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    Euro 2020 LIVE news: Wan-Bissaka ‘unlucky’ to miss out on squad, Wales ace Bale ‘considers retirement’, England latest

    THE club season is nearly over…which can only mean Euro 2020 is coming your way!We’ll be bringing up you ALL of the latest news and developments ahead of the big summer tournament right here.

    WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game

    Follow all of the latest news, build up and updates below…
    MORE FROM TIERNEY
    The £25million Scotland star will board a plane on Thursday with the rest of a 26-man squad bound for a Spanish training camp to prepare for friendlies against Holland and Luxembourg.
    Then, it will be the huge Group D fixtures against the Czech Republic, England and Croatia.
    Tierney, 24 on Saturday week, added: “The injury happened at a time I was feeling great. I’d just got back from the Scotland camp where I’d done well.
    “I had to wait three or four days before I got the news from the Arsenal physio Jordan Reece it was a grade two ligament problem and I’d be six weeks out.
    “He told me: ‘You’ll be fine for the Euros. You don’t need to worry about that’.
    “It was still disappointing to be out — but it was also relief it wasn’t for far longer.
    “Thankfully, surgery wasn’t needed. I actually got back playing within four and a half weeks which was crazy and now I’m feeling great again and ready for the Euros.”

    HARRY UP
    Garteh Southgate has lifted the lid on why injured Harry Maguire was included in his 33-man England provisional squad for Euro 2020.
    Maguire’s ankle problem saw him miss Manchester United’s Europa League final against Villarreal, though he was surprisingly named on the bench.
    Southgate said: “We had an initial assessment on Maguire, which was positive in terms of the tournament, but there was always a little bit more swelling and further investigation needed.
    “When you’ve got a European final and information for the opposition is so tight, and things do leak, I understand why clubs want to keep their cards close to their chest.
    ‘It’s made it a bit more difficult for us but I don’t have a problem with United.
    “We’ve got some injuries that are at various stages, (with) a couple that we have very little information about at the moment.”
    KNEE BOTHER
    The FA are setting up plans to stop fans booing players taking a knee at Euro 2020, according to reports.
    Since supporters have returned to stadiums this month, there have been a spate of incidents of some booing players taking the knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
    Ahead of Euro 2020, the FA is now thinking up ways to help prevent the protesting, according to The Telegraph.
    One idea in the works is to release a film education fans as the the reason why England players will take a knee during the delayed tournament.
    Euro 2020 will see the Three Lions play in front of fans for the first time since footballers began taking a knee before games.
    And the number of matches where the gesture has been booed since a limited number of supporters were allowed into grounds – including the final day of the Premier League season – has worried the FA.
    MIDFIELD BATTLE
    Gareth Southgate has declared that Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold could easily feature in midfield at Euro 2020.
    He told BBC Radio 4: “I think there’s no doubt he could.
    “The difficulty is he hasn’t had the opportunity to do that since he was a younger player and that’s where he came through in Liverpool’s academy.
    “He’s a fantastic passer of the ball and has great passing vision. So he’s a playmaker from right-back.
    “So why wouldn’t that lend itself at some point of his career to being in midfield?”

    COAT OF ARMS
    England boss Gareth Southgate has revealed his iconic waistcoat will not be worn at Euro 2020.
    Having sported the piece of clothing at the 2018 World Cup, Marks & Spencer’s saw an increase of 35 per cent in waistcoat sales.
    Speaking to BBC Radio 4 today, Southgate said: “It was a lovely moment to have that connection with the public.
    “I haven’t worn a waistcoat on it’s own since.
    “I don’t think I’ll be wearing a waistcoat this summer.”
    TIER JERKER
    EXCLUSIVE: Kieran Tierney heard his knee ‘pop’ — and feared his Euros dream was over.
    The Arsenal star crashed to the ground in agony after a collision with Liverpool midfielder James Milner in a 3-0 home defeat on April 3.
    Feeling sharp pain from his left knee, Tierney became deeply concerned he could be destined for the operating theatre.
    He said: “I heard the pop from my knee and it immediately went through my mind ‘Is this bad? Is this my season done?’
    “I was worried about it being long term. Arsenal were on course for a European final and I didn’t want to miss the ties we had coming up or the end to the season.
    “Then there was Scotland and the Euros. There was everything to play for.”
    MIDFIELD MAESTROS
    Five fantastic European Championship performances from these midfielders in the last five tournaments.
    But who gets your vote as being the best?
    Vote below.

    AWAY WITH IT
    Uefa club supremos will discuss plans to axe the away goals rule today.
    SunSport revealed last month that Europe’s Club Competitions Committee was ready to change the much-criticised rule.
    But a proposal for away goals to count extra in the first 90 minutes of the second leg was parked.
    It was felt that stopping the advantage of away goals in extra-time would be too confusing.
    Instead, panel members will debate scrapping the rule, originally introduced in the 1965-66 season.
    Uefa is understood to be ‘neutral’ over the proposal, which must be approved by the ruling executive committee.
    If club chiefs agree, it could end for 2021-22 European competitions.
    WAN OF A KIND
    Former Manchester United and England star Andrew Cole believes that Aaron Wan-Bissaka was unlucky not to make Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man Euro 2020 squad.
    He told talkSPORT 2: “When anyone gets mentioned regarding the right-back position, they always say they’re not sure about players defensively, especially Alexander-Arnold.
    “Wan-Bissaka is the opposite. Defensively, he’s brilliant.
    “Going forward, he doesn’t attack as good as he rest of the boys.
    “But defensively, he’s up there with the best of them.”
    AMPED UP
    Ethan Ampadu is fully focused on Wales’ Euro 2020 journey amid speculation surrounding his Chelsea future.
    He said: “It’s a big summer – but it’s a big summer for whoever gets the chance at the Euros.
    “It’s not a distraction for me. I’ve not been thinking of what can happen next year, because you never know, if you can perform to a new level that might change things.
    “For now it’s just concentrating on the now for Wales and doing as best as I can.
    “There’s been discussions throughout the season about the season, but not necessarily going forward. Hopefully this summer can be a big summer so that’s what the concentration is on.”
    GOOD MORNING EUROS FANS
    Gareth Bale’s agent has rubbished reports in Spain that the Welsh star was hoping to retire after Euro 2020.
    Spanish outlet ABC have claimed today that the Welshman is preparing to quit football at the end of Euro 2020.
    It stated the ex-Southampton ace wanted to hang up his boots and attempt to forge a career as a pro golfer.
    However, his agent Jonathan Barnett shot those rumours out of the water when asked about them by talkSPORT.
    He said: “Sorry, I don’t speak about rubbish reporting.”
    Meanwhile, Gabby Agbonlahor has backed Gareth Southgate’s decision not to include Patrick Bamford in his provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2020.
    He told talkSPORT: “Bamford is very unlucky not to make it, but the sort of striker he is, Greenwood is better, Kane is better, and he’s similar to them.
    “He’s not similar to Calvert-Lewin or Watkins, they can run the channels, they’re pests, they’ve got hold-up play. They’re different strikers.
    “Bamford was in competition with Kane and Greenwood, and he’s not going to get in ahead of them.”
    And finally, Ondrej Kudela has LOST his appeal after racially abusing Rangers star Glen Kamara – putting him out of this summer’s Euro 2020.
    Slavia Prague’s Kudela was hit with a 10-match ban by European football’s governing body after he was found guilty of the comments towards the Gers midfielder at Ibrox in March in a Europa League tie.
    That appeared to rule the veteran out of his side’s matches at the tournament this summer.
    And that has proven to be the case after Uefa’s appeals committee heard evidence from several of his team-mates on video conference call this morning.
    The Czech Republic controversially left open a Euros place for the disgraced defender in the hope he won his appeal.
    But now, Uefa have dismissed that case after today’s hearing, meaning he WON’T feature at all against England in the Euros.
    SWISS ARMY
    Switzerland coach Vladimir Petkovic has warned against unrealistic expectations at the Euros.
    He told Swiss newspaper Neue Zurcher Zeitung: “When it comes to us, everyone is talking about the European Championship quarter-finals.
    “That is arrogant, there is a lack of respect for our opponents in the first round, and for the possible opponent in the round of 16.
    “First we have to play, then we can talk. Spain, France, Germany or other bigger nations may be able to look at things differently, but not us.”
    ZLAT’S THAT
    AC Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has avoided a ban from Uefa for having a financial interest in a betting company.
    The Swedish striker has been fined €50,000 – around £43,000 – but will be able to play for the Serie A side in next season’s Champions League.
    Despite evading suspension, Ibrahimovic will NOT represent Sweden at Euro 2020 after picking up an injury late in the season.

    PAT-TRICK
    Gabby Agbonlahor has backed Gareth Southgate’s decision not to include Patrick Bamford in his provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2020.
    He told talkSPORT: “Bamford is very unlucky not to make it, but the sort of striker he is, Greenwood is better, Kane is better, and he’s similar to them.
    “He’s not similar to Calvert-Lewin or Watkins, they can run the channels, they’re pests, they’ve got hold-up play. They’re different strikers.
    “Bamford was in competition with Kane and Greenwood, and he’s not going to get in ahead of them.”
    SPAIN’S EURO 2020 SQUAD
    The full 26-man squad:

    GK: Jasper Cillessen
    Tim Krul
    Maarten Stekelenburg
    Patrick van Aanholt
    Nathan Ake
    Daley Blind
    Denzel Dumfries
    Matthijs de Ligt
    Jurrien Timber
    Joel Veltman
    Stefan de Vrij
    Owen Wijndal
    Donny van de Beek
    Ryan Gravenberch
    Frenkie de Jong
    Davy Klaassen
    Teun Koopmeiners
    Marten de Roon
    Georginio Wijnaldum
    Steven Berghuis
    Cody Gakpo
    Luuk De Jong
    Donyell Malen
    Memphis Depay
    Quincy Promes
    Wout Weghorst

    SPURRED ON
    Gareth Bale’s agent has rubbished reports in Spain that the Welsh star was hoping to retire after Euro 2020.
    Spanish outlet ABC have claimed today that the Welshman is preparing to quit football at the end of Euro 2020.
    It stated the ex-Southampton ace wanted to hang up his boots and attempt to forge a career as a pro golfer.
    However, his agent Jonathan Barnett shot those rumours out of the water when asked about them by talkSPORT.
    He said: “Sorry, I don’t speak about rubbish reporting.”
    TEAM NEWS
    Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford are both starting for Manchester United tonight ahead of joining England’s Euro Squad next week.
    And in a huge boost to Gareth Southgate and the Three Lions, Harry Maguire is fit enough for the bench.
    🔴 𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 🔴Presenting our final starting line-up of the season ⬇#MUFC | #UELfinal— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 26, 2021

    RACE RAP
    Ondrej Kudela has LOST his appeal after racially abusing Rangers star Glen Kamara – putting him out of this summer’s Euro 2020.
    Slavia Prague’s Kudela was hit with a 10-match ban by European football’s governing body after he was found guilty of the comments towards the Gers midfielder at Ibrox in March in a Europa League tie.
    That appeared to rule the veteran out of his side’s matches at the tournament this summer.
    And that has proven to be the case after Uefa’s appeals committee heard evidence from several of his team-mates on video conference call this morning.
    The Czech Republic controversially left open a Euros place for the disgraced defender in the hope he won his appeal.
    But now, Uefa have dismissed that case after today’s hearing, meaning he WON’T feature at all against Scotland in the Euros.

    WAGS WARNED
    England’s Wags and families will be banned from seeing the England players in the team hotel for the duration of the Euros.
    Gareth Southgate said: “We’re not going to be able to let people in.
    “There’s a clear edict from Uefa on what the bubbles need to look like to be as secure as we can make them.
    “It’s never going to be 100 per cent failsafe but we’ve got to comply with as much as we can.
    “We’re hoping that we might at some point be able to let the players have a little bit of time at home.
    “But that’s constantly being assessed. It’d be a preference for us if we can.
    “But of course, we’ve got to monitor not only our own situations, but where we are as a country, what are the variants, what the government guidelines are.
    “That’s we hope to do that and we’re working towards that, but it is going to be limited access which we have to accept is going to be harder for some players to cope with than for others.
    “You know everybody’s going to react to that and respond to that differently.”
    BERG OUT
    Tottenham star Steven Bergwijn is the major casualty of the Netherlands’ Euro 2021 squad but there is room for Brighton defender Joel Veltman.
    BREAKING: Joel Veltman confirmed in the Netherlands 26-man squad for Euro 2020. Veltman was named initially in Frank de Boer’s provisional squad of 34 after an impressive first season in the Premier League. #BHAFC He missed the last four games (calf). https://t.co/fXWqCgPniv— Andy Naylor (@AndyNaylorBHAFC) May 26, 2021

    IT’S COMING HOME
    Here’s a reminder of England’s provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2020. Gareth Southgate will narrow that down to 26 on Tuesday.

    DRIVEN MAAD
    Brendan Rodgers claims James Maddison’s injury-plagued season cost him his place in England’s Euro’s squad.
    He said: “James has been unfortunate the way the season has panned out.
    “He didn’t start the season and it was difficult for him but then he got a run of games and was exceptional.
    “He was creating and scoring goals. It was looking very good for him. Then, he’s picked up the injury and he hasn’t got back to the level of fitness he needs.”

