August 2022 - TELENOVELA BLASTERS TELENOVELA BLASTERS: August 2022

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Wednesday, 31 August 2022

Humiliated Ronaldo attempting to salvage United future after admitting defeat on exit plan


Cristiano Ronaldo’s future at Manchester United has been the subject of intense speculation all summer.

According to a report from The Athletic, United fans hoping that the legendary goalscorer stays at Old Trafford may have received some encouragement.

Ronaldo is said to have sapped the positive energy from the dressing room after the encouraging spell out of tour in preseason.

However, in recent days it is believed that his demeanour has been more “promising.”

Rather than eating alone and tossing his arms around, Ronaldo is said to have been “chatting” away with new signings Lisandro Martinez and former Real Madrid teammate Casemiro.

This would suggest that the Portuguese has been encouraged by the club’s transfer dealings in recent weeks.

United have made moves which may have allayed Ronaldo’s previous “anxiety about the club’s transfer dealings,” or lack thereof in the closing stages of the window.

Whether that suggests that the club is now up to his ambitions could be a matter of conjecture – no amount of money spent this summer will allow United to compete in the Champions League this season.

But the prospect of success with an invigorated team under Erik ten Hag may have persuaded the Portugal captain to stay on at Old Trafford.

It certainly doesn’t hurt those chances that there are no apparent suitors for Ronaldo with ambitions of winning Europe’s premier competition.

Napoli are thought to have held an interest all summer, but recent reports suggest that Ronaldo has turned down the Serie A giants.

If Ronaldo truly is set to stay on at Manchester United, it follows that he must now be in acceptance of a slightly reduced role in the team.

He has been benched for United last two matches, both of which ended with wins for Ten Hag’s team.

With a little self-awareness and an understanding of how best he can serve the team, Ronaldo could still be an incredibly valuable player to the manager.
 
 

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The post Cristiano Ronaldo’s “promising” demeanour suggests Manchester United stay – The Athletic appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

United’s struggling £37m man close to Sunderland move - report

It seems Manchester United’s business in the summer transfer window is still not over. With just over a day left before it slams shut, the club are still trying to get a few deals over the line.

It was expected that Antony and Martin Dubravka would be the final two arrivals with Erik ten Hag pleased with the increased competition for places.

But multiple reports came out on Tuesday which stated that Barcelona full-back Sergino Dest might become a late arrival with Aaron Wan-Bissaka set to depart.

Late arrivals aside, a glut of departures — both temporary and permanent are expected in the final couple of days. One such player who is sure to leave on loan is Amad Diallo.

Sunderland leading the chase for Amad

The Peoples Person had already reported that the Ivorian was attracting interest from all over Europe with United looking at loaning him out to Championship clubs as they wanted the winger to experience English first-team football.

According to the Daily Mail and Laurie Whitwell of The Athletic, Championship club Sunderland have held talks with the Red Devils regarding Amad.

Blackpool, Ligue 1 outfit Nice, Turkish side Besiktas and Belgian club Anderlecht were also credited with interest but it seems Sunderland might be winning the race because of their manager.

“It is understood that the Championship side are interested in the 20-year-old who has yet to feature for manager Erik ten Hag this season,” The Athletic mention.

Black Cats style of play suits United winger

Whitwell also mentions that new Black Cats manager Tony Mowbray, plays a style of football which will suit the former Atalanta starlet and that might swing things in Sunderland’s favour.

The 20-year-old has not made any of the match squads so far and following Antony’s arrival, the Ivory Coast international’s involvement in the first-team is set to reduce drastically.

Ten Hag feels his development will be best served if he goes and plays regular minutes elsewhere but the club have been careful while selecting his next destination considering his difficult spell away at Rangers last season.

Former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had bought the winger in a deal worth £37million back in 2020 but he has managed to make only nine senior senior appearances for the club so far.


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The post Sunderland leading the race for Amad Diallo appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Erik ten Hag press conference: "We will keep him"


Erik ten Hag sat down with journalists ahead of Manchester United’s game against Leicester on Thursday and surprised onlooker with his answers over transfer speculation.

Antony is set to become a Manchester United player, but fans will have to wait for his debut according to Ten Hag.

“There is agreement between the clubs, but the paperwork is not done,” suggesting that he will not be available for Thursday or potentially even the weekend match with Arsenal.

When asked what Antony will bring to Old Trafford, the manager said “Obviously he helps in the offensive department.”

“Especially with offensive players they are quick to fatigue because they have to run more at a higher intensity. We don’t just need quantity we also need quality.”

When asked if United’s business would be concluded once Martin Dubravka signed Ten Hag nodded along:

“I think so, for this window. But hen there is great opportunity you have to always be alert as a top club.”

Is Ronaldo still part of plan?

