Tag: Football

Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES

Andre Onana’s time at Manchester United has been nothing short of a nightmare since arriving from Inter Milan last summer.

The Cameroon international has faced fierce criticism throughout the season.

Most recently from Nemanja Matic, who labelled Onana as “one of the worst” goalkeepers to play for Manchester United.

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

Onana was even dropped for the recent defeat to Newcastle, with coaches hoping the break would help clear his head.

With Onana’s future in doubt, United have now begun looking at potential replacements.

Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen has emerged as a key target.

Initial interest in the Brighton man was revealed on CentreDevils earlier this month.

The 22-year-old has been tracked closely by United scouts across his performances for both Brighton and the Netherlands.

The Red Devils view him as a possible long-term solution.

Brighton expected to command “massive fee” for Bart Verbruggen

Former United chief scout Mick Brown has confirmed the club’s interest, telling Football Insider:

“Bart Verbruggen is going to be one to keep an eye on for Man United.”

“Somebody said to me a while ago when Ten Hag was there: ‘He will be the next United goalkeeper’.”

“The club rate him very highly and they’ve been keeping an eye on his performances both for Brighton and the Netherlands over the last couple of seasons.”

“So he’s a long-term target and one they feel would be an upgrade on what they’ve got.”

“The goalkeeping position is becoming a priority for Man United because they’re concerned about Onana.”

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

“Verbruggen is one of the names on their list.

“So it’s one I’m sure they will explore and see if they can get it over the line.”

However, Brighton are reluctant to lose Verbruggen.

The Seagulls are expected to demand a “massive fee” to ward off interest from Old Trafford this summer.

The specific asking price isn’t currently known.

United’s desperate need to bring in a proven goalkeeper is already publicly known.

Therefore making their task at hand even more difficult.

Whether United fans will be happy to see United splash plenty of money on a goalkeeper remains to be seen.

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

Image Credits: Getty Images

Manchester United and Premier League rivals Chelsea are set to go head to head for several of their summer targets as both clubs look to rebuild ahead of next season.

Earlier it was revealed that Chelsea appear to have the edge on United in their pursuit of young striker Liam Delap.

The Ipswich Town striker is looking for a new club this summer to remain in the Premier League as The Tractor Boys are set for relegation to the Championship.

The 20-year-old is prioritising teams like Chelsea and Arsenal who can offer him European football next season.

Should United win the Europa League, securing a slot in the Champions League, the clubs would once more be on a level playing field for the £30 million striker.

However, it’s now reported that Chelsea could beat United to another mutual target, this time from the Bundesliga.

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

Chelsea lead the race for Jamie Gittens

Christian Falk has reported that Chelsea also have the edge in the race for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jamie Gittens.

Gittens has been a key member of the Dortmund side, grabbing 12 goals and five assists in 44 games.

Showing off his versatility, the 20-year-old has been used on both wings as well as making the odd appearance as a striker and in attacking midfield.

United have been linked with the attacker since January when looking for a replacement for Alejandro Garnacho amid interest from Chelsea and Napoli.

However The Red Devils have continued to monitor the star, despite moves for Garnacho falling through.

Unfortunately for United, as with many deals this summer, Gittens’ price tag may be too much for Ruben Amorim’s side.

Dortmund are wanting £83 million for their talented youngster which is above and beyond what United can afford with limited funds in the budget.

With financial barriers and uncertainty around European football next season, United are unfortunately falling down the pecking order for several of their key targets.

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

Over the years, Manchester United has seen some of its legendary players leave Old Trafford, only to join rival Premier League clubs.

The likes of Romelu Lukaku made a move to United from Everton before eventually joining Chelsea.

Phil Neville made the switch to Merseyside as well as he joined Everton.

Carlos Tevez and Peter Schmeical both joined Manchester rivals, Manchester City, after their stints with the Red Devils.

It’s always intriguing to consider how these players would have shaped the fortunes of their new teams, had they made their moves earlier.

Yet, few could have imagined a situation where one of United’s greatest-ever forwards could have ended up elsewhere, particularly at a club like Newcastle United.

Wayne Rooney, a player who forever changed Manchester United’s attack, was once very close to playing for a Premier League rival.

But before his legendary career at Old Trafford, the young striker had other options.

Having already established himself as one of the Premier League’s brightest stars during his time at Everton, Wayne Rooney was highly sought after by several top clubs.

