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    Raphael Varane removed from Como’s Serie A squad as Man Utd flop’s transfer turns into nightmare after nasty injury

    RAPHAEL VARANE has been removed from Como’s Serie A squad after suffering an injury on his debut.Varane, 31, joined the Italian outfit following a turbulent three-year stint with United that ended once his contract expired.Raphael Varane has been removed from Como’s squad for the Serie A seasonCredit: GettyEx-Manchester United ace Varane got injured on his Como debutCredit: CBSThe centre-back made his debut three weeks ago as he started for Cesc Fabregas’ side during the first round of the Coppa Italia at Sampdoria.However, the ex-France international only lasted 23 minutes as he picked up a knee injury and had to be substituted.According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Varane’s knock has led to Fabregas removing him from his squad for the season.The Frenchman suffered a raft of unfortunate injuries during his time with United.Read More on FootballThe ex-Real Madrid star never managed more than 24 Premier League appearances in each of his three seasons.In fact, since the start of the 2021/22 campaign the defender has picked up 12 separate injuries.In that time, Varane went on to miss a grand total of 49 matches.The 2018 World Cup winner amassed a total of two goals and one assist in 95 appearances with the Red Devils.Most read in FootballVarane helped the Manchester giants win the EFL Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup a year later.Fabregas was determined to sign him when he became a free agent in the summer.BREAKING: Raphael Varane will LEAVE Man Utd in summer on free transfer as Sir Jim Ratcliffe plans club overhaulThe Arsenal and Chelsea hero said: “Raphael is a special player and his signing is proof of the ambition we have for this club.”He is highly decorated and the experience he brings in two of the best leagues in the world can not be underestimated. I can’t wait to start working with him.” More

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    Best bargain XI transfers of summer window as Liverpool hail £11m Chiesa deal and Savinho value DOUBLES already

    PREMIER LEAGUE clubs, just like your everyday shopper, are always looking for the best bargain buys.Several clubs have utilised the free transfer market to find value, while others have paid under the odds for their new talent.Savinho represents a good bargain with his transfer value double the fee paid by Man CityCredit: RexLiverpool new boy Federico Chiesa signed from Juventus for €23m under valueCredit: ReutersMatthijs de Ligt of Man Utd represents a €20m under value signingCredit: GettyBut who has found the best value when it comes to bargain hunting?Below we have taken a look at the best starting XI of stars who were signed for the best value, comparing the fee paid to estimated market value figures from Transfermarkt.Starting off in goal, Liverpool signing Giorgi Mamardashvili works out at £12.6million under value – even though the 23-year-old Georgia international will not play for the Reds until next season.In defence, Ryan Sessegnon, Tosin Adarabioyo and Lloyd Kelly were all signed for free, but were worth a combined £40.4m.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMeanwhile, Manchester United’s Matthijs de Ligt was signed for £16.8m under his market value.Midfield sees the return of Ilkay Gundogan to Manchester City on a free transfer, around £12.6m under his estimated value.West Ham star Guido Rodriguez is estimated to be worth £16.8m, but also arrived in England for nothing.Crocked Arsenal new-boy Mikel Merino was landed from Real Sociedad for £32m – well below his below his £42m value.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe bargain XI front three features one free deal in the form of Daichi Kamada, who joined Crystal Palace with a market value of £15.1m.Liverpool and City then both feature their second stars in the team.Juventus star Federico Chiesa leaves Turnin on private flight for transfer deal with Liverpool Federico Chiesa was signed late on for just £10.1m by Liverpool from Juventus amid a market value of £29.5m.Meanwhile, City forward Savinho now has a market value of £42m after signing for the Champions for just £21m from Troyes following a successful loan spell at Girona last season. More

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    Chelsea target Osimhen stripped of No9 shirt, AXED from Serie A squad list and could rot in Napoli reserves for months

