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      in Soccer

      Arsenal confident of completing Martin Zubimendi transfer this summer despite Real Madrid’s late hijack attempts

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      ARSENAL are confident of making Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi their first signing of the summer – despite reports of a hijack attempt from Real Madrid.It was revealed in January that the Gunners had agreed to pay the Spanish midfielder’s £51million release clause, as well as sorting personal terms, with a view to joining ahead of next season.Arsenal expect Martin Zubimendi to join in the summer for £51mCredit: GettyMikel Arteta has convinced Zubimendi to snub Carlo Ancelotti’s Real MadridCredit: GettyIn recent weeks, Real have been linked with a late smash-and-grab raid – desperate to bolster their ageing midfield after a disappointing campaign under Carlo Ancelotti that included losing 5-1 on aggregate to Arsenal in the Champions League quarter finals.But SunSport understands the Gunners still expect Zubimendi, 25, to choose North London instead of Madrid – having been convinced of the Emirates project by boss Mikel Arteta.Arteta wanted Zubimendi to join immediately in the winter window, providing competition for the likes of Declan Rice, Mikel Merino and Thomas Partey, only for Sociedad to demand he remain in San Sebastian for the rest of the season.Liverpool were on the brink of signing the Euros winner last summer but for a last-minute U-turn, one that scuppered the plans of new boss Arne Slot.read more arsenalThe arrival of Zubimendi is considered a done deal by Arsenal internally but it is unlikely to be announced until at least early June.It is a key bit of business with the futures of midfielders Partey, 31, and Jorginho, 33, up in the air.The pair’s contracts expire this summer. Partey has been linked with a move back to Atletico Madrid, with Barcelona also keen, but the Ghanaian would prefer to stay in London, and Arsenal are open to negotiating a short-term deal.Jorginho is considering interest from Brazil and the MLS, but is also enjoying learning from Arteta at Arsenal and would be happy to sign a rolling one-year contract. The Italian has been taking his coaching badges at London Colney.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesZubimendi is anticipated to be the beginning of a huge summer of incomings for Arsenal, with Arteta revealing it will be “big” following the appointment of new sporting director Andrea Berta.Berta had no influence on the Zubimendi deal, but will now be tasked with bringing in an elite striker, while also strengthening the general depth of the squad, selling fringe players to raise cash and extending the contracts of the likes of Bukayo Saka and William Saliba.Mikel Arteta accidentally photobombs Sky Sports report as he takes Arsenal dog Win for a walkIt is for that reason Alexander Isak may be out of Arsenal’s reach, valued between £100m and £120m by Newcastle, with Berta instead looking at Sporting Lisbon’s £60m Viktor Gyokeres, Red Bull Leipzig’s £70m Benjamin Sesko and Athletic Bilbao’s £50m Nico Williams.A cheaper option up top would allow for more signings in other areas. Arsenal are tracking Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia with current No.2 Neto’s season-long loan spell from Bournemouth ending shortly, having played just ONCE this term.And as Kieran Tierney plots a move back to Scotland and Oleksandr Zinchenko linked with a move away, left-back could be an area to strengthen. SunSport revealed in March that Espanyol’s £12.5m Omar El Hilali was being monitored. More

    • 175 Shares169 Views

      in Boxing

      Champion boxer, 18, killed in horror early hours crash as emotional tributes pour in

