^ ^ Arsenal ‘expect’ to sign key target ahead of Real Madrid and Man Utd

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his squad (Picture: Getty)

Arsenal are confident of signing Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer despite fresh competition from Real Madrid.

The Gunners launched a move for Zubimendi at the start of the year and reports claimed they had all but wrapped up a deal for the Real Sociedad star.

Zubimendi was previously linked with Manchester City and Liverpool but rejected advances from both clubs after his impressive performances at Euro 2024 for winners Spain.

Arsenal were believed to be on the verge of signing Zubimendi for around £51m, with Mikel Arteta keen to bolster his midfield options ahead of the likely departure of Jorginho and Thomas Partey.

But the transfer was seemingly thrown into doubt last week as it emerged Real Madrid were considering hijacking Arsenal’s deal and submitting an offer to their La Liga rivals.

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Reports is Spain said a move from Real Madrid was ‘increasingly likely’ and suggested Zubimendi could snub Arsenal to move to the Bernabeu.

But it has been widely reported that Arsenal remain confident of signing Zubimendi and ‘expect’ the Spaniard to arrive through the doors at the Emirates Stadium.

Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi in action for Real Sociedad (Picture: Getty)

Real Madrid could beat Arsenal to a transfer deal (Picture: Getty)

The Athletic claim Arsenal are ‘working on the basis’ that Zubimendi will be a Gunners player next season, while a report in Spain says a deal between the two clubs has almost been reached.

Arteta wants to strengthen his squad in the summer as Arsenal look set for a third successive second-place finish in the Premier League.

A number of strikers have been linked with the Gunners, including long-term Manchester United target Viktor Gyokeres.

When Arsenal’s move for Zubimendi first broke, ex-Gunners defender William Gallas questioned the deal and suggested the transfer would be a costly mistake.

‘I can’t understand why Arsenal are signing Martín Zubimendi, they have so many midfielders and that should not have been the priority,’ Gallas told Spin Genie.

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand echoed that sentiment on his podcast earlier this month, saying: ‘They don’t need that player.’

After more than two weeks without a game, Arsenal return to Premier League action on Tuesday night against London rivals Fulham.

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^ ^ Man Utd forced to make embarrassing decision ahead of Manchester derby

Manchester United play host to Manchester City this weekend (Picture: Getty)

Manchester United have been forced to slash ticket prices for this weekend’s derby against local rivals Manchester City.

After a lengthy international break, United return to Premier League action on Sunday with a home match against Pep Guardiola’s City.

Manchester United thumped struggling Leicester City before the international break but remain just 13th in the Premier League.

Man City, meanwhile, are fifth as they look to end a disappointing season with Champions League qualification and FA Cup glory following their quarter-final victory over Bournemouth on Sunday.

The price of tickets has been a controversial topic at Old Trafford this season after Sir Jim Ratcliffe raised prices for home games to a minimum of £66 and removed concessions for kids and OAPs.

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But thousands of tickets were still available for Sunday’s Manchester derby so United have been forced to cut the price, according to The Sun.

Tickets have been put back on sale for £40 (£25 for concessions), with United now optimistic of a sell-out.

Man City travel to Old Trafford on Sunday (Picture: Getty)

Manchester United fans’ group 1958 are organising a protest at ticket prices at the derby, with fans urged to stage a ‘sit-in’ by remaining in their seats following the full-time whistle.

Steve Crompton, a spokesman for The 1958, said: ‘I think probably one of the most impactful [protests] we’ve done was the sit-in.

‘We will be running another one of those against Manchester City next weekend.’

Ruben Amorim remains under big pressure (Picture: Getty)

Last month, the Manchester United Supporters Trust called on the club to ‘listen to the voice of the fans’ after a 5% rise of season ticket prices was confirmed.

A spokesperson from the organisation said: ‘What the reaction to these recent changes should tell the club is just how important it is to conduct proper fan consultation when it comes to proposed policy changes.

‘These are tough times at Manchester United, both on and off the field. We will only pull out of this slump if the whole club comes together. That means listening to the voice of the fans.’

Pep Guardiola will look to pile the pressure on United (Picture: Getty)

Manchester United, the most successful team in Premier League history, have occupied a bottom-half position for most of the season.

The Red Devils were dismal under former boss Erik ten Hag but performances have barely improved under his replacement Ruben Amorim.

Thousands of fans protested against the club’s owners before the Premier League clash against Arsenal last month.

Manchester United look set to finish in the bottom-half of the Premier League but could yet qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League.

Amorim’s side face French outfit Lyon in the quarter-finals of the competition, with the first leg of the ties taking place on April 10.

Man City were knocked out of the Champions League by holders Real Madrid but look set to re-qualify for Europe’s top competition in the Premier League.

Guardiola’s side are also two games away from another FA Cup trophy. They face Nottingham Forest in the semi-finals, with Crystal Palace meeting Aston Villa in the other Wembley clash.

