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    Gareth Bale ‘REJECTED by Atletico as Real Madrid star offers himself to bitter rivals on free transfer’

    ATLETICO MADRID have reportedly snubbed the chance to sign Gareth Bale on a free transfer.The 32-year-old is set to leave Real Madrid after Saturday’s Champions League final against Liverpool after a rollercoaster nine-year stint at the Bernabeu.
    Atletico Madrid have allegedly snubbed the chance to sign Gareth Bale on a free transferCredit: Getty
    The Welshman has been linked with retirement but is desperate to play for his country at the winter World Cup in Qatar.
    Should Wales get there, Bale has been linked with a short-term move to hometown team Cardiff City.
    Now a fresh report has sensationally claimed that he wants to stay at his stunning £6.5million Madrid home and had offered himself to Real’s bitter rivals Atletico.
    El Partidazo of Cadena COPE claims that his representatives from the Jonathan Barnett company met with Atletico chief Andrea Berta.
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    They state that the discussions were around the prospect of Atletico signing Bale on a free – but the club rejected the idea.
    Pedro Morata told Juanma Castano on the show: “Bale’s agents met with Andrea Berta and offered him that Bale play next season at Atletico de Madrid.
    “After making this offer, which I have had the opportunity to confirm on both sides, Atletico has said that ‘we appreciate the offer but he is not a player that comes into our plans’. 
    “But Bale was offered at an official meal with the sporting director of Atletico de Madrid and the answer is no.”
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    Bale has become a target for Madrid boo-boys and has barely featured over recent years.
    That is despite him scoring in THREE Champions League finals for the club and helping them to win the tournament four times.
    He has also lifted LaLiga on three occasions as well as the same number of Uefa Super Cups.
    The star, who spent last season on loan at former club Tottenham, has also won the Club World Cup four times and the Copa del Rey.
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    Marca claims that his agent Barnett said: “Gareth is leaving Real Madrid, but we have to wait for what Wales do.
    “It all depends on whether his team qualifies for the World Cup, then we will make a decision, that can vary if Wales goes to the World Cup or not.” More

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    Mbappe was ‘in talks’ with Liverpool before PSG new deal, Tottenham ‘ready to poach Gabriel Jesus transfer from Arsenal

    KYLIAN MBAPPE says he was in talks to sign for Liverpool before ultimately deciding to put pen to paper on a new contract at PSG.Meanwhile, Tottenham are reportedly ready to hijack Arsenal’s bid for Gabriel Jesus.
    Man City are said to be ready to let the Brazilian leave the club this summer following their signing of Erling Haaland.
    Elsewhere, PSG will reportedly put Neymar up for sale after Kylian Mbappe’s new deal.
    Le Parisien say the star forward will be on the market following “direct orders” from Qatar.
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    Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news across the globe…
    Spurs stars want transfer spree
    Tottenham’s senior stars have urged the club to back Antonio Conte in the transfer market this summer.
    Conte wants around six signings and Spurs are considering moves for the likes of Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus and former hero Christian Eriksen.
    The Italian’s side secured a Champions League spot with Sunday’s 5-0 rout of Norwich at Carrow Road.

    Conte, 52, is set for talks with chairman Daniel Levy and managing director of football Fabio Paratici this week — but he has hinted he could still walk if the club do not match his ambition, despite having a year left on his contract.
    The ex-Chelsea and Inter Milan boss was backed in January to sign Rodrigo Bentancur and Dejan Kulusevski, whose loan is set to be turned permanent for £29.2million.
    Centre-back Eric Dier, revitalised by Conte, said: “The club needs to take advantage of this moment, of this team and this manager.
    “It’s in the club’s hands now. We’ve done our job and now it’s the club’s job this summer to do the best work they can.”
    Skipper Hugo Lloris, 35, added: “I believe Conte knows exactly what he wants and needs. I believe there is huge confidence. It’s just about making decisions together.”
    Pep faces tough decision on City ‘legends’
    Pep Guardiola has some agonising decisions to make over his ‘legends’ this summer.
    The Manchester City boss was full of praise for his squad after clinching a fourth Premier League title in five years on Sunday — calling them “eternal”.

    But there remains a question mark over whether a handful of the heroes will be there when their latest title defence kicks off in August.
    And one of those whose future must be decided is Sunday’s two-goal saviour Ilkay Gundogan.
    You might think a team who amassed 93 points and scored 99 goals in another outstanding campaign does not need much work doing to it.
    But Pep has shown before he is not one for standing still and admiring the view from the summit.
    Meanwhile, Erling Haaland’s signing has made all the headlines — but Argentina international Julian Alvarez will also arrive from River Plate and has the potential to be just as exciting.
    Mbappe reveals Liverpool talks
    Ky;ian Mbappe has confirmed he held talks with Liverpool over a sensational Anfield move.
    The French striker ended speculation around his future by announcing he’s signed a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain.
    The 23-year-old sparked rage from Real Madrid, who expected the forward to join them.
    But Mbappe confirmed he’s staying put in the French capital in a highly-anticipated announcement at the weekend.
    And the 23-year-old has since revealed that Real Madrid weren’t the only club he considered joining.
    Mbappe told TeleFoot: “It was not just Real Madrid and PSG – I was in talks to join Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.”
    Sterling future uncertain
    Raheem Sterling’s Manchester City future remains up in the air – despite his key role in another title triumph.
    The 27-year-old acewho has been linked to Arsenal, enters the final 12 months of his £300,000-a-week contract after spending the last seven years at the Etihad.
    And he plans to have a think about his future once he is finished with England duty in mid-June.
    Sterling’s primary concern is that he continues to play regularly after he lost his place in the team earlier in the season.
    While he won it back in the winter, he was left on the bench for both legs against Real Madrid in the Champions League and the final two matches of the season.
    And he will be concerned the summer arrivals of Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez will make the competition for places in Pep Guardiola’s squad even stronger.
    Spurs target Jesus and Eriksen
    Tottenham will let Antonio Conte bid big for Arsenal target Gabriel Jesus this summer amid a potential six-player spree.
    Ex-Spurs midfielder Christian Eriksen is also on the list after his sensational Prem return with Brentford.
    But Manchester City striker Jesus could cost £60million-plus.
    The Brazilian admits his future is uncertain.
    Frenzy over Kounde
    Speculation over Sevilla defender Jules Kounde being in London today reignited talk of the Sevilla defender joining Chelsea or Arsenal.
    Sevilla president Jose Castro admitted this morning the club are ready to sell players to fund new signings after finishing fourth in LaLiga.
    And reports in Spain reckon nine-cap Frenchman Kounde is one of the likely departures.
    It’s also thought Chelsea came close to landing the 23-year-old last summer.
    Villa land Man Utd and Atletico target Boubacar
    Aston Villa have pulled off one of the summer’s best free-transfer coups after beating Atletico Madrid to Marseille midfielder Boubacar Kamara on a five-year-deal.
    The 22-year-old was outstanding for the Ligue 1 runners-up and made it to the semi-finals of the Europa Conference League.
    That form earned Kamara rave reviews and a call-up to Didier Deschamps’ French national team, where he will team up with Villa’s Lucas Digne, before completing his move to Villa Park when his current deal expires at the end of this month.
    It is a stunning piece of business from Villa, who fought off fierce competition from Manchester United, Newcastle United, Jose Mourinho’s Roma and Spanish giants Atletico to land one of the hottest young prospects in Europe.
    Despite being available for free, Villa will have to invest a staggering £30million over the next five seasons as Kamara will rake in over £100,000-a-week after turning his back on Champions’ League football with Marseille.
    He confessed the chance to work with midfield legend Gerrard was too good to turn down and said: “When I met with Steven, Christian [Purslow, chief executive] and Johan [Lange, sporting director] in my home I knew Aston Villa was for me. 
    “Their ambition and determination to succeed matches my own. I cannot wait for pre-season to get going.”
    Brazilian lawyer Pimenta takes Raiola role
    Before super agent Mino Raiola passed away last month, he had one request for his long time ally.
    The Italian, who boasted football stars including Erling Haaland, Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic as clients, asked Brazilian lawyer Rafaela Pimenta to take over the reins of his business.

