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      Euro 2020 LIVE: England given 17,000 EXTRA TICKETS for Germany, Bale storms out of interview after retirement question

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      EURO 2020 is rolling on at pace as we reach the last 16 knockout stage!And England will have a home advantage like never before, with no fans from Germany able to travel to Wembley.
      That also means the Three Lions will be given 17 thousand extra tickets for Tuesday’s game.
      Meanwhile Gareth Bale stormed out of an interview following Wales’ 4-0 loss to Denmark after being asked whether he would retire.
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      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      IT’S UNDER WAY: HOLLAND 0 CZECH REPUBLIC 0
      The Czechs have begun brightly against their more fancied opponents.
      For all the action follow our live match blog HERE.
      LIONS MUST BE BOLDER
      Kalvin Phillips has urged England to take ‘more risks’ ahead of their Euro 2020 last-16 clash with Germany.
      The Three Lions will welcome the Germans to Wembley on Tuesday evening for a mouth-watering battle of old enemies.
      England struggled for goals in the group stage, finding the back of the net twice in three matches.
      And Phillips said: “[We have to] be more confident when we’re on the ball and take a few risks. Me personally, as well. I feel like once we do start scoring, I feel like we’ll get a few more.”
      When asked how he’d take more risks, the Leeds star said: “Maybe if I’m on the ball and I’ve got time on the ball to turn and go forward.
      “Obviously I’m new to the team, so I don’t really want to be risking the ball too much and losing a bit of confidence.
      “But at the same time, I’m in a major tournament so I’ve got to show what I can do. So hopefully I can do that in the next game.”
      KO 5PM: HOLLAND VS CZECH REPUBLIC TEAM NEWS
      Atalanta midfielder Marten de Roon replaces Ajax star Ryan Gravenberch as Holland’s only change.
      Holland team: Stekelenburg, de Ligt, de Vrij, Wijnaldum, Depay, van Aanholt, de Roon, Blind, Malen, de Jong, Dumfries.
      The Czechs, captained by West Ham midfield main man Tomas Soucek, make three changes from their 1-0 defeat against England.
      Pavel Kaderabek, Antonin Barak and Petr Sevcik come in for Jakub Jankto, suspended Jan Boril and injured Vladimir Darida.
      Czech Republic XI: Vaclik, Kaderabek, Celustka, Coufal, Kalas, Barak, Holes, Schick, Masopust, Sevcik, Soucek.
      I’M EVRA SO SORRY TO JOLEON
      Patrice Evra has sent out a public apology after making ‘light hearted banter’ about Joleon Lescott’s forehead.
      The Manchester United legend filmed a weird news parody called ‘Pat TV’ on his Twitter page, where he pretended to be a reporter on the European Championships.
      Patrice Evra mocked Joleon Lescott’s forehead
      I have to apologise to @JoleonLescott and his family, the joke was never meant to cause hurt it was only meant as light hearted banter, had I known then what I know now, I would have never of said this. Jo I hope you can accept my apology— Patrice Evra (@Evra) June 27, 2021

      In the video, which is yet to be deleted, Evra discussed Amsterdam, where a last 16 tie between Denmark and Wales was played.
      Former left-back Evra, 40, described the Dutch capital as the city ‘where people like to get as high as Joleon Lescott’s hair line’.
      Ex-City and Everton defender Lescott, 38, has previously explained the scar on his forehead was caused by a severe head injury after he was struck by a car aged just five.
      Less than 24 hours after Evra’s video, he took to Twitter to offer his apologies while claiming he was unaware of the reason for Lescott’s scar.
      He posted: “I have to apologise to Joleon Lescott and his family, the joke was never meant to cause hurt it was only meant as light hearted banter, had I known then what I know now, I would have never (sic) of said this.
      “Jo I hope you can accept my apology.”
      GNABRY SWIPE
      Ex-Arsenal ace Serge Gnabry took a dig at both of the Gunners’ London rivals, Tottenham and Chelsea, ahead of Germany’s clash with England at Wembley.
      Bayern Munich star Gnabry devastated both sides last year in the Champions League and led his team to the top of Europe.
      Gnabry told Bayern Munich’s official website: “So far I’ve done very well when I’ve come back to London, hopefully on Tuesday as well.
      “For me, there’s always a lot of history when we go to England because I still have some friends there as well. Hopefully they’ll be in the stadium.
      “I’ve never played at Wembley before. I personally and we as a team are really looking forward to the game”
      ITALY RECORD
      Italy set a new national record after stretching their unbeaten record to 31 matches with a dramatic 2-1 win against Austria in Euro 2020’s Last 16.
      The Azzurri have broken a record that has stood for 82 years and could extend it in the quarter-finals.
      Vittorio Pozzo was the manager back then as the national team went four years without defeat between October 1935 and July 1939.
      In that time they won their second straight World Cup trophy
      JUR FUNERAL
      Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has warned England that it would be crazy to write his national team off.
      Klopp told BILD: “To write off Germany now, it would be crazy.
      “We played well against France, Portugal we dominated like hardly any other opponent in recent years.
      “We struggled against Hungary, yes. But nothing more happened. Sometimes as a team you need such a game.
      ‘”And now we’re going to make a real go of it on Tuesday”
      FERN BELIEF
      Portugal boss Fernando Santos has hinted that Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes could return to the starting line-up against Belgium despite his disappointing performances against Germany and Hungary.
      Santos said: “We will play according to our principles. We may change some players. Last match, we changed some things but because we felt that thinking of the opponent, but not just that, and about ourselves.
      “We wanted to establish our own pattern. I wanted to bring in new blood to the midfield section. Tomorrow, I don’t think that will be an issue because we have had plenty of rest over the past four days.
      “Today [Saturday], we have the last training session, we never know what is going to happen. We don’t know if everyone will be fit”
      NEVILLE’S BORE-DON
      Gary Neville has had enough of the transfer saga surrounding Jadon Sancho…
      Neville tweeted: “Manchester United closing in on Sancho. Again!
      “A transfer should be a joy and a moment of excitement.
      “I’ve never been more bored by a transfer in my life to the point I feel like he’s already signed and I want to know who is next already. Not the lads [sic] fault at all I should say!”
      Manchester United Closing in on Sancho Again! A transfer should be a joy and a moment of excitement . I’ve never been more bored by a transfer in my life to the point I feel like he’s already signed and I want to know who is next already. Not the lads fault at all I should say!— Gary Neville (@GNev2) June 26, 2021

