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    Chelsea leading transfer race to sign ‘new Yaya Toure’ with two other Premier League clubs monitoring starlet

    CHELSEA are leading a trio of Premier League clubs in the race to sign Lorient midfielder Arthur Avom this summer.The 2004-born midfielder is a rising star in French football, with Chelsea, West Ham, and Aston Villa scouts regularly attending his games throughout the season.Chelsea are leading the race for the ‘next Yaya Toure’ who’s playing in Ligue 2Credit: GettyFrench Ligue 2 side Lorient are keen to tie him down to a long-term deal, with his current contract reportedly expiring this summer.However, with Chelsea aiming to become a hot bed for Europe’s top young talents, Avom is reportedly in no rush to sign an extension.He will listen to all offers and will make a decision on his future in the summer.Lorient have a strategic partnership with Bournemouth and believe that the 20-year-old could make the move to the Premier League in a similar deal to the one that took Dango Ouattara to the Vitality Stadium.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS West Ham are also interested, with manager Graham Potter determined to rebuild a midfield that has disappointed massively this season.Aston Villa meanwhile will have European football next season and Unai Emery wants to strengthen. The Aston Villa manager played a key role in developing Nicolas Jackson during his early days at Villarreal and has also set his sights on convincing the talented midfielder to come to Villa Park.Avom, a Cameroonian international, is often compared to Ivorian legend Yaya Toure. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHe is blessed with superb technique, a powerful shot, and remarkable stamina, allowing him to play effectively as either a central or box-to-box midfielder.This season, he has featured in thirty league games, quickly establishing himself as one of the first names on Olivier Pantaloni’s team sheet.Cole Palmer spotted running away from Stamford Bridge as baffled Chelsea fans ask ‘where is he going’SunSport understands that Chelsea’s interest is focused on signing Avom and then loaning him to their sister club, Strasbourg.It remains to be seen, however, whether the midfielder prefers a move that brings him straight to the Premier League or one that keeps him in France a little while longer.Join SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford Bridge More

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    Man Utd scout ‘Serbian Jude Bellingham’ with Ruben Amorim looking to add goals in summer transfer window

    MANCHESTER UNITED scouts are on the trail of a talented Serbian teenager who is being compared to Paul Pogba and Jude Bellingham.The Red Devils’ search for fresh talent to overhaul an attack set to record their lowest tally of league goals in over 30 years has taken them to Belgrade.Ognjen Ugresic has been compared to Jude Bellingham and Paul Pogba in styleCredit: GettyRuben Amorim’s spies have identified 17-year-old Partizan Belgrade midfielder Ognjen Ugresic as a future prospect worth further inspection.According to reports, United have been to see him live in recent weeks after he made his first Serbian Super League start in early April.Ugresic scored his first top-flight goal in a 3-1 win over Radnicki Nis last weekend and, if he continues to impress, may soon be on the wanted lists of every major European club.His agent certainly thinks so as Ostoja Stjepanovic confirmed that several big names, including some from Serie A, have made inquiries.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut the former Macedonia international believes it is too soon for Ugresic to leave Partizan.Stjepanovic said: “I can confirm that the media reports are based on reality, there is interest in him from several sides.“Not only Manchester United scouts are following his development, there are also teams from Serie A.“However, it is too early for him to change his environment now, because in the coming seasons he should get the opportunity to play for Partizan and further develop and progress.”Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordAlthough protective of his client, the agent is not afraid of drawing comparisons between the youngster and two of the best central midfielders to have graced the game in the last decade.“His style is similar to Jude Bellingham or to some extent Paul Pogba,” he told Nemzeti Sport.“His technique is exceptional, but he also has speed, despite his height. “He plays behind the strikers, has good vision, participates in actions, is intelligent…“He has developed a lot under the leadership of Srdan Blagojevic, but he still needs time.“We have been working together for three and a half years, I see huge potential in him. “His parents and he made a lot of sacrifices to get to the Partizan first team, they travelled three hours by car and back every day to training.”Man Utd player ratings vs BournemouthBy Katherine WalshMANCHESTER UNITED managed to secure a 1-1 draw against 10-man Bournemouth in the sixth minute of injury time.Rasmus Hojlund’s last-gasp equaliser leaves United 14th in the Prem, after Evanilson was sent off for serious foul play with 20 minutes to go.Man Utd target Antoine Semenyo fired the home side into the lead with a thunderbolt opener, after a calamity of mistakes while playing out from the back.Yet United somewhat responded well, mainly through Alejandro Garnacho’s flurry of chances.So was the Argentine the star player for Man Utd? Check out how the players rated. More