    It is she who is tasked with advising France World Cup winner Pogba of his next move – with a move away from Man Utd said to be imminent.
    Whether he stays at Old Trafford or re-signs for Juventus, who are believed to have offered the playmaker a three year deal worth £6.3million-per-year deal, Pimenta will be at the centre of all negotiations.
    In truth, she could become the most powerful woman in football.
    For 18 years, Pimenta was Raiola’s right-hand woman – working by his side.
    She was entrusted as a vital cog in his affairs, as well as a brain to lean on for advice.
    Spurs offer Conte six-player spree
    Tottenham are reportedly set to promise Antonio Conte at least six new signings this summer to persuade the manager to stay.
    Conte, 52, has flown to Italy to spend time with his wife and daughter after living alone in London since taking over at Spurs in November.
    The Italian is said to be considering his Tottenham future and will talk with his family before making a decision, as they are unlikely to move to London with him.
    Conte has a year remaining on his contract but Spurs Managing Director of Football Fabio Paratici is planning to join his compatriot in Italy to encourage him to stay, report The Telegraph.
    The Spurs boss has refused to commit to the club but Paratici hopes the offer of new signings will persuade him to stay.
    Conte is said to want between six to eight new players, including three defenders, a midfielder and a forward who can play centrally or out wide.
    Manchester City star Gabriel Jesus fits the last category and Spurs could try and hijack Arsenal’s move for the forward. His representatives have held talks with the Gunners and Jesus is believed to be a fan of Mikel Arteta’s project – but they are open to other suitors.
    As well as the Brazilian Tottenham are reportedly eyeing moves for midfielders Christian Eriksen, James Ward-Prowse, and Kalvin Phillips.
    Middlesbrough right wing-back Djed Spence, who has impressed on loan at Nottingham Forest this year, is also thought to be of interest.
    Juve won’t spend big on Jorginho
    Chelsea midfielder Jorginho is still a Juventus target but the Serie A giants won’t ‘spend big’ to land the Italy midfielder.
    That’s the understanding of Fabrizio Romano for Caught Offside, who believes Juve are prioritising moves for Angel Di Maria and Paul Pogba over the 30-year-old.

    Mikel: Nketiah, Elneny, Lacazette futures ‘decided’
    Mikel Arteta has remained cryptic about the futures of Eddie Nketiah, Mo Elneny, and Alexandre Lacazette.
    The trio are out of contract at the end of the season, and their futures at the Emirates remain in the balance.
    But, it appears, the Spanish tactician already knows what lies ahead for them.
    Arteta revealed: “It’s been decided, but it’s very difficult to communicate it. What they deserve is to have what they had today.”
    Toffees offer Tarkowski £90k a week
    Everton will offer Burnley free agent James Tarkowski £90,000 a week.
    The Telegraph suggest the Toffees and Aston Villa are current frontrunners for the twice-capped England centre-back.
    Everton aren’t looking to spend big this summer but the out-of-contract defender offers value for money.
    The former West Ham target has clocked up 194 Premier League appearances.
    And he’s keen to resolve his future before jetting away on holiday.
    Jesus admits ‘uncertain’ future
    Gabriel Jesus has opened up about his future at Manchester City amid speculation over a move to Arsenal or Tottenham.
    The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Etihad, particularly since the Premier League champions confirmed the signing of Erling Haaland earlier this month.
    And Jesus admitted everything is still very much up in the air heading into the summer window.
    Speaking to ESPN Brazil, he said: “About my future, it’s still uncertain.
    “I have a contract with City and I have already expressed my desire to the City people and to my agent. I have in my head [a very clear idea of] what I want.
    “I want to celebrate a lot with City. It’s obvious that I’m very happy here.
    “And, on vacation, I [will] decide about my future.”
    Red Devils & Toon in for Ekitike
    Manchester United and Newcastle are currently in the middle of a six-way battle for the signature of Reims teenager Hugo Ekitike.
    However, it’s being reported in France that PSG are lining up a £38m for the striker.

    According to Foot Mercato, Manchester United and Newcastle are the main interested parties from the Premier League.
    Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan are all also in the hunt.
    Back in January, it was reported that Newcastle had had a £33m bid accepted by the French club, only for Ekitike himself to turn down the offer.
    Both Man United and Newcastle are looking bolster their striker options for the upcoming season.
    Up to NINE Gunners face axe ahead of £150m spree
    Arsenal are looking to scrape together £60million from an Emirates yard sale of players who no longer figure in their plans, writes MARK IRWIN.
    The club are ready to spend as much as £150million this summer but want to offset some of that by selling seven surplus players at knockdown prices.

    Matteo Guendouzi and Konstantinos Mavropanos have already generated £12.5million after being offloaded to Marseille and Stuttgart respectively.
    Now Arsenal are trying to negotiate further cut-price deals for Hector Bellerin, Lucas Torreira, Bernd Leno, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Pablo Mari.
    Arteta has told technical director Edu that he needs 22 outfield players to cope with the extra demands of Europa League football next season.
    With Alex Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah both set to leave as free agents and Mohamed Elneny just signing a new one-year contract with the option of a further 12 months, Arsenal currently have just 16 senior outfield players on their books.
    That figure could be boosted by the return of William Saliba and possibly Reiss Nelson from their current loan deals.
    And Arteta is ready to allow promising youngsters such as Charlie Patino, Miguel Azeez and Omari Hutchinson the chance to cut their teeth in the Europa League group games.
    But he still wants to make four top quality signings this summer as he looks for two strikers, a central midfielder and possibly another full-back.
    Wolves prepare for exit of Utd & Arsenal target Neves
    Wolves have offered Morgan Gibbs-White a new deal as Bruno Lage prepares for life without Barcelona, Manchester United and Arsenal target Ruben Neves, writes GRAEME BRYCE.
    Midfielder Neves seems certain to call time on his five-year Molineux career after an emotional bow following his final home game against Norwich last week.
    And the 25-year-old Portugal ace uese international followed it up by admitting he is ready to ‘live his dreams,’ following Wolves’ final game of the season at Anfield on Sunday.
    Now Lage has made his first move to rebuild his squad by offering AC Milan target Gibbs-White a bumper new deal.
    The 22-year-old enjoyed a stellar season on loan at Sheffield United where he scored 12 goals in 37 appearances to convince Lage he can play a massive part in Wolves’ future.
    Fresh terms have now been offered to the attack-minded midfielder who was voted the Blades Player of the Season.
    New Neym for the Bridge?
    Chelsea are 7/1 favourites in a star-studded field to sign PSG striker Neymar.
    Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are thought to be in contention for the Brazil legend, as well as Newcastle and Manchester United.

