More stories

  • in

    Chelsea ‘offer £77m and two stars including Lukaku to Napoli in sensational swap transfer for Victor Osimhen’

    CHELSEA are willing to fork out £77million, Romelu Lukaku AND another player for Victor Osimhen this summer, according to reports.The Blues are set to retool once again following another disappointing season.Victor Osimhen could be on the move this summerCredit: RexRomelu Lukaku could be thrown into a Chelsea deal for OsimhenCredit: RexWith Mauricio Pochettino’s side looking light up front at times this term, signing a new striker will be on the agenda.According to Italian transfer expert DiMarzio, the Blues have made initial contact with Napoli regarding a deal for Osimhen.The 25-year-old has been among Serie A’s best strikers since moving to Italy from Lille in 2020.With two years remaining on his contract, this could be the summer that Napoli look to cash in on the Nigerian.READ MORE ON CHELSEAChelsea are claimed to be willing to use forgotten man Lukaku in a deal to sign Osimhen.The Belgian, 30, rejoined the Blues in a disastrous £97.5m deal in 2021.He has spent the last two seasons out on loan – firstly at Inter Milan then this time around at Roma.With two years also still remaining on his deal, the Blues will look to get his salary off their wage bill for good this summer.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIn addition to £77m plus Lukaku, Chelsea are also claimed to be willing to throw in a young player to sweeten the deal.Osimhen helped Napoli to a historic Serie A title victory last season.Watch Man Utd and Chelsea transfer target Victor Osimhen celebrate on top of BUS after Napoli’s stunning win at JuventusThis time around he has scored 14 goals in 22 appearances, having missed chunks of the campaign due to a hamstring injury and Afcon.Lukaku, meanwhile, has netted 11 goals in 29 Serie A appearances for Roma, with 19 in all competitions.Chelsea are likely to face strong competition for Osimhen’s signature.Paris Saint-Germain hold interest in the striker, and plan to enter negotiations imminently.The French champions are set to lose Kylian Mbappe this summer, with the forward confirming that he will be leaving Parc des Princes upon the conclusion of his contract.How Pochettino can solve Chelsea’s midfield crisis thanks to the works of a 13th century poetBy Andy Dillon
    IT IS HIGHLY unlikely that Mauricio Pochettino is familiar with the work of Rumi.
    Whether the renowned Islamic poet and mystic had the tactical dilemmas facing Chelsea’s head coach in mind while dreaming up his scholarly works in 13th century Afghanistan, we will never know.
    It’s fair to say Rumi was not a regular in The Shed at Stamford Bridge.
    Yet one of his most famous quotations strikes right at the heart of Pochettino’s problems trying to transform his team into consistent challengers at the top end of the Premier League.
    It was Rumi who wrote so prophetically: “Two birds tied together. They will not be able to fly even though they have four wings.”
    He could have scribbled that on the back of his programme from so many of Chelsea’s games this season with regard to Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez.
    There is a feeling among regular Chelsea watchers that while it is a blow on a personal level for Fernandez to be ruled out for the rest of the season with his injury problem, it may yet turn to Pochettino’s advantage.
    For it allows Caicedo to roam that patch in front of his defence with greater freedom. Both players are exceptional individual talents.
    Read Andy Dillon’s take on Chelsea’s midfield in full.
    Or check out all of Andy Dillon’s articles. More

  • in

    Ipswich ready to take on Fulham in £10m transfer battle for Coventry star after sealing Premier League promotion

    COVENTRY midfielder Ben Sheaf is a wanted man after missing out on promotion.The former Arsenal kid is fancied by Luton and turned down the chance to join the Hatters in the last window.Ben Sheaf is wanted by Ipswich TownCredit: GettyJay Dasilva is also attracting interestCredit: GettyNow Sheaf may be ready for a shot at the top flight.Luton could try to change that if they go down — especially if Ross Barkley moves.The Hatters are on the cusp of relegation back to the Championship following their draw to Everton.Rivals Nottingham Forest beat Sheffield United 3-0 on Saturday to put a three-point buffer between the two.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIpswich and Fulham are also interested. The fee will be in the £10million range.Sheaf, 26, has already faced Premier League opposition this season having helped the Sky Blues to the FA Cup semi-final.During the run they beat Wolves at Molineux Stadium before losing at Wembley to Manchester United.Sheaf impressed during the game but came up short in the shootout as he missed the crucial spot-kick that allowed Rasmus Hojlund to send the Red Devils through.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSCoventry’s left-back Jay Dasilva is being watched by German side Freiburg.Dasilva, 26, came through the ranks at Chelsea but never made a Premier League appearance for the club.Arne Slot to make 3 key changes at LiverpoolThe defender had loan spells at Charlton and Bristol City before leaving permanently in 2019.He joined the Robins in 2019 and went on to become a regular at the club.After four seasons at Aston Gate he was released by the club and joined Coventry on a free transfer.Should Dasilva take the chance to move to Germany, then he could find himself playing European football next season.Should Bayer Leverkusen win the DFB-Pokal final against Kaiserslautern, then Freiburg will get a spot in the Conference League if they stay in seventh.Who are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    Everton out to beat Newcastle to German midfielder Merlin Rohl as they prepare to sell Amadou Onana in £50m transfer

