Ten Hag to allow Premier League rival to swoop for unhappy United star - report

Chelsea are looking to make a shock January move for Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho.

According to teamtalk.com, the Blues are ready to swoop for Sancho who is reportedly unhappy with life at Old Trafford.

Sancho, who signed for United in the summer of 2021, is yet to recreate the form he showed at Borussia Dortmund that secured his £73 million move to Manchester.

Flickers of quality have come and gone in his year and a bit at United, with a lack of consistency hindering his ability to nail down a starting spot in the side.

Sancho’s omission from Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad is indicative of the struggles he has faced over the last year.

But at 22 years of age, there is plenty of time for the forward to grow into his United shirt, which can weigh heavy on even the most experienced of players.

United endured one of their worst seasons in recent memory last year, which did not help Sancho settle into his new role at a brand new club.

United’s other top summer signing Raphael Varane also suffered the same fate last season.

However, despite a strong pre-season and early season promise, Sancho’s form has dipped this season as well.

His place in new manager Erik ten Hag’s side has come under increasing threat from Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford.

It is believed Ten Hag is happy to cut his losses on Sancho as he stamps his authority on this United side.

If he is to be moved on, United will reportedly not settle for anything less than £50 million for a player with undoubted huge potential.

Juventus are also interested in singing Sancho but would find it hard to compete with Chelsea financially at this moment in time.

Despite the interest and Sancho’s lack of form, it would be a shock to see him leave Old Trafford this early into his time at the club.

Proven in his time at Dortmund, Sancho has the potential to light up the Premier League and it would be a huge gamble from United to let him go given his age, especially to a direct rival such as Chelsea.

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Club CEO confirms club is "considering bids" for unsettled wonderkid as United circle

Atletico Madrid are bracing themselves for the departure of Manchester United target Joao Felix.

Numerous reports over recent weeks have detailed the extent of the deterioration in Felix and Diego Simeone’s relationship.

The player is extremely unhappy with his role in the team and the team’s style of play which does not get the best out of him.

The Red Devils are among a host of clubs chasing Felix’s signature.

Felix played in Portugal’s thumping win against Switzerland and impressed, giving United fans a taste of what he could bring to Old Trafford.

The 23-year-old capped his dazzling display with two assists.

Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil confirmed Felix’s intention to leave and reiterated that the Spanish giants are willing to consider bids to facilitate an exit after the World Cup.

He said, “It is the biggest bet the club has made [buying Felix]. I think he has the highest level in the world, but for the reasons that now it is not worth entering.”

“The relationship between the coach and him is not good nor is his motivation.”

He added, “The reasonable thing to do is to think that he will come out, although I would love for him to continue, but this is not the player’s idea.”

Miguel Ángel Gil also said that the fans have Simeone “in mind”, referencing supporters’ love for coach and manager over any player.

Atlético CEO Gil Marín: “João Felix has top level but because of his relationship with Simeone and game time… we feel that makes sense to consider potential bids to sell him”, tells TVE. 🚨⚪️🔴 #transfers

“I’d love for João to continue, but this is the current situation”. pic.twitter.com/n14N2kPr1K

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 6, 2022

United should ensure they are in the running for Felix. His high potential and versatility across multiple positions as seen so far for Portugal renders him an invaluable player that would be a real asset for Erik ten Hag.

With the player hellbent on an exit, along with the CEO’s confirmation, it is possible that a reasonable price can be agreed upon.

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Erik ten Hag finally breaks silence on Cristiano Ronaldo departure from United

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has broken his silence on Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from the club.

Speaking ahead of today’s friendly match against Cadiz, Ten Hag tersely said ““He’s gone and it’s the past.

“We are now looking forward and we’re looking to the future.”

Ten Hag discussing Ronaldo’s #MUFC exit for the first time:
“He’s gone and it’s the past. We are now looking forward and we’re looking to the future.”

— James Ducker (@TelegraphDucker) December 7, 2022

Ronaldo left the club by mutual consent after a series of tantrums and an ill-advised warts-and-all interview with Piers Morgan which was unsanctioned by the club.

In the interview he criticised the club and players and said he has “no respect” for Ten Hag.

After taking legal advice, the club opted to terminate the player’s contract, making him a free agent just before the World Cup.

Similar tantrums have been in evidence for Portugal, with the 37 year old swearing at coach Fernando Santos after he was substituted against South Korea.

This led to Ronaldo being dropped for the round of 16 tie against Switzerland yesterday, which the Seleção won 6-1, largely due to the exploits of Ronaldo’s replacement in the centre forward position, Gonçalo Ramos.

Ramos scored a hat trick and provided an assist in the game.

As for United, they will face Cadiz today with their last remaining striker, Anthony Martial, likely to play up top.

