Manchester United's January transfer window stance confirmed: report

Manchester United have entered talks with Jose Mourinho to discuss potential transfer targets for the January transfer window and next summer, according to Sky Sports.

The 55-year-old was desperate to sign a central defender over the summer, targeting the likes of Toby Alderweireld and Leonardo Bonucci, but was not granted another big signing following the arrival of Fred from Shakhtar Donetsk in June.

But reports have recently emerged suggesting that Man United are prepared to endow Mourinho with over £100m to spend over January in order to improve his squad.

And according to Sky Sports, the club has sat down with Mourinho to discuss a transfer strategy for the next two windows.

The question on every supporter’s lips, of course, will be why the club did not give Mourinho this kind of backing in the summer? He had just taken United to second place and an FA Cup final. It was the perfect time to invest heavily in that squad, just like how Manchester City did with Pep Guardiola in his second summer.

To hand Mourinho the chequebook now, when his team has entered an irreversible decline into mediocrity, simply makes no sense at all.

Why Spurs players are worried Pochettino will join Man United: report

Tottenham Hotspur players are concerned about the prospect of Mauricio Pochettino leaving the club for either Manchester United or Real Madrid over the summer, according to the Telegraph‘s Matt Law.

Spurs find themselves outside the top four, on the brink of being eliminated from the Champions League, and unable to move into their new stadium until 2019.

The stagnation of the Spurs ‘project’, which has seen Pochettino significantly improve the team, comes at a time when both Real Madrid and Man United are both looking towards appointing a new manager.

And while the Argentine will not leave midway through the season, there are fears among Spurs players that he will have his head turned in the summer.

Pochettino is keen to lead Spurs into their new stadium but the delays in its construction, coupled with his team failing to notably improve from last season and the economic backlash from moving to a new ground likely to stymie transfer deals next summer, may well force the manager to turn his head elsewhere.

Perhaps he will feel like he has done all he can with Spurs, a team so antonymous with winning trophies, and decide that taking a step up serves as the best call for his career.

‘Desperate’ Real Madrid want to snatch Mourinho mid-season: report

Jose Mourinho is considered to be one of Real Madrid’s primary targets to replace Julen Lopetegui as manager.

Club president Florentino Perez is becoming increasingly frustrated by the search for Lopetegui’s replacement with many managers looking upon the job at the Santiago Bernabeu as a poisoned chalice.

The Independent reports that Real Madrid are “desperately searching” for a new manager and want to tie things up as quickly as possible.

Santiago Solari, a former player, has taken over temporarily but the club do not want him to be in charge for longer than two weeks.

Manchester United manager Mourinho is seeing as a ‘top name’ in consideration alongside Belgium boss Roberto Martinez.

The Portuguese coach has insisted that he wants to stay at Old Trafford until at least the end of his contract and so does not want to return to Real Madrid.

Miguel Delaney also claims in The Independent that things have “calmed” down with Mourinho’s situation at United, having previously look set to be sacked imminently.

Real Madrid reportedly accept that taking Mourinho away from United in mid-season could be impossible.

Mourinho returning to Los Blancos looks certain not to happen.

This is why Pogba has special penalty run-up, explains pundit

Paul Pogba has been slammed for his 28-step penalty run-up by former-Liverpool player Stan Collymore.

While many have seen the funny side of Pogba’s run-up, including the French midfielder himself, Collymore believes it’s a stunt purely designed to increase the player’s status rather than have any competitive advantage.

Pogba has been doing the run-up since he was a youth player at Manchester United and as the club’s current penalty taker, has put it on display on a number of occasions this season.

The most recent time was in Man United’s 2-1 win against Everton on Sunday at Old Trafford. He missed the penalty but tapped home the rebound. Collymore thinks Pogba is doing it for cynical reasons, to try and make a trademark move as Cristiano Ronaldo has done.

“Paul Pogba’s penalty run up is dreadful,” Collymore angrily explained in his column for the Daily Mirror.

“It makes no sense and is just showboating.

“One hundred years of football history have shown you either run up very quick and have momentum behind your kick or there is the John Aldridge/Robie fowler approach of slightly stuttering, wait for the keeper to dive and put it the other way.

“Pogba looks like he is trying to copy Cristiano Ronaldo’s free-kick build-up and make it a moment that has fans saying ‘I know what is coming next’.

“He is actually making scoring a penalty harder with his style.

“Everything that you shouldn’t do in going to address a penalty, he is doing just because he wants to trademark this move in my opinion.”

Quite why it matters how to go to take a penalty kick isn’t explained by Pogba. Many people have missed after doing unorthodox run-ups, but the same can be said for the ‘proper’ way of taking a penalty.

It’s not as if running straight towards the ball and hitting it instantly makes it a guaranteed success. Pogba has scored a couple of penalties this season and tapped home the rebound against Everton.

If he scores them, no one should care.

[Match Highlights] Arsenal 2-1 Blackpool - All The Goals And Best Bits

Arsenal got back to winning ways after beating Blackpool 2-1 at the Emirates in the Carabao Cup.

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Team News – Player Ratings – Match Highlights
Match: Arsenal v Blackpool
Stadium: Emirates Stadium
Kick-Off (GMT): 31 Oct 19:45
—–

Arsenal overcame the disappointment of Sunday’s draw with Crystal Palace by making it 12 wins in their last 13 matches.

It’s never easy to win a domestic cup match, as Unai Emery found out this evening.

The Gunners looked hugely comfortable for the vast majority of the first half and got their reward before the break.

Matteo Guendouzi chipped a ball through for the onrushing Stephan Lichtsteiner who stretched enough to make it 1-0.

The home side doubled their advantage after the interval when Emile Smith Rowe seized upon a loose ball in the box to grab his second Arsenal goal.

The Gunners were cruising but that was before Matteo Guendouzi picked up a second yellow card and was sent off.

Blackpool even had time to grab a goal back after freeing up too much space from a corner.

Fortunately, the Gunners saw out the match and progressed to the next round.

Here are the highlights from the match (will open in a separate tab).

Chelsea player ratings: Derby (H)

Chelsea progressed through to the quarter-finals of the League Cup on Wednesday night with a 3-2 win over Derby at Stamford Bridge.

Two own goals from Derby defenders helped Chelsea along the way – including one from Tomori, who is on loan from the Blues.

Jack Marriott and Martyn Waghorn scored the goals for Derby, with Cesc Fabregas scoring the winner just before half-time.

Here is how we rated Chelsea’s players…

The post Chelsea player ratings: Derby (H) appeared first on Read Chelsea.

[Player Ratings] Arsenal 2-1 Blackpool - Both Sides Finish With 10 Men As Gunners Progress

Arsenal survived a late scare but progressed to the next round of the Carabao Cup after a 2-1 win over Blackpool at the Emirates.

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Team News – Player Ratings – Match Highlights
Match: Arsenal v Blackpool
Stadium: Emirates Stadium
Kick-Off (GMT): 31 Oct 19:45
—–

Upsets aren’t uncommon in English domestic cups but that didn’t look likely this evening. Much of the early exchanges were spent with Arsenal controlling possession inside Blackpool’s half without really threatening the goal.

That trend continued through the first half as this much-changed Gunners team attempted to find some form of cohesion. Finally, that came in the closing stages of the half.

The impressive Matteo Guendouzi picked up the ball 35 yards from goal and had time to pick a pass. He delayed before chipping one through and into the box just in time for the onrushing Stephan Lichtsteiner. The Swiss defender ghosted in and stretched to steer the ball into the bottom corner.

Arsenal’s dominance continued after the break and they didn’t have to wait long to grab their second goal. Carl Jenkinson made a speedy overlap down the left for the Gunners and his cross-shot was parried away by the goalkeeper. The ball didn’t make it very far and Emile Smith Rowe burst onto the chance, volleying his shot into the floor and into the back of the net.

That should have been that for Arsenal but it wasn’t to be. Matteo Guendouzi was already on a yellow card when he made a professional foul just before the hour mark. The referee didn’t hesitate in reaching for a second yellow and eventually, a red.

