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      in Soccer

      Chelsea’s estranged owners in rare agreement as they make major Stamford Bridge stadium decision

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      CHELSEA’S estranged owners are united in their mission to demolish Stamford Bridge.Chairman Todd Boehly has called for solidarity in the boardroom over plans for the club’s cramped stadium.Chelsea’s co-owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly have put their differences aside to make a decision about the future of Stamford BridgeCredit: GettyThe duo aim to demolish Stamford Bridge and build a new stadiumCredit: GettySunSport can reveal co-owner Behdad Eghbali has put aside his business differences with Boehly to favour a total reconstruction job over redeveloping the existing stadium.American Boehly prefers a complete rebuild of the 40,173 capacity West London ground.He said: “I think we’re going to be building something new.”Stamford Bridge has been the Blues’ home since 1905 and options are so limited that staying put may emerge as the only viable plan.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut a club insider said: “A remodel of Stamford Bridge is impossible. It could only be a full rebuild.“That would mean between five and seven years away — and where could they play?”Chelsea have looked at moving temporarily to Wembley as Tottenham did for nearly two seasons between 2017 and 2019.Nearby Earl’s Court has also been mooted as a possible relocation site as well as the Allianz Stadium at Twickenham, England’s rugby union HQ.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeChelsea’s board purchased flats behind the West Stand recently but are still stuck in a rut over how to bring their ground up to date.One end backs on to a Tube line and the famous Shed End is bordered by two hotels.Inside Chelsea’s new £1.6BILLION stadium plans with Stamford Bridge project set to rival Tottenham’sOur club source added: “Earl’s Court is one of the few places in the area that has available land but there are multiple organisations with stakes in that.”Dan Silver, board member of the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust, said: “If Stamford Bridge is to be demolished, I hope it is done in a reasonable timeframe. The club needs to increase revenue.” More

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      ‘One day someone is going to die’ – Fans concerned as struggling Uruguay star forced to take OXYGEN 4km above sea level

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      FOOTBALL fans were left stunned after seeing a Champions League star need the support of an oxygen mask to breathe during a game 4,000km above sea level.The scenes were an unbelievable sight during a World Cup qualifying clash between Bolivia and Uruguay.Jose Gimenez was seen breathing heavily near the end of Uruguay’s clash with BoliviaHe needed an oxygen maskThe match was being played at a stadium more than 4km above sea levelIn the final few minutes of the game, Atletico Madrid star Jose Gimenez was seen breathing heavily before walking off the pitch to pick up an oxygen mask.The 30-year-old is then seen breathing into the mask to combat the difficult conditions he was playing in at the Villa Ingenio stadium in El Alto.The stadium sits a staggering 13,615 feet or 4.1kilometres above sea level.The Bolivian FA remarkably decided to move to this venue last October to help them qualify for the World Cup in 2026.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBolivia have always been tough to beat at home due to their traditional home, La Paz, sitting 11,940 feet above sea level. But three defeats in five games in World Cup qualifying left them in dire need of a result and prompted the switch to the venue 2,000 feet higher.At the height of the new venue, total air density decreases to around 0.82 grams per litre of which there is only roughly 0.17 grams of oxygen per litre.Less oxygen means more difficulty breathing, which naturally is counterproductive in a sport like football when players are constantly on the move.Most read in SportThe Bolivia clash ended 0-0 with Uruguay defender Gimenez able to complete the match, but fans on social media were disgusted at the risks being taken for the match.One fan on social media said: “One day someone is going to die.”Argentina players celebrate humiliating rivals Brazil in World Cup qualifier A second said: “Crazy!!”A third added: “South American football is something else.”The plan has not exactly gone to plan for Bolivia either, failing to win either game at home since the move. More

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      in Soccer

      ‘I’d advise him not to go’ – Liam Delap warned to pick next club carefully by Prem icon with Man Utd and Chelsea linked