      KOUND NOT HAPPEN
      Sevilla have reportedly turned down a €45million (£37m) bid for France international Jules Kounde.
      That is according to the Transfer Window Podcast, who claim Kounde is keen on a move this summer after Euro 2020.
      However, the star defender would prefer to join Real Madrid over any other suitor, such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham.
      United head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back in the summer to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back
      GETTY IMAGES
      WHAT’S NEXT?
      England take on bitter rivals Germany on Tuesday in Euro 2020’s Last 16.
      This game brings back plenty of bad memories for the Three Lions, who will look to exorcise the demons of the past against Joachim Low’s men.
      If Gareth Southgate’s side emerges victorious then the quarter-finals await.
      And that is where England will face either Ukraine or Sweden
      TEAM NEWS
      Belgium and Portugal’s clash later today at the Estadio Olimpico de la Cartuja poses as arguably the most highly-anticipating match of the Round of 16.
      Belgium manager Roberto Martinez is set to recall a number of players, such as Jan Vertonghen, Thomas Meunier and Yannick Carrasco after resting them for the final group game against Finland.
      Thorgan Hazard will get a late assessment after picking up a minor knee injury against Denmark.
      Portugal manager Fernando Santos, on the other hand, will wait on Nuno Mendes, who is still recovering from a thigh issue, and the same goes for Nelson Semedo
      COVID UPDATE
      Croatia have suffered a major blow ahead of Monday’s Last-16 clash against Spain in Euro 2020.
      Inter Milan star Ivan Perisic has tested positive for coronavirus and will miss his country’s crucial clash with the Furia Roja in Copenhagen.
      The Croatian Football Federation has confirmed that Perisic will spend 10 days in self-isolation.
      All other players, staff and members of Croatia’s delegation tested negative
      MAKE WAY
      England record goalscorer Wayne Rooney has shared some advice for manager Gareth Southgate ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Germany.
      Rooney wrote in his column at The Times: “After all my championing of Jack Grealish, I wouldn’t play him from the start against Germany.
      “‘He was one of England’s better players against the Czech Republic and it is not that my opinion of him has changed. My thinking is entirely down to how the Germans play. Different opponents demand different approaches and Tuesday’s game is tailor-made for Marcus Rashford — but not Jack.
      “Germany play three at the back with a high line and what they try to do is almost suffocate you. They pass side to side, get the ball in wide areas, come back and go all the way out to the other flank, then get balls into the penalty area. And when you win it, they want you to play a pass to feet because that means — with their line pushed right up — they can go and press you high up the pitch.
      “The more players you have who want to take the ball to feet, the more they can press, so instead of Jack I’d be looking to have runners either side of Harry Kane. My instruction would be to attack the spaces behind their wing backs when they go forward and make runs down the channels to the sides of their centre backs — especially given Mats Hummels’s problems against pace”
      LOT OF CHANCES
      Germany legend Lothar Matthaus believes England have a good chance to beat Germany in Euro 2020’s Last-16 clash, but not if it goes to penalties.
      Matthaus said: “England have a chance to win, but not with penalties.
      “Germany are always very good in penalties. It’s a little bit of a joke between the Germans and the English.
      “If we have to go to a penalty shootout I think Germany is the favourite because then you start to think about what’s happened in the last 30, 40 years, Euro 96 and other penalty shootouts.
      “This is a lot of pressure for the English players – they read the newspapers and they know the stories about penalties.
      “England have the chance to win the game in 90 minutes or 120 minutes but when you go to a penalty shootout I think Germany is the favourite”
      GETTY IMAGES
      SHEAR THING
      Alan Shearer believes England can beat Germany on Tuesday’s Last-16 encounter.
      Shearer told Coral: “England v Germany at Wembley – we’ve heard that somewhere before.
      “Wow, what a game to look forward to. I thought England were much better in their final game against the Czech Republic, certainly in the first half.
      “They have yet to concede a goal in this tournament and have looked strong defensively so that is a huge positive.
      “We just need to get that forward line going a little and start scoring goals and England could be a threat in this tournament. I have no doubt in Harry Kane.
      “His movement was a lot better against the Czechs. I would not be concerned at all by the fact he has not scored yet.
      “He is still going to be a very important player for England in the knockout stages of the tournament.
      “There is going to be just over 40,000 fans at Wembley. The extra 20,000 spectators will make a big difference. The majority will be behind England so it should be a great occasion.
      “Germany have struggled defensively, conceding goals, but they are Germany. You just never know. No surprise, but I think England can do it”
      SHEAR THING
      Alan Shearer believes England can beat Germany on Tuesday’s Last-16 encounter.
      Shearer told Coral: “England v Germany at Wembley – we’ve heard that somewhere before.
      “Wow, what a game to look forward to. I thought England were much better in their final game against the Czech Republic, certainly in the first half.
      “They have yet to concede a goal in this tournament and have looked strong defensively so that is a huge positive.
      “We just need to get that forward line going a little and start scoring goals and England could be a threat in this tournament. I have no doubt in Harry Kane.
      “His movement was a lot better against the Czechs. I would not be concerned at all by the fact he has not scored yet.
      “He is still going to be a very important player for England in the knockout stages of the tournament.
      “There is going to be just over 40,000 fans at Wembley. The extra 20,000 spectators will make a big difference. The majority will be behind England so it should be a great occasion.
      “Germany have struggled defensively, conceding goals, but they are Germany. You just never know. No surprise, but I think England can do it”
      RAPH RIDE
      Manchester United have had a £50million offer rejected for France international Raphael Varane.
      That is because Real Madrid are holding out for an £80m bid for Varane, who is open to moving to United in the summer.
      Red Devils head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back.
      The Manchester giants, though, are reportedly keeping tabs on other players, such as Villarreal’s Pau Torres and Real Madrid’s departing captain Sergio Ramos
      EUROS RETURN
      Euro 2020’s Round of 16 continues today after yesterday’s action.
      Wales were eliminated from the competition after losing 4-0 to a fighting Denmark side.
      Italy and Austria went to extra time and Roberto Mancini’s men extended their three-year undefeated streak.
      The Netherlands will square off with the Czech Republic at 5pm at the Puskas Arena.
      And Belgium lock horns with Portugal in Spain later tonight
      HERE WE GO
      Italy star goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma is heading towards Paris Saint-Germain.
      And the same goes for Chelsea’s reported target Achraf Hakimi, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
      Romano claims an agreement has been reached between the player, PSG and Inter Milan.
      He added that the Blues never made an official offer for the full-back, who will undergo a medical next week
      Achraf Hakimi to Paris Saint-Germain, here we go! Agreement reached tonight – medicals next week. Contract until June 2026. 🔴🔵 #PSGInter will receive €60m + €10m add ons. Chelsea never made an official bid, only talks. 🇲🇦 #CFCDonnarumma and Hakimi will be announced soon.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 26, 2021

      MORE TICKETS
      England supporters are set to scoop up 17,000 extra ­tickets as Germans were forced to stay away from Tuesday’s Wembley clash.
      It will mean almost all the 45,000 COVID-reduced capacity will be cheering on the Three Lions.
      UK quarantine rules mean Germans need five days’ isolation before the game, so could not travel.
      Around 5,000 tickets earmarked for the German FA will be sold to UK residents via UEFA.com within the next 48 hours.
      Up to 11,000 more are already being offered there, and are selling out in minutes
      EUR STAYING
      The Football Association are looking to open formal talks with England manager Gareth Southgate in order to extend his contract.
      In fact, the FA are determined to keep Southgate in charge no matter what happens in Euro 2020’s Last-16 tie with Germany.
      The Three Lions’ boss current deal runs until 2022, which is when the World Cup will be held in Qatar.
      FA’s chief executive Mark Bullingham said: “We’ll get into that formal conversation after this tournament. But if you ask me now I’d say ‘yes we’d like him to carry on’ [beyond Qatar].
      “I think he’s doing a brilliant job. I haven’t said that we’ve offered him a new contract. I haven’t gone into the details of that. But I think on the basis of everything we’ve seen so far he’s doing a great job and we’d like him to carry on doing that.
      “We would love him to carry on, for sure, beyond this contract”
      HIT THE ROAD JACK
      Manchester City seem to be plotting a £100million offer for Aston Villa star Jack Grealish after Euro 2020.
      In fact, it seems like City are willing to break the British transfer record, which currently sits at the £89m Manchester United paid Juventus for Paul Pogba.
      And Grealish’s reps are confident they have the green light for him to leave Villa.
      City head coach Pep Guardiola is desperate to bring the forward to the Etihad this summer as he plots a title defence and to finally win the club’s first Champions League.
      Villa have remained insistent they do not want to offload the 25-year-old, who has four years left to run on his contract.
      But SunSport understands talks with the England star’s agents Stellar over the past few weeks have left his team happy they now have an agreement which would allow the playmaker to quit once the Euros come to an end
      EURO 2020 ROUND-UP
      John Stones says England have been piling on the penalties in practice in case Tuesday’s last-16 Wembley clash with Germany goes to a shootout.
      Current boss Gareth Southgate missed the decisive spot-kick in the Three Lions’ Euro 96 shootout exit against the Germans.
      And centre-back Stone said: “We’ve been practising so much.
      “We’ve been practising on keeping that clear focus of what to do if your turn comes up.”
      It’s about making you as comfortable as possible in that situation.
      “Unless it’s Harry [Kane] or the boys who take penalties for their clubs regularly, it’s a zone that we’ve not stepped into before.”
      Germany are seething at being banned from training at Wembley ahead of Tuesday’s big Euros showdown with England.
      Joachim Low’s squad have had to change their schedule after Uefa ruled no one can use the Wembley pitch outside of matchdays after heavy rain left it on the verge of being damaged.
      Meanwhile, Wales crashed out 4-0 to a superior Denmark side, Dragons’ substitute Harry Wilson picking up a late red card for a foul.
      And below-par Italy needed extra time to KO outsiders Austria 2-1 after a goalless 90 minutes, Azzurri subs Federico Chiesa and Matteo Pessina then netting.
      Tonight Holland face the Czech Republic at 5pm, with Belgium meeting Portugal three hours later.
      PEEK OFFER FOR GLUM WALES’ FANS
      WALES’ sexiest fan has offered glum Dragons supporters 50 per cent off her Only Fans and MySlink accounts.
      Alaw Haf has vowed to raise spirits with a cheeky display after seeing Gareth Bale and Co. crash out of the Euros.

