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      in Soccer

      Liverpool 4 Bayer Leverkusen 0: Xabi Alonso leaves empty handed on Anfield return as Luis Diaz hits hat-trick

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      XABI ALONSO had seen it many times before – a visiting team getting absolutely torn apart on a European night in front of the Kop.Unfortunately for the Bayer Leverkusen manager, on his return to his former home of Anfield, there was nothing he could do to stop his team from suffering a ferocious second half mauling.Luis Diaz celebrates in front of the Liverpool fansCredit: GettyLiverpool denied Xabi Alonso a rosy return to Anfield in a 4-0 winCredit: GettyAlonso’s Bayer Leverkusen side were swept away in the second halfCredit: GettyAlonso’s side, who won the German League and Cup double last season, arrived on Merseyside with a swagger and were giving a pretty decent account of themselves.Yet in the space of three minutes, it all went horribly wrong. And then, it got even worse.Luis Diaz scored a terrific opening goal and with the home crowd baying for blood – even though it was Alonso’s – Cody Gakpo headed the second even though it was initially ruled out by VAR.Diaz then got his second, and then third, for his first Liverpool hat-trick. This capped a brilliant second half, the best of Arne Slot’s short reign.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLLiverpool played with so much speed and intensity and they were clinical when it really mattered, against a really decent defence.This will have been really tough viewing for Alonso. He could have had the Liverpool job if he wanted it and maybe, one day, he will get the gig on Merseyside.But for now, Liverpool will be absolutely delighted over appointing Slot. It is now 14 wins, one draw and a defeat.Liverpool struggled against Brighton on Saturday but after conceding, hit back with two goals in as many minutes.Most read in FootballJeremie Frimpong was denied an opening goal for Leverkusen in the first halfCredit: PAHis goal was ruled out for a handball in the build-upCredit: ReutersLuis Diaz netted a delightful chip to score the opener for LiverpoolCredit: PAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd they used a similar type of whirlwind performance to knock the stuffing out of Leverkusen who had been brilliantly organised at the back but were then exposed horribly.Slot already seems to be getting the big calls right. He made just two changes from the Brighton game and they were Luiz and Curtis Jones, who combined brilliantly for the opening goal.Roy Keane fumes Man Utd ‘wouldn’t have tolerated’ Xabi Alonso’s behaviourMaybe Alonso should have known it was going to be one of those nights.The Spanish manager does not get much wrong but he could not have timed his walk out of the tunnel any worse before kick-off because it was just as Liverpool’s fans started booing the Champions League anthem.It is strange that after leaving Liverpool in 2009 and despite having played for both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, Alonso never returned to Anfield as a player.He also touched the ‘This is Anfield’ sign before heading out of the tunnel to see his team warm up.But as he walked out before kick-off to jeers, Alonso still acknowledged the home supporters in the main stand who applauded him when he reached his seat.Before the game, Alonso insisted that Liverpool were the best team in Europe. Despite an easy start in the Premier League, their recent results have been impressive.Leverkusen had more of the ball – 58 per possession in the first half – and they even created the odd chance.Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka hammered a thunderbolt which smacked Virgil van Dijk flush in the face and unsurprisingly, floored the Reds captain. Dutch ref Danny Makkelie stopped play for his fellow countryman.Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface was a handful although needed treatment after he ran into the advertising boards in front of the Kop after firing a shot into the side netting.Equally, Alonso’s team defended well with their back five when Liverpool had the ball and gave them very few opportunities.Cody Gakpo netted the second for LiverpoolCredit: GettyThe Dutchman nodded home a great header at the back postCredit: PAGakpo should also have done better rather than fire a shot straight at keeper Lukas Hradecky, although that came after a big scare for the home team.Jeremie Frimpong thought he had put Leverkusen ahead with a cracking finish but the linesman correctly spotted a handball – even though it was accidental – as the Dutchman got past Kostas Tsimikas before beating Caoimhin Kelleher with his shot.Liverpool still struggled in the second half and when a golden chance did fall to Mo Salah, it fell on his right foot and he made a complete mess of the opportunity.It needed something special and Curtis Jones delivered it with the quality pass and Diaz produced an absolutely sublime finish for the first goal in the 61 st minute.Slot will have been delighted with that combination, given his tactical decision before kick off.Gakpo thought his header from Salah’s brilliant cross had been ruled out for offside but after a VAR check, it was given.And it was from another Salah cross which saw Diaz have too much power for a defender before sticking in the third from close range. He then completed the hat-trick in injury time from close range to clinch the match ball.READ MORE SUN STORIESAlready, it looks certain that Liverpool will finish in the top eight of the Champions League meaning they would miss the play-off round in February.And considering how many games Slot’s side could end up playing this year, avoiding a couple of European games could be crucial.Luis Diaz netted a hattrick to continue his hot form and see off Leverkusen in styleCredit: ReutersArne Slot is making things look easy on MerseysideCredit: Getty More

