Saturday, December 31, 2022

^*^ We called him Rei because Pelé was the king, but he never acted that way | Léo Júnior

The former Brazil international came to know Pelé the man, his patience and humility: ‘He was warm, close’

Pelé called me his idol once. That was the day I played with him, the only time I did, and it was my most emotional moment with him. It was a benefit match at the Maracanã in April 1979, with 140,000 people there after flooding in Minas Gerais. Flamengo against Atlético Mineiro. “My idol!” he called me; that was him, that was his humour, his character, always embracing you. He played with us – Zico and I were in the Flamengo team – and playing with him was like a dream, especially when I played him a pass. I mean, caramba, I gave the ball to Pelé!

Pelé was the greatest for everyone from our generation. It’s hard to express what he meant to us. He had been the best for me from an early age, and thinking of him always brings to mind my grandmother. Santos used to play their big games at the Maracanã rather than in São Paulo: games against teams such as Garrincha’s Botafogo, or Milan.

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^*^ Cristiano Ronaldo 'waited for a call from Real Madrid that never came' after he left Man United

The 37-year-old Portugal forward, who'd been a free agent since mutually terminating his contract at Manchester United last month, has agreed a £175million-a-year deal.

^ ^ Chelsea suffer setback in attempt to sign France international after warning from Monaco boss

Benoit Badiashile received his first France call-up in September (Picture: Getty)
Benoit Badiashile received his first France call-up in September (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea have suffered a setback in their attempts to sign France international Benoit Badiashile after a warning from Monaco’s manager.

Chelsea are in advanced talks to sign Monaco defender Badiashile despite manager Graham Potter playing coy over the Frenchman’s potential arrival.

The Blues are keen to strengthen in the January window as they push for a top-four place and have quickly identified the 21-year-old centre-back as an ideal target to bolster their back-line.

Badiashile is capable of playing in a back four or as either the central or left-sided centre-back in a back three, which is the formation Potter favours.

A fee of around £35m has been discussed with the Ligue 1 club, though there are suggestions they will hold out for considerably more than that.

Monaco boss Philippe Clement has now warned Chelsea that they are not the only club interested in signing Badiashile.

‘I don’t think there is only one club that has approached Benoit Badiashile,’ he said.

AS Monaco v Ferencvarosi TC: Group H - UEFA Europa League
Benoit Badiashile has spent his entire career at Monaco (Picture: Getty)

‘It’s not just Chelsea. There has been a lot of interest in several of our players over the past six months. This is also the case with Benoit.’

Meanwhile, Chelsea head coach Potter gave a coy response when asked about the Blues’ attempts to bring Badiashile to Stamford Bridge.

‘My answer is I don’t speak about anyone that isn’t a Chelsea player,’ Potter said.

‘There are lots of people who get linked to this club and I’d be wasting your time and mine if I responded to every one.

‘I always say the club’s responsibility is to try to improve the team but my job is to try to improve the players we have here, and the team. That’s what I’ll be focused on.’

Chelsea are back in action on New Year’s Day when they travel to face Nottingham Forest.

MORE : Chelsea plan move for another World Cup star if Enzo Fernandez deal falls through

MORE : Chelsea now confident N’Golo Kante and Jorginho will sign new contracts


^*^ Brighton v Arsenal: Premier League – live

  • Premier League updates from the 5.30pm GMT kick-off
  • Any thoughts on the game? You can drop Rob a mail

Half-term reports

Brighton make two changes from their win at Southampton in the week. Tariq Lamptey and Billy Gilmour replace Joel Veltman, who is on the bench, and Moises Caicedo, who isn’t. He’s suspended.

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^*^ Enzo Fernandez: Benfica boss Roger Schmidt admits £106m Chelsea target could have played final game

Chelsea have made 'a substantial offer' for the midfielder but it is understood to be in instalments rather than his £106million release clause outright.

^ ^ Troy Deeney predicts Arsenal will finish third after backing Manchester City to catch the Gunners

Troy Deeney
Deeney doesn’t fancy Arsenal to keep up their form (Picture: Getty)

Troy Deeney expects Arsenal to drop out of the Premier League title race and eventually finish the season in third place.

The Gunners have enjoyed their best ever start to a top flight campaign and sit five points clear at the summit of English football having lost just one of their 15 games this term.

Manchester City remain on their heels with the two set to meet on 15 February at the Etihad Stadium – a fixture originally set to take place in September but was postponed following the death of the Queen.

Deeney, who has had his share of run-ins with Arsenal over the years after his infamous ‘cojones’ remark in 2017, is confident however Manchester City will cut the gap. The former Watford skipper also believes that when that does happen, Arsenal will begin to feel the pressure and crumble.

‘Buying new players to bolster their squad is all well and good, but it is about bringing in new players and maintaining the consistency they have had so far this season,’ Deeney wrote for The Sun.

‘They don’t need too many additions, but if they do sign someone else, how does that dynamic change things? They have a happy squad, and you need to keep it that way.

‘There is a growing expectation that Arsenal really can do it the longer they are top, and if they come out of the next month unscathed, I will start believing.

