Tag: Football

Image Credits: Getty Images

Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay is not only an impressive player, but because of this, he is one of their most sellable assets.

Going into the final year of his contract, the next two weeks sees the final chance that Untied has of cashing in on the player before they run the risk of losing him for free at the end of his contract.

Over the summer an incredible six different top level teams have been interested in the Scotland international.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Early interest came from Fulham, Spurs, Everton and Galatasaray, with Fenerbahce and Napoli joining the race later on down the line. However, it appears that four of the clubs have dropped out of the running, leaving a battle between Napoli and Fulham for the midfielder’s signature.

Fulham and Napoli for Scott McTominay

It was previously understood that Fulham had abandoned their pursuit of McTominay after their £20 million offer was rejected, with United wanting £25 million (€30 million). However, Fulham have recently renewed their interested in their top midfield target, that being McTominay.

Now, reports from Rai via TuttoNapoli have announced that Fulham have now matched United’s asking price for the Scotland international.

However, it’s also known that McTominay would prefer a move to Napoli to work under new manager Antonio Conte, rather than moving to Craven Cottage.

Napoli’s sporting director, Giuntoli Manna, recently commented on the rumours of the Italian club pursuing the Scottish midfielder.

Ahead of Napoli’s 3-0 loss to Hellas Verona, Manna avoided queries around McTominay by saying: ”McTominay is a very good player, but he’s not our player so no comment.”

He added: “Full focus on the game and then we focus on transfers.”

However, it’s now emerged that this move from Fulham is forcing Napoli’s hand to advance their talks with United, so we shall soon see if a counter offer is submitted for the Serie A side.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Image Credits: Getty Images

With under two weeks left in the transfer window, news is accelerating in regards to final refinements clubs are making to their squads.

The first round of English Premier League fixtures saw a number of high profile players left out of their squads with their futures in doubt.

Jadon Sancho, Ivan Toney and Raheem Sterling are just three names that fall in that list.

Managers and coaches are making decisions on how they wish to shape their squads and incomings are just as inevitable as outgoings.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

One of the areas that Man Utd are looking to strengthen is in the middle of the pitch.

There have been numerous players that have been linked with the club.

Nottingham Forest’s Danilo was linked by Brazilian sources, but his season ending injury seems to have killed that off.

Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana was also linked by Sky Sports, but it looks like he’s going to join AC Milan instead.

The most high profile name linked has been Manuel Ugarte.

At numerous times through the transfer window, it’s been believed that United were set to swoop for the PSG midfielder.

However, subsequent reports from the likes of David Ornstein have said that the Red Devils have abandoned the race for the Uruguay international.

So what does that mean for Erik ten Hag’s side?

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Anyone who watched the side last season knows that the club need greater strength in depth in the midfield.

The club is just a Kobbie Mainoo injury away from being extremely vulnerable in the middle of the park.

One of the other names linked with the club has been Burnley’s Sander Berge.

Such has been the noise around the player that even Burnley manager Scott Parker has had to comment on the news.

And now it has emerged that Manchester United have made a bid for the Championship player.

The Daily Mail report that United have had a bid turned down for Norway international as it fell short of the club’s £30m valuation.

Berge has missed the first two games of the new season, throwing his future in doubt.

However, Parker has claimed that it’s due to a slight knock rather than rumours over his future.

The online newspaper also claims that Manuel Ugarte is still the preferred choice for MUFC, but only if PSG lower their price.

It seems that the club are being proactive and making moves for Sander Berge rather than putting all their eggs in one basket for Ugarte.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Image Credits: Getty Images

Manchester United kicked off their Premier League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford, courtesy of a late goal from debutant Joshua Zirkzee.

The match, held on Friday night, saw United eventually breaking through in the dying minutes after a challenging encounter.

Fulham began the game on the front foot, impressing with their performance in the first half but failing to find the back of the net.

Manchester United, meanwhile, took some time to settle into the match, gradually gaining momentum as the first half progressed.

As the game entered the second half, United started to create more chances, putting the Fulham defense under increasing pressure.

However, despite their efforts, the scoreline remained goalless, and it appeared as though Erik ten Hag’s side might have to settle for a draw.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

That was until the 87th minute when Zirkzee, making his debut for the club, netted the decisive goal in front of the Stretford End, securing all three points for United.

Under Ten Hag’s guidance, the team has moved away from the chaotic, high-energy tactics that characterized much of their play last year.

Instead, there has been a noticeable shift towards building from the back, maintaining possession, and patiently working to create opportunities.