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    Erik ten Hag ‘lined up for return to management with Champions League club six months after Man Utd axe’

    ERIK TEN HAG has been shortlisted by a Champions League club six months after his acrimonious exit from Manchester United.Ten Hag, 55, was sacked in October after overseing United’s worst ever start to a Premier League season.Erik ten Hag could be set for a return to management after his Manchester United exitAlonso could be leaving Leverkusen for Real MadridCredit: GettyAccording to Kicker, however, the Dutch tactician could be participating in next season’s Champions League as he is a serious candidate for Bayer Leverkusen.Leverkusen may soon need to replace Xabi Alonso, a year after he led them to an undefeated domestic Double.The Spaniard is a favourite to replace departing Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti at the end of the season.And the same source claims Ten Hag, who used to work as manager of rivals Bayern Munich’s reserves, is on the reigning German champions’ list of candidates.Read More on Man UtdHowever, there have not yet been any concrete talks with the ex-Utrecht and Ajax boss, who led United to FA and Carabao Cup glory.Nevertheless, the Bundesliga giants have still gathered information on the Dutchman’s situation as they explore the market.But everything will depend on what Alonso chooses to do next.Threrefore, Leverkusen are waiting on the Spanish tactician’s final decision. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis comes after Ten Hag hinted he may never return to management.He is currently enjoying some time off away from the spotlight of the dugout.And he confirmed in February that he’s keeping his options wide open when it comes to his next move.The ex-Man Utd boss would be open to a new project that “suits him” but is currently happy working away from football with his family. More

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    Wolves frontrunners to sign Jamie Vardy – but Leicester star could make emotional return to former club

    WOLVES are front-runners to land Jamie Vardy — with the veteran striker determined to keep playing in the Prem.The 38-year-old star’s announcement that he will leave relegated Leicester this summer has sparked a flurry of interest.Vitor Pereira’s Wolves are the frontrunners to sign Jamie VardyCredit: RexVardy has announced he is leaving Leicester when his contract expiresCredit: RexBut Vardy could instead return to former club Sheffield WednesdayCredit: RexWrexham’s Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney could offer him at least £50,000 a week in the Championship.And Vardy’s boyhood club Sheffield Wednesday would love to welcome him back after releasing him at the age of 16.But he is adamant he can still cut it in the top flight.West Ham and newly-promoted Leeds are also keen.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWolves boss Vitor Pereira is favourite to land him as he prepares for the exit of £62.5million star Matheus Cunha, most likely to Manchester United.Vardy has 143 Prem goals for the Foxes and rattled in 24 during their sensational title-winning triumph of 2015-16.SunSport columnist Harry Redknapp believes Vardy should make the “no-brainer” switch to Wrexham.Ex-England star Vardy announced his decision to leave Leicester following the club’s relegation to the Championship in a season he called a “s***show”.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIn a heartfelt statement, he said: “It’s something that I’ve thought about and spoken about with my family. I think it’s time.”I’ll be devastated on the day when it is the last [game], but good things, they come to an end.Jamie Vardy anounces he’s LEAVING Leicester in emotional video with striker left close to tears after 13 years”It’s going to be one of those emotional days. Who knows which way that can go. If you ask anyone, I’m not really an emotional guy.”Nothing like that ever comes across with me, but when you’ve been somewhere for so long, and it is time to say goodbye, you just never know what your personal reaction is going to be.”I’ve spent 13 unbelievable years at this club, with lots of success, and some downs, but the majority have all been highs.”It’s finally time to call it a day, which I’m devastated about it, but I think the timing it right.” More