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      HARRY KANE’S heir Liam Delap has been warned: Choose your next club carefully.Delap will be a summer target for top-flight giants, regardless of whether he is able to help Ipswich pull off a great escape.Liam Delap has been warned to pick his next club correctlyCredit: GettyThe Ipswich striker has been linked with some of England’s biggest clubsCredit: GettyJimmy Floyd Hasselbaink knows from working as a strikers coach under ex-England boss Gareth Southgate how few No 9s there are in the domestic game —  and why £50million-rated Delap catches the eye.But the ex-hitman told SunSport: “With Delap, I know big clubs are looking at him.“Ipswich look like they are going down. He needs to stay in the Premier League.“If he’s playing in a more established Premier League team, what can he deliver?Read More in Football“It’s important that he plays. If he’s going to be second choice — if I’m his agent, I’d advise him not to go.”Hasselbaink, 52, scored 127 Prem goals for Leeds, Chelsea, Middlesbrough and Charlton.The Dutchman’s career in this country overlapped with a number of English centre-forwards — Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney, Andrew Cole, Jermain Defoe, Michael Owen and Les Ferdinand.But English No 9s are a dying breed. Under-21 ace Delap was bubbling  with enthusiasm after training with Three Lions captain Harry Kane for the first time last week.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDelap has been tipped to eventually replace Harry Kane in the England set-up when the Bayern striker retiresCredit: GettyBetween Delap, 22, and Kane, 31, there are not a lot of international-level English centre-forwards.New Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel picked Dominic Solanke and Marcus Rashford, both 27, ahead of Delap, with 29-year-old Ollie Watkins injured.Ben Chilwell opens up on being bombed out by Chelsea before Crystal Palace lifelineHasselbaink rates Watkins and Solanke highly.But he told Gambling Zone: “They need to show consistency to put pressure on Harry Kane.“Kane needs to feel his place can be taken. That is healthy.”Delap is the third highest-scoring English-man in the Prem, with ten, behind Cole Palmer (14) and Watkins (13).Kevin Betsy was Delap’s head coach for four years with England’s youth teams.During Betsy’s time at the FA, it was recognised that English football was not producing as many centre-forwards as before and he  conducted his own study into the issue.Betsy recognised aspects of the academy system were hampering the  emergence of more strikers like Delap.Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink claims Delap must stay in the Prem if Ipswich get relegatedCredit: PAFirst, there was a broader backlash against early developers like Delap, who dominated in youth football.Some coaches — in their determination to give smaller, more technical, youngsters the chance to blossom later — went too far the other way.Betsy, now a first-team coach at QPR, said “The result was a lot of No 10s were created, like Phil Foden and Cole Palmer, and not so many No 9s.”Many clubs are now aware of that issue and of the need for more striker-specific coaching.And Hasselbaink said: “The good old-fashioned No 9s are not in fashion.“But because football is always in cycles, they will come back.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUntil they do, players like Delap will attract huge attention — and fees to match.For more, go to gamblingzone.com/uk/the-zone/sports/jimmy-floyd-hasselbaink-exclusive/ More

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      Arsenal target £60m Hugo Ekitike, 22, as transfer alternative to Isak but face battle with Premier League rivals

