Jose Mourinho revive Chelsea say former Blues star

Jose Mourinho transformed Chelsea from a team of insecure players to a team of winners, says former Blues midfielder Claude Makelele.

Mourinho joined Chelsea for the first time in the summer of 2004 - one year after Makelele moved to Stamford Bridge from Real Madrid.

The club had not won a trophy for four years before the Portuguese manager's arrival, but he immediately led them to back-to-back Premier League titles.

Discussing his time working with Mourinho ahead of United's visit to Stamford Bridge on Saturday - live on Sky Sports - Makelele told The Sun: "When I first arrived at Chelsea, I saw something that shocked me.

"There were big teams, Manchester United and Arsenal, and all the time we would play them and I'd hear, 'It's going to be difficult'.

"What? We can't beat Arsenal? My team-mates were insecure and that shocked me. When I saw this, I wanted to change it with my team-mates and say 'No, this is possible'.
We did change the mentality and, after, we beat them all the time and were fighting for the Premier League.

"I learnt a lot with Mourinho about being a competitor, about being focused on details and the consequences of your management.

"He made me understand football in a different way. Football is not just happiness. He makes you understand about society, partnerships, fans, media, every detail. And that is more important than ever in football. You need to be in control of this."

Mourinho returns to Stamford Bridge with his current side Manchester United already trailing Chelsea by seven points in the Premier League.

He has come under pressure at Old Trafford already this season following United's slow start to the season, as well as a reported fall-out with Paul Pogba and an FA charge for allegedly swearing into a television camera.

Man United want to keep Anthony Martial

Manchester United’s management believe they are close to a breakthrough in contract discussions with Anthony Martial after holding ‘encouraging’ talks with the star’s representatives, Metro.co.uk understands.

The Frenchman is out of contract at the end of the campaign, though Manchester United have the option of triggering a one-year extension in his current deal to keep Frenchman tied to the club until 2020.

Martial’s agent had been deep into negotiations with the club over a fresh deal in November 2017 and all parties felt they were close to an agreement.

However, Alexis Sanchez’s arrival in January window derailed Martial’s campaign and his goal against Newcastle ten days ago was his first in the league since the South American’s move to Old Trafford.

Martial’srepresentativee sparked concern during the summer transfer market by claiming the Frenchman wanted to leave Manchester United but Metro.co.uk understands the club felt this was an attempt to accelerate contract talks.


Jose Mourinho had been open to selling the 23-year-old star but Martial has made an encouraging start to the term and Red Devils have made progress in recent weeks over a fresh five-year deal for the forward.

Mourinho and Shaw react after top class Manchester United deal confirmed!

Luke Shaw has admitted he is very proud to sign a new contract and stay at Manchester United for the foreseeable future.

After failing to impress boss Jose Mourinho in his first few months at the job as the special one felt Shaw was not fit enough and di not have the quality to be the clubs long-term left-back, and even started lining up possible replacements for the Englishman.

However, after getting himself fit, staying away from injuries and fighting for his Old Trafford future, he has earned a place in Mourinhos starting line-up and is now an integral part of the United squad, which is just why Mourinho was so keen to offer Shaw a brand new contract.

After signing his deal, Shaw said on the Sky Sports website: “Since I came to United it’s been a whirlwind four years. I am very proud to sign my new contract and continue my stay at this great club.I want to thank everybody that has stood by me and shown me huge support – the management, my team-mates and the fans. I want to let everyone know that I will give everything I have to repay them and deliver success over the years to come.

“I’m still very young with a lot more to learn and I can’t wait to continue my progress under Jose Mourinho.”

Boss Mourinho also reacted to the news Shaw has signed a new deal and admitted his delight at seeing the left-back sign up after a poor start to life under the special one, telling Sky Sports: “Luke fully deserves this contract. He understood his development process, he has worked really hard at every level and he always believes in himself which is a great attribute to have.Luke is still young and is improving all the time and he must feel very proud of himself.


“I am delighted that we are keeping such a talented young English player with a bright future ahead of him.”

How Jose Mourinho could avoid Chelsea v Manchester United touchline ban

Jose Mourinho could avoid a touchline ban for Manchester United's trip to Chelsea on Saturday, despite facing an FA charge.

The former Chelsea boss has until 6pm on Friday to respond to the charge for allegedly using abusive language after United's 3-2 comeback win over Newcastle before the international break.

Should Mourinho respond to the charge close to Friday's deadline, any sanction would not be imposed due to the normal procedure time of an independent commission hearing.

