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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

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    Cristiano Ronaldo discovers FINAL transfer options as Rangers fans eye shock swoop for Man Utd star after Euro boost

    CRISTIANO RONALDO has SIX more clubs to choose from in his bid to play Champions League football this season.The remaining qualifying ties for Europe’s premier competition took place this week.
    Cristiano Ronaldo is running out of transfer optionsCredit: Getty
    Rangers qualified for the Champions League after beating PSV Eindhoven 3-2 on aggregateCredit: Getty
    Rangers beat PSV Eindhoven 3-2 on aggregate to reach the Champions League for the first time in 12 years.
    And now Gers fans are eyeing a shock swoop for Manchester United star Ronaldo.
    One Rangers supporter wrote: “Maybe Ronaldo should join Rangers. Can play CL football alongside Lord John Lundstram.”
    Another added: “Ronaldo should join Rangers, since he wants to play in the champions league, life in Scotland is cool.”
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    And a third said: “Ronaldo wants champions league football, sign for the Glasgow Rangers.”
    Earlier in the window CR7 reportedly asked United to let him leave in search of Champions League football.
    But he is now short of options after seeing proposed moves to the likes of Atletico Madrid, Napoli and Sporting Lisbon collapse.
    However, the superstar now has more options as Rangers were joined by five other clubs in qualifying for the Champions League this week.
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    Benfica are the pick of the teams but their rivalry with his boyhood club Sporting means the Portuguese club could be out of the question.
    That leaves Copenhagen, Dinamo Zagreb, Maccabi Haifa and FC Viktoria Plzeň – none of whom are likely to appeal to Ronaldo.
    Marseille are the latest club to be linked with Ronaldo, who can also offer Champions League football, but such rumours have upset club president Pablo Longoria who insists signing players like CR7 is not within the project. More

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    Chelsea ready to extend outcast Michy Batshuayi’s contract before sending striker out on ANOTHER loan to Salernitana

    CHELSEA are expected to extend Michy Batshuayi’s contract by a year before sending him out on ANOTHER loan, it’s claimed.The Belgian forward has had loan spells at Crystal Palace, Borussia Dortmund and most recently Besiktas.
    The next loan move for Michy Batshuayi seems to be SalernitanaCredit: Getty
    The Belgian’s forward contract with Chelsea expires at the end of season, and the Londoners are reportedly looking to extend it by another year.
    This will allow the Blues to send the 28-year-old on loan to Serie A side Salernitana.
    The loan deal will include an option to buy for Salernitana report the Daily Mail.
    By getting the striker to extend by a year, the Blues can demand a fee rather than him being available for nothing when his contract expires next summer.
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    Throughout the summer, Batshuayi also sparked interest from Premier League side Wolves, but no deal was concluded.
    He was also linked with a loan move to Everton with talk he could be included as part of the deal to bring Anthony Gordon to Stamford Bridge.
    Batshuayi spent pre-season playing for Chelsea, once he returned from his loan in Turkey.
    During the 2021/22 season, he won the love of the Turkish fans thanks to 14 goals in 33 league appearances, along with the five assists.
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    He played 45 minutes in each match against Charlotte FC and Club America during pre-season.
    However he’s not been included in any Premier League outing so far this season.
    In Italy, Salernitana recently failed to sign Neal Maupay in a £12million deal from Brighton so continue to look to strengthen as they start off their second season in Serie A.
    They’ve already secured a loan deal with Senegalese forward Boulaye Dia from LaLiga club Villareal, but want another striker.
    The Italian side are yet to win in Serie A this term after a loss to Roma in the season opener and then a goalless draw against Udinese. More