested in signing French midfield sensation Aurelien Tchouameni, according to reports.
    And could launch a late move to sign the £34m-rated Monaco midfielder.
    According to journalist Duncan Castles on the Transfer Window Podcast, with Paul Pogba’s current contract situation – United are preparing for the possibility of life after the Frenchman.
    Castles said: “Manchester United, [Tchouameni] very much falls within their scouting remit.
    “The targeting of that kind of younger cadre of players who can develop into top stars has been more of a focus in recent years.
    “He is an obvious fit for Manchester United if the change in midfield happens that we’ve been talking about for so long, which is that Paul Pogba doesn’t sign a new contract at Man Utd or is sold this summer.
    “Again, most likely avenue for that to happen is Paris Saint-Germain at present.
    “Then you bring in Tchouameni who would certainly be much lower maintenance than Pogba, should be more consistent in his performance.
    “If they have that space in their squad created by Pogba, then Tchouameni is one of the options to replace.
    “He would be cheaper than options like Declan Rice, who has been mentioned as an option for them. I’m told Monaco value him at around €40m.”
    DEAL TO BE DONE
    Former Arsenal player Kevin Campbell believes there’s a deal to be done should Barcelona come calling for club captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
    It is believed that the cash-strapped LaLiga giants are willing to offer Philippe Coutinho as part of the deal.
    But Campbell would rather see the Gunners sign others from Barca.
    He told Football Insider: “Coutinho has suffered a lot of injuries.
    “On his day he’s world-class, the problem is there haven’t been many of those days in the last 18 months. 
    “That’s a big risk. If Aubameyang wants out, Barcelona want to use trades. 
    “Even if it’s not Coutinho, Barcelona have a good right back, they have a good goalkeeper in Ter Stegen. 
    “I don’t think Coutinho is the answer but there are plenty of other players who we could take. 
    “If Barcelona come in for Aubameyang, there is a deal to be done. Arsenal hold the cards.
    “But another attacker? No, not for me.”
    LUUK AT THAT
    West Ham are interested in signing Sevilla forward Luuk De Jong, according to reports.
    90Min are reporting that De Jong is on the Hammers’ radar, who are frantically trying to find a striker before the transfer window slams shut at the end of the month.
    The 30-year-old is a potential option for the Hammers, with Michail Antonio proving unreliable at staying fit.
    And Antonio is set to change his international allegiances to Jamaica, adding more fixtures to the already stacked calendar for the forward.
    Credit: Getty
    MILAN MOVE OVER
    AC Milan look set to throw in the towel in their pursuit of Hakim Ziyech, according to reports in Italy.
    Calciomercato claim the club believe it will be impossible to secure a loan move for the winger with Thomas Tuchel keen on seeing the player return to action.
    The news comes as the winger, who had a decent pre-season, continues his recovery from a shoulder injury sustained during Chelsea’s Super Cup win against Villarreal.
    And it is reported Tuchel sees the forward, 28, who battled with knee and hip injuries last season, as being part of his plans for the Blues’ campaign this term.
    Before his side’s defeat of Crystal Palace, Tuchel said: “The situation (with Ziyech’s injury) is we don’t need surgery, which is very good news for this kind of problem.
    “We hope it will continue like this and he will be back on the pitch within the next two weeks. We hope this, we cannot promise, but this is what we hope.”

    ‘MORE GOOD THINGS’
    Kylian Mbappe has more chance of signing for Real Madrid after Lionel Messi’s move to Paris Saint-Germain.
    That is according to Los Blancos midfielder Toni Kroos.
    Speaking to his brother on their podcast Einfach mal luppen, the German said: “We’ll see how it all works out (Messi to PSG).
    “Maybe the move is good for us because our biggest competitor has lost their best player.
    “And maybe even more good things will come out of it as a result.
    “Maybe [a player] from Paris joins us… If that (Mbappe joining Madrid) should actually happen – I don’t know – this whole Messi deal would certainly not be a disadvantage for us.”

    TOR BLIMEY
    Arsenal flop Shkodran Mustafi has been thrown a career lifeline by Torino, according to reports.
    The Gunners paid Valencia £35million for the German international in 2016.
    However centre-back Mustafi, 29, failed to live up to expectations and made a series of high-profile blunders.
    He was released in February and joined Schalke, but the German club let him go following their relegation from the Bundesliga.
    Reports in Italy and Germany now claim Mustafi’s father – who acts as his agent – has held talks with Torino officials.
    The former Everton youngster is understood to be seeking a three-year deal worth around £5m.
    Serie A Torino are seeking a new central defender after French stalwart Nicolas Nkoulou’s contract expired.

    TIME TO STRIKE
    Manchester City remain odds-on to sign Harry Kane this summer despite Tottenham’s reluctance to let him go.
    City are still keen to add Kane and could go as high as £150m to get him.
    And Betfair have priced City at 4/6 to get their man.
    He is 11/10 to stay where is and not leave Tottenham.
    PSG are 25/1 to sign him this summer while Manchester United are 33/1.
    Harry Kane next club – Betfair odds

    Manchester City – 4/6
    Remain at Tottenham – 10/11
    Paris Saint-Germain – 25/1
    Manchester United – 33/1
    Chelsea – 40/1
    Real Madrid – 40/1
    Liverpool – 40/1

    BETFAIR – GET £20 IN FREE ACCAS*

    RACE AGAINST TIME
    Arsenal face a race against time to complete the signings of Martin Odegaard and Aaron Ramsdale if they are to make the squad for this weekend’s clash with Chelsea.
    The Gunners are on the brink of completing £30million deals for the attacking midfielder and goalkeeper from Real Madrid and Sheffield United respectively.
    Mikel Arteta is hoping to bolster his squad following his side’s shock Premier League opening day defeat the hands of newly-promoted Brentford.
    But Arsenal next go up against rampant Chelsea at the Emirates on Sunday.
    And should Arteta want Odegaard and/or Ramsdale to make the match-day squad, they must be registered by midday on FRIDAY.

