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      Arsenal fans fume at ‘underwhelming Xhaka downgrade’ as Gunners battle Barcelona for ex-Newcastle star transfer

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      ARSENAL fans have been left fuming at an “underwhelming Granit Xhaka downgrade” as they battle Barcelona for Spain ace Mikel Merino.The former Newcastle star has spent the past six years with Real Sociedad, helping them become one of LaLiga’s top sides.Arsenal are targeting a move for Spain and Real Sociedad star Mikel MerinoCredit: GettySome fans believe the Barcelona target is a downgrade on Granit XhakaCredit: GettyBut Merino’s contract expires at the end of next season.And clubs are preparing to go to war over his signature.Barcelona are thought to be leading the chase for Merino, who operates as a deep-lying playmaker.But Catalan chiefs fear Arsenal could hijack the move as Mundo Deportivo claims Mikel Arteta sees him as a Xhaka replacement.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSThe Swiss star left for Bayer Leverkusen last summer, helping them win their first ever title.Arsenal used both Thomas Partey and Jorginho in Xhaka’s place despite signing Declan Rice for £100million.But Arteta wants a new No6 to take control of midfield and allow Rice to push forward in attack.Merino’s profile fits the bill, while his experience means he will be expected to hit the ground running.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHowever, some Arsenal fans are not keen on the proposed move.One said: “An underwhelming Xhaka downgrade.”Meet the Arsenal Wags behind Gunners’ successAnother declared: “Merino in the Xhaka role? I really want Ebe Eze.”One noted: “I really don’t think this is good enough for a team that wants to win the league and challenge for Europe.”But one fan believes Merino would be a good fit.They added: “Merino is a tall Xhaka and a bit faster. Hope we sign him, he is a very good player for midfield.”Arsenal have a tricky start to the season More

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      Chelsea to sign Barcelona’s Marc Guiu, 18, as Blues trigger transfer release clause for star who has played just 7 times

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      CHELSEA are reportedly set to sign Barcelona prodigy Marc Guiu after triggering his release clause.The striker, 18, burst on to the scene for his Spanish club this season, scoring twice in seven senior appearances – including after 33 seconds on his debut.Marc Guiu is close to joining Chelsea after they triggered his £5million Barcelona release clauseCredit: GettyHowever, chances under new boss Hansi Flick may be limited as Barcelona look to add at least one new superstar forward.And AS claims Chelsea have now made their move for Guiu by triggering his £5million release clause.The Blues will discuss terms with the teen on a long-term contract.While a potential loan move to French sister club Strasbourg may also be in the works.READ MORE ON CHELSEAGuiu looks set to become Chelsea’s third signing of the summer after Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo and Palmeiras’ Estevao Willian, although the latter will not join until 2025.The Blues are also close to a £19m deal for Aston Villa striker Omari Kellyman.And they are also considering a £30m bid for Lille forward Jonathan David, who has 52 club goals in the past two seasons.New boss Enzo Maresca starts his role next week after leading Leicester to the Championship title.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThe Italian had been hoping to bolster his ranks with the £55m capture of Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise.But Chelsea pulled out of a move as Bayern Munich struck terms with the Frenchman.Poch in England frame The Londoners are still thought to be keen on landing a wide-man, although they will target a right-footer and not a left-footer.Lille man David can play on the flanks if needed.While a move for Athletic Bilbao and Spain star Nico Williams has already been deemed too expensive.As for outgoings, Ian Maatsen is on the cusp of a £37m move to Aston Villa.And Armando Broja is being chased by several European clubs following his dud loan spell at Fulham. More

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      ‘I’ll have to talk to my agent’ says Harry Kane as England star offered transfer from Bayern during press conference