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      ARSENAL are targeting Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike — as an alternative to Newcastle’s Alexander Isak.Toon hero Isak, 25, is the most sought-after striker in world football and the Gunners may be priced out as the Carabao Cup winners hold out for £150MILLION.Arsenal want to sign Frankfurt striker Hugo EkitikeCredit: AFPAlexander Isak may prove to be too expensive as Newcastle slap a whopping price tag on the SwedeCredit: GettyFrenchman Ekitike, 22, has caught the eye of a number of Prem clubs — who have asked to be kept informed of his potential availability.German side Frankfurt are expected to demand around £60m for a player who boasts 19 goals this season.Ekitike was a target for Newcastle in January 2022 — when the forward rejected a move to St James’ Park — before Magpies chiefs signed Swede Isak in the following summer window.The France Under-21 international, who hit a hat-trick against Lee Carsley’s Young Lions on Friday, has shone in the Bundesliga after joining from Paris Saint-Germain permanently last summer following a loan spell.READ MORE ON ARSENALHe also has eight assists in all competitions for Frankfurt this season.During the 5-3 win over England U21s, Ekitike scored twice from close range — including one back-heeled finish — as well as chipping the ball over keeper James Beadle.Having impressed in the Bundesliga and Europa League, the ex-PSG man is now keen to step up and wants a move to a Champions League club.Ekitike does not have a release clause but is expected to move this summer as a number of teams seek a new No 9.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe striker will have a chance to impress English suitors as Frankfurt face Tottenham in a two-legged Europa League quarter-final on April 10 and 17.Mikel Arteta is in need of a hotshot as Arsenal look set to finish second in the Prem for a THIRD year on the spin.Hugo Ekitike shows off his football skills at Reims training Ekitike has been in fine form for his club and France’s U21sCredit: EPAThe Gunners boss has been left short in attack with injuries after failing to sign a forward in the past two windows.Arsenal have drawn ten Prem games compared to champions-elect Liverpool’s seven and scored 16 fewer goals — 69 to 53 — than the runaway leaders.Arteta has been forced to use midfielder Mikel Merino as an emergency striker with Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka all sidelined.But Emirates chiefs are likely to face competition from a number of Premier League rivals.Chelsea are desperately looking to add a No 9 to their squad amid Nicolas Jackson’s struggles and injury this season.Manchester United like Ekitike as an upgrade on Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, too.Sporting star Viktor Gyokeres — another potential Gunners target — is also tipped to be reunited with former boss Ruben Amorim at United.Ten strikers who could be on the move this summerANDREA BERTA begins at Arsenal with a puzzle facing almost all top sporting directors this summer.The Gunners’ incoming transfer guru will be tasked with finding the striker many think can take Mikel Arteta’s side over the line to win a title. But it is not only Berta searching for a new No 9.Mikel Arteta has been forced to play Mikel Merino up front latelyCredit: AlamyPremier League rivals Chelsea, Manchester United and champions-elect Liverpool are on the hunt for a new marksman in a very limited market.Alexander Isak sits at the top of almost everyone’s list but Newcastle are adamant the 25-year-old Swede is going nowhere.That tough stance will be tested if the Toon fall short of Champions League football but the Magpies’ eye-watering £150million valuation looks likely to prevent any deal.Premier League financial rules are partly the reason Isak is still at St James’ Park as even the biggest clubs have to make sure the sums add up before splashing huge fees.The same issue applies to any club looking to bring former Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez back from Atletico Madrid. The Argentinian would cost £100m-plus.Most clubs will have to identify the best alternative to those two.One industry source said: “Isak is the best No 9 in the world on form at the moment but he is too expensive and PSR [Profit and Sustainability Rules] is proving a problem for many clubs.”Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike, Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and Liam Delap, leading the line for struggling Ipswich, are all being tracked by top clubs ahead of what could be a fine summer if you happen to be a striker keen on a change of scenery.Plenty of clubs are after Viktor Gyokeres of SportingCredit: GettyLiam Delap is likely to be in the Premier League next season… even if Ipswich are notCredit: GettyRB Leipzig hitman Benjamin Sesko looks set for a Prem switch, while Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic could be considered if other deals fail.All of those looking to move will hope a club has the bottle to spend big on a new leading man.Signing a centre-forward can be a tricky business. West Ham have made a sport out of signing duds up top, burning through 33 of them since 2010.There are not many about, they command the biggest fees and arrive under great pressure.It has become such a tricky practice that managers are often scared to make a wrong step and buy no one, as Arsenal did in January.Managers want to be careful and know a bad signing could result in them being shown the door down the line.But you do not win anything in football through caution and overthinking about adding the right character — prioritising nice lads over lethal finishers.At some point the Gunners, and their rivals, are going to have to take a risk. Especially if they cannot afford the ready-made Isak.While United and Chelsea are in a similar boat to Arsenal when it comes to finding a forward.The Red Devils have bungled their business when it comes to signing No 9s in recent years.Join SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesNeither Rasmus Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee were ready to step in as a the one to lead the line and are a cause for embarrassment in the corridors of power at Old Trafford. Their failures make the pressure on the next addition even greater.Ex-Coventry man Gyokeres, another Swedish sensation, at Sporting appears to be a sure thing with six goals in his last four league games.But there remains the risk of signing a player who, despite impressing in the Champions League, is untested in the Premier League.Gyokeres is likely to be high on Ruben Amorim’s wish-list considering he scored 66 goals in 68 games under the United boss.But Sporting will demand north of £60m and given Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s assertion United could have run out of money by Christmas, there is concern they cannot splash significant cash come the summer.Any clubs operating on a budget will have checked out Lille’s Jonathan David, available on a free transfer.While there will be no transfer fee involved, any deal is expected to still cost around £20m once agency fees and a signing-on bonus are taken into account.Chelsea do have the funds to bring a striker in and are monitoring the progress of Tractor Boys talisman Delap as they look for an upgrade on Nicolas Jackson.Their ability to attract the best will hinge on whether Enzo Maresca can get the Blues to the promised land of Champions League qualification.Miss out and they may have to get clever or take a gamble that someone like Frenchman Jean-Philippe Mateta can continue his impressive form for Crystal Palace on a bigger stage.READ MORE SUN STORIESAny ambitious club could look into the possibility of luring England captain Harry Kane back to surpass Alan Shearer’s Premier League 260-goal record, once he has broken that trophy duck with Bayern Munich.Whether it be Berta at Arsenal, the duo of Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart at Stamford Bridge or Jason Wilcox at United, all sporting directors and, more significantly their managers, will be staking their reputation on a striker this summer.Harry Kane knows a thing or two about scoring at the EmiratesCredit: GettyJean-Philippe Mateta has been a revelation under Oliver Glasner at Crystal PalaceCredit: GettyBenjamin Sesko may be on his way to the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty More