    M-ORE TO COME
    Tottenham will make an approach for Wolves star Adama Traore if Harry Kane leaves the club, according to reports.
    The Spanish winger enjoyed considerable success under new Spurs boss Nuno Espirito Santo during his time at Molineux.
    According to the Daily Mail, Wolves are bracing themselves for an offer from Tottenham for Traore if Kane joins Manchester City.
    Kane, 28, has been linked with City for weeks and Spurs can expect a windfall of around £150million if the deal goes through.
    Traore, 25, has flourished at Wolves since joining the club in August 2018 – and much of that has to do with his former coach Nuno.
    The winger struggled to show his best before moving to Wolves, enduring tricky spells at Barcelona, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough.
    Traore is now one of the brightest talents in the Prem and a six-cap Spain international, earning a place in Luis Enrique’s squad for Euro 2020.
    The Wolves ace has two years left on his existing deal and is thought to be valued at £45m – around a third of what Spurs could receive for Kane.

    HARV DECISION
    Harvey Barnes says committing himself to Leicester City for the next four years was a no-brainer – despite being linked with a big-money move to Liverpool.
    Barnes credits Rodgers for giving him the confidence and desire to produce an end product to his scintillating wing play.
    He revealed: “It’s something that he spoke to me about.
    “He said: ‘You’re doing really well, but you need to make sure that as an attacking player, your stats match your performance’.
    “Last year, they did do that, so I think he’s had a really big impact on me on that side of the game, and tactically as well. He has the same effect on everyone.
    “I’ve been here for so many years now, it feels like home. For me, it was a no-brainer – of course, I wanted to extend my stay here.” 

    MO MONEY
    Liverpool have allegedly started talks with Mo Salah to make him the best-paid player in their history.
    The Egyptian superstar, who currently pockets £200,000-a-week, is allegedly in negotiations over a new four-year contract.
    Salah, 29, is under contract until 2023 but the Reds want him to commit his future to them for a further two years.
    That is according to The Athletic, who state it will be a record-breaking deal for the Merseyside club.
    Virgil van Dijk is currently the Reds highest-earner on around £220,000-a-week deal.
    But Liverpool’s sporting director Michael Edwards is currently on a contract extension spree.
    He has already sealed extensions for the defender, Alisson Becker and Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer.

    FAN OF RAM?
    Arsenal are close to signing Sheffield United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale in a deal worth up to £30million.
    The proposed move has divided opinion among Gunners fans, with many not seeing him as an upgrade on current stopper Bernd Leno.
    Arsenal have been chasing Ramsdale for weeks and have reportedly agreed an initial £24m fee with the Blades, rising to £30m with add-ons.
    The former England youth international was left out of United’s squad for their 4-0 Championship defeat to West Brom on Wednesday evening.
    SunSport considers whether Ramsdale is an improvement on Leno – Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper for the last three seasons.

    FER REAL
    Rio Ferdinand would have left Arsene Wenger with a big selection headache, had he signed for Arsenal in 2014.
    The transfer was on the cards after the defender left Manchester United and approached the Gunners about a potential move to North London.
    Alas, Wenger rejected the opportunity and Ferdinand has admitted that he would have struggled to help the club’s pursuit of silverware.
    He told his YouTube channel: “The maddest thing is I thought about [joining] Arsenal.
    “I said, ‘Arsene, listen, I am leaving Man United and if you want, I will come and try and help the dressing room etc. because I think you need help in that department’.
    “‘I will obviously play but, more importantly, I will come for the culture’.
    “He didn’t take me up on the offer and he was right because my performances at QPR weren’t up to the levels.
    “But in the changing room, I believe I could have helped him, because that is where a lot of the culture derives from.”

    RAMSDALE HELL
    Aaron Ramsdale has been forced to limit who can comment on his Instagram posts after receiving a torrent of vile abuse from Arsenal ‘fans’.
    The England stopper, 23, is now just hours away from signing for the Gunners in a £30million move from Sheffield United.
    Ramsdale is expected to sign his contract at the Emirates on Thursday after the two clubs agreed on a fee on Wednesday evening.
    The move has been widely panned by pundits in recent weeks.
    But a small section of sick Arsenal supporters have gone too far, trolling and even appearing to threaten Ramsdale on Instagram.
    In a stomach-churning thread, one fan wrote: “Burn in motherf***ing hell you piece of s***, stay far away from Arsenal.”
    Another sick troll said: “F*** off man. We don’t want you at Arsenal. Trust me you’ll be getting abuse every day.”

    LEW IS WORTH IT?
    TWO of Europe’s finest strikers – Harry Kane and Robert Lewandowski – reportedly want to leave their respective clubs this summer.
    Both are rated at more than £100MILLION and guaranteed to score a shed load of goals for their team – but who is better value for money?

    UG-ED OFF
    French giants Marseille are interested in signing Chelsea youngster Ike Ugbo on a permanent deal, according to reports.
    It’s believed Belgian side Genk have an agreement in place to sign the 22-year-old striker but the deal is yet to be finalised.
    According to transfer wizard Fabrizio Romano, Marseille are trying to hijack Ugbo’s permanent move to Genk.
    Genk had reportedly agreed a £4million transfer fee with Chelsea for the former England youth international but the deal isn’t complete.
    That’s allowed Marseille to allegedly swoop in at the last minute, with a potential bidding war on the horizon.
    It’s thought Ugbo will leave Stamford Bridge for good this summer and numerous clubs have been linked with him in recent weeks.
    Ugbo (left) is a reported target for Marseille
    WHO ARE YA?
    Tottenham take on Pacos de Ferreira in their first-ever Europa Conference League game – but who are the Portuguese club?
    Spurs slipped into the third tier of European football after finishing a lowly seventh in the Premier League last term.
    On top of that, Nuno Espirito Santo may be forced to make do without Harry Kane, with the striker angling for a move to Manchester City.
    Kane, 28, did NOT board the plane to Portugal for Thursday night’s game, with Tottenham forced to do without him – just like for the 1-0 league win over City at the weekend.
    There are a lot of question marks surrounding Spurs this season.
    But for now the biggest question is: Who are Pacos de Ferreira?
    We take a look…

