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    Former Liverpool Champions League winner Joel Matip, 33, handed Premier League lifeline after three months unemployed

    JOEL MATIP has been handed a Premier League lifeline as West Ham are in the market to bring in a central defender as a free agent.The former Liverpool ace has been without a club for nearly three months.Free agent Joel Matip is being targeted by West Ham who are looking to sign a defenderWest Ham let both Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd leave on loan last week and new boss Julen Lopetegui is keen to further bolster his backline.Matip is among the players being targeted with talks for a potential deal for the 33-year-old set to continue this week.The Hammers are also eyeing 31-year-old John Egan as well who left Sheffield United over the summer.Lopetegui’s side have already purchased Max Kilman for £40m and Jean-Clair Todibo on loan with an option to sign him for £34.2m next summer.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd after a 3-1 defeat to Manchester City last weekend and 2-0 loss to Aston Villa on their season opener, West Ham still need to improve their defense.West Ham academy star Kaelan Casey, 19, was on the bench during Saturday’s defeat.But Lopetegui is hoping either free agent can come in as an option for Kilman, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Todibo.Matip has been jobless since leaving Liverpool at the end of last season after his contract expired at Anfield.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe spent eight years and 201 appearances for the Reds under Jurgen Klopp.The defender has not played since December 3 after suffering a knee injury.What’s new this season? Egan exited Sheffield United after six years and 200 appearances at the club.The Hammers are also in talks with former Sheffield United star John Egan More

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    Karren Brady: Lopetegui is already a breath of fresh air at West Ham… but under-appreciated Moyes deserves high praise

    ON the first day of every season I am always full of optimism and hope  that West Ham can win the Premier League.You’ve signed new players, things are coming together, and you think, ‘This may be our year’.Ex-Wolves chief Julen Lopetegui has made an instant impression at West HamCredit: RexDavid Moyes was an ‘absolute pleasure’ to work withCredit: GettyEven if we don’t wrestle the trophy off Manchester City,  getting back into Europe is an absolute priority for us — and for our new manager.We made an exciting appointment in Julen Lopetegui, having said goodbye to David Moyes in May after a remarkable period of success.Julen has been a breath of fresh air.He’s an experienced individual we believe can build on David’s great work, get us back into Europe and deliver the wins the fans want. We are giving him every penny we can in the transfer market to do just that, with our eight signings so far.READ MORE TOP STORIESBut I must pay tribute to David again.I had an excellent working relationship with him. His work ethic, attention to detail, passion, drive and energy were all second to none and he was an absolute pleasure to work with.He left for several reasons. Firstly, a bit of inconsistency had crept into results.And without putting words into his mouth, I think he felt very unappreciated by the supporters.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe delivered a first major trophy since 1980, a consistent period of domestic success — including three consecutive European qualifications for the first time in the club’s history — and reached the semis and quarter-finals in Europe either side of the Conference League triumph.As a result, he found it quite difficult to be turned on so quickly last season when things dipped — especially after gaining the most Premier League points West Ham had ever had at the halfway point of a campaign.Jhon Duran ’causes chaos with s—housery’ as Aston Villa ace performs controversial gesture amid West Ham transfer linkNot that he was boo-hooing about it, that’s not his style. He  rolled up his sleeves and got on with it.But things can go a bit stale and both club and manager need a change, and that’s the conclusion we came to together.It’s very sad when a relationship comes to an end with someone you have worked with very closely and admire and like.But parting ways is the easier bit. Getting a better replacement is where the real work begins.It’s a very close relationship so you have to have a bit of chemistry and feel they are someone you can work with who isn’t emotionally draining or  demanding.But I cannot tell you how good it felt being in Europe and winning that trophy.Karren BradyAnd that’s exactly what David Sullivan, Tim Steidten and I felt when we met with Julen. We liked him straight away.We felt he was genuine, hard-working, passionate, enthusiastic, had clear ideas of what he wanted to do and understood the West Ham way.But I cannot tell you how good it felt being in Europe and winning that trophy.To be part of a West Ham that created that memory for hundreds of thousands of our supporters was very special.And we believe we can do that again with Julen.Changes to the Premier League for 2024/25NOTHING stays the same forever.And that includes the Premier League, which is making a number of tweaks this season.Team news will now be released 75 MINUTES before kick-off, 15 minutes earlier than had been the case before.Things could get crowded on the touchline, with the number of substitutes permitted to warm-up boosted from three players per team to FIVE.There’s also a change to how added time is calculated when a team scores a goal, an update to the ‘multiball’ system and the introduction of semi-automated offsides – but not straight away.Go here to read about all the changes to the Premier League for 2024/25.Overseas Prem not for meTHE prospect of playing  Premier League games abroad hasn’t been officially raised — YET — but it has been mooted among some owners.But it would be unforgivable to deny season-ticket holders a game and West Ham would definitely vote against any proposal that meant doing that.With foreign investment in the Premier League increasing, some say its global appeal means taking the show on the road is the right thing to do. I understand the logic. But I’m English, I live here and believe all games should be played in this country.We have pre-season tours to let overseas fans watch us play.We would not be the only club to vote against a proposal if every team had to play a match outside the UK every year.Karren BradyWest Ham have just come back from the US where some of the American Prem owners are pushing for a Stateside league game.The idea was floated years ago and shot down immediately.But there weren’t as many  foreign owners then. We would obviously look at the detail of any proposal and, handled right, it could be workable.Particularly if teams have the ability to opt out.And if two other clubs wanted to do it and the League felt it was in its best interest, I wouldn’t stop them.But we would not be the only club to vote against a proposal if every team had to play a match outside the UK every year.Full of hope for new NicHammers’ newcomer Niclas Fullkrug has shown a brilliant attitudeCredit: RexI was really impressed with Niclas Fullkrug — our new striker signed from Borussia Dortmund.As soon as he stepped off the plane from Germany he asked: “Where can I train? Because I don’t like to miss a single day.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThat’s the kind of attitude that you want. He’s a big personality, incredibly professional, a strong individual and a real grown up.He’s going to have a hugely positive impact. We’re all really excited. More