However, one area where the team has struggled is in front of goal.

Despite carving out numerous chances, United’s finishing has been subpar, something that will undoubtedly concern Ten Hag as the season progresses and the opposition becomes tougher.

This problem was especially clear in their recent games against Fulham and Manchester City, where Alejandro Garnacho failed to capitalize on an open goal and Bruno Fernandes squandered two significant chances.

On the other hand, Marcus Rashford amissed several clear-cut opportunities in the Community Shield clash against Manchester City, which could have secured a victory for United in regulation time.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Rashford’s form has been a topic of much discussion, particularly after a disappointing campaign last season, both on and off the pitch.

The England international, who had been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, remains at United for now, but his future is far from certain.

Jim Ratcliffe gives Marcus Rashford a “last chance”

INEOS owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has taken a hands-on role in the club’s operations, has reportedly given Rashford an ultimatum: improve his performances this season, or face the possibility of an exit next summer.

Rashford, who enjoyed a career-best season under Ten Hag in the Dutchman’s first year at the helm, scoring 30 goals, struggled to replicate that form last season, failing to reach double figures in goals.

The inconsistency in his performances has been a persistent issue throughout his career, and it appears that this season may be his last opportunity to prove his worth to the club.

Now, according to journalist Steve Bates of Givemesport, Ratcliffe is determined to instill a culture of high standards and elite professionalism at Manchester United, and there will be no room for players who fail to meet those expectations.

The report states that the senior club figures, including Ratcliffe and David Brailsford, are reportedly seeing this as Rashford’s “last chance saloon,” the pressure is on the 26-year-old to deliver on the pitch.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Rashford to see if he can rediscover the form that made him one of the most exciting talents in English football.

With the stakes higher than ever, the next few months could be crucial in determining his future at Old Trafford.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Image Credits: Getty Images

Pep Guardiola is likely to go down as the second best manager in English football history.

After Sir Alex Ferguson, of course.

Guardiola has led Manchester City to an unprecedented four league titles in a row and it doesn’t seem like they’re stopping any time soon.

They have just beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to start the new campaign with three points.

So it’s fair to say that Pep Guardiola knows a thing or two about what it takes to win games of football.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Speaking before the game, Guardiola was analysing the competition his side are set to face.

In comments noted by The Mirror, the Manchester City manager suggests that United’s transfer window has been key in getting them back on track for this new season.

“Always at the beginning of the season, the first target is to finish in the top four,” said Guardiola in regards to the plans for his own club.

“People say: ‘Oh, come on’, I say ‘no’.

“Newcastle are not in Europe, and are going to play one game a week. Newcastle with one game a week this season will be the Newcastle of two seasons ago.

“Arsenal are not necessary to talk about.

“Liverpool are not necessary to talk about.

“I know the signings of [Mancester] United, they are going to take the momentum and they will be there.

“Tottenham, I’m pretty sure they invest and with the young players and the manager knows better.

“There are a lot of teams – Chelsea again, the amount of players and their quality and the manager.

“Six or seven teams will be there and if you drop a little bit, you will be away.”

It’s clear from Guardiola’s comments what he is trying to do.

By shining a light on the strengths of his opponents, he’s trying to take the pressure off his own side.

Although we’re not falling for that, City will start off as favourites for the title, it’s interesting what he makes of United.

He namedrops Erik ten Hag’s side after Arsenal and Liverpool – who most people think will be the closest challengers to City.

Does that mean he sees United as being the favourites for fourth place?

With United currently in transition and building back up again after seasons of poor performance, most United fans would likely take top four and a trophy at the end of the season.

If what Pep Guardiola says is true, then that could be a distinct possibility.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Image Credits: Getty Images

Napoli’s sporting director, Giuntoli Manna, commented on the rumours surrounding Manchester United’s Scott McTominay.

Speaking ahead of Napoli’s opening game in Seria A against Hellas Verona, Manna said: ”McTominay is a very good player, but he’s not our player so no comment.”

”Full focus on the game and then we focus on transfers.”

Napoli have been one of several clubs interested in the Scottish international.

Fulham have already had bids rejected for the midfielder, and accoring to Sky Sports are expected to re-open talks with United.

McTominay’s current contract expires next year so it is not a surprise to see that the club are open to let him depart.

Reports have suggested that a fee of £30 million will be sufficient, which would provide a substantial financial boost to the Red Devils.