Arsenal
Arsenal have a five point lead at the top (Picture: Getty)

‘But I just wonder that if City catch them, and I believe they can, will Arsenal recover from it? I actually feel they will finish as low as third come the end of the season.’

City could reduce Arsenal’s lead to two points when they take on Everton on Saturday afternoon, with the Gunners facing a tricky test away to Brighton later in the evening.

Mikel Arteta’s side lost 3-1 to the Seagulls in a Carabao Cup tie earlier in the season but will be boosted by news that Roberto De Zerbi will be without four key players.

Former Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck and Adam Webster will be missing through injury with Alexis Mac Allister still to return to England following Argentina’s World Cup success.

Moises Caicedo meanwhile will serve a one match suspension.

MORE : Mikel Arteta tells Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard he can still improve in four key areas

MORE : Pep Guardiola sends Arsenal title warning but fears Mikel Arteta’s side could set new Premier League record

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^ ^ Joe Cole fears Erik ten Hag made a mistake by dropping Marcus Rashford against Wolves

Erik ten Hag dropped Marcus Rashford against Wolves but brought him off the bench with his team in need of a goal
Erik ten Hag dropped Marcus Rashford against Wolves but brought him off the bench with his team in need of a goal (Picture: Getty)

Joe Cole fears Erik ten Hag’s decision to drop Marcus Rashford against Wolves could come back to haunt the Manchester Untied manager.

The in-form England international was benched by his manager at Molineux after it transpired he had overslept and subsequently arrived late for a team meeting.

Ten Hag’s no nonsense approach has already seen the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Alejandro Garnacho disciplined by the former Ajax boss who has been keen to instil a new culture at Old Trafford.

After spending opening 45 minutes on the bench, Rashford was summoned at the start of the second period and gave the perfect response to his manager by scoring the winning goal which helped United extend their winning run to five games.

Ten Hag’s gamble was backed by United defender Luke Shaw after the game, but former Chelsea star Joe Cole fears he has made a rod for his own back and will face an impossible scenario if a key player commits a similar offence ahead of a must-win game later in the season.

He told BT Sport: ‘The problem with it is when you put those rules down you make a rod for your own back.

‘That’s not a huge game today. If a player comes down late is he going to drop him? It sounds good and the Man United fans will be saying he’s done the right thing, he’s disciplined him and he’s putting down standards but there are always going to be players who will be late.

‘If you go that strong on it there might be a big game that Man United are involved in and might need Marcus Rashford, or whoever is late for the start. It’s bold but it could come back to bite him.

‘They’ve also had no-nonsense managers in Van Gaal and Mourinho who tried to influence standards at the club.

‘It’s alright when you’re winning games but when you start losing you might start losing a few players… look I like but I just question there will be a time in his reign when a few players will be late for a big game it will be interesting to see if he drops them.’

MORE : Paul Scholes warns Marcus Rashford and fears there are two reasons he could leave Manchester United

MORE : ‘This is the right answer’ – Erik ten Hag hails Marcus Rashford’s response after being dropped for missing pre-match meeting

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Friday, December 30, 2022

^*^ Pele - and three other World Cup winners - played in front of 40,000 for Santos against Plymouth

Almost 40,000 fans piled into Home Park on March 14, 1973 to watch the legend play alongside fellow Brazilian 1970 World Cup winners Edu, Carlos Alberto and Clodoaldo for Santos.

^*^ Cristiano Ronaldo signs sensational contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr

Cristiano Ronaldo has signed for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr on a sensational £175million-a-year contract following his tumultuous exit from Manchester United in November.

^ ^ Former Arsenal and Netherlands winger Marc Overmars admitted to hospital after ‘mild stroke’

Marc Overmars spent three seasons at Arsenal
Marc Overmars spent three seasons at Arsenal (Picture: Getty)

Former Arsenal and Netherlands winger Marc Overmars was admitted to hospital on Thursday after suffering a ‘mild stroke’.

Overmars – now 49 – won the Premier League and FA Cup with Arsenal after lifting three Eredivisie titles with Ajax.

The ex-Barcelona star was a mainstay in the Netherlands side throughout the 1990s, earning 86 caps for his country.

Since retiring in 2009, Overmars has worked at Ajax and Royal Antwerp in roles as director of football.

A statement from his current club, Royal Antwerp, said: ‘Marc Overmars, director of football affairs at RAFC, became unwell last night and was admitted to hospital with a mild stroke.

‘Marc is doing well in the meantime, but will have to take it easy for a while.

‘Marc and his family focus on his recovery and do not wish to comment further. RAFC wishes Marc a speedy recovery!’

Replying to the message, Ajax said: ‘Wishing you strength and strength with your recovery, Marc.’

More to follow…


^*^ Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi claims Arsenal target Mykhailo Mudryk 'can win the Ballon d'Or'

With a move to England on the cards, De Zerbi has tipped Mudryk to go right to the top of the game, but has reluctantly admitted that the Seagulls have no chance of signing him.

^*^ Charlie Austin re-signs with League Two Swindon Town - 12 years after leaving the County Ground

The 33-year-old ex-Premier League striker has penned a deal at the County Ground until the end of the season - subject to EFL approval and international clearance.

