According to the English tabloids Daily Mirror and the Telegraph,
Arsenal have submitted a new bid of £90m for Monaco's winger Thomas
Lemar.
The 21 year old has been the subject of several bids from Arenal over
the past few months. And just a couple of days ago, Arsene Wenger
declared that a deal for the France international was dead, because
Monaco had sold several of their players, and wouldn't want to
sanction a deal for Lemar.
However, with departure of Oxlade-Chamberlain and another bid
submitted for Alexis Sanchez by Manchester City, it seems the club are
looking at him as a potential replacement.
However, with Mbappe leaving for PSG, it remains to be seen whether
they would consider selling one of their key players, talk less of
accepting a bid for him with just hours left of the transfer window.
However, a sticking point in all this would be what happens to Alexis
Sanchez. A deal for him would depend on this happening.
If nothing comes out of this, it means the Chilean would see out his
contract at Arsenal.
Thursday, 31 August 2017
Man City makes new £60m bid for Alexis Sanchez
Manchester City have made a new and improved bid of £60m for Arsenal
striker Alexis Sanchez.
The new bid is an increase of £10m from the £50m that was rejected by
Arsenal on Tuesday.
However, there are reports that any move for the Chilean is dependent
on Arsenal finding a replacement.
The 28 year old has just one year left on his contract, and has
indicated that he would not be signing a new deal which means he can
leave for free next summer.
Arsene Wenger had said all summer that he would not be sold. But with
Man City's new bid it remains to be seen whether the club would accept
it with just few hours left of the transfer window.
The player in question is currently away in South America for a series
of World Cup Qualifiers for Chile.
Whether he would return as an Arsenal player, only time would tell.
striker Alexis Sanchez.
The new bid is an increase of £10m from the £50m that was rejected by
Arsenal on Tuesday.
However, there are reports that any move for the Chilean is dependent
on Arsenal finding a replacement.
The 28 year old has just one year left on his contract, and has
indicated that he would not be signing a new deal which means he can
leave for free next summer.
Arsene Wenger had said all summer that he would not be sold. But with
Man City's new bid it remains to be seen whether the club would accept
it with just few hours left of the transfer window.
The player in question is currently away in South America for a series
of World Cup Qualifiers for Chile.
Whether he would return as an Arsenal player, only time would tell.
Tottenham confirms signing of Ivorian right back Serge Aurier from PSG
Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Ivorian right back Serge
Aurier from Ligue 1 side. PSG
He has signed a five year deal until 2022 and he is to wear the number 24 shirt.
He joins as a direct replacement for Kyle Walker who left for
Manchester City earlier in the summer.
During his time at the French capital with PSG he made a total of 81
appearances, winning two Ligue titles and three French Cups.
He was part of the Ivorian team that won the African Cup of Nations
title in 2015 in Equatorial Guinea.
Speaking about his move he told the club's website thus;
"This is a huge and exciting opportunity at a massive football club
and I am determined to prove myself as a professional both on and off
the pitch. This is a fresh start for me and I will do everything to
make the Spurs fanbase, which is huge and diverse, proud of me. The
fans are the most important people at any club and I am looking
forward to showing them and everyone at Spurs the real Serge Aurier."
Aurier from Ligue 1 side. PSG
He has signed a five year deal until 2022 and he is to wear the number 24 shirt.
He joins as a direct replacement for Kyle Walker who left for
Manchester City earlier in the summer.
During his time at the French capital with PSG he made a total of 81
appearances, winning two Ligue titles and three French Cups.
He was part of the Ivorian team that won the African Cup of Nations
title in 2015 in Equatorial Guinea.
Speaking about his move he told the club's website thus;
"This is a huge and exciting opportunity at a massive football club
and I am determined to prove myself as a professional both on and off
the pitch. This is a fresh start for me and I will do everything to
make the Spurs fanbase, which is huge and diverse, proud of me. The
fans are the most important people at any club and I am looking
forward to showing them and everyone at Spurs the real Serge Aurier."
Liverpool signs Oxlade-Chamberlain for £35m
Liverpool have confirmed the signing of England international Alex
Oxlade-Chamberlain from Arsenal for a fee of £35m.
The 24 year old joins the Anfield club after a six year stay at
Arsenal which fetched him 198 appearances. And has signed a five year
contract worth £120,000 a week.
During his time at the Emirates, he had three FA Cups triumphs. The
last of which came last season.
Speaking about his signing, Jurgen Klopp said.
"I am really, really happy we have got Alex signed. Since the last
game I have been waiting and hoping we could make this transfer."
"This is someone making a tough decision to leave one great club and
come to another great club and I think he had many options."
"Already he is a very, very good player and I think he has the
mentality and desire to get even better - and that excites me."
On his part, the club's new signing said
"I'm delighted to have signed for Liverpool and a big thank you to
everyone here at the FA that has made this possible, using the
facilities. It has been a massive help."
"I'm not going to say too much today; I'm here with England and we've
got two big games coming up, so I want to focus on them."
Oxlade-Chamberlain from Arsenal for a fee of £35m.
The 24 year old joins the Anfield club after a six year stay at
Arsenal which fetched him 198 appearances. And has signed a five year
contract worth £120,000 a week.
During his time at the Emirates, he had three FA Cups triumphs. The
last of which came last season.
Speaking about his signing, Jurgen Klopp said.
"I am really, really happy we have got Alex signed. Since the last
game I have been waiting and hoping we could make this transfer."
"This is someone making a tough decision to leave one great club and
come to another great club and I think he had many options."
"Already he is a very, very good player and I think he has the
mentality and desire to get even better - and that excites me."
On his part, the club's new signing said
"I'm delighted to have signed for Liverpool and a big thank you to
everyone here at the FA that has made this possible, using the
facilities. It has been a massive help."
"I'm not going to say too much today; I'm here with England and we've
got two big games coming up, so I want to focus on them."
Report: Tottenham ahead of Chelsea in race to sign Fernando Llorente
According to report, Tottenham are now ahead of Chelsea in the race to
sign Swansea striker Fernando Llorente.
The 32 year old has been linked all summer with a move to Stamford
Bridge and he was reportedly close to a move.
But Tottenham are thought to be closer to a deal for the Spanish
striker after they had a bid accepted for him.
He played in a key role last season as Swansea avoided relegation.
It was thought that his relationship with Antonio Conte would sway the
deal in favour of Chelsea as both parties worked together at Juventus.
But as been the case for much of the summer, the Stamford Bridge
outfit have been slow to close deals, which has left other clubs to
hijack deals from under their noses.
Llorente is currently out with a arm injury he sustained during the
summer break. But the fight for his signature is expected to intensify
in the last hours of the transfer window.
Though report says he is torn between both clubs, but would prefer a
move to Chelsea to re-establish a relationship with Antonio Conte.
David Ornstein
@ bbcsport_david
#THFCshock Llorente offer accepted #SwansFC- Chelsea close for weeks
but no bid accepted. #CFCset to counter, outcome too
close to call
9:26 AM - 31 Aug 2017
sign Swansea striker Fernando Llorente.
The 32 year old has been linked all summer with a move to Stamford
Bridge and he was reportedly close to a move.
But Tottenham are thought to be closer to a deal for the Spanish
striker after they had a bid accepted for him.
He played in a key role last season as Swansea avoided relegation.
It was thought that his relationship with Antonio Conte would sway the
deal in favour of Chelsea as both parties worked together at Juventus.
But as been the case for much of the summer, the Stamford Bridge
outfit have been slow to close deals, which has left other clubs to
hijack deals from under their noses.
Llorente is currently out with a arm injury he sustained during the
summer break. But the fight for his signature is expected to intensify
in the last hours of the transfer window.
Though report says he is torn between both clubs, but would prefer a
move to Chelsea to re-establish a relationship with Antonio Conte.
David Ornstein
@ bbcsport_david
#THFCshock Llorente offer accepted #SwansFC- Chelsea close for weeks
but no bid accepted. #CFCset to counter, outcome too
close to call
9:26 AM - 31 Aug 2017
Report: Arsenal interested in signing Julian Draxler from PSG
According to various outlets in England and flowing from a report by
German publication Sports bild, Arsenal are interested in a late swoop
for German international Julian Draxler.
His future at French Ligue 1 side PSG is unclear after the club signed
Neymar and are expected to confirmed the signing on loan of Mbappe
from Monaco.
He is a player Arsenal have wanted to sign in the past. And they were
close to signing him when he was at Schalke several years ago.
It is thought that the Paris club are keen to sell, but convincing him
of leaving the French side just eight months after he arrived from
Bundesliga side Wolfsburg is another thing.
The report of Arsenal's interest is however dependent on what happens
to Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean was the subject of £50m bid from
Manchester City that was rejected on Tuesday.
Speaking about the future of Draxler, German coach Joachim Loew had this to say.
"I know for a fact that Paris don't want to sell him.
"He made such a big step forward there. I am convinced that he will
come out on top at Paris. By now, he's already playing a big role for
us."
German publication Sports bild, Arsenal are interested in a late swoop
for German international Julian Draxler.
His future at French Ligue 1 side PSG is unclear after the club signed
Neymar and are expected to confirmed the signing on loan of Mbappe
from Monaco.
He is a player Arsenal have wanted to sign in the past. And they were
close to signing him when he was at Schalke several years ago.
It is thought that the Paris club are keen to sell, but convincing him
of leaving the French side just eight months after he arrived from
Bundesliga side Wolfsburg is another thing.
The report of Arsenal's interest is however dependent on what happens
to Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean was the subject of £50m bid from
Manchester City that was rejected on Tuesday.
Speaking about the future of Draxler, German coach Joachim Loew had this to say.
"I know for a fact that Paris don't want to sell him.
"He made such a big step forward there. I am convinced that he will
come out on top at Paris. By now, he's already playing a big role for
us."
Report: Arsenal rejects £20m Leicester bid for defender Calum Chambers
According to reports, Arsenal have turned down a bid of £20m for Calum
Chambers from Leicester City.
The England U21 international was also the subject of a £27m bid from
Crystal Palace that was rejected earlier in the summer.
Following the sale of Gabriel to Valencia, it is now thought that
Arsene Wenger is keen to keep the 24 year old this season.
He was signed from Southampton three seasons ago for a fee of £16m.
And spent last season on loan at Middleborough, where he was one of
the club's stand out players in a season they were relegated from the
Premier League.
Meanwhile, Mustafi, who was signed a year ago for a fee of £35m from
Valencia, is now expected to remain at the club after Arsenal failed
to reach an agreement with Inter Milan for what would have been a loan
deal with an option for a permanent deal next summer.
There have been reports that the 25 year old is unsettled in England,
and he would like a move away from London just a year after his big
money arrival from Valencia.
He featured in the league defeat to Stoke City and was on the bench in
the 4-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday.
Chambers from Leicester City.
The England U21 international was also the subject of a £27m bid from
Crystal Palace that was rejected earlier in the summer.
Following the sale of Gabriel to Valencia, it is now thought that
Arsene Wenger is keen to keep the 24 year old this season.
He was signed from Southampton three seasons ago for a fee of £16m.
And spent last season on loan at Middleborough, where he was one of
the club's stand out players in a season they were relegated from the
Premier League.
Meanwhile, Mustafi, who was signed a year ago for a fee of £35m from
Valencia, is now expected to remain at the club after Arsenal failed
to reach an agreement with Inter Milan for what would have been a loan
deal with an option for a permanent deal next summer.
There have been reports that the 25 year old is unsettled in England,
and he would like a move away from London just a year after his big
money arrival from Valencia.
He featured in the league defeat to Stoke City and was on the bench in
the 4-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday.
Wednesday, 30 August 2017
Oxlade-Chamberlain becomes Arsenal's record departure as Liverpool agree £40m fee
Liverpool have agreed a fee of £40m with Arsenal for the signing of
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The 24 year old is expected to sign a six year deal with the
Merseysiders that would keep him at the club until the year 2023.
He had rejected a move to Chelsea on Tuesday despite a fee being
agreed over fears that he wouldn't get to play in his preferred
central midfield position.
He leaves Arsenal after a six year stay having joined from Southampton
2011, with 198 appearances to his name.
He made his debut in the 8-2 defeat to Manchester United a Old
Trafford in August, 2011 and ended it with 4-0 loss to the club he is
joining this August, Liverpool.
He has three FA Cups to this name during his time at the Emirates Stadium.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The 24 year old is expected to sign a six year deal with the
Merseysiders that would keep him at the club until the year 2023.
He had rejected a move to Chelsea on Tuesday despite a fee being
agreed over fears that he wouldn't get to play in his preferred
central midfield position.
He leaves Arsenal after a six year stay having joined from Southampton
2011, with 198 appearances to his name.
He made his debut in the 8-2 defeat to Manchester United a Old
Trafford in August, 2011 and ended it with 4-0 loss to the club he is
joining this August, Liverpool.
He has three FA Cups to this name during his time at the Emirates Stadium.
Report: Liverpool gets green light to sign Oxlade-Chamberlain
Liverpool have been given the green light to sign Arsenal midfielder
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain after he rejected a move to Chelsea on Tuesday
after both London clubs agreed a fee.
The Merseysiders are thought to have offered a bid of around £30m for
the 24 year old. Which was rejected by Arsenal. But they have
substantially moved closer to a fee that is acceptable to gunners.
Oxlade-Chamberlian was on the verge of signing for Chelsea on Tuesday,
but turned down a move over fears that he wouldn't play in his
preferred position in central midfield.
Now, with a move to Anfield all but, close it remains to be seen
whether he would get the chance to play in a position that Jurgen
Klopp has numerous options in. And the arrival of Naby Keita in 2018
would only add depth and quality to that positon.
The move is expected to be finalised before Thursday's deadline at
11pm BST. By which time, clubs should have settled their incomings and
outgoings for this summer until at least the January transfer window.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain after he rejected a move to Chelsea on Tuesday
after both London clubs agreed a fee.
The Merseysiders are thought to have offered a bid of around £30m for
the 24 year old. Which was rejected by Arsenal. But they have
substantially moved closer to a fee that is acceptable to gunners.
Oxlade-Chamberlian was on the verge of signing for Chelsea on Tuesday,
but turned down a move over fears that he wouldn't play in his
preferred position in central midfield.
Now, with a move to Anfield all but, close it remains to be seen
whether he would get the chance to play in a position that Jurgen
Klopp has numerous options in. And the arrival of Naby Keita in 2018
would only add depth and quality to that positon.
The move is expected to be finalised before Thursday's deadline at
11pm BST. By which time, clubs should have settled their incomings and
outgoings for this summer until at least the January transfer window.
Report: Oxlade-Chamberlain rejects move to Chelsea
Arsenal's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has reportedly rejected a move to Chelsea.
Both clubs had a agreed a fee of £40m for the 24 year old. But he has
turned down a move to Stamford Bridge, because he fears the club would
play him at right wing back as against his preferred position in
central midfield.
According to BBC's David Ornstein, he is now pinning his hopes on a
move to Liverpool. With the Merseysiders potentially offering a fee
that would be significantly lower than that offered by Chelsea.
It remains to be seen how the transfer develops from here with less
than 48 hours to the end of the transfer window.
David Ornstein
@ bbcsport_david
"Oxlade-Chamberlain has rejected Chelsea move & wants to join
Liverpool. Bid lower than #CFC£40m expected. Otherwise will stay at
#AFC #LFC"
11:57 PM - 29 Aug 2017
David Ornstein
@ bbcsport_david
"Main reason for AOC wanting to leave Arsenal was to move from RWB to
central position & feels Chelsea will also play him RWB #AFC #CFC
#LFC"
00:00 AM - 30 Aug 2017
Both clubs had a agreed a fee of £40m for the 24 year old. But he has
turned down a move to Stamford Bridge, because he fears the club would
play him at right wing back as against his preferred position in
central midfield.
According to BBC's David Ornstein, he is now pinning his hopes on a
move to Liverpool. With the Merseysiders potentially offering a fee
that would be significantly lower than that offered by Chelsea.
It remains to be seen how the transfer develops from here with less
than 48 hours to the end of the transfer window.
David Ornstein
@ bbcsport_david
"Oxlade-Chamberlain has rejected Chelsea move & wants to join
Liverpool. Bid lower than #CFC£40m expected. Otherwise will stay at
#AFC #LFC"
11:57 PM - 29 Aug 2017
David Ornstein
@ bbcsport_david
"Main reason for AOC wanting to leave Arsenal was to move from RWB to
central position & feels Chelsea will also play him RWB #AFC #CFC
#LFC"
00:00 AM - 30 Aug 2017
Tuesday, 29 August 2017
Report: Arsenal rejects Man City's 50m pounds offer for Sanchez
The speculation about Alexis Sanchez's future has morphed into
different layers all day. It started with reports that Manchester City
have made a player (Raheem Sterling) and cash offer for him.
Now according to BBC's David Ornstein, Arsenal have rebuffed
Manchester City's approach for Alexis Sanchez and holds to their
stance that he would not be sold unless there is a huge offer.
David Ornstein
@ bbcsport_david
"Arsenal have rebuffed all approaches from Man City for Sanchez.
#AFCstance remains not for sale - unless huge money + player offered
#MCFC"
09:39 PM - 29 Aug 2017
With earlier reports that Sanchez has asked to leave the Chile camp
ahead of their World Cup qualifier to sort out his future, it remains
to be seen whether this latest report ends the uncertainty over his
future or it just Arsenal trying to extract the best possible deal
they can get from Pep Guardiola's side before the end of the transfer
window on Thursday.
different layers all day. It started with reports that Manchester City
have made a player (Raheem Sterling) and cash offer for him.
Now according to BBC's David Ornstein, Arsenal have rebuffed
Manchester City's approach for Alexis Sanchez and holds to their
stance that he would not be sold unless there is a huge offer.
David Ornstein
@ bbcsport_david
"Arsenal have rebuffed all approaches from Man City for Sanchez.
#AFCstance remains not for sale - unless huge money + player offered
#MCFC"
09:39 PM - 29 Aug 2017
With earlier reports that Sanchez has asked to leave the Chile camp
ahead of their World Cup qualifier to sort out his future, it remains
to be seen whether this latest report ends the uncertainty over his
future or it just Arsenal trying to extract the best possible deal
they can get from Pep Guardiola's side before the end of the transfer
window on Thursday.
West Brom agree fee for Arsenal's Kieran Gibbs
West Brom have agreed a fee Of around £5m with Arsenal for England
defender, Kieran Gibbs.
The deal is now subject to him passing a medical and agreeing personal
terms with the Tony Pulis' side.
