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    Man Utd star ‘wants to leave club and reunite with former boss’ after being singled-out for criticism by Ruben Amorim

    MANCHESTER UNITED flop Joshua Zirkzee reportedly wants to QUIT his new club for a reunion with old boss Thiago Motta at Juventus.Zirkzee, 23, has netted just one goal in 18 appearances following a £36.5million summer move from Bologna.Joshua Zirkzee wants to quit Man Utd for a reunion with old boss Thiago MottaCredit: GettyFormer Bologna gaffer Motta is now in charge at JuventusCredit: AlamyThe Dutch striker failed to nail down a spot in United’s starting XI under either Erik ten Hag, Ruud van Nistelrooy, with new manager Ruben Amorim also unimpressed after a verbal blast last week.And La Gazzetta claims Zirkzee is already eyeing a return to Italy in January.Before his move to Old Trafford, the forward netted 14 goals in 53 games at Bologna.Despite not being particularly prolific, Zirkzee established himself as a key player due to his link-up play and last season he helped Bologna qualify for the Champions League.Zirkzee’s manager during his two years at the club was former Barcelona, Inter Milan and PSG midfielder Motta.He is now gaffer at Serie A giants Juventus.And it’s reckoned Zirkzee is desperate to join Motta in Turin next year.Juventus would also like to strike a deal after remaining the only unbeaten side in Italy’s top flight.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThey are hoping United will agree to let Zirzkee join them on loan for the remainder of the season.And the two clubs could then sit down next summer to negotiate a fee for a permanent move.Ruben Amorim touched by Old Trafford welcome in win over Bodo/Glimt Ruben Amorim has already been critical of ZirkzeeCredit: GettyHowever, United would likely need to sign a replacement before green-lighting the deal.The Red Devils’ recent business has been heavily influenced by PSR and FFP constraints.And United would likely only be able to afford a temporary striker themselves – a rare commodity in the common market.But new manager Amorim has been less than impressed with the striker and could use it as an opportunity to bring in his own man.Speaking after his first match in the dugout, a 1-1 draw with Ipswich, Amorim criticised Zirzkee for failing to understand the basic nature of his role as a No9.Amorim said: “I think that (decision making) is a concern, you don’t need to coach them at this level.READ MORE SUN STORIES“You have to keep the ball and know the momentum to put the ball in front. Sometimes you feel that you can’t keep the ball and you have to put the ball in front.“Then you have like we are in the end of the game, we were around the box with two strikers. Josh has to understand that he has to go to the box to have the crosses.”Ten Hag’s Man Utd signingsThe Dutchman has brought in 21 players since moving to Old Trafford in 20222022-23:Antony, (Ajax) £86mCasemiro, (Real Madrid) £70mLisandro Martinez, (Ajax) £46mTyrell Malacia, (Feyenoord) £13mChristian Eriksen, (Brentford) freeMartin Dubravka, (Newcastle) loanWout Weghorst, (Burnley) loanJack Butland, (Crystal Palace) loanMarcel Sabitzer, (Bayern Munich) loan2023-24:Rasmus Hojlund, (Atalanta) £72mMason Mount, (Chelsea) £60mAndre Onana, (Inter Milan) £47mSofyan Amrabat, (Fiorentina) loanAltay Bayindir, (Fenerbahce) £4.3mJonny Evans, (Leicester) freeSergio Reguilon, (Tottenham) loan2024-25:Leny Yoro, (Lille) £52mManuel Ugarte, (Paris Saint-Germain) £50mMatthijs de Ligt, (Bayern Munich) £45mJoshua Zirkee, (Bologna) £36.5mNoussair Mazraoui, (Bayern Munich) £12.8m More

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    Real Madrid ‘IGNORED detailed dossier with worrying stats about Kylian Mbappe’s physical condition’ before signing him

