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BARCELONA are in talks with Sergio Aguero as they look to reunite the Man City star with long-term pal Lionel Messi.Arsenal have received a mega boost as 19-year-old Folarin Balogun has signed a new contract with the club.

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WE HAVE MOVED
Follow ALL of the latest transfer news and updates in SunSport’s live blog HERE
SILVA LINING
Man Utd will have to fork out £35million if they want to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Andre Silva in the summer.
According to Bild, the Red Devils are interested in the Portugal international who has banged in 23 Bundesliga goals this term.
It has been claimed that United are battling Atletico Madrid and Barcelona for his signature.
Silva is seen as a cheaper alternative to Borussia Dortmund marksman Erling Haaland.
ROYAL FLUSH
Neymar plans to make Manchester City fold in their upcoming Champions League showdown – before devoting his career to POKER.
The Brazilian has spoken of his love for playing poker, and his plans to turn professional once he hangs up his boots after taking up a new role as cultural ambassador for PokerStars having joined the team last year.
The 29-year-old said: “It’s true I plan to turn pro. I feel very comfortable playing poker, and think I can play in major tournaments after my football career is over.
“I play poker in an aggressive fashion. My favourite hands are a pair of tens – after my shirt number – and Jack-Five.”
Before adding: “Poker is so much more than just the game, it is a community and a culture and that is what I love about it.
“I am excited to start this next chapter with PokerStars, and we are already collaborating on a number of key areas.”
AGUER-DOUGH
Chelsea target Sergio Aguero is demanding £200,000-a-week wages from his next club, according to reports.
The Manchester City legend is leaving the Etihad at the end of the season when his contract expires and there are four clubs looking to land the 32-year-old.
Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus are the three teams battling Chelsea for Aguero’s signature, according to AS.
And the striker’s agent told Italian giants Juve they would have to cough up £200k-a-week in order to sign him, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
Aguero is trying to capitalise on his free agent status with any club not required to pay a transfer fee for such a talented player.
Barca are unlikely to be able to cough up the big dough with their finances crippled by Covid-19, but the chance to play with his friend Lionel Messi – if he stays in Catalonia – could tempt Aguero to the Nou Camp.
ODE GEAR
Martin Odegaard has reportedly been named as one of four young ‘untouchables’ at Real Madrid, in a blow to Arsenal’s chances of signing him.
The Norwegian has impressed during his temporary stint in North London, even bagging a memorable derby goal against Spurs last month.
Hopes have been raised among the Gunners’ fanbase that the attacking midfielder can be retained for next season.
But according to Marca, Odegaard won’t be going anywhere.
The Spanish paper report that the 22-year-old is one of four young ‘untouchables’ that the Madrid hierarchy want to build around.
Odegaard’s contract in Spain is set to expire in 2023, and a board-led renewal appears likely.
Marca have declared Martin Odegaard as one of four ‘untouchables’ at Real Madrid
FIRED BY PHIL
Furious Phil Foden axed the social media company behind the tweet calling out Kylian Mbappe.
The Manchester City star, 20, appeared to challenge the Paris Saint-Germain forward ahead of the Champions League semi-final with a tweet from his account saying: “@KMbappe are you ready.”
But the now-deleted message – which did not go down well with the midfielder – was actually posted without his permission by PR brand Ten Toes Media.
As revealed by the Daily Mail, Foden broke off his partnership with the company on Thursday, less than 24 hours after the awkward gaffe seemingly aimed to antagonise one of the world’s best footballers.
Ten Toes Media told SunSport: “We are saddened with the current situation.
“Since the company was founded we have adopted a process which requires all posts to be approved in advance by the talent / representative – no exceptions.
“They always have been approved – that has been true for four years and is still true today. Phil Foden is a special person and footballer and we wish him the very best going forward.”
This was the tweet that was sent from Phil Foden’s Twitter account to Kylian Mbappe
FORWARD PLAN
Paul Scholes wants Manchester United to bring in a new striker this summer and boost their forward options.
He told BT Sport: “I think they’ve got really good forwards but are any a real-centre forward? They look better in wide areas.
“[Edinson] Cavani has only started 15 games, can they keep him another year? It will cost a lot of money but they have to sign someone eventually.
“If Cavani was to stay, he wouldn’t want to sit on the bench, I think he’s waiting to see if United sign a centre-forward. He hasn’t played a lot due to injuries and that is a concern given his age.”
The ex-Red Devils midfielder added: “I don’t see Mason Greenwood as a centre-forward, I just see him in wide areas, not a great link up man, not making clever runs or tap ins, I see him in a wide right area that none of the other players like.
“He is devastating when facing a player up on the right side, that’s what makes him such a dangerous player.
“As a kid he wasn’t like a traditional centre-forward but always scored spectacular goals. He’s a wide player and that’s why United need to sign a top class centre-forward.”
ALEX SAN-GO
Chelsea target Alex Sandro is reportedly ‘keen’ on a move to Stamford Bridge to play under Thomas Tuchel.
The Blues are eyeing a swap deal with Juventus involving their outcast left-back Emerson Palmieri and Brazilian Sandro is said to like the idea.
Chelsea have long chased Sandro dating back to Antonio Conte’s time with the club.
