More stories

  • in

    Eberechi Eze was rejected by SIX teams including Arsenal as fans admit ‘absolute stinker in hindsight’

    CRYSTAL PALACE star Eberechi Eze revealed SIX clubs rejected the chance to sign him before his Selhurst Park heroics.Eze, 25, has shone bright in the Premier League with Palace in the last four years and has amassed a total of seven goals and four assists in 26 appearances this season.Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze was rejected by six clubs, including ArsenalCredit: GettyEze now commands an asking price in the region of £70mCredit: GettyEze was also turned down by Fulham, Sunderland, Bristol City, Reading and MillwallThe versatile forward’s impressive appearances have attracted interest from some of the Prem’s biggest clubs, such as Manchester City and Tottenham, ahead of the summer transfer window.And he could go for as much as £70million.However, the two-cap England star wasn’t so spoiled for choice earlier in his career.When starting out as a kid, Eze dealt with a series of rejections from various different teams, including Arsenal.Read More on FootballThe Gunners scouted the attacking midfielder in 2006, when he was playing for Sunday League outfit Bruin at the age of eight.The North Londoners signed the youngster, only to release him as a teenager.And that wasn’t the end of the rejection for Eze.Speaking to the Second Tier Podcast, Eze recalled: “So I started at Bruin, that’s a Sunday League team.Most read in FootballGobsmacked Jurgen Klopp appears to mouth three-letter response as Eze scores Crystal Palace winner at Liverpool”Was there for maybe half a year before getting scouted by a few teams like Arsenal, Chelsea – more London-based teams.”I decided to go to Arsenal, was there for maybe five years, played there then got released.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER”Went to Fulham for two-and-a-half years or so, got released from there.”Went to Reading for half a year, got released from there. The went to Millwall for my scholar, was there for two years then got released from there.”Went on trial to a few teams afterwards. Went to Sunderland, went to Bristol City, got released from there – well not released, but didn’t get in.”Then, thankfully to God, I got signed by QPR. They gave me a year contract.”Worked for maybe three or four months, got offered a new contract and from there started to grow, started to get better and improve, play first-team football and from there I got a move to Palace.”Fans couldn’t believe how their favourite clubs missed out on such a talent like Eze, who is poised to make a big money move soon with his Palace contract running until 2027.Eze’s asking priceReports suggest the Eagles won’t let their star man go for less than £70m, especially after he dealt a crushing blow to Liverpool’s title chances by scoring the winner on Sunday’s 1-0 victory at Anfield.One supporter tweeted: “It is MAD how many teams rejected Eberechi Eze.”Another commented: “Can’t forgive Sunderland for this one, absolute stinker in hindsight.”A third wrote: “The thought of Eze and [Palace team-mate Michael] Olise in the same #ReadingFC side is frightening.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThis fan said: “@SunderlandAFC f**k sake lads, dropped a right b*****k there.”And that one pleaded: “Come home to Arsenal.”Eze has stood out in the Premier League these past four years More

  • in

    Man Utd outcast Anthony Martial ‘thrown Premier League transfer lifeline’ but could join former Champions League winners

    ANTHONY MARTIAL could reportedly be thrown a Premier League lifeline this summer.The Manchester United forward is set to leave the club at the end of the season with his contract expiring.Tottenham are reportedly interested in signing Anthony MartialCredit: AlamyMartial, 28, is on the lookout for his next club and has been linked with the likes of Inter Milan and Fenerbahce.The Frenchman could also have more options on the table as Tottenham Hotspur have been credited with an interest.Italian outlet Tuttosport have claimed that the North London outfit are looking at the forward.Spurs will have to fight off interest from Serie A giants Juventus.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Bianconeri are also said to be considering a move for Martial to strengthen their attacking options.The club had wanted to sign former West Ham star Felipe Anderson once his contract expired at Lazio.However, they missed out as he confirmed that his new club will be Brazilian side Palmeiras.Tottenham could have the edge over Juventus as the Italians may struggle to afford Martial’s wages.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERHe is said to be on £240,000-a-week which could be too much for Juventus.The forward could get Ange Postecoglou a more direct option in his attack should he move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.The manager currently has Heung-min Son, Timo Werner, Brennan Johnson and Dejan Kulusevski in his attack.Martial could take up a spot as a more traditional striker but would also be another option on the wing.He has struggled this season at Man United for fitness and has only featured 13 times in the Premier League.In total, Martial has played 19 times in all competitions, scoring two goals. More