    Talk of Neymar’s future has hit the headlines this week.
    French newspaper Le Parisien claim the 30-year-old has been put up for sale after “direct orders” from executives Qatar.
    Neymar has scored 100 and provided 60 assists in 144 appearances for PSG since his £200million arrival from Barcelona in 2017.
    And signed a contract extension last year which keeps him in Paris until June 2025.
    SKY BET ODDS ON NEYMAR’S NEXT CLUB:

    Chelsea – 7/1
    Barcelona – 10/1
    Newcastle – 14/1
    Real Madrid – 14/1
    Bayern Munich – 16/1
    Manchester United – 16/1

    Kylian deal is nothing to Mona about
    Kylian Mbappe’s former club Monaco will receive £25million from Paris Saint-Germain after the forward renewed his contract.
    PSG snapped up Mbappe from Monaco in 2017 for £123m.
    But according to AS, the fee is set to rise to just shy of £150m thanks to a savvy clause Monaco inserted into the deal.
    The clause compelled PSG to pay Monaco £25m in the event of a contract renewal or sale.
    It also means that Mbappe is the second most expensive transfer in history, only behind his team-mate Neymar, who joined the Parisians for £186m from Barcelona.
    The report also states there were rumours that PSG were hoping to avoid paying Monaco the agreed £25m.
    Arteta ‘pushing for £25m Youri bid’
    Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is reportedly pushing for the club to make a move for Leicester midfielder Youri Tielemans.
    The Belgian playmaker is out of contract at the King Power at the end of next season and has been linked with a transfer this summer.

    The likes of Real Madrid, Tottenham and Manchester United, as well as Arsenal, have all been touted as possible destinations.
    Arteta though has urged the Gunners to table an opening bid of £25million for the 25-year-old, according to the Telegraph.
    Leicester though could play hardball despite the dwindling months on Tielemans contract and demand over £30m for his services.
    SunSport exclusively revealed it could take as much as £40m to prise him away from the East Midlands.
    Spaniard Arteta has singled out Tielemans as one of his top summer targets and is claimed to have carried out a number of background checks on the midfielder.
    Red Devils will Av a transfer spree
    Manchester United owner Avram Glazer has hinted that the club could splash the cash in the upcoming transfer window.
    The Red Devils are expected to dip into the market under Erik Ten Hag having posted their lowest ever Premier League points tally.
    Two central midfielders, plus a striker and a centre-half are top of Ten Hag’s summer wishlist.
    Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong is one name on the list, but SunSport exclusively revealed earlier this month United face a battle to sign the former Ajax star.
    Glazer though suggested funds will be available in the upcoming window.
    When asked by Sky Sports if the club are able to invest before next season, Glazer replied: “We’ve always spent the money necessary to buy new players.”
    The 61-year-old, a hugely unpopular figure among the United fanbase, was also asked if he was disappointed with the season just gone.
    United posted a measly 58 points, finishing sixth-place in the table.
    But Glazer initially said: “I don’t think this is the time to talk about that.”
    Cottagers offload 14 players
    Fulham have confirmed the exit of 14 players including TWO of their biggest transfers ever who cost the club a combined £50million.
    Jean Michaël Seri and Alfie Mawson will depart the club this summer alongside 12 others players.

    Seri joined the club for a near £30m in the summer of 2018, leaving OGC Nice.
    The midfielder failed to make an impact and spent two spells out on loan at Galatasaray and Bordeaux.
    Seri made 33 appearances for the Cottagers this season, managing just one goal which came in the 7-0 win over Luton.
    Mawson left Swansea for Fulham in 2018 in a £15m deal. The centre-back, like Seri, failed to have an impact in Fulham’s squad and had a loan spell at Bristol City.
    Cyrus Christie, Fabri, Michael Hector, Timmy Abraham, Jacob Adams, Eric Ameyaw, Xavier Benjamin, Tyler Caton, Jerome Opoku, Jonathon Page, Julian Schwarzer and Jaylan Wildbore have also left the club.
    However, Fulham have tied down Sonny Hilton, Idris Odutayo and Adrion Pajaziti for a further year.
    Pepe sale may fund new Saka deal
    Arsenal have been tipped to sell Nicolas Pepe to help fund a huge new contract for Bukayo Saka.
    Newly-crowned Serie A champs AC Milan have been linked with a £25million bid for the Ivory Coast winger – three years after his £70m arrival at the Emirates from Lille.
    Credit: Getty
    And transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims Gunners’ boss Mikel Arteta is ready to offload erratic Pepe, 26.
    A major reason is said to be the focus on keeping 20-year-old Saka.
    It’s understood the 14-cap England wideman is frustrated at missing out on Champions League football but can still be persuaded to agree a new long-term deal.
    Juve favourites to win Pogba hunt
    Juventus are favourites ahead of PSG to sign Paul Pogba – with Manchester City and Real Madrid next on the list.
    The French World Cup winner, 29, seems sure to exit Manchester United for a second time on a free transfer this summer.
    The midfielder’s final United appearance lasted just eight minutes as he was injured early on in the 4-0 defeat at Liverpool on April 19.
    But old club Juve are still thought to be keen.
    Betfair odds on Pogba’s next club:

    Juventus – 6/4
    PSG – 9/4
    Manchester City – 6/1
    Real Madrid – 9/1
    Barcelona – 14/1
    Newcastle – 33/1
    Inter Milan – 33/1
    Liverpool – 66/1

    Real ‘join Prem queue for Gnabry’
    Real Madrid have reportedly joined a host of Premier League clubs in the race to lure Serge Gnabry away from Bayern Munich.
    The 26-year-old is facing an uncertain future at the Allianz Arena with his contract set to expire in 2023.

    It has been claimed that the Germany international has rejected a new deal to remain in Bavaria.
    A Premier League return has been mooted, with former employers Arsenal linked with a move to bring him back to the Emirates.
    Fellow English giants Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United are also all rumoured to be keeping tabs on the winger.
    Meanwhile Gnabry’s ex-Bayern team-mate David Alaba is looking to persuade Gnabry to quit Germany and join him at Real Madrid.
    And according to Sport1, Gnabry is open to departing Bayern as he doesn’t feel valued by the Bundesliga champions.
    They state that Alaba has recommended the ex-West Brom loanee to Real, who are now eyeing up a possible swoop for Gnabry.
    Carv up for Kop challenge
    Fulham whizkid Fabio Carvalho has finally joined Liverpool.
    The Portugal Under-21 attacking midfielder helped the Cottagers return to the Prem as Championship winners, notching ten goals and eight assists in 36 league games.
    Carvalho, 19, will move to Anfield on the expiry of his contract for a £5million compensation fee that could eventually rise to £8m.
    Liverpool narrowly failed to get the move through on January’s transfer deadline day.

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    Arsenal £150million summer spree EXCLUSIVE, Jesus battle with Spurs, Leno set to join Benfica, Kroenke to ‘back’ Arteta

    ARSENAL will have £150million to spend in the summer on transfers, SunSport can reveal. The Gunners capped off their Premier League campaign by pummelling Everton 5-1 at the Emirates, but they missed out on Champions League qualification to rivals Tottenham.
    And Spurs could also pip Arsenal to the signing of Gabriel Jesus who’s preferred destination is to a club with Champions League football.
    Meanwhile, Bernd Leno is all set to join Portuguese giants for a reported fee of £8.5 million this summer.
    Whilst Josh Kroenke has vowed to back Mikel Arteta in the transfer market, hinting at internal shake up.
    SUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAY
    Stay up to date with all the latest from the Emirates…
    Sterling future uncertain
    Raheem Sterling’s Manchester City future remains up in the air – despite his key role in another title triumph.
    The 27-year-old acewho has been linked to Arsenal, enters the final 12 months of his £300,000-a-week contract after spending the last seven years at the Etihad.
    And he plans to have a think about his future once he is finished with England duty in mid-June.
    Sterling’s primary concern is that he continues to play regularly after he lost his place in the team earlier in the season.
    While he won it back in the winter, he was left on the bench for both legs against Real Madrid in the Champions League and the final two matches of the season.
    And he will be concerned the summer arrivals of Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez will make the competition for places in Pep Guardiola’s squad even stronger.
    Spurs target Arsenal transfer priority Jesus
    Tottenham will let Antonio Conte bid big for Arsenal target Gabriel Jesus this summer amid a potential six-player spree.
    Ex-Spurs midfielder Christian Eriksen is also on the list after his sensational Prem return with Brentford.
    But Manchester City striker Jesus could cost £60million-plus.
    The Brazilian admits his future is uncertain.
    Frenzy over Kounde
    Speculation over Sevilla defender Jules Kounde being in London today reignited talk of the Sevilla defender joining Chelsea or Arsenal.
    Sevilla president Jose Castro admitted this morning the club are ready to sell players to fund new signings after finishing fourth in LaLiga.
    And reports in Spain reckon nine-cap Frenchman Kounde is one of the likely departures.
    It’s also thought Chelsea came close to landing the 23-year-old last summer.
    Brazilian lawyer Pimenta takes Raiola role
    Before super agent Mino Raiola passed away last month, he had one request for his long time ally.
    The Italian, who boasted football stars including Erling Haaland, Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic as clients, asked Brazilian lawyer Rafaela Pimenta to take over the reins of his business.