A deal has so far eluded them, but changing circumstances at Juve and Tuchel’s January appointment at the Blues could help them get it over the line.
The German wanted to sign Sandro, 30, when he was in charge at Paris Saint-Germain.
And the prospect of playing under Tuchel appeals to Sandro, according to Corriere Torino.
Juventus left-back Alex Sandro is ‘keen’ on a move to Chelsea
BISS CHASE
Liverpool should replace Georginio Wijnaldum with Brighton’s Yves Bissouma this summer, according to John Barnes.
The former England star told BonusCode Bets: “Yves Bissouma has the ability to play at a team like Liverpool.
“He could fill what Jurgen Klopp wants from the three midfield players.
“He is strong defensively, he works hard, he plays the ball quickly and every now and then when he needs to dribble, as much as we don’t speak about Brighton, you know he can do it, because he has [in the past].
“Of all the players playing in England, that could fit the template of Liverpool’s midfield three, he is one of them.
“He looks like Georginio Wijnaldum, although he doesn’t attack as much as Gini, because Brighton plays a different style of football, when Bissouma wants to he can. He is 24 and young, he would be a great fit.”
Yves Bissouma has impressed for Brighton
STAR SUPPORT
Alexandre Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe paid tribute to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on Thursday night.
The Gunners duo put up an ‘A’ celebration after the Frenchman’s second goal in their 4-0 win at Slavia Prague.
The message was a tribute to team-mate Aubameyang, who contracted malaria while on international duty.
The Gabon striker missed the Europa League quarter-final second leg and explained the reason why on Instagram.
After the victory, Mikel Arteta said: “He feels really good. That’s what he said to me today. Everybody’s been in contact with him.
“He was watching the game like everybody else at Colney. These things happen. He travelled to his country. These risks always exist.”
Alexandre Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe paid tribute to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
COOCHY COOCHY BLUE
EXCLUSIVE – Man City wonderkid Phil Foden is celebrating again after revealing he is to become a dad for the second time.
He and childhood sweetheart Rebecca Cooke, both now 20, had little Ronnie — named after Foden’s boyhood nickname — in January 2019.
Now the midfield ace has told friends they are having a baby girl to join them in their £3.25million mansion in Prestbury, Cheshire.
The new arrival is expected in late summer or early autumn, The Sun understands.
A source said of Foden and his table-topping Sky Blues: “City can’t stop scoring at the moment — both on and off the pitch.
“They’ve hit the back of the net more times than any of the teams and are now celebrating another kid. It couldn’t be a better way to cap off such a great season.”
GATE SLAMMED SHUT
England boss Gareth Southgate has thanked Aidy Boothroyd for his service to the U21s.
He said: “I’d like to thank Aidy for his wholehearted support and dedication to developing English players and coaches across the last seven years.
“His pride in working with all of our development teams has shone through and his support of the senior team has been greatly appreciated.
“I wish him every success on the next step of his career.”
BAND AID
Andy Boothroyd has spoke of his privilege of managing England’s U21s after stepping down as gaffer.
He said: “It’s been the greatest privilege to represent the FA and lead England teams into high-profile tournaments.
“While we didn’t finish in the way we wanted, I’m very proud to have been able to work so closely with players who I know will go on to have remarkable international careers and to have experienced some very special moments with them over the years.
“I’d like to thank my staff and all of the incredible support team that have done so much to help us remain competitive against other elite nations.
“In every single get-together they embraced our unique challenge of rightly prioritising the needs of the senior team while ensuring we gave our all to try and get a positive performance and result.”
FOOTIE RAID
BREAKING – Roma defender Chris Smalling was robbed at gunpoint in front of his wife and toddler son when three hooded men broke into his home.
The 31-year-old was sleeping when the armed thugs broke into his home and forced him to open his safe.
Smalling, who played for Manchester United for ten years, handed over a Rolex watch and other items of jewellery, Gazzetta dello Sport reports.
His wife Sam, 35, called the police at 5am this morning after the break-in at the home in the Appia Antica area of Rome.
The robbery happened in front of the couple’s two-year-old son Leo.
Roma were playing in the Europa League last night but Smalling was injured with a knee injury.
FIRE IN THE BOOTH
BREAKING- Aidy Boothroyd will leave his role as England’s U-21 boss with immediate effect.
The ex-Watford gaffer had been under immense pressure after the Young Lions failed to progress out of the group stage at the European Championships.
His contract was set to expire in the summer, but he has decided to leave his role early.
It is understood that the FA will now begin a recruitment process to find his successor.
MOORE BLOW
Sheffield Wednesday manager Darren Moore is suffering from pneumonia and blood clots on his lungs after recovering from coronavirus.
It emerged the Owls boss had tested positive for Covid-19 on April 2 and he self-isolated from then.
An Owls statement read: “Darren Moore has suffered a setback after his recent contraction of COVID-19 that will dictate a further absence from the club.
“Everyone at the club sends their very best wishes to the gaffer for a speedy and full recovery.”
Former West Brom and Doncaster boss Moore told the club’s official website: “I have developed pneumonia as a result of COVID-19, with blood clots on the lungs and extreme discomfort.
“I am gutted to be away but I understand the situation and the course of action I must take.”
Darren Moore is struggling with post-Covid pneumonia and blood clots on his lungs

