More stories

  • in

    Man Utd send scout to watch Viktor Gyokeres score for Sweden as Ruben Amorim hopes to land top transfer target

    MANCHESTER UNITED had eyes on Viktor Gyokeres on Saturday as Ruben Amorim’s top target scored his fifth goal of the Nations League campaign.The Sporting Lisbon striker put on another impressive display as he found the back of the net for Sweden in their 2-1 win over Slovakia.Viktor Gyokeres scored in front of a Man Utd scout for SwedenCredit: RexRuben Amorim appears keen on bringing him with him from SportingCredit: GettyUnited sent Sergio Souza — one of their top Scandinavian talent spotters — to Stockholm for the clash and he barely had time to take his seat before Gyokeres struck in the third minute.The former Coventry City star raced onto an Alexander Isak through ball before shooting across Slovakia keeper Martin Dubravka into the bottom corner.Souza revealed his presence at the game in an Instagram video post during the national anthems, although he was no doubt busily scribbling notes by the time Gyokeres had set the stadium alight with his latest strike.The 26-year-old is on pace to outperform his incredible 43-goal debut season in Portuguese football, having hitting the back of the net 23 times for Sporting this term.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHis 16 Primeira Liga goals are double the amount of any other player in the league and he has also netted five Champions League efforts in four games so far.Some of Europe’s biggest clubs are stepping up their interest with Paris Saint-Germain chief Luis Campos having reportedly already reached out to the his representatives.Bayern Munich have also been tipped to enter the bidding if they look to move Harry Kane on in the summer.But United potentially hold an ace up their sleeve with Amorim in place at Old Trafford.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhen asked about a potential move to Man Utd, Gyokeres said: “He probably has some strikers there already, so we’ll see. No, he hasn’t [asked me to join him].“It’s fun but nothing I attach any importance to because it’s talk and nothing concrete.”Dimitar Berbatov tips Viktor Gyokeres to follow Ruben Amorim to Man Utd Gyokeres added: “I want to finish this season at Sporting. I love it here. “We will see [about a new club] when the time comes. I want to play, that’s crucial, and there will be also other factors.”United are currently struggling for goals with their two centre forward options, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, having managed to score just three goals between them all season.On signing players from his old club, Amorim said: “In January I’m not going to get anyone from Sporting.”Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

  • in

    Liverpool ‘identify Mo Salah transfer replacement’ with Egyptian star’s contract expiring in summer and no deal agreed

    LIVERPOOL have identified Lyon star Rayan Cherki as a potential replacement for Mo Salah, according to reports.Salah is out of contract at the end of the season and has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, with Paris Saint-Germain also interested.Liverpool are interested in winger Rayan CherkiCredit: GettyLiverpool are reported to be on the look out for his long-term replacement, and are said to like the look of Eintracht Frankfurt hotshot Omar Marmoush.The Reds are now understood to have identified Cherki as a possible replacement instead, report L’Equipe.Cherki, 21, has a year left on his deal although Lyon have the option to extend.However the French club may need to sell due to their rising debt, which stands at £422million.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLigue 1 have placed a transfer embargo on the club and they will lose their top-flight status at the end of the season unless they improve their situation and avoid going into administration.Cherki made his France debut earlier this year and has scored 19 goals in 152 appearances for Lyon.He has remained coy when asked about his future in the past, suggesting he is focused only on Lyon.Speaking earlier this year, he said: “I don’t think about what’s next at all.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”My future will wait, until the end of the season. Lyon comes first. When the time comes to ask the question, we will ask it, but it is not yet the time.”Fulham have also been tipped to make a move for Cherki after failing with a £35million offer last January.Top 10 highest-paid Premier League starsFive Mo Salah strops at LiverpoolFive times things have got heated during Mo Salah’s Liverpool career.West Ham 2 Liverpool 2 – April 28, 2024Salah gets into a heated argument with Klopp as he refuses to shake the manager’s hand before coming on at the London Stadium.Liverpool 3 Sheffield United 1 – April 4, 2024Salah shakes his head as he is subbed off during Liverpool’s 3-1 win over the basement club.Chelsea 1 Liverpool 1 – August 13, 2023Salah storms off the pitch after being replaced on 77 minutes on the first day of the season.Brighton 1 Liverpool 1 – November 28, 2020Salah throws his arms up in the air and barely looks at Klopp after being subbed off. Brighton go on to equalise with a last minute penalty.Burnley 0 Liverpool 3 – August 31, 2019Salah gets in a public spat with Sadio Mane after failing to pass to the winger. Team-mate Roberto Firmino says the row had been brewing for some time.Read the full article from Jack Rosser More

  • in

    ‘We are not a medical department’, says club chief, as Neymar’s chances of shock transfer brutally ended