The 27 year old has just under a year left on his contract, and he was
one of the players that was expected to leave the club having not
taken any part in Arsenal's pre-season programme.
The England international was initially thought to be on his way to
Watford on Monday, but that deal fell through before the Baggies came
into the picture again having shown interest in him early this summer.
He has spent in his entirely career at Arsenal, coming through the
club's academy.
His first team appearances have become fleeting in recent seasons, and
he barely featured last season. With the arrival of Sead Kolasinac
completely sealing his fate at the club.
When the deal is confirmed, he would join a host of players that have
left Arsenal this summer.
And more would most likely join him before the close of the window on
Thursday night.
defender, Kieran Gibbs.
The deal is now subject to him passing a medical and agreeing personal
terms with the Tony Pulis' side.
The 27 year old has just under a year left on his contract, and he was
one of the players that was expected to leave the club having not
taken any part in Arsenal's pre-season programme.
The England international was initially thought to be on his way to
Watford on Monday, but that deal fell through before the Baggies came
into the picture again having shown interest in him early this summer.
He has spent in his entirely career at Arsenal, coming through the
club's academy.
His first team appearances have become fleeting in recent seasons, and
he barely featured last season. With the arrival of Sead Kolasinac
completely sealing his fate at the club.
When the deal is confirmed, he would join a host of players that have
left Arsenal this summer.
And more would most likely join him before the close of the window on
Thursday night.
Report: Man City offers cash and Sterling to sign Arsenal's Sanchez
According to the Daily Mirror, Pep Guardiola's Manchester City have
offered Arsenl both cash and Raheem Sterling for Alexis Sanchez in a
last ditch attempt to sign him.
The 28 year old Chilean international has just under one year left on
his contract, and despite insistence from Arsene Wenger that he
wouldn't be sold. The speculation linking him to Manchester City have
only continue to grow. With this latest development it remains to be
seen how it plays out before Thursday's transfer deadline day.
There are also reports that Sanchez, who is currently in camp for
Chile ahead of a World Cup qualifier has asked to leave the camp to
sort out his future.
There were unconfirmed reports of a transfer request from him on
Thursday. Before this latest report emerge today.
The reported offer from Manchester City has come out completely from
the blue. Their interest have always been there. But this development
was unexpected, especially for a player who earned the club four
points in their last two league matches.
Another layer to the lastest report, is that Raheem Sterling shares
the same agent with so to be Chelsea player Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. A
agent who was instrumental to his client's refusal to extend his stay
at Arsenal.
However, the wait to see how this ends shouldn't take long know as
there must be a closure by Thursday night.
offered Arsenl both cash and Raheem Sterling for Alexis Sanchez in a
last ditch attempt to sign him.
The 28 year old Chilean international has just under one year left on
his contract, and despite insistence from Arsene Wenger that he
wouldn't be sold. The speculation linking him to Manchester City have
only continue to grow. With this latest development it remains to be
seen how it plays out before Thursday's transfer deadline day.
There are also reports that Sanchez, who is currently in camp for
Chile ahead of a World Cup qualifier has asked to leave the camp to
sort out his future.
There were unconfirmed reports of a transfer request from him on
Thursday. Before this latest report emerge today.
The reported offer from Manchester City has come out completely from
the blue. Their interest have always been there. But this development
was unexpected, especially for a player who earned the club four
points in their last two league matches.
Another layer to the lastest report, is that Raheem Sterling shares
the same agent with so to be Chelsea player Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. A
agent who was instrumental to his client's refusal to extend his stay
at Arsenal.
However, the wait to see how this ends shouldn't take long know as
there must be a closure by Thursday night.
Monday, 28 August 2017
Report: Arsenal insist Alexis Sanchez is happy at the club after rumours of transfer request
In the last couple of hours, the future of Alexis Sanchez which looks
absolutely settled after repeated assurances from Arsene Wenger that
the Chilean would see out his contract, has developed new layers.
Reports emerged that he had submitted a transfer request asking to
leave the club after Sunday's 4-0 loss to Liverpool which was his
first start of the season.
Now, report is circulating that Arsenal have insisted that the 28 year
old is happy and, reports of his submission of a transfer request are
untrue.
He has been linked all summer to Manchester City, Chelsea, PSG and
Bayern Munich. But with the transfer activties of these clubs,
Manchester City has remained the club in pole position to sign him.
However, Arsenal have stood firm all along that he wouldn't be sold
despite the fact that he has just one year left on his contract.
The Chilean, who was Arsenal's highest goal scorer last season with 30
goals, his expected to lead his country's quest to qualify for next
year's World Cup in Russia during the international break.
absolutely settled after repeated assurances from Arsene Wenger that
the Chilean would see out his contract, has developed new layers.
Reports emerged that he had submitted a transfer request asking to
leave the club after Sunday's 4-0 loss to Liverpool which was his
first start of the season.
Now, report is circulating that Arsenal have insisted that the 28 year
old is happy and, reports of his submission of a transfer request are
untrue.
He has been linked all summer to Manchester City, Chelsea, PSG and
Bayern Munich. But with the transfer activties of these clubs,
Manchester City has remained the club in pole position to sign him.
However, Arsenal have stood firm all along that he wouldn't be sold
despite the fact that he has just one year left on his contract.
The Chilean, who was Arsenal's highest goal scorer last season with 30
goals, his expected to lead his country's quest to qualify for next
year's World Cup in Russia during the international break.
Chelsea agrees £35m deal for Arsenal midfielder Oxlade-Chamberlain
Chelsea have agreed a £35m deal for Arsenal midfielder Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain.
The 24 year old rejected a new contract from Arsenal last week. And
with just a year left in his contract, the club has decided to cash in
on him.
He would become the first Arsenal player to move to Chelsea since
Ashley Cole in August, 2006.
This transfer would bring to an end his six year association with
Arsenal. Having joined the club from Southampton in 2011.
During that time, he made a total of 198 appearances, the last of
which was the 4-0 defeat against Liverpool on Sunday.
His total goal haul for Arsenal was nine goals.
The England international divided opinion during his time at the club
for his inconsistent performances and his injury records.
With last season being the only time he had a sustained run in the
side which culminated in a FA Cup final appearance against Chelsea in
May.
His time at Arsenal earned him three FA Cups. With all three coming in
the last four years.
The 24 year old rejected a new contract from Arsenal last week. And
with just a year left in his contract, the club has decided to cash in
on him.
He would become the first Arsenal player to move to Chelsea since
Ashley Cole in August, 2006.
This transfer would bring to an end his six year association with
Arsenal. Having joined the club from Southampton in 2011.
During that time, he made a total of 198 appearances, the last of
which was the 4-0 defeat against Liverpool on Sunday.
His total goal haul for Arsenal was nine goals.
The England international divided opinion during his time at the club
for his inconsistent performances and his injury records.
With last season being the only time he had a sustained run in the
side which culminated in a FA Cup final appearance against Chelsea in
May.
His time at Arsenal earned him three FA Cups. With all three coming in
the last four years.
Liverpool agrees record deal for RB Leipzig's midfielder Naby Keita
Liverpool have agreed a club record deal with Bundesliga side RB
Leipzig for Guinea international midfielder Naby Keita. Which would
see him join the Anfield side in the summer of 2018.
The fee is a reported £48m plus other add ons.
The midfielder was the subject of several bids from Liverpool in July,
the last of which reached £70m. But the Bundesliga side had stood firm
throughout by rejecting all overtures from the Merseysiders.
However, both clubs have gone on to agree a fee that would have been
triggered in 2018. Which brings to an end one of the protracted
transfer sagas of the summer.
The deal for the 22 year old means Liverpool have trumped the record
£35m they paid for Andy Carroll when he moved from Newcastle United in
2011.
This further caps Liverpool's summer dealings which has seen them sign
Mo' Salah, who has been excellent in his early matches for the club.
As well as Dominic Solanke and Andy Robertson.
It remains to be seen whether there are other transfer dealings up the
club's sleeves before the transfer window closes on Thursday.
Leipzig for Guinea international midfielder Naby Keita. Which would
see him join the Anfield side in the summer of 2018.
The fee is a reported £48m plus other add ons.
The midfielder was the subject of several bids from Liverpool in July,
the last of which reached £70m. But the Bundesliga side had stood firm
throughout by rejecting all overtures from the Merseysiders.
However, both clubs have gone on to agree a fee that would have been
triggered in 2018. Which brings to an end one of the protracted
transfer sagas of the summer.
The deal for the 22 year old means Liverpool have trumped the record
£35m they paid for Andy Carroll when he moved from Newcastle United in
2011.
This further caps Liverpool's summer dealings which has seen them sign
Mo' Salah, who has been excellent in his early matches for the club.
As well as Dominic Solanke and Andy Robertson.
It remains to be seen whether there are other transfer dealings up the
club's sleeves before the transfer window closes on Thursday.
Sunday, 27 August 2017
Liverpool v. Arsenal teams: Alexis and Koscielny returns, Lacazette on the bench
Arsenal are at Anfield to face Liverpool as they look to bounce back
from the defeat against Stoke last weekend.
While Liverpool would be looking at sealing a perfect week after they
advanced to the group stages of the Champions League with an emphatic
win over Hoffenheim in midweek.
Full Teams:
Liverpool: Karius, Gomez, Matip, Lovren, Moreno, Henderson, Can,
Wijnaldum, Mane, Salah, Firmino.
Subs: Ward, Klavan, Alexander-Arnold, Grujic, Milner, Solanke, Sturridge
Arsenal: Cech, Bellerin, Holding, Koscienly, Oxlade-Chamberlain,
Xhaka, Ramsey, Alexis, Ozil, Welbeck
Subs: Ospina, Mustafi, Kolasinac, Lacazette, Walcott, Giroud, Coquelin
from the defeat against Stoke last weekend.
While Liverpool would be looking at sealing a perfect week after they
advanced to the group stages of the Champions League with an emphatic
win over Hoffenheim in midweek.
Full Teams:
Liverpool: Karius, Gomez, Matip, Lovren, Moreno, Henderson, Can,
Wijnaldum, Mane, Salah, Firmino.
Subs: Ward, Klavan, Alexander-Arnold, Grujic, Milner, Solanke, Sturridge
Arsenal: Cech, Bellerin, Holding, Koscienly, Oxlade-Chamberlain,
Xhaka, Ramsey, Alexis, Ozil, Welbeck
Subs: Ospina, Mustafi, Kolasinac, Lacazette, Walcott, Giroud, Coquelin
Chelsea vs Everton Teams: Starts for Morata, Fabregas, Sigurdsson, and Rooney
Premier League champions, Chelsea host Everton at Stamford Bridge as
they look to make it two straight wins in the league after the opening
day defeat to Burnley.
Everton face their third away game in a row as they look to continue
an unbeaten start to the league season after their adventure in Europe
on Thursday.
Full Teams:
Chelsea: Courtois, Azpilicueta (c), Rudiger, Luiz, Moses, Alonso,
Kante, Fabregas, Willian, Pedro, Morata
Subs: Caballero, Christensen, Bakayoko, Tomore, Muosonda, Batshuayi, Kenedy
Everton: Pickford, Baines, Jagielka (c), Williams, Keane, Holgate,
Davies, Gana, Sigurdsson, Rooney, Sandro
Subs: Stekelenburg, Lennon, Martina, Besic, Calvert-Lewin, Lookman, Kenny
they look to make it two straight wins in the league after the opening
day defeat to Burnley.
Everton face their third away game in a row as they look to continue
an unbeaten start to the league season after their adventure in Europe
on Thursday.
Full Teams:
Chelsea: Courtois, Azpilicueta (c), Rudiger, Luiz, Moses, Alonso,
Kante, Fabregas, Willian, Pedro, Morata
Subs: Caballero, Christensen, Bakayoko, Tomore, Muosonda, Batshuayi, Kenedy
Everton: Pickford, Baines, Jagielka (c), Williams, Keane, Holgate,
Davies, Gana, Sigurdsson, Rooney, Sandro
Subs: Stekelenburg, Lennon, Martina, Besic, Calvert-Lewin, Lookman, Kenny
Saturday, 26 August 2017
Report: Liverpool pushing to sign Oxlade-Chamberlain
According to the Daily Mirror, Liverpool are pushing to sign Arsenal
contract rebel Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the last week of the
transfer window. And would try to beat Chelsea to his signature.
The 24 year old turned down a reported £180,000 a week contract this
week, and Arsenal are now looking to cash in on him before the
transfer window shuts on Thursday.
Chelsea are reportedly still interested in signing the England
international. With Arsenal hoping that a bidding war between Chelsea
and Liverpool would rise any potential fee over £35m threshold.
The report linking the Ox away from the club has grown stronger in
recent days, and with a transfer window just days from getting shut, a
closure to the situation isn't far away.
The club's hands are tied after he rejected the latest offer, and the
situation is made more complicated with Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil
in the same situation of being in the last year of their contract.
The club has made a sporting decision as regards the futures of the
Chilean and German. By declaring that they are staying. But, it looks
very strongly that a financial decision would be taken in respect of
the Ox which might see him end up at either Anfield or Stamford Bridge
at the end of the transfer window.
contract rebel Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the last week of the
transfer window. And would try to beat Chelsea to his signature.
The 24 year old turned down a reported £180,000 a week contract this
week, and Arsenal are now looking to cash in on him before the
transfer window shuts on Thursday.
Chelsea are reportedly still interested in signing the England
international. With Arsenal hoping that a bidding war between Chelsea
and Liverpool would rise any potential fee over £35m threshold.
The report linking the Ox away from the club has grown stronger in
recent days, and with a transfer window just days from getting shut, a
closure to the situation isn't far away.
The club's hands are tied after he rejected the latest offer, and the
situation is made more complicated with Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil
in the same situation of being in the last year of their contract.
The club has made a sporting decision as regards the futures of the
Chilean and German. By declaring that they are staying. But, it looks
very strongly that a financial decision would be taken in respect of
the Ox which might see him end up at either Anfield or Stamford Bridge
at the end of the transfer window.
Mourinho: Man United are a confident team
Manchester United continued their 100% start to the season with a 2-0
win over Leicester City are Old Trafford on Saturday. Second half
goals from substitutes Marcus Rashford and Felliani means they have
nine points from three matches.
Speaking after the match, Jose Mourinho hailed the performance of his
players and lauded their confidence on the ball.
"We played very well," the Portuguese said
"The team is playing very well and I'm very confident. We are
comfortable on the ball and dangerous on the counterattack.
"The result was open at 0-0 and it was obviously very difficult. The
blue wall was very well organised and I always give credit to that,
but we kept calm and kept control.
"After missing the penalty team remained confident and we deserved it.
If I had to choose a word to describe my team it would be solid."
"We can look into perspective, last season we won against Leicester at
home so that doesn't make a difference, but we had too many draws at
home last season.
"Nine points after three matches is nothing different for us because
we did that last season.
"The difference is the quality of our football, we're playing better
now and if we hadn't won this match I wouldn't have anyone to
blame."
Manchester United stay top of the formative Premier League table ahead
of the international break.
They face Stoke City away from home when the league resumes on 9th September.
win over Leicester City are Old Trafford on Saturday. Second half
goals from substitutes Marcus Rashford and Felliani means they have
nine points from three matches.
Speaking after the match, Jose Mourinho hailed the performance of his
players and lauded their confidence on the ball.
"We played very well," the Portuguese said
"The team is playing very well and I'm very confident. We are
comfortable on the ball and dangerous on the counterattack.
"The result was open at 0-0 and it was obviously very difficult. The
blue wall was very well organised and I always give credit to that,
but we kept calm and kept control.
"After missing the penalty team remained confident and we deserved it.
If I had to choose a word to describe my team it would be solid."
"We can look into perspective, last season we won against Leicester at
home so that doesn't make a difference, but we had too many draws at
home last season.
"Nine points after three matches is nothing different for us because
we did that last season.
"The difference is the quality of our football, we're playing better
now and if we hadn't won this match I wouldn't have anyone to
blame."
Manchester United stay top of the formative Premier League table ahead
of the international break.
They face Stoke City away from home when the league resumes on 9th September.
Kante: Bakayoko can fill Matic's boot
Much have been said about Chelsea's sale of Nemanja Matic to Premier
League rival Manchester United.
The choruses of those who are still surprised at the sale of the
Serbian have only grown louder with each solid performances he puts in
in Manchester United solid start to the season.
However, after his replacement Tiemoue Babayoko made his debut in the
backs to the wall victory over Tottenham last week, N'golo Kante has
tipped his France compatriot to eventually fill in suitably for the
Serbian once he gets to grip with the way Antonio Conte operates at
Stamford Bridge.
"As soon as Tiemoue understands how the team work, how the manager
wants us to work, we can play very well.
"Tottenham was his first game and it wasn't easy for him, because it
was the first game away to a good opponent, and he did very well. I've
tried to help him to settle well at Chelsea and feel good in the
squad."
Chelsea will be looking to get their first home win on the board when
they play Everton on Sunday.
N'golo Kante and Tiemoue Bakayoko are expected to continue their new
partnership in the middle against the Toffees.
League rival Manchester United.
The choruses of those who are still surprised at the sale of the
Serbian have only grown louder with each solid performances he puts in
in Manchester United solid start to the season.
However, after his replacement Tiemoue Babayoko made his debut in the
backs to the wall victory over Tottenham last week, N'golo Kante has
tipped his France compatriot to eventually fill in suitably for the
Serbian once he gets to grip with the way Antonio Conte operates at
Stamford Bridge.
"As soon as Tiemoue understands how the team work, how the manager
wants us to work, we can play very well.
"Tottenham was his first game and it wasn't easy for him, because it
was the first game away to a good opponent, and he did very well. I've
tried to help him to settle well at Chelsea and feel good in the
squad."
Chelsea will be looking to get their first home win on the board when
they play Everton on Sunday.
N'golo Kante and Tiemoue Bakayoko are expected to continue their new
partnership in the middle against the Toffees.
Charlie Nicholas: Sell Oxlade-Chamberlain since he doesn't want to stay
While speculation about the futures of Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil
have dominated much of Arsenal's summer. The future of Alex
Oxlade-Chamberlain who is in the same position as the former two has
taken centre stage in recent days after report emerged first of his
rejection of a new contract worth £180,000 a week. And another report
that the club was ready to cash in on him after he rejected the latest
offer.
The 24 year old is amongst a trio of key players who are into the last
year of their contract. And amidst interest from Liverpool and
Chelsea, he has declined to extend his contract.
With reports of £35m bid from Chelsea and Liverpool's interest,
Arsenal legend Charlie Nicholas has called on the club to cash in on
the England international since he has refused to sign a new contract
as his target of holding out to feature in a central midfield position
can certainly not be guaranteed at the club.
