Category: Liverpool

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

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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

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Liverpool interested in signing Nice midfielder for $64million

May 31, 2023

Liverpool’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements has led them to express interest in Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram, reported by goal.com. The 22-year-old, son of French football legend Lilian Thuram, has captured the attention of several clubs after an impressive 2022-23 season, and Liverpool is among those closely monitoring his situation as they plan for a summer squad overhaul.

According to L’Équipe, the Reds are actively working towards securing the signature of the talented French international, who carries a valuation of $64 million. Liverpool and Thuram’s representatives have already held talks, and the player is said to be enthusiastic about the prospect of playing under the guidance of manager Jurgen Klopp.

However, Liverpool will face stiff competition from other clubs vying for Thuram’s signature. Newcastle United is reported to be one of the interested parties keen on acquiring the midfielder’s services during the upcoming transfer window.

Thuram has showcased his versatility in midfield, demonstrating his ability to contribute in various areas of the pitch. His technical skills, vision, and passing range have caught the attention of scouts across Europe, making him an attractive prospect for several clubs seeking to bolster their midfield options.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Thuram aligns with their desire to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. With the departure of key midfielders and the need for fresh talent, Klopp and his team are actively exploring potential signings to enhance their midfield ranks.

As negotiations and discussions continue, it remains to be seen whether Liverpool can secure Thuram’s signature amidst competition from other interested clubs. The summer transfer window promises to be an intriguing period as clubs maneuver to strengthen their squads, and Thuram’s future destination will undoubtedly be a subject of great interest among football enthusiasts.

The post Liverpool interested in signing Nice midfielder for $64million appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Liverpool looking to win the race for Southampton midfielder

May 31, 2023

Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia has been linked with a move back to the Premier League this summer. It is safe to say that he isn’t short of options regarding it. Now, it is reported that Liverpool are in with a shout to capture the teenager.

According to the reports from Football Insider, multiple Premier League clubs are in line for the signature of Lavia. However, Liverpool are looking to win the race for the teenager.

The 19-year-old is on the cusp of becoming one of the biggest attractions in the summer as he looks to leave Southampton this summer. The Saints became the first team to be relegated from the Premier League this season, which opens the window of potential departures from the Saint Mary’s this summer. 

Manchester City have a buy-back clause of £40million for Lavia, who left the Premier League champions to go to Southampton last summer. However, the Blues have been impressed by the teenager’s development with the Cherries and would hope to bid for him. 

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola would hope their rivals don’t steal the player away from them. However, it is unlikely that he will get any minutes at the Etihad Stadium. City have an abundance of midfield talent in Bernardo Silva, Kevin de Bruyne, Rodri, Kalvin Phillips, and Ilkay Gundogan. 

On the other hand, Liverpool have confirmed the departures of James Milner, Alex Oxlade Chamberlain, and Naby Keita this summer. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is keen to add new faces to his midfield roster next season. The Reds are linked with a move for Alexis Mac Allister this summer, but they won’t mind seeing Lavia walk through the doors at Anfield too.

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Manu Kone can be Jude Bellingham alternative for Liverpool

May 31, 2023

Liverpool FC is shifting its focus to Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Manu Kone after missing out on Jude Bellingham. The Reds were initially vying for the services of Bellingham but deemed the transfer too expensive, prompting them to explore other options in the market, reported by goal.com.

Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, acknowledged that certain deals are simply not feasible for the club this summer. He likened the situation to a young child demanding a Ferrari for Christmas. Since then, Liverpool has been linked with various midfielders, and according to Christian Falk, the club has initiated transfer talks with Borussia Monchengladbach regarding a potential move for Manu Kone. The Frenchman is being considered as an alternative to Bellingham.

The negotiations with Borussia Monchengladbach are being led by Liverpool’s new sporting director, Jorg Schmadtke. The Bundesliga club is reportedly demanding a fee in the range of €40-45 million for Kone, who is under contract until 2025, with an option to extend for an additional year. Despite struggling to make a significant impact under Daniel Farke, Liverpool sees Kone’s reading of the game and ability to break through defensive lines as valuable assets.

In addition to Manu Kone, Liverpool has been linked with other midfield targets, including Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton, Mason Mount from Chelsea, and Khephren Thuram from Nice. Klopp is keen on overhauling his midfield ahead of the upcoming season, as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita, and James Milner are set to depart the club this summer, while Fabio Carvalho is likely to be sent out on loan.

Liverpool is expected to make several midfield signings in the summer to bolster their squad and replace the outgoing players. Acquiring Manu Kone has become a priority for the Reds as they aim to strengthen their midfield options for the upcoming campaign.

