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    Juventus 2 Atalanta 1 LIVE REACTION: Chiesa and Kulusevski fire Ronaldo’s Juve to Coppa Italia glory

    JUVENTUS are Coppa Italia champions once again after beating fellow Serie A side Atalanta.
    Final score: Juventus 2-1 Atalanta

    Follow ALL the reaction with our live blog below…

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    THANKS FOR JOINING US
    That’s all from us tonight as Juventus sealed a record extending FOURTEENTH Coppa Italia triumph.
    Dejan Kulusevski opened the scoring for Juventus after half an hour with an expert curling effort, before Ruslan Malinovskiy levelled things up ten minutes later with a thunderbolt from eighteen yards.
    Juventus came out after the break the better of the two sides and almost took the lead, with Federico Chiesa striking the post after a wonderful back-heel from Cristiano Ronaldo.
    Chiesa made amends ten minutes later though, collecting a through ball from Dejan Kulusevski and firing past Pierluigi Gollini with fifteen minutes left to play.
    Atalanta never really looked like scoring after that and Juventus easily saw out the ninety minutes to win a fifth Coppa Italia in seven years.
    Attention for Andrea Pirlo’s side now turns to Sunday’s Serie A finale at Bologna, with the Old Lady still in with a shout of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
    Atalanta meanwhile host AC Milan knowing a win would seal a second place finish in the league and secure Champions League football.
    That’s all for now though.
    Thanks for joining us, it’s been a pleasure.
    OLE OLE OLE
    Juventus’ win tonight puts the gloss on what has been a season to forget so far for the Old Lady.
    They are still in with a shot of qualifying for next year’s Champions League, but need to win on Sunday and hope other results go their way.

    HANDS ON THE PRIZE
    And here’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebrating with the Juventus fans.
    He wasn’t involved too much tonight but he didn’t need to be, with Dejan Kulusevski and Federico Chiesa firing Juventus to their FOURTEENTH Coppa Italia victory.

    LEGEND OF THE GAME
    Cristiano Ronaldo has won some trophies in his time…
    🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿3 x Premier League2 x League Cup1 x FA Cup1 x Champions League🇪🇸 4 x Champions League3 x FIFA Club World Cup2 x La Liga2 x Copa del Rey2 x UEFA Super Cup🇮🇹2 x Serie A2 x Supercoppa Italiana1 x Coppa Italia 🇵🇹1 x Euros1 x UEFA Nations LeagueSerial winner. pic.twitter.com/mycpVof0k7— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 19, 2021

    FANS BACK
    The Juve players celebrate with the Coppa Italia trophy in front of their 2,000 fans.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: AFP

    CHAMPIONS
    Here’s a look at the moment Gianluigi Buffon lifted the trophy.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: AFP
    FULL TIME STATS
    Here’s a look at the stats after 90 minutes.
    Atalanta could only manage one shot on target in the second half, while Juve managed to kick on and ultimately run out deserved winners.

    ONE LAST TIME
    Fittingly Gianluigi Buffon signs off his professional career by lifting a trophy.
    Gigi Buffon signs off in style 🏆The legend lifts the Coppa Italia to get the celebrations going 🟢⚪️🔴 pic.twitter.com/uLv8E7jWtH— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 19, 2021

    GOODBYE TO A LEGEND
    The Juventus squad give Gigi Buffon the send off he deserves.
    What a servant he’s been to the club.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: Reuters
    TROPHY LIFT
    Gigi Buffon collects the trophy with his goalkeeper gloves still on.
    He steps down and joins his teammates, before lifting the Coppa Italia trophy high into the air.
    JUVENTUS ARE THE 2021 COPPA ITALIA WINNERS!
    CHAMPIONS
    And now the Juventus players come forward to collect their winners medals and assemble around the trophy.
    Gianluigi Buffon is the last man onto the stage to lift the trophy, in what is likely to be his last ever professional game.
    RUNNERS UP
    The Atalanta players come forward to collect their second runners-up medal in the last three years.
    They lost the 2019 final 2-0 against Lazio.
    LEGENDS
    Juventus manager Andrea Pirlo celebrates with former teammate Gianluigi Buffon at full time.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: Reuters
    BYE BYE BUFFON?
    Gianluigi Buffon gets his hands on his fifth Coppa Italia medal after tonight’s win.
    It could also be the 43-year-olds last ever professional game with Wojiech Szczesny set to play in the Serie A finale this weekend.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: Reuters
    CHAMPIONS
    Tonight’s win is the fourteenth time Juventus have lifted the Coppa Italia.
    That’s FIVE more than Roma, who have won the tournament the second most times.

    FT: ATALANTA 1-2 JUVENTUS
    So Juventus come from behind to avenge last year’s final defeat to Napoli and secure a record extending FOURTEENTH Coppa Italia triumph.
    For Atalanta meanwhile it’s a second final defeat in the last three years, and their wait for a first major trophy since 1963 goes on.
    It was a game of two halves really, with Atalanta dominating the first period and Juventus enjoying the better of the second half.
    PEEEEEEEEEEEEP!
    THAT’S FULL TIME!
    JUVENTUS HAVE WON THE COPPA ITALIA!
    ATALANTA 1-2 JUVENTUS
    94. Juventus should make it four really.
    They break forward and have a four on two situation.
    Danilo dithers on the ball though and ends up having to shoot from the edge of the area.
    His effort is straight into the arms of Gollini.
    ATALANTA 1-2 JUVENTUS
    93. The delivery from the corner is a poor one.
    It doesn’t even beat the first man.
    ATALANTA 1-2 JUVENTUS
    92. Ilicic crosses in from the left but Bonucci gets his head on the ball to divert the ball behind for a corner.
    Do Atalanta have one last chance left in them?
    ATALANTA 1-2 JUVENTUS
    90. The fourth official indicates four minutes of added time at the end of the game.
    Not long to go now for Juve…
    ATALANTA 1-2 JUVENTUS
    89. Toloi is shown the red card for something he’s said on the touchline.
    Ilicic is now into the book for a late challenge.
    Atalanta look like they’ve lost their heads here, which suits Juventus perfectly.
    RED CARD!
    TOLOI HAS BEEN SHOWN THE RED CARD!
    BUT HE’S NOT ON THE PITCH!
    HE CAME OFF EARLIER IN THE GAME!
    ATALANTA 1-2 JUVENTUS
    87. Romero tries to float a ball into the box but Chiellini heads clear.
    Ilicic challenge for the second ball with Danilo going down very theatrically to win a free kick.
    De Roon is into the book for his protests after the foul is awarded.
    ATALANTA 1-2 JUVENTUS
    85. Atalanta yellow card.
    Freuler is the latest man in the book for a trip on Dybala from behind.
    Juve won’t mind that, the game being scrappy suits them just fine.
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    Chelsea want £80m Sancho EXCLUSIVE, Barella transfer interest, Harry Kane Spurs exit latest, Liverpool news

    HARRY KANE could be heading to either Manchester United or Manchester City after telling Tottenham he wants to leave, while Chelsea are also in the hunt.Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho is a target for the Blues with the Borussia Dortmund winger set to make a move to England this summer, while Old Trafford remains a likely destination.
    And Lionel Messi could also leave Barcelona this summer, with Manchester City favourites to sign the Nou Camp icon.
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    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    OPEN BAR
    Chelsea are considering a £60million bid for Inter Milan star Nicolo Barella ahead of the summer transfer window.
    That means the Blues will have to take on the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid, who have also shown interest in Barella.
    The box-to-box midfielder is among the key players Inter may have to sell due to financial issues, along with Lautaro Martinez and Romelu Lukaku, despite their Serie A triumph.
    According to Leggo, the west Londoners have made “advances” for the Italy international
    OPEN DOR
    Chelsea are planning to launch an £80million bid for Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho.
    SunSport understand that the Blues are set to battle Manchester United over Sancho’s signature.
    The west Londoners’ manager Thomas Tuchel is said to be a huge admirer of the star winger.
    And the 21-year-old England international appears set to leave Dortmund and join the Premier League
    LEW & BEHOLD
    Chelsea have reportedly ‘made contact’ with Robert Lewandowski over a bumper summer transfer from Bayern Munich.
    The 32-year-old is the latest striker linked with the Blues as Thomas Tuchel searches for reinforcements.
    Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland and Inter Milan’s Romelu Lukaku have been linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge over recent weeks.
    Harry Kane is also on the radar after the England striker told Tottenham he wants to move.
    Now German news outlet Sky Sport claim Chelsea have made contact with the Poland international.
    ROUD NOT TO
    Olivier Giroud’s agent has revealed AC Milan, Juventus and Roma have held transfer talks for the Chelsea striker.
    But advisor Vincenzo Morabito claimed the France international is also wanted by three Premier League clubs – plus others in Germany and Spain.
    He said: “(Michael) Manuello and I met with AC Milan at the end of the January transfer window.
    “They confirmed how highly they rate Giroud, although they said they were considering younger players for their attack.
    “However we have remained in contact with them, and we will see what happens in the future.
    “There was the possibility of Giroud moving to Italy in January.
    “We spoke with both Juventus and with Roma, when they thought that Edin Dzeko would leave for Inter Milan.
    “Now Manuello is weighing up various offers for Giroud. Three have come in from English clubs.
    “But there are also interesting situations for him in Spain and Germany.”

    GARD DOWN
    Manchester United are considering offering Jesse Lingard to Tottenham as part of a deal for striker Harry Kane, according to reports.
    It was revealed by SunSport on Tuesday that the Red Devils and local rival Manchester City are preparing to hand the Spurs
    And now The Times are reporting that Lingard is being considered as a potential sweetener for Tottenham in a deal involving Kane.
    However, Man Utd are also said to be cautious about attempting to negotiate with Lilywhites’ chairman Daniel Levy.
    Man City is still thought to be Kane’s preferred destination if he is to depart North London this summer.
    WIL I NEVER
    Allan Saint-Maximin has called on Newcastle to sign Arsenal loan star Joe Willock on a permanent deal this summer.
    He told Sky Sports: When they asked me about a new deal, I feel that I have to give. Sometimes when people give you something, you have to give back.
    “But before I signed it, I had always said Newcastle should not be fighting against relegation every year. We have to fight for the top 10, it’s what the supporters deserve.
    “Sometimes you have to think about your future, you can see Leicester winning the FA Cup, you play football to win trophies, not to fight to stay up.
    “We have to buy more players like Joe Willock, he can be really great for the team and for myself, I am 24 years old, and have to think about the national team, about winning trophies, and hope the club can give me that.
    “My relationship is really good with Joe inside and outside the pitch, and you can see how that helps a team when you have players like that – like Harry Kane and Heung-min Son at Tottenham.”

