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      Chelsea ‘leading shock transfer race to sign Kobbie Mainoo from Man Utd’, according to bombshell reports

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      CHELSEA are reportedly leading the race to sign Kobbie Mainoo after talks over a new Manchester United deal reached a stalemate.The Mail sensationally claims that United’s young midfielder could be on his way to Stamford Bridge despite his starring role in Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Liverpool.Chelsea are leading the race to sign Kobbie Mainoo from Man UtdCredit: RexThe Red Devils are eager to tie Mainoo down to a new contract, despite his current run not expiring until summer 2027.But talks over an extension have apparently hit a dead end.It’s reckoned FFP constraints mean United are unable to offer Mainoo similar terms to some of their top earners and no longer see him as untouchable.While the player himself is alleged to have “concerns” over the direction of the club and their lack of challenge for Champions League football.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt reportedly means Mainoo is facing an uncertain long-term future at Old Trafford.And Chelsea are now said to be plotting a move to bring Mainoo to London.Todd Boehly has made it his business to snap up the brightest talents in football.Mainoo is already an important fixture for club and country despite not turning 20 years old until April.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd he fits the profile of a modern-day Chelsea signing.Mainoo has already made 52 appearances for United since his debut two years ago.Watch Kobbie Mainoo leave three young Man Utd fans stunned with gift in wholesome hidden camera video He’s also played 10 times for England and was a key figure in their run to last summer’s Euros final.Should he join Chelsea, Mainoo would compete for a starting spot against Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Romeo Lavia.The Blues also have Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Cesare Casadei and Carney Chukwuemeka in their squad.While Andrey Santos and Lesley Ugochukwu are away on loan. More

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      Roberto Carlos ‘divorcing wife and set for battle over £133m fortune with Real Madrid icon sleeping at training ground’

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      BRAZIL icon Roberto Carlos has allegedly been sleeping at Real Madrid’s training ground amid a divorce settlement.The legendary full-back and his wife, Mariana Luccon, tied the knot over 15 years ago and have two daughters together – Manuela and Mariana.Roberto Carlos is in the process of divorcing his wife, Mariana LucconCredit: GettyThe former Real Madrid star has reportedly been sleeping at the club’s training groundCredit: ReutersCarlos has been living at the Real Madrid training complex in Valdebebas while his two houses are occupied, allegedlyCredit: AFPHowever, according to reports in Spain, the couple have now gone their separate ways.Estadio Deportivo claims the divorce settlement is expected to be complicated due to Carlos’ huge fortune, which is valued at around £133million.Amid the ongoing dispute, Luccon has been residing at their main house.Meanwhile, her parents are living at the Brazilian’s second property.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs a result, Carlos has been forced to move into Real Madrid’s training ground in Valdebebas on a temporary basis.The 51-year-old spent 11 years with Los Blancos between 1996 and 2007, making 527 appearances.During that time he won 12 major trophies including three Champions League titles and four LaLiga titles.Carlos is now back at Real Madrid as a club ambassador.Most read in FootballThe Brazilian revealed a decade ago that he has fathered 11 children by seven different women.He said: “Now I live with Manuela and I have several around. I have seven in Brazil. I have one in Mexico, I have one in Hungary who lives in Alicante and the others live in Brazil.” More

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      Wrexham’s clash at Port Vale CALLED OFF just hours before kick-off as clubs release statement

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      WREXHAM’s cup clash with Port Vale has been called off.The Red Dragons were due to face the League Two outfit in a Vertu Trophy last-16 tie on Tuesday night.Wrexham were set to take on Port Vale in their Vertu Trophy last 16 clash on Tuesday nightCredit: GETTYBut the match at Vale Park has been called off due to the pitch being unplayableCredit: PORT VALE FCBut the match has been postponed as the pitch at Vale Park has been unplayable due to heavy snowfall – despite it PASSING a pitch inspection this morning.A joint club statment read: “We can confirm tonight’s Vertu Trophy Round of 16 tie against Port Vale has been postponed, following consultation with the local Safety Advisory Group.”The Vale Park pitch passed this morning’s inspection, but the condition of the surface was deemed doubtful, with further snow forecast later this afternoon and into the evening.”A decision to postpone the fixture was taken due to safety concerns relating to the areas surrounding the stadium, which remain dangerous for those expected to attend.”A revised date for the match will be confirmed and announced in due course. “Tickets purchased for the original date will remain valid for the rearranged fixture.”Fans of both teams took to X to react to the news, with one saying: “That’s evening plans ruined then.”Another said: “Clear the lines and get the orange ball out!!”Most read in FootballWrexham are flying high in the League One tableCredit: GettyAnd another said: “Get it sorted for Saturday then happy days.”One remarked: “Proper lawn maintenance would have prevented this.”Another chimed in: “Get the shovels out.”Wrexham are flying high in League One, with just two points separating the third-placed Welsh side and tabletoppers Birmingham City.Port Vale, meanwhile, are sitting pretty in fourth in the League Two table. More