A bid for Ramos, who has a €75m release clause, or PSV’s Cody Gakpo, could be forthcoming from the Red Devils in January as they look to replace the outgoing star.

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Luis Suarez sends heartfelt message to struggling United star after World Cup heartbreak

Former Liverpool and Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has backed Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri to go on and prove himself on the big stage.

Suarez’s sent a message to Pellistri after Uruguay’s shock exit on the final day of the tournament’s group stage.

Uruguay beat their old-time rivals Ghana, but it was not enough as South Korea won late in the match against Portugal to effectively dump La Celeste out.

Pellistri was a prominent feature in Diego Alonso’s plans and played all of his country’s three games, starting two of them.

This was despite the youngster not establishing himself at United under either Ole Gunnar Solskjaer or Erik ten Hag.

Pellistri’s lack of involvement for the 20-time English champions has raised a lot of questions, with the player and his representatives now keen on a solution.

A few weeks ago, his agent stated that Pellistri’s Old Trafford exit was “imminent.”

United on the other hand, according to Fabrizio Romano, will explore loan options for the 20-year-old in the January transfer window.

Pellistri posted a heartfelt message on social media after Uruguay’s heartbreaking exit. He expressed his disappointment at the final result but stated his intention to come back stronger and harder.

He wrote, “So sad we didn’t achieve more. Thank you to everyone who supported us! This continues, we will come back stronger!”

Suarez replied to the United man’s message and remarked, “We have to keep going, Facu.”

“You will always have a rematch!”

“Keep on giving yourself to the maximum always.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by facundo🤘🏼 (@facu_pellistri)

With luck, Pellistri will heed Suarez’s advice and use it as a launching pad to force himself into Erik ten Hag’s plans.

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French press single out United Star as Three Lions’ weakest link

England kept their third clean sheet of the tournament against Senegal to secure their place in the quarter-finals. The Three Lions will next battle defending world champions France on Saturday for a spot in the semi-finals.

The clash takes place at Al Bayt Stadium.

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been identified as the potential chink in England’s armour (via The Mirror).

After a nervous start to their Round-of-16 tie against the African side, Gareth Southgate’s men ending up winning 3-0.

Between England and the semi-finals stands one of Qatar 2022’s favourites and the tournament’s current top scorer. France and Kylian Mbappe will be looking to become the first side in six decades to retain the World Cup trophy.

The threat to Maguire’s World Cup campaign

While the Three Lions’ defence has been anything but porous, they will be up against one of the tournament’s most prolific attacks.

Mbappe, who helped his team dispatch Poland with a brace in the first knockout game in Qatar, will be keen to add to his tally against the English.

United captain Harry Maguire has had a forgettable season at club level. Despite lacklustre club performances, he has held his own in the Three Lions backline. His critics have had little to latch onto, with three clean sheets in four games.

However, the French press believes that Maguire’s luck will soon run out as his lack of pace will prove England’s Achilles’ heel.

“The winner will not be the team that has the most possession, but the one that uses it with the most suddenness,” L’Equipe suggested.

“Harry Maguire‘s slowness could prove detrimental to the England rear guard, which Gareth Southgate could strengthen by abandoning his 4-3-3 for a 3-4-3, as he does every time he faces the best selections.”

The return of Kyle Walker

Maguire will not be facing France’s attacking force alone.

Kyle Walker will likely be tasked with keeping tabs on Mbappe. Keeping the PSG star at bay will be no mean feat but a crucial component of winning the clash.

L’Equipe predicts, “The face-off between Mbappe and Kyle Walker, who has just returned from a long groin injury that kept him away from the field for almost two months, will be key to unlocking the match.”

Now more than ever, fans will need to rally behind their team and Maguire if they are to stop the defending champions from progressing to the semi-finals.

The contest between England and France is, beyond doubt, a spectacle the world will watch with bated breath.

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United "highly involved" in race to sign Croatia star says Tier 1 journalist

Manchester United are keen on signing Croatia’s World Cup star Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig, although they will face intense competition from Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.

That is according to journalist Florian Plettenberg, who earlier tweeted the following:

“News #Gvardiol: We’ve been told: NO release clause in his contract until 2027.

“But lots of top clubs informed about him for 2023. #CFC, #MUFC, Real and Barcelona highly involved. For Tuchel he was the main target.

“Boehly also focused on him. NO contact with Bayern.”

News #Gvardiol: We’ve been told: NO release clause in his contract until 2027. But lots of top clubs informed about him for 2023. #CFC, #MUFC, Real and Barcelona highly involved. For Tuchel he was the main target. Boehly also focused on him. NO contact with Bayern. @SkySportDE 🇭🇷 pic.twitter.com/XQsOqjzpEx

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) December 5, 2022

As reported by The Peoples Person ahead of Croatia’s last-sixteen penalty-shootout win over Japan, Gvardiol was Ralf Rangnick top recommendation to improve United’s defence during his ill-fated stint as interim manager.