    GOAL GETTERS
    Bruno Fernandes has called on his team-mates to start converting their chances if they want to win the Europa League.
    United had 13 shots in total against Fulham but it took a wonderstrike from Edinson Cavani to grab their only goal.
    And Fernandes, 26, wants to see improvements in their final two matches.
    He said: “We didn’t score the chances we had. Sometimes it’s our problem in games we draw and lose. We create many chances but we don’t score.
    “I think in the future I think this problem will change and now our focus has to be on the next game against Wolves.
    “We then have three days before the final in the Europa League and I think we have enough to prepare well.”
    NO LOW BLOW
    Germany have recalled Thomas Muller and Mats Hummels for Euro 2020 after a two-year absence.
    Both the Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund stars were named by Joachim Low as part of the 26-man squad for next month’s tournament.
    The pair were both exiled from the international scene back in 2019 as Low attempted to bring through the country’s next generation of stars.
    Now explaining his U-turn, the soon-to-be departed Low said: “They have played a very strong season. They can add a lot to the team in terms of leadership on the pitch.
    “They know our mindset, philosophy, and are respected by the other players because of what they have accomplished.”
    RON WAY BACK?
    Manchester United icon Gary Pallister believes club legend Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Old Trafford in the summer.
    Commenting on his future, former United defender Pallister told Compare.bet: “I could see him coming back.
    “He had a great time at Old Trafford, and coming back here would suit Cristiano with Juve struggling with Champions League qualification.
    “He didn’t have issues here the first time round under the leadership of Sir Alex, and you can see that he still looks after himself and has that hunger.
    “He still wants to compete at the top level and play Champions League football, and if he comes to United you have to find a place for Cristiano Ronaldo.
    “He’s a magnificent player and still has that hunger to prove himself as the best player that’s ever walked this planet.
    “I think he’s on record as wanting to play until he’s 40 – sometimes when you’re bringing a player back to a club you worry about the hunger and desire if it’s something seen as more of a final payday.
    “You see the way he talks and trains, he’s still keen and can be one of the best players in the world at United.”

    BILLY THE KID
    Chelsea star Ben Chilwell has shared Billy Gilmour’s sweet reaction to the news that he’s been named in Scotland’s squad for the Euros.

    GREAT SCOTT
    Billy Gilmour has won a spot at Euro 2020 as a surprise inclusion in Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad.
    The 26-man selection representing the Tartan Army at a major tournament for the first time since 1998 was revealed on Wednesday lunchtime.
    And, as revealed by SunSport, Chelsea youngster Gilmour has made the cut.

    AL SAAD AND DONE
    Barcelona legend Xavi turned down the opportunity to manage both Borussia Dortmund and Brazil, according to reports.
    The former Spanish midfielder is currently in charge with Saudi side Al Sadd – recently signing a contract extension until 2023.
    But according to AS, Xavi had two huge offers on the table just weeks before penning his deal earlier this month.
    The first was from Dortmund who has been managed by interim boss Edin Terzic since December.
    Xavi was also reportedly approached by Brazil to become assistant to Tite until the Qatari World Cup next year.
    BARC TOGETHER
    Lionel Messi enjoyed a reunion with Luis Suarez as the Barcelona star travelled to Madrid to meet up with his close friend.
    The Argentine forward took advantage of a two-day break given by boss Ronald Koeman to visit the Atletico Madrid striker in the Spanish capital.
    The pair were joined by their partners as they dined out at Italian restaurant Numa Pompilio in Madrid’s ‘Golden Mile’.
    Messi’s wife Antonella Roccuzzo took to Instagram to share a photo of the happy couple alongside Suarez and his spouse Sofia Balbi.
    Captioning the picture, she simply stated: “Adding moments together.”

    EXCLUSIVE
    Billy Gilmour is set to win a spot at Euro 2020 as a surprise inclusion in Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad.
    The 26-man selection representing the Tartan Army at a major tournament for the first time since 1998 will be revealed on Wednesday lunchtime.
    And SunSport understands Chelsea youngster Gilmour will make the cut.
    With Ryan Jack and Kenny McLean out, Clarke is set to welcome the 19-year-old into the fold having previously turned out for the Under-21s.
    NOT AN EZE BLOW TO TAKE
    Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze is reportedly set for a long spell on the sidelines.
    The Athletic claim the England starlet suffered a serious injury in training.
    EXCL: Eberechi Ezi has suffered a serious Achilles injury that could rule him out well into next season. Occurred in training & 22yo Crystal Palace player seeing specialist to ascertain extent of damage + next steps. W/ @domfifield for @TheAthleticUK #CPFC https://t.co/RaeXRfVTcU— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) May 19, 2021

    FAN THE FLAMES
    Luke Shaw has told a Manchester United fan who threw a green and gold scarf on the Old Trafford pitch that he will fight to quash any stadium ban.
    As the defender set up to take a corner in United’s draw with Fulham on Tuesday, the protest symbol landed in front of him.
    I understand completely, first match back at old Trafford , emotions are high. I know there was nothing aggressive towards what you did. I will try my best to speak with someone and sort it out 👍🏽— Luke Shaw (@LukeShaw23) May 18, 2021

    BRAND NEW
    Brandon Williams has turned his deep connection with his Manchester local area into an epic new tattoo sleeve.
    A design by tattooist to the stars Dale McGovern was revealed on the artist’s Instagram page.

    IT’S GONNA N’GO
    N’Golo Kante felt an injury coming on so asked to be subbed against Leicester.
    Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel confirmed the world class midfielder foresaw a problem so was replaced as a preventative measure.
    The French World Cup winner was replaced by Mateo Kovacic after just 32 minutes but Tuchel was confident it was just a preventative measure.
    After the game, the German said: “N’Golo is not injured. He told me – and I understood him right in French – he went out before an injury.
    “He felt his hamstrings and was worried that he would get injured if he continued to play.
    “The job is not done yet!”
    TO BE FRANK
    Chelsea legend Frank Lampard has joined Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry, Eric Cantona and Roy Keane in the Premier League Hall of Fame.

    HARRY ALONG NOW
    Pep Guardiola has refused to comment on Manchester City’s interest in Tottenham star Harry Kane.
    A five-year contract totalling a whopping £80million is in the works as City look to replace Sergio Aguero.
    Yet Guardiola remained tight-lipped on the report when asked about the potential mega deal following his side’s defeat at Brighton.
    He replied: “Next question, he is a Tottenham Hotspur player, please.”
    Manchester United are set to rival neighbours City for Kane, 27, after he told Spurs he wants to leave.
    SILVA MEDAL
    Thiago Silva is set to stay at Chelsea after reportedly reaching a verbal agreement over a contract extension.
    The Blues snapped up Silva, 36, as a free agent last summer following a successful eight-year stay at Paris Saint-Germain.
    Talks have been ongoing over a new deal for some time with Silva’s contract up at the end of next month.
    According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, a breakthrough has led to all parties being happy to sign on for another year.
    The agreement is seen as all but done with Chelsea now waiting for the paperwork to process after the Champions League final before the player signs on the dotted line.

    GOOD MORNING, FOOTBALL FANS
    CHELSEA’S vital revenge win over Leicester and Brighton’s 3-2 comeback win over champs Manchester City were overshadowed by SunSport’s exclusive Harry Kane revelations.
    We revealed this morning that City and neighbours United are ready to offer Tottenham’s wantaway England striker an £80MILLION five-year contract.
    Back on the pitch, Tuesday night was potentially decisive in the race to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
    Having been beaten 1-0 in the FA Cup final by Leicester, Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea beat the Foxes 2-1 at Stamford Bridge and guarantee their top-four status ahead of the final round of Premier League fixtures.
    Meanwhile, the defeat for Brendan Rodgers’ team means Liverpool can move above them into fourth place with a win at Burnley this evening.
    If the Reds do manage to leave Turf Moor with a victory, they will be level on points with Leicester but with a slightly superior goal difference heading into the last day.
    Yesterday also saw a sensational return of fans for Brighton as they fought back from two goals down to defeat ten-man City 3-2 at the Amex Stadium.
    The Seagulls’ supporters were bouncing at the end of the match, with Graham Potter’s men inflicting just a fifth league defeat of the season on Man City.
    There are five other games this evening aside from Burnley vs Liverpool, with the most notable aspect of most of them being that supporters will be back in the stadiums.
    They may be largely dead rubbers, but Everton, Newcastle, Tottenham, Crystal Palace and West Brom will all welcome their fans back to their respective grounds.
    And Spurs and West Ham are still fighting for Europa League football, so they will want to finish strongly.
    We are also just 48 hours on from Harry Kane reiterating his desire to leave Tottenham at the end of the season.
    But Lilywhites coach Ryan Mason batted away any speculation in his pre-match press conference.
    He said: “Like I’ve said all along I can’t speak about next season, whether that’s a manager or a player. What I do know is that the fans will get behind us. They’re excited about the game tomorrow, along with the players.
    “We’re looking forward to it, looking forward to a game of football, with fans who are going to make a big difference for us and hopefully we can get three points.”
    Could tonight be Kane’s farewell match to the Tottenham fans?
    N’GOLO NO
    Chelsea star N’Golo Kante came off INJURED just 11 days before the Champions League final against Manchester City.
    The French midfielder has been in scintillating form in recent weeks but Blues supporters – and Thomas Tuchel – will now be hoping the injury is not serious.
    Kante, 30, managed just 30 minutes in the crucial match against top four rivals Leicester City.
    It is not yet clear why Kante came off, he managed 90 minutes in the FA Cup final on Saturday and had no clear injury when he was taken off.
    His withdrawal did see the welcome return of Mateo Kovacic, who had not played since April 10.