    KAN DO ATTITUDE
    France’s Euro 2020 hopes have received a massive boost after N’Golo Kante returned to Chelsea training today.
    The midfielder took part in training on day one of the build-up to Saturday’s Champions League final clash with Manchester City.
    Inspirational midfielder Kante has been struggling with a hamstring problem to the extent he missed Sunday’s Premier League finale at Aston Villa.
    SunSports understands the Frenchman and compatriot Edouard Mendy both took part in full training with the rest of the group and then did a session on their own.
    SPAIN’S EURO 2020 SQUAD
    The full 24-man squad:

    GK: David de Gea (Manchester United)
    GK: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao)
    GK: Robert Sánchez (Brighton & Hove Albion)
    DF: Aymeric Laporte (Manchester City) 
    DF: Jordi Alba (Barcelona)
    DF: Jose Gaya (Valencia)
    DF: Pau Torres (Villarreal)
    DF: Diego Llorente (Leeds United)
    DF: Eric García (Manchester City)
    DF: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea)
    MF: Sergio Busquet (Barcelona)
    MF: Koke (Atletico Madrid)
    MF: Marcos Llorenta (Atletico Madrid)
    MF: Thiago (Liverpool)
    MF: Rodri (Manchester City)
    MF: Fabian (Napoli)
    MF: Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid)
    FW: Alvaro Morata (Juventus)
    FW: Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad)
    FW: Gerard Moreno (Villareal)
    FW: Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig)
    FW: Pedri (Barcelona)
    FW: Ferran Torres (Manchester City)
    FW: Adama Traore (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
    FW: Pablo Sarabia (Paris Saint-Germain)

    PORTUGAL’S EURO 2020 SQUAD
    The full 26-man squad:

    GK: Anthony Lopes (Lyon)
    GK: Jose Sa (Olympiacos)
    GK: Rui Silva (Granada)
    DF: Jose Fonte (Lille)
    DF: Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
    DF: Joao Cancelo (Manchester City)
    DF: Nélson Semedo (Wolves)
    DF: Pepe (Porto)
    DF: Nuno Mendes (Sporting CP)
    DF: Raphael Guerreiro (Dortmund)
    MF: Joao Moutinho (Wolves)
    MF: Danilo Pereira (Paris Saint-Germain)
    MF: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
    MF: Renato Sanches (Lille)
    MF: Ruben Neves (Wolves)
    MF: Sergio Oliveira (Porto)
    MF: Joao Palhinha (Sporting Lisbon)
    MF: William Carvalho (Real Betis)
    FW: Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus)
    FW: Andre Silva (Eintracht Frankfurt)
    FW: Pedro Gonçalves (Sporting CP)
    FW: Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)
    FW: Gonçalo Guedes (Valencia)
    FW: Rafa Silva (Benfica)
    FW: Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid)
    FW: Diogo Jota (Liverpool)

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    Coutinho can ‘LEAVE Barcelona in summer’, Aouar transfer BOOST, Odegaard future, Lacazette new contract latest

    ARSENAL will have to wait until July to approach Phillipe Coutinho – but the Brazilian is reportedly free to leave Barcelona. Reports also suggest that the Gunners could land long-term target Houssem Aouar for just £25m after Lyon missed out on the Champions League.
    We’ve also the very latest on Martin Odegaard, as well as an update on Alexandre Lacazette’s Emirates future.
    WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game
    Get all the latest Arsenal news, transfer gossip and updates with our live blog…
    WILL I NEVER
    WIllian is 100 per cent leaving Arsenal this summer.
    That is according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who has declared he will NOT be joining another English side.
    It has been claimed that Willian was keen on a return to Chelsea, but Romano has ruled out that transfer.
    Speaking on his Here We Go podcast, he said: “Willian. Willian is leaving the club, I want to confirm that Willian is leaving the club.
    “There is nothing going on with other English clubs, but he’s leaving the club, so 100 per cent, Willian is going to leave.”
    ALL THE MOUR REASON
    Arsenal star Granit Xhaka has reportedly opened talks with Roma over a shock transfer to link up with Jose Mourinho.
    The Gunners finished the season in eighth meaning the Emirates outfit will be without European football for the first time in over two decades.
    And Arteta is expected to oversee a mass exodus from north London with the likes of David Luiz, 34, already confirmed to be leaving.
    Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now claimed that Xhaka is among the players with offers to quit Arsenal this summer.
    The report adds that former Tottenham boss Mourinho is a fan and has already begun talks to bring the Swiss international with him to Roma.
    A return to the Bundesliga where Xhaka spent four years at Borussia Monchengladbach has also been mooted.

    LOAN RANGER
    Arsenal defender Konstantinos Macropanos could reportedly be yet again shipped out on loan next season.
    According to Kicker, Stuttgart – where Mavropanos has enjoyed this campaign at – are keen on keeping hold of the Greece international on loan once more.
    And that deal could include an option to buy clause.
    But it has been claimed that Lazio are also in the race to lure the centre-back away from the Emirates.
    Mavropanos has featured in eight games for the Gunners since he made the move to North London in January 2018.
    BOY WONDERS
    Take a look at Arsenal’s latest instalment of their ‘UnClassic Commentary’ series.
    The latest episode involved Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe covering the 2-0 Premier League win over Newcastle in January.
    These two 🥰📺 UnClassic Commentary | Saka and Smith Rowe 👇— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 27, 2021

    BISSOUMA BATTLE
    Arsenal are reportedly battling Liverpool for the signing of Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma.
    The Mali international, 24, is expected to depart the Amex Stadium in the summer.
    Commenting on his future, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Yves Bissouma is appreciated and he’s ‘one of the options’ in the Arsenal list as midfielder but NOT the first one.
    “Arsenal are also looking at different kind of players in this position.
    “Many clubs are interested in Bissouma – Liverpool too. The race is open.”
    TAKE XHAK
    Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka could be set for a summer switch to Roma to link up with Jose Mourinho.
    According to Di Marzio, the Serie A side are desperate to bring the Swiss international to Italy.
    And is has been stated that Roma are already in talks with his representatives over a move.
    German clubs are also monitoring his situation should the Gunners decide to sell him.
    Xhaka has arguably been Arsenal’s most consistent midfielder this term, with Mikel Arteta putting huge trust in him.
    HIT THE ROAD JACK
    Jack Wilshere has declared he is unsure of what the future holds for him after being released by Bournemouth.
    Taking to Instagram, he said: “Thank you to everyone @officialafcb for the last five months.
    “My team-mates, All the staff and especially the fans. You were amazing last time and continued to support me this time.
    “Being honest, I don’t know if this is the end. The coming weeks will tell.
    “Unfortunately we didn’t reach our goal of promotion but there is plenty of positives and experience to take into next year to get this club back where it belongs!
    “Have a good summer.”

    JACK-ED IT IN
    Jack Wilshere has been released by Bournemouth as his second spell with the club was brought to an end.
    Wilshere rejoined the Cherries in January, four years after he first left, and played 17 times for the club, scoring twice.
    He helped Bournemouth reach the play-offs after finishing sixth, but they were beaten by Brentford over two legs.
    Facing another season in the Championship, the Cherries confirmed Wilshere’s departure but wished him all the best.
    A statement read: “A class act on and off the pitch.
    “We’d like to thank Jack Wilshere for his efforts since returning to the club and wish him all the best moving forward.”
    HOW ABOUT MAT?
    Matteo Guendouzi has lauded former boss Unai Emery’s style of play as Villarreal were crowned as Europa League champions.
    And the French midfielder – who was signed by the Spanisrd at Arsenal – has taken to social media to congratulate Emery on his fourth trophy.
    He tweeted: “What a journey! This Football… so smart and elegant! You made the dream of an entire city, of a club, a team, and of all the fans come true! You did it!
    “You know how to win trophies! Hats off Monsieur Emery. You are so unique.”
    Bedore adding: “I am honoured and proud to have had the opportunity to evolve by your side.
    “Words will never be strong enough to qualify your personality, your benevolence and your authenticity in human relationships. All my congratulations coach Unai Emery and bravo to Villarreal.”
    ON THIS DAY
    Four years ago today, Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-1 in the FA Cup final.
    It was Per Mertesacker’s first start and second appearance of the season.
    Relive his epic performance below.

    LAC RUN OUT?
    Arsenal reportedly remain undecided whether to hand Alexandre Lacazette a new contract.
    The 29-year-old French striker – who has top scored for the Gunners this season with 17 goals – has just a year left on his deal.
    Commenting on future, Goal journalist Charles Watts said on his YouTube channel: “Lacazette’s future is going to be decided very, very soon.
    “I think we’ll find out very quickly about what’s happening with Alexandre Lacazette.
    “Talks are being held over the next couple of weeks or so with him regarding his new contract, possible new contract, or whether he moves on.”

    A GOOD EBENING
    Unai Emery has credited losing with Arsenal in the 2019 Europa League final as a key factor as to how Villarreal beat Man Utd last night.
    Speaking after the Europa League final victory in Gdansk, he said: “I believe it’s not a sporting revenge at all. I try to enjoy every moment, winning and losing.
    “I try to create new circumstances, so everywhere I have been, even in England at Arsenal, I have learnt a lot, met many people, other cultures and football.
    “At the end of that story was professional frustration, but some other doors opened then.
    “Winning today is a satisfaction, but for my club today, as it was when I was at Sevilla.
    “When I was at Arsenal, we played a Europa League final and could not win but it is a process, from that game I learnt a lot to win this one maybe.”
    WILL I NEVER
    WIllian is 100 per cent leaving Arsenal this summer.
    That is according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who has declared he will NOT be joining another English side.
    It has been claimed that Willian was keen on a return to Chelsea, but Romano has ruled out that transfer.
    Speaking on his Here We Go podcast, he said: “Willian. Willian is leaving the club, I want to confirm that Willian is leaving the club.
    “There is nothing going on with other English clubs, but he’s leaving the club, so 100 per cent, Willian is going to leave.”
    HEC OF A SIGNING
    Right-back Hector Bellerin has emerged as a summer target for LaLiga outfit Real Betis.
    The 26-year-old is expected to depart the Emirates in the summer after ten years spent at Arsenal.
    And according to ABC, the Spain international could be on his way back to his native country.
    They claim that contact has been made with his representatives about a move.
    Bellerin is said to be keen on a move back to Spain, with Betis identifying him as their main target.
    GOING, GOING, GUEN
    Marseille are reportedly keen on bringing Matteo Guendouzi back to France in the summer.
    The French midfielder – who will return from his loan spell at Hertha Berlin – faces an uncertain future at the Emirates after falling out with Mikel Arteta.
    And according to L’Equipe, the 22-year-old is being eyed up by the Ligue 1 giants.
    With just one year left on his deal, the Gunners could decide to cash in on the player.
    PHIL YER BOOTS
    Arsenal have been given the green light to land Philippe Coutinho but will have to wait until July, according to reports.
    The Brazilian is just one of the names up for grabs from Barcelona this summer as they look to reduce their staggering wage bill.
    Arsenal looked into the possibility of landing Coutinho on loan last summer but were put off by the financial aspect of the deal and instead signed Martin Odegaard.
    However, they are set to reignite their interest with Everton also interested, according to Sky Sports.
    Coutinho is currently undergoing rehabilitation on knee surgery having been ruled out of action since January.
    He will hold off making a decision on his future until July when he can start training again.

    GOOD MORNING ARSENAL FANS
    Kieran Tierney heard his knee ‘pop’ — and feared his Euros dream was over.
    The Arsenal star crashed to the ground in agony after a collision with Liverpool midfielder James Milner in a 3-0 home defeat on April 3.
    Feeling sharp pain from his left knee, Tierney became deeply concerned he could be destined for the operating theatre.
    He said: “I heard the pop from my knee and it immediately went through my mind ‘Is this bad? Is this my season done?’
    “I was worried about it being long term. Arsenal were on course for a European final and I didn’t want to miss the ties we had coming up or the end to the season.
    “Then there was Scotland and the Euros. There was everything to play for.”
    Meanwhile, Arsenal and Aston Villa are in a transfer fight for Emiliano Buendia, according to reports.
    The Norwich playmaker, 24, enjoyed a stunning season helping fire the Canaries to a second Championship promotion in his three years at Carrow Road.
    Arsenal were linked with him last year and look set to revive their interest.
    According to The Telegraph, the Gunners may be forced to act quickly if they want to secure the Argentine.
    It is thought Aston Villa are prioritising a new No10 and preparing a bid.
    And finally, Patrick Vieira has begged Arsenal’s owners to sell up as he confirmed that Spotify CEO Daniel Ek will return with another takeover offer.
    The Frenchman, 44, told the ITV Football Show Podcast: “In the last couple of years I believe that the club didn’t take the right direction.
    “And I think it is time for change. If the change doesn’t happen, I believe that Arsenal will be in a difficult position.
    “We can only make a judgement from outside. We watch every single Arsenal game and it is difficult to recognise the club that we used to play for.
    “It’s difficult to understand the reasons why Arsenal went down the last couple of years but obviously losing Arsene [Wenger] and not finding the right sort of crew to handle the fact that Arsene wasn’t there wasn’t in place.
    “And I think every single year Arsenal didn’t get through to the Champions League or even this year to the Europa League. So this is a big disappointment for all of us as Arsenal fans.
    “But we get to the time where everybody at the club, the Kroenke’s need to get more involved to take Arsenal back where the club should be.
    “If that’s not the case, I think it is time for them to let the club go and let somebody else take care of the football club.”
    TIER JERKER
    Exclusive by Derek McGregor: Kieran Tierney heard his knee ‘pop’ — and feared his Euros dream was over.
    The Arsenal star crashed to the ground in agony after a collision with Liverpool midfielder James Milner in a 3-0 home defeat on April 3.
    Feeling sharp pain from his left knee, Tierney became deeply concerned he could be destined for the operating theatre.
    He said: “I heard the pop from my knee and it immediately went through my mind ‘Is this bad? Is this my season done?’
    “I was worried about it being long term. Arsenal were on course for a European final and I didn’t want to miss the ties we had coming up or the end to the season.
    “Then there was Scotland and the Euros. There was everything to play for.”