Subject of intense speculation, Cristiano Ronaldo was a hot topic at the press conference and Ten Hag gave a strong affirmative when asked if the Portuguese would stay and be part of his plans:

“Of course. Like I said we need quality players and more to cover all of the games.”

Aaron Wan-Bissaka has also been linked with the exit door but according to his manager that seems unlikely:

“Aaron, we will keep him. We will play with this squad this season.”

In any case, Ten Hag is happy with his squad “at least until January” and believes the turnaround since Brentford can be a new beginning at the club.

“I see it as a start. This is the minimum we have to bring. We have to keep this winning mentality.”

Unfortunately, Anthony Martial remains unavailable for Thursday’s clash with Leicester, although Victor Lindelof is back in training.
 

 

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The post Erik ten Hag press conference: “We will keep him” appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Ten Hag to confirm Ronaldo stay this afternoon as Napoli slam final exit door shut


Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream of playing Champions League football this season appears to be over as last chance saloon proprietors Napoli have decided against signing him.

“Mendes has given up. Or so it seems,” Il Mattino says.

“The last attempt failed. Naples is not there: they don’t even consider the idea of Cristiano Ronaldo’s free loan without the departure of Osimhen.

“Yesterday morning the Portuguese agent noted that Manchester United, after the €100 million spent on Antony, does not intend to make offers to the blue club for the Nigerian striker.

“And so, for Napoli, the suggestion of the end of August ends exactly as it began. De Laurentiis has categorically stated: the doors to Cristiano are practically barred.

“The free loan option was linked exclusively to the sale of Osimhen for 140-150 million euros: this was the condition sine qua non to bring the Portuguese Star to Naples. “

The report goes on to say that Ronaldo’s salary is more than the rest of the Napoli squad combined, so the club would only have been in a position to try to meet it if United had bought Victor Osimhen for €140-€150 million.

This would have created a vacancy in the centre forward position and the means for Napoli to take on the 37 year old’s hefty salary.

It would certainly seem that Ronaldo has just 36 hours or so left to slash his salary demands, or even agree to play for free, or give up his attempt to leave United.

Judging by recent reports about his new-found camaraderie within the United dressing room, he appears to have chosen the latter.

Barring last minute surprises, it would appear that Manchester United will have the world’s most famous and expensive supersub for the remainder of the 2022/23 season.

Talksport’s Anil Kandola claims that Erik ten Hag is set to confirm this in his press conference this afternoon.

 
 

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The post Cristiano Ronaldo’s final exit door slams shut as Man United stay set to be confirmed appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

United have €33m bid for Champions League winner rejected, could go back - report


Manchester United submitted a bid for Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio before securing a deal to sign Ajax’s Antony.

It has been a summer filled with multiple targets being looked at in the forward role after losing a couple of players at the end of June.

Jesse Lingard and Edinson Cavani departed the club on a free transfer, meaning the priority this summer was to sign a new forward and midfielder.

The Peoples Person recently reported that the club were heavily interested in securing a deal for the Spanish winger.

Sport Witness are reporting that Man United bid for Asensio as they looked to find the best possible option to compete with the current wingers.

According to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, the club made the most substantial summer bid for the winger, placing €33m on the table.

However, this was deemed insufficient for Real Madrid, who expect to keep him for the remainder of his contract.

The outlet reports that Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the 26-year-old when the departure of Casemiro was announced.

During this conversation, the manager admitted that things would remain the same as last season.

The winger enjoyed a good spell of games despite being a squad player making 42 appearances and scoring 12 goals in all competitions.

With Antony’s arrival, any deal for a winger at this stage is expected not to happen.

However, following on from the interest in the Spanish winger, it’s clear United are looking for a similar type of player with every chance that they’re still interested in him before the end of the transfer window.

The club will spend the closing days of the transfer window trying to secure moves for fringe players and youngsters.


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The post Manchester United submitted a bid for Asensio before completing Antony transfer appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Ronaldo sensationally rejects Champions League switch set up by his own agent - report


Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly not keen on a move to Napoli.

According to Corriere Dello Sport, the 37 year old wants to find a club that matches his ambition of competing for the Champions League.

We earlier covered the report claiming United’s interest in Napoli striker Victor Osimhen and how Mendes was trying to get him an offer from the club.

The Nigerian is valued at around €100 million,  and after splashing the same amount on Ajax’s Antony, United are unlikely to go again.

Mendes tried to propose a loan deal, with Napoli covering the entirety of his €20 million salary.

Despite efforts from his agent Jorge Mendes, Ronaldo prefers a move elsewhere.

The report mentions Chelsea as his preferred destination.

Ronaldo sees the London club as an ideal environment to win trophies.

Thomas Tuchel’s side is known for their successful cup runs. This could be a reason that lures Ronaldo to Stamford Bridge.

Tuchel, however, has not given the green light to go ahead with the signing.

