Category: Manchester United

Manchester United identify Harry Kane’s alternative

June 1, 2023

Manchester United have identified Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund as a potential alternative for Harry Kane this summer. The Red Devils have been impressed by the profile of the player and will cash in on him if the Tottenham captain doesn’t arrive at Old Trafford this summer.

According to the reports from Football Insider, Hojlund features highly in the wanted list of Manchester United this summer. The United hierarchy will approach him if the move for Kane doesn’t happen. The Dane has scored nine goals and provided four assists in 33 games for Atalanta across all competitions. 

Manchester United have arguably enjoyed their best domestic campaign this season after the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson. This is the first season in which they have won a trophy and secured a top-four spot in the Premier League. However, their good season doesn’t paper the cracks in the side.

One of the obvious issues within the squad is the lack of goalscorer. Marcus Rashford has had his best domestic season, scoring 30 goals across all competitions. However, Bruno Fernandes was the closest to his scoring numbers, with 13. 

Anthony Martial has struggled to maintain his form and fitness throughout the season. Now, the France International won’t be available for the FA Cup final against Manchester City. Secondly, Wout Weghorst has only found the net twice since his loan move from Burnley. 

Hence, it is important that United get a first-class striker to lead the line going into next season. Kane is the obvious choice for them, but they have alternatives lined up, such as Hojlund, as alternatives.

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Man Utd agree terms with Chelsea midfielder Mount ahead of transfer talks – Paper Round

June 1, 2023

United agree terms with Mount

The Telegraph believes Manchester United will probably soon make a deal for Mason Mount after they agreed personal terms with Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount.

Mount, along with Tottenham striker Harry Kane, is wanted by Erik ten Hag ahead of the new Premier League season.

Transfers

Kane will run down contract if he does not get Man Utd move – Paper Round

YESTERDAY AT 05:24

The paper reports: “Manchester United have agreed personal terms with Mason Mount and are now expected to sign the Chelsea midfielder.

“Mount is also wanted by Liverpool and Arsenal and it would be a serious blow for Jurgen Klopp, in particular, if he joins United. The Liverpool manager has targeted Mount and Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister as he rebuilds his midfield, while Arsenal are pushing for Mount’s best friend, West Ham United captain Declan Rice, who is also wanted by Bayern Munich coach Thomas Tuchel.

“A transfer fee is yet to be agreed by United for Mount, but Telegraph Sport revealed on Tuesday that United manager Erik ten Hag is confident he can persuade the 24-year-old to join and is pushing the club’s hierarchy to get the deal over the line.

“Ten Hag regards Mount as one of two key signings in the forthcoming window and will play him as a No 8. The other signing he desperately wants is a striker and his dream transfer still remains Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane.”

City close in on Kovacic

With the departure of Ilkay Gundoga looking likely, Manchester City are also in the market for a Chelsea midfielder.

The Mirror states that they are in talks for Mateo Kovacic, who has a year left on his current contract at Stamford Bridge, with his current side looking to balance the books.

“Manchester City and Chelsea have opened talks over the transfer of Mateo Kovacic,” the report claims.

“The Croatian international has just a year left on his contract at Stamford Bridge and will be allowed to depart as the Blues look to thin out their bloated squad. Chelsea have given City permission to discuss personal terms with Kovacic.

“It is expected that the two clubs will reach an agreement over a fee and that Kovacic, 29, will move to the Etihad to join the Premier League champions.

“Other clubs have been monitoring Kovacic’s situation in west London, but he is understood to be keen on a new challenge and particularly to work with Pep Guardiola. The City boss has long been an admirer of the ex-Real Madrid and Inter Milan midfielder.”

Newcastle linked with Felix move

Newcastle United might need Atletico Madrid to compromise on a deal for Joao Felix. The forward’s Chelsea loan ended swiftly at the end of the season and there is no hope of him coming back to Stamford Bridge.

The Sun writes that Newcastle could be his next destination, assuming his £200,000-a-week wages are settled some how.

The paper says: “JOAO FELIX could be on his way straight back to England after being offered to Newcastle.

“The Portuguese forward was stunned to be bombed out by Chelsea as soon as the season finished and is now in limbo.

“Atletico are ready to strike another loan deal with a modest fee plus the players wages of around £200K a week covered.