    NAPOLI superstar Victor Osimhen has been axed from the squad and stripped of his signature shirt number after his failed move to Chelsea.Osimhen, 25, has been the Italian side’s top star since his arrival from Lille in 2020 as he led them to their first Serie A title in 33 years and amassed a total of 76 goals and 18 assists in 133 appearances.Victor Osimhen has been removed from Napoli’s squad and stripped of his No9 shirtCredit: RexChelsea tried to sign Osinhen on transfer deadline day and so did Al-AhliCredit: RexHowever, the striker has now found himself out in the cold following the Blues’ failed last-ditch effort to sign him on Friday’s transfer deadline day.The Nigeria international also came close to moving to Saudi Arabia for Al-Ahli but they instead landed Ivan Toney from Brentford.According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Napoli’s new manager Antonio Conte has wielded the axe and removed Osimhen from his senior squad.Conte also took his No9 shirt away and gave it to his replacement in attack Romelu Lukaku, who reunited with the Italian tactician following his move from Chelsea.Read More on FootballNow Osimhen is facing the possibility of being sidelined with the reserves until January.The Nigerian’s contract with Napoli also doesn’t run out until 2026, meaning he might be stuck at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium until next summer.Chelsea made a final offer to the centre-forward in the dying hours of the summer window but did not hear back from him.There were even reports of club chiefs flying to Naples on Friday to persuade the forward to join, but to no avail.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAl-Ahli were understood to have agreed a £67million deal with Napoli.Osimhen looked set to move to Saudi Arabia but demanded wages worth £500,000-a-week.Meet the new Wags of the Premier League season, from a Belgian interior designer to a Portuguese modelThat was a figure neither Chelsea nor Al-Ahli were willing to splash out.Osimhen’s options are running thin, however the Saudi transfer window isn’t running out until More

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    Transfer Deadline Day LIVE: Jadon Sancho closing in on late Chelsea switch, Blues BOOST in Osimhen chase, Toney blow

    TRANSFER Deadline Day is here – with clubs against the clock to finalise their summer business with just hours remaining!And Chelsea have been given a major boost in their hopes of signing Victor Osminhen from Napoli before the window slams shut tonight at 11pm. While the Blues have also made a dramatic bid for Manchester United’s Jadon Sancho on loan with an obligation to buy, according to David Ornstein.Elsewhere, Newcastle are reportedly set to walk away from their long-running pursuit of Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow all the latest from Deadline Day with our live blog below…Cardiff to splash out for Salzburg strikerRB Salzburg striker Roko Simic is reportedly poised to join Cardiff – despite interest from Championship leaders Sunderland.The 20-year-old will cost around £1.7milion, plus about £400,000 in add-ons.The Milan-born ace has notched eight goals in 17 games for Croatia Under-21s.Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano say Cardiff have “agreed a deal” for Simic.But Romano believes the starlet will then get a “direct loan to Kortrijk” – in Belgium.Copy linkCopied’Sterling unlikely to be part of Sancho deal’Raheem Sterling is not expected to join Manchester United in any exchange deal for Jadon Sancho.Chelsea are in talks over recruiting Red Devils’ winger Sancho, initially on loan.But it appears Sterling switching in the opposite direction is not one of the likeliest options.Other Prem clubs like Arsenal and Crystal Palace have been linked with Sterling.Copy linkCopiedReal midfielder ‘snubs Championship’ for BrazilReal Madrid midfielder Reinier is heading for Brazil – not the Championship.The Brazilian, 22, will join Granada on loan for the season.Norwich were among the English clubs reportedly interested in the former Flamengo starlet.The Under-23 international cost Real £25million in 2020 on a six-year deal.But he failed to earn a first-team spot, instead being loaned to Borussia Dortmund, Girona and Frosinone.Copy linkCopiedPrem clubs back on red alert over OsimhenPrem clubs like Chelsea hunting Victor Osimhen could be boosted by Al-Ahli reacting angrily to a price hike hike from Napoli.The Saudi Pro League outfit agreed a deal worth around £67million to sign the Nigerian striker, 25.But Sky Sports say Napoli raised their asking price – with Al-Ahli chiefs refusing to budge.The Saudi outfit are also working on a deal for Brentford’s Ivan Toney and cannot sign both.That would clear the way for Chelsea to try and land Osimhen.The hotshot’s staggering £500,000-a-week demands are likely to prove a huge stumbling block, however.Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has introduced a wage structure, relying on long-term deals with smaller salaries to tempt stars into moves.Copy linkCopiedFans say Utd are ‘finished’ as Sofyan joins MourinhoManchester United fans claim the club is “finished” after Sofyan Amrabat joined Fenerbahce – managed by ex-Old Trafford chief Jose MourinhoThe former Red Devil loanee midfielder, 28, moves to the Turkish giants in another temporary move.Amrabat, 28, is in the final year of his deal in Italy and will now link up with a number of ex-Man United players.One fan said of a snap of Amrabat looking happy in a Fenerbahce top: “That smile is like ‘I’ll see you soon Manchester United’. We’re finished.”A second wrote: “Mourinho will develop him very well.”Copy linkCopiedWolves pounce for Ajax aceWolves are poised to replace Pedro Neto with a young Portuguese pretender.Chelsea swooped for £54million winger Neto, 24, earlier this month.Now Sky Sports say Molineux chiefs have agreed a deal with Ajax for his fellow countryman Carlos Forbs.The 20-year-old will reportedly arrive on loan with an option to sign him permanently in the summer for around £11.3m.Forbs has won three Under-21 caps.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedChelsea locked in talks with Utd over SanchoChelsea’s approach for Jadon Sancho is the big story around Old Trafford – with less than seven hours remaining of the transfer window.It’s understood the Blues have asked the Red Devils about a loan move.And if Sancho then met certain conditions – likely to include appearances – then Chelsea would have an obligation to buy.It’s thought the two Prem giants are currently in negotiations over the 24-year-old.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedHalid switches from Everton to Serie BEverton midfielder Halid Djankpata has joined Spezia.The Italy Under-19 star arrived at the Toffees five years ago after a trial with Manchester City’s academy.The Togo-born 19-year-old is now off to Serie B for an undisclosed fee. Copy linkCopiedGunners bag NetoArsenal have landed Bournemouth keeper Neto.The once-capped Brazilian, 35, arrives after Aaron Ramsdale’s departure to Southampton.The Gunners had been linked with Espanyol’s Joan Garcia.But instead they’ve landed an experienced Prem stopper.Neto joined Bournemouth from Barcelona in 2022.He previously played for Valencia, Juventus and FiorentinaCherries’ stopper Neto has switched to the EmiratesCredit: PACopy linkCopiedEmery ‘happy with Villa business’Aston Villa boss Unai Emery appears content with his summer transfer dealings.Everton’s defensive midfielder Amadou Onana and Chelsea left-back Ian Maatsen were the main recruits for the new Champions League entrants.And asked if he was satisfied with his business, Emery replied: “Yes very happy.”We did the things we were planning at the beginning. The squad we have now with some very important player like Mings, Cameron, Emi Buendia, they are coming back progressively.”They are getting better and feeling better.”The players we have added this year into the squad I am very happy.”Copy linkCopiedString of clubs aiming for CannonLeicester City’s Tom Cannon is reportedly the loan target for a host of Championship teams.The one-cap Republic of Ireland striker, 21, has notched three goals in 16 games for the Foxes since arriving from Everton in September 2023.The BBC reckon Stoke are amongst the clubs considering a temporary move for the ex-Preston loanee. Copy linkCopiedPompey swoop for Fulham defenderFulham centre-back Ibane Bowat has joined Championship side Portsmouth for an undisclosed fee.The Londoner, 21, joined the Cottagers in 2018 from Chelsea.He’s won five Scotland Under-21 caps. Sky Sports say Bowat has penned a three-year deal with the option for an other 12 months.Copy linkCopiedUnited on brink of sealing Ugarte dealPSG anchorman Manuel Ugarte is expected to become Manchester United’s last big signing of the summer.The Uruguayan, 23, would be the fifth recruit of the Ineos regime.But Red Devils’ fans are still waiting for an official announcement.Copy linkCopiedEverton keeper steps down to L2Everton goalkeeper is off on loan to League Two Accrington Stanley for the rest of the season.The former Fleetwood star, 24, moved to Goodison Park two years ago.He’s a former England Under-20 star.Copy linkCopiedArsenal could ditch wideman bidArsenal are tipped NOT not pursue a new winger in the last few hours of the transfer window.That could dampen talk of a swoop for Chelsea’s Raheem Sterling.And speculation over Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Conan could also ease now.Copy linkCopiedBoro win Doak raceMiddlesbrough have won the race to sign Ben Doak from Liverpool.The 18-year-old forward is set to undergo a medical with Boro ahead of a season-long loan.Copy linkCopiedPalace eye ChalobahCrystal Palace are considering a late move for Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah.The centre-back would join Palace on loan, according to Sky Sports, following an injury to Chadi Riad.A formal approach has been made as the hours tick away on deadline day.Copy linkCopiedCity ‘risk’Pep Guardiola has admitted it is a “risk” not to have replaced Julian Alvarez this summer.The forward left Manchester City for Atletico Madrid earlier in the window.Guardiola told reporters: “I’m happy with the squad. We didn’t expect Julian was leaving, although he had conversations a long time ago with other clubs and his agent, so it could happen and in the end it happened.