If he responds with enough time for a hearing, he could miss United's trip to Stamford Bridge, live on Sky Sports Premier League.

Unlike player disciplinary matters there is not a pre-determined punishment for cases of this kind, meaning any sanction would need to be decided after a hearing.


If Mourinho is found guilty he faces anything from a warning, a fine, or a touchline ban, which would most likely come into effect for United's game against Everton.

Chelsea reportedly plotting audacious move for PSG winger

Chelsea are reportedly in the race to sign Angel Di Maria amid uncertainty over his PSG future, with Liverpool and Manchester United also in the running for his signature.

The former United forward is apparently interested in making a move back to the Premier League, but he will be asking for wages of around £200,000-a-week.

The Paris Saint-Germain star left Manchester United for France in 2015 after just one season at Old Trafford.

It is understood United fans consider Di Maria one of their worst signings ever, after paying just under £60million for the Argentina winger.

The Express believes Chelsea are interested in a deal to take Di Maria back to the Premier League despite their wealth of experience upfront, whilst Manchester United are said to be keeping tabs on him too.

Di Maria has tried to rebuild his reputation in Paris and has an excellent record for the Ligue 1 champions.


In 147 appearances, Di Maria has bagged 56 goals and provided 55 assists, but PSG have a wealth of attacking options to chose from and are happy to let the attacker walk at the end of his deal.

Man Utd Prioritise David De Gea Contract Extension as Jose Mourinho Demands New Deals

Manchester United have made extending David De Gea's contract their top priority after making progress with new deals for Anthony Martial and Luke Shaw.

The Spaniard is among a host of first team players whose current deal expires at the end of this season, although United can extend De Gea's contract by another year, an option they are expected to take up soon.

Both Shaw and Martial already have new offers on the table and Manchester United are confident that the two players will sign on the dotted line, which according to the Evening Standard will tie them to Old Trafford for another five years.

De Gea's contract situation will now become the club's main focus, although manager José Mourinho is also pushing for two more players to be given new long-term deals in the north-west.

I've absolutely no issues with De Gea leaving at the end of his contract. Has given Utd so many great years and never complained to the press, unlike Dab man.

— AP (@__AP____) October 8, 2018

The Evening Standard also claims that Mourinho wants both Ander Herrera and Juan Mata to be rewarded with contract extensions due to their influence in the Manchester United dressing room.

Mourinho has reportedly already approached executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward over Mata and Herrera's future at the club.

Combined, the pair have 257 appearances for Manchester United across all competitions and have become two of the most senior figures within the squad.

Although both Mata and Herrera are now considered to be on the periphery of Manchester United's first team, Mourinho is believed to have hailed their importance during the club's crisis on and off the pitch this season.

Man United set too extend Luke Shaw contract

The Premier League and UCL giants Manchester United are set to open contract negotiations with Luke Shaw.

The 23-year-old star has completely turned things around at the Red Devils this season. A case can be made for Englishman likely being our best outfield player to date in the 2018/19 season.

Now, according to Bleacher Report’s Dean Jones, Manchester United’ management are planning a sit down with the left-back and discuss a new contract.

It really is a success story for Luke Shaw, particularly as it has been such a long road for the former Southampton player following that horrific leg break star suffered against PSV Eindhoven in a Champions League group-stage match.

With just one year left on his current contract, Manchester United have to do all they can to tie Luke down to a new deal as quickly as possible.


In January, he’d be free to negotiate to overseas clubs about the possibility of signing a pre-contract; that’s providing Red Devils don’t take up the option to extend his contract by a further year, as that clause is still to be triggered.

PSG set sights on Manchester United shot Stopper

According to the Daily Mail, European giants Paris Saint-Germain are closely monitoring David De Gea's situation at Manchester United and are ready to swoop in for the star player if an opportunity arises.

It is also widely reported that despite the Manchester United hierarchy wanting to tie down De Gea to a long-term deal, the player is in no rush to sign a new contract. Being their best player, De Gea is probably looking for better personal terms and willing to bide his time until a better offer comes his way.

In case you didn't know...

There have always been rumors circulating regarding De Gea's future at Manchester United since the last few transfer windows. Real Madrid had been in the running for the world-class goalkeeper's signature and almost got him in the 2015-16 summer transfer window. With the signing of Thibaut Courtois in the recently concluded transfer window though Real Madrid have withdrawn their interest in the Spaniard.

