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    Todd Boehly pulled plug on £51m transfer for Brazil’s ‘next Ronaldo’ – despite Chelsea finding him a church to go to

    FANTASY becomes reality tomorrow for football’s next big thing.Endrick, the 17-year-old sensation and emerging hope for Brazil, takes on England at Wembley tomorrow evening and then Spain on Tuesday at his soon-to-be new home, the Santiago Bernabeu.Endrick is set to make an appearance for Brazil at Wembley tomorrowCredit: AFPTodd Boehly missed out on signing the Brazilian for ChelseaCredit: ReutersThe striker, who will move to Real Madrid in July and has been likened to Samba great Ronaldo, has only ever experienced the two iconic grounds on PlayStation.Palmeiras whizkid Endrick said: “By playing video games, I know both stadiums.“It will be incredible to see how majestic they are, how grand they are, how many people they hold.“I hope it will be wonderful. I am sure we will get two victories.”Read More on FootballLondon was all set to be Endrick’s permanent residence until Todd Boehly backed out of a deal to sign him for Chelsea.The wonderkid-obsessed Blues owner was so far down the line with a proposed move for the prodigious striker that a church had even been found for him to attend.Endrick and his family had been invited over to take in Chelsea’s 1-0 home defeat to Arsenal and met the likes of Thiago Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta, Jorginho and then boss Graham Potter.Even the capital’s gloomy weather did not put off the young forward with his dad Douglas commenting: “Endrick really likes playing in the rain.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut Boehly had a change of heart over splashing £51.4million on a 16-year-old who would not arrive from Palmeiras for another two years – and pulled the plug.In stepped Real, who a month later announced they had agreed to buy Endrick in a deal that will see him pitch up at the Bernabeu in four months.Could Jose Mourinho return to Chelsea?He will likely be joined by Kylian Mbappe, whose widely-expected switch from Paris Saint-Germain could take the shine off Endrick’s long-awaited arrival.Though not if you talk to any of his team-mates in the current Brazil squad, who cannot speak highly enough of the teenager.Lucas Paqueta likened him to the ‘R9’ Ronaldo – the Brazilian one who went to the 1994 World Cup at 17 and won La Liga with Real – and is not the first to make that comparison.The West Ham midfielder, 26, said: “His speed and strength to take the ball forward reminds me of Ronaldo.“Of course, he is just a boy and is very young and will grow a lot.“There are some characteristics that remind me of him. He can develop to be a huge player.”It is the other Ronaldo, Cristiano who broke all kinds of scoring records at Real where he won four Champions League titles, that Endrick claims is his idol.CR7 elevated himself to the world stage, of course, at Manchester United, where current Brazil squad-member Andrea Pereira also came through five years after the Portuguese mega star left Old Trafford for the first time.Speaking about Endrick, Fulham ace Pereira, 28, added: “When I was in Brazil with Flamengo I could already see what he could do.“He is such a massive, massive player and has massive potential.”Like both Ronaldos, Endrick is ice-cool in front of goal – becoming the first player under 18 since Neymar to reach double figures in the Brazilian league – and has even said himself that he can be “very cold” in his demeanour.He has a rags-to-riches backstory typical of so many Selecao stars, describing his childhood growing up in Taguatinga, close to the capital of Brasilia, as “very complicated and very difficult”.At one point, he lived in an orphanage for six months with his two sisters.And while he claims he never went hungry, he says his parents starved for him and his siblings instead.Dad Douglas tried to make it as a player himself without real success, at one point in the 1980s hitch-hiking to Sao Paulo where he slept rough.He is now able to live vicariously through his son, though, who made a prediction on camera aged 11 that he would one day play for Real – and is now months away from realising that bold call.Tomorrow he could link up with his future team-mates Vinicius Jnr and Rodrygo in Dorival Jnr’s new-look Real squad – and face Jude Bellingham in the England ranks.The pair have already been exchanging messages on Instagram and could now share a pitch for what is set to be the first of many, many memorable matches.Speaking of Brazil’s rejuvenated contingent under Dorival – which includes ELEVEN uncapped players – Endrick added: “It’s going to be a good period with a new team, a new coach, new staff. Everything is new.“I hope I can contribute with everything that is asked of me.”The focus will be on Mbappe arriving in Madrid should his blockbuster switch go through.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut Endrick Felipe Moreira de Sousa, with his powerful legs, rocket of a left-foot and frightening potential, will not plan on surrendering the limelight for long.As Pereira said: “The world has to look out for a big, big player and for sure he is going to deliver.” More