"'I don't want to be here, I want to go somewhere else'. Well my
friend, sold. He said
"That would be my method, you're sold. Go and get a transfer, we'll
take the money.
"He's a fabulous potential talent and I don't want to lose him, but he
doesn't want to be there.
"He must earn the right to get in the team. Surely he must know
himself 'I'm not going to get in this team'.
"When he sees people like [Aaron] Ramsey back in the team and then he
sees [Granit] Xhaka coming in and [Mohamed] Elneny coming in and
[Francis] Coquelin back in the team, all in front of him, would that
not raise something in your mind to say 'why are they signing them and
I'm not getting to play the central midfield role?''
The Ox has featured in all three of Arsenal's matches this season. It
remains to be seen whether he would be included in the squad that
plays Liverpool on Sunday after he rejected the club's latest contract
offer.
The former Southampton starlet is three appearances away from clocking
200 appearances for the club. With the transfer window closing on
Thursday, his time at the club could end at 197 appearances.
have dominated much of Arsenal's summer. The future of Alex
Oxlade-Chamberlain who is in the same position as the former two has
taken centre stage in recent days after report emerged first of his
rejection of a new contract worth £180,000 a week. And another report
that the club was ready to cash in on him after he rejected the latest
offer.
The 24 year old is amongst a trio of key players who are into the last
year of their contract. And amidst interest from Liverpool and
Chelsea, he has declined to extend his contract.
With reports of £35m bid from Chelsea and Liverpool's interest,
Arsenal legend Charlie Nicholas has called on the club to cash in on
the England international since he has refused to sign a new contract
as his target of holding out to feature in a central midfield position
can certainly not be guaranteed at the club.
"'I don't want to be here, I want to go somewhere else'. Well my
friend, sold. He said
"That would be my method, you're sold. Go and get a transfer, we'll
take the money.
"He's a fabulous potential talent and I don't want to lose him, but he
doesn't want to be there.
"He must earn the right to get in the team. Surely he must know
himself 'I'm not going to get in this team'.
"When he sees people like [Aaron] Ramsey back in the team and then he
sees [Granit] Xhaka coming in and [Mohamed] Elneny coming in and
[Francis] Coquelin back in the team, all in front of him, would that
not raise something in your mind to say 'why are they signing them and
I'm not getting to play the central midfield role?''
The Ox has featured in all three of Arsenal's matches this season. It
remains to be seen whether he would be included in the squad that
plays Liverpool on Sunday after he rejected the club's latest contract
offer.
The former Southampton starlet is three appearances away from clocking
200 appearances for the club. With the transfer window closing on
Thursday, his time at the club could end at 197 appearances.
Friday, 25 August 2017
Jurgen Klopp doesn't understand continuous criticism of Arsene Wenger
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has always been at the receiving end of
criticism from sections of the club's fanbase. Last season, the
criticism reached a zenith with calls for him to leave the club. But
after he led Arsenal to a record 13th FA Cup win at the end of last
season which also came with a two year contract extension, there was
something of a thaw.
However, following the 1-0 defeat to Stoke in the second league match
of the season, the criticism has again resurfaced.
But the Frenchman has an ally in Liverpool's manager, Jurgen Klopp who
is at a lost as to why he has continued to face criticism.
He spoke ahead of the meeting between Arsenal and Liverpool at Anfield
on Sunday.
"Obviously, Arsene loves what he is doing," the German said
"Obviously, he feels he has all the energy he needs to do it.
"He's the only person who can judge this - apart from the board at
Arsenal, who think the same and extended his contract.
"After this long, unbelievable, successful time, always being in the
Champions League, always being close to winning things, you can get
the feeling that a few people don't want you anymore. I don't
understand it.
"The only thing I can say is that I really respect him a lot. I really
respect all the things he has done in the past, for Arsenal but also
for football in general.
"He's a big, big, big manager in the history of the Premier League, of
football, of whatever. He has the power still and that's all you need.
I'm happy that he's still there."
Arsene Wenger would always divide opinion amongst the club's fanbase.
But those on opposing side would only stay execution on any form of
criticism, if result continue to go Arsenal's way.
A bad result at Anfield on Sunday would only increase the criticism of
the club's longest serving manager.
criticism from sections of the club's fanbase. Last season, the
criticism reached a zenith with calls for him to leave the club. But
after he led Arsenal to a record 13th FA Cup win at the end of last
season which also came with a two year contract extension, there was
something of a thaw.
However, following the 1-0 defeat to Stoke in the second league match
of the season, the criticism has again resurfaced.
But the Frenchman has an ally in Liverpool's manager, Jurgen Klopp who
is at a lost as to why he has continued to face criticism.
He spoke ahead of the meeting between Arsenal and Liverpool at Anfield
on Sunday.
"Obviously, Arsene loves what he is doing," the German said
"Obviously, he feels he has all the energy he needs to do it.
"He's the only person who can judge this - apart from the board at
Arsenal, who think the same and extended his contract.
"After this long, unbelievable, successful time, always being in the
Champions League, always being close to winning things, you can get
the feeling that a few people don't want you anymore. I don't
understand it.
"The only thing I can say is that I really respect him a lot. I really
respect all the things he has done in the past, for Arsenal but also
for football in general.
"He's a big, big, big manager in the history of the Premier League, of
football, of whatever. He has the power still and that's all you need.
I'm happy that he's still there."
Arsene Wenger would always divide opinion amongst the club's fanbase.
But those on opposing side would only stay execution on any form of
criticism, if result continue to go Arsenal's way.
A bad result at Anfield on Sunday would only increase the criticism of
the club's longest serving manager.
Barcelona agree £138m Ousmane Dembele deal with Dortmund
Barcelona have agreed a deal of £138m with Borussia Dortmund for the
transfer of France international winger Ousmane Dembele.
He is to undergo his medicals on Monday and will sign a five year deal
with the Catalans.
A release clause of £400m has been inserted in his contract.
The 20 year old joined Dortmund a year ago for a fee of £13m and ended
up with 10 goals and 21 assists in all competitions in his first
season outside France.
He featured in Dortmund's first match of the season the Super Cup
defeat to Bayern Munich on 5th August. But amidst a bid from Barcelona
that was initially rejected after the sale of Neymar, he subsequently
went on strike when he traveled to France without the permission of
his club. An action that a drew an indefinite suspension to be slammed
on him.
With the agreement reached between both clubs, one of the transfer
sagas of the summer have come to amicable end.
transfer of France international winger Ousmane Dembele.
He is to undergo his medicals on Monday and will sign a five year deal
with the Catalans.
A release clause of £400m has been inserted in his contract.
The 20 year old joined Dortmund a year ago for a fee of £13m and ended
up with 10 goals and 21 assists in all competitions in his first
season outside France.
He featured in Dortmund's first match of the season the Super Cup
defeat to Bayern Munich on 5th August. But amidst a bid from Barcelona
that was initially rejected after the sale of Neymar, he subsequently
went on strike when he traveled to France without the permission of
his club. An action that a drew an indefinite suspension to be slammed
on him.
With the agreement reached between both clubs, one of the transfer
sagas of the summer have come to amicable end.
Conte: Big mistake for Belgium to call up Hazard
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has criticised the decision by Belgium
to call up Eden Hazard for the next round of World Cup qualifiers.
The Italian called the decision a big mistake.
The 26 year old Hazard has not played since June after he injured his
ankle while on international duty. And the Chelsea manager cannot
understand why he has been called up, since he is still working his
way back to fitness.
"It's very important to give the right time to recover well," The
Italian said in his press conference on Friday.
"It's a big mistake, in this moment we must pay great attention and
not make any mistakes,"
He also confirmed that he has not spoken to Roberto Martinez about his
decision to call Hazard up for the matches against Gilbratar and
Greece.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will be without Eden Hazard for a fourth straight
match when they host Everton on Sunday.
to call up Eden Hazard for the next round of World Cup qualifiers.
The Italian called the decision a big mistake.
The 26 year old Hazard has not played since June after he injured his
ankle while on international duty. And the Chelsea manager cannot
understand why he has been called up, since he is still working his
way back to fitness.
"It's very important to give the right time to recover well," The
Italian said in his press conference on Friday.
"It's a big mistake, in this moment we must pay great attention and
not make any mistakes,"
He also confirmed that he has not spoken to Roberto Martinez about his
decision to call Hazard up for the matches against Gilbratar and
Greece.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will be without Eden Hazard for a fourth straight
match when they host Everton on Sunday.
Thursday, 24 August 2017
Arsenal, Chelsea, Man United players in France squad for WCQ
France coach Didier Deschamps has called up several Premier League
players for the next round of World Cup qualifiers.
The Euro 2016 finalist trade tackles with the Netherland on 31st
August in Paris, before a date with Luxembourg on 3rd September.
Amongst those invited are Arsenal trio of Laurent Koscielny, Alexandre
Lacazette and Oliver Giroud. Chelsea's N'golo Kante. Manchester
United's Paul Pogba and Tottenham's Hugo Lloris
The full squad:
Areola, Lloris, Mandanda; Digne, Jallet, Kimpembe, Koscielny, Kurzawa,
Sidibe, Umtiti, Varane; Kante, Lemar, Matuidi, Pogba, Rabiot, Tolisso;
Coman, Fekir, Giroud, Griezmann, Lacazette, Mbappe, Thauvin.
players for the next round of World Cup qualifiers.
The Euro 2016 finalist trade tackles with the Netherland on 31st
August in Paris, before a date with Luxembourg on 3rd September.
Amongst those invited are Arsenal trio of Laurent Koscielny, Alexandre
Lacazette and Oliver Giroud. Chelsea's N'golo Kante. Manchester
United's Paul Pogba and Tottenham's Hugo Lloris
The full squad:
Areola, Lloris, Mandanda; Digne, Jallet, Kimpembe, Koscielny, Kurzawa,
Sidibe, Umtiti, Varane; Kante, Lemar, Matuidi, Pogba, Rabiot, Tolisso;
Coman, Fekir, Giroud, Griezmann, Lacazette, Mbappe, Thauvin.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic signs new one year deal with Man United
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has signed a new one year deal with Manchester
United. The club has announced.
The 35 year old previous contract had expired in June, and wasn't
renewed, because of a knee ligament injury. But after making
appreciable progress, the club has granted him a contract his goal
haul had triggered before he sustained his knee injury in April.
He will wear the club's number ten shirt vacated by Wayne Rooney
following his move to Everton.
On the new deal, Jose Mourinho told the club's website thus;
"We are delighted Zlatan is on the road to recovery and we are equally
delighted to have his ambition and experience back with us. After his
contribution last season he deserves our trust and we will be patient
waiting for him to return. I have no doubt that he will be important
in the second part of the season."
While the Swede had this to say about this new contract: "I am back to
finish what I started. It was always mine and the club's intention for
me to stay. I cannot wait to get back out on that Old Trafford pitch,
but I also know that I have to take my time to make sure that I am
ready. I have been working hard and will continue to do so to make
sure I am in the best possible condition for my return to the pitch."
He scored 28 goals from 46 appearances last season. He would be
looking to add to that haul in the second half of the season.
United. The club has announced.
The 35 year old previous contract had expired in June, and wasn't
renewed, because of a knee ligament injury. But after making
appreciable progress, the club has granted him a contract his goal
haul had triggered before he sustained his knee injury in April.
He will wear the club's number ten shirt vacated by Wayne Rooney
following his move to Everton.
On the new deal, Jose Mourinho told the club's website thus;
"We are delighted Zlatan is on the road to recovery and we are equally
delighted to have his ambition and experience back with us. After his
contribution last season he deserves our trust and we will be patient
waiting for him to return. I have no doubt that he will be important
in the second part of the season."
While the Swede had this to say about this new contract: "I am back to
finish what I started. It was always mine and the club's intention for
me to stay. I cannot wait to get back out on that Old Trafford pitch,
but I also know that I have to take my time to make sure that I am
ready. I have been working hard and will continue to do so to make
sure I am in the best possible condition for my return to the pitch."
He scored 28 goals from 46 appearances last season. He would be
looking to add to that haul in the second half of the season.
Report: Chelsea still keen on Leicester's Danny Drinkwater
Chelsea are still keen to bring England international Danny Drinkwater
to Stamford Bridge.
The club have reportedly had a bid over the £20m threshold rejected by
the 2015/2016 Premier League champions.
It is thought that Leicester City are holding out for a fee in the
region of £40m. But both clubs are still trying to trash out a deal
for the 27 year old.
The club are looking to reunite him with N'golo Kante. A pairing that
was instrumental to Leicester unlikely league win in 2016.
With just seven days left of transfer window, the club would have to
move quickly to agree a deal.
Chelsea have brought in Tiemoue Bakayoko, Antonio Rudiger and Alvaro
Morata in this window. All three played a key role as the champions
recovered from an opening day defeat against Burnley to beat London
rivals, Tottenham, 2-1 at the Wembley stadium on Sunday.
to Stamford Bridge.
The club have reportedly had a bid over the £20m threshold rejected by
the 2015/2016 Premier League champions.
It is thought that Leicester City are holding out for a fee in the
region of £40m. But both clubs are still trying to trash out a deal
for the 27 year old.
The club are looking to reunite him with N'golo Kante. A pairing that
was instrumental to Leicester unlikely league win in 2016.
With just seven days left of transfer window, the club would have to
move quickly to agree a deal.
Chelsea have brought in Tiemoue Bakayoko, Antonio Rudiger and Alvaro
Morata in this window. All three played a key role as the champions
recovered from an opening day defeat against Burnley to beat London
rivals, Tottenham, 2-1 at the Wembley stadium on Sunday.
Wenger: Mustafi could leave
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has refused to rule out the departure of
central defender Shkodran Mustafi.
The 24 year old German international was a £35m signing from Valencia
a year ago.
However, speculation about his future has been rife in recent weeks,
with reports linking him with a move to Italian sides Inter Milan and
Juventus.
Arsene Wenger had the opportunity of strucking down those speculation
when he addressed the media on Thursday, but he didn't rule it out
when he refused to say for certain whether the German would be
staying.
"No, I don't expect …"
"It's difficult for me to speak about any individual cases, you know.
"We're now in the final seven days of the transfer market and it's
always very difficult to predict what will happen there.
"You have to make quick and sharp decisions and you cannot plan that
and come out in a press conference with how you will respond to any
solicitation."
The possibility of the German leaving would come as a surprise to many
followers of the club, particularly after the sale of Gabriel to
Valencia and the retirement of Per Mertesacker in a year's time.
If he leaves, the club would have to bring in a replacement with just
a week left of the transfer window as they would be short of numbers
in central defence with just Laurent Koscielny, Rob Holding, Calum
Chambers, Per Mertesacker and Nacho Monreal, with Sead Kolasinac able
to play there too.
It remains to be seen how this unfold in the next seven days.
central defender Shkodran Mustafi.
The 24 year old German international was a £35m signing from Valencia
a year ago.
However, speculation about his future has been rife in recent weeks,
with reports linking him with a move to Italian sides Inter Milan and
Juventus.
Arsene Wenger had the opportunity of strucking down those speculation
when he addressed the media on Thursday, but he didn't rule it out
when he refused to say for certain whether the German would be
staying.
"No, I don't expect …"
"It's difficult for me to speak about any individual cases, you know.
"We're now in the final seven days of the transfer market and it's
always very difficult to predict what will happen there.
"You have to make quick and sharp decisions and you cannot plan that
and come out in a press conference with how you will respond to any
solicitation."
The possibility of the German leaving would come as a surprise to many
followers of the club, particularly after the sale of Gabriel to
Valencia and the retirement of Per Mertesacker in a year's time.
If he leaves, the club would have to bring in a replacement with just
a week left of the transfer window as they would be short of numbers
in central defence with just Laurent Koscielny, Rob Holding, Calum
Chambers, Per Mertesacker and Nacho Monreal, with Sead Kolasinac able
to play there too.
It remains to be seen how this unfold in the next seven days.
Wenger: Consistent fitness key to any new contract for Wilshere
Arsene Wenger has declared that Jack Wishere would have to prove his
fitness over a sustained period before the club would consider
granting him a new contract.
The 25 year old has recovered from a leg fractured and his currently
working his way back to fitness after featuring in two U23 matches to
date, the last of which saw him sent off after he reacted angrily to a
bad tackle.
However, to Wenger, fitness is key to any new deal for the England
international.
"You know how much I love Jack and his talent. I started him at the
age of 17, but today in the football world you need a consistent
presence.
"What is at stake for Jack is not his quality, not his talent, not his
determination, it's his consistent presence at the top and I hope he
can do that.
"Nobody questions his quality here."
fitness over a sustained period before the club would consider
granting him a new contract.
The 25 year old has recovered from a leg fractured and his currently
working his way back to fitness after featuring in two U23 matches to
date, the last of which saw him sent off after he reacted angrily to a
bad tackle.
However, to Wenger, fitness is key to any new deal for the England
international.
"You know how much I love Jack and his talent. I started him at the
age of 17, but today in the football world you need a consistent
presence.
"What is at stake for Jack is not his quality, not his talent, not his
determination, it's his consistent presence at the top and I hope he
can do that.
"Nobody questions his quality here."
Wenger wants Ox to repay Arsenal's faith and sign new contract
Arsene Wenger has once again reiterated that he wants Alex
Oxlade-Chamberlain to repay the confidence and faith Arsenal have
placed on him since he arrived the club by signing a new contract.
The 24 year old has so far rejected the contract offered to him by the
club. The last of which report says was £125,000 a week contract.
However, it is thought that his refusal to extend his less than one
year contract is borne down to disagreement over his playing position
and not the wages offered to him.
However, Wenger has asserted that his preference is for him to stay.
"I want Alex to stay at the club and to be one of the big players of
the future of this club. He's one of the players this team needs to be
built around in the future. He said in his press conference on
Thursday.
"Personally, I want him to commit to the club and to be one of the
carriers of the values of our team."
"I want to keep my best players, I just told you. I have only one
target and that's to keep everybody on board. We invested a lot of
time and confidence and money in players like Alex Chamberlain who we
bought at a young age."
"For me, they have a responsibility for the future of this club. Alex
Chamberlain will be one of the big English players in the coming years
and I personally am highly determined to keep him here at the club. I
hope he will commit."
Oxlade-Chamberlain to repay the confidence and faith Arsenal have
placed on him since he arrived the club by signing a new contract.
The 24 year old has so far rejected the contract offered to him by the
club. The last of which report says was £125,000 a week contract.