    GUNNAR CHANGE?
    Brendan Rodgers is favourite to replace Mikel Arteta at Arsenal again.
    Rodgers was momentarily replaced by Eddie Howe as the leading contender with the bookmakers this week.
    But the Leicester boss is back to into top spot at Evens with Betfair.
    Howe has moved out to 3/1 while Antonio Conte, who left Inter Milan after winning Serie A, is 6/1.
    Other contenders include Ralph Hasenhuttl, Roberto Martinez and Gian Piero Gasperini.
    Arsenal next manager
    Betfair odds

    Brendan Rodgers Evens
    Eddie Howe 3/1
    Antonio Conte 6/1
    Ralph Hasenhuttl 11/1
    Roberto Martinez 14/1
    Gian Piero Gasperini 14/1
    Paulo Fonesca 14/1
    Freddie Ljungberg 16/1

    NO GO LAUTARO
    Lautaro Martinez is rumoured to be on the verge of dashing Arsenal’s and Tottenham’s hopes of signing him, according to reports. 
    The Argentina forward is thought to be close to agreeing new terms with Inter Milan that will see him stay at the Serie A club for the next five years. 
    And Sky Sports Italia say the striker has undergone ‘positive’ talks with Nerazzurri officials which are believed to have been in the offing for weeks.
    The claims come amid speculation that Tottenham had agreed to a £60million deal with the Italian giants to bring the player to North London. 

    GUNNER SWAP
    A potential swap deal involving Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin and Atletico Madrid’s Kieran Trippier is reportedly ‘a genuine prospect’ this summer window.
    The 26-year-old Gunners ace is growing increasingly frustrated with life under Mikel Arteta and has been linked with a move away for several months.
    He was an unused substitute for the club’s defeat at newly-promoted Brentford on Friday.
    Bellerin wants to return to Spain and both Atletico and Barcelona are keen.
    Arteta is believed to be keen on getting a player in exchange for the full-back, with both Trippier and Barca’s Emerson mentioned as potential options.
    Now Football London claims the Bellerin and Trippier swap is ‘a genuine prospect’.
    And Arsenal forward Alexandre Lacazette could also reportedly be used in a possible exchange package.

    LEW MOVE
    Manchester City are the 3/1 favourites to land Robert Lewandowski after it emerged today he wants to leave Bayern Munich.
    The Poland striker, 32, is said to want a new challenge and is keen on a move away from Munich.
    And Betfair have priced City as 3/1 to snap him up as they look to bring in a striker to replace Sergio Aguero.
    Robert Lewandowski next club – Betfair odds

    Manchester City – 3/1
    Real Madrid – 12/1
    PSG – 16/1
    Manchester United – 16/1
    Liverpool 25/1
    Juventus 25/1
    Barcelona 33/1
    Tottenham 33/1
    Chelsea – 33/1

    HOUSSE HUNTING
    Tottenham have joined Arsenal in the chase for Lyon star Houssem Aouar, reports claim.
    The Mirror says Spurs are set to make a late transfer move for the midfielder who has been heavily linked with an Emirates switch.
    The club’s bid has been given a boost by news that Arsenal are close to finalising a £30million agreement with Real Madrid for Martin Odegaard.
    That would see the Norway playmaker Martin Odegaard return to the Gunners following his loan spell in the side last term. 
    Aouar, 23, is thought to be a target for a number of teams in the Prem and Europe, with Patrick Vieira’s Crystal Palace among them.

    SUB-STANDARD WORK
    AFC Wimbledon have hired an innovative new ‘substitution’ coach to analyse the impact subs are having in games.
    Sammy Lander has been appointed by the League One club, who are gaining a reputation for their unique coaching methods.
    According to the Training Ground Guru, Lander was given the job after pitching the idea to Wimbledon.
    He’d researched the effectiveness of subs in the EFL, analysing the way they’d been utilised and judging their success using a points-based system.
    The London club was intrigued by the idea and he’s been on the bench for their League One fixtures against Charlton, Doncaster and Bolton.
    The coach is also doing some part-time work at the training ground during the week as Wimbledon look to make marginal gains in the third tier.

    LEW BLOW
    Robert Lewandowski reportedly wants to quit Bayern Munich with the club wanting at least £100m for him.
    The Polish striker allegedly wants a new challenge after seven years with the German giants.
    Sky Sports News claims they have been told Lewandowski, who turns 33 on Saturday, is happy at Bayern.
    But he wants to secure a move to another top European club before the age of 35.
    Bayern are playing hardball with their hitman, however, and will only do business for at least £100m.
    Lewandowski still has two years remaining on his contract and his club’s valuation is likely to price him out of a departure this summer.
    Bayern still have not offered any extension to his current deal.

    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Harry Kane to Man City LATEST, Cristiano Ronaldo angrily denies Real Madrid transfer talk, Abraham joins Roma

    CRISTIANO RONALDO has taken to Instagram to furiously deny rumours that he will join Real Madrid.Meanwhile Harry Kane will miss Tottenham’s Europa Conference League tie vs Pacos de Ferreira, with Man City yet to meet Daniel Levy’s asking price.
    Kane has held talks with new Spurs boss Nuno Espirito Santo over breakfast at Tottenham’s training ground, though the Portuguese does not yet have a return date in place for the captain.
    And Tammy Abraham has been praised by Jose Mourinho after completing his transfer to Roma.