    FT: BRIGHTON 3-2 MANCHESTER CITY
    Brighton fight back from two goals down to beat champions Manchester City 3-2 at the Amex Stadium! What a return for those Seagulls supporters!
    Credit: AFP
    CHELSEA 0-0 LEICESTER
    Chelsea have had the ball in the net against Leicester but Timo Werner was adjudged to have handled the ball. He did. No goal.
    Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
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    Crystal Palace vs Arsenal: Live stream FREE, TV channel, team news and kick-off time – Premier League latest updates

    CRYSTAL PALACE welcome Arsenal to Selhurst Park tonight for an end-of-season Premier League clash.The Gunners are searching for a fourth-straight victory as they look to end the season strongly, while the hosts will be cheered on by 6,500 fans.
    Follow all the build-up and action with our live blog below from 5.30pm…

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    Mikel Arteta will be hoping his Arsenal side finish the season stronglyCredit: Reuters
    What time does Palace vs Arsenal kick-off?

    Kick-off tonight is at 7pm BST.

    What channel is it and can it be live streamed?

    Palace vs Arsenal will be shown live on BT Sport 1 and BT Sport Ultimate.
    You can live stream the clash from the BT Sport app, which is available for download onto your mobile device, tablet or Smart TV.

    Can I watch for FREE?

    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
    Palace could still be without both Patrick van Aanholt and Luka Milivojevic, as both missed their victory over Aston Villa due to personal reasons.
    Tyrek Mitchell could continue his run in the side while Vicente Guaita could return between the sticks for the Eagles.
    Ebere Ezi looks set to be out for the remainder of 2021 after suffering an Achilles injury.
    David Luiz and Grant Xhaka are Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s only two injury worries heading into the Palace clash.
    Hector Bellerin’s fitness is touch and go after being taken against Chelsea with a muscle injury.
    Load more entries… More

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    New home shirt LEAKED, Odegaard Real Madrid LATEST, Berge for £17.2m, Gunners ‘have best chance of Camavinga transfer’

    SANDER BERGE has been linked with a £17.2m move to Arsenal this summer.The Norwegian star has excelled this season despite the Blades relegation to the Championship.
    Elsewhere, the Gunners will have a better chance of signing Eduardo Camavinga than any other club if they make a serious bid, according to reports.
    The Rennes star, who is also target for Real Madrid, is said to be high on the Gunners’ radar this summer.
    But an alternative could be an emotional return for Aaron Ramsey, who is said to be dreaming of rejoining the Gunners.
    And Matteo Guendouzi could be closing in on a permanent exit.
    Get all the latest Arsenal news, transfer gossip and updates with our live blog…
    ED-ING NOWHERE
    Arsenal have “no chance” of signing Rennes star Eduardo Camavinga in the summer transfer window.
    That is according to The Athletic as Camavinga has been linked with a host of Europe’s top bidders, such as Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Real Madrid.
    The midfielder has impresse in Ligue 1 this season and Gunners manager Mikel Arteta sees him as the perfect partner for Thomas Partey at centre-half.
    However, it seems like the 18-year-old Frenchman may be beading somewhere else
    ENTER SAND-MAN
    Arsenal have reportedly made an initial £17.2million bid for Sheffield United ace Sander Berge.
    The Gunners have joined Liverpool and Tottenham in the bidding war over Berge, who has stood out at Bramall Lane ever since his move from Genk last year.
    The midfielder may also be keen to move to the Emirates if his Norway team-mate Martin Odegaard stays put in the summer.
    The 23-year-old appears to be leaning towards Arsenal over the Reds and north London rivals Spurs
    FLYING DUTCHMAN
    Just one of the many reasons why Arsenal icon Dennis Bergkamp was named in the Premier League Hall of Fame today.

    ROUD NOT TO
    Former Arsenal star Olivier Giroud’s agent has revealed AC Milan, Juventus and Roma have held transfer talks for the Chelsea striker.
    But advisor Vincenzo Morabito claimed the France international is also wanted by three Premier League clubs – plus others in Germany and Spain.
    He said: “(Michael) Manuello and I met with AC Milan at the end of the January transfer window.
    “They confirmed how highly they rate Giroud, although they said they were considering younger players for their attack.
    “However we have remained in contact with them, and we will see what happens in the future.
    “There was the possibility of Giroud moving to Italy in January.
    “We spoke with both Juventus and with Roma, when they thought that Edin Dzeko would leave for Inter Milan.
    “Now Manuello is weighing up various offers for Giroud. Three have come in from English clubs.
    “But there are also interesting situations for him in Spain and Germany.”
    AU REVOIR
    has had the gold wrap removed from his £170,000 Lamborghini Aventador.
    The Gabon striker’s super-car was easy to notice before but may be slightly less conspicuous now.
    A specialist firm used a heat gun to remove the gold substance from the motor.

    WIL I NEVER
    Allan Saint-Maximin has called on Newcastle to sign Arsenal loan star Joe Willock on a permanent deal this summer.
    He told Sky Sports: When they asked me about a new deal, I feel that I have to give. Sometimes when people give you something, you have to give back.
    “But before I signed it, I had always said Newcastle should not be fighting against relegation every year. We have to fight for the top 10, it’s what the supporters deserve.
    “Sometimes you have to think about your future, you can see Leicester winning the FA Cup, you play football to win trophies, not to fight to stay up.
    “We have to buy more players like Joe Willock, he can be really great for the team and for myself, I am 24 years old, and have to think about the national team, about winning trophies, and hope the club can give me that.
    “My relationship is really good with Joe inside and outside the pitch, and you can see how that helps a team when you have players like that – like Harry Kane and Heung-min Son at Tottenham.”

    DEFEND FROM THE FRONT
    Besiktas star Ridvan Yilmaz has lifted the lid on his dream to move to England and play for Arsenal.
    He told TRT Spor (via Fanatik): “I want to leave Besiktas by making money. My heart is in favour of England.
    “I want to play for Arsenal, the Premier League team.”
    BOOT KAMP
    Arsenal have reacted to the news that club icon Dennis Bergkamp has been inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame.

    GUNNER BE REMEBERED
    Arsenal icon Dennis Bergkamp has become the latest player to be named in the Premier League Hall of Fame.

    GREAT SCOTT
    Arsenal star Kieran Tierney has been named in Scotland’s squad for the Euros this summer.

    JUMPING THE GUN
    Arsenal’s new home shirt for next season has been ‘leaked’ online with a throwback to the club’s 1998 shirt.
    The FootyHeadlines reveal shows a red design in a shade slightly lighter than this season’s effort.

    MORE FROM ARTETA ON KANE
    The Spaniard has admitted that England should be proud to possess Kane.
    He added: “I suffered him both ways: as a player and as a manager. I think English football should be so proud to have someone with his talent, with his quality and as well with his consistency.
    “I think what he’s been able to do over the years in that position in this league, it’s incredible.
    “The national team has someone to lean on and it gives you the opportunity to compete against any team because you know that he can win the game for you at any moment. That’s big words in football.”
    ART OF WAR
    Mikel Arteta has reacted to Harry Kane’s apparent request to quit rivals Tottenham.
    Although England captain Kane grew up supporting Arsenal, the Gunners do not have the financial capability to rival both Manchester clubs and Chelsea for his signature.
    Asked if he was saddened by this, Arteta said: “I don’t know, there are too many ifs.
    “If he wants to leave, he will try to make the best decision for himself, I am sure.
    “I don’t know if Harry Kane is leaving Spurs. I think he is still there.”
    NOT AN EZE BLOW TO TAKE
    Confirmed from earlier that Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze is set to miss tonight’s game against Arsenal following a serious injury in training.
    EXCL: Eberechi Ezi has suffered a serious Achilles injury that could rule him out well into next season. Occurred in training & 22yo Crystal Palace player seeing specialist to ascertain extent of damage + next steps. W/ @domfifield for @TheAthleticUK #CPFC https://t.co/RaeXRfVTcU— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) May 19, 2021

    KITTED OUT
    The Gunners are set to debut their new away kit tonight in the London derby against Crystal Palace.

    EZE DOES IT
    Arsenal have been handed a potential boost ahead of tonight’s game against Crystal Palace with the news that Eberechi Eze may miss out.
    Eagles boss Roy Hodgson admitted the former Gunners talent will need to pass a late fitness test in order to line-up at Selhurst Park.
    He told reporters: “We’ve got some team news, I suppose. We’ve got a couple of players that we need to assess for the game tomorrow.
    “That’s going to be Scott Dann and Eberechi Eze.
    “We’re going to have to assess them before the game. I’m hopeful that they’ll make it but we’ll have to wait and see.”
    JOIN THE CLUB
    Frank Lampard has joined Arsenal legend Thierry Henry in the Premier League Hall of Fame.

    XHAK ATTACK
    Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has dismissed reports of an Emirates exit.
    He told German publication RP Online: “There are always rumours at the end of the season, that’s for sure.
    “But I still have a two-year contract in London, and I am very happy with my family here.
    “First of all, I’m looking at a successful Euro 2020 with the national team.”
    ODE IN THE HOLE
    Marti Odegaard has revealed he will hold talks with Real Madrid over his future with Arsenal looking to turn his loan spell into a permanent stay.
    He told Sky Germany: “I am happy here at Arsenal, we will see after the season what will happen.
    “I’m owned by Real Madrid, so we have to speak to them. It’s important to understand what they want.”