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      Elon Musk wants to buy Liverpool in huge takeover, says his dad who fears club will raise price for world’s richest man

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      ELON MUSK wants to complete a stunning takeover of Liverpool, according to the billionaire’s dad.The Tesla and X chief, 53, is worth a staggering £340billion – making him the richest man in the world.Elon Musk wants to buy Liverpool Football Club, according to his dad, ErrolCredit: GettyThe Premier League leaders have caught the eye of the world’s richest manCredit: AlamyErrol Musk, Elon’s father, has revealed his family’s links to the city of LiverpoolCredit: AFPAnd Musk – who has relatives who were born and raised on Merseyside – is keen to invest some of his astronomical wealth into the Premier League leaders.Dad Errol confirmed the surprising news while speaking on Times Radio.Musk Snr was asked: “Does your son want to buy Liverpool Football Club?”And Errol replied: “I can’t comment on that, they’ll raise the price!”READ MORE SPORT STORIES”Oh yes, [he has expressed a desire], but that doesn’t mean he’s buying it.”Errol was pushed further and asked if buying the Reds was “in his son’s sights”.And Musk Snr didn’t hold back, adding: “He would like to yes, obviously. Anybody would want to – so would I.”His grandmother was born in Liverpool, and we have relatives in Liverpool, and we were fortunate to know quite a few of the Beatles because they grew up with some of my family.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”So, we are attached to Liverpool you know.”Liverpool have been owned by Fenway Sports Group since 2010 – when they took over from the largely unpopular George Gillett and Tom Hicks.How Man United destroyed Trent in spectacular Liverpool draw amid £100m Real Madrid transfer talksLiverpool have been owned by FSG since 2010 but they sold a minority stake in 2023Credit: Getty Images – GettyHow does Elon Musk’s net worth compare to his Premier League rivals?By Joshua JonesELON MUSK is said to be interested in buying Liverpool FC.He’s the world’s richest man – but incredibly, he WOULDN’T be the wealthiest owner in the Premier League.Here, we run down the 10 richest owners, and where Musk would slot in…1. Newcastle United – Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund – £538bnFar and away at the top of the pile is the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund. The PIF invests on behalf of the country’s government and therefore has astronomical cash reserves, with a latest estimate of around £538bn.2. Manchester United – Sir Jim Ratcliffe – £29.7bnSir Jim successfully obtained 25 per cent of Manchester United just over a year ago. The lifelong supporter made his billions through his petrochemicals company Ineos, which has delved into sport to buy stakes in Ligue 1 side Nice, Lausanne in Switzerland and F1 team Mercedes.3. Manchester City – Sheikh Mansour – £17bnSheikh Mansour purchased the club in September 2008 and has transformed them into a trophy-winning machine, culminating in the 2022-23 Treble. Mansour comes from the royal family in the United Arab Emirates and is both vice president and deputy prime minister of the gulf state.4. Arsenal – Stan Kroenke – £12bnWeighing in fourth is Arsenal boss Stan Kroenke at £12bn. The Gunners chief made his money through real estate development, particularly shopping centres and apartment buildings.5. Fulham – Shahid Khan – £9.7bnLike Kroenke, Shahid Khan has plenty of interest in American sports as the owner of NFL side Jacksonville Jaguars. He also co-owns All Elite Wrestling with son Tony.6. Aston Villa – Nassef Sawiris – £5.8bnNassef Sawiris invested in Aston Villa in 2018 following their play-off defeat to Fulham. He is the youngest of Egyptian billionaire Onsi Sawiris’ three sons – with his dad launching the Orascom engineering and construction conglomerate.7. Crystal Palace – Josh Harris – £5.7bnHarris may only have 18 per cent of Crystal Palace but the American owner of Apollo Global Management is a big-time player. He has teams in the NBA, NHL and NFL on top of his involvement in a motorsport racing side.8. Joe Lewis – Tottenham – £5bnJoe Lewis first got into business through helping at his dad’s London catering company before selling it off and delving into currency trading. He is now worth around £5bn and invests in many companies, including the ENIC Group, co-owned by Daniel Levy who is worth £500m, that has full possession of Spurs.9. Chelsea – Todd Boehly – £5bnBoehly is the face of the new era at Stamford Bridge after fronting the £4.25bn takeover of Chelsea in May 2022. The American oversaw a staggering £1bn worth of spending in just three transfer windows in West London.10. Liverpool – John Henry – £4.2bnJohn W Henry is Liverpool’s current owner and heads up the Fenway Sports Group that runs the Merseyside club as well as the Boston Red Sox. Henry grew up as the son