The game switched on its head as Blackpool started to dominate possession. The Gunners couldn’t seem to get out of their own half and soon after, the visitors grabbed a goal. Paudie O’Connor was left unmarked from a corner and the centre-back made no mistake in finding the far corner of the goal.

Just moments later and Blackpool had the ball in the net yet again. Petr Cech lost possession in his own box as Nathan Delfouneso hit it into an empty net. Fortunately for the Gunners, the former Aston Villa striker was offside and the goal didn’t stand.

Unai Emery took steps to close off the game in the final twenty minutes and thankfully, the Gunners did just that as they progressed to the next round of the Carabao Cup.

Here’s how we rate the Arsenal players:

Petr Cech – 5

Petr Cech didn’t have a great deal to do with his hands and was more than a little uncomfortable with the ball at his feet. The Czech stopper was very fortunate not to gift Blackpool a goal which capped a disappointing return to the starting lineup.

 

Stephan Lichtsteiner – 7

Stephan Lichtsteiner played well. The Swiss defender grabbed his first goal for the club and looked up for it all night.

 

Shkodran Mustafi – 6

He was fine. Shkodran Mustafi had a couple of shaky moments, particularly in the first half but grew into it. He was impressive on the ball.

Julio Pleguezuelo – 7

It was an impressive first appearance from Julio Plegezuelo. The young Spaniard covered well down the left flank and showcased a good passing range with the ball.

 

Carl Jenkinson – 7

He was impressive down the left. Carl Jenkinson hasn’t played for Arsenal for almost two years but didn’t look out of place in this team.

 

Matteo Guendouzi – RED CARD (56′) – 6.5

He played well before being sent off for a second bookable offence. Matteo Guendouzi moved the ball well and played a wonderful pass for the opening goal.

 

Aaron Ramsey – 5.5

He struggled at times this evening. Aaron Ramsey just couldn’t find his place in this game in this new deeper position for him and will go away frustrated.

Emile Smith Rowe – 7

Another impressive display from the youngster. Emile Smith Rowe capped a solid performance with his first goal at the Emirates for the first-team.

Sub: Alex Iwobi (73′) – 6

He was fine. Alex Iwobi help steady the match for Arsenal.

 

Ainsley Maitland-Niles – 6

A few signs of rust from Ainsley Maitland-Niles on his return to the first-team. The midfielder was operating in a far more advanced role than usual this evening and is clearly short of fitness, understandably so.

Sub: Lucas Torreira (60′) – 5.5

Lucas Torreira struggled to make an impact this evening.

 

Henrikh Mkhitaryan – 6.5

Henrikh Mkhitaryan played well. The Armenian was one of Arsenal’s better-performing players

Danny Welbeck – 5

Danny Welbeck barely made an impact on the match. The Englishman couldn’t find the ball in the right areas to threaten the Blackpool backline.

Sub: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (76′) – 5.5

He was fine. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang looked lively, if a little off.

Revealed: Why Man United won’t yet hire a technical director

Manchester United have reportedly discussed the possibility of introducing a brand new role at the club at board level.

According to ESPN FC, Man United have held discussions regarding the appointment of a technical director, a previously non-existent position at Old Trafford.

Numerous reports have previously suggested something similar. Names such as Andrea Berta of Atletico Madrid, Fabio Paratici of Juventus, RB Leipzig’s Paul Mitchell and AS Roma’s Monchi have been mentioned.

The job would be designed and put in place with the aim of overhauling the player recruitment side of things at United.

However, ESPN claims that such a position will not be filled and such an appointment will not be made until current manager Jose Mourinho leaves the club.

The Portuguese is unlikely to want to have his power at the club lessened by a new figure. If he does approve the appointment, then things could move forward, though.

Mitchell, one of the aforementioned names, has recently admitted that he is flattered by links to United, the team of his hometown.

There is an urgent need for such a role at the club. United have, for far too long, bought players without any long-term strategy.

Managers have been appointed who are hugely different in their methods and players are bought for the sake of status rather than effectiveness in the team. That has left United falling behind their rivals.

Rooney gives thoughts on Mourinho’s control of Man United dressing room

Wayne Rooney has insisted that the Manchester United players are supportive of current manager Jose Mourinho.

The English striker is currently doing fantastically in Major League Soccer after joining DC United from Everton.

Rooney left Man United after Mourinho’s first season in charge of the Reds and, as captain, he lifted the UEFA Europa League and EFL Cup trophies.

Mourinho is currently under significant pressure at United and some have claimed that he no longer has the support or control of the dressing room.

Rooney rubbished such suggestions and praised his former-boss.

“Obviously they are going through a difficult period at the minute but Jose Mourinho is very experienced and I think some players have to do a little bit better,” Rooney explained to BBC Sport.

“Hopefully they can turn their form around, win a few more games and keep the pressure on the top of the table and get back up there, which is where we all want to see them.

“In my experience, I have never seen or heard of a player not wanting to play in the game because they have had a falling out with the manager.

“I don’t think as a player you could do that, you’ve got to respect the club and the fans and also respect your team-mates.

“I don’t think any player, certainly at Manchester United, will be not playing for Jose, I’m sure they’re all working hard behind the scenes to get results.”

While Rooney declined towards the end of his United career, his leadership qualities and winning mentality are currently missed at Old Trafford. So, too, are those of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, another striker playing in the United States of America.

That’s a key reason behind United’s recent failures. Rooney’s support of Mourinho is a positive thing, though, as he knows both the current squad and manager and so his understanding of the situation is a good one.

4-3-3: Man United could dominate Bournemouth with this lineup

Manchester United produced an improved attacking performance during their 2-1 win over Everton over the weekend.

Jose Mourinho’s decision to ‘protect’ Romelu Lukaku, who has gone over 800 minutes without scoring, gave Marcus Rashford a chance up front and it led to a faster, less predictable display going forward.

Anthony Martial notably benefitted from having more space, linking up superbly with Paul Pogba, while Juan Mata was likewise able to pick up good positions.

And with that in mind, here is how Man United could line up against AFC Bournemouth, with Alexis Sanchez getting a chance to play up front.

Rashford struggled as a striker against Everton because United primarily still played as if he was your typical target man, which he really isn’t.

With Alexis, however, Mourinho’s team will be forced to play less direct, working the ball a bit more and consequently creating more space in the final third for players like Martial and Jesse Lingard. The Chilean himself is a better striker than Rashford having played for much longer and succeeded up front for Arsenal. It is time he gets a chance in that role at United.

Eric Cantona explains why Jose Mourinho shouldn't manage Man United

Eric Cantona believes Jose Mourinho is a great manager but not the right man to manage Manchester United on a long term basis.

The 55-year-old was hired to bring trophies to the club and he lived up to his billing over the 2016/17 season, winning the League Cup and Europa League.

Mourinho guided Man United to second place in the Premier League last season, but defeat in the FA Cup final, followed by a cataclysmic start to the new campaign, has cast serious doubt over his suitability for the role.

Speaking earlier this week, Cantona pointed out that, while Mourinho was a top manager, he was inherently not a United manager.

“I love Jose,” he said. “He is a great manager who has won so many things, and he will win more, maybe even this season, maybe the Champions League.”

“But he is not the right man for Manchester United, a great club that will always be great. They will win things, I know they will.

“But the way they play? Not good. The manager has them playing the wrong way for the fans. No fun, no creativity.

“United teams should play in a joyful way, with enjoyment and excitement. I want to see players free to express themselves, to try to win games instead of being sent out not to lose. I like Mourinho. He has a good personality but not for United.”

When Mourinho wins trophies, the lack of an overriding attacking plan and everything else which comes with the Portuguese’s style does not matter.

But when Mourinho does not win trophies, you feel compelled to ask: what exactly is he good for?

United hired him as a specialist trophy winner in 2016 but the winds have significantly changed since then. Clubs are employing younger managers who emphasise pressing the opposition hard, quick build up through the lines, committing players forward, and who have a detailed strategy for building a team in their image. The days of managers like Sam Allardyce and Tony Pulis are over; the days of Gareth Southgate and Roberto Martinez have begun.

And United, of all clubs, should be following suit.

