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    Wrexham set for huge ‘scramble’ for Arsenal star as they target first transfer since promotion to League One

    WREXHAM are eyeing up a first transfer since returning to League One, according to reports.The Welsh club clinched successive promotions on Saturday following a 6-0 win over Forest Green.Arthur Okonkwo has impressed for Wrexham during his loan spell this seasonCredit: AlamyHe has started 34 of Wrexham’s 44 league matchesIt means they will spend next season in the third tier for the first time since 2005.And they are now understood to be considering a permanent move for keeper Arthur Okonkwo – who has spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Wrexham from Arsenal.He has been Phil Parkinson’s first-choice shot-stopper this season, starting 34 of their 44 matches in League Two.Okonkwo, named in the League Two Team of the Season, is set to return to Arsenal in a fortnight following the end of Wrexham’s domestic campaign.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, according to Sport Bible, the Gunners have not offered a new deal to the man who played for them in a pre-season friendly against Hibernian in 2021.His existing contract expires at the end of May.And an exit from the Emirates, that would bring to an end a 15-year stay with Arsenal, is expected to spark a “scramble for his signature”.But Wrexham’s desire to sign Okonkwo, 22, will depend on his wage demands.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Welsh outfit, owned by Hollywood A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have covered less than half of his wages this season, with Arsenal continuing to pay the majority of his salary.But Wrexham will be keen to bring players in on permanent deals as a number of current players are preparing to see their contracts run down.Inside Wrexham stars’ boozy promotion celebrations as they sink Jagerbombs with fans and belt out songs at restaurantAaron Hayden, Jordan Tunnicliffe, Luke Young, Ben Tozer, Callum McFadzean, Rob Lainton and Matk Howard are all set to become free agents in the summer if they do not pen extensions.Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney could splash the cash this summerCredit: Getty More

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    Why Dele Alli’s Sky Sports MNF appearance will save Everton £10m from Tottenham transfer fee

    EVERTON will save £10million through Dele Alli’s appearance on Monday Night Football.The midfielder will make his punditry debut on Sky Sports for the Toffees’ trip to Chelsea.Dele Alli’s Monday Night Football appearance will save Everton £10millionCredit: GettyIn doing so, he will save his club from having to pay Tottenham a fee as part of his January 2022 move.Alli joined Everton two years ago on a free transfer with a series of appearance-based add-ons.As part of the deal, Everton would have to pay Spurs £10million if Alli made 20 Premier League appearances.However, injuries and a dip in form have limited him to just 13 league appearances.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith Everton having just seven matches remaining this term and Alli’s contract expiring in the summer, his appearance on Sky Sports means he cannot end the campaign with any more than 19 league appearances for the club.As a result, he will save Sean Dyche’s side £10million by joining Jamie Carragher and David Jones in the studio.Alli, 28, has failed to make an appearance so far this season after struggling with a muscle issue that has ruled him out since March 2023.The injury has prevented him from playing for Everton since returning from a loan spell with Besiktas last summer.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe also confirmed he has undergone rehabilitation for his mental health in an emotional interview with Gary Neville.The 28-year-old also revealed in the interview last year that he was sexually abused as a child.Eric Dier says he ‘has lots of regrets’ and admits to being ‘disappointed he didn’t do more’ to help Dele AlliAlli was twice named the PFA Young Player of the Year in 2015/16 and 2016/17 after emerging as a key man for Tottenham.Meanwhile, at international level, he has won 37 caps and scored three goals for England.Those caps include appearances at both the 2016 Euros and 2018 World Cup. More

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    Man Utd ‘in talks with Bayer Leverkusen star’s agents as Ratcliffe’s transfer team look to solve defensive woes’

