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    Andy Carroll rips up Amiens contract as ex-England striker joins non-league club on free transfer in shock career twist

    FORMER Premier League striker Andy Carroll has joined French side Bordeaux.The 35-year-old completed a free transfer from Ligue 2 outfit Amiens this week.Andy Carroll has joined BordeauxCredit: X @girondinsA club statement on social media read: “Welcome Andy Carroll. The club is delighted to welcome the England international striker.”He has a wealth of high-level experience with almost 450 professional games, making him an ideal addition to Bordeaux’s attack.”Reports claim he was persuaded to make the drop down to the fourth tier by Amiens sporting director John Williams, who has been assisting Bordeaux with recruitment in the wake of their double relegation.Bordeaux were declared bankrupt last month and placed into financial administration.Read More in FootballLes Girondis now play in Championnat National 2 and will receive help from new signing Carroll this season in a bid for promotion.Bordeaux marks the eighth club of the striker’s career.Carroll signed his first professional contract with Newcastle back in 2006 after graduating from the club’s academy.He went on to make 134 first team appearances before joining Liverpool in 2011.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe striker then spent six years with West Ham before returning to St James’ Park in 2019.Carroll has since spent short spells with Reading, West Brom and Amiens.Top 10 highest-paid Premier League starsHe was capped nine times for England between 2010 and 2012 and scored two international goals. More

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    Cristiano Ronaldo ‘begs Al-Nassr to sign Zinedine Zidane after SACKING manager… but ex-AC Milan chief leading race’

    CRISTIANO RONALDO has strongly recommended Zinedine Zidane as Al-Nassr’s next manager following the dismissal of Luis Castro.The Saudi giants announced Castro’s departure just 14 months after his arrival at the King Saud University Stadium where he replaced Rudi Garcia.Cristiano Ronaldo has asked Al-Nassr chiefs to sign Zinedine Zidane as new managerCredit: AFP or licensorsRonaldo and Zidane enjoyed a stunning partnership at Real MadridCredit: AFPBut Al-Nassr are set to sign former AC Milan manager Stefano PioliCredit: APAccording to Marca, Ronaldo has spoken to club chiefs and expressed his strong desire to reunite with former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane.The five-time Ballon d’Or winner and Zidane enjoyed a stunning partnership at Real as together they won the LaLiga title as well as three consecutive Champions League trophies.However, Al-Nassr look set to snub the Manchester United legend’s recommendation.According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Stefano Pioli is set to take charge instead.Read More on FootballFormer AC Milan boss Pioli and the Middle Eastern outfit are “on the verge” of finalising a deal.Zidane was also linked with Al-Nassr last year before Castro replaced Garcia at the helm.The French tactician reportedly rejected a two-year contract worth €150million (£126m) from Ronaldo’s side.Recent reports have also indicated that the legendary midfielder won’t be taking over a job where he doesn’t speak the native language.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat’s why pundits, such as William Gallas, have poured cold water on reports linking Zidane to United.That would limit Zidane’s options to Spain and his homeland, with rumours suggesting he is eyeing the France job.Cristiano Ronaldo and Rio Ferdinand in hysterics as they remember Man Utd nicknames from ‘Shrek’ and ‘SatNav’ to ‘J-Lo’The Juventus legend has been a free agent ever since his departure from Real in 2021. More

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    How Real Madrid could line up with Trent Alexander-Arnold as Carlo Ancelotti plots ‘new Champions League era’

    REAL MADRID could be set to field a brand new Galacticos team next season.The Spaniards have spent the last five years realigning their finances and are getting ready to splash out on a fresh wave of star signings.Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti may launch a new Galacticos eraCredit: GettyLos Blancos have identified Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold as their top targetCredit: GettyAccording to The Independent, Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold is top of the pile for Los Blancos who need a long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal.Alexander-Arnold, 25, is out of contract this summer and can strike a pre-agreement with foreign clubs in January.The Spanish champions are also hoping to boost their midfield options with an ambitious move for Manchester City star Rodri.With City facing 115 charges of Financial Fair Play breaches, the Spain international could be on the move next summer.Read More on FootballThe 28-year-old reportedly wants to return to his homeland while still in his prime and would make a fine replacement for Toni Kroos.Real also want a new centre-back following Nacho’s exit to Saudi Arabia and Arsenal star William Saliba has emerged as a top choice.Long-term target Alphonso Davies could join as well as he is out of contract at Bayern Munich and looks unlikely to pen an extension.Those potential signings would launch a brand new Champions League-winning era for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSReal Madrid could be set to field a Galacticos line-up next seasonAlexander-Arnold could be the new starting right-back with Davies on the other side, while Saliba could team up with Antonio Rudiger at centre-back in front of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.Rodri could link up with Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham in midfield.Amazing tunnel footage shows Alexander-Arnold and Gordon planning England goal against Ireland before perfect executionAncelotti could also field a fiery attack consisted of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Endrick.Real Madrid have been linked with an ambitious move for Manchester City star RodriCredit: GettyArsenal ace William Saliba is a top target to replace Nacho at Real MadridCredit: GettyReal Madrid long-term target Alphonso Davies will be out of contract at Bayern MunichCredit: Getty More

