More stories

  • in

    Barcelona considering sensational transfer swoop for Neymar – but only if they can’t lure Premier League star

    BARCELONA are reportedly considering a shock move for Neymar.The Brazilian could make a sensational return to the club seven years after his exit.Barcelona are considering a move to bring Neymar back to the club next summerCredit: APHowever, Barca’s pursuit is dependant on them missing out on signing a Premier League star.Neymar was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for a world record £198million in 2017 after four years in Spain.During that time, he scored 105 goals and provided 76 assists in 186 appearances for Barcelona.He also won nine trophies with the club, including the Champions League and a pair of league titles.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAccording to Sport, Neymar could now return to the Nou Camp next summer.The report claims Barca are considering a move for the 32-year-old if they miss out on signing Erling Haaland first.Haaland is understood to be their priority target for the 2025 summer transfer window.Neymar remains a target, though, with his Al-Hilal contract expiring at the end of the season.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSClub president Joan Laporta wants to give him another chance but would face competition from Brazilian side Flamengo.Laporta’s relationship with Neymar’s agent Pini Zahavi could boost his hopes of striking a deal.Top 10 highest paid sports stars in 2024Barca would reportedly only look to sign Neymar if they cannot bring in Erling HaalandCredit: GettyBarcelona will also be helped by his desire to play at the 2026 World Cup with the offer to play high level football again.Neymar joined Al-Hilal last summer, penning a two-year deal worth £314million.However, he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament just two months later after making just five appearances for the Saudi Pro League side.After a year out with the injury, Neymar recently returned to training and could make his comeback at the end of this month.Neymar spent four years with Barcelona before his world record move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017Credit: Getty More

  • in

    Former Liverpool star Roberto Firmino reveals ‘straw that broke the camel’s back’ and ended Anfield career on the spot

    ROBERTO FIRMINO has revealed the moment he realised he had to leave Liverpool.The Brazilian, 33, played for the Reds for eight years between 2015 and 2023.Roberto Firmino played for Liverpool between 2015 and 2023Credit: Richard Pelham / The SunDuring his Anfield stint he played a key role within Jurgen Klopp’s front three alongside Sadio Mane and Mo Salah.Firmino helped Liverpool win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup before leaving for Saudi Arabia.During his last few seasons on Merseyside, the forward became less of a regular feature within Jurgen Klopp’s starting XI.In his book, entitled Si Senor: My Liverpool Years, Firmino detailed exactly when he decided that he had to leave his beloved Anfield.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe wrote: “The straw that broke the camel’s back was a match against Wolves, in which I came on as a substitute in the last minute. That was it. Right there, I understood.”As we say in Brazil, the penny dropped. I knew now. I called my agents. Roger Wittmann and Christian Rapp met with me for a face-to-face talk.”We left the living room and went to my room: just me, Christian, Roger and Larissa, no distractions.”Christian and Roger were perfectly transparent about everything that was happening and the club’s view of my future.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFirmino replaced Darwin Nunez late on during a clash with WolvesCredit: Rex”It wasn’t a war. It was just a difference in understanding about what I could offer to Liverpool. I reflected a lot and realised that God’s plan was to take me somewhere else.”The signs were all there since that conversation with Pastor Daniel in Maceio. I had been stubborn.Football’s weirdest contract clauses revealed including non-Arsenal agreement and a private jet promise”God didn’t want me to stay in Liverpool, but I was insisting. I didn’t listen. But I couldn’t avoid it any more. It was time to accept.”I decided it was time to seek another challenge for myself, another purpose. My time at Liverpool had come to an end.”The match Firmino referenced was a 2-0 win over Wolves at Anfield in March 2023.Virgil van Dijk broke the deadlock with a header on 73 minutes, before Mo Salah quickly made it two.That night, with Mane having left the previous summer, Klopp started a front three featuring Salah, Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez.Klopp decided against bringing Firmino on as his side chased the opening goal, and even after going 1-0 up opted to bring on Cody Gakpo first.Firmino finally came on in the 89th minute, replacing Nunez for the closing stages.He would then come on for an 11-minute cameo the following week, grabbing a goal and an assist in the 7-0 rout of Manchester United.The Anfield icon went on to start just two more games for the Reds.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat summer he departed for Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli on a free transfer after 111 goals in 362 games for Liverpool.Since moving to the Middle East he has netted 12 times in 43 games, with his team finishing third last term.Firmino, 33, now plies his trade in Saudi ArabiaCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Man Utd cult hero Federico Macheda signs for his 13th club as career nosedives 15 years after heroics against Villa

