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    Man City CONFIRM £64m transfer of Omar Marmoush as Pep Guardiola’s struggling side take January spending over £127m

    MANCHESTER CITY have completed the signing of Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush in a deal that could be worth £64 million.The 25-year-old Eintracht Frankfurt star has been one of the stand-out players in the German league this season.Omar Marmoush has excelled in the Bundesliga this seasonCredit: GettyHe has signed a four-and-a-half year deal at the Etihad and Pep Guardiola hopes he will fill the gap left by Julian Alvarez – who left to join Atletico Madrid in the summer.City will pay an initial £59 million for Marmoush – while his former club could net another £5 million in add ons.And it takes the spending of the champions this window to more than £120 million – following the arrivals of Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis earlier this weeks.Marmoush – who is an international team-mate of Mo Salah – has scored 37 goals and made 20 assists for Frankfurt since he joined them in summer 2023.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Guardiola will be desperately hoping he can help to get his team back on track after a nightmare couple of months for them.Marmoush said: “This is a day I will never forget. To sign for Manchester City – one of the best teams in the world – is an amazing feeling.“With Pep, his technical staff and the world-class facilities here, players have everything they need to become better. That was really enticing for me when I had the chance to come here.“And I cannot deny I also want to win trophies. City have been the most successful club in England for many, many years, so I know I am joining a winning environment and winning culture.Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY“I really am looking forward to getting going, meeting the other players and showing the Manchester City fans what I can do.”Director of football Txiki Begiristain said: “He has all the attributes a top-class attacker requires.Omar Marmoush shows his goal scoring skills at Eintracht Frankfurt training “He has outstanding pace and awareness, and he is exceptional in front of goal. He can also play a number of different positions, which is a really valuable asset.“He’s had an outstanding season, and every time we have watched him, he has influenced matches.”City’s January spending may not be finished yet as they still would like to sign a defensive midfielder to cover for the injured Rodri. More

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    Vinicius Jr lined up for world record-shattering £296m Saudi transfer following controversial Ballon d’Or snub

    VINICIUS JR is reportedly being lined up for a world-record £296million move to Saudi Arabia after his Ballon d’Or snub.The Real Madrid superstar, 24, has emerged as a target for three Middle Eastern giants amid doubts over his long-term future at the Bernabeu.Vinicius Jr is being lined up for a world-record £296million move to Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyVinicius Jr joined Real in 2018 from Flamengo for £40million, a year after penning a contract with the Spanish giants.He’s since scored 101 goals in 291 games while winning three titles and two Champions Leagues.But Vini was left deeply upset last year when it emerged he had missed out on the latest Ballon d’Or award.The winger was strong favourite to land it thanks to his domestic and European trophy wins.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLYet it emerged on the day that Man City’s Rodri had pipped him to the post.It prompted an outcry from Vinicius Jr’s club Real, who snubbed the ceremony.But despite their support, Give Me Sport claims Vini could soon end up leaving them for pastures new.It’s reckoned Saudi pay masters are ready to spend £296m on Vinicius Jr this summer, with Al-Ahli the most likely destination.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe Saudi club already boasts ex-Premier League stars including Ivan Toney, Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino.But Al-Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, and Al-Hilal — who reportedly want to replace Neymar with Liverpool’s Mo Salah — have also shown interest.Humiliating moment Ballon d’Or favourite Vinicius Jr is sat down by teen in futsal leaving Real Madrid star on his bum As it happens, Neymar still holds the current world record transfer fee for his £200m switch from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.Real have no intention of selling Vinicius Jr, even though his exit would allow struggling Kylian Mbappe to play off his favoured left-hand side.And the Brazilian will have a big decision to make if a Saudi bid does emerge for him at the end of the season. More

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    Wilfried Zaha joins MLS side Charlotte FC in bid to reignite his career and will link up with ex-Premier League manager

