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    Man City ‘agree personal terms with Lucas Paqueta but have not spoken to West Ham yet over summer transfer’

    MANCHESTER CITY have reportedly agreed personal terms with Lucas Paqueta despite not having spoken to West Ham over a transfer yet.Paqueta, 26, has been one of David Moyes’ shining lights this season with eight goals and six assists in all competitions.Man City have struck terms with Lucas Paqueta but are yet to talk to West HamCredit: GettyThe Brazilian superstar, who has 44 caps for his country, was strongly tipped for a move to the Etihad last summer.City were set to splash £85million on Paqueta after their Treble win.But they backed out when the FA opened an investigation into potential betting-rule breaches, which is yet to be resolved.However, City reignited their interest in February amid doubts over Bernardo Silva’s future.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Foot Mercato claim the champions have now gone a step further by already wrapping up personal terms with Paqueta over a long-term contract.The tenacious playmaker can play anywhere in the four behind Erling Haaland.And his past experiences at AC Milan and Lyon mean he will be at home alongside seasoned stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri.However, it’s added that City are yet to open talks with West Ham over a transfer fee.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERMoyes’ men are likely to demand an eye-watering figure.And it could even exceed the £85m City were prepared to pay last year.Football icons’ strange hobbiesShould he arrive, Paqueta will be the second Brazilian signed by Guardiola this summer.City have already struck a deal to land winger Savio from sister club Toyes.He has eight goals and seven assists in 29 games for LaLiga’s surprise package Girona, another City Group side.But fans are still patiently waiting for an official announcement.Lucas Paqueta’s career statsThose numbers in full:

    Flamengo, 2016-2018: 95 games, 18 goals

    AC Milan, 2018-2020: 44 games, 1 goal

    Lyon, 2020-2023: 80 games, 21 goals

    West Ham, 2022-24: 77 games, 13 goals

    Brazil, 2018-2024: 44 games, 10 goals

    Trophies: Carioca Championship, Guanabara Cup (Flamengo); Europa Conference League (West Ham); Copa America (Brazil) More

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    Joe Cole apologises to Glenn Hoddle TWICE live on TNT Sports as pair aim jabs at each other over Spurs West Ham rivalry

    JOE COLE apologised to Glenn Hoddle live on TNT Sports as the pair aimed jabs at each other over the Tottenham and West Ham rivalry. The former Chelsea stars provided punditry for the London derby which ended in a 1-1 draw. Joe Cole apologised to Glenn Hoddle live on TNT SportsHoddle had to listen to Cole’s rant about SpursBefore the game, ex-Hammer Cole tore into Spurs in front of Tottenham legend Hoddle. He said: “I think West Ham may have also felt like also-rans when Tottenham, even though they haven’t won much silverware, [Spurs] They act and behave like a team…sorry about this Glenn, by the way.”Hoddle, who won the FA Cup with Spurs, then hit back: “That’s alright, because I was there when we did win things.”Cole, a three-time Premier League winner with Chelsea, then continued his rant about Spurs leaving him once again apologising. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe said: “Yeah, Glen’s team won, but they ain’t won much.” West Ham probably think, ‘Why do you consider yourselves a big team?’ “You have that sort of ‘David vs Goliath’ and you think to yourself, ‘Let’s go and stuff them, because, they’re not a big club’. “They’re not Manchester United or Liverpool, they are not of that stature….I’m sorry, Glenn!”Timo Werner opened the scoring at the London Stadium but his former Chelsea team-mate Kurt Zouma levelled. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSpurs boss Ange Postecoglou said after the game: “I’d like to have a joystick and put them where I want but it doesn’t work that way. “My role is to try to help them through that. At times, we have more time than we think. “We scored a great goal but there are times the ball is flashed across when we should have been in those areas. It’s things to work on.”Roberto De Zerbi ruled out of Liverpool boss running but could still quit Brighton this summer to join European giants More

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    Man City ready to take big loss to sell Kalvin Phillips this summer with shock side eyeing up cut-price transfer