^ ^ Chelsea will target Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister if they cannot agree deal to sign Enzo Fernandez from Benfica

Argentina v France: Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Chelsea consider move for another Argentina star in Mac Allister (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea will shift their attention to Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister if they cannot land a deal to sign Enzo Fernandez in January.

The Blues have signalled their intention to pay Fernandez’s huge £106million release clause with reports suggesting they are already discussing personal terms with the Argentina international over a move to Stamford Bridge.

But Benfica are adamant the 21-year-old will not leave for a penny less than that fee and are thought to only be willing to sell if that amount is paid in full.

The Premier League side are hopeful of negotiating a deal with the Portuguese giants whereby a significant portion is paid up front with the rest to follow in add-ons.

Benfica are also trying to convince Fernandez to remain in Lisbon until the end of the season with reports in Portugal suggesting they will offer him a huge £2million bonus to commit until the end of the 2022-23 campaign.

Should no deal be struck, The Times report his Argentina teammate Mac Allister is on Chelsea’s list of alternative targets.

The 24-year-old shone alongside Fernandez as La Albiceleste won the World Cup in Qatar and thrived in the Premier League under current Blues boss Graham Potter, who oversaw a major part of his development at the AMEX Stadium.

Argentina v France: Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Chelsea are in talks to sign Fernandez from Benfica (Picture: Getty)

‘Tactically he is amazing and the coaching staff are really good to help us in every aspect,’ Mac Allister said of his former Brighton boss in September.

‘He is really important for us. I am really pleased I am working with him. He will be an amazing coach and hopefully he will stay here for his life but at the same time we know that may be difficult.’

The midfielder has been deemed a much more affordable option for Chelsea than Fernandez with the club looking to make a number of signings this month, including Benoît Badiashile, who is close to signing from Monaco for an initial €35m.

The Blues have already concluded one piece of business in signing striker David Datro Fofana from Molde, with a deal for Brazilian youngster Andrey Santos also close to being done.

Fernandez meanwhile is said to be keen to make the move to west London should Chelsea and Benfica agree a deal.

MORE : Chelsea open £106m talks with Benfica after Enzo Fernandez agrees to join Blues

MORE : Chelsea now confident N’Golo Kante and Jorginho will sign new contracts

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Thursday, December 29, 2022

^ ^ ‘It was a lie’ – Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag slammed over Harry Maguire claim by Paul Parker

Harry Maguire has struggled for game time under boss Erik ten Hag (Picture: Getty)
Harry Maguire has struggled for game time under boss Erik ten Hag (Picture: Getty)

Paul Parker has slammed Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag over his ‘lie’ about defender Harry Maguire.

United beat Nottingham Forest 3-0 on Tuesday with Dutch manager Ten Hag claiming that Maguire had been struggling with illness in the build-up to the game and that fellow centre-back Raphael Varane would not feature.

But Ten Hag handed Varane a start – alongside left-back Luke Shaw in central defence – and the Frenchman played 77 minutes before he brought on Maguire from the bench for the last 13 minutes of normal time.

‘We had some problems with illness like Harry Maguire, but he was back on the training pitch [on Monday] so I’m happy with that,’ Ten Hag said earlier this week.

‘Rapha Varane and Licha Martinez, they are not there [back at United] but we hope on their comeback [soon].’

Former United defender Parker has hit out at Ten Hag over his deception as he told BonusCodeBets: ‘First of all we have to say that Luke Shaw did very well playing as a centre half.

‘He barely made a mistake and Manchester United didn’t really miss Harry Maguire.

‘But to be honest, I don’t believe the story about Harry Maguire being ill. It was a lie and it is totally fabricated. It doesn’t make any sense at all.

‘On a cold rainy night in Manchester there is no way you would ever let an ill man sit on the bench if he wasn’t ready. He was ready but Erik ten Hag preferred to play with Luke Shaw.’

Parker also lauded Casemiro as he added: ‘Man United’s best player against Nottingham Forest by a country mile [was Casemiro].

‘Since he started to play regularly for Man United he has been an absolutely key player for this team and he is one of the best in the world in his position.

‘His interceptions, his challenges and his passes are excellent. I’m pretty sure that Erik ten Hag now knows that if Man United want to have a successful season, Casemiro has to play all the key games.’

MORE : Erik ten Hag reveals Harry Maguire has been struggling with illness

MORE : Graeme Souness names Man Utd star who is 'more than capable' of forcing his way into side


^*^ Karren Brady DOUBLES her West Ham salary to £2.24m

EXCLUSIVE: The club's vice-chairman pocketed a one-off £1m bonus - which is understood to have been in recognition for her role in bringing in billionaire investor Daniel Kretinsky.

^*^ Cody Gakpo could be the dynamite to ignite Liverpool's season after £44m move

Jurgen Klopp's side are playing catch up in the race for the Premier League top four but the signing of Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven - ahead of rivals Manchester United - is a statement of intent.