    WILFRIED ZAHA has joined Major League Soccer side Charlotte in a bid to reignite his career.The Crystal Palace icon turned down a £200,000-a-week deal to pursue his Champions League dream with Galatasaray 18 months ago.Wilfried Zaha endured an underwhelming loan spell at LyonCredit: GettyZaha scored 10 goals in 42 appearances for the Turkish side last season before being sent on loan to Lyon – where he has made just six appearances this term.The Ivory Coast international has joined the MLS side, who are managed by ex-Aston Villa boss Dean Smith, as a designated player on loan for the 2025 season.Zaha’s deal includes the option to extend the loan for another year across the 2026 season.Charlotte’s General Manager Zoran Krneta said: “Wilfred is a world class talent who has proven himself at the highest level of the sport as an elite goal scorer and chance creator.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”His performances in the Premier League and on the international level speak for themselves and we are confident that Wilfred can make an immediate impact in Major League Soccer.”“He provides valuable versatility in the attacking areas of the pitch and adds that little bit of magic to our front line that can help us win more games. “We are delighted to add a player of Wilfred’s pedigree and experience to our squad, and we’re excited to welcome him to Charlotte.”Zaha has already started training with his new teammates, who include former Burnley midfielder Ashley Westwood.Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYCharlotte begin their MLS campaign against Seattle Sounders on February 22.Zaha has not played at all since a one-minute substitute cameo against Angers on December 7.Wilfried Zaha posts video from flight to new club as he’s finally set to complete shock move after long transfer race He started just one match for Lyon during his loan stint, a 2-1 win at Toulouse on September 29.Lyon boss Pierre Sage said of Zaha in October: “The idea isn’t to fine him for the sake of fining him.”The idea is simply for him to be aware of what we expect from him at our club and I said he needs to understand that we recruited Wilfried Zaha, so we would like to have Wilfried Zaha.”Zaha, 32, struggled for game time in FranceCredit: SNS More

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    Man City accused of persuading transfer target, 18, to buy out his contract as Real Valladolid threaten legal action

    MANCHESTER City have been slammed over the potential signing of young defender Juma Bah.Spanish side Real Valladolid are accusing City of persuading Bah to buy out his own youth contract in order to secure a move to the Etihad.Man City are being threatened with legal action over a move for Real Valladolid’s Juma BahCredit: GettyAnd Valladolid have threatened to take legal action against the centre back, 18, for breach of contract.According to reports in Spain, City were in talks with the LaLiga side for a deal worth up to £6.75m.But Sierra Leone-born Bah, 18, and his representatives informed Valladolid that they were instead going to pay up the terms of his current youth contract at a cost of around £5m.And Valladolid are furious, because Bah has refused to sign a pro deal that would have cost more to buy out.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Spanish club issued a stern statement, saying: “Abdulai Juma Bah and his agent informed Real Valladolid yesterday evening of their intention to unilaterally break the contract that binds both parties.“Previously, yesterday evening, Manchester City sent a statement asking Real Valladolid to open negotiations for the player for a possible permanent transfer.“Today, the Sierra Leonean has decided not to report to his workplace for morning training. For all these reasons, the Club holds the player responsible for the breach of his contractual commitments, and has asked its legal department to initiate disciplinary action in this regard.“The player’s intention, supposedly supported and guided by Manchester City and his agent, has caused great disappointment and indignation at the club.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS“The Club considers that Manchester City, a member of the City Football Group, is behind the Player’s decision, and appears to have advised the player to take this route, which puts Real Valladolid in a defenceless position, after having recently rejected financial offers of a higher amount, even more so when the player is in the legally protected period of his youth stage.”And, in recent days, had refused to sign the professional player’s licence, as this would entail an automatic increase in his termination clause.Man City sign Abdukodir Khusanov in £34m deal with ‘tank’ as quick as Usain Bolt roped in to bolster Pep’s defence“Manchester City seems to have advised the player to adopt this path that puts Real Valladolid in a helpless situation.“The player’s intention, supposedly supported and guided by Manchester City and his agent, has caused great disappointment and indignation within Real Valladolid.”Real Valladolid will resort to the appropriate legal and sporting jurisdictions to exercise its rights and defend its interests.”Man City have declined to comment.Bah arrived at Valladolid on loan last summer from AIK Freetown in his native Sierra Leone.The 6ft 5in centre back was so impressive that on January 1 the La Liga club exercised its right to buy him for a fee of about £840,000.If City complete a deal for Bah, he is expected to go straight out on loan to Lens after the French club sold centre half Abdukodir Khusanov to the Premier League champions earlier this week. More