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      in Motorsport

      Inside axed F1 star Liam Lawson’s glamorous life with stunning model Wag as he’s set to be brutally replaced by Red Bull

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      LIAM LAWSON has had nothing short of a nightmare start to life at Red Bull this year.After a strong debut replacing Daniel Ricciardo at VCARB in 2023 and then again in 2024, the 23-year-old started out his first race with the team by failing to finish the Australian Grand Prix. Liam Lawson is set to be axed by Red Bull after a horror start to his F1 career thereCredit: AFPBut Lawson leads a glamorous life off the track with girlfriend Hannah St. JohnCredit: INSTAGRAMShe is often seen accompanying him to race weekends around the paddockCredit: INSTAGRAMThe couple have been dating for two yearsCredit: INSTAGRAMThey happily share loved-up snaps togetherCredit: INSTAGRAMHannah graduated from Arizona State University after studying biological and biomedical sciencesCredit: INSTAGRAMHe then followed this up with an even more embarrassing weekend in China as he qualified dead last in both Sprint and normal qualifying while failing to score any points for his team.But for Lawson, who revealed his parents had to sell their house to fund his Formula One dream, his Red Bull nightmare is set to come to a close before the next race at the Japanese Grand Prix.The New Zealander is on the verge of being swapped to sister team Racing Bulls in favour of Yuki Tsunoda, who was the main rival for the Red Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen before Lawson landed it.However, despite his F1 career starting out in horror fashion, Lawson can be thankful for a glamorous lifestyle away from the circuit with stunning girlfriend Hannah St. John.READ MORE IN F1The pair have been dating one another for two years and are often seen sharing loved-up images with one another on Instagram.Hannah typically splits her time between her home city of California and London while also studying at Arizona State University.While there she studied biological and biomedical sciences, graduating back in December, but has carved out a fledgling career as a social media influencer and model.The beauty has already amassed over 40,000 followers on Instagram.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKShe treats her fans to her epic lifestyle, which included being back stage at Luke Combs’ Nashville concert last January.Hannah also shares plenty of bikini snaps online, showing off her enviable figure.Meet F1 2025 rookies including star gifted first go-kart by Michael Schumacher and Brit teen who’s already a millionaire To top it off, she enjoys travelling – most recently, she went on a glam ski strip to Deer Valley in Utah.She has also been a constant presence in the F1 paddock whenever Lawson, who started out his career in the motorsport with a string of substitute appearances, is there.With one million followers of his own on Instagram, Lawson is no stranger to the buzz of social media and often posts snaps from day-to-day life.Whether that is his time at the track or jetting around on holiday with Hannah or even hitting the gym.One pic shows him hanging out with stars from the Los Angeles Rams NFL team, a second shows him driving a more than £100,000 Shelby while another features him on the front cover of GQ Magazine.Despite the lavish lifestyle, Lawson has a relatively modest salary compared to his rivals.He earns £800,000 a year, though that value could decrease once his demotion to Racing Bulls is complete, with Tsunoda in turn getting a pay rise.Tsunoda, 24, said he would happily swap seats for his home race.However, Lawson bit back by saying: “He can say whatever he wants. I’ve raced him for years, raced him in the junior categories and beat him.”If I look back over our career, I was team-mates with him in F3 and I beat him. In Euro Formula, I was team-mates with him in New Zealand, and I beat him there.”And then in F1 last season, I think honestly, if I look at all the times he got promoted instead of me in those early years, then no. He’s had his time. Now it’s my time.”Despite Lawson’s claim, he was out-qualified by Tsunoda 7-2 when the pair were team-mates during the closing stages of last season. It was also 4-2 in the Japanese driver’s favour for the five races Lawson subbed in for Ricciardo during the 2023 season.The driver swap decision has reportedly left main man Verstappen frustrated, with the four-time world champion having previously sang Lawson’s praises.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “That Racing Bulls car is easier to drive than ours. I notice that when I talk to Liam. Last year the difference between him and Yuki wasn’t that big, I thought.”Otherwise the team wouldn’t have made the choice to put Liam in at Red Bull.” More