  • in

    Former England boss urges European giants to sign Man Utd star Mason Greenwood in summer transfer

    FABIO CAPELLO has urged Juventus to make a summer move for Mason Greenwood.The Manchester United star has emerged as a reported target for the European giants in recent weeks.Fabio Capello has urged Juventus to sign Mason Greenwood this summerCredit: PAGreenwood is currently on loan at Spanish side GetafeCredit: GettyGreenwood is currently on loan at Spanish side Getafe until the end of the season.He joined the LaLiga outfit last summer after charges of attempted rape, controlling behaviour and assault against him were dropped in February 2023.Capello believes his performances in Spain prove he is worthy of a move to Juventus.The former England manager told Gazzetta dello Sport: “I’ve heard about Greenwood.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”A Manchester United talent who has been affected by personal issues, but seems reborn at Getafe. There are no doubts about his qualities.”Greenwood has scored eight goals and provided five assists in 29 appearances for Getafe across all competitions this season.His loan is set to expire at the end of the campaign, with his United contract running until 2025.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has yet to rule out a return to the team at Old Trafford in the summer.Most read in FootballThe 22-year-old has not played for the Red Devils since his initial arrest in January 2022.Barcelona have been strongly linked with a transfer move for Greenwood throughout his time in Spain.Mason Greenwood reveals ‘best feeling so far’ in rare interview after Getafe aces ‘take Man Utd loanee under their wing’Meanwhile, Juventus have emerged as a potential suitor this month and could even strike a player-plus-cash deal with United.Several Premier League clubs are also reported to have expressed an interest in the forward. More

  • in

    Chelsea should ‘definitely’ sign Raphael Varane on a free transfer when legend quits Man Utd, says ex-Blues star

    FORMER Chelsea star Glen Johnson has told the Blues should sign Manchester United flop Raphael Varane.The United defender’s contract is up at the end of the season and appears set to leave as a free agent in the summer.Ex-Chelsea star Glen Johnson says the Blues should sign Raphael VaraneCredit: GettyVarane’s will leave Man Utd as a free agent this summerCredit: RexArriving from Real Madrid in 2021, as a multiple Champions League winner, Varane has endured an underwhelming three seasons at Old Trafford.Cursed by injuries, the Frenchman has made 93 appearances for United scoring just two goals.But, despite Varane’s underwhelming performances in Manchester, former Chelsea star Johnson still thinks his old team should move for him in the summer.Asked about a potential deal, he told Betfred: “Yes, definitely. Good players like that don’t come around often and they certainly come around less often on a free transfer. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I know he’s not the Varane he was three or four years ago but he’s still a bloody good player. “Yes, he’s had his injury problems but that’s what outweighs the transfer fee.”If you’re buying him on a free and he’s only playing 50% of the games, then that’s still a good deal to do.”While Varane did not feature in Erik ten Hag’s teamsheet in United’s last two games the defender’s experience in top-flight football will prove valuable to Mauricio Pochettino’s side.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERVeteran centre-back Thiago Silva is set to depart at the end of the season as the 39-year-old ‘s contract.Meaning Chelsea will be in the hunt to find a replacement for the Brazillian.Jamie Carragher and Dele Alli give verdict on Chelsea penalty rowJohnson continued: “As we saw with Thiago Silva, those sort of players who have done everything, played for top teams and clubs, they get the attention of the dressing room.”They’re the big names that the younger players want to look up to and obviously they’re great to have around.” More

  • in

    Barcelona ‘reject £60million transfer offer’ from Premier League club for former Leeds star Raphinha