“We saw what we have, if we have many, many injuries it will be a problem, but in a few months Oscar Bobb will be back (from injury) and Phil (Foden) is in that position, McAtee can play in that position, Gundogan can play in that position, Bernardo…“They are different players to Erling of course. Maybe it is a mistake, I don’t know, but I don’t like leaving players without playing for a long time. When everyone is involved with a chance to play the performance of the teams is always better.“I know the group and how serious and professional they are and their commitment in every single game. We are pretty sure it is better to wait.”Copy linkCopiedChelsea clearoutPaddy Power have poked fun at Chelsea’s summer transfer business with a brutal billboard outside Stamford Bridge.As many as 13 players were exiled from the first-team this month in a bid to force through transfers away from the club.The bookmaker has now placed a “clearance sale” sign outside the Blues’ home telling clubs “21 players must go” for “low prices”.It also reads: “Chelsea clearance. Offer ends 11pm August 30th. Enquire now (ask for Todd).”Credit: x / @paddypowerCopy linkCopiedSouthampton businessSouthampton are working on a pair of deals ahead of the transfer deadline.The Saints are in advanced talks with New England Revolution for England youth international Noel Buck.Meanwhile, they are also pushing to bring Ryan Fraser back to St. Mary’s.The winger is currently a free agent after leaving Newcastle and spent last season on loan at Southampton.Copy linkCopiedOsimhen updateChelsea are hopeful they can still sign Victor Osimhen from Napoli.According to The Athletic, the Blues are awaiting the green light from the forward before moving forward with talks between the clubs.Osimhen has agreed to join Al-Ahli but the Saudi club are favouring the signing of Ivan Toney.Al-Ahli do not have enough foreign player registration slots to sign both Osimhen and Toney.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedComan rejects offerArsenal target Kingsley Coman has rejected an offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.The Bayern Munich winger is also understood to have turned down approaches from Europe on deadline day.He is now expected to stay at Bayern, despite interest from the Gunners.Copy linkCopiedAntony staying putAntony will not be leaving Manchester United before the transfer deadline.The winger had been linked with a loan move to Spanish side Real Betis.However, he wants to stay at United and is now set to remain at Old Trafford.Copy linkCopiedBREAKING: Sancho bidChelsea have submitted a bid for Jadon Sancho, reports Fabrizio Romano.The Blues have launched a loan proposal for the winger, thought to be similar to the offer made by Juventus.Sancho is open to the move and keen to join Chelsea, with the transfer now up to the two clubs.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedUnited explore dealManchester United are reportedly exploring a deal for Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka.According to Sky Sports, it is a separate transfer to Jadon Sancho’s potential move to Stamford Bridge.Chukwuemeka is one of several Chelsea players who could leave on deadline day.Copy linkCopied More

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    Transfer Deadline Day LIVE: Osimhen ‘to Chelsea LATEST’, Toney ‘set for Saudi switch’, Newcastle dealt huge Guehi blow

    TRANSFER Deadline Day is here – with clubs against the clock to finalise their summer business.Chelsea reportedly remain in talks to sign Victor Osimhen from Napoli, with time running out for the Blues to complete a deal.Meanwhile, Ivan Toney is expected to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli on a three-year deal, according to reports.Elsewhere, Newcastle are reportedly set to walk away from their long-running pursuit of Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow all the latest from Deadline Day with our live blog below…Coman considering optionsArsenal target Kingsley Coman is weighing up his future tonight, according to reports.The French winger has some of Europe’s top clubs chasing him and Saudi side Al-Hilal.He is also still open to staying at Bayern Munich.Copy linkCopiedDeals to keep an eye onHere are five of the biggest Deadline Day deals that could go through today.Copy linkCopiedWest Ham’s firesaleWest Ham are looking to offload a number of players on Deadline Day.Maxwel Cornet is set to go to Southampton on loan, with the Saints and Nottingham Forest rumoured to be keen on James Ward-Prowse.Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd could head to Saudi clubs.The future of Danny Ings is also unclear. If West Ham can shift some of these players, the club could sign PSG star Carlos Soler.Copy linkCopiedIt’s Deadline DayDeadline Day is upon us. Keep track of all the transfer drama here until the window slams shut at 11pm.Across Europe – the Bundesliga window will close at 7pm, Ligue 1 at 10pm and Serie A and La Liga close at 11pm. Copy linkCopiedArsenal eye Neto dealArsenal are interested in Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto, according to reports.The Cherries have signed Chelsea stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan and are now open to potentially letting Neto leave.Neto, 35, has two years left on his contract at the Vitality Stadium.Arsenal are still working on a deal for Espanyol star Joan Garcia and a move has not been ruled out.The Gunners need a new No2 to allow Aaron Ramsdale to join Southampton.Copy linkCopiedJohnstone has medical at WolvesSam Johnstone has completed his medical at Wolves ahead of a £10m move from Crystal Palace.The 31-year-old has been capped by England four times.Wolves will also confirm the signing of Brazil star Andre for £21m tomorrow.Copy linkCopiedDONE DEAL: Amdouni leaves BurnleyZeki Amdouni has left Burnley on loan and signed for Benfica.The Swiss striker will spend one season with the Portuguese giants.Amdouni scored six goals for the club last season.Copy linkCopiedDONE DEAL: Leicester sign El KhannoussLeicester have confirmed the signing of Bilal El Khannouss from Genk.The attacking midfielder, 20, has signed a four-year deal at the newly-promoted club.Leicester have forked out £19.5m on the Morrocan star, who will wear the No11 shirt. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSancho in limboJadon Sancho’s move to Juventus is currently on standby and it is unlikely he will join the club, according to reports.He has been in discussions with the Italian giants and Chelsea over personal terms.Sancho supposedly prefers a move to the Blues over Juve.Copy linkCopiedWard-Prowse interestWest Ham are reportedly open to cashing-in on James Ward-Prowse should they receive a good enough offer.Nottingham Forest are interested in a Deadline Day move but the deal is not thought to be close.His former club Southampton have also been linked with the player. Copy linkCopiedMangala’s Prem returnOrel Mangala is set to return to the Premier League just eight months after leaving for Lyon.The midfielder was on the books of Nottingham Forest – but joined the French side in January.He is now all set to head back to England and sign for Everton with a medical booked. Copy linkCopiedVilla loan out Barrenechea Aston Villa are ready to loan out midfielder Enzo Barrenechea to Valencia.The Argentine star arrived alongside Samuel Illing-Junior in a deal thought to be related to the sale of Douglas Luiz to Juventus.Illing-Junior has been loaned out to Bologna this season, who will meet Villa in the Champions League.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle ‘set to walk away from Guehi deal’The Magpies are reportedly ready to give up on long-term target Marc Guehi after growing tired of negotiating with Crystal Palace.Newcastle offered a club record £65million plus £5million in add-ons for the centre-back.Some reports state that the London club are holding out for a whopping £75million for the England international.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMixed news for WolvesHighly-rated Brazilian midfielder Andre is saying goodbye to his team-mates at Fluminense ahead of a move to Wolves.He is ready to undergo a medical tomorrow ahead of a £21m move.However, Wolves will not be signing Burnley’s Luca Koleosho as the £33m price tag is seen as too much. Copy linkCopiedBroja’s move offArmando Broja’s move to Ipswich is now 100 per cent off, according to reports.SunSport exclusively revealed at the weekend that the striker’s medical at Portman Road highlighted an Achilies problem.Both Chelsea and Ipswich remained in talks – but the deal is now dead. Copy linkCopiedWeghorst joins AjaxFormer Manchester United striker Wout Weghorst has signed for Ajax.The Dutchman has left Burnley and signed a two-year contract at his homeland club.Weghorst spent last season away from Turf Moor at German side Hoffenheim. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedNo Sancho returnJadon Sancho will not be returning to Borussia Dortmund this month.Club officials have dismissed reports linking them with a move for the Manchester United winger as “nonsense”, according to Ruhr Nachrichten.There had been claims this week that Sancho could be involved in a swap deal that would see Donyell Malen move to Old Trafford.The United star previously returned to Dortmund on loan for the second half of last season.Copy linkCopiedOsimhen updateChelsea and Al-Ahli have both held talks over the signing of Victor Osimhen.According to Fabrizio Romano, the Blues have spoken with the player about his salary.The Premier League side are willing to launch a loan bid with an obligation to buy.Meanwhile, Al-Ahli have proposed a four-year deal worth up to £25million-per-year.Copy linkCopiedBREAKING: Liverpool sign ChiesaLiverpool have completed the signing of Federico Chiesa from Juventus.The 26-year-old becomes the first signing for new manager Arne Slot.Chiesa joins the Reds for £10million and could make his debut against Manchester United this weekend.Copy linkCopiedMaupay dealMarseille have agreed a deal to sign Neal Maupay from Everton.According to L’Equipe, the forward will sign on loan with an obligation to buy for £3.5million next summer.Everton also have a 20 per cent sell-on clause included in the deal for Maupay.Copy linkCopiedArsenal bidArsenal have launched a bid for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia.The Spanish stopper is the club’s planned replacement for Aaron Ramsdale, who is set to join Southampton.Fabrizio Romano report the Gunners have submitted a £17million offer, but Espanyol want Garcia’s £25million release clause to be triggered instead.The player has already agreed personal terms with Arsenal.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedDendoncker demandAston Villa midfielder Leander Dendoncker is attracting interest from clubs in England and Europe ahead of the transfer deadline.According to Het Nieuwsblad, Anderlecht are the latest side to enter the race for the Belgian.Dendoncker has also been linked with former club Wolves and Las Palmas in Spain.The 29-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Napoli.Copy linkCopiedLacroix medicalMaxence Lacroix will travel to London today for his Crystal Palace medical, report RMC Sport.The Wolfsburg defender is set to join the Eagles in a £17million deal.Lacroix will become the club’s fourth first-team signing following the arrivals of Ismaila Sarr, Chadi Riad and Daichi Kamada.Eddie Nketiah is also on the verge of joining from Arsenal before the window closes.Copy linkCopiedAnother Chelsea keeper on the moveFollowing Kepa Arrizabalaga’s loan exit, Djordje Petrovic is also set to leave Chelsea.The Serbian has agreed terms on a new deal with the Blues ahead of joining Strasbourg for the season, reports Fabrizio Romano.Petrovic signed from MLS side New England Revolution last summer and has since made 31 appearances in West London.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedKepa joins CherriesKepa Arrizabalaga has completed a season-long loan move to Bournemouth.The world’s most expensive goalkeeper has departed Chelsea as they start clearing their ‘bomb squad’.He previously spent last season on loan at Real Madrid, making 20 appearances.Copy linkCopied More

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    Man Utd ‘hold shock Ivan Toney transfer talks’ as they join Chelsea in last-gasp move for England striker

    MANCHESTER UNITED have held talks over a deal for Ivan Toney, according to reports.The striker is expected to make a late transfer with several clubs interested.Man Utd have held talks over a move for Ivan ToneyCredit: PAToney looked set to move to Saudi Arabia until Chelsea made a move to sign the England striker on Tuesday.Enzo Maresca’s side reportedly remains Toney’s preferred option but United have held preliminary talks over a transfer, according to the Evening Standard.It is believed United are yet to make a formal offer for the striker, who could be available for less than his £50million asking price.Toney, 28, is in the final year of his contract at Brentford and the Bees are hopeful of starting a bidding war between the two Premier League giants.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThomas Frank left Toney out of his squad for his opening two Prem matches and admitted Toney is likely to leave before Friday’s transfer deadline.The Brentford boss said: “There is a lot of things going on for Ivan, especially on transfers.”There is some transfer interest, nothing closed yet but things are happening, so because of all that we decided not to involve in the squad.”Toney was initially valued at £70m by Brentford but they have slashed their asking price to £45m due to his contract situation.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMeanwhile, Chelsea have offered Raheem Sterling in exchange for United outcast Jadon Sancho, with the winger not part of Maresca’s plans.Sterling is said to be open to joining Man Utd but wants to resolve his contract situation at Stamford Bridge first, with a £70m pay-off requiring some negotiation.SunSport’s Latest Transfer Headlines More