^*^ Jürgen Klopp says Liverpool moved quickly to sign Cody Gakpo to avoid price hike – video

Jürgen Klopp says Cody Gakpo would have been 'unaffordable' had Liverpool waited to secure his signature and there remains money available for further signings in the January window. The Netherlands’ World Cup star will officially become a Liverpool player on 1 January after the Anfield club beat off rival interest to seal his transfer from PSV Eindhoven for an initial €40m, rising to €50m

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^ ^ Benfica set to sign Enzo Fernandez replacement as he edges towards Chelsea move

Benfica are set to sign Maximo Perrone to replace Enzo Fernandez (Picture: Getty)
Benfica are set to sign Maximo Perrone to replace Enzo Fernandez (Picture: Getty)

Benfica are reportedly set to sign a replacement for Enzo Fernandez as the Argentina World Cup star edges towards a January move to Chelsea.

Chelsea entered the race to sign Fernandez this week and have informed the midfielder’s representatives – and Benfica president Rui Costa – that they are ready to pay the 21-year-old star’s huge €120m (£106m) release clause.

Manchester United and Liverpool were eager to sign Fernandez following his country’s World Cup success in Qatar and both clubs held talks with Portuguese side Benfica over a move but they became reluctant due to his hefty price tag.

Chelsea are already discussing personal terms with Fernandez while Benfica manager Roger Schmidt has hinted that the player will soon be departing.

It has now emerged that Benfica are on the verge of signing a replacement for Fernandez, with the club engaged in talks over a move for Maximo Perrone.

Perrone, another Argentine, who is thought to be a similar style of player to Fernandez, turns 20 in January and plays for Velez Sarsfield in Argentina.

Manchester City and Newcastle United have been previously interested in signing Perrone and he has also been linked with Wolves.

Argentina v France: Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Enzo Fernandez is set to join Chelsea in the January transfer window (Picture: Getty)

According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Benfica could be set to sign him for even less than his release clause, which is believed to be around $10m (£8.3m).

Meanwhile, Benfica boss Schmidt seems adamant that Fernandez is leaving the club as he told reporters on Thursday: ‘We all know what football is like.

‘These young people have opportunities, and it’s not just about Enzo. If they have opportunities, they have to make decisions, and I respect them.

‘I can advise them, but they only have one career. If I can convince them or influence them in a certain way, I try to do it, but I accept their decisions’.

MORE : Benfica want Enzo Fernandez to stay despite huge Chelsea offer

MORE : Benfica give Enzo Fernandez two reasons to snub Chelsea transfer after receiving £105 million bid


^ ^ Darwin Nunez should take inspiration from Miguel Almiron, believes Liverpool legend John Barnes

Liverpool FC v West Ham United - Premier League
Darwin Nunez is struggling for his best form at the moment (Picture: Getty Images)

As Darwin Nunez struggles for form, Liverpool legend John Barnes says he should try and follow the lead of Newcastle star Miguel Almiron, who has been turning in superb displays this season.

It has not been a disastrous start to life in the Premier League for the Uruguayan, with five Premier League goals to his name and three more in the Champions League for the Reds.

However, he has not always impressed with his finishing skills, missing a string of good chances in just the two matches since the World Cup break and he looks to be struggling a little for confidence.

Barnes thinks Almiron is an excellent example of someone who has been through that kind of problem and come out on the right side of it.

Newcastle’s Paraguayan star has always been a hard worker but was struggling to produce results, scoring just one Premier League goal in 30 appearances last season.

He has continued to put in the effort, though, and has been one of the players of the campaign so far, netting eight times in 15 matches already.

‘Similar to Darwin Nunez, when Miguel Almiron was missing chances and not playing well, the fans stuck with him, the players stuck with him,’ Barnes told BonusCodeBets.

Newcastle United v Chelsea FC - Premier League
Miguel Almiron has been absolutely superb for Newcastle United this season (Picture: Getty Images)

‘The team started to play well and now you can see, the goal he scored against Leicester, he had the composure. Before, he was missing those chances.

‘I think Nunez can look at that situation and say that he’s been through something similar and with the right support, because Almiron is a good player, as is Darwin Nunez, you can gain more confidence.

‘When you’re giving a hundred percent, the players, the manager and the fans keep supporting you, that’s what’s happened to Almiron. He hasn’t become a better player all of a sudden.

‘That talent has always been there but it’s that confidence he’s gained from the support of the fans, the players and the manager.’

MORE : Chelsea made last-ditch effort to sign Cody Gakpo before Liverpool completed deal for Netherlands star

MORE : Ibrahima Konate available for Liverpool vs Leicester but six remain out through injury

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Wednesday, December 28, 2022

^*^ Chelsea agree deal to sign striker David Datro Fofana to boost attacking options

  • Ivory Coast international will join from Norwegian club Molde
  • Reece James out for up to a month as knee injury returns

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign the striker David Datro Fofana from the Norwegian side Molde. The Ivory Coast international, who turned 20 last week, will head to Stamford Bridge in the new year.

Fofana will offer Chelsea a fresh attacking option following the news that Armando Broja will miss the rest of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

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^*^ FA moves to tighten security at Wembley after disorder at Euros final

  • Proposal for new perimeter fencing put to Brent Council
  • Two thousand ticketless people gained access to Euros final

The Football Association has acted to increase security outside Wembley stadium following the disorder that tainted the men’s European Championship final last year. English football’s governing body has asked for permission to install new perimeter fencing at the national stadium, following up on one of the key recommendations made in a report into the events of 11 July 2021.

