More stories

  • in

    Man Utd to hand Hannibal Mejbri new long-term contract before sending 19-year-old on loan transfer to Birmingham

    HANNIBAL MEJBRI is set to be loaned out to Birmingham City – but not before penning a new contract with Manchester United.The 19-year-old broke into United’s first team late last season, making two Premier League starts under former boss Ralf Rangnick.
    Mejbri is set to join Birmingham on loan after signing a new long-term contract with Man UnitedCredit: Getty
    But his first-team chances will be limited this season after the arrival of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen at Old Trafford.
    A slew of Championship sides were mulling a move for the fiery midfielder earlier this summer.
    He also caught the attention of La Liga 2 outfit, FC Andorra, who are owned by Barcelona star Gerard Pique.
    But Birmingham have won the race to take Mejbri on loan, according to football reporter Rich Fay.
    READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
    It comes after Birmingham’s boss John Eustace admitted the club were happy to be linked with Mejbri back in July.
    And now Eustace will get the chance to work with the Tunisia international until June 2023.

    Mejbri will be able to get the lay of the land from fellow United star Tahith Chong who spent last season on loan with the Midlands side.
    But Mejbri will return to United once the loan deal is over as club boss Erik ten Hag made sure the teenager penned a long-term contract before packing his bags.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Ten Hag got the chance to work with Mejbri during United’s pre-season campaign.
    The Dutchman decided to play Mejbri as a striker in the Red Devils’ friendly against Aston Villa.
    Mejbri failed to score but did earn the adulation of the United fans who labelled him the “next Robbie Savage” after his gutsy display. More

  • in

    Nottingham Forest make EIGHTEENTH transfer signing with Renan Lodi loan from Atletico Madrid with £25m option-to-buy

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST have completed the loan transfer of Renan Lodi who is their EIGHTEENTH signing of the summer.Lodi, 24, completed his switch to Forest on Monday after undergoing a successful medical at the club yesterday.
    Renan Lodi has become Nottingham Forest’s eighteenth summer signing after he joined on loan from Atletico MadridCredit: Ritchie Sumpter/News Images
    Atletico Madrid allowed the left-back to leave for the season after lining up Tottenham ace Sergio Reguilon as his replacement.
    And Lodi’s loan move will cost Forest £4.2m plus a £25m option to buy, that’s been embedded in the transfer by Atletico.
    Speaking about the move, Lodi told Forest’s media: “Firstly, I’m really happy to be here, Forest is an extraordinary team in English football and a very big club.
    “I’m really excited about the opportunity and really looking forward to starting training, meeting my teammates and getting a run of games. I feel very happy today.”
    READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
    Lodi arrives at Forest following their acquisition of seventeen other stars this summer.
    But Forest aren’t stopping there, and still hope to make a few more signings before the transfer window closes.

    They’re also targeting Blackpool striker Josh Bowler, and free agent Serge Aurier.
    However, Forest’s new haul of players weren’t able to stop the club losing 2-0 to Tottenham on Sunday.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Harry Kane ruined Forest’s afternoon with a brace, while his team-mate Richarlison added to their humilation by doing kick-ups mid-match.
    Although Forest star Brennan Johnson swiftly put an end to the Brazilian’s showboating with a tough tackle that earned him a yellow card.
    But new signing Lodi enjoyed the passion-filled encounter despite witnessing Forest lose from the stands.
    He added: “I mentioned this to my agent in the stands, the high-pressure environment playing in front of the fans here.
    “I love it, and genuinely can’t wait to be playing and feeling the passion of a home crowd in Nottingham.
    “The club placed a lot of faith in me from the very first contact we had.
    “They made a lot of effort for me to be here today. When the offer came through I didn’t have to think twice about coming here to show what I can do.” More

  • in

    Anthony Gordon told to reject Chelsea transfer by Frank Lampard as he’s only been Everton regular for a year