Revealed: Man United could let Sanchez go for free

Manchester United could happily allow forward Alexis Sanchez to leave the club for Paris Saint-Germain next summer.

The French champions are the most likely suitors for Sanchez, who has had great struggles at Man United since arriving in January of this year.

Sanchez was one of the Premier League’s best players at Arsenal but his move to the north of England has been accompanied by woeful form. He’s recently been consistently dropped by manager Jose Mourinho.

He may have a way out, though, with Paris Saint-Germain looking for a replacement forward next summer.

It appears likely that PSG will sell one of Neymar or Kylian Mbappe, with Real Madrid previously interested in both players. The Sun claims that Man United could therefore sell Sanchez to PSG.

The club would be pleased to see Sanchez go given his astronomical wages of around £500,000 per week.

The Sun even claims that United would be willing to let their Chilean attacker go for nothing, or a very small fee, just to his wages are no longer an issue.

Man United in with chance to sign highly rated Serie A centre back: report

Manchester United have a 25% chance of signing Fiorentina centre-back Nikola Milenkovic.

The Italian newspaper, Tuttosport, suggests that Man United are not favourites for the transfer of Milenkovic, who has drawn great interest from a number of great clubs in the past year.

United manager Jose Mourinho was thought to be watching Milenkovic when he attended Serbia’s fixture against Montenegro in the recent international break.

Tuttosport, however, relays the information that United aren’t the only possible suitors of Milenkovic. The defender is also being watched by German champions Bayern Munich and Serie A’s dominant side Juventus.

The latter want Ajax centre-back Matthijs de Light but could be put off by the extent of competition for the Dutchman. That has led them to focus on Milenkovic.

Tuttosport claims that Juventus are the favourites for Milenkovic’s signature and rate their chances of bringing him to Allianz Stadium at 35%. Bayern Munich are also given those chances.

United, on the other hand, are said to have only a 25% chance of taking Milenkovic away from Serie A and into English football. The remaining 5% are said to be left for any other club who could join a developing transfer battle.

Fiorentina reportedly know that it will be “hard to keep” Milenkovic next summer.

[Confirmed Lineups] Arsenal v Blackpool - Carl Jenkinson Returns To Starting Lineup

Unai Emery has confirmed his starting lineup for the Carabao Cup clash with Blackpool.

—–
Team News – Player Ratings – Match Highlights
Match: Arsenal v Blackpool
Stadium: Emirates Stadium
Kick-Off (GMT): 31 Oct 19:45
—–

It’s the return of Carabao Cup action as the Gunners prepare for their fourth-round clash with Blackpool at the Emirates.

Arsenal haven’t won the EFL Cup in 25 years but are hoping to turn that around this season.

League One side Blackpool are the visitors today and Unai Emery has elected to rotate his team around for this clash.

The biggest headline is the return of Carl Jenkinson who hasn’t played for the club since the 2-0 defeat to Southampton back in November 2016.

Here’s how the two sides line up:

Arsenal

Petr Cech

Carl Jenkinson

Shkodran Mustafi

Julio Pleguezuelo

Stephan Lichtsteiner

Matteo Guendouzi

Aaron Ramsey

Emile Smith Rowe

Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Henrikh Mkhitaryan

Danny Welbeck

Subs: Martinez, Holding, Torreira, Willock, Iwobi, Aubameyang, Nketiah

 

More to follow…

Former Tottenham Hotspur boss launches brutal attack on Gary Neville

Harry Redknapp has launched a scathing response to Gary Neville’s criticism of Tottenham Hotspur on Monday.

The former full-back noted following Spurs’ 0-1 defeat to Manchester City that the North London side had always been regarded as spineless from within the Manchester United dressing room.

“Tottenham for 30 years of our life were spineless and soft, flaky, rubbish,” he said.

“You could be 2-0 down against them and think you’d win 5-2, that’s just the way they were. You knew one little bump in the game and they’d just fall over it. They were pathetic.”

Speaking talkSPORT this morning, Redknapp took serious exception to Neville’s comments, insisting the words he used did not apply to the team he managed.

“Gary’s comments were an absolute disgrace,” he said. “I can only comment about the time I was there you’ve got players in that time that’s a disgrace to label players like Modric, Gareth Bale, Ledley King, Van der Vaart, it’s a disgrace to talk about them saying they’re spineless and gutless. I was so upset with his comments.”

“I think he needs to do his homework before he comes out with comments like that. He managed Valencia and when he managed them they were the worst team in their history.

“He was having a pop saying Spurs got rid of a couple of bad apples and he mentioned Michael Dawson, he’s one of the best pro’s I have worked with.

“He wants to do his homework before he talks about people in that tone, I thought his comments were an absolute disgrace. We had some great games at Arsenal and at Liverpool against Jamie Carragher I think we beat them every time we played them in that period. We had a great period about the time.

“To label that against top top players he opinion is wrong and totally out of order. I think it’s a disgrace to talk as he has without looking and seeing what they did at that time.

“I have the raving hump with him, I wouldn’t want to speak to him to be honest with you, I’ve got the raving needle.”

Redknapp was right insofar as that Spurs team, with Gareth Bale and Raphael van der Vaart and Aaron Lennon and Peter Crouch, was not like the ones which had come before.

That said, they were still, as they say, ‘Spursy’. United under Sir Alex Ferguson, apart from when Andre Villas Boas came to Old Trafford, continued to make light work of that Spurs team, which obviously never came close to winning anything, and hasn’t done since.

And that, more than anything, is what Neville is getting at. They are not a trophy club, but under Mauricio Pochettino, Spurs have at least made other teams take them seriously.

Ivanowitch and Ghosta: The scary Chelsea Halloween XI

Halloween is upon us once again.

Costumes are ready to be worn, sweets are ready to be eaten and we’re bringing out the puns to put together a scary Chelsea XI.

Here is an all-star team of spooky players made up of some great, and some absolutely terrible, puns relating to the names of Chelsea stars past and present.

This is the scary Chelsea team that we have put together.

The post Who makes Chelsea’s Halloween XI? appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Former Blues star names the Premier League striker that would be perfect for Chelsea

Bournemouth striker Callum Wilson has enjoyed a fine start to the season and his performances are clearly not going unnoticed.

Speaking on TalkSPORT, former Chelsea player Jason Cundy believes the English striker would be perfect for Maurizio Sarri’s side, following suggestions he could be on the move in January.

I’m looking at my club, Chelsea. We’ve got two No.9’s in Alvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud. Neither of them are holding down a regular spot.

And I think with the way Chelsea are playing under Maurizio Sarri, Callum Wilson would be perfect for Chelsea. Perfect! He can spin in behind, he’s got an eye for goal and he’s an intelligent player.

Wilson’s impressive start has seen him net five times and register four assists for his team-mates.

The striker’s form has sparked talk of not only an England call-up but a possible move away from the club in January.

Wilson has often been linked with moves away from Bournemouth in the past, but only when it appeared his future lied elsewhere following his injury problems.

Chelsea could be in the market for a striker when the January window opens.

Neither Alvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud have impressed on a consistent basis this season, with Sarri yet to decide on who his first-choice forward is.

The post Callum Wilson would be perfect for Chelsea says Jason Cundy appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Manchester City star makes surprisingly honest admission about Chelsea

Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva believes that Chelsea will challenge for the Premier League title this season.

The Blues secured a comfortable 4-0 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor in their most recent league match, which extends their unbeaten run to ten league matches.

Silva also believes that Liverpool will push City for the trophy this year. All three sides are unbeaten in the league and are looking very strong in all departments.

As reported on the Mirror, Silva said:

Of course, it will be very hard [to win the Premier League]. But we will work every game to get the three points and at the end of it try and celebrate winning one more Premier League.

I think either Chelsea and Liverpool (are contenders), they are very strong.

The Portuguese international is in fine form this season but he sees Maurizio Sarri’s side as a danger to his team’s title hopes.

The post Bernardo Silva believes Chelsea are genuine title challengers appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Italian giants pondering move for key Chelsea transfer target

Milan are reportedly considering a January swoop for Chelsea target and Juventus defender Daniele Rugani.