“That would be a sticking point as Toon boss Eddie Howe admits his club does struggle on pay. A split on the salary may have to be agreed.”

Lunin may depart Real

Andriy Lunin hopes to move on from Real Madrid after it became apparent that he has little chance of dislodging ThibautCourtois.

Real are looking for a replacement for the Ukrainian, who is out of contract at the end of the season, and Spanish newspaper Marca reports David Soria, out of contract at Getafe next month, is an option.

“Luninwants to play and he knows that it is really difficult for him at Real Madrid to do so,” explains the outlet. “He wants to leave and Real Madrid are already looking for a replacement. Last year, in similar circumstances, Ospina was first on the list of Los Blancos as was the young Pole Slonina, who now belongs to Chelsea. Now, the first name that has been talked about is that of David Soria, Getafe’s first-choice goalkeeper whose contract expires in a month.

“The Ukrainian goalkeeper feels that his time at the club is coming to an end. After playing and doing well at the start of the season, he was ostracised as soon as Courtois recovered. The goal he has set himself is to feel like a goalkeeper again and to regain his lost confidence, and that means looking for a destination away from Madrid.

“Lunin’s contract with Real Madrid expires in 2024 and although it will not be the main problem, the club will ask for something in return for his departure.”

Transfers

Bayern ignite Rice race with £95m offer, Kane to Man Utd blocked – Paper Round

29/05/2023 AT 22:04

Transfers

Barcelona line up Messi, Martinez, Gundogan and Guimaraes for summer spree – Paper Round

29/05/2023 AT 05:31

Bayern Munich star Benjamin Pavard sparks interest from Barcelona and Manchester United

May 31, 2023

Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard has attracted interest from both Barcelona and Manchester United as he looks set to leave the German club as a free agent, reported by goal.com. According to L’Equipe, Pavard has no plans to renew his contract, which is set to expire in 2024, and top European clubs are vying for his signature.

Manchester United, in particular, have identified Pavard as a key target for their summer transfer plans. With the impending departure of Harry Maguire and injury concerns surrounding Raphael Varane, United see Pavard as a suitable option to bolster their defense. The 27-year-old French international is reportedly open to playing as a center-back, which aligns with United’s requirements.

However, Barcelona is also in the mix for Pavard’s services. The Catalan club has shown interest in the past and has reportedly been in contact with Pavard’s representatives this summer. Barcelona is specifically seeking a right-back to address their issues in that position. This positional preference may pose a challenge for Pavard, as he sees himself primarily as a center-back.

The potential disagreement over position could sway Pavard towards Manchester United, as he would want to avoid being deployed out of position like Jules Kounde was at Barcelona last season. Nevertheless, there is still a chance for Bayern Munich to negotiate a new contract with Pavard, especially with the absence of former sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic. Contract talks are scheduled, and it remains to be seen whether a resolution can be reached.

As the race for Pavard’s signature intensifies, both Manchester United and Barcelona will be eager to secure the talented defender for the upcoming season. The coming weeks will shed more light on Pavard’s future and the destination he ultimately chooses.

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PSG star Neymar would join Manchester United with one condition

May 31, 2023

PSG star Neymar could be on his way to Manchester United, but only under specific conditions and depending on the outcome of the club’s takeover saga, reported by goal.com. The Brazilian forward has reportedly become increasingly inclined to leave PSG following protests outside his own home. Manchester United has emerged as a potential destination for the 31-year-old, with talks already underway between the two parties.

According to Foot Mercato, Neymar’s preferred choice is Manchester United if he decides to part ways with PSG. This news comes as a blow to other Premier League clubs, such as Chelsea, Newcastle, and Manchester City, who had previously expressed interest in signing the Brazilian superstar. It is also reported that Neymar has turned down advances from Saudi Arabia due to his strong inclination towards joining Manchester United.

However, the completion of any transfer hinges on Manchester United’s ongoing takeover saga. Two bids are reportedly in contention for the club’s buy-out offer: one led by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe and another led by Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar. Neymar’s relationship with Qatar, notably through PSG’s current owners, could facilitate the move if Sheikh Jassim’s bid is successful.