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    How a free agent XI could line up with stars out of contract in 2025 including Trent and it would win the Premier League

    A FREE AGENT XI could win the Premier League with a host of top names out of contract next summer.With the new season fully underway, stars are now assessing their short and long-term options.Trent Alexander-Arnold leads a host of potential free agents next summerCredit: EPAKevin De Bruyne is also currently set to be out of contract at Man City in 2025Credit: AlamyClubs can start to offer pre-contracts to players from January, with the exception being Premier League clubs to other English top-flight aces.And there could be a host of amazing transfers taking place at the end of the campaign.Indeed, there are so many free agents available that they could easily make two starting XIs and challenge for top honours.The first XI is packed with Premier League talent and even boasts several England internationals.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn goal is Bayern Munich and Germany legend Manuel Neuer, who is protected by a magnificent defence featuring former Manchester United captain Harry Maguire.Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk is the obvious choice to partner him.While flanking them are Bayern’s Alphonso Davies and Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, with both men wanted by Real Madrid.Further ahead sees a midfield pivot featuring Bayern captain Joshua Kimmich and new Three Lions hero Angel Gomes, who currently plays in France for Lille.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMan City wizard Kevin De Bruyne is a natural fit for the No10 position.While he could have Liverpool’s Mo Salah and Al-Ahli’s Neymar on the wings, with Tottenham captain Son Heung-Min leading the line.Trent Alexander-Arnold puts England into Euro 2024 semi finals with brilliant final penalty in shootout vs SwitzerlandHowever, a second free agent XI also boasts some big names.Fiorentina’s David de Gea earns a place in goal, with Inter Milan’s Denzel Dumfries and Real Madrid’s Ferland Mendy at full-back.Centre-back sees Bayern Munich’s Eric Dier and Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah link up.While midfield has Man City’s Ilkay Gundogan partnering Arsenal’s Thomas Partey.A tasty front line sees Man Utd’s Amad Diallo slot in alongside Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi and Bayern’s Leroy Sane.And that leaves Al-Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo to go up top. More

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    Real Madrid ‘plot triple transfer raid on Premier League’ with Trent Alexander-Arnold spearheading ‘new era’

    REAL MADRID are reportedly plotting a TRIPLE transfer raid on the Premier League with Trent Alexander-Arnold spearheading a “new era.”Bernabeu chiefs have spent the last five years realigning their finances.Real Madrid want to sign three Premier League stars starting with Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: GettyMan City and Spain ace Rodri is also on their shopping listCredit: GettyAnd they are ready to splash out on a fresh wave of Galacticos despite adding Kylian Mbappe and Endrick to their star-studded squad this summer.The Independent claims that Liverpool right-back Alexander-Arnold is top of the pile for Real, who need a long-term replacement for veteran defender Dani Carvajal.The England star, 25, is out of contract this summer and can strike a pre-agreement with foreign clubs in January.Alexander-Arnold has already seen his inverted role changed under new boss Arne Slot.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd after winning the lot during his time at Anfield, the ace may feel it’s time for a new start.Meanwhile, Real are also hoping to boost their midfield options with an ambitious move for Manchester City anchorman Rodri.The 28-year-old is one of the first names on Pep Guardiola’s team sheet.But with City facing 115 charges of Financial Fair Play breaches, Rodri could be on the move next summer.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Spain Euro winner reportedly wants to return to his homeland while still in his prime.And Rodri would make a fine replacement for German holder Toni Kroos, who retired in July.Real Madrid star Eduardo Camavinga screams in pain after injuryReal fancy the look of Arsenal defender William SalibaCredit: GettyTottenham ace Cristian Romero is seen as an alternativeCredit: GettyFinally, Real also want a new centre-back following Nacho’s exit to Saudi Arabia.David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger aren’t getting any younger either.And Arsenal star William Saliba has emerged as Real’s top choice for the position.But at just 23 years old, the Gunners are unlikely to give up Saliba without a massive fight.So it’s added that Real have also added Tottenham’s Cristian Romero to their shortlist.The 26-year-old may want out if he has another barren season.And his criticism of the club’s failure to fly international stars back on private jets ahead of the derby defeat to Arsenal has raised questions over his long-term future.Real’s business may not stop there either.READ MORE SUN STORIESLong-term target Alphonso Davies is out of contract at Bayern Munich and looks unlikely to pen an extension.While AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan is seen as fine competition for Thibaut Courtois.Real are likely to move for long-term target Alphonso Davies on a free transferCredit: GettyIt’s reckoned they are also lining up a swoop for AC Milan goalie Mike MaignanCredit: Getty More