The 27-year-old is an academy graduate, so his sale would count as pure profit in regards to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

It would perhaps allow United to finally complete a midfield signing, something fans have been demanding throughout the transfer window.

PSG’s Manuel Ugarte has been heavily linked, but the French side’s asking price of €70 million has put United off thus far.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Image Credit: Getty Images

With the Premier League now underway once more and two weeks left of the transfer window, some clubs are now looing to advance talks to complete signings before September.

Manchester United have seen a positive first step for this year’s Premier League campaign, with a 1-0 win over Fulham at Old Trafford, thanks to a debut day goal from Joshua Zirkzee coming on as a substitute.

The goal, coming from a Alejandro Garnacho assist, broke the deadlock in the 87th minute as the game was in its dying moments, looking headed for a draw.

With all the Premier League clubs having played their first fixtures now, the managers are getting a feel for what could be to come and what areas need to be improved.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Manchester United will naturally be happy with a debut day goal from they new signing, however they still have a number of players they’re looking to offload this summer with one of them being midfielder Scott McTominay.

Manchester United’s transfer journey of Scott McTominay this summer

McTominay came on in the final few moments of the game for Kobbie Mainoo in the hope of finding a winner. Whilst Erik ten Hag is impressed with McTominay, especially with his pre-season performances, the 27-year-old is one of United’s most sellable assets this summer, with the club desperately needing to generate more transfer funds.

So far this summer, the Scotland international has receive interest from a number of clubs including Fulham, Everton, Spurs, Fenerbahce and Galatasaray. The latter is the only club though that McTominay has actually agreed terms with, showing that the midfielder s happy to take his time ensure he agrees to the right club, seemingly making Galatasaray a potential option for the star.

However, it’s now being reported that Fulham are renewing interest in the 27-year-old.

Sky Sports have reported that the London-based club are now expected to re-enter talks with United to look at an improved offer on the last bid.

This comes as a surprise, with it previously being understood that Fulham had stepped back from the deal after their £20 million offer was rejected, with the Red Devils holding out for £25 million.

It’s unknown at this time why the London-based club are renewing their interest in the star, especially with him only having a supporting role in their defeat at Old Trafford.

However, Fulham are now hoping their re-opened talks with the Red Devils will go positively and lead to their signing of McTominay in the coming weeks.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

It looks like Manchester United might be getting one of their attackers out of the door.

After opening the league with a win against Fulham, there was just as much attention on who wasn’t playing compared to who actually was.

Jadon Sancho took all the headlines, as the attacker wasn’t even in the squad for the game.

Another player who didn’t make it was Facundo Pellistri.

The Uruguay international played a part in the FA Community Shield, but was nowhere to be seen against Fulham.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

This news follows reports that a number of clubs are in for him.

Bologna have recently been credited with an interest in the player.

But it seems that another club is advancing in their negotiations to sign the player.

Fabrizio Romano has tweeted that Greek side Panathinaikos are in advanced talks to sign Facundo Pellistri on a permanent transfer.

Panathinaikos were first credited with an interest in the player around a month ago.

It now seems that the wheels are moving to get the deal done.

Romano states that the deal is not finalised yet, but negotiations are ongoing.

If things progress as they are, there is a chance that Pellistri will leave United in the next few days.

It’s likely the best move for all parties involved.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Panathinaikos, who were knocked out of the UEFA Europa League this week by Ajax after an epic penalty shoot-out, get an international star on their books.

Manchester United get a player off their books who hasn’t quite cut it at Old Trafford.

And Facundo Pellistri will get regular first team football and show the world what he can do.

Still only 22, Pellistri has shown what he can do on the international scene.

Now he just needs to show that he can provide the same level of performance week-in, week-out for his club.

EXCL: Panathinaikos in advanced talks with Man United to sign Facundo Pellistri on permanent transfer.

Not finalised yet but negotiations are ongoing as Pellistri could leave #MUFC in the next days. pic.twitter.com/3LZpYSxuP2

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 18, 2024

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Image Credits: Getty Images

What’s better than signing a new player?

Beating one of your rivals to their signing.

A shock transfer link has emerged that suggests Manchester United are looking to hijack a Liverpool transfer.

Transfer hijacks are not unique between these two clubs.

United were interested in signing Darwin Nunez from Benfica in the 2022, but Liverpool entered the race and snapped the player up.

Something similar happened last season too.

Cody Gakpo was heavily linked with a move to Manchester, but then Liverpool stole a march and plucked him from under the nose of Erik ten Hag.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

This time, though, it seems like the hijack may be happening the other way.