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      in Boxing

      Mike Tyson reveals how he left prison with staggering $400MILLION in the bank after going in with $15m

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      MIKE TYSON says he left prison $375MILLION richer after signing lucrative deals behind bars. Tyson was jailed in 1992 after being convicted of rape and served three years at the Indiana Youth Center. Mike Tyson poses with wads of cash in 1989Credit: GettyTyson spent three years in prison from 1992Credit: AFPA year after coming out of prison, Tyson was already heavyweight world champion thanks to the help of Don King.And it was the legendary yet controversial promoter who made Iron Mike a rich man again – even while locked up.Tyson told former world champion Andre Ward: “When I went to prison I had $15million (£11.5m). “When I came out I must have had $300-400million (£307m). I’m in there signing contracts in prison.” READ MORE IN BOXINGTyson had two comeback fights in 1995 upon his release before beating Frank Bruno for the WBC title a year after. But following defeats to Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis, by 2003 Tyson had filed for bankruptcy after blowing through $250m (£190m). And his career was over in 2005 following consecutive losses to Britain’s Danny Williams and Kevin McBride, who was also a tree surgeon. Tyson later recouped his wealth in retirement thanks in part to his cannabis empire. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd his net worth is set to rocket another $40m (£30m) when he makes his return after 20 YEARS out to fight Jake Paul. He takes on the YouTuber-turned-boxer on November 15 in a controversial clash slammed for the age difference. Tyson said: “I’m a fighter, I feel good and I can do it. And I feel I can beat this guy.” Tyson facing off with Jake PaulCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Sky Sports pundit tipped to replace under-fire Julen Lopetegui as West Ham manager

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      A SKY SPORTS pundit has been tipped to take over from under-fire West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui.The Hammers boss is under mounting pressure in East London after a poor start to the season was compounded by a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Nottingham Forest on Saturday.Julen Lopetegui has had a poor start to the season as West Ham managerCredit: GettyThat defeat has left West Ham looming in 14th spot, losing half of their league games already this term.With former Wolves boss Lopetegui now under a microscope, managers up and down the country are being linked with the job.And Jeff Stelling reckons that a Sky Sports pundit could be the right man to replace the Spaniard.Speaking on talkSPORT breakfast, Stelling backed Frank Lampard to fill the hot-seat.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLLampard has been working as a Sky Sports pundit since his last foray into management as Chelsea’s interim boss last year. It’s understood that Lopetegui is still being backed by chiefs at West Ham, but Stelling reckons Lampard would do a great job at filling his boots if that changes.He said: “I’m going to mention someone who might divide opinions.“Is it time, if Lopetegui goes, for West Ham to bring Frank Lampard home? Just a thought.Most read in FootballJeff Stelling has tipped Frank Lampard to take over from LopeteguiCredit: GettyLampard is currently without a job after last managing Chelsea in 2023Credit: PAFrank Lampard managerial careerA brief look at Lampard’s managerial career so far…July 2017 – June 2018: Chelsea Youth CoachJuly 2018 – July 2019: Derby County Manager July 2019 – Jan 2021: Chelsea ManagerJan 2022 – Jan 2023: Everton ManagerApril 2023 – June 2023: Chelsea Interim ManagerFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“He is available. He’s been mentioned in connection with the Roma job, but West Ham would be ideal for him.“I know there’s a man in situ at the moment, but it is just a speculative suggestion at the moment.”I played with Frank Lampard at Chelsea and we never lost.. but I’d still rather line up alongside Steven Gerrard’Lampard started his playing career with West Ham as a youngster, making 179 appearances for the club before switching to London rivals Chelsea in 2001.His managerial career has seen him take charge of Everton and Derby, as well as having two spells at Chelsea.He hasn’t ventured back into coaching since his second spell at Stamford Bridge ended in June 2023, but has been linked with a return to the technical area in Italy.According to reports, Lampard is being eyed as the potential new boss at Italian giants Roma.Lampard started his career at West HamCredit: GettyHe has managed Chelsea twice, once as permanent boss and once as interim managerCredit: GettyLampard has been working as a pundit since his last job with the BluesCredit: X / SkySportsPL More