    BETTING SPECIAL – GET £60 IN FREE BETS FOR THE NEW PREMIER LEAGUE WITH WILLIAM HILL
    ⚽️Dream Team 2021/22 – pick a team now for the chance to win £100⚽️

    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    RUBE AWAKENING
    SunSport Exclusive by Daniel Cutts
    Manchester City are in talks with Ruben Dias over a bumper new contract — just a year after he joined.
    The defender had a stunning first season with the club, winning the Premier League Player of the Year award.
    The Portugal star, 24, helped Pep Guardiola’s side to another title and Champions League final before playing at Euro 2020.
    And SunSport understands discussions have already begun over improving his £90,000-a-week wages.
    The Premier League champions would also look to add an extra year on his deal.
    That would take him to the end of the 2026-27 campaign.
    Ruben Dias is in line for a bumper new Man City deal just one year after joining
    DEAL ME OUT
    Kenedy has joined Michy Batshuayi and Emerson Palmieri in signing a new Chelsea contract – even though the first two are being loaned out for a FIFTH time.
    The Blues are keeping up the fringe trio’s transfer value by extending their deals.
    But Brazilian winger Kenedy, 25, is off for a season with home country champions Flamengo.
    And Belgium striker Batshuayi, 27, who had two temporary spells with Crystal Palace, will spend the campaign with Turkish giants Besitkas.
    It’s thought Chelsea are looking to offload Emerson, also, 27.
    Forgotten man Kenedy featured for the Blues in pre season
    COMMON KURT-ESY
    Tottenham are interested in signing Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma, according to reports.
    The Frenchman has largely been out of the Blues’ starting XI since Thomas Tuchel’s arrival in January.
    Spurs and Chelsea have had a fractious relationship in recent years.
    But according to Bild’s Christian Falk, the Blues would be willing to flog the centre-back to their rivals.
    Kurt Zouma challenges Son Heung-min during a recent friendlyCredit: Getty
    A-MAD DECISION
    Man United starlet Amad Diallo is set to go out on loan, according to reports.
    The Ivorian starlet impressed at times last term, but the Red Devils want him to gain another season of experience before giving him more game time.
    Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said on his Here We Go podcast: “Amad will go on loan, it is confirmed.
    “He has a proposal from Basel but also from Premier League clubs – Crystal Palace, Sheffield United. Many clubs are interested in Amad but he’s not decided yet.
    “He wants Premier League football so let’s see what happens.”
    Amad Diallo is set to go out on loan
    AU GO ON THEN
    Manchester United are interested in AS Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, according to reports.
    The French side are said to value the 21-year-old at around £34m.
    Transfer expert Duncan Castles said: “Manchester United, [Tchouameni] very much falls within their scouting remit.
    “The targeting of that kind of younger cadre of players who can develop into top stars has been more of a focus in recent years.
    “He is an obvious fit for Manchester United if the change in midfield happens that we’ve been talking about for so long, which is that Paul Pogba doesn’t sign a new contract at Man United or is sold this summer.
    “Again, most likely avenue for that to happen is Paris Saint-Germain at present.
    “Then you bring in Tchouameni who would certainly be much lower maintenance than Pogba, should be more consistent in his performance.
    “If they have that space in their squad created by Pogba, then Tchouameni is one of the options to replace.
    “He would be cheaper than options like Declan Rice, who has been mentioned as an option for them. I’m told Monaco value him at around €40m.”
    Aurelien Tchouameni is on Man Utd’s radar
    WHERE THERE’S A WILL
    Manchester United full-back Brandon Williams is set to join Norwich City on loan, according to reports.
    The youngster burst onto the scene at Old Trafford during the 2019-20 campaign.
    But opportunities were at a premium last term, following the arrival of Alex Telles.
    On Williams’ situation, The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell confirmed that a loan deal with Norwich is set to be sanctioned after this weekend’s clash with Southampton.
    Brandon Williams is set to leave Man Utd on loan
    LOC AND LOADED
    Juventus have officially announced the signing of Italy star Manuel Locatelli from Sassuolo.
    The midfielder, 23, was linked with Arsenal earlier in the window.
    But the Euro 2020 star only wanted to go to Juve, and has penned a five-year deal.

    RAM RAID
    Arsenal are on the verge of signing Sheffield United goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, according to reports.
    The Blades were initially after £40million for the stopper.
    But according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the Gunners have settled on a fee of £24m, plus £6m in potential add-ons.
    Ornstein adds that these add-ons are likely to only come into play if Ramsdale becomes Arsenal’s first choice.
    The 23-year-old has been offered a four-year deal with an option for a fifth.
    Aaron Ramsdale is set for a move to Arsenal
    FANNING THE FLAM
    Andreas Pereira is set to join Brazilian side Flamengo, according to reports.
    The midfielder is rather a forgotten man at Man United, having spent last season on loan at Lazio.
    He resurfaced in pre-season, scoring a wondergoal against Brentford before being named on the substitutes’ bench for Saturday’s 5-1 rout of Leeds.
    But according to Fabrizio Romano, his time at Old Trafford is set to come to an end for good.
    Manchester United have an agreement in place with Flamengo for Andreas Pereira. Final details to be sorted in order to complete the deal. 🔴🇧🇷 #MUFC #FlamengoIt’s gonna be a loan move, as per @venecasagrande. Flamengo are also in advanced talks to sign Kenedy from Chelsea. #CFC— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 18, 2021

    HOUSS LAUGHING NOW
    Tottenham are reportedly set to swoop for Houssem Aouar, after Arsenal secured the permanent signing of Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid.
    The Gunners have long been linked with Lyon midfielder Aouar.
    But With Arsenal having moved for Odegaard instead, the Mirror claim that the path is now clear for Spurs to sign 23-year-old Aouar.
    The France international has been transfer listed by Lyon supremo Juninho, and previously excelled alongside Tanguy Ndombele in Ligue 1.
    Houssem Aouar could be set for SpursCredit: AFP
    CANDY KANE
    Manchester City target Harry Kane has been pictured training for the first time at Tottenham this season.
    The striker shared an image of himself putting in the hard work on Wednesday afternoon.
    Kane’s snap came after he was left out of Spurs’ squad for tomorrow’s Europa Conference League qualifier in Portugal.
    He wrote: “Another session in the bank.”