United are likely to look for a left-footed central defender at some point in the near future, with summer signing Lisandro Martinez currently the only one in the squad.

It would not be unthinkable for the club to revisit Rangnick’s recommendation

But having spent around €57m on the Argentine, it is highly unlikely that the club would spend even more than that figure just to cover Martinez.

And with 20-year-old Gvardiol already a player with a profile that demands regular action, United would surely be looking at options more willing to play a rotation role in Erik ten Hag’s team.

That is only compounded by the news that Gvardiol does not have a release clause in his contract, despite reports elsewhere.

Chelsea’s interest is longstanding, and Todd Boehly is near-certain to make another move for the Leipzig defender, perhaps as early as January.

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La Liga giants plan to hinder United's move for best-case January option - report

With Erik ten Hag at the helm, Manchester United are slowly but surely on their way up with the club currently three points off fourth place with a game in hand.

The addition of Lisandro Martinez has transformed the defence while Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have added steel and guile to the centre of the park. But it is upfront where problems have continued to persist.

Marcus Rashford has been a breath of fresh air this season, and is the club’s top scorer. But his profligacy when clean through on goal shows there is work that needs to be done to improve his finishing.

United need a striker

Anthony Martial‘s goals-to-minutes ratio is impressive but injury woes have restricted him to only two starts in the Premier League and three overall in 21 games across all competitions.

Cristiano Ronaldo‘s unceremonious exit from the club after his incendiary interview has meant that plans to recruit an elite top-scorer next summer have been needed to be preponed to January.

*Depay Transfer Rumours*
🔴🔴🔴Manchester United are the most interested club in signing Netherlands forward Memphis Depay during the January transfer window, as Spanish publication AS said.#MUFC #ManchesterUnited #ManUtd #ManUnited #MUMUfootball pic.twitter.com/T19hCqKDAh

— MUMU Football (@MUMUfootball) December 6, 2022

A variety of names have been linked with the Red Devils with Cody Gakpo and Joao Felix among the front-runners. But due to the club’s over £200 million splurge in the summer, available funds are expected to be low.

Both PSV Eindhoven and Atletico Madrid are planning to up their asking prices for their star players after seeing their World Cup displays.

Barca banking on WC for Depay sale

Memphis Depay of Barcelona might be United’s next best option. The Dutchman’s contract is set to expire in the summer of 2023 and the Catalan giants will be more than happy to let him go in the winter considering his high wages.

According to AS, “Barça sees in his performances in the World Cup a wonderful market share to be able to offer as soon as he opens up to new transfer window.”

The 28-year-old striker, who is second in the list of top international goal scorers for his country, will be free to speak to foreign clubs regarding a summer transfer, something Barcelona want to avoid.

And they feel that his World Cup displays might help them get a solid transfer fee in for a player they got for free.

Xavi does not have the former United star in his plans and would be happy to add a player on the right flank for the money acquired from his sale.

Among the interested parties are United, Sevilla and Serie A giants Roma. Depay is said to be entertaining the possibility of a move only to an elite club and his United connection could tilt things in Ten Hag’s favour.

It remains to be seen whether United would be willing to pay a large fee for Depay. Barcelona are aware of the fact that the Reds have shown the most interest in a possible transfer.

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Setback for United: Barca ready with "open arms" to accept rival bid for target

Manchester United are set to lose out on yet another Erik ten Hag target, Sergino Dest.

The American was linked to United in the closing period of the summer window but a transfer never came to fruition.

Dest’s arrival was contingent on Aaron Wan-Bissaka leaving the club either permanently or on loan. The United right-back ended up staying, hence a move for Dest fell apart.

The defender instead joined Serie A champions AC Milan on a loan deal.

According to Mundo Deportivo, United might not get the chance to sign the player who was wanted by Ten Hag, with AC Milan mulling over whether to make his loan move permanent.

The publication writes, “In the ‘rossonero’ group they have been impressed with the good performances of the American winger in the World Cup in Qatar.”

“The latest information coming from Italy assures that they are willing to pay 20 million euros to obtain his final signing.”

“Sergiño Dest hopes to have a greater role in the final stretch of the season with AC Milan and justify that the Italians’ commitment to get his loan was a success.”

The indication is that the right-back’s parent club, Barcelona are more than happy to permanently offload the 22-year-old and would receive the funds with “open arms”.

Not only would the Catalan club write off Dest’s wages from their books, but the incoming transfer fee would significantly help in improving their impoverished financial situation.