As the takeover process at Manchester United drags on, a decision on the winning bidder is expected to be made sometime this summer, well after the initial deadline. It is important to note that Neymar’s future in the French capital is not completely ruled out, as he recently featured alongside Lionel Messi, who is also rumored to be leaving PSG, in the club’s promotional video for their new home kit.

The potential transfer of Neymar to Manchester United would undoubtedly be a significant move in the football world. Fans will be eagerly awaiting further developments regarding the club’s ownership and Neymar’s future, as both factors could have a profound impact on the Brazilian’s potential move to Old Trafford.

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Manchester United ready to buy this goalkeeper for $80million

May 31, 2023

In a bid to secure their goalkeeping position for the long term, Manchester United is reportedly set to activate the release clause of Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa, reported by goal.com. According to Portuguese publication A Bola, the 23-year-old shot-stopper could be on his way to Old Trafford in the upcoming transfer window.

A Bola suggests that Costa has played his final game for Porto and is now expected to make a move to the Premier League, with Manchester United prepared to pay his substantial $80 million buy-out clause. The Portuguese international has garnered attention for his performances and potential, making him an enticing prospect for the Red Devils.

The potential acquisition of Costa is seen as a strategic move by Manchester United as they look for a long-term successor to their current goalkeeper, David de Gea, whose future at the club remains uncertain. With de Gea’s form fluctuating in recent seasons, United is keen to secure a reliable and talented option between the posts.

Diogo Costa has already represented Portugal at various youth levels and has impressed during his time at Porto. Known for his shot-stopping abilities and composure on the ball, Costa possesses the potential to develop into a top-class goalkeeper. A move to Manchester United would offer him the opportunity to showcase his skills on a bigger stage and compete at the highest level in the Premier League.

As the transfer window approaches, Manchester United’s interest in Diogo Costa indicates their intent to strengthen their squad in crucial areas. The club’s pursuit of a new goalkeeper highlights their ambition to solidify their defense and build a team capable of challenging for major honors. Fans eagerly await further developments regarding Costa’s potential move to Old Trafford and the impact he could make in the iconic red jersey.

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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag makes admission on striker

May 31, 2023

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has dropped the biggest hit on the future of Mason Greenwood. The former Ajax manager has indicated that the left-footed striker could stay at Old Trafford next season.

Speaking to the Times, ten Hag said, “[He] showed in the past that he is capable of doing that.”. However, the Dutchman has said that the future of Greenwood is not up to the player.

When asked about his striker profile alongside Marcus Rashford, ten Hag said, “What we need besides Marcus Rashford is one extra player with scoring abilities whether it’s coming out of our own squad or we have to sign one.”

Greenwood has not featured for Manchester United for the last 16 months after the club opened an investigation on him earlier this year. There are also reports that Greenwood has spoken to the players about his future and insisted that he may not play for the club again. 

Juventus are reportedly in the running to sign the striker, as the Englishman could be reunited with former Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba in Turin. 

Regardless of Greenwood’s fate, it is clear that the Red Devils are in for a striker in the summer. United are linked with a big-money move for Tottenham Hotspur captain Harry Kane. Moreover, it is extremely unlikely that the club will secure the permanent transfer of Wout Weghorst this summer. 

The Carabao Cup winners only have Anthony Martial as the permanently-contracted striker at the club. Considering United also lost Cristiano Ronaldo midway through the season, they need a revamp in their attacking options.

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Manchester United midfielder attracting interest from Fulham

May 31, 2023

Manchester United midfielder Fred has been linked with a move to Fulham this summer. The Brazilian has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford due to the lack of starts at the club. 

According to the reports from Daily Mail, the former Shakhtar Donetsk man could be leaving for Fulham this summer. However, there are other offers for him on the table too.

Manchester United closed their Premier League season with a 2-1 win against Fulham. They qualified for the Champions League and now look forward to playing Manchester City in the FA Cup final. Fred was the star of the show as he played an essential role in both of the United goals en route to victory.

After the game, Fulham manager Marco Silva was seen speaking with Fred. After the images, rumors have gathered pace. The 30-year-old has made 55 appearances for Manchester United this season. However, most of them have come from the bench, as Erik ten Hag has fancied Christian Eriksen and Casemiro as first-choice midfielders. 

