Tag: Football

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Manchester United’s pursuit of Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt has received a new boost thanks to Bayern’s president.

United are keen to sign de Ligt, with the recruitment team highlighting the centre-back as a great option to strengthen the defence. With Leny Yoro recently arriving at Old Trafford and Lisandro Martinez being the only existing defender at the club marked as ‘untouchable’, the club still need to bring in reinforcements.

The move for the Dutch centre-back is one that is highly backed by manager Erik ten Hag. The pair are keen to work together again after a successful spell at Ajax between 2017 and 2019. Ten Hag has been in regular communication with his former defender, leading to personal terms being agreed for a move to United.

Manchester United’s pursuit of de Ligt

So far United have only made one offer for the Dutchman which was submitted this week. The offer has recently stalled, with the Red Devils prioritising the Yoro deal after agreeing personal terms with de Ligt. Bayern have rejected United’s initial offer of €35 million, deeming it not enough. The German club are looking for offers of €50 million plus add-ons for their defender, with United’s bid falling significantly short of this.

Both clubs are still negotiating to work out a deal both teams are happy with. Bayern are under pressure to make a sale soon this summer in order to fund the signing of new talent. This may support United’s stance with the transfer if Bayern struggle to make any other sales of their existing squad.

Bayern’s president gives fresh boost to de Ligt transfer

Bayern’s president Uli Hoeness has given the transfer a fresh boost of excitement, suggesting that de Ligt could indeed leave Munich this summer. With multiple options of centre-back, Bayern are able to part ways with de Ligt with little effect on the club. Defenders like Dayot Upamecano and Eric Dier have commanded the position, giving a strong rotation in the heart of defence.

Manchester Evening News have reported that while speaking to Sky Sports Germany, Hoeness said: “It’s possible that a defender will leave, I would have no problem if he stays. Personally, I would not sell [Dayot] Upamecano.”

This statement suggests that Upamecano is the only retention at the club, making de Ligt available for the right price.

Ten Hag as recently expressed his uncertainty of United signing the Dutchman, saying: “It remains to be seen whether De Ligt will come. I know Matthijs well and I will not deny that,”

In his interview with AD Sportswereld, he continued: “I wanted to sign him two years ago but at that time he was already very far along to join Bayern Munich but believe it or not, his name did not come from me in the process [at United].”

 

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PSG’s interest in Jadon Sancho has been heating up recently, although United have now responded to the interest.

Initially, Sancho featured in United’s list of priority sales for this transfer window. Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Dan Ashworth highlighted seven players to be sold in order to generate funds to support their limited transfer budget of £50 million.

With Sancho exiled from the club on loan to Borussia Dortmund over a very public disagreement with Erik ten Hag, a move from Old Trafford seemed unavoidable. However, the last two weeks that has seen the pre-season begin have thrown a massive spanner in the works, so all bets are now off.

PSG’s interest in Sancho

It’s already been reported that the French champions have contacted Sancho about a contract to see the winger move to Paris. Reports suggest that Sancho is ”extremely excited” by the offer from PSG, with an enticing offer to be a potential replacement to Kylian Mbappe.

The report, which came as a complete surprise to most, expressed that PSG and the winger are “close to agreeing personal terms” to see the England international in the French capital.

However, Sancho’s ever changing relationship with Erik ten Hag may cause an issue for PSG.

United’s view on selling Sancho

When Sancho returned to Carrington for pre-season training, most people expected to see the star in individual training. After such a public disagreement with ten Hag, vey few anticipated the situation that unfolded.

The manager met with the 24-year-old and the pair reportedly had very positive talks, agreeing to put the past aside and move forward as a team.

With this in mind, a report from TBR Football claim that United are now not interested in selling the winger.

The report says: “Ten Hag has now patched up his differences with Sancho after the pair’s high-profile falling out.”

It continues: “The situation has changed to the extent that United are not actively looking to sell Sancho, and definitely won’t loan him out.

“PSG are now assessing the situation with Sancho but could still be tempted to make a move despite United’s stance, given their need to bolster their attacking options.”