GREAT DANE
Man Utd have joined the race for Fulham’s on-loan Lyon defender Joachim Andersen, according to reports.
The Dane moved to Craven Cottage last summer, after finding opportunities limited with the French side.
Despite Fulham’s struggles, he has hit the ground running in West London, earning the captain’s armband in just his fourth Premier League appearance.
And his quick progress has not gone unnoticed by potential suitors.
Danish outlet BT claim that the Red Devils have more than just a passing interest in the 24-year-old.
Man Utd are reportedly interested in signing Joachem Andersen at the end of the season
CAM TO THE PARTY
Arsenal are reportedly in the transfer battle to sign Eduardo Camavinga after he refused to sign a new contract at Rennes.
But the Gunners face strong competition from Manchester United and Real Madrid for the defensive midfielder.

Reports earlier this week stated the 18-year-old would not put pen to paper on a new deal with the Ligue 1 side.
With his current contract expiring in 2022, that means Rennes may be forced into selling their young star or risk losing him for free next year.
And according to Marca, Arsenal may try their luck to lure the Frenchman to the Emirates – even if, like Rennes, they cannot offer Champions League football next season.
GOOD MORNING FOOTY FANS
Two more Premier League sides booked their place in the European semi-finals last night.
A stunning Arsenal performance featured an Alexandre Lacazette brace to knock out Slavia Prague.
Bukayo Saka and Nicolas Pepe got in on the act for a 4-0 win on the night – 5-1 on aggregate.
They now face a reunion with Unai Emery after Villarreal beat Dinamo Zagreb.
But there was a blow for the Gunners pre-game as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang confirmed his diagnosis with malaria.
The club captain caught the illness of international duty with Gabon and posted an update from his hospital bed.
He wrote: “I’ve spent a few days in hospital this week but I’m already feeling much better every day, thanks to the great doctors that detected and treated the virus so quickly.
“I wasn’t really feeling myself the last couple weeks but will be back stronger than ever soon!”
Manchester United will face Roma in the other semi-final after beating Granada 2-0 at Old Trafford.
Edinson Cavani bagged early on before a Jesus Vallejo own goal, while Edin Dzeko netted in a 1-1 draw for the Italians at home to Ajax.
In transfer news, yesterday SunSport revealed United’s intention to push ahead with signing Nikola Milenkovic.
The Fiorentina defender is available for £38million this summer, a fee the Red Devils will hope to negotiate down.
RAISE THE BAR
Barcelona are said to be revving up their plan for a new centre-back.
A left-footed replacement for Samuel Umtiti is in demand, so say Mundo Deportivo.
AC Milan’s Alessio Romagnoli, Lisandro Martinez of Ajax, Marcos Senesi of Feyenoord and Real Betis star Aissa Mandi are named on their shortlist.
Credit: EPA
BAYERN TIME
Massimiliano Allegri is the latest name to move into the crosshairs of Bayern Munich, according to reports in Italy.
Hansi Flick is thought to be ready to leave the Bundesliga giants in the summer, potentially to take over the German national team.
And Sportmediaset believe Allegri is ready for a return to the dugout with a decision due from Bayern in the coming weeks.
WHAT A STORY
𝐎𝐜𝐭 𝟮𝟬𝟭𝟴Edin Dzeko dedicates his #UCL hat-trick to Riccardo Calafiori, after the youngster suffers a career-threatening injury in a #UYL game.𝐀𝐩𝐫 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟭Calafiori provides the crucial assist for Dzeko as we reach the semi-finals of the #UEL!#ASRoma 💛❤️ #RomaAjax pic.twitter.com/rjBqtWdqaG— AS Roma English (@ASRomaEN) April 15, 2021