    It is she who is tasked with advising France World Cup winner Pogba of his next move – with a move away from Man Utd said to be imminent.
    Whether he stays at Old Trafford or re-signs for Juventus, who are believed to have offered the playmaker a three year deal worth £6.3million-per-year deal, Pimenta will be at the centre of all negotiations.
    In truth, she could become the most powerful woman in football.
    For 18 years, Pimenta was Raiola’s right-hand woman – working by his side.
    She was entrusted as a vital cog in his affairs, as well as a brain to lean on for advice.
    Mikel: Nketiah, Elneny, Lacazette futures ‘decided’
    Mikel Arteta has remained cryptic about the futures of Eddie Nketiah, Mo Elneny, and Alexandre Lacazette.
    The trio are out of contract at the end of the season, and their futures at the Emirates remain in the balance.
    But, it appears, the Spanish tactician already knows what lies ahead for them.
    Arteta revealed: “It’s been decided, but it’s very difficult to communicate it. What they deserve is to have what they had today.”
    Jesus admits ‘uncertain’ future
    Gabriel Jesus has opened up about his future at Manchester City amid speculation over a move to Arsenal or Tottenham.
    The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Etihad, particularly since the Premier League champions confirmed the signing of Erling Haaland earlier this month.
    And Jesus admitted everything is still very much up in the air heading into the summer window.
    Speaking to ESPN Brazil, he said: “About my future, it’s still uncertain.
    “I have a contract with City and I have already expressed my desire to the City people and to my agent. I have in my head [a very clear idea of] what I want.
    “I want to celebrate a lot with City. It’s obvious that I’m very happy here.
    “And, on vacation, I [will] decide about my future.”
    Up to NINE Gunners face axe ahead of £150m spree
    Arsenal are looking to scrape together £60million from an Emirates yard sale of players who no longer figure in their plans, writes MARK IRWIN.
    The club are ready to spend as much as £150million this summer but want to offset some of that by selling seven surplus players at knockdown prices.

    Matteo Guendouzi and Konstantinos Mavropanos have already generated £12.5million after being offloaded to Marseille and Stuttgart respectively.
    Now Arsenal are trying to negotiate further cut-price deals for Hector Bellerin, Lucas Torreira, Bernd Leno, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Pablo Mari.
    Arteta has told technical director Edu that he needs 22 outfield players to cope with the extra demands of Europa League football next season.
    With Alex Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah both set to leave as free agents and Mohamed Elneny just signing a new one-year contract with the option of a further 12 months, Arsenal currently have just 16 senior outfield players on their books.
    That figure could be boosted by the return of William Saliba and possibly Reiss Nelson from their current loan deals.
    And Arteta is ready to allow promising youngsters such as Charlie Patino, Miguel Azeez and Omari Hutchinson the chance to cut their teeth in the Europa League group games.
    But he still wants to make four top quality signings this summer as he looks for two strikers, a central midfielder and possibly another full-back.
    Wolves prepare for exit of Utd & Arsenal target Neves
    Wolves have offered Morgan Gibbs-White a new deal as Bruno Lage prepares for life without Barcelona, Manchester United and Arsenal target Ruben Neves, writes GRAEME BRYCE.
    Midfielder Neves seems certain to call time on his five-year Molineux career after an emotional bow following his final home game against Norwich last week.
    And the 25-year-old Portugal ace uese international followed it up by admitting he is ready to ‘live his dreams,’ following Wolves’ final game of the season at Anfield on Sunday.
    Now Lage has made his first move to rebuild his squad by offering AC Milan target Gibbs-White a bumper new deal.
    The 22-year-old enjoyed a stellar season on loan at Sheffield United where he scored 12 goals in 37 appearances to convince Lage he can play a massive part in Wolves’ future.
    Fresh terms have now been offered to the attack-minded midfielder who was voted the Blades Player of the Season.
    New Neym for the Bridge?
    Chelsea are 7/1 favourites in a star-studded field to sign PSG striker Neymar.
    Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are thought to be in contention for the Brazil legend, as well as Newcastle and Manchester United.

    Talk of Neymar’s future has hit the headlines this week.
    French newspaper Le Parisien claim the 30-year-old has been put up for sale after “direct orders” from executives Qatar.
    Neymar has scored 100 and provided 60 assists in 144 appearances for PSG since his £200million arrival from Barcelona in 2017.
    And signed a contract extension last year which keeps him in Paris until June 2025.
    SKY BET ODDS ON NEYMAR’S NEXT CLUB:

    Chelsea – 7/1
    Barcelona – 10/1
    Newcastle – 14/1
    Real Madrid – 14/1
    Bayern Munich – 16/1
    Manchester United – 16/1

    Arteta ‘pushing for £25m Youri bid’
    Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is reportedly pushing for the club to make a move for Leicester midfielder Youri Tielemans.
    The Belgian playmaker is out of contract at the King Power at the end of next season and has been linked with a transfer this summer.

    The likes of Real Madrid, Tottenham and Manchester United, as well as Arsenal, have all been touted as possible destinations.
    Arteta though has urged the Gunners to table an opening bid of £25million for the 25-year-old, according to the Telegraph.
    Leicester though could play hardball despite the dwindling months on Tielemans contract and demand over £30m for his services.
    SunSport exclusively revealed it could take as much as £40m to prise him away from the East Midlands.
    Spaniard Arteta has singled out Tielemans as one of his top summer targets and is claimed to have carried out a number of background checks on the midfielder.
    Pepe sale may fund new Saka deal
    Arsenal have been tipped to sell Nicolas Pepe to help fund a huge new contract for Bukayo Saka.
    Newly-crowned Serie A champs AC Milan have been linked with a £25million bid for the Ivory Coast winger – three years after his £70m arrival at the Emirates from Lille.
    Credit: Getty
    And transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims Gunners’ boss Mikel Arteta is ready to offload erratic Pepe, 26.
    A major reason is said to be the focus on keeping 20-year-old Saka.
    It’s understood the 14-cap England wideman is frustrated at missing out on Champions League football but can still be persuaded to agree a new long-term deal.
    Real ‘join Prem queue for Gnabry’
    Real Madrid have reportedly joined a host of Premier League clubs in the race to lure Serge Gnabry away from Bayern Munich.
    The 26-year-old is facing an uncertain future at the Allianz Arena with his contract set to expire in 2023.