    MANCHESTER UNITED cult hero Federico Macheda has signed for his THIRTEENTH club just 15 years after his iconic debut against Aston Villa.The Italian striker, 33, was most recently at Turkish Super Lig side Ankaragucu, where he netted just once in 14 games.Federico Macheda has just signed for his THIRTEENTH club with Greek side Asteros TripolisMacheda is a Man Utd fan favourite after his incredible debutCredit: Getty – ContributorMacheda made just ONE appearance for them last season after falling out of favour.But he is now set for a brand new start after moving to Greece.Macheda has penned a deal with top-flight side Asteras Tripolis.And he will be managed by none other than Chelsea legend Claude Makelele, who took charge last month after a trophy-laden playing career.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMacheda is now at his 13th club, having made his pro debut at United 15 years ago in 2009.The forward immediately endeared himself to fans by netting a 93rd minute winner against Aston Villa aged 17.And he remains United’s youngest-ever Premier League scorer to this day.But a dip in form and several injury setbacks saw Macheda get less and less chances under Sir Alex Ferguson.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe embarked on a series of loans to Sampdoria, QPR, Stuttgart, Doncaster and Birmingham.And Macheda was finally released in 2014 after five goals in 36 outings, with Cardiff quickly moving for him.Cristiano Ronaldo ‘agreed to rejoin Man Utd with Real Madrid star in £200m deal’ Macheda came off the bench to net a 93rd minute winner against Aston Villa in 2009Credit: Getty – ContributorMacheda remains United’s youngest-ever Premier League scorerCredit: Getty – ContributorHe will be managed in Greece by Chelsea legend Claude MakeleleCredit: Getty – ContributorThe former Italy U21s star netted eight goals in 33 games for the Welsh side while also taking in a brief loan spell at Nottingham Forest.In 2016 he moved to Italy’s second tier with Novara, scoring 11 times in 52 games across two campaigns.And Macheda then ended up spending four seasons with Panathinaikos, clocking up 116 appearances and 40 goals in the process.His 2022 move to Ankaragucu did not work though, with Macheda joining his 12th club APOEL on a six-month loan.But the ace is determined to have another successful stint in Greece, with Makelele hopeful of helping Macheda rediscover his best form with 13th side Asteras. More

  • in

    Prem title winner Mario Balotelli, 34, ‘debating’ transfer to minnows with stadium 26 times smaller than Man City