Before the USA were knocked out by the Netherlands, Dest was having a superb tournament and was easily one of his country’s best players.

It will be interesting to see whether United reignite their interest in Dest in the future or look at other options.

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Picture: Neymar in touching tribute to injured United star

Brazil superstar Neymar dedicated his goal against South Korea to Manchester United loanee Alex Telles.

Neymar was on the scoresheet as the Seleçao thumped South Korea by four goals to one, ensuring the tournament favourites advance to the next round of the competition.

The PSG star grabbed his side’s second from a spot-kick after Real Madrid man Vinicius Jr opened Brazil’s account on the night.

Neymar, who was initially a doubt for the game, produced a stunning performance.

Telles was ruled out of the competition after picking up a severe knee injury, which may need surgery.

The Mirror reports on Neymar’s tribute to Telles, “Brazilian superstar Neymar dashed straight over to injured teammate Alex Telles after he netted his nation’s second goal against South Korea in their round-of-16 World Cup clash.

“Instead of revelling in the moment himself, Neymar opted to make his way over to crocked colleague Telles, who was watching on from the sidelines.”

Telles, who is currently out on loan in Spain with Sevilla, recently took to social media to express his disappointment and sadness at not being able to play any further part in Brazil’s Qatar campaign.

In his statement the 29 year old compared his setback to bends that must be endured during a lengthy and tedious journey.

The full-back reiterated that his injury was not the end and he is still looking forward to representing his country in future tournaments.

Telles finished off by offering his support to his teammates who will next be on the pitch fighting it out against Croatia in the quarter finals.

Hopefully, Telles is not sidelined for long and will still be able to play a significant role in Sevilla’s La Liga season.

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"Not 100% happy": United midfielder demands more despite emphatic win

On Saturday, die-hard Manchester United fan, Ella Toone stepped onto the hallowed Old Trafford turf once more and put in a player-of-the-match performance in the Reds 5-0 victory over Aston Villa.

Afterwards she spoke to Sky Sports about the freedom she has at Manchester United as she excels week on week.

Toone registered two assists in the epic victory in front of 30,196 fans.

“I feel like Marc gives me that freedom to go out and express myself on the pitch and get into pockets of space, get on the ball, be brave and try different things,” she said.

She continued, “I felt like I did that today, I found little pockets of space and enjoyed having the ball.”

It is widely known that Toone and Alessia Russo, the scorer of United’s third goal, are best friends off the pitch, the pair linked up perfectly to put the game out of reach for Villa.

Speaking of their partnership on the pitch Toone said, “She makes me look good a lot of the time. I know I can fizz it into her and she’ll get hold of it.”

“I think we’ve got that relationship on and off the pitch. It helps when you build those relationships off the pitch, it always helps going onto it.”

She was full of praise for the 23 year old who also grew up a United fan, “Alessia is a great player, I know what her strengths are so I work really well with her and we link up really well.”

Russo wasn’t the only one receiving high praise from Toone as full-back Batlle, who assisted one and scored another of the five goals was also spoken highly of in her post match comments.

“She played amazing today. Every week she puts in very consistent performances for us so [I’m] delighted she got the goal at Old Trafford.”

In their post-match interviews both Toone and Marc Skinner outlined the team’s intentions and standards for the season and insisted that despite a dominant disply, there is still room for improvement.

“I think our standards are that high that we’re probably not 100 percent happy with that performance. We want more from ourselves and so much more, but we’re really happy with the three points and five goals.”

The 5-0 display was witnessed by a new club record home crowd.

When asked about the fans Toone said, “It’s amazing, it’s what we want. We want to put on those performances to get fans back in stadiums and watching us and supporting us. They’ve been amazing ever since we’ve formed the club and they keep growing in numbers.”

The Reds will be in action in the Conti Cup on Wednesday at Leigh Sports Village and next weekend they will face City at the Etihad.

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From Germany: World Cup star perfect for Ten Hag set for bargain United move

Switzerland’s World Cup star Yann Sommer is a target for Manchester United as they search for a replacement for David de Gea.

Sommer was of interest to the Red Devils in the summer, but a deal failed to materialise, with United instead signing Martin Dubravka on loan to back up their number one.

The Swiss international reportedly wanted to stay put in the run up to the World Cup in order to guarantee that he entered the tournament in settled form.

But now Bild reports of a “lightning change” in circumstances, with a summer move a high possibility.

As well as De Gea, Tom Heaton and Martin Dubravka will also be leaving Old Trafford as things stand, while Dean Henderson has surely burnt his bridges at the club during his loan spell at Nottingham Forest.

That leaves United in desperate need of reinforcements between the sticks, and while Sommer has said that his situation was “good how it is” for now, he is thought to be open to the move.