Hence, PSG are the only team really in contention to land De Gea's signature and can look to tempt him with a lucrative deal given the financial resources the club have.

The heart of the matter

De Gea has been one of the best players for the Red Devils in the last couple of seasons. His goalkeeping displays have certainly saved the club from a defeat in many situations. Having won the Premier League Golden Glove last season, De Gea is the most valuable asset for Manchester United. As a result, the club should try and speed up contract negotiations and attempt to extend De Gea's stay at Old Trafford.

Rumour Rating: 6/10

The Daily Mail is a reputed publication and this report might turn out to be true in the future.

Man United reportedly monitoring PSV player linked with EPL giants

Manchester United and Premier League rivals Liverpool are keeping close tabs on PSV Eindhoven starlet Steven Bergwijn, according to the latest reports.

Bergwijn has netted 14 goals since breaking into the Dutch side’s first-team back in 2014 and is being tipped for stardom in Holland amid strong interest from Europe’s elite clubs.

The 21-year-old star has impressed in PSV Eindhoven’s attack alongside Hirving Lozano, another player who has been connected with Manchester United in recent times.

Sport claims both Reds and Red Devils have had scouts in attendance to watch Steven’s performances this season with a view to landing the Netherlands Under-21 international.

The youngster has a £17.6m (€20m) release clause in his contract at the Philips Stadion. PSV Eindhoven manager Mark van Bommel believes Steven’s feet are firmly on the ground in spite of the growing interest.

‘Steven has very sensible people around him,’ Mark Van Bommel said.

‘His parents are real example parents, in the way they deal with him. We talked well together during the summer. I think it’s really great. Perhaps already a top European player. Yes, already.’

Man City boss Guardiola: Cruyff my biggest influence

Pep Guardiola admits Johan Cruyff was his big coaching inspiration speaking at the Festival dello Sport in Trento.

“Johan Cruijff was the most important person that I worked with, as he opened my eyes with his style of football," said Manchester City manager Guardiola.

“He helped us all understand a different way of looking at football. It was like going to school every day. We would win and he'd tell us the reason we were winning. He made us fall in love.
“It's no coincidence that so many players who worked under Sacchi and Cruijff are now Coaches, because their minds were opened. They gave us new love for the sport.

“I didn't invent tiki-taka. We won the Champions League with Barcelona and a team full of players who had started in the academy at the age of 8-10. It was a unique moment of the stars aligning, with the faith of the club and a group of lads who all saw football the same way. We could've signed bigger stars, but wanted to cultivate that hunger.

“To be honest, I don't really like tiki-taka much as a concept, but we knew exactly where we wanted to go with the ball. There is nostalgia for it now, but it was wonderful to experience it. We'll see if they still talk about it in 10-20 years, much like they do with great movies."

Jamie Carragher urges Liverpool to land attacking midfielder during January window

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher thinks Liverpool need to land a Coutinho replacement in January.
The pundit and one-time Liverpool centre-back was speaking as a result of the 0-0 draw with Manchester City at Anfield.

In Reds’ past four matches in all competitions, the club lacked central creativity, especially when James Milner, Gini Wijnaldum and Jordan Henderson have been deployed as a trio.

Naby Keita and Xherdan Shaqiri both have the ability with the ball and vision, but Xherdan is probably suited to the front-three while the Naby is still finding his feet.

“If Liverpool are in a really good position in January, I think they’ve got to be looking to address that [midfield area],” Carragher told sports television channel Sky Sports post-match.

“Even if Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain comes back, [Naby] Keita goes in or Fabinho goes in they are all the same. Liverpool don’t play with a No 10, but there’s no David Silva or Bernardo Silva or a player like that in the squad.

“I’m not talking about that player playing every week. It’s just the fact of having someone like that in the squad to turn to when you feel you need that player.”

Fabinho tips this Liverpool forward to become “one of the best” in the world

Lverpool midfielder Fabinho believes Sadio Mane has the tools to become one of the best players in the world.

The Senegalese forward started the season brightly with four goals till the start of September but hasn’t found the back of the net since.
Mane is still a dangerous attacker with his speed and movement, and Fabinho highlighted some of his key features to Goal (h/t Express):

“Sadio Mane is an excellent player.
“Before I came to Liverpool, I saw him on TV and I liked him a lot.
“He is very fast and very intelligent. He has everything to continue growing to become one of the best players in the world.
“I hope he continues with us for a long time. It is a pleasure to play alongside him.”

The Brazilian believed that our front three would click soon, despite Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Mane not scoring goals for fun.