However, it is thought that his refusal to extend his less than one
year contract is borne down to disagreement over his playing position
and not the wages offered to him.
However, Wenger has asserted that his preference is for him to stay.
"I want Alex to stay at the club and to be one of the big players of
the future of this club. He's one of the players this team needs to be
built around in the future. He said in his press conference on
Thursday.
"Personally, I want him to commit to the club and to be one of the
carriers of the values of our team."
"I want to keep my best players, I just told you. I have only one
target and that's to keep everybody on board. We invested a lot of
time and confidence and money in players like Alex Chamberlain who we
bought at a young age."
"For me, they have a responsibility for the future of this club. Alex
Chamberlain will be one of the big English players in the coming years
and I personally am highly determined to keep him here at the club. I
hope he will commit."
Arsenal team news ahead of Liverpool: Koscielny and Sanchez returns to squad
Arsenal will have Laurent Koscielny and Alexis Sanchez back for the
trip to Liverpool on Sunday. The former has completed his two match
suspension picked up from the last league match of last season, while
the latter his now fit from an abdominal strain.
In their absence Arsenal have won one and lost one of two league
matches so far.
Speaking on the physical condition of Alexis Sanchez, who arrived late
from his summer holidays and didn't take part in pre-season. Wenger
was cautious about the 28 year old, while praising his work ethics.
"He has worked very hard to be back again," "and he is available again."
"Works very hard, is very focused, he loves so much to play it's hard
to stop him. He looks ready, but he hasn't played for a long time so
I'll have to to decide what to do with him.
"But he's ready to play. He looks in good shape."
trip to Liverpool on Sunday. The former has completed his two match
suspension picked up from the last league match of last season, while
the latter his now fit from an abdominal strain.
In their absence Arsenal have won one and lost one of two league
matches so far.
Speaking on the physical condition of Alexis Sanchez, who arrived late
from his summer holidays and didn't take part in pre-season. Wenger
was cautious about the 28 year old, while praising his work ethics.
"He has worked very hard to be back again," "and he is available again."
"Works very hard, is very focused, he loves so much to play it's hard
to stop him. He looks ready, but he hasn't played for a long time so
I'll have to to decide what to do with him.
"But he's ready to play. He looks in good shape."
Wenger: Thomas Lemar deal is dead
Arsenal's chances of signing Monaco and France midfielder Thomas Lemar
looks all but over after Arsene Wenger declared in his press
conference on Thursday that any deal for the 21 year old is dead after
the Ligue 1 champions closed the door to a deal.
Asked about the chances of Arsenal signing the midfielder, Wenger was
quick to throw a spanner in the wheels of any deal happening with a
week left of the transfer window.
"It's dead, because Monaco has closed the door definitely. He said
"They are still on cases like M'Bappe, Fabinho, they already lost
Mendy, Bernardo Silva, Bakayoko. Monaco is at a stage where they have
basically closed the door."
On how Arsenal would cope after missing out on a prime target after
several bids was turned down my Monaco, he had this to say:
"We have the numbers, we have the quality to deal with that."
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal's transfer business is
definitely closed for the summer. With just a week left of the
transfer window, the club still needs to strengthen. But it looks like
the club may have closed the door on any new arrival, just as Monaco
have closed the door on Thomas Lemar leaving.
looks all but over after Arsene Wenger declared in his press
conference on Thursday that any deal for the 21 year old is dead after
the Ligue 1 champions closed the door to a deal.
Asked about the chances of Arsenal signing the midfielder, Wenger was
quick to throw a spanner in the wheels of any deal happening with a
week left of the transfer window.
"It's dead, because Monaco has closed the door definitely. He said
"They are still on cases like M'Bappe, Fabinho, they already lost
Mendy, Bernardo Silva, Bakayoko. Monaco is at a stage where they have
basically closed the door."
On how Arsenal would cope after missing out on a prime target after
several bids was turned down my Monaco, he had this to say:
"We have the numbers, we have the quality to deal with that."
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal's transfer business is
definitely closed for the summer. With just a week left of the
transfer window, the club still needs to strengthen. But it looks like
the club may have closed the door on any new arrival, just as Monaco
have closed the door on Thomas Lemar leaving.
Wednesday, 23 August 2017
Liverpool team to face Hoffenheim: Salah and Trent recalled
Jurgen Klopp recalls Mo Salah, Moreno and Trent Alexander-Arnold to
the team after they missed out on a starting spot against Crystal
Palace on Saturday.
The Merseysiders go into tonight's second leg at Anfield with a 2-1
lead from the first leg in Germany, and would be looking to seal their
passage to the group stages for the first time since 2014.
Full squad:
Mignolet, Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Lovren, Moreno, Henderson, Can,
Wijnaldum, Mane, Salah, Firmino
Subs: Karius, Klavan, Gomez, Milner, Solanke, Robertson, Sturridge.
the team after they missed out on a starting spot against Crystal
Palace on Saturday.
The Merseysiders go into tonight's second leg at Anfield with a 2-1
lead from the first leg in Germany, and would be looking to seal their
passage to the group stages for the first time since 2014.
Full squad:
Mignolet, Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Lovren, Moreno, Henderson, Can,
Wijnaldum, Mane, Salah, Firmino
Subs: Karius, Klavan, Gomez, Milner, Solanke, Robertson, Sturridge.
Tuesday, 22 August 2017
WCQ: Iwobi, Moses, Mikel, Iheanacho and Igaho amongst 23 invited for Cameroon double header
Nigeria and Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr has released his list of players for the World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon in September. The first leg of the tie takes place in Uyo on Friday 1st September while the return leg holds three days later in Yaounde on Monday 4th September.
Key players that missed the African Cup of Nations qualifying defeat to South Africa in March make a return to the squad.
They include Mikel Obi, Odion Ighalo, Victor Moses and Leon Balogun.
There is however a new debutant to the squad in the person of Nigeria born Ola Aina who is a England youth international that came through the ranks at Chelsea but currently plays for Championship side Hull City. Tyronne Ebuehi from Holland is also included for the first time.
Nigeria lead the group with six points after two matches. With Cameroon in second place with two points. While Algeria and Zambia have one point apiece.
Full Squad:
Goalkeepers:
Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United, South Africa); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (FC IfeanyiUbah); Dele Alampasu (Cesarense FC, Portugal)
Defenders:
William Ekong (Bursaspor FC, Turkey); Abdullahi Shehu (Anorthosis Famagusta, Cyprus); Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Tyronne Ebuehi (ADO Den Haag, The Netherlands); Elderson Echiejile (Sivasspor FC, Turkey); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France); Ola Aina (Hull City, England)
Midfielders:
Mikel John Obi (Tianjin Teda, China); Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor FC, Turkey); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Oghenekaro Etebo (CD Feirense, Portugal); John Ogu (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel); Mikel Agu (Bursaspor FC, Turkey)
Forwards:
Ahmed Musa (Leicester City, England); Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England); Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium); Alex Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England); Odion Ighalo (Chang Chun-Yatai, China); Victor Moses (Chelsea FC, England); Anthony Nwakaeme (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel)
STANDBY:
Uche Agbo (Standard Liege, Belgium); Henry Onyekuru (Anderlecht FC, Belgium); Kenneth Omeruo (Chelsea FC, England); Aaron Samuel (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Alhassan Ibrahim (Akwa United); Stephen Eze (FC IfeanyiUbah); Ifeanyi Ifeanyi (Akwa United)
Monday, 21 August 2017
WCQ: Mikel, Moses, Balogun and Ighalo set to return against Cameroon
Nigeria will welcome back three key players to the Super Eagles fold
in the double header World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon in
September.
The trio of Mikel Obi, Victor Moses and Odion Ighalo are expected to
return against the Idomitable Lions for the crucial World Cup
qualifiers in Uyo and Yaounde early next month.
The Super Eagles coach Gernat Rohr confirmed their participation when
he spoke to the media.
"Mikel Obi is coming back after his injury. We missed him very much.
Also, Victor Moses and Leon Balogun will also return to the team."
"Unfortunately, we will be without our goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, who is
sick." he said
The Super Eagles currently lead their group with six points from two
matches, four ahead of Cameroon who are in second place.
The first leg of the double header qualifiers takes place in Uyo on
1st September, while the return is in Yaounde on 4th September.
In the absence of Mikel Obi and Victor Moses, the Super Eagles were
listless in the 2-0 defeat against South Africa in qualifers for the
2019 African Cup of Nations in March.
With the expected return of these players, followers of the team would
hoping for an improved display against a formidable opponent in the
African champions.
in the double header World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon in
September.
The trio of Mikel Obi, Victor Moses and Odion Ighalo are expected to
return against the Idomitable Lions for the crucial World Cup
qualifiers in Uyo and Yaounde early next month.
The Super Eagles coach Gernat Rohr confirmed their participation when
he spoke to the media.
"Mikel Obi is coming back after his injury. We missed him very much.
Also, Victor Moses and Leon Balogun will also return to the team."
"Unfortunately, we will be without our goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, who is
sick." he said
The Super Eagles currently lead their group with six points from two
matches, four ahead of Cameroon who are in second place.
The first leg of the double header qualifiers takes place in Uyo on
1st September, while the return is in Yaounde on 4th September.
In the absence of Mikel Obi and Victor Moses, the Super Eagles were
listless in the 2-0 defeat against South Africa in qualifers for the
2019 African Cup of Nations in March.
With the expected return of these players, followers of the team would
hoping for an improved display against a formidable opponent in the
African champions.
Report: Zlatan Ibrahimovic to sign new Man Utd contract
ESPN are reporting that Swede striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic would sign a
new contract at Manchester United.
The 35 year old ruptured his knee ligament in April and was
subsequently released when his contract expired in June. But as result
of his steady and quick recovery the injury, the report claims he is
set to sign a new contract that would keep him at the club until the
summer of 2018.
Jose Mourinho had hinted on several occasions that he would like him
to stay at the club when he recovers from his injury.
Its the same contract he was due to sign when his goals triggered a
one year extension last season. He was on 28 goals in April before he
suffered his injury in the Europa League semi final.
With Romelu Lukaku brought in as his replacement and with the
Belgian's return of three goals in three matches, the addition of the
Swede if the Old Trafford club succeed in tying him down for a further
year would only add more fire power to a United attack that has opened
the season with eight goals in two Premier League matches.
new contract at Manchester United.
The 35 year old ruptured his knee ligament in April and was
subsequently released when his contract expired in June. But as result
of his steady and quick recovery the injury, the report claims he is
set to sign a new contract that would keep him at the club until the
summer of 2018.
Jose Mourinho had hinted on several occasions that he would like him
to stay at the club when he recovers from his injury.
Its the same contract he was due to sign when his goals triggered a
one year extension last season. He was on 28 goals in April before he
suffered his injury in the Europa League semi final.
With Romelu Lukaku brought in as his replacement and with the
Belgian's return of three goals in three matches, the addition of the
Swede if the Old Trafford club succeed in tying him down for a further
year would only add more fire power to a United attack that has opened
the season with eight goals in two Premier League matches.
Report: Arsenal offers Oxlade-Chamberlain improved contract to fend off Chelsea interest
According to the Daily Star, Arsenal have offered Alex
Oxlade-Chamberlain a new four contract with improved terms of £125,000
a week.
The report claims the club are optimistic that the England
international would accept the latest offer after refusing to sign
previous terms.
The 24 year old is inside the last one year of his contract. And he is
amongst a trio of first team players who are in that situation.
With Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil looking less likely to extend their
deals with the club, the former Southampton youth player remains the
only player the club is confident of tying to a new deal.
Meanwhile, he continues to be linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.
With reports claiming last week that Chelsea were confident of prising
him away from the Emirates with a fee of £35m
He has been a permanent feature in Arsenal's early season matches.
Playing at both right and left full back roles in the Community Shield
as well as against Leicester City and Stoke in the Premier League.
With the transfer window still open for another ten days, his future
should become clearer in the coming weeks.
Oxlade-Chamberlain a new four contract with improved terms of £125,000
a week.
The report claims the club are optimistic that the England
international would accept the latest offer after refusing to sign
previous terms.
The 24 year old is inside the last one year of his contract. And he is
amongst a trio of first team players who are in that situation.
With Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil looking less likely to extend their
deals with the club, the former Southampton youth player remains the
only player the club is confident of tying to a new deal.
Meanwhile, he continues to be linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.
With reports claiming last week that Chelsea were confident of prising
him away from the Emirates with a fee of £35m
He has been a permanent feature in Arsenal's early season matches.
Playing at both right and left full back roles in the Community Shield
as well as against Leicester City and Stoke in the Premier League.
With the transfer window still open for another ten days, his future
should become clearer in the coming weeks.
Saturday, 19 August 2017
Arsenal team to face Stoke: Starts for Mustafi and Ramsey
Arsenal are in Stoke today to face Mark Hughes' side, where they would
be seeking only their third win there in seven years.
Arsene Wenger makes two changes to the team that grabbed a 4-3 win
over Leicester last time out. With Mustafi and Aaron Ramsey returning
to the starting line up
Full teams:
Cech, Mustafi, Monreal, Kolasinac, Bellerin, Oxlade-Chamberlain,
Ramsey, Xhaka, Welbeck, Ozil, Lacazette
Subs: Ospina, Mertesacker, Walcott, Elneny, Giroud, Iwobi, Coquelin
be seeking only their third win there in seven years.
Arsene Wenger makes two changes to the team that grabbed a 4-3 win
over Leicester last time out. With Mustafi and Aaron Ramsey returning
to the starting line up
Full teams:
Cech, Mustafi, Monreal, Kolasinac, Bellerin, Oxlade-Chamberlain,
Ramsey, Xhaka, Welbeck, Ozil, Lacazette
Subs: Ospina, Mertesacker, Walcott, Elneny, Giroud, Iwobi, Coquelin
Liverpool team to face Crystal Palace: Three changes made
Jurgen Klopp makes three changes to the team that came away with a win
against Hoffenheim in the Champions League play-offs in Germany. With
Alberto Moreno, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mo' Salah giving way.
Daniel Sturridge makes his first competitive start of the season, new
signing, Andy Robertson makes his debut and Gomez comes in too.
Full line up:
Mignolet, Gomez, Matip, Klavan, Robertson, Henderson, Milner,
Wijnaldum, Mane, Firmino, Sturridge
Subs: Karius, Lovren, Flanagan, Can, Salah, Solanke, Origi.
against Hoffenheim in the Champions League play-offs in Germany. With
Alberto Moreno, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mo' Salah giving way.
Daniel Sturridge makes his first competitive start of the season, new
signing, Andy Robertson makes his debut and Gomez comes in too.
Full line up:
Mignolet, Gomez, Matip, Klavan, Robertson, Henderson, Milner,
Wijnaldum, Mane, Firmino, Sturridge
Subs: Karius, Lovren, Flanagan, Can, Salah, Solanke, Origi.
Friday, 18 August 2017
Tottenham set to sign Sanchez for record £42m
Tottenham Hotpsur are set to make their first signing of the summer
after they agreed a deal of £42m for Ajax and Colombian defender
Davinson Sanchez.
He is now expected to travel to London where he would have his medicals.
The 20 year old was a key player for the Amsterdam side last season.
Playing an instrumental role as they went all the way to the Europa
League final where they lost to Manchester United.
Last season was his first in Europe, having joined the four time
European champions from his native Colombia in the summer of 2016.
They have been much disquiet within the ranks at Tottenham as they
remained the only club in the league not not have made a signing.
However, Mauricio Pochettino reiterated in the press conference on
Friday that the club would make new signings and that he is targeting
signing four new players before the end of the transfer window.
The club have done one key transfer business before now, with the sale
of Kyle Walker to Manchester City for a fee of £50m
after they agreed a deal of £42m for Ajax and Colombian defender
Davinson Sanchez.
He is now expected to travel to London where he would have his medicals.
The 20 year old was a key player for the Amsterdam side last season.
Playing an instrumental role as they went all the way to the Europa
League final where they lost to Manchester United.
Last season was his first in Europe, having joined the four time
European champions from his native Colombia in the summer of 2016.
They have been much disquiet within the ranks at Tottenham as they
remained the only club in the league not not have made a signing.
However, Mauricio Pochettino reiterated in the press conference on
Friday that the club would make new signings and that he is targeting
signing four new players before the end of the transfer window.
The club have done one key transfer business before now, with the sale
of Kyle Walker to Manchester City for a fee of £50m
Liverpool reject new £114m bid from Barcelona for Coutinho
According to report, Liverpool have rejected a new bid of £114m from
Barcelona for their Brazilian midfielder, Phillipe Coutinho.
The current bid is about £20m higher than the previous bid of £95m
from the Catalans.
It was the last bid that prompted the club's owners the Fenway Sports
Group, to issue a statement that the club would not consider any bid
for the 25 year old Coutinho, who is Liverpool's most important
player.
This prompted him to submit a transfer request that was swiftly
rejected by the club.
The player himself, is currently out injured with a back injury and a
date and has not be put for his return. He is expected miss
Liverpool's third competitive match of the season against Crystal
Palace at Anfield this weekend.
For Barcelona, they continue to find it hard to sign players in spite
of being awashed with cash following the sale of Neymar to PSG.
They have come stuck in their pursuit of not just Phillipe Coutinho,
but Oumane Dembele of Borussia Dortmund. With both clubs unwilling to
sell key players in the last weeks of the transfer window.
After the 5-1 aggregate defeat to Real Madrid in the clasico, they are
keen to strengthen a squad that has grown considerably weaker than it
was from last season.
Barcelona for their Brazilian midfielder, Phillipe Coutinho.
The current bid is about £20m higher than the previous bid of £95m
from the Catalans.
It was the last bid that prompted the club's owners the Fenway Sports
Group, to issue a statement that the club would not consider any bid
for the 25 year old Coutinho, who is Liverpool's most important
player.
This prompted him to submit a transfer request that was swiftly
rejected by the club.
The player himself, is currently out injured with a back injury and a
date and has not be put for his return. He is expected miss
Liverpool's third competitive match of the season against Crystal
Palace at Anfield this weekend.
For Barcelona, they continue to find it hard to sign players in spite
of being awashed with cash following the sale of Neymar to PSG.
They have come stuck in their pursuit of not just Phillipe Coutinho,
but Oumane Dembele of Borussia Dortmund. With both clubs unwilling to
sell key players in the last weeks of the transfer window.
After the 5-1 aggregate defeat to Real Madrid in the clasico, they are
keen to strengthen a squad that has grown considerably weaker than it
was from last season.