    MANCHESTER UNITED are in “concrete” talks with Bayer Leverkusen title winner Jeremie Frimpong, reports suggest.Frimpong, 23, starred in Leverkusen’s title clinching 5-0 win over Werder Bremen yesterday.Jeremie Frimpong’s management are in talks with Man Utd and Bayern Munich over a transferCredit: RexThe match saw Xabi Alonso’s side clinch the Bundesliga title for the first time in their history, and while thus far unbeaten no less. However, despite Alonso committing to the club for next season amid managerial links to Liverpool and Bayern Munich, he is braced for a mass exodus of talent as financial juggernauts lurk.Among them is Man Utd, who are struggling to pick up Premier League wins, let alone the trophy.And according to reporter Christian Falk’s fact file on CaughtOffside, Frimpong’s management are discussing the possibility of a transfer to Old Trafford.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFrimpong has an exit clause in his contract running until 2028 that stands at £40m.Although any club after the right-back will need to move quickly, with the clause only active until the start of the European Championships in June.Man Utd, who are going into the summer under the sporting direction of new minority owners Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, will face competition from Real Madrid and Bayern.Like the Red Devils, the toppled Bavarian giants are said to be in “concrete” talks with Frimpong’s management over a deal.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFrimpong, who was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands but also lived in Manchester and Glasgow, has played 38 times so far in all competitions this season.With an attacking role from right wing-back this season, he has netted 12 goals and added 11 assists.Man Utd’s top targets for the transfer windowFrimpong was seen taking a swipe at Arsenal as he celebrated alongside former Gunners star Granit Xhaka.This may have earned him some favour with the Man Utd faithful, despite his links to the Manchester City academy.In an interview with ESPN, he also joked he was hiding from his team-mates to not get drenched by beer in the post match celebrations.Man Utd have struggled defensively this season, and club transfer chiefs are looking to overhaul the defence and midfield units.Frimpong’s team-mate Edmond Tapsoba has been linked with a sensational double switch to Old Trafford in that regard.Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite is a homegrown option in central defence.Meanwhile, the likes of Joao Neves and Teun Koopmeiners have been linked to add legs to the midfield.Frimpong has impressed for Bayer this season More

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    Leicester shrug off FFP woes as they send chief scout to Brazil despite Premier League points deduction worry

    LEICESTER are checking out the Brazilian market despite doubts about promotion and their FFP issues.City sent top scout and former defender Sean St Ledger to South America as they seek bargains for a potential Premier League return.Leicester boss Enzo Maresca wants to unearth some hidden gems in BrazilCredit: GettyFoxes manager Enzo Maresca is keen to improve the quality of his squad after they blew a 17-point lead in the Championship in recent months.Former head of recruitment Steve Walsh famously discovered Jamie Vardy, Riyad Mahrez and N’Golo Kante.And now Italian Maresca believes Brazil could be the place to find some hidden gems for a good price.Leicester have only ever had one Brazilian play for the club.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWinger Tete joined on loan for the second half of last season but, despite scoring on his debut away at Aston Villa, could not help keep the East Midlanders in the top flight. Leicester signed Harry Winks, Conor Coady, Stephy Mavididi, Mads Hermansen, Tom Cannon and youngster Arjan Raikhy in the summer.But their financial woes saw frustrated Maresca prevented from bringing anyone else in during the January transfer window. Leicester remain just about on course for an immediate promotion despite six defeats in their last ten league games.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERThey are currently second on 88 points, one behind leaders Ipswich but with a game in hand on the Tractor Boys.However, they have lost their last two matches 1-0 away at Millwall and Plymouth – but have been boosted by dips in form by rivals Ipswich and Leeds, too. Harry Winks voices his disappointment as Leicester blows 17-point lead as Leeds overtake Foxes in table To make matters worse for Leicester, they are in financial disarray off the field which may well land the club a points deduction should they get promoted. The Foxes broke deficit limits for 2022-23 but launched a legal case accusing the Prem and EFL of “unlawfully conspiring” over the charges and asking for an injunction against a penalty being imposed before the end of the season.The EFL wanted to throw the book at the King Power side over their Premier League charge for breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules.However, a ruling means the EFL do not have the authority to do so – meaning it will be down to the Premier League to sanction Leicester.And that means should Maresca’s side get over the line in the race for promotion, they may well end up kicking off their 2024-25 Premier League campaign on minus points. Tete is the only Brazilian to play for LeicesterCredit: Getty More