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      in Soccer

      England could be forced to field World Cup qualifying ‘bomb squad’ as new Fifa rule threatens to rule out ELEVEN players

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      THOMAS TUCHEL could be plunged into a club versus country row after Fifa ordered Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich to play their strongest teams in the new Club World Cup.New England boss Tuchel will discover next month if he will have to start the Three Lions World Cup campaign in June.New England boss Thomas TuchelCredit: GettyBut Fifa’s demand that the 32 competing teams field their strongest slides for the £600m new tournament which starts in the USA less than a week after the scheduled international dates may leave Tuchel in the middle of a major dilemma.Skipper Harry Kane will spearhead Munich’s glory push in the States, with Jude Bellingham central to Real Madrid’s chances and Conor Gallagher scheduled to appear for Atletico Madrid.Tuchel will also see Cole Palmer, Reece James and Levi Colwill required by Chelsea, with Kyle Walker, John Stones, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Rico Lewis in City’s ranks.Fifa’s desperate determination to make the inaugural episode of the tournament a major success has now seen world chiefs giving themselves the power to order clubs to release players to Club World Cup sides BEFORE their current contracts end.READ MORE IN football World chiefs have now released regulations that state clubs must field their “strongest teams throughout the tournament”.Fifa said that competing clubs must still release their players for the international window including World Cup qualifiers from June 2 to June 9.But the prospect of top clubs pulling rank and demanding their needs are put ahead of international commitments in the immediate lead-up to the tournament – due to start on June 15 – tees up a serious worry for German Tuchel.That Fifa window will leave little time for the players involved to get back into club groove before the new tournament.Most read in FootballSouthgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe possible problems come after the international players’ union Fifpro launched a legal challenge against Fifa in the European Court, with the aim of forcing Zurich chiefs to back down on their plan.But Fifa put the screws on the clubs by announcing that any team which pulls out now will be fined “at least” £220,000, while withdrawals after mid-May would see that fine doubled to nearly £450,000.Thomas Tuchel’s first England XI predicted by Jamie Carragher with ultra-attacking team and one-cap international The hardline expectations came as it emerged FIFA chiefs could order clubs to release players due to join Club World Cup sides early.Fifa announced last month that they were creating a special transfer loophole to apply at the tournament that will be played in the USA.Competing clubs will be able to complete some of next term’s transfers early to allow the players to take part in Fifa’s new flagship competition.Under the special regulations, clubs will be able to register new players between June 1 and June 10 – rather than being forced to stick to the usual June 30 cut-off for registration changes.Current contracts for City’s Kevin de Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan will expire on June 30, while Jadon Sancho’s loan spell at Chelsea.Canada left-back Alphonso Davies is one of SEVEN senior players at Kane’s Bayern Munich who are out of contract at the end of the season.Initially it had been suggested that early registration would only be permitted if both clubs and the players involved approve, with nobody will be allowed to play for two teams during the month of action.READ MORE SUN STORIESFifa said the “objective” was to “encourage clubs and players whose contracts are expiring to find an appropriate solution to facilitate the players’ participation”.But it has now emerged that FIFA will decide on any disputes between Club World Cup teams who each want to take the same player to the tournament.Man City won the Club World Cup in 2023Credit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Gary Lineker gives six-word update on Match of the Day future as BBC host, 63, drops fresh quit hint