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      in Soccer

      Major update in probe into death of ex-Newcastle boss Steve Bruce’s grandson as cops rule tragedy an ‘accident’

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      THE death of footie boss Steve Bruce’s grandson was a tragic accident, cops have ruled.Madison Smith was just four months old when found dead at home in October.Steve, above with his wife Janet, spoke for the first time about the heartbreaking lossCredit: Sportsfile – SubscriptionThe tot was the son of ex-Man United star Steve’s daughter Amy and her husband Matt Smith, who played for Fulham and Millwall.After Madison’s death, a woman in her 40s, who was working as a nanny, was arrested on suspicion of child neglect. But detectives have ruled it an accident and ended the investigation.Greater Manchester Police said: “While the circumstances are tragic, we don’t believe any criminality was linked to this death.”READ MORE ON STEVE BRUCEThis week, Blackpool FC manager Bruce spoke for the first time about the heartbreaking loss, saying “there’s still not a day where it doesn’t affect you”.He added: “It’s been the tragedy of all tragedies. “Anyone going through the same sort of grief, I feel for them.“It’s horrendous that a fine, young, healthy baby boy doesn’t wake up one morning. Most read in Football”We’ll never come to terms with that. It’s agony.”’I don’t do tactics’ – Former Newcastle star claims he had conversation with Steve Bruce that left him ‘in shock’The death of footie boss Steve Bruce’s grandson was a tragic accidentCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd twins BOTH named captain during international break – for different countries

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      MANCHESTER UNITED hero Darren Fletcher can consider himself a very proud father this week.It comes after his twin 18-year-old sons, Jack and Tyler, both wore the captain’s armband for their countries over the international break.Jack Fletcher captained England Under-18s against CzechiaCredit: GettyTyler Fletcher captained Scotland Under-19s against PolandCredit: https://www.instagram.com/tylerfletch24/Both are impressing in the Man Utd academyCredit: GettyThey are the sons of Man Utd legend Darren FletcherCredit: AlamyWhile the former Man Utd star, 41, starred for Scotland 80 times wore the captains armband on 16 occasions, his sons originally both decided to star for England.That was until Tyler switched back to follow in his father’s footsteps in October 2023.And it has led to the peculiar situation of both Tyler and Jack wearing the armband for different nations over the international break despite being twins.Tyler wore the armband for a Scotland Under-19s clash against Poland on March 22.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe match was lost 4-1 by the Tartan Army.Jack fared comparatively better two days earlier on March 20.He captained the Three Lions Under-18 side to a 2-2 draw against Czechia.This rare occurrence came days after Jack netted a brace for Man Utd Under-21s in a 5-1 win over West Brom, with both goals being assisted by Tyler.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordThe twins were poached by the Red Devils from Manchester City’s academy.Both have so far shown immense promise in the junior levels.Man Utd legend Roy Keane is named Pundit of the Year at SJA Awards More

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      Which striker should Man Utd buy? We reveal who would be best fit for Amorim and why it’s great news for Ratcliffe