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    Forgotten Premier League flop, 33, drops into fourth tier after bizarre link-up with Alan Pardew in Greece

    FORMER Premier League star Lukas Rupp has signed for a fourth-tier side in Germany.Rupp, 33, joined Norwich from Bundesliga side Hoffenheim in January 2020.Lukas Rupp has dropped down into the fourth tierCredit: @KSVHessenKSRupp, 33, played in the Premier League for NorwichCredit: Times Newspapers LtdHaving called it a “childhood dream” to play in England, the midfielder went on to appear 62 times for the Canaries.He also helped them earn promotion to the Premier League during the 2020-21 season.Rupp scored at Anfield in an FA Cup tie during his Norwich stint, only for Liverpool to still win 2-1.After leaving Carrow Road at the end of the 2021-22 campaign, Rupp had to wait until the following January to secure a new club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAt the time he earned a short-term contract with Greek top-flight side Aris, who were managed by former Prem boss Alan Pardew.Following a short spell in Greece, which saw him make 19 appearances for Aris, Rupp again found himself without a club.He has now ended his hunt for a new employer by signing for German minnows KSV Hessen Kassel.His new team play in the Regionalliga Sudwest, which makes up part of Germany’s fourth tier.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey announced the deal with a picture of a beaming Rupp clutching his new shirt, featuring his name and the No33 on the back.Responding to the signing, one fan wrote on X: “That’s crazy!”Lukas Rupp leaves seventh-placed Bundesliga side Hoffenheim for Norwich While a second gushed: “Really nice. I’m looking forward to seeing him soon.”A third added: “You can’t go wrong with Kassel.”Rupp scored at Anfield during his Norwich daysCredit: Getty More

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    Anthony Martial ‘agrees to transfer’ in U-turn after former Man Utd star turned down ‘biggest contract in club history’

    ANTHONY MARTIAL has reportedly made a transfer U-turn in his search for a new club.The forward remains a free agent after leaving Manchester United when his contract expired at the end of June.Anthony Martial is set to complete a transfer U-turn in his search for a new clubCredit: PAHe had looked set to join Brazilian side Flamengo earlier this month only for the deal to fall through when the parties could not agree on contract length.A host of clubs have shown an interest in Martial since his Old Trafford exit, including Lille, Atalanta, Marseille and Besiktas.However, he now appears ready to join a team he previously snubbed the chance to sign for.According to Sport24, Martial has reached a verbal agreement with AEK Athens and final documents are now being exchanged.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 28-year-old will pen a three-year deal with the Greek outfit worth £2.5million-per-season.His contract is said to be the most lucrative deal in the club’s 100-year history.Martial will join a host of former Premier League stars at AEK, with Erik Lamela, Nordin Amrabat and Roberto Pereyra already at the club.Meanwhile, the 13-time Greek champions currently top the Super League after making an unbeaten start to the new season.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThey are out of Europe, though, following a shock defeat to Armenian side Noah in Conference League qualifying.Martial will arrive off the back of a disappointing final season with the Red Devils.Man Utd fans all tell Antony to do the same thing as Ten Hag gives £86m flop Jadon Sancho-style dressing down Several injury layoffs, most notably following groin surgery in January, limited him to just 19 appearances.Overall, however, the Frenchman scored 90 goals in 317 appearances for United during his nine years in England.If his move to AEK is completed in time, he could make his debut away to Kallithea on Sunday night.Martial has been a free agent since leaving Manchester United earlier this summerCredit: Alamy More