    It has been claimed that the Germany international has rejected a new deal to remain in Bavaria.
    A Premier League return has been mooted, with former employers Arsenal linked with a move to bring him back to the Emirates.
    Fellow English giants Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United are also all rumoured to be keeping tabs on the winger.
    Meanwhile Gnabry’s ex-Bayern team-mate David Alaba is looking to persuade Gnabry to quit Germany and join him at Real Madrid.
    And according to Sport1, Gnabry is open to departing Bayern as he doesn’t feel valued by the Bundesliga champions.
    They state that Alaba has recommended the ex-West Brom loanee to Real, who are now eyeing up a possible swoop for Gnabry.
    Sterling hopes take a pounding
    Arsenal’s hopes of signing Raheem Sterling have been dealt a knockout blow following their failure to land Champions League football.
    The Gunners were understood to be tracking the England international, who had previously enjoyed a prosperous working relationship with Mikel Arteta at Manchester City.
    And the 27-year-old had indicated a desire to link up with the Arsenal head coach again with his City future up in the air.
    However, following the North London club’s fifth-place finish, any deal is said to be ‘impossible’.
    Sterling’s contract at the Etihad runs out at the end of next season.
    Tierney absent from Scotland squad
    Steve Clarke has named his Scotland squad for the upcoming World Cup play-off with Ukraine and the Nation League matches against Armenia and Republic of Ireland – and there’s no place for Kieran Tierney.
    The left-back has been out since the end of March when he picked up a knee injury that required surgery in the last international break.
    And although he was unable to participate in the remainder of Arsenal’s Premier League campaign, there was the hope that he’d return in time for Scotland’s semi-final showdown at Hampden Park.
    However, the former Celtic man has not been deemed fit enough for selection, and Arsenal fans will now hope that he manages to recover in time for the start of next season.
    Youri demand: Arteta wants Tielemans
    Mikel Arteta is refusing to wallow in the misery of missing out on Champions League football, and is already making plans to go at least one place better next season.
    Among his priorities is a new midfielder, and the Arsenal boss has identified Youri Tielemans as the man he wants most.
    And the Gunners are now readying an opening £25m bid for the Leicester player, according to The Telegraph.
    The 25-year-old has reportedly gone on record as saying he wants to play Champions League football, but Arteta is confident that he can sell the long-term project to the Belgian.
    Tielemans has a year left on his contract at the King Power.

    Gunners ready to part with Pepe
    Arsenal will consider selling their record signing Nicolas Pepe this summer – but don’t hold out hope of recouping the £72m that they paid for the forward.
    The Ivorian arrived at the Emirates in 2019, but has struggled to make a consistent impact in the Premier League.
    The 26-year-old has scored 16 goals in 80 league games for the Gunners, but has found himself down the pecking order in the past year.
    And it appears as though the former Lille man would welcome a move away.
    Fabrizio Romano, writing for Caught Offside, revealed that Pepe had recently changed agents in order to actively pursue his options across Europe.

    Top four failure ends Sterling hope
    Arsenal’s hopes of signing Raheem Sterling have been dealt a knockout blow following their failure to land Champions League football.
    The Gunners were understood to be tracking the England international, who had previously enjoyed a prosperous working relationship with Mikel Arteta at Manchester City.
    And the 27-year-old had indicated a desire to link up with the Arsenal head coach again with his City future up in the air.
    However, following the North London club’s fifth-place finish, any deal is said to be ‘impossible’.
    Sterling’s contract at the Etihad runs out at the end of next season.
    Gunners face battle for Jesus
    Arsenal fans are reeling from losing out on Champions League football to Tottenham – and now face the prospect of losing out to their rivals again in their pursuit of Gabriel Jesus.
    The Gunners have been tracking the Manchester City forward for months, and have even spoken to the player’s agent since the Premier League champions confirmed the purchase of Erling Haaland.
    However, Mike McGrath at The Telegraph now reports that Spurs are interested in the Brazilian following their fourth-place finish yesterday.
    Antonio Conte is keen to strengthen his squad for the next campaign, and has shortlisted Jesus, who is capable of either playing through the middle or out wide.

    Good morning Arsenal fans
    Despite recording a 5-1 win over Everton, Arsenal have missed out on Champions League football to Tottenham.
    The Gunners will, instead, be playing in the Europa League next campaign.
    This summer will be pivotal in Arsenal’s squad improvement, as they look to close the gap on the top four.
    And director Josh Kroenke has promised major investment before the next campaign.
    “On a recruitment standpoint I will always defer to Edu and Mikel but I know they have a blueprint of the type of player and specific positions that we need to reinforce heading into the summer,” he said.
    “So I’ll defer to them and support them in every way that we can in their pursuit of elevating the quality of the squad and also ensuring that we have the right mentality of player coming in.”
    According to reports, Mohamed Elneny has signed a one-year contract extension with the club.
    The Egyptian international was out of contract at the end of the season.
    Family affair
    It was a family affair for Mikel Arteta at the Emirates today.
    After the game, he was joined on the pitch by his three sons as the players and coaching staff thanked fans for their support.

    All in all, it was a disappointing ending to the campaign for the Gunners who missed out on Champions League football.
    But, a 5-1 win was the perfect way to cap off a season where improvement was made.
    Morgan sticks the boot in
    Piers Morgan isn’t Mikel Arteta’s greatest fan.
    And the The Sun columnist has revealed where it all went wrong for his beloved Gunners.
    He tweeted: “If Arsenal had sacked Arteta as he deserved after disastrous 20/21 season & losing first 3 games of this one, hired Conte & kept Aubameyang – we’d have come at least 4th.
    “You can’t compete in the Premier League these days without a world-class manager & world-class strikers.”
    Elneny deal
    According to reports, Mohamed Elneny has signed a one-year contract extension with the club.
    The Egyptian international was out of contract at the end of the season.
    However, with injuries taking their toll, he was brought into midfield to steady the ship.
    Telegraph journalist Sam Dean tweeted: “To be officially confirmed but… I understand Mohamed Elneny has now signed a one-year contract extension at Arsenal, with the option of another year.”
    Real deal
    Real Madrid have reportedly opened talks with Monaco star Aurelien Tchouameni in a blow to a string of Premier League sides.
    Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea are among the teams who had been targeting the highly-rated midfielder.
    Madrid will be hunting for high-profile summer signings after being snubbed by Kylian Mbappe on Saturday.
    And journalist Santi Aouna reports that the Spanish club has been in contact and ready to make an offer.
    Cryptic Arteta
    Mikel Arteta has remained cryptic about the futures of Eddie Nketiah, Mo Elneny, and Alexandre Lacazette.
    The trio are out of contract at the end of the season, and their futures at the Emirates remain in the balance.
    But, it appears, the Spanish tactician already knows what lies ahead for them.
    Arteta revealed: “It’s been decided, but it’s very difficult to communicate it. What they deserve is to have what they had today.”
    Recruitment for next season
    This summer will be pivotal in Arsenal’s squad improvement, as they look to close the gap on the top four.
    And director Josh Kroenke has promised major investment before the next campaign.
    “On a recruitment standpoint I will always defer to Edu and Mikel but I know they have a blueprint of the type of player and specific positions that we need to reinforce heading into the summer,” he said.
    “So I’ll defer to them and support them in every way that we can in their pursuit of elevating the quality of the squad and also ensuring that we have the right mentality of player coming in.”
    Load more entries… More

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    Raheem Sterling’s Man City future up in the air despite title win with just 12 months left on £300k-a-week deal

    RAHEEM STERLING’S Manchester City future remains up in the air – despite his key role in another title triumph.The 27-year-old ace is going into the final 12 months of his £300,000-a-week contract after spending the last seven years at the Etihad.
    Raheem Sterling is entering the final year of his Manchester City contractCredit: Getty
    And he plans to have a think about his future once he is finished with England duty in mid-June.
    Sterling’s primary concern is that he continues to play regularly after he lost his place in the team earlier in the season.
    While he won it back in the winter, he was left on the bench for both legs against Real Madrid in the Champions League and the final two matches of the season.
    And he will be concerned the summer arrivals of Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez will make the competition for places in Pep Guardiola’s squad even stronger.
    .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}READY TO GAB .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Jesus breaks silence on future amid Arsenal and Tottenham transfer links
    Sterling came off the bench on Sunday and it was his superb cross for Ilkay Gundogan that sparked the dramatic fight-back from 2-0 down against Aston Villa which secured the title for City with a 3-2 victory.
    He missed the party parade in Manchester on Monday for family reasons but was still announced on stage as one of their champions.
    Asked about his contract situation last month, he said: “At the minute I’m just happy to be playing, happy to be contributing with the team.
    “I think that’s the most important thing. At this period, I think it would be selfish of me to speak of any contract situation.
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    “I’m just happy to be playing football and see where we are at the end of the season.”
    In the past he has made no secret of his desire to play in Spain at some point in his career.
    Real Madrid and Barcelona are certain to be watching his situation with interest – knowing he will be a free agent next summer as things stand. More