Conte: Bakayoko in contention to face Tottenham
Antonio Conte faced the media on Friday as Chelsea prepare to face
London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur in the first official Premier League
match at Wembley, Spurs temporary home for this season.
The Italian gave an assessment of his squad, with players missing
through injuries and suspension. Cesc Fabregas and Gary Cahill are
suspended, Eden Hazard is still not fit. While Pedro still has pains
in his ankle and would sit out the match.
On new signing, Tiemoue Bakayoko, who though still on the mend, but
he's in contention to play because of the dearth of midfielders.
"Tiemoue Bakayoko is improving very well, he is not at the top of
physical condition, but I think he can be in contention for the game,
because I do not have another midfielder. He told the media
"His situation is not easy at the moment, it could force me to make a
different decision. At this moment some players don't have 100%.
The former Juventus manager have a decision to make on the player that
would feature alongside N'golo Kante in what would is expected to be a
much changed side with the suspensions garnered from the last match
against Burnley.
London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur in the first official Premier League
match at Wembley, Spurs temporary home for this season.
The Italian gave an assessment of his squad, with players missing
through injuries and suspension. Cesc Fabregas and Gary Cahill are
suspended, Eden Hazard is still not fit. While Pedro still has pains
in his ankle and would sit out the match.
On new signing, Tiemoue Bakayoko, who though still on the mend, but
he's in contention to play because of the dearth of midfielders.
"Tiemoue Bakayoko is improving very well, he is not at the top of
physical condition, but I think he can be in contention for the game,
because I do not have another midfielder. He told the media
"His situation is not easy at the moment, it could force me to make a
different decision. At this moment some players don't have 100%.
The former Juventus manager have a decision to make on the player that
would feature alongside N'golo Kante in what would is expected to be a
much changed side with the suspensions garnered from the last match
against Burnley.
Mourinho happy with squad if fourth signing do not happen
Manchester United manager, Jose Mourinho has indicated that he is
happy with the state of his squad if no further signing is made by the
club.
The club is reportedly still interested in adding a fourth player, a
winger to the squad. In that respect, Ivan Perisic of Inter Milan have
been pursued all summer, but both clubs are still far apart in their
valuation of the player.
Speaking in his press conference on Friday, as Manchester United
prepare to travel to Wales to face Swansea, he was asked whether the
club would be making more signings.
"I don't think we are unless something happens to put us in the market
again. My plans were four, but I also told Ed Woodward, 'no pressure
from me, do what you think is best for the club'.
"We will be together for transfer windows in January and next summer.
No pressure from me at all. I am happy with the squad we have. I am
ready to go without the fourth player.
"My club did phenomenally well. I had four targets we got three before
first match. My club did great work. Also nobody is in doubt (about
their future)."
The Portuguese is clearly relaxed about the situation and is
comfortable with the current state of his squad.
happy with the state of his squad if no further signing is made by the
club.
The club is reportedly still interested in adding a fourth player, a
winger to the squad. In that respect, Ivan Perisic of Inter Milan have
been pursued all summer, but both clubs are still far apart in their
valuation of the player.
Speaking in his press conference on Friday, as Manchester United
prepare to travel to Wales to face Swansea, he was asked whether the
club would be making more signings.
"I don't think we are unless something happens to put us in the market
again. My plans were four, but I also told Ed Woodward, 'no pressure
from me, do what you think is best for the club'.
"We will be together for transfer windows in January and next summer.
No pressure from me at all. I am happy with the squad we have. I am
ready to go without the fourth player.
"My club did phenomenally well. I had four targets we got three before
first match. My club did great work. Also nobody is in doubt (about
their future)."
The Portuguese is clearly relaxed about the situation and is
comfortable with the current state of his squad.
Thursday, 17 August 2017
Aliko Dangote to sack Arsene Wenger if he buys Arsenal
Africa's richest man Aliko Dangote has declared that he would effect a
managerial change at Arsenal if he buys the club.
The Nigerian, who is a huge fan of the club has gone public on several
occasions on his desire to buy over the current majority shareholder;
Stan Kroenke if decides to sell. The America's Kroenke Sports
Enterprise, KSE, owns 67% of the club, while Uzek billionaire, Alishar
Usmanov has 30% of the club's share holding.
Speaking to Bloomberg, he again reiterated that desire to someday buy
the club if Stan Koerenke decides to seek pastures new.
"The first thing I would change is the coach," the 60 year old said
"He has done a good job, but someone else should also try his
luck."
He continued
"If they get the right offer, I'm sure they would walk away,"
"Someone will give them an offer that will make them seriously
consider walking away. And when we finish the refinery, [ refinery
being built in Lagos, Nigeria] I think we will be in a position to do
that."
"It's a great team, well-run. It could be run better, so I will be
there. I will wait. Even if things change I will take it."
in previous interviews on this subject Aliko Dangote had never
mentioned the possibility of sacking Wenger if he buys the club.
Perhaps, he is seeking to give more traction to his assertions for it
to garner more interest, because of the Frenchman's long association
with the club and what he represents.
Reported to worth $11 billion, his desire to buy the club could remain
so for the time being, as Stan Kroenke has on numerous occasions said
he is in it for the long haul.
He reiterated that stand few months ago after he rejected a bid of
around £1 billion from Alishar Usmanov in April.
For Arsene Wenger, he signed a two year extension to his contract
which would see him extend his stay at the club to 23 years.
managerial change at Arsenal if he buys the club.
The Nigerian, who is a huge fan of the club has gone public on several
occasions on his desire to buy over the current majority shareholder;
Stan Kroenke if decides to sell. The America's Kroenke Sports
Enterprise, KSE, owns 67% of the club, while Uzek billionaire, Alishar
Usmanov has 30% of the club's share holding.
Speaking to Bloomberg, he again reiterated that desire to someday buy
the club if Stan Koerenke decides to seek pastures new.
"The first thing I would change is the coach," the 60 year old said
"He has done a good job, but someone else should also try his
luck."
He continued
"If they get the right offer, I'm sure they would walk away,"
"Someone will give them an offer that will make them seriously
consider walking away. And when we finish the refinery, [ refinery
being built in Lagos, Nigeria] I think we will be in a position to do
that."
"It's a great team, well-run. It could be run better, so I will be
there. I will wait. Even if things change I will take it."
in previous interviews on this subject Aliko Dangote had never
mentioned the possibility of sacking Wenger if he buys the club.
Perhaps, he is seeking to give more traction to his assertions for it
to garner more interest, because of the Frenchman's long association
with the club and what he represents.
Reported to worth $11 billion, his desire to buy the club could remain
so for the time being, as Stan Kroenke has on numerous occasions said
he is in it for the long haul.
He reiterated that stand few months ago after he rejected a bid of
around £1 billion from Alishar Usmanov in April.
For Arsene Wenger, he signed a two year extension to his contract
which would see him extend his stay at the club to 23 years.
Diego Costa ask Chelsea to release him, wants Atletico move
Chelsea striker Diego Costa has reiterated his stands that he would
not return to London to resume training as directed by the club, but
instead he has asked the club to release him as he wants a move to
Atletico Madrid.
In the statement released, he said
"I must return to Atletico Madrid,"
"We are at an impasse because Chelsea do not want to release me."
"But I believe that this situation will be resolved soon for my return
to Spain."
The club directed him to return to London for training and make
himself available for first team selection, but the 28 year old is
adamant that he wouldn't return.
This latest statement follows the interview he granted last weekend
where he openly criticised the club for the way he has been treated.
With the transfer window just two weeks away from being shut, he has
increasingly gone public with his refusal to return to Chelsea and his
desire to return to Madrid instead, in spite of the fact that he knows
he cannot kick a ball for Diego Simeone's side until at least January,
because of the transfer ban they are under.
There are now reports that the the club is considering taking legal
action against the player for his refusal to return to training.
Already he is being heavily fined by the club, but this seem not have
deterred him to shift his position.
It remains to be seen how this impasse would be resolved. A situation
that started from the simple exchange of a text message between a
player and his manager.
not return to London to resume training as directed by the club, but
instead he has asked the club to release him as he wants a move to
Atletico Madrid.
In the statement released, he said
"I must return to Atletico Madrid,"
"We are at an impasse because Chelsea do not want to release me."
"But I believe that this situation will be resolved soon for my return
to Spain."
The club directed him to return to London for training and make
himself available for first team selection, but the 28 year old is
adamant that he wouldn't return.
This latest statement follows the interview he granted last weekend
where he openly criticised the club for the way he has been treated.
With the transfer window just two weeks away from being shut, he has
increasingly gone public with his refusal to return to Chelsea and his
desire to return to Madrid instead, in spite of the fact that he knows
he cannot kick a ball for Diego Simeone's side until at least January,
because of the transfer ban they are under.
There are now reports that the the club is considering taking legal
action against the player for his refusal to return to training.
Already he is being heavily fined by the club, but this seem not have
deterred him to shift his position.
It remains to be seen how this impasse would be resolved. A situation
that started from the simple exchange of a text message between a
player and his manager.
Klopp: If transfer window closed yesterday, Liverpool have a good team
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp spoke to the media on Thursday ahead of
the second round of the Premier League, where they welcome Crystal
Palace to Anfield.
The German was asked in his press conference about the possibility of
Liverpool doing further business in the transfer market.
He said thus:
"The whole market is difficult. When I am not on the pitch or am not
thinking about training, I am thinking about what we can do. If the
transfer window ended yesterday, we would have a team which I like and
which we can play football with. It is a good team in this moment. We
will see what we can do."
The Merserysiders have brought in three players in this window;
Dominic Solanke, Mo' Salah and Andy Robertson.
With continued speculation over the future of Philippe Coutinho, after
a bid close to £100m was rejected from Barcelona and the Brazilian
subsequently submitting a transfer request, the club would still have
to find a balance between bringing in more players, and seeing that
they keep they core of their squad.
the second round of the Premier League, where they welcome Crystal
Palace to Anfield.
The German was asked in his press conference about the possibility of
Liverpool doing further business in the transfer market.
He said thus:
"The whole market is difficult. When I am not on the pitch or am not
thinking about training, I am thinking about what we can do. If the
transfer window ended yesterday, we would have a team which I like and
which we can play football with. It is a good team in this moment. We
will see what we can do."
The Merserysiders have brought in three players in this window;
Dominic Solanke, Mo' Salah and Andy Robertson.
With continued speculation over the future of Philippe Coutinho, after
a bid close to £100m was rejected from Barcelona and the Brazilian
subsequently submitting a transfer request, the club would still have
to find a balance between bringing in more players, and seeing that
they keep they core of their squad.
PSG midfielder Matuidi having Juventus medical ahead of £18m move
PSG midfielder and France international Blaise Matuidi is undergoing a
medical in Turin ahead of formalising his move to the Italian
champions, Juventus.
Both clubs agreed a fee of £18m on Thursday for the 30 year old.
The move would see him play outside of France for the first time in his career.
JuventusFC
juventusfc
Terminate le visite mediche di @MATUIDIBlaise
11:24 a.m. - 17 August 2017
He was part of the new era at PSG at the take over of the club by the
Qatari Investment Group. Winning four Ligue 1 titles during his six
year stint in the French capital after joining them from
Saint-Etienne.
He is expected to add more steel to the Old Lady's midfield as they
look to defend their Seria A title with a sixth triumph in a row. As
well as with the aim of going one step further in Europe after they
missed out on winning it after losing to the finals to Real Madrid.
medical in Turin ahead of formalising his move to the Italian
champions, Juventus.
Both clubs agreed a fee of £18m on Thursday for the 30 year old.
The move would see him play outside of France for the first time in his career.
JuventusFC
juventusfc
Terminate le visite mediche di @MATUIDIBlaise
11:24 a.m. - 17 August 2017
He was part of the new era at PSG at the take over of the club by the
Qatari Investment Group. Winning four Ligue 1 titles during his six
year stint in the French capital after joining them from
Saint-Etienne.
He is expected to add more steel to the Old Lady's midfield as they
look to defend their Seria A title with a sixth triumph in a row. As
well as with the aim of going one step further in Europe after they
missed out on winning it after losing to the finals to Real Madrid.
Wednesday, 16 August 2017
Arsenal's defender Gabriel on the verge of Valencia move
According to the Daily Mirror, Arsenal defender Gabriel Paulista is on
the verge of moving to La Liga side, Valencia for a fee of £10m.
The 26 year old is currently out with a knee injury, but could yet
complete a move irrespective of this as it is thought Arsene Wenger
willing to allow him leave as he has struggled adequately adapt in
England, with language difficulties and persistent inconsistent
displays.
He was signed from Villareal two and a half year old ago on the basis
of his statistics on interceptions, tackling, ball recovery and
blocking. But all that have been few and far between in an Arsenal
shirt. Although games have been hard to come by for the Brazilian.
With a cluster of central defenders at Arsene Wenger's disposal, and
with just two years left on his contract, Arsene Wenger seem willing
to let him leave, even with the club destined to take a £7m loss for a
player they bought for £17m in January, 2015.
the verge of moving to La Liga side, Valencia for a fee of £10m.
The 26 year old is currently out with a knee injury, but could yet
complete a move irrespective of this as it is thought Arsene Wenger
willing to allow him leave as he has struggled adequately adapt in
England, with language difficulties and persistent inconsistent
displays.
He was signed from Villareal two and a half year old ago on the basis
of his statistics on interceptions, tackling, ball recovery and
blocking. But all that have been few and far between in an Arsenal
shirt. Although games have been hard to come by for the Brazilian.
With a cluster of central defenders at Arsene Wenger's disposal, and
with just two years left on his contract, Arsene Wenger seem willing
to let him leave, even with the club destined to take a £7m loss for a
player they bought for £17m in January, 2015.
Tuesday, 15 August 2017
Champions League play off: Liverpool team to face Hoffenheim
Liverpool are in Germany for the first leg of the Champions League
play-off to face Hoffenheim.
Jurgen Klopp's side made the trip to Germany without some key players
as first choice right back, Nathaniel Clyne, midfielders Phillipe
Coutinho and Adam Lallana as well as striker Daniel Sturridge are out
injured.
He retains the same starting eleven that drew 3-3 with Watford at the weekend.
The full line up:
Alexander-Arnold, Moreno, Lovren, Wijnaldum, Henderson, Can, Mane,
Salah, Firmino, Matip, Mignolet,
Subs: Karius, Gomez, Milner, Solanke, Klavan, Origi, Grujic
play-off to face Hoffenheim.
Jurgen Klopp's side made the trip to Germany without some key players
as first choice right back, Nathaniel Clyne, midfielders Phillipe
Coutinho and Adam Lallana as well as striker Daniel Sturridge are out
injured.
He retains the same starting eleven that drew 3-3 with Watford at the weekend.
The full line up:
Alexander-Arnold, Moreno, Lovren, Wijnaldum, Henderson, Can, Mane,
Salah, Firmino, Matip, Mignolet,
Subs: Karius, Gomez, Milner, Solanke, Klavan, Origi, Grujic
Report: Arsenal Jack Wilshere linked with a move to Aston Villa
According to the Daily Mirror, Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce is
interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere.
The 25 year old has under a year left in his contract, and it is
thought that Arsene Wenger would approve a transfer if the club
receives a good offer.
He was in line to feature for Arsenal at the beginning last season
after recovering from injury. And he did feature as a substitute
against Liverpool in the opening match. But opted for a loan move away
from the club after he was left out of the England squad that summer.
However, his season ended prematurely after another injury.
It is added to what was an underwhelming loan spell at Bournemouth.
Now back fit, having featured for Arsenal's U23 on Monday in his first
match of any kind since April he seems not to be in the manager's
plans after constrasting messages about his future from the Frenchman.
With Arsenal unlikely to give him a new contract and several clubs
interested in signing him, it looks likely that he might leave the
club before the transfer window shuts.
With a cluster of players on Arsenal's departure lounge, and none
closer to a departure yet, the club has its hands full to clear these
players out as deadline day looms in the background.
interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere.
The 25 year old has under a year left in his contract, and it is
thought that Arsene Wenger would approve a transfer if the club
receives a good offer.
He was in line to feature for Arsenal at the beginning last season
after recovering from injury. And he did feature as a substitute
against Liverpool in the opening match. But opted for a loan move away
from the club after he was left out of the England squad that summer.
However, his season ended prematurely after another injury.
It is added to what was an underwhelming loan spell at Bournemouth.
Now back fit, having featured for Arsenal's U23 on Monday in his first
match of any kind since April he seems not to be in the manager's
plans after constrasting messages about his future from the Frenchman.
With Arsenal unlikely to give him a new contract and several clubs
interested in signing him, it looks likely that he might leave the
club before the transfer window shuts.
With a cluster of players on Arsenal's departure lounge, and none
closer to a departure yet, the club has its hands full to clear these
players out as deadline day looms in the background.
Man City captures Nigeria's Super Eagles striker
Manchester City have signed Nigeria striker Kayode Olarenwanju.
The 24 year old was the highest goal scorer in the Austrian Bundesliga
last season while playing for Austria Vienna. He scored 17 goals in 33
league matches, and 24 goals in all competitions for the club.
He is expected to be immediately loaned out to new Spanish top flight
side Girona for the season.
The club gained promotion from the Spanish second division last season
and have strong links with Pere Guardiola the brother of Manchester
City manager Pep Guardiola, as a result several players from
Manchester City have been loaned to the club for the season.
Kayode made his international debut for Nigeria in March, when he
featured against Togo in a friendly match.
He was a member of the Nigeria's 2009 Under-17 and Under-2011 U20
World Cup squads.
It remains to be seen whether this is a good career move for him,
particularly after the way Kelechi Iheanacho was treated by the club
before his eventual move to Leicester City.
If anything, he is expected to spend most of his time on loan away
from the club. Whether he gets to formally get to play in the club's
colours like Iheanacho did, only time would tell. As Manchester City's
attacking riches was the reason Iheanacho was deem dispensable.
The 24 year old was the highest goal scorer in the Austrian Bundesliga
last season while playing for Austria Vienna. He scored 17 goals in 33
league matches, and 24 goals in all competitions for the club.
He is expected to be immediately loaned out to new Spanish top flight
side Girona for the season.
The club gained promotion from the Spanish second division last season
and have strong links with Pere Guardiola the brother of Manchester
City manager Pep Guardiola, as a result several players from
Manchester City have been loaned to the club for the season.
Kayode made his international debut for Nigeria in March, when he
featured against Togo in a friendly match.
He was a member of the Nigeria's 2009 Under-17 and Under-2011 U20
World Cup squads.
It remains to be seen whether this is a good career move for him,
particularly after the way Kelechi Iheanacho was treated by the club
before his eventual move to Leicester City.