    MARIO BALOTELLI is nearing a move to Spanish lower-league side Intercity, according to reports.The Italian, 34, has been without a club since leaving Turkish outfit Adana Demirspor in June.Mario Balotelli played for Adana Demirspor last seasonCredit: GettyThe former Manchester City and Liverpool star did not find a new team prior to the summer transfer deadline.But according to Spanish outlet AS, a deal to join Spanish third-tier side Intercity is getting closer.They add that talks are “ongoing” but that the deal is not yet over the line.Balotelli scored seven goals in 16 games in Turkey’s top flight last season, having missed much of the campaign with a knee injury.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe even wore Adana Demirspor’s captain’s armband on a few occasions prior to leaving.Intercity were formed in 2017 and play in Spain’s Alicante region.They boast one player among their ranks that has previously played in English football; ex-Middlesbrough and Birmingham ace Emilio Nsue.The full-back, 34, played in England between 2014 and 2018, before later going on to sign for Intercity in 2022.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMario Balotelli career stats2006 – Lumezzane 2 (0)2007-2010 – Inter Milan 86 (28)2010-2013 – Man City 80 (30)2013-14 – AC Milan 41 (18)2014-2016 – Liverpool 28 (4)2015-16 – AC Milan (loan) 23 (3)2016-2019 – Nice 76 (43)2019 – Marseille 15 (8)2019-20 – Brescia 19 (5)2020-21 – Monza 14 (6)2021-22 – Adana Demirspor 33 (19)2022-23 – Sion 19 (6)2023-2024 – Adana Demirspor 16 (7)Should Balotelli join the Spanish side, he could find himself going up against reserve teams.That’s because Intercity play in the same league as Sevilla, Real Betis and Atletico Madrid’s B teams, drawing 1-1 with the latter last month.Former Premier League bad boy Mario Balotelli takes up new sport as he ‘calls out former UFC champion’Intercity’s stadium holds a capacity of just 2,000 people – a far cry from the 53,600 that can pack into the Etihad for Man games.Intercity are listed on the stock exchange, with the possible arrival of Balotelli potentially raising the value of shares.Should they close a deal for the former Azzurri international, he would not be able to be registered for games until January.He could join up to train with them, however, giving him three months to get himself fully fit.Balotelli, 34, played for Man City between 2010 and 2013Credit: Getty – Contributor More

  • in

    New Man Utd signing arrives at Old Trafford for first time since transfer… only to see horror show against Tottenham

    WONDERKID Chido Obi Martin watched from the stands as Manchester United were thrashed 3-0 by Tottenham.The Red Devils put in a woeful performance on Sunday in the comfortable win for Spurs.Chido Obi Martin was spotted outside Old Trafford on SundayCredit: XObi Martin scored ten goals in one match last termCredit: GettyThe damaging defeat would have done little to reassure the club’s latest signing that he has made the right move, with new boy Obi Martin at Old Trafford for the first time to watch the game.Footage has emerged of teen sensation outside the stadium on Sunday.It comes just days after the Premier League ratified his switch from Arsenal to Man Utd.The 16-year-old has already agreed personal terms with the club and now has the green light to put pen to paper.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLObi Martin is currently a free agent after his contract at Arsenal expired.He has been tipped as a future star and he went viral last season after scoring TEN goals against Liverpool in a 14-3 win for the Gunners’ Under-16s team.Overall, the Danish-born striker scored 32 goals in 24 appearances in the youth-team last term.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThat tally includes a seven-goal haul against Norwich, five goals versus West Ham, four strikes in back-to-back games over Crystal Palace and Fulham as well as two more hat-tricks.Most read in FootballObi Martin’s goalscoring saw him train with the Arsenal first-team last season.Despite representing Denmark on the international stage, there has been rumours that the FA are hoping to convince him to represent England in the future.’He’s done!’ | How woeful tactics & Dalot shocker saw Spurs smash Man Utd to spell end for Ten HagMan Utd ratings vs TottenhamMANCHESTER UNITED suffered a 3-0 thrashing against Tottenham at Old Trafford.Captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off in the first half for fouling James Maddison, forcing Erik Ten Hag’s side to play with 10 men against Ange Postecoglou’s team.After back-to-back draws against Crystal Palace and FC Twente fans hoped United would redeem themselves against Spurs.However, the match at Old Trafford quickly turned sour. Brennan Johnson scored early and things worsened when Fernandes was sent off allowing Spurs to extend their lead to 3-0.And here is how SunSports Charlie Wyett rated the Manchester United stars.Andre Onana – 5Stood his ground to deliver a good save from Timo Werner who was clean through – no chance for either goal.Noussair Mazraoui – 5First in the refs’ book for chopping down Destiny Udogie. Could also have blocked Micky van de Ven for the goal. Just watched Solanke make it 3-0.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Shocking first half. Failed to cut out the cross from Micky van de Ven which led to the first goal.Lisandro Martinez – 5Switched off for the Spurs goal and was drawn to the ball and Johnson was left unmarked.Diogo Dalot – 5Gave the ball away in dangerous areas and struggled against Johnson.Manuel Ugarte – 5Suffered a stinker and was lucky to last until the 73rd minute.Kobbie Mainoo – 5Not one of his better performances and was taken off just before half-time following Fernandes’ sending-off.Marcus Rashford – 5Over-ran the ball for Tottenham’s first. Way off the pace.Bruno Fernandes – 4Arguably the worst captain in United’s history. Deserved red card for his challenge on James Maddison.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Had United’s only chance in the first half but hit the outside of the post. Improved in the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5Looked completely lost up front – threatening to be another poor Erik ten Hag signing. Replaced at half-time.Subs:Mount (for Mainoo 45)  5, Casemiro (for Zirkzee 46) 7, Hojlund (for Rashford 73) 5, Eriksen (for Ugarte 73) 5. More