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^ ^ Surprise Premier League manager is ‘better than’ Mikel Arteta and Enzo Maresca

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta and Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca (Pictures: Getty)

Louis Saha has claimed an unheralded Premier League manager is ‘better than’ Mikel Arteta and Enzo Maresca.

Arsenal have come agonisingly close to winning the Premier League under Arteta, twice finishing just behind Manchester City.

The Gunners look set for a third successive second-place finish this season, though this time it is Liverpool – not City – denying Arteta the Premier League trophy.

Maresca, meanwhile, has endured a mixed first season in charge or Chelsea, initially exceeding expectations but latterly frustrating the Stamford Bridge faithful with both underwhelming performances and poor results.

Saha says Maresca deserves credit for turning chaotic Chelsea into top-four contenders but believes he and Arteta are both being trumped by another London-based manager.

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Marco Silva has not only established Fulham as a Premier League team capable of avoiding relegation but taken the Cottagers into the top-half of the table this season.

With nine games remaining, Fulham are just four points outside the top-four spots and in with a superb chance of securing European football for next season.

Fulham are thriving under Marco Silva (Picture: Getty)

The west London side also enjoyed a deep run in the FA Cup before they were knocked out of the competition in the quarter-finals by Crystal Palace.

Silva, 47, has spent almost a decade in English football but underwhelmed at Hull City, Watford and Everton before finding success at Fulham.

The Portuguese coach has been repeatedly linked with bigger clubs and Saha understands why as he rates him as the best manager in London.

Asked if Silva was the ‘best manager in London’ at this moment in time, Saha told Genting Casino: ‘I think so, yeah.

Ex-Premier League striker Louis Saha (Picture: Getty)

‘But Chelsea’s manager had a big, big task to get them up there at the start of the season. I didn’t see this coming.

‘I felt like Chelsea were struggling because there were too many players. There are too many players, too many combinations.

‘So I felt like it would have been really hard, but he’s done really well too. To accomplish that and manage to get those players to not only play together but play well.

‘Some games they are really playing some attractive football and I’m very impressed. Because it was a hell of a job.

Up Next

‘But Fulham has been consistently playing well with their squad. It’s a good squad, but they don’t have the same capacity in terms of buying power.

‘Marco Silva has done really well to maintain that quality and even improve the type of style that they play. It’s really strong defensively.

‘Silva managed to really maintain the desire to play attractive football, which was really hard over the years.

‘Fulham never had this type of consistency with any manager they had, so I can applaud with my biggest admiration. Yeah, it’s a great, great job.’

Arteta was widely praised by Arsenal fans for changing the culture and raising standards at the Emirates Stadium following a difficult spell in the aftermath of Arsene Wenger’s departure.

But, barring a miraculous turnaround in the Premier League title race or an unlikely Champions League triumph, Arsenal will go a fourth successive season without a trophy.

Maresca opted to leave Championship winners Leicester City to take over at Chelsea last summer following Mauricio Pochettino’s mutually agreed exit.

The Blues were arguably the most exciting team in the Premier League in the first-half of the season, emerging as Liverpool’s biggest rivals for the title, but Maresca’s side have suffered an alarming dip since Christmas.

Securing a top-four finish and winning the weak and unglamorous Europa Conference League would still represent an encouraging season for a team with Premier League and Champions League aspirations.

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^ ^ Andrea Berta’s best and worst signings as Arsenal appoint new sporting director

Arsenal have officially appointed Andrea Berta, left, as their new Sporting Director (Photo: Getty)

Arsenal have announced the appointment of former Atletico Madrid chief Andrea Berta as their new sporting director and Edu’s replacement.

The Gunners were left stunned last November when Edu resigned from his post after five years at the Emirates, in which time he helped transform Mikel Arteta’s side into title-contenders, overseeing many a successful transfer.

Following a dismal January transfer window, where they failed to sign anyone and address their lack of firepower up top, the Premier League club stepped up efforts to find a replacement sporting director.

And on Sunday they confirmed the arrival of Berta who departed Atletico in January after 12 years at the La Liga giants and previously worked at Italian teams Carpenedolo, Parma and Genoa.

‘I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club,’ the Italian, 53, said upon the announcement.

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‘I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone in to reestablishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.

‘The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team.

Andrea Berta (left) notably signed England hero Kieran Trippier for Atletico Madrid (Photo: Getty)

‘I cannot wait to get started in my new role and I am really looking forward to experiencing my first game at Emirates Stadium together with our supporters.’

Over the past eight years, Berta made 52 signings for Atletico at an estimated expenditure of €828million (£684m) and was influential in many more deals prior to that.

Andrea Berta’s best Atletico Madrid signings

Perhaps Atletico Madrid’s best two players of the past decade have been Jan Oblak and Antione Griezmann.

Berta signed two of Atletico Madrid’s greatest players: Jan Oblak and Antoine Griezmann (Photo: Getty)

Oblak has consistently been regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world and practically a steal in the transfer market, costing £13m from Benfica in 2014.