If anything, he is expected to spend most of his time on loan away
from the club. Whether he gets to formally get to play in the club's
colours like Iheanacho did, only time would tell. As Manchester City's
attacking riches was the reason Iheanacho was deem dispensable.
Chelsea outlines four conditions for Diego Costa's return
According to English tabloid, the Guardian, Chelsea have reacted to
the interview granted by their striker Diego Costa by outling four
conditions for his return to the club.
The conditions are;
* That he should return to the club.
* That he should report for training.
* That he get match fit.
* That he put himself into contention for first-team selection.
With the words he used to describe Antonio Conte by taking a shot at
the Italian in his interview with the Daily Mail, it remains to be
seen whether the fourth of that condition can see the light of day.
It obvious that the relationship between Conte and Diego Costa has
reached breaking point. With the Italian no longer interested in
having him in his squad, it is remarkable that part of the condition
for his return is that he trains to put himself in contention for
first team selection. Whether that is a preclude to put him in shape
for a potential transfer before transfer deadline day remains to be
seen.
One thing is clear, the player is intent on seeing the matter resolved
while the transfer window is still open.
In the coming weeks, things should become clear as regard the
direction this dispute would take.
the interview granted by their striker Diego Costa by outling four
conditions for his return to the club.
The conditions are;
* That he should return to the club.
* That he should report for training.
* That he get match fit.
* That he put himself into contention for first-team selection.
With the words he used to describe Antonio Conte by taking a shot at
the Italian in his interview with the Daily Mail, it remains to be
seen whether the fourth of that condition can see the light of day.
It obvious that the relationship between Conte and Diego Costa has
reached breaking point. With the Italian no longer interested in
having him in his squad, it is remarkable that part of the condition
for his return is that he trains to put himself in contention for
first team selection. Whether that is a preclude to put him in shape
for a potential transfer before transfer deadline day remains to be
seen.
One thing is clear, the player is intent on seeing the matter resolved
while the transfer window is still open.
In the coming weeks, things should become clear as regard the
direction this dispute would take.
Neymar: Leaving Barca doesn't mean death
PSG signing and Brazilian international Neymar made his debut for his
new club on Sunday, scoring a goal and providing an assist in the 3-0
win over Guingamp.
It was the first time he was seeing action since his world record
£200m move to Paris.
Speaking after the match, the Brazilian spoke about those who still
had issues with his move from Barcelona to the French, capital,
"People think that leaving Barca is to die, but it's the opposite," he asserted
"I'm more alive than ever. I play, I am very happy and football is the
same. Only the country, the city and the team change, but football is
the same."
"It is always very important to score, not just in the first game,"
"This is a great challenge for me as a person, but we have a great team.
"The main thing was to win. The team played well and I played well.
"We are trying to improve all the time and we'll get to know each
other even better yet. But it is easy to play with players of such
quality."
The former Santos attacker commenced life at PSG alongside five other
South Americans in the Sunday's Ligue 1 match. With Edinson Cavani,
Angel di Maria, Thiago Silva, Dani Alves and Marqui for company in the
PSG starting eleven.
new club on Sunday, scoring a goal and providing an assist in the 3-0
win over Guingamp.
It was the first time he was seeing action since his world record
£200m move to Paris.
Speaking after the match, the Brazilian spoke about those who still
had issues with his move from Barcelona to the French, capital,
"People think that leaving Barca is to die, but it's the opposite," he asserted
"I'm more alive than ever. I play, I am very happy and football is the
same. Only the country, the city and the team change, but football is
the same."
"It is always very important to score, not just in the first game,"
"This is a great challenge for me as a person, but we have a great team.
"The main thing was to win. The team played well and I played well.
"We are trying to improve all the time and we'll get to know each
other even better yet. But it is easy to play with players of such
quality."
The former Santos attacker commenced life at PSG alongside five other
South Americans in the Sunday's Ligue 1 match. With Edinson Cavani,
Angel di Maria, Thiago Silva, Dani Alves and Marqui for company in the
PSG starting eleven.
Monday, 14 August 2017
Barca seal deal for former Spurs midfielder Paulinho for a fee of £36m
Barcelona have announced a deal for Brazilian international midfielder Paulinho.
The 25 year old moved to China's Super League side Guangzhou
Evergrande two years ago from English Premier League side, Totteham
Hotspur.
The 29 year old is expected to have his medicals on Thursday in
Barcelona before signing a contract.
His signing comes following the departure of another Brazilian Neymar
to PSG for a world record fee of £200m.
The Catalan club however expressed their desire to sign Paulinho
earlier in the summer before Neymar left the club.
His sojourn to China coincided with a successful spell for Guangzhou
Evergrande who are being managed by former Brazilian world cup winning
coach Luiz Felipe Scolari. They won the Chinese Super League last
year, and are currently the leaders in the current season.
In spite of his time in China, he has remained a regular with the
Brazilian national team, consistently featuring under current coach
Tite.
However, his signing has been seen as underwhelming by most fans of
the club, who regard the Brazilian as not sufficently of the required
quality that the club needs, particularly after the high profile
departure of Neymar to PSG.
With bids for Dortmund's Ousmane Dembele and Liverpool's Coutinho
rejected, Barcelona would have to seek for ingenious ways to improve
their squad before the transfer window closes on 31 August.
The 25 year old moved to China's Super League side Guangzhou
Evergrande two years ago from English Premier League side, Totteham
Hotspur.
The 29 year old is expected to have his medicals on Thursday in
Barcelona before signing a contract.
His signing comes following the departure of another Brazilian Neymar
to PSG for a world record fee of £200m.
The Catalan club however expressed their desire to sign Paulinho
earlier in the summer before Neymar left the club.
His sojourn to China coincided with a successful spell for Guangzhou
Evergrande who are being managed by former Brazilian world cup winning
coach Luiz Felipe Scolari. They won the Chinese Super League last
year, and are currently the leaders in the current season.
In spite of his time in China, he has remained a regular with the
Brazilian national team, consistently featuring under current coach
Tite.
However, his signing has been seen as underwhelming by most fans of
the club, who regard the Brazilian as not sufficently of the required
quality that the club needs, particularly after the high profile
departure of Neymar to PSG.
With bids for Dortmund's Ousmane Dembele and Liverpool's Coutinho
rejected, Barcelona would have to seek for ingenious ways to improve
their squad before the transfer window closes on 31 August.
Chelsea's Diego Costa refuse to return to training
The dispute between Chelsea and their Spanish international striker
Diego Costa has taken a new turn, after he revealed openingly in an
exlusive interview with English tabloid, Daily Mai that he wouldn't
return to training with the reserve, but would rather remain in Brazil
where he is with his family.
He has been embroiled with a dispute with Chelsea's manager, Antonio
Conte that boiled over after the Italian sent him a text message in
June that he was no longer part of his plans.
The Italian reiterated his stand during pre-season that he sees the
striker as being in the past, as he was told he could leave in
January.
The stand point between both parties is that Diego Costa prefers a
move to Atletico Madrid and has turned down other offers, as he has
firmly stood his ground that he would only move to Diego Simeone's
team.
However, the Spanish team are under a transfer ban, and can only sign,
but not register any player.
With the transfer window just under three weeks from being shut, and
the player vehemently refusing to toll the club's line, it remains to
be seen how the saga is resolved.
Here is snippet of his interview with the Daily Mail:
"His [Antonio Conte] ideas are very fixed and clear. I have seen the
sort of person he is. He has his own opinion and that will not
change."
"I respect him as a great coach. He has done a good job and I can see
that, but as a person, no. He is not a coach who is very close with
his players. He is very distant. He doesn't possess charisma."
"I have not deleted the message. If people accuse me of lying, I can
show them. It was clear, saying that he didn't count on me and wishing
me the best for the future. Full stop."
"Why won't they let me go if they don't want me? I have to do what I
have to do. I have to think of myself. I've been a good boy here and
tried to do the right thing."
"My desire is to go to Atletico.
I've spoken to Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia. I
said, "If the manager doesn't want me, I want to go to Atletico Madrid".
"I have rejected other offers. They want to sell me to China or other
teams. The language is better for me in Spain. If I'm off, I'm going
to the club I want to go to — not the club that's paying the most."
"They want me to be there training with the reserves. I wouldn't be
allowed access to the first-team dressing room and I would have no
contact at all with the guys."
"I'm not a criminal! I don't think it is fair after all I have done to
be treated like that."
"I take the hit every week but I'm not driven by money. The important
thing is to be happy with how I live. I'm here with my parents and
people who respect me."
"I am open to being a year in Brazil without playing, even if Chelsea
fine me for a year and don't pay me. I'll come back stronger. If I was
in the wrong, I'd go back now and do as they say."
"At the start of summer, they gave me an extra week of holiday. Then a
week later they called to see where I was but by then the team was in
Asia on tour, so I could go back and not have any contact with the
boys."
"That seems a very bad and ugly life. It doesn't respect what I have
done for the club. I am here with people who love me. I want the fans
to know I still care deeply about them but I'm not going back to be
separated like that."
"I want the deal with Atletico resolved this month. My idea would be
to go to Madrid, train there, get in the best physical shape and be
ready to fire ahead of the World Cup."
Diego Costa has taken a new turn, after he revealed openingly in an
exlusive interview with English tabloid, Daily Mai that he wouldn't
return to training with the reserve, but would rather remain in Brazil
where he is with his family.
He has been embroiled with a dispute with Chelsea's manager, Antonio
Conte that boiled over after the Italian sent him a text message in
June that he was no longer part of his plans.
The Italian reiterated his stand during pre-season that he sees the
striker as being in the past, as he was told he could leave in
January.
The stand point between both parties is that Diego Costa prefers a
move to Atletico Madrid and has turned down other offers, as he has
firmly stood his ground that he would only move to Diego Simeone's
team.
However, the Spanish team are under a transfer ban, and can only sign,
but not register any player.
With the transfer window just under three weeks from being shut, and
the player vehemently refusing to toll the club's line, it remains to
be seen how the saga is resolved.
Here is snippet of his interview with the Daily Mail:
"His [Antonio Conte] ideas are very fixed and clear. I have seen the
sort of person he is. He has his own opinion and that will not
change."
"I respect him as a great coach. He has done a good job and I can see
that, but as a person, no. He is not a coach who is very close with
his players. He is very distant. He doesn't possess charisma."
"I have not deleted the message. If people accuse me of lying, I can
show them. It was clear, saying that he didn't count on me and wishing
me the best for the future. Full stop."
"Why won't they let me go if they don't want me? I have to do what I
have to do. I have to think of myself. I've been a good boy here and
tried to do the right thing."
"My desire is to go to Atletico.
I've spoken to Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia. I
said, "If the manager doesn't want me, I want to go to Atletico Madrid".
"I have rejected other offers. They want to sell me to China or other
teams. The language is better for me in Spain. If I'm off, I'm going
to the club I want to go to — not the club that's paying the most."
"They want me to be there training with the reserves. I wouldn't be
allowed access to the first-team dressing room and I would have no
contact at all with the guys."
"I'm not a criminal! I don't think it is fair after all I have done to
be treated like that."
"I take the hit every week but I'm not driven by money. The important
thing is to be happy with how I live. I'm here with my parents and
people who respect me."
"I am open to being a year in Brazil without playing, even if Chelsea
fine me for a year and don't pay me. I'll come back stronger. If I was
in the wrong, I'd go back now and do as they say."
"At the start of summer, they gave me an extra week of holiday. Then a
week later they called to see where I was but by then the team was in
Asia on tour, so I could go back and not have any contact with the
boys."
"That seems a very bad and ugly life. It doesn't respect what I have
done for the club. I am here with people who love me. I want the fans
to know I still care deeply about them but I'm not going back to be
separated like that."
"I want the deal with Atletico resolved this month. My idea would be
to go to Madrid, train there, get in the best physical shape and be
ready to fire ahead of the World Cup."
Report: Chelsea in talks with Arsenal to sign Oxlade-Chamberlain for £35m
According to a report carried by the London based Evening Standard,
Chelsea are in negotiations with Arsenal to sign England midfielder
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The 23 year old who has just under one year left on his contract has
continually been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, as he has so
far refused to sign a new contract.
There have been reports that he wants assurances over playing in his
preferred position in central midfield, a position Arsene Wenger isn't
keen to feature him though, he has said in the past that he sees him
ending as a central midfielder.
So far, he has featured mostly as a right wing back and started the
season playing left-wing back in both the Community Shield and the
opening league match against Watford.
He remains a player that has both frustrated and excited. Especially
with his injury history since he joined the club from Southampton in
2011.
However, last season was his best in Arsenal's colours in terms of
staying injury free and his on field output in terms of goals and
assist. He scored six goals.
It remains to be seen, whether he would eventually be sold or if the
club can finally reach an agreement in respect of a new contract.
The situation is delicate for both Arsene Wenger and the club as up to
five players could leave the club for free next summer if they are not
sold before transfer deadline day and they end up not signing a new
contract before their contract expires.
Apart from the Ox, other players in that category are Alexis Sanchez,
Mesut Ozil and Jack Wilshere. Though the latter doesn't seem to be in
the manager's plans.
Whether Arsenal would be keen to sell to a rival remains to be seen.
Chelsea are in negotiations with Arsenal to sign England midfielder
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The 23 year old who has just under one year left on his contract has
continually been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, as he has so
far refused to sign a new contract.
There have been reports that he wants assurances over playing in his
preferred position in central midfield, a position Arsene Wenger isn't
keen to feature him though, he has said in the past that he sees him
ending as a central midfielder.
So far, he has featured mostly as a right wing back and started the
season playing left-wing back in both the Community Shield and the
opening league match against Watford.
He remains a player that has both frustrated and excited. Especially
with his injury history since he joined the club from Southampton in
2011.
However, last season was his best in Arsenal's colours in terms of
staying injury free and his on field output in terms of goals and
assist. He scored six goals.
It remains to be seen, whether he would eventually be sold or if the
club can finally reach an agreement in respect of a new contract.
The situation is delicate for both Arsene Wenger and the club as up to
five players could leave the club for free next summer if they are not
sold before transfer deadline day and they end up not signing a new
contract before their contract expires.
Apart from the Ox, other players in that category are Alexis Sanchez,
Mesut Ozil and Jack Wilshere. Though the latter doesn't seem to be in
the manager's plans.
Whether Arsenal would be keen to sell to a rival remains to be seen.
Coutinho not in Liverpool squad for trip to Germany
Jurgen Klopp has left out Brazilian midfielder, Phillipe Coutinho for
their trip to Germany, where they would face Hoffenheim in the first
leg of the Uefa Champions League play-off.
25 year old submitted a transfer request last week after Liverpool
formally declared that they would not consider any bid for him. This
was followed the rejection of a bid £90m from Barcelona.
Although, Jurgen Klopp had earlier ruled him out of Tuesday's match,
because of a back injury. He wasn't available for the Red's opening
league match against Watford.
It is not entirely clear whether his being excluded from the party to
Germany is linked to his injury or the transfer saga.
As for those that made the trip to Germany, the Brazilian is not the
only major absentee, Adam Lallana and Daniel Sturridge are both out
injured.
Speaking about the situation, Jurgen Klopp had this to say.
"Nothing has changed. Not on one side or on the other," he said in
respect of Coutinho's future.
"He is not available for us in the moment, that's the main issue if
you want. He cannot play for Liverpool in this moment and, how
everybody can imagine, that's quite a blow for us.
"We've known for a few days about it so we can prepare this game
without him, like we have to prepare the game without Adam Lallana and
Daniel Sturridge."
Liverpool Squad to face Hoffenheim:
Alexander-Arnold, Moreno, Lovren, Milner, Wijnaldum, Henderson, Can,
Mane, Salah, Firmino, Kent, Solanke, Origi, Gomez, Klavan, Flanagan,
Robertson, Matip, Grujic, Mignolet, Karius, Ward.
their trip to Germany, where they would face Hoffenheim in the first
leg of the Uefa Champions League play-off.
25 year old submitted a transfer request last week after Liverpool
formally declared that they would not consider any bid for him. This
was followed the rejection of a bid £90m from Barcelona.
Although, Jurgen Klopp had earlier ruled him out of Tuesday's match,
because of a back injury. He wasn't available for the Red's opening
league match against Watford.
It is not entirely clear whether his being excluded from the party to
Germany is linked to his injury or the transfer saga.
As for those that made the trip to Germany, the Brazilian is not the
only major absentee, Adam Lallana and Daniel Sturridge are both out
injured.
Speaking about the situation, Jurgen Klopp had this to say.
"Nothing has changed. Not on one side or on the other," he said in
respect of Coutinho's future.
"He is not available for us in the moment, that's the main issue if
you want. He cannot play for Liverpool in this moment and, how
everybody can imagine, that's quite a blow for us.
"We've known for a few days about it so we can prepare this game
without him, like we have to prepare the game without Adam Lallana and
Daniel Sturridge."
Liverpool Squad to face Hoffenheim:
Alexander-Arnold, Moreno, Lovren, Milner, Wijnaldum, Henderson, Can,
Mane, Salah, Firmino, Kent, Solanke, Origi, Gomez, Klavan, Flanagan,
Robertson, Matip, Grujic, Mignolet, Karius, Ward.
Sunday, 13 August 2017
El Clasico teams: Ronaldo on the bench for Madrid, Messi leads Barca
The first el clasico of the season is upon us, and its the first leg
of the Spanish Super Cup at the Nou Camp. Which is between the La Liga
champions, Real Madrid and the Copa Del Rey holders, Barcelona.
The teams:
Barca: Ter Stegen, Piqué, Rakitic, Sergio, Iniesta, Suárez, Messi,
Deulofeu, Alba, Aleix Vidal, Umtiti
Subs: Cillessen, Semedo, Mascherano, Digne, Denis, Roberto, Alcácer
Real Madrid: K. Navas, Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Varane, Kroos, Benzema,
Bale, Marcelo, Casemiro, Isco, Kovacic
Subs: L. Casilla, Nacho, Ronaldo, Theo, Lucas, Asensio, Ceballos
of the Spanish Super Cup at the Nou Camp. Which is between the La Liga
champions, Real Madrid and the Copa Del Rey holders, Barcelona.