    REAL MADRID “ignored a dossier” showing Kylian Mbappe’s physical condition was declining before they signed him, according to reports.The France captain, 25, has struggled since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer.Kylian Mbappe has been criticised for his displays since joining Real MadridCredit: GettyReal Madrid were reportedly handed a dossier showing his decline in performanceCredit: GettyHe has scored just once in his last five games and missed a penalty against Liverpool on Wednesday night as Carlo Ancelotti’s men were beaten 2-0 by the Premier League leaders.Following the Liverpool loss, one fan even filmed themselves burning an Mbappe shirt.But according to Relevo, the drop-off in Mbappe’s performances was highlighted to Real Madrid in documents before he signed on a free transfer.The report laid out stats such as average distance travelled, high-intensity efforts and sustained sprint speed.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey showed he has continued to decline since winning the 2018 World Cup.It would explain Mbappe’s output since moving to Spain – which has seen him run an average of less than nine kilometres per Champions League game, compared to his team-mates who are racking up more than 10kms.He has scored nine goals and assisted two in 18 appearances this season.And he has been playing out of position, with Ancelotti putting him through the middle due to Vinicius Junior occupying the left-hand side.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMbappe has scored nine goals in 18 games this seasonYet he continues to receive criticism from Real Madrid fans and was even dropped by France for their November Nations League games against Israel and Italy.Ancelotti leapt to Mbappe’s defence following the Liverpool defeat, saying: “Mbappe’s situation parallels that of the entire squad.Kylian Mbappe dropped from France squad as Deschamps explains decision and says ‘it’s better this way’ “Our focus is to rediscover our best performances, be it from him, myself, or the other players.”We do not see it as a solitary issue for a player who is still acclimatising to his new surroundings, having netted eight goals and contributed with vital assists in our attack.”There’s always room for improvement.”Real Madrid sit second in the LaLiga table but are down in 24th place in the Champions League, the final qualification spot for the play-off round.Their final three European fixtures in the league phase are against Atalanta, RB Salzburg and Brest. More

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    Real Madrid ‘tell Liverpool they want to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold’ and free transfer could be agreed within weeks

    REAL MADRID have made it clear that they want to sign Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, according to reports.The Spanish giants are set to swoop for the Reds full-back, whose Anfield deal expires next summer.Trent Alexander-Arnold is being chased by Real MadridCredit: AlamyWith Alexander-Arnold’s contract winding down, Real Madrid will be free to begin negotiating a pre-contract with the full-back.According to talkSPORT, however, the reigning LaLiga champions have informed Liverpool of their intention to sign their academy graduate, in a bid to be respectful.Carlo Ancelotti’s side view Alexander-Arnold as a long-term successor to Dani Carvajal at right-back.Carvajal, 32, remains at the Bernabeu club but suffered an ACL injury last month.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLiverpool still hope to convince Alexander-Arnold to pen a new deal to stay at Anfield.But Real Madrid chiefs believe that they can lure the England star to Spain.One factor in their favour could be Alexander-Arnold’s friendship with Jude Bellingham.The pair have developed a close bond during various England camps.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAlexander-Arnold has made 325 appearances for his boyhood club since debuting in 2016.He has played a major role in winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and two League Cups.How Liverpool’s Jude Bellingham plan backfired with Trent Alexander-ArnoldThe full-back has remained a key man under new boss Arne Slot, but is currently sidelined by a hamstring injury suffered earlier this month against Aston Villa.Alexander-Arnold could return from his lay-off against Manchester City on Sunday.Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also set to be out of contract at the end of the season.Salah, 32, even admitted last weekend that he was “more out than in” at Anfield.The Egyptian claims to have not yet been made an offer by the Reds.Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk is set to be out of contractCredit: Rex More

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    Man Utd and Chelsea plotting transfer for Ipswich star Liam Delap – but Man City will have major say in next club