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have struggled to find any real form in the Premier League despite stronger performances in the Europa League.One of the most notable issues Ruben Amorim’s side have experienced is a major lack of goals, with none of the strikers in the squad really impressing.Ruben Amorim will be looking for a new striker in the summerCredit: EPAAfter considering six main options we have found the perfect option for Man UtdCredit: GettyLast summer United signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, though it has since become clear his profile is not what the Red Devils need up front. That has left Rasmus Hojlund as the only true recognised striker in the squad. However, while Hojlund still has the potential to develop into a very strong striker, he has been woefully out of form.Next summer Man Utd transfer chiefs will doubtless be looking to recruit a top forward.The issue they will find is that there is a real scarcity of top talent in that department which fit the unique needs of Amorim’s 3-4-3 system.Other top clubs, including Arsenal who we analysed last week, are also in the market which will only drive up price, but we have looked at who could be the top fit for Man Utd for next season.Victor Osimhen – Galatasaray and NigeriaVictor Osimhen is itching for a transferCredit: GettyThe first player on our list is also probably the most expensive; 26-year-old Galatasaray and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen.The on-loan Napoli ace has an estimated transfer value of £59million, having been touted as a top target for Premier League sides for some time.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordAfter being one of the main reasons Napoli won their first Serie A title since the era of Diego Maradona, he fell out of favour with the club’s owner before he was sent on loan to Turkey.Osimhen will be seeking employment away from Napoli when he returns at the end of his loan spell, with links both to England and Saudi Arabia being widely reported.I told Rio Ferdinand to tell Sir Alex Ferguson to f*** off and the Man Utd legend’s reaction was pricelessGalatasaray are by no means a small club, but they do not play in a top five European league and are in no position to challenge for top European honours.In terms of the profile of striker United will be looking for this summer, it is fair to say that Osimhen is a very strong fit. He prefers to play on the shoulder of the last defender and attack space behind the defensive line but has the technical profile to receive the ball and play with his back to goal when required.Amorim’s system needs the striker to generate a significant amount of goals and shots.Here we see Osimhen makes contact with the central defender and then pulls away to make a pocket of space to attack the crossOsimhen’s 166 goal contributions across 253 games at club level speak for themselves in this regard.There is no doubt Osimhen would be a strong option thanks to his superb movement in and around the penalty area and the ability to create opportunities for himself.Viktor Gyokeres – Sporting Lisbon and SwedenVictor Gyokeres is one of Europe’s top strikersCredit: GettyIt should come as no surprise that Sweden and Sporting Lisbon ace Viktor Gyokeres had been included on this list. After all, he was one of the stand out players at Sporting when Amorim was there as coach, with 50 goal contributions in 41 games for Sporting this season after his 58-goal contribution tally last term.The 26-year-old, who has a market value of £63m has had something of an unusual career path to get to this point, having flopped at Brighton before really igniting his career at Coventry.His performances in the Championship were very strong and this led to a move to Portugal for an initial £17.5m.Gyokeres now looks poised to take the next step in his career and it is easy to see why. He is a modern striker with the ability to stretch opposition defences and make long and aggressive runs beyond the defensive line, while he has the skill to score a variety of different goals.The issue for Gyokeres when it comes to a move to a club like Man Utd, however, is facing a low or medium block a lot of the time – a factor which has massively limited Hojlund’s effectiveness this term.This means space behind the defence, where Gyokeres does his best work, is hard to come by for any striker.Here we see Gyokeres on the shoulder with space to attack ahead of himWhile Gyokeres is by no means a poor technical player, with the ability to receive the ball in tighter areas and bring others into the game, this is not the biggest strength of his game. He is more of a powerful forward who will thrive with balls played into the channels he can run on to in order to stretch the opposition.Hugo Ekitike – Eintracht Frankfurt and FranceHugo Ekitike looks set to be the next big money striker to be sold by FrankfurtCredit: AFPFans of English football were given quite the introduction to the France Under-21 star Hugo Ekitike when he scored three goals in a 5-3 win over England.The 22-year-old developed at Stade Reims in Ligue 1 before transferring to Paris Saint-Germain in 2022, although it did not work out before he moved again to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga.Ekitike has scored 19 goals in 38 matches in all competitions so far this season and is valued at just over £33m, drawing intense interest from other top clubs in Europe.Ironically, had Ekitike stayed at PSG until Kylian Mbappe left to join Real Madrid it is likely he would now be the starting striker in Paris. He is perhaps the