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    Man Utd fans convinced Real Madrid star would be ‘best signing in years’ after shock transfer link for £85m ace

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans are convinced that Real Madrid star Rodrygo would be their “best signing in years” after being linked with the £85million forward.Rodrygo, 23, has been at Real Madrid since 2018 after a £38m move from Santos.Man Utd fans reckon signing from Rodygo from Real Madrid for £85m would be a great dealCredit: GettyHe has gone on to become a key player for Los Blancos, scoring 50 goals in 206 games.Rodrygo has switched from playing out wide to starring as Real’s No9 this term.And he’s picked up a host of trophies at the Bernabeu, including two LaLiga titles and a Champions League.However, the 20-time Brazil international’s future at Real has been thrown into doubt.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Spanish giants have reportedly agreed to sign Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.It’s reckoned the French forward will pocket a huge salary in the capital.And Real are also set to welcome Brazilian prodigy Endrick, who also plays in Rodrygo’s two positions.It means that Carlo Ancelotti may need to sell one of his current players to accommodate the new arrivals.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERReal are believed to be looking for £85m to let Rodrygo leave.Arsenal have been linked with a move.Sir Jim Ratcliffe says Man Utd’s ‘Wembley of the North’ could be 100,000-seat mega-stadium if they leave Old TraffordBut it’s United who are leading the charge as they seek a statement signing under Sir Jim Ratcliffe.And the links have gone down well with fans, who believe Rodrygo has all the makings of an Old Trafford great.One said: “Rodrygo would be our best signing in years.”Another declared: “He should come to United without any doubt.”One noted: “Sign him, sign him, sign him.”Another added: “The ideal Marcus Rashford replacement.”Rodrygo at Real MadridAll his stats…
    Games: 206
    Goals: 50
    Trophies: LaLiga x2, Champions League, Copa del Rey, UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup, Spanish Super Cup x3 More

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    Real Madrid ‘tracking Trent Alexander-Arnold’ ahead of shock potential transfer move for Liverpool and England star

    REAL MADRID are monitoring Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, according to reports.The LaLiga giants are said to be interested in a transfer for the right-back, who continues to impress for the Reds.Trent Alexander-Arnold is wanted by Real MadridCredit: PAAlexander-Arnold is a key part of Jurgen Klopp’s side but his deal runs out at the end of next season.And according to Spanish outlet Revelo Real are looking to take advantage of his contract situation.Alexander-Arnold, 25, is not for sale but Liverpool are yet to open contract talks with the right-back.Real Madrid will likely be ready to pounce if an opportunity becomes available and the prospect of playing at the Bernabeu could be difficult for Alexander-Arnold to turn down.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLos Blancos have enticed several players to the club on free transfers in recent years including Antonio Rudiger, Eduardo Camavinga and Thibaut Courtois.Real Madrid have a long-standing admiration of Alexander-Arnold dating back to September 2021.He is viewed as a long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal.The England international could be weighing up his options with Klopp set to leave in the summer.Most read in FootballReal Madrid could look very different if they land their summer targetsAlexander-Arnold warned against new contract
    David James had his say on the right-back’s future, warning him against penning a new deal.
    The former Liverpool goalkeeper said: “I love Trent. When you look at his career, he came from nowhere to playing in European Cup finals whilst increasing his level of performance.
    “He then went through a period of being criticised by the media but has come through that and has been back to his best this season and is arguably the first name on Liverpool’s teamsheet.
    “So I think it’s very important that he does stay because he’s gone through the tough times and hopefully he wants to be part of a very successful time again for Liverpool.
    “For Trent at the moment, he can’t commit to anything long-term because he’s unaware of which manager is going to come to Anfield to replace Jürgen Klopp.
    “People may say if you love the club then it doesn’t matter who’s there, but if you’re as footballing intelligent as Trent is, then you will be aware that some managers who are being linked with the job at the moment get their teams to play in a certain way that doesn’t suit him and therefore he could end up suffering if he signs a contract now.
    “The sooner that Liverpool finds a replacement for Jürgen Klopp, then the sooner that these contract issues with Trent and Mo Salah can be dealt with.”