If Brent council agrees to the request – which was made last week by Wembley National Stadium Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the FA – new fencing will be erected at a number of approaches and key entrances to the ground.

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^*^ James Maddison ruled out of Liverpool match after visiting specialist

  • Leicester midfielder struggling with fresh knee injury
  • Maddison missed Newcastle defeat and return date unknown

James Maddison visited a specialist on Wednesday as Leicester attempt to get to the bottom of a mystery knee injury, after the midfielder returned from the World Cup with a fresh problem. Maddison has not been able to train with his Leicester teammates since returning from Qatar and will miss Friday’s trip to Liverpool.

Maddison travelled to London with Mark Waller, the Leicester club doctor, on Wednesday to further understand the extent of his issue. Maddison had injured the back of his knee in November before the World Cup, for which he received treatment while away with England. The midfielder is now ruled out with an issue at the front of his knee. It is unclear how long Maddison is set to be sidelined.

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^*^ Brighton bring in Jens Scheuer as women’s head coach

  • Former Bayern manager replaces Hope Powell
  • Team one place above relegation zone in WSL

Brighton have appointed former Bayern Munich manager Jens Scheuer as their new women’s head coach on a three-and-a-half-year deal.

The Seagulls have been without a manager since October after Hope Powell stepped down following a difficult start to the Women’s Super League season.

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^*^ Jesse Marsch believes emotion of returning to Leeds could 'bring out the best' in Kalvin Phillips

Phillips' place in Manchester City's squad for Wednesday's Premier League clash is in doubt after Pep Guardiola revealed last week that he had returned overweight from World Cup duty.

^ ^ Chelsea target World Cup star Josip Juranovic after latest Reece James injury setback

Croatia v Brazil: Quarter Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Josip Juranovic played a key role in Croatia’s run to third-place at the World Cup (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Chelsea are reportedly interested in Celtic and Croatia World Cup star Josip Juranovic following Reece James’ latest injury setback.

James returned to action on Tuesday evening for Chelsea’s Premier League win over Bournemouth having only just recovered from the lengthy knee injury that forced him to miss Qatar 2022.

However, the England right-back lasted just 52 minutes against the Cherries with his knee playing up again and the Blues have now confirmed that the 23-year-old is set to be out for another month.

Given Graham Potter’s lack of depth in that position, the club have been linked with a number of players to act as cover as James has repeatedly struggled with injuries since his first-team breakthrough three years ago.

Long-time target Denzel Dumfries has been touted as a potential signing, but, according to Sky Sports, Chelsea are now looking at a different World Cup defender.

Juranovic played every minute of Croatia’s campaign as his side finished third in Qatar and was highly impressive, especially in their shock quarter-final win over Brazil on penalties.

The 27-year-old, who is also capable of playing at left-back, has been attracting interest for some time with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid keeping tabs on his situation.

Chelsea FC v AFC Bournemouth - Premier League
Reece James will be out for the next month with a knee injury (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)

While only valued at £8million, he still has three-and-half years left on his contract and as such Celtic are reluctant to let him go.

It remains to be seen if Chelsea will move for Juranovic, with the club said to be assessing numerous options for the January transfer window.

They’d be well placed to get any deal done quickly however given the large number of fixtures at the start of 2023.

Next month, Potter’s side face back-to-back games against Manchester City in the Premier League and FA Cup as well as a trip to Liverpool as they attempt to move up the table from eighth place.

MORE : Joe Cole hails ‘excellent’ Kai Havertz after Chelsea beat Bournemouth

MORE : Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham interested in Jordan Pickford amid Everton contract uncertainty

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Tuesday, December 27, 2022

^*^ Manchester United v Nottingham Forest: Premier League – live

  • Updates from the 8pm GMT kick-off at Old Trafford
  • Get in touch: you can contact Scott here with your thoughts

Manchester United make four changes to their starting XI from last week’s League Cup victory over Burnley. David de Gea, Raphael Varane, Luke Shaw and Antony replace Martin Dubravka, Victor Lindelof, Scott McTominay and Alejandro Garnacho. Club captain Harry Maguire is back, but only on the bench. Lisandro Martinez and Jadon Sancho are both missing, the former presumably still en fête.

Nottingham Forest make three changes to the XI named for their League Cup win at Blackburn last week. Wayne Hennessey takes the gloves from the on-loan Dean Henderson, who can’t play for his parent club, while Serge Aurier and Renan Lodi replace Neco Williams and Harry Toffolo in the wing-back positions. Jesse Lingard returns to his long-time stamping ground.

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^ ^ Newcastle target Chelsea midfielder Jorginho with his contract expiring this summer

Chelsea FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League
Jorginho”s Chelsea contract expires at the end of the season (Picture: Getty Images)

Newcastle United have identified Jorginho as one of their key transfer targets, with the midfielder’s contract at Chelsea due to expire at the end of this season.

The 31-year-old has been at Stamford Bridge since 2018 and remains an important player for the Blues, playing regularly in the Premier League and captaining the side in their first match back after the World Cup break against Bournemouth on Tuesday 27 December.

However, his future remains in question as he is about to enter the final six months of his contract with Chelsea, which will alert potential suitors, of which there will be plenty.