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    Ipswich ready to push through £15m Man City star transfer after impressive stint with promotion rival

    IPSWICH are ready to pounce for Manchester City centre-half Taylor Harwood-Bellis if they beat Southampton to promotion.Harwood-Bellis, 22, will sign for Saints in a £15million switch should they bounce straight back to the top flight at the end of his year-long loan.Ipswich are keen on a transfer swoop for Manchester City and England defender Taylor Harwood-BellisCredit: GettyBut they can only afford to buy him if they go up.Plus, the contract on offer is designed for the Premier League.The England Under-21 player seems sure to leave City permanently.And there will be a rush for him if he comes back on the market in the summer.READ MORE FOOTBALLClassy defender Harwood-Bellis is hoping for two successive promotions.He played a key role in Burnley’s title win last season.But this year the U21 Euros champ looks set to have to settle for a place in the play-offs after Southampton lost ground on the top three – although Leicester, Ipswich and Leeds are all stumbling towards the finish line. He has 35 Championship appearances so far with two goals, three assists and 11 clean sheets. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHarwood-Bellis’ aim, though, is to play in the Prem.City are also counting on the cash as they look to balance the books at their end and let some fringe players go.Man Utd legend Roy Keane agrees with Gary Neville about how much he would be worth in today’s transfer marketAnother young defender impressing on loan has been Ashley Phillips.The Tottenham youngster, 18, is at Plymouth this season.However, Sheffield United have identified him as a possible transfer target for the summer. The defender is spending this season on loan at SouthamptonCredit: Getty More

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    Ben Brereton Diaz set to return to Villarreal as Sheffield United look to push through Tottenham star transfer

    BEN BRERETON DIAZ is planning to go back to Villarreal.The talented forward was loaned to Sheffield United after a difficult few months in LaLiga following his switch from Blackburn, failing to score in his 20 appearances in Spain.Ben Brereton Diaz looks set to head back to Villarreal when his Sheff Utd loan endsCredit: ReutersBut now the Chile international, 24, wants another crack at Spanish football.The Blades would love Brereton Diaz to come back to them for a second spell but their chances appear slim.The only possible alternative to Villarreal is if another Premier League club come in.Brazilian midfielder Vini Sousa may also leave if United are relegated as expected.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut there is incoming activity too as boss Chris Wilder looks to exploit the loan market.United are looking into a swoop for Spurs centre-half Ashley Phillips, 18.He has impressed on loan at Plymouth this term.Wilder’s side seemingly took another step towards relegation on Saturday.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThey were beaten 2-0 away at Brentford thanks to an own goal from Oliver Arblaster before Frank Onyeka wrapped up the victory in injury time.That leaves United adrift at the bottom of the Premier League table.Ange Postecoglou does NO tactical work in training reveals former Tottenham star Eric DierThey have picked up just three wins and 16 points from 32 matches, shipping 84 goals. Sheffield United are ten points from safety with six games remaining.And should the Blades go down to the Championship, they will be slapped with a two-point deduction.The EFL fined the Yorkshire club £310,455 after defaulting on payments during last season when they were promoted. More

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    Man Utd line up £80m Jarrad Branthwaite move with incoming transfer guru expected to push deal for Everton star through