Berta actually made a £64m profit on Griezmann after he signed the French World Cup winner, sold him to rivals Barcelona at a huge cost and then brought him back two years later on the cheap. In all, the forward has 197 goals and 91 assists for the club.

Though he only spent one season in Madrid, £24m signing Rodri is also among Berta’s success stories, with the defensive midfielder going onto win the treble and Ballon d’Or at Manchester City.

Rodri spent one season at Atletico before joining Man City (Photo: Getty)

Sometimes the cheapest transfers are the best and that was certainly the case with Luis Suarez who was snapped up for just £5.5m by Berta after being controversially binned off by Barcelona in 2020.

Though 33 at the time, the former Liverpool striker delivered one last outstanding season as he fired Atletico toward the La Liga title, the second won during Berta’s time at the club.

Thomas Lemar has not been a success at Atletico (Photo: Getty)

Andrea Berta’s worst Atletico Madrid signings

Of course, not every signing has been success, with Joao Felix, currently on loan at AC Milan from Chelsea, among Berta’s flops.

The fourth-most expensive player of all-time, costing £113m, the Portugal forward never adapted to Diego Simeone’s style of football and after several loan moves he was finally sold to Stamford Bridge at a substantial loss.

Monaco’s title-winning team of 2017 featured many star players like Kylian Mbappe and Bernardo Silva, so there was excitement when Atletico signed Thomas Lemar, then a Arsenal and Liverpool target, for around £58m.

Berta sold Matheus Cunha to Wolves too soon (Photo: Getty)

29 goal contributions in 189 games and just four appearances in the last two seasons show the attacking midfielder wasn’t worth the hype.

Another seemingly no-brainer of a transfer was to re-sign Diego Costa for £50m after he was unceremoniously dumped by Chelsea in 2017, but his second spell at the club was a disaster, yielding just 19 goals in three years.

Additionally, Berta signed current Arsenal target Matheus Cunha and Gunners fans may be hoping for some deja vu following his explosive form for Wolves this season.

He wasn’t outstanding at Atletico, though the real transfer mistake was letting him leave Madrid too soon.

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^ ^ Wayne Rooney mocked by Gary Lineker after revealing surprising phobia on live TV

Wayne Rooney revealed his surprise phobia (Picture: Getty)

Wayne Rooney left Gary Lineker and his fellow pundits in hysterics after revealing his surprise phobia live on air.

Rooney and Lineker were joined by Theo Walcott and Glenn Murray for the live coverage of Brighton’s clash with Nottingham Forest on Saturday evening.

And after a quiet first half on the south coast, Lineker decided to turn the attention to Rooney who had revealed a rather unusual fact about himself earlier on in the day.

Having grown up in the spotlight since breaking through at Everton aged 17, there isn’t much that fans don’t know about the former England and Manchester United captain.

So many were therefore surprised to discover that the 39-year-old has an irrational fear of large fish.

‘We’ve still got little time to talk It wasn’t the most compelling first half but what we did learn earlier, during that first half, was that Wayne Rooney is scared of fish,’ Lineker said. ‘Tell us about that fear of fish Wayne.’

Trying to explain, Rooney said: ‘I just don’t like them.’

Rooney’s phobia shocked fans (Picture: Getty)

https://twitter.com/BBCMOTD/status/1906061546872336575

And with his fellow pundits cracking up around him, Rooney tried to clarify his phobia, adding: ‘It’s the big fish [that I’m scared off]. I do like fish.’

Teasing Rooney further, Lineker joked: ‘I’m only saying it because we’re only three or four miles from the coast here.’

With the action continuing at the Amex Stadium, there was nothing to separate either side as a game devoid of attacking quality went all the way to penalties.

Ryan Yates scored the winning penalty for Nottingham Forest (Picture: Getty)

And it was Forest who continued their remarkable season, with captain Ryan Yates scoring the winning spot kick to send his side to Wembley for the FA Cup semi-finals.

With Chris Wood injured, Nuno Espirito Santo controversially benched Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga, perhaps with one mind on a crucial midweek Premier League clash with Manchester United.

But speaking before kick-off, a bemused Rooney couldn’t make sense of the decision, saying: ‘I’m shocked.

‘I think the FA Cup is such a prestigious tournament and to rest players in the quarter-final when you’ve got a great opportunity to get to the semi-finals. They’re trying to get into Champions League football which is fine.

‘But as a player, you want to play, you want to get momentum, you want to keep trying to win games. To leave players out… If I was a fan, I’d be fuming. 

‘You want to win silverware and this is a great opportunity. To leave players out when they’re not guaranteed to win the game on Tuesday is beyond belief for me.’ 

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^ ^ Barcelona star Jules Kounde responds to Chelsea transfer approach

Chelsea have expressed interest in signing Jules Kounde from Barcelona (Picture: Getty)

Chelsea have expressed interest in signing Jules Kounde but look set for disappointment in their pursuit of the Barcelona defender.