closest striker in top level football at the moment to Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, with a similar all round playing style and the most well rounded on this list.Ekitike is equally comfortable playing with his back to goal when he is running into space or running through the channels to stretch the game.Here Ekitike shows very clever movement with curved runs to pull off the shoulders of defenders and gain the separation he needs to finishFor a team like Man Utd who are still building towards their identity under Amorim, the signing of a striker that is well balanced like Ekitike would make a lot of sense. It can be easy with strikers of this type to overlook how effective and efficient they are in front of goal but as we touched upon above, Ekitike has show he can perform very well in a top five league.Liam Delap – Ipswich Town and EnglandLiam Delap has had a solid season despite his team’s looming threat of relegationCredit: GettyWhile Ekitike was scoring for France this week, Liam Delap was returning the favour with a goal for England Under-21s.When Ipswich Town signed the now 22-year-old from Manchester City in the summer there were some who doubted his ability to lead the line for a newly promoted Premier League side.With 10 goals and two assists in 28 league matches, a strong return for a team facing relegation, he has very much proven those doubters wrong.The Ipswich ace is another potential target who fits represents a modern profile of player. He is tall and powerful and extremely adept when it comes to making runs to stretch the game and attack behind the opposition line. There is an argument United would be better placed signing a more-well rounded player who can link the game and play in deeper areas or make aggressive runs behind the defensive line. Here we see how Delap times his run well to get across the defender to finishWith that said, however there is some value in the idea of United signing a young English striker that can develop as the team does.An added complication is Delap is a product of the Man City youth academy, and his boyhood club are thought to have a clause to say they can buy him back at a set price. Benjamin Sesko – RB Leipzig and SlovakiaBenjamin Sesko was the talk of the town at the European Championships last summerCredit: GettyPlaying for one of the smaller sides during the European Championships for Slovakia last summer, Benjamin Sesko was the name on everyone’s lips as he impressed with his power and pace.He was heavily linked at the time, and in January, with a move to Arsenal but made the choice to at least see out the season in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, where he has scored 17 goals in 36 games.That does not mean he will not be open to a move this coming summer, with an estimated transfer value of £42m.Sesko, like previous names mentioned, is tall, powerful, quick and at his best when he is given space to run into and to attack as his team moves the attack forward.His biggest strength, however, comes in his incredible ball striking with the ability to strike the ball with power from distance.Sesko is another player who thrives when he is able to play and attack in moments of transition. Here we see how part of Sesko’s threat is his ball-striking abilityAs a top level striker he still needs to add some real consistency to his game in front of goal.There is a worry he is too one dimensional in needing space in the final third to really fit the way United will play.Bryan Mbeumo – Brentford and CameroonBryan Mbeumo has been Brentford’s main man after they lost Ivan ToneyCredit: GettyThe final attacker on our shortlist is 25-year-old Brentford and Cameroon forward Bryan Mbeumo, who is valued at £42m.He has had a very strong season with 20 goals and assists in all competitions after stepping up to fill the void of Ivan Toney’s sale. His performances have been so strong this season that he is now being linked to a move this coming summer to a top 6 level club that will be involved in European competition.Mbeumo is not a tall and powerful striker who will threaten space behind the defensive line like other names on the list, with a preference to pull into the channels and get on the ball in the final third.There is a real argument with Mbeumo that he would fit better in the United system under Amorim as one of the two attacking midfielders behind the main striker. His mobility and movement in these areas are excellent and he is extremely difficult for opposition defenders to pick up and mark. Mbeumo is exceptionally dangerous off the right flank, rather than in the middleMbeumo would not be at his best as the main striker for United. He is more movement based in the way he creates threat and space in the final third while United need to find a striker who has a better rounded and more versatile attacking profile.ConclusionIt is tempting to say Osimhen would be the best option of the six strikers we have discussed above since he is the most ready-made option. However, Man Utd are in the midst of a financial nightmare after years of overspending with a big rebuild to come this summer for a squad well below the standards needed to challenge for top honours.Therefore, given his relative price at almost half the value of Osimhen or Gyokreres, Ekitike should be the target of choice next summer. His profile is well rounded and he has more to come in his development as this United team develops, while a likely cheaper deal would be music to the ears of Sir Jim Ratcliffe after numerous cuts made to the club.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More