According to reports from Corriere dello Sport, as cited on Calciomercato, Rugani is one of two Juventus players on the club’s radar as the January window looms.

Gennaro Gattuso’s men are said to be considering moves for both Rugani and Medhi Benatia, who have both struggled to get regular game time for the Old Lady this season.

Rugani was heavily linked with Chelsea over the summer, with the Blues coming very close to completing a deal.

Ironically, it was Milan’s transfer business that halted a deal. The Rossoneri signed Mattia Caldara from Juventus and the Turin side were not keen to lose both of their younger defenders in the same window.

Caldara is now sidelined with injuries and Milan want to strengthen in his absence. Chelsea are also expected to reignite their interest in the player in the coming months, with Maurizio Sarri said to be a huge fan.

The post Milan expected to rival Chelsea in Rugani pursuit appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea to make shock bid for West Ham player

Chelsea are set to make a shock move for West Ham star Declan Rice, Metro.co.uk reports.

Rice is a first team regular for the Hammers but spent seven years in Chelsea’s academy before joining West Ham at the age of 14 following his release from the Blues.

Rice’s current contract with the Hammers runs until 2020, but despite the club having already held talks with the young starlet over extending deal, Rice has rejected an initial improved contract.

West Ham have offered the 19-year-old an improved deal which would see him earn around £20,000-a-week which the youngster has turned down, despite only currently earning £3,000-per-week.

Rice’s contract rejection has alerted his former club Chelsea who would be prepared to offer him a deal worth in the region of £40,000-a-week.

West Ham could be forced into selling Rice at the end of the season if they fail to tie him down to a new deal in order to avoid losing their star player on a free transfer.

Rice is sure to have several clubs chasing his signature at the end of the season should he chose not to extend his stay at the London Stadium.

The post Chelsea to make a surprising bid for West Ham’s Declan Rice appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Important development in the Jose Mourinho to Real Madrid saga: report

Former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has ruled himself out of the Real Madrid job amid reports of the club’s interest in rehiring Jose Mourinho, according to Sky Sports.

Conte has been jobless since he made way for Maurizio Sarri over the summer, while Mourinho, a nemesis of the Italian for two years, looks likely to suffer a similar fate at some point this season.

Both managers have been linked with the vacant hot-seat at the Bernabeu following the sacking of Julen Lopetegui after just 14 games in charge.

But according to sources at Sky, Conte, something of a frontrunner for the job, has ruled himself out of contention, increasing the chances of the Champions League winners moving for Mourinho instead.

BREAKING: Sky Sports News understands Antonio Conte has ruled himself out of running for @realmadrid manager’s job. #SSN pic.twitter.com/t1P0ubuMzq

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) October 31, 2018

The 55-year-old made it clear last week that he was entirely focused on managing Manchester United, even insisting he would like to stay beyond his current contract, which expires in 2021 if the club activates an extra year.

Real did not wait to pull the plug on Lopetegui as soon as it became clear that things were awry. The same is unlikely to happen at Old Trafford. If it does, however, then suddenly the idea of club president Florentino Perez signing up Mourinho doesn’t seem so far-fetched.

Scout tells Sarri to utilise Chelsea loanee who is one of the best players in the world

Kurt Zouma could be the man to come into Maurizio Sarri’s defence next season, with one Italian scout hailing him as one of the best in the world.

Ex-Fiorentina scout Fabrizio Bertuzzi, who was speaking to Tribal Football, explains that he believes Maurizio Sarri could benefit from having the Frenchman back at Stamford Bridge.

Sarri has shown that he knows how to build players. I would always choose the ‘colonel’ Zouma. I still have in my mind the Under 20 World Cup he won in 2013, along with Pogba, Veretout, Thauvin. I am very glad he has been called by Deschamps. If he manages to return to rapidity he always shown, I think he still is one of the best defenders in the world.

Zouma joined Everton on loan from Chelsea after falling out of favour at Stamford Bridge.

He arrived at the club after spending last season on loan at Stoke City, where despite doing relatively well, he was unable to prevent them from dropping down into the Championship.

Zouma joined Chelsea as a highly-rated youngster and broke into the first-team squad during Jose Mourinho’s time at the club.

It looked like he was going to cement himself as a regular at the back before a nasty injury saw him sat on the sidelines for some time.

Zouma has since managed to get his career back on track and has recently won a call-up to the French senior squad after an impressive start to the season.

The post Scout hails Kurt Zouma as one of the best in the world appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea may have found their new Vitesse as club president talks up affiliate deal with the Blues

Chelsea could be about to secure themselves another affiliated club in the form of Turkish side Trabzonspor.

According to reports in Turkey from Fotomac, the club’s president Mesut Caglar Bozoglu has confirmed that talks over a potential agreement have taken place.

We will give you the best young players in our team. Chelsea and we had talks about forming a sister club. If this happens, our players can go there and take different trainings and see different environments. This brings vision.

Fans may remember that former Blues Jose Bosingwa and Florent Malouda had spells with the Turkish club towards the latter stages of their careers.

Chelsea already hold a similar partnership with Vitesse in the Eredivisie, while they have also developed very good relationships with clubs in around Europe over the years.

This is not the first time a new club has come into the conversation, there have been previous reports that suggested the Blues could also look to Germany and France for clubs to send their youngsters out on loan too.

After enduring mixed success with Vitesse over the years, the Blues may be considering their options.

Despite the recent success of Mason Mount in the Netherlands, a host of players have taken the move to Vitesse and failed to impress there.

The post Chelsea discussing affiliate deal with Turkish side Trabzonspor appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea legend will not celebrate if his club seals a win over the Blues

Frank Lampard has stated that he will not celebrate should his Derby County side upset Chelsea in the Carabao Cup this evening, the Telegraph reports.

Lampard will return to the club where he spent 13 years as a player tonight as manager of Derby County.

Prior to the match, the 40-year-old discussed the possibility of him becoming a future Chelsea manager.

In football your next game is all-important. I don’t see anything beyond playing Chelsea, and then I will concentrate on ­Birmingham at the weekend.

So to dream is one thing, but in reality, what happens next will rely on what I do here. Hopefully I can bring success to this club.

Should the Rams follow up their shock victory over Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United in the previous round, Lampard has revealed that he shall not celebrate Derby’s progression.

It will be easy [to show restraint] because I respect the club. When I scored against them, I didn’t celebrate. I wouldn’t have done in a million years. Although I was doing my job, I love Chelsea and had a strong bond with the fans that will hopefully never go.

As a manager, I will be respectful because I have to appreciate what the club did for me. I will feel proud and honoured going back to a place I called home for 13 years and still feels like home.

This is my working home now and I have got a great affiliation with this club already, but I can’t forget 13 years of my career. So it will be a very special night. To get that support when you’re working for an opposing team will feel nice.

The post Lampard will not celebrate if Derby County knock Chelsea out of the cup appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea and Tottenham in race to sign Premier League defender in January

Chelsea and Tottenham are both said to be monitoring Newcastle United defender Jamaal Lascelles, amid talk of a potential January swoop.

According to a report from Chronicle Live, both clubs are keeping tabs on the English defender.

Lascelles has been a long-term target for Chelsea and he’s been a player that the club has kept a very close eye on.

With Newcastle struggling in the Premier League this season, it has been suggested that he could be on the move in January.

Rafa Benitez will be desperate to keep hold of one of his star players but will be well aware that a big sale could give him the necessary funds to strengthen in the new year.

With the Magpies already looking destined for the drop, both Chelsea and Tottenham will be hoping to land the player on something of a cut-price deal.

However, with the player under contract until 2023, you can imagine that Newcastle will not allow the player to be sold on the cheap.

The post Chelsea and Tottenham monitor Lascelles ahead of potential January swoop appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Pundit labels this Man United star as the club's most natural finisher

Pundit Jermaine Jenas has lauded Manchester United’s Anthony Martial as the club’s most natural finisher following his recent good form.

The Frenchman was crucial in the draw against Chelsea and the subsequent win over Everton as he continues to impress.

The winger scored an incredible brace against the Blues only to be let down by his teammates’ defending while he won a penalty against the Toffees and grabbed what proved to be the eventual winner.