    FINAL COUNT
    The FA have confirmed that an extra 2,000 tickets have been made available for the Championship play-off final on Saturday.
    Brentford and Swansea City will do battle at Wembley for a place in the Premier League.
    The Bees currently boast Arsenal academy star Josh Dasilva who swapped Hale End for west London back in 2018.
    BUEN BATTLE
    Arsenal and Aston Villa are in a transfer fight for Emiliano Buendia, according to reports.
    The Norwich playmaker, 24, enjoyed a stunning season helping fire the Canaries to a second Championship promotion in his three years at Carrow Road.
    Arsenal were linked with him last year and look set to revive their interest.
    According to The Telegraph, the Gunners may be forced to act quickly if they want to secure the Argentine.
    It is thought Aston Villa are prioritising a new No10 and preparing a bid.
    FIELD OF DREAMS
    Throwback to that memorable night at Anfield back in 1989…

    WHAT THE EK
    Patrick Vieira has begged Arsenal’s owners to sell up as he confirmed that Spotify CEO Daniel Ek will return with another takeover offer.
    The Frenchman, 44, told the ITV Football Show Podcast: “In the last couple of years I believe that the club didn’t take the right direction.
    “And I think it is time for change. If the change doesn’t happen, I believe that Arsenal will be in a difficult position.
    “We can only make a judgement from outside. We watch every single Arsenal game and it is difficult to recognise the club that we used to play for.
    “It’s difficult to understand the reasons why Arsenal went down the last couple of years but obviously losing Arsene [Wenger] and not finding the right sort of crew to handle the fact that Arsene wasn’t there wasn’t in place.
    “And I think every single year Arsenal didn’t get through to the Champions League or even this year to the Europa League. So this is a big disappointment for all of us as Arsenal fans.
    “But we get to the time where everybody at the club, the Kroenke’s need to get more involved to take Arsenal back where the club should be.
    “If that’s not the case, I think it is time for them to let the club go and let somebody else take care of the football club.”
    WRIGHT IDEA
    Ian Wright made a Gooner’s day by sharing a social media post pleading for Arsenal’s Women’s Champions League games to be played at the Emirates.

    ONE IN A MIL
    Former Arsenal star Olivier Giroud is reportedly keen on joining AC Milan when his Chelsea deal expires this summer.
    French magazine Le10Sport claims the Chelsea striker, 34, is certain to leave Stamford Bridge after Saturday’s Champions League final.
    And he now has the San Siro in his sights.
    Giroud has been at Chelsea since 2018 after a move from London rivals Arsenal and has gone on to score 39 goals in 119 games, as well as winning the Europa League.

    TAP HIM UP
    Arsenal are reportedly in negotiations to prise highly-rated centre-back Edmond Tapsoba away from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer.
    The 22-year-old has been earning rave reviews in the Bundesliga since joining the German side from from Portuguese outfit Vitoria in January 2020.
    Manchester United have also been linked with a move for the Burkina Faso international having scouted him this season.
    And according to Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari, Arsenal have joined the race to sign the defender.
    He has claimed that the player is at the top of Mikel Arteta’s wishlist as he looks to bolster his backline.

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    Solskjaer told to target £55m Pau Torres, Jadon Sancho UPDATE, De Gea future LATEST, Europa League final loss REACTION

    MANCHESTER UNITED were beaten 11-10 on penalties in an epic Europa League final shootout with Villarreal.The defeat stretches United’s trophy drought to four years, while Marcus Rashford took to social media to say fans sent him racist messages after the loss.
    Meanwhile, we’ve the very latest on Youri Tielemans plus an update on David De Gea’s future.
    WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game
    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    DAVID BLAME
    David de Gea ignored his cheat-sheet as Manchester United lost their Europa League final penalty shootout against Villarreal.
    The note, slipped into the goalkeeper’s towel, even gave additional advice on each player’s run-up.
    However, De Gea was unable to save ANY of Villarreal’s 11 spot-kicks, before missing his own to hand the Spaniards their first-ever major trophy – and extend United’s trophyless streak to four years.
    The Spaniard initially followed his cheat-sheet to the letter – only having no advice for Moreno – but was unable to keep any out.
    During the crucial sudden-death period, De Gea went off-book THREE times.
    Moi Gomez took Villarreal’s sixth penalty, with his notes revealing he would go down the middle.
    But De Gea dived to his left, with Gomez – as suggested – rolling the ball into the centre of the goal.

    SOL DESTROYING
    Gary Neville has slammed Manchester United’s performance in the Europa League final against Villarreal.
    You can’t switch performance on and off like a tap. Haven’t played well for weeks and last night a continuation of the form recently . Pressure will be applied to Ole and the team. Rightly so. Need to get it right this summer and a good start to next season needed badly!— Gary Neville (@GNev2) May 27, 2021

    HARRY UP
    Garteh Southgate has lifted the lid on why injured Harry Maguire was included in his 33-man England provisional squad for Euro 2020.
    Maguire’s ankle problem saw him miss Manchester United’s Europa League final against Villarreal, though he was surprisingly named on the bench.
    Southgate said: “We had an initial assessment on Maguire, which was positive in terms of the tournament, but there was always a little bit more swelling and further investigation needed.
    “When you’ve got a European final and information for the opposition is so tight, and things do leak, I understand why clubs want to keep their cards close to their chest.
    ‘It’s made it a bit more difficult for us but I don’t have a problem with United.
    “We’ve got some injuries that are at various stages, (with) a couple that we have very little information about at the moment.”
    ON THE PAUL
    Paul Scholes has been left red-faced after his overly-confident Europa League final predictions backfired.
    Before kick-off the pundit told BT Sports: “You’re playing Villarreal here. You’re playing a team that finished seventh in a really poor LaLiga.
    “Think of Real Madrid and Barcelona, how bad have they been? Manchester United should win this game comfortably.”
    Turning his attention to Spurs loanee Juan Foyth who was playing as a makeshift right-back, he added: “Foyth was a bad centre-back at Tottenham, now he’s playing right-back, how can Rashford not destroy him?”
    With United trailing through Gerard Moreno, he said: “I’m still confident.
    “They’ve been in this position a lot of times this season. I think if they’re patient, they’ll open this team up. They’ll get one goal and two or three will come.”
    Edinson Cavani did manage to equalise on 55 minutes but United failed to find the all-important second in 65 minutes of football before the 11-10 defeat on penalties.
    PAU WOW
    Man Utd fans are encouraging boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to land Pau Torres after his brilliant Europa League final performance.
    Torres, 24, has been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer and has a £55million release clause in his contract.
    Solskjaer is in the market for a new central defender to play alongside Harry Maguire.
    And supporters believe Torres would be the answer to their defensive problems following his commanding performance.
    One wrote: “Pau Torres is exactly what we need.”
    Another added: “Pau Torres please. Do the deal before the summer madness.”
    A third wrote: “If that was Pau Torres’ audition, then I think he passed.”
    OH NO, BRUNO
    Bruno Fernandes gave Villarreal a huge advantage by making Manchester United go second in the Europa League final penalty shootout, according to an expert.
    United recovered from a goal down in Gdansk to take the game to extra-time thanks to Edinson Cavani’s second-half strike.
    Eventually the game went to penalties, with captain for the night Fernandes winning the coin toss.
    The Portuguese playmaker opted to shoot second, with the first 21 penalties all converted.
    David De Gea missed in sudden death as Villarreal were crowned champions – reducing Fernandes to tears.
    But LSE professor and psychological studies expert Ignacio Palacios-Huerta revealed United were always up against it thanks to Fernandes’ decision.
    He explained shooting second takes a mental toll on players handing the side shooting first up to a 20 per cent advantage.
    Read more HERE.
    EUR HAVING A LAUGH
    Villarreal goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli has rubbed salt into Manchester United’s Europa League wounds after revealing his winning goal was the FIRST penalty he has ever taken.
    The Argentine, 29, broke the Red Devils’ hearts in Wednesday’s final with his shoot-out heroics after the game ended in a 1-1 draw as he saved David De Gea’s spot-kick after scoring his own.
    Commenting on his goal, he said: “That was the first penalty I have ever taken in my life. I just wanted it to go in.  I don’t even know what I did.
    “I thought I would hit the ball hard, and hope it went in.
    “I could never in my wildest dreams have imagined a sequence of penalties like that.
    “We are the champions – and that is the best thing that one can say.”
    SOL SEARCHING
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is odds-on to not be the Man Utd boss by the end of next season.
    The Norwegian gaffer is odds-on with bookmaker Coral at 4-5 following the Europa League final defeat to Villarreal.
    Commenting on his future, Coral’s Harry Aitkenhead said: “Solskjaer has come so close to achieving success with United, but another season without a trophy means that he is beginning to run out of time.
    “We now make it odds-on that he does not end next season as Manchester United manager.
    “(Max) Allegri, (Brendan)Rodgers and (Mauricio)Pochettino are the three we can picture in the dugout in the future the most.
    “Whilst you can’t rule out (Zinedine) Zidane and (Antonio) Conte either when the role does next become available.”

    WAN OF A KIND
    Former Manchester United and England star Andrew Cole believes that Aaron Wan-Bissaka was unlucky not to make Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man Euro 2020 squad.
    He told talkSPORT 2: “When anyone gets mentioned regarding the right-back position, they always say they’re not sure about players defensively, especially Alexander-Arnold.
    “Wan-Bissaka is the opposite. Defensively, he’s brilliant.
    “Going forward, he doesn’t attack as good as he rest of the boys.
    “But defensively, he’s up there with the best of them.”

    OLE TRAFFORD
    Hear what Olle Gunnar Solskjaer had to say following the Europa League final defeat.

    KEEP SAKE
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has explained why he did not replace David De Gea with Dean Henderson ahead of last night’s penalty shootout defeat to Villarreal.
    Not only did stopper De Gea fail to save a single one of Villarreal’s efforts, he was also the unfortunate one to miss as the LaLiga outfit claimed the prize.
    That continued De Gea’s poor penalty record – which now stands at 36 without a save.
    Speaking of why De Gea stayed on, Solskjaer said: “You go through every scenario, of course. And it had crossed my mind in the build-up to the game but we were confident in David and prepared.
    Anything can happen in a penalty shootout. I stuck with the ‘keeper who played all of the game.
    “I’ve got to say the penalty shootout was high quality, but we didn’t do enough in the 120 minutes to score more goals and that’s the disappointing bit.
    “We had pressure, we had moments where we felt if we can just kick on a little bit now we can get a goal. But we just couldn’t.”
    A GOOD EBENING
    Unai Emery has credited losing with Arsenal in the 2019 Europa League final as a key factor as to how Villarreal beat Man Utd last night.
    Speaking after the Europa League final victory in Gdansk, he said: “I believe it’s not a sporting revenge at all. I try to enjoy every moment, winning and losing.
    “I try to create new circumstances, so everywhere I have been, even in England at Arsenal, I have learnt a lot, met many people, other cultures and football.
    “At the end of that story was professional frustration, but some other doors opened then.
    “Winning today is a satisfaction, but for my club today, as it was when I was at Sevilla.
    “When I was at Arsenal, we played a Europa League final and could not win but it is a process, from that game I learnt a lot to win this one maybe.”
    SPOT OF BOTHER
    Man Utd legend Paul Scholes has hit out at David De Gea after his penalty heartache.
    The Spaniard conceded 11 of Villarreal’s spot-kicks before missing his own as United failed to end their four-year wait for silverware.
    De Gea, 30, has now failed to save a penalty for five years with his last coming against Everton in the 2016 FA Cup semi-final. That record extends to 38 penalties without making a save.
    Speaking to BT Sport, Scholes said: “Once you get to penalties, anything can happen, we know that.
    “I always feel a little bit worried, being an Englishman, that we’re going to be on the wrong side of it.
    “But I have to say, David – we spoke about his record before it – he didn’t look like saving a penalty.
    “They got a little bit lucky with Luke Shaw’s penalty as well. It’s a difficult night to take, but give Villarreal credit.”
    PAUL THE OTHER ONE
    Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes slammed the side as seeming to ‘accept losing’.
    He said: “Does losing hurt them enough? It has almost become an accepted thing.
    “Where is the demand on Ole? I don’t think they will saying he has to win a trophy. He has made progress.
    “For now, I don’t think the demand is there on him.”
    While Scholes was critical of United’s big flop in Gdansk, fellow United legend Rio Ferdinand believes Solskjaer now needs supporting in the transfer market.
    He added: “I think he has done enough even with this result to have a summer transfer window and go into next season.
    “I think next season the demand needs to be there to win trophies because that is what this club is built on.”
    Bruno Fernandes was overcome with emotion at the end of a dramatic tie
    SOL DESTROYING
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has urged his deflated troops to ‘taste the defeat’ after they lost the Europa League final against Villarreal.
    He said: “We’ve got to, not savour this one, but taste this feeling and make sure we don’t get it again.
    “It’s quiet [in the dressing room] of course. It’s a disappointed dressing room. That’s football for you. Sometimes it’s decided on one kick and that’s the difference between winning and losing. Got to learn from that one.
    “Now is not the time to point the finger at what I’d have done differently. But when you come out without the trophy you haven’t done everything right.
    “We’re getting closer and closer and better. We were one kick away from a trophy and a good night.
    “We have to have the desire to come back next year and improve. The only way to get the margins your side is to work harder and better. Can Manchester United call this season a success? No.”
    RACISM STORM
    Marcus Rashford has claimed he was subjected to ‘at least 70 racial slurs’ online including from a ‘maths teacher’ after defeat to Villarreal.
    Rashford played every minute of the Europa League final, which went to penalties after a 1-1 draw.
    He tweeted: “At least 70 racial slurs on my social accounts counted so far.
    “For those working to make me feel any worse than I already do, good luck trying.
    “I’m more outraged that one of the abusers that left a mountain of monkey emojis in my DM is a maths teacher with an open profile.
    “He teaches children!! And knows that he can freely racially abuse without consequence…”
    I’m more outraged that one of the abusers that left a mountain of monkey emojis in my DM is a maths teacher with an open profile. He teaches children!! And knows that he can freely racially abuse without consequence…— Marcus Rashford MBE (@MarcusRashford) May 27, 2021