    IPSWICH TOWN striker Liam Delap is reportedly attracting interest from some of England’s top clubs.The 21-year-old has enjoyed a fantastic start to life at Portman Road following his summer move from Manchester City.Liam Delap has attracted interest from Man Utd and ChelseaCredit: GettyIn just 12 Premier League appearances for the newly-promoted side, Delap has managed seven goal contributions.He played a crucial role in the club’s 2-1 win over Tottenham earlier this month, scoring once and providing the assist for Sammie Szmodics’ opener.The striker is now widely considered one of the most exciting young prospects in the Prem.Delap’s impressive form has attracted the attention of several clubs – including Manchester United and Chelsea.Read More in FootballBut according to The Athletic, his former club could scupper a deal.Man City generally insert buy-back clauses or matching rights into most sales, meaning they could have a huge say in the striker’s future.Ipswich officials want to keep Delap at Portman Road for as long as possible.However, they might struggle to do so – especially if they are relegated at the end of the campaign.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDelap, the son of Prem cult hero Rory Delap, joined Man City’s academy from Derby County in 2019 and made his first team debut the following year.He struggled to establish his spot in Pep Guardiola’s squad and was subsequently sent on three separate loan spells to Stoke, Preston and Hull.Man Utd player ratings vs Ipswich The striker joined Ipswich in a permanent deal worth up to £20million in July and penned a five-year contract.BBC Sport pundit Danny Murphy recently suggested he could be Harry Kane’s successor for England.He said: “I’ve seen him a bit quite a lot this season and I’d probably go as far as I say, for me, he the obvious long-term successor to Kane.”I think he’s the best young English striker out there.”I know he’s got a bit to learn and wisdom comes with experience and game time in this league.”But he’s got all the attributes to be a top international player.”Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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    Forgotten Arsenal flop hints at return to English football after transfer collapsed as club ‘invented’ injury

    Ex-Arsenal striker Yaya Sanogo has hinted he could return to English football – after a spell in the Chinese second division.The Frenchman, who won the FA Cup with the Gunners, has spent the season with Qingdao Red Lions.Former Arsenal star Yaya Sanogo could make a return to EnglandCredit: Getty – ContributorSanogo, 31, has also played for Crystal Palace, Charlton and Huddersfield as well as Ajax and Auxerre.The Paris-born player launched a renewed attack on Middlesbrough, insisting their false claim he had a shoulder injury hampered his bid to find a new club in 2020.Sanogo picked out Arsenal’s 3-2 FA Cup final win over Hull City as the highlight of his career.And the forward said he almost became a postman after a serious leg injury threatened to end his career aged just 17.Read More in FootballSanogo said: “I’m now out of contract, and I am open to anything.  I’ve enjoyed being in China, but let’s see what project I will go for.”I have had a number of phone calls, and the omens are good – especially from clubs in Europe.”I hope to get fixed up soon.  I’ve not set myself a definite target – I just want to enjoy myself and have fun.”With all the struggles I have had in my career, that is truly my aim now.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I was due to sign for Middlesbrough. I reached an agreement with them, but during my medical they invented a shoulder problem that I’d never had.”After that, everyone asked me if I was injured. They wrote in the media that I had failed my medical, so clubs were always a bit wary about me.”Inside Arsenal’s new £300m+ stadium plans with futuristic Emirates project set to dwarf Spurs groundMiddlesbrough have been approached for comment.Sanogo scored just one goal in 20 Arsenal games, but is still remembered for being an impact sub at Wembley in 2014.He told So Foot magazine: “My best memory is the FA Cup final.  I was decisive when I came on, and the players sang my song in the dressing-room afterwards.”We were losing, I came on as we went with two up front, and I made an impact.  I was young, and it is something I will never forget.”I returned to the Emirates Stadium for a game last year, and people came up to thank me for that final.”I come from Les Ulis in Paris, the same as Thierry Henry and Patrice Evra. It is an honour for us to see how far we have come in our careers.”I now want to pass on the benefit of my experience to the team I play for.”I had a bit of an iffy spell during the two years after I had a serious shin injury. The surgeon told me it would be virtually impossible for me to resume my playing career.”I asked myself what I could do instead. I was just 17, and in the depths of despair.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It crossed my mind to become a postman. But there was a five per cent chance I could play again, and even though it was minimal it was still a chance for me.”I had to wait for two years – but I made my return to football.” More