of soya bean farmers and used that expertise to get into business and went on to become a multi-billionaire.NEW ENTRY: Elon Musk – £339bnThe outspoken entrepreneur’s net worth fluctuates on the value of his companies Tesla and SpaceX but he’s currently the world’s richest man. He also owns Twitter and more recently has become a political player after cosying up to President elect Donald Trump. At his current worth, he would rank as the SECOND richest owner in the Premier League.In September 2023, FSG sold a minority stake to a US investment firm, Dynasty Equity, to help repay debts incurred by a combination of factors, including the Covid pandemic, Anfield redevelopment and repurchasing the club’s Melwood training ground.In Forbes’ most-recent table, Liverpool rank FOURTH in the list of most valuable football teams in the world.The Reds are valued at a whopping £4.3bn, with Musk – who has been tasked with leading incoming US President Donald Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency – worth 80 TIMES that.While a potential takeover looks extraordinarily unlikely, Liverpool chiefs have long maintained they were always open to serious, suitable investors.At the time of the Dynasty Equity investment, FSG president Mike Gordon said: “Our long-term commitment to Liverpool remains as strong as ever.”We have always said that if there is an investment partner that is right for Liverpool then we would pursue the opportunity to help ensure the club’s long-term financial resiliency and future growth.”We look forward to building upon the longstanding relationship with Dynasty to further strengthen the club’s financial position and sustain our ambitions for continued success on and off the pitch.”Who is Elon Musk?Here’s what you need to know…Controversial billionaire Elon Musk was born in Pretoria, South Africa in 1971.As a 12-year-old child he taught himself computer programming and sold the code of a video game to a PC magazine for $500 (£300).At 17, he moved to Canada to study, before gaining two degrees in physics and business at the University of Pennsylvania.At the age of 24 he moved to California to start a Ph.D. in applied physics and material science at Stanford University – but left the programme after just two days to pursue other projects.Now 50, he is the founder and CEO of SpaceX, co-founder, CEO and product architect of Tesla Motors, co-founder and chairman of SolarCity, co-founder of Open AI and Zip2 and founder of X.com, which merged with PayPal.He’s also working on a human brain chip project called Neuralink.Musk’s stated aim is to reduce global warming and save humans from extinction by setting up a colony on Mars.The billionaire inventor is also working on the world’s largest lithium-ion battery to store renewable energy. 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      Crystal Palace appeal for urgent help to find missing worker from club’s charity after he was lost in Dolomites

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      CRYSTAL PALACE have appealed for information to help find a missing worker from the club’s charity.Aziz Ziriat, who works for Eagles charity Palace for Life, has been missing since January 1 alongside his friend Sam Harris.Crystal Palace have launched an urgent appeal for charity employee Aziz ZiriatCredit: X formerly Twitter / @PalaceForLifeZiriat has gone missing alongside friend Sam HarrisCredit: X formerly Twitter / @PalaceForLifeThe 36-year-old charity worker was last heard from on Wednesday while hiking in the Dolomites in Italy, when he and Harris’ phones last had signal.Ziriat and Harris, 35, missed their return flight home yesterday.The pair were last known to be near a hut called Casina Dosson which is near the town Tione Di Trento, near Riva Del Garda, on Lake Garda.A post on Crystal Palace’s official X account appealed for help.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt read: “A member of the Palace For Life staff and his friend have been missing since 1st January in the Dolomites.”If anyone knows the area, is able to support further or has any information that will help, please call 999 and reference CAD 0197/07 Jan25.”The same post was shared on the Palace Women’s team account.While a number of posts from the charity’s official account detailed descriptions, heights and the date of birth for both the missing persons.An image of a map has also been shared that shows a potential hiking route that Ziriat and Harris may have been taking.Most read in FootballFans are being urged to share images and information on their social outlets to increase the search. While the club and charity, which helps youngsters in South London, have said they will post updates online as they receive them.Police in the UK and Italy are aware of the incident and the Italian emergency services have launched a search in the area.If anyone has any information or is able to support further please call 999 and reference CAD 0197/07 Jan25 More