    GOOD MORNING GOONERS
    Arsenal start the day in tenth place in the Premier League table, seemingly well adrift of European football next season.
    But a win at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace this evening could move them up to as high as eighth.
    If results go their way – Tottenham and West Ham both losing – they could go to bed this evening just one point off Spurs in sixth.
    And Gunners boss Mikel Arteta illustrated the importance of a strong finish for his side in his pre-match press conference.
    He said: “Winning creates a different environment around the place.
    “It creates much more belief. When you start to get on a run and you start to understand why this run is happening, it always helps to build for the future.
    “A new season is a new season, and to get momentum from one season to the other is not necessarily what is going to happen. But certainly it’s really good to analyse performance and result-wise why those things happen.
    “It’s really important for us to make the improvements we need for the following season, and to know which keys we have to touch to make it work better.”
    The major news yesterday was that centre-back David Luiz would be leaving the club at the end of the campaign.
    And Arteta could not have been more complementary about the Brazilian’s impact in North London.
    “He is a player that has won everything in football and has earned every right to do so because of who he is as a player and as a person.
    “I had the privilege to work with him for 18 months, which I really enjoyed. We got on really well, we had some great moments together, he has been really helpful, someone that we really like and appreciate so much.
    “So I just say thank you to him and wish him the best of luck in his next chapter because I am sure, knowing David, that he will have many more to come as a player, and in the future, somehow related to the game.”
    Arsenal’s game against Crystal Palace kicks off at 7pm GMT tonight.
    CRYSTAL PALACE VS ARSENAL
    Tomorrow night sees Arsenal travel to Crystal Palace for a clash in front of the returning Eagles faithful.
    In the reverse fixture five months ago, the Gunners played out a goalless draw with Roy Hodgson’s men.
    Will they be able to find a way through this time around?
    Credit: Getty
    SEE LU, LATER
    Arsenal have confirmed David Luiz will leave the club on a free agent at the end of the season after just two years at the club.
    On Luiz’s departure, Arteta said: “He’s a player who has won everything in football and has earned every right to do so through who he is as a player and as a person.
    “I had the privilege to work with him for 18 months. I really enjoyed it. I think we got on really good. I think we had some great moments together.
    “He’s been really helpful, someone who we really like and appreciate so much. So I say thank you to him and wish him the best of luck in his next chapter.
    “I’m sure knowing David that he will have many more to come as a player and in the future somehow related to the game.
    “I’ve really enjoyed and learnt from him. He’s been very helpful every time with the team and I feel sadness as well because you get attached to the players emotionally.
    “When it gets to this stage it’s tough and it hurts because that relationship now is going to be going away, at least in this space and not seeing him every day. Again, I have to say thank you to him.”

    WILL TO LEAVE
    Willian wants to join David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
    The Brazilian is set to leave Arsenal this summer after a disappointing spell in north London and fancies moving to South Florida.
    SunSport understands Miami boss Phil Neville wants to sign the 32-year-old but knows it will be difficult to offload Mexcian international Rodolfo Pizarro first.
    Pizarro is one of the highest earners and a designated player yet has failed to impress Neville who is already eyeing a busy time in the transfer market once the window opens.
    Willian will command big MLS wages – former Juventus and Real Madrid hitman Gonzalo Higuain earns around $5million – so Pizarro will need to be sold despite a lack of suitors right now.

    ARSENAL AWAY KIT 2021-22
    Check out Arsenal’s away kit for the 2021-22 season. What do you think?

    OFF TO MARS
    Ligue 1 club Marseille are reportedly on the verge of a deal for Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi.
    Mikel Arteta sent the Frenchman out on loan to Hertha Berlin after a falling out at Emirates Stadium.
    But he is not set to return to North London and SunSport revealed earlier this year that he is among the players Arsenal want to cash in on.
    According to Le10Sport, the Gunners are in advanced talks with Marseille over the sale of Guendouzi.
    The 22-year-old is out of contract in 2022 yet should still bring in a reasonable transfer fee having cost Arsenal £7million in 2018.

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    Harry Kane £150m Man Utd transfer LATEST, Chelsea to rival Utd for £80m Sancho, Bruno doubt over Cavani assist vs Fulham

    HARRY KANE has told Tottenham Hotspur he is off – sparking a £150m war for the striker’s signature.Manchester United are IN the hunt, alongside rivals City and Chelsea.
    Elsewhere, Jadon Sancho is dreaming of a Premier League move according to the German press.
    And, United are reportedly willing to part company with star Paul Pogba if they receive a bid of around £55m.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to keep the Frenchman on board but his situation has become a concern with his contract set to expire in a year.

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

    Get all the latest Man Utd news and transfer updates here…
    OPEN DOR
    Chelsea are set to launch an £80million bid for Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho.
    SunSport understand that the Blues are looking to battle Manchester United over Sancho’s signature.
    Manager Thomas Tuchel is said to be a huge admirer of the star winger who has stood out in the Bundesliga this season.
    The 21-year-old England international appears set to leave Dortmund and join the Premier League
    SOL DESTROYING
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed that skipper Harry Maguire is losing his race to be fit for the Europa League final next week.
    The 28-year-old is currently sidelined with an ankle injury he picked up during the 3-1 win against Aston Villa earlier this month.
    United had been confident that he could start against Villarreal on May 26 in Gdansk, but Solskjaer has declared his chances look bleak.
    Speaking in the post-match press conference following the 1-1 draw against Fulham, Solskjaer stated: “Harry, we are working on. It doesn’t look great.”
    KANE IS ABLE
    Harry Kane is at the centre of a summer transfer tussle between Manchester United, City and Chelsea.
    And in stats obtained by The Times, the England captain would fare better better at Old Trafford as opposed to City or Chelsea.
    They have calculated that Spurs striker Kane takes most of his shots from inside the six-yard box, or from the top left of the box.
    Should he make the move to the Theatre of Dreams, the stats show that United create more chances in the areas where Kane likes to shoot.

    GARD DOWN
    Manchester United are considering offering Jesse Lingard to Tottenham as part of a deal for striker Harry Kane, according to reports.
    It was revealed by SunSport on Tuesday that the Red Devils and local rival Manchester City are preparing to hand the Spurs
    And now The Times are reporting that Lingard is being considered as a potential sweetener for Tottenham in a deal involving Kane.
    However, Man Utd are also said to be cautious about attempting to negotiate with Lilywhites’ chairman Daniel Levy.
    Man City is still thought to be Kane’s preferred destination if he is to depart North London this summer.
    HEND’S OFF
    David de Gea looks to have won the battle to claim the goalkeeper’s shirt for the Europa League final against Villarreal later this month.
    Dean Henderson’s error-strewn performance in the 4-2 defeat at the hands of Liverpool saw him replaced for Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw against Fulham.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is still weighing up his options for next Wednesday’s final against Villarreal in Gdansk.
    But it looks like De Gea has now overtaken Henderson again, with the boss admitting: “I’ve got two very good goalkeepers.
    “They’ve played in the last month and last six weeks more or less alternate games really. Both are ready and both are doing well.”

    GOAL GETTERS
    Bruno Fernandes has called on his team-mates to start converting their chances if they want to win the Europa League.
    United had 13 shots in total against Fulham but it took a wonderstrike from Edinson Cavani to grab their only goal.
    And Fernandes, 26, wants to see improvements in their final two matches.
    He said: “We didn’t score the chances we had. Sometimes it’s our problem in games we draw and lose. We create many chances but we don’t score.
    “I think in the future I think this problem will change and now our focus has to be on the next game against Wolves.
    “We then have three days before the final in the Europa League and I think we have enough to prepare well.”
    RON WAY BACK?
    Manchester United icon Gary Pallister believes club legend Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Old Trafford in the summer.
    Commenting on his future, former United defender Pallister told Compare.bet: “I could see him coming back.
    “He had a great time at Old Trafford, and coming back here would suit Cristiano with Juve struggling with Champions League qualification.
    “He didn’t have issues here the first time round under the leadership of Sir Alex, and you can see that he still looks after himself and has that hunger.
    “He still wants to compete at the top level and play Champions League football, and if he comes to United you have to find a place for Cristiano Ronaldo.
    “He’s a magnificent player and still has that hunger to prove himself as the best player that’s ever walked this planet.
    “I think he’s on record as wanting to play until he’s 40 – sometimes when you’re bringing a player back to a club you worry about the hunger and desire if it’s something seen as more of a final payday.
    “You see the way he talks and trains, he’s still keen and can be one of the best players in the world at United.”

    SCOTT OF BOTHER
    Rio Ferdinand has urged Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to build his Manchester United side around Scott McTominay.
    He told his YouTube channel: “I think that McTominay can be and grow into the type of influence that Jordan Henderson has at Liverpool, if the team is built the right way.
    “I think he’s got the personality, the character, the right attributes.
    “He can cover the ground, he takes the ball… he’s not a passer like Bruno [Fernandes] or [Paul] Pogba, but he doesn’t need to be when you’ve got players like that in your team.”
    GREAT SCOTT
    Manchester United star Scott McTominay has been named in Scotland’s squad for the Euros this summer.

    YELLOW CAR-D
    Sir Alex Ferguson was lucky to avoid a fine after he was caught parking his Mercedes on double yellow lines as well as on a corner.
    The 79-year-old was snapped leaving his £75,000 Mercedes S350d in Cheshire before nipping to the shops.
    And he can be grateful that he arrived back to his car without a penalty after a possible Manchester United-supporting traffic warden let him off.
    Unless a person is the owner of a Blue Badge, under no circumstances can you park on double yellow lines at any time.

    KANE TO CASH IN
    Manchester United are both willing to hand Harry Kane a five-year, £300,000-a-week contract if he signs for them.
    But the England superstar would still only be the second highest earner at at the Red Devils.

    BRU BEAUTY
    Bruno Fernandes has shared his delight at winning his second Player of the Year award at Old Trafford.
    2019/20 🏆✔️2020/21 🏆✔️@B_Fernandes8 reacts to winning his second consecutive 𝗦𝗶𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗯𝘆 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 award 💬#MUFC #MUFCPOTY— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 19, 2021

    FAN THE FLAMES
    Luke Shaw has told a Manchester United fan who threw a green and gold scarf on the Old Trafford pitch that he will fight to quash any stadium ban.
    As the defender set up to take a corner in United’s draw with Fulham on Tuesday, the protest symbol landed in front of him.
    I understand completely, first match back at old Trafford , emotions are high. I know there was nothing aggressive towards what you did. I will try my best to speak with someone and sort it out 👍🏽— Luke Shaw (@LukeShaw23) May 18, 2021

    BRAND NEW
    Brandon Williams has turned his deep connection with his Manchester local area into an epic new tattoo sleeve.
    A design by tattooist to the stars Dale McGovern was revealed on the artist’s Instagram page.