ART HEART
Mikel Arteta credited the weekend demolition of Sheffield United with inspiring Arsenal’s stunning win over Slavia Prague.
He told BT Sport: “We started really well in a convincing way, aggressive in our high press. We looked a threat all the time.
“I really like the reaction of the team to the goal being disallowed. We scored some great goals, The clean sheet is important as well, the second one in two games.
“It helped the way we played against Sheffield United. The players were in high confidence, when performances are so high the collective improves. The boys were really at it from the start.
“It is a really important win in a crucial moment. We won in a convincing way, so credit to the players.”
KANE-UNDRUM
Harry Kane can be forgiven for considering his future at Tottenham with Manchester United claimed to be interested, according to Dimitar Berbatov.
In recent weeks, numerous reports have claimed the England captain, 27, is considering his future at Spurs in a bid to finally win some silverware.
Berbatov told Betfair: “According to reports, he will look to leave Spurs if they fail to qualify for the Champions League next season.
“This isn’t a surprise. I don’t know if it will happen, but Kane is clearly thinking about his future.
“I can see why Kane would want to move if they don’t make the Champions League and if they don’t win the League Cup.
“I would not be surprised as of course he wants to play Champions League football. It depends on how Spurs finish the season.”
Credit: AFP
IS-MAEL IT IN
Barnsley have warned Crystal Palace off nicking boss Valerien Ismael this summer.
Ex-Eagles defender Ismael has masterminded an unlikely playoff charge at the Tykes since taking over in October.
Palace are assessing their managerial options with the contract of current chief Roy Hodgson due to expire in the summer and have been linked with a swoop for their former defender.
But Barnsley chief executive Dane Murphy told the club’s website: “There is of course going to be interest in Valerien because of the unbelievable job that he’s doing.
“But he has given us no hint or impression that he wants to be anywhere else but in Barnsley.
“We have him on a multiple-year contract, he’s at the front of our ship and we want to keep him here for as long as we possibly can.”
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BARCELONA are in talks with Sergio Aguero as they look to reunite the Man City star with long-term pal Lionel Messi.Arsenal have received a mega boost as 19-year-old Folarin Balogun has signed a new contract with the club.

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PUSH & PAUL
Paul Scholes wants to see Manchester United go hard on signing Erling Haaland this summer.
But the former midfielder accepts that rivals Manchester City, where the Norwegian’s dad Alf-Inge played, could hold the advantage.
He told talkSPORT: “He’s got that relationship with Ole and we all know how good he is.
“Man United are desperate for a No9, an all-out centre-forward. Haaland would be the perfect choice, of course he would.
“There are a couple of other names out there that could possibly do that.
“You have to think about his dad as well with the City link. That could be strong in this situation.
“But let’s see. Fingers crossed, if he does move, that he comes to the red side of Manchester.”
MAX POWER
Everton have reportedly received a boost in their bid to sign Max Aarons.
The Norwich right-back is set to join the Canaries in the Premier League next season – unless a club can meet his £30million price tag.
According to Football Insider, Norwich were previously refusing to consider bids so the new valuation could help prospective buyers.
And the club are also said to be looking at replacement signings if Aarons leaves.
DONE DEAL
A loan move in the Championship as Alex Mitchell leaves Millwall for Bromley.
The centre-back will spend the next move with the Vanarama National League outfit.

