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    Man Utd eye transfer for £55m-rated Bournemouth star but face competition from Real Madrid

    MANCHESTER UNITED are eyeing a summer swoop for Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen.The Spain youth international, 19, has a release clause for around £55million in his contract that kicks in come July.Dean Huijsen is a summer transfer target for Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyThe Dutch-born teenager is also a target for Real MadridCredit: GettyAnd the Dutch-born teenager’s outstanding performances for the high-flying Cherries have caught the eye of Man United boss Ruben Amorim as the Portuguese coach plots his summer transfer moves.But they are not alone, with Real Madrid, the Premier League’s top sides and Germany’s big clubs also interested in Huijsen as he matures under boss Andoni Iraola at Vitality Stadium.Amorim may be without centre half Lisandro Martinez until the autumn as the Argentine has a cruciate ligament injury.Victor Lindelof is out of contract at the end of the season.READ MORE ON MAN UTDDefenders Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro have been criticised by Old Trafford legend Paul Scholes over their lack of quality.Huijsen cost Bournemouth just £12.6m last summer from Juventus.But he has impressed with his swift adaptation to English football and is now an integral part of a team which has achieved remarkable success this season.Bournemouth are seventh in the Premier League with a chance to qualify for European football for the first time and Huijsen is at the heart of that.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe top flight’s smallest club has also secured stunning results, beating champions Manchester City, Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, Newcastle and Amorim’s United just before Christmas.Bournemouth are aware of the mushrooming levels of interest in their player and in an ideal world would keep him. ‘He’s got a pair of b——s,’ says Rio Ferdinand as he hits back at Roy Keane’s criticism of Man Utd star GarnachoBut they are also realistic enough to know it would be difficult to turn down a mega offer this summer.Amsterdam-born Huijsen, 19, started his career in Spain and is a citizen of that country after his family moved there when he was five.He also played for Juventus but made only one appearance for them before being loaned to Serie A rivals Roma.He was then sold to Bournemouth last summer. More

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    Gary O’Neil wanted in swift return to management just two months after being sacked by Wolves

    GARY O’NEIL is being eyed for a swift managerial return two months after he was sacked by Wolves.The Premier League side sacked O’Neil in December during the midst of a relegation battle following a horror run of form which had left them in 19th place.Gary O’Neil is being lined up as a target for BlackburnCredit: APIt comes after John Eustace triggered a release clause in his contract to pursue a move to DerbyCredit: PABut the managerial market has had a stunning change of circumstances in recent weeks. Blackburn are hunting for a new boss with the club on the brink of losing John Eustace.Rovers released a damning statement about the situation, which had seen Eustace trigger a shock release clause in his contract in order to talk to Championship rival Derby.And the managerial merry-go-round could see former Bournemouth boss O’Neil handed the reins at promotion-chasing Blackburn.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLO’Neil, 41, is the only British manager on the club’s list, according to SunSport’s Alan Nixon.Other names being considered are former Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka, ex-Sheffield Wednesday manager Carlos Carvalhal and former Young Boys gaffer Raphael Wicky.O’Neil’s final press conference at Wolves saw him launch a huge defence of his actions, insisting the players shared the blame for the club’s poor performance.He said: “I’m not interested in my own position. I know the work I do every day and I know the situation we are in.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”I know getting this group to perform the way they did took a lot of work. People can point the finger at me but some of the responsibility has to land on the players.”I’m comfortable with myself as a coach, my standards and what I ask of the group. I also embrace this difficult moment. Kai Havertz ruled out for rest of SEASON with torn hamstring in devastating blow to Arsenal’s title dreams”That group downstairs needs me this week to help get them into a place where they are ready to go. I will keep fighting for them and with them until I’m told not to.”It doesn’t mean I don’t think I’m going to get sacked. For every [poor] result which comes the chances of me losing my job heightens. It doesn’t concern me, the situation drives me to want to do better.” More

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    ‘I think so’ – Real Betis CEO hints Antony’s loan transfer could be made permanent to end flop’s Man Utd nightmare