    EVERTON lead the race for German midfielder Merlin Rohl as they look for extra magic.The Toffees have been to see the Freiburg player, 21.Merlin Rohl has impressed for Freiburg in the BundesligaCredit: GettyEverton could cash in on Amadou OnanaCredit: GettyNewcastle and Crystal Palace are also on Rohl’s trail — but Everton seem to be at the front of the queue.Rohl is a key part of the Bundesliga side who have done well at home and in Europe, where their Europa League campaign was ended by West Ham.Goodison chiefs hope to sell Amadou Onana overseas for big money to balance their books, possibly picking up a fee in excess of £50million.Rohl is similar to Onana in size and style and a player on the rise for both club and country.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe came from the lower divisions in Germany and has played for his country at all levels up to the Under-21s.And Rohl would only cost about £12m.There could also be interest in Toffees winger Dwight McNeil after a strong finish to the campaign, so the club are aware of the need for new faces.Meanwhile American baseball guru Kevin Malone is in England, ready to make a rescue move for Everton.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMalone ran the LA Dodgers for many years and is head of a consortium who will step in if problems continue with current bidders 777 Partners.Everton drew 1-1 at Luton Town on Friday night.Arne Slot to make 3 key changes at LiverpoolThe Toffees went ahead from the penalty spot as Dominic Calvert-Lewin made no mistake following a foul on Jarrad Branthwaite at a set piece.Sean Dyche’s side were pegged back on the half hour mark after a brilliant finish by Elijah Adebayo.Who are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    Spurs star Radu Dragunsin’s agent SLAMS Ange Postecoglou’s tactics as he fires transfer warning at boss

    RADU DRAGUSIN’S agent has slammed Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou’s tactics and warned that the defender will look to leave if he does not get more game time.Florin Manea believes centre-half Dragusin, 22, would help solve Spurs’ problems at set-pieces.Radu Dragusin’s agent has hit out at Ange Postecoglou’s tacticsCredit: PAHe told Italian radio: “The coach said many times he does not want to play with a three-man defence, evidently he knows best.“But Tottenham concede a ton of goals. Playing with three gives more security.“I also think Tottenham concede a lot of goals from set plays, so Dragusin would be very helpful due to his power in the air.“He used to win all the headers at Genoa.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSpurs warded off competition from Napoli and Bayern Munich to sign Dragusin from Genoa for £21.5m in January.But he has started just two Premier League games and come on as a substitute in only four more.Manea added: “I can say that if Postecoglou told Dragusin that he is only considered an alternative to the other centre-backs, then he would not stay just to sit on the bench.“If he doesn’t play, then we have to think about other solutions.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSpurs head into Sunday’s trip to Liverpool having conceded 22 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season.That is the third-most behind Sheffield United and Nottingham Forest. ‘Come on mate, want me to write you a dossier’ – Postecoglou fumes in live TV interview when asked about Tottenham lossPostecoglou’s men have kept just two clean sheets in their previous 25 Premier League matches.And now Spurs are in danger of losing four consecutive league matches.A defeat tomorrow at Anfield would make it their worst run since losing six in a row in October and November 2004.The Aussie boss spoke about a lack of belief and conviction after the defeat at Chelsea, but he told the club’s website how he plans to change that.If he doesn’t play, then we have to think about other solutions.Florin ManeaHe said: “You continually focus on what’s important. If you fall into the trap – and many people do – of thinking there’s a quick fix, there isn’t.“It’s time, hard work and perseverance, resilience, focus, all those things.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s part of the process. Nothing changes. We stay focussed on what we’re trying to achieve. It’s not a good place to be (after three straight defeats) and you’ve got to feel that pain, ultimately that’s what drives you.“At the same time, we know where we’re at, we know what we need to do, we’ve still a long way to go, but we’re building a decent foundation for it.”Can you name the famous fathers? More

  • in

    Jamie Vardy tipped to join Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s Wrexham revolution as chief refuses to rule out transfer