“They want to get better and they are very hungry for goals.
“Our team is very good because of the strength of our attack.
“I hope they score many goals this season.”

Mane had an excellent season last time with 10 goals each in the Champions League and Premier League. The Senegal star just needs one good game under his belt and should be back to his best.

Liverpool face Huddersfield after the international break and hopefully, we will see some fireworks from our attackers against the Terriers.

Liverpool set to battle with Man United for tricky winger with €20m release clause

Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly both monitoring PSV Eindhoven ace Steven Bergwijn after his blistering start to the 2018-19 Eredivisie campaign.

According to Sport, the 21-year-old ace has a release clause of only €20m (£17.5m), which is an affordable price for the EPL pair.

Bergwijn is able to operate on either side and has netted four goals and provided four assists in eight league matches so far in 2018-19.

This could potentially be a breakout campaign for him if he can maintain his form, but the young forward already boasts a decent amount of experience in the PSV Eindhoven first team.

Last term he made 32 league matches, netting eight goals and providing seven assists, while Seven was a regular from the bench in 2016-17.

Given his incredible form, it is no surprise the likes of Reds and Red Devils are taking an interest in the youngster.


A move to Liverpool would arguably be a better fit, as German coach Jurgen Klopp is still in need of added attacking depth to provide rivalry and cover for Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah.

Chelsea set to swap Hazard for Gareth Bale

Chelsea could reportedly be offered the signing of Gareth Bale in a deal taking Eden Hazard to Real Madrid, according to latest transfer rumours in Spain.

The Blues could definitely do with a quality attacking player like Bale in their ranks if they are to lose Hazard anyway, which will look increasingly likely the longer he goes without signing a new contract.

Hazard’s current deal is due to expire at the end of next season, and Marca report he’s turned down various offers of renewing and is confident of getting his dream move to the Bernabeu.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are among the clubs being linked with Bale, along with top four rivals Manchester United, even though the Express recently claimed the player himself was not so keen on leaving Spain.

The Wales international has shone in the Premier League in the past, though he’s also won a huge number of big trophies with Real, even if he’s never been quite as important a player for them.

Bale did manage to score twice in last season’s Champions League final win – enabling him to pick up the famous trophy for the fourth time since he joined the club in 2013.

Overall he’s also scored 92 goals for Los Blancos – a decent record for a player who doesn’t play as an out-and-out striker
.
It’s unlikely the 29-year-old would come close to replicating that at either Stamford Bridge or Old Trafford, but Don Balon claim Madrid want to offer him plus £44million to Chelsea for the Hazard transfer.

While Chelsea and Hazard might go for that, it remains to be seen if Bale himself can be persuaded.

If CFC can snap him up it would be a big blow for rivals United, who remain linked with the player by the Express and who could urgently do with an upgrade on out-of-form attackers like Alexis Sanchez and Marcus Rashford.

Tiemoue Bakayoko expected too leave Chelsea in January

Chelsea flop Tiemoue Bakayoko could be forced into a humiliating early return to Stamford Bridge after AC Milan threatened to cancel his loan deal, the Metro report

Gennaro Gatusso has torn into Bakayoko – blasting: ‘I would rather work with other players’
The French midfielder joined the Serie A giants on a season-long loan deal in the summer, but that could now be cut short in January.

The former Monaco man – who cost Chelsea £40m when he arrived in the summer of 2017 – will be given six games to prove his worth to Milan according to Corriere dello Sport, having only made four substitute appearances thus far.

Bakayoko has made just four Serie A appearances for the for the Italian giants this season – all as a substitute.

His only starts have come in the Europa League and he has failed to impress in any of them.
“Bakayoko has to learn how to get the ball,” Gatusso said.

“We must work correctly. It will not be easy.

“One week is not enough to remove the defects of a player. I would have preferred to be managing older, more experienced club players.”

Some reports say Milan will cut the deal short and send him back to Stamford Bridge in January.

Despite playing 29 times in the Premier League last season and scoring two goals, Bakayoko made a number of individual errors and looked off the pace at times.

Chris Sutton replies when asked if Arsenal can win the title

Chris Sutton has emphatically ruled out Arsenal winning the Premier League’s title this season.

The Gunners have surprised their critics with an impressive six-game winning run in the English top flight to hoist themselves up to fourth place in the table.

Arsenal made a disappointing start to the Premier League season following back-to-back losses in Unai Emery’s opening two games in charge.