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    Man Utd in shock Tom Heaton U-turn with 39-year-old year old to be offered new contract amid keeper uncertainty

    MANCHESTER UNITED are set to offer Tom Heaton a shock new contract, according to reports.The veteran goalkeeper, 39, was expected to be let go as a free agent and possibly even hang up his gloves when his £45,000-a-week Old Trafford contract expires this summer.Tom Heaton could sign a one-year contract extension at Manchester UnitedCredit: AlamyThere could be an overhaul of the goalkeeping department this summerCredit: PAThere was an understanding that he may stick around at Carrington, though, in a coaching role should he retire. However, the Daily Mail claim Heaton and United could make a surprise U-turn by extending his stay. It is claimed the three-cap England goalkeeper has entered negotiations over a new deal.An additional 12-month contract would see Heaton stay on at United – again as the third-choice stopper. READ MORE ON MAN UTDAn overhaul of the goalkeeping department at Old Trafford remains on the cards.Current No2 Altay Bayindir looks on course to leave to play regular first-team football next season.And uncertainty remains over the future of current No1 Andre Onana, who could move to Saudi Arabia.So Ruben Amorim may opt to keep Heaton around to provide some stability among the goalkeepers.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordAnd that would see Heaton remain in the Premier League into his 40s. The ex-Burnley stopper turns 40 next April.Ruben Amorim warns Rasmus Hojlund ‘he has to score many more’ goals after dramatic last gasp Man Utd equaliserBorn in Chester, he joined United as a trainee in 2002 but left in 2010 after six loans and no Red Devils first-team appearances.But he returned in 2021 after two years with Aston Villa.Heaton has made just three appearances in his four seasons, though. He came off the bench in a 1-1 draw in the Champions League with Young Boys in December 2021 and then featured in two EFL Cup victories – over Charlton and Nottingham Forest – on the way to United lifting the trophy.However, the 2-0 second-leg semi-final victory over Forst in February 2023 was his most-recent game for the Red Devils. This term, Heaton has been named on the bench 16 times – including nine in the Europa League and five in the Premier League.Read More on The SunUnited are being linked with various goalkeepers as possible rivals or even replacements for Onana next season.Espanyol stopper Joan Garcia, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Kaua Santos and Lille’s Lucas Chevalier are all thought to be under consideration. Heaton’s latest appearances came in the successful Carabao Cup run in 2022-23Credit: Reuters More

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    Man Utd in lucky escape as Ten Hag’s £34m former transfer target now worth just £8m with same league goals as Hojlund

    A FORMER Manchester United target who was wanted by Erik ten Hag has seen his price tag tumble this season.Ajax striker Brian Brobbey was at the top of Ten Hag’s wishlist last summer.Ajax striker Brian Brobbey has seen his price tag tumble this seasonCredit: GettyThe forward was a £34million target for ex-Man Utd boss Erik ten HagCredit: GettyTen Hag, who was sacked in October, targeted him in a £34million swoop after seeing Rasmus Hojlund struggle to make an impact in his debut campaign.But United chiefs instead opted to splash out on Joshua Zirzkee.And even though he has also struggled, it has now emerged that the Old Trafford faithful had a lucky escape.Brobbey is now valued at just £8m.- marking a mega drop of £24m.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Voetbal Primeur claims it’s all down to Brobbey’s poor goal record this season.Last term, the eight-time Netherlands international bagged 22 goals for Ajax.But in the current campaign, he’s managed just four strikes in 27 league outings.That’s the same amount of Prem goals as Hojlund has this season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHowever, the Dane has still managed nine strikes in all competitions – one better than Brobbey’s return.United fans were quick to react as they hit out at Ten Hag.Ruben Amorim will go all out to secure Europa League glory for Man Utd Brobbey has the same amount of league goals as Rasmus Hojlund this seasonCredit: GettyOne said: “Ten Hag was sort of destroying United, you can’t convince me otherwise.”Another declared: “I bet Ajax were made when he got sacked.”One noted: “Bro should go to jail for this.”Another added: “Maybe Ten Hag was a devil.” More