The Athletic report that Ronaldo could end up staying at Old Trafford, and many have noticed a change in his attitude.

Manager Erik ten Hag will need clarity on the situation as he tries to formulate his tactics for this season.

 

 

 

 


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The post Cristiano Ronaldo is not keen on a move to Napoli appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Fabrizio Romano: United in deadline-day showdown over Ten Hag's top right back target


Manchester United face competition in their pursuit of FC Barcelona right back Sergino Dest as deadline day looms.

Reliable reported Fabrizio Romano tweeted an exclusive earlier:

“Excl: Sergiño Dest’s now considering a loan proposal from Villarreal, he’s open to discuss about it. Talks on with Barça — it’s up to the player.

“#FCB Manchester United manager ten Hag wants Dest, it’s a possibility but it can only happen if Wan-Bissaka will leave.”

United’s interest in Dest has been speculated upin throughout the window, although no serious talks appear to have taken place until recently.

As reported by The Peoples Person earlier, United are considering a loan move for the American, who has worked with Erik ten Hag before at Ajax.

Dest is seen by the Old Trafford hierarchy as an upgrade on Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who was signed three years ago for £50m from Crystal Palace.

They would need to shift the Englishman in order to seriously pursue the Barcelona speedster.

Yesterday, United gave “encouragement” to West Ham United and Crystal Palace in their interest for the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer signing.

Should one of those clubs move forward with a serious offer, that will open the door for a Premier League move for Dest.

A season-long loan would suit all parties, with United in need of genuine competition for Diogo Dalot at right back and the USMNT star out of favour in Catalonia.

With Villareal now in the frame for Dest, United must act quickly to secure Ten Hag’s favoured right-back option.
 
 

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The post Manchester United target Sergino Dest has loan proposal from Villareal appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

“Holding talks”: United closing in on fantastic flank-man in deadline day swoop - report


Manchester United are in talks with FC Barcelona over the potential signing of Sergino Dest.

According to Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News, the talks are “exploratory” with the club viewing Dest as an upgrade on Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right back.

A season-long loan move has been discussed and it is possible the deal would include an option to buy.

The USA International has been left out of the matchday squad in each of Barca’s last two La Liga games.

He appears out of favour in Catalonia, with academy graduate Sergi Roberto having signed a new contract earlier in the year.

New signing Jules Kounde also made his Barcelona debut playing at right back.

With Barcelona still looking to move players on given their financial situation, it is thought that a deal for Dest could be achievable before the transfer window closes on Thursday.

For the Red Devils, the speedster would certainly be a step up from Wan-Bissaka in an attacking sense.

A good dribbler capable in possession, his defensive frailties may be outweighed by what he can bring to Erik ten Hag’s side on the ball.

The pair worked together at Ajax, and it is thought that Ten Hag would be keen to continue Dest’s development, having watched from afar as it stalled in La Liga.

As reported by The Peoples Person yesterday, any deal for the American would be dependant on finding a suitor for out-of-favour Wan-Bissaka.

West Ham United and Crystal Palace are both in the frame, with the former said to have received “encouragement” in their pursuit.

With several moving parts to this prospective transfer, it may be one that goes right to the wire.
 

 

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The post Manchester United hold talks with FC Barcelona over Sergino Dest appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Tuesday, 30 August 2022

United swoop for brilliant young right back in last minute move - Sky Sports


Manchester United are interested in signing FC Barcelona right back Sergino Dest before the transfer window shuts on Thursday.

According to Sky Sports News, the Red Devils are “exploring the possibility” of bringing the American international to Old Trafford.

Any deal would be dependant on finding a taker for Aaron Wan-Bissaka, with West Ham United and Crystal Palace in the frame for the Englishman.

United signed Wan-Bissaka for £45m plus add-ons back in 2019 but have found the defender to be at odds with any strategy that involves having the ball.

He is yet to start a match under new boss Erik ten Hag, be that in the Premier League or preseason.

Manchester United reportedly rebuffed approaches from a number of Premier League clubs for the defender, likely because of a lack of cover for Diogo Dalot should he leave.

However, if United can secure the services of Dest and find an acceptable offer for Wan-Bissaka at the same time, Ten Hag would surely benefit from the switch.

While a brilliant one-v-one defender, Wan-Bissaka does not contribute effectively to attacking play.

Dest, on the other hand, is in the 98th percentile for Dribbles Completed among all fullbacks plying their trade in the top flights of England, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy, as per fbref.

The Barcelona man may not be a particularly effective crosser of the ball, but it is easy to imagine how his forays up the pitch could lead to lay-offs for Jadon Sancho or new signing Antony high up the pitch.

Such a skillset would compliment Ten Hag’s preference for underlapping fullbacks supporting his attackers in build-up and settled possession.