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    Guardiola facing big decisions on his Man City ‘legends’ with Sterling, Jesus and Mahrez entering final contract years

    PEP GUARDIOLA has some agonising decisions to make over his ‘legends’ this summer.The Manchester City boss was full of praise for his squad after clinching a fourth Premier League title in five years on Sunday — calling them “eternal”.
    Gabriel Jesus (left) and Raheem Sterling could leave Manchester City when the transfer window opensCredit: Reuters
    City could cash in on Riyad Mahrez as he is about to enter the final year of his contractCredit: Getty
    Ilkay Gundogan is also being tipped for a move but Pep Guardiola is keen to keep the GermanCredit: Getty
    But there remains a question mark over whether a handful of the heroes will be there when their latest title defence kicks off in August.
    And one of those whose future must be decided is Sunday’s two-goal saviour Ilkay Gundogan.
    You might think a team who amassed 93 points and scored 99 goals in another outstanding campaign does not need much work doing to it.
    But Pep has shown before he is not one for standing still and admiring the view from the summit.
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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read More on Man City 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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}MISSING MEN .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Sterling and Jesus miss Man City open-top bus parade for family reasons
    He has also demonstrated before he is not afraid to make key decisions on club legends — just ask Sergio Aguero.
    Guardiola already knows he has two prolific forwards arriving when his squad returns for pre-season training in July — and what a lift that will give them.
    Erling Haaland’s signing has made all the headlines — but Argentina international Julian Alvarez will also arrive from River Plate and has the potential to be just as exciting.
    And the big question is, who will make way for the new boys at the Etihad?
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    Three of the current forwards — Raheem Sterling, Gabriel Jesus and Riyad Mahrez — will go into the final year of their City contracts next month.
    Jesus is the most likely to go this summer, with Arsenal and Tottenham among a host of clubs chasing his signature.
    Sterling’s situation remains unchanged after a mixed season — he wants to play regularly and often found himself left out of the key matches.
    That means City may have their work cut out to persuade him to sign a new contract.
    And if a sizeable offer comes in this summer it would leave City with a difficult decision to make as, at 27, he remains a valuable asset.
    City have been careful in the past not to allow their star players to go into the last year of their contracts but that remains a real possibility with the England ace.
    Mahrez is considerably older at 31 so a bumper new contract is less likely.
    Paris Saint-Germain are regularly linked with a move for him and it would surely tempt City if a bid comes in.
    Alvarez can play out wide or in the centre — while the highly-rated local youngster Cole Palmer, 20, will be looking for more first-team action next season.
    Exciting youngster Julian Alvarez is set to team up with City this summerCredit: Getty
    Erling Haaland is also set to arrive at the EtihadCredit: Reuters
    There are key decisions to be made in midfield, too, with City waving goodbye to another of their stalwarts in Fernandinho.
    Reports last week suggested Gundogan has been told he can go as he also has just a year remaining on his deal.
    But Guardiola has indicated even before that remarkable last day that he would prefer his first signing to stay with him. At just over £20million, he has proved to be a bargain for City.
    So allowing him to run down his contract and leave for nothing next summer would not be out of the question.
    Much will depend on whether Guardiola can lure the new central midfielder he wants to the Etihad in the transfer window.
    That might not be the only new arrival. As ever there looks to be a vacancy at full-back ahead of next season.
    Benjamin Mendy’s court case over alleged sex offences is due to start in late July.
    With a year left on his existing deal, it seems unthinkable that he will play for City again.
    Pep has used Joao Cancelo, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Nathan Ake to fill the gap but none of them are specialists in the position.
    .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}PARTY’S OVER .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Pitch-invading morons will get player killed – here’s what I’d do, says Piers
    Plans for next season are already under way.
    Guardiola has talked in the past about how the best start thinking of the next trophy as soon as they are out of the shower. He wants to be sure this team continues to evolve. More

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    Chelsea takeover nearing completion, Bellingham links, Boehly spotted on Stamford Bridge pitch, Jorginho to Juvenetus

    CHELSEA are reportedly nearing a deal to have the club taken over by American Todd Boehly. The prospective owner stepped foot on the pitch after the win over Watford on Sunday to congratulate the players.
    Thomas Tuchel is keen for the takeover to be completed as he has admitted that the Blues’ “hands are tied” in regards to dealing with transfers.
    Which is currently preventing the West London outfit from landing a deal for talented Borussia Dortmund youngster Jude Bellingham who Chelsea are reportedly linked to.
    Whereas Jorginho could be heading to Juventus but the Italian giants are refusing to ‘spend big’ to land their target.
    FABULOUS BINGO: Get a £20 bonus & 30 free spins when you spend £10 today
    Keep up to date with all of the latest gossip from the Stamford Bridge…
    Reece rates tough Chelsea season a success
    Reece James believes Chelsea coped with a tough season but wants to avoid a repeat, writes ANDY DILLON.
    The defender has met incoming new owner Todd Boehly briefly and says the American is as ambitious as the players and boss Thomas Tuchel.
    Chelsea lost two cup finals and finished third in the Premier League despite massive upheaval with the enforced sale of the club and James is proud of the achievement – but won’t accept the same again.
    He said: “No. We got to two finals and lost on penalties. On another day maybe we win and the season is even better. I don’t know how many competitions we play in but it’s more than two. 
    “Our aim is to win every competition we play in. We’re good enough, so there’s no reason why we can’t do it. 
    “It’s been a difficult season. We started very well, we were leading the Premier League, then injuries happened and we found ourselves in a difficult position.
    “But we finished the season strongly, qualifying for the Champions League next season. Obviously picking up two trophies at the start of the season and the club World Cup as well.”
    Chelsea sale hitch over Roman’s PORTUGUESE passport
    Chelsea have been plunged into an 11th-hour sale crisis – because of Roman Abramovich’s PORTUGUESE passport, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
    SunSport understands the Government is finally prepared to sign off the proposed £4.25bn deal to the consortium led by Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly.
    But Whitehall chiefs are pointing to objections from the European Union that could SCUPPER the entire deal.
    And, while it is still expected that an agreement can be reached, there is a genuine risk of Chelsea not being given the EU go-ahead.
    SunSport has been told that the Government believes Abramovich has now given sufficient undertakings for the Treasury and DCMS to sign off the takeover.
    The Russian billionaire has provided legally binding guarantees over the £1.6bn loan which helped fund the club over the past 19 years and promises that none of it will go to him or his family.
    That was seen as the last impediment to a sale, clearing the way for Boehly to take the helm.
    But now Government sources claim senior EU officials have yet to accept the terms of the deal.
    Abramovoich has also been sanctioned by the EU over his alleged backing for Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.
    Frenzy over Kounde
    Speculation over Sevilla defender Jules Kounde being in London today reignited talk of the Sevilla defender joining Chelsea or Arsenal.
    Sevilla president Jose Castro admitted this morning the club are ready to sell players to fund new signings after finishing fourth in LaLiga.
    And reports in Spain reckon nine-cap Frenchman Kounde is one of the likely departures.
    It’s also thought Chelsea came close to landing the 23-year-old last summer.
    Brazilian lawyer Pimenta takes Raiola role
    Before super agent Mino Raiola passed away last month, he had one request for his long time ally.
    The Italian, who boasted football stars including Erling Haaland, Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic as clients, asked Brazilian lawyer Rafaela Pimenta to take over the reins of his business.