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      HEARTFELT tributes have poured in for an 18-year-old champion boxer who was killed in a horror crash.Leo Mountain was tragically hit by an HGV on the Bay Gateway in Morecambe, at around 3am on Sunday.Leo Mountain with his fatherCredit: FacebookEmergency services raced to the scene in the early hours of the morning but the teenager with a “champion’s heart” was sadly pronounced dead.Leo was a local boxing star, becoming North West regional champion in September 2024.The youngster had been going from strength to strength before his tragic death on April 20.Family, friends and the boxing community have since paid tribute to the talented teenager following his passing.A member of Coastal Amateur Boxing Club, Leo was described as “one of the loveliest, politest boxers from the loveliest family that you would ever be likely to meet.”In a post on Facebook, Coastal Amateur Boxing Club wrote that Leo “had a champion’s heart in and out the ring”.The full statement read: “This is so difficult to write. This morning we woke up to the unbelievably heartbreaking news that Leo had been involved in a terrible accident and sadly passed away.”Leo was a fantastic young man, an absolute credit to himself and his family. Every boxer, coach and supporter had nothing but love for Leo, he was one of those people you couldn’t help but love. He had an infectious personality, brought laughter and light to every room.Most read in Boxing”In boxing terms, Leo most recently became a North West Region champion, which we know he, his family and the club took great pride in. He was a very talented boxer, had a great attitude and loved to box.”Leo had a champions heart in and out the ring. To think his cheeky smile, his jokes and his presence won’t be seen any longer is just unthinkable, he had so much to offer this world, his journey had only just started.”Leo, you are a son, grandson, brother, friend, gentleman, fighter and a boxer. “You’re respected by many, loved by many and….a CHAMPION. Forever in our hearts and minds, you’ll always be missed.All the clubs thoughts are with Leo’s family, we can’t imagine what they’re going through.”A fundraiser has been set up “to take the burden off his poor lost family and his gym”.A GoFundMe has been set up by Stephen Tallo-Brady from Tameside Elite Boxing Academy to help raise moneuy for Leo’s family.He is aiming to raise £6,500 to support them and you can donate here.Stephen wrote on the page: “A lovely young man a northwest region boxing champion from Morecambe lost his life in a tragic RTA accident at around 3am in the early hours of Sunday the 20th of April 2025.”Let us the Amateur boxing world in our selfless hour of need raise as much money as we can to take the burden off his poor lost family and also his gym.”Lancashire Police have since appealed for information about the tragic incident.Sgt Paul McCurrie, from the Road Policing Unit, said: “This collision has very sadly resulted in the death of a young man and my thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened or who has any CCTV or dashcam footage to get in touch.”Read More on The SunAnyone who can help should call 101 quoting log 0160 of April 20. You can also email the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at SCIU@lancashire.police.uk.Leo Mountain, 18, was a champion boxerCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk More

    • 238 Shares129 Views

      in Boxing

      Chris Eubank Jr. vs Conor Benn odds: Get 40/1 for the fight NOT to go the distance with Parimatch

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      CHRIS EUBANK JR and Conor Benn will finally step inside the ring and settle their differences in Saturday’s blockbuster showdown at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.And bookmakers Parimatch are celebrating the colossal clash with a fantastic welcome deal for brand new customers by offering odds of 40/1 that the fight will not go the distance!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..Parimatch welcome offerVisit the Parimatch website HERE*Create your accountOpt in to this promotion using the “Opt in” button before placing your qualifying betMake your first deposit of minimum £5Place a bet at the normal price on Chris Eubank Jnr v Conor Benn – Will The Fight Go The Distance – Match – NoIf your bet wins, you will be paid at the normal priceYou will then have the extra amount credited in Free Bets, shortly after settlement, bringing your total returns up to the enhanced price of 40/1!Remember, this offer is a maximum £1 stakeParimatch: Get 40/1 that the fight ends early!No Parimatch account? No problem! We’ve got you covered.To register, simply visit the Parimatch website and create an account, then opt in to this promotion using the “Opt in” button before placing your qualifying bet.After that, Make your first deposit of minimum £5 and then place a maximum £1 bet at the normal price on Chris Eubank Jnr v Conor Benn – Will The Fight Go The Distance – Match – No.If your bet wins, you will be paid at the normal price. You will then have the extra amount credited in Free Bets, shortly after settlement, bringing your total returns up to the enhanced price of 40/1!*18+ New Customers Only. Opt in, bet max £1 on Chris Eubank Jnr v Conor Benn – Will The Fight Go The Distance – Match – No. Get enhanced odds paid in Free Bets, which expire in 7 days after accreditation. Offer valid until 22:00 UK time on 26/04/2025. Scroll down for T&Cs. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsiblyRemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