    NEW ROO RISING
    Manchester United fans were left dreaming of another young superstar coming through the ranks after Kai Rooney’s hat-trick.
    The aspiring striker, 11, netted a treble and set up three more in a recent Under-11s win over Stoke.
    According to Twitter account New Man Utd News, Rooney’s performance led his side to a 6-3 victory.
    Young Kai signed for United’s academy in December of last year, following in the footsteps of club legend Wayne.
    JOIN THE CLUB
    Frank Lampard has joined Manchester United pair Eric Cantona and Roy Keane in the Premier League Hall of Fame.

    HARRY ALONG NOW
    Pep Guardiola has refused to comment on Manchester City’s interest in Tottenham star Harry Kane.
    A five-year contract totalling a whopping £80million is in the works as City look to replace Sergio Aguero.
    Yet Guardiola remained tight-lipped on the report when asked about the potential mega deal following his side’s defeat at Brighton.
    He replied: “Next question, he is a Tottenham Hotspur player, please.”
    Manchester United are set to rival neighbours City for Kane, 27, after he told Spurs he wants to leave.
    NOT FER US
    Bruno Fernandes claimed Manchester United’s Player of the Year award again but several of his team-mates voted for Luke Shaw instead.
    The Portuguese playmaker romped home with 63 per cent of the vote from fans but some of his team-mates reckon it should have gone to England ace Shaw.
    Scott McTominay told Man Utd’s official website: “Who gets my vote?
    “Probably I’d say Luke Shaw. He’s just been top; really, really good. Like really, really good. It’s no surprise to me that he’s been that good.”
    Shaw’s fellow full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka added: “I gave my vote to Luke but I think Bruno was up there as well.”

    MORNING, MAN UTD FANS
    So, yesterday marked the return of fans to Old Trafford after more than a year away – as United prepared to go head to head OFF the field with neighbours City for Harry Kane.
    It was an emotional moment for many as the Red Devils were once again cheered on by their loyal supporters.
    But, unfortunately for those inside the stadium, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men failed to do enough to win the game.
    They were treated early on to a wonder strike from Edinson Cavani when his chip from 30 yards out sailed over Alphonse Areola and into the back of the net.
    Credit to Fulham though, they never gave up despite having already been relegated back down to the Championship at the first time of asking.
    And Scott Parker’s side got their reward 14 minutes from time when Joe Bryan headed an equaliser.
    But SunSport’s exclusive revelation that United and City are willing to offer Tottenham’s wantaway England striker Kane a five-year contract work will cheer many Old Trafford supporters.
    Solskjaer insisted it would be disrespectful to Spurs to discuss Kane – but he was upbeat despite only one point in the three Premier League games.
    And the Norwegian boss had some inspirational words for the fans who made the trip out to the Theatre of Dreams.
    He said: “We know it’s been a long long year for everyone but I’m so grateful to see you back here supporting everyone.
    “Hopefully we can bring a trophy back in about ten days time.”
    Can Man Utd re-find their form ahead of the Europa League final in just seven days’ time?
    POST-MATCH MESSAGE
    A little post-match message from talisman Bruno Fernandes. He won the Manchester United goal of the season award earlier today and then played in front of the Red Devils supporters for the first time in more than a year.

    And here is the goal that won him the award…

    MAN UTD PLAYERS LEFT DISAPPOINTED
    The Manchester United players have left a little glum after failing to win against Fulham on the night their fans returned to Old Trafford.

    CAV I HAVE IT?
    Bruno Fernandes has won Manchester United’s goal of the season for his dipping effort against Everton.
    But was he awarded it too soon? Edinson Cavani netted an absolutely sensational one tonight. Which one do you prefer?

    MANCHESTER UNITED 1-1 FULHAM
    Here is the goal which denied Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men the victory this evening.

    FT: MANCHESTER UNITED 1-1 FULHAM
    So, the return of fans does not mean Manchester United pick up all three points. They are held thanks to a second half Joe Bryan goal.
    Credit: PA
    MANCHESTER UNITED 1-1 FULHAM
    This wasn’t in the script for the Manchester United home fans. Joe Bryan has equalised for the visitors.

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    Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua LIVE updates: Gypsy King set for Wilder TRILOGY while AJ could face Usyk – latest

    ANTHONY JOSHUA and Tyson Fury are in training for their HUGE heavyweight world title fight THIS summer.But there has been fresh dispute over the confirmation of the fight with Fury vs Deontay Wilder 3 ordered by a US judge.
    Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn and Fury himself have said the bout will be taking place on Saturday, August 14 in Saudi Arabia and Fury’s promoter Bob Arum has said the fight will take place at 9pm for British fans to watch.
    We’ll be bringing you ALL of the latest developments on the bout plus all of the news from the world of boxing right here…
    PACKING ON THE PDA
    Tyson Fury cosied up to pregnant wife Paris on Instagram yesterday proving they’ve never been stronger as they reunited in Miami.
    The boxer, 32, was seen kissing his other half as they dined out after spending the day sunbathing alongside his brother Tommy, 21.

    WILD CLAIMS
    Tyson Fury has thrown shade at Deontay Wilder by listing his varied excuses for why he lost to the Gypsy King last year.

    WHIP ROUND
    A boxing fan desperate to see Tyson Fury fight Anthony Joshua has set up a GoFundMe page for Deontay Wilder.
    The biggest fight in the history of British boxing is on the brink of collapse after a judge ruled Fury owes Wilder a trilogy fight.
    Former WBC king Wilder is willing to step aside – but only if he’s paid a whopping £14m ($20m).
    And boxing fan Greg Double has started a whip-round in order to help Team Fury pay off The Bronze Bomber.

    FAST AND FURY=OUS
    Tyson Fury has seemingly accepted he may not fight Anthony Joshua this summer – but he’s warned his fellow Brit he’ll ‘smash him to bits.’
    this is how i’m feeling right now, i’m on the inside fighting smashing stuff up, & my next opponent is getting smashed to bits! pic.twitter.com/lf0MDEEnPB— TYSON FURY (@Tyson_Fury) May 18, 2021

    MORNING BOXING FANS
    So, we are now around 36 hours on from Deontay Wilder winning his arbitration case against Tyson Fury to enact a trilogy fight between the pair.
    The decision has severely threatened Fury’s plans to take on Anthony Joshua in an undisputed bout in Saudi Arabia on August 14.
    It leaves Fury with the decision to either try and reach a financial agreement with Wilder to step aside or fight him for a third time.
    And the talk on Tuesday from Fury’s promoter Bob Arum and Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn will not fill fans with confidence when it comes to the undisputed clash going ahead.
    Arum told ESPN: “We’re not paying Wilder to step aside. It’s better to get rid of him.
    “We can make Fury vs AJ for November or December.”
    Meanwhile, Hearn stipulated a deadline for Fury’s side and appears to now be turning his attention towards WBO mandatory challenger Oleksandr Usyk.
    He told the Matchroom Boxing YouTube channel: “I have been focusing on Plan A. The only fight we had our mind on was Tyson Fury.
    “We hope that that fight can still take place on August 14. The game changed last night where we have to have a plan B in place, and probably a plan C as well.
    “We have a couple of different options; of course, the one that springs to mind immediately is the WBO mandatory of Oleksandr Usyk.
    “They have been quite patient and I think really, we are in a situation where if Team Fury don’t get themselves together, get their act together, by the end of this week, we will have no option but to look for an alternative fight.
    “AJ wants to fight this summer, Oleksandr Usyk is the mandatory, we have two or three other options as well. In an ideal world, if the right deal could be done, to maintain those belts and to keep the Fury fight alive for December, but for the undisputed as well.
    “I had a very good conversation this morning with Alex Krassyuk, he is a partner of ours and we have worked very well with Oleksandr Usyk and I was just very honest.
    “I said to him, ‘Team Fury are trying to solve the issue, if they don’t, there’s a very good chance we could be fighting you.’”
    Stay tuned because it could be another eventful day in the boxing world.
    WILD PAYMENT
    Deontay Wilder could be handed over £14MILLION by Tyson Fury’s team in order for his bout with Anthony Joshua to go ahead.
    The Gypsy King’s undisputed dust-up to face his British rival in August is in serious jeopardy after he was ordered to fight the Bronze Bomber for a third time.
    After being dethroned by the unbeaten Mancunian in February, the former WBC heavyweight champion was eligible to invoke a third meeting against Fury.
    But injuries and the coronavirus pandemic delayed the fight, with Team Fury claiming in October that the contract for a trilogy had expired.
    However, a US judge has now decided, following an arbitration, that Wilder is legally due a third fight that must happen by September 15.
    According to the Daily Mail, the American knockout specialist could be handed a step-aside fee of more than £14m, with Fury’s team confident an agreement can be reached.

    FURY/JOSHUA/WILDER
    This video feels a long, long time ago, doesn’t it?
    On Sunday, Tyson Fury announced the fight between himself and Anthony Joshua.

    Just 24 hours later, Deontay Wilder has now been granted a third fight with Fury after a ruling from an arbitrator. Boxing.
    WILD SCENES
    Deontay Wilder has ‘NO INTEREST’ in taking step aside money in what would be a huge blow to Tyson Fury’s super-fight with Anthony Joshua.
    Wilder’s new trainer Malik Scott shared the news on Instagram, as he all-but confirmed the heavyweight is prioritising revenge over a payday.
    Scott, 40, posted: “Wilder declined and had no interest in step-aside money. Y’all dealing with a whole different type motherf***a over here.
    “He want the blood, not that step-aside money. ‘Retribution is upon us’.”

    FURY VS JOSHUA
    Right, so we may or may not be getting Fury-Joshua next. Either way, how do they stack up against one another?
    Here’s all you need to know.