Sporting Director Roland Virkus appears to have accepted that the player may want to move on, having recently said, “I can’t say in which direction this is going.

“It’s really like I say fifty-fifty. Why? Not because the club doesn’t want to give Yann any prospects.

“Yann knows very well that he is a very important component of our management structure. But you also have personal goals.

“Maybe you want to play at another club after all. Maybe you want to get another championship somewhere. He has to weigh all of that.”

The Borussia Monchengladbach goalkeeper has been in fine form in Qatar, making nine saves in his two group stage matches.

That includes five in a heroic performance against Cameroon as Sommer saw his side to a clean sheet in their opening match.

At club level, the Swiss international has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga and works well in Gladbach’s high-pressing system.

He ranks in the top 2% of all goalkeepers across Europe’s ‘Big Five’ domestic leagues for touches per match, a statistic that will impress Erik ten Hag as it demonstrates his value to the team’s build up play. (fbref)

As Ten Hag continues to transition the United side into a more proactive possession team, Sommer could be an ideal candidate to modernise the goalkeeper position at the club.

Given that he will be available on a free transfer in the summer, it would also free up funds for the Red Devils to strengthen key outfield positions.

United fans will have a chance to see Sommer do battle with recently-terminated Cristiano Ronaldo tomorrow at 7pm, when Switzerland take on Portugal in the last sixteen clash.

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Portugal fans in massive rejection of Ronaldo on eve of World Cup showdown

Ex-Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo should not keep his place in Portugal’s National Team ahead of his country’s last-sixteen match against Switzerland in the Qatar World Cup.

That is according to a recent A Bola poll, which saw a whopping 70% of readers calling for Fernando Santos to drop him for the encounter.

The Athletic had previously reported that Ronaldo maintained a “god-like” status in his home country but now, it appears, the tides are turning.

His performances at the World Cup have been – quite frankly – abysmal. Shockingly so to many Portugal watchers during the tournament.

But the reality is that Ronaldo is playing exactly the same way he played for Manchester United in the run up to Qatar.

Needless offsides, an inability to get away from defenders, and appalling misses on the rare occasion he does fashion a chance for himself, have all been hallmarks of the 2022 Ronaldo.

He still takes a good penalty, mind you, and that skill accounts for his only goal of the tournament thus far.

His ability to affect games has diminished to the point where a player by any other name would have been laughed out of the squad for expecting his teammates to pick up the defensive responsibilities he chooses to eschew.

And with the Portugal captain throwing yet another in a long line of strops after his substitution against South Korea – a match in which he performed terribly – there can’t be many who seriously believe that Ronaldo is worth the trouble he bring.

Indeed, with the wealth of talent in the Portuguese national side, there is a sense that they have made it into the last sixteen in spite of Ronaldo.

Rafael Leao, Joao Felix, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva could form an excitingly dynamic attacking quartet, capable of pressing high and flummoxing defenders all the way to the final.

But with Fernando Santos seemingly willing to persist with Ronaldo though the heavens fall, it is unlikely that anyone will get to see it in action for a full match, certainly not without the weight of their albatross.

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Spanish giants hoping key star's high release clause can stop United in January

A leaky defence and a mediocre midfield ailed Manchester United last campaign as they ended up finishing a dismal sixth in the Premier League.

That necessitated a major overhaul and Ajax’s highly successful manager Erik ten Hag was entrusted with the unenviable task of restoring United’s former glory.

The Dutchman quickly got down to work and one of his first decisions was to sign a couple of defenders and midfielders each as he sought to build a solid spine.

Big money was spent to upgrade the midfield as multiple Champions League winner Casemiro was brought in from Real Madrid while free agent Christian Eriksen addressed the team’s lack of creativity in the centre of the park.

Midfield search

However, due to both player’s being 30 currently and Fred‘s future being up in the air, more midfield additions will be required and the Dutchman is trying to find the ideal target.

High-profile names such as Frenkie de Jong, Jude Bellingham and Moises Caicedo have been doing the rounds since the summer.

The latest name to be added to the list is Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, a player the Dutch manager fell in love with after his team’s two duels with the Spanish side in the Europa League group stages.

*Zubimendi Transfer Rumours*
🔴🔴🔴Manchester United are exploring the possibility of activating the £51.5m release clause of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, as Sport Witness said. But #ManUnited are yet to make contact with his club.#ManUtd #MUFC #ManchesterUnited pic.twitter.com/Vo3lP2BwVW

— MUMU Football (@MUMUfootball) December 4, 2022

As previously reported by The Peoples Person, Barcelona are also in the race for the 23-year-old with Xavi keen to add quality in the centre of the pitch.