    JAMIE VARDY could swap his Leicester City fairytale for Wrexham’s Hollywood blockbuster.The former England striker, 37, is set to be rewarded for firing the Foxes to the Championship title with a new contract offer.Jamie Vardy is celebrating after firing Leicester back to the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyWrexham owners Rob McElhenney (L) and Ryan Reynolds (R) have ambitious plansCredit: AFPHis double in 3-0 win at Preston on Monday ensured they went up as champs after sealing an immediate return to the Premier League.Vardy, who scored 20 this term, rose through the non-league ranks and joined Leicester in 2012, winning the Championship in 2014.Two years later they achieved mission impossible by winning the Premier League against all the odds and then enjoyed FA Cup success in 2021.However, he is yet to commit to a 13th season with the Foxes and now ambitious Wrexham are refusing to rule out making a sensational move for them.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Welsh side have secured back-to-back promotions from the National League.Now they are looking forward to League One under their Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.They have managed to persuade players to drop down from higher divisions previously and now they have been linked with a swoop for Vardy.And their executive director, Humphrey Ker, has added further fuel to those flames.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWhen asked about the veteran directly by SPORTbible, he said: “There’s nothing to say that Jamie Vardy wouldn’t be a great Wrexham player.“It’s not a name I’ve had mentioned inside the building before.Fans in stitches as Vardy’s ‘Klinsmann dive’ almost goes badly wrong after his goals earn Leicester Championship title“But, you know, age and profile wouldn’t put us off.”Vardy is one of the top earners at Leicester but Wrexham have strong backing financially thanks to Reynolds and McElhenney.The Welsh club’s weekly wage bill for this season is higher than all but five teams in the division above them.Vardy lifted the Championship trophy this afternoonCredit: GettyMeanwhile, Vardy and Leicester’s campaign did end in slight disappointment this afternoon.They were attempting to finish the season with a victory that would have taken them to the 100-point mark.However, Blackburn’s Sammie Szmodics scored twice to seal the visitors a crucial 2-0 win at the King Power to make sure Rovers stayed in the Championship.Vardy did finally get his hands on the title trophy afterwards though as the result failed to stop the party.Who are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    Jose Mourinho targeted for lucrative return to management four months after ex-Chelsea and Man Utd boss sacked by Roma

    JOSE MOURINHO has been targeted for a lucrative return to management in Saudi Arabia, according to reports. The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss has been out of a job since being sacked by Roma in January.Jose Mourinho could soon be managing in Saudi ArabiaMourinho has been linked with a move back to the Blues, but ruled himself out of the running after revealing he refuses to attend games despite living less than two minutes from Stamford Bridge.However, the Portuguese could soon find himself managing in the Middle East.According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Saudi side Al-Qadsiah want Mourinho as their manager for next season.The club are set to be promoted up to the Saudi Pro League from the Saudi First Division and have “huge ambitions” to challenge the four Public Investment Fund (PIF) owned clubs; Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAl-Qadsiah, who are based in the eastern Saudi city of Al Khobar, are owned by petroleum giants Aramco.Jacobs’ report adds Mourinho is due in the city later this month.He has previously rejected mega-money offers from the league from the likes of Al-Shabab.It was reported at the time that Mourinho was on “stand-by” for a job that would “motivate” him.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe 65-year-old has used his time away from football to head to both a Formula One race and wave the chequered flag at a Moto GP race.However, he has also been racking his brain on new tactical innovations.Jose Mourinho waves chequered flag at Portuguese GP as ex-Chelsea and Man Utd boss drops huge hint about football returnAnd he revealed last month how he believes a manager will one day not play with a goalkeeper as they attempt to score late on in a game. More

  • in

    Newcastle legend calls on club to let Bruno Guimaraes LEAVE in £100m transfer… if it means keeping fellow star