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    Chelsea transfer tactic slammed as ‘UNACCEPTABLE’ as club look to offload stars with deadline days away

    CHELSEA’S “bomb squad” transfer tactic has been slammed as the Professional Footballers’ Association aims to get it banned.The Blues have expelled 13 players from first-team training as they look to force them out of the club.Chelsea and Enzo Maresca’s ‘bomb squad’ transfer tactic has been slammedCredit: GettyRaheem Sterling is one of 13 players being made to train away from the first-teamCredit: GettyThe PFA are working to get the approach, which has also seen Ben Chilwell exiled, bannedCredit: GettyRaheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell are among the players banished from Enzo Maresca’s sessions at the club’s Cobham base.Both players have been linked with exits amid reported interest from Manchester United.Sterling is even understood to be open to joining the Red Devils before the transfer window closes on Friday.However, the PFA now want the Premier League and Fifa to stop clubs from using the approach with unwanted players.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAccording to the Daily Mail, the players’ union has been in contact with Chelsea players and their representatives.They have also been in touch with other exiled players elsewhere in England.Although the PFA cannot comment on specific clubs or cases, they are proactively trying to help find resolutions where aware of problems.The report adds that the group have been campaigning on the issue for several years and they are still actively pushing for so-called bomb squads to be tackled by the game’s authorities.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt is felt that the Premier League Handbook is too vague on the issue, with players told they must “attend at any reasonable place for the purposes of and to participate in training and match preparation”.They are also ordered to “maintain a high standard of physical fitness at all times”.Why Joao Felix’s transfer to Chelsea is not as crazy is it soundsPlayers signed under Boehly at ChelseaRaheem Sterling – £50mKalidou Koulibaly £33mGabriel Slonina – £8mCarney Chukweumeka – £20mMarc Cucurella – £57.5mCesare Casadei – £13.3mWesley Fofana – £70mPierre-Emerick Aubameyang – £10.3mDenis Zakaria – £2.7m (Loan fee)David Datro Fofana – £10.6mBenoit Badiashile – £33.7mAndrey Santos – £11.1mJoao Felix – £9.7m (Loan fee)Mykhailo Mudryk – £62m Noni Madueke – £30mMalo Gusto – £26.75mEnzo Fernandez – £107.8mChristopher Nkunku – £52mDiego Moreira – FREENicolas Jackson – £31.5mAngelo Gabriel – £13mLesley Ugochukwu – £23.3mAxel Disasi – £38.9mRobert Sanchez – £20mMoises Caicedo – £115mRomeo Lavia – £53.2mDeivid Washington – £13.7mCole Palmer – £40.1mDjordje Petrovic – £13.6mTosin Adarabioyo – FREEMarc Guiu – £5.1mCaleb Wiley – £8.63mRenato Veiga – £12mAarón Anselmino – £14mOmari Kellyman – £19.2mFilip Jorgensen – £21mKiernan Dewsbury-Hall – £30.2mPedro Neto – £51mJoao Felix – £42.6mMike Penders – £17mThe PFA’s reported stance comes just days after Gary Neville blasted Chelsea’s treatment of their own players.He wrote in his latest newsletter for The Overlap: “Let’s start with what is good about Chelsea: the collection of players.”Despite the defeat against Manchester City, I’m seeing a group that can make the top four on paper.”If you have a front three of Neto, Joao Felix and Cole Palmer, a midfield of Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, plus their back four and depth in the squad, you’re in a position most clubs would envy. The challenge is moulding them into a team that can do it.”However, we can quickly get to the bad. Clearlake have spent £1.1bn since taking over and they still haven’t signed a centre forward who you would regard as a top-class assured starter in the Premier League. (I really like Nicolas Jackson but I don’t think he’s that yet).Where will they get changed? Jamie Carragher’s huge Chelsea rantPREMIER LEAGUE legend Jamie Carragher let rip at Chelsea’s transfer market activity, going on an epic rant about the west Londoners…He told Sky Sports: “Chelsea have just got to stop buying players and players have got to stop signing for Chelsea.”If I was a player and look at Chelsea, why would you sign?”The only reason you’d sign is because someone might say – your agent might say – ‘We’re getting a seven-year deal’.”You know what I’d say? ‘Back yourself as a player, sign a four-year deal at a proper club and back yourself to do well’.”And then when you’re due for renewal your money goes up anyway.”I don’t understand why you’d sign a seven-year deal. Back yourself.”He continued: “All players need competition. But every team I played in there were seven or eight players who knew they were playing every week.”Then you’ve got six or seven players who are fighting for three positions, and then you’ve got another six players who know