    LEEDS UNITED are ready to offer Kalvin Phillips an end to his nightmare as Manchester City prepare to accept a cut-price deal for him.The 28-year-old midfielder is enduring a miserable time of it and looks set to miss out on Euro 2024 due to his poor form costing him a spot in last month’s England squad.Man City are ready to accept a reduced fee for Kalvin Phillips as Leeds as a transfer swoopCredit: GettyPhillips left Leeds for Man City in 2022 for £45m and they went on to win the treble during his first season.However, he struggled for regular match action and only started twice in the Premier League before Pep Guardiola shipped him out this January.The plan was for Phillips to get more minutes in order to ensure he kept his England place, but his loan switch to West Ham has turned into a disaster.Phillips was brought on as substitute with 21 minutes to go and his team leading 3-1 on Saturday only for the Hammers to collapse as Newcastle ended up winning 4-3 victors.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe gave away a penalty and was later turned by Harvey Barnes, who scored twice late on, for one of the winger’s goals.Phillips then swore at a fan after being heckled following his nightmare performance against Newcastle.But we revealed how Leeds are plotting to take him back to Elland Road — if they clinch promotion to the Premier League.Now they have received a major boost in that quest after the Daily Mail reported that City are expected to put Phillips up for permanent transfer in the summer.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERPhillips, who has 31 England caps, is under contract at City until 2028.But this update states that he will be available for the vastly-reduced asking price of £30m.Dean Scoggins travels to FC Koln in Germany to find Europe’s best Away DayHe spent 12 years and played 234 games for the club after progressing through their academy.He found stardom under Marcelo Bielsa and helped them to return to the Premier League in 2021 and then survive.But any chance of a return to his boyhood team depends on Leeds winning promotion.Last night’s late 3-1 win over Hull City lifted them second in the Championship table, just a point behind Ipswich.They are a point behind Leicester City, who also have a game in hand, as they now prepare for their final six matches of the campaign. More

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    West Ham sign son of legendary three-time kickboxing world champion who quit football himself after horror injury

    WEST HAM have signed Dean Bonjasky, the son of former kickboxing world champion Remy Bonjasky.The child prodigy will join the Hammers academy after previously spending time with FC Volendam.Remy Bonjasky’s son Dean has signed for West HamCredit: GettyBonjasky shared his pride in his son and shared a photo of Dean signing his contract on Instagram.He added the caption: “Proud of my son, player at West Ham.”Dean has penned a two-year contract and is part of the Under-14s team.The 13-year-old shares the same dream of becoming a footballer that his father once possessed.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBonjasky, 48, also played football during his teenage years but quit the sport after breaking his leg.He turned to kickboxing and quickly fell in love and was able to forge a long and successful career as a fighter.The Dutchman is a three-time K-1 World Grand Prix heavyweight champion, winning the title in 2003, 2004, and 2008.Bonjasky earned 78 wins in his career, 40 via knockout, and lost 20 fights.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERAfter hanging up his gloves he opened up his own gym the “Bonjasky Academy”, where he helps youngsters get into kickboxing.He also has two other children – Cassius and Skye.Floyd Mayweather called out by legendary kickboxing star after fight was dramatically cancelled More

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    Lucas Paqueta breaks silence on betting scandal hell that scuppered West Ham star’s £80m move to Man City

    LUCAS PAQUETA has opened up for the first time on his betting scandal hell – paying tribute to the support shown by “special” David Moyes.West Ham star Paqueta, 26, has been under an FA investigation since August over allegations of suspicious gambling activities.Lucas Paqueta has spoken ahead of Brazil’s clash with England this SaturdayCredit: PAPaqueta, 26, opened up on his relationship with Hammers boss David MoyesCredit: AFPThe furore prompted Manchester City to back out of a proposed £80million move for the playmaker – but they have been tipped to rekindle their interest this summer.It also saw him left out of the Brazil squad for all six of their autumn matches, though he is now back with the Samba Boys for this month’s friendlies against England and Spain.Paqueta revealed how tough the ordeal has been for him but praised Irons chief Moyes for his handling of the situation.The former Lyon ace said: “In the beginning it was hard.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“But now I have grown a lot mentally and now I can live with that. I have left that behind and I can now focus on my performances.“(Moyes) was special for me. I have a good relationship with him. And his support was important for me.“He said he wanted me playing in the team. That confidence was very important for me.“Without a shadow of doubt, the support he gave me to leave all this behind, it was essential.”Most read in FootballPaqueta’s probe relates to bets placed on the midfielder to receive a yellow card in various Premier League matches.He denies any wrongdoing and was said to be shocked by the allegations when they first emerged – though could not elaborate on the ongoing investigation.Europa League quarter-final draw in full as Liverpool and West Ham learn their fate The former AC Milan attacker added: “I was told not to comment on this subject.“It’s been seven months since it happened and I’m cooperating, doing what’s in my power so that it can be resolved.”Paqueta has managed to be one of West Ham’s star performers this term, despite the probe, netting three goals and grabbing five assists in the Premier League.It has kept him on City’s radar who could look to exploit an alleged £85m release clause in his contract this summer – especially with Bernardo Silva’s future up in the air.Paqueta is just relieved to be back with his Selecao team-mates after his exile earlier this season.New boss Dorival Jnr brought the 42-cap ace straight back in for his new squad, which includes no fewer than ELEVEN uncapped players.(Moyes) was special for me. I have a good relationship with him. And his support was important for me.Lucas PaquetaManchester United midfielder Casemiro, not involved due to injury, took the time out to see his international colleagues at their Sopwell House base near St Albans.Paqueta said: “I’m very happy to be back. I hope I can help [the youngsters] in the best way possible.“I worked with the coach at the end of my time at Flamengo and it was an incredible experience. I’m happy to be called up for his recognition of my work.“Being in the national team has always been my dream, so when I return I feel even more privileged.”Paqueta will come up against West Ham team-mates past and present at Wembley on Saturday.Irons winger Jarrod Bowen, 27, is making a great case for inclusion in England’s Euros squad with 18 goals in all competitions.While Declan Rice, 25, is scaling new heights since his £105m switch from the London Stadium to Arsenal last summer.Paqueta added: “I have a lot of respect for them and I am fond of them. They are very good professionals.“Bowen is having an amazing season. I am happy to help him.“Declan is a great player. I am sure they will do the best they can for England and I will try to do the best I can for Brazil.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The Brazilian team will always be favourites, because of the history we have, the players we have.“It’s going to be a great game because there are two great teams and that respect has to be there.” More