Dest can be caught up the pitch at times and is by no means a ready-made world class right back, but having had a hand in his early development, it is likely that Ten Hag could be the ideal manager to get the best from Dest.
 

 

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The post Manchester United “exploring the possibility” of signing Sergino Dest appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Opportunity missed as United’s ‘juicy bid’ for latest PL sensation rejected - report

Manchester United seem to have completed the bulk of their summer shopping spree with a couple of days to go before the transfer window slams shut.

It is a welcome change compared to previous years when United were trying to wrap up deals with the clock ticking down. The only major thing left is to sell players either permanently or on loan with Erik ten Hag working with a bloated squad at the moment.

One constant will be the story surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese arrived on deadline day last season and he might depart on the same day this year as his agent Jorge Mendes desperately tries to find him a Champions League club.

Striker search

And if that ends up happening, United might need to find a backup option and Memphis Depay and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang are both being looked at.

They have already signed Antony to solve their right-wing issues but at one point due to the uncertainty surrounding the future of United’s No 7, the Red Devils had enquired about a bucketload of strikers and that extensive list also included Alexander Isak.

The Sweden international recently completed a move to Newcastle United from Real Sociedad and before the Magpies had entered the fray, United had put in a ‘juicy offer’ with the player’s agency but they ended up advising the player to not accept the deal.

This new information comes via Mundo Deportivo, who claim that Los Txuri-Urdin were aware of the fact that United had spoken to their player but no formal offer was presented to the club.

United missed out on Isak

The Swedish striker’s reluctance to make the move to Old Trafford means he will miss out on the chance to play against his former side in the Europa League group stages.

The first game of the group will feature both sides and it is set to be a home encounter for the Red Devils. They had already beaten the La Liga side last time they had met in the same competition when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the manager.

With the transfer of Isak to Newcastle, the Basque club have earned €70 million with another €5million in easily achievable add-ons also set to increase the overall windfall.

The 22-year-old’s buyout clause was set at €90million but the player was adamant to leave for St James’ Park where his wage was set to be tripled.

Sociedad’s smart handling of the transfer also includes a clause they inserted into the deal which states that the club will be liable to be paid 10% of future transfer profit.

Isak’s first test as a Premier League player is set to be a contest against Liverpool.


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The post Alexander Isak had turned down Manchester United approach appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Official: Man United announce signing of Antony from Ajax


Manchester United have confirmed that they have an agreement to sign Ajax winger Antony in a deal worth up to £86m.

The Brazil international now awaits a work permit in order to be ready for selection.

That is unlikely to come through in time for Thursday’s clash with Leicester City, although Erik ten Hag will be hoping to have Antony ready in time for Sunday’s match against Arsenal.

He will bring several new options to the manager, whose squad had previously lacked a left-footed forward or an attacker most comfortable on the right.

It is easy to see why Manchester United were desperate to get their man, but it has not been an easy transfer to negotiate.

Ajax had been unwilling to sell Antony, particularly having already lost a number of key players this summer.

Ryan Gravenberch, Noussair Mazraoui, Sebastien Haller, and United’s own Lisandro Martinez have all been sold by Ajax already in this window.
That goes some way to explaining the Eredivisie Champions’ resolve in extracting such a huge fee for Antony.

The player himself was desperate for a switch to Old Trafford, even going on strike in order to engineer a move away from the Johann Cruyff Arena.

United had at least three bids rejected this summer, with a €90m attempt rejected last week.

Negotiations reached a breakthrough in the last couple of days, with a £86m deal inclusive of add-ons enough to tempt Ajax.

Antony subsequently travelled to complete his medical yesterday.

The fee makes Antony the most expensive outgoing Eredivisie transfer in history, surpassing £75m FC Barcelona spent to acquire none other than Frenkie de Jong back in 2019.

Antony becomes United’s third most expensive signing of all time, with only Romelu Lukaku and Paul Pogba costing more.

Erik ten Hag will no doubt be delighted to have finally secured one of his priority targets, having earmarked him as a potential key player early in the summer.

The pair worked together at Ajax and will be hoping to replicate their success at Old Trafford.
 

 

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The post Official: Manchester United to sign Antony from Ajax appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Potential United XI with Antony plus three reported targets, looks world class


Manchester United are set to complete the summer transfer window with a flurry of activity as they look to give Erik ten Hag the tools he needs to revive the club.

The Red Devils have already added Tyrell Malacia and Lisandro Martinez to the defence, with Casemiro and Christian Eriksen reinforcing the midfield.

Martin Dubravka is set to join the club pending a medical, while Ajax winger Antony has already completed his and could be announced today.

But with uncertainty over Cristiano Ronaldo’s future and his suitability to Erik ten Hag should he stay, United might not be done with the transfer market just yet.

A striker capable of pressing high, linking play, and scoring goals remains a priority.