    TREASURE HUNT
    Arsenal are continuing to revamp their transfer department with the addition of three new scouts.
    An overhaul was kicked off last year when ten talent spotters were axed by technical director Edu.
    Head of recruitment Francis Cagigao, France scout Ty Gooden and head of youth scouting Steve Morrow were all let go in the space of a few months.
    Last month, a trio of new scouts began working for the Gunners with the aim of bringing in hidden gems.
    Former Manchester United employee Romain Poirot will look after Arsenal’s French network.
    Now in charge of Arsenal’s Spanish scouting system is former Andorra international Toni Lima.
    And James Ellis has also joined Arsenal to help scout the domestic market, with all three starting their work for the club in July.
    LIKE IKE
    Marseille have entered the race to sign Chelsea striker Ike Ugbo, according to reports.
    Belgian side Genk were thought to be in the driving seat for the 22-year-old.
    But according to Football Mercato, Ugbo has been offered to Marseille after scoring 16 goals on loan at Cercle Brugge last season.
    Ike Ugbo has previously starred for Chelsea’s youth teamsCredit: Reuters
    SOD’S LAU
    Inter Milan have today held contract talks with Lautaro Martinez’s agent.
    The Argentine has been linked with a move away from San Siro, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that Spurs and Atletico Madrid have had bids rejected.
    But the Italian reports that Martinez’s extension is edging closer, and is likely to be completed in the weeks ahead.
    Lautaro Martinez is set to extend his contract at Inter MilanCredit: Getty
    EMER DEAL
    Chelsea have EXTENDED Emerson Palmieri’s contract despite desperately trying to offload the defender, according to reports.
    The Italian left-back, 27, is currently third choice behind Ben Chilwell and Marcos Alonso at Stamford Bridge.
    Thomas Tuchel is eager to offload Emerson this summer, with Napoli and Lyon keen.
    But in a desperate bid to avoid losing the Euro 2020 winner for nothing, Chelsea have extended his contract, say Foot Mercato.
    Emerson is out of contract at the end of this season, with the Italy ace able to quit on a free on July 1, 2022.
    But Chelsea are still hoping to recoup the £17million they spent to sign him from Roma in 2018.
    Tuchel and Co will continue to look for a new home for Emerson, with Lyon and Napoli in hot pursuit.

    PHIL HIS BOOTS
    Philippe Coutinho has reportedly been offered Lionel Messi’s No 10 shirt at Barcelona after his move to Paris Saint-Germain.
    Coutinho’s own future at Barca is still up in the air with Arsenal linked with the Brazilian.
    According to Mundo Deportivo, former Liverpool star Coutinho – who currently has 14 on his back – has been offered Messi’s prized shirt number at Barca.
    The Spanish giants are still reeling after being unable to hold on to Messi due to their crippling debt.
    Messi made an emotional exit as he signed a huge deal with PSG after the end of his Barca career.
    And Coutinho could now take on his shirt as Barca bid to rebuild after losing the legendary superstar.
    S-MART MOVE
    Martin Odegaard’s move to join Arsenal from Real Madrid is reportedly a ‘done deal’.
    The Gunners are known to be huge admirers of the Norwegian ace following his loan spell last term.
    And now transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has stated that Odegaard will join Arsenal on a five-year deal.
    He tweeted: “Martin Odegaard to Arsenal, here we go and deal confirmed! Permanent move – bit less than €40m [£34m] to Real Madrid.
    “Personal terms already agreed on five years contract.
    “Edu and Arteta wanted Odegaard as only priority since June, strategy was correct… and now, done deal.”
    OLD PALS ACT
    Yannick Bolasie appears to have helped old pal Neil Warnock secure the services of Sporting Lisbon striker Andraz Sporar for Middlesbrough.
    The Slovenia striker, 27, is on Teesside to undergo a medical ahead of completing a loan move that will be turned permanent if the veteran boss secures a record ninth promotion.
    Bolasie, who previously played under Warnock at Crystal Palace, reunited with him last term to spend the second half of the season at Boro.
    And even though that has yet to turn into a longer-term contract, the 32-year-old appears to have put in a good word with his former Sporting teammate about life at the Riverside.
    Speaking to Boropolis podcast, Bolasie said: “He messaged me a few days ago… great striker who’s movement is top notch, quality finisher in the box.
    “[Boro are] Getting a genuine European pedigree striker in, he just needs the service.”

    CITY BREAK
    EXCLUSIVE – Harry Kane expects a breakthrough before the weekend in his bid to join Manchester City.
    Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is playing hardball over the deal but club sources are now resigned to Kane leaving.
    City are understood to be readying a second offer of £120million for the England captain after failing with a £100m bid earlier in the summer.
    Levy is still adamant his star striker is worth closer to £160m.
    But deteriorating relations between the player’s camp and the chairman have hardened the Euro 2020 star’s resolve to go.
    Kane trained with his Spurs team-mates for the first time on Tuesday after doing individual sessions since coming out of Covid isolation on Friday
    MICH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
    Chelsea have announced striker Michy Batshuayi has signed a new deal before joining Besiktas on a season-long loan.
    The Belgian striker was due to become a free agent next year, but he is now tied down at Stamford Bridge until 2023.
    It is his fifth loan moved away from the Blues having enjoyed two separate spells at Crystal Palace.
    And he has also spent time with Borussia Dortmund as well as Valencia.

    WAT’S THE PRICE
    Watford reportedly want to make Torino star Lyanco their tenth signing this summer.
    The Hornets have been in contact with the Serie A side about the Brazilian’s availability, according to Tribal Football.
    And the Premier League new boys are edging closer to completing a £7.5million transfer with Torino for the defender, TF reported.
    They also claim that Lyanco, whose contract ends in 2024, could be up for a switch to the Prem as he’s fallen down the pecking order under Torino’s new boss Ivan Juric.
    The 24-year-old’s been at the club since 2017 and has made 53 appearances during that time.