    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFormer Reds goalkeeper David James warned Alexander-Arnold not to sign a new contract as he could “end up suffering”.He said: “I love Trent. When you look at his career, he came from nowhere to playing in European Cup finals whilst increasing his level of performance.Jude Bellingham gives RB Leipzig manager Marco Rose his shirt after Real Madrid’s Champions League win”He then went through a period of being criticised by the media but has come through that and has been back to his best this season and is arguably the first name on Liverpool’s teamsheet.”So I think it’s very important that he does stay because he’s gone through the tough times and hopefully he wants to be part of a very successful time again for Liverpool.”For Trent at the moment, he can’t commit to anything long-term because he’s unaware of which manager is going to come to Anfield to replace Jürgen Klopp.”People may say if you love the club then it doesn’t matter who’s there, but if you’re as footballing intelligent as Trent is, then you will be aware that some managers who are being linked with the job at the moment get their teams to play in a certain way that doesn’t suit him and therefore he could end up suffering if he signs a contract now.”The sooner that Liverpool finds a replacement for Jürgen Klopp, then the sooner that these contract issues with Trent and Mo Salah can be dealt with.” More

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    Real Madrid plot shock raid on Newcastle for £100million star who has ‘burning desire’ to play in Champions League

    REAL MADRID are reportedly readying a swoop for Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes.The 26-year-old Brazilian midfielder moved to St. James’ Park in January 2022 for £35m and has become one of Europe’s most sought-after players.Real Madrid reportedly scouted Bruno Guimaraes against Man City last weekendCredit: AlamyThe former Lyon ace has scored 13 goals and assisted another 13 in 96 appearances for the Magpies.And we revealed earlier this month how Guimaraes is now attracting interest from a host of teams across the continent.He remains under contract with Newcastle until 2028 after signing an extension earlier this season.However, that deal reportedly includes a £100m release clause on the star’s own insistence.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLNow talkSPORT claims that Eddie Howe and the Toon “are bracing themselves for Real Madrid to step up interest” this summer.They claim that the LaLiga giants had scouts watching him in last week’s 2-0 FA Cup quarter final loss to Manchester City.Guimaraes also allegedly has a “burning desire” to be playing regularly in the Champions League.He did achieve that on Tyneside before theory group stage exit this term, but Newcastle will need a miraculous turn of results to qualify for it again next season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERThe Magpies are also looking at the prospect of having to offload a star name in order to help them remain on the right side of Premier League spending rules.And any figure they receive close to his release clause would result in a huge profit on the Samba ace.Lee Clarke wants son Bobby to make ‘dream’ move to NewcastleNewcastle are currently 10th in the Premier League and out of all cup competitions, something Guimaraes has admitted has left him “disappointed” when quizzed about the campaign this week.Ahead of Brazil’s clash with England at Wembley, he said: “This season we have been struggling.“I think we’ve had many problems with injuries and suspensions but this is part of the process. When I signed for the club I knew that this would happen.“Things have happened too quickly. During my two years at the club, we reached a final, unfortunately, we didn’t win but we got there after 20 years which was massive for the club.”When he was asked about Newcastle having to sell in order to meet PSR rules, Guimaraes said: “I don’t know. I am not involved in that.“We never know what is going to happen but I’m happy at the club. Of course, I’m disappointed about our season but I think we still have a chance to finish at least seventh, Europa League or Conference League.“But about the club staff, I cannot speak too much. I don’t know what is going to happen in the future but what I can say is I am so grateful for Newcastle.” More