RED WOE
Uefa bosses must wait for an official report before deciding whether to punish Liverpool for the attack on the Real Madrid bus.
When one of Real’s buses parked up at the Kop end of the ground after the team had disembarked, it was apparent one pane of a double-glazed window had been smashed.
Video footage and images of a broken window on the side of the luxury emerged on social media.
Merseyside police have launched an investigation after damage was caused to the Real coach on its way to Anfield for Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final second leg.
Uefa observers at the game must decide whether to include the incident in their report.
Credit: PA
ARE EU READY?
It’s a huge night in the Europa League, here is how each tie is set up ahead of the 8pm kick-offs.
Manchester United host Granada with a 2-0 lead after the first leg in Spain, but the LaLiga side broke a four-game losing streak when winning on the weekend.
Slavia Prague hold an away goal over Arsenal in their 1-1 tied quarter-final, the Czech club boasting a record of six wins, three draws and one defeat in their last ten European games.
Roma fought back from a goal down to lead Ajax 2-1 as their tie goes to Italy.
And Villarreal took a 1-0 win away to Dinamo Zagreb last week to extend their Europa League win-streak to seven games.
BRIDGE TOO FAR
Nedum Onuoha has claimed he helped Wayne Bridge cover up a snowboarding injury by leaving ‘a tiny bit on him’ in training.
Speaking to Tubes & Ange Golf Life Channel on Youtube, the 34-year-old explained: “Bridgey had a social calendar, whether it was potentially snowboarding, being down in Surrey even though we were playing in Manchester, and I think he may have hurt himself or whatever.
“He asked me the question and at that point we are in the trenches together, so I was like ‘yeah, no problem’, so I left a tiny bit on him.
“I didn’t hurt him but at times the pitch can be a bit unstable. I went in to win the ball and unfortunately he may have rolled his ankle.
“I think he hurt himself from doing something that maybe he shouldn’t have been doing. Maybe, perhaps, I’m not sure.
“At that point, we were the deadwood. We had nothing going for us and were looking out for each other.”
FAN-TASTIC NEWS
The Premier League are pushing back their penultimate round of fixtures so every team can play a home game in front of 10,000 fans.
It is understood the 37th round of games will now take place on May 18-19. That is the day after the third stage of the government’s Covid-19 roadmap is planned to start.
The Prem has told clubs of the decision to move the round of fixtures – but public confirmation of the plans are not expected until broadcast arrangements are in place.
Lockdown restrictions are set to ease on May 17, allowing outdoor venues to hold 25 per cent of capacity or 10,000 people, whichever is smaller.
There was concern that this would mean half the teams in the Premier League would be allowed to play in front of their fans for the final day of the season – while the other half would not.
Pushing back the second-to-last round of games means every club will be afforded the chance to play at their own ground in front of 10,000 supporters.
HAZARD WARNING
Eden Hazard’s farewell message to Chelsea fans looks set to ring true after the Blues drew Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals.
The Belgian maestro said an emotional goodbye to the club after signing off in style by helping thump Arsenal 4-1 in the Europa League final in Baku in 2019.
Hazard scored two goals and created another one as he provided a fairytale ending to his seven-year spell at Stamford Bridge.
And in a touching social media message to the supporters who idolised him for so long, Hazard wrote at the time: “Now it’s in the open I would like to put on record one thing was always clear to me, I have loved every moment at Chelsea and not once did I ever consider, nor would I have left for any other club.
“Chelsea and especially Chelsea fans will always be special to me and next season I will look for your results first.
“I hope that we are drawn against each other in the Champions League next season and every season so we can meet again.”

STAR FISH
They already had Captain Marvel at Manchester United, and in youngster Will Fish they have another potential leader among their ranks.
With the Red Devils suffering a selection headache in defence for Thursday’s Europa League second leg, and the suspensions of Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, Fish, 18, has been drafted into the squad.
The 6ft 1in defender is a commanding centre back, who will be relatively unknown to most fans.
But, amongst his peers in the youth sides, he’s the team-mate they all look to – like the stars of the 80s and 90s did with Bryan Robson.
And he has formed an impressive partnership with fellow youth prospect Teden Mengi at the heart of the defence for the U18’s.
Will Fish has been drafted into Man Utd’s Europa League squad against Granada tonight
NIK OF TIME – EXCLUSIVE
Manchester United are ready to step up their pursuit of Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic.
The Serbian defender has been on the radar of Old Trafford scouts for a number of seasons now. The 23-year-old runs out of contract in the summer of 2022, and it is understood he will not sign a new deal.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to bring in a new centre-back this summer, in search of a long-term partner for Harry Maguire. But it is understood the Italian side will demand at least £38m for their man, which United would not be willing to pay.
A number of top sides are showing interest in Milenkovic, with Chelsea believed to be keen.
Meanwhile, AC Milan would look to sign him if they can seal a permanent deal for Fikayo Tomori with the Blues.
United are expected to offload Eric Bailly when the window opens, with talks over a new contract not progressing. The 26-year-old wants assurances over regular action, which Solskjaer has refused to give him.