    • 200 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Footballer hides under bed in terror as wife and son, 5, are kidnapped in horror ordeal

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      A TERRIFIED footballer hid under his bed while his wife and son were kidnapped in a horror house raid.Jackson Rodriguez, who plays for Emelec in Ecuador, has pleaded for the safe return of his family.Emele’s Jackson Rodriguez hid under the bed during a terrifying kidnappingCredit: GettyRodriguez’s five-year-old son was taken in the horrifying incidentCredit: Instagram @jackson_rodriguez20The incident occurred on Wednesday night in the coastal city of Guayaquil.Masked men raided Rodriguez’s home at 3am and broke down his front door. The 26-year-old defender said he hid under a bed as the men ransacked the property, located in the Mucho Lote 2 neighbourhood.Police chief Edison Rodriguez confirmed that the footballer’s wife and five-year-old son were taken during the terrifying raid.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey were snatched after asking if the Emelec star was at the residence, police confirmed.Rodriguez saw from a window “the individuals were travelling in a gray-colored double-cab pickup truck.”He hid under the bed and was able to evade capture.A state of emergency was declared last week by the Ecuadorian government in nine areas of the country.Most read in FootballThat includes the province of Guayas, where Guayaquil is situated.Organised crime groups have wreaked havoc across the country, with 2,345 violent deaths reported between January and March, per ESPN.Ten-man Venezuela accused of ‘world class s—housery’ as SPRINKLERS go off in stoppage time of Brazil drawRodriguez, a talented full-back, has played 9 times for Emelec this season.The club play in the LigaPro, the highest tier in the country, and currently sit 11th in the table. Kidnapping of footballers is not unheard of in Ecuador.Last December, Quito star Pedro Perlaza was kidnapped in the city of Esmeraldas.He was found alive a few days later. More

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Boxing

      Daniel Dubois ordered to defend IBF title against Derek Chisora as clock ticks on Usyk unification fight

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      THE proposed heavyweight clash between Daniel Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk has been thrown into doubt.The two fighters first went head-to-head in 2023, with Usyk winning via knockout in the ninth round.The proposed rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois could be thrown into doubtCredit: GettyDubois has to fight mandatory challenger Derek Chisora for the IBF heavyweight crownCredit: GettyA rematch is now being discussed, with a potential July bout on the cards.However, plans could face a huge stumbling block due to a mandatory challenger.The IBF sanctioning body formally ordered Dubois to defend his heavyweight crown against mandatory challenger Derek Chisora on Wednesday.The two fighters have until May 22 to reach a deal, otherwise it will head to purse bids.READ MORE ON BOXINGIf that is the case, Dubois will be entitled to 65 per cent of the winning offer with Chisora taking the other 35 per cent.The minimum bid is £150,000 although the winning bid will likely be much higher.Per the IBF’s rules, Dubois may request an exemption from his mandatory defence which would allow him to fight Usyk next.The proposed rematch is reportedly set to take place at Wembley Stadium this summer.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd it will see all the heavyweight belts on the line, with Usyk currently holding the WBC, WBA, WBO, IBO and The Ring belts.Earlier this month, Dubois declared that he was targeting a title fight against Usyk.Derek Chisora lets slip Tyson Fury is coming out of retirement as he reveals 36-year-old’s fight plans He said: “Definitely July, a big fight in July against Usyk. That’s what I want.”There’s talks, negotiations happening behind the scenes, the two teams are going back and forth.”I’m just doing my job as a fighter and staying ready and getting prepared for when I get a call on whoever is next, I’m ready to unleash hell.”The Usyk fight would be like the AJ fight but way bigger, the biggest fight in the world.”That’s the fight that really excites me and there’s revenge there as well.”The Usyk fight for undisputed would create history, that would be a massive historic event.Read More on The Sun”Just like the AJ fight, the build-up at Leicester Square, it would just be amazing to be a part of that sort of fight.”I’ll be the man to stop him, I just see it. I’ll be the first man to beat him. Fight news is coming soon.” More