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    Kurt Zouma’s money-spinning West Ham transfer exit collapses after Hammers captain FAILS medical

    KURT ZOUMA’S move to a Dubai club has fallen through after the West Ham captain failed a medical.The transfer looked to be all-but done late last week but is now off.Zouma’s deal to join a Dubai club has fallen throughCredit: RexWest Ham had agreed a deal with Dubai side Shabab Al-Ahli which would have seen Zouma move for free.That was despite the defender still having 12 months on his contract.The switch was seen as a good opportunity for West Ham to get Zouma’s wages off the books, and as such, did not ask for a fee.A reason for Zouma’s failed medical has not been given yet but he has struggled with injuries in the past.READ MORE ON WEST HAMHis advisors are now working on a way to keep the deal alive, according to The BBC.West Ham have already completed the signings of two marquee centre-backs that will see Zouma fall down the pecking order should he stay.Jean-Clair Todibo arrived on loan last week in a deal that includes £34.22million option to buy.And earlier in the window, the club signed Maximilian Kilman from Wolves in a £40m deal.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPremier League sides deducted points and others at riskNottingham ForestDeducted four points during the 2023-24 season for breaching Premier League spending limit by £34.563m. Failed in their appeal with decision upheld.EvertonInitial 10-point deduction for 2021-22 Premier League breaches reduced to six points on appeal. Were deducted a further two points later in the 2023-24 season. Appealed, but since withdrawn following Prem survival.Sheffield UnitedHit with a two-point deduction for their finances during the 2022-23 EFL season. Will begin the 2024-25 Championship season on -2 points following their relegation from the Prem.OTHERS WHO COULD FACE PUNISHMENT…Manchester CityEtihad club emphatically denies the 115 allegations laid against them in February 2023. The lengthy Commission case has been scheduled to start in October or November but a final decision is not expected until March or April 2025.ChelseaBlues chiefs flagged up illicit payments made to agents and others during the Roman Abramovich era. Fined £8.6m by Uefa but still to be formally charged by the Prem despite an ongoing investigation.LeicesterFoxes breached Prem PSR loss limits last season but did not have to report their 2022-23 accounts until this month because of their relegation. That puts the timetable back and means that they will probably face a Prem points deduction for the 2024-25 season following their return to the top flight.Everton (again)The Toffees are again at risk of breaking PSR rules and are in a race against time to raise funds and balance the books. Not only could that lead to another charge but also administration. That would lead to an automatic nine-point deduction for the 2024/25 season.Kilman was new manager Julen Lopetegui’s top target having worked with the player when he was Wolves boss.West Ham have been one of the busiest clubs in the Premier League this summer. Best ten new Premier League kits for next seasonTodibo was the club’s sixth summer signing, joining the likes of Crysencio Summerville, Niclas Fullkrug and Luis Guilherme who have all arrived for big money. More

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    Fans say ‘pray for Man Utd and Chelsea’ as West Ham agree deal for Todibo in latest incredible summer transfer