GUARD OF HONOUR
Jude Bellingham joked he is ‘not bad for a Championship player’ after being hailed for his debut Champions League season.
The England international joined Borussia Dortmund last summer for £25million after leaving boyhood club Birmingham.
In his first European campaign, he proved instrumental in Dortmund’s midfield, with ten appearances and a goal.
The strike came in the second leg of their quarter-final against Manchester City, which they lost 4-2 on aggregate. But afterwards, the 17-year-old was asked to comment on his meteoric rise and Bellingham took the chance to poke fun at any prior critics.
He said: “Not bad for a Championship player eh?
“I think I’ve taken every game in my stride, I had a bit of a tough start away at Lazio and then since then I think all of my best performances in BVB colours have come in the Champions League, including tonight.”

MEL OF A LIFE
Anthony Martial’s wife Melanie has opened up on what it is really like to be a Premier League Wag.
The stunning model has been with Man United’s No9 Anthony since his ugly split with mother of his first child Samantha Jacquelinet in 2016.
Melanie, 29, is keen to stress that being a footballer’s wife isn’t just about the ‘latest handbags’ and ‘nice cars’ that some people perceive it to be.
She told Konbini, via Get French Football News: “Never in my life did I imagine that I would become the wife of a footballer. Really never.
“It was never my idea to live my life according to a man, so already that’s all wrong. I can understand people who have stereotypes around footballers’ wives, because I had them too.
“It’s like: ‘Wow, the nice cars, handbags.’ That’s the first stereotype, but it is not at all like that. It maybe summarises one month of the year, the month where they have holidays, in June, the nice holidays, all that. For the rest of the year it is not like that at all.”

MAD FOR IT
Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr showed off a piece of sublime skill against Liverpool – and footie fans loved it.
Thirty-five minutes into their Champions League quarter-final clash, the jet-heeled winger chipped the ball over the attempted challenge from Ozan Kabak.
It was done so nonchalantly to put the 20-year-old into acres of space. Unfortunately the Brazilian ended up running the ball out of play – but fans loved the footwork nonetheless.
One posted on Twitter how Vinicius had ‘destroyed Ozan Kabak’s career in just one move’.
Ntobeko Nkomo described the move as ‘ungovernable’, with another adding that Vinicius ‘dealt with Kabak nasty’.
Manchester United fan ‘Aidan’ wrote that ‘Vinicius mugged him off’, while another joked that ‘Kabak marking Vinicius is going well’.

SHOT IN THE ARM
Lionel Messi has helped South American footballers get 50,000 Covid vaccines from China.
The Argentine great has helped in the bid to vaccinate all players before this summer’s Copa America tournament.
The tournament is the most prestigious in South America and was postponed last year due to the pandemic.
But Messi helped football chiefs’ ambitious vaccination plans by donating three signed shirts.
The shirts helped secure the deal with Chinese pharmaceutical firm Sinovac, one official said.
Conmebol’s Gonzalo Belloso tweeted: “Sinovac’s directors manifested their admiration for Lionel Messi, who kindly sent us three shirts for them.”

O-LOL GUNNAR SOLSKJAER
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer claims he wants his team to ‘win the right way’ despite the Red Devils’ historic reputation of intimidating officials and getting favourable decisions.
The Norwegian said ‘the game is gone’ after the farcical decision to disallow Edinson Cavani’s goal after Scott McTominay’s ‘foul’ on Heung-min Son against Tottenham on Sunday.
And asked to elaborate ahead of United’s Europa League quarter-final second-leg against Granada, Solskjaer recalled something Sir Alex Ferguson told him when he was a player.
He said: “I think every manager has certain values and when I got sent off against Newcastle a few years ago, many moons ago, I thought I ‘d done the right thing for the team.
“But Sir Alex lambasted me after the game and said ‘We don’t win that way at Man Utd’ and I’ve lived by that ever since.
“We want to win in the right manner it doesn’t matter who we play against we want to win playing by the book. I’m not saying someone else doesn’t, I’m just saying I think every manager wants to win in a fair way.”