    FRANK LAMPARD has told Anthony Gordon he should stay at Everton – because he’s only been a first-team regular for a year.Chelsea are poised for a fourth attempt to land the winger before this week’s transfer deadline.
    Lampard has urged Gordon to stay at EvertonCredit: Getty
    The winger has been linked with a move to ChelseaCredit: PA
    It will take a bid of £70million-plus for Everton to even consider selling the 21-year-old.
    But Lampard, who made his own big money move as a player when he left schoolboy club West Ham for Chelsea in 2002, suggested Gordon owes the Goodison side a debt of loyalty at this stage of his career.
    Lampard, who insisted Gordon is “in the squad, for sure” for Tuesday’s game at Leeds, said: “Anthony wouldn’t, couldn’t and shouldn’t do react badly and have his head turned with me. 
    “I think he knows that and there’s no doubt about it.
    Read More on Chelsea
    “And I’m not playing the hard one. It’s just that it would be so alien to what I would expect of him. I just know that’s not him. 
    “At the same time, he’s not robot and you know all this attention is difficult. 

    “I understand – I was that ambitious, hardworking young player and that’s the beauty of Anthony – he’s hard working and wants to be better.
    “He wants to do what he did at Brentford, which is score goals, work for this team and that’s why he’s a delight to work with. 
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    “There was never any idea that he’d react in any other way. 
    “That was my approach when it happened to me. 
    “But I played three and a half, maybe four seasons for West Ham. So there’s my answer to Anthony – he’s only played one for us.”
    Lampard added: “Anthony’s character is great. 
    “He’s a huge player for us, it’s as simple as that. We are getting to the end of the window now but Anthony is a huge player for us and will be this season.” More

  • in

    Man Utd and Chelsea transfer target Frenkie de Jong spotted at airport ‘flying to London’ amid Barcelona exit talk

    FRENKIE DE JONG is travelling to London ahead of a potential move to Chelsea.The Dutchman has been linked with the exit door from Barcelona all summer, with Manchester United leading the race for his signature early on.

    Frenkie De Jong arriving at the airport in BarcelonaCredit: @10JoseAlvarez @elchiringuitotv
    De Jong has been linked with a transfer to Chelsea and Manchester UnitedCredit: @10JoseAlvarez @elchiringuitotv
    De Jong in action for Barcelona over the weekendCredit: Rex
    But now after appearing on the bench for the second time this season De Jong appears to be set to seal a transfer to the Premier League.
    De Jong, 25, was pictured at an airport where a plane was scheduled to take off to fly to London.
    It has previously been reported Chelsea struck an agreement with Barcelona over a transfer fee of around £63million.
    New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has already splashed a massive amount of cash on improving Thomas Tuchel’s squad, with over £180m already spent.
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    Deals for Leicester’s Wesley Fofana and Everton’s Anthony Gordon are also in the works, with the former flying to the US to complete a medical ahead of a move which could reach a world record fee for a defender.
    United also reportedly struck an agreement but their efforts to ensure De Jong reunited with Erik ten Hag have thus far proved fruitless.

    However, despite the transfer interest of these clubs De Jong’s movements are reportedly not transfer related.
    Samuel Marsden has reported the Barcelona squad were given a few days off following their 4-0 victory over Real Valladolid.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    He maintains the most likely scenario regarding De Jong’s future is him staying at Barcelona, with no change to his salary conditions.
    Further reports have suggested De Jong’s reason for travel is the wedding of International team-mate and current Man United star Donny van de Beek, who gave him an invitation. More

  • in

    Bristol City star Nathan Baker forced to retire aged 31 after picking up horror head injury last season