The Gunners lost 2-0 to defending Premier League champions Manchester City at The Emirates on the opening day of the season.

While their loss to the Citizens wasn’t a huge surprise given their dominance in the Premier League in recent seasons, Arsenal were disappointing in a 3-2 defeat by Chelsea FC at Stamford Bridge in their second outing.

However, Emery’s side have regrouped impressively following the two defeats after easing to victories over West Ham, Cardiff City and Newcastle United.

The Gunners continued to improve with successive 2-0 home victories over Watford and Everton before Arsenal secured their biggest win under Emery after a 5-1 rout at Fulham last weekend.

The north London side are two points behind leaders Manchester City, Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC, who occupy the top three in the Premier League.

However, former Chelsea FC striker Sutton doesn’t anticipate Arsenal challenging for the Premier League title in the current campaign.

“They are not going to win the title,” Sutton told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Liverpool and Man City are at a different level. That’s just the way it is.
“There is a glimmer Arsenal may be able to finish in fourth spot and push Tottenham.”

Arsenal will welcome Leicester City to The Emirates in their next Premier League game Monday 22 October in pursuit of a seventh successive top-flight victory.

The Gunners signed five players in the summer transfer window to improve Emery’s squad after the Spanish head coach replaced Arsene Wenger in the summer.

Stephan Lichtsteiner, Bernd Leno, Sokratis Papastathopoulos, Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi in the summer transfer window.


Arsenal have missed out on a top four finish in the Premier League in the last two seasons under French head coach Wenger.

Arsenal target linked with several EPL giants

Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund youngster Jadon Sancho is at the centre of a £100m transfer tug-of-war, with five Premier League clubs including Arsenal reportedly interested according to reports.

The Die Borussen star has nine assists to his name already this campaign, despite appearing from the bench for the vast majority of his matches.

His form in Bundesliga has resulted in Gareth Southgate calling the 18-year-old ace up to the senior England squad for the UEFA Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain.

However, Jadon could be set to play his club football in Premier League as well.

According to a British tabloid newspaper The Sun, Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are all thought to be keen on the ex-Manchester City teenager.

Although the Bundesliga club are bracing themselves for bids in the nine-figure region, they see Jadon as a long-term replacement for Barcelona player Ousmane Dembele – who left in 2017.


The U17 World Cup winner left City in the same summer in a bid to get regular playing time was instantly given the No.7 shirt at the Westfalenstadion.

Arsene Wenger reveals Arsenal can still agree terms with £110,000-a-week star

Arsene Wenger is someone who knows all about the contract situation at Arsenal. Having managed the Gunners for more than two decades, Arsene Wenger has an idea of all the hardships a manager will face.

Speaking to the media after the farewell match of Per Mertesacker, Wenger spoke about Ramsey and the situation that he is in.

As per Evening Standard, this is what the former Arsenal manager had to say:

“We tried that [agreeing a new deal] before and it still can happen,” Wenger told reporters.
“I don’t really know what is happening at Arsenal. Sure, Aaron Ramsey is in a strong position now and he will use this position.”

The contract situation of Ramsey is one of the only things that the Arsenal board have failed to take care of this season. Appointing a new manager such as Unai Emery has turned out to be a good move.

After a tough start, the Gunners have bounced back in great fashion and are now on a nine-match winning streak. And the £110,000-a-week star has played his part in this season and helped the team with his all-round skills.

Arsenal were in the same position with both Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil last season. When they sold the former to Manchester United and got the latter signed to a new deal, it appeared that the club had learned its lessons. But, unfortunately, that has happened this season also.

Having been at the club for more than ten years and played a vital part in ending the trophy drought of the club, it is natural for the Welshman to ask for the wages that he’s said to be asking.

For some reason, the board decided that what was being asked was too much and they were not willing to give him those wages. It is better for all involved if this gets resolved at the earliest.

 As for Ramsey, he has promised to see out the season with the Gunners and that should work in their endeavor to get back into the Champions League.

Glazers view star as Man Utd’s ‘Messi’, ‘untouchable’, and won’t consider sale

Friday’s edition of Mundo Deportivo has picked up some attention after publishing a story about Paul Pogba which explains why Manchester United will not allow the Frenchman leave the club.

This was brought to our attention by Sport Witness, who provide a useful service translating reports from the foreign press.

The story claims Barcelona had contact with Pogba’s agent, Mino Raiola, and also asked United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward about the club’s star player.

It suggests that Pogba himself would be interested in leaving Old Trafford for Camp Nou as it’s his dream to play alongside Lionel Messi.

