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    Man Utd ‘set to make £25m transfer offer to Real Madrid for Marco Asensio’ but Carlo Ancelotti will fight for midfielder

    MANCHESTER UNITED are ready to make an offer for Real Madrid star Marco Asensio, according to reports.The Red Devils could bid £25million for the Spaniard, claim outlet Relevo.
    Marco Asensio has won three Champions LeaguesCredit: Getty
    Carlo Ancelotti supposedly wants to keep Marco AsensioCredit: Getty
    But a deal could prove difficult to complete because Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti wants to keep Asensio at the club.
    But the 26-year-old midfielder’s contract expires next summer so Real Madrid may want to cash in now in case a new contract cannot be sorted.
    Asensio could be tempted by a move to Old Trafford with his former teammates Raphael Varane and Casemiro at the club.
    Rumours suggest Man Utd may not be the only club in for him with Liverpool previously showing interest.
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    Newcastle and Arsenal have also been linked with as well as an unnamed Italian club is monitoring him too.
    Real Madrid won the LaLiga title and the Champions League last season with Asensio playing a key role featuring 42 times in all competitions scoring 12 goals.
    He has been at the Spanish giants since 2014 when he joined from Real Mallorca.
    In total, he has played 236 times for the club scoring on 49 occasions and he’s contributed with a further 24 assists.
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    Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag is keen to bolster his squad in the final week of the transfer window.
    The club remain keen on Ajax winger Antony.
    Meanwhile the future of star striker Cristiano Ronaldo is still unclear. More

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    Casemiro is ‘happiest man alive’ after Man Utd transfer as he vows to win trophies with the ‘biggest team in England’

    NEW Manchester United signing Casemiro has revealed he’s the “happiest man alive after joining England’s biggest team”- who he vowed to win trophies with. Casemiro completed a blockbuster £70million move from Real Madrid to Old Trafford this week.
    Casemiro has shared his joy over joining England’s biggest team Man United who he vows to win trophies withCredit: Getty
    The midfielder can’t wait to link up with former Real Madrid team-mate Ronaldo although they’re yet to speak about his switch to Old TraffordCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    He arrived at the club in time to witness them crush rivals Liverpool 2-1 from the sidelines.
    And the midfielder’s set to get thrown into action when the Red Devils take on Southampton this weekend.
    But he took a moment out from getting to grips with life in Manchester to discuss his move with the club’s media.
    And the 30-year-old couldn’t contain his excitement about joining the team who’ve made him feel like a teenager once again.
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    When asked how he’s feeling since swapping Real for United, Casemiro buzzed: “Well, firstly, many thanks. There’s no doubt I’m really excited.
    “I’ve been very warmly welcomed. I’ve already felt that special affection from everyone towards me and of course that’s really important. I felt that great affection from the moment I arrived and I think it’s a new challenge.
    “I’m absolutely delighted. I feel like I’m 20 or 18 years of age, I’m raring to go, I’m excited to be amongst my teammates, playing in the stadium and I think that it’s just huge excitement and I’m absolutely delighted.”
    He’s been blown away by the affection he’s been shown by those at the club – and is eager to hit the ground running at the Theatre Of Dreams.
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    Casemiro added: “Well, as you’ve said, the love of those around me… It was amazing when I arrived.
    “People were really friendly with me, showing me lots of affection and that’s what you like to feel as a person.
    “So, I’m really happy, really excited and I feel it’s a great challenge and a new challenge for me, so I want to work hard to make it happen.”
    Casemiro became United’s second midfield addition following Christian Eriksen’s arrival this summer, and he’s revealed it was a no-brainer to make the switch when the country’s “biggest team” came knocking.
    The Red Devils have been in steady decline over the past decade but have still won the Prem more than any other team – with 13 titles in their cabinet.
    And Casemiro claims this proves they’re still England’s top dogs.
    He mused: “Well, it’s the biggest club in England. It’s the club with the most amount of titles. So, I’m really happy and just can’t wait to get going.”
    The midfield engine will link up with ex-Real team-mates Raphael Varane and Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford this season, and he can’t wait to reunite with his old pals.
    He revealed that Varane’s already given him the lay of the land, although he’s yet to chat with Ronaldo – who he evidently still reveres despite their lack of contact thus far.
    Casemiro explained when quizzed about the pair: “Well, they are two players that I’ve had the pleasure of playing alongside.
    “We could spend all day talking about Cristiano. He’s one of the best players in the history of football. Looking back at his time at Real Madrid.
    “I think we spent seven years together, so it’s an honour to play once again with these players but not just these guys, I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates, to helping them and them helping me, too.
    “Well, it’s the biggest club in England. It’s the club with the most amount of titles. ”Casemiro
    “I’m incredibly excited to be here at Manchester United.”
    “I’ve spoken to Rafa. He tells me he’s happy. His family is very happy here in Manchester and I feel Manchester United have a great centre-back in him and, as we know, Cristiano is up there as one of the best players in the history of football and I think he’ll keep achieving things.”
    But Casemiro hasn’t come to United just to rekindle the camaraderie with his old friends.
    He’s determined to make his mark at the club and bring back the glory days to the club, and that includes winning trophies.
    Casemiro rounded up by saying to the fans: “Well, I’m excited to be here, extremely happy.
    “I appreciate the affection that people have shown me, from day one, the people in the airport, everyone.
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    “I’m delighted and I’m sure that I’ll give everything, not just in games but in training as well and you can count on me as another Manchester United player and I want to win matches and titles like all of the players.
    “I’m really looking forward to it and now it’s about working hard and showing everyone what I can do as a footballer.” More