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    Ivan Toney at centre of three-club Premier League transfer battle including Chelsea after Arsenal cool interest

    THREE clubs are set to fight over Ivan Toney – as the player plots an exit should Brentford.A disastrous run of form has left the Bees just five points above the relegation zone.Ivan Toney wants to stay in the Premier League when he leaves BrentfordCredit: RexWith Brentford perilously close to the bottom three, a trio of sides are jostling to get in pole-position to land the striker this summer.SunSport understands Tottenham, Chelsea and West Ham have all expressed an interest in signing the 28-year-old. It comes after Arsenal, who have previously been linked with Toney, cooled their interest.As for Chelsea, the West Londoners know they must sell before they can buy or risk breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules.READ MORE ON CHELSEAOur source said: “If Brentford drop out of the Premier League, which is now looking a real possibility there will be a race to land Ivan Toney. “That’s why some clubs are already taking steps to try and get in pole position to land the player.”“It’s well-known that Chelsea and Spurs both need a number nine and Toney would fit the bill for both clubs. But West Ham are now interested too.“The club think Toney could be a real statement signing and help take the team to the next level. Most read in Football”West Ham are crying out for a centre forward who can help turn them from a good side into one that can genuinely challenge for the Champions League. “Arsenal are now less interested. Mikel Arteta has a system and a way of playing and he doesn’t think a conventional number nine like Ivan Toney is what they need.”Inside Ivan Toney’s Life As A FootballerSunSport can also reveal Toney is “open-minded” to staying in the capital after making it clear to his advisers he doesn’t want to leave the Premier League.Our source added: “Clubs in Italy and Spain have been tracking Toney for ages. He’s one of the most sought-after players in Europe. “But Ivan’s not really interested in moving abroad. He sees his future in the Premier League. “His priority is trying to score the goals that save Brentford and to cement his way into the England squad. “But, after that, there’s a general acceptance he will move on and start next season with a new club in the Premier League. “It will be a fresh start and, at 28, the biggest move of his career.” More

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    West Ham 5 Freiburg 0 (agg 5-1): Hammers secure huge comeback win despite Paqueta tantrum after being subbed

    WEST HAM turned on the style to fire their way into the Europa League quarter-finals.David Moyes took the handbrake off and was rewarded with five goals, including two stunners from Mohammed Kudus.Kudus shone as West Ham won easilyCredit: GettyLucas Paqueta threw a strop after being substituted offCredit: TNT SportsPaqueta opened the scoring for West Ham as they thrashed FreiburgCredit: RexThe 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦 start for West Ham 🤩Lucas Paquetá taps home to bring the Hammers level with Freiburg on aggregate within nine minutes 👏#UEL pic.twitter.com/7uWVCuZK26— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 14, 2024