      Wales were thrashed 4-0 by Denmark in their last-16 clash in what was a heartbreaking night for Robert Page’s side.
      Busty brunette Haf watched the game in her local pub, but was left devastated at the final whistle – sharing her evening on Instagram.
      In one Insta story, she shared a clip with the caption: “What a day. What am I gonna do now,” alongside several crying emojis.
      However, in the next story she can be beaming as she promised fans of her channel a treat.
      Earlier, Haf had already said she would give fans 50 per cent off both her Only Fans and MySlink accounts if Wales had won.
      Despite their loss, she stayed true to her word and has gifted subscribers the special offer.
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      Belgium vs Portugal LIVE: Stream FREE, TV channel, team news for big Euro 2020 last-16 clash in Seville – latest updates

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      EURO 2020 will see its first big side knocked out of the competition tonight as Belgium take on Portugal in a huge last-16 clash in Seville.Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo have been in red-hot form all tournament, but one of them will leave the competition when the sides face off this evening.

      Start time: 8pm GMT
      TV/Live stream: ITV 1/ITV Hub
      Belgium XI: To follow
      Portugal XI: To follow

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…

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      What time does Belgium vs Portugal kick off?

      Belgium vs Portugal takes place TONIGHT – June 27.
      The match kicks off at 8pm in the UK and Portugal – 9pm in Belgium and Spain.
      It will be played at Estadio La Cartuja in Seville, Spain.
      The teams last met competitively in Euro 2008 qualifying when goals from Nani and Helder Postiga saw Portugal run out 2-1 winners in Brussels.
      More recently, they draw 0-0 in a friendly in Belgium in 2018.

      What TV channel is Belgium vs Portugal on and can I live stream it?

      Belgium vs Portugal is live on ITV 1.
      Coverage commences at the conclusion of Netherlands vs Czech Republic.
      To stream the game live, head to the ITV Hub.
      RTBF and VRT are the Euro 2020 broadcasters in Belgium while RTP, SIC, TVI and Sport TV have the Portuguese rights to the competition.

      Team news
      Kevin de Bruyne is back to full fitness for Belgium and likely to be partnered by Axel Witsel in midfield.
      Both the Hazard brothers are fit again while Thomas Meunier will hope to keep his place.
      Renato Sanches has excelled for Portugal in all his appearances so far and is likely to earn a starting berth.
      However, William Carvalho is also pushing for a start.
      BEL-POR 🔜
      Tonight’s clash should be one of the best games of the tournament so far.

      GOOD EVENING!
      Hello and welcome to SunSport’s live coverage of Belgium vs Portugal – Euro 2020’s fourth last-16 clash of the tournament.
      Tonight’s game will finally see one of the so-called big boys leave the competition, with some serious star power at risk of having to pack their bags in the morning.
      Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku has been in scintillating form, scoring three times in the group stages… but Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo has been even better.
      Football’s premier superstar has 5 goals in three games so far this summer, including two penalties against favourites France.
      Belgium finished top of their group with 9 points, having overcome Russia, Denmark and Finland in ruthless fashion.
      Portugal, on the other hand, have had it a little tougher.
      Ronaldo and co. have had to squabble for points with France, Germany and surprise package Hungary, who more than put up their share of brave battles throughout the group stage.
      Fernando Santos’ side finished third in their group with just four points, but it 2016 they finished in that same position with a point less before going on to win the tournament.
      But tonight could be their toughest test yet, as No 1 ranked side Belgium look to win their first ever major international tournament.
      So sit back, relax, crack open a cold one and enjoy tonight’s action in Seville.
      We’ll have you covered all the way.
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      Man Utd enter De La Cruz transfer chase, Varane ‘wants £400k in wages’, Sancho ‘tells team-mates he’s joining United’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly keeping tabs on Uruguayan international Nicolas De La Cruz.We’ve also got the very latest on Raphael Varane, with the Red Devils reportedly unable to match his £400k-a-week demands.
      And Jadon Sancho has told team-mates in the England camp he’s heading to Old Trafford this summer.
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      Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
      FOFANA’S A REAL OPTION TO REPLACE VARANE
      Leicester centre-back Wesley Fofana has emerged as a target for Real Madrid to replace Raphael Varane should Manchester United sign the Frenchman.
      The 20-year-old starred in his debut season in England after joining the Foxes in a £36.5million deal from Saint-Etienne last year.
      Fofana featured 38 times under Brendan Rodgers as he helped Leicester finish fifth in the Premier League while also proving instrumental in their FA Cup-winning run.
      And according to Fichajes, he could be on his way out of the King Power Stadium with Carlo Ancelotti said to be eyeing a swoop for the youngster.
      However they state the potential move depends on whether Los Blancos sell Varane, with the World Cup winner heavily linked with a switch to Old Trafford.
      It has been claimed that the four-time Champions League winner, 28, is keen on linking up with the Red Devils.
      Varane has just one year left on his contract in Spain and it remains to be seen whether he will follow Sergio Ramos out the door this summer.
      UTD ED QUEUE FOR CAMAVINGA
      Manchester United have been linked with a move for Rennes wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga.
      That is according to the Daily Mail, who claim United will battle Premier League rivals Arsenal for Camavinga.
      The Red Devils are closing in on top target Jadon Sancho and are already thinking ahead.
      However, the talented French midfielder has also attracted interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain
      MAKE WAY
      England and Manchester United record goalscorer Wayne Rooney has shared some advice for Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Germany.
      Rooney wrote in his column at The Times: “After all my championing of Jack Grealish, I wouldn’t play him from the start against Germany.
      “‘He was one of England’s better players against the Czech Republic and it is not that my opinion of him has changed. My thinking is entirely down to how the Germans play. Different opponents demand different approaches and Tuesday’s game is tailor-made for Marcus Rashford — but not Jack.
      “Germany play three at the back with a high line and what they try to do is almost suffocate you. They pass side to side, get the ball in wide areas, come back and go all the way out to the other flank, then get balls into the penalty area. And when you win it, they want you to play a pass to feet because that means — with their line pushed right up — they can go and press you high up the pitch.
      “The more players you have who want to take the ball to feet, the more they can press, so instead of Jack I’d be looking to have runners either side of Harry Kane. My instruction would be to attack the spaces behind their wing backs when they go forward and make runs down the channels to the sides of their centre backs — especially given Mats Hummels’s problems against pace”
      CAMAVINGA AGENT REACTS
      Rennes ace Eduardo Camavinga’s agent Jonathan Barnett has hinted that the star midfielder could be among his clients set for a big move amid interest from Manchester United and Arsenal.
      Barnett told The Athletic: “It is going to be harder. I’m expecting three or four very big deals of my own that will break a lot of records.
      “Hopefully, they’ll come about. For the smaller clubs, I think there won’t be as many transfers. We have some very good players.
      “We have probably the best young player in the world in Camavinga. We’ve got [Jack] Grealish. We’ve got [Ibrahima] Konate at Leipzig. But then I’ve got over 100 players”
      CAMAVINGA SITUATION
      Rennes star Eduardo Camavinga’s agent has hinted that his client could be on the move during this summer transfer window.
      Camavinga enjoyed a tremendous campaign in Ligue 1 and has thus attracted interest from some of Europe’s top bidders, such as Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
      Reports suggest the star midfielder will be United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s transfer priority after Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho signs with the club.
      According to The Athletic, the France international’s representative, Jonathan Barnett, who also represents Luke Shaw and other elite players, has hinted that the 18-year-old could be on the move this summer
      CAMAVINGA BOOST
      Fabrizio Romano claims Arsenal haven’t made an official bid for Rennes star Eduardo Camavinga.
      In fact, there has been absolutely no contact between the player and the Gunners.
      That works as a boost for Manchester United, who are set to meet up with the midfielder’s reps next week.
      More below:
      Arsenal now working to sell players, then… new signings soon. ⚪️🔴 #AFCGuendouzi wants to join OM, Xhaka deal with AS Roma at final stages. Price tag around €20m for Bellerin, same for Torreira [not advanced with Lazio].Camavinga-Arsenal: there’s nothing, not even talks.— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 27, 2021