  • in

    Graham Potter hilariously breaks silence on Man Utd talks and ‘being linked with Napoli and Stoke in the same week’

    GRAHAM POTTER addressed speculation linking him with the top job at Manchester United with a hilarious quip.Potter, 49, has been a free agent since his dismissal by Chelsea 18 months ago but continues to be touted as a potential successor to under-fire United boss Erik ten Hag.Graham Potter addressed speculation linking him with Manchester United with a jokeCredit: ReutersMan Utd boss Erik ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford is becoming increasingly untenableCredit: PATen Hag’s position at Old Trafford is under threat after Sunday’s 3-0 thumping by Tottenham in another hapless display by the Red Devils.And the ex-Brighton manager broke his silence amid all the continuous talk linking him with the job.Potter, who was appearing on MNF on Sky Sports, said when asked if he’d enjoy the challenge of managing United: “I am sitting here enjoying the challenge of answering your questions.”The ex-Chelsea boss was less coy when asked about reports suggesting he was approached by Man Utd chiefs during the summer before they decided to hold on to Ten Hag.Read More on Man UtdThe former Swansea manager added: “I take what the media say with a pinch of salt.”I am the only coach in world football to be linked with Stoke City and Napoli in the same week. “I have had lots of conversations with lots of people and I think out of respect to those people it’s best those are kept private.”BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPotter also joked about taking the England job ahead of Bournemouth’s 3-1 win over Southampton. He said: “I think it’s time for a commercial break, isn’t it?!Most read in Football”As an Englishman, of course it’s a fantastic job and I’m supportive of FA and what they decide to do and whoever the next coach is.”Gareth did a fantastic job and I’m sure Lee will in his time, however long that is.”Potter, though, doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to return to the dugout after 12 years of non-stop work for the likes of Ostersunds, Swansea, Brighton and Chelsea.The Solihull tactician admitted he deliberately decided to step away from the limelight and focus on his family.Watch Graham Potter’s reaction as he is asked about England manager job moments after earning uni degreePotter recently admitted: “I spent some time with the family, [to] connect with them after a 12-year journey which has started in the fourth tier of Swedish football and ends in the last eight of the Champions League.”Graham Potter’s managerial careerA brief look at Graham Potter’s managerial career to date…2008 – 2011: Leeds Beckett University Carnegie2011 – 2018: Ostersund 2018 – 2019: Swansea City2019 – 2022: Brighton and Hove Albion2022 – 2023: Chelsea More

  • in

    Former Man Utd wonderkid Ravel Morrison’s career plummets to new low as he makes very rogue free transfer