    GOOD MORNING UNITED FANS
    David de Gea’s penalty miss consigned the Red Devils to a dramatic Europa League final loss to Villarreal.
    Unai Emery’s side won 11-0 on penalties, with every player on the pitch bar De Gea scoring.
    Gerard Moreno had given Villarreal the lead against the run of play on the half hour mark, after being lost by Luke Shaw and evading Victor Lindelof.
    Solskjaer cajoled his side at the break, and his side were soon level.
    Edinson Cavani was in the right place at the right time, as he so often is, to prod the Red Devils level in the 55th minute.
    No one could snatch a winner within 90 minutes, however, and the match went to extra time in Gdansk.
    The match meandered on, with both goalkeepers rarely tested.
    And it then went to a marathon penalty shoot-out, with every penalty going in before De Gea’s tame kick was denied by Geronimo Rulli.
    Meanwhile on the transfer front, Tottenham will demand £200million for Harry Kane this summer, according to reports.
    United, rivals City and Chelsea are all interested in signing the England skipper but Daniel Levy won’t make it easy.
    According to The Independent, the 59-year-old will demand ‘at least’ £200m to ‘even consider’ letting his side’s No10 go.
    Levy even values Kane as more important to the club than Gareth Bale was in 2013, prior to his then world record move to Real Madrid.
    But the Indy also claim that Levy’s stance isn’t as ‘sure-footed’ as before – because of the financial pressures brought about by the pandemic, as well as Spurs’ new stadium.
    And finally, United legend Gary Pallister thinks his former club should sign Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho this summer.
    He told SBK sportsbook: “That right-hand side has been a problem for United all season.
    “Sancho is exciting and had a great time in Germany scoring goals and getting assists.
    “He looked as though he was going to come in last season but Dortmund played hardball and it didn’t get over the line. I think he’s eager to come… a real no-brainer.
    “He’s the type of player that would excite the United fans next season. These kinds of players are going to cost a pretty penny and that’s the worrying thing.
    “After the pandemic and the way clubs have been hit I don’t know whether you can afford to bring in two massive signings like Harry Kane and Sancho.”
    DAVE CAN’T SAVE
    David de Gea’s penalty miss consigned Manchester United to a dramatic Europa League final loss to Villarreal.
    Unai Emery’s side won 11-0 on penalties, with every player on the pitch bar De Gea scoring.
    Gerard Moreno had given Villarreal the lead against the run of play on the half hour mark, after being lost by Luke Shaw and evading Victor Lindelof.
    Solskjaer cajoled his side at the break, and his side were soon level.
    Edinson Cavani was in the right place at the right time, as he so often is, to prod the Red Devils level in the 55th minute.
    No one could snatch a winner within 90 minutes, however, and the match went to extra time in Gdansk.
    The match meandered on, with both goalkeepers rarely tested.
    And it then went to a marathon penalty shoot-out, with every penalty going in before De Gea’s tame kick was denied by Geronimo Rulli.
    FOOD FOR THOUGHT
    Manchester United stars were given some last-minute nuggets of advice by club legend Sir Alex Ferguson before Wednesday’s Europa League final with Villarreal.
    The 79-year-old has flown out to Gdansk in Poland to cheer on the current crop of Red Devils.

    FT: UNITED 1 VILLARREAL 1
    Edinson Cavani’s second-half strike has sent the final to extra-time!

    MAKING HIS MARC
    Rio Ferdinand has praised Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford for campaigning against child hunger.
    Speaking to ITV’s Robert Peston, Ferdinand said: “I think Marcus has done remarkably well.
    “I think he’s a young man who is really showing the way for a lot of the young players and people in society that if you believe in something, and you have a platform, you have a voice, and you have the ability to really transcend and change things.
    “And even going up against the establishment, almost, they did that with confidence and he got the backing of the nation, and listen, you have to understand as well, it was a cause that was worthwhile.
    “In the end Boris Johnson came around and understood that right thing to do was to follow Marcus’s lead and that’s an unbelievable achievement.”
    HT: UNITED 0 VILLARREAL 1
    A dominant first half from the Red Devils in terms of possessions but a sucker-punch from Gerard Moreno has given the Spaniards the advantage.

    GUNNAR BE GREAT
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hopes Europa League glory will kick-start another trophy-laden era at Manchester United.
    He said: “These are big nights for us. We have five wins in Europe and it might be the stepping stone for something better to come, a bright future.
    “This is a young team and it’s a team we have rebuilt over the last couple of years, so hopefully this is the start of something more.
    “When players get the taste of success and win trophies, it can go two ways – ‘We’ve done it now and we can relax’ or it just gives you more of that feeling.
    “You want more, you want it all the time, you want the feeling again with your team-mates, with your club.
    “I trust these players. I’ve seen something grow inside them – more and more confident, more robust, resilient – and as a group, I’m confident we’re ready for this now.”

    DONNA GET HIM
    AC Milan have confirmed contract-rebel keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has left the club.
    The 22-year-old stopper’s deal runs out next month and the Italian have refused to match his wage demands after drawn-out talks.
    Milan technical director Paolo Maldini told reporters: “He [Donnarumma] has been a protagonist of this season.
    “It’s getting more and more difficult to find players who start in a team and always end up staying.
    “The roads with Gigio are splitting, I can only wish him the best.”
    Former wonderkid Donnarumma has been linked with several top European clubs, including Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea.

    TEAM NEWS
    Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford are both starting for Manchester United tonight ahead of joining England’s Euro Squad next week.
    And in a huge boost to Gareth Southgate and the Three Lions, Harry Maguire is fit enough for the bench.
    Check out all the action with SunSport’s Live Blog HERE.
    🔴 𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 🔴Presenting our final starting line-up of the season ⬇#MUFC | #UELfinal— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 26, 2021

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    Joao Felix transfer bid rejected by Atletico, Zidane QUITS Real Madrid, Conte leaves Inter Milan, Chelsea latest news

    MANAGERS are dropping like flies – former Juventus team-mates Zinedine Zidane and Antonio Conte have left Real Madrid and Inter Milan respectively.Meanwhile Celtic could sell Odsonne Edouard to Southampton with a big summer of transition expected at Parkhead.
    WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game
    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    SOL DESTROYING
    Gary Neville has slammed Manchester United’s performance in the Europa League final against Villarreal.
    You can’t switch performance on and off like a tap. Haven’t played well for weeks and last night a continuation of the form recently . Pressure will be applied to Ole and the team. Rightly so. Need to get it right this summer and a good start to next season needed badly!— Gary Neville (@GNev2) May 27, 2021

    ALL THE MOUR REASON
    Arsenal star Granit Xhaka has reportedly opened talks with Roma over a shock transfer to link up with Jose Mourinho.
    The Gunners finished the season in eighth meaning the Emirates outfit will be without European football for the first time in over two decades.
    And Arteta is expected to oversee a mass exodus from north London with the likes of David Luiz, 34, already confirmed to be leaving.
    Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now claimed that Xhaka is among the players with offers to quit Arsenal this summer.
    The report adds that former Tottenham boss Mourinho is a fan and has already begun talks to bring the Swiss international with him to Roma.
    A return to the Bundesliga where Xhaka spent four years at Borussia Monchengladbach has also been mooted.

    DAN AND DUSTED
    Tottenham have confirmed that Danny Rose and Paulo Gazzaniga will leave the club when their contracts run out in the summer.
    The two players’ deal with Spurs expires on June 30 and they will be available for a free move elsewhere once the summer transfer window opens.
    The club shared the following announcement on Twitter: “The Club can confirm the departures of Danny Rose and Paulo Gazzaniga following the conclusion of their contracts.
    “We thank Danny and Paulo for their service and wish them well for the future.”
    Rose returned to north London last year following a short loan stint at Newcastle where he only managed 13 appearances for Steve Bruce’s side.
    Former Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho then omitted the left-back from the season’s Premier League and Europa League squads, meaning he didn’t play at all for the senior team.
    Danny Rose and Paulo Gazzaniga are set to leave Tottenham
    HARRY UP
    Garteh Southgate has lifted the lid on why injured Harry Maguire was included in his 33-man England provisional squad for Euro 2020.
    Maguire’s ankle problem saw him miss Manchester United’s Europa League final against Villarreal, though he was surprisingly named on the bench.
    Southgate said: “We had an initial assessment on Maguire, which was positive in terms of the tournament, but there was always a little bit more swelling and further investigation needed.
    “When you’ve got a European final and information for the opposition is so tight, and things do leak, I understand why clubs want to keep their cards close to their chest.
    ‘It’s made it a bit more difficult for us but I don’t have a problem with United.
    “We’ve got some injuries that are at various stages, (with) a couple that we have very little information about at the moment.”
    BISSOUMA BATTLE
    Arsenal are reportedly battling Liverpool for the signing of Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma.
    The Mali international, 24, is expected to depart the Amex Stadium in the summer.
    Commenting on his future, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano tweeted: “Yves Bissouma is appreciated and he’s ‘one of the options’ in the Arsenal list as midfielder but NOT the first one.
    “Arsenal are also looking at different kind of players in this position.
    “Many clubs are interested in Bissouma – Liverpool too. The race is open.”
    MIDFIELD BATTLE
    Gareth Southgate has declared that Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold could easily feature in midfield at Euro 2020.
    He told BBC Radio 4: “I think there’s no doubt he could.
    “The difficulty is he hasn’t had the opportunity to do that since he was a younger player and that’s where he came through in Liverpool’s academy.
    “He’s a fantastic passer of the ball and has great passing vision. So he’s a playmaker from right-back.
    “So why wouldn’t that lend itself at some point of his career to being in midfield?”
    GO-MAR
    Bayern Munich have confirmed the signing of Reading left-back Omar Richards on a four-year deal.
    The English left-back, 23, is out of contract next month and had already rejected a new contract at the Championship side.
    Bundesliga champions Bayern have now snapped up Richards on a free and have handed him the No3 jersey.
    With versatile star David Alaba quitting the German giants after his contract expired, Richards will now provide back-up at left-back behind wonderkid Alphonso Davies.
    On signing for Bayern Munich, ex-Fulham youth player Richards told the club website it’s a ‘dream come true’.
    Richards claimed: “My move to Bayern is a great honour for me.
    “A dream has come true. I’m proud to be wearing the shirt of one of the world’s biggest clubs.”
    I’m over the moon to be joining @FCBayern , a top club with such great history i feel honored to be a part of it.I can’t wait to get started, continuing to improve and give my all to help the team achieve our targets!#MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/UTlEBpNhuV— Omar Richards (@OTRichards_) May 27, 2021

    TAKE XHAK
    Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka could be set for a summer switch to Roma to link up with Jose Mourinho.
    According to Di Marzio, the Serie A side are desperate to bring the Swiss international to Italy.
    And is has been stated that Roma are already in talks with his representatives over a move.
    German clubs are also monitoring his situation should the Gunners decide to sell him.
    Xhaka has arguably been Arsenal’s most consistent midfielder this term, with Mikel Arteta putting huge trust in him.
    KNEE BOTHER
    The FA are setting up plans to stop fans booing players taking a knee at Euro 2020, according to reports.
    Since supporters have returned to stadiums this month, there have been a spate of incidents of some booing players taking the knee in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
    Ahead of Euro 2020, the FA is now thinking up ways to help prevent the protesting, according to The Telegraph.
    One idea in the works is to release a film education fans as the the reason why England players will take a knee during the delayed tournament.
    Euro 2020 will see the Three Lions play in front of fans for the first time since footballers began taking a knee before games.
    And the number of matches where the gesture has been booed since a limited number of supporters were allowed into grounds – including the final day of the Premier League season – has worried the FA.
    BLADES OF GLORY
    Sheffield United have named former Watford and Fulham gaffer Slavisa Jokanovic as their new manager.
    The 52-year-old has experience of Championship football having been promoted to the Premier League at Vicarage Road and Craven Cottage.
    And the Blades have turned to the Serbian to help them achieve an instant return back to the top-fight.
    Speaking of his appointment, Jokanovic said: “I’m honoured to become the manager of this historic football club.”
    Before adding: “I want to assure our amazing fans that we’re fully committed to helping the team achieve its goals and make you feel proud.
    “With your support, we can make Bramall Lane a fortress and I have no doubt that your voice will make a big difference to the team after so long without you last season.”

    PIR WE GO
    Juventus are set to sack Andrea Pirlo as manager and reappoint Max Allegri after their horror season.
    Pirlo, who played for the Italian giants from 2011–2015, returned to the club last summer in place of Maurizio Sarri.
    But the former midfielder suffered a disastrous first season in full management as for the first time in ten years, Juve failed to win the league.
    And they only narrowly qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the season.
    As a result, the board, according to Sky Sport Italia, have decided to fire Pirlo after only 12 months in charge.
    And his replacement will be ex-boss Allegri, who has been out of management since 2019, when he left Turin.
    HIT THE ROAD JACK
    Jack Wilshere has declared he is unsure of what the future holds for him after being released by Bournemouth.
    Taking to Instagram, he said: “Thank you to everyone @officialafcb for the last five months.
    “My team-mates, All the staff and especially the fans. You were amazing last time and continued to support me this time.
    “Being honest, I don’t know if this is the end. The coming weeks will tell.
    “Unfortunately we didn’t reach our goal of promotion but there is plenty of positives and experience to take into next year to get this club back where it belongs!
    “Have a good summer.”

    JACK-ED IT IN
    Jack Wilshere has been released by Bournemouth as his second spell with the club was brought to an end.
    Wilshere rejoined the Cherries in January, four years after he first left, and played 17 times for the club, scoring twice.
    He helped Bournemouth reach the play-offs after finishing sixth, but they were beaten by Brentford over two legs.
    Facing another season in the Championship, the Cherries confirmed Wilshere’s departure but wished him all the best.
    A statement read: “A class act on and off the pitch.
    “We’d like to thank Jack Wilshere for his efforts since returning to the club and wish him all the best moving forward.”
    AWAY WITH IT
    Uefa club supremos will discuss plans to axe the away goals rule today.
    SunSport revealed last month that Europe’s Club Competitions Committee was ready to change the much-criticised rule.
    But a proposal for away goals to count extra in the first 90 minutes of the second leg was parked.
    It was felt that stopping the advantage of away goals in extra-time would be too confusing.
    Instead, panel members will debate scrapping the rule, originally introduced in the 1965-66 season.
    Uefa is understood to be ‘neutral’ over the proposal, which must be approved by the ruling executive committee.
    If club chiefs agree, it could end for 2021-22 European competitions.