    TYSON BROTHER TOMMY’S RETURN
    Tommy Fury will make his return on June 5 in front of 1,000 fans, with Daniel Dubois headlining the event.
    Fury, brother to WBC heavyweight champion Tyson, last boxed in February with an emphatic knockout over journeyman Scott Williams.
    And his sixth professional bout has been pencilled in for next month against an unnamed opponent.
    His promoter confirmed 1,000 fans will be in attendance, but a venue is also yet to be announced.

    WE’LL HAVE TO SEE
    Here was Hearn’s immediate reaction to the arbitrator’s decision to order a third fight between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury.

    FURY VS JOSHUA
    As this continues to unfold, it looks even more likely that we are going to get these two fights next:

    Tyson Fury vs Deontay Wilder III (WBC heavyweight title)
    Anthony Joshua vs Oleksandr Usyk (IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight titles)

    Credit: AFP
    DEADLINE DAY
    Eddie Hearn has warned Tyson Fury must resolve his trilogy issue with Deontay Wilder this week – or else they turn to Oleksandr Usyk.
    Hearn said on Matchroom Boxing’s YouTube channel: “I have been focusing on Plan A. The only fight we had our mind on was Tyson Fury.
    “We hope that that fight can still take place on August 14th.
    “The game changed last night where we have to have a plan B in place, and probably a plan C as well.
    “We have a couple of different options; of course, the one that springs to mind immediately is the WBO mandatory of Oleksandr Usyk.
    “They have been quite patient and I think really, we are in a situation where if Team Fury don’t get themselves together, get their act together, by the end of this week, we will have no option but to look for an alternative fight.”

    NO CASH OUT
    Tyson Fury’s undisputed clash against Anthony Joshua looks to be in severe doubt for August with a third fight against Deontay Wilder reportedly being planned for July.
    The Gypsy King’s US promoter Bob Arum is now planning for Wilder first, to take place at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on July 24.
    He told ESPN: “We’re not paying Wilder to step aside. It’s better to get rid of him. We can make Fury vs AJ for November or December.”
    ED IN THE CLOUDS
    Eddie Hearn has reacted to the news that Tyson Fury has been ordered to fight Deontay Wilder next.

    FACE THE USYK
    Anthony Joshua’s and Oleksandr Usyk’s promoters are set to hold talks on Tuesday over a potential fight with Deontay Wilder contracted to face Tyson Fury.
    Speaking to the Express, Usyk’s promoter Alexander Krassyuk has stated he will sit down with Eddie Hearn to discuss a potential fight.
    He said: “The first thing I saw when I opened my eyes this morning was several texts on my phone from different people around the world stating the same fact: Fury versus AJ is off. It is off.
    “Regarding Usyk, it depends. I will speak to Eddie in one hour, we have already exchanged texts this morning.
    “It looks like we have a fight to make. We have agreed to speak in one hour when things will become clearer.
    “Usyk is mandatory for WBO and the only obstacle that made them sanction the interim was the huge unification between Fury and Joshua.
    “And if the fight is off then there is no other obstacles and Joshua has to deal with his mandatory.”

    EDS GONE
    Eddie Hearn gave a fiery response to the Fury-Joshua fight being announced.
    Via Dazn, he said: “I told everybody this fight would be done.
    “No-one believed me, ‘Oh, it won’t happen, it’s a bad time, they won’t come up with the money.’
    “I’m not looking for props, but give me some f***ing props!”
    QUAD GOALS
    Anthony Joshua has given fans a rare glimpse into his family life after sharing two sweet snaps of his son quad biking.
    The British boxing star, 31, is gearing up for his heavyweight unification showdown with Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia this August.
    But for now, AJ is keen to enjoy some family time as he shared two snaps of himself and his son JJ, 5, enjoying some quality time together.
    Taking to Instagram, Joshua captioned the two snaps: “My General.”

    WELCOME TO MIAMI
    Pregnant Paris Fury jetted to Miami last night to be with husband Tyson – days after he was spotted chatting to bikini-clad fans.
    Paris, 31, made the 4,000-mile journey after the WBC heavyweight champion happily let female fans slather him all over with suntan oil as they got hands-on last week.
    Taking to Instagram earlier this morning the boxer shared a photo together, he said: “wow look what i bumped in to in miami the hottest blond about, @parisfury1 my queen has arrived…..”

    BOTH BARRELS OF HAYE
    David Haye reckons Anthony Joshua will KNOCK OUT Tyson Fury in their eagerly-anticipated undisputed heavyweight title fight.
    The pair are finally set to share the ring in Saudi Arabia on August 14, although an official announcement has yet to be made.
    He told PA: “What Fury did against Deontay Wilder in his last fight sounded like suicide on paper, but it was genius.
    “Tactically I believed he had got it totally wrong, but it was proven right.
    But if you look at some of his prior fights, I wouldn’t say his tactics were that good.
    “Joshua got his tactics terribly wrong in his first fight against Andy Ruiz, trying to mix it against a guy with short arms whose only chance was to get inside.
    “But his tactics are improving and I very much liked what he did against Kubrat Pulev in his last fight.”
    NAUGHTY STEP
    Deontay Wilder could be in for a £5.65million cut of Anthony Joshua’s huge fight with Tyson Fury after a US court ruled in his favour.
    A trilogy fight clause in the American’s contract with the Gypsy King must be honoured by September 15, it has been decided.
    However many within the boxing world reckon a payout will suffice to keep the Bronze Bomber at bay.
    According to ring journalist Gareth A Davies, a deal including £5.65m and an agreement to fight at a later date may have to be thrashed out.
    He told his Instagram: “It is a civil case so I think they can still sign the fight between Fury and Joshua.
    “Wilder may get potentially $5m to $8m (£3.5m to £5.65m) and perhaps even an agreement to fight going forward.”

    FRANK’S THRILLED
    Frank Bruno is looking forward to August 14, if the Fury v Joshua fight goes ahead that is.
    “I’m glad we are slowly coming out of lockdown can’t wait to get “out there” for my appearances & meet people.
    “Glad at last 14 August 4 the Tyson Fury & Anthony Joshua has finally been rubber-stamped. Have a good evening.”
    Evening so did U have lots of hugs today? I’m glad we R slowly coming out of lockdown cant wait 2 get “out there” 4 my appearances & meet people. Glad at last 14 August 4 the Tyson Fury & Anthony Joshua has finally been rubber stamped. Have a good evening pic.twitter.com/DYteKr6VeP— Frank Bruno MBE 🇬🇧 (@frankbrunoboxer) May 17, 2021

    WILDER WARNING
    Here the message Deontay Wilder sent to Tyson Fury in November 2020.
    Hey @Tyson_Fury ,Don’t worry about me I am Fine, Blessed.The only thing I want from you is for you to honor your agreement and fight me. I gave you 2 shots when I didn’t have to and it changed your life. Now it is time for you to be a man and give me my shot as you agreed to.— Deontay Wilder (@BronzeBomber) November 12, 2020

    FIGHT IN DOUBT
    The arbitration court has ruled that Tyson Fury has to fight Deontay Wilder in a third fight this summer, so the bout against Anthony Joshua could be off.
    The WBC heavyweight champion has been in arbitration with the American for months over a contracted third fight between the pair.
    Fury, 32, beat Wilder back in February 2020 to take the WBC title after their first meeting ended in a controversial draw.
    But in the contract there was due to be a third clash between the pair.
    That was pencilled in for July 2020 but it was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
    It was pushed back until December 2020 but both sides could not agree on a date.
    Wilder’s team wanted to push it back further into early 2021 but Fury did not want to wait any longer.

    NOT SO FURIOUS
    TYSON Fury’s wife Paris has been pictured wearing her wedding ring again just days after removing it following images of the boxer soaking up female attention in America.
    The champ admitted he was in his wife’s bad books as she remained at home pregnant and looking after four of their children – but it seems she’s had a change of heart.
    The 31-year-old was seen wearing the huge sparkler as she ran errands yesterday at the couple’s home in Morecambe.
    She later revealed she was spending the night in a hotel, as she shared a picture of herself getting room service.
    Tyson meanwhile addressed the situation on Instagram yesterday as he continues to train across the pond ahead of his big fight with Anthony Joshua.
    He wrote: “Looks like the GK is in Mrs Paris Fury’s bad books! Wedding ring off.”
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    Chelsea step up interest in £60m Barella, Harry Kane ‘wants to LEAVE’ Tottenham, Man City back IN for Lionel Messi

    HARRY KANE has sent shockwaves through Tottenham by saying he wants to leave the club.Man City, Man Utd and Chelsea have entered the war for the £150m striker.
    Elsewhere, Lionel Messi is willing to join Man City if they pay him a huge £500,000-a-week after tax, SunSport can exclusively reveal.
    Meanwhile Real Madrid are in contact with Massimiliano Allegri, with Zinedine Zidane reportedly almost certain to leave the club at the end of the season.
    And Cristiano Ronaldo’s future is still up in the air with the Portuguese ace reportedly looking at a Juventus exit.
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    Follow ALL of the latest news and updates below…
    N’GOLO NO
    Chelsea star N’Golo Kante came off INJURED just 11 days before the Champions League final against Manchester City.
    The French midfielder has been in scintillating form in recent weeks but Blues supporters – and Thomas Tuchel – will now be hoping the injury is not serious.
    Kante, 30, managed just 30 minutes in the crucial match against top four rivals Leicester City.
    It is not yet clear why Kante came off, he managed 90 minutes in the FA Cup final on Saturday and had no clear injury when he was taken off.
    His withdrawal did see the welcome return of Mateo Kovacic, who had not played since April 10.