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Sir Alex Ferguson and his group has successfully acquired the unbeaten horse Regent’s Stroll with a winning bid of £660,000, setting a new world record for a National Hunt horse.

This bid surpasses the previous record of £633,000 set earlier this year when the retired Manchester United manager was part of a group that purchased Caldwell Potter.

𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐍𝐇 𝐇𝐈𝐓 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝

The unbeaten Regent’s Stroll sells for £660,000 to @TMBloodstock & his trainer @PFNicholls. The 5YO son of Walk In The Park was offered by @millhousestud as part of the Chris Giles Dispersal#GoffsSummer #WorldRecord pic.twitter.com/lmyv64COf7

— Goffs UK (@GoffsUK) July 22, 2024

Impressive Performance in Bumper Events

Regent’s Stroll has yet to compete in a race with jumps but has shown significant prowess in two ‘bumper’ events.

These flat races, conducted under jump race rules, are designed for horses that have not previously run on the flat, allowing them to gain valuable racing experience.

Despite this limited exposure, Regent’s Stroll’s dominance in these events has led to him being regarded as a rising star in the sport.

Historic Dispute Over Rock of Gibraltar

More than 20 years ago, Sir Alex Ferguson was involved in a high-profile dispute with former Manchester United shareholder John Magnier over the racehorse Rock of Gibraltar.

The disagreement centered on the ownership and stud earnings of the horse.

Ferguson believed he owned half of Rock of Gibraltar, while the opposing party contended he was only entitled to half of the prize money from racing.

The dispute was eventually resolved out of court, but it is believed that the conflict provided an opening for Malcolm Glazer’s eventual takeover of Manchester United in 2005.

A Passion for Horse Racing

Sir Alex Ferguson’s long-standing passion for horse racing is partly driven by the environment it offers, away from the constant discussions about football.

However, the Scot remains deeply invested in Manchester United’s fortunes.

The club is undergoing significant changes, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe leading a new era following recent upheavals in its hierarchy.

Ferguson is expected to maintain a close interest in the developments at Old Trafford.

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Manchester United is continuing its squad overhaul following the successful acquisitions of Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro during the transfer window.

The club’s recent INEOS takeover, which saw the consortium acquire a 25 percent stake in the Red Devils, facilitated these signings as Sir Jim Ratcliffe aggressively pursued the duo.

United has identified several targets, and among them is Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguayan midfielder, who previously attracted interest from other English clubs and notably Chelsea, is now a significant target for United. Although Ugarte’s move to PSG from Sporting Lisbon last season was competitive, PSG is now open to selling him.

Negotiations to begin for Manuel Ugarte between PSG and Man Utd

Ugarte has agreed to personal terms with Manchester United, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The two clubs are set to negotiate this week to prevent any delays before the transfer window closes in September. Romano shared updates on his Playback channel, emphasising that Ugarte’s desire to join United has been clear. He stated:

“I already gave you the main update, and that is Ugarte said ‘yes’ to Manchester United.

“I told you three days ago that Manuel Ugarte wants to go to Manchester United and has agreed personal terms, but it now depends on the clubs.

“I have always told you in recent days that it will take some time. Next week, we will see how the conversation between Manchester United and PSG will go – but we will have to wait for the clubs to agree.”

While a final transfer fee has yet to be determined, it is anticipated that around £50 million would be sufficient to secure Manuel Ugarte’s move to Old Trafford. The Red Devils’ midfield saw challenges last season with Casemiro’s inconsistent performance, and adding Ugarte would be a strategic enhancement to their roster.

The next steps in this potential transfer hinge on the discussions between Manchester United and PSG, which are expected to unfold in the coming days. The clubs aim to reach an agreement promptly, ensuring the deal is finalized well before the transfer deadline.

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Manchester United are doing everything they can to strengthen their midfield this summer. The Red Devils are currently shortlisting a number of players to add depth and improve the middle of the pitch.

United have shortlisted players like Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace and AS Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana for potential transfers in. PSG’s Manuel Ugarte seems most likely to join United, with personal terms reportedly agreed with the Premier League club.

Alongside this, the Red Devils are now looking to bring back a former face to Old Trafford to provide more options in midfield.