    LAC RUN OUT?
    Arsenal reportedly remain undecided whether to hand Alexandre Lacazette a new contract.
    The 29-year-old French striker – who has top scored for the Gunners this season with 17 goals – has just a year left on his deal.
    Commenting on future, Goal journalist Charles Watts said on his YouTube channel: “Lacazette’s future is going to be decided very, very soon.
    “I think we’ll find out very quickly about what’s happening with Alexandre Lacazette.
    “Talks are being held over the next couple of weeks or so with him regarding his new contract, possible new contract, or whether he moves on.”
    SPOT OF BOTHER
    Man Utd legend Paul Scholes has hit out at David De Gea after his penalty heartache.
    The Spaniard conceded 11 of Villarreal’s spot-kicks before missing his own as United failed to end their four-year wait for silverware.
    De Gea, 30, has now failed to save a penalty for five years with his last coming against Everton in the 2016 FA Cup semi-final. That record extends to 38 penalties without making a save.
    Speaking to BT Sport, Scholes said: “Once you get to penalties, anything can happen, we know that.
    “I always feel a little bit worried, being an Englishman, that we’re going to be on the wrong side of it.
    “But I have to say, David – we spoke about his record before it – he didn’t look like saving a penalty.
    “They got a little bit lucky with Luke Shaw’s penalty as well. It’s a difficult night to take, but give Villarreal credit.”
    ZIDANE GONE
    Real Madrid have confirmed that Zinedine Zidane has decided to depart the club for a second time.
    A club statement read: “Real Madrid announces that Zinedine Zidane has decided to end his current stage as coach of our club.”It is now time to respect his decision and show him our appreciation for his professionalism, dedication and passion in all these years, and for what his figure represents for Real Madrid.”Zidane is one of the great myths of Real Madrid and his legend goes beyond what he has been as a coach and player of our club.”He knows that he is at the heart of Real Madrid and that Real Madrid is and will always be his home.”

    WILL I NEVER
    WIllian is 100 per cent leaving Arsenal this summer.
    That is according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who has declared he will NOT be joining another English side.
    It has been claimed that Willian was keen on a return to Chelsea, but Romano has ruled out that transfer.
    Speaking on his Here We Go podcast, he said: “Willian. Willian is leaving the club, I want to confirm that Willian is leaving the club.
    “There is nothing going on with other English clubs, but he’s leaving the club, so 100 per cent, Willian is going to leave.”

    ALL TO PLAY FOR
    Massimiliano Allegri could have the option of three European supergiants as they battle it out for his signature.
    The Italian boss has been out of work since 2019 after spending five trophy-laden years with Juventus.
    Real Madrid, Inter Milan and his former club Juve are expected to be looking for a new boss in the dugout this summer.
    Zinedine Zidane has reportedly quit the Bernabeu with immediate effect after a difficult season in Madrid.
    Antonio Conte is also on his way out of Serie A champions Inter following a disagreement with the board.
    And reports in Gazzetta dello Sport add how Juve are considering replacing Andrea Pirlo after their nine-year reign in Italy came to an abrupt end.
    Reports in Italy claim how Max Allegri is being targeted by Inter and Juventus
    LUK OF THE DRAW
    Chelsea will attempt to sell Tammy Abraham plus FIVE other stars to help find a transfer move for Romelu Lukaku, according to a sensational report.
    Owner Roman Abramovich is ready to back Thomas Tuchel in the summer transfer market in order to turn his club back into Premier League title challengers.
    Tottenham star Harry Kane and Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland are both on his wishlist.
    However, according to The Sunday World, Abramovich is ‘eager’ to lure Lukaku back to west London from Inter Milan as he is one of his ‘favourite strikers’.
    Today’s report states the sales of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Ross Barkley, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Abraham will ‘likely to raise a healthy sum that will all be ploughed back into Tuchel’s transfer kitty’ this summer.
    POCH LUCK
    Tottenhan are reportedly IN TALKS to bring Mauricio Pochettino back to the club as manager.
    After being sacked 18 months ago, Pochettino – now boss at Paris Saint-Germain – is being targeted by Daniel Levy.
    According to The Athletic, Pochettino is yet to settle in France and could be open to a quick move back to England.
    But they state that he may have to resign to force through a move as he still has one year left on his contract.
    It has been said that the Spurs squad are already excited about the prospect of Pochettino potentially returning.
    THREE PEAT
    EXCLUSIVE – Kevin De Bruyne has been nursing THREE injuries leading up to the Champions League final.
    The Manchester City star first hurt an ankle in the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea at Wembley last month.
    And that led to a tight hamstring and a minor issue with his calf in the weeks that followed.
    So City chose to adopt an ultra-cautious approach with De Bruyne to ensure he is in top shape for the showdown with his old club Chelsea in Porto on Saturday night.
    He believed he was ready to return at Brighton nine days ago, but City’s medical team, along with boss Pep Guardiola, did not want to take any unnecessary risks.
    That meant he went 19 days without playing a minute after starring in the Champions League last-four win over French giants Paris Saint-Germain.
    Read more HERE.
    NO NOU START
    Lionel Messi has agreed to stay at Barcelona for two more years, Spanish press are reporting.
    Club president Joan Laporta is said to have got his star player’s agent dad Jorge to commit to him renewing until June 2023.
    The announcement Messi is staying on after a year of uncertainty in which the Argentinian was linked to the likes of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain will be made “shortly”.
    Respected Spanish news website El Confidencial also says Barcelona will subsequently confirm Sergio Aguero is joining the Catalan giants following his recent announcement this season would be his last at the Etihad.
    Reports in Spain say Messi’s final salary and payment arrangements are yet to be finalised because of an ongoing internal audit on Barcelona’s financial situation ordered following Joan Laporta’s March election as President.
    El Confidencial reported: “The imaginative formula of paying Messi his new salary over 10 years has been explored, because Messi’s intention is that he remains at the club when he retires from the game.”
    Lionel Messi has reportedly agreed a two-year contract extension
    THE FINAL COUNT
    The FA have confirmed that an extra 2,000 tickets have been made available for the Championship play-off final between Brentford and Swansea on Saturday.
    In accordance with government guidelines, the match’s original attendance was due to be capped at 10,000, with each club receiving an allocation of 4,000.
    But, after extensive lobbying by the EFL, an extra 2,000 fans will be admitted into the 90,000-seater ground – taking the overall attendance to 12,000.
    This is because event organisers have agreed to take part in a new pilot, as the NHS app is trialled.
    The extra 2,000 tickets have been assigned equally to the clubs involved.
    And supporters with these tickets will have to download the new NHS app – not to be mixed up with the existing NHS COVID-19 app.
    Wembley will have 12,000 fans for the Championship play-off final between Brentford and Swansea City on Saturday
    PHIL YER BOOTS
    Arsenal have been given the green light to land Philippe Coutinho but will have to wait until July, according to reports.
    The Brazilian is just one of the names up for grabs from Barcelona this summer as they look to reduce their staggering wage bill.
    Arsenal looked into the possibility of landing Coutinho on loan last summer but were put off by the financial aspect of the deal and instead signed Martin Odegaard.
    However, they are set to reignite their interest with Everton also interested, according to Sky Sports.
    Coutinho is currently undergoing rehabilitation on knee surgery having been ruled out of action since January.
    He will hold off making a decision on his future until July when he can start training again.
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    Zidane QUITS Real Madrid, Conte leaves Inter Milan, Chelsea tipped to sell Hudson-Odoi, Ronaldo transfer LATEST

    CHELSEA are weighing up a chase for Jadon Sancho – by selling Callum Hudson-Odoi to Borussia Dortmund.Meanwhile Celtic could sell Odsonne Edouard to Southampton with a big summer of transition expected at Parkhead.
    And Antonio Conte has LEFT Inter Milan, just days after guiding them to the Serie A title.
    WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game
    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    DAVE CAN’T SAVE
    David de Gea’s penalty miss consigned Manchester United to a dramatic Europa League final loss to Villarreal.
    Unai Emery’s side won 11-0 on penalties, with every player on the pitch bar De Gea scoring.
    Gerard Moreno had given Villarreal the lead against the run of play on the half hour mark, after being lost by Luke Shaw and evading Victor Lindelof.
    Solskjaer cajoled his side at the break, and his side were soon level.
    Edinson Cavani was in the right place at the right time, as he so often is, to prod the Red Devils level in the 55th minute.
    No one could snatch a winner within 90 minutes, however, and the match went to extra time in Gdansk.
    The match meandered on, with both goalkeepers rarely tested.
    And it then went to a marathon penalty shoot-out, with every penalty going in before De Gea’s tame kick was denied by Geronimo Rulli.
    REAL PROBLEM
    Zinedine Zidane has reportedly quit Real Madrid!
    Exclusive. Zinedine Zidane has decided to LEAVE Real Madrid with immediate effect. ⚪️🚨 #RealMadrid #Zidane— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 26, 2021

    TIER JERKER
    Exclusive by Derek McGregor: Kieran Tierney heard his knee ‘pop’ — and feared his Euros dream was over.
    The Arsenal star crashed to the ground in agony after a collision with Liverpool midfielder James Milner in a 3-0 home defeat on April 3.
    Feeling sharp pain from his left knee, Tierney became deeply concerned he could be destined for the operating theatre.
    He said: “I heard the pop from my knee and it immediately went through my mind ‘Is this bad? Is this my season done?’
    “I was worried about it being long term. Arsenal were on course for a European final and I didn’t want to miss the ties we had coming up or the end to the season.
    “Then there was Scotland and the Euros. There was everything to play for.”
    MOUR TALENT
    Roma boss Jose Mourinho is reportedly interested in signing former Leicester City star Demarai Gray.
    Rumours suggest the Portuguese manager wants reinforcements with the English winger believed to be on his shortlist.
    According to Sky Sport Germany journalist Max Bielefeld, the Serie A side are keen on signing Gray.
    The 24-year-old only joined Bayer Leverkusen in January, signing an 18-month contract with the Bundesliga club.

    ZLAT’S THAT
    AC Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has avoided a ban from Uefa for having a financial interest in a betting company.
    The Swedish striker has been fined €50,000 – around £43,000 – but will be able to play for the Serie A side in next season’s Champions League.
    Despite evading suspension, Ibrahimovic will NOT represent Sweden at Euro 2020 after picking up an injury late in the season.

    MAKING HIS MARC
    Rio Ferdinand has praised Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford for campaigning against child hunger.
    Speaking to ITV’s Robert Peston, Ferdinand said: “I think Marcus has done remarkably well.
    “I think he’s a young man who is really showing the way for a lot of the young players and people in society that if you believe in something, and you have a platform, you have a voice, and you have the ability to really transcend and change things.
    “And even going up against the establishment, almost, they did that with confidence and he got the backing of the nation, and listen, you have to understand as well, it was a cause that was worthwhile.
    “In the end Boris Johnson came around and understood that right thing to do was to follow Marcus’s lead and that’s an unbelievable achievement.”
    BURN-ABEU
    Fire has broken out at Real Madrid’s stadium The Bernabeu.
    Construction is ongoing on the £500million redevelopment but those plans have been halted tonight as a fire raged inside the ground.
    It is not know what caused the fire or whether anyone has been injured.
    Huge plumes of thick black smoke filled the skies above the famous old stadium as emergency vehicles sped to the scene.
    Sizeable flames could be seen burning inside the stadium through one of the exposed parts of the construction.

    GUNNAR BE GREAT
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hopes Europa League glory will kick-start another trophy-laden era at Manchester United.
    He said: “These are big nights for us. We have five wins in Europe and it might be the stepping stone for something better to come, a bright future.
    “This is a young team and it’s a team we have rebuilt over the last couple of years, so hopefully this is the start of something more.
    “When players get the taste of success and win trophies, it can go two ways – ‘We’ve done it now and we can relax’ or it just gives you more of that feeling.
    “You want more, you want it all the time, you want the feeling again with your team-mates, with your club.
    “I trust these players. I’ve seen something grow inside them – more and more confident, more robust, resilient – and as a group, I’m confident we’re ready for this now.”

    DONNA GET HIM
    AC Milan have confirmed contract-rebel keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has left the club.
    The 22-year-old stopper’s deal runs out next month and the Italian have refused to match his wage demands after drawn-out talks.
    Milan technical director Paolo Maldini told reporters: “He [Donnarumma] has been a protagonist of this season.
    “It’s getting more and more difficult to find players who start in a team and always end up staying.
    “The roads with Gigio are splitting, I can only wish him the best.”
    Former wonderkid Donnarumma has been linked with several top European clubs, including Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea.
    TEAM NEWS
    Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford are both starting for Manchester United tonight ahead of joining England’s Euro Squad next week.
    And in a huge boost to Gareth Southgate and the Three Lions, Harry Maguire is fit enough for the bench.
    🔴 𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 🔴Presenting our final starting line-up of the season ⬇#MUFC | #UELfinal— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 26, 2021

    RACE RAP
    Ondrej Kudela has LOST his appeal after racially abusing Rangers star Glen Kamara – putting him out of this summer’s Euro 2020.
    Slavia Prague’s Kudela was hit with a 10-match ban by European football’s governing body after he was found guilty of the comments towards the Gers midfielder at Ibrox in March in a Europa League tie.
    That appeared to rule the veteran out of his side’s matches at the tournament this summer.
    And that has proven to be the case after Uefa’s appeals committee heard evidence from several of his team-mates on video conference call this morning.
    The Czech Republic controversially left open a Euros place for the disgraced defender in the hope he won his appeal.
    But now, Uefa have dismissed that case after today’s hearing, meaning he WON’T feature at all against Scotland in the Euros.
    LEV IT TO ME
    Tottenham will demand £200million for Harry Kane this summer, according to reports.
    Manchester City, United and Chelsea are all interested in signing the England skipper but Daniel Levy won’t make it easy.
    According to The Independent, the 59-year-old will demand ‘at least’ £200m to ‘even consider’ letting his side’s No10 go.
    Levy even values Kane as more important to the club than Gareth Bale was in 2013, prior to his then world record move to Real Madrid.
    But the Indy also claim that Levy’s stance isn’t as ‘sure-footed’ as before – because of the financial pressures brought about by the pandemic, as well as Spurs’ new stadium.
    CONT THE COST
    Antonio Conte has quit Inter Milan – just days after leading them to the Serie A title.
    The former Chelsea boss had a huge row with the club’s president Steven Zhang and is unhappy at future plans.
    Cash-strapped Inter may have been forced to sell stars to raise more than £80m this summer and slash the wage bill by 20 per cent.
    And Conte, who had a year left on his deal, has quit the club and will receive around £5m in compensation.