    REAL BETIS are interested in keeping Manchester United flop Antony for an extra year.The Brazil winger — on loan at the LaLiga club for the rest of the season with no option to buy — has started well in Spain.Real Betis are interested in keeping Manchester United flop AntonyCredit: AFPAntony moved to Betis on loan from Man Utd after a series of poor performancesCredit: PAAntony, 24, struggled for game time at United and Betis chief exec Ramon Alcaron – when asked if he could stay permanently said: “Yes, I think so.“The other day the CEO of United called me.“We sent them details of the player throughout the week so they can see we’re looking after their asset.“We have very good chemistry with United and the player, who is happy here.Read More on Man Utd“It is a possibility that he will continue next season, why not?”Antony joined United in 2022 following a whopping £86million deal with Ajax.However, the winger never managed to live up to the bill as he only amassed a mere total of 12 goals and five assists in 96 appearances with Man Utd.However, the Brazil international has hit the ground running at Betis ever since his loan move last month.Most read in FootballThe forward provided an assist on his debut against Athletic Bilbao during a 2-2 draw at the Benito Villamarin.The ex-Ajax star then scored on his second match at Celta Vigo during a 3-2 loss.Paul Scholes tells Ruben Amorim Man Utd are staring relegation in the face unless they make seven new signings Antony is looking to regain his former goalscoring prowess that led to his blockbuster move to Old Trafford.The Brazilian burst onto the scene at Ajax where he registered a total of 24 goals and 22 assists in 82 appearances during a two-year stint in Amsterdam. More

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    Newcastle reject measly late transfer offer for Kieran Trippier with Galatasaray willing to offer lucrative contract

    GALATASARAY had a late bid rejected by Newcastle for Kieran Trippier hours before the Turkish transfer window shut on Tuesday.The veteran full-back, 34, has been linked with an exit from St James’ for months and has endured a difficult campaign both on and off the pitch.Newcastle rejected a late for Kieran Trippier from NewcastleCredit: GettyA year ago it was Bayern Munich who wanted the star before several Saudi Arabian clubs wanted him.However, Galatasaray were the latest to try and test the waters but they could only conjure up a measly offer of £2.5m for the ex-England ace.Having sold Miguel Almiron and Lloyd Kelly to Atlanta United and Juventus respectively last month, Toon chiefs know they will not face any PSR sanction come June.Despite the chance to make some extra cash to bolster the summer transfer kitty, boss Eddie Howe was determined to hang on to Trippier.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSun Sport understands that the Turkish giants were willing to offer the player a lucrative three-year package to move abroad.However, Howe got his wish and the Magpies knocked back the late bid.Trippier has played second fiddle to Tino Livarmento for much of the season but he shone when brought back into the side for last week’s win over Arsenal.And that led to Howe declaring afterwards that he was determined to keep hold of the experienced ex-Tottenham and Atletico Madrid man.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHe said: “Yeah, no part of us wanted to lose Kieran. He’s had a difficult season and not so much on the pitch.“He’s had a couple of fitness issues that just halted his progress.Newcastle’s Alexander Isak talks to Alan Shearer about Champions League desires “He then came back into the team and had a really good couple of performances around Christmas time and showed his qualities again having not played a lot of football.”Trippier, who is believed to be out of contract this summer, will now be looking to play a key role in helping Newcastle secure Champions League as well as end their 70-year wait for major silverware when they face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup Final next month. More

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    Benjamin Mendy joins relegation-battling Swiss club in shock free transfer after terminating contract at Ligue 2 side

    BENJAMIN MENDY has joined FC Zurich in a shock free transfer.The defender has not featured all season having been exiled by Lorient manager Olivier Pantaloni.Benjamin Mendy has left Lorient on a free transferCredit: AFPHe has signed an 18-month contract with FC ZurichCredit: InstagramMendy, 30, has now completed his much expected exit of the Ligue 2 club.The full-back has signed a deal that will run until the summer of 2026.Zurich president Ancillo Canepa has insisted Mendy will provide support to the young players.He said: “Of course, we are very pleased and also a little proud that we could sign such a high-quality player.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”He will be above all an important support for our young players.”Zurich are currently 8th in the Swiss Super League and could end in the relegation round with five other teams.Mendy had joined Lorient in 2023 on a two-year contract but was hampered by injuries in his first season.In total the former Manchester City player only featured 15 times for the club.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe made the move to the Etihad in 2017 in a big-money move from AS Monaco.During his time at the Cityzens, he played 75 games, scoring two goals and adding 12 assists.Wayne Rooney rips into Man City after just three seconds of Amazon Prime jobHe left the club by mutual consent in 2023 having not played since August 2021 following an accusation of rape.He was suspended by Man City after he was arrested.Mendy was cleared of rape and attempted rape at Chester Crown Court in 2023.He has also won a legal battle with Man City over £11.5million in unpaid wages. More