And with doubts over Ten Hag’s options at right back, more cash could be spent replacing Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who seems totally at odds with the kind of football the Dutchman seeks to implement.

Reports from the reliable Florien Plettenberg indicate that United are weighing up a blockbuster move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.

A jaw dropping €140m deal which would see Ronaldo move in the opposite direction has been mooted.

While it is hard to imagine such a deal being pursued straight off the back of the €100m signing of Antony, should a solution be found, the Nigerian would be a frightening prospect for opposition defences.

Strong, quick, and tireless, Osimhen would suit Ten Hag’s pressing game down to a tee while also being a clever centre forward with a top-class scoring record.

As for the right-back position, United have been linked with FC Barcelona’s Sergino Dest throughout the summer with Sport recently suggesting that a straight swap with Wan-Bissaka going to Spain could be under discussion.

Dest has worked with Ten Hag before and would certainly add more of an attacking threat than the former Crystal Palace man, ranking in the 98th percentile for both Progressive Carries and Dribbles Completed per 90 minutes among all fullbacks in Europe’s Top Five leagues, as per fbref.

With Osimhen stretching defences to provide space for Antony and Jadon Sancho to cut into, Malacia and Dest would make a dangerous pair of attacking fullbacks.
 
 

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The post How Manchester United could shape up once transfer window closes appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

This unbelievable demand is all that stands between Ronaldo and the exit door - report


Manchester United have refused to cover Ronaldo’s wages in a move that would take the star man to Napoli.

According to Ciro Venerato via CN24, there is now little to no chance of the 37-year-old making a return to Serie A with Napoli.

The journalist told Rai 2 that Ronaldo’s last chance of an Old Trafford exit is set to firmly wither away.

“There is now a very limited chance of seeing Ronaldo in the Azzurri colours,” he said.

“This is largely due to economic problems.”

“Napoli could have signed Ronaldo on a loan deal with Manchester United paying almost all the wages.”

“The Red Devils have rejected that proposal.”

It was Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, who reportedly put forward the outrageous proposal.

A swap deal involving the five-time Ballon D’or winner and Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen was suggested by the superagent.

Florian Plettenberg also reported yesterday that United chiefs were big admirers of Osimhen and have him on their list regardless of whether Ronaldo stays or not.

However, with the transfer window closing in two days, it is unlikely that such a huge operation will get over the line.

It is ludicrous to imagine that Ronaldo and his facilitators would think that his current club would accept sending him on loan, while also covering the total cost of his extremely high wages.

If he is as desperate for a move away as it appears, maybe he should facilitate it by taking a pay cut and making a deal feasible for the Partenopei.
 
 

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Former Blues great set to get one over United as he looks to snatch fan favourite star

The last week has been quite productive for Manchester United. Two back-to-back wins have lifted the pressure off of Erik ten Hag’s shoulders and the players seem to be in a much more buoyant mood.

The club has also secured the signing of Antony who was always the manager’s first choice for the problematic right-wing position. His arrival will change the dynamics of the right flank considering United have so many players of the same profile.

The imminent arrival of Martin Dubravka will also add much needed depth to the goalkeeping department with the new manager not exactly impressed with what he has seen of David de Gea so far.

More incomings are not expected unless Cristiano Ronaldo decides to depart the club, in which case a backup striker might be recruited with the Red Devils monitoring Memphis Depay‘s situation.

But as of now, most of the focus is expected to be on outgoings with the Dutch boss having to work with quite a bloated squad full of fringe players and academy graduates desperate for first-team minutes.

Garner on the way out

One player who was expected to make his way into Ten Hag’s plans for the season was James Garner. The midfielder who shone during his stint with Nottingham Forest in the Championship is surprisingly set to be offloaded permanently this window.

Fans were devastated to learn of this but are now resigned to the fact that one of their brightest academy graduates will most likely leave the club especially after the manager gave the green light for the signing of midfield general Casemiro.

Garner had the chance to impress during pre-season but a minor injury meant his playing time was severely curtailed and he could not catch the eye of Ten Hag.

Garner is not short of suitors with The Peoples Person previously reporting that as many as four Premier League clubs — Southampton, Leicester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton — were vying for his signature.

The England U-21 international is valued at around £14million and he was a substitute for the opening two games before being left out of the squad altogether for the remaining two fixtures.

Everton leading the chase

Currently, it seems Frank Lampard’s team are leading the race with The Athletic mentioning that the Merseyside club have drawn up a list of midfield targets and Garner is high on that list.

James Garner is their top target in addition to Idrissa Gueye (or as an alternative) but Everton are waiting for Manchester United to engage,” David Ornstein wrote in his article.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano gave an update to Wett Freunde and mentioned how United had previously turned down a bid from the Saints for the 21-year-old.