Kounde has made more than 100 appearances for Barca over the last three seasons, emerging as a key player for the club following his €55m move from Sevilla.

Chelsea tried to sign Kounde when he was at Sevilla but Barcelona won the race to bring the highly-rated Frenchman to the Nou Camp.

The move has proved to be a resounding success, with Kounde starring in Barca’s La Liga title win in 2022-23 and helping the Spanish giants climb to the top of the table this season.

Chelsea intend to sign a new centre-back this summer and are ready to revive their interest in Kounde, according to Spanish outlet Sport.

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It is claimed Barca are aware of Chelsea’s interest and are working on a new contract to keep him at the club beyond his current deal which expires in 2026.

Signed predominately to play at centre-back, Kounde has in fact starred on the right this season and Barcelona are pleased with his development and versatility.

Kounde in action for La Liga leaders Barca (Picture: Getty)

Kounde is said to be ‘very happy’ at Barca and planning to stay at the club for ‘many years’.

The 26-year-old, who has 42 caps for France, has a difficult relationship with former Barcelona boss Xavi but is thriving under his replacement, Hansi Flick.

The only factors that could persuade Kounde to change his mind and consider a move to Chelsea is the potential pay-rise on offer and the chance to play at centre-back on a regular basis.

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca (Picture: Getty)

Explaining his decision to snub Chelsea for Barcelona, Kounde said at his Nou Camp unveiling: ‘It’s true that I had the opportunity to sign for Chelsea but we had to wait for Barca to find an agreement with Sevilla.

‘When I saw that it was possible, I chose Barcelona, I was very clear about that. It’s a big club and an ambitious project.’

Barca could be set for an extraordinary season as they chase the La Liga title and Champions League trophy.

Flick’s side are currently top of La Liga, level on points with Real Madrid, while they face Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Chelsea, meanwhile, face a battle for Champions League qualification following the international break, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League.

Enzo Maresca’s side briefly threatened to rival Liverpool for the title earlier in the season but fell away dramatically following the Christmas period.

Chelsea should, however, still finish the season with some silverware ahead of the quarter-finals of the Europa Conference League.

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^ ^ Two Arsenal stars face axe if Mikel Arteta signs £48m Spain international

Mikel Arteta has wanted to sign this Spain star for years (Photo: Getty)

Two Arsenal stars could leave the Emirates this summer if Mikel Arteta finally signs one of his top transfer targets, according to reports.

It’s been an underwhelming season for Arsenal so far, with the club set to finish runner-up in the Premier League title race for the third consecutive year.

With nine games left, the Gunners are 12 points behind Liverpool and they have also failed to win the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

Their only hope of avoiding another trophyless season would be to win the Champions League but they are not fancied to beat holders Real Madrid in the quarter-finals.

As such, Arteta is planning a substantial overhaul of his squad this summer transfer window, with no less than seven players to be sold or released.

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This includes the likes of Jorginho, Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko who have all been long touted for a move, but The Times report two more stars could be on the chopping block.

It is said that both Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli’s futures at Arsenal will be in doubt if Arteta is able to sign a new winger.

Leandro Trossard is out of contract next year (Photo: Getty)

While signing a striker is the priority, with the likes of Alexander Isak, Benjamin Sesko and Hugo Ekitike on their shortlist, the manager would like to bring in a new wide forward to support an attack that has struggled with injuries and scored 16 fewer goals than Liverpool.

Trossard, who has scored four goals in the league, is the likelier of the pair to be moved on with his contract expiring in 2026 and has come under criticism at times this campaign.

Alan Shearer said the Belgian lacked ‘hunger’ in the FA Cup defeat to Manchester United, while Gunners fans believe it would be a ‘mistake’ if the club extended his current deal.

Nico Williams has 16 goal contributions so far this season (Photo: Getty)

The 30-year-old signed for the north London club in January 2023 from Brighton for £20million and has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League.

As for which winger could replace Trossard or Martinelli, the report adds that Arteta will once again make a move for Nico Williams, who has long been linked with swapping Athletic Bilbao for Arsenal.

The 22-year-old helped Spain win Euro 2024 last summer and has followed that with another stellar campaign, recording nine goals and seven assists in all competitions so far.

The Gunners wanted to buy Williams in the last transfer window but were unable to pay his €58m (£48.5m) release clause.

For now, Arteta is preparing his side for their first clash since the March international break, with Arsenal hosting Fulham on Tuesday night.

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^ ^ In Focus with Lucy Bronze and Alex Scott

Chelsea and England defender Lucy Bronze speaks exclusively to Alex Scott about her autism and ADHD diagnosis.

Lucy's mum, Diane, had long suspected she may be autistic, but it wasn't until four years ago that Bronze was officially diagnosed as having autism and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

Lucy has had outstanding success as a footballer, both at home and abroad, and during this chat she tells Alex how her neurodiversity has impacted her life both on and off the pitch and why some of her differences have been her strengths.