CARLO’S WAY
Everton could be offered Adrien Rabiot and Merih Demiral in a mega swap deal involving Moise Kean.
The Juventus duo would add quality and competition for places in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.
Central midfielder Adrien Rabiot would go straight into a battle with the likes of Allan, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Andre Gomes and Gylfi Sigurdsson.
And Merih Demiral will take his place at the back after beating off a number of competitions.
The Turkish centre-back will compete with the likes of Yerry Mina, Mason Holgate and Michael Keane at the back.
Aaron Ramsey was also a name linked with a move to Everton as part of a swap deal.

GREEN LIGHT TO GO!
Mason Greenwood is confident Manchester United can get the job done against Granada at Old Trafford tonight.
The Red Devils go into the second-leg of their Europa League quarter-final against the LaLiga side with a 2-0 lead from the first-leg in Spain.
But the young forward says there is no room for complacency as they seek to reach the semis.
Greenwood said: “To get a 2-0 lead, it’s given us a big boost but not an easier chance.
“You never know what they can do in the second leg really, but it’s given us a bit of comfort. But we can’t relax on it in this next game. We’ve got to go out and finish the job to get through to the semis.
“We’re going out to win the match; all the players are ready. We’ve done our preparation and I’m sure we’ll be ready to go.”

PAINT TROLLERS
Tottenham’s slump in form has got so bad they are now getting trolled by their OWN sponsors.
Spurs announced Dulux as their official paint supplier on Thursday before the company christened the partnership by immediately mocking them on Twitter.
They made jibes referencing Tottenham’s questionable defence as well as the club’s empty trophy cabinet. Jamie Redknapp slammed Jose Mourinho for making Spurs boring but even if it is like watching paint dry, surely this is a step too far.
Alongside an image of the Dulux dog at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Spurs tweeted: “We are delighted to announce @duluxuk, the nation’s number one paint brand, our first ever Official Paint Supplier.”
One cheeky fan replied: “Can the dog play centre-back?” And the social media admin controlling the Dulux account incredibly hit back with: “He might do a better job Chris.”
The tweet was later deleted as fans caught wind of the more than questionable online quips.

SERG-ING OFF
Sergio Ramos allegedly told Real Madrid president Florentino Perez to ‘do it’ after being told they would plan for next season without him.
The legendary centre-back is out of contract at the end of this campaign, and is still to agree a new deal. He has been linked with a sensational move to the Premier League, with Manchester United the frontrunners to sign him.
Spanish journalist Josep Pederol revealed to Chiringuito TV of how the conversation went between Ramos and Perez after the defender turned down their opening offer.
Perez reportedly told the 35-year-old: “We will have to plan the season without you”, to which Ramos replied “do it.”
Despite this revelation, Real Madrid’s hopes of keeping Ramos next season have been talked up – by the player’s parents. Jose Maria Ramos, Sergio’s father, and mother Paqui Garcia spoke to Spanish TV show El Chiringuito recently.
Both were effusive on the 35-year-old’s chances of staying in Madrid, stating that he ‘absolutely’ is excited to sign a new deal.

WHAT’S IN A MANE?
When it comes to the horses, Manchester United are first past the post.
New research has found that there are more horse names inspired by the Red Devils than any other club – and they’ve also been the most successful on the track.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men might be second in the Premier League – but they have a table-topping 11 horses related to the club by name, making them the most popular and most profitable football club in racing.
Their squad of horses are headed by the Sir Alex Ferguson-owned, top-class former Flat horse Rock Of Gibraltar, who won seven Group 1s during a brilliant career.
The 11 horses with Manchester United-related names boast a win percentage of 26.77% in 198 starts – accumulating earnings of almost £3 million at a rate of £15,000 per race.
That’s enough to see them claim top spot based on prize money, just ahead of Spanish giants Barcelona who have been represented by the American-trained Messi in 21 races, winning four but still making almost £14,000 per race.
Rock Of Gibraltar enjoyed a stunning career in the colours of Alex Ferguson
ITALIAN JOB FOR THE MOISE
Juventus could re-sign PSG loanee Moise Kean from Everton in a huge cash-plus-player deal.
That’s according to reports in Italy, with France midfielder Adrien Rabiot and Turkey centre-back Merih Demiral the bait Juve might offer.
PSG are also interested in a permanent deal this summer as Azzurri striker Kean, 21, has hit 16 goals in 33 games for the Champions League semi-finalists this term.
And Gazzetta dello Sport suggest Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti would be agreeable to selling Kean.
It’s claimed Juve fancy Kean as Cristiano Ronaldo’s partner next term. Andrea Pirlo’s men are poised to be dethroned by Inter Milan after nine Seri A titles in a row.
And Juventus are thought to rue offloading Kean to Everton for £27.5million in August 2019.