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    Man Utd could offload £375k a week flop Casemiro in shock transfer THIS MONTH but new club admit it’s ‘risky business’

    MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly set to offload Casemiro in a shock transfer to Flamengo, who admit it’s “risky business.”Casemiro, 32, has fallen out of favour at United under Ruben Amorim and has featured for just 20 minutes in the last five matches.Man Utd flop Casemiro is set for a ‘risky’ move to FlamengoCredit: GettyHe currently pockets a whopping £375,000-a-week to boot, one of the biggest salaries going.And United were eager to offload Casemiro before the winter transfer window slammed shut last week.However, it remains open in some countries outside Europe.One of those is Casemiro’s native Brazil.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd reports in his homeland claim that Flamengo are set to complete a sensational loan swoop shortly.Casemiro, who began his football career at rivals Sao Paulo, is likely to jump at the chance of an exit.Antony, Marcus Rashford and Tyrell Malacia all completed loan moves away from United in the winter window.And Flamengo are even said to be ready to pay part of his mammoth annual salary.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHowever, they reportedly understand there is a huge risk in paying out so much money due to Casemiro’s advanced years and recent decline in performances.Journalist Jorge Nicola said: “I can assure you that Flamengo investigated the player’s situation in the last few days.Man Utd fans baffled by Fred’s reaction to team-mate having object thrown at him in fiery Fenerbahce clash “The English club agreed to loan him and help with part of his salary. Filipe Luis would love to count on Casemiro.“Flamengo understands that, given all the figures, it is a very risky business.“Even though United are willing to help with most of the salary, there would still be a very high amount to be paid.” More

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    Controversial Crystal Palace shareholder John Textor wants to SELL top-scorer Jean-Philippe Mateta to his other team

    CRYSTAL PALACE hitman Jean-Philippe Mateta is an ambitious target for Lyon — in a controversial move planned by John Textor.Textor, the French club’s American owner, wants them to bid for the in-form star this summer.Jean-Philippe Mateta could leave Crystal Palace this summerCredit: ReutersJohn Textor has a share of both Palace and LyonCredit: GettyBut that will not go down well at Palace, where Textor is also a major shareholder — even if he is planning to sell his stake.Frenchman Mateta will be in demand in the next window and the Eagles will have a fight on their hands to keep him.Yet Lyon may have to reach the Champions League to have a real chance of tempting Mateta, who has scored ten league goals so far this season.The powerful striker, 27, will seek to join an elite club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPalace would look for at least £50million for Mateta and if he continues his form, there could be big Premier League interest.Meanwhile, the Eagles have earmarked two rising centre-halves to replace Marc Guehi — Burnley’s Maxime Esteve and Middlesbrough’s Rav van den Berg.They realise England defender Guehi will have to be sold in the summer amid interest from Newcastle, Tottenham and Chelsea.Palace were priced out of their first choice, Strahinja Pavlovic, with AC Milan asking for £35m.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFrenchman Esteve, 22, has been impressive for Burnley in a defence that has conceded just nine goals in 31 Championship games.Dutch star Van den Berg, 20, has caught the eye at Boro and Palace will be watching him closely in the run-in this season.His older brother Sepp, 23, plays for Brentford.Fans joke Ian Wright’s coat ‘reminded them to take the bins out’ as Arsenal legend hosts FA Cup clash More

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    ‘We don’t miss him’ – Chelsea boss Maresca fires brutal parting shot at Joao Felix after sending £46m flop out on loan