TIMECODES: 1:02 - On receiving her autism diagnosis and ADHD four years ago. 3:13 - The process of getting diagnosed 5:00 - On her most notable neurodivergent traits 7:10 - Do her teammates know? 9:20 - Being ‘obsessed’ with football and how her differences have been her strengths. 10:26 - How does it affect her on the football pitch? 12:25 - Masking and copying the behaviours of Jill Scott. 15:54 - Her experiences of playing abroad and being in diverse environments. 16:50 - Being a role model to younger players 19:55 - On the diagnosis helping to understand who she is, not change who she is. 22:25 - Why is she ready to talk about it now? 24:45 - Becoming an ambassador for the National Autistic Society to help with "raising awareness" and "getting rid of the stigma" around it.

5 Live and BBC Sounds commentaries this weekend: 
Sat 12:15 Fulham v Crystal Palace (FA Cup) 
Sat 15:00 Celtic v Hearts (Scottish Premiership) 
Sat 17:15 Brighton v Nottingham Forest (FA Cup) 
Sun 13:30 Preston v Aston Villa (FA Cup).

^ ^ When is the FA Cup semi-final draw? Start time and how to watch on TV

The FA Cup quarter-finals are being played this weekend (Getty)

The FA Cup quarter-final kicks off on Saturday as eight teams compete this weekend for a place in the semi-final at Wembley next month.

Fulham get the FA Cup quarter-final action under way today as they host Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage. Later on, Brighton play Nottingham Forest in another all-Premier League tie.

On Sunday, Championship side Preston North End will be aiming for an FA Cup upset at home to Aston Villa before Bournemouth host last year’s beaten finalists Manchester City.

As well as the four games this weekend, the draw for next month’s two FA Cup semi-final fixtures will also be held.

Here is everything you need to know about the FA Cup semi-final draw…

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When is the FA Cup semi-final draw?

The draw for the FA Cup semi-final is will take place on Sunday March 29, following the tie between Preston North End and Aston Villa, which kicks-off at 1.30pm.

The game, which will be broadcast live on BBC One and streamed on BBC iPlayer, will finish around 3.20pm if there is no extra time or penalties.

The FA Cup semi-final draw will be held this Sunday (Getty)

FA Cup semi-final draw ball numbers

The ball numbers for the FA Cup semi-final draw are:

1. Fulham or Crystal Palace
2. Preston North End or Aston Villa
3. Bournemouth or Manchester City
4. Brighton or Nottingham Forest

How to watch the FA Cup semi-final draw

The draw will be held live on BBC One and also via the official FA Cup social media channels.

FA Cup quarter-final fixtures

Saturday March 29

12.15pm: Fulham vs Crystal Palace – (ITV1)
5.15pm: Brighton vs Nottingham Forest – (BBC One)

Sunday March 30

1.30pm: Preston North End vs Aston Villa – (BBC One)
4.30pm: Bournemouth vs Manchester City – (ITV1)

When are the FA Cup semi-finals played?

The FA Cup semi-final ties will be played at Wembley on Saturday April 26 and Sunday April 27.

What is the FA Cup prize money?

Third-round winners: £115,000
Third-round losers: £25,000
Fourth-round winners: £120,000
Fifth-round winners: £225,000
Quarter-final winners: £450,000
Semi-final winners: £1 million
Semi-final losers: £500,000
Final runners-up: £1m
Final winners: £2m

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^ ^ What TV channels are the FA Cup quarter-final games on this weekend? Full BBC and ITV schedule

The FA Cup quarter-final takes place this weekend (Getty)

The FA Cup quarter-final begins today with eight teams competing for a semi-final spot at Wembley next month.

Saturday’s FA Cup action begins with an all-Premier League tie at Craven Cottage as Fulham host Crystal Palace. Later today, Brighton play Nottingham Forest.

On Sunday, the first televised FA Cup tie will be Preston North End, who are the only Championship side remaining in the competition, against Aston Villa.

The final tie on Sunday is Bournemouth against Manchester City.

All four games will be available to watch live on either the BBC or ITV across the weekend.

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Here is the full list of FA Cup quarter-final matches on TV…

How to watch the FA Cup quarter-finals on TV this weekend

Saturday March 29

12.15pm kick-off: Fulham vs Crystal Palace (live on ITV1 and ITVX from 11.30am)

5.15pm kick-off: Brighton vs Nottingham Forest (live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 5pm)

Pep Guardiola is aiming to win his third FA Cup with Manchester City (Getty)

Sunday March 30

1.30pm kick-off: Preston North End vs Aston Villa (live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 1.15pm)

4.30pm kick-off: Bournemouth vs Manchester City (live on ITV1 and ITVX from 3.45pm)

When is the FA Cup semi-final draw?

The FA Cup semi-finals will be held at Wembley in April (Getty)

The draw for the FA Cup semi-final is will take place on Sunday after the tie between Preston North End and Aston Villa, which kicks off at 1.30pm.

The match, which will be broadcast live on BBC One and streamed on BBC iPlayer, will finish around 3.20pm, providing that there is no extra time or penalties.