    BARCELONA have reportedly rejected a £60million bid for Raphinha from an unnamed Premier League club.The Brazilian, 27, joined the Catalan giants from Leeds in a £57m deal in the summer of 2022.An unnamed Prem club has allegedly had a bid rejected for Raphinha by BarcelonaCredit: RexThat was after he snubbed both Arsenal and Chelsea to secure his dream switch.However, the winger has struggled to be a regular starter since his arrival and has been linked with a departure numerous times.Tottenham were the latest team believed to be readying a swoop to try and bring Raphinha back to the Premier League, where he shone at Elland Road.Raphinha managed ten goals in his debut season to help Barcelona win LaLiga.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe has battled several injury problems this term, which has restricted him to eight goals in 33 matches.However, he has popped up twice at crucial times over recent weeks with the winner against Las Palmas and then two goals in the 3-2 first leg win at PSG in the Champions League.Now Spanish publication Sport says that has led to “big European clubs” keeping an eye on him once again.It then goes on to state that Barcelona have placed a £68.3m price tag on his head due to his recent good form.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBarca are “very happy” with his performances and it will be “difficult” for them to accept anything less than this.And that figure was allegedly decided after a proposal worth around £49m was made by a mystery Premier League side.Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson spotted arguing with Blues team-mate after 6-0 Everton thumping as penalty row rages onThey received the offer but club chiefs rejected it as they believe the star’s value is continuing to rise.However, Barcelona are waiting to receive offers for him and several others that could help ease some of their financial difficulties.And they have both Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal who are able to line up instead of Raphinha.SunSport also reported how Al-Hilal are chasing former Leeds star Raphinha.The Saudi Pro League side, who forked out over £300million on new signings last summer, are ready to splash out £86m on him. More

  • in

    Kalvin Phillips thrown career lifeline after West Ham loan disaster with Man City ready to sell £30million midfielder

    KALVIN PHILLIPS could reportedly be thrown a lifeline by former club Leeds this summer.The England midfielder is currently on loan at West Ham from Man City.Kalvin Phillips could secure a stunning return to Leeds this summerCredit: AlamyHe managed just four Premier League games for the Treble winners this term before being shipped off to London.But Phillips’ capital adventure hasn’t gone to plan either, with the 28-year-old putting in several disastrous appearances under David Moyes.The Euro hopeful is now sidelined with an injury.And West Ham are unlikely to make his loan permanent.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, the Mail claims Phillips could yet secure a move away from the Etihad this summer.It’s reckoned former club Leeds are lining up an initial loan swoop should they win promotion back to the top flight.Phillips started his career at Elland Road and made 234 appearances before joining City for £42million in 2022.Pep Guardiola’s side are ready to cut ties with Phillips.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut they want £30m to let him go.Leeds are unlikely to meet this price if they achieve promotion from the Championship.Kalvin Phillips responds with furious gesture as he’s heckled by fans on way to team bus after nightmare vs Newcastle, And they’ll be hoping City will agree to a loan with the option for a permanent deal at a lower price.It’s reckoned Phillips could have other options though, with Newcastle retaining interest despite his £150,000-a-week wages.Meanwhile, teams abroad could also be willing to take a gamble, especially if Phillips reclaims his England spot and heads to the Euros.Kalvin Phillips’ career statsThose numbers in full:

    Leeds, 2015-2022: 234 games, 14 goals

    Man City, 2022-2023: 31 games, 1 goal

    West Ham, 2024 (loan): 9 games, 0 goals

    England, 2020-2023: 31 games, 1 goal

    Trophies: Championship (Leeds); Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League, Uefa Super Cup, Club World Cup (Man City) More

  • in

    Donny van de Beek’s career thrown into further chaos as transfer clause in Man Utd loanee’s contract refused