    CHELSEA boss Enzo Maresca fired a brutal parting shot at Joao Felix after his move to AC Milan.Felix, 25, has joined the Serie A side on loan until the end of the season.Joao Felix has signed a loan deal with AC Milan until the end of the seasonCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca insists Chelsea do ‘not miss’ FelixCredit: GettyThe versatile Portuguese attacker’s exit comes just six months into his seven-year contract after the Blues signed him in a £46million deal from Atletico Madrid.With strikers Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu out injured, Chelsea crashed out the FA Cup in a 2-1 loss to Brighton.The club’s decision to allow Felix to leave was questioned, but the manager insisted he does not need him.Maresca said: “I don’t think we miss Joao. Joao is happy there and we are happy Joao is happy there. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We had two striker injuries on Deadline Day, it is something difficult to think. “Nico can be back very soon. Sometimes I think you need to play some games without players to realise how important they are. “Off the ball, his pressing is always very good and on the ball he is a threat always.”Before the defeat to Brighton, Maresca asked about Felix, saying: “I don’t know about the future. It’s complicated to talk about the future.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Nothing bad happened. Players train everyday and want to play all the games.”But just 11 are playing. We decided together that it was a good option to leave. He never complained.”Bizarre moment Enzo Fernandez gives fan his shorts after Chelsea clash… but supporter SNIFFS themFelix started just three Premier League games this season, with the majority of his appearances coming in cup competitions.Christopher Nkunku led the line for Chelsea against Brighton but struggled. Maresca previously admitted he was open to playing Cole Palmer up front.Chelsea ratings vs Brighton as pantomime villain Cucurella can hold head high but Nkunku has a shockerBRIGHTON came from behind to dump Chelsea out of the FA Cup with Kaoru Mitoma’s perfectly placed chip securing a 2-1 win for the Seagulls at the Amex stadium.But how did Chelsea’s players fare? Who was the biggest let down and who was the best of the worst? Check out SunSport’s player ratings…Robert Sanchez – 5/10Back in the side after being dropped by Enzo Maresca after a number of errors this season. The Spaniard looked shaky on the ball at the start of the game but seemed to brush off his nerves as the match developed.Nothing he could do about Brighton’s opener with Georginio Rutter’s perfectly placed header flying past him.Perhaps a little slow off his line for Brighton’s winner, but take nothing away from Kaoru Mitoma’s perfectly executed chip.Malo Gusto – 5Worked tirelessly charging up and down the right flank for Chelsea, but failed to have much joy going forward or defensively.Struggled to deal with the dangerous Mitoma throughout the game, and was caught napping out of position for the Japanese forwards winner.Tosin Adarabioyo – 5Alongside Trevoh Chalobah, was guilty of allowing Georginio Rutter to drift into space to fire home Brighton’s early equaliser.Played some confident passes at times, but also looked like a walking mistake on the ball at times. Was caught in possession on the halfway line by Georginio Rutter which almost led to a Brighton goal.Trevoh Chalobah  – 6Equally as responsible for Brighton’s opening goal alongside his centre back partner, allowing Rutter a free header in the box.Was more composed on the ball than his Tosin throughout the game, however, and already looks like Chelsea’s best centre back after being recalled from loan.Marc Cucurella – 6The pantomime villain of the evening at the Amex stadium, with Brighton fans spending the full 90 minutes booing their ex player everytime he got a hold of the ball.Was solid throughout the game, although failed to have the attacking impact that he has had for Chelsea in recent games.Moises Caicedo – 6Looked to be running a one man midfield before Enzo Fernandez was introduced in the second half.Worked tirelessly but was clearly frustrated with his sides efforts, putting in a couple of nasty tackles which led to him being booked.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 4A rare start for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall at Chelsea this season, and in truth, he failed to take advantage.A very poor challenge early on saw the Englishman booked, and he failed to have any impact on his side going forward or defensively in the first half.Was substituted fifteen minutes into the second half for Enzo Fernandez in the wake of Brighton’s second goal.Pedro Neto – 5An injury concern midway through the first half, which in truth he never quite looked to shake off.Looked confident he had the better of Tariq Lamptey, often beating his fullback. His final ball, however, was sorely lacking throughout the match, with a number of crosses flying over everyoneCole Palmer – 6Played his part in Chelsea’s opener with a first time cross into the box – although it’s difficult to mark that goal down as anything other than a Bart Verbruggen howler.Looked like he was missing his regular attacking partner Nicholas Jackson, with a clear lack of connection with the Frenchman Christopher Nkunku up top.Jadon Sancho – 5Looked uninterested for large parts of the first half, and failed to close down Joel Veltman who whipped in the cross for Brighton’s opener.He picked up in the second half with some direct dribbling, although never managed to find the final ball.Christopher Nkunku – 2It’s hard not to feel sorry for Nkunku, with the forward looking completely lost in Enzo Maresca’s system.It genuinely seemed like he wasn’t on the pitch at times, with the Frenchman missing in action for large parts of the game.The one clear chance he had running through on goal, he bizarrely elected to cross the ball rather than have an effort himself.SUBS:Enzo Fernandez (Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, 59) – 7Brought an air of control to Chelsea’s midfield which was sorely lacking before. Played a few nice passes with the short time he had on the pitch.Nothing came of his efforts, although perhaps the result would have been different for Chelsea had he started the game.Tyrique George (Jadon Sancho, 73) – 5Spurned a great opportunity over the bar, and other than that failed to have any impact. More