The Daily Mail report that the Italy international has emerged as a ‘prime target’ for Newcastle as they look to continue their impressive progress under Eddie Howe.

The Magpies are second in the Premier League table, having lost just one of their first 16 matches, and look to be genuine contenders for a Champions League spot, or even more.

The report also names a string of talents from across Europe that Newcastle are eyeing-up, be it in the January transfer window or in the summer.

Rayo Vallecano v Real Madrid - La Liga Santander
Fran Garcia has also emerged on Newcastle’s radar (Picture: Getty Images)

Rayo Vallecano left-back Fran Garcia, Borussia Monchengladbach’s Kouadio Kone and Nice midfielder Khepren Thuram have also been touted as possible signings.

Napoli forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is also on the shopping list at St James’ Park, but he is not available, for now.

Howe has been non-comital on Newcastle’s plans for January, making it clear how different the club’s situation is now to this time last year when the mega-rich owners had only recently taken over and they were fighting a relegation battle.

‘I don’t really know, to be honest,’ he said. ‘We’re in a very different position to where we were last year. We knew we needed to act (last January) and we knew we needed some good numbers through the door to try and lift the group. Now, we’re in a different position.

‘Also, we are in a different position with Financial Fair Play than we were last year where we didn’t have a legacy of transfer fees, so we had a gap there we could attack. Not evading your question, but we’re not sure what we want the window to look like because we’re not sure what is going to happen.’

MORE : Chelsea and Manchester United handed boost in pursuit of Inter Milan and World Cup star Denzel Dumfries

MORE : Manchester United and Chelsea target Jonathan David confirms intention to make Premier League move

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^ ^ Shakhtar Donetsk reject Arsenal’s opening offer for Mykhailo Mudryk and demand £85million for winger

Mudryk has not hidden his desire to join Arsenal (Picture: Getty)
Mudryk has not hidden his desire to join Arsenal (Picture: Getty)

Shakhtar Donetsk have rejected Arsenal’s opening offer for Mykhailo Mudryk.

The Gunners are in talks with the Ukrainian side over a January move for the winger having tabled a bid of £55million this week.

As expected, however, Shakhtar have rejected that offer and are hoping to get as much as £85million for the 21-year-old next month, according to The Daily Telegraph.

Mudryk is eager to join Mikel Arteta’s side but so far Arsenal’s offer falls way short of Shakhtar’s valuation – but there is belief a deal will still be agreed. Mudryk has not hidden his desire to join Arsenal, talking up a move to the Emirates on a number of occasions this season.

The winger also got Arsenal fans excited after sharing footage of him watching his potential new club’s Boxing Day win over West Ham.

Mikel Arteta was quizzed on the social media activity post-match but was adamant that the Shakhtar star’s actions should not be taken as clue as to his potential destination in January.

He said: ‘The good thing is that in England you don’t have many other matches in other countries. We are the only ones playing through Christmas so hopefully a lot people have watched our game and we give them a good show.’

Arteta keen n January reinforcements (Picture: Getty)
Arteta keen n January reinforcements (Picture: Getty)

Asked for a response to speculation that Arsenal have launched an opening offer, Arteta added: ‘You know I never speak about players that are not with us and I know in this transfer market you have to ask me the question.

‘We said we will try and find ways to strengthen the team and we will try and find the right players.’

Speaking in November, Mudryk said he was ‘shocked’ and ‘upset’ by Shakhtar’s attempt to value him at €100m (£87.5m).

‘I spoke with my agent and I know that in the summer there were several offers for me from clubs in the top European championships, but the club decided not to let me go. I took it as absolutely normal, because I fully trust Shakhtar’s management,’ Mudryk said.

He continued: ‘The amount of €100m puts a barrier for my transition to the top championship, which I so dreamed of. I can’t say that my dream was killed, but wounded, that’s for sure.

‘But I’m a professional, I’m a Shakhtar player, we have a few difficult games left in the championship, in which we must win, and I’ll do my best for that.’

MORE : Bukayo Saka delights Arsenal fans as he finally meets Arsene Wenger for the first time

MORE : Dani Ceballos hits back at Mohamed Elneny jibes after Arsenal beat West Ham

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^*^ Chelsea v Bournemouth: Premier League – live

And if he doesn’t change Chelsea’s fortunes, at least he’ll be given a fortune when they pay him up. For all kinds of reasons, I really, really hope he succeeds.

The state of play

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^*^ Manchester United unlikely to sign striker permanently in January window

  • Club expected to limit activity to short-term loan move
  • United need to strengthen attack after Ronaldo’s exit

Manchester United are more likely to sign a striker on loan rather than a permanent deal in the January window, with the focus on the summer market, as is the club’s usual policy.

The news comes after Liverpool reached an agreement with PSV to sign Cody Gakpo for an initial £37m next month, the Dutch forward having been under consideration by the Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who parted company with United during the World Cup.

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^*^ Chelsea vs Bournemouth - Premier League: Live score, team news and updates

Graham Potter has discussed how stressed he found himself while on holiday during the World Cup break and he will be eager to return to winning ways. Follow all the action here with Sportsmail.