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    Man Utd and West Ham on transfer red alert with Leon Goretzka ‘unhappy’ after Bayern Munich axe

    BAYERN MUNICH have put a host of Premier League clubs on red alert by admitting that Leon Goretzka is “unhappy”.The 29-year-old German international midfielder has been brutally axed by new boss Vincent Kompany this term following the arrival of Joao Palhinha from Fulham.Leon Goretzka is unhappy at Bayern MunichCredit: GettyAnd his potential availability has put several clubs including Man Utd on alert over a transferCredit: GettyGoretzka has been at Bayern since 2018 and remains under contract until 2026 but he could be set to push for a move in January.He has played just one minute of competitive football under Kompany and failed to even make the bench for Saturday’s 6-1 victory over Holstein Kiel.Manchester United and West Ham have been long-term admirers of the experienced star.A host of other top-flight clubs would also be keen should Goretzka become available.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnd the prospect of him departing Bayern appears to be very real as director of sport Max Eberl revealed how miserable the ex-Schalke man is.He said: “We communicated very clearly from the start.“Leon knew that we were relying on Pavlo [Aleksandar Pavlovic], and that we would bring in with Palhinha and that Josh [Kimmich] would play more in the centre again.”He added: “We’ve also said that when Leon is there and ready to face the situation, he’ll be treated completely normally.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“Leon’s a great guy. I like him a lot, even though he’s obviously upset at the moment. I understand that too. But that’s part of life in football.”Bayern know that his value will drop significantly once he enters the final 12 months of his contract in June.Manchester United vs SouthamptonThat means that they could look to push him out of the door in January with a potential loan-to-buy agreement.Although his £273,000-a-week wages could be an issue.Man Utd ratings vs Southampton as Onana saves a penalty and Rashford finally scoresMARCUS RASHFORD scored his first Premier League goal in 189 days as Manchester United cruised to a 3-0 victory at Southampton.The Red Devils got back to winning ways after suffering defeats in their last two Prem games, with Matthijs de Ligt notching his first Man Utd goal.But United had Andre Onana to thank as the keeper kept out Cameron Archer’s penalty at 0-0.Here’s how SunSport’s Charlie Wyett rated United’s stars…Andre Onana – 7Saved the penalty by Cameron Archer, albeit a poor one from the Southampton forward.But that stop and the stopped rebound proved to be absolutely crucial.Noussair Mazraouri – 7Needed treatment after falling awkwardly in the first half but that did not stop him from delivering a solid performance.Also got forward to good effect before being one of three United defenders to be subbed off.Matthijs De Ligt – 8Shaky start defensively but was unmarked to score from Bruno Fernandes cross to calm United’s nerves with the opener.He was delighted to get his first United goal and dedicated his celebration to his wife’s birthday today.Lisandro Martinez – 7Not been in great form so anything was an improvement – although Saints’ attack was toothless.Diogo Dalot – 5Suffered an absolute shocker of a first half courtesy of Southampton’s tricky wingers.Conceded the penalty after bringing down Tyler Dibling but was also constantly exposed throughout the half.Kobbie Mainoo – 6United continue to lean far too heavily on such a young player. And this defensive role does not really suit him.Christian Eriksen – 7A surprise starter although United’s two goals came from his corners.The system, though, still does not play to his strengths as he is too deep.Bruno Fernandes – 7Cracking corner cross ball from Eriksen who plonked the ball on the head of De Ligt.Amad Diallo – 7Looked lively throughout – really encouraging. Teed up Rashford for the second goal.Joshua Zirkzee – 6Forced a couple of saves by Aaron Ramsdale but does not look like a 25 goal-a-season striker.Marcus Rashford – 7Hopefully the second goal will give him a real confidence boost. Also forced a couple of saves from Aaron Ramsdale.SUBSGarnacho (for Rashford 73 mins) 7Was brutally fouled by Stephens who saw red shortly after coming on. Notched United’s third goal of the game in the final minute.He struck high into Ramsdale’s high corner after a brilliant ball from Casemiro.Manuel Ugarte (for Eriksen 73 mins) 6Harry Maguire (for Mazraouri 74 mins) 6Jonny Evans (for Martinez 77 mins) 6 More