    It is she who is tasked with advising France World Cup winner Pogba of his next move – with a move away from Man Utd said to be imminent.
    Whether he stays at Old Trafford or re-signs for Juventus, who are believed to have offered the playmaker a three year deal worth £6.3million-per-year deal, Pimenta will be at the centre of all negotiations.
    In truth, she could become the most powerful woman in football.
    For 18 years, Pimenta was Raiola’s right-hand woman – working by his side.
    She was entrusted as a vital cog in his affairs, as well as a brain to lean on for advice.
    Juve won’t spend big on Jorginho
    Chelsea midfielder Jorginho is still a Juventus target but the Serie A giants won’t ‘spend big’ to land the Italy midfielder.
    That’s the understanding of Fabrizio Romano for Caught Offside, who believes Juve are prioritising moves for Angel Di Maria and Paul Pogba over the 30-year-old.

    Boehly takeover complete ‘this week’
    Todd Boehly’s Chelsea takeover could be completed this week.
    The Guardian say the Government are now confident Roman Abramovich’s £1.6bn Blues’ loan won’t go to the Russian oligarch or his family.
    Delays have been blamed on debt owed by Chelsea’s parent company Fordstam Ltd to Jersey-based Camberley International Investments – a company suspected of links to Abramovich.
    But talks intensified after fears Chelsea’s future if a May 31 sale deadline wasn’t met.
    Stamford Bridge boss Thomas Tuchel will be delighted if the takeover is sealed within days as he’s admitted the uncertainty has been a huge headache for his planning.
    New Neym for the Bridge?
    Chelsea are 7/1 favourites in a star-studded field to sign PSG striker Neymar.
    Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are thought to be in contention for the Brazil legend, as well as Newcastle and Manchester United.

    Talk of Neymar’s future has hit the headlines this week.
    French newspaper Le Parisien claim the 30-year-old has been put up for sale after “direct orders” from executives Qatar.
    Neymar has scored 100 and provided 60 assists in 144 appearances for PSG since his £200million arrival from Barcelona in 2017.
    And signed a contract extension last year which keeps him in Paris until June 2025.
    SKY BET ODDS ON NEYMAR’S NEXT CLUB:

    Chelsea – 7/1
    Barcelona – 10/1
    Newcastle – 14/1
    Real Madrid – 14/1
    Bayern Munich – 16/1
    Manchester United – 16/1

    Red Devils will Av a transfer spree
    Manchester United owner Avram Glazer has hinted that the club could splash the cash in the upcoming transfer window.
    The Red Devils are expected to dip into the market under Erik Ten Hag having posted their lowest ever Premier League points tally.
    Two central midfielders, plus a striker and a centre-half are top of Ten Hag’s summer wishlist.
    Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong is one name on the list, but SunSport exclusively revealed earlier this month United face a battle to sign the former Ajax star.
    Glazer though suggested funds will be available in the upcoming window.
    When asked by Sky Sports if the club are able to invest before next season, Glazer replied: “We’ve always spent the money necessary to buy new players.”
    The 61-year-old, a hugely unpopular figure among the United fanbase, was also asked if he was disappointed with the season just gone.
    United posted a measly 58 points, finishing sixth-place in the table.
    But Glazer initially said: “I don’t think this is the time to talk about that.”
    Tuchel tips FIVE team to contest title next season
    Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has revealed the five teams he believes will be fighting it out for the Premier League title next season.
    The Blues spent the first half of the 2021/22 campaign battling it out with Manchester City and Liverpool for the right to become English champions.
    But as the season went on they fell away and finished in third, 19 points off champions Man City and just three ahead of fourth place Tottenham.
    Tuchel’s side ended with a 2-1 win over Watford, and the German coach was asked after the game about next season’s title challenge.
    And while he believes Manchester United and Spurs will be in the conversation along with City, Liverpool and themselves, he left out Arsenal – who finished fifth.
    He said: “It will be a super tough race. Manchester United will be in the race, Tottenham will be in the race with Antonio Conte for sure, and we want to stay in the race.
    “And Liverpool and Man City will do everything to even make their squads bigger. They set the standard so, so high and it will take the same to be competitive next season.”
    Fans hail forgotten men Kenedy and Barkley
    Forgotten wideman Kenedy and floundering Ross Barkley were hailed by Chelsea fans after their surprise key roles in the final-day 2-1 defeat of Watford.
    Starting wing-back Kenedy teed up Kai Haverts’z early opener and sub midfielder Barkley headed a stoppage-time winner in his 100th match for the Blues.

    Kenedy, in particular, thrilled supporters on social media.
    One gushed “The guy is amazing” and another beamed “Kenedy is balling!”
    Other comments included: “Where has Kenedy been this whole time? We’ve been hiding the Roberto Carlo regen all along. This guy is playing amazing.”
    Another follower noted: “He is very good offensively, I don’t know why Tuchel doesn’t use him.”
    And even stronger praise came here: “He is my favourite baller… why doesn’t Tuchel trust him more?”
    Barkley, meanwhile, earned plaudits for his late clincher – just his fifth club goal since arriving at Chelsea from Everton in January 2018.
    One fan said the ex-England playmaker “deserves more game time”.
    Tuchel admits a hol lot of problems
    Thomas Tuchel has ruled out a summer holiday – as Chelsea’s ownership situation means he has too much to do.
    Asked if he’d take a break, the Blues boss said: “No I can’t go on holiday, no. There is too much to clarify and have an opinion.”
    Tuchel hopes to soon meet prospective new owner Todd Boehly and discuss what’s needed to close the chasm between Chelsea and the Prem’s clear top two, Liverpool and champions Manchester City.
    Tuchel admitted: “It will not be easy to close the gap because we are forced not to [make signings].
    “We need to be fast and smart when we are allowed.”
    Could Kenedy have Chelsea future?
    With a number of Chelsea first team players set to leave the club this season, some supporters are wondering whether Kenedy can finally make a breakthrough at the Bridge.
    The Brazilian was a surprise inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s starting XI for yesterday’s home win over Watford.
    It was the 26-year-old’s first Premier League start for the Blues since May 2017, a game also against the Hornets.
    The gap of 1833 days ago is the second longest between two Premier League starts by a Chelsea player, a record only beaten by Romelu Lukaku (3388 days), who at least had the excuse of three permanent moves in between.
    Kenedy required just 11 minutes to make his mark on his return, setting up Kai Havertz for the opener.

    Tuchel: Five can win title
    The Premier League season only ended yesterday, but already clubs are preparing for the next campaign.
    And Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel believes that there will be as many as five sides battling it out for the title in 2022-23.
    Speaking after his side’s 2-1 win over Watford on Sunday, the German said: “It will be a super tough race.
    “Manchester United will be in the race, and Tottenham will be in the race with Antonio Conte, for sure.
    “We want to stay in the race, and Liverpool and Man City will do everything to make their squads bigger, and they set the standard so high. This is the challenge in which we want to compete.”
    Juve won’t spend big on Jorginho
    Juventus are still interested in signing Chelsea’s Jorginho, but are refusing to ‘spend big’ to land their man.
    That’s the understanding of Fabrizio Romano for Caught Offside, who believes the Serie A club are prioritising moves for Angel Di Maria and Paul Pogba.
    While the Old Lady also want to add the Italian midfielder to their ranks, the ‘deal has to be right’ for them – and that will depend on what Chelsea wish to do with the 30-year-old.