    DONNY VAN DE BEEK has suffered yet another setback in his search for a way out of Old Trafford.The Manchester United loanee, 26, has spent the second half of this season with Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt.Donny van de Beek loan stint with Eintracht Frankfurt has not gone according to planCredit: GettyIncluded within the deal was an option-to-buy clause worth £9million plus £2.5m in add-ons.However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano is now reporting Frankfurt will NOT make the deal a permanent one.He goes on to state Van de Beek will search for a “new chapter” and “new club” in the summer window.Van de Beek has started just four of Frankfurt’s 13 league games since arriving in January.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe is yet to contribute a goal or assist for the German side.The 2022 Europa League winners sit sixth in the Bundesliga but 14 points adrift of fifth.As a result they are set to qualify for the Europa Conference League, but are not expected to take Van de Beek with them.The ex-Ajax midfielder played just 21 minutes for Man Utd during the first half of this season – having started only four games during Erik ten Hag’s opening campaign as manager.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSVan de Beek has featured just seven times since arriving at Frankfurt in JanuaryHe joined the Red Devils in 2020 for £39m.He has played 62 times for Man Utd, scoring two goals and providing two assists.Man Utd target brutally trolls Arsenal during wild celebrations with Granit Xhaka after Bayer Leverkusen clinch titlePrior to joining Frankfurt, his first loan spell came at Everton during the 2021/22 campaign when he played just seven times, scoring one goal. More

  • in

    Man Utd target brutally trolls Arsenal during wild celebrations with Granit Xhaka after Bayer Leverkusen clinch title

    MANCHESTER UNITED target Jeremie Frimpong brutally trolled Arsenal during Bayer Leverkusen’s title celebrations.The Germans scooped their first-ever Bundesliga trophy as they cruised to a 5-0 win over Werder Bremen on Sunday.Jeremie Frimpong trolled Arsenal as he and Granit Xhaka celebrated Bayer Leverkusen’s title winCredit: Instagram @jeremiefrimpongFrimpong is being lined up for a move to Man UtdCredit: GettyXhaka joined Leverkusen from Arsenal last summerCredit: GettyLeverkusen’s win ended Bayern Munich’s 11-year stranglehold on the division.And it saw Xabi Alonso cement his status as Europe’s most exciting coach after so far going unbeaten in all competitions this season.The former Liverpool target has already confirmed he will stay at the Bay Arena next season.Club chiefs hope this will encourage stars such as Florian Wirtz and Alex Grimaldo to remain despite interest from abroad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFormer Celtic wing-back Frimpong is also being lined up by several sides, including Manchester United.But after lifting the Bundesliga title with Leverkusen, Alonso’s Dutch defender took aim at United’s rivals Arsenal.He celebrated the trophy alongside former Gunner Granit Xhaka, who swapped England for Germany last summer.The Swiss midfielder narrowly missed out on the Premier League title last season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERAnd after Arsenal fluffed their lines against Aston Villa to miss going top of the table, Frimpong could not resist trolling the Londoners for letting Xhaka go.He said on video: “We won it! Granit, you came from Arsenal and you won it here, my f*****g G!”Football stars’ weird phobiasJeremie Frimpong’s career statsThose numbers in full:

    Celtic, 2019-2021: 51 games, 3 goals

    Bayer Leverkusen, 2021-2024: 133 games, 23 goals

    Holland, 2023-2024: 2 games, 0 goals

    Trophies: Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup, Scottish League Cup (Celtic); Bundesliga (Bayer Leverkusen)

    Fans certainly found Frimpong’s comments hilarious, with one saying: “He knew he couldn’t win the league with Arsenal so he went to German to get it. Respect.”Another declared: “Frimpong isn’t a fan of Arsenal at all.”One noted: “Xhaka is enjoying his life.”Another added: “Bro cooked Arsenal.”Granit Xhaka’s career statsThose numbers in full:

    Basel, 2010-2012: 61 games, 2 goals

    Gladbach, 2012-2016: 139 games, 9 goals

    Arsenal, 2016-2023: 297 games, 23 goals

    Bayer Leverkusen, 2023-2024: 41 games, 2 goals

    Switzerland, 2011-2024: 123 games, 14 goals

    Trophies: Swiss Super League x2, Swiss Cup (Basel); FA Cup x2, Community Shield x2 (Arsenal); Bundesliga (Bayer Leverkusen); U17 World Cup (Switzerland) More