    FORMER Manchester United wonderkid Ravel Morrison has signed for his 14th career club – this time heading to Dubai. Morrison was considered one for the future after coming through United’s academy alongside the likes of Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard. Ravel Morrison has signed for Precision FC in Dubai’s second divisionBut his career has continued to plummet and has now landed in the UAE with Precision FC – in Dubai’s second division. A statement read: “We are beyond excited to welcome the incredible Ravel Morrison to Precision FC! “This is more than a signing – it’s a statement, a game-changer for both our club and football in the UAE.”Known for his electrifying talent and skill, Ravel brings world-class experience and flair that will help our team to achieve it’s goals.READ MORE IN football “This is the start of something extraordinary. Welcome to the family, Ravel!” Morrison only ever made three senior appearances for United before being sold to West Ham in 2012. During his three years signed to the Hammers, he was also loaned out to Birmingham, QPR and Cardiff before joining Lazio in Italy. Morrison spent four years signed to the Italians, but spent a year from 2018-2019 on loan in Mexico with Atlas.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe then joined Ostersund in Sweden before moving back to England with Sheffield United in 2020. But the midfielder was only back in England for a year, which included a loan to Middlesbrough, before going to ADO Den Haag in Netherlands. ‘Bruno Fernandes red card was huge VAR error’ in Man Utd loss to Spurs | Whistleblower, Mark HalseyMorrison’s last transfer to England came in 2021 when he spent a season with Derby before a switch to America with DC United. The 31-year-old was later released by the MLS side and makes his return to football with Precision – who got promoted to Dubai’s second division last season. Morrison joins the likes of Max Johnstone, Matt Lowton and Jamie Ward in the squad.Highly ratedHis rogue transfer to the UAE is all the more incredible when its remembered how highly he was regarded at United.Ex-United ace Quinton Fortune said he had more natural talent than Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo.Speaking to FourFourTwo in 2021 he said: “At a club like Manchester United, it’s very difficult to say who the best youngster was.”Ronaldo was obviously incredible but Wayne Rooney was unbelievable when he arrived too.”But then you had another special talent who hasn’t progressed as he should have done: Ravel Morrison. He was definitely the most naturally talented player I’ve ever seen, but he didn’t make that next step like Ronaldo and Rooney did. In terms of talent, he was up there with them.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFormer Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson also rated him incredibly highly.Rio Ferdinand recalled: “Sir Alex Ferguson, I remember, he called me and Wazza [Wayne Rooney] over one day and said: ‘look at this kid, he’s better than you, Rooney when you were a kid, he’s better than you, Rio, better than Ryan Giggs when you were kids. This is the best kid you will ever see’.”Jesse Lingard and Morrison came up togetherCredit: Action Images – ReutersMorrison had a stint with DerbyCredit: GettyHis last club was D.C. United in MLSCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Liverpool keeper Alisson targeted for shock transfer to European giants managed by Premier League legend

    VINCENT KOMPANY’S Bayern Munich are watching developments on Alisson Becker.The Liverpool keeper, 31,  has been linked with a lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia, possibly as early as the end of the season.Liverpool star goalkeeper Alisson is being targeted by Bayern MunichCredit: AFPBayern would have to splash a fortune to land Alisson from LiverpoolCredit: GettyBayern boss Vincent Kompany could make an ambitious move for Alisson at the end of the seasonCredit: GettyBayern, who have fitness concerns over their No 1 Manuel Neuer, are also very keen but it would take a fortune to land Alisson next summer.Ex-Burnley chief Kompany is a big fan of Alisson from his time in English football and could launch an ambitious move at the end of the campaign.Liverpool are braced for Alisson leaving and have already signed Valencia’s Georgian stopper Giorgi Mamardashvili, 23, to join them permanently next year.Alisson joined the Reds from Roma following a £67million deal in 2018.Read More on FootballSince then, the star goalkeeper has inspired immense confidence between the sticks – something Liverpool had been sorely lacking prior to his arrival.The Brazil international shone bright during Jurgen Klopp’s reign at the helm.The shot stopper helped the Merseysiders win their first Premier League title in 30 years back in 2020.The Brazilian also won the FA Cup, EFL Cup and the Champions League.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAlisson has amassed a grand total of 269 appearances with Liverpool during his six-year stint at the Kop.So far this season, the ex-Roma star has played six times across all competitions.Alisson Becker tells Liverpool to cut out ‘stupid’ conceded goals as keeper awaits first clean sheet of the seasonLiverpool manager Arne Slot, though, could also call upon Caoimhin Kelleher if Alisson decides to leave at the end of the season. More