    Long-serving coach to leave
    Chelsea said goodbye to a number of star players yesterday following their final day win over Watford.
    However, one exit from the club that went under the radar yet may ultimately be felt as much is that of coach Christophe Lollichon.
    The senior goalkeeping coach revealed on his Twitter account that was calling time on his 15 years at Stamford Bridge.
    Lollichon described his stay with the Blues as ‘an honour’ since arriving from Rennes in 2007.
    Credit: @chrislollichon Twitter
    Good morning Chelsea fans
    Many of Chelsea’s stars will be heading abroad next week as their holidays begin.
    However, boss Thomas Tuchel has no plans to go anywhere. He revealed after the Blues beat Chelsea 2-1 on the final day: “No I can’t go on holiday, no. There is too much to clarify and have an opinion.”
    He also talked about meeting Todd Boehly and what is needed to progress next season.
    “It will not be easy to close the gap because we are forced not to [make signings]. We need to be fast and smart when we are allowed.”
    Mason Mount has been crowned as Chelsea’s player of the season again.
    It’s the second time in a row the playmaker has won the award. He follows Eden Hazard, who was a previous back-to-back winner.
    Meanwhile, Marcos Alonso may have played his last game for Chelsea.
    The Spanish defender missed Sunday’s game against Watford through injury. He is reportedly in talks to return to Spain with Barcelona.
    Alonso’s last game for Chelsea?
    Marcos Alonso may have played his last game for Chelsea.
    The Spanish defender missed Sunday’s game against Watford through injury.
    Tuchel explained: “Marcos Alonso had a back problem in our first match against West Ham where he needed to go out and then he missed some matches.
    “He had more or less the same through the last games and he played with this pain through the match against Leicester.
    “Now he felt the muscle contraction goes right through to the hamstrings so it made no sense to take this risk with him.”
    However, with reports suggesting Alonso is deep in contract talks with Barcelona, it appears we may not see him in a Chelsea shirt once again.
    Chilwell buzzing
    Ben Chilwell has spoken about his road to recovery, after injury ended his season.
    The England full-back suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Juventus back in November.
    However, last month Chilwell has stepped up the recovery process.
    And he revealed he wouldn’t have been able to do it without the support of his team mates.
    He said: “It’s a very tight group. From day one of my injury I felt the support from the fans, the staff, the players, everyone at Chelsea I’ve felt the support from. It made it a lot easier. I’m buzzing to be back.”
    Club departure
    Christophe Lollichon has revealed he is leaving Stamford Bridge, after 15 years of working with the club’s goalkeepers.
    In a statement, he wrote: “After 15 years at Chelsea FC, it’s time to announce that I am leaving the Blues.
    “From 1st team goalkeeper coach to working with the keepers on loan and the recruitment dept, being a part of the club’s success has been an honour.
    Thank you to the fans and everyone at the club.”
    Real deal
    Real Madrid have reportedly opened talks with Monaco star Aurelien Tchouameni in a blow to a string of Premier League sides.
    Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea are among the teams who had been targeting the highly-rated midfielder.
    Madrid will be hunting for high-profile summer signings after being snubbed by Kylian Mbappe on Saturday.
    And journalist Santi Aouna reports that the Spanish club has been in contact and ready to make an offer.
    What holiday
    Many of Chelsea’s stars will be heading abroad next week as their holidays begin.
    However, boss Thomas Tuchel has no plans to go anywhere.
    He revealed: “No I can’t go on holiday, no. There is too much to clarify and have an opinion.”
    He’s also talked about meeting Todd Boehly and what is needed to progress next season.
    “It will not be easy to close the gap because we are forced not to [make signings]. We need to be fast and smart when we are allowed.”
    Player of the season
    Mason Mount has been crowned as Chelsea’s player of the season again.
    It’s the second time in a row the playmaker has won the award.
    He follows Eden Hazard, who was previous back-to-back winner.

    Premier League 2021-22
    This is where we finished, and who did what in terms of European qualification.
    Title: Manchester City
    UCL: Liverpool, Chelsea, Spurs
    UEL: Arsenal, Manchester United
    UECL: West Ham
    Relegation: Burnley, Watford, Norwich
    Full-time
    The Blues have edged out Watford 2-1.
    Despite dominating proceedings, it looked like Gosling had equalised to earn the Hornets a draw.
    But up popped Ross Barkley in injury time to score a winner.
    As things stand
    Champions -Man City
    Champions League – Liverpool – Chelsea – Tottenham
    Europa League – Arsenal- West Ham
    Relegated – Burnley
    Load more entries… More

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    Tottenham stars want club to back Antonio Conte with Gabriel Jesus and Christian Eriksen among top transfer targets

    TOTTENHAM’S senior stars have urged the club to back Antonio Conte in the transfer market this summer.Conte wants around six signings and Spurs are considering moves for the likes of Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus and former hero Christian Eriksen.
    Tottenham stars are desperate for Antonio Conte to continue as managerCredit: Getty
    The Italian’s side secured a Champions League spot with Sunday’s 5-0 rout of Norwich at Carrow Road.
    Conte, 52, is set for talks with chairman Daniel Levy and managing director of football Fabio Paratici this week — but he has hinted he could still walk if the club do not match his ambition, despite having a year left on his contract.
    The ex-Chelsea and Inter Milan boss was backed in January to sign Rodrigo Bentancur and Dejan Kulusevski, whose loan is set to be turned permanent for £29.2million.
    Centre-back Eric Dier, revitalised by Conte, said: “The club needs to take advantage of this moment, of this team and this manager.
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12px;max-height:75px;overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:2;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1px;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}UPPING THE ANT-E .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Spurs ‘to offer Conte SIX signings in bid to stay’ as boss ponders future
    “It’s in the club’s hands now. We’ve done our job and now it’s the club’s job this summer to do the best work they can.
    “I’m sure they’ll try to do the best they can for us and the manager to continue to push on and get better and better.
    Skipper Hugo Lloris, 35, added: “I believe Conte knows exactly what he wants and needs.
    “I believe there is huge confidence. It’s just about making decisions together.
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    “It is a team win and it’s going to give the club the positivity to prepare for next season.”
    Conte would like a new left-sided centre-back as well as a new goalkeeper with Southampton’s out-of-contract stopper Fraser Forster likely to join.
    Wing-back competition could be targeted, as well as a new centre-mid with Leicester’s Youri Tielemans also under consideration.
    Fringe players such as Harry Winks and Joe Rodon could leave. More

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    ‘I have already told Man City’ – Gabriel Jesus breaks silence on future amid Arsenal and Tottenham transfer links

    GABRIEL JESUS has opened up about his future at Manchester City amid speculation over a move to Arsenal or Tottenham.The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Etihad, particularly since the Premier League champions confirmed the signing of Erling Haaland earlier this month.
    Jesus says he will decide his future while on holidayCredit: Getty
    And Jesus admitted everything is still very much up in the air heading into the summer window.
    Speaking to ESPN Brazil, he said: “About my future, it’s still uncertain.
    “I have a contract with City and I have already expressed my desire to the City people and to my agent. I have in my head [a very clear idea of] what I want.
    “Today, I want to celebrate a lot with City. It’s obvious that I’m very happy here.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}GUNNERS NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Gunners rival Spurs for Jesus, Leno set to ‘join’ Benfica
    “Tomorrow, if everything goes well for me, my wife and our family, [daughter] Helena will come to the world.
    “So, I have to take advantage of this moment. Then, think about the team, smile at the team again.
    “And, on vacation, I [will] decide about my future.”
    Jesus joined Man City in 2017 and spent his first four seasons largely playing second fiddle to Sergio Aguero.
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    Since the Argentine departed last summer, Jesus has received more gametime but still failed to establish himself as a top level striker.
    In 41 appearances this season he scored 13 goals, with Haaland’s arrival then seemingly ending any hopes he had of leading the line for the foreseeable future.
    Arsenal have been linked with his signature for some time, but it was then reported on Monday that Spurs have also entered the race. More