“In the next 24-48 hours, James Garner could be the next player to leave Man Utd. And Garner (Who has returned from his loan to Nottingham Forest last season) could be a permanent deal because Southampton made a bid during the weekend but Man Utd said no. They turned down the opening proposal but also Everton are interested,” he was quoted as saying.


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Another Ten Hag transfer target close to failure as Premier League rivals swoop in - Sky


If Manchester United are still keen on signing PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo, they had better move fast.

According to Sky’s Rob Dorsett, Southampton are making a move for the winger and have had a £21 million bid for him rejected.

Dorsett tweeted:

“#saints see £21m bid for #PSV winger Cody Gakpo rejected. Dutch club holding out for £25m. Gakpo keen on move to Premier League, and was disappointed when #mufc withdrew interest to focus on Antony.”

However, with Erik ten Hag a big fan of his compatriot, a £25 million price tag could draw the Red Devils back into the bidding.

PSV were looking for around €50 million (£42m) when they looked as if they would qualify for the Champions League.

But having been knocked out of the final qualifying round by Rangers, their need to sell Gakpo has increased.

United, for their part, are still heavily rumoured to be looking for another forward despite the imminent signing of Antony from Ajax.

With Cristiano Ronaldo and Anthony Martial the only recognised strikers in the side, one of whom could be set to leave and the other injured, that position could be the priority although Gakpo does have experience in playing up front.

Other names touted include Barcelona’s Memphis Depay and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Athletico Madrid’s Alvaro Morata, but none of them look promising at this stage.

Aubameyang, in particular, now looks close to sealing a move elsewhere.

We would not be surprised if United were to move for Gakpo if they don’t leave it too late.

 
 

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Monday, 29 August 2022

Race on to register star signing for this showdown clash - report


Ajax winger Antony is set to have his Manchester United medical later today.

According to the Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell, the Brazilian is scheduled to undergo all the necessary procedures in a few hours as he edges closer to completing a €100m move to the Theatre of Dreams.

Italian journalist and transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has also confirmed that the player will soon be in Manchester as the saga for the 22-year-old draws to a close.

Antony will fly to Manchester in the next hours, it will be today.”

“It’s now decided and confirmed.

“Medical has been already booked.

“He will be together with his agents. Contracts already approved on both player and clubs side.”

The Red Devils had a breakthrough yesterday in their negotiations with Ajax after an initial €90m was rejected.

An improved final bid of €95m + €5m in add-ons was later accepted by the Eredivisie champions who saw no need in keeping an unhappy player within their ranks.

Pending the outcome of his medical today, Antony will soon be available for selection.

As per Simon Stone, Leicester City on Thursday may be too soon for the new signing.

“Antony will need a work permit in order to play for Manchester United and the deal is not completed yet.”

“It seems unlikely he will be involved vs Leicester.”

“Debut is more likely to come against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday.”

Fans will be relieved that United and Ten Hag finally have their man.

The post Antony’s Manchester United medical set for later today appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

United could make dramatic swoop as rivals dither over £25m striker - report

Manchester United are still keeping tabs on Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Chelsea are cooling their interest in the former Arsenal striker with United still lurking.

“Chelsea are having second thoughts about signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Barcelona.

“Manchester United have been keeping tabs on the Barcelona striker ahead of Thursday’s transfer deadline.”

The Red Devils have still not made an offer for the 33-year-old, something Chelsea have already done.

“Chelsea made a proposal worth £15million ($17.6m) to sign the former Arsenal striker earlier this month.

“They [Chelsea] have not yet reached an agreement with Barcelona or personal terms with the player.”

On the Blues’ reluctance and apparent change of heart regarding a possible move for the Gabon international, the article further goes on to say, “There is a question mark over the value of the proposed deal given Aubameyang is 33.”

“Aubameyang will expect a high salary, while Chelsea would want to include performance incentives.”

Along with Aubameyang, the 20-time English champions also have an interest in Memphis Depay.

It is clear that Ten Hag is after another striker because of the injury concerns around Anthony Martial and uncertainty over the future of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Regardless of whether he stays or not, it can be deduced that the Dutchman does not see the 37-year-old as being crucial to his plans. Bringing in Aubameyang or Depay would offset the need for United’s current No 7.

The post Manchester United keeping tabs on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

The Athletic unconvinced about United's talisman despite match-winning performance - report


Manchester United cruised to a 1-0 victory against Southampton on Saturday, courtesy of a Bruno Fernandes goal.

While the Portuguese may have grabbed the headlines as a result of his brilliant finish, The Athletic’s Carl Anka reveals in an analysis of the playmaker that he has plenty to improve upon.

As per Anka, who describes Fernandes as a man fond of high-risk, high-reward passes forward, the number 8 must find a way to cut out the risks in his displays while maintaining a similar level of rewards to his teammates.