The return of Sofyan Amrabat

United are looking at recent loanee Sofyan Amrabat to return to Old Trafford, this time on a permanent deal.

The Premier League club had the option to buy the Moroccan star for £16.8 million at the end of his loan spell. United chose not to trigger this option, which has now has timed out passed its deadline. However, this may have been a tactical decision by United who are still interested in the versatile midfielder.

Reports from Italian publication La Gazetta Dello Sport have claimed that Fiorentina are keen to sell the 27-year-old. The Moroccan midfielder is reportedly keen to stay playing in England, favouring a stay at Old Trafford. The report expresses that United are now looking to sign Amrabat for a lower fee than their loan-to-buy offer.

Amrabat played a huge part in covering the extensive injury list last season, playing in both centre-midfield and left-back. However, the defensive midfielder only started to shine in the dying phases of the campaign.

The Moroccan star makes sense as a low-cost option for United, having recently worked with the squad in ten Hag’s system.

 

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Manchester United are moving forwards internally with an exciting young wonderkid who beat the Red Devils last week.

United are not only looking to strengthen their current squad, but are also looking to build the Red Devils of the future to ensure long lasting success. As a result, the recruitment team have highlighted an exceptional young talent to strengthen the midfield.

Erik ten Hag got a front row seat of the 17-year-old’s talent when his men took on Rosenborg and lost 1-0 on 15th July. Norwegian centre-mid Sverre Halseth Nypan took to the pitch in his hometown of Trondheim, taking on the Red Devils.

United’s interest in Nypan

Whilst this pre-season’s fixture was the first time ten Hag got to see Nypan play in person, it’s not the first time Red Devils’ representatives have watched the star.

The interest in the Norwgian wonderkid has come from frequent scouting visits by the recruitment team to watch the star in recent seasons. As a result of these trips, United’s interest has grown and grown.

Now, reports from Academy Scoop om X suggest that United are looking to buy the 17-year-old and instantly loan him back to Rosenborg to further his development. The teen is content with the Norwegian squad and is developing well with the Eliteserien side.

However, there is an issue with the deal. United won’t be able to formalise anything until January 2025 due to Brexit regulations. The laws prevent the purchase of any player under the age of 18 from outside of Britain by a British club. With Nypan’s 18th birthday not until 19th December, it means that for United, they will have to wait and hope no-one beats them to the star’s signature.

Nypan already has a record to his name, becoming the youngest player to make a UEFA Youth League appearance. Back in 2021, the Norwegian took to the pitch at only 14 years, 9 months and 11 days old, with United’s recently released star Shola Shoretire not far behind the youngster.

Sverre Halseth Nypan’s name has been internally discussed by Manchester United’s recruitment officials in recent weeks.

United’s admiration for the Norweigan midfielder’s profile and skillset is the result of frequent scouting visits in recent seasons.

There are early… pic.twitter.com/kJoZ8sDJPR

— SCOOP. (@AcademyScoop) July 21, 2024

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After months out of football, Juan Mata appears to have found his new club.

After leaving Manchester United back in 2022 on a free transfer, Mata spent a season at Turkish giants Galatasaray. Whilst there, despite sporadic play time, the Spanish star helped the club win the league with three goals and an assist in 16 games.

Mata unexpectedly moved to Japanese side Vissel Kobe after his stint in Turkey, seeing out the remainder of their season.

Mata comments on his time in Japan

The Spanish midfielder moved to Vissel in September 2023 on a free transfer, hoping to support their league campaign. Vissel were crowned Japanese champions, lifting the J1 League title, despite Mata only making one appearance, lasting all of ten minutes.

Vissel Kobe clearly left a big mark on Mata who left after only four months with the club. Writing on his Instagram when leaving, Mata said: “Thank you very much to all my team-mates and all the people who are part of Vissel Kobe for these unique months with you.”

He continued: “It has been an incredibly interesting experience that ended in the best possible way, making history, winning the league for the first time for our club.

“I’m really happy to have been part of your family at such an important moment that will be remembered forever! I wish you all the very best for the future!

“Of course, thank you very much to our fans, you are my most special memory of these months, and I will keep your love and respect with me forever. Incredible people, incredible culture. I’ve learned so much from you.