    NEYMAR is set for an emotional transfer – after a rival club shot him down in brutal fashion.The Brazilian star, 32, is at a crossroads in his career once again.Neymar has been snubbed by one possible club over his fitness woesCredit: GettyHis £78million move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal has not worked out as planned. The ex-Barcelona and PSG forward missed a year of action following ACL surgery just weeks after making the big-money switch. He suffered yet another physical setback soon after his comeback when he injured his hamstring and limped off. And there has even been talk of Al-Hilal – who won the Saudi Pro League title without their biggest name – ripping up his lucrative £2.5m-a-week contract early.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThat has led to transfer speculation over Neymar’s future as he approaches the swansong of his career.And that includes a return back to his homeland Brazil.However, Palmeiras ruled out a swoop for the three-time Champions League winner in a savage dig.Club president Leila Pereira insisted to UOL they were not interested in the injury-prone forward. Most read in FootballShe said: “I want to invest in someone who can come in immediately, who can start tomorrow if the coach decides.”Palmeiras is not a medical department.Top 10 highest paid footballers”I do not accept that a player signed by Palmeiras is not ready to play immediately.”Instead, though, Pereira seemingly revealed where Neymar will go next.She added: “Great player, but he’s going to Santos.”Neymar came through the youth academy at Santos and announced himself on the world stage as a teenager before earning his move to Barcelona.And now it looks as though he could go full circle by heading back to Santos to finish his career – and enjoy the £7m six-acre private island he has reportedly splashed out on.Reports in Brazil claim Neymar is ready to make the transfer home and an agreement is in place.Now it is simply a matter of working out the termination of the Al-Hilal contract and then figuring the best time to make the huge announcement. The Al-Hilal forward picked up a hamstring problem just weeks after returning from ACL surgeryCredit: GettyPalmeiras club president Leila Pereira took the swipe at the BrazilianCredit: YouTube / UOL EsporteWho are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    Chelsea flop Benoit Badiashile offered way out of Stamford Bridge nightmare with shock transfer to European giants

    CHELSEA star Benoit Badiashile could be set for a January exit, according to reports.The Frenchman, 23, has struggled for game time this season under Enzo Maresca.Benoit Badiashile has been linked with a Chelsea exitCredit: RexBadiashile has been a regular in the cups, starting every Europa Conference League and Carabao Cup tie thus far.But in the Premier League he has been limited to just one 37-minute cameo.According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, Badiashile has attracted interest from Serie A giants Juventus.Thiago Motta’s side are eager to strengthen their back-line in January, following long-term injuries suffered by Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt’s claimed that Juve would be interested in a permanent or loan switch in order to bring Badiashile in.The centre-back cost the Blues £35million when he signed from Monaco nearly two years ago.He has since played 41 times for Chelsea in all competitions, having suffered with groin and hamstring injuries.This season boss Maresca has preferred Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana as his centre-back pairing.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile he also has Tosin Adarabioyo and Axel Disasi to call upon.The Blues have so far defied pre-season expectations and sit third in the Premier League.How Cucurella trapped Saka AGAIN with simple trick but Chelsea have critical Palmer problemLast time out they drew 1-1 with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.Following the international break they return to action next Saturday, when they travel to Maresca’s former club Leicester. More

  • in

    West Ham and Southampton in transfer battle with Celtic for 16-year-old twin wonderkids

    WEST HAM and Southampton are chasing Airdrie’s twin sensations Cole and Dylan Williams.The Premier League clubs are battling to sign the youngsters — and want to snatch them from under Celtic’s nose.West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui could have some more assets in his arsenal soon with the Hammers keen on Cole and Dylan WilliamsCredit: GettyRussell Martin’s Southampton are also keen on the twinsCredit: GettyThe midfielders, 16, can quit the Diamonds, where they are on short-term agreements.The pair have played for Airdrie’s U18s but are yet to make senior debuts for the Scottish Championship side.They both starred at youth level against Celtic, who are keen, but Saints and Irons head the race.Both Cole and Dylan have been unused substitutes for Airdrie three times so far this season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe teenagers were previously on the books at Celtic.West Ham are already looking at some other youngsters as they look to bolster their squad too.The Hammers fancy nabbing Manchester City forgotten man James McAtee as they fear losing Lucas Paqueta.The attacking midfielder will be their top target for the role that could be available in January.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBrazilian star Paqueta is wanted back home by Botafogo and may be sold if the right deal comes in.And West Ham see McAtee as his successor — with the City squad man dubbed the ‘Salford Silva’ because he is similar in style and imagination to Etihad legend David Silva.Lincoln’s Ethan Erhahon reveals players STOLE the physio’s car and he was offered a ‘scrap’ with a fan – What the EFLMcAtee, 22, had two successful campaigns on loan with Sheffield United but is going nowhere, stuck on the bench at City.The time may be right for a permanent move and Hammers should not have a problem affording a fee of £20million or more.West Ham are also keen on signing James McAtee from Manchester CityCredit: Reuters More

  • in

    West Ham decide on Lucas Paqueta replacement with ‘next David Silva’ targeted in £20m transfer