Jenas has sided with the majority of the United fans who believe Martial is the club’s best finisher despite others grabbing more goals over the length of a season.

The former AS Monaco man has been undroppable with Alexis Sanchez instead making way for him with Jose Mourinho finally listening to the club’s supporters.

According to the Daily Star, Jermaine said to beIN SPORTS: “With regards to Martial, I think that he is a huge positive in what has been a frustrating couple of months for United.

“You’d argue of the forwards he has that he’s probably the most natural finisher even though the amount of goals [Romelu] Lukaku has scored.

“Especially at the minute anyway, he’s the one that if you need a goal they seem to be turning to and when it comes to how good he can be, that’s down to himself.”

The hope is now that Anthony keeps up his good form as he’s previously shown to be a little inconsistent.

Of course given his age it’s completely natural for him to have ups and downs but fans are hoping he can prove he’s developed and taken the next step.

It’s clear to see Martial has plenty to offer to this Manchester United squad and he must continue to force Mourinho’s hand.

Bryan Robson calls on Rashford to do this to become 'top-class'

Manchester United legend Bryan Robson has urged Marcus Rashford to grab more goals in order to turn into a ‘top-class’ player.

The youngster had a meteoric rise at the start of his career with things now fizzling out a bit as he attempts to grind his way to the top once again.

The academy product’s dream was always going to end at one point or the other but he still remains an important part of the United squad.

Robson has called on Rashford to go one step further and return to his goalscoring ways in order to level up in a way.

Although it feels as though the Englishman has been around the first team forever, he’s actually just turned 21 years old.

According to the club’s official website, Bryan said: “I think you always want to improve and better yourself. Marcus is in a great position, he’s been in the first-team squad for over three years now.

“You can see him maturing, he’s building his stamina and strength, and he’s looking really good and sharp at the moment.

“With Marcus just turning 21 – happy birthday, Marcus! – he’s going in the right direction.

“The only thing I would like to see is his finishing just being that little bit better, where we get Marcus up to something like 20 or 30 goals in a season, whether he’s playing out wide or through the middle.

“He’s adapted really well, because he has been playing wide as a player for quite some time now – he hasn’t had too many chances through the middle as a centre-forward.

“But I think it educates you as a player and Marcus is definitely going the right way to be a top-class player for Manchester United over the years ahead.”

Jose Mourinho is also clearly a manager who rates Rashford highly and so he is in the perfect place to develop his career further.

The striker is certainly in the age group when players tend to be inconsistent though there’s no doubting he isn’t being used to the best of his talents.

Marcus can definitely make an impact out wide but it’s clear to see he’s best as a striker and could even do with a partner in crime up front.

Talented Director of Football admits he's 'flattered' with Manchester United links

RB Leipzig director of football Paul Mitchell has admitted that the links to Manchester United are flattering as he considers him to be a Manchester boy.

The club are said to be on the lookout for a director of football following the drama that happened over the summer.

Jose Mourinho had publicly expressed his concerns with the lack of signings in the last transfer window and so United are keen on resolving the issue.

It’s understood that vice-executive chairman Ed Woodward and the Portuguese manager now have fractured relationship so perhaps Mitchell can help the club move on.

Many clubs in modern football employ directors of football and it has proven to be a successful blueprint to follow when used correctly.

According to the Daily Mail, Paul said to the Sun: “Manchester United are recognised for being one of the biggest clubs in the world.

“So any link with a club of that size, history and status is very flattering and I am a Manchester boy.

“There hasn’t been any contact with United at this moment, for me it’s always about focusing on the job in hand.

“I’m more than aware I work for a great organisation, but then like always you never know in football what can happen in the future.”

Mitchell would certainly be a great addition to the Red Devils’ backroom staff as he is credited with being the man responsible for the likes of Dele Alli, Toby Alderweireld and Kieran Trippier.

The need for a shakeup in the behind the scenes part of the club is clear to see as disorganisation wreaked havoc over the summer.

There have been claims though that Manchester United won’t hire a director of football until Mourinho has moved on so Paul may have to wait.

Jose Mourinho 'desperate' to keep this Manchester United star: report

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is reportedly ‘desperate’ to keep a hold of Juan Mata as the player’s contract is set to expire.

The Spaniard’s current deal runs out next summer and there’s been no indication that negotiations have even began over an extension.

Mourinho had discussed earlier on in the season that he hoped the former Chelsea man and Ander Herrera would be handed new deals.

The former Real Madrid boss had insisted the duo’s attitude, professionalism and personalities are the kind that United must hold onto.

Unfortunately for him, vice-executive chairman Ed Woodward is the man responsible for contract negotiations and it’s fair to say they don’t necessarily see eye to eye at this time.

According to Old Trafford Faithful, the Sun report that Jose is ‘desperate’ to keep Juan at Old Trafford but could lose him to Arsenal’s Unai Emery with whom he’s worked with before.

There’s definitely a case to renew the midfielder’s contract but he would perhaps have to be a squad player.

Mata is now 30 years old and there’s no way he’ll truly reform hisself as a playmaker from the flanks.

His form in that position has been shaky and fans can tell he’s at his best as an attacking midfielder.

This is how Ed Woodward kept Anthony Martial at Man United: report

Manchester United were reportedly lucky to hold onto Anthony Martial during the last transfer window after his agent hinted at a move away from the club.

The Frenchman is currently embroiled in a contract negotiation with the club which has seemingly taken months on end with no end in sight.

With the winger’s contract expiring next summer, United must surely feel the need to tie him up quickly so they don’t lose him for free.

It’s understood that clubs in Italy are the ones most interested in Martial but fans are frustrated the club allowed such a situation to arise.

Nonetheless there’s still hope the youngster will renew his contract before clubs can approach him to sign him for free.

According to the Express, Manchester Evening News report that the Red Devils only held onto Anthony due to the early closure of the summer transfer window, otherwise he would’ve departed.

Jose Mourinho has recently admitted he’s pleased with the former AS Monaco man and there can’t be a better time to conclude negotiations.

Martial is in fine form in recent matches and must be rewarded with a new contract in a similar manner to which Luke Shaw was as well.

This is why Jose Mourinho is fuming with Ed Woodward: report

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho was left fuming with Ed Woodward after an unusual decision was made regarding the upcoming transfer window.

Rumours have emerged the Portuguese manager will be handed a £100m spending budget in the winter period to come but he remains upset with the vice-executive chairman.

United had invested in Fred, Diogo Dalot and Lee Grant over the summer with many fans concerned with the small fee of investment.

Mourinho was also publicly frustrated with how the rest of his transfer targets weren’t signed and he was left empty handed.

Woodward has been responsible for signing new players and if reports are to be believed then he overruled the former Chelsea boss.

According to Football365, the Sun report that Jose was left ‘fuming’ with Ed after he cancelled a January transfer target meeting that was meant to happen last week ‘at short notice’.

Although it sounds a little silly it’s also understandable given how long this saga has continued going on.

The Red Devils’ board members should’ve either fully backed Mourinho in the summer or fired him but made the mistake of doing neither.

Nonetheless, time will tell whether the club will make a serious statement in a notoriously difficult transfer market.

Paul Pogba responds to penalty critics in fantastic fashion

Gary Neville: I never wanted to be Man United captain

Gary Neville has revealed why he never really wanted to be Manchester United captain in the mid-2000s.

The former-defender is utterly linked with the Reds in terms of his reputation in anything he does. He’s a proper Man United fan who has represented his club for decades and won everything there is to win.

Now a pundit, he’s still a United fan at heart. Despite that, he never wanted to be captain, and all because of Roy Keane.

Neville revealed recently that Keane’s brilliance as a captain of United for more than half a decade was impossible to follow.

“Roy Keane was without a shadow of a doubt the most inspirational player I played with,” Neville explained on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football show.

“He wasn’t only the best player on the pitch most weeks but the influence he had in his standards, how he made everyone else feel 10ft tall.

“He was almost like Sir Alex Ferguson was out on the training pitch and in the dressing room.

“There was never a drop in standards.”

After explaining why Keane was so completely irreplaceable as a captain, Neville then revealed he simply didn’t want to have to follow in his footsteps as the man with the armband.