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      HARRY KANE joked he will speak to his agent after being offered unlimited SAUSAGE and free drinks if he signs for a seventh-tier German team.The England skipper, 30, was quizzed by the media ahead of the Three Lions’ final Euro 2024 Group C game against Slovenia on Tuesday.Harry Kane was jokingly offered a shock transfer away from Bayern MunichCredit: GettyThe England skipper signed the shirt of seventh-tier SG Lauscha/NeuhausCredit: APHe opted against putting pen to paper on a deal at the German minnowsKane had to respond to questions about his own role in the team, England’s abject performances so far – and even hit back at Gary Lineker’s “s***” comment. But he let out a big smile when he was asked about leaving Bayern Munich – to join minnows SG Lauscha/Neuhaus, based near England’s plush Weimarer Land spa and golf resort in Blankenhain.Local comedian Jonas Greiner, representing broadcaster MDR Jump, asked the striker about his views on the area, before changing gears and offering him the chance to extend his stay in the region.And he even had SG Lauscha/Neuhaus’ fluorescent yellow shirt ready in case Kane accepted the plucky offer. READ MORE ON EURO 2024Greiner said: “Could you imagine living here one day? Do you want to stay? We have a seventh-division team you may have heard of, SG Lauscha/Neuhaus.”They have a contract offer for you. You get free Thuringia rostbratwurst all you can eat, free drinks in every bar, and mindestlohn (minimum wage).”You will have much more time for the national team. If you want, I have your jersey here.”Kane joined in the laughter in the press room – before playing along with the joke. Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThe ex-Tottenham striker replied: “It’s very well prepared. I’ll have to talk to my agent and see what we can do!”But you have good golf courses. I mean the golf course we’re staying on is fantastic so it’s not a bad plus.SunSport’s Euro 2024 headlines EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYTalk of dropping Harry Kane is absurd, says Jurgen Klinsmann
      NO manager in the world will really care about how many touches their centre-forward has, writes Jurgen Klinsmann.
      It’s being widely flagged up that Harry Kane has not seen much of the ball in England’s first two matches but this is not, in itself, going to be a concern for Gareth Southgate.
      It’s a nice thing for the stats fanatics to go on about — and there are obviously more and more of them in and around football.
      But not all statistics are helpful and this one doesn’t mean a great deal.
      Harry has scored one goal, and so nearly two, in two games. It’s not as if he hasn’t been involved at all.
      Everybody in England needs to calm down a little about the captain.
      Some are even suggesting that he should be dropped or rested for tomorrow’s final group game against Slovenia — but that is totally absurd.
      Please stop worrying. He will come good. He always does.
      Read Jurgen Klinsmann thoughts on Harry Kane’s struggles in full.
      Or check out all of Jurgen’s Euro 2024 columns.

      “It’s been great. You know the reception I’ve had not just here but in the whole of Germany has been incredible. I think since I moved to Bayern Munich I’ve added a lot of supporters to me.”Every hotel we’ve been to so far and just around the stadium and everything, the support has been amazing, so I just want to say thank you for that.”I don’t know if it’s on my mind to move here one day, but we appreciate you guys hosting us.”And although he refused to sign the contract, Kane did autograph the Lauscha/Neuhaus shirt at the end of the press conference.But Greiner joked his local side had enjoyed a more successful season than Bundesliga giants Bayern last term. Greiner told the PA news agency: “He could be good in the team. We don’t have a Jude Bellingham but we have many players who can drink on one day and on the next day they play.Jack Wilshere: Southgate must be brave with RiceBy Jack Wilshere
      GARETH SOUTHGATE should be brave and play Declan Rice as our sole holding midfielder.
      But if England manager Southgate doesn’t want to do that — and he probably doesn’t ­— then he needs to give Rice the chance to play more like he does for Arsenal.
      Let’s be absolutely clear here. Rice was so important for us again during that first half against Denmark.
      The fact that he had a difficult second 45 minutes showed how much England were struggling.
      Rice himself would hold his hands up and say he gave away the ball too often.
      But what I took overall from his performance is that he needs more help in the engine room.
      Read here how Jack Wilshere would resolve the Declan Rice dilemma.

      “They hit the ball even if they drank like 15 beers the day before and I guess that’s high-level pressure they can deal with.”It would be a great match with a professional player who can score the goals so that the other players can drink like 17 beers the day before.”They were promoted this year so it’s another benefit for Harry Kane – more titles than Bayern Munich this year!”Away from the fun and games, Kane had some strong words to hit back at the pundits criticising England so far at the tournament. Lineker and Alan Shearer were among the strongest in voicing their concerns – with the current No9 coming in for particular negative press.But the captain was quick to point out that no England men’s team have lifted a major trophy since 1966 – and the support would be much appreciated.’We’re struggling with and without the ball’, admits Harry Kane
      HARRY KANE admits England “haven’t been good enough” at the Euros.
      Here’s what skipper Kane said after the disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark:
      “We’re struggling with and without the ball.
      “The pressing in both games hasn’t been quite right. We haven’t been good enough, from top to bottom, from me to Picks (Jordan Pickford).
      “Everyone is dropping below their level a bit, in terms of retaining the ball, playing under pressure.
      “We know there’ll be a bit of noise and disappointment back home.
      “But it’s a time to stay calm and we’ll get there step by step.
      “It wasn’t our greatest game but we got away with draw.
      “We are starting games well. But when the teams are dropping a few players deeper we are not quite sure how to get the pressure on, and who is the one who is supposed to be going.”
      “In the second half, we changed it with me and Jude (Bellingham)  playing in front of their two midfielders. But it was difficult.”