Anka says, “This is Bruno Fernandes. A man always trying to ‘make things happen’ but occasionally a player who neglects the good things that are already happening around him.”

“Fernandes is a player with a tendency to try to do everything.”

On Fernandes’ role against Southampton and his contributions, Anka says “In the first half, it appeared the plan was to use Fernandes more as an off-ball runner making late sprints into the penalty area.”

“It is an adjustment to Fernandes’ typical game as an on-ball creator and speaks to the wider recalibration the entire squad requires under [United manager Erik] Ten Hag.”

The Athletic reporter also outlined the difference between Fernandes, currently and under former manager, Ole Gunnar Solksjaer, who bought him from Sporting Lisbon.

“Fernandes cuts a very different figure in 2022-23 than the one who arrived in January 2020 and served as the attacking catalyst to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team.”

“He is no longer being asked to serve as the conduit for all of his team’s attacks but is now responsible for ball retention and regulation as United try to move from the edge of their penalty area to the opposition’s.”

“A pass completion rate of 68 per cent (on 37 passes) indicates Fernandes will take time to adjust. His touch map from Saturday still carries the mark of a man who wants to go everywhere all at once.”

“Fernandes will continue to retain Ten Hag’s favour as he is someone able to make something out of nothing. But as the United manager looks to make a team that can constantly produce, the 27-year-old will have to adjust.”

“The high-risk/high-reward cavalier needs to find a way to lower the risk to his team.”

The post Carl Anka: Bruno Fernandes will have to readjust his game appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Ronaldo transfer takes new twist as major rivals consider massive u-turn - report

Slowly but surely, the Manchester United squad is starting to take shape with the club trying to get new manager Erik ten Hag his desired profiles before the transfer window slams shut.

The defence definitely looks much stronger after the addition of Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia. Both played a huge role as United claimed back-to-back wins for the first time since February.

The midfield was one of the weakest areas of the pitch and the Dutchman had made strengthening it one of his priorities. The arrival of free agent Christian Eriksen and Casemiro from Real Madrid means it now looks in much better shape.

But question marks remain over the attacking options at Ten Hag’s disposal. Anthony Martial‘s injury woes mean a back-up striker is most likely required especially considering the uncertainty surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s future.

The Portuguese has time and again declared his intention to play in the Champions League with his agent Jorge Mendes desperately trying to entice top European clubs to bid for his client.

So far, nothing has worked out as clubs from Germany, France and Spain have all said no to the Portugal international. With just a couple of days left before the window slams shut, Mendes is in a race against time to find Ronaldo a Champions League club.

Chelsea once again in the fray

At one point, new Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly seemed to be enamoured with the idea of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner joining the London outfit.

But Thomas Tuchel was reluctant to sanction the signing of the 37-year-old star striker who remains averse to the idea of pressing from the front.

The Independent have now reported that the Blues are growing desperate for a striker with both Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner departing the club.

They are considering reviving their interest in Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha with Ronaldo also remaining an option as Tuchel looks for the right fit.

“Jorge Mendes has meanwhile returned to Chelsea investigating whether a deal for Cristiano Ronaldo is possible. As of the weekend, though, Tuchel was still reluctant to bring in the Manchester United striker,” the article goes on to state.

Despite being a proven goalscorer, Ten Hag will be better served if the circus surrounding United’s No 7 were to leave Manchester. A back-up option in Cody Gakpo or Memphis Depay would be beneficial for United as Ten Hag looks to stamp his authority.

The post Jorge Mendes pushing Cristiano Ronaldo towards Chelsea appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

United’s flawed genius could be heading to the midlands in make-or-break loan deal

Birmingham City remain interested in Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri after a difficult start to the season.

The Peoples Person had reported that the Championship club were heavily interested in securing the youngster on a temporary basis.

At the time, they were also seen as the front-runners to sign the midfielder on loan despite the interest of several clubs from the Championship as well as abroad.

Clubs such as FC Andorra of Spain have also thrown their name into the mix and it has become a bit of a battle to secure Mejbri’s signature.

According to the Daily Mail, Man United are now preparing to send the 19-year-old on loan to Birmingham.

They find themselves sitting just outside the relegation zone after losing two successive games.

Strikers Troy Deeney and Scott Hogan are in desperate need of a playmaker who can create goal-scoring chances for them and save them from a difficult season.

After only scoring three goals from six matches, the club are desperately trying to convince the Tunisian international to join them on a season-long loan.

If a deal does go ahead, Mejbri would be the fifth United player to depart the club as United desperately try to trim a bloated squad and find the best possible destination for the development of their academy graduates.

It will be seen as a good deal for the youngster who needs to go out and play regularly as he bids to impress both his club manager as well as his international coach.

The Red Devils have used the Championship this season to loan out some of their promising academy stars.