    BERG OUT
    Tottenham star Steven Bergwijn is the major casualty of the Netherlands’ Euro 2021 squad but there is room for Brighton defender Joel Veltman.
    BREAKING: Joel Veltman confirmed in the Netherlands 26-man squad for Euro 2020. Veltman was named initially in Frank de Boer’s provisional squad of 34 after an impressive first season in the Premier League. #BHAFC He missed the last four games (calf). https://t.co/fXWqCgPniv— Andy Naylor (@AndyNaylorBHAFC) May 26, 2021

    DIALL TONE
    Manchester United fans have been left excited by footage of Amad Diallo making the beautiful game look easy in training.

    FANDEMONIUM
    Manchester United fans have been getting into the party spirit in Gdansk ahead of tonight’s Europa League final.
    The Red Devils will be backed by 2,000 travelling supporters from England tonight, as they face Villarreal in the Baltic city.
    And as fans starved of European travel have arrived in the city, they’ve been quick to revel in the adventure and have a good time.
    A great number have been seen enjoying Gdansk’s bars.
    And no shortage of pints have been consumed in the city centre.

    IN THE FOXHOLE
    Leicester have reportedly agreed a deal for French title winner Boubakary Soumare – as they face the prospect of losing midfield star Youri Tielemans.
    Belgium international Tielemans won the FA Cup for Brendan Rodgers’ side with a world-class finish in their 1-0 final win over Chelsea.
    The 24-year-old has been voted the Foxes’ player of the season and SunSport recently revealed he is set for talks over a new contract.
    But reports in Belgium claim Liverpool have targeted former Anderlecht and Monaco ace Tielemans to replace Gini Wijnaldum.
    The Holland midfielder, 30, is leaving Anfield on a free transfer this summer with Barcelona a possible destination.
    Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is also credited with an interest in signing £50million-rated Tielemans.
    Leicester have now secured an ideal replacement if the Belgian quits the King Power Stadium – by tying up a £20m deal for French ace Soumare.
    KAN DO ATTITUDE
    Chelsea’s Champions League hopes have received a massive boost after key-men N’Golo Kante and Edouard Mendy returned to duty today.
    The Blues pair both took part in training on day one of the build-up to Saturday’s clash with Manchester City.
    Inspirational midfielder Kante has been struggling with a hamstring problem to the extent he missed Sunday’s Premier League finale at Aston Villa.
    In the same game keeper Mendy was forced off at half-time after crashing into the goalpost making a save and injuring his ribs.
    The stopper had to undergo scans in the wake of the incident and for a time boss Thomas Tuchel was sweating on his No1’s fitness.
    But news that both have been passed fit for training at least is a massive plus for the Stamford Bridge outfit.
    SunSports understands they took part in full training with the rest of the group and then did a session on their own.
    Chelsea fly to Portugal tomorrow ahead of this weekend’s final and Tuchel may now have a full squad to choose from.
    FANS LIVING IT UP IN GDANSK
    Manchester United fans are enjoying themselves in Gdansk, Poland ahead of tonight’s Europa League final against Villarreal.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: EPA
    RUDDY GOOD
    Rio Ferdinand has named his Premier League’s four best defenders… including Antonio Rudiger.
    The Chelsea ace almost departed in the summer under Frank Lampard after being frozen out of the first team.
    But he was thrust back into the starting XI following Thomas Tuchel’s appointment in January and has gone from strength to strength.
    Rudiger, 28, has been part of a Chelsea defence that kept a hugely impressive 19 league clean sheets.
    Speaking about his top four Premier League defenders of the season, he said: “I think [Antonio] Rudiger, since he’s been playing, has probably been [the] second or third best centre-half after [Ruben] Dias and maybe [John] Stones, [Harry] Maguire.”
    ‘RUBBISH REPORTING’
    Gareth Bale’s agent has rubbished reports in Spain that the Welsh star was hoping to retire after Euro 2020.
    The forward is preparing to lead his nation at the next month’s showpiece after building up his fitness at Tottenham on a season-long loan from Real Madrid.
    Bale, 31, scored 11 goals in just ten Premier League starts at Spurs but was hardly used by Jose Mourinho before the Portuguese boss was axed in April.
    He still has a year remaining on his mega £600,000-a-week Madrid contract but Los Blancos are desperate to get him off the wage bill.
    Spanish outlet ABC have claimed today that Bale is preparing to quit football at the end of Euro 2020.
    It stated the ex-Southampton ace wanted to hang up his boots and attempt to forge a career as a pro golfer.
    However, his agent Jonathan Barnett shot those rumours out of the water when asked about them by talkSPORT.
    He said: “Sorry, I don’t speak about rubbish reporting.”

    ‘RUBBISH REPORTING’
    Gareth Bale’s agent has rubbished reports in Spain that the Welsh star was hoping to retire after Euro 2020.
    The forward is preparing to lead his nation at the next month’s showpiece after building up his fitness at Tottenham on a season-long loan from Real Madrid.
    Bale, 31, scored 11 goals in just ten Premier League starts at Spurs but was hardly used by Jose Mourinho before the Portuguese boss was axed in April.
    He still has a year remaining on his mega £600,000-a-week Madrid contract but Los Blancos are desperate to get him off the wage bill.
    Spanish outlet ABC have claimed today that Bale is preparing to quit football at the end of Euro 2020.
    It stated the ex-Southampton ace wanted to hang up his boots and attempt to forge a career as a pro golfer.
    However, his agent Jonathan Barnett shot those rumours out of the water when asked about them by talkSPORT.
    He said: “Sorry, I don’t speak about rubbish reporting.”

    TAP DANCE
    Arsenal are reportedly in negotiations to prise highly-rated centre-back and Manchester United target Edmond Tapsoba away from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer.
    The 22-year-old has been earning rave reviews in the Bundesliga since joining the German side from from Portuguese outfit Vitoria in January 2020.
    Man Utd have also been linked with a move for the Burkina Faso international having scouted him this season.
    And according to Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari, Arsenal have joined the race to sign the defender.
    He has claimed that the player is at the top of Mikel Arteta’s wishlist as he looks to bolster his backline.

    HOMEWARD BOUND
    Lionel Messi has jetted home to Argentina with his family after being given permission to miss Barcelona’s last league match amid continuing uncertainty over his future.
    The footballer was due to reach Buenos Aires this morning with wife Antonela Roccuzzo and children Thiago, eight, Mateo, Ciro, five, and Mateo, three.
    Bodyguard Pepe Costa accompanied them as they boarded their plane on Tuesday night at Barcelona’s El Prat airport.
    They made a beeline for the airport terminal without stopping after being dropped off in a chauffeur-driven 4×4 despite shouts from waiting photographers anxious to get them to pose for a last family pic on Spanish soil.
    The 33-year-old is due to meet up with the Argentina national squad for two World Cup qualifiers with Chile and Colombia on June 3 and 8.
    Then they begin their quest for glory at the Copa America tournament.

    RU THE DAY
    Wolves are willing to sell midfielder and Manchester United transfer target Ruben Neves for around £35million this summer, according to reports.
    The Portuguese international looks likely to be one of the names sacrificed as the club plot a mini overhaul.
    According to the Athletic, Wolves are being forced to sell their assets if they want to spend big.
    Neves, 24, is one of the names up for grabs with reported interest from Man Utd.
    He moved to the Molineux in 2017 with the club in the Championship and helped earn promotion in his first campaign.
    Neves has since played a key role in Wolves’ time in the Premier League including qualifying for Europe.

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    Man Utd vs Villarreal LIVE: Stream FREE, TV channel, early team news and UK time – Europa League final latest updates

    MANCHESTER UNITED face Villarreal tonight in a crunch Europa League final in Gdansk.After seeing off Roma in the semi-finals, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side will be confident of winning this trophy for the first time since 2017.

    Kick-off time: 8pm BST
    Man Utd XI: To follow
    Villarreal XI: To follow

    Follow all the build-up and action with our live blog below …

    BETTING OFFER: 40/1 on Bruno Fernandes to score or assist

    Man Utd take on Villarreal on the Europa League final on Wednesday, May 26Credit: AP
    EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL BETTING SPECIAL

    What time does Man Utd vs Villarreal kick-off?

    Kick-off is at 8pm BST.
    Around 9,000 tickets have been allocated with the game, with both United and Villarreal fans receiving 2,000 each.

    What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?
    The Europa League final between Man Utd and Villarreal will be shown live on BT Sport 1 and BT Sport HD.
    You can live stream all of the action from the BT Sport app, which is available for download onto your mobile device, tablet or Smart TV.
    Man Utd and Villarreal will contest their Europa League final in GdanskCredit: Getty
    Can I watch for FREE?
    Everybody will be able to watch this game for FREE on YouTube.

    EE customers can get BT Sport INCLUDED to their plan at no extra cost if they are on a plan with Smart Benefits – simply log in to EE and choose BT Sport app.
    And then get it on the big screen by texting SPORT to 150 to get a FREE three-month trial of large screen so you can cast all the action on your TV.
    At the end of the three months you will automatically roll onto the £15 per month subscription unless cancelled.

    Team news
    Unfortunately for United, it’s unlikely that captain Harry Maguire will be fit to start the final at centre-back.
    The England defender is still recovering from his ankle injury and will want to make sure he is in tip-top shape for the Three Lions at this summer’s Euros.
    David de Gea should start in goal ahead of Dean Henderson, while Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof take command at the back.
    Edinson Cavani should start up top for the Red Devils.
    Villarreal are waiting to hear if Juan Foyth will be fit for the final, while goalkeeper Sergio Asenjo could start ahead of the shaky Geronimo Rulli.
    Etienne Capoue could make the Spanish side’s XI in midfield in place of Francis Coquelin, with Dani Parejo also expected to play in the middle of the park.
    FANDEMONIUM
    United fans have been getting into the party spirit in Gdansk ahead of tonight’s final.
    The Red Devils will be backed by 2,000 travelling supporters from England tonight, as they face Villarreal in the Baltic city.
    And as fans starved of European travel have arrived in the city, they’ve been quick to revel in the adventure and have a good time.
    A great number have been seen enjoying Gdansk’s bars.
    And no shortage of pints have been consumed in the city centre.
    How good is it to see fans back?! The countdown well and truly on until kick-off now.

    GREEN LIGHT
    Mason Greenwood has been tipped to be named as the man of the match ahead of tonight’s game – by stadium operators in Gdansk.
    Officials in Poland picked the 19-year-old forward as the star performer during screen tests at the PGE Arena.
    Greenwood is in great form having fired in six goals in his last eight Premier League games.
    His recent dazzling displays have seen him be included in Gareth Southgate’s 33-man provisional England squad for Euro 2020.

    FREE TO WATCH
    Worried you won’t be able to tune in tonight due to the game being on BT Sport?
    Never fear – those kind people over at BT Towers are making this match FREE to watch on YouTube.
    Cast to your TV if you want to watch on HD, or stream through your PlayStation or computer.
    BOOKIES ODDS
    United are an odds-on shot to take the win tonight in 90 minutes.
    And if you’re playing even safer, they’re just 4/9 to lift the trophy.

    Man Utd – 17/20
    Draw – 23/10
    Villarreall – 7/2
    Man Utd to lift cup – 4/9
    Villarreal to lift cup – 9/5

    Credit: Reuters
    RECENT FORM
    Villarreal haven’t been at the top of their game in La Liga this season.
    But in Europe they’ve excelled, beating Arsenal in the last round 2-1 on aggregate.
    They were beaten by Real Madrid on the final day of the regular season – but only after the title chasers scored twice in the final four minutes.
    Man Utd meanwhile are on a sticky run themselves, with one win in their last four games.
    They were superb against Roma in the semi-final first leg, but were exposed after taking their foot off the gas in the Italian capital.
    If you can expect anything tonight, it’s goals.
    EARLY TEAM NEWS
    Man Utd

    OUT – Phil Jones, Anthony Martial.
    DOUBTS – Harry Maguire.

    Villarreal

    OUT – Iborra
    DOUBTS – Samuel Chukwueze, Juan Foyth.

    Credit: Getty

    EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL
    It’s their season on the line for Manchester United tonight.
    Managers are judged by silverware at Old Trafford and so far in 2020/21 the cupboard is bare.
    Well, that could all change this evening in Donetsk.
    2,000 fans are in Poland to cheer on their Man Utd heroes as the Premier League side take on Villarreal for the Europa League crown.
    It was 2017 the last time the Red Devils lifted this trophy, when they cruised past Ajax 2-0 in Sweden.
    That feels like a lifetime ago now, with Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan on target that day.
    Villarreal will be a tough test for the Red Devils, despite struggling to make an impact in La Liga this term.
    United are strong favourites to see off a side who score plenty, but can’t keep goals out at the other end.
    So, we’ve fans in the stands and two teams ready to battle it out for European honours.
    Proper football is back, everyone.
    Kick-off is at 8pm BST, start your countdown with us right here on SunSport.
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    Aouar ‘available for £25m’, Odegaard’s future LATEST, Willian ‘wants to rejoin Chelsea’, Daniel Ek takeover UPDATE

    ARSENAL have received a boost in their long pursuit of Lyon defender Houssem Aouar.After the Ligue 1 side missed out on Champions League football, reports suggest the centre-back could be available for just £25million.
    We’ve the very latest on Willian, plus an update on the Gunners takeover and Martin Odegaard’s future.
    WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game
    Get all the latest Arsenal news, transfer gossip and updates with our live blog…
    CAM AND GET ME
    Arsenal have been dealt a blow following reports that Eduardo Camavinga has his heart set on Paris Saint-Germain.
    The Rennes midfielder, 18, is one of Europe’s hottest properties following yet another brilliant season.
    And it appears his head has been turned after telling Rennes he won’t be signing a new contract.
    Camavinga has just a year left on his current deal meaning the club will be forced to flog him this summer or lose him for nothing.
    Unfortunately, RMC Sport claim Rennes are prepared to play hardball having slapped a £100million price-tag on their star man.
    HOUSS OF CARDS
    Arsenal have been given a major boost in their quest to sign Houssem Aouar with the Lyon midfielder reportedly available for £25million.
    The Gunners were heavily linked with a move to sign the 22-year-old last summer, but were priced out of a deal to bring the Frenchman to the Emirates.
    But L’Equipe now claim Aouar’s price tag this summer is over half of the £54m Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas was previously demanding.
    They state that an offer between £22m-£25m could be enough to prise the player away from the Groupama Stadium.
    That is because Lyon failed to qualify for the Champions League after Gunners loan star William Saliba scored the winner in Sunday’s 3-2 victory.