^ ^ Chelsea and Manchester United handed boost in pursuit of Inter Milan and World Cup star Denzel Dumfries

Netherlands v Argentina: Quarter Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Denzel Dumfries has 42 caps for the Netherlands (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Chelsea and Manchester United could be a step closer to signing long-time target Denzel Dumfries with Inter Milan reportedly eyeing up his replacement.

Ever since Dumfries burst onto the scene at last year’s Euros, the Dutch international has been of interest to Premier League clubs, which has only grown after a fantastic 2022 World Cup campaign.

The right-back helped the Netherlands reach the quarter-finals, before getting knocked out by eventual champions Argentina, and was particularly outstanding in the round of 16 win over the USA where he scored one and got two assists.

Dumfries only moved to Inter 18 months ago and the Serie A giants have until this point been very reluctant to sell the 26-year-old, even slapping a £50million plus price tag on him to ward off interested parties.

Chelsea, United and Tottenham are the clubs most heavily linked and they may be in luck, with reports in Italy suggesting that Inter have identified a fellow World Cup star who can replace their defender.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Bayern Munich’s Noussair Mazraoui is their target having played a crucial role in Morocco’s incredible run to fourth-place at Qatar 2022, the first African side to ever reach the semi-finals of a World Cup.

Though the 25-year-old played as a left-back for his country, he is a right-back by trade and has made 18 appearances for Bayern since moving to Munich from Ajax on a free over the summer.

France v Morocco: Semi Final - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
Noussair Mazraoui helped make history with Morocco at the 2022 World Cup (Photo by Youssef Loulidi/Fantasista/Getty Images)

That could make signing Mazraoui in January or next summer pretty tough for Inter, but should he move to the San Siro it would definetely faciliate the sale of Dumfries.

While Chelsea already boost a top right-back in Reece James, the England star has struggled with injuries and with Cesar Azpilicueta’s time at Stamford Bridge nearing the end Graham Potter will need more depth in that area.

Erik ten Hag has spoken many time of the need to upgrade Aaron Wan-Bissaka and provide competition for Diogo Dalot at Old Trafford.

Meanwhile at Spurs, Antonio Conte doesn’t seem convince with either Emerson Royal, Matt Doherty or Djed Spence and Dumfries could be a perfect upgrade given his preference to play as a wing-back.

MORE : Manchester United and Chelsea target Jonathan David confirms intention to make Premier League move

MORE : Manchester United put off deal for Joao Felix due to Atletico Madrid’s loan demands

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^ ^ Manchester United put off deal for Joao Felix due to Atletico Madrid’s loan demands

Joao Felix
Felix also wanted by Chelsea with Arsenal linked with a move (Picture: Getty)

Manchester United are targeting a loan signing up front during the January transfer window but are not keen on Joao Felix on the current terms set by Atletico Madrid.

Erik ten Hag is eager for reinforcements in attack with Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit heightening their need for more firepower for the second half of the season.

The United boss was keen to bring Cody Gakpo to the club but the Netherlands international is now set to join Liverpool in a £37million deal.

After spending over £200million on new players during the summer, United are not in a position to splash the cash next month with the club in the market for loan signings.

While options are limited, Felix is a possibility with Atletico ready to let him go next month.

The Portugal international agent’s Jorge Mendes has reportedly held talks with both United and Arsenal with Atletico currently asking for a £8million loan fee with no obligation or option to buy the player in the summer.

The Spanish giants are also asking for Felix’s salary, thought to be just under £250,000-a-week, to be covered in full.

Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag wants another forward in January (Picture: Getty)

The Daily Telegraph reports however those loan terms could put off United and dissuade them from pursuing the 23-year-old, who is also wanted by Chelsea.

United ideally want a no9 to play through the middle with Anthony Martial the club’s only recognised centre forward.

But given the lack of options on the table, the club will not restrict themselves and will consider bringing in a versatile attacker should the right option become available.

Barcelona forward Memphis Depay has been linked with a return to the club after two years at Old Trafford between 2015 and 2017 but the report adds there is ‘nothing down the line’ in terms of the Dutchman linking up with ten Hag in Manchester.

Ten Hag is thought to be an admirer of Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos, who replaced Ronaldo for Portugal at the World Cup.

But with Benfica looking for a huge fee for one of their prized assets, any move is likely to have to wait until the summer.

MORE : Liverpool in ‘advanced talks’ to sign Enzo Fernandez ahead of Manchester United

MORE : How Virgil van Dijk helped convince Cody Gakpo to join Liverpool over Manchester United

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Monday, December 26, 2022

^*^ Everton 1-2 Wolves: Julen Lopetegui secures three points in his first Premier League game in charge

JOE BERNSTEIN AT GOODISON PARK: Julen Lopetegui began his stint in charge of Wolves in dramatic fashion by securing a late winner at Goodison Park.

^ ^ Anthony Martial sends message to Erik ten Hag amid Cody Gakpo transfer speculation

Anthony Martial is set to make his Manchester United comeback against Nottingham Forest
Anthony Martial is set to make his Manchester United comeback against Nottingham Forest (Picture: Getty)

Anthony Martial insists he feels he is ready to shoulder the burden of being Manchester United’s main striker during the second half of the season.