      FERN BELIEF
      Portugal manager Fernando Santos has hinted that Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes could return to the starting line-up against Belgium despite his disappointing performances against Germany and Hungary.
      Santos said: “We will play according to our principles. We may change some players. Last match, we changed some things but because we felt that thinking of the opponent, but not just that, and about ourselves.
      “We wanted to establish our own pattern. I wanted to bring in new blood to the midfield section. Tomorrow, I don’t think that will be an issue because we have had plenty of rest over the past four days.
      “Today [Saturday], we have the last training session, we never know what is going to happen. We don’t know if everyone will be fit”
      NEVILLE’S BORE-DON
      Gary Neville has had enough of the Jadon Sancho transfer saga…
      Neville tweeted: “Manchester United closing in on Sancho. Again!
      “A transfer should be a joy and a moment of excitement.
      “I’ve never been more bored by a transfer in my life to the point I feel like he’s already signed and I want to know who is next already. Not the lads [sic] fault at all I should say!”
      Manchester United Closing in on Sancho Again! A transfer should be a joy and a moment of excitement . I’ve never been more bored by a transfer in my life to the point I feel like he’s already signed and I want to know who is next already. Not the lads fault at all I should say!— Gary Neville (@GNev2) June 26, 2021

      WHAT’S NEXT?
      England face bitter rivals Germany on Tuesday in Euro 2020’s Last 16.
      This encounter brings back plenty of bad memories for the Three Lions, who will look to exorcise the demons of the past against Joachim Low’s men.
      If Gareth Southgate’s side emerges victorious then the quarter-finals are next.
      And that is where various Manchester United stars and their English team-mates will face either Ukraine or Sweden
      CAMAVINGA UPDATE
      Manchester United are going to meet with Rennes player Eduardo Camavinga’s reps next week.
      That is according to RMC, who claim United are stepping up their interest for Camavinga after an impressive season in Ligue 1.
      That poses as a blow for Arsenal, who have also been keeping tabs on the France international who has been hailed as the “new Patrick Vieira”.
      Gunners head coach Mikel Arteta is determined to sign a top midfielder to team up with Thomas Partey in the middle of the park
      GETTY IMAGES
      KOUND NOT HAPPEN
      Sevilla have reportedly turned down a €45million (£37m) bid for Jules Kounde.
      That is according to the Transfer Window Podcast, who claim Kounde is keen on a move this summer.
      However, the star centre-back would prefer to join Real Madrid over any other suitor, such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham.
      United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back in the summer to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back
      CAM AND GET HIM
      Manchester United have been linked with a move for Rennes wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga.
      That is according to the Daily Mail, who claim United will battle Premier League rivals Arsenal for Camavinga.
      The Red Devils are closing in on top target Jadon Sancho and are already thinking ahead.
      However, the talented French midfielder has also attracted interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain
      DE-RIBBLE SIGNING
      Former Manchester City and Liverpool player Paul Stewart has criticised Donny van de Beek’s debut season at Manchester United.
      Stewart told the Transfer Tavern: “Van de Beek has not really proved anything in the Premier League yet, has he?
      “I thought when he was coming to United, he was going to be a really great acquisition.
      “Normally they come out of Ajax and they’re straight on the scene and they’re great players”
      VARANE REPLACEMENT
      Manchester United have received a major transfer boost in their bid to sign Real Madrid ace Raphael Varane.
      According to Fijaches, Real are preparing for life after Varane, it seems, and have identified Leicester ace Wesley Fofana as a potential replacement.
      Manager Carlo Ancelotti was impressed with Fofana during his time in the Premier League while in charge of Everton.
      Varane has been linked with a switch to Manchester United and the centre-back is keen on that move
      TRANSFER BOOST
      Brighton star defender Ben White was linked with Manchester United recently following a string of impressive Premier League performances that led to an England call-up.
      United head coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back.
      According to Manchester Evening News, however, the Red Devils were not willing to meet his £50million asking price and are thus focusing their efforts on other defensive targets.
      That paves the way for Arsenal to land their man as they are willing to splash the cash for the 23-year-old defender
      GETTY IMAGES
      VARANE UPDATE
      Manchester United could face a potential setback in their bid to sign Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.
      That is according to The Independent, who claim Varane’s rumoured £400,000-a-week wage demands are said to be a stumbling block.
      The France international, though, is keen to move to Old Trafford in the summer transfer window.
      The star defender is among Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s top centre-back targets as he looks for someone to partner up with Harry Maguire in defence
      NIC HIM AWAY
      Manchester United are reportedly keeping tabs on River Plate star Nicolas De La Cruz.
      De La Cruz has 18 months left on his contract and his form has caught the eye of potential suitors.
      River Plate appear to be demanding a fee between €16million-€20m (£13.75m-£17m) for the attacking midfielder, according to TNT Sports Argentina.
      The Uruguay international has scored once and assisted three goals in 11 league games for River Plate in 2021
      FORD TO BE RECKONED WITH
      Manchester United ace Marcus Rashford could miss the start of his team’s Premier League season should he decide to have surgery.
      Rashford will wait until the end of the Euro 2020 competition to decide whether to undergo an operation on his shoulder.
      The England international said: “It’s either an operation or I don’t get an operation.
      “I’m not 100 per cent sure if I need it yet, so I’ll just take it as it comes.
      “I’ll finish strong here and I’ve got a few weeks off to just relax and decide what I’m going to do”
      RAPH RIDE
      Manchester United have had a £50million offer rejected for top summer target Raphael Varane.
      That is because Real Madrid are holding out for an £80m bid for Varane, who is keen to move to United in the summer.
      Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back.
      The Manchester giants, though, are said to be keeping tabs on other players, such as Villarreal’s Pau Torres and Real Madrid’s departing captain Sergio Ramos
      SAN UTD
      Borussia Dortmund ace Jadon Sancho has told his England team-mates that he’s ‘heading to Old Trafford’, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that Sancho has agreed a five-year, £350,000-a-week deal to join Manchester United.
      According to Tom McDermott, Sancho has confirmed to his Three Lions mates that he’s definitely off to United.
      He adds that the deal is ‘practically done’ and that issues over add-ons have been ‘ironed out’
      GETTY IMAGES
      MORNING, UNITED FANS
      United are closer to signing Jadon Sancho – and a little further from recruiting Raphael Varane.
      That’s if you believe the latest speculation over long-term target Sancho and this summer’s defensive transfer priority Varane.
      It’s suggested Borussia Dortmund’s England wideman Sancho could complete a move for up to £80million next month, with a five-year contract reportedly already agreed.
      But there’s talk France centre-back Varane’s wage demands are a huge stumbling block.
      The Real Madrid star is thought to want about £400,000 a week.
      Everton are in discussions with Juventus to sign United and Arsenal target Merih Demiral, reports say.
      And outgoing Old Trafford keeper Sergio Romero is also being linked with the Toffees, as well as Juve and Celta Vigo.
      Finally, Tottenham are keeping tabs on Sevilla’s Jules Kounde, one of the central defenders rated as an alternative United recruit to Varane 
       And Barcelona legend Samuel Eto’o thinks the Catalans should sign Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos, who has also been rated an option for United and PSG.
      JADON ‘NEARING’ UTD DEAL
      Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Borussia Dortmund ace Jadon Sancho, reports suggest.
      According to Manchester Evening News, sources close to Sancho expect the deal to be completed soon, possibly within the next two weeks.
      The winger has agreed personal terms in principle and an up-front fee of €85million (£73m) has been settled on.
      Dortmund are trying to to extract up to €15m (£13m) in add-ons to complete the deal.
      Negotiations are still ongoing regarding the structure of the payments and the majority of the add-ons have been described as ‘achievable
      KERR-CHING! FOXES TO PAY UP FOR SMITH
      Leicester are ready to meet the asking price for Dundee United’s teenage defender Kerr Smith.
      Boss Brendan Rodgers has moved ahead of Aston Villa, Manchester United and Crystal Palace with an offer for the youngster.
      Smith, 16, made his debut late last season, having appeared aged 15 in a friendly in August 2020.
      He has a clause that means the club must accept a figure of about £500,000 and now it is down to him to decide if he wants to go.
      Dundee United had agreed to sell Smith’s team-mate Lewis Neilson to the Foxes — but the 18-year-old said no.
      It follows the Foxes snapping up 16-year-old Liverpool midfielder Jack Lewis.
      The youngster impressed on trial at Leicester’s academy towards the end of last season.
      It is thought Lewis has agreed a free transfer and a two-year scholarship contract from the new season.
      SPURRED ON BY A HIRO
      Tottenham have set up a £15million swoop for Bologna’s Japanese star Takehiro Tomiyasu.
      The Spurs transfer team are lining up the deal with the Italian outfit ahead of a managerial appointment.
      And they are confident of landing the highly-rated defender.
      Tomiyasu, 22, has been a regular for the Serie A side since 2019 after first playing in Belgium with Sint-Truiden.
      He is desperate to come to the Premier League.
      Spurs think Tomiyasu would be a top player for them and improve a defence that often struggled last season.
      ‘BARCA SHOULD SIGN REAL LEGEND RAMOS’
      Barcelona legend Samuel Eto’o thinks the Catalans should sign Sergio Ramos this summer.
      The Real Madrid legend was released this month after his contract expired and has been linked to Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United.
      But Eto’o, 40, who played for both Spanish giants, is keen for Ramos to do likewise.
      As a PSG fan the Cameroonian would also like Ramos to move to Paris, as he believes the Spaniard could help the club to an elusive first Champions League title.
      But he also suggested that Barcelona ought to make a move for the 35-year-old.
      He told AS: “Hopefully Sergio goes to PSG. If I could sign him for Barca, I would. If he goes to PSG, I will be happy and I know that he will help us win the Champions League, which is proving very difficult for us.”
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      in Motorsport