FA CUP SEMI-FINAL BALL NUMBERS

1. Fulham or Crystal Palace
2. Preston North End or Aston Villa
3. Bournemouth or Manchester City
4. Brighton or Nottingham Forest

The draw will be held live on BBC One and also via the official FA Cup social media channels.

The FA Cup semi-final ties will be played at Wembley on April 26 and 27.

Meanwhile, the FA Cup final will also be held at Wembley on May 17.

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^ ^ Diego Maradona ‘died in agony’ as horrifying details of football legend’s death emerge

Maradona died in November 2020 (Picture: Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)

Football legend Maradona likely ‘died in agony’ as his heart swelled to double its regular size, a court heard.

Seven medical professionals are on trial for culpable homicide in Argentina after the death of one of the sport’s finest ever players in November 2020 at the age of 60 following a cardiac arrest.

Maradona was recovering from brain surgery for a blood clot at home at the time of his death having battled cocaine and alcohol addiction for years.

The seven-person medical team, including a neurosurgeon, a psychiatrist and medical staffers, are on trial accused of failing to provide Maradona with adequate care. Prosecutors have described his final days as a  ‘horror theatre’.

Maradona was found to have died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema with four-and-half liters accumulating in his lungs for ‘at least 10 days’ before his death, forensic expert Carlos Mauricio Casinelli said.

Casinelli, director of forensic medicine at the Scientific Police Superintendency, was one of the experts who performed a post-mortem examination on the former player.

Maradona’s heart ‘weighed almost twice as much as a normal one,’ Casinelli said, explaining it would have caused ‘agony’ for at least 12 hours prior to his death.

Maradona led Argentina to the World Cup in 1986 (Picture: Getty)

Casinelli claimed his heart weighed 503 grams when he died – heavier than a football.

‘It was a dark, partitioned room, with a bed in the middle of the room and a portable toilet . It didn’t seem like a suitable place for what we later learned was home hospitalisation ,’ he said.

‘What’s striking is that all the organs had fluid retention. All the organs were heavier than normal in a corpse.

‘The agonising period can be long or short, depending on the pathology. Because of the clot, the agony lasted several hours.’

Veronica Ojeda, ex-wife of Maradona, poses in front of the posters demanding justice (Picture: Luciano Gonzalez/Anadolu via Getty Images)

During court proceedings, the judge warned gruesome images and video footage of Maradona’s autopsy would be shown. Argentine newspaper Clarin report Jana, Diego’s eldest daughter, left the courtroom as some of the morbid details were revealed.

Casinelli also explained such was the severity of Maradona’s condition, the pressure on his lungs would have been audible to those close to him.

‘From my experience with the generalised edema, the difficulty he must have had breathing and exchanging gases, and the sounds in his lungs that are audible just by bringing his face close,’ he said.

‘In my opinion as a doctor, it wasn’t a sudden event.’

The trial is expected to continue until July.

^ ^ Manchester United make former Barcelona winger with £20m clause a ‘prime’ target

Francisco Trincao is on Manchester United’s summer shortlist (Getty)

Manchester United have made Sporting CP winger Francisco Trincao a prime target for the summer transfer window, according to reports.

United have already missed out on Geovany Quenda, with the Sporting winger now due to move to Chelsea next year in a deal that could be worth up to €50 million (£42.1m) with add-ons.

According to The Sun, Ruben Amorim is ‘desperate’ to land Trincao this summer and is convinced the 25-year-old can make an immediate impact in the Premier League.

Trincao already has experience of playing in England’s top flight from his season-long loan at Wolves in the 2021-22 campaign.

Wolves passed up the chance to land Trincao on a permanent deal and Sporting ended up signing the Portugal international from Barcelona on an initial loan deal in July 2022.

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Sporting made the move permanent for €7m (£6m) the following year but Barcelona included a €25m (£20.8m) buyback option, which expires in 2026, and retained 50 per cent sell-on clause as part of their agreement.

Barcelonahave the option to re-sign Francisco Trincao for €25m (£20.8m) (Getty)

Because of Barca’s sell-on clause, Sporting are holding out for United to trigger Trincao’s €80m (£66.5m) release clause this summer.

Trincao has been one of Sporting’s standout performers this season with 11 goals and 12 assists across all competitions so far.

He also scored two goals for Portugal in their 5-2 victory over Denmark in the Nations League on Sunday night.

Trincao will still have two years remaining on his contract with Sporting at the end of the season.

When asked about his future in November, the winger said: ‘We have not spoken yet about my contract renewal.

‘Everyone knows I am happy here at Sporting. I am very happy, I love Lisbon, this is my club, of course I am happy.’

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^ ^ Arsenal transfer target with £21.4million clause has clear stance on Gunners move

Mikel Arteta, is keen to sign a new goalkeeper this summer (Picture: Getty)

Arsenal remain keen on signing Joan Garcia this summer despite David Raya solidifying his status as Mikel Arteta’s No.1 goalkeeper.