His explosive start at Goodison Park and his dazzling performances at Euro 2004 made him a target for Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United.

Despite all the interest in his services, there was a real chance that Rooney’s career could have taken a very different direction.

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

Duncan Ferguson, a key figure at Everton, revealed in a recent interview that the young Rooney was moments away from signing for Newcastle United.

Ferguson, who spent years playing alongside Rooney at Everton, recalled his role in advising the talented teenager against making the move to St. James’ Park.

“He was going to go to Newcastle, and I advised him against that move, before he went to Manchester United,” Ferguson explained.

The veteran forward added that he told Rooney in no uncertain terms, “I told him that Newcastle was a great club, but ‘if United and Sir Alex Ferguson want you, you better go.’”

This advice would prove pivotal, as Rooney ultimately chose to join Manchester United in a deal worth £25.6 million.

From there, his career would soar to new heights.

Under Ferguson, Wayne Rooney became one of the greatest players in United’s history, setting records and winning five Premier League titles.

However, his early potential was nearly realized at a club that could have altered his career in a very different way.

Reflecting on this, Ferguson admitted that Rooney’s incredible talent was clear from the start.

“Wayne was only young at the time, but you could see where he was going to get to – he was a top player.”

Ferguson’s influence played a major part in shaping the career of one of England’s greatest-ever strikers.

Had he not stepped in, Rooney’s legacy might have looked very different.

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

Manchester United’s next generation continues to draw attention, but not always for reasons on the pitch.

Seventeen-year-old academy talent Amir Ibragimov, who recently signed his first professional contract with the Red Devils, found himself at the centre of a social media storm following a now-viral clip from his YouTube channel.

The Russian-born midfielder, long touted as one of the brightest young prospects in United’s academy setup, had been sharing his journey of learning to drive online.

In a recent video, Amir Ibragimov was seen reacting poorly to failing a mock driving test, prompting criticism from fans and coverage from national media outlets such as the Daily Mail.

In the footage, Amir confidently tells the instructor he’s “100 per cent passed” before being informed that he had, in fact, failed.

His reaction—surprise, frustration, and disbelief—sparked a wave of backlash from some supporters, who questioned his attitude.

Comparisons to Jadon Sancho surfaced, with some fans suggesting United could be “facing another attitude problem” within the youth ranks.

However, the driving school involved, Ava Drive Driving, has come out in defence of the teenager.

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

Responding via Instagram, the instructor stated: “Amir Ibragimovic has consistently shown me respect and his attitude towards learning has been excellent.

“As Amir is a close friend, our friendly rapport and light-hearted banter may have been misunderstood or taken out of context.

“I want to clarify this in light of the recent speculation.”

The defence adds context that was missing from the viral clip, with many now calling out the press and online critics for jumping to conclusions.

Those close to Amir also note his maturity and dedication both on and off the field.

Ibragimov’s rising star hasn’t dimmed in the eyes of Manchester United, who recently tied him down with a professional deal as part of their long-term plans.

He has already impressed this year.

Having met Sir Alex Ferguson and continued his progression through the ranks, the midfielder remains firmly in United’s future plans—regardless of one misunderstood moment behind the wheel.

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

Manchester United’s men’s team is gearing up for a high-profile post-season tour in Asia, where they’ll face top clubs from the Asian continent.

These matches, scheduled for late May, will be held in Malaysia and Hong Kong.

Manchester United have confirmed that they are set to take on ASEAN All-Stars in Kuala Lumpur on May 28 and another match in Hong Kong on May 30, with an estimated £8 million expected to be raised, as reported by Chris Wheeler.

This is part of their preparations for the upcoming season, aiming to strengthen team cohesion and showcase their talent to a global audience.

The decision follows a series of cost-cutting measures implemented by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who took a stake in the club last year.

These measures have been critical as Manchester United faces the possibility of breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules, given their underwhelming performance this season.

While the men’s team will be traveling and competing, the women’s team is also setting their sights on an exciting new venture in the off-season.

Marc Skinner’s Manchester United Women are set to compete in a groundbreaking seven-a-side tournament, offering a massive £2 million prize for the winners, as reported by The Telegraph.

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

This tournament, called the World Sevens Football (W7F), will take place in Portugal from May 21st to May 23rd. United, having had a stellar season so far with a third consecutive FA Cup final appearance and sitting third in the Women’s Super League, will join seven other elite teams in this inaugural event.