“I’m looking forward to continuing enjoying football somewhere else, and hopefully to keep winning trophies, let the streak continue!”

Being club-less since January, Mata appeared as a pundit during Euro 2024, however isn’t hanging up his boot just yet.

Juan Mata’s surprising new club

Now, as per his wish, Mata looks to be lacing up his boots once more with a return to Europe.

Images released on the club’s official Instagram page shows that the 36-year-old is now training with Danish club FC Nordsjaelland.

Returning with Nordsjaelland wouldn’t only continue Mata’s playing career, but would see a reunion with an old teammate. Ex-Chelsea midfielder and teammate Michael Essien is currently assistant manager at the Danish side. The pair played together at Stamford Bridge in 2011-2012, winning the Champions League and FA Cup together that year.

Whilst it’s not confirmed that Nordsjaelland have in fact signed Mata, the Spanish international will no doubt be trying to show he’s still got it in training, to see the next chapter of his footballing career play out in Denmark.

 

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The transfer window is in full swing at Old Trafford.

News and rumours are emerging left, right and centre on an instant daily basis.

Whether that’s to do with incomings or outgoings, Man Utd are seemingly very active early in the window.

This is a vastly different approach to previous seasons.

Previously, the regime would wait as long as possible before deciding who was coming and who was going.

That no longer seems the case.

News has emerged recently that Aaron Wan-Bissaka is gaining interest from clubs. Not only are Serie A giants AC Milan keen on him, but English Premier League side West Ham United have identified Wan-Bissaka for their right-back position.

If Wan-Bissaka were to leave, as is rumoured, then they’d need someone else to come in.

Although Diogo Dalot is the undisputed number one in that position currently, an injury or suspension could damage the club in that area of the pitch.

We all saw what happened to the balance of the team last season when Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia were unavailable for the majority of the season.

Sky Sport Germany are now reporting that United have identified an option for that defensive position.

Florian Plettenberg reports that United are exploring a deal to sign Bayern Munich defender Noussair Mazraoui.

Plettenberg is reporting that concrete talks have taken place.

Along with United, the German reporters claims that West Ham are also in the mix.

That would suggest that The Hammers are looking at alternate options to Wan-Bissaka also.

It is believed that the Bundesliga side are after between €20m-€25m. However, a more realistic fee is believed to be between €15m-€20m.

That means that United could bag a potential bargain.

Noussair Mazraoui has had a fairly mixed time since he joined Bayern and it seems as if his time in Munich is now over. And it looks like his next move is seemingly to England.

EXCL | Manchester United and West Ham exploring deal to sign Noussair #Mazraoui!

First concrete talks took place. Mazraoui is at the top of the list for both clubs and he’s keen to play Premier League. #MUFC | #WHUFC

The 26 y/o right-back can leave FC Bayern now.… pic.twitter.com/SDlTEm08a8

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) July 22, 2024

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With the pre-season well underway now, United are getting ready for their tour of the United States.

Two games in now, United have suffered a 1-0 defeat to Rosenborg in Norway, and secured a 2-0 victory over Rangers in Scotland. The United academy graduates have been given the chance to shine in the first two games, so it’s no surprise that some excitement is already building around a couple of names.

United have set up loan moves for two of their young pre-season stars, with deals set to be confirmed once the Red Devils return from the states.

Two stars set for loan

The two prospects in question are goalkeeper Radek Vitek and striker Joe Hugill.

Both men are included in Erik ten Hag’s plans for the pre-season tour in America, seeing United take on Arsenal, Real Betis and Liverpool.

Vitek and Hugill have quickly got themselves known this summer, with the 20-year-old keeper awarded the man of the match in the Rosenborg game, while the 20-year-old striker Hugill scored an impressive goal against Rangers at Murrayfield.

Both stars have already been out on loans, with Vitek seeing half of last season at Accrington, whilst Hugill shone at Altincham and Burton Albion.

Who is Radek Vitek?

The Czech goalkeeper has come up through the Olomouc youth squads before moving to Old Trafford in 2020 as part of the Under-18s side.