    FT: BRIGHTON 3-2 MANCHESTER CITY
    Brighton fight back from two goals down to beat champions Manchester City 3-2 at the Amex Stadium! What a return for those Seagulls supporters!
    Credit: AFP
    CHELSEA 0-0 LEICESTER
    Chelsea have had the ball in the net against Leicester but Timo Werner was adjudged to have handled the ball. He did. No goal.
    Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
    BRIGHTON 3-2 MANCHESTER CITY
    It gets even better for Brighton! Graham Potter’s side have come from 2-0 down to lead the champions.
    Full-back Dan Burn has netted the Seagulls’ third goal of the match following Adam Webster’s equaliser just four minutes earlier.
    They are going potty at the Amex!!
    Credit: Getty
    BRIGHTON 2-2 MANCHESTER CITY
    WOW! Where has this come from? With Man City down to 10-men after Joao Cancelo’s sending off, Brighton have scored twice to draw level at the Amex Stadium.
    Amazing stuff.
    Credit: EPA
    WILL TO LEAVE
    Willian wants to join David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
    The Brazilian is set to leave Arsenal this summer after a disappointing spell in north London and fancies moving to South Florida.
    SunSport understands Miami boss Phil Neville wants to sign the 32-year-old but knows it will be difficult to offload Mexcian international Rodolfo Pizarro first.
    Pizarro is one of the highest earners and a designated player yet has failed to impress Neville who is already eyeing a busy time in the transfer market once the window opens.
    Willian will command big MLS wages – former Juventus and Real Madrid hitman Gonzalo Higuain earns around $5million – so Pizarro will need to be sold despite a lack of suitors right now.

    OXFORD 0-3 BLACKPOOL
    Blackpool all but booked their place in the League One play-off final with a convincing win away at Oxford in the first leg of their tie tonight.
    Here was the goal from Elliss Simms which gave the Tangerines a three-goal cushion.

    FULL-TIME SCORES
    Premier League:
    Manchester United 1-1 Fulham
    Southampton 0-2 Leeds
    League Two Play-Offs (first leg):
    Oxford United 0-3 Blackpool
    Credit: PA
    MANCHESTER UNITED 1-1 FULHAM
    This wasn’t in the script for the Manchester United home fans. Joe Bryan has equalised for the visitors.

    SCORE UPDATE
    Premier League:

    Manchester United 1-0 Fulham
    Southampton 0-1 Leeds
    Brighton 0-1 Manchester City

    League Two Play-Offs (first leg):
    Oxford 0-2 Blackpool
    FANS BACK AT THE AMEX
    Another stadium where fans have returned tonight is at Brighton’s home ground the Amex Stadium.
    Manchester City took the lead inside two minutes, but I’m sure that won’t discourage the south coast supporters this evening.
    Great to see.

    BARELLA SELLER
    Chelsea could step up their interest in Nicolo Barella as Inter Milan face cutbacks.
    Liverpool, Tottenham, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid have also been linked with the £60million-rated Italy midfielder, 24.
    And despite ending Juventus’ nine-year reign as Serie A kings, Inter boss Antonio Conte is reportedly unsettled, as at least one prize asset might need to be sold.
    Leggo claim Chelsea have made “advances” for box-to-box workhorse Barello.
    The 21-cap star has been linked with the Blues ever since Maurizio Sarri managed them in 2018-19.

    HALF-TIME SCORES
    Premier League:

    Manchester United 1-0 Fulham
    Southampton 0-0 Leeds

    League Two Play-Offs (first leg):
    Oxford United 0-2 Blackpool
    Credit: Getty
    HAAL OF A MOVE
    Tottenham reportedly started planning for Harry Kane’s exit in FEBRUARY – and even discussed moving for Borussia Dortmund star Erling Haaland to replace him.
    The North London club have been left stunned after the striker told them he wants to move this summer.
    That should see a £150million transfer scramble by a player highly regarded in world football.
    According to MailOnline, in February Spurs ‘made discreet enquiries about the terms required by Borussia Dortmund forward Erling Haaland’.
    But they were put off by his wage demands – believed to be at least £350,000-a-week.

    WONDERFUL CAVANI
    This is a special goal.

    MAN UTD 1-0 FULHAM
    Edinson Cavani has given Manchester United the lead against Fulham this evening with a ridiculous chip from 30 yards out. The Uruguayan’s 16th goal of the season.

    WAL STREET
    Theo Walcott will be in line to become a coach at Southampton after officially re-joining his boyhood club on a two-year deal.
    The attacker, 32, has spent the season on loan at St. Mary’s having been signed for Everton for £20million in 2018 by Sam Allardyce.
    Current Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti saw him as surplus to requirements.
    Now that he is back where it all started Walcott, who moved to Arsenal from Saints for £12m in 2006, may have the chance to bring on new stars when he hangs up his boots.
    .@SouthamptonFC is a club that means so much to me, and it has been incredibly special for me to have spent this season back at St Mary’s. But to now have the opportunity to return for a further two years means such a great deal to me, both personally and professionally. pic.twitter.com/IWxHLTMwaW— Theo Walcott (@theowalcott) May 18, 2021

    KICK-OFF
    The first two Premier League games of the evening are underway. I’ll keep you posted on any goals that go in at Old Trafford and St Mary’s.

    Manchester United 0-0 Fulham
    Southampton 0-0 Leeds

    CHEERIO
    Ryan Mason reckons Harry Kane will get a good reception from Spurs fans in what the striker hopes will be his last home game for the club.
    Although Tottenham’s interim boss refused to call it a send-off – despite Kane telling the North Londoners last night that he wants to quit them in the summer to boost his quest for silverware.
    Kane will start their final home game of the season against Aston Villa tomorrow in front of a partisan crowd of 10,000 – as fans return inside the stadium.
    Many Spurs supporters were already planning to protest against chairman Daniel Levy following another trophyless campaign and his involvement in the shameful European Super League scandal.
    Fans are also unlikely to be happy about the prospect of losing Kane, but Mason does not believe they will boo the England captain.
    He said: “I’m sure the fans are excited to be there tomorrow, the lucky ones, and see Harry play as well.
    “They’ll love seeing him play. He loves the club, he’s been at the club from a very young age, he’s come through the system.”

    PREMIER LEAGUE ACTION
    There are four Premier League games on this evening, kicking off from 6pm.

    Manchester United vs Fulham (6pm)
    Southampton vs Leeds (6pm)
    Brighton vs Manchester City (7pm)
    Chelsea vs Leicester City (8:15pm)

    Credit: AP
    NOT WRIGHT
    Reality TV star Mark Wright has been axed by League Two side Crawley Town after just six months at the club.
    The 34-year-old joined the fourth tier side at the end of 2020 but has struggled to make an impact since his arrival.
    And now Crawley have declined the opportunity to extend Wright’s contract beyond the end of the season.
    The club confirmed he is one of six players who are leaving the club in a statement on Tuesday afternoon.

    REAL DEAL
    Bayern Munich star David Alaba has agreed to join Real Madrid, according to reports.
    The Austrian defender is out of contract at the end of the season and is believed to have agreed a move to the Spanish giants after much speculation.
    According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the deal has been confirmed but will not be officially announced until the end of the season.
    The 28-year-old has confirmed he won’t be signing a new contract at Bayern, leaving the press to speculate about his next club.
    Speaking in February, Alaba said: “I have decided to do something new. It wasn’t an easy decision.
    “I have not yet made the decision where to go.”

    MAN OF THE PEOPLE
    Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour has offered to fund supporters’ travel expenses for the Champions League final.
    Around 6,000 City fans are expected to attend the match in Porto on May 29 – and the club’s mega-rich owner wants to cover the Covid-inflated costs.
    The initiative is being labelled as an ‘official club trip’ and is designed to ease the financial pressure on those lucky enough to get a ticket.

    FOX HUNT
    Brendan Rodgers accepts Leicester will not be able to hold on to their Wembley heroes if a superpower comes knocking.
    He admitted: “Every team loses players, none more so than us since winning the title.
    “I’m not going to sit here naively and say winning the FA Cup will ensure all our players will stay.
    “But we can create an incredible environment for players to work, develop and improve.
    “And when you see those scenes at the weekend, you know you can become a winner here too.”

    RAID ARRESTS
    Four men have been arrested as part of an investigation into the burglary of the home of Marquinhos’ parents.
    On March 14, the Paris Saint-Germain star was left distraught after his family were robbed and assaulted while he played in the Ligue 1 match against Nantes.
    Shortly after the violent robbery, Marquinhos took to Instagram to reassure his followers his family were safe and well.
    The Brazilian wrote: “No one has suffered and everyone is fine. More fear than harm.”
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    Odegaard Real Madrid LATEST, Sander Berge for £17.2m, Gunners ‘have best chance of Camavinga transfer, Ramsey return

    SANDER BERGE has been linked with a £17.2m move to Arsenal this summer.The Norwegian star has excelled this season despite the Blades relegation to the Championship.
    Elsewhere, the Gunners will have a better chance of signing Eduardo Camavinga than any other club if they make a serious bid, according to reports.
    The Rennes star, who is also target for Real Madrid, is said to be high on the Gunners’ radar this summer.
    But an alternative could be an emotional return for Aaron Ramsey, who is said to be dreaming of rejoining the Gunners.
    And Matteo Guendouzi could be closing in on a permanent exit.
    Get all the latest Arsenal news, transfer gossip and updates with our live blog…
    CRYSTAL PALACE VS ARSENAL
    Tomorrow night sees Arsenal travel to Crystal Palace for a clash in front of the returning Eagles faithful.
    In the reverse fixture five months ago, the Gunners played out a goalless draw with Roy Hodgson’s men.
    Will they be able to find a way through this time around?
    Credit: Getty
    SEE LU, LATER
    Arsenal have confirmed David Luiz will leave the club on a free agent at the end of the season after just two years at the club.
    On Luiz’s departure, Arteta said: “He’s a player who has won everything in football and has earned every right to do so through who he is as a player and as a person.
    “I had the privilege to work with him for 18 months. I really enjoyed it. I think we got on really good. I think we had some great moments together.
    “He’s been really helpful, someone who we really like and appreciate so much. So I say thank you to him and wish him the best of luck in his next chapter.
    “I’m sure knowing David that he will have many more to come as a player and in the future somehow related to the game.
    “I’ve really enjoyed and learnt from him. He’s been very helpful every time with the team and I feel sadness as well because you get attached to the players emotionally.
    “When it gets to this stage it’s tough and it hurts because that relationship now is going to be going away, at least in this space and not seeing him every day. Again, I have to say thank you to him.”