The biggest part of the story claims Pogba’s wage demands of Raiola’s agent fee had nothing to do with why the deal didn’t take shape this past summer. Instead, they suggest United’s owners, the Glazer family, refused to sanction the sale of their prized asset because they laughably believe Pogba is their ‘Messi’, who is ‘untouchable’ at Old Trafford.


As we all know, 13-years on from their controversial takeover, the Glazers know absolutely nothing about football. To make a comparison to Messi like that takes the biscuit though.

Man United news: Eric Cantona takes fresh swipe at Jose Mourinho and says Red Devils must play with more freedom

ERIC CANTONA has taken a swipe at Jose Mourinho and says Manchester United must play with freedom.

The Old Trafford legend, 52, blasted the Special One earlier this season for his team having ‘no fun, no creativity’.

And he has backed that up by outlining the key to United’s success under Alex Ferguson.
Cantona, writing on Players’ Tribune, said: “All the time, I get asked the same questions about my career.

“‘What was it like playing for those United teams? Why did you do so well?’
“People want some kind of complex answer. They want some kind of secret, I think. But the answer is very simple.

“Sir Alex Ferguson was the master of one thing: Whenever we took the pitch for a match, after hours and hours of work, we were allowed to be free.

“We felt total freedom to move where we wanted, to play how we wanted. I could tolerate football no other way. What is football if it is not about freedom?”

Cantona, who won four Premier League titles with United, has joined Juan Mata’s charity where players donate 1% of their wages.


The Manchester United legend has been appointed as a mentor for “Common Goal”, which has recruited the likes of Mats Hummels, Giorgio Chiellini and Kasper Schmeichel.

Jose Mourinho scouts Sergej Milinkovic-Savic during international duty

Mourinho scouts Milinkovic-Savic Leaving his troubles far behind him, Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho was spotted in the crowd doing a bit of scouting as Serbia beat rivals Montenegro 2-0 in Podgorica on Thursday evening.

Sources have told ESPN FC that Mourinho was invited to the game by Predrag Mijatovic, with the pair knowing each other from Real Madrid.

And, according to The Sun, Mourinho made the trip to personally run the rule over Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, a player linked with United over the summer -- though negotiations never got beyond the €100m price quoted by his agents.

Sources said that Mijatovic told Mourinho to sign Croatia star Luka Modric when he was at Tottenham, but given his issues over signing an experienced defender, perhaps Mourinho is on the lookout for a younger option now the Real Madrid midfielder has reached 33.

Milinkovic-Savic, 23, put in an impressive performance and even laid on a goal as the home side coasted to a routine victory while the United boss watched on intently from up in the terraces with his cap pulled down over his face.

The midfield may not have been the only area on Mourinho's agenda though. With United's defensive woes still on his mind, special attention was also paid to 20-year-old Serbian defender Nikola Milenkovic, currently on the books at Fiorentina.

Zlatan returning to Old Trafford?

Rumours are circulating that Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be heading back to Manchester United on loan when the transfer market reopens in January.

The veteran Swedish striker is looking to secure a return to Europe during the MLS off-season and the Manchester Evening News claim that Old Trafford is being entertained as a potential destination.

Ibrahimovic spent two successful seasons at United before leaving for LA Galaxy, scoring 29 goals in 53 appearances and playing an intrinsic role in the club's Europa League triumph in 2016-17.

Manchester united Midfielder could miss Chelsea match

Manchester United central midfielder Nemanja Matic is being considered as a doubt to face his one-time side Chelsea after the international break.
A group of sports television channels Sky Sports report that the Serbian could miss the match at Stamford Bridge through injury.

The former Chelsea versatile midfielder has been a key figure for Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho since making the move to the Manchester-based outfit.
The two clubs meet in London in under two weeks time following the second international break of the campaign.

Matic’s injury is the latest blow for the Red Devils, who have endured a difficult start to the season, with concerns over Mourinho’s position at the club.

Jose Mourinho’s side head into the match off the back of a dramatic late victory against Newcastle United on Saturday night.

Mourinho’s men came from behind to victory 3-2, while Chelsea cruised past Southampton with a 3-0 win that took them to the top of the Premier League, level on points with both Manchester City and Liverpool.
This season, in all competitions, Serbia international star has made 8 appearances for Red Devils.

Real Madrid have decide to make Chelsea pay in their chase for Eden Hazard

The word out there is that Chelsea would make life very difficult for Real Madrid should the Spanish giants move in for star forward