    • 288 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Red cards for diving, no more throw-ins and an end to 3pm blackout – top 20 things football fans want to see revealed

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      FANS have revealed their top 20 things that they would like to see implemented in football.This includes having diving players being instantly slapped with a red card and imposing salary caps.Some fans want VAR binnedCredit: RexOthers want to see red cards for divingCredit: ReutersA poll of 2,000 football supporters found some even want 3pm matches to be televised, which would end the traditional blackout.While others wanted a stop clock to be implemented so that injury time could be accurately tracked.One in 10 opted for a hint of nostalgia by suggesting the return of the Golden Goal rule to decide games, with other fun suggestions including ‘kick-ins’ to replace throw-ins, and no offsides.The research was commissioned by OLBG which has also created its own live poll to find out which rules fans want changed the most.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLJake Ashton, football betting expert at the brand, said: “Football gets fans going and people spend lots of time and money following their favourite team.“With the rules often evolving, it’s great to see what fans would want introduced if they were given the opportunity to take charge.“While we know lots on the list will never come to pass, there is definitely a case for some of them.”JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe research went on to reveal a quarter of those who had an opinion on the number of subs allowed in a game, want this changed back to a maximum of three.Most read in FootballOther things fans want reduced are the number of games available to watch (25 per cent).Liverpool fans work out where guard of honour could be with Steven Gerrard humiliation in line to be avenged a decade onFans have voted against an NFL-style half-time show in footballCredit: GettyThe majority of fans prefer to watch football from homeCredit: GettyOf these who said their screens are saturated with too much football, 40 per cent put the Europa Conference League as their top choice to chop.When it comes to getting to games, a quarter (26 per cent) of those who watch football admit to never going to watch a match in person.Three-quarters (75 per cent) prefer to watch their football on TV.TV isn’t just popular for watching games, it also ranks first for getting footie fans their news (69 per cent), with online articles (53 per cent) and social media (44 per cent) completing the top trio.Sitting in top spot in the table of fans favourite competitions is the Premier League with almost half (49 per cent) agreeing.And ‘goals’ scored highest (66 per cent) on the list of things they love about watching or listening to the game.Just as well, with the top players voted being Mo Salah (23 per cent), Lionel Messi (22 per cent) and Harry Kane (22 per cent) according to the OnePoll.com data.There doesn’t seem to be any need to inject more fun into football, with 52 per cent of fans not backing the suggestion of introducing NFL-style halftime shows into matches.Seven in 10 (71 per cent) agreed the game should get back to its roots, as it’s become too commercialised.Ashton added: “Whether fans can get to the grounds or choose to watch football on TV, its important they always get a good experience.Read More on The Sun“With a large portion of those who love the game agreeing it would be better sticking more to its roots, it shows the sport doesn’t always need these over-complicated rule changes.“This is something rule makers should keep in mind – sometimes less is more.”Top 20 rules fans would like to see implemented in footballHere are the top 20 rules that fans want to see in football…1. Salary cap on players2. 3pm kick-offs televised3. A stop clock to make sure injury time is accurate4. Red card to anyone who dives5. Stricter spending cap on clubs6. Referees have to wear microphones7. Change the rules around handball to make it simplified8. No more VAR9. Introduce sin bins10. Give penalties against teams who argue with the referee11. Get rid of transfer windows and let players move whenever they want12. The player fouled must take the penalty13. Bonus points if team scores 4 or more goals in a game14. Make it so clubs have to include a certain number of youth players in their starting line up15. Bring back golden goal16. Allow people to drink alcohol in the stands17. No offsides18. Get rid of draws and decide games which do end up in a draw with a penalty shoot-out19. Unlimited subs20. Allow kick-ins instead of throw-ins More

    • 200 Shares159 Views

      in Motorsport

      Michael Schumacher’s son ‘splits from Miss Universe finalist girlfriend’ after she was ‘invited into inner circle’