    UMTOTI
    Tottenham are interested in signing Barcelona star Samuel Umtiti, according to reports.
    The Premier League side are said to have identified the defender as an alternative to Pau Torres, who has reportedly snubbed their advances.
    According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Spurs chief Fabio Paratici is considering a move for Umtiti, 27, after missing out on Torres.
    The Villarreal ace, 24, is believed to have rejected the chance to ply his trade in North London after Tottenham agreed a fee with his employers.
    Torres reportedly wants to play in the Champions League, an accolade Villarreal can offer him this term after winning the Europa League.
    Tottenham are thought to want another centre-back this summer to partner new signing Cristian Romero, signed from Atalanta for £47million
    AOUAR OF NEED
    Arsenal target Houssem Aouar has reportedly been put up for sale by Lyon.
    That is according to French news outlet RMC Sport who have declared that multiple players have been put on the transfer list.
    They state that the Ligue 1 side are looking to offload any players with attitude issues.
    And of those players in the list is Aouar, with the Gunners already in contact with his agent.
    Mikel Arteta is known to be a huge fan of the midfielder with the Spaniard failing to bring him to the Emirates last summer.
    CHERRY PICKED
    Villarreal are reportedly closing in on the signing of Bournemouth winger Arnaut Danjuma.
    The 24-year-old banged in 17 goals in 37 games last term for the Championship outfit, while also providing seven assists.
    And transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has stated that he is now set to head to Spain on a five-year deal.
    He tweeted: “Arnaut Danjuma to Villarreal, done deal and here we go! Total agreement for £20m to Bournemouth. Contract also agreed until June 2026.
    “Danjuma will fly to Spain with his agent in the next hours in order to complete his medical and sign the deal.”
    REAL TRANSFORMATION
    Gareth Bale is ‘loving life’ at Real Madrid again under Carlo Ancelotti.
    The Wales star is back in favour at the club and looks set to play a major role in their challenge for silverware this season.
    Marca’s front page shows a smiling Bale and highlights the dramatic turnaround for the attacker.
    Bale’s career at Real Madrid appeared to be over under Zinedine Zidane as he was completely out of favour.
    But the departure of Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti’s return to Real Madrid has provided a new lease of life for 32-year-old Bale at the club.
    Bale started Real Madrid’s opening 4-1 win at Alaves on Saturday and appears to have the confidence and backing of Ancelotti.

    Load more entries… More

  • in

    Harry Kane to Man City EXCLUSIVE, Cristiano Ronaldo angrily denies Real Madrid transfer talk, Abraham joins Roma

    CRISTIANO RONALDO has taken to Instagram to furiously deny rumours that he will join Real Madrid.Meanwhile Harry Kane will reportedly make his Tottenham return against Pacos de Ferreira in the Europa Conference League, with Man City yet to meet Daniel Levy’s asking price.
    And Tammy Abraham has been praised by Jose Mourinho after completing his transfer to Roma.

    BETTING SPECIAL – GET £60 IN FREE BETS FOR THE NEW PREMIER LEAGUE WITH WILLIAM HILL
    ⚽️Dream Team 2021/22 – pick a team now for the chance to win £100⚽️

    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    CANDY KANE
    Manchester City target Harry Kane has been pictured training for the first time at Tottenham this season.
    The striker shared an image of himself putting in the hard work on Wednesday afternoon.
    Kane’s snap came after he was left out of Spurs’ squad for tomorrow’s Europa Conference League qualifier in Portugal.
    He wrote: “Another session in the bank.”

    TREASURE HUNT
    Arsenal are continuing to revamp their transfer department with the addition of three new scouts.
    An overhaul was kicked off last year when ten talent spotters were axed by technical director Edu.
    Head of recruitment Francis Cagigao, France scout Ty Gooden and head of youth scouting Steve Morrow were all let go in the space of a few months.
    Last month, a trio of new scouts began working for the Gunners with the aim of bringing in hidden gems.
    Former Manchester United employee Romain Poirot will look after Arsenal’s French network.
    Now in charge of Arsenal’s Spanish scouting system is former Andorra international Toni Lima.
    And James Ellis has also joined Arsenal to help scout the domestic market, with all three starting their work for the club in July.
    LIKE IKE
    Marseille have entered the race to sign Chelsea striker Ike Ugbo, according to reports.
    Belgian side Genk were thought to be in the driving seat for the 22-year-old.
    But according to Football Mercato, Ugbo has been offered to Marseille after scoring 16 goals on loan at Cercle Brugge last season.
    Ike Ugbo has previously starred for Chelsea’s youth teamsCredit: Reuters
    SOD’S LAU
    Inter Milan have today held contract talks with Lautaro Martinez’s agent.
    The Argentine has been linked with a move away from San Siro, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that Spurs and Atletico Madrid have had bids rejected.
    But the Italian reports that Martinez’s extension is edging closer, and is likely to be completed in the weeks ahead.
    Lautaro Martinez is set to extend his contract at Inter MilanCredit: Getty
    EMER DEAL
    Chelsea have EXTENDED Emerson Palmieri’s contract despite desperately trying to offload the defender, according to reports.
    The Italian left-back, 27, is currently third choice behind Ben Chilwell and Marcos Alonso at Stamford Bridge.
    Thomas Tuchel is eager to offload Emerson this summer, with Napoli and Lyon keen.
    But in a desperate bid to avoid losing the Euro 2020 winner for nothing, Chelsea have extended his contract, say Foot Mercato.
    Emerson is out of contract at the end of this season, with the Italy ace able to quit on a free on July 1, 2022.
    But Chelsea are still hoping to recoup the £17million they spent to sign him from Roma in 2018.
    Tuchel and Co will continue to look for a new home for Emerson, with Lyon and Napoli in hot pursuit.

    PHIL HIS BOOTS
    Philippe Coutinho has reportedly been offered Lionel Messi’s No 10 shirt at Barcelona after his move to Paris Saint-Germain.
    Coutinho’s own future at Barca is still up in the air with Arsenal linked with the Brazilian.
    According to Mundo Deportivo, former Liverpool star Coutinho – who currently has 14 on his back – has been offered Messi’s prized shirt number at Barca.
    The Spanish giants are still reeling after being unable to hold on to Messi due to their crippling debt.
    Messi made an emotional exit as he signed a huge deal with PSG after the end of his Barca career.
    And Coutinho could now take on his shirt as Barca bid to rebuild after losing the legendary superstar.
    S-MART MOVE
    Martin Odegaard’s move to join Arsenal from Real Madrid is reportedly a ‘done deal’.
    The Gunners are known to be huge admirers of the Norwegian ace following his loan spell last term.
    And now transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has stated that Odegaard will join Arsenal on a five-year deal.
    He tweeted: “Martin Odegaard to Arsenal, here we go and deal confirmed! Permanent move – bit less than €40m [£34m] to Real Madrid.
    “Personal terms already agreed on five years contract.
    “Edu and Arteta wanted Odegaard as only priority since June, strategy was correct… and now, done deal.”
    OLD PALS ACT
    Yannick Bolasie appears to have helped old pal Neil Warnock secure the services of Sporting Lisbon striker Andraz Sporar for Middlesbrough.
    The Slovenia striker, 27, is on Teesside to undergo a medical ahead of completing a loan move that will be turned permanent if the veteran boss secures a record ninth promotion.
    Bolasie, who previously played under Warnock at Crystal Palace, reunited with him last term to spend the second half of the season at Boro.
    And even though that has yet to turn into a longer-term contract, the 32-year-old appears to have put in a good word with his former Sporting teammate about life at the Riverside.
    Speaking to Boropolis podcast, Bolasie said: “He messaged me a few days ago… great striker who’s movement is top notch, quality finisher in the box.
    “[Boro are] Getting a genuine European pedigree striker in, he just needs the service.”