“I took over the captaincy from Roy and I never wanted to. He was the best captain you could ever have and I could never think to be a captain like Roy was.

“You almost had to be more collaborative while Roy had complete control of the dressing room.”

Neville oversaw a great period as United captain. The third of Sir Alex Ferguson’s ‘great’ sides was formed as United reached three UEFA Champions League finals in four years and won three consecutive Premier League titles.

Lampard back at the Bridge: Chelsea v Derby County - Match Preview

Frank Lampard returns to Stamford Bridge as Chelsea host Derby County in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

Lampard, who is Chelsea’s all-time record goalscorer with 211 strikes to his name, returns to the club as manager of high-flying Derby, who currently sit sixth in the Championship.

The match itself will be a Chelsea reunion in many ways, with loanees Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomori both returning to the Bridge having been allowed to play against their parent club. Not to mention, former academy coach and player Jody Morris will also return as part of Lampard’s backroom staff.

The opposition 

The last time the pair met, in 2014, the Blues emerged victorious in a 3-1 win. Yet in what will be the pair’s 107th meeting, it will be a very different Derby County to the one the Blues faced four years ago.

After taking over Derby in the summer, Lampard has already transformed the club in terms of playing style and aspirations.

On the pitch, the Rams play exciting, quick football, causing issues for the opposition due to the high pressing Lampard demands of his three forwards.

While the likes of Harry Wilson, Mason Mount and Tom Lawrence make Derby a very youthful and exciting team, it is Tom Huddlestone, Scott Carson and Richard Keogh who add the experience and leadership to the Rams.

Derby proved their quality, stunning Manchester United at Old Trafford to progress to the next round of the competition courtesy of penalties last time out.

Chelsea news 

After a 4-0 win at Burnley, the Blues come into this game in third place in the Premier League and are unbeaten in the process.

Manager Maurizio Sarri has a rare chance to field some of the lesser utilised members of the squad with Victor Moses, Rube Loftus-Cheek, Gary Cahill and Andreas Christensen all in contention for the midweek clash.

Ones to watch 

Earning rave reviews has become the norm for 19-year old Chelsea loanee Mason Mount, who is widely regarded as Derby’s best player.

Scoring three goals and contributing with one assist in the Championship, along with two goals in three appearances in the Carabao Cup, Mount could give Chelsea the blues should he hit top gear against his parent club.

Meanwhile, Chelsea fans should be excited to see Loftus-Cheek if Sarri fields the midfielder following his role in the weekend’s match at Burnley.

Scoring four goals in five matches, including a hat-trick against BATE Borisov in the Europa League, the 21-year-old is one of Chelsea’s most in-form players coming into the clash.

The post Chelsea v Derby County: Match Preview appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Juventus Director: Club are ‘alert’ to possible Pogba transfer

Paul Pogba returning to Juventus from Manchester United would be “wonderful”, the Italian club’s director Pavel Nedved has admitted.

The French midfielder has been constantly linked with making the switch back to his former club, who he left in August 2016 to come to Man United.

When he signed for United for a then-world record £89 million, Pogba was making a return to Old Trafford. He had signed for Juventus in search of more first team football.

With a reported strained relationship with manager Jose Mourinho, an exit from the club looks possible for Pogba. FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain could be suitors for Pogba.

Nedved, though, who is a Juventus legend and now a director, admitted that the Old Lady would love to have Pogba back.

“I think Pogba is one of the best players in the world,” Nedved said while in conversation with Sky Sport Italia.

“So it’d be wonderful, but he’s at Manchester and therefore talking about it is futile.”

Nedved described Juventus as ‘alert’ regarding the Pogba situation at United, but did temporarily close down the discussion.

“We’re alert on the transfer market,” Nedved explained, “but January is a long way away.”

Pogba has made some thinly-veiled comments about United’s style of play and seemed to suggest a move to Barcelona was possible in the summer. However, in recent weeks, his comments have been less inflammatory.

The 25-year-old recently described Manchester United as his “home” and said “it will always be that way.”

He also labelled his career and current life as “really splendid”.

Man United teammate tells Martial what to improve

Nemanja Matic has urged in-form Manchester United forward Anthony Martial to have far greater confidence in his game.

The Serbian midfielder was in action alongside Martial as the Frenchman netted his fourth goal in his last three Premier League appearances in Man United’s 2-1 win against Everton on Sunday afternoon.

Martial also scored a double at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea the weekend before and looks at his very best at the moment. Matic, though, insists there is far more to be seen from Martial and has pleaded with his United teammate to have more confidence in his abilities.

Matic is one of United’s most senior players and one of manager Jose Mourinho’s most trusted. He revealed that both he and Mourinho have spoken to Martial about showing more confidence recently.

“Anthony is a great player and he needs to understand that. He needs more confidence,” Matic said, as per the Evening Standard.

“If I had his ability with the ball and I was as quick as him then I wouldn’t pass to anyone and I would score every game.

“To be serious, he does need more confidence and this comes with results. 

“The manager speaks with him about it. I have told him once.”

Matic hailed Martial as potentially being one of the Premier League’s best players. He can’t quite be compared to Eden Hazard or Mo Salah and similar figures yet, but Martial’s talent has been evident since he arrived at the club and scored 17 goals in his debut season as a teenager.

“He is still young and I think if he continues to score in the next games he will get that [confidence],” Matic continued.

“If he reaches his top level he can be one of the best players in the league for sure. 

“Sometimes I don’t think he understands how good he is. Sometimes he is quick, he is good with the ball, he can run. 

“He has everything that a Manchester United football player needs. Sometimes I don’t think he understands that.”

Martial’s form recently has been fantastic to see. He’s the club’s most exciting player currently but needs to sign a new contract quickly since his current deal expires in the summer.

European heavyweights set to “invest heavily” in securing Pogba transfer: report

Paul Pogba’s links with a return to Juventus from Manchester United remain stubbornly prominent in the Italian media.

Tuttosport claims that the Serie A champions, who were recently in Manchester to face Pogba at Old Trafford in the UEFA Champions League, are prepared to invest heavily to secure the return of their former-midfielder.

United signed Pogba from Juventus in August 2016 for a then-world record £89 million. He’s contributed more goals for the club since then than any other player, with 20 goals and 21 assists.

The Reds are thus reluctant to consider selling Pogba. Not only are his performances good and his importance great, but he is a massive commercial asset.

However, his relationship with manager Jose Mourinho has looked frosty at best this season. Pogba was stripped of the vice-captaincy not too long ago and has made thinly-veiled comments about United’s style of play.

Tuttosport suggests that United could be convinced to sell Pogba back to Juventus if the Italian club include Brazilian left-back Alex Sandro in the deal.

Mourinho was keen on signing Sandro in the last few transfer windows, it is thought.

Pogba will draw interest from many of Europe’s top clubs if he does leave United. Paris Saint-Germain are one of only a few teams who could afford Pogba. FC Barcelona have also shown clear interest.

The Frenchman did refer to United as his “home” in an interview with UEFA recently, having played at the club as a teenager before leaving for Juventus the first time.

European giants make decision on the future of Chelsea loan star

AC Milan will not terminate Tiemoue Bakayoko’s loan spell at the club, according to a report from Calciomercato.

Chelsea recruited Bakayoko in 2017 from AS Monaco in a deal believed to be worth £40 million. Following a difficult maiden campaign in English football, however, the Frenchman was made available for loan.

Towards the end of the summer, Bakayoko secured a temporary move away to Italy, as Milan completed the signing of the midfielder on a season-long loan deal.

However, Bakayoko has again struggled to convince in Serie A, prompting doubts that he will end the season at San Siro.

Contrary to these claims, though, it seems the former Monaco star will continue to play under Gennaro Gattuso, with Calciomercato reporting that Milan are not currently considering sending the player back to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are already well-stocked with midfield options and will be keen for Bakayoko to continue playing regular football ahead of his return in the summer.

The post Bakayoko unlikely to see his Milan loan terminated appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Manchester United to face stiff competition from Juventus for centre-back Nikola Milenkovic – report

Manchester United will be faced with stiff competition if they try to sign Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic in the future.