    BUEN BATTLE
    Arsenal and Aston Villa are in a transfer fight for Emiliano Buendia, according to reports.
    The Norwich playmaker, 24, enjoyed a stunning season helping fire the Canaries to a second Championship promotion in his three years at Carrow Road.
    But Daniel Farke faces a huge battle keeping hold of his star man this summer.
    Arsenal were linked with him last year and look set to revive their interest.
    According to The Telegraph, the Gunners may be forced to act quickly if they want to secure the Argentine.
    It is thought Aston Villa are prioritising a new No10 and preparing a bid.
    THAT’S A WRAP
    Arsenal skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has got his Lamborghini Aventador wrapped in holographic.
    The 31-year-old has had his £270,000 luxury vehicle re-wrapped after having his chrome gold wrap removed last week.
    Aubameyang is a known lover of supercars, with the Gabon international boasting a £2m Ferrari in his incredible collection.
    The former Borussia Dortmund striker is also the proud owner of four Lamborghini’s as well as a Porsche Panamera Turbo Techart, Range Rover Sport Mansory and an Audi R8 V10.
    And he often gets his motors wrapped by celebrity car customiser Yianni Charalambous, who took off the gold wrapping he put on in 2018.
    And Yianni has taken to social media to show off the new look of the Aventador in a picture he shared to his 1.3 million Instagram followers.
    Captioning the image, he said: “Football season is finished so that means players cars need to be wrapped and sent abroad for the summer.
    “Lamborghini Avenatdor Roadster stripped from chrome gold and now re-wrapped in holographic.”

    GUNNERS SWAP?
    Nikita Parris could be on her way to Arsenal in a sensational switch that would see Vivianne Miedema move to French giants Lyon.
    Both clubs are reported to be mulling over a swap deal with the WSL hot shot entering the final year of her Gunners contract, according to The Guardian.
    Arsenal have been looking to tie Miedema down to a new contract for this year. 
    In January former boss Joe Montemurro brushed off speculation of Lyon’s interest in the forward, who has netted 60 goals in 67 appearances for the Gunners. 
    But it is thought the club, who signed Japan forward Mana Iwabuchi, are reluctant to allow the Netherlands superstar to leave on a free transfer next summer. 
    Miedema, 24, has been heavily linked with a move to Lyon, who are one of the most dominant forces in women’s football in Europe. 
    The French outfit currently hold the record for the most top-flight title wins in France with 14 Ligue One Women’s crowns. 
    ‘A TOUGH SEASON HAS COME TO AN END’
    Arsenal’s Cedric Soares has sent a message to Gunners fans after what he described as a ‘tough’ campaign.
    2/ I will keep giving my full commitment for this great football club and I’m sure we can achieve beautiful things together.Thank you everyone for your support and see you soon. 💪🏻 🔴⚪#Arsenal #COYG #Gunners— Cédric Soares (@OficialCedric) May 25, 2021

    TAP DANCE
    Arsenal are reportedly in negotiations to prise highly-rated centre-back and Manchester United target Edmond Tapsoba away from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer.
    The 22-year-old has been earning rave reviews in the Bundesliga since joining the German side from from Portuguese outfit Vitoria in January 2020.
    Man Utd have also been linked with a move for the Burkina Faso international having scouted him this season.
    And according to Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari, Arsenal have joined the race to sign the defender.
    He has claimed that the player is at the top of Mikel Arteta’s wishlist as he looks to bolster his backline.

    WILL TO WIN
    Arsenal star Nicolas Pepe has been nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award for May.
    And he’s joined on the shortlist by on loan star Joe Willock.
    The pair have been put forward for the award alongside Aaron Ramsdale, Gareth Bale, Christian Benteke, Sadio Mane and Rodrigo.
    Credit: Reuters
    WSL GOAL OF THE SEASON
    Arsenal striker Vivianne Miedema has won the Women’s Super League Goal of the Season for this beauty.

    CAMINGS AND GOINGS
    Arsenal target Eduardo Camavinga has handed in a transfer request but the teenage sensation has his heart set on Paris Saint-Germain, according to reports.
    The Rennes midfielder, 18, is one of Europe’s hottest properties following yet another brilliant season.
    PSG are one of the clubs monitoring his situation closely and believe he is the future in their midfield.
    And it appears his head has been turned after telling Rennes he won’t be signing a new contract.
    Camavinga has just a year left on his current deal meaning the club will be forced to flog him this summer or lose him for nothing.
    According to RMC Sport, Rennes are prepared to play hardball having slapped a £100million price-tag on their star man.

    NEW EIRA
    Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira has begged the club’s owners to sell up as he confirmed that Spotify CEO Daniel Ek will return with another takeover offer.
    The Frenchman, 44, told the ITV Football Show Podcast: “In the last couple of years I believe that the club didn’t take the right direction.
    “And I think it is time for change. If the change doesn’t happen, I believe that Arsenal will be in a difficult position.
    “We can only make a judgement from outside. We watch every single Arsenal game and it is difficult to recognise the club that we used to play for.
    “It’s difficult to understand the reasons why Arsenal went down the last couple of years but obviously losing Arsene [Wenger] and not finding the right sort of crew to handle the fact that Arsene wasn’t there wasn’t in place.
    “And I think every single year Arsenal didn’t get through to the Champions League or even this year to the Europa League. So this is a big disappointment for all of us as Arsenal fans.
    “But we get to the time where everybody at the club, the Kroenke’s need to get more involved to take Arsenal back where the club should be.
    “If that’s not the case, I think it is time for them to let the club go and let somebody else take care of the football club.”

    MANA’S A GUNNER
    Mana Iwabuchi has signed for Women’s Super League giants Arsenal after being heavily linked with a summer move. 
    The former Bayern Munich and Aston Villa forward’s switch to North London ends months of speculation. 
    It is thought the playmaker, who began her senior career at 16 in Japan’s top flight, had been eyed as a replacement for ex-Gunners forward Jill Roord.
    Details of the deal for Iwabuchi are yet to be disclosed by Arsenal.
    The club says the deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.
    But the Japan star, 28, said: “I’m so happy to finally be able to announce that I am an Arsenal player. I know the club has wanted to sign me for a long time now, so it’s a great honour to be able to play for Arsenal.
    “There are so many amazing players and I can’t wait to get started.”

    AOU ABOUT THAT
    Arsenal have been given a major boost in their quest to sign Houssem Aouar with the Lyon midfielder reportedly available for £25million.
    The Gunners were heavily linked with a move to sign the 22-year-old last summer, but were priced out of a deal to bring the Frenchman to the Emirates.
    It was claimed that the playmaker agreed to link up with the North Londoners who failed to stump up the £54m needed to secure his services.
    According to L’Equipe, Aouar’s price tag this summer is over half of what Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas was previously demanding.
    They state that an offer between £22m-£25m could be enough to prise the player away from the Groupama Stadium.
    That is because Lyon failed to qualify for the Champions League after William Saliba – on loan at Nice from the Gunners – scored the winner in Sunday’s 3-2 victory.
    And Arsenal could reignite their interest in Aouar with boss Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu known to be huge admirers of him.

    PEPE STRIKE SHORTLISTED FOR MAY GOAL OF THE MONTH
    ✅ Another @PremierLeague nominationNico’s stunner has been shortlisted for the May Goal of the Month award 🙌— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 25, 2021

    SAND STORM
    Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge has dropped a hint regarding his future amid interest from Arsenal.
    Berge has fuelled speculation that he could link up with Mikel Arteta’s side after posting a picture of him with Odegaard on his Instagram story on Monday night.
    Berge shared a photo of the two enjoying a meal out, with Arsenal fans left convinced they was discussing potential moves to the club.
    ARSEN-ALL OVER
    Willian is keen to quit Arsenal and re-join Chelsea just 12 months after leaving on a free, according to reports.
    The Brazilian forward, 32, walked away from Stamford Bridge last year after the Blues refused to offer him a three-year contract extension.
    Chelsea famously refuse to offer more than one-year extensions to players over the age of 30, but were willing to compromise and hand Willian a two-year deal.
    But Willian instead opted to sign a three-year deal at Arsenal.
    Things haven’t gone smoothly for the winger though, after a tricky debut season in North London.
    It’s now believed Willian and is keen to quit the Emirates – with a number of clubs monitoring his situation.
    Willian believed to have offers from across Europe, with David Beckham’s Inter Miami also keen.
    But Sky Sports now say the forward is keen to head back to Chelsea, where he played over 300 times in seven years – helping the club win two Premier League crowns.

    ON THIS DAY
    On this day in 1989, Arsenal won the title in the final minute of the season by beating Liverpool 2-0 at Anfield.

    SEAGULLS SWOOP
    Brighton have joined the race for Celtic striker and Arsenal transfer target Odsonne Edouard.
    The French forward, 23, is also being chased by Leicester.
    But the Seagulls hope their promise of a regular starting berth could convince Edouard to head to the South Coast.
    Former Paris Saint-Germain kid Edouard may find it difficult to dislodge first-choice Jamie Vardy and Kelechi Iheanacho should he go to the FA Cup-winning Foxes.
    Meanwhile, Arsenal’s interest is understood to be dependent on whether Alexandre Lacazette stays or goes this summer.

    BUEN BATTLE
    Arsenal and Aston Villa are in a transfer fight for Emiliano Buendia, according to reports.
    The Norwich playmaker, 24, enjoyed a stunning season helping fire the Canaries to a second Championship promotion in his three years at Carrow Road.
    But Daniel Farke faces a huge battle keeping hold of his star man this summer.
    Arsenal were linked with him last year and look set to revive their interest.
    According to The Telegraph, the Gunners may be forced to act quickly if they want to secure the Argentine.
    It is thought Aston Villa are prioritising a new No10 and preparing a bid.

    RENNES FOR THE HILLS
    Arsenal target Eduardo Camavinga has handed in a transfer request but the teenage sensation has his heart set on Paris Saint-Germain, according to reports.
    The Rennes midfielder, 18, is one of Europe’s hottest properties following yet another brilliant season.
    PSG are one of the clubs monitoring his situation closely and believe he is the future in their midfield.
    And it appears his head has been turned after telling Rennes he won’t be signing a new contract.
    Camavinga has just a year left on his current deal meaning the club will be forced to flog him this summer or lose him for nothing.
    According to RMC Sport, Rennes are prepared to play hardball having slapped a £100million price-tag on their star man.
    With the current financial crisis in football due to the coronavirus pandemic, Rennes risk pricing out Europe’s biggest clubs for his signature.
    The report adds how club owner Francois Pinault is hoping to spark a bidding war with Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid also all interested.

    CAMINGS AND GOINGS
    Arsenal target Eduardo Camavinga has handed in a transfer request but the teenage sensation has his heart set on Paris Saint-Germain, according to reports.
    The Rennes midfielder, 18, is one of Europe’s hottest properties following yet another brilliant season.
    PSG are one of the clubs monitoring his situation closely and believe he is the future in their midfield.
    And it appears his head has been turned after telling Rennes he won’t be signing a new contract.
    Camavinga has just a year left on his current deal meaning the club will be forced to flog him this summer or lose him for nothing.
    According to RMC Sport, Rennes are prepared to play hardball having slapped a £100million price-tag on their star man.
    MORNING, ARSENAL FANS
    Arsenal’s season may have ended on Sunday, but a number of players and staff are up for individual gongs this week.
    Boss Mikel Arteta has been nominated for Manager of the Month for May, after guiding his side to five consecutive domestic wins.
    And Nicolas Pepe, who finished the season in a rich vein of form, could win another end-of-season double.
    The Ivorian, having scored twice during the final day 2-0 win Brighton, has been nominated for Goal of the Month for his effort against West Brom, as well as Player of the Month.
    In the latter, he will be up against Joe Willock, who has impressed on loan at Newcastle United.
    Meanwhile, in transfer news, Willian reportedly wants to leave Emirates Stadium, just one season into his three-year deal.
    And controversially, the Brazilian is believed to want to join Chelsea.
    In terms of incomings, the Gunners have been linked with impressive Celtic star Odsonne Edouard.
    But they will have to compete with Brighton and Leicester, as revealed by SunSport last night.
    Finally, Bukayo Saka was named in Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man England squad for Euro 2020.
    The talented teen is Arsenal’s only representative in the Three Lions camp.
    Southgate, 50, is expected to whittle his squad down to 26 next week.
    ICYMI – CE-BYE-LLOS
    Dani Ceballos has taken to Instagram to thank Arsenal fans as he departs the club for a second time.
    The Spaniard has spent the last two seasons on loan in North London.
    And while things largely haven’t gone well on the pitch in that time, Ceballos, 24, still has plenty of amazing memories to take back to Madrid with him.
    None more so than helping the Gunners win the FA Cup last season.

    GOAL OF THE MONTH?
    Here’s the Nicolas Pepe strike that has been nominated for May’s Goal of the Month award.
    Pick that one out.
    ✅ Another @PremierLeague nominationNico’s stunner has been shortlisted for the May Goal of the Month award 🙌— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 25, 2021

    WILL TO WIN
    Arsenal star Nicolas Pepe has been nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award for May.
    And he’s joined on the shortlist by on loan star Joe Willock.
    The pair have been put forward for the award alongside Aaron Ramsdale, Gareth Bale, Christian Benteke, Sadio Mane and Rodrigo.
    Nicolas Pepe has been in hot form this monthCredit: Reuters
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    Tielemans transfer BOOST, Cristiano Ronaldo return LATEST, £150m Kane transfer, Lingard EXCLUSIVE

    MANCHESTER UNITED take on Villarreal tonight as they look to end their trophy drought by winning the Europa League. Meanwhile on the transfer front, we’ve the very latest on United’s potential swoop for Cristiano Ronaldo and Youri Tielemans.
    Harry Kane is also on the target list for this summer, while West Ham fear United want to KEEP Jesse Lingard after his on-loan heroics.
    EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL BETTING SPECIAL

    Stay up to date with every twist from Old Trafford in our live rolling blog…
    FANDEMONIUM
    Manchester United fans have been getting into the party spirit in Gdansk ahead of tonight’s Europa League final.
    The Red Devils will be backed by 2,000 travelling supporters from England tonight, as they face Villarreal in the Baltic city.
    And as fans starved of European travel have arrived in the city, they’ve been quick to revel in the adventure and have a good time.
    A great number have been seen enjoying Gdansk’s bars.
    And no shortage of pints have been consumed in the city centre.