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    Patrice Evra admits it ‘may be time for Harry Maguire to go’ as Chelsea line up transfer for under-fire Man Utd defender

    PATRICE EVRA admitted time may be up for Harry Maguire at Manchester United.The £85million defender has endured a tough time at Old Trafford, struggling to live up to his world-record transfer fee.
    Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire could both be moved on in the next weekCredit: EPA
    Patrice Evra is not overjoyed with the £85m defenderCredit: Getty
    Despite being club captain, he was dropped for Monday’s 2-1 win over Liverpool.
    SunSport revealed Erik ten Hag has told Maguire he is no longer first choice therefore plunging the armband into doubt.
    And with Chelsea sniffing around a potential transfer in their desperate pursuit for a centre-back, former Red Devils star Evra reckons his old side should cash in.
    He said: “I can say people are too harsh on Harry Maguire, but he is paying the price for his transfer fee.
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    “From that day, I said he is going to have the most difficult season for United because people only looked at the price.
    “If we bought him for £5m, people would say he’s an amazing centre-back.
    “We all have bad games but now we’ve got to a point where even if he has a good game people are not happy.
    “So there’s a negativity around him.”
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    Uncertainty also circles around the futures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Luke Shaw with a week left in the summer transfer window.
    And Evra believes it could be best to sell both now.
    He told Betfair: “The Cristiano Ronaldo saga is another issue. Is he staying? Is he leaving?
    “He’s still here, the transfer window isn’t closed but I think, personally knowing Cristiano, if he doesn’t play he would like to leave. 
    “I think this would be the best for him and for United. 
    “We’ve been playing Luke Shaw for so many years and I’m really careful when I talk about left-backs because I’ve been in this position and it’s not an easy position.
    “Luke Shaw has been here for so many years and he hasn’t matched the standard set by Denis Irwin or myself, and I think left-back is a really crucial position for United. 
    “Maybe it’s time for those players [Maguire, Ronaldo and Shaw] to go.”
    ‘WHAT A PLAYER’
    However, Evra was far more positive about the shock £70m signing of Casemiro from Real Madrid.
    The Brazilian will inject some much-needed trophy-winning experience into a team that has not lifted any silverware since 2017.
    Evra said: “I’m confident, we’re talking about a five-times Champions League winner.
    “Don’t expect too much all of a sudden, he needs to adapt to his new players.
    “But I’ve seen him many times and what a player. That’s the kind of midfielder we need. 
    “When we play Scott McTominay and Fred, even if they have a great game, after three games they lose that consistency and Casemiro will bring that to United.
    “I don’t see why he won’t perform well for Manchester United. 
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    “People blame players at the club, but they don’t have anybody to look at, apart from Cristiano Ronaldo. The experience is really important.
    “When you have a player and they win so many trophies, young players look up to them, they see the way they train, the way they eat and their lifestyle. Casemiro’s experience will be a massive help.”
    The Cristiano Ronaldo saga is still not resolvedCredit: Getty
    Evra has high hopes for new midfielder CasemiroCredit: Getty More

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    Fulham ‘in negotiations with PSG over Layvin Kurzawa transfer’ as Marco Silva eyes left-back for Prem survival bid