One of the stars of UEFA Euro 2024 has been heavily linked with a move to Anfield.

Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili is believed to have agreed personal terms to the move.

The plan is believed to be that Mamardashvili will join Bournemouth on loan for a season or two before moving to Anfield permanently.

But now it’s emerged that United may be in the picture for the Georgia star.

The Mirror report Manchester United are long-term admirers of the player and that a departure for Jadon Sancho would give them the funds to bring in the player.

Whether that will happen or not remains to be seen.

With Manchester United having brought in Andre Onana, it seems highly unlikely that they’d go for Giorgi Mamardashvili.

The more likely scenario is that the Valencia man will be moving to Merseyside over Manchester.

It does say something in regards to the transfer strategy of the previous regime.

Onana cost United around £44m just a year after joining Inter Milan on a free transfer.

Whereas Liverpool are expecting to pay around €35m for a player who just shone in UEFA Euro 2024.

Fortunately for United fans, it seems that the new regime is far more likely to get deals done at the right price in the future.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Image Credits: Hull City AFC

One of the things that many people forget about Moises Caicedo is that Manchester United were in for him first.

While still playing for Independiente del Valle in Ecuador, United had discussed a deal and its terms with his club.

United were reported to be on the verge of signing the midfielder, only to decide to withdraw due to complications.

Caicedo’s registration included a complicated ownership model and the United hierarchy decided they didn’t want to get involved.

Instead, Brighton & Hove Albion stepped in and the rest is history.

Moises Caicedo took the English Premier League by storm and was sold to Chelsea Football Club for £115m.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

Looking to learn from their previous mistakes, Manchester United entered the race to the next big thing out of Ecuador.

Oscar Zambrano was touted as the next Moises Caicedo and it was reported that United had entered the race for the player.

Reports emerged near the last winter transfer window that the Red Devils were looking to beat Brighton to the signing of Zambrano, but he eventually stayed at his club L.D.U. Quito in Ecuador.

That situation has now changed.

Hull City have officially confirmed the season long loan signing of Oscar Zambrano.

The move includes the option to make it a permanent transfer next summer.

Zambrano, still only 20, came through the same academy as Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo in Colorados Jaipadida.

Hull will be hoping for a big push for promotion this season as they’ve been incredibly active in the transfer window.

Oscar Zambrano was their ninth signing of the window and joined on a day where they also signed Wigan defender Charlie Hughes and Chelsea striker Mason Burstow for undisclosed fees.

Hull City drew their opening game of the Championship 1-1 against Bristol City at home and play former United legend Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth Argyle away today.

With Zambrano still being young, there’s a chance that he can acclimatise to English football at MKM Stadium and United could go back in for him later in his career.

For now, it seems that his immediate future is set to reside in East Yorkshire.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

It’s common knowledge that Manchester United are looking for a midfielder this summer, with renewed links to Frenkie de Jong.

United’s primary targets this summer have been Manuel Ugarte from PSG and AS Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana.

Unfortunately, with the Ugarte deal significantly stalled and Fofana completing a medical with AC Milan, neither have come to fruition.

Elsewhere, the Red Devils have also looked to Burnley’s Sander Berge which is still on the cards. The Norwegian midfield is reportedly keen for a move to Old Trafford, giving hope to a successful signing.

For a while there was consideration in free agent Adrien Rabiot, however with interest coming from Liverpool, Arsenal, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, the French midfielder is still yet to decide on his next team.

However, reports are now emerging with updates on United’s pursuit of Frenkie de Jong.

Manchester United and the long-term interest in Frenkie de Jong

United’s interest in Barcelona man Frenkie de Jong started back in 2022 when they spent the summer trying to sign the the 25-year-old. Unfortunately for the club, negotiations fell short, with the club turning to Casemiro last minute.

However, the Red Devils have kept an eye on the Netherlands international, renewing interest in the star this summer.

Recent reports from Metro have provided an update on United’s stance in signing the now 27-year-old.

The report has announced that United are no longer planning on reviving a move for de Jong before the end of the summer.

The midfielder himself has spoke about his future at Camp Nou, with links to Untied. However, the 27-year-old said: “Staying at Barca? Yes, I’m very happy in Barcelona with my family, for sure.”

He continued: “[Barcelona boss] Hansi Flick wants me to be key. I talked to him. It was good.”

Seemingly taking note of de Jong’s wish to remain with the LaLiga side, the Red Devils aren’t going to be wasting time trying to lure the star away.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!