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      GARY LINEKER has given an update on his Match of the Day future and hinted he could quit the BBC.The 63-year-old has been the Premier League highlight show’s host since 1999.Gary Lineker has given a fresh update on his BBC futureCredit: BBCLineker, who has also presented England World Cup and Euros games, sees his deal with the Beeb expire this summer.He has held talks with chiefs over extending his stay but plans have also been drawn up for his departure.In an interview with Esquire Magazine, Lineker was asked if was stepping down from the Match of the Day hotseat.He replied: “I could do. Whether that will be the case I don’t know. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”At some point, I have to slow down somewhere… I’m getting old.”Lineker is open to staying at the BBC, with The Sun exclusively revealing that he has offered to take a pay cut.The former Leicester, Tottenham and Barcelona striker could sign a new deal for £1million per year, which is £350,000 less than his current salary.Lineker remains relaxed about his contract situation, saying: “There are bigger problems in the world that is for sure.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I’m coming to the end of my contract in the summer, so it is natural at some point to have conversations and they have started.”Pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards are also in discussions over their futures.Should Lineker leave – Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott are among the bookies favourites to fill his boots.Gary Lineker’s BBC pay negotiations More

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      in Soccer

      ‘The game is gone’ Fans outraged as Noel Gallagher joins commentary for TNT Sports for Man City Champions League clash

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      FANS couldn’t believe what they were hearing when they realised which unexpected superstar was on TNT Sports’ Champions League coverage.Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist were joined by music royalty in the gantry for their broadcast of Sporting Lisbon vs Manchester City.There was an unusual addition to the commentary team for TNT Sports’ coverage of Man City vs SportingCredit: PAThe pair were accompanied by Man City superfan and Oasis star Noel Gallagher.Gallagher wasn’t only on the commentary team for TNT, but also down pitch-side ahead of kick off to discuss his beloved City’s form.Supporters are used to seeing the Rock ‘N’ Roll Star in the crowd at City games, but his presence on the broadcast is Half the World Away from his usual Tuesday night.Fans reacted to the unbelievable moment on social media.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLOne wrote: “So bizarre that Noel Gallagher is on co-commentary on TNT Sports tonight”.While another added: “Noel Gallagher adding a lot to commentary tonight. So enthusiastic.”A third posted: “Why is Noel Gallagher on punditry duty for TNT Sport?!”And a fourth commented: “No way that’s Noel Gallagher on commentary. I thought it was just some random ex-City player”.Most read in FootballAnother wrote: “Is Noel Gallagher seriously on commentary on the City game? The game is gone.”Oasis superstar Noel Gallagher joined TNT Sports in the gantry for commentary on the gameGallagher joined the TNT Sports coverage pitch side tooCredit: ReutersGallagher will have been looking down on a familiar sight when watching on the game.That’s because the City players were wearing his handwriting on the back of their shirts for the occasion.Pep Guardiola reveals ‘incredible’ Noel Gallagher sends him text message before and after Man City gamesTheir cup font has been designed by Gallagher with the 57-year-old writing out every player name and number to create the unique look.The Oasis icon also helped design a kit for Man City, honouring the 30th anniversary of album ‘Definitely Maybe’.The kit, dubbed ‘Definitely City’, will be worn for select European fixtures this season, and was donned by players in City’s Champions League opener against Inter Milan earlier in the campaign.The font on the back of Man City’s shirts is Gallagher’s handwritingCredit: ReutersGallagher helped design an Oasis themed kit for Man City this season tooCredit: Manchester CityThe superstar posed with Pep Guardiola for the ad campaignCredit: Manchester City More

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      in Soccer

      Sporting Lisbon fans unveil stunning two-tier Ruben Amorim banner bigger than centre circle ahead of exit for Man Utd