According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, there is a sense of uneasy calm at the club surrounding the future of Zubimendi.

Real Sociedad worried

La Real are aware of the fact that should United choose to go all in for the midfielder, a transfer would be the most natural outcome.

But they feel the release clause of the player which is €60 million is sufficient to halt the advances for now. The club feel United are the only contenders as Barcelona are still struggling with financial difficulties.

Club president Jokin Aperribay maintains that Martin “has had many opportunities to leave, but he wants to stay at Real and is a fundamental pillar.”

Roberto Olabe, the club’s DoF revealed that they felt “happy and calm” at the current situation and also felt the release clause was “dissuasive”

He added that by signing of the contract extension which ties him to the club till 2027, Zubimendi had “manifested” his desire to stay at the club.

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United star has his say on potential January transfer of World Cup hero

Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia has given his thoughts regarding the transfer links surrounding Cody Gakpo to Manchester United.

As the January transfer window draws near, rumours are starting to ramp up linking players with a move to the red half of Manchester.

During the World Cup, Gakpo has been outstanding, scoring in every group-stage match and attracting interest from multiple European clubs.

The Netherlands beat USA 3-1 to progress through to the quarter-finals of the competition.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Malacia has provided an assessment of his international teammate Gakpo following huge transfer interest.

The PSV star has already scored 13 goals while registering 17 assists in all competitions this season.

Links in the summer suggested he was close to joining the club but United opted to sign Antony instead.

Since holding talks with Ten Hag in the summer, the winger has been impressive for both club and country.

It is now reported that some of the top clubs in the Premier League and around Europe are considering opening talks in January.

If Gakpo arrives at Old Trafford next year, Malacia will be excited to welcome him, going by his recent comments to the media.

The left-back told The Athletic, “He’s good enough for the top, there’s no doubt,” following his performances in the World Cup.

Gakpo refused to talk about his future following his country’s latest win in the competition.

It’s clear to see that the winger is focussing on the World Cup and then will return to his club to consider his future.

The Red Devils are reportedly having discussions behind the scenes about who they’re going to sign in the January market.

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Fabrizio Romano reveals details of United's "internal discussions" on two key targets

It has been a topsy-turvy ride so far for Manchester United under Erik ten Hag. A lot was expected from the Dutch manager considering the pedigree he had built up at his former club Ajax.

The summer transfer window was a success as United brought in five players on a permanent basis and one on loan as Ten Hag went about moulding the squad in his own image.

United started in disastrous fashion, losing the opening two games before embarking on a run of good results which highlighted the hard work that the players had put in under the new boss.

Apart from the Manchester Derby drubbing and an away loss to Aston Villa, the Red Devils have been in decent nick and are currently fifth in the table, just three points behind fourth with a game in hand.

Internal transfer meeting on the cards

There are however gaps to fill in the squad, most notably in the right-back spot and in attack. Diogo Dalot has been the right-back position his own, but the club currently do not have a worthy back-up.

While the club’s initial plan was to wait until the summer to address the striker problem , the sensational departure of Cristiano Ronaldo means those plans have been pushed up.

Cody Gakpo on big transfer in January: “I have to be honest, I am not thinking about that now. I am focused on the World Cup, want to keep performing well”, tells @TheAthleticFC. 🚨🇳🇱 #transfers #MUFC

“Hopefully when we become world champions we can think about other things”. pic.twitter.com/6355HSd9hX

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 3, 2022

A lot of names like Joao Felix, Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo have been mentioned as possible solutions with Gakpo seeming to be the ideal choice.

The Dutch international has been in scintillating form for both club and country and is his nation’s top scorer in the ongoing Qatar World Cup.

A price of £50 million has been mooted and Real Madrid are also in the race for the highly-rated PSV Eindhoven attacker. His compatriot Virgil Van Dijk had recently spoken about what would be the best move for the forward.

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the Old Trafford outfit will very soon have an internal meeting where they will discuss their transfer priorities for the January window.

Gakpo & RB main talking points

“There will be internal discussions on the striker and on Gakpo in the next days and we will see how Man United will proceed,” Romano said in his Daily Briefing for CaughtOffside.

The club will also discuss resolving the future of Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The right-back, a regular under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, is clearly not rated by the new boss.

His clumsiness with the ball at his feet and his inability to impact the team going forward have been cited as major reasons why the English defender has managed only four minutes this season.

“It’s possible for Wan Bissaka to leave as Man United have been very clear: they want to find a solution for him, though it’s still too early to say where he is going,” Romano added.

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Croatia World Cup hero targetted by United could move in January - report

Ahead of Croatia’s last-sixteen World Cup match against Japan in Qatar, reports have emerged that Josko Gvardiol was recommended to Manchester United as a potential top transfer target by interim manager Ralf Rangnick.