The prize money for the W7F tournament’s winner — £1.9 million — far exceeds the Champions League (£850,000) and FA Cup (£430,000) winnings, adding even more incentive for the team to push for the top spot.

With Bayern Munich also expected to compete, the stakes are incredibly high.

Each participating club will have the flexibility to choose their squad, and United are expected to bring a strong lineup to make a serious push for the grand prize.

The tournament will feature two groups of four teams, with the top two in each group advancing to the semi-finals.

The games will be fast-paced, with matches lasting just 30 minutes, split into two halves, and extra-time in case of a draw.

Despite concerns about player welfare with such a demanding format, the enormous financial reward makes it hard for any team to resist.

Funded by U.S. philanthropist Jennifer Mackesy, the W7F promises to be a thrilling competition for Manchester United Women, potentially bringing in a significant cash injection for the club.

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

Image Credits: Getty Images

Liam Delap has emerged as one of Manchester United’s top targets to upgrade their strikers this summer.

With current options Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee failing to live up to their transfer fees, United are forced to shake things up to improve next season.

It’s understood that The Red Devils have already decided that Hojlund’s future lies elsewhere, aiming to sell the striker in the summer.

However, the same can’t be said about Zirkzee, who has Amorim’s confidence that he can grow to lead the side up top.

However, whilst Zirkzee is developing, another striker is needed who can make an immediate impact, hence the interest in Liam Delap.

Despite Ipswich facing relegation, Delap has had a fantastic breakthrough season, scoring 12 goals with two assists in 34 games.

It’s also understood that the striker could be available for only £30 million if, or more likely, when, Ipswich are relegated, making him a more cost-effective option for United.

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

Liam Delap reveals concerns over Manchester United move

However, The Daily Star has now reported that Delap is favouring a move to Stamford Bridge over Old Trafford.

The report explains that Delap is favouring sides that can offer him European football, with both Arsenal and Chelsea being able to provide this.

Admittedly, it isn’t completely out of the question for United, who could still end up in the Champions League, but only by winning the Europa League this season.

If United can beat Lyon tonight they’ll be a step close to the trophy, with the club’s future seemingly resting on the tournament.

A slot in the Champions League would also provide United with £100 million in extra revenue, helping the club to ease their financial pressures, as well as avoiding a £10 million penalty clause with kit sponsors Adidas.

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

Manchester United’s transfer priorities are beginning to take shape ahead of a crucial summer window under Ruben Amorim.

The club is expected to pursue two strikers, a centre-back and a central midfielder, but goalkeeping has also emerged as a concern following a string of shaky performances from Andre Onana.

Onana’s form, particularly in the Europa League quarter-final first leg against Lyon, has cast doubt over his future as United’s undisputed number one.

Despite being brought in for £47 million last summer, his lack of consistency in high-pressure matches has raised eyebrows within the club hierarchy.

Amorim has remained publicly supportive, but behind the scenes, discussions about bringing in competition—or a replacement—are gaining traction.

Manchester United looking to hijack Joan Garcia from Arsenal

Manchester United are now set to rival Arsenal in their pursuit of Espanyol’s Joan Garcia.

The 23-year-old Spaniard has become one of La Liga’s most promising goalkeepers, catching the eye with his reflexes, confidence on the ball, and leadership from the back.

Arsenal had made a €20 million bid last summer and agreed personal terms, anticipating Aaron Ramsdale’s exit, but Espanyol held firm and demanded Garcia’s full €30 million release clause be met.

That price tag appears to have softened, and FootballTransfers reports that United are ready to pounce.

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

Although no formal offer has been made yet, the Red Devils are prepared to outbid Arsenal and offer Joan Garcia immediate first-team football—something the Gunners cannot guarantee.

Sources close to the player suggest that the promise of starting matches at Old Trafford would strongly appeal to Garcia, particularly with the chance to prove himself on a bigger stage.

This development comes as Amorim considers a reshuffle in the goalkeeper department, with uncertainty also surrounding the future of backup stopper Altay Bayındır.

Garcia, who has been consistently solid for Espanyol, could be seen as both a solution to United’s current goalkeeping woes and a long-term investment.

If the Reds push ahead with their interest, they may well beat Arsenal to the punch and land one of Spain’s top emerging talents in a key area of the pitch.

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

Manchester United’s scoring woes have been a major topic this season, with only 38 goals scored in 32 Premier League matches.