    CITY BREAK
    EXCLUSIVE – Harry Kane expects a breakthrough before the weekend in his bid to join Manchester City.
    Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is playing hardball over the deal but club sources are now resigned to Kane leaving.
    City are understood to be readying a second offer of £120million for the England captain after failing with a £100m bid earlier in the summer.
    Levy is still adamant his star striker is worth closer to £160m.
    But deteriorating relations between the player’s camp and the chairman have hardened the Euro 2020 star’s resolve to go.
    Kane trained with his Spurs team-mates for the first time on Tuesday after doing individual sessions since coming out of Covid isolation on Friday
    MICH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
    Chelsea have announced striker Michy Batshuayi has signed a new deal before joining Besiktas on a season-long loan.
    The Belgian striker was due to become a free agent next year, but he is now tied down at Stamford Bridge until 2023.
    It is his fifth loan moved away from the Blues having enjoyed two separate spells at Crystal Palace.
    And he has also spent time with Borussia Dortmund as well as Valencia.

    WAT’S THE PRICE
    Watford reportedly want to make Torino star Lyanco their tenth signing this summer.
    The Hornets have been in contact with the Serie A side about the Brazilian’s availability, according to Tribal Football.
    And the Premier League new boys are edging closer to completing a £7.5million transfer with Torino for the defender, TF reported.
    They also claim that Lyanco, whose contract ends in 2024, could be up for a switch to the Prem as he’s fallen down the pecking order under Torino’s new boss Ivan Juric.
    The 24-year-old’s been at the club since 2017 and has made 53 appearances during that time.

    UMTOTI
    Tottenham are interested in signing Barcelona star Samuel Umtiti, according to reports.
    The Premier League side are said to have identified the defender as an alternative to Pau Torres, who has reportedly snubbed their advances.
    According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Spurs chief Fabio Paratici is considering a move for Umtiti, 27, after missing out on Torres.
    The Villarreal ace, 24, is believed to have rejected the chance to ply his trade in North London after Tottenham agreed a fee with his employers.
    Torres reportedly wants to play in the Champions League, an accolade Villarreal can offer him this term after winning the Europa League.
    Tottenham are thought to want another centre-back this summer to partner new signing Cristian Romero, signed from Atalanta for £47million
    AOUAR OF NEED
    Arsenal target Houssem Aouar has reportedly been put up for sale by Lyon.
    That is according to French news outlet RMC Sport who have declared that multiple players have been put on the transfer list.
    They state that the Ligue 1 side are looking to offload any players with attitude issues.
    And of those players in the list is Aouar, with the Gunners already in contact with his agent.
    Mikel Arteta is known to be a huge fan of the midfielder with the Spaniard failing to bring him to the Emirates last summer.
    CHERRY PICKED
    Villarreal are reportedly closing in on the signing of Bournemouth winger Arnaut Danjuma.
    The 24-year-old banged in 17 goals in 37 games last term for the Championship outfit, while also providing seven assists.
    And transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has stated that he is now set to head to Spain on a five-year deal.
    He tweeted: “Arnaut Danjuma to Villarreal, done deal and here we go! Total agreement for £20m to Bournemouth. Contract also agreed until June 2026.
    “Danjuma will fly to Spain with his agent in the next hours in order to complete his medical and sign the deal.”
    REAL TRANSFORMATION
    Gareth Bale is ‘loving life’ at Real Madrid again under Carlo Ancelotti.
    The Wales star is back in favour at the club and looks set to play a major role in their challenge for silverware this season.
    Marca’s front page shows a smiling Bale and highlights the dramatic turnaround for the attacker.
    Bale’s career at Real Madrid appeared to be over under Zinedine Zidane as he was completely out of favour.
    But the departure of Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti’s return to Real Madrid has provided a new lease of life for 32-year-old Bale at the club.
    Bale started Real Madrid’s opening 4-1 win at Alaves on Saturday and appears to have the confidence and backing of Ancelotti.

    HAA LA LAND
    Borussia Dortmund boss Marco Rose has declared that striker Erling Haaland could stay at the club beyond next summer.
    That is despite the Norwegian ace boasting a £65million release clause that becomes active in the summer of 2022.
    Rose told SportBild: “He still has a long-term contract with us.
    “Just because the public is constantly talking about him leaving BVB next summer, that doesn’t necessarily have to be the case.
    “In the end, Erling has to decide for himself where he sees his future.
    “In any case, we are happy that he is currently playing for us – and, who knows, possibly it’ll be even more than just one season if we write an extraordinary story here.”
    KYLLING TIME
    Kylian Mbappe has reportedly informed his Paris Saint-Germain team-mates that he WILL be playing alongside them and Lionel Messi this season.
    It has been widely speculated that the French superstar was heading for the PSG exit this summer but he’s now put those rumours to bed, according to AS.
    Despite his plans to stay put in Paris for the next year, the 22-year old does still want to leave the club, AS claim.
    Mbappe’s preferred destination is Real Madrid and it’s likely that he’ll head there when his contract runs out next summer on a free transfer.
    PSG will reportedly let him go as they plan to bring in Cristiano Ronaldo to replace Mbappe.
    And they won’t have to spend a penny on the 36-year-old either as his Juventus contract also runs out next year.
    NUN OTHER
    Sporting Lisbon are reportedly open to selling Everton target Matheus Nunes for just £17.1million.
    The Toffees have been linked with the midfielder throughout the summer but could finally launch a bid after the Portuguese side opened the door.
    Nunes, 22, cost just £425,000 when Lisbon snapped him up from Estoril in 2019 and he has turned into an integral part of their league-winning side.
    The Brazilian midfielder made 39 appearances last year as the capital club claimed their first Primeira Liga title in 19 years, and he also played a part in last month’s Supercup victory over Braga.
    There has long been a sense that Ruben Amorim’s side will be torn apart by European rivals yet no significant sales have taken place.
    Therefore, according to Correio de Manha, Sporting are braced for bids in the final weeks of the window.
    Everton are named as the frontrunners for Nunes’ signature with £17.1m enough to do the deal.