Ethan Laird joined Queens Park Rangers on a season-long loan after a disappointing spell with Bournemouth.

Spanish youngster Alvaro Fernandez also completed a temporary departure to Preston in July.

United will spend the closing days of the transfer window trying to finalise a couple of signings while figuring out solutions for some of the fringe players.

The post Birmingham City are still interested in a loan deal for Hannibal Mejbri appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Double deal possible for United as another star could be joining Antony today

After four Premier League games, things seem to be looking up for Manchester United. Two back-to-back wins have offset the losses suffered in the opening two encounters.

And now with the imminent arrival of right-winger Antony from Ajax, Erik ten Hag is edging closer to having his desired squad. With just a couple of days left, there are still positions United need to strengthen in.

One of the key areas where the club is looking for reinforcements is the goalkeeping department. Following the loan departure of Dean Henderson to Nottingham Forest, United have been left with only two senior keepers — David de Gea and Tom Heaton.

And it is safe to say that De Gea’s long-term future as United’s No 1 is in danger. While his shot-stopping skills were never in doubt, it is his ability with the ball and his penchant for not leaving the line which has let him down this season.

Ten Hag is a big advocate of playing out from the back and he wants his keeper to be good with the ball and wants him to initiate attacks while also being able to come out of his line to play as sweeper-keeper so that the team can maintain a high line.

And De Gea is not exactly known for these attributes and so far, has conceded seven times in four games, which includes two disastrous mistakes against Brentford.

Dubravka the next man in

United had prepared a shortlist of five shot-stoppers with the likes of Yann Sommer, Tim Krul, Daniel Bachmann, Odysseas Vlachodimos and Kevin Trapp.

Trapp turned down the chance to move to Old Trafford and now the Red Devils are actively pursuing Martin Dubravka of Newcastle United. Personal terms have already been agreed with the Slovak and he wants to come to United.

Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano in his exclusive Caught Offside column revealed that United have already lodged a bid for the Slovakian international and the Magpies are likely to discuss the offer today.

“Manchester United have submitted an official bid during the weekend: loan with £5m buy option, Newcastle want permanent deal so it will be discussed again on Monday,” the Italian wrote.

Dubravka recently lost his place to Nick Pope and wants a new challenge and feels he can push United’s Spanish keeper all the way. A loan arrangement makes sense with Henderson impressing at Forest.

According to the Italian, Dubravka might be the last bit of action United embark on for this transfer window unless some major outgoings happen in the last few days. A forward might become of interest in the case Cristiano Ronaldo decides to leave the club.

The post Manchester United edging closer to Martin Dubravka deal appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

United loanee makes big statement crowning dazzling display with this heroic action

Manchester United loanee Dean Henderson produced yet another fine display on Sunday, this time against Tottenham Hotspur.

Despite Nottingham Forest losing 0-2 courtesy of a Harry Kane double, Henderson’s performance was immense, placing him head and shoulders above his teammates.

The England international’s crowning achievement of the game was him saving a Harry Kane penalty early in the second half.

Spurs were awarded a penalty after a bizarre Steve Cook handball, with Henderson’s international teammate and Three Lions captain Harry Kane stepping up to take it.

The United loanee denied him in spectacular fashion, diving low to deny the Spurs man from making it 2-0, although he went ahead and scored later on.

After his heroic save at the City Ground, Henderson joined an exclusive club of shot-stoppers who have denied Kane from the spot. The 25-year-old joins the likes of Adrian, Fraser Forster and Loris Karius in the list.

He also became the first goalkeeper to save a Kane penalty since 2018. Henderson’s stellar performance will no doubt heap extra pressure on United’s long-term No. 1 David de Gea.

With Sunday’s incredible penalty save, Henderson has now saved the last two penalties he has faced in the Premier League, denying Declan Rice from the spot to clinch all three points versus the London club.

Apart from the save, Henderson was brilliant in his distribution, sweeping and in initiating quick counter-attacks – all qualities United supporters have accused De Gea of lacking.

The Spaniard’s limitations were painfully obvious against Southampton at the weekend, where Erik ten Hag and the team were forced to abandon their attempts to play out from the back, with De Gea instead electing to go long every time.

The club have been looking for an alternative with Newcastle’s Martin Dubravka tipped to arrive next after Antony as Ten Hag looks to increase the competition for the No 1 spot.

As per the reliable Fabrizio Romano, a deal has not yet been agreed between United and the Magpies. The 20-time English champions want a loan with a buy option, while Newcastle prefer a more permanent solution.

United’s goalkeeping troubles have been glaringly exposed due to Henderson’s brilliance for Forest. Fans cannot help but wonder whether he would have been the answer if he had decided to stay back at Old Trafford.

The post Dean Henderson puts in impressive display against Tottenham Hotspur appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.