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    Man Utd draw up four-man striker shortlist including Liam Delap and Bryan Mbeumo if one of three stars leave

    MANCHESTER UNITED have drawn up a four-man striker shortlist, according to reports.But the Red Devils will need to flog at least one of Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho or Kobbie Mainoo to fund a striker swoop this month.Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo could leave Man UtdCredit: GettyMarcus Rashford has been frozen out at Old TraffordCredit: ReutersSelling any of these three homegrown products would hugely benefit United from a PSR perspective.Rashford’s £315,000 a week salary makes a move challenging, although he has received interest from Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona.Chelsea and Napoli are keen on Garnacho, meanwhile, with the Blues also holding an interest in Mainoo.According to the Mail, Man Utd scouts have been tracking Prem trio Liam Delap, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile Lille striker Jonathan David is also on their radar.Former Man City academy kid Delap has impressed for Ipswich this season, the 21-year-old scoring eight times for the Tractor Boys.Mbeumo, meanwhile, has 13 Prem goals for Brentford this term, with Cunha, 25, managing 10 for strugglers Wolves.David, who is out of contract at the end of the season, has scored 11 times in Ligue 1 this term – in addition to Champions League strikes against Real Madrid, Atletico, Juventus and Liverpool.Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYLiam Delap has impressed for Ipswich this seasonCredit: GettyBryan Mbeumo has bagged 13 times for BrentfordCredit: RexMatheus Cunha has impressed despite Wolves’ strugglesCredit: AlamyJonathan David is out of contract at the end of the seasonCredit: GettyShould the Red Devils manage to flog one of their homegrown trio, United could make a late striker swoop.United are said to be demanding around £75m for Garnacho.Liam Delap talks about joining Ipswich Town While they want a higher fee for Mainoo.Rashford could head out on a loan, with a deal largely dependent on whether they can find a suitor who will take on most of his £315k wages. More

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    Chelsea ‘consider transfer for Dusan Vlahovic and could send star in opposite direction’ with Arsenal also linked

    CHELSEA are targeting Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic, who has also been linked with rivals Arsenal.The Gunners have found themselves short in attack with Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka injured, while Kai Havertz is not a natural centre-forward.Chelsea are eyeing Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic during the January transfer windowCredit: GettyChelsea are considering Vlahovic as a replacement for wantaway star Christopher NkunkuCredit: GettyChelsea are considering a swap deal involving Renato VeigaCredit: RexAnd the Blues are thinking ahead as Christopher Nkunku has grown frustrated with the lack of minutes in the Premier League and wants to move elsewhere.Nkunku, 27, has been linked with a return to Germany as Bayern Munich pose as a potential new challenge for the former RB Leipzig star, who will be worth in excess of £60million.That is why the West Londoners are now keeping tabs on Vlahovic, 24, as a potential replacement.According to The Times, Chelsea are eyeing the Serbia international and considering a potential swap deal.Read More on FootballThat would see Renato Veiga going to Juventus during the January transfer window.Veiga, 21, has also struggled for minutes under Enzo Maresca, who places him at full-back rather than the player’s preferred position at centre-back.Juventus are keen on the Portugal international as they see him as a potential replacement for the injured Gleison Bremer.Vlahovic has amassed a total of 53 goals and 11 assists in 125 appearances with Juventus ever since his £62m switch from Fiorentina in 2022.Most read in FootballThe Serbia international has fared very well this season as he has registered 12 goals and two assists in 24 appearances across all competitions.The striker only has 18 months left on his contract with Juventus who are facing the risk of losing him for free next year.Dusan Vlahovic shows his football skills when he joins Juventus in training The Serie A giants want to tie Vlahovic to a new deal but are unlikely to offer him a new contract matching his current salary of just under £10m per year. More

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    I’m a football agent – I offered Zinedine Zidane to Newcastle but manager said he was barely Championship level