    MANCHESTER UNITED hope to steal a march in the chase for Jarrad  Branthwaite — as soon as Jason Wilcox arrives.United intend to make Wilcox their new transfer guru and are confident of brokering a compensation deal with Southampton, where he has been football director, within days.Jarrad Branthwaite has been linked with a move to Man UtdCredit: GettyAnd they believe his previous close working relationship with Branthwaite’s agent David Reeves will put them in pole position for Everton’s highly-rated centre-back.United want to make the 21-year-old one of their marquee signings in Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s rebuild.A fee of more than £80million has been mentioned but United need to boost their backline.Branthwaite has been the shining light in a nightmare season for Everton and was named in England’s squad for last month’s Wembley friendlies with Brazil and Belgium.Read more Man Utd newsBranthwaite did not make his Three Lions debut after being left on the bench.But the centre-back is widely seen as the future of England’s defence.Recent reports also suggest United are now lining up a bid amid doubts over the futures of Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire.Both players are out of contract in 2025, with Varane a target for clubs in Saudi Arabia.Most read in FootballAs for Maguire, there is an option to extend his deal until 2026.But West Ham are ready to lure him to London with the offer of first-team football.Watch Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag storm out of press conference after Bournemouth drawAnd with new United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe ready to trim the fat, both players could be sold to make room for fresh faces.Branthwaite would certainly fit the bill, having already impressed on loan at Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe has appeared 28 times for the club in what has been a turbulent season.The centre half scored his first goal for the club with a dramatic late equaliser in a 2-2 draw with Spurs.Tuchel showed why he could be the perfect man for Man Utd, says Andy DillonBy Andy Dillon
    TOMMY TUCHEL could not have done it better had he submitted his CV to LinkedIn or Indeed.
    Somehow mustering some gumption from the worst Bayern Munich team in more than a decade to stop a rampant Arsenal dead in their tracks is a spectacular job advert for a manager soon to be looking for work.
    If Sir Jim Ratcliffe wasn’t watching from his Old Trafford office or from the cinema room in one of his tax havens, he should have been.
    They may have even sat up and taken notice in Newcastle or in the owners’ Riyadh hub as Tuchel reminded everyone of his credentials as a top-level coach with devilish timing.
    If change is coming then Tuchel is playing a trump card.
    His side turned up and cowed the team that, as far as the current Premier League goes, is the best in England.
    It may only add to the questions around Tuchel that after tossing away the only league easier to win than Scotland’s or Spain’s, Munich have sprung to life in Europe.
    After 11 years unopposed as German champions, Chelsea’s former manager has chucked it in at home in a remarkable act of ineptitude. But freak years can happen.
    Tuchel is an enigma. But that is part of the appeal as much as winning the Champions League with Chelsea just three months after taking the job.
    With no new signings, he took a team that had lost five of the previous ten games and turned them into European Champions.
    With Ratcliffe considering swingeing budget cuts at Old Trafford, a coach who can perform wonders on peanuts would be music to his ears.
    Click here to ready Andy’s column in full.
    Or to read more from Andy Dillon, click here. More

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    Multiple Premier League clubs ‘express interest in Mason Greenwood transfer with Man Utd expecting to sell striker’

    MANCHESTER UNITED forward Mason Greenwood could have several Premier League offers this summer, according to reports.The winger has been out on loan at Getafe this season, where he has played 26 times, scoring six goals and registering five assists.Several Premier League clubs are showing an interest in Mason GreenwoodCredit: GettyHis loan to Getafe last summer came after charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault were dropped against him in February last year.Despite massive pressure to cancel the forward’s contract, he remains a United player, and the Red Devils are likely to attempt to fetch a fee for him this summer according to The Daily Mail.They report that the club are currently working on the assumption that he will be sold this summer.Spanish clubs Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have both been linked with a move for the forward with Greenwood reportedly feeling settled in Spain.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLCurrent loan club Getafe are also an option, but it is likely they would struggle to pay the forward’s wages on a permanent basis.The Mail outlined that several Premier League clubs have expressed an interest in his services.The Mail also report that there could still be a future for Greenwood at Old Trafford – with a contract extension among the things being discussed by the INEOS group.The club are also considering loaning Greenwood again, meaning he would remain a player employed by Manchester United.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSir Jim Ratcliffe previously promised a “fresh decision” on Greenwood’s future which has left the door open for Greenwood at United.Ratcliffe said in February: “We will make a decision.Mason Greenwood wants an investigation into whether Jude Bellingham called him a “rapist” dropped“I don’t know if he (Greenwood) could still have a future.“All I can do is talk about the principle of how we will approach decisions like that.“Is he the right type of footballer? Are we happy with that? Is he a good person or not?“He (Greenwood) is a Manchester United footballer and we are in charge of football. “So the answer is it’s quite clear we have to make a decision.” More