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    Man Utd make Mason Greenwood decision in huge blow to Getafe after transfer talks with Spanish club

    GETAFE’S hopes of borrowing Mason Greenwood for another season are set to fail with Manchester United not interested in another loan.Greenwood, 22, has been rebuilding his career in Spain after being farmed out to the La Liga side for the campaign.Mason Greenwood is currently on loan in Spain with GetafeCredit: GettyThe switch came after charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault against the striker were dropped in February last year.Getafe are keen on another loan for Greenwood, who has eight goals and five assists in 27 matches this term, and have held talks with United.But the Red Devils are only focused on selling the forward – if they are to let him go at all – and know there are other clubs interested in a permanent deal.New co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has not shut the door on what would be a controversial return to United’s squad for Greenwood next term either.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking about Greenwood’s future last month, the billionaire said: “It’s quite clear we have to make a decision.“There is no decision that’s been made.”Bradford-born Greenwood scored 35 goals in 129 games for United between 2018 and 2022 before the police investigation brought his Old Trafford career to a standstill.He also won his one and only England cap back in 2020.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWhere might Greenwood be next season?
    Manchester United
    Greenwood still has a year remaining on his contract at Old Trafford and could return to the squad if the club decide he is allowed back.
    Getafe
    The Spanish side have made it clear they want to keep hold of Greenwood after his success on loan this season but would be priced out of a move if he is sold.
    Barcelona
    Barcelona have been strongly linked with a summer transfer for Greenwood but may also struggle to afford the winger.
    Atletico Madrid
    Greenwood has also attracted interest from Atletico Madrid this season, who could swoop if United decide to cash in this summer.

    Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate did not rule out a return for the striker after this summer’s Euros when asked about the prospect last week.Southgate said: “I don’t think it’s something for pre-Euros.Who could be Man Utd’s next manager after Ten Hag?“Allowing him to get his career going again abroad appears to have been a good move. But I have to say I have not tracked it closely.“At this moment in time it would be a big distraction for the team (to select him ahead of the Euros) and let’s see where that leads next season.” More

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    Man Utd ‘line up £40million Premier League star’ to replace crocked Casemiro in summer transfer

    MANCHESTER UNITED are considering a move for Wolves star Joao Gomes, according to reports.The 23-year-old has been identified as a replacement for Casemiro.Joao Gomes is wanted by Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyCasemiro could be replaced by the Wolves star this summerCredit: GettyUnited look set to offload the experienced Brazilian this summer as new chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to build a younger squad.Casemiro, 32, has already missed 16 matches through injury this season and he will not play for his country this weekend against England as he has pulled out due to further fitness issues.Ironically, it could be Gomes who features for Brazil instead of Casemiro at Wembley with what would be his first international cap.And he may also be set to step into Casemiro’s shoes at Man Utd, according to The Mirror.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGomes is the type of player Ratcliffe would be keen on, having already warned supporters not to expect big-name signings.Wolves bought him a year ago from Flamengo for £12million and they are supposedly set to demand around £40m for the midfielder.Gomes has also caught the eye of Tottenham and Newcastle.Wolves are reportedly braced for bids and are already identifying possible replacements.Most read in FootballThe club could be forced into selling a key player at the end of the season amid pressure to meet Profit and Sustainability Rules.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERGomes has played 28 games this campaign, scoring two goals.He is nicknamed “The Pitbull” in his homeland.Scott McTominay reveals two strict rules implemented by Erik ten Hag at Man Utd More

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    Arsenal and Chelsea transfer blow as top target to begin new contract negotiations including bumper £102m release clause