    TORR-PE PARK
    Arsenal outcast Lucas Torreira posted a picture of himself at a theme park DURING their Premier League defeat to Brentford.
    As the Gunners were well on their way to an opening day loss at the Brentford Community Stadium, Torreira uploaded the picture to Twitter.
    The post was captioned: “Enjoying the Parque Warner Madrid [theme park] with family and friends! Thank you very much for the great attention.”
    The timing of the post did not go down well with Arsenal supporters, with one replying: “Arsenal are playing lad, wtf is this?”
    While another tweeted: “Do you know you’re still contracted to us?”
    And one wrote: “I’ll always defend you but Arsenal are playing right now. Just come back already.”

    ME$$I MONEY
    Michael Jordan has made £5million from Lionel Messi’s move to Paris Saint-Germain in just one week.
    Shirts sold out online in just half an hour, with queues weaving around the French capital the next morning as supporters desperately tried to get into the club shop.
    Incredibly, PSG have raked in £100m from Messi jersey sales in the past week.
    And NBA legend Jordan has been a huge beneficiary of that, raking in £5m for himself.
    The Jordan brand is the kit manufacturer of PSG.
    As part of their partnership, the US company takes home five per cent of all jersey sales.
    AMPED UP
    Chelsea defender Ethan Ampadu is reportedly wanted by Newcastle United.
    Steve Bruce has made an enquiry in a bid to bring Ampadu in on a season-long loan.
    According to the Northern Echo, Bruce wants to bring in the versatile defender before the transfer window shuts.
    Ampadu is likely to leave Stamford Bridge this month with little prospect of breaking into Thomas Tuchel’s team.
    The 20-year-old is well down the pecking order at Chelsea and a loan move will help secure him regular football.
    Ampadu made three appearances for Wales at Euro 2020 but his tournament ended early after being sent off in in the group stage defeat to Italy.
    LUKE WHO’S BACK
    Romelu Lukaku trained with his new Chelsea teammates for the first time on Tuesday. 
    The £97.5million striker is preparing to make his second Blues debut on Sunday against Arsenal after rejoining the club from Inter Milan.
    Lukaku, who has revealed Didier Drogba has helped him settle into life at Chelsea once again, was forced to wait to meet his colleagues.
    But after completing his quarantine period following the move from Italy, he was finally given the green light to train yesterday.

    LOOK AT JIM NOW
    Wolves striker Raul Jimenez says it is ‘a miracle’ he is still alive after suffering a horror skull fracture against Arsenal last November.
    A sickening accidental mid-air collision with defender David Luiz left Jimenez unconscious and requiring oxygen on the Emirates pitch.  
    Medics raced to the stricken Wolves striker’s side and stabilised him, applying an oxygen mask and easing him on to a stretcher before speeding him to St Mary’s Hospital, five miles away.
    There, Sophie Camp and her neurosurgery team performed the life-saving operation to relieve the pressure on his brain — actions which eventually helped Jimenez make his long-awaited and miraculous Premier League return against Leicester on Saturday.
    The Mexican star, 30, said: “They told me it was a miracle I was there at all. When the skull fractured the bone broke — and there was a bit of bleeding inside the brain.
    “It was pushing the brain to the inside and that is why the surgery had to be so quick.
    “It was a really good job by the surgeon and doctors, and now, thankfully, I am back. I’m lucky to be alive. What happened to me shows we have to be prepared. It can happen any time.”

    LOC-KED IN
    Juventus have finally reached an agreement for Manuel Locatelli after beating Arsenal in the chase for the Sassuolo star.
    The Premier League side have been linked with the Italian international throughout the summer window.
    But Locatelli’s preferred destination has always been the Bianconeri instead of Arsenal’s more lucrative offer and now his dream switch is set to be completed.
    Several reports in Europe have confirmed that Juventus have agreed to pay Sassuolo £30m for the star.
    Juve have also agreed to initially make it a two-year loan with the obligation to buy for £30m including other potential bonuses.
    That obligation will be activated as soon as Juventus get their first Serie A point of the 2022-23 season.
    GARD OF HONOUR
    Manchester United ace Jesse Lingard could still become a West Ham player before the end of the month, according to transfer guru Dharmesh Sheth.
    Speaking on Sky Sports’ Transfer Show, he said: “All options are on the table for Jesse Lingard.
    “He’s out of isolation now. He was in quarantine for the last week and a bit. He actually came back and scored for Manchester United today in a behind closed doors friendly against Burnley – a 3-1 victory at Old Trafford.
    “Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been quoted as saying that Lingard is in his plans for this season. However, West Ham do remain interested in re-signing Lingard.
    “Remember what he did at the back end of last season. He joined on loan for the second half of last season and broke into the England squad before the end of the season. He almost got into the final Euro 2020 squad as well.
    “I just think there’s every chance West ham will go back in for him before the window is out and then there will be a decision to make, not only for Man Utd but for Jesse Lingard as well.
    “One of the coaches at West Ham, Stuart Pearce has publicly said the ball is in Man Utd’s court, but he’s admitted that West Ham would love to have him back because of what he did last season.”
    Load more entries… More