    FULHAM and Paris-Saint Germain are in talks over a Premier League move for Layvin Kurzawa, according to reports.Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Fulham boss Marco Silva wants the French left-back at Craven Cottage.
    Layvin Kurzawa played nine minutes of football for PSG in the last 12 monthsCredit: Getty – Contributor
    The clubs are in negotiations about a permanent deal which would see Kurzawa have his first-ever Premier League run.
    Earlier in July, the left-back was also offered to Leeds and Everton, but they have decided to make look elsewhere.
    The 29-year-old’s contract runs till 2024 but he is looking for a challenge having only played nine minutes of football in 12 months.
    His last appearance for PSG came in a 1-0 win over Lille in the Trophee des Champions in August 2021 and it is understood he is no longer part of PSG’s plans.
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    Kurzawa made a move to the Parc des Princes in 2015 for a transfer fee of £22.5million.
    He has made 153 appearance for PSG, netting 14 goals and assisting 23 while becoming a four-time Ligue 1 winner.
    In England, the Cottagers have their hands full with several potential transfers in the making as the end of the summer transfer window.
    They are trying to win the race for Neal Maupay from Brighton, with Nottingham Forest and Everton also chasing the forward.
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    Meanwhile, they seem to have agreed personal terms for Justin Kluivert but are yet to agree a transfer fee with Roma.
    Silva’s side are enjoying their return to the Premier League.
    They’ve so far managed draws to Liverpool and Wolves and celebrated a 3-2 victory over Brentford.
    However they suffered a shock early exit from the Carabao Cup after they were beaten 2-0 by Crawley Town. More

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    Chelsea transfer target Aubameyang ‘waves goodbye’ to Barcelona fans during Man City game as Blues prepare final offer

    PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG appeared to bid farewell to Barcelona fans in his team’s friendly against Manchester City as his exit to Chelsea looms.Aubameyang has been identified by Chelsea as the man to boost their attack following the departures of Timo Werner and Romelu Lukaku.
    Aubameyang seemed to confirm his Barcelona exit with a telling wave during their friendly draw with Man City as Chelsea close in on his signature
    At present, Thomas Tuchel’s side only have the inexperienced Armando Broja to rely on as a striker by trade.
    They splashed £50million on winger Raheem Sterling this summer, but still lack firepower upfront.
    Chelsea’s dire need for goals was exposed during their 3-0 loss to Leeds last weekend.
    This is why they’ve presented Barcelona with a final offer of £17m to secure Aubameyang’s services.
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    And the ex-Arsenal forward seemed to confirm his Barca exit with a telling wave to Barca’s supporters at the Nou Camp.
    Aubameyang reminded fans what they’ll be missing as he put on a sizzling display in Barca’s 3-3 draw against Manchester City.
    The 33-year-old’s goal cancelled out City’s opener, and Barca fans showed their appreciation for his input by giving him a standing ovation when he was subbed.
    Aubameyang simply cracked a smile and offered a wave to the home crowd as the rapturous gesture engulfed the stadium.
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    His love affair with Barca fans has developed over the course of seven months since he joined in February from Arsenal.
    The Gabon international made an instant impact at the club ina short space of time – scoring 13 goals in 23 La Liga and Europa League games last season.
    Barca would prefer to keep hold of Aubameyang but need to balance to books in order to register new signing Jules Kounde. More

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    Gerard Pique’s FC Andorra, in Spain’s LaLiga 2, make shock £21m transfer move for Man Utd starlet Hannibal Mejbri

    MANCHESTER UNITED star Hannibal Mejbri could be set for a shock move to FC Androrra, owned by Gerard Pique, according to reports.The Barcelona centre-back purchased the club via his company Kosmos Holding back in 2018 and they recently got promoted to LaLiga 2, the Spanish second division, for the first time in their history.
    Hannibal Mejbri could be set for a loan move away from Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty
    Gerard Pique owns FC AndorraCredit: Getty
    The club are interested in signing Hannibal on loan with a clause in the deal that would allow them to sign him for £21million, report the Daily Mail.
    The 19-year-old is set to depart Man Utd on loan this summer.
    Rumours suggest a host of Championship clubs have shown an interest such as West Brom and Birmingham.
    The teenager has made three first-team appearances for United all of which came under Ralf Rangnick towards the end of last season.
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    Despite his limited minutes the Tunisian has already developed a reputation for his aggressive style of play.
    He has been dubbed a ‘hothead’ and ‘the next Robbie Savage’ by supporters.
    The central-midfielder supposedly impressed new United boss Erik ten Hag in pre-season but following the signing of Casemiro his chances at starting games will be severely restricted.
    He was used during one pre-season game as a striker by the Dutchman.
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    FC Andorra have made a respectable start to the season and have three points from two matches.
    Pique continues to make headlines away from being a Barcelona player following his split with long-term partner and pop star Shakira.
    The 35-year-old former Man Utd youngster has also invested in tennis’ Davis Cup and a production company via Kosmos Holding. More