    BRISTOL CITY star Nathan Baker has been forced into early retirement after picking up a horrific head injury last season.Baker, 31, suffered the gruesome injury in Bristol’s clash against Sheffield United last November.
    Bristol City Nathan Baker has announced his retirement from football aged 31 after suffering a head injury last seasonCredit: Rex
    Baker suffered a gruesome head injury against Sheffield United just five weeks after getting stretchered off the pitch when Bristol took on West BromCredit: PA
    The former Aston Villa star spent nine months at home recovering before taking advice from medical professionals who told him he should retireCredit: Action Images – Reuters
    The defender was hospitalised for 24 hours after falling awkwardly following an aerial duel with a Blades player.
    And he’s been ruled out of action ever since the incident that happened just five weeks after he had a similar injury against West Brom.
    Baker had to be stretchered off the pitch while receiving oxygen in the match against the Baggies which also saw two fans taken to hospital.
    The ex-Aston Villa made a full recovery before the unfortunate clash of heads against Sheffield United.
    READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
    He subsequently spent nine months at home recuperating with the help of medical professionals who have advised him that continuing to play football “represents a significant risk to his ongoing and future health.”
    And now Bristol have confirmed that Baker’s taken heed of that advice.
    The club announced on Twitter: “#BristolCity regrets to announce the retirement of defender Nathan Baker on medical grounds.
    The 31-year-old will step away from the game as a consequence of the head injury he sustained at Sheffield United on November 28th, 2021.”
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Baker followed this up by saying: “Football has been a massive part of my life from a very young age, so this has not been the easiest decision for me, however I must take the advice from the medical team and consultants.
    “It’s sad to think I won’t be playing football again, there are so many things I’m going to miss, such as my teammates, the friendships made, plus a good tackle! But I must put my health and family first, it’s not worth the risk.
    “I’d like to thank all the staff at Bristol City for doing all they can to help me through this tough time. And I’d like to thank the fans who have supported me throughout my career at Bristol City and Aston Villa.
    “I’m so grateful and lucky to have had the opportunity to play for such great clubs and even represent my country. There are so many memories that will always stay with me.”
    Bristol boss Nigel Pearson shared Baker’s disappointment, adding: “It’s a sad day for any player when they have to step away from the game, especially in Nathan’s case when it’s a lot earlier than he had planned.
    “However, the health and safety of players must come first and we fully support the advice given to Nathan to ensure his health is the primary concern.
    “Nathan was a fabulous servant to our club and popular in dressing room as well in the stands with the supporters. We wish him all the best for the future as he starts his life away from the pitch with his young family.”
    Baker made 324 appearances, and scored five goals along with five assists in a fruitful career that saw him play for Aston Villa, Lincoln City, Millwall, and Bristol.
    He joined Villa’s academy aged 13 in 2004 before making his professional debut in 2010.
    The Englishman made 123 appearances for Villa, and spent time on loan with Lincoln and Milwall, then moved to Bristol in 2017 where he featured in 148 matches. More

  • in

    Chelsea star Conor Gallagher wanted back by Crystal Palace as Patrick Vieira makes £27m transfer bid for midfielder

    CRYSTAL PALACE have launched a £27million bid in an attempt to sign Conor Gallagher from Chelsea, according to reports.Gallagher, 22, enjoyed a successful loan spell at Selhurst Park last season.
    Crystal Palace are pushing to sign Gallagher in a permanent transferCredit: Dan Weir / MatchDay Images Limited
    In 39 appearances for the Eagles he scored eight goals and assisted five, making him an integral presence in midfield.
    But now he could be set for a permanent return to South London.
    According to The Times, Crystal Palace have made a £27m bid for Gallagher.
    The Eagles are hopeful that both Chelsea and the midfielder will agree to a permanent transfer rather than a second consecutive loan.
    Read More on Chelsea
    Palace boss Patrick Vieira refused to rule out the prospect of a permanent transfer earlier this year.
    In May, he said: “Conor has been fantastic for us.
    “He felt like he is at home the way he has been performing for us. He understands the way that we want to play the game, and he brings his energy and his determination.
    “We know that he has to go back to Chelsea. Then, what will happen? We don’t know.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    “But what is important is that he came for a year, and he worked hard and worked well, and he gave something to the team and the football club. It was a win-win.
    “He was really happy with us. He played really well, which allowed him to go to England.