      F1 Styrian Grand Prix LIVE RESULT: Verstappen eases to victory as Hamilton second with fastest lap at Red Bull Ring

      by

      MAX VERSTAPPEN has won ANOTHER Grand Prix to keep Mercedes’ drought going to four races.The German manufacturers have not gone four races without a victory since 2014 and now they and star driver Lewis Hamilton are starting to worry the title is moving out of reach.
      Verstappen was in red hot form again in Austria as he led from gun to tape and Hamilton gave up on his chance of victory to try for the fastest lap, which he clinched.
      And Valtteri Bottas then held off Sergio Perez for the third spot on the podium.
      Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
      CHEQUERED FLAG
      Thank you for joining us today and we will be back on Friday for practice of the Austrian Grand Prix around the Red Bull Ring.
      Catch up with all the Styrian GP action with Ben Hunt’s race report.
      Credit: Reuters
      GEORGE CRESTFALLEN
      Williams starlet George Russell put his car on the edge of the points in qualifying and reached eighth before an issue wrecked his race.
      Forced into the pits after being told on the radio that he needed to do a two-stopper, he was quickly forced to return and eventually retired.
      Talking to Sky Sports after leaving the garage and looking clearly heartbroken, he said: “It was a very rare pneumatic issue on the car, they’re still looking into it.
      “The team apologised on the radio, there was no need for it. We’re in this together, but it’s frustrating for sure.
      “Racing is cruel sometimes, it’s never straightforward or easy pickings.”
      MAX POWER
      Up next to face the media is Max Verstappen, who is very pleased with his situation but accepts it can all change very quickly.
      He tells Sky Sports: “This race was just very enjoyable.
      “We had good pace and tyre degradation was very good, which is normally a strong point for Mercedes.
      “Next weekend is a different race with softer compounds, naturally I think the teams will be a little closer together.
      “We have a really good car now, I always want to be better and we will keep pushing.”
      FULL RESULTS
      Here is how the Styrian Grand Prix shook down, with just two retirements and only the top four not being lapped by the winner…

      ‘FAR FROM OVER’
      Mercedes chief Toto Wolff says there will be no new upgrades to claw back the Red Bulls.
      He tells Sky Sports: “It’s very interesting, I’m really looking forward to seeing where we can improve for next weekend.
      “It’s not a bad result but what’s tough is that this was the first race in eight years where we’re just lacking the pace.
      “You can see that we’ve stopped developing for this year to focus on next year and they keep adding new bits.
      “Time will tell when you look back in five or tens years whether it is the right decision or not, but it’s not over.”
      HAMILTON AT A LOSS
      Lewis Hamilton, speaking under an umbrella as the rain has finally reached Spielberg, discusses the state of the championship on Sky Sports.
      He says: “I can’t remember the last time we had an upgrade.
      “They clearly have, it’s just eked them ahead. There’s a really long way to go but with speed like that there’s nothing we can do.
      “I’ve got confidence that the team can find something.
      “They’ve spent more money than us this year, maybe we’ve put more on next year – I don’t know. I’m just driving the car to the maximum but we need to try and find some more out of the performance.”
      Credit: Reuters
      THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN
      Charles Leclerc was chewed up in the Turn 1 mayhem and dropped to the back of the pack with a broken wing.
      Yet the Ferrari star fought back to a sterling seventh-place finish to claim the fans’ vote for Driver of the Day.

      LANDO APPEARS
      Not since the first few laps of the race have we seen Lando Norris, who came home fifth after surrendering his early podium spot to Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez.
      After subsequently cruising home, the slightly bemused Brit tells Sky Sports: “A bit of a lonely, straightforward race.
      “Which is quite good but you always want more, until you get to P1.
      “I have to be happy but days like today, although you want more, are the ones you’ll be thankful for when you look back on it.”
      SAINZ SATISFIED
      Carlos Sainz came home sixth but feels it could have been more having found himself behind Lewis Hamilton, attempting to unlap himself.
      The Merc eventually moved aside although Sainz was too far ahead to challenge.
      The Spaniard tells Sky Sports: “A very good day in the office.
      “A very weird scenario as I was on very fresh Hards, I knew I could catch Lando but I was stuck behind Lewis.
      “Eventually I was able to unlap myself. I spent 15 laps behind him, scrubbing my front tyres.”
      Credit: Alamy
      HORNER REACTS
      Red Bull chief Christian Horner is in front of the cameras and heaps the praise on Max Verstappen.
      He tells Sky Sports: “It was an immaculate performance, particularly by Max who managed the race so well.
      “The way he controlled the race, built the gap – that’s the most dominant win we’ve had so far this year against Mercedes.
      “It was a masterclass.”
      CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS
      Two wins in a row mean Max Verstappen holds an 18-point lead over Lewis Hamilton after eight rounds of the 2021 calendar.
      There is still a long way to go but that is almost an entire race worth of advantage for the Dutchman.
      Sergio Perez is still third with Lando Norris keeping fourth after making it three fifth-placed finishes on the spin.
      But Valtteri Bottas now sits just 12 back, before Ferrari men Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz.
      Credit: Reuters
      HERE COMES THE BUBBLY
      Lewi Hamilton *finally* catches Max Verstappen for the first time this afternoon – to douse him in champagne.
      Red Bull supremo Helmut Marko is on the podium to collect the constructors’ trophy, and he gets the bulk of Verstappen’s attention before the winner is caught by his Mercedes rivals.
      All in good spirits of course and attention is quickly turning to the same time in the same place, next weekend…
      NATIONAL ANTHEMS
      The Austrian national anthem rings out around the Styrian hills…
      Max Verstappen has now delivered three victories to his team’s home race.
      WING IT
      Lewis Hamilton pondering Red Bull’s superiority, there.
      It’s the straights where his rivals have found an advantage ‘in the last few races’, says the reigning champ.
      And he adds he doesn’t know whether it’s the Red Bull rear wing or not.
      Fair to say there is a lot of head scratching taking place at the Mercs right now.
      UPGRADE NEEDED
      Lewis Hamilton admits Red Bull ‘are just faster’ following that second-place finish.
      He tells Mark Webber after hopping out the car: “We need to find some performance, we need an upgrade of some sort.”
      VERSTAPPEN WINS
      Back-to-back wins for the first time in his F1 career, and extends his lead at the top of the drivers’ championship.
      He does a wheelspin as he crosses the line. Fabulous drive.
      Hamilton is second and gets a points for the fastest lap.
      Bottas takes third. Perez is fourth, just 0.5 seconds behind when he was 19 seconds at the last top.
      Norris is fifth. Great drive from him.
      FINAL LAP
      Verstappen is closing in on victory….
      MERC STOP HAMILTON FOR TYRES
      He has a free stop. He is going to try and get the fastest lap bonus point. He returns to the race in second place, but 38.7 seconds behind Verstappen.
      PEREZ IS CATCHING BOTTAS
      Six laps to go. Will the Red Bull man get past the Mercedes driver?
      LAP 62/71
      Hamilton is praying for rain. But it is not coming.
      He is 11.6 seconds behind Verstappen.
      HAMILTON WARNED ABOUT TRACK LIMITS
      He has gone wide at turn 10 twice and the stewards have given him a warning. If he does it again, he could get a penalty.
      HAMILTON AT A LOSS TO CATCH VERSTAPPEN
      Mercedes to Hamilton : “Gap to Verstappen is 8.8.” Hamilton: “What do I do? I can’t close that.”
      LAP 55/71
      Perez stops for fresh tyres. This must be an attempt to get the fastest lap. He also now has to hammer it if he is to get past Bottas.
      Will Merc call in Bottas or hope he lasts the distance?