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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

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26/05/2023 AT 00:44

‘A wealth of knowledge and experience!’ – Schmadtke joins Liverpool as new sporting director

May 30, 2023

Premier League giants Liverpool have confirmed the appointment of Jorg Schmadtke as their new sporting director. He will take over from Julian Ward on June 1.

Schmadtke, 59, has been out of work since leaving Wolfsburg at the start of 2023, he had previously worked there for four and a half years since joining in 2018.

Before that he worked for FC Koln, Hannover and Alemannia Aachen.

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He comes in to replace Ward, who is stepping away from the club after over a decade with the team in the recruitment set-up.

Liverpool endured a tough start to the season and although they turned it around after the World Cup break they were unable to reach the Champions League places, having to settle for fifth place and the Europa League.

Fenway Sports Group president Mike Gordon said: “Firstly, I would like to welcome Jorg to Liverpool Football Club in the knowledge that he will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into a role in which such qualities can only be beneficial both to him and us.

“Jorg will work with our football operations department as it continues to provide support for Jürgen Klopp, in keeping with our ongoing endeavour to keep growing and developing the club in all areas.

“At the same time as we welcome Jorg, we must also bid a fond farewell to Julian Ward, who has served us with unstinting diligence, fortitude and energy in a number of roles, the most recent one being sporting director.

“We wish Julian and his young family the very best for the future and thank him for everything he has done for Liverpool FC during the past 11 years.”

The club have already confirmed that Roberto Firmino, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita and James Milner will all leave the club in the summer.

There has been no confirmation yet as to any further possible departures or arrivals but the club are being heavily linked to Brighton & Hove Albion’s World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister.

Transfers

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27/05/2023 AT 05:36

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Alexis Mac Allister’s Liverpool move gets major update

May 30, 2023

Liverpool are reportedly close to signing Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, with the player expected to make a decision about his future soon.

The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to Anfield for some time already, and it is now believed that a deal is close to being agreed. Personal terms are almost agreed, and Liverpool are pushing to get the deal done as quickly as possible, per reporter Fabrizio Romano.

Mac Allister is a versatile midfielder who can play in a number of positions, and it would make him a valuable addition to Jurgen Klopp’s squad. He is known for his creativity and his ability to score goals, and he would add another dimension to Liverpool’s attack. Being only 24 years old, he also brings youth to the squad while also holding his ground with experience as a five-year pro. This season, he has played 35 matches, making 10 goals and two assists. He also recently won with Lionel Messi in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar as part of the Argentina national team.

If the deal goes through, it would be a major coup for Liverpool. Alexis Mac Allister has what it takes to be a potential star at Anfield.

Mac Allister is currently valued at €25 million to €41 million (roughly $26 million to $43 million). Liverpool may be willing to offer him a five-year contract despite currently being under contract until 2025. He’s keen to play Champions League football, and Liverpool just might be able to offer him such opportunity. On the other hand, Brighton may be reluctant to sell Mac Allister, but they may be willing to do so at the right price.

It remains to be seen whether the deal will go through, but it is certainly an exciting possibility for Liverpool fans.

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Liverpool star Roberto Firmino being considered for Real Madrid

May 29, 2023

Liverpool star Roberto Firmino has emerged as a potential target for Real Madrid, as the Spanish giants consider a move for the Brazilian forward on a free transfer this summer, according to goal.com.

Firmino, who is set to leave Liverpool as his contract expires next month, is said to be among four or five options on Real Madrid’s shortlist for a new forward. Respected transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano revealed that the 31-year-old striker is being “considered” by the Madrid club.

With his impending departure from Liverpool, Firmino is attracting interest from several clubs. He showcased his abilities in his final appearance for the Reds, scoring in their thrilling 4-4 draw against Southampton. The Brazilian still has a lot to offer and would be a shrewd signing for any team.

Aside from Real Madrid, Firmino has been linked with Barcelona, as well as clubs in Serie A such as Inter Milan and AC Milan. There have also been rumors of a potential move to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. Some reports even suggest that he has an “agreement in principle” with Turkish giants Galatasaray. However, it appears that Real Madrid has entered the race for his signature.

Internal discussions are reportedly taking place at Real Madrid regarding the potential acquisition of Firmino. As his contract expires on June 30, the Brazilian striker holds the power to determine his next destination.

Firmino’s departure from Liverpool marks the end of an era for the club, but it presents an opportunity for other top clubs to secure the services of a proven goalscorer. Real Madrid’s interest adds another layer of intrigue to the player’s future, and fans will eagerly await developments as the summer transfer window approaches.