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      Graham Potter lands new job as West Ham await decision on whether he will replace Julen Lopetegui as manager

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      GRAHAM POTTER has landed a new job… just as he holds talks about becoming West Ham manager.The former Chelsea boss emerged as the leading candidate to replace Julen Lopetegui at the London Stadium this week.Graham Potter has landed a new job with the PFACredit: GettyWest Ham officials have reportedly held talks with him over the role and they are now waiting for a response before they finalise and confirm Lopetegui’s dismissal.It was revealed last month that Potter would be open to the job.But in the meantime, the 49-year-old has landed a new role with the Professional Footballers’ Association.Potter has joined the PFA Business School as course co-director for the certificate in Football Psychology, Emotional Intelligence and Leadership.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe department looks at the emotional challenges players face during a season as well as the mental approach to matches and fatigue.According to the PFA website, the Certificate in Football Psychology, Emotional Intelligence and Leadership will “help students to develop their leadership skills in football and to encourage their players and team to achieve better results.”Reflecting on his own experience when discussing his new role, Potter said: “In the end education helped me become a better person and a better player.”In football sometimes you prepare all week and you lose a game and it doesn’t feel very good.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Whereas studying just gave me a sense that you can work and you can achieve something and nobody can take that away from you. You always have that qualification, you’ve always got it.”So it’s quite a nice balance in the volatile world of football.”Graham Potter in talks to replace West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui Potter has been out of work in management since leaving Chelsea in April 2023.He was dismissed by the Blues just seven months into his time at Stamford Bridge following a run of poor form.Prior to his stint with Chelsea, Potter spent three years with Brighton.The former left-back has also managed Swansea, Ostersund and Leeds Carnegie. More

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      Moment new AC Milan manager whips out cigar and dances in repeat of iconic celebration after trophy win in second game

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      SERGIO CONCEICAO recreated his most famous celebration after guiding AC Milan to a trophy in only his SECOND game in charge.The Portuguese gaffer guided AC Milan to Supercoppa Italiana glory against their bitter rivals Inter on Monday night.Sergio Conceicao guided AC Milan to Supercoppa Italiana glory in only his second match in charge ofCredit: GETTYThe Portuguese gaffer was in jubliant mood in the dressing room and recreated his viral 2022 celebrationCredit: GettyHe puffed on an expensive-looking cigar as he danced with the trophyCredit: GettyMilan came from 2-1 down to win the match 3-2 thanks to goals from Theo Hernandez, Christian Pulisic and Tammy Abraham.And their epic comeback prompted Conceicao to recreate his incredible viral celebration after Porto’s title win in 2022.Conceicao puffed away on a cigar and bust-a-groove as he danced in front of the trophy.His recreation of the celebration, understandably, went viral.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSOne footie fan commented on the video: “I love Conceicao.”Another said: “Love the energy from Sergio Conceicao!”And another said: “Never want this video to end.”One remarked: “Proper gaffer!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSergio Conceicao celebrates winning the Supercoppa Italiana with his backroom staffCredit: GETTYAnother chimed in: “Proper gaffer.”Conceicao only took charge of Milan before the turn of the New Year, replacing the sacked Paulo Fonseca.Watch AC Milan star stitch up her OWN gory wound in incredible video thanks to side hustle as a DOCTORHe said of the triumph: “I am very happy for the players, because it was not easy.”The atmosphere wasn’t the best when I arrived, there wasn’t much time to work on the details before these two games and we were up against two top level sides.“The players were magical, they absorbed everything we discussed.”Clearly there are things we need to improve, but they are aware of that.”I feel that with humility, we can have some great months together in the Champions League, Serie A and to take Milan where it deserves to be.“Now we are happy, we celebrate and from tomorrow we will begin to focus on Cagliari.” More