SHAW’S REDEMPTION – FAN’S VIEW by Tom McDermott
When Luke Shaw joined Manchester United in 2014 he said in his first interview that he wanted to continue to progress his career and that United was the best place for him to do that.
It’s only really now, seven years on, that United supporters are starting to see him fulfil such potential. It all might have been different if Shaw hadn’t suffered such a horrific injury in the Champions League game against PSV Eindhoven in 2015.
Shaw started that particular campaign flying out of the blocks, but through the resulting years, a combination of other niggly injuries, poor form, and managerial upheaval, has caused many to question whether or not he would survive at Old Trafford.
Even at the start of this season, fans questioned Shaw’s ability. It just felt like he was coming to the end, and that a change of scenery might suit both the club and player.
But, for the vast majority of the campaign, Shaw has proven himself to be the best full-back in the Premier League, and one of the finest in Europe. He’s shown great mental strength too, to go from being an injury prone ‘possible’ to one of the first names on the team sheet.
His defensive positioning and pace means he’s a nightmare for opposing wingers, but his experience also means that he’s often on hand to prevent danger further up the pitch and away from his defensive third. And going forward, he’s practically impossible to stop when in full flight, and he’s starting to add more goals and assists to his play.

PEP STALK – EXCLUSIVE
Yangel Herrera says it is his dream to play under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
The Venezuelan midfield ace, 23, is on loan at Granada from the Premier League leaders. Herrera trained with City at the end of 2018 and is hopeful he will get a proper chance under Guardiola.
Granada tonight head to Manchester United in their Europa League quarter-final second leg. Herrera told SunSport: “Being with Pep was a masterclass.
“It helped me see that one day I should have my place there. I didn’t feel weird in that dressing room. I was surrounded by great footballers.
“I work to achieve something like that. I don’t know if Pep’s the best in the world but he needs to be on the podium.
“Anybody can see what he’s brought to football. They are very aware of each game I play in LaLiga and in the Europa League.”

CHANGING THEIR TOON
Government officials have denied that Prime Minister Boris Johnson intervened in last summer’s attempted Saudi takeover of Newcastle United.
The Saudi Public Investment Fund, assisted by Amanda Staveley and the Reuben Brothers, had agreed a £300million deal with current owner Mike Ashley.
The PIF eventually withdrew from the deal last July, however, after growing frustrated at the Premier League’s concerns over whether the Saudi state, in effect Bin Salman, would own Newcastle.
Their main issue surrounded alleged state-backed piracy in the country, which included broadcasting of Premier League football. According to the Mail, Bin Salman sent Johnson, 56, the message: “We expect the English Premier League to reconsider and correct its wrong conclusion.”
With concerns over UK-Saudi relations, Johnson reportedly asked a senior aide to investigate the matter.
But in response to the report, a Government spokesman told the Mirror: “While we welcome overseas investment, this was a commercial matter for the parties concerned and the Government was not involved at any point in the takeover talks on the sale of Newcastle United.”

ZLAT’S ALL FOLKS?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is facing a three-year ban for investing in a Malta-based betting company, it has been claimed.
A bombshell report in Sweden says that the 39-year-old’s career could be brought to a premature end as a result of the ban.
Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet state that he owns ten per cent of Bethard, a gambling company with offices in Malta, through his business Unknown AB.
Both Fifa and Uefa do not let players have financial interests in gambling companies. Fifa’s ethical rules say that anyone who violates them faces a fine and a ban from all football activities for a maximum of three years.
The report continues that the Swedish FA were aware of the problem and it’s the reason he didn’t feature in the 2018 World Cup. AC Milan striker Zlatan had already retired from international football in 2016 but made his return ahead of this summer’s Euros.
The report adds that Zlatan’s company is the fourth largest shareholder in Bethard and it made a profit after tax of £25.79m in 2019. He was announced as a co-owner and ambassador for the brand three years ago.

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