    IN THE FOXHOLE
    Manchester United have been handed a boost in the race to land Youri Tielemans after Leicester reportedly agreed a deal for his replacement Boubakary Soumare.
    Belgium international Tielemans has been voted the Foxes’ player of the season and SunSport revealed he is set for talks over a new contract.
    But reports in Belgium claim Liverpool have targeted former Anderlecht and Monaco ace Tielemans to replace Gini Wijnaldum.
    United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is also credited with an interest in signing £50million-rated Tielemans.
    Leicester have now secured an ideal replacement if the Belgian quits the King Power Stadium – by tying up a £20m deal for French ace Soumare.
    WAN-BISSAKA ON SHAW’S IMPRESSIVE FORM
    Manchester United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka has praised fellow Red Devils full-back Luke Shaw ahead of their Europa League final clash with Villarreal tonight.
    He told the club website: “Luke has been the stand-out for me.
    “His performances push me to compete with him, to get the best out of all of us.
    “He’s been positive throughout, making the most out of every game. He’s not taken his foot off the pedal, he’s kept going, pushed himself until the whistle goes. That’s good. He helps the team as well.”
    FANS LIVING IT UP IN GDANSK
    Manchester United fans are enjoying themselves in Gdansk, Poland ahead of tonight’s Europa League final against Villarreal.

    FERGIE TIME
    Manchester United icon Sir Alex Ferguson has travelled with his former side to Gdansk, ahead of the Europa League final tomorrow.
    The Scot, 79, attended training this evening, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer put the players through their paces.
    Credit: Getty
    Credit: Getty
    RUDDY GOOD
    Rio Ferdinand has named his Premier League’s four best defenders… including Antonio Rudiger.
    The Chelsea ace almost departed in the summer under Frank Lampard after being frozen out of the first team.
    But he was thrust back into the starting XI following Thomas Tuchel’s appointment in January and has gone from strength to strength.
    Rudiger, 28, has been part of a Chelsea defence that kept a hugely impressive 19 league clean sheets.
    Speaking about his top four Premier League defenders of the season, he said: “I think [Antonio] Rudiger, since he’s been playing, has probably been [the] second or third best centre-half after [Ruben] Dias and maybe [John] Stones, [Harry] Maguire.”

    TAP DANCE
    Arsenal are reportedly in negotiations to prise highly-rated centre-back and Manchester United target Edmond Tapsoba away from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer.
    The 22-year-old has been earning rave reviews in the Bundesliga since joining the German side from from Portuguese outfit Vitoria in January 2020.
    Man Utd have also been linked with a move for the Burkina Faso international having scouted him this season.
    And according to Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari, Arsenal have joined the race to sign the defender.
    He has claimed that the player is at the top of Mikel Arteta’s wishlist as he looks to bolster his backline.

    LEVEL HEADED
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has given his final thoughts on the Europa League final ahead of tonight’s showdown between Manchester United and Villarreal.
    He told the club website: “Well, the final, first of all, is the reward for all the hard work they’ve put down in the last two years.
    “They have worked together as a group and the spirit is fantastic, so now we hope we can perform on Wednesday night because that’s the main thing.
    “We will prepare as normal and then I’m sure the result can hopefully come.”

    RU THE DAY
    Wolves are willing to sell midfielder and Manchester United transfer target Ruben Neves for around £35million this summer, according to reports.
    The Portuguese international looks likely to be one of the names sacrificed as the club plot a mini overhaul.
    According to the Athletic, Wolves are being forced to sell their assets if they want to spend big.
    Neves, 24, is one of the names up for grabs with reported interest from Man Utd.
    He moved to the Molineux in 2017 with the club in the Championship and helped earn promotion in his first campaign.
    Neves has since played a key role in Wolves’ time in the Premier League including qualifying for Europe.

    EDEN HOME
    Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea are the leading contenders to sign Real Madrid star Eden Hazard.
    That’s according to bookmakers Betfair, who’ve installed the European heavyweights as favourites to clinch his signature this summer.
    Hazard joined Real Madrid from Chelsea in June 2019 in a mega-money deal worth upwards of £130million.
    However, things haven’t exactly gone to plan with injuries limiting the 30-year-old to just 34 appearances in all competitions.
    The Belgian international managed 10 starts as Real Madrid ended the season without a single trophy and losing their La Liga crown to rivals Atletico Madrid.
    The attacker also received scorn from supporters for laughing and joking with his former Chelsea colleagues after his old side had dumped them out of the Champions League.
    As a result, reports claim Real will look to offload Hazard in order to finance a major rebuild at the Bernabeu.
    BETFAIR OFFER: BET £5 GET £20*

    MAN UTD EUROPEAN FINALS XI
    Manchester United take on Villarreal in the Europa League final on Wednesday night aiming to win their second title in the second tier of European football.
    Luke Shaw will incredibly play in his first-ever cup final after missing the 2017 Europa League final win over Ajax through injury.
    But he will almost certainly start for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the 2020-21 squad aim to write their names in the record books.
    Ahead of the game, we’ve taken a look at the Man Utd’s best XI based on cup finals.

    FINAL WARNING
    Bruno Fernandes will not be crushed by expectation in the Europa League final against Villarreal tonight.
    The Manchester United playmaker, 26, knows he is under huge pressure to deliver in Poland.
    But he said: “I think if you look at the history of the club, you understand pressure is there. It is part of life. I like working under pressure, that’s good for me. Everyone knows it’s important for us to win trophies.
    “We come to this club because we want to win. It doesn’t matter if the club hasn’t won for many years. The hope to win is still there and we want to do it. Trophies are part of this club and I think everyone knows that.
    “Every player that signs knows he will come to fight for trophies, to be a better player. The team has grown up a lot and we have improved from the semi-final.
    “Being in the final is good but to be perfect we have to win and the dressing room is confident. It is a 50-50 game.”

    WAN OF A KIND
    Former Manchester United and England star Andrew Cole believes that Aaron Wan-Bissaka was unlucky not to make Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man Euro 2020 squad.
    He told talkSPORT 2: “When anyone gets mentioned regarding the right-back position, they always say they’re not sure about players defensively, especially Alexander-Arnold.
    “Wan-Bissaka is the opposite. Defensively, he’s brilliant. Going forward, he doesn’t attack as good as he rest of the boys.
    “But defensively, he’s up there with the best of them.”

    BRUNO BOOST
    BRUNO FERNANDES is expected to take centre-stage as Manchester United meet Villarreal in the Europa League final.
    And bookmakers Willian Hill are offering brand new customers colossal odds of 40/1 that the Portuguese superstar scores or assist!
    You can claim this 40/1 William Hill special by clicking here – (MOBILE ONLY) new customers only.

    MAN OF THE PEOPLE
    Manchester United have given ALL staff a day off to watch the Europa League final tonight.
    The Red Devils take on Villarreal in Gdansk, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to win his first trophy as boss.
    The Premier League runners-up would usually put on a huge party and screening to watch the game.
    But due to coronavirus restrictions the backroom team aren’t allowed to be together to watch the European clash.
    However, United are letting employees have today or tomorrow off as a goodwill gesture after a tough season.
    They are also giving everyone a ‘front room final party pack’ including drinks, snacks, free merchandise and takeaway vouchers.

    EUR’LL BE LUCKY
    Manchester United captain Harry Maguire has NOT been ruled out of his side’s Europa League final against Villarreal.
    The defender picked up an ankle ligament injury in a 3-1 Premier League win against Aston Villa at the start of May.
    The 28-year-old has not played since, and was relying on crutches to get him around.
    But United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has refused to definitely rule out his captain, and Maguire has been named in the 26-man squad flying out to Gdansk.
    Speaking on the club website, Solskjaer said: “Harry is just going to jog up and down the sidelines [in training].
    “I reckon he’ll try to join in a bit.”

    EUR IN TROUBLE
    UEFA have opened the way to ban Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus from the Champions League after beginning formal disciplinary charges against the rebel trio.
    Euro chiefs are determined to bring the three Super League ringleaders to heel after the collapse of their breakaway plan.
    Unlike the Prem Big Six, the two Milan sides and Atletico Madrid, the three clubs have refused to pull the plug on their scheme.
    That has infuriated Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin.
    He is out for revenge and wants to impose two season bans.
    And now that prospect had moved a step closer after Uefa announced its first move.
    In a statement, Nyon officials said: “Following an investigation conducted by UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspectors in connection with the so-called ‘Super League’ project, disciplinary proceedings have been opened against Real Madrid CF, FC Barcelona and Juventus FC for a potential violation of UEFA’s legal framework.
    “Further information will be made available in due course.”

    SOLSKJAER ON EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL
    Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has insisted the Europa League final is not about him as he goes in search of his first silverware with the club.
    “It’s not about me. I’ve got enough self-belief, whatever circumstances I’ve been in,” Solskjaer told reporters at his press conference prior to the final.
    “[I’m] Quietly confident, as I’ve always said. Trusting the players. These players are ready for this and that’s the main thing.
    “I’ve seen in them something growing inside of them, more and more confident, more and more robust and resilient to setbacks.
    “As a group, I’m confident that we’re ready for this now.”

    FAN ATTACKS
    Several Manchester United fans were reportedly injured last night following an attack by locals in Poland ahead of the Europa League Final.
    The Red Devils are in Gdansk to take on Villarreal this evening as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to land his first piece of silverware as manager.
    A number of fans, including United and England legend Wayne Rooney, have flown over to watch the action live.
    However, three supporters suffered minor injuries after they were attacked in a bar yesterday.
    BBC reporter Simon Stone says club staff are assisting those individuals who had items stolen.
    He added: “Not aware of any issue involving Utd/Villarreal fans and general atmosphere good natured.”

    INJURY TIME
    Gareth Southgate admits he is in the dark whether Harry Maguire will be fit for the Euros – because Manchester United have kept his medical details secret from England.
    He said: “At this moment in time, Harry might play tomorrow or he might be out for two months I just don’t know.
    “We had an initial assessment, which was positive in terms of the tournament, but there was always a little bit more swelling and further investigation needed.
    “Of course when you’ve got a European final and information for the opposition is so tight and things do leak I understand why clubs want to keep their cards close to their chest.
    “It’s made it a little bit more difficult for us but I don’t have a problem with Manchester United at all, I totally understand it.”

    GREEN LIGHT
    Mason Greenwood has been tipped to be named as the man of the match ahead of Manchester United’s Europa League final against Villarreal in Gdansk.
    Stadium operators at PGE Arena Gdansk picked the 19-year-old forward as the star performer during screen tests for Wednesday night’s clash.
    Greenwood is in great form having fired in six goals in his last eight Premier League games.
    His recent dazzling displays have seen him be included in Gareth Southgate’s 33-man provisional England squad for Euro 2020.
    Red Devils fans are hoping that it is a good omen for them that Greenwood was named by stadium operators as United look to win silverware for the first time since lifting the Europa League in 2017.
    Taking to social media to share the image of the teenager, PA’s Simon Peach tweeted: “Stadium operators are testing the screens and tipping Mason Greenwood for a big night.”

    MORNING, MAN UTD FANS
    Manchester United take on Villarreal tonight in Gdansk, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer attempts to get his hands on his first silverware as Red Devils boss.
    The Norwegian put his players through their paces last night, but skipper Harry Maguire did NOT take part in training.
    Solskjaer, 48, refused to rule his captain out of contention to play.
    He said: “We’ve prepared well. Anthony didn’t make it, Phil didn’t make it, of course, and Harry is just going to jog up and down the sidelines [in training]. I reckon he’ll try to join in a bit.
    “Apart from that, we’re looking quite good.”
    But having not trained, selection appears unlikely.
    Maguire has, however, been included in Gareth Southgate’s 33-man provisional England squad for Euro 2020.
    And he’s joined by United team-mates Dean Henderson, Luke Shaw, Jesse Lingard, Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford.
    There is no place for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, however, with the squad expected to be whittled down to 26 next week.
    United have been joined on their trip to Gdansk by legendary former boss Sir Alex Ferguson.
    The Scot observed training from the stands last night, as the players attempted one final time to impress Solskjaer, ahead of him naming his starting XI for this evening’s clash.
    ICYMI – GDA-MN IT!
    Harry Maguire did NOT train with his Manchester United team-mates this evening, despite travelling with them to Gdansk.
    Boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer refused to rule his skipper out of contention for tomorrow night’s game, despite his recent injury woes.
    But the big defender, who was earlier included in Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man England squad, was forced to watch the from the sidelines as his team-mates were put through their paces.
    Harry Maguire watches training from the bench
    FERGIE TIME
    Manchester United icon Sir Alex Ferguson has travelled with his former side to Gdansk, ahead of the Europa League final tomorrow.
    The Scot, 79, attended training this evening, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer put the players through their paces.
    Sir Alex Ferguson cast an eye over trainingCredit: Getty
    Fergie travelled to Poland alongside David GillCredit: Getty
    WAN OF A KIND
    Former Manchester United and England star Andrew Cole believes that Aaron Wan-Bissaka was unlucky not to make Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man Euro 2020 squad.
    He told talkSPORT 2: “When anyone gets mentioned regarding the right-back position, they always say they’re not sure about players defensively, especially Alexander-Arnold.
    “Wan-Bissaka is the opposite. Defensively, he’s brilliant. Going forward, he doesn’t attack as good as he rest of the boys.
    “But defensively, he’s up there with the best of them.”
    Aaron Wan-Bissaka failed to make Southgate’s squad
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