The former Brentford star joined the Gunners 18 months ago on loan, but signed permanently last summer and has arguably been their most consistent performer this season.

Arsenal allowed Aaron Ramsdale, who was usurped by Raya, join Southampton and had earmarked Garcia as the England international’s replacement.

The 23-year-old is regarded as one of the best young goalkeepers in Europe and has, himself, enjoyed a reputation enhancing campaign.

Arsenal were unwilling to activate his £21.4 million release clause last summer but have maintained their interest in a player who has been capped twice by his country at senior level.

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Indeed, Arsenal chiefs held talks with Garcia representatives in December while the first team were in Spain playing a Champions League match against Girona.

Despite Raya’s excellence, Arteta wants to add a goalkeeper of Garcia’s quality to his squad and provide competition for the 29-year-old.

Arteta wants more competition for No. 1 David Raya (Picture: Getty)

Neto, who joined on loan from Bournemouth late in the summer transfer window, has made only one appearance this season and will return to his parent club in June.

Arsenal do have two talented young goalkeepers on their books in the shape of Jack Porter, who made his senior debut aged 16 in the Carabao Cup back in September, as well as Tommy Setford who signed from Ajax nearly a year ago.

According to The Athletic, Garcia remains keen on the idea of a move to Arsenal, despite the fact he would face an enormous challenge in ousting Raya from the starting line-up.

Arsenal target Joan Garcia in action for Espanyol (Picture: Getty)

Speaking last month, Garcia indicated he was ready to seek a fresh challenge and the windfall Espanyol would receive from his departure would soften the blow of his exit.

‘I am a very cold person in every sense and I think that this attitude helps me. I am very calm at Espanyol, with an opportunity that I have been waiting for a long time,’

‘It will be for the good of everyone (if I leave). Mine and the club, which is the one that has made me grow. It can’t be any other way.’

^ ^ Gabby Agbonlahor tips Arsenal to join transfer race for Premier League star

Gabriel Agbonlahor feels Liam Delap is destined for a move at the end of the season (Picture: Getty)

Gabriel Agbonlahor has predicted that Arsenal will join two other Premier League clubs in a transfer race to sign Liam Delap from Ipswich Town.

Delap only joined Ipswich in July from Manchester City in a deal worth £20m but already looks destined for a move at the end of the season.

Ipswich were promoted to the top-flight last term but seem set for an immediate relegation, which would make Delap’s exit even more likely.

Delap has massively impressed since his move to Ipswich, conjuring up 10 goals across 28 Premier League games for the Tractor Boys to date.

Football pundit Agbonlahor is convinced that Delap will leave Ipswich in the next summer transfer window and believes he could head to Arsenal.

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Agbonlahor has suggested Delap would slot straight into Arsenal’s XI because he is superior to current forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

But the former Premier League star feels Delap will have a number of options and could join Liverpool or Tottenham instead of the Gunners.

Liam Delap only joined Ipswich in July from Man City for £20m (Picture: Getty)

‘One player that will get a move [in the summer transfer window] is Liam Delap,’ Agbonlahor told talkSPORT.

‘Ipswich only paid £20 million for him. He’s got 10 goals in 28 Premier League appearances. He’ll get a move.

‘Who will take a punt on him? Is he good enough for Arsenal, Liverpool or Spurs?

Liam Delap would do a ‘better job’ than Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz (Picture: Getty)

‘Arsenal, Spurs and Liverpool need strikers. I’m sure Delap would do a better job than Kai Havertz or Gabriel Jesus [at Arsenal].

‘He’d do a better job than Darwin Nunez at Liverpool. He’d do a better job than Richarlison [at Spurs]. I think he’ll definitely get a move.’

Speaking in February, fellow football pundit Tim Sherwood urged Arsenal to tempt Ipswich with a £40m bid for Delap.

Asked whether Delap is a player Arsenal should be looking at, Sherwood told Sky Sports: ‘That is a no-brainer for me.

‘I put Delap in front of [Ollie] Watkins, considering what Arsenal need at the moment. And he’s ahead of [Benjamin] Sesko, who Arsenal have been touting around for.

‘Ipswich would be consigned to the Championship already without him. I think £40m would get him now.

‘He would really develop under [Mikel] Arteta and give Arsenal something different, he’s strong, holds the ball up, runs from deep. He knows the league.

‘I think he is an absolute no-brainer for Arsenal. If Ipswich get relegated, his value will still be up there, about the same price. £40m is nothing for Arsenal, he’s got a huge future ahead of him.’

^ ^ Arsenal make approach to sign £60m Liverpool target instead of Alexander Isak

Hugo Ekitike is wanted by Arsenal ahead of the summer transfer window (DeFodi Images/Shutterstock)

Arsenal have made an approach to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, according to reports.

Mikel Arteta’s side are in the market for a new centre-forward and have already targeted Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.

However, Arsenal have been forced to explore alternative options with Newcastle demanding £150 million for the Sweden international.