      LAP 50
      Leclerc passes Vettel for 10th place for the final place in the points. Both drivers would have been hoping for better.
      LAP 48/71
      It is Perez v Bottas for third place, which is shaping up to be a great fight for the final podium place.

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      in Soccer

      Italy 2 Austria 1 LIVE REACTION: Azzurri hobble into Euro 2020 quarter-final with tight extra-time win – latest updates

      by

      ITALY made into the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 by the barest of margins with a 2-1 win over Austria at Wembley.The game went to extra-time after a goalless 90 mins but Chiesa and Pessina notched before Kalazdjic pulled one back before the end of the game.

      RESULT: Italy 2 Austria 1 (AET)
      Italy XI: 21 Donnurumma, 2 Di Lorenzo, 19 Bonucci ©, 15 Acerbi, 4 Spinazzola, 18 Barella, 8 Jorginho, 6 Verratti, 11 Berardi, 17 Immobile, 10 Insigne
      Austria XI: 13 Bachmann, 3 Dragovic, 4 Hinteregger, 8 Alaba ©, 21 Lainer, 9 Sabitzer, 10 Grillitsch, 19 Baumgartner, 23 X Schlager, 24 Laimer, 7 Arnautovic

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      Stay up to date with all the action from Wembley in our blog, below…
      THAT’S ALL FOR NOW!
      Italy edge past Austria at Wembley to book their place in the last eight of Euro 2020.
      Extra-time goals from Federico Chiesa and Matteo Pessina put the Italians 2-0 up before Austria pulled a late goal back.
      Italy saw the game out, though, and that’s now 31 games unbeaten for the Azzurri – a new record.
      See you soon for more thrills and spills.
      3 – Tonight’s game between Italy and Austria saw three goals scored in extra-time at the EURO’s for just the second time, after France vs Portugal in 1984. Late. #EUROS2020— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) June 26, 2021

      MANCINI REACTION
      Brief reaction from Italy boss Roberto Mancini following his side’s extra-time victory.
      He said: “We deserved this win.
      “Everyone did well and this victory will do us good.
      “Belgium or Portugal? They’re both extraordinary teams.”
      .Credit: EPA
      HAVE YOUR SAY
      Italy have made it through to the Quarter Finals, where they will face either Portugal or Belgium…

      FT: ITALY 2-1 AUSTRIA
      Italy progress to the quarter-final but they were given one hell of a battle by Austria.
      Ciro Immobile hit the post in the first half before Austria thought they’d taken the lead in the 65th minute only for Marko Arnautovic’s effort to be ruled out for offside by VAR.
      Into extra-time and it was a tale of three substitutes.
      Italy finally made the breakthrough five minutes in when Federico Chiesa chested down a cross and sent a brilliant shot across Daniel Bachmann and into the far corner.
      The lead was doubled in the 105th minute when the ball fell kindly for Matteo Pessina and he picked out the far corner with a left-footed drive.
      It wasn’t over just yet and Sasa Kalajdzic pulled one back with five minutes left when he met a corner and saw his low header find its way in at the near post.
      It was the first goal Italy had conceded for 1,169 minutes but they held on to reach the last eight where they’ll play Belgium or Portugal in Munich.

      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE FINAL WHISTLE GOES!
      ITALY 2-1 AUSTRIA
      120. Chiesa looks to finish it for Italy. He lifts it over the outrushing Bachman but Trimmel gets back to clear. Breathless stuff.
      ITALY 2-1 AUSTRIA
      119. Austria launch it forward. Gregoritsch shoots through a crowd of players but it trickles wide. That could be that.
      ITALY 2-1 AUSTRIA
      115. It’s another substitute – this time Kalajdzic. He meets a Gregoritsch corner and sees his header find its way in at the near post. Game on!
      Italy’s last 12 games in all competitions:4-0 vs. 🇪🇪2-0 vs. 🇵🇱2-0 vs. 🇧🇦2-0 vs. Northern Ireland2-0 vs. 🇧🇬2-0 vs. 🇱🇹7-0 vs. 🇸🇲4-0 vs. 🇨🇿3-0 vs. 🇹🇷3-0 vs. 🇨🇭1-0 vs. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿2-1 vs. 🇦🇹Austria end Italy’s great defensive run. #EURO2020 pic.twitter.com/2rPExn9u86— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) June 26, 2021

      GGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOALLLLLLLLLLLLL AUSTRIA!!!!
      ITALY 2-0 AUSTRIA
      111. What a chance for Sabitzer! His first effort from Gregoritsch’s cross hits his standing foot and then he fires the loose ball over the bar from just a few yards out.
      ITALY 2-0 AUSTRIA
      110. Di Lorenzo embarks on a run from deep but gets all excited as he nears the Austrian goal and shoots well wide.
      ITALY 2-0 AUSTRIA
      108. Insigne departs for Cristante as Italy make another substitution.
      ITALY 2-0 AUSTRIA
      106. Schaub sends a dipping shot towards the bottom right and it’s wonderfully saved by Donnarumma. Imagine if that had gone in.
      ITALY 2-0 AUSTRIA
      106. Two changes for Austria as Gregoritsch and Schaub come on in place of Grillitsch and Schlager.
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!OFF WE GO AGAIN!
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
      HT, ET: ITALY 2-0 AUSTRIA
      It’s half-time in extra-time and surely Italy are progressing to the next stage. You have to feel for Austria but two goals from substitutes Chiesa and Pessina have put Italy in the ascendency.
      ITALY 2-0 AUSTRIA
      105. Surely that’s game over now. The ball falls kindly for substitute Pessina in the area, and he picks out the far corner with a left-footed drive.

      GGGGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLL ITALY!
      ITALY 1-0 AUSTRIA
      104. Insigne goes for goal from the free-kick and forces a terrific save from Bachmann.
      ITALY 1-0 AUSTRIA
      103. Italy break but Hinteregger sticks out a leg and brings down Belotti to go into the book.
      ITALY 1-0 AUSTRIA
      102: Grillitsch sends in a looping cross but Donnarumma is off his line to claim the ball.
      ITALY 1-0 AUSTRIA
      99. Lainer takes aim from distance and shoots miles wide.
      ITALY 1-0 AUSTRIA
      96. Austria respond by replacing Arnautovic with the giant Kalajdzic.
      ITALY 1-0 AUSTRIA
      95. It’s the substitute Chiesa who finally break the deadlock. Spinazzola’s ball across goal is chested down by Chiesa before he wrongfoots Hinteregger and sends a brilliant shot across Bachmann and into the far corner.

      GGGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLLLL ITALY!
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      in Soccer

      Sancho ‘tells England team-mates he is joining Man Utd’, De La Cruz chase, Varane £50m bid rejected, Rashford injury

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED will reportedly complete the transfer of Jadon Sancho once they pay Dortmund an extra £8.5m in add-ons.Personal terms based on a five-year deal worth £350,000-a-week have already been agreed.
      And Sancho has told his future Man Utd team-mates in the England camp he’s joining up soon.
      Meanwhile the Red Devils are said to have had a £50m bid rejected for Raphael Varane.
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      Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
      JADON ‘NEARING’ UTD DEAL
      Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Borussia Dortmund ace Jadon Sancho, reports suggest.
      According to Manchester Evening News, sources close to Sancho expect the deal to be completed soon, possibly within the next two weeks.
      The winger has agreed personal terms in principle and an up-front fee of €85million (£73m) has been settled on.
      Dortmund are trying to to extract up to €15m (£13m) in add-ons to complete the deal.
      Negotiations are still ongoing regarding the structure of the payments and the majority of the add-ons have been described as ‘achievable
      KERR-CHING! FOXES TO PAY UP FOR SMITH
      Leicester are ready to meet the asking price for Dundee United’s teenage defender Kerr Smith.
      Boss Brendan Rodgers has moved ahead of Aston Villa, Manchester United and Crystal Palace with an offer for the youngster.
      Smith, 16, made his debut late last season, having appeared aged 15 in a friendly in August 2020.
      He has a clause that means the club must accept a figure of about £500,000 and now it is down to him to decide if he wants to go.
      Dundee United had agreed to sell Smith’s team-mate Lewis Neilson to the Foxes — but the 18-year-old said no.
      It follows the Foxes snapping up 16-year-old Liverpool midfielder Jack Lewis.
      The youngster impressed on trial at Leicester’s academy towards the end of last season.
      It is thought Lewis has agreed a free transfer and a two-year scholarship contract from the new season.
      SPURRED ON BY A HIRO
      Tottenham have set up a £15million swoop for Bologna’s Japanese star Takehiro Tomiyasu.
      The Spurs transfer team are lining up the deal with the Italian outfit ahead of a managerial appointment.
      And they are confident of landing the highly-rated defender.
      Tomiyasu, 22, has been a regular for the Serie A side since 2019 after first playing in Belgium with Sint-Truiden.
      He is desperate to come to the Premier League.
      Spurs think Tomiyasu would be a top player for them and improve a defence that often struggled last season.
      ‘BARCA SHOULD SIGN REAL LEGEND RAMOS’
      Barcelona legend Samuel Eto’o thinks the Catalans should sign Sergio Ramos this summer.
      The Real Madrid legend was released this month after his contract expired and has been linked to Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United.
      But Eto’o, 40, who played for both Spanish giants, is keen for Ramos to do likewise.
      As a PSG fan the Cameroonian would also like Ramos to move to Paris, as he believes the Spaniard could help the club to an elusive first Champions League title.
      But he also suggested that Barcelona ought to make a move for the 35-year-old.
      He told AS: “Hopefully Sergio goes to PSG. If I could sign him for Barca, I would. If he goes to PSG, I will be happy and I know that he will help us win the Champions League, which is proving very difficult for us.”
      TOFFEES STEAL A MARCH ON UTD AND ARSENAL TARGET
      Everton are in talks with Juventus to sign Manchester United and Arsenal target Merih Demiral, reports say.
      The Toffees have now been set an asking price for the defender they have long sought.
      A report from Italian outlet Tuttosport claims the Serie A outfit want €40million (£37.5m) for the centre-back.
      Everton were plotting a £26m move for Demiral in March, so owner Farhad Moshiri will have to spend more than he planned to get his man.
      Talks between the two clubs had reportedly taken place before Juventus decided to up their price.
      And Everton are not prepared to make a new bid until they appoint a manager.
      VARANE ‘PAY DEMANDS’ ARE BIG HURDLE
      Manchester United could face a possible setback in their bid to sign Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.
      That is according to The Independent, who claim Varane’s rumoured £400,000-a-week wage demands are believed to be a stumbling block.
      The France international, though, is keen to move to Old Trafford in the summer.
      The star defender is among Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s top centre-back targets as he looks for someone to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back
      JESSE CAN NOW BE AN OLD TRIFFID STAR
      United star Jesse Lingard has revealed the key to his recent success was changing to a plant-based diet.
      The midfielder, 28, spent the second half of last season playing for West Ham on loan.
      And he was sensational with the Hammers, scoring nine times in 16 games as David Moyes’ side qualified for the Europa League.
      Many felt Lingard was unfortunate to miss out on a place in the Euro 2020 squad, but the secret reason behind his rejuvenation is how he’s fuelled his body.
      And while the winger isn’t completely vegan, he has changed to a flexitarian diet – meaning animal products are eaten only occasionally and plant-based foods are consumed more regularly.
      He revealed: “At first, I tried to go fully vegan straight away, but I found I was starving during a game.
      “Plant-based foods are always going to be a good fuel component and put you into a really good mode going into a game, so I make sure to have as much as possible.”
      PLATE STAR ON UNITED MENU
      Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing River Plate star Nicolas De La Cruz.
      The attacking midfielder has 18 months left on his contract and his form has caught the eye of potential suitors.
      Nicolas De La Cruz has played alongside Edinson Cavani with Uruguay at the Copa America this summer
      River Plate are believed to want between €16million-€20m (£13.75m-£17m) for De La Cruz, according to TNT Sports Argentina.
      De La Cruz, 24, has scored once and assisted three goals in 11 league games for River Plate in 2021.
      But a return of 19 goals and 28 assists in 128 games for River Plate has earned him international recognition, and he has won eight caps for Uruguay.
      He could join his compatriot Edinson Cavani at United, which may help the striker feel more at home after reports claimed he felt homesick earlier in the year.
      SANCHO SAGA ‘SO BORING’
      Manchester United legend Gary Neville claims he has “never been more bored” of a transfer saga than Jadon Sancho’s drawn-out move to Old Trafford.
      Borussia Dortmund’s England attacker Sancho, 21, finally seems close to an £80million move after United reportedly agreed a five-year contract.
      Manchester United Closing in on Sancho Again! A transfer should be a joy and a moment of excitement . I’ve never been more bored by a transfer in my life to the point I feel like he’s already signed and I want to know who is next already. Not the lads fault at all I should say!— Gary Neville (@GNev2) June 26, 2021