The Reds are well aware of the need for reinforcements up front, especially with key forwards like Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee facing scrutiny for inconsistent goal returns.

This has forced the club to look aggressively toward the upcoming summer window, where a major attacking overhaul is expected.

Sky Sports’ Melissa Reddy recently revealed a shortlist that includes Victor Osimhen, Matheus Cunha, and Liam Delap—three very different profiles but each potentially more budget-friendly than the club’s other top target.

Despite some of those names being actively monitored, one particular striker has emerged as a standout name in the United recruitment drive.

Christopher Vivell has flown to Germany to watch Benjamin Sesko

According to BILD in Germany, United’s sporting director Christopher Vivell has flown out to watch RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko in person.

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

The 21-year-old Slovenian has been in excellent form this season, netting 19 times and showcasing his ability to lead the line at the highest level.

Last summer, Benjamin Sesko was strongly linked with Arsenal but ultimately chose to remain in the Bundesliga, signing an extension that reportedly included a gentleman’s agreement to allow a future move.

That move could now materialise sooner than expected, with Bild suggesting Leipzig would be willing to cash in—although their valuation sits around a hefty £86 million.

United are keen, but such a figure could prove a stumbling block unless sales are made to balance the books.

Sesko isn’t the only name in the conversation, though. Napoli’s Osimhen could be available for £63 million, while Wolves’ Cunha has a £62.5 million release clause.

Delap, the wildcard pick from Ipswich Town, could be signed for around £30 million if the club is relegated—a bargain compared to his more high-profile peers.

What’s clear is that United’s scouting network is working overtime, and with goals in short supply, the next few weeks could shape the club’s striking future.

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

Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES

Manchester United remain in desperate need of a proven striker as their goalscoring struggles continue to define another underwhelming season.

Rasmus Hojlund has endured a tough campaign, often left isolated and learning on the job as the club’s main attacking outlet.

With goals proving hard to come by, United are expected to prioritise a new striker in the summer.

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

Names like Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres have been dominating the conversation.

Benjamin Sesko is another target.

The 21-year-old Leipzig star fits the profile United are seeking as part of their long-term rebuild.

However, any hopes of landing the Slovenian striker at a bargain price have now been dashed.

RB Leipzig command fee near £100m mark for Benjamin Sesko

According to a report from Bild, Leipzig are set to demand a fee of around €100m (£86m) for Sesko this summer.

That is despite talks of there being a gentleman’s agreement in place for a lower figure.

United are not alone in the race.

Premier League rivals Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham are all monitoring Sesko’s development.

While AC Milan are also credited with strong interest.

Sesko has caught the eye this season after making the step up from Red Bull Salzburg in 2023.

He has racked up 37 goals in 82 appearances for Leipzig so far.

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

Having also made his mark in both the Bundesliga and Champions League.

The striker, who turns 22 next month, also has 41 senior international caps for Slovenia, scoring 16 goals.

Including appearances at last summer’s European Championship against England.

If United are serious about fixing their forward line, Sesko’s name will remain firmly on their shortlist.

However, the price of securing his signature will be anything but cheap.

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

Image Credits: Getty Images

Napoli are once more looking to Manchester United ahead of the summer transfer window, with the aim of securing one of their long-standing targets.

The links between Napoli and United have gone back to the summer, when Antonio Conte secured the signing of Scott McTominay who has gone on to thrive in Serie A.

However since then, the Italian side have also been linked with Harry Maguire, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund.

Whilst the interest in Maguire and Hojlund appeared to be fleeting, the club were determined to sign Garnacho in the winter to replace Khvicha Kvaratskhelia who joined PSG.

Unfortunately for Conte, nothing materialised, with Garnacho remaining at Old Trafford, finding his feet a little more under Ruben Amorim.

However, Napoli haven’t given up hope of signing their target.

It’s recently been reported that United have cut Garnacho’s asking price down from £70 million to £50 million, but Conte is confident of an even bigger drop in fee.

TuttoMercatoWeb has now reported that Conte is hopeful of signing the winger for as little as £39 million in the summer.

It’s understood that United are open to selling Garnacho this summer, with the winger not naturally fitting into Amorim’s system and to support the club’s financial struggles.

As a product of the academy, Garnacho’s sale would be regarded as pure profit under Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), easing the clubs financial strains even further.

However, it’s unlikely that United will be willing to part ways with the talented youngster for such a low fee given the struggles they are facing.

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