    SPORTING LISBON are opening talks on a new mage transfer release clause for Viktor Gykores to “protect” them from the Premier League clubs circling.The Swedish striker cost a club-record £17m last summer from Coventry City but he has already repaid that faith with his scintillating form.Sporting’s hope to convince Viktor Gyokeres to sign a new deal with an improved release clauseCredit: AFPThe 25-year-old has scored 27 goals in 33 appearances, as well as recording double figures in assists, to catch the eye of Europe’s big guns.Both Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with the hotshot – with the latter allegedly having a £74m approach rejected in January.Previous reports had claimed that Sporting Lisbon were holding out for the £87m release clause fee that was part of his package.Now A Bola have claimed that the Portuguese league leaders want to secure him to a new agreement that would not only land Gyokeres a bumper pay rise but would also offer them “greater protection”.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey are well aware of the growing interest in their star striker.As well as Arsenal and Chelsea, Bayern Munich are also keen to bring him to the Bundesliga while French giants Paris Saint-Germain have joined the transfer chase.This update also adds that several Spanish teams are in the hunt – but a host of the interested clubs may soon be ruled out of signing him.Sporting Lisbon are hoping that the reward of a pay rise would see Gykores pen his new contract and agree to a release clause of a whopping £102m.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERAnd that would ensure that any sale of their prized-asset would turn out to be a record departure for the club.The agents of Gykores, who was snapped up by Coventry in 2021 after failing to make the grade at Brighton, are also allegedly making a trip to Portugal in April.Every Premier League stadium ranked by the number of pubs nearby with one boasting over 130 local boozersAnd Sporting will be looking to use that time to thrash out terms on the updated agreement.Meanwhile, the transfer speculation does not seem to be having any adverse effect on the player himself.He fired a hat-trick against Boavista on Sunday as the 6-1 victory ensured they remain a point ahead of rivals Benfica, who have played a game more, at the top of the table.The forward will now be hoping to take that form on to the international stage with Sweden, who he has scored five times in 19 caps for.They take on Portugal away tonight in a friendly before taking on Albania on home turf on Monday. More

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    Thiago Silva speaking to former club ‘almost every week’ as Chelsea star nears ‘inevitable’ summer transfer

    CHELSEA star Thiago Silva is in talks with his old club about a transfer return “almost every week” it has been claimed.Silva, 39, is out of contract with the Blues this summer.Thiago Silva has been in contact with his old club ‘almost every week’Credit: GettySilva has found himself for Chelsea out of favour in recent weeksAfter four seasons of being a mainstay in team when fit, he has now not featured since February 12 under Mauricio Pochettino.This has led many to believe the veteran defender will call time on his Stamford Bridge career this summer. And according to reports in his native Brazil, a return to his old club could be on the cards. In an interview with ESPN Brazil, Fluminense sporting director Fred has claimed Silva has been in contact with the club on a weekly basis and remains a “dream” signing for the South American outfit.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe said: “Thiago Silva has been a dream of ours for a long time, the president talks to him almost every week. “Thiago has a contract in England, we’re rooting for him, I personally am a friend of his, and I’m a big fan of his character, and he deserves all the best. “He knows that here the doors are wide open for him to return.”Silva played for Fluminense in two stints. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERThe first came in a 2006 January to June loan transfer from Dinamo Moscow, while the second came between January 2007 and January 2009 before he sealed he transfer back to Europe with AC Milan.Fred continued: “There’s nothing [imminent]. We have to be careful not to put pressure on Thiago. Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers”The fans love Thiago, we love Thiago, and Thiago loves Fluminense. “One day it’s inevitable, it will happen, it’s the player’s wish, the club’s wish and we hope it happens as soon as possible.”Silva has played 29 games for Chelsea this season, scoring three times. Chelsea are one of six clubs said to be interested in a transfer for Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, while 18-year-old Lille prodigy Leny Yoro is also of interest.Thiago Silva starred for Fluminense twice previously in his careerCredit: AFPThiago Silva’s Chelsea trophy haul

    Champions League – 2020/21
    Fifa Club World Cup 2022
    Uefa Supercup 2021/22
    FA Cup runner-up: 2020–21, 2021–22
    EFL Cup runner-up: 2021–22, 2023-24 More