The last time Fred completed 90 minutes in a Premier League game was in February against Leeds when Casemiro was suspended. Fulham already have an abundance of Brazilian talent in Willian, Carlos Vinicius, and former United player Andreas Pereira.

With Manchester United battling Arsenal and Bayern Munich for the signature of Declan Rice in the summer, it will only put Fred further down in the pecking order. Hence, the player and Fulham must come down to a conclusion. Alongside Fred, Scott McTominay is another United midfielder destined for an exit this summer.

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Kane will run down contract if he does not get Man Utd move – Paper Round

May 31, 2023

Kane determined to make United move

The Sun reports that Harry Kane is willing to wait out his contract at Tottenham and leave on a free transfer next season if he does not get the move he wants.

The England international has a year left on his current deal and wants to move to Manchester United this summer.

Transfers

Bayern ignite Rice race with £95m offer, Kane to Man Utd blocked – Paper Round

YESTERDAY AT 22:04

The paper writes: “HARRY KANE will stay at Spurs for a final season — if he cannot get a move to Manchester United.

“Tottenham are more open to selling Kane to a foreign club than a top-flight rival with Bayern Munich huge admirers of the striker.

“But that does not interest Kane, who rattled in another 30 top-flight goals this season and has a year left on his contract.

“United are the only viable English option this summer with Kane, who has been at Spurs since age 11, not willing to risk his reputation with the fans by moving to arch- rivals Chelsea or Arsenal.

“Newcastle are not in a position to spend north of £100million on one player, despite their Saudi riches.”

Liverpool target Thuram signing

Liverpool are keen to sign Kephren Thuram from Nice this summer, the Mirror reports.

The decision comes as they look to bring in midfielders to replace James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita.

The newspaper claims: “Liverpool are plotting a move to sign French midfielder Khephren Thuram this summer.

“Jurgen Klopp is set to strengthen his midfield department when the transfer window re-opens, with James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita all set to leave the club at the end of June. Arthur will also return to Juventus at the end of his disastrous season-long loan spell.

“Liverpool are pushing to secure the services of Nice ace Thuram. The 22-year-old has impressed in the middle of the park for Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Nice this season, making 48 appearances, scoring twice. Thuram, who is the son of France legend Lillian and brother of fellow Liverpool target Marcus, is a destructive midfielder who can operate from box-to-box.”

More midfielders interest Liverpool

As well as Thuram, the Telegraph believes that Liverpool are in the market for two other midfielders.

They are interested in Alexis Mac Allister of Brighton, and Chelsea’s Mason Mount, who has a year left on his contract.

“Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Jorg Schmadtke as sporting director at Anfield ahead of the transfer window opening to help the club move quickly in the summer market,” the paper says.

“Schmadtke’s role is still subject to his work permit being finalised but the process is seen as a formality and he is expected to start work on June 1. Liverpool wanted him in place for a smooth transition from Ward in what is expected to be a busy summer of transfer activity.

“The club has an interest in Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister and Chelsea’s Mason Mount in the midfield area. It is understood that work has already started on summer recruitment and that it will be overseen by Schmadtke once he starts work in a month.”

Real have long list of strikers

Spanish newspaper Marca reports on the list of forwards that Real Madrid are interested in.

The debate inside the club is whether to aim for experience or potential, giving a wide range of names as a result.

The outlet writes: “Real Madrid are preparing to make a signing in the upcoming summer transfer market in order to strengthen their attack. However, there are internal uncertainties within the club regarding the direction they should take.

“The debate revolves around whether to focus on young talent with long-term potential or experienced players who can make an immediate impact. The discussion remains open, and the club is actively considering various options.

“The list of potential targets continues to grow rapidly. Players such as Harry Kane, Roberto Firmino, Julian Alvarez, Marcus Thuram, Joselu, Goncalo Ramos, Rasmus Hojlund, Kai Harvertz, Kolo Muani, Victor Osimhen, and Karim Adeyemi have all been mentioned.

“Additionally, the young players from Real Madrid academy, Alvaro Rodriguez and Juanmi Latasa, who is currently on loan at Getafe are also being considered as options to beef up the attack.”