As interim manager, the German oversaw a frankly horrific Red Devils side that were as devoid of enthusiasm as they were of tactical acumen.

And, according to Talksport, Rangnick made Gvardiol his top recommendation as a player who would improve United’s leaky defence.

At 20 years of age, the Croatian is already considered one of the best centre halves in world football.

His passing from the back is a particularly strong part of his game and, along with his left-footedness, would certainly have helped United’s build up play last term.

His recovery pace could also have helped United push up their defensive line in order to play a more proactive pressing game, something that was difficult to do with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof in the side.

Of course, Erik ten Hag made his own recommendation for a top defensive target in the form of Argentina star Lisandro Martinez.

The former Ajax player has managed to provide those qualities at Old Trafford and has started his career in England with aplomb.

He remains the only left-footed central defender in the squad, however, and sooner or later Ten Hag will look for a player to support him in that regard.

It is unlikely that Gvardiol will be that player, with his profile that of a someone who would be an automatic starter at a top club.

The Croatia star would not come cheap either, in terms of fee or salary, and a host of other top clubs see him as an ideal addition to their backlines.

Premier League rivals Liverpool and Chelsea are among them, meaning United fans may well see ‘what they could have won’ before too long, with a January move possible.

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86 touches, 5/6 duels won: United man continues to shine on the biggest stage

Erik ten Hag’s reign as Manchester United boss has helped rejuvenate the faltering careers of quite a few under-performing stars, but one first-team starter has fallen well below the pecking order.

Harry Maguire‘s form over the course of last season was nothing to write home about but even he could not have envisaged his fall from grace under the Dutchman.

Currently fourth-choice at United, the club skipper has started only thrice in the Premier League and his alarming lack of minutes had led to calls for England manager Gareth Southgate to consider dropping him from the World Cup squad.

Maguire shines once again

But Southgate chose to persist with the centre-back, knowing he has hardly ever let him down and that trend has continued on the biggest stage once again.

Despite the barrage of abuse and persistent trolling, the 29-year-old was one of the Three Lions’ brightest players during the group stage as England made the Round of 16 with relative ease.

Harry Maguire vs Senegal

94 minutes played
86 touches
62 passes completed
3 long balls completed
5/6 ground duels won
2clearances
1 blocked shot
1 interception
4 tackles
1 last man tackle
Clean sheet

Brilliant performance from the skipper. pic.twitter.com/LeJQl3T28O

— Mohammed (@Magnifico778) December 4, 2022

And against Senegal on Sunday, Maguire was once again a defensive colossus, rarely putting a foot wrong as Southgate’s team emerged 3-0 victors to set up a tasty quarterfinal clash against defending champions France.

His passing was smooth as usual, recording an impressive 82% passing accuracy after completing 62 passes and having 86 touches of the ball. The former Leicester City man also completed three long balls.

Defensively, there was very little to complain once again as he won five out of the six ground duels and made four tackles including a fine last-ditch one early on in the game to keep things level.

Ready to silence his critics

That was not all as he also made two clearances. one interception as well as blocked an attempt on goal. In the process, Maguire helped England to their third clean sheet of the tournament out of four games.

United legend Rio Ferdinand had spoken of how the defender is made to feel at home by Southgate and how he comes alive in an England shirt and that was once again on display against the Africans.

His understanding with John Stones is immaculate and with his pace beside him. Maguire can afford to play out from the back and use his passing skill to open up the game for England.

It will be a difficult test against the mighty French with Maguire having to deal with Olivier Giroud. But on current form, one cannot write off the United man’s chances of silencing his critics once again.

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Video: United's lionesses star in Baddiel and Skinner World Cup reboot

David Baddiel, Frank Skinner and The Lightning Seeds have re-released their football anthem Three Lions as a Christmas song with reworked lyrics and a video featuring the England women’s football team – the Lionesses.

Composer Ian Broudie announced back in October that a revisited version of the song may be on the cards and that he’d been inspired by the Lionesses’ European Championship win.

The song entitled ‘Three Lions (It’s Coming Home for Christmas)’ starts with the line, ‘Loving that Lionesses win’ and goes on to encourage the men’s team at the current World cup with statements such as ‘Three Lions on a sleigh, with She-Lions inspiration’.

The video begins with the pair watching TV, mirroring their previous music videos but on the television is the infamous press conference following the Lionesses victory where you can see Mary Earps dancing on the table in front of Sarina Wiegman.

The lyrics go on to say, ’56 years of hurt, for the men’s game’ and ’20 weeks of hurt, for the women’s game, obviously’ as they continue to acknowledge their achievements in summer throughout.