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    Man Utd ‘send scouts to watch £50million-rated Egypt star’ who Mo Salah ‘recommended Liverpool should sign’

    MANCHESTER UNITED are interested in signing Eintracht Frankfurt star Omar Marmoush, according to reports.The Egyptian, 25, has been in excellent form for the Bundesliga side this term.Omar Marmoush has impressed for Eintracht FrankfurtCredit: RexMarmoush has already attracted interest from Liverpool, with his international team-mate Mo Salah reportedly having recommended him to Anfield chiefs.According to Sky Sports Germany, however, Man Utd could swoop in ahead of the Reds.They claim that United chiefs have been keeping an eye on Marmoush, and that they could even make a move in January.New boss Ruben Amorim is not expected to have as much money to spend on reinforcements as predecessor Erik ten Hag.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut January recruits are possible, with Viktor Gyokeres a potential target.With Sporting set to demand £83million for the Swede, United could turn towards £50m-rated Marmoush as a cheaper alternative.The forward signed for Eintracht from Wolfsburg in 2023.Having scored 12 Bundesliga goals during his first campaign in Frankfurt, Marmoush has already nearly matched that tally this term.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe has netted 11 goals in as many games, also adding a further three in the Europa League.While Salah is claimed to have recommended his pal to Anfield bosses, Marmoush could even replace him at Liverpool.Manchester United vs Bodo/Glimt: Player RatingsThe winger’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and last weekend he claimed that he’s “more out than in” as he waits to be offered a new deal.Marmoush is able to play across the front line, a versatility that could appeal to both United and Liverpool.In addition to a forward, Amorim is also believed to covet a wing-back in January.The Red Devils have been linked with Wolves ace Rayan Ait-Nouri.Man Utd ratings vs Bodo/Glimt More

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    Arsenal ‘identify Serie A star as new striker priority’ with Gunners set to be beaten to Isak and Gyokeres transfers

    ARSENAL are interested in signing Atalanta star Mateo Retegui, according to reports.The Gunners are keen to bolster their striker options in January.Mateo Retegui has been in red-hot form for AtalantaCredit: ReutersAlexander Isak has impressed Barcelona with his displaysCredit: AlamyViktor Gyokeres has gathered plenty of admirersCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s side have shown interest in Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres.But SunSport exclusively revealed earlier this week that both forwards are likely to move elsewhere.Newcastle star Isak has emerged as Barcelona’s top summer target.While Gyokeres reportedly wants to reunite with former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim at Manchester United.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLosing out on Isak and Gyokeres could see the Gunners turn their attention towards Retegui.Italian outlet Calciomercato claim that Arsenal scouts were present as Retegui’s Atalanta took on Young Boys in the Champions League this week.The 25-year-old will have done his reputation no harm, having scored twice in the 6-1 rout.Retegui signed for Atalanta from Genoa in a August in a deal worth around £23million.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Italy international has had a blistering start to life in Bergamo, scoring 12 goals in his opening 13 Serie A appearances for his new club.If Arsenal are to secure Retegui’s signature, they may have to beat off interest from Paris Saint-Germain.Ben White ruled out for months in mega blow to Arsenal title hopes, confirms Mikel Arteta Kai Havertz has primarily been deployed down the middle of Arsenal’s attack this season.Leandro Trossard has also played the role, although Gabriel Jesus is yet to score in the Premier League or Champions League this term.The Gunners spread the goals out as they trounced Sporting 5-1 on Tuesday night.Gabriel Martinelli, Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka and Trossard scored as Arsenal thrashed Gyokeres and Co.After the game, boss Arteta said: “I’m very happy. It’s a big result against a big opponent. We wanted to make that statement.”When you play in this competition against these teams you have to enjoy it.READ MORE SUN STORIES”What I loved about this team is the way that they flowed. They played with purpose.”If you want to be challenging for big trophies you have to be consistent.”Mikel Arteta was pleased with his team’s efforts against SportingCredit: Getty More

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    Ruben Amorim plotting shock £50m transfer raid on Sporting’s biggest rivals as he lines up first Man Utd signing