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    ‘Barcelona like him a lot’ – Pep Guardiola opens door to Bernardo Silva transfer exit after Man City’s Nou Camp friendly

    PEP GUARDIOLA confirmed that he will not stop Bernardo Silva from leaving Manchester City to join Barcelona, if he wants to.The Portuguese midfielder has been linked with Barcelona throughout the summer.
    Bernardo Silva might seek a move to Barcelona during the last few days of the transfer windowCredit: Getty
    The 28-year-old still has three years left on his contract that keeps him at Man City.
    The midfielder would cost Barcelona £80million, which they are struggling to whip up due to their financial turmoil.
    Silva featured in the friendly against Barcelona last night, which took place at Nou Camp.
    The match ended in a 3-3 draw, thanks to a controversial penalty earned by Erling Haaland, who was accused by Barca fans of diving.
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    After the match, Pep was asked about Bernardo’s future and revealed that the Portuguese is interested in a move to Catalunya.
    Guardiola said: “He is our player.
    “We want him to be with us because he is very important.
    “Having said that, I don’t want anyone to be unhappy.
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    “But I don’t want him to leave because he is a superlative player.
    “As a player and as a person, he is one of the best I have ever had.
    “In any competition he is the best player.
    “If an offer arrives there are seven days left and if Bernardo leaves we would have to go to the market and it’s not easy.
    “Having said that, Bernardo likes Barcelona a lot.”
    Pep’s words contradicts with what City’s CEO Ferran Soriano said about Silva not leaving the club.
    When speaking with Spanish outlet Que T’hi Jugues, Sorian said: “It’s a little late [in the transfer window] to talk about ins and outs.
    “This story has taken many turns and in the end it has never moved from its starting point.”
    Barca boss Xavi was questioned about the matter, and he was realistic in his answers and left little space for rumours.
    The Barca legend said: “Who doesn’t like Bernardo Silva? Or Haaland or De Bruyne?
    “Silva has great decision-making ability, he protects the ball very well, he’s very good.
    “It depends on City.
    “But now there’s no news.”
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    So far this season, Silva scored the equalising goal and assisted one, in the 3-3 draw against Newcastle.
    He’s started every Premier League outing so far, adding to the 253 games he played across all competitions, scoring 48 goals and registering 50 assists. More

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    Chelsea make contact with Edmond Tapsoba after Wesley Fofana frustration but Leverkusen could demand £60million

    CHELSEA are ready to switch their attention to Edmond Tapsoba after failing to agree a deal for Wesley Fofana.The Bayer Leverkusen centre-back is seen as an alternative to the Frenchman with Leicester refusing to budge on their £85million valuation.
    Edmond Tapsoba of Bayer Leverkusen is wanted by ChelseaCredit: Getty
    Wesley Fofana is frustrated at Leicester’s stanceCredit: Getty
    Initial enquires regarding Tapsoba have been made by the Blues but no concrete negotiations have taken place.
    Tapsoba has another four years left on his contract at the Bundesliga club so £60million may have to be paid for his services.
    The Burkina Faso international arrived at Leverkusen in 2020 from Portuguese outfit Vitoria.
    He has since established himself as a regular first-team player featuring in 29 games last season.
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    The 23-year-old is reportedly Chelsea’s first choice other option after seeing three bids rejected for Fofana.
    Thomas Tuchel’s side tabled £70million but after it was turned down by the Foxes and they have withdrawn from any potential deal.
    Fofana saw the move to Stamford Bridge as a ‘dream’ and he has been left out the last two Leicester matchday squads.
    The 21-year-old has also been forced to train with the Under-23s for not turning up to training to try to push through the transfer.
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    Due to the financial backing provided by new owner Todd Boehly, Chelsea have been splashing the cash this summer.
    The Premier League’s biggest spenders have already signed Marc Cucurella and Raheem Sterling, both for more than £50million.
    And after missing out on Jules Kounde to Barcelona, Tuchel remains desperate to add defensive reinforcements especially after losing Antonio Rudiger to Real Madrid. More