    “He’s happy, so we are happy.”
    Gallagher was called-up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the first time during his loan spell with Crystal Palace, so he could opt for a return to increase his chances of a World Cup call-up.
    The midfielder has already made four appearances for Chelsea this season.
    Last week, he was sent off just 28 minutes into the Blues’ Premier League clash with Leicester after receiving two yellow cards.
    Thomas Tuchel’s side went on to win the match 2-1 despite the disadvantage. More

  • in

    Liverpool plan shock transfer bid for Sheff Utd ace Sander Berge to solve midfield crisis but must meet £35m buy-out fee

    LIVERPOOL are reportedly planning a shock transfer swoop on Sheffield United star Sander Berge to solve their deepening midfield crisis.The Reds currently have a depleted midfield due to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Thiago, Curtis Jones, and Naby Keita all being out injured.
    Liverpool have turned to Sheffield United star Sander Berge to solve their deepening injury crisisCredit: Arron Gent/News Images
    Chamberlain picked up a hamstring injury in Liverpool’s pre-season game against Crystal Palace and could be out until October.
    Thiago suffered the same fate as Chamberlain in the Reds’ season opener against Fulham, and has been ruled out of action for six weeks.
    This has left the Reds with a gaping hole in their midfield that needs to be filled after club boss Jurgen Klopp focused on strengthening other areas of the pitch this summer.
    He signed two forwards – Fabio Carvalho and club record buy Darwin Nunez – along with right-back Calvin Ramsay.

    But the Reds have now set sights on the Blades’ midfield dynamo Berge who’s scored two – and provided one assist in six Championship games this season, the Yorkshire Post reported.
    Although the Reds will have to fork out £35m to meet the Norwegian’s release clause fee, the report added.
    However, the Reds need to move fast if they want to sign Berge with the transfer deadline edging closer.
    The Reds’ dire need for more squad depth has been evident during their stuttering start to the season that’s seen them win just one out of four games.
    Most read in Football
    The Reds were outplayed by Man United last week when they succumbed to a 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford.
    But Jurgen Klopp’s side redeemed themselves with a 9-0 win over Bournemouth on Saturday. More

  • in

    Ex-Man Utd prodigy Ravel Morrison scores wonder goal but Wayne Rooney’s awful start at DC United continues with 3-2 loss

    EX-MANCHESTER UNITED prodigy Ravel Morrison showed fans he’s still got it with a wonder goal for Wayne Rooney’s DC United side against Atlanta United.Morrison, 29, vigorously burst onto the scene when he signed for the Red Devils aged 17 in 2010.
    Ravel Morrison scored a stunner for DC United against Atlanta UnitedCredit: Alamy
    But it wasn’t enough to stop Wayne Rooney’s side from losing 3-2 in the MLS matchCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    He rubbed shoulders with Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard, and his vast array of talent led former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson to label him, “the best player I’ve ever seen at that age.”
    It was during his two year stint at Old Trafford that he built his relationship with Rooney.
    But the pair’s careers took different turns as Rooney became one of Premier League’s greatest ever strikers, while Morrison descended into obscurity.
    However, Rooney handed Morrison a career lifeline when brought the forgotten attacker to Derby County on a free transfer when the United icon managed the Rams.
    READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
    And Morrison repaid Rooney’s faith in him by following the United legend to America when he took over as DC United boss this summer.
    Rooney’s had a tough time in the MLS side’s dugout so far, losing two of his four opening games at the club.
    But he would’ve cracked a smile after witnessing Morrison’s beauty against Atlanta in the Eastern Conference on Sunday.
    Morrison opened the scoring just after half-time with a stellar volley from 25 yards out, MLS footage showed.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    He latched onto a botched clearance from an Atlanta player by bringing the ball down on his chest before sweetly piledriving the ball into the bottom right-hand corner.
    But his wondergoal wasn’t enough to stop Rooney’s side slumping to a 3-2 loss to Atlanta who staged a resounding fightback.
    It was DC United’s fourth successive defeat which has left them bottom of the MLS table.
    Luckily, Rooney’s been able to take his mind off his side’s woes on the pitch with the company of his family over the past week.
    Rooney’s wife Coleen and their kids spent the last seven days in the US with the England icon before jetting back to the UK yesterday. More