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      SPORTING fans unfurled a huge banner in tribute to Ruben Amorim ahead of this evening’s clash with Manchester City.Amorim, 39, was taking charge of his final home game in charge of the Portuguese giants ahead of his move to Manchester United.Sporting fans unfurled an incredible bannerCredit: GettyAmorim, 39, accepted the adulation of the fansCredit: GettyThe Portuguese’s side took on Manchester CityCredit: ReutersRather than show any bitterness towards their outgoing coach, Sporting fans expressed their immense gratitude.Ahead of kick-off they unfurled an enormous banner even bigger than the centre circle.It featured an illustration of Amorim with his arms folded, as well as the five trophies he won as Sporting boss.The banner read “Obrigado” – Portuguese for “thank you”.READ MORE ON RUBEN AMORIMAmorim joined Sporting as boss in 2020 following a season at Braga.As their boss he won two league titles, two domestic cups and one Super Cup.He will take charge of his final game in charge away to his former side Braga on Sunday.Amorim is then set to formally begin work as Man Utd boss on Monday.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAhead of the clash with Man City, Amorim was involved in an awkward exchange with a British reporter.In his pre-match press conference, Amorim was asked about potentially getting one over United’s rivals City by Sky Sports’ Gary Cotterill.Dimitar Berbatov tips Viktor Gyokeres to follow Ruben Amorim to Man Utd When the incoming Man Utd boss politely refused to speak English, Cotterill bizarrely claimed: “It’s like a cold shoulder to your English fans.”Amorim laughed off the comment, and was backed up by hordes of fans online.The banner read ‘Obrigado’ – meaning thank you in PortugueseCredit: EPA More

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      in Soccer

      Declan Rice could miss Chelsea clash as Mikel Arteta admits Arsenal star ‘wasn’t feeling good the last few days’

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      DECLAN RICE is a doubt for Arsenal’s clash against Chelsea next Sunday.Mikel Arteta has confirmed the midfielder will need to be assessed for the weekend clash.Mikel Arteta could be without £100m midfielder Declan Rice for Sunday’s clash against ChelseaCredit: ReutersRice missed training on Tuesday morning and did not travel with the squad to take on Inter MilanCredit: GettyIt comes after Rice, 25, did not travel with the squad for the Gunners’ Champions League clash with Inter Milan on Wednesday.The £105million star played for the full 90 minutes against Newcastle on Saturday, before missing training on Tuesday morning.Speaking to reporters before the trip to Italy, Arteta said: “Declan unfortunately picked up an injury against Newcastle. “He was able to finish and he wasn’t feeling good the last few days. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We’ll have to assess him on Thursday and see if he’s ready for Chelsea.”It is a potentially huge blow to Arsenal given their already stacked medical room.Club captain Martin Odegaard remains sidelined, while Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu will continue to be absent with knee injuries.Kieran Tierney is another who remains sidelined as he is yet to return to full training.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal now sit below Chelsea in the Premier League table after Enzo Maresca’s side rescued a point in a 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday.The North London side were also rocked this week by the news that Edu was stepping down from his position of sporting director.Huge Arsenal boost as Martin Odegaard returns to training ahead of Inter Milan clash The Invincibles star is set to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ footballing empire in a triple-your-money deal.The news was confirmed in a statement on Monday evening.Arsenal and Edu resignation statement in fullEdu Gaspar has today resigned from his position as our Sporting Director.Edu, our former player and Invincible, re-joined us in the role of Technical Director in July 2019. He progressed through the club and was promoted to Sporting Director in November 2022, where he oversaw men’s, women’s and academy football.   We thank Edu for the part he has played in our renewed football strategy and driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart. Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make.”Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.  “I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend. “Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”Our Co-Chair, Josh Kroenke, added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.  “Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.  “Change and evolution is a part of our club.  We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.”Edu’s 35 signings rankedEDU oversaw the arrival of 35 players during his time at the club.Some worked out better than others.Here, SunSport ranks them from worst to best…35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)Click here to read more Arsenal stories. More