According to The Sun, Ekitike has emerged as an option for Arsenal and the Gunners are among the Premier League clubs who have enquired about the 22-year-old.

The report adds that Frankfurt will demand a transfer fee in the region of £60m.

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Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle and Bayern Munich have also been keeping tabs on Ekitike, who has scored 19 goals for Frankfurt this season.

Hugo Ekitike scored a hat-trick against England Under-21s last Friday (Shutterstock)

Ekitike was initially signed on loan from Paris Saint-Germain in February last year before the Bundesliga club made the deal permanent for €16.5m (£13.9m) last summer.

Last week, reports in Germany claimed that Frankfurt are anticipating Ekitike’s sale in the upcoming transfer window due to the amount of interest.

During the international break, Ekitike scored a hat-trick in France Under-21s’ 5-3 win over England.

In an interview earlier this month, Ekitike was asked about his former Frankfurt teammate, Omar Marmoush, who joined Manchester City in a £59m deal in the January transfer window.

‘I wouldn’t say that I miss him because we have new players who are also very, very good,’ Ekitike said.

‘I think he did everything he needed to do here. I’m happy to see him playing in England now. I try to watch his games whenever I can, especially when he’s playing.

‘I think we shared some great moments together, and I hope we can play together again or face each other soon.’

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^ ^ Arsenal coach aims pitch dig at Real Madrid after stunning Champions League comeback

Alessia Russo helped Arsenal overturn a 2-0 deficit and beat Real Madrid to reach the Champions League semi finals (Credits: Ashley Western/Colorsport/Shutte)

Arsenal head coach Renee Slegers joked ‘football is meant to be played on grass’ after masterminding last night’s astonishing Champions League comeback against Real Madrid.

Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, the Gunners, roared on by a record European crowd at the Emirates Stadium, booked their place in the semi-finals against Lyon following a three-goal second half salvo.

Alessia Russo was at the heart of the turnaround with the England forward’s two goals helping Slegers’ side fight back from last week’s setback and claim a 3-2 aggregate victory.

Manchester City loanee Chloe Kelly continued her stunning return to the capital with two assists, one of which was for former Barcelona midfielder Mariona Caldentey’s header that levelled the tie.

Gunners boss Slegers, who took over in October as interim before being named permanent coach in January, will now lead her team against Lyon in the semi-finals next month.

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‘We’ve done really good things before and had good performances against good teams but this is definitely one of them,’ Slegers said when asked if the win was the best night of her tenure.

‘This is maybe the clearest one where you play an opponent away, the game looks like it does and then you come back a week after and put a performance and result forward. So I think this is probably the clearest one.’

Arsenal’s players and coaching staff celebrated together after the final whistle after knocking out Real Madrid (Picture: Getty)

A record Champions League quarter final crowd of 22,517 watched Arsenal beat Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium (Credits: Phil Hutchinson/UK Sports Pics Ltd)

Arsenal scored three times in 14 minutes after half-time to turn the tie around.

Russo’s first came after Caitlin Foord surged infield and fed Kelly to cross for her England team-mate to apply the simple finish.

After Caldentey’s header, Russo’s clinical finish in the area following a Katie McCabe free-kick took her tally in Europe for the campaign to seven.

Victory felt like vindication for an Arsenal team that felt aggrieved last week after they were forced to play on a sub-standard pitch which club legend Ian Wright branded a ‘disgrace’.

There were no such issues last night as Arsenal, playing on the lush Emirates carpet, swept their opposition aside with a blistering attacking performance.

Ian Wright on Real Madrid's pitch

Speaking after the first leg, Wright said: ‘Watching the Champions League quarter-final Real Madrid pitch, this is worse than Derby’s pitch the other day,’ Wright said on social media, referencing the Pride Park pitch which came under scrutinty following Saturday’s Women’s League Cup final between Chelsea and Manchester City.

‘This is a f****** disgrace the pitches these girls have to play on.’

Alessia Russo got the ball rolling with the first goal in Arsenal’s comeback win over Real Madrid (Picture: Getty)

‘Football is to be played on grass and we obviously played on grass in Madrid,’ Slegers said with a knowing smile.

‘But I think any team will play better football on good pitches. The pitch at the Emirates is amazing.

‘We want to be a team that finds a way to win so whatever circumstances, whatever the surface we want to be able to beat our opponents. We were critical of ourselves in the away game against Madrid but we are very happy with the performance today.’

Arsenal, meanwhile, already know they will face Lyon and their former coach Joe Montemurro in the semi finals and skipper Leah Williamson knows her side cannot afford to leave themselves with a mountain to climblike they did against Real following a first leg defeat.

‘Joe [Montemurro] as well, obviously, used to be the manager here,’ Williamson said. ‘So it’ll be a tough game, we know that.

‘But I think when we’re playing like we are tonight, then getting into the next round, that’s the job done. And now it’s about being ready.

‘Because we don’t want to put ourselves in the same position. Great that we came back, but we shouldn’t have put ourselves in that position in the first place.’