The teams:
Barca: Ter Stegen, Piqué, Rakitic, Sergio, Iniesta, Suárez, Messi,
Deulofeu, Alba, Aleix Vidal, Umtiti
Subs: Cillessen, Semedo, Mascherano, Digne, Denis, Roberto, Alcácer
Real Madrid: K. Navas, Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Varane, Kroos, Benzema,
Bale, Marcelo, Casemiro, Isco, Kovacic
Subs: L. Casilla, Nacho, Ronaldo, Theo, Lucas, Asensio, Ceballos
Saturday, 12 August 2017
Man City team to face Brighton: Aguero & Jesus up front
Pep Guardiola has named Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus up front in
Manchester City's opening match of the season against Brighton.
There are debuts for Kyle Walker, Danilo and goalkeeper Ederson. But
Bernardo Silva starts from the bench.
Full teams: Ederson, Walker, Kompany (c), Otamendi, Stones, Danilo,
Fernandinho, De Bruyne, D Silva, G Jesus, Aguero
Subs: Bravo, Bernardo, Sterling, Sane, Mangala, Foden, Yaya Toure
Manchester City's opening match of the season against Brighton.
There are debuts for Kyle Walker, Danilo and goalkeeper Ederson. But
Bernardo Silva starts from the bench.
Full teams: Ederson, Walker, Kompany (c), Otamendi, Stones, Danilo,
Fernandinho, De Bruyne, D Silva, G Jesus, Aguero
Subs: Bravo, Bernardo, Sterling, Sane, Mangala, Foden, Yaya Toure
Chelsea line up: Morata on the bench
Antonio Conte makes two changes to the line that started against
Arsenal in Sunday's Community shield with Antonio Rudiger and Boga
coming in for Victor Moses and the suspended Pedro.
Full Line up:
Courtois, Rudiger, Cahill. Luiz, Alonso, Azpilicueta, Fabregas, Kante,
Willian, Boga, Batshuayi
Subs: Caballero, Christensen, Morata, Kenedy, Musonada, Tomori, Scott
Arsenal in Sunday's Community shield with Antonio Rudiger and Boga
coming in for Victor Moses and the suspended Pedro.
Full Line up:
Courtois, Rudiger, Cahill. Luiz, Alonso, Azpilicueta, Fabregas, Kante,
Willian, Boga, Batshuayi
Subs: Caballero, Christensen, Morata, Kenedy, Musonada, Tomori, Scott
Friday, 11 August 2017
Arsenal line up to face Leicester : Ozil, Lacazette and Kolasinac starts
The Arsenal team to face Leicester City in tonight's opening Premier
League match have been released.
There were doubts about the inclusion of Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey
after they missed out on the Community Shield victory over Chelsea on
Friday, but both have been included in the squad after they trained on
Thursday. Ozil starts, while Ramsey is on the bench.
There is just one change to the starting eleven with Alex Iwobi giving
way to Mesut Ozil.
Full line up: Cech, Holding, Monreal, Kolasinac, Bellerin, Elneny,
Xhaka, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Ozil, Welbeck, Lacazette
Subs: David Ospina, Oliver Giroud, Theo Walcott, Mustafi, Francis
Coquelin, Alex Iwobi, Aaron Ramsey
League match have been released.
There were doubts about the inclusion of Mesut Ozil and Aaron Ramsey
after they missed out on the Community Shield victory over Chelsea on
Friday, but both have been included in the squad after they trained on
Thursday. Ozil starts, while Ramsey is on the bench.
There is just one change to the starting eleven with Alex Iwobi giving
way to Mesut Ozil.
Full line up: Cech, Holding, Monreal, Kolasinac, Bellerin, Elneny,
Xhaka, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Ozil, Welbeck, Lacazette
Subs: David Ospina, Oliver Giroud, Theo Walcott, Mustafi, Francis
Coquelin, Alex Iwobi, Aaron Ramsey
Mourinho confirms Man Utd talks with Ibrahimovic
Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that the club is
trying to resign Swede striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The 35 year old played 46 matches last season scoring 28 goals, and
was in line for a one year contract extension, before he suffered a
knee ligament injury in April while playing in the Europa League.
Now the Portuguese speaking on Friday ahead of Manchester United
league opener has hinted that the club is looking to re-sign him when
he is back to fitness in the second half of the season.
"We are discussing the possibility of him to stay with us," he said
"You know he's injured, he needs time to recover, he's not ready to
play tomorrow.
"It's not something urgent, that we are desperate to have it done or
not done, I just think that he was very clear by showing what he did
last year was not enough for him.
"He thinks he can do more and wants more at the highest level so we
are having conversations and we are discussing the possibility of him
to stay with us for the second part of the season."
Manchester United have brought in Romelu Lukaku as the Swede's replacement.
In the mean time, he is currently working his way back to fitness by
during the Manchester United training facilities.
trying to resign Swede striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The 35 year old played 46 matches last season scoring 28 goals, and
was in line for a one year contract extension, before he suffered a
knee ligament injury in April while playing in the Europa League.
Now the Portuguese speaking on Friday ahead of Manchester United
league opener has hinted that the club is looking to re-sign him when
he is back to fitness in the second half of the season.
"We are discussing the possibility of him to stay with us," he said
"You know he's injured, he needs time to recover, he's not ready to
play tomorrow.
"It's not something urgent, that we are desperate to have it done or
not done, I just think that he was very clear by showing what he did
last year was not enough for him.
"He thinks he can do more and wants more at the highest level so we
are having conversations and we are discussing the possibility of him
to stay with us for the second part of the season."
Manchester United have brought in Romelu Lukaku as the Swede's replacement.
In the mean time, he is currently working his way back to fitness by
during the Manchester United training facilities.
FIFA World Cup 2026: Morocco indicates interest to host
The Kingdom of Morocco have indicated interest in hosting the 2026
FIFA World Cup.
The deadline for the indication of interest was Friday.
The Confederation of African Football have earlier said that they
would support the North African nation if they submitted a formal bid
for the tournament.
The North American nations of United States of America, Canada and
Mexico had earlier this year indicated an interest in bidding for the
event as joint-host.
The 2026 World Cup would have 48 teams after FIFA increased the
participating nations from 32 earlier in the year.
This would not be the first time that Morocco would be bidding to host
the event. They had a failed bid for the 1994 World Cup that was held
in the United States and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
FIFA's rotational policy where continents that have recently hosted it
are prevented from hosting have given the Moroccans a chance with
Russia (2018) under Europe and Qatar (2022) under Asia both excluded
from the bidding process.
However, they face a formidable opponent in the North American joint bid.
FIFA World Cup.
The deadline for the indication of interest was Friday.
The Confederation of African Football have earlier said that they
would support the North African nation if they submitted a formal bid
for the tournament.
The North American nations of United States of America, Canada and
Mexico had earlier this year indicated an interest in bidding for the
event as joint-host.
The 2026 World Cup would have 48 teams after FIFA increased the
participating nations from 32 earlier in the year.
This would not be the first time that Morocco would be bidding to host
the event. They had a failed bid for the 1994 World Cup that was held
in the United States and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
FIFA's rotational policy where continents that have recently hosted it
are prevented from hosting have given the Moroccans a chance with
Russia (2018) under Europe and Qatar (2022) under Asia both excluded
from the bidding process.
However, they face a formidable opponent in the North American joint bid.
Liverpool's Coutinho seeks Barca move after submitting transfer request
Liverpool's Brazilian midfielder Phillippe Coutinho has submitted a
transfer request indicating that he wants to leave the club.
This was after the club's American owners Fenway Sports Group FSG
released a statement earlier on Friday, that no offer would be
considered for the 25 year old.
A bid of £90m from Barcelona was on Wednesday rejected by the club.
The club has however rejected the transfer request, and stands by
their earlier statement that the player would not be leaving Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp has been at the fore front of assertions detailing all
along that the player wouldn't be sold at any price, before FSG
released a statement about the player's future.
The player in question is not expected to feature in Liverpool's first
two games of the season, as he is currently out injured with a back
injury.
He is to miss the league opener against Watford on Saturday, and the
crucial Champions League play-off against German side, Hoffenheim on
Tuesday.
The transfer request is unlikely to change anything. Liverpool and its
owners have been here before. Luis Suarez publicly sought a move to
Arsenal in 2013, after the club submitted a bid of £40+1m for the
Uruguayan striker, a bid the Merseysiders considered derisory.
He stayed at Anfield that summer, before leaving for Barcelona a year
later for a fee of £75m.
It remains to be seen how this develops, but it looks like Coutinho
would remain at Anfield this summer.
transfer request indicating that he wants to leave the club.
This was after the club's American owners Fenway Sports Group FSG
released a statement earlier on Friday, that no offer would be
considered for the 25 year old.
A bid of £90m from Barcelona was on Wednesday rejected by the club.
The club has however rejected the transfer request, and stands by
their earlier statement that the player would not be leaving Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp has been at the fore front of assertions detailing all
along that the player wouldn't be sold at any price, before FSG
released a statement about the player's future.
The player in question is not expected to feature in Liverpool's first
two games of the season, as he is currently out injured with a back
injury.
He is to miss the league opener against Watford on Saturday, and the
crucial Champions League play-off against German side, Hoffenheim on
Tuesday.
The transfer request is unlikely to change anything. Liverpool and its
owners have been here before. Luis Suarez publicly sought a move to
Arsenal in 2013, after the club submitted a bid of £40+1m for the
Uruguayan striker, a bid the Merseysiders considered derisory.
He stayed at Anfield that summer, before leaving for Barcelona a year
later for a fee of £75m.
It remains to be seen how this develops, but it looks like Coutinho
would remain at Anfield this summer.
Thursday, 10 August 2017
Arsenal legend Henry tips Iheanacho to be a hit for Leicester
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry knows more than a thing about scoring
goals after his goal scoring fit for the club with a total of 228
goals.
The former Arsenal hitman now cutting his teeth as a pundit with Sky
sports, a platform he used to speak about Nigeria's Kelechi
Iheanacho's £25m move to Leicester City from Manchester City and what
he could bring to the former Premier League champions.
"It's an amazing opportunity for him. I think back to Manuel
Pellegrini's last season at Manchester City. He wasn't the only one
but he was the spark in the team, fighting everywhere, scoring goals,
trying his hardest. So I think it's a good buy for Leicester." he
asserted
He followed up his assessment with what he could bring to the Foxes
side by combining with Vardy. A combination that saw just 25 minutes
in a pre-season, but produced an assist from the Nigeria.
"It will be interesting to see how he interacts with Jamie Vardy. Is
he going to do the job of Shinji Okazaki? Is Okazaki going to keep his
place? Are they going to be more adventurous? I don't know whether
Craig Shakespeare will play a 4-4-1-1 or a proper 4-4-2, but it's a
good signing."
"Whenever he had to do something at Manchester City, even when things
were not great for the team, he delivered. People might say he had
better players around him but let's not forget that Leicester won the
league two years ago. They have some good players too."
Kelechi Iheanacho is expected to be in the Nigeria squad for the
double header World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon in September.
goals after his goal scoring fit for the club with a total of 228
goals.
The former Arsenal hitman now cutting his teeth as a pundit with Sky
sports, a platform he used to speak about Nigeria's Kelechi
Iheanacho's £25m move to Leicester City from Manchester City and what
he could bring to the former Premier League champions.
"It's an amazing opportunity for him. I think back to Manuel
Pellegrini's last season at Manchester City. He wasn't the only one
but he was the spark in the team, fighting everywhere, scoring goals,
trying his hardest. So I think it's a good buy for Leicester." he
asserted
He followed up his assessment with what he could bring to the Foxes
side by combining with Vardy. A combination that saw just 25 minutes
in a pre-season, but produced an assist from the Nigeria.
"It will be interesting to see how he interacts with Jamie Vardy. Is
he going to do the job of Shinji Okazaki? Is Okazaki going to keep his
place? Are they going to be more adventurous? I don't know whether
Craig Shakespeare will play a 4-4-1-1 or a proper 4-4-2, but it's a
good signing."
"Whenever he had to do something at Manchester City, even when things
were not great for the team, he delivered. People might say he had
better players around him but let's not forget that Leicester won the
league two years ago. They have some good players too."
Kelechi Iheanacho is expected to be in the Nigeria squad for the
double header World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon in September.
Klopp: No amount good enough to get Coutinho
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has again reiterated the club's stance
on Barcelona's pursuit of its midfielder Phillipe Coutinho. A bid of
£90m was rejected by the Merseysiders on Wednesday.
The 50 year old speaking to Sky Germany, reasserted that, the
Brazilian is not for sale and that no amount is good enough to get
him.
And that every transfer is about timing and the opportunity to react
in the transfer market.
"Liverpool is not a club that has to sell players," he said
"That is set in stone, so what they pay in the end doesn't matter.
"From a financial standpoint, there is no price limit to let him go.
No price at which we are ready to give in.
"Our goal is to have the best possible team. So we want to keep our
guys and add new ones. That is our plan.
"Today, no player on the planet is untouchable. But a transfer is also
a question of timing, and if you have the opportunity and the need to
react to such a transfer.
"Also you have to ask if you have the time to react. But just because
of one request of one club, we don't have to think about that. We are
not in that situation."
Liverpool open their league campaign against Watford this weekend.
on Barcelona's pursuit of its midfielder Phillipe Coutinho. A bid of
£90m was rejected by the Merseysiders on Wednesday.
The 50 year old speaking to Sky Germany, reasserted that, the
Brazilian is not for sale and that no amount is good enough to get
him.
And that every transfer is about timing and the opportunity to react
in the transfer market.
"Liverpool is not a club that has to sell players," he said
"That is set in stone, so what they pay in the end doesn't matter.
"From a financial standpoint, there is no price limit to let him go.
No price at which we are ready to give in.
"Our goal is to have the best possible team. So we want to keep our
guys and add new ones. That is our plan.
"Today, no player on the planet is untouchable. But a transfer is also
a question of timing, and if you have the opportunity and the need to
react to such a transfer.
"Also you have to ask if you have the time to react. But just because
of one request of one club, we don't have to think about that. We are
not in that situation."
Liverpool open their league campaign against Watford this weekend.
Liverpool reject £90m Barca bid for Coutinho
Liverpool have turned down a bid of £90m for their Brazilian
midfielder Phillipe Coutinho.
The 25 year old has been the subject of growing interest from the
Catalans following the departure of Neymar to French side PSG for a
world record fee of £200m.
They have now match their interest with a substantial bid which is
almost half the amount of Neymar's release clause.
However, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reiterated after the Catalan's
interest first came to light that the Merseysiders are not a selling
club, and that Coutinho was not for sale at any price.
The Brazilian international has grown into a key player for Liverpool
since his arrival from Inter Milan in 2013 for a fee of £8.5m.
He was the club's highest goal scorer with 14 goals last season
despite sitting out six weeks of last season with injury.
With the season so close to starting, its unlikely that Liverpool
would agree to a sale.
It would significantly damage and reduce their chances of not only
advancing beyond the play-off rounds of the Champions League and their
plans for the new season.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can continue to resist the
overtures of the Spanish giants particularly if Phillipe Coutinho is
keen to move to Spain.
midfielder Phillipe Coutinho.
The 25 year old has been the subject of growing interest from the
Catalans following the departure of Neymar to French side PSG for a
world record fee of £200m.
They have now match their interest with a substantial bid which is
almost half the amount of Neymar's release clause.
However, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reiterated after the Catalan's
interest first came to light that the Merseysiders are not a selling
club, and that Coutinho was not for sale at any price.
The Brazilian international has grown into a key player for Liverpool
since his arrival from Inter Milan in 2013 for a fee of £8.5m.
He was the club's highest goal scorer with 14 goals last season
despite sitting out six weeks of last season with injury.
With the season so close to starting, its unlikely that Liverpool
would agree to a sale.
It would significantly damage and reduce their chances of not only
advancing beyond the play-off rounds of the Champions League and their
plans for the new season.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can continue to resist the
overtures of the Spanish giants particularly if Phillipe Coutinho is
keen to move to Spain.
Wednesday, 9 August 2017
Super Eagles midfielder joins Turkish club
Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Agu has joined Turkish topflight side
Bursaspor on a season long loan from Portuguese Primeria Liga side FC
Porto.
The 24 year old was given his first cap for the Eagles earlier this
year in the 3-0 victory over Togo.
He was invited for the first time by Gernot Rohr to the team following
his performances with Vitória Setúbal where he made 34 appearances
last season.
Speaking of his move to Turkey, which would be his third loan spell in
as many seasons since he joined Porto in 2014, he told the club's
website.
"I'm delighted to join Bursaspor, I came here for business and I can't
wait to show everyone what I can do,"
"I spoke with some players who had previously played here in Porto and
received positive feedback. I also found out during my own research
that this is a great club,"
He becomes the second Nigerian on the books of Bursaspor for the
2017/2018 season as he joins defender William Troost-Ekong.
The Super Eagles would continue their race to qualify for next year's
World Cup when the qualifiers resume in September with a double header
against Cameroon.
Bursaspor on a season long loan from Portuguese Primeria Liga side FC
Porto.
The 24 year old was given his first cap for the Eagles earlier this
year in the 3-0 victory over Togo.
He was invited for the first time by Gernot Rohr to the team following
his performances with Vitória Setúbal where he made 34 appearances
last season.
Speaking of his move to Turkey, which would be his third loan spell in
as many seasons since he joined Porto in 2014, he told the club's
website.
"I'm delighted to join Bursaspor, I came here for business and I can't
wait to show everyone what I can do,"
"I spoke with some players who had previously played here in Porto and
received positive feedback. I also found out during my own research
that this is a great club,"
He becomes the second Nigerian on the books of Bursaspor for the
2017/2018 season as he joins defender William Troost-Ekong.
The Super Eagles would continue their race to qualify for next year's
World Cup when the qualifiers resume in September with a double header
against Cameroon.
Cahill: Matic is a huge loss to Chelsea
Chelsea captain, Gary Cahill has spoken of his admiration for former
team mate Nemanja Matic.
The 29 year old joined Manchester United in July for a fee of £40m.
And the England international is of the opinion that he is will be a
huge loss to the Premier League Champions.
"I had the benefit of him playing just in front of me and I realised
how good he is on and off the ball.
"He'll be a huge loss."
The Serbian international won two Premier League titles in three
seasons for the Londoners.
The first of those titles came under the man that resigned him for the
second time in Jose Mourinho.
He stood out in his competitive debut for his new club as they lost
2-1 to Real Madrid in Tuesday's Super Cup match.
In his stead, Chelsea have signed French midfielder, Tiemoue Bakayoko
from Monaco. But he is not expected to make his debut until later this
month or in September as he continues to work his way to fitness
following a knee surgery he had in the summer.
Chelsea open the defence of their title against Burnley at Stamford
Bridge on Saturday.
team mate Nemanja Matic.
The 29 year old joined Manchester United in July for a fee of £40m.