      But ex-England right-back Neville tweeted: “A transfer should be a joy and a moment of excitement.
      “I’ve never been more bored by a transfer in my life to the point I feel like he’s already signed and I want to know who is next already.
      “Not the lad’s fault at all I should say!”
      CLOSE TO SAN UTD
      Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Borussia Dortmund ace Jadon Sancho, reports suggest.
      According to Manchester Evening News, sources close to Sancho expect the deal to be completed soon, possibly within the next two weeks.
      The winger has agreed personal terms in principle and an up-front fee of €85million (£73m) has been settled on.
      Dortmund are trying to to extract up to €15m (£13m) in add-ons to complete the deal.
      Negotiations are still ongoing regarding the structure of the payments and the majority of the add-ons have been described as ‘achievable
      VARANE REPLACEMENT
      Manchester United have received a major transfer boost in their bid to sign Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.
      According to Fijaches, Real are preparing for life after Varane and have identified Leicester ace Wesley Fofana as a potential replacement.
      Head coach Carlo Ancelotti was impressed with Fofana during his time in the Premier League while in charge of Everton.
      Varane has been linked with a switch to Manchester United and the centre-back is keen to move to Old Trafford
      GREAL AMBITION
      Aston Villa star Jack Grealish stated that his ultimate goal in club level is to win the Champions League amid reports linking him with Manchester City.
      Grealish, who was previously linked with Manchester United, said: “My ultimate goal? It’s got to be a trophy hasn’t it. I want to win either the Champions League or a major trophy with England, the Euros or the World Cup.
      “Obviously, the World Cup would be iconic wouldn’t it? But I think the Euros is just as good. And then at club level, to win a Champions League.
      “My best mate here, Chilly, has come off the back of winning. But yeah, I’ve got to say one of them – winning the Champions League or winning the World Cup or the Euros. So fingers crossed”
      ROMERO FUTURE
      Departing Manchester United goalkeeper Sergio Romero may stay in the Premier League next season.
      That is according to The Athletic, who claim Romero is in talks with Everton after being frozen out of United last season.
      But the Toffees may be set for an intense transfer battle as Juventus and Celta Vigo are also said to be interested in the free agent.
      United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has placed his faith on David de Gea and Dean Henderson between the sticks
      TWO WEEKS NOTICE
      Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho, reports suggest.
      According to Manchester Evening News, sources close to Sancho expect the deal to be completed within the next two weeks.
      The star winger has agreed personal terms in principle and an up-front fee of €85million (£73m) has been settled on.
      Dortmund are trying to to extract up to €15m (£13m) in add-ons to finalise the deal.
      Talks are still ongoing about the structure of the payments and the majority of the add-ons have been described as ‘achievable’
      GETTY IMAGES
      WHITE UPDATE
      Brighton star Ben White had been linked with Manchester United recently following a string of impressive Premier League performances that led to an England call-up.
      United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back to partner up with Harry Kane at the back.
      According to Manchester Evening News, however, the Red Devils were not willing to pay £50million for White and are thus concentrating their efforts on other centre-back targets.
      That paves the way for Arsenal to sign their top target as they are willing to splash the cash for the 23-year-old
      VARANE UPDATE
      Manchester United could face a possible setback in their bid to sign Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.
      That is according to The Independent, who claim Varane’s rumoured £400,000-a-week wage demands are believed to be a stumbling block.
      The France international, though, is keen to move to Old Trafford in the summer.
      The star defender is among Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s top centre-back targets as he looks for someone to partner up with Harry Maguire at the back
      PREFERRED POSITION
      Recent Manchester United signing Amad Diallo has expressed his desire to play on the right wing but admitted he is happy to occupy any position manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer asks him to.
      Diallo told UTD Unscripted: “Obviously, coaches set up teams in different ways but playing wide-right here, having freedom, having to attack and defend.
      “In Italy it is a case of go and attack but then defend and it is the same here. I see myself more as a wide-right player, but I have always said that, in football, you should never have a preferred position. Okay, perhaps you have a preference, but you should be ready for anything.
      “I have played wide left, wide right, and I have played through the middle, so all of the positions are the same to me. If the coach tells me to play in a specific position, there will be a reason for that. I will not argue, I will just play in that position.
      “If I really have to say a favourite position, I would say wide-right, because, from there, I can dribble and carry the ball deep into the opposition’s half. So I guess it is the position I like best, but I have to be ready for everything”
      KOUND BE A BIDDING WAR
      Tottenham are keeping tabs on Manchester United transfer target Jules Kounde.
      That is according to The Guardian, who claim Spurs are also on the lookout for a centre-back and are thus targeting Sevilla star Kounde as well as Fulham loanee Joachim Andersen.
      Kounde is among United’s top targets as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is looking for a defender to partner up with Harry Maguire at centre-back.
      Andersen was also previously recommended to the Red Devils when Jose Mourinho was in charge
      REALLY CLOSE
      Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho is “really close” to joining Manchester United.
      That is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who claims “final details” are expected to be completed in the next few days.
      Romano tweeted: “Tonight Jadon Sancho’s camp and intermediary feelings are the same as the clubs, Man Utd and BVB.
      “The agreement is ‘really close’, final details expected to be completed in the next few days and then Jadon will join Manchester United”
      Tonight Jadon Sancho’s camp and intermediary feelings are the same as the clubs, Man Utd and BVB.The agreement is ‘really close’, final details expected to be completed in the next few days and then Jadon will join Manchester United. 🔴 #MUFC #Sancho https://t.co/UobgSuNHWQ— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 25, 2021

      HIT THE ROAD JACK
      Manchester City are plotting a £100million bid for Aston Villa star Jack Grealish, who’s previously been linked with Manchester United.
      In fact, it seems like City are willing to break the current British transfer record, which sits at the £89m Manchester United paid for Paul Pogba.
      And Grealish’s camp are confident have got the green light for him to leave Villa.
      City boss Pep Guardiola is desperate to bring the forward to the Etihad this summer as he plots a title defence and to finally win the club’s first Champions League.
      Villa have remained insistent they do not want to sell the 25-year-old, who has four years left to run on the current deal with his boyhood club.
      But SunSport understands talks with the England international’s agents Stellar over the past few weeks have left his team happy they now have an agreement which would allow the playmaker to leave once the Euros are over
      GETTY IMAGES
      FORD TO BE RECKONED WITH
      Manchester United star Marcus Rashford could miss the start of his team’s Premier League season should he decide to have surgery.
      Rashford will wait until the end of Euro 2020 to decide whether to undergo an operation on his shoulder.
      The England international said: “It’s either an operation or I don’t get an operation.
      “I’m not 100 per cent sure if I need it yet, so I’ll just take it as it comes.
      “I’ll finish strong here and I’ve got a few weeks off to just relax and decide what I’m going to do”
      RAPH RIDE
      Manchester United have had a £50million bid for top summer target Raphael Varane rejected.
      That is because Real are holding out for an £80m bid for Varane, who is keen to move to United.
      Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is determined to sign a top centre-back to partner up with Harry maguire at the back.
      The Manchester giants are said to be keeping tabs on other players, such as Villarreal’s Pau Torres and Real Madrid’s departing captain Sergio Ramos
      HE’S A DON-ER
      Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho has told his England team-mates that he’s ‘heading to Old Trafford’, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that Sancho has agreed a five-year, £350,000-a-week deal to join Manchester United.
      According to Tom McDermott, Sancho has confirmed to his Three Lions pals that he’s definitely off to United.
      He adds that the deal is ‘practically done’ and that issues over add-ons have been ‘ironed out’
      GOOD MORNING UTD FANS
      The Red Devils could offload Anthony Martial and Donny van de Beek this summer, according to reports.
      Van de Beek has failed to establish himself in the first team and made just four league starts following his £39million move from Ajax last summer.
      But according to ESPN the Netherlands midfielder is keen to fight for his place at Old Trafford.
      Martial is another who could leave this summer, with the report claiming United will consider realistic offers for the pair.
      The club has responded to inquiries for the players stating “every player has a realistic evaluation”.
      Meanwhile, United are reportedly getting closer to agreeing a deal to sign Jadon Sancho.
      Sky Sports claim the Red Devils are set to finalise a proposed £77million deal for the England winger.
      The report adds that the Bundesliga side have pushed for more of the fee to be paid up front.
      And Dortmund are now willing to lower their original £85m asking price from the start of the window if United agree to front-load the payment.
      And finally, Jadon Sancho has told his England team-mates that he’s ‘heading to Old Trafford’, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that the winger has agreed a five-year, £350,000-a-week deal to join Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund.
      The two clubs have still been haggling over the fee, with add-ons the biggest point of contention.
      But the £80million deal is edging closer.
      According to Tom McDermott, Sancho has confirmed to his Three Lions pals that he’s definitely off to United.
      JAD ENOUGH
      Jadon Sancho has told his England team-mates that he’s ‘heading to Old Trafford’, according to reports.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that the winger has agreed a five-year, £350,000-a-week deal to join Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund.
      The two clubs have still been haggling over the fee, with add-ons the biggest point of contention.
      But the £80million deal is edging closer.
      According to Tom McDermott, Sancho has confirmed to his Three Lions pals that he’s definitely off to United.
      He adds that the deal is ‘practically done’.
      And that issues over add-ons have been ‘ironed out’.

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