    WEST HAM are set to sign Jean-Clair Todibo – after Manchester United were BLOCKED from signing the Nice star. Todibo was linked with a move to United earlier in the window but it was ruled out by Uefa due to Ineos’ control over both teams.West Ham are set to sign Jean-Clair TodiboCredit: AFPSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos are the majority owners of the French club, but have now also taken control of United’s football operation.Uefa had to run the rule on the clubs after both qualified for the Europa League, with fears over a potential breach of multi-club rules.So United looked elsewhere in the market and signed Leny Yoro from Lille for £52million. Meanwhile, West Ham and Juventus battled it out for Todibo. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd according to The Athletic, the Hammers won the race after agreeing a season-long loan with the option to buy. Personal terms have also been struck with a medical now set. Todibo emerged as a prime target for West Ham with the futures of Nayef Aguerd and Kurt Zouma uncertain.Zouma is now close to completing a move to Shabab Al-Ahli.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTodibo first joined Nice on loan from Barcelona in January 2021 and made the move permanent later that year. He has since made 119 appearances, scoring one goal while emerging as a top defensive talent in Europe.Todibo will be West Ham’s sixth signing of the summer. Niclas Fullkrug, Max Kilman, Crysencio Summerville and Luis Guilherme have all come in for big money – leaving fans in awe. One said: “West Ham are moving mad, pray for Chelsea and Manchester United.”Another added: “West Ham are having a ridiculously good summer.”Jean-Clair Todibo shows his talents at Nice More

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    Aaron Wan-Bissaka ‘AGREES Man Utd transfer exit after reaching personal terms with West Ham’

    AARON WAN-BISSAKA is on the verge of leaving Manchester United, it’s been claimed. The former England Under-21 international has been deemed surplus to requirements by manager Erik ten Hag. Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s future seemingly lies away from Manchester UnitedCredit: GETTYWest Ham are keen on signing the defenderCredit: GETTYThe 26-year-old has reportedly agreed personal terms with the HammersCredit: GETTYWest Ham began sniffing around the defender after it became clear United would be willing to cash in on him. And a move to the London Stadium is seemingly imminent for the 26-year-old.Wan-Bissaka is said to have agreed personal terms with the East Londoners.That’s according to Sky Germany, who claim the Hammers’ breakthrough in their pursuit of the defender happened on Thursday.Wan-Bissaka is rumoured to have agreed a five-year contract at the London Stadium. The deal has seemingly been hashed out after both parties found a middle ground over wages.An agreement between West Ham and Manchester United, however, has yet to be reached.It’s understood United are hoping to pocket a fee in the region of £18million for the right-back.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSunSport, however, understands West Ham are hopeful of securing Wan-Bissaka’s services for a fee just north of £10m.Wan-Bissaka joined United from Crystal Palace in the summer of 2019 for a whopping £50m.Man Utd 3 Real Betis 2: Marcus Rashford looks back to his best before he is forced off in huge injury scareHe’s made 190 appearances during his five seasons at Old Trafford, scoring two goals and racking up 13 assists.Despite no longer being part of Ten Hag’s plans, Wan-Bissaka believes he’s flourished under his soon-to-be former manager.“It’s been good,” he said last August. “Especially for myself. I’ve learned a lot under him. “And there’s more to come, more improvement to be done. “So, yeah, I’m happy. He’s helped the team. “You can see the team’s transition has changed.” More

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    West Ham set for triple transfer swoop with Man Utd star and Euro 2024 hitman eyed after agreeing deal for Leeds ace

    WEST HAM are closing in on a triple swoop for Aaron Wan-Bissaka and attacking duo Crysencio Summerville and Niclas Fullkrug.Manchester United right-back Wan-Bissaka, 26, is in talks over a move — but his wage demands could still prove a stumbling block.Crysencio Summerville is set to undergo a West Ham medical this weekCredit: AlamyAaron Wan-Bissaka is in talks over a move to the London StadiumCredit: GettyNiclas Fullkrug is also closing in on a move to the Hammers this summerCredit: GettyHe has one year left on his Old Trafford deal and can agree a pre-contract with an overseas club in January.But Hammers chiefs are confident they can secure a £10million-plus transfer.West Ham have agreed a deal for Leeds winger Summerville, 22, who last season scored 19 in the Championship. A medical is set for this week.While Irons boss Julen Lopetegui remains confident of sealing a deal  for Borussia Dortmund’s 31-year-old German striker Fullkrug.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe forward scored twice for Germany at Euro 2024 and was a key part of Dortmund’s run to last season’s Champions League final.Meanwhile, Summerville was named Championship player of the season last term.He provided nine assists in 43 league appearances for Leeds alongside his 19 goals.However, the club missed out on an immediate return to the Premier League after losing the play-off final to Southampton.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSummerville has four goals and two assists in his previous 34 top-flight appearances for the Whites.West Ham’s potential triple signings would double their summer arrivals to six.Prem stadium unrecognisable after being transformed into baseball ballparkLopetegui has already added Wolves captain Max Kilman to his defence.Wes Foderingham also joined on a free transfer from Sheffield United to provide competition for Alphonse Areola and Lukasz Fabianski.Brazilian teenager Luis Guilherme completed a £25million move to the London Stadium in June. More