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      Crystal Palace want two players in January transfer window but are under threat of having their team torn apart by rival

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      SITTING just five points above the relegation zone after 20 games, Crystal Palace are at a crossroads this month.A run of just one win from their first 13 Premier League games left boss Oliver Glasner under pressure.Crystal Palace’s season is not going as hoped after an awful start to the campaignCredit: PAOliver Glasner will want to strengthen – but he’s at threat of having his team weakenedCredit: AFPBut the Eagles have found their feet again, taking points from Tottenham, Manchester City, Newcastle, Aston Villa and, most recently, Chelsea.But with Palace 15th and with just four victories all season – a 20 per cent win rate – they face a critical few weeks.Can they strengthen in the transfer market? Or will they be ransacked of their top stars?SunSport take a look at just why Crystal Palace are facing a potentially make-or-break month.READ MORE SPORT STORIESWhat do Crystal Palace need?Glasner has made it clear that he wants two players this month in two positions.Crystal Palace endured a difficult start to the season following their superb finish to last term under the former Eintracht Frankfurt manager.Injuries to a number of key players, including Adam Wharton and Eberechi Eze at times this season have also hampered progress.The Austrian wants to add a winger in order to add some depth to their forward line with Brazilian Matheus Franca also injured.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSEddie Nketiah was signed in the summer and has been used across the front three but is yet to get going in South London.Palace are also in the market for a left-back this month as they look to find some cover for Tyrick Mitchell.Premier League stadium looks unrecognisable in incredible new plans to redevelop main stand Mitchell remains the first-choice at Selhurst Park but Glasner has no senior cover at left-back.Slavia Prague’s El Hadji Malick Diouf, 20, has been targeted to add some depth and challenge for a starting spot.Who is the perfect buy?Palace have already made it clear they want to sign Ben Doak – on loan at Middlesbrough from Liverpool – this month.The Eagles have seen a £15million bid knocked back by the Anfield club, who are holding out for up to £30m for the 19-year-old winger.It is hard to see Palace matching that, unless Marc Guehi ends up leaving for a big fee and the club have a lot more money to play with.Rayan Cherki, Lyon’s highly rated Frenchman, is also admired and with the Ligue 1 club needing to sell could be an option.However, there is plenty of interest in Cherki, 21, and it could take some convincing to get him to Selhurst Park.Who is more realistic?Palace have been tracking Millwall’s teenage winger Romain Esse for some time.The Lions will not want to lose the 19-year-old this month and there are questions as to whether he could come in and make an instant impact for Palace.There are also issues to be resolved over a deal with the player’s camp before anything can progress but Palace have a superb record of recruiting from the Championship and are looking to pull off another smart deal.How are the finances looking?There are no concerns over meeting the Premier League’s PSR rules at Palace.However, with the largest shareholder, John Textor, looking to sell his stake in the club there may be some hesitance to spend big this month.Textor has long been looking for a way out at Palace after his relationship with chairman Steve Parish broke down.Despite holding the smallest share, Parish has equal voting rights with all other shareholders and effectively has final say on decision making – which has been a frustration for Textor.A number of parties have explored buying out his share, or investing into his Eagle Football Holdings group.The American businessman, who also owns Lyon, Botafogo and RWD Molenbeek, is now in exclusive negotiations with a US-Saudi backed group for his 45 per cent share in the club.Could anyone be on their way out?At the start of the window few would have worried about losing anyone significant.But then Chelsea lost defender Wesley Fofana and suddenly took a look across London.READ MORE SUN STORIESRecalling Trevoh Chalobah from his loan has been considered but, in even worse news for Glasner, the Blues have now set their sights on bringing Guehi back to Stamford Bridge.The Eagles will hold out for a huge price after managing to knock back interest from Newcastle in the summer, but no one will feel comfortable over his future until the window closes.If everything went to plan, how could Palace line up after the January window?Glasner would simply be delighted to keep his defence in one piece come the end of January – but if he could do that and bring in Ben Doak it’d be an excellent window More