Transfers

Barcelona line up Messi, Martinez, Gundogan and Guimaraes for summer spree – Paper Round

YESTERDAY AT 05:31

Transfers

Real Madrid offered Kane in swap deal for Hazard – Paper Round

26/05/2023 AT 00:44

Martial ruled out of FA Cup final with hamstring injury

May 30, 2023

Manchester United forward Anthony Martial has been ruled out of the FA Cup final against Manchester City on Saturday with a hamstring injury.

Martial sustained the injury in the 2-1 win over Fulham last Sunday and joins Marcel Sabitzer, Donny van de Beek and Lisandro Martinez on the list of sidelined players.
There are also injury concerns over Antony, after he was taken off on a stretcher in tears in the 4-1 win over Chelsea, but manager Erik ten Hag said the Brazilian will “probably recover” in time for the final.

Premier League

Ten Hag hails ‘vital’ win over Wolves as top-four hopes boosted

13/05/2023 AT 17:05

Tests revealed Martial has suffered a muscle tear and it means he will have missed 33 matches this season through several different setbacks.

A club statement read: “Anthony Martial is out of Saturday’s FA Cup Final against Manchester City due to injury.

“The French international strained his hamstring towards the end of Sunday’s 2-1 win against Fulham at Old Trafford.

“Assessments have since revealed a muscle tear that rules the 27-year-old out of the Wembley showdown.”

Martial has scored six goals and made two assists in 21 Premier League matches this season but is yet to complete a full 90 minutes.

The France international had been hoping to be in contention to start at Wembley against Man City, who are looking to match the Treble won by Sir Alex Ferguson’s United in 1999.

Meanwhile, City boss Pep Guardiola has warned that Ruben Dias, Manuel Akanji, Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish are all doubtful for Saturday’s clash.

Guardiola said: “We have four or five players with niggles, not big injuries, but they are injuries. The guys who didn’t play didn’t here were really, really exhausted the day before and mentally, they were completely drained.

“The guys who are in Manchester – Ruben didn’t train for 10 days, Jack Grealish, as well.

“After the game against Brighton, Kevin felt the same feelings that he had before, weeks ago when he could not play a few games. It is what it is. It’s not a big issue, I think they will be ready.

“They have to be ready for the training sessions and I am going to see them in three days and that’s why today was so important to see these players and how they are.”

Europa League

Ten Hag: United had to ‘kill the game’ vs Sevilla, Martinez injury ‘doesn’t look that great’

13/04/2023 AT 22:25

Europa League

Ten Hag: Martial is ‘massive for us’, Hargreaves says Rashford has ‘carried’ Man Utd

13/04/2023 AT 18:55

Manchester United player Amad Diallo gets endorsement by Rio Ferdinand

May 30, 2023

Amad Diallo has received an endorsement from Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, who has urged manager Erik ten Hag to give the young winger a chance, reported by goal.com. Ferdinand believes that Amad has “unfinished business” at the club and could provide a solution to a problem position on the right flank.

Since joining United from Atalanta in January 2021, Amad has struggled to secure regular first-team opportunities. However, his loan spell at Sunderland last season proved to be highly beneficial for his development. The 20-year-old impressed, scoring 14 goals and playing a key role in Sunderland’s run to the Championship playoffs.

Recent reports indicate that Amad will have the opportunity to showcase his talents during pre-season and potentially earn a place in the first-team squad. He has demonstrated versatility in attacking positions, often featuring on the right wing, which is currently occupied by Antony at United. Ferdinand sees Amad as a potential challenger for the right-wing role and believes he can bring a different dimension to the team.

“He is an interesting one. He has got talent, there is no doubting that. You can see the talent he has got but you can see he wasn’t robust enough at the time. But that loan at Sunderland, he left that place a hero, an absolute god. He plays on the right hand side too, a problem position for us,” expressed Ferdinand in an interview with Vibe with Five.

While Antony has performed well for United, Ferdinand believes that Amad could offer something different and deserves another opportunity to prove himself. The loan spell at Sunderland allowed him to gain valuable experience and build his confidence.

Amad will now aim to impress during pre-season training and catch the eye of manager Erik ten Hag. His performances and contributions in the upcoming period will determine whether he can establish himself as a regular member of the Manchester United first team, fulfilling his “unfinished business” at the club.

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