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      MICK SCHUMACHER has split from girlfriend Laila Hasanovich, according to reports.The former Formula 1 driver, 26, had been dating the model since 2022.Mick Schumacher had been dating Laila Hasanovich since 2022Credit: InstagramLaila is a model and former Miss Universe finalistCredit: instagram @ lailahasanovicHasanovich was brought into the family’s “inner circle” – and was Mick’s only girlfriend to have visited his F1 legend father, Michael.Per German outlet Bild, however, both Schumacher and Hasanovich have recently been spotted on celebrity dating app Raya.The former Haas driver has also removed the most recent pictures of himself with Hasanovich from his Instagram account.Profiles on Raya are verified by connecting to users’ Instagram accounts.READ MORE IN SPORTHasanovich, 24, was a finalist at the 2019 Miss Universe Denmark pageant.Based in Copenhagen, she has gathered a huge 343,000-strong Instagram following.Schumacher, meanwhile, is racing in the FIA World Endurance Championship for Alpine.He previously competed in Formula 1 for Haas during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, while he served as reserve driver for Mercedes in 2023 and 2024.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKLaila has been spotted on celebrity dating app RayaCredit: instagram @f1gossippofficialSchumacher, 26, has also been seen on the appCredit: instagram @f1gossippofficialMick’s father Michael has not been seen in public since a skiing accident in 2013.The German suffered traumatic brain injuries following a collision in Meribel, France.Mick Schumacher’s model girlfriend sends clear message on engagement after being invited into ‘inner circle’Since the devastating accident, Schumacher’s wife Corinna has created a private world around her husband.The tight-knit group is said to feature former team-mate Luca Badoer and manager Sabine Kehm – as well as ex-Ferrari star Felipe Massa.Asked about his meeting with Schumacher, Massa, 43, said: “I saw him.”But I think we always have to respect Corinna’s decision.”Schumacher was like that, always very reserved with his family.”Even when he was still racing, his children only entered the racetrack when the race started, so as not to have the press on them.”Michael Schumacher has not been seen in public since his 2013 skiing accidentCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Eddie Howe returns to Newcastle duties after spell in hospital battling pneumonia

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      EDDIE HOWE has returned to his managerial duties at Newcastle after suffering from pneumonia.The manager was admitted to hospital earlier this month and missed three matches.Eddie Howe is back working after being in hospitalCredit: GettyFans showed their support for the managerCredit: ReutersJason Tindall has been in charge in Howe’s absenceCredit: GettyHowe, 47, was missing from the dugout during games against Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Aston Villa.Assistant Jason Tindall had taken charge of the team in the absence of the manager.He led the Magpies to impressive romps against Man United and Palace before losing to Villa on Saturday.The club has now confirmed that he is back working at the training ground with the players.READ MORE ON SPORTA statement read: “Newcastle United are delighted to confirm that Eddie Howe has returned to his duties at the club’s training Centre.”Eddie had recently been hospitalised with pneumonia and has now returned to work after a period of recovery.”We thank supporters for their warm wishes.”Howe initially believed that he had flu but was later diagnosed with pneumonia by doctors.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe was admitted to hospital on April 12 after his condition deteriorated.The former Bournemouth manager is expected to be on the touchline when they host Ipswich Town this weekend.Watch Premier League manager rock up to press conference in golf buggy as fans joke ‘PSR hitting hard’ Fans have been left relieved with the news as they reacted on social media.One posted: “Fantastic news.”A second commented: “Wonderful news. Welcome back Gaffa.”A third wrote: “Welcome back Eddie!”A fourth added: “Great news!”Another said: “Great news! Demolition of Ipswich loading!”Howe will be hoping he can lead Newcastle back into the Champions League now he has returned.Read More on The SunAfter facing the Tractor Boys, the Magpies will have four games left of the Premier League season.They will take on Brighton, top five rivals Chelsea and Arsenal before finishing the campaign hosting Everton. More