    WEST HAM fancy nabbing Manchester City forgotten man James McAtee as they fear losing Lucas Paqueta.The attacking midfielder will be their top target for the role that could be available in January.West Ham are interested in Man City starlet James McAteeCredit: AlamyLucas Paqueta could leave West HamCredit: RexBrazilian star Paqueta is wanted back home by Botafogo and may be sold if the right deal comes in.And West Ham see McAtee as his successor — with the City squad man dubbed the ‘Salford Silva’ because he is similar in style and imagination to Etihad legend David Silva.McAtee, 22, had two successful campaigns on loan with Sheffield United but is going nowhere, stuck on the bench at City.The time may be right for a permanent move and Hammers should not have a problem affording a fee of £20million or more.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSCity were linked with Paqueta last season — backing away when a gambling probe came to light.They may be interested again but a straight deal for McAtee is more likely than any kind of swap.McAtee has made five first team appearances for City this season.He started both of their Carabao Cup matches, including the 2-1 defeat at Tottenham.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe midfielder also netted his first City goal during the 4-0 Champions League win over Slovan Bratislava.McAtee has been an unused substitute in 10 of City’s 11 Prem matches this term, however, only making a very brief cameo against Ipswich in August.Man City’s James McAtee reflects on his Premier League debut More

  • in

    Wrexham set to spend big on experienced Championship star in January transfer window

    AMBITIOUS Wrexham plan to spend big in January and carry on rising up the EFL.The Welsh League One club have brought in a new backer and will announce a massive sponsorship deal next summer, so they are cash rich.Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have overseen incredible success at WrexhamCredit: GettyTheir main target is a goalscorer with Championship experience.A big fee and wages are on offer.Since Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s takeover, Wrexham have climbed from the fifth tier into the third.They are third in the table, having missed an opportunity to go within a point of top spot earlier today.READ MORE WREXHAM NEWSPhil Parkinson’s men fell 1-0 to Stockport, who were also promoted from League Two last season, at Edgeley Park.In front of a watching Cole Palmer in the stands, Louie Barry bagged the winner in the 24th minute.Parkinson handed recent signing Jon Dadi Bodvarsson his first league start since his acquisition last month.Bodvarsson, 32, started as Iceland beat England in Nice at Euro 2016.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe has since played in England for Wolves, Millwall, Reading and Bolton.Upon signing for his new team, the experienced forward said: “It’s great to be at a Club like Wrexham.Wrexham’s James McClean catches beer thrown by Birmingham fans and pretends to drink it as he winds up supporters in huge League One clash”Everyone knows the history by now and it’s just a very exciting club to be a part of. I’m delighted to be here, and hopefully I can help the club achieve further success.”It’s good to be back in the dressing room. I really missed it – I think my wife was going crazy!”I’ve been training and trying to keep myself fit, but it’s good to be back in the environment and to work on getting my sharpness back.”The manager and the coaches have been really good with me, getting straight back into it.”It’s about finding myself again over the next few months. I want to get my confidence back for myself, work hard for the club, and see where it gets me.”Cole Palmer was in the stands as Stockport took on WrexhamCredit: RexJon Dadi Bodvarsson started for WrexhamCredit: PA More

  • in

    Man Utd legend Nemanja Vidic slams club’s recruitment and questions the ‘character and resilience’ of players

    MANCHESTER UNITED legend Nemanja Vidic criticised the club’s players and recruitment with a brutal assessment.Vidic, 43, won five Premier League titles, the 2008 Champions League and three League Cups during his eight-year stint at Old Trafford where he amassed a staggering 300 appearances.Nemanja Vidic slammed Manchester United’s players and recruitmentVidic experienced tremendous success under Man Utd legend Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Action ImagesThe centre-back continues to watch his beloved club and didn’t hold back on United’s worst ever start to a Premier League season.The ex-Serbia international questioned the players’ “character and resilience” and even dismissed claims that they are under too much pressure.In fact, the former defender insists the Red Devils’ flops could do with some real pressure so that they can finally understand the true demands of the club they are playing for.Vidic told Sky Sports: “Honestly, I don’t think it’s [the] pressure [of] playing for Man Utd. The way Man Utd fans support the club and the players… Read More on Man Utd”They don’t have pressure at all. Because they’re still behind the players and the coaches. I think they need pressure. I think those players, they definitely need pressure. We are all expecting more from them. “Even now we have some fantastic players. I think my question is more about the characters, resilience, [being] ready to compete, to give extra and compete week in week out.”I remember when I was playing for Man Utd: Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Jonny Evans – [I was thinking] they were coming to take my place. “I was scared I was going to lose my place. And that’s normal. If I’m not performing well, they will bring in a new guy. No one had to tell me that.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMan Utd have splashed well over £1billion since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013 and bought hefty flops, such as Angel Di Maria, Alexis Sanchez and Antony.Vidic insists the team’s recruitment needs to change and focus on the right characters rather than the biggest names.Ruben Amorim gives first Man Utd interview and reveals number one priority to revive fallen giantsThe Serbian added: “So a job needs to be done in the next few transfer windows. Not just players they are going to bring in, I think some players definitely have to try and find new teams.”Sometimes you don’t need the best player in the world to play for your club, but you need the right character.”If you want to play for the big clubs, competing for the trophies, you have to be consistent. “And that’s not just down to quality, it’s down to mentality. That’s the key for me.” More