The 27-year-old was handed an unlikely opportunity to salvage his Old Trafford career at the start of the season by Erik ten Hag after returning from a disappointing loan spell at Sevilla.

Martial showed flashes of his old self in the win over Liverpool back in August, but has struggled to maintain his fitness ever since.

Indeed, the former Monaco star has been restricted to just eight appearances in all competitions having sustained three separate injuries.

The break for the World Cup has allowed Martial the opportunity to work his way back to peak condition and he is likely to start against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday,

Despite his imminent return, United are looking to sign a new striker in the upcoming January transfer window with Holland’s World Cup star, Cody Gakpo, Ten Hag’s No.1 target.

With doubts persisting over his durability, Martial is entering the last chance saloon but he is confident the work he has done over the last six weeks has stood him in good stead.

Cody Gakpo enhanced his reputation at the World Cup in Qatar
Cody Gakpo enhanced his reputation at the World Cup in Qatar (Picture: Getty)

Martial said: ‘We’ve put in a lot of good work and it has been a bit like a pre-season for us. We’ve worked on fitness training and getting into top shape physically, and I’ve benefited a lot from that personally.’

On United’s chances of building on the results they achieved prior to the break, he added: ‘We’ve a very good team of players, with a great dynamic about us, a lot of victories already under our belt, we now just have to keep on in those winning ways we have shown in these recent matches.

‘Lots of matches coming up now but, apart from those who went to the World Cup, there has been time for some rest, and they will now also have had a few days off, so we hope we will all return in good shape for the challenges ahead and to win all the matches we can.’

Untied, meanwhile, agreed personal terms with Gakpo in the summer before dropping their interest and turning attention to recruiting Antony instead.

Gakpo is understood to remain keen on a move to United but will cost considerably more than the fee that was quoted in the summer but PSV manager Ruud van Nistelrooy admitted his star player could still leave in the next few weeks.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, the PSV manager, admitted last week that Gakpo could leave in January as ‘there comes a time when you can’t say no’.

‘I enjoyed watching him [at the World Cup] and he deserves this because of how he has behaved, how he has continued to work and continued to perform,’ said Van Nistelrooy.

‘I was able to help him from very close by and that makes me proud. And then I’ll give him his path when it comes.

‘If I have the choice, I prefer the summer, but it can also be now. You just know there comes a time when you can’t say no.’

MORE : Ex-Manchester United striker Andy Cole unhappy at ‘disrespectful’ comparison with Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez

MORE : Manchester United could tempt Bayern Munch with cut-price January offer for contract rebel

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^*^ Aston Villa v Liverpool: Premier League – live

The last six games between these teams at Villa Park - an unashamedly arbitrary cut-off point - have finished 0-6, 1-2, 5-0, 7-2, 1-4 and 1-2. Thirty one goals in six games!

Villa start the game in 12th place, though they will move into the top ten if they win tonight. Liverpool are seventh; victory at Villa Park would move them above Brighton into sixth.

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^*^ Craig Gordon will miss the rest of the season after DOUBLE leg fracture

The 39-year-old was carried off with his leg in a brace midway through the second half after a collision with United attacker Steven Fletcher causing his leg to bend backwards.

^ ^ Arsenal suffer transfer blow as Saudi club enter race for Chelsea midfielder

Southampton v Chelsea - Premier League
N’Golo Kante (left) was linked with a move to Arsenal in the summer (Picture: Getty)

Arsenal have suffered a transfer blow over N’Golo Kante, with Saudi club Al Nassr reportedly entering the race to sign the Chelsea midfielder.

Kante, who was linked with a move to Arsenal in the summer, is out of contract in June, meaning he is able to depart on a free transfer at the end of the season if he can agree a deal with a foreign club in January.

Kante came to the Premier League in 2015 – joining Leicester City from French club Caen – and sensationally helped the Foxes win the Premier League title at odds of 5000/1.

That saw him earn a move to Chelsea a year later where he won a second Premier League title as well as the FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, Super Cup and Club World Cup.

He was crowned Premier League Player of the Season after just one campaign with Chelsea and in his second season was named the club’s Player of the Year.

Kante was also named Champions League Midfielder of the Season for 2020-21 as the Blues became European champions under previous boss Thomas Tuchel.

The 2018 World Cup winner had been urged to join Arsenal in January by Emmanuel Petit – who played for both the Gunners and Chelsea – but Saudi club Al Nassr has emerged as a new possible destination for Kante, reports The Sun.

Kante, who has registered 262 appearances for Chelsea in total, is considered to be one of the best defensive midfielders of his generation but has struggled massively with injuries over the last 18 months and has barely featured.

Barcelona are also thought to be keen on a move for the 31-year-old – who has knocked up 53 caps for France despite missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar – while Brad Friedel wants Liverpool to attempt to sign Kante too.

MORE : Mikel Arteta reveals Arsenal's January plans: 'We can get a striker, I can guarantee you!'

MORE : Joao Felix ready to accept loan offer to join Arsenal or Man Utd


^ ^ Ruben Amorim responds to Manchester United fans calling for Chido Obi-Martin debut

Chido Obi-Martin has hit the ground running after leaving Arsenal to join Manchester United (Getty) Ruben Amorim has suggested that Chi...