    SHAY GIVEN would keep Alexander Isak and sell Bruno Guimaraes to answer Newcastle’s £100million question.Yet while he knows he might be clutching, the former Toon keeper hopes both superstars are still strutting around St James’ Park next season.Shay Given believes Newcastle should let Bruno Guimaraes leave for £100millionCredit: RexThe Newcastle icon feels selling Guimaraes will allow the club to keep hold of Alexander IsakCredit: GettyMagpies chiefs have admitted one might have to be sold this summer to balance the books and reinvest elsewhere.  On one hand you have Bruno, the iconic Brazilian midfielder adored by the Toon Army more than any other.  The Samba star is the spiritual leader of Eddie Howe’s side, but a £100m release clause active for one month up to the end of July has Manchester City and Arsenal on red alert. Arsenal and a host of other top clubs are monitoring Isak, who is rapidly establishing himself as one of the world’s deadliest marksmen.  READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd Given, 48, told SunSport: “Bruno has been brilliant but if you had to make a choice, you’d want to keep Isak.  “He’s up there with the best strikers in the world and could play for any club out there, so that’s why there is so much noise. All the big clubs will be looking at him and could chance their arm with cheeky bids to see just how much Newcastle do need to sell him.  “They paid £60million for him and you see other clubs spending similar sums for forwards who are at panic stations when in goal, fluffing their lines.  “It’s the opposite with Isak, everything just slows down around him, and you wouldn’t want to lose someone of that calibre.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“However, who can afford him now? And if Newcastle sold him for let’s say £120m, they could spend £50m on someone else who might struggle.” As for Guimaraes, he was left in tears when he saw the giant Brazil-themed banner across the Gallowgate before last week’s 5-1 win over Sheffield United.Newcastle to snub new stadium and expand St James’ Park in ‘one of most ambitious rebuilds seen in UK’He’s recently bought a new house in the North East, and Given hopes that connection with the locals could prove decisive if someone triggers his release clause.  The ex-Republic of Ireland stopper added: “My only hope is that he is so iconic among the fans.  “I’m maybe clutching with my own black and white hat on but I’d love to build a team around both him and Isak.  “Bruno has got that relationship with the supporters and it’s not for the cameras. The display last week was special and, unless he’s moving to Hollywood to be an actor, his reaction was genuine.  “But it’s a bit like the Jack Grealish situation. He had a £100m release clause with Aston Villa and once that was hit by Man City, it was a done deal.  “If someone hits that number then it will be difficult to keep hold of him. Given hopes Newcastle can reinvest the money from potentially selling GuimaraesCredit: Getty“I just hope in six months’ time that Isak is banging the goals in, Bruno is bossing the midfield and the Saudi owners have backed the club again to add to the team.  “It’s just a shame we’re not talking about who Newcastle are going to buy this summer because of the wealth of the owners.“Instead we’re talking about who might be sold and that leaves a sour taste in the mouth of fans.”  Newcastle travel to Burnley today as they try and hunt down Manchester United to claim sixth and a Europa League spot.  Howe’s side sit one point behind the Red Devils but also have Chelsea chomping at their heels.  And given their horrendous luck with injuries as they’ve tried to balance the Champions League as well, on top of £55m midfielder Sandro Tonali’s 10-month bet ban, Given reckons sixth would be some achievement.  He said: “They’ve had 11 players out at various times this season. Eddie has had to put kids on the bench just to make up the numbers, which would concern the owners.  “The strength in depth hasn’t been there, so this year shows the squad needs improvement all over the pitch. “But it would be an amazing season if they get into the top six. They’ve been so unlucky with injuries, I’ve never seen anything quite like it.  READ MORE SUN STORIES“Others will say the same but I really do think Newcastle have had it worse than anyone else.”  Shay Given is a brand ambassador for sports betting platform CopyBet. Visit CopyBet.com. More

  • in

    Jadon Sancho RULES OUT returning to Man Utd even if Ten Hag goes with Borussia Dortmund set to open transfer talks

    JADON SANCHO has no plans to return to Manchester United once his loan deal at Borussia Dortmund expires next month.And the Champions League semi-finalists are ready to open talks with the Red Devils about extending his stay in Germany.Jadon Sancho has ruled out a return to Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyThe winger fell out with Erik ten Hag earlier this seasonCredit: GettyDortmund know they are unlikely to be able to afford the price tag for a permanent deal for the 24-year-old this summer.So they plan to ask about the possibility of signing him for another year – with an option or obligation to buy at the end of the 2024/5 campaign.United paid £73million to sign Sancho from the German giants in summer 2021 but he never lived up to that price tag.He fell out with Erik ten Hag after a defeat at Arsenal in August when he took to social media claiming he was being made a scapegoat for the team’s failures.READ MORE ON MAN UTDSaudi Arabian club Al Ettifaq were quoted around £50m when they tried to sign him and backed off – meaning he spent the rest of the calendar year frozen out.But when the transfer window re-opened in January, he was offered the chance to return to Dortmund to begin rebuilding his career.He has done exactly that and caught the eye in the win over Paris Saint-Germain earlier this week – sparking talk he could return to Old Trafford.However it is understood he would be open to the idea of staying in Germany – no matter who is in charge of United next season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe position of Ten Hag is likely to be reviewed by new owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe at the end of the season.Ten Hag said earlier this week he was pleased with the way Sancho had performed in the narrow first-leg win over PSG.Jamie Carragher interviews Jadon Sancho on live TV after EIGHT PINTS and CBS Sports studio cannot bear to watchHe said: “It showed why United bought him and why he represents a high value for Manchester United.“I’m happy for Jadon and we will see what is going to happen in the future.” More