While in the youth academy, Vitek has made 33 appearances with a total of 7 clean sheets for United before being promote to the senior squad, now playing in the reserve league for Under-21s. So far the 20-year-old has made 22 appearances for the reserve squad, however now was given his chance in pre-season, which he’s taken with both hands.

His recent loan to Accrington has given him much needed game time and confidence, getting four clean sheets in 18 games. This new experience and skill is now being seen in the pre-season, excelling for the United squad.

Vitek’s performance against Rosenborg was truly brilliant, with the goalkeeper finally being beaten in extra-time. His impressive run of superb saves kept United in the game right until the end, but he was still awarded the Man of the Match despite being beaten.

Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton are still on leave following Euro 2024, making Vitek and Andre Onana the only goalkeepers with the squad. With two goalkeepers absent, the Euros have essentially granted him an almost guaranteed place on the plane to America.

Who is Joe Hugill?

Much like Vitek, Hugill joined United at Under-18s level, moving to Old Trafford from Sunderland youth.

At Under-18s level, Hugill has been incredible, with 18 goals and four assists in 24 games, only to extend his run at Under-21s level with 31 goals in 57 games.

With such an impressive goal scoring ability, National League side Altrincham took the striker on loan where he featured in seven games, grapping a single goal. Hugill went on to go on loan to Burton Albion where he got four goal contributions in 18 games before returning to Old Trafford.

Hugill referenced his time at Burton when discussing his goal on Saturday, saying: “It was a great loan, getting to a men’s first-team changing room.”

He continued: “Having to fight for three points constantly in the league [was great] and playing Saturday then Tuesday was tough, but that’s what you’re there for at a young age.”

So far in pre-season, Hugill has shared striking duties with Ethan Wheatley with Joshua Zirkzee and Alejandro Garnacho set to miss the tour while on leave following Euro 2024 and the Copa America. Rasmus Hojlund is expected to be back in time, ready to fly out to the States with the squad.

With the club experiencing many absences thanks to the international tournaments, Hugill and Vitek are set to have a fantastic opportunity to make themselves known.

 

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Manchester United have officially made new steps in the pursuit of Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt. The Red Devils have now submitted an offer to the Bundesliga club, marking progress to sign the young centre-back.

This summer has seen an intense play from United to sign de Ligt, with the defender’s shortlisting being heavily supported by Erik ten Hag himself.

Whilst recently it’s been reported that the recruitment team were the ones to suggest the centre-back, ten Hag was very happy with the decision.

Erik ten Hag’s relationship with de Ligt

The Dutch manager has a longstanding appreciation for de Ligt after managing the 24-year-old at Ajax. While there, ten Hag saw immense promise in the centre-back, awarding him with his first captainship of a club. This move was a successful one with the team winning the Eredivisie and the Toto KNVB Beker cup that season, rewarding the brave move of ten Hag’s by making such a young player a club captain.

Now ten Hag wants to reunite with his coveted defender, with de Ligt also keen, praising his former manager.

The Premier League club and defender have now agreed personal terms, with the two Dutchman in regular conversations with each other. Manchester United now only need to agree a fee with Bayern in order to get the deal across the line.

United’s initial offer to Bayern Munich for de Ligt

Now, news from Christian Falk of BILD Sport report that United have now made an offer to the Bundesliga club.

The offer from United for the defender stood at €35 million, with Bayern rejecting the initial bid. The German club want €50 million plus add-ons for the defender, making United’s bid €15 million short of their valuation. However, negotiations are still ongoing between the two clubs to come to an agreement. Bayern are experiencing pressure as the club need to offload players before they can sign anyone new to the squad.

This pressure on the German club could bode well for United, potentially putting weight on the club to agree beneath their target value. United want to be signing players as cheaply as possible with their limited starting budget leaving little room for expenses.

 

 

Manchester United offer €35 Mio for Matthijs de Ligt (24). FC Bayern has rejected the offer
FC Bayern demand €50 Mio plus add-ons
Bayern have to sell players to buy new players
Negotiations between the clubs continue@BILD_Sport @altobelli13

— Christian Falk (@cfbayern) July 22, 2024

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