    RUBEN AMORIM is already working on bolstering his Manchester United defence.The new United boss wants Benfica’s rising star Tomas Araujo, 22, and could push for a £50million deal for the central defender when the transfer window opens in January.Man Utd are lining up a £50m January swoop for Benfica defender Tomas AraujoCredit: RexRuben Amorim managed Benfica’s rivals Sporting Lisbon before joining UnitedCredit: PAAmorim has a meeting with Old Trafford decision makers on Friday and will discuss a move for Araujo.Araujo has been a pillar of the Portuguese giant’s team this season, partnering with former Manchester City stopper Nicolas Otamendi in the backline.The Red Devils have been dealing with substantial injury issues at the back this season, and Amorim has instantly set his sights on his compatriot, who won his first international cap only last week.A product of the Benfica academy, Araujo was targeted by Crystal Palace and Paris Saint-Germain last summer. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLStill, Benfica’s bosses rejected the moves, although some of Europe’s top clubs are closely monitoring the situation.He’s started eight games in the Portuguese league this season, with one assist, helping Bruno Lage’s team bounce back after Roger Schmidt’s firing in October.Benfica have only lost one game since Araujo began getting a regular run of games – he has also started in the last four games in the Champions League.SunSport understands that new Old Trafford chief Amorim has placed Araujo on his wanted list as he begins his United rebuilding job.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAraujo has all the attributes Amorim is after — he is 6 ft 2, a good passer of the ball, and physically strong, with plenty of room for improvement.He can play centrally or on the right side of the defence and is considered the best prospect to come out of Portugal’s most productive academy since current Manchester City star Ruben Dias.Ruben Amorim takes brutal swipe at Ed Sheeran as Man Utd boss admits Sky Sports pundit ‘is the real star’ Super agent Jorge Mendes is looking to establish a working relationship with AmorimCredit: ReutersThe Portuguese rising star has a release clause of 100million euros, as Benfica consider him one of their most significant assets.SunSport understands super agent Jorge Mendes, who has guided Cristiano Ronaldo’s and Jose Mourinho’s careers, is trying to establish a close working relationship with Amorim.The Old Trafford boss, however, is doing things his way.A source close to Amorim told SunSport: “Ruben wants everyone to be on the same page. He won’t change the way he works.”Amorim needs A LOT of time on training pitch to fix Man Utd… unfortunately he won’t get it, writes Charlie WyettIN theory at least, the only way is up for Manchester United, writes Charlie Wyett.We are nearly a third of the way through this Premier League season and it is still staggering to see United lurking in 12th place.They have managed just four wins with a goal difference of 0. Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored less.It is certainly not a false position and a point at Ipswich illustrated the massive job that Ruben Amorim faces.United’s fans sang the name of their new manager throughout the game.They also gave the players rapturous applause on the final whistle and although this was an improvement on some of the performances this season, the bar has been set pretty low.The club’s optimistic supporters will see that their team is only six points off the top four.  Ultimately, though, it is difficult to see United even reaching last season’s final position of eighth as they look worse.United’s patched-up defence will improve – and a three-man formation at the back will help them – but you have to wonder where the goals are going to come from. Marcus Rashford struck after 81 seconds and then went missing for the rest of his 68 minutes on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were also introduced in that double change midway inside the second half but added absolutely nothing. What a terrible couple of signings they have proved to be and United’s fans would swap both of them for Ipswich’s Liam Delap.Amorim did not celebrate the Rashford goal and paced around his technical area throughout looking uneasy.Each time there was a break in play, he called over players for instructions.Alejandro Garnacho headed over to the touchline on a couple of occasions while there were also words for Diogo Dalot, Casemiro and Jonny Evans.Amorim, a manager with infectious enthusiasm, will be hopeful he can get his message across to all of the players in the next few weeks.But the problem for the Portuguese coach is that this was the first of 10 games in the space of 33 days.What he really needs are spells on the training ground without a midweek game but he does not have that luxury. More