And the England international is of the opinion that he is will be a
huge loss to the Premier League Champions.
"I had the benefit of him playing just in front of me and I realised
how good he is on and off the ball.
"He'll be a huge loss."
The Serbian international won two Premier League titles in three
seasons for the Londoners.
The first of those titles came under the man that resigned him for the
second time in Jose Mourinho.
He stood out in his competitive debut for his new club as they lost
2-1 to Real Madrid in Tuesday's Super Cup match.
In his stead, Chelsea have signed French midfielder, Tiemoue Bakayoko
from Monaco. But he is not expected to make his debut until later this
month or in September as he continues to work his way to fitness
following a knee surgery he had in the summer.
Chelsea open the defence of their title against Burnley at Stamford
Bridge on Saturday.
Conte: Chelsea need to strengthen squad
Premier League champions Chelsea open the defence of their title at
Stamford Bridge against Burnley on Saturday. Ahead of that match,
manager Antonio Conte addressed the media on a variety of things.
The club has seen some high profile departures in John Terry, who left
on freedom of contract and Nemanja Matic who was sold to Manchester
United. While several youth players have since departed.
In their stead, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Antonio Rudiger and Alvaro Morata
have been signed for a combined amount of over £130m But Conte is keen
to make more signings.
He was asked on whether the club's title defence is hinged on securing
more signings, he answered in the affirmative.
"Yes, for sure. This league is not easy.
"It's different in other countries where there are two clubs fighting
for the title. This league has six teams that are very strong and we
have to be ready to fight for this season.
"We want to be competitive and fight for the title. I hope to try and
work and improve our squad and our quality, and then be ready to fight
for this season."
Stamford Bridge against Burnley on Saturday. Ahead of that match,
manager Antonio Conte addressed the media on a variety of things.
The club has seen some high profile departures in John Terry, who left
on freedom of contract and Nemanja Matic who was sold to Manchester
United. While several youth players have since departed.
In their stead, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Antonio Rudiger and Alvaro Morata
have been signed for a combined amount of over £130m But Conte is keen
to make more signings.
He was asked on whether the club's title defence is hinged on securing
more signings, he answered in the affirmative.
"Yes, for sure. This league is not easy.
"It's different in other countries where there are two clubs fighting
for the title. This league has six teams that are very strong and we
have to be ready to fight for this season.
"We want to be competitive and fight for the title. I hope to try and
work and improve our squad and our quality, and then be ready to fight
for this season."
Wenger: Arsenal will try to get Alexis to extend contract
The ever optimist that is Arsene Wenger told the media in his press
conference today, that the club will try to extend Alexis Sanchez's
contract beyond this season.
The 28 year old has entered the final year of his contract, and so far
he has refused to sign an extension.
The Frenchman is optimistic that an agreement could still be found to
get the Chilean to sign an extension.
"It is always possible,"
"We will try to extend it. There is no reason why we shouldn't do it.
We are not there yet." he told his press conference.
All summer, he has been linked with a move to several clubs, because
of his contract situation, one of those clubs is French side PSG, and
Wenger was quick to pour cold water on the reports on Tuesday that
claimed the Ligue 1 side were preparing a bid of £80m for the Chilean,
insisting there have been no contact with PSG as their interest lies
elsewhere.
"It was certainly very busy to complete the transfer of Neymar. I did
not speak with Nasser [PSG President] for some months now.
"I am not expecting him to get in touch either, if you read the French
papers they are on Mbappe's case."
conference today, that the club will try to extend Alexis Sanchez's
contract beyond this season.
The 28 year old has entered the final year of his contract, and so far
he has refused to sign an extension.
The Frenchman is optimistic that an agreement could still be found to
get the Chilean to sign an extension.
"It is always possible,"
"We will try to extend it. There is no reason why we shouldn't do it.
We are not there yet." he told his press conference.
All summer, he has been linked with a move to several clubs, because
of his contract situation, one of those clubs is French side PSG, and
Wenger was quick to pour cold water on the reports on Tuesday that
claimed the Ligue 1 side were preparing a bid of £80m for the Chilean,
insisting there have been no contact with PSG as their interest lies
elsewhere.
"It was certainly very busy to complete the transfer of Neymar. I did
not speak with Nasser [PSG President] for some months now.
"I am not expecting him to get in touch either, if you read the French
papers they are on Mbappe's case."
Alexis out with injury to miss first two matches, Ramsey and Ozil doubts
Ahead of Arsenal's opening league match of the season on Friday,
against Leicester City, Arsene Wenger spoke to the media on the state
of his squad.
Alexis Sanchez is now expected to miss the match, because of an
abdominal injury he picked up in training, while Aaron Ramsey and
Mesut Ozil remain strong doubts for the match after they sat out the
Community Shield because of injury.
"He has a little abdominal strain,"
The Frenchman said
"He caught it on Sunday morning before coming to Wembley. He had a
scan two days ago and he's out for a while. I don't know if it's for
two weeks or one more week. I think he will not play at Stoke [on 19
August].
"Always for us, Alexis Sanchez, is a loss. We have the other players
prepared in pre-season and it can happen. I don't think I would have
included him on Friday night, I wouldn't have started him.
"He's been focused. Of course, when you have treatment on the medical
bench, it's not easy."
Arsene Wenger is now expected to retain the same squad that featured
against Chelsea on Sunday if either of Aaron Ramsey or Mesut Ozil fail
to recover before Friday.
Already Laurent Koscienly will not feature as he is suspended, Gabriel
and Francis Coquelin are out with knee and ankle injuries
respectively.
against Leicester City, Arsene Wenger spoke to the media on the state
of his squad.
Alexis Sanchez is now expected to miss the match, because of an
abdominal injury he picked up in training, while Aaron Ramsey and
Mesut Ozil remain strong doubts for the match after they sat out the
Community Shield because of injury.
"He has a little abdominal strain,"
The Frenchman said
"He caught it on Sunday morning before coming to Wembley. He had a
scan two days ago and he's out for a while. I don't know if it's for
two weeks or one more week. I think he will not play at Stoke [on 19
August].
"Always for us, Alexis Sanchez, is a loss. We have the other players
prepared in pre-season and it can happen. I don't think I would have
included him on Friday night, I wouldn't have started him.
"He's been focused. Of course, when you have treatment on the medical
bench, it's not easy."
Arsene Wenger is now expected to retain the same squad that featured
against Chelsea on Sunday if either of Aaron Ramsey or Mesut Ozil fail
to recover before Friday.
Already Laurent Koscienly will not feature as he is suspended, Gabriel
and Francis Coquelin are out with knee and ankle injuries
respectively.
Theo Walcott reveals Wenger's training ground tactics against Chelsea
Arsenal beat Chelsea on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the Community Shield.
However, that was just part of the story. As several work seem to have
gone into adapting a system that was used to beat the Premier League
champions at the training ground.
Though the victory came through the lottery of penalty shoot out,
Arsenal striker Theo Walcott has revealed that there was a system the
team worked on to stop Chelsea from playing their style.
". . .I think we showed it [against Chelsea]. We managed to stop
Chelsea playing the football they tend to do when they play it out to
the full-backs, we stopped them very well and we'd worked on that. [in
training]" he said.
The Frenchman has always been accused by sections of the media and the
club's fan base that he doesn't engage in obvious tactical works. But
from Walcott's revelations, it shows there is more emphasis on that
side of preparations going into the new season.
Those of Arsenal persuasion would be hoping to see a translation of
any tactical work done in the training ground to more success on the
field on matchdays.
However, that was just part of the story. As several work seem to have
gone into adapting a system that was used to beat the Premier League
champions at the training ground.
Though the victory came through the lottery of penalty shoot out,
Arsenal striker Theo Walcott has revealed that there was a system the
team worked on to stop Chelsea from playing their style.
". . .I think we showed it [against Chelsea]. We managed to stop
Chelsea playing the football they tend to do when they play it out to
the full-backs, we stopped them very well and we'd worked on that. [in
training]" he said.
The Frenchman has always been accused by sections of the media and the
club's fan base that he doesn't engage in obvious tactical works. But
from Walcott's revelations, it shows there is more emphasis on that
side of preparations going into the new season.
Those of Arsenal persuasion would be hoping to see a translation of
any tactical work done in the training ground to more success on the
field on matchdays.
Issa Hayatou criticises CAF president Ahmad for Cameroon comments
Former Confederation of African Football president, Cameroon's 71 year
old Issa Hayatou has criticised his successor, Ahmad Ahmad of
Madagascar for comments he made about his country's preparations for
the 2019 African Cup of Nations.
The CAF president on a visit to Burkina Faso last week had cast down
on Cameroon's ability to host the continent's showpiece event. This
followed reports that the Central Africa country are behind schedule
in her preparation to upgrade stadia, hotel, training and other
related infrastructure for the tournament.
But Issa Hayatou who was ousted by Ahmad after 29 years at the helm,
has come out strong to defend his country's level of preparations.
"Cameroon already has five stadiums, not to mention the ones which are
in the process of being built. Nobody can say that Cameroon has done
nothing. We're ahead of schedule." he said in an interview with French
radio station RFI
"We have two years to go, you cannot judge Cameroon's ability to
organise the CAN two years off" he concluded
The next round of CAF inspection to ascertain the level of Cameroon's
preparedness would be from August 20-28.
Cameroon's level of preparation were of huge concern to the last team
of inspectors, and this was before the tournament took a new turn
following its increase from 16-24 teams starting from the 2019
edition.
With the tournament now scheduled to take place between June-July
2019, Cameroon would believe they have enough time to meet CAF's
deadline.
old Issa Hayatou has criticised his successor, Ahmad Ahmad of
Madagascar for comments he made about his country's preparations for
the 2019 African Cup of Nations.
The CAF president on a visit to Burkina Faso last week had cast down
on Cameroon's ability to host the continent's showpiece event. This
followed reports that the Central Africa country are behind schedule
in her preparation to upgrade stadia, hotel, training and other
related infrastructure for the tournament.
But Issa Hayatou who was ousted by Ahmad after 29 years at the helm,
has come out strong to defend his country's level of preparations.
"Cameroon already has five stadiums, not to mention the ones which are
in the process of being built. Nobody can say that Cameroon has done
nothing. We're ahead of schedule." he said in an interview with French
radio station RFI
"We have two years to go, you cannot judge Cameroon's ability to
organise the CAN two years off" he concluded
The next round of CAF inspection to ascertain the level of Cameroon's
preparedness would be from August 20-28.
Cameroon's level of preparation were of huge concern to the last team
of inspectors, and this was before the tournament took a new turn
following its increase from 16-24 teams starting from the 2019
edition.
With the tournament now scheduled to take place between June-July
2019, Cameroon would believe they have enough time to meet CAF's
deadline.
Tuesday, 8 August 2017
Man Utd and Real Madrid teams: Debut for United summer signings, Ronaldo on the bench
The teams for tonight's Uefa Super Cup match between Champions League
holders Real Madrid and Europa League winners, Manchester United are
as follows.
Man Utd: De Gea; Valencia, Lindelof, Smalling, Darmian; Matic,
Herrera, Pogba; Mkhitaryan, Lingard, Lukaku.
Subs: Juan Mata, Anthony Martial, Michael Carrick, Daley Blind, Marcus
Rashford, Sergio Romero, Marouane Fellaini
Real Madrid: Navas; Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Marcelo; Casemiro, Kroos,
Modric, Isco; Bale, Benzema.
Subs: Nacho Fernandez, Cristiano Ronaldo, Francisco Casilla, Theo
Hernandez, Mateo Kovacic, Lucas Vazquez, Marco Asensio
Kick off time: 7:45 GMT
holders Real Madrid and Europa League winners, Manchester United are
as follows.
Man Utd: De Gea; Valencia, Lindelof, Smalling, Darmian; Matic,
Herrera, Pogba; Mkhitaryan, Lingard, Lukaku.
Subs: Juan Mata, Anthony Martial, Michael Carrick, Daley Blind, Marcus
Rashford, Sergio Romero, Marouane Fellaini
Real Madrid: Navas; Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Marcelo; Casemiro, Kroos,
Modric, Isco; Bale, Benzema.
Subs: Nacho Fernandez, Cristiano Ronaldo, Francisco Casilla, Theo
Hernandez, Mateo Kovacic, Lucas Vazquez, Marco Asensio
Kick off time: 7:45 GMT
Henry: Lacazette will be a huge player for Arsenal
Arsenal's legend and record goal scorer Thierry Henry believes new
record signing Alexandre Lacazette will turn out to be a huge player
for the club.
The 26 year old arrived from Lyon for a club record fee of £46m. He
made his competitive debut in the victory over Chelsea in Sunday's
Community Shield, as he came close to opening his account by hitting
the post.
He had reputation as a consistent goal scorer in France with Lyon. And
Thierry Henry expects him to reproduce that form with Arsenal with
better players around him.
"I'm a big fan of him. I saw him playing for a long time in the French
league and in the youth team. He was always a talent that everyone was
waiting for him to grow into, and to be fair he did, he's been scoring
goals every season." He said on Sky sports
"[Lacazette] has a different game to Giroud, which I think is good
because you need different types of strikers.
"He did it in the French league and people might say it's a different
league but, with due respect to Lyon, he'll also be with better
players. I'm backing him to have a good season.
"But rotation will be key. Sometimes you'll need Giroud or even
[Alexis] Sanchez in the middle and sometimes you'll need [Danny]
Welbeck or [Theo] Walcott, whoever will have an impact.
"You're waiting on Lacazette to have an impact with the fee, I know
you shouldn't mention that, but that's how it is nowadays."
record signing Alexandre Lacazette will turn out to be a huge player
for the club.
The 26 year old arrived from Lyon for a club record fee of £46m. He
made his competitive debut in the victory over Chelsea in Sunday's
Community Shield, as he came close to opening his account by hitting
the post.
He had reputation as a consistent goal scorer in France with Lyon. And
Thierry Henry expects him to reproduce that form with Arsenal with
better players around him.
"I'm a big fan of him. I saw him playing for a long time in the French
league and in the youth team. He was always a talent that everyone was
waiting for him to grow into, and to be fair he did, he's been scoring
goals every season." He said on Sky sports
"[Lacazette] has a different game to Giroud, which I think is good
because you need different types of strikers.
"He did it in the French league and people might say it's a different
league but, with due respect to Lyon, he'll also be with better
players. I'm backing him to have a good season.
"But rotation will be key. Sometimes you'll need Giroud or even
[Alexis] Sanchez in the middle and sometimes you'll need [Danny]
Welbeck or [Theo] Walcott, whoever will have an impact.
"You're waiting on Lacazette to have an impact with the fee, I know
you shouldn't mention that, but that's how it is nowadays."
Monday, 7 August 2017
Carragher: Coutinho would want Barca move
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has weighed in on Barcelona's
interest in the Red's Brazilian midfielder, Philippe Coutinho.
The 25 year old was reportedly the subject of a bid that topped £70m
from Barcelona. That was before they sold Neymar to PSG for a world
record fee of £200m. With money available for the Catalans, they are
looking at several targets.
Now Jamie Carragher is of the opinion that Liverpool's key midfielder
would want to join Barcelona like most players would do, because of
the status of the Spanish giants.
Speaking on Sky sports, he said
"I don't think he's going to go, but he would want to go. Who wouldn't
want to go to Barcelona?"
"I'm sure whether it's this summer or next summer Philippe Coutinho
will want to wear that shirt and go to Barcelona.
"There's nothing wrong with it. That's football.
Jurgen Klopp has said at different times since reports of the
Catalan's interest came to light that Coutinho is not for sale at any
price.
interest in the Red's Brazilian midfielder, Philippe Coutinho.
The 25 year old was reportedly the subject of a bid that topped £70m
from Barcelona. That was before they sold Neymar to PSG for a world
record fee of £200m. With money available for the Catalans, they are
looking at several targets.
Now Jamie Carragher is of the opinion that Liverpool's key midfielder
would want to join Barcelona like most players would do, because of
the status of the Spanish giants.
Speaking on Sky sports, he said
"I don't think he's going to go, but he would want to go. Who wouldn't
want to go to Barcelona?"
"I'm sure whether it's this summer or next summer Philippe Coutinho
will want to wear that shirt and go to Barcelona.
"There's nothing wrong with it. That's football.
Jurgen Klopp has said at different times since reports of the
Catalan's interest came to light that Coutinho is not for sale at any
price.
Mark Schwarze: Chelsea target Danny Drinkwater is not Nemanja Matic
Chelsea have been linked to Leicester City and England international
midfielder, Danny Drinkwater.
Although, nothing has developed from the 27 year old been linked to
the champions, that hasn't stopped former players to bare their mind
on it.
And Chelsea's former goalkeeper Mark Schwarze is of the opinion that
the now departed Nemanja Matic and Danny Drinkwater are different kind
of players.
"He's not a Matic, he's more of a creative player. The former
Australian international said
"At Leicester last season we saw that he struggled without having
N'Golo Kante next to him, but Danny is a very talented young man and
has done incredibly well at Leicester.
"I think he's capable of making that step up.
"Whether or not he's someone who will play week-in week-out, whether
he's good enough to make that step up to be a mainstream player in
Chelsea's first XI, we'll only know once he makes that step if it
happens. But he's definitely got the ability."
Danny Drinkwater played a key role in Leicester's surprise Premier
League triumph in the 2015/2016 season.
Whether the thought of reuniting him with N'Golo Kante is what is
being considered by the Chelsea hierarchy in order to recreate the
midfield pairing that led Leicester to the title or its just a media
fantasy remains to be seen.
midfielder, Danny Drinkwater.
Although, nothing has developed from the 27 year old been linked to
the champions, that hasn't stopped former players to bare their mind
on it.
And Chelsea's former goalkeeper Mark Schwarze is of the opinion that
the now departed Nemanja Matic and Danny Drinkwater are different kind
of players.
"He's not a Matic, he's more of a creative player. The former
Australian international said
"At Leicester last season we saw that he struggled without having
N'Golo Kante next to him, but Danny is a very talented young man and
has done incredibly well at Leicester.
"I think he's capable of making that step up.
"Whether or not he's someone who will play week-in week-out, whether
he's good enough to make that step up to be a mainstream player in
Chelsea's first XI, we'll only know once he makes that step if it
happens. But he's definitely got the ability."
Danny Drinkwater played a key role in Leicester's surprise Premier
League triumph in the 2015/2016 season.
Whether the thought of reuniting him with N'Golo Kante is what is
being considered by the Chelsea hierarchy in order to recreate the
midfield pairing that led Leicester to the title or its just a media
fantasy remains to be seen.
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