      Kane said: “I’d never want to be disrespectful to any player, especially a player that’s worn the shirt and knows what it’s like to play for England.”What maybe ex-players who are pundits now have got to realise, it’s very hard not to listen to it now, especially for young players who are not used to it or some players are new to the environment.”I know they’ve got to be honest and have their opinion but they have a responsibility as an ex-England player that a lot of players looked up to, people do care about what they say and do listen to them.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Everyone has got their opinion, but the bottom line is we haven’t won nothing as a nation for a long, long time and a lot of these players were part of that, and they know how tough it is.”It’s not digging anyone out, but it’s just the reality that they do know it’s tough to play in these major tournaments and tough to play for England.”Comedian Jonas Greiner is on a bid to sign a big-name player for SG Lauscha/NeuhausCredit: PAWho is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?
      EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.
      Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.
      But who is the sexiest?
      Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.
      And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.
      In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.
      While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.
      But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story. More

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      Chelsea ‘hold talks with Jonathan David’ as Todd Boehly ready to splash more cash on Lille striker

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      CHELSEA have held talks with Jonathan David’s representatives, according to reports.The Lille striker has been a long-term target for the Blues and could finally move to the Premier League this summer.Chelsea have reportedly held talks with Jonathan David’s representativesCredit: GettyDavid was keen to join an English club 12 months ago but ultimately remained at Lille.However, after scoring 26 goals across all competitions last season, Chelsea are ready to make their move.The Athletic report talks have taken place with the players’ representatives.David is said to be high on Chelsea’s list of attacking targets this summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMeanwhile, there is hope a reasonable fee can be agreed due to David entering the final year of his contract.Chelsea and Lille also have a good relationship, the report adds, although an approach to the Ligue 1 side has yet to be made.David’s 19 league goals last season were only bettered by top scorer Kylian Mbappe.He has also scored 26 goals in 48 caps for Canada, who he is currently on international duty with at the Copa America.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSPredominantly a striker, the 24-year-old can also play slightly behind the centre-forward and in attacking midfield.Prior to joining Lille in 2020, he also enjoyed a successful spell in Belgium with Gent.Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaManchester United are long-time suitors along with Chelsea, with Aston Villa, Arsenal and Atletico Madrid also linked with a move this summer.Elsewhere, Chelsea have already signed defender Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer from Fulham.The signing of teenager Estevao Willian has also been confirmed, with the Brazilian joining the Blues in 2025.However, Enzo Maresca missed out on Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise this week, with the winger set to join Bayern Munich instead. More

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      Mauricio Pochettino in frame for England job after finally agreeing £10million Chelsea pay-off

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      MAURICIO POCHETTINO has finally agreed a £10million Chelsea pay-off that frees him up as a contender for the England job if it comes up.The Argentine would be a candidate to replace Gareth Southgate should the England manager go after the Euros.Mauricio Pochettino could be in line for the England job if it becomes availableCredit: GettyGareth Southgate could step down after Euro 2024Credit: GettyPochettino’s pay-off negotiations with Chelsea have finally been settled following his sacking on May 21.And SunSport understands there are no restrictions in the deal to prevent the former Southampton and Tottenham manager taking another job in England.Pochettino’s talks over his severance package complicated interest from Manchester United, who approached him to discuss the Old Trafford job before sticking with Erik ten Hag.The 52-year-old said he was open to staying in England when he returned to Stamford Bridge to manage a team at SoccerAid earlier this month.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut with no top Premier League jobs currently available, succeeding Southgate may be his best bet.The FA have yet to compile a shortlist for the next England manager, but given his experience in this country and track record of developing young players – including Cole Palmer at Chelsea last season – Pochettino is viewed as a leading contender.Chelsea’s agreement with Pochettino takes their bill for managerial changes to close to £67m in two years of the club’s new ownership.Thomas Tuchel and Potter both received over £13m in compensation after being sacked during the season, while Potter’s move to West London saw Brighton bank £21m in compensation from Chelsea, who have also agreed to pay Leicester £10m to secure new coach Enzo Maresca.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHow Pochettino and Southgate’s stats compare
      Mauricio Pochettino:

      Total matches managed – 649
      Wins – 319
      Draws – 139
      Defeats – 191

      Gareth Southgate:

      Total matches managed – 282
      Wins – 135
      Draws – 63
      Defeats – 84

      Pochettino’s coaching team of Jesus Perez, Miguel d’Agostino, Toni Jimenez and Sebastiano Pochettino will also receive pay-offs as they were under contract at Stamford Bridge until next summer.Chelsea required some creative accountancy to avoid breaking FFP rules last year following the £1billion transfer splurge by new owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, but are confident they will comply this season.Premier League sides deducted points and others at riskThe club sold two hotels and car parks at Stamford Bridge to a sister company for £76.5m, which enabled them to reduce a projected loss of £166.4m to a loss of £89.9m.Chelsea were approached for comment.How much have Chelsea spent on managers?The Blues have spent close to £67MILLION on hiring and firing managers over the last two years…
      Thomas Tuchel (January 2021 – September 2022) – £13m compensation
      Graham Potter (September 2022 – April 2023) – £21m compensation to Brighton & £13m compensation after dismissal
      Mauricio Pochettino (May 2023 – May 2024) – £10m compensation plus staff pay-offs
      Enzo Maresca (June 2024 – ) – £10m compensation to Leicester More

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      Man Utd and Arsenal learn mammoth transfer fee for Xavi Simons as they battle Bayern for PSG star

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      MANCHESTER UNITED and Arsenal have been told to cough up a king’s ransom of £85million for Euro 2024 star Xavi Simons.The playmaker is currently lighting up the tournament for Holland.Man Utd and Arsenal have been told to pay £85m for Xavi SimonsCredit: GettyAnd interest is high in Paris Saint-Germain’s next superstar.Simons, who has only played 11 games for the French side since joining from Barcelona in 2019, spent last season on loan at RB Leipzig.He bagged eight goals and 11 assists during his time in Germany.And Bild claims United, Arsenal and Bayern Munich have all put Simons high on their shopping lists.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUnited are known to be in the market for a new midfielder, with Simons boasting all the qualities needed for an attacking No8.While Arsenal are determined to continue building a mega-star squad so they can go one better than the previous two seasons by lifting the Premier League title.As for Bayern, they are ready to tear their squad up and rebuild under new boss Vincent Kompany.Simons took to German football like a duck to water and would slot straight in alongside Jamal Musiala.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHowever, PSG are reluctant to lose Simons while never seeing him shine at the Parc des Princes.Luis Enrique still hopes to convince the Dutch maestro to stay put and finally have a proper season in the French capital.Barcelona youth sensation Xavi Simons snapped up by PSG – here is whyAnd to ward interested clubs off, PSG have reportedly put an £85m price tag on Simons.The eye-watering fee is likely to keep suitors at bay for now, especially United who need to sell before they can buy.But as the window goes on, and should Simons express a strong desire to move on, PSG could be forced to lower that fee.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Cash-strapped Everton set to sign Aston Villa midfielder in shock £10m transfer after takeover boost

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      ASTON VILLA midfielder Tim Iroegbunam is set to join Everton in a £10million deal.The 20-year-old Englishman was on the fringe of Unai Emery’s side last season and wants more game time.Tim Iroegbunam is set to leave Aston Villa for EvertonCredit: GettyVilla have beaten a number of Prem clubs to the free signing of centre-back Ethan Amundsen-Day, 19, from FC Copenhagen.The Norway youth international has an English father and was born in Leeds.With Amundsen-Day set to arrive at Villa Park, Iroegbunam has been given the green light to leave.He is on the verge of moving to Everton in what could be a turbulent summer for the Toffees.Read More on FootballThe Merseyside club recently confirmed that 777 Partners’ proposed takeover had collapsed.It left Everton in danger of going into administration amid soaring debts.However, SunSport exclusively revealed this week that Roma owner Dan Friedkin is prepared to complete an £800million takeover.Friedkin, worth £4.8billion, has beaten off an offer by Vici Private Finance in the battle to become the new Everton owner.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHowever, some fans could be left underwhelmed with the new chief.A member of his Friedkin Group previously described Everton as the “second club” in Liverpool.New footage shows amazing progress at Premier League club’s £500m new stadium but fans say ‘it’s hard to get excited’Friedkin himself also said after buying Roma in 2020 that the Serie A club would “always be the jewel” in his football crown. More