    A FOOTBALL agent has revealed how he offered Zinedine Zidane to Newcastle – only for Toon to brand the Frenchman a barely Championship-level player.Barry Silkman is a former footballer who turned out for clubs including Manchester City, Brentford and Crystal Palace.Newcastle turned down a move for Zinedine Zidane in 1996Credit: GettyHe was offered to Toon by super agent Barry SilkmanCredit: PASilkman lifted the lid on the tale in his book, ‘The No-So Secret Football Agent’He went on to become one of the beautiful game’s top transfer gurus, facilitating moves for numerous big names.Silkman worked with aces including Jaap Stam, Micah Richards, Tomas Soucek and Yakubu during a glittering career.But he also came close to sealing one of the biggest transfers in history.In 1996, Silkman fell head over heels for midfield playmaker Zidane – then at French side Bordeaux.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe ace would go on to become a superstar for Juventus and Real Madrid, winning three titles and a Champions League while also leading France to World Cup glory in 1998.At the time, Silkman had a good relationship with Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan and offered Zidane to the Magpies’ manager.However, he was left stunned when Keegan turned down the opportunity to sign Zidane for a bargain £1.2MILLION.The Newcastle gaffer had been informed by his chief scout that Zizou was hardly good enough for Wolves – who were bottom of the Championship at the time.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSBut years later, Keegan admitted to Silkman that he should have listened after seeing Zidane blossom into an all-time great.Writing in his book, ‘The Not-So Secret Football Agent’, Silkman said: “I was alerted to the talent of a 24-year-old attacking midfielder at Bordeaux and I went along to watch him.I’m a former Newcastle striker who filled ex-England star’s car with rotten fish as revenge for him cutting up my clothes Kevin Keegan’s chief scout claimed Zidane was barely at Championship levelCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdJust two years later Zizou was winning the World Cup with FranceCredit: AP“His name was Zinedine Zidane, and it took me about five minutes to decide that this guy was going to be something very special.“I had brought a number of good players to Newcastle United under Kevin Keegan’s reign and every one of them was a success, so Zidane felt like the perfect fit for a Keegan team.“It was 7 January, 1996, and I told Kevin he could sign Zidane for £1.2million – it was a steal.“I begged Kevin to sign him, but in the end he told me his chief scout thought he wasn’t good enough and years later, Kevin told me he should have listened to me instead of his scout.“Zidane eventually signed for Juventus and the rest is history.“More than 20 years later, Kevin would tell me I was the best agent he ever came across – the only good one in his opinion.“Nice words from a top man who I always got along really well with over the years.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I wish I’d kept the fax that was sent to me from Newcastle United where the chief scout stated, ‘Silky has grossly overrated the player. At best he is good enough for Wolves, who are bottom of the Championship at present’.“I think Zidane was slightly better than the players in struggling Wolves team!” More

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    AC Milan ‘could turn transfer attention to two Man Utd stars’ after being blocked from Marcus Rashford pursuit

    AC MILAN could now target TWO Manchester United stars after being blocked from signing teammate Marcus Rashford.The 27-year-old is facing a January exit after being axed by Ruben Amorim while simultaneously declaring his desire for a fresh start.The forward has been linked to some of Europe’s top clubs this month, with Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain both interested.Barcelona have also been tipped to make a move if they can scrape some funds together.While SunSport understands that French outfit Monaco are ready to make an ambitious loan bid before deadline day.However, fellow suitors AC Milan are now said to be out of the running.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLESPN claims the Italians have effectively been blocked from signing Rashford as they tie up a deal for England pal and Man City misfit Kyle Walker instead.Milan could only sign one of them due to Serie A rules over foreign non-EU signings.And with Walker the preferred choice, Milan are now targeting fresh options as they look to bolster their forward line for a top four charge.Chelsea ace Joao Felix, who only returned to Stamford Bridge on a permanent deal in the summer, is on their radar.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHowever, Milan could now look to move for one of Rashford’s teammates.Strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have both failed to settle in England.’Best for the team’ – Ruben Amorim gives blunt explanation on Marcus Rashford absence as Man Utd outcast seeks transferThe duo have each enjoyed previous spells in Italy, with Hojlund shining at Atalanta and Zirkzee starring at Bologna.And United could be open to striking a deal, with Juventus also interested in both players.Hojlund and Zirkzee have just five goals between them in the league this season.And they could fancy a return to Serie A should an offer come in, More