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    I’m a director of a Premier League club and my dad is a billionaire – but I only carry £10 and still fly with Ryanair

    A PREMIER League club director and son of a billionaire has revealed he only carries £10 and still flies with Ryanair.Jack Sullivan made headlines when he became managing director of the West Ham United women’s football team aged just 17.Jack Sullivan became the managing director of the West Ham United women’s football team when he was just 17Credit: GettyHis dad, David Sullivan is West Ham’s billionaire ownerCredit: GettyThe son of West Ham’s billionaire owner, David Sullivan, recently announced his plans to fly with Ryanair for his upcoming holiday in Ibiza.He told the Times: “I come from an extremely privileged and fortunate background, there’s no denying that, but as a family we believe a lot in charity and helping others.”Even though I am fortunate and have done some incredible things, at the same time I’m going to Ibiza next week and I’m flying Ryanair.”The football owner rarely carries cash with him but revealed he had just £10 in his wallet.read more on football”I’ve got €10, which is left over from my last holiday, and no other cash in there at the moment,” he added.Jack, 24, took charge of the women’s team for four years before becoming a director of West Ham United.A BBC docuseries called, “Britain’s Youngest Football Boss” followed the young businessman as he tried to lead the women’s team to success.Within 18 months at the wheel, the team has gone from semi-professional with players earning a mere £70-a-week to a squad of 20 internationals with full-time contracts.Most read in FootballHowever, he faced several critics who claimed he didn’t have enough experience in the footballing world.Yet, Jack said at the time: “I see my age as the complete opposite to a setback.Female football stars are lovers who play for bitter rivals Chelsea and West Ham”I view it as a real positive, a fresh pair of eyes. “The most important thing is to listen to as many people as possible, sometimes you will be right sometimes they will be right.”You could be 80 and not know what you’re doing. “Just because you’re young doesn’t mean you’re not smart enough to do it.”Since he took charge the women’s side has shot up from the third tier of the National League into the WSL- the first full-time professional division for female players in England.They were promoted into the top flight last season and reached the FA Cup final in their first year, losing out to Manchester City.The sale of season tickets has more than doubled to over 1000 but Jack credits the rapid growth of the women’s side to the club’s core family values.He said: “We are a family club I’ve always said that we are all very approachable and we want everything to work in the best possible way.”We know not everything is always going to be perfect like in a family but at the same time, we do our best.”Everyone’s very welcoming and there’s a real team spirit here which is what makes the club so special.”We try and take the same values from the men’s side, we share a lot of the staff and the academy of football is something really important here.”READ MORE SUN STORIESIt comes after football fans were dealt a huge blow as the sweeping crackdown on dodgy owners won’t see the light of day before the general election. And the richest Premier League owners have been revealed – where does your club rank? More

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    Jhon Duran ’causes chaos with s***housery’ as Aston Villa ace performs controversial gesture amid West Ham transfer link

    ASTON VILLA ace Jhon Duran took social media by storm amid strong transfer links with West Ham.Duran, 20, scored eight goals in 37 appearances last season but couldn’t break into Unai Emery’s starting line-up due to Ollie Watkins’ stunning performances.Aston Villa ace Jhon Duran dropped a strong West Ham transfer hintCredit: GettyDuran performed a West Ham gesture during a live videoCredit: ReutersDuran appeared to perform a pose similar to West Ham’s Irons gestureThat led to intense transfer interest from the Hammers and the striker has appeared keen on that move in his bid for more first-team football.The Colombia international fuelled the ongoing speculation on social media with a live video suggesting he could be on his way to East London.Duran looked at the camera and crossed his arms in the style of West Ham’s Irons gesture.Fans were stunned as they stormed the comments’ section, with some convinced the Colombian just issued a come-and-get-me plea.Read More on FootballOne West Ham supporter tweeted: “Jhon Duran is our [Marko] Arnautovic 2.0″It’ll probably end in tears, but bring on this s**thouse causing chaos.”Another posted: “Oh dear!”A third wrote: “Not sure about him.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis fan said: “Very bad look if he doesn’t sign and stays at Villa.”And that Villa fan stated: “Take him. I’m begging at this point.”SunSport’s Latest Transfer HeadlinesAccording to the Evening Standard, West Ham had an offer in excess of £30million rejected by Villa during the summer transfer window.The Hammers are considering an improved bid for Duran, whom the Villans value at £40m.The centre-forward also attracted interest from Chelsea this summer but Enzo Maresca’s side appears unwilling to meet his valuation.Duran appears keen on a move to West Ham this summer More