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    Eric Dier to leave Bayern Munich and secure glamorous move as ex-Tottenham and England star agrees free transfer

    ERIC DIER has agreed to join AS Monaco, according to reports.The Bayern Munich defender, 31, will link up with the French side ahead of next season.Eric Dier is set to leave Bayern Munich this summerCredit: GettyDier has agreed a two-year deal with the Ligue 1 outfit.And according to L’Equipe, the deal possesses an option to extend by a further 12 months.Monaco, managed by Adi Hutter, are fourth in the French top flight with three matches remaining.Dier will hope that his new side can seal Champions League qualification for next term.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe centre-back left Tottenham in January 2024 following eight-and-a-half years in North London.Having previously been a stalwart at Spurs, Dier fell out of favour under Ange Postecoglou.The 49-cap England star played 365 times for Tottenham prior to departing for Bayern.Dier was initially a regular for the German giants under Thomas Tuchel.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSDier made 365 appearances in eight-and-half-years at TottenhamCredit: RexThe experienced defender initially didn’t feature much under Tuchel’s successor Vincent Kompany – although he has started Bayern’s last nine Bundesliga matches.Dier will link up with former Premier League stars Thilo Kehrer, Denis Zakaria, Folarin Balogun, Mika Biereth, Takumi Minamino and Mohammed Salisu at Stade Louis II.Ange Postecoglou does NO tactical work in training reveals former Tottenham star Eric DierLast year, Dier opened up on life at Tottenham under Ange Postecoglou while in conversation with Gary Neville.The Three Lions star revealed: “No, interestingly he doesn’t really do any tactical work.“What he does is, every single training drill from Monday to Friday is drawn up to represent the way he wants to play.“(Antonio) Conte, I could do it blind, but that was a lot of tactical work, ten versus zero, walkthroughs.“You were so well drilled, it would be ingrained in you.” More

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    ‘I just worry’ – Paul Scholes reveals concern over Man Utd signing Matheus Cunha for two reasons

    PAUL SCHOLES has admitted he has two concerns over Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha.Reports suggest that the Red Devils are close to an agreement with the Wolves star ahead of triggering his £62.5million release clause.Matheus Cunha is closing in on a move to Man UtdCredit: AlamyBut Paul Scholes is unsure where he fits into the Man Utd teamCredit: GettyCunha, 25, has impressed this term, scoring 15 goals and registering six assists in the Premier League.But Man Utd legend Scholes has doubts over where the versatile attacker will fit in and whether it is even a wise move for the player himself.He wrote in his TNT Sports column: “He looks like he’s got the attributes that Ruben Amorim wants. He knows that physically, his team are just not strong or quick enough.”I just worry for any signing coming to Manchester United at the minute.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”It just feels like it’s such a bad place to go. The quality of play right now is so poor.”And with Cunha, is he a centre-forward or is he a wide player?”There’s no doubt that he has quality and of course, it would be nice to sign him, but I worry about where he fits in. “You can sign the best three players in the world, and I think they’ll struggle coming into this team at the minute, but they’ve got to start somewhere.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAmorim addressed concerns over top players not wanting to move to Old Trafford last week, saying: “What I feel is there are a lot of players who want to play for our club.”I know that if you look at our club in the moment, with all the problems with the staff and people going, changing coach and the results, it looks like a little bit of a problem.Why Ruben Amorim’s Man United system is broken”But we have a clear idea. That is the easiest part to explain to a player.”Then it is Manchester United. Everyone wants to play for Manchester United.” More