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Jurgen Klopp gets honest on a major what-if from Liverpool’s season

May 28, 2023

Liverpool came away with a 4-4 draw result against Southampton on Premier League matchday 38 to cap off its 2022-2023 season.

Liverpool did not have anything to play for on the day. The Reds had already clinched fifth place in the Premier League standings and a spot in next season’s UEFA Europa League group stage. Still, Liverpool showed plenty of fight throughout the contest, and it secured the draw after back-to-back goals from Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota in the second half leveled the score at 4-4.

Liverpool had quite a roller-coaster campaign this season. Jurgen Klopp’s squad never held a top-four standing in the Premier League table, and it failed to advance to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League and FA Cup competitions.

After a season in which Liverpool dealt with a multitude of injuries, Klopp sees that his squad simply needed a “bit of luck.”

“We all need a bit of luck,” Klopp said during a post-match press conference following Liverpool’s fixture against Southampton. “Today we could see the influence of Diogo Jota; not available for most of the season. Luis Diaz, not available for most of the season. Cody Gakpo, only came in the winter. Bobby Firmino, not available for big parts of the season. Darwin Nunez [is] completely new.

“All of a sudden we have to be a dominant team, teams are waiting for us when we arrive there, we couldn’t sort it as good as we wanted. That’s how it started. From that moment on we never calmed it down in the right way to be early enough, let me say it like this, because if we would have started this serious now four [or] five weeks earlier, we still could have qualified for the Champions League. … So, we know the reasons why it happened. We expect from ourselves to solve it quicker, but we work with human beings and sometimes it takes a bit longer.”

As Klopp touched on, multiple Liverpool players suffered nagging injuries during the campaign, including Jota, who dealt with calf and hamstring ailments.

A crucial summer transfer window sure awaits Liverpool in the coming months.

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Mac Allister and Caicedo likely to leave Brighton this summer – De Zerbi

May 28, 2023

Minutes after the conclusion of the most successful season in Brighton’s history, manager Roberto de Zerbi admitted that he expects to lose two of his biggest stars this summer.

Having achieved the historic double of securing European football for the first time in Brighton’s history, as well as a highest ever league finish, De Zerbi might have been expecting a moment to bask in his success.

Instead, as he faced the media for the final time this season, following the season-ending 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday, the Italian was asked about the futures of Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo.

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De Zerbi was blunt: “I think that can be the last game of Alexis and Moises, I’m really sorry.”

Argentinian World Cup winner Mac Allister has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool, while 21-year-old Ecuadorian midfielder Caicedo was the subject of reported bids from both Chelsea and Arsenal during the January transfer window.

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The Italian continued, leaving no room for doubt on his perspective: “We are ready. We have to find others big players to play without Alexis and Moises.”

While he was undoubtedly disappointed at the prospect of losing two key players for Brighton’s assault on the Europa League next season, he does not blame the club.

He explained: “The policy of Brighton is like this. I think it’s right they can leave, can change teams and play in a level higher. If you ask me about Caicedo and Mac Allister, I love them and they are two big, big players and can be in a big, big European team. They can play in every competition and are ready to compete for a big team and I hope for them they can play in the best team in the world.”

Effusive in his praise and cognisant of the situation into which he stepped when he agreed to become Brighton boss in September last year, De Zerbi chose to see the likely departure of the star duo as an opportunity.

He explained: “For Brighton we can still improve [without them] and we can bring in other good players with the transfer market.”

Playing the transfer market has been a key part of Brighton’s success since winning promotion to the Premier League in 2017.

Last summer, Marc Cucurella, Yves Bissouma, and Neal Maupay were first-team players sold to Premier League rivals, while Leandro Trossard and Shane Duffy made similar intra-league moves in January. Despite selling over £120M worth of players, Brighton enjoyed a spectacularly successful season.

Next season will bring new challenges for De Zerbi and Brighton, something that the Italian recognises.

He said: “Next year we will be playing in four competitions, the Premier League will be tougher for us for sure and we have to be stronger than this year. At the moment we are not ready to play three games per week, but we are not used to that.

“We will have to work in the transfer market and build a stronger squad with more players. The results we achieved were incredible, but we have the dream to improve these results.”

Transfers

Real Madrid may confirm Bellingham deal imminently – Paper Round

YESTERDAY AT 05:36

Premier League

‘Absolutely no excuse’ – Salah ‘devastated’ as Liverpool miss out on Champions League

26/05/2023 AT 07:55