The Reds reportedly have significant interest in the Serbian centre-back and manager Jose Mourinho was thought to be personally scouting Milenkovic when he attended Serbia’s game against Montenegro recently.

However, Italian outlet Calciomercato claims that Serie A champions Juventus, who have won all seven of the last seven titles in the European country, are also interested in Milenkovic.

Sporting director Fabio Paratici wants to sign two players from Fiorentina, with Milenkovic being one of them as Federico Chiesa being the other.

Fiorentina reportedly rejected a bid of around €40 million for Milenkovic in the summer and would demand at least €55 million for the 23-year-old.

If United are to make a bid in January, that price will be set to an even greater premium and the interest from Juventus as well, as Calciomercato suggests, would mean a battle for his signature.

Jose Mourinho will be desperate to secure some kind of defensive reinforcements. While Victor Lindelof has improved in recent weeks and could now prove himself at Old Trafford, Chris Smalling made his 300th appearance for United at the weekend and that fact is indicative of the mediocrity of the club’s defence.

Manchester United labelled as ‘favourite team’ to sign high-profile England talent Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund: report

Manchester United are favourites to sign former-Manchester City starlet Jadon Sancho, according to reports in Italy.

The forward made his debut for England earlier this month after Gareth Southgate was just as impressed by Sancho’s fantastic displays for Borussia Dortmund as the rest of Europe.

Sancho left Man City to join Dortmund in 2017 in search of first team football and has flourished in the German Bundesliga. He’s scored four times and assisted a further six goals in only 377 minutes of action in the league this season. In the UEFA Champions League, he’s contributed a further two goals in only three games, too.

Italian outlet TuttoMercato claims that there is now great interest in Sancho from England’s leading clubs.

Every one of the top six clubs are mentioned by the Italian website, including Sancho’s former-side Man City.

However, Man United are labelled as the “favourite team” to sign Sancho in what would be an immensely controversial move but a fantastic one for the Reds.

Tuttomercato do not mention another source in the article and thus it appears that the report is their own. That brings to question why an Italian newspaper would have the details of an English player at a German club moving to an English club.

Despite that, it would be entirely expected for United to be looking at Sancho, having actually been interested in him while he was still playing for their local rivals.

Chelsea handed huge boost as attacker makes full return to training

Chelsea have been handed a huge injury boost, with Eden Hazard returning to full first-team training, as reported by the Daily Mail.

The Belgium winger has been nursing a lower back injury in recent weeks, with his last appearance for the Blues coming in their 2-2 home draw against Manchester United earlier in October.

Hazard was subsequently forced to sit out of Chelsea’s Europa League win against BATE Borisov, before being sidelined for the team’s comprehensive win away at Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday.

It’s unlikely that the former Lille man will return for the Blues’ Carabao Cup clash with Derby County on Wednesday, but he is now back in full training as he bids to be fit for Chelsea’s upcoming league fixture against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Hazard has enjoyed a productive season in Chelsea colours. In all competitions, he has found the net on eight occasions and has also contributed with a further three assists.

The post Hazard returns to full training for Chelsea appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea coach fined for sparking brawl with Jose Mourinho

Chelsea coach Marco Ianni has been fined £6,000 by the Football Association after he admitted to charge of improper conduct after his actions towards the end of the match against Manchester United on October 20th.

Ianni sparked a touchline brawl as he celebrated Ross Barkley’s injury-time equaliser in front of the Manchester United dugout, something which infuriated Jose Mourinho.

Chelsea looked to be heading towards their first defeat of the season before Barkley scored deep into stoppage time and Ianni let the occasion get the best of him as he celebrated.

Speaking after the incident, Mourinho told Sky Sports that both Maurizio Sarri and Ianni had apologized for what had taken place and he declared the matter closed.

There had been some speculation that Mourinho would be punished for his part in the fracas, but the FA did not deem his actions worthy of any disciplinary action.

The post Marco Ianni fined by the FA after accepting improper conduct charge appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Ramon Calderon: Florentino Perez wants Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid

Former Real Madrid chief Ramon Calderon has insisted current president Florentino Perez wants Jose Mourinho at the club.

The Portuguese manager has been linked with a move back to his former side for quite some time now but with Julen Lopetegui recently losing his job, the reports have heated up.

Mourinho enjoyed some good times with Madrid when he last managed them and was the only manager who successfully stopped a peak Barcelona from winning the La Liga.

Calderon believes that although Tottenham’s Mauricio Pochettino would fit in well in the Spanish capital, Perez definitely wants the former Chelsea manager instead.

With Jose’s time at Manchester United seemingly at the brink of an exit, he could be tempted to jump ship before he’s fired or his reputation is entirely ruined.

According to talkSPORT, Ramon said: “I’m sure the president is thinking of Mourinho, he is always the coach he would like to have at Real, but he’s with Man United now.

“Mourinho is the only coach Perez has respected up to now. He gave him all the power for the first time in his life, which was very unusual.

“It’s true that he’s been in touch with Jose in the last few years trying to bring him here again, but being with Man United I think now it’s not possible.

“If he leaves Manchester United I’m sure he’ll be here again.”

What Calderon has said seems to be backed up by recent reports that have emerged claiming Real will wait for Mourinho to become available.

According to Football Espana, Gazetta dello Sport report that the United boss will lose his job if he doesn’t qualify for Champions League football and will be replaced by Antonio Conte.

This would then mean Jose is free to return to Madrid who are happy to wait out the season to see how matters continue to develop.

Chelsea begin work on €38m deal to sign Serie A playmaker

Chelsea are said to have taken ‘the first steps’ towards a deal to sign Suso from Milan.

According to reports in Italy, as cited on Sport Witness, the Blues have started working on a potential deal.

The player has a €38 million release clause in his contract and there are concerns in Italy that the Spaniard could be on the move.

Liverpool have previously been linked with a move to re-sign the player, while the report claims that there is also interest from Athletic Bilbao.

The Italian side have been working on a renewal in a bid to remove the release clause from his contract, but the Rossoneri may need to secure Champions League football in order to do so.

The former Liverpool man was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge during the summer transfer window, with Maurizio Sarri said to be a huge admirer of the player.

The post Chelsea working on €38m deal to sign Suso appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea linked with move for Real Madrid star

Lucas Vazquez could be in line for a move to Chelsea, should Antonio Conte replace Julen Lopetegui as manager at Real Madrid.

Former Spain boss Lopetegui was sacked after a 5-1 defeat to Barcelona in El Clasico compounded a dreadful start to his first season as Real manager.

Ex-Real Madrid B boss Santiago Solari has taken over on an interim basis, but speculation persists over who the long-term replacement will be.

If that man is Antonio Conte, reports have suggested that Lucas Vazquez could be heading out the door.

The winger is supposedly aware that the Italian is not his biggest fan, and several clubs have been alerted to the possibility of a transfer should Conte be appointed at the Bernabeu.

One of those clubs is Maurizio Sarri’s Liverpool. Despite being famously well-endowed on the wings, Vazquez could make the Blues considerably stronger.

The 27-year-old has made 148 appearances for Los Blancos in four seasons with the senior team, and has won the Champions League on three occasions.

Chelsea are not the only team to have been alerted to Vazquez’s situation, however. Premier League rivals and Liverpool and Arsenal are also claimed to be on standby, each with sufficient purchasing power to complete a move should they wish to.

The post Chelsea alerted to availability of Lucas Vazquez appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Loan watch: The two Chelsea stars earning rave reviews in the Championship

Chelsea duo Tomas Kalas and Jay DaSilva have both been earning rave reviews at Bristol City following a loan move to Ashton Gate in the summer transfer window.

The praise comes after both earning Man of the Match awards for their recent performances for the promotion-chasing side.

DaSilva earned his praise following an impressive outing off the bench against Brentford the Luton-born full-back’s cross was converted by Niclas Eliasson in the 89th minute.

Previously the youngster had played just 165 minutes of Championship football in six appearances for the Robins.

DaSilva, who was brought in late in the summer window to replace the outgoing Joe Bryan has made his name in the Football League as one of the most exciting attacking young full-backs.