    After disappointing displays in the first leg and against Burnley on Sunday, this was a reminder of West Ham’s newfound European pedigree.Lucas Paqueta’s early goal got this second leg off to the perfect start before Jarrod Bowen and Aaron Cresswell both scored fine goals either side of the break to lift the mood in East London.Kudus then took the roof off with a stunning solo goal, covering three quarters of the pitch on a superb solo run to get his first before drilling in a fabulous fifth to seal an 11th straight home win in Europe.Moyes will continue to split opinion in the stands and debate over whether he should stay or go will rumble on until the summer.But it cannot be denied that when he needs a big performance, the Scot usually gets it. Freiburg, despite being lesser opposition, can be listed alongside Sevilla and Lyon as another memorable night.By the end, the boos from Burnley on Sunday had been replaced by ‘oles’ and optimism of another European push.Despite fears over a struggle to sell tickets due to the early start, the London Stadium was near capacity and full of voice as the Hammers looked to turn this tie around.Backed by the din the hosts made a flying start. Moyes had criticised Paqueta for his performance in Germany last week, but the Brazilian delivered after just nine minutes here.Most read in FootballBowen silenced the critics as he scored on the day he got a call-up to Southgate’s latest England squadCredit: GettyAnd even Aaron Cresswell got in on the actCredit: RexCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVALWith set-piece specialist James Ward-Prowse dropped to the bench, Aaron Cresswell stepped in and delivered a peach of a corner to the front post.Tomas Soucek’s diving header diverted the ball to the far post where it was met by Paqueta to begin the comeback. Premier League’s Euro adventurers facing crunch week in fight to land England fifth spot in revamped Champions LeagueA lovely finish from Aaron Cresswell 🎯His first-ever European goal gives West Ham a two-goal advantage over Freiburg on aggregate 💪#UEL pic.twitter.com/poqFjtIKXU— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 14, 2024

    The SunThe opener may have come from a set piece, but the Hammers were already showing more energy than across 90 minutes in the Black Forest, or the first half against Burnley.With the added attacking players, West Ham were still not completely secure at the back.But the addition of Michail Antonio had transformed them going forward and saw Bowen back in his more natural wide role.If there had been doubts about why Gareth Southgate had elected to call-up the winger for England earlier in the day, they were banished just after the half-hour mark when Bowen put the Hammers ahead in this tie for the first time.Collecting Soucek’s header, which had been well left by Antonio, Bowen turned, shrugged off the much bigger Christian Gunter and drilled a superb low effort into the bottom right.After reaching the semi-finals last time they were in this competition and winning the Europa Conference League last season, Moyes had called on his players to show their European clout here.Just minutes into the second half, they stamped their authority on this tie to banish any half-time jitters.Kudus stole the show with two goals on a brilliant night for the HammersCredit: AFPKudus dug a cross out from the left which was half-cleared to Vladimir Coufal. The Czech found Bowen who lifted his head to pick out Cresswell.The left-back, who was sent off in quarter-final and semi-final ties during West Ham’s last Europa League run, composed himself with a touch and lashed a superb finish into the far corner.The best was yet to come, though, with Kudus – another Moyes was unhappy with last week – pulled out a goal of the season contender, picking up the ball deep in his own half, driving 80 yards past three Freiburg defenders and finishing cooling in the bottom corner.READ MORE SUN STORIESMoyes had started making the changes and was about to bring Kudus off for youngster George Earthy, but the Ghanaian star was not quite done.Soucek and Bowen broke together with the latter teeing up Kudus on the edge of the box. The ex-Ajax man shaped to bend the ball into the far corner before ratting in at the near post. More

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    David Moyes drops HUGE hint he will sign new West Ham contract as he makes key appointment

    DAVID MOYES has signed up a new scout at West Ham — his son David Jr.The lad has been working for top agency Wasserman.David Moyes has dropped the biggest hint that he is staying at West HamCredit: GettyAnd the move is a  further pointer that Moyes Sr is planning to sign a new deal at the Hammers.Last month, the Scot claimed he had been offered a new deal – but will wait until the end of the season to decide his future.His current deal expires in the summer.And there has been much speculation about him potentially leaving the club after a disappointing run of results.Read more football newsBut Moyes has now confirmed he has been handed an extension by the owners should he choose to accept.He said: “I’ve had really good conversations with the owners, with David Sullivan and Karren Brady.”There’s a contract there for me and I’m the one deciding I want to wait until the end of the season.”West Ham’s recent run of two Premier League wins in a row came to an end against Burnley.Most read in FootballAnd they needed a spirited comeback to fight back from two goals down.David Fofana put the visitors ahead after just 11 minutes with a wonder goal.David Moyes under fire at West Ham: Is his pragmatic style losing fans?A Konstantinos Mavrapanos own goal put the Clarets in dreamland at the break.But, Lucas Paqueta got the home side back in the game just a minute into the second half.Danny Ings’ injury time leveller earned the Hammers a point. More