The comedic track doesn’t ignore the controversies surrounding this World Cup though as they sing, ‘When they decided on Qatar, should have checked VAR’.

The accompanying video also features Geoff Hurst dressed as Father Christmas with European winners Beth England and Jess Carter making an appearance.

The song follows the earlier 2022 Lionesses release which featured former players Fara Williams, Rachel Yankey, Faye White, Rachel Brown and Anita Asante alongside Chelcee Grimes, The Lightning Seeds and Baddiel.

That version featured lines about current Lionesses players including Manchester United’s Alessia Russo.

The current Christmas version is the fifth official release of the track with two of the previous releases topping the charts.

So far, this version has peaked at number 20 on the official UK Top 40 singles chart but may climb higher depending on England’s performance the nearer we get to Christmas.

Hopefully the song and the inspiration of the Lionesses’ achievement over summer will propel England over the line in their last 16 tie with Senegal later today.

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Two more goals and assist: United target lights up the World Cup once more'

France are through to the World Cup quarter finals after beating Poland 3-1, in Doha.

Goals from Oliver Giroud and a wonderful Kylian Mbappe double were enough to see off the Poles in what was a decent performance from the holders.

France were a little fortunate to take a lead into half time, with Poland missing a couple of very presentable chances before Giroud struck to become France’s all time record goalscorer with two minutes of the half remaining.

The second half saw the French tighten their grip on the game, controlling possession before the second goal put paid to any hopes of a Polish fightback. However, they did grab a late consolation through a Robert Lewandowski penalty with the last kick of the game.

Manchester United transfer target Kylian Mbappe again showed why he is considered as one of the world’s best, in a display littered with moments of his blistering pace, balance and finishing ability.

It was Mbappe who slid the ball through to Giroud for France’s opener before smashing home the killer second with 15 minutes to go. A finish into the top corner and out of the top drawer sealed Poland’s fate and put Mbappe top of the goalscoring list in the tournament.

If that wasn’t enough, Mbappe somehow managed to top his opener. With little room to work with just inside the Polish box, he whipped a shot into Wojciech Szczesny’s far top corner to rubber stamp his performance and underline his outrageous ability.

A constant threat in every game he plays, if the forward was to leave PSG there would not be a club in the world not desperate for his signature.

United’s Raphael Varane also completed his first 90 minutes of the tournament and looks to be back to full fitness for the business end of the tournament.

It was Varane who had first chance of the afternoon, heading wide from 6 yards out with Le Blues starting brightly.

The United man was solid enough defensively and did have to clear a Jakub Kaminski shot off the line in the first half. Varane will be delighted with the minutes but will be left a touch frustrated to be denied France’s first clean sheet of the tournament by the late penalty.

United’s midfield summer target Adrien Rabiot also completed the 90 minutes and added another strong performance to his impressive World Cup, thus far

France will now play the winners of England and Senegal in what looks to be a mouthwatering quarter final, on Saturday.

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Rio Ferdinand claims Southgate is better than Ten Hag at player motivation

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has heaped praise on Harry Maguire for proving his critics wrong.

Going into the World Cup, there was a lot of scrutiny on Maguire following a run of poor performances for United going back months.

Nevertheless, Gareth Southgate chose to have faith in his trusted lieutenant and Maguire has so far more than repaid the England boss.

Ferdinand wrote for the BBC on Maguire proving his critics wrong, saying “He [Maguire] came to this World Cup with his international place under scrutiny too, but any doubts I had about whether he should be playing for England in Qatar were answered straight away.”

Ferdinand referenced the Iran game, in which Maguire was excellent, as a pivotal moment for the United man. He was brilliant and even registered an assist to his name.

Ferdinand opined for BBC, “He made a positive start, got on the ball and got some belief back – and he has kept on building his confidence in every game since then.”

“He was our best player against the United States when he showed what an excellent defender he is when the ball comes into our box, and looked extremely composed against Wales too.”

The six-time Premier League winner explored why Maguire seems to be a different player for club and country. Ferdinand attributed this to the different styles of play taken by Southgate and Erik ten Hag.

While Southgate prefers defending in a low block where Maguire is surrounded by other players, for United Ten Hag requires his centre-backs to defend extremely high up the pitch, leaving lots of space behind.

Maguire’s lack of pace and inability to recover and defend large spaces render him a liability for Ten Hag. Under Southgate, he does less defending and when required to do so, has the advantage of shutting out confined spaces.

Another reason for Maguire’s England resurgence as per Ferdinand is the fact that he feels wanted by Southgate in comparison to Ten Hag.

Southgate has made Maguire feel important and a key member of the England setup. Ferdinand suggested that this is something Ten Hag has not necessarily given to the United skipper.

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