After two successful back-to-back loan spells at Charlton Athletic, the 20-year-old finally seems to be gaining significant praise in England’s second division. Not to mention the defender’s performances for both Charlton and Bristol City in 2018 earned him seven outings for Aidy Boothroyd’s England Under 21’s.

The youngster has given Lee Johnson a defensive conundrum over whether to field the former Charlton loanee ahead of Lloyd Kelly at left-back.

Twitter: @TheExiledRobin Jay Dasilva was brilliant when he came on as well. (@JackHocking)

Twitter: Jay Dasilva v Stoke

Great crosses from the left as he injected some verve into the Robins attack after the break (Gregor MacGregor) (@ChelseaLoanArmy)

Twitter: RT @BristolCity: Last night’s @thatchers_cider MOTM.

What a performance from Jay Dasilva.

#BristolCity https://t.co/TT9X6pVvVw (@Fuaattt_CFC)

Not one to be outdone, 25-year-old Tomas Kalas was also on the end of his own praise from Bristol City fans following his Man of the Match performance against Stoke City.

Despite a 1-0 loss to the Potters the Czech looked widely impressive at centre-back and could be integral should Lee Johnson’s side try and mount a promotion push.

Speaking to Bristol City’s official website, the 25-year-old gave his thoughts following the defeat:

Obviously 1-0 is disappointing but for everyone who saw the game I think knows we didn’t deserve that.

Now is not the time for crying but we had 90 minutes to do something. We wasted the opportunity in first 45 minutes to play like we did in the second.

In the second half, there was only one team on the pitch and having been more lucky, calm or quality, more composure then we would have scored at least two or three goals and won, then it would have been a different story but it is one of those games.

Fans then took to Twitter praising his performances so far at Ashton Gate.

Twitter: Tomas Kalas v Hull

The centre-back looked a little rusty at first bit soon warmed up. At the heart of every cl… https://t.co/J4KLWwcFRG (@ChelseaLoanArmy)

Twitter: RT @BristolCity: Today’s @thatchers_cider MOTM, Tomas Kalas.

A very strong performance.

#BristolCity https://t.co/kKsfnESc5Q (@_Fin_HD)

Twitter: Tomas Kalas is premier league standard, trust me. https://t.co/ct6xncEif7 (@thewalshrole)

In what is his seventh loan spell in eight years Kalas continues to prove his worth to the Blues despite only making two appearances for his parent club.

Likened to Azpilucueta for his versatility and consistency, the door could still be ajar for the defender yet to make a name for himself at Stamford Bridge.

Should the duo continue their recent run of form, expect Bristol City to have a very prosperous year.

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How strong will Sarri go against Derby? Predicted Chelsea XI

Maurizio Sarri’s Chelsea welcome a former favourite in Frank Lampard to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

The Rams travel to London with a place in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup at stake.

With the Blues aiming to compete on all four fronts this season, extra onus falls on Sarri to rotate his team and make the best use of the squad he has at his disposal.

This is the XI that we think you could see at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

The post Predicted Chelsea XI: Derby (H) appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea winger facing late fitness test ahead of Carabao clash

Assistant manager Gianfranco Zola has offered updates on the fitness of a trio of Blues, as his Chelsea side prepare to take on Derby County in the Carabao Cup.

Three fringe players, the named players will be hoping they can grab valuable minutes on Wednesday night in an effort to show manager Maurizio Sarri they belong as part of the starting XI.

Pedro is one such player, keen to gain opportunities to start in the Premier League.

Twitter: He says Pedro will be assessed tomorrow and Giroud has a fatigue problem in one of his legs. He will also be assess… https://t.co/5GT9qYuMnN (@ChelseaFC)

Largely a substitute in the league, the Spaniard has seen the bulk of his football in the Europa League. The 31-year-old will be assessed on match-day to determine if he is able to participate in the encounter.

Olivier Giroud is reported to have a fatigue issue in one of his legs, which could deny him a critical chance to show Sarri he ought to be Chelsea’s first choice striker.

Having been looked over in favour of Alvaro Morata in recent weeks, the World Cup winner will presumably leap at any chance to win his job back from his teammate.

Finally, Ethan Ampadu has returned to training following a spell on the sidelines, but will also be a match-day decision.

The youngster has impressed so far this season, both with the Blues and with his country Wales.

The post Zola offers injury update on Blues trio ahead of Carabao clash appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Zola issues Hazard injury update ahead of Derby clash

Gianfranco Zola has confirmed that Eden Hazard is unlikely to feature against Derby in the Carabao Cup clash on Wednesday night.

Speaking at the club’s pre-match press conference, Maurizio Sarri’s right-hand man confirmed that the Belgian could be involved this weekend.

The Chelsea winger has been struggling with a back injury since the 2-2 draw with Manchester United and missed the win over Burnley at the weekend, while he also sat out of the previous Europa League clash.

Hazard was seen in some discomfort during the warm-up against Jose Mourinho’s men.

Chelsea will be keen to manage the player carefully over the coming weeks, with the Belgian enjoying a fine start to the season under Sarri.

The Blues welcome Crystal Palace to Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon and Sarri will be hoping that he will be able to call upon his talisman when the club return to Premier League action.

The post Zola reveals Hazard is unlikely to feature against Derby appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Gary Neville: Anthony Martial’s off-the-ball work drives me crazy

Gary Neville has claimed Manchester United star Anthony Martial drives him crazy due to the lack of his off-the-ball work.

The Frenchman was instrumental in his side’s 2-1 win over Everton last weekend as he won the penalty that Paul Pogba eventually converted before scoring the second goal of the match.

The weekend before that, Martial managed to grab an incredible brace in the 2-2 draw against Chelsea and must be disappointed with his teammates for failing to hold on to the win.

Neville does praise the former AS Monaco man but does admit he’s confused over the player’s ability off the ball.

Anthony has occasionally gotten stick from United’s fans for his lethargic body language but it’s fair to say no one has been complaining of late.

According to Goal, Gary said on Sky Sports: “There’s never been a player over the last ten years at Manchester United that I have been confused by as much [as Martial].

“I cannot make my mind up. Sometimes I think he is brilliant and other weeks I think that I am not sure he is a Manchester United player.

“What drives me crazy about him is his off-the-ball work. He doesn’t know where to be and where to run at the right times.”

There’s definitely a point to be made by Neville but the question does need to be asked- is it the player’s fault or is it the manager’s lack of coaching?

It could be argued both ways but Jose Mourinho’s lack of an attacking plan has often infuriated supporters.

The Portuguese manager seems to rely on his attackers creating a moment of brilliance with his only back-up plan being to hoof the ball forwards to Marouane Fellaini.

United favourites to beat Chelsea and Liverpool to England international

Manchester United have been named as favourites for Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho, with the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool all keen.

According to reports from Italy, as cited on TEAMtalk, the England international is being tipped to make the move to Old Trafford after a breakthrough season at Borussia Dortmund.

After making the surprise move to Germany at a young age, Sancho is beginning to fulfil his potential as he cements himself as a first-team player in the Bundesliga.

With his performances beginning to attract attention from the Premier League, a host of clubs have been linked with moves to sign the player.

It is believed that Manchester City hold a first refusal option to sign the player, but it is yet to be seen if the player himself would be willing to return to the club having left to pursue first-team football elsewhere.

The post United favourites to land Chelsea target Jadon Sancho appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea set to miss out on big payday

With Antonio Conte still on the books at Chelsea, any appointment would have required the Italian’s new club to pay out the rest of the former Blues’ boss contract.

A payday of around £7 million will not be coming from Real Madrid, however.

Negotiations between Conte and the Spanish giants were in progress, but are have stalled according to The Times. 

Real sacked ex-Spain boss Julen Lopetegui after a 5-1 defeat to Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clasico, Los Blancos have appointed the previous Real Madrid B manager Santiago Solari in an interim capacity.

A long-term candidate is yet to emerge from the shadows, but is seems as though that man will not be Antonio Conte.

The 49-year-old spent two years at the helm of Chelsea, leading them to a Premier League title and an FA Cup before he was sacked at the conclusion of the 2017-18 season.

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