they are squad players.”And of the Blues’ swollen array of talent, Carragher asked: “Where are they going to fit in the changing room?”How are you going to put on a training session.””You’ve six goalkeepers, but not one I would really trust. You have 42 players in the squad but a manager who has just said this week that he will only be working with 21 of them.”Good luck moving onto the other 21. And good luck motivating them for the rest of the season if you can’t move them on.”Chelsea have already sold five first-team players this summer, most recently academy graduate Conor Gallagher to Atletico Madrid.There could still be more before the window closes, with United joined by Crystal Palace and Aston Villa in being linked with Sterling.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, the Blues have also launched a late move to sign England striker Ivan Toney from Brentford.If successful, he would become their 13th addition of the summer window.Chelsea are a circus – it will be TERRIBLE for football if they win anything, says Troy DeeneyCHELSEA are a circus — aren’t they?, writes Troy Deeney.But the bigger concern should be if somehow, some way, Todd Boehly’s insane master-plan brings about success this season.Finish in the top four. Win a trophy like the FA Cup.He will then turn around and say: “See, it works” and all of a sudden, other clubs will begin considering copying this mad model to try and compete in the Premier League.Before you know it, there will be a bigger divide between the top clubs and the rest and this country’s top flight will become something we have been fighting against — a Super League.The smaller sides and promoted teams will be wiped out by the elite and will end up saying, ‘What’s the point?’Football as we know it will change, and there will be no going back.As a neutral, you don’t want to wish failure on a club or a regime, but it’s depressing to think about.We should almost be looking at it in amazement — the owners have come in with this model and they’ve treated it as if they are buying stocks and shares, not players or human beings.Boehly has wiped away any sense of sentiment or old-school values from that club and the worrying thing is that he doesn’t seem to care.Does he even like football?Read Troy Deeney’s hard-hitting opinion on Boehly’s Chelsea shambles in full.Or check out all of Troy’s columns on SunSport. 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    I nearly joined Man City because of Oasis… I thought I’d get to meet Liam and Noel Gallagher, says Italy legend

    AN ITALY legend almost joined Manchester City because of his love for Oasis.The midfielder once revealed he was almost swayed by the prospect of meeting Liam and Noel Gallagher.Daniele De Rossi almost joined Manchester City in 2012 because of OasisCredit: Getty – ContributorThe Italy legend was nearly swayed by the prospect of meeting Liam and Noel GallagherCredit: EPAHowever, he ultimately opted against a move to the Etihad Stadium.The player in question is former Roma captain Daniele De Rossi, who was considering a move to City back in 2012.De Rossi had hoped signing for the club would allow him to meet the Gallagher brothers.Both huge City fans, they have often been spotted in the crowd at matches.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNoel was even seen performing the ‘Poznan’ in the away end at Fulham last season.Discussing his love for the band, De Rossi told Roma’s club website in 2016: “They’re the band from my teenage years. I grew up listening to them and I know all their songs off by heart.”I liked those guys, they were real characters. They weren’t always conventional or very easily approachable but I really liked the stereotype they represented – rock stars off their heads.”On potentially joining City, he added: “There was a lot of talk about me moving to Manchester City a few years ago but I’ve never wanted to leave Rome.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”What excited me the most about that prospect, however, was the fact that I could have met the Gallagher brothers.”De Rossi ultimately stayed at Roma for another seven years before joining Boca Juniors.Liam and Noel Gallagher reveal UK tour dates for huge Oasis reunion shows – and when tickets go on saleHe went on to retire from professional football after just six months in Argentina.During his legendary spell with the Giallorossi, the 41-year-old made 616 appearances and scored 63 goals.He also won the Italian Cup twice before returning as manager in January of this year.Oasis are also making a return in 2025 after confirming the dates for their UK and Ireland tour on Tuesday.The rock group are set to play four gigs at Wembley Stadium as part of a blockbuster reunion next summer.Shows have also been announced in Cardiff, Manchester, Edinburgh and Dublin.Who are these famous footballers? More