    WILL TO LEAVE
    Willian wants to join David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
    The Brazilian is set to leave Arsenal this summer after a disappointing spell in north London and fancies moving to South Florida.
    SunSport understands Miami boss Phil Neville wants to sign the 32-year-old but knows it will be difficult to offload Mexcian international Rodolfo Pizarro first.
    Pizarro is one of the highest earners and a designated player yet has failed to impress Neville who is already eyeing a busy time in the transfer market once the window opens.
    Willian will command big MLS wages – former Juventus and Real Madrid hitman Gonzalo Higuain earns around $5million – so Pizarro will need to be sold despite a lack of suitors right now.

    ARSENAL AWAY KIT 2021-22
    Check out Arsenal’s away kit for the 2021-22 season. What do you think?

    OFF TO MARS
    Ligue 1 club Marseille are reportedly on the verge of a deal for Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi.
    Mikel Arteta sent the Frenchman out on loan to Hertha Berlin after a falling out at Emirates Stadium.
    But he is not set to return to North London and SunSport revealed earlier this year that he is among the players Arsenal want to cash in on.
    According to Le10Sport, the Gunners are in advanced talks with Marseille over the sale of Guendouzi.
    The 22-year-old is out of contract in 2022 yet should still bring in a reasonable transfer fee having cost Arsenal £7million in 2018.

    GUNNERS DUO
    Could either of these boys feature tomorrow against Crystal Palace?

    ARTETA ON KANE
    Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has given his thoughts on Tottenham star Harry Kane, who reiterated his desire to leave Spurs yesterday.
    The Gunners manager said: “I suffered him both ways: as a player and as a manager. I think English football should be so proud to have someone with his talent, with his quality and as well with his consistency.
    “I think what he’s been able to do over the years in that position in this league, it’s incredible.
    “The national team has someone to lean on and it gives you the opportunity to compete against any team because you know that he can win the game for you at any moment. That’s big words in football.”
    Credit: PA
    HIBS IN PRE-SEASON
    Arsenal will face Scottish side Hibernian in a pre-season friendly on July 13.

    MARTIN ODEGAARD’S FUTURE
    Arsenal loanee Martin Odegaard has given an update on his future amid speculation over whether he will stay at the Emirates or return to parent club Real Madrid.
    Martin Odegaard about his future to SkyDE: “I am happy here at Arsenal, we will see after the season what will happen. I’m owned by Real Madrid, so we have to speak to them. It’s important to understand what they want…”. ⚪️🔴 #AFC #Real @sky_maxb— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 18, 2021

    MART MY WORDS
    Arsenal legend Martin Keown thinks the club needs to make FIVE signings in the summer.
    He told TalkSPORT: “Well, it’s a time for change in terms of the players, personnel. One to 11, if you go right through the team, Leno’s not signing a new deal by all accounts, Bellerin at right-back is not holding that position down, the two central defenders, you’d say there is uncertainty over who is going to play there.
    “[Kieran] Tierney the left-back is probably the only one who is a shoo-in as a defender.
    “You run right through the team and it’s the young kids really that are the backbone of the team. [Bukayo] Saka, [Emile] Smith Rowe have been outstanding this season.
    “I think a minimum of maybe five changes. I think the front players are still good – I’d keep [Alexandre] Lacazette, I like him actually in the club.
    “[Pierre-Emerick] Aubameyang’s had his problems this season, [Gabriel] Martinelli needs to be used more, maybe on the wing perhaps.
    “Then you’ve got Saka to play, Smith Rowe, make sure they build those careers. But they need a base in midfield, [Thomas] Partey needs a partner alongside him, they need to spend there.
    “Gabriel [Magalhaes] has been disappointing as a central defender, Luiz is about to leave. So there is huge surgery to be made by the manager.”

    ENTER SANDER-MAN
    Arsenal have made a £17.2million bid for Sheffield United star Sander Berge, according to reports.
    The Norwegian ace, 23, has shone in the heart of the Blades midfield this season despite their woeful form seeing them relegated.
    Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham are all keen on bringing Berge back to the Premier League immediately.
    And the Gunners have made the first move, seeing a £17.2m bid rejected by Sheff Utd, according to reports.
    Berge is believed to be keen on a move to the Emirates – particularly if fellow Norway star and Real Madrid loanee Martin Odegaard stays, according to football.london.
    Los Blancos are believed to be eager to reintegrate Odegaard into their first-team squad after a series of successful loan deals.
    But Berge is still claimed to be leaning towards Arsenal over North London rivals Tottenham or Liverpool.

    READY TO NAB AB
    West Ham have joined Manchester United and Arsenal in pursuing Slavia Prague’s teenage strike sensation Abdallah Sima.
    Slavia confirmed the Hammers are in the hunt but insist they will stick to their asking price, which in January was reportedly £50million.
    Senegal ace Sima, 19, has been likened to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry with his pace and ability to play through the middle or out wide.
    And Slavia boss Jindrich Trpisovsky said: “There is interest in Abdallah Sima. There’s a set price at which he could leave.
    “We focus on managing the rest of the season with us. 
    “We talked about it with the boys from West Ham, where they have him very high on the list of possible reinforcements.”

    GUNNER SPEND
    Arsenal are set to dive into the transfer market to replace David Luiz, but Mikel Arteta could be convinced to give Nice loanee William Saliba a shot.
    Arteta revealed: “You will see in the summer the possible replacements.
    “William is our player for sure and that is a decision we are going to be taking in the summer.
    “When we finish the season we will sit down and discuss the roles of every member of the squad and how they can fulfil that role.
    “He is our player so he will be back here for sure and after that we will make the decision based on the agreement of the role he is going to play in the squad.”
    WILL I NEVER
    Mikel Arteta could spring a surprise against Crystal Palace and instead opt for Willian outwide with Alexandre Lacazette up-top.

    RULE OF SIX
    Arsenal take on Crystal Palace tomorrow night with European qualification still an outside possibility.
    Here’s how they could line-up…

    CAN’T BELIEVE LU
    Mikel Arteta explained Arsenal had been in talks with Dvaid Luiz over extending his contract but admitted it was best for the defender to leave the Emirates.
    The Spaniard claimed: “We have had very clear talks in the last few months.
    “He’s given his best. I tried to help him as much as I possibly could. The club as well.
    “And after some conversations we decided that it was the best way to do it now.
    “It’s after a few conversations that we had, David and I.
    “We discussed this situation in different occasions and the other day we made the final decision on that.”
    MORE FROM ARTETA
    The Spaniard continued by admitting he’s ‘sad’ to see Luiz go, adding: “I’ve really enjoyed and learnt from him.
    “He’s been very helpful every time with the team and I feel sadness as well because you get attached to the players emotionally.
    “When it gets to this stage it’s tough and it hurts because that relationship now is going to be going away, at least in this space and not seeing him every day.
    “Again, I have to say thank you to him.”

    ARTETA ON LUIZ’S EXIT
    He said: said: “He’s a player who has won everything in football and has earned every right to do so through who he is as a player and as a person.
    “I had the privilege to work with him for 18 months. I really enjoyed it.
    “I think we got on really good. I think we had some great moments together.
    “He’s been really helpful, someone who we really like and appreciate so much.
    “So I say thank you to him and wish him the best of luck in his next chapter.
    “I’m sure knowing David that he will have many more to come as a player and in the future somehow related to the game.”
    SEE LU, LATER
    Arsenal have confirmed David Luiz will leave the club on a free agent at the end of the season after just two years at the club.

    RUD AWAKENING
    Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno has revealed that Gunners stars hate playing against Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger.
    The German, 29, recently opined that his club team-mates need to find a ‘nasty’ streak.
    And quizzed by Sport1 as to which of his Germany pals have that trait, Chelsea star Rudiger’s name came up.
    Leno said: “Antonio Rudiger is also a good example.
    “Everyone at Arsenal has said that it is extremely bitter and difficult to play against him.
    “Such players are good for a team and hurt the opponent.”

    WAL TO WALL
    Former Arsenal star Theo Walcott has agreed a two-year deal to join Southampton this summer following the end of his Everton deal.
    The Gunners originally signed the England international from the Saints as a teenager.
    I would like to say a huge thank you to the club, my teammates and the fans for making me feel so welcome back here, and I can’t wait to continue pulling on the shirt in the next couple of seasons.— Theo Walcott (@theowalcott) May 18, 2021

    KING ERIC
    Eric Cantona has become the third inductee into the Premier League Hall of Fame after Arsenal legend Thierry Henry.
    The 54-year-old follows inaugural inductees Gunners icon Henry and Alan Shearer after a glittering career in England.
    Cantona linked up with Manchester United from Leeds in November 1992 after helping the Whites win the First Division title.
    And his impact at Old Trafford was immediate as he was instrumental in United winning their first-top flight championship since 1967.
    In total, the French icon won four Premier League titles in five years before retiring in 1997 at the age of 30.
    OFF TO MARS
    Marseille are reportedly on the verge of a deal for Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi.
    Mikel Arteta sent the Frenchman out on loan to Hertha Berlin after a falling out at Emirates Stadium.
    But he is not set to return to North London and SunSport revealed earlier this year that he is among the players Arsenal want to cash in on.
    According to Le10Sport, the Gunners are in advanced talks with Marseille over the sale of Guendouzi.
    The 22-year-old is out of contract in 2022 yet should still bring in a reasonable transfer fee having cost Arsenal £7million in 2018.

    ENTER SAND-MAN
    Arsenal have made a £17.2million bid for Sheffield United star Sander Berge, according to reports.
    The Norwegian ace, 23, has shone in the heart of the Blades midfield this season despite their woeful form seeing them relegated.
    Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham are all keen on bringing Berge back to the Premier League immediately.
    And the Gunners have made the first move, seeing a £17.2m bid rejected by Sheff Utd, according to reports.
    Berge is believed to be keen on a move to the Emirates – particularly if fellow Norway star and Real Madrid loanee Martin Odegaard stays, according to football.london.

    LENO ON BUNDESLIGA RETURN
    He added: “Not yet, because I really like it in the Premier League and at Arsenal.
    “Personally, I also think it’s great in London. My wife feels good, everything fits. But at some point in the Bundesliga again: why not?”
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