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      England star Marc Guehi idolised John Terry after Chelsea upbringing and is tipped to return from Euros to bigger things

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      MARC GUEHI’S assured start to life in the spotlight of a major tournament should not come as a shock.The Crystal Palace star put in a fine display against Serbia to dispel concerns over whether he could hack it alongside John Stones.Marc Guehi impressed in England’s 1-0 win over SerbiaCredit: GettySeveral clubs have an interest in the Palace centre-backCredit: GettyGuehi (right) was part of a star-studded Chelsea youth side alongside the likes of Conor Gallager ans Reece JamesBut those who have been watching his rise from the Chelsea academy, via Swansea, Selhurst Park and the England Under-21s have seen it all before.It is why staff at Palace were so confident during the season that, come June, they would have a starting England defender in their ranks.The class and composure was there when Palace’s sporting director, Dougie Freedman, first spotted the defender playing in Chelsea’s famed academy.It stems from someone who, from the age of five when he joined up with Cray Wanderers, has been dedicated to defending.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGuehi was never the most talented boy at Cray, or even Chelsea, but understood his role in incredible detail and, even as a young child, never got caught up chasing the ball further down the pitch but stay focused on keeping a clean sheet. That has never changed. One Palace source told SunSport: “He just wants to defend, he absolutely loves it.”There were worries that, being four inches shorter than the man he has replaced in Harry Maguire, Guehi’s stature would be a problem.However, given a robust test by towering and powerful Serbian forwards, the former Swansea man passed with flying colours.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHis reading of the game has stood out to every coach who has worked with Guehi or scout who has watched him.The 23-year-old, who was born in the Ivory Coast before moving to England at one and idolised John Terry as a kid, still works endlessly on studying positioning and reading the game and it shows in his performances.Jude Bellingham reacts to match winning England display in euro 2024 opener against SerbiaGuehi, who is best mates with Three Lions team-mate Conor Gallagher, is rarely flustered or caught out and it was notable he finished the game in Gelsenkirchen with few marks on his white England shorts – always a sign of an assured defender.It is that calm presence which has seen Guehi rise quickly as a young player, overcoming struggles during his loan on Swansea which saw him dropped from the squad altogether.His quiet but determined attitude is what convinced Under-21s boss Lee Carsley – followed by Patrick Vieira and Roy Hodgson at Palace – to hand him the captain’s armband.John Terry is idolised by Marc GuehiCredit: AFPCarsley said earlier this season: “The way he conducts himself on and off the pitch, he is a brilliant influence on the players.”He is very good on the ball, excellent in possession.”He deserved to be captain. We didn’t have him that long, he moved through the system quite quickly which is brilliant.”Seeing him play week in, week out he deserves it.”He deserves everything he gets because he is a brilliant lad and works so hard.”Guehi is a considered leader in the changing room, not brash and loud but quiet and controlled. He keeps his head on the pitch and chooses his words carefully off it – meaning team-mates pay attention when he has something to say.It has been a remarkable rise, and those watching on from Palace – who included proud chairman Steve Parish inside the stadium in Germany – will feel this is just the start.There is an acceptance in South London that they may well lose Guehi to bigger and better things once he returns from Euro 2024.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat has often been the club’s plan, recruit well and sell after a solid three years. If that plan is to be put into action this summer – the asking price will have just climbed up once again.How England rated vs Serbia… as Bellingham shines but TWO big names get 5s
      JUDE BELLINGHAM was England’s head boy as Gareth Southgate’s side made a winning start in Germany.
      The Real Madrid superstar oozed class throughout and broke the deadlock with only 13 minutes played thanks to an excellent header, dispatching Bukayo Saka’s deflected cross.
      But, despite the brilliant start, it was a nervy affair here in Gelsenkirchen.
      Serbia exerted significant pressure in the second half, with a few narrow escapes for Southgate’s men.
      Harry Kane barely had a kick and the Premier League’s player of the year Phil Foden struggled to have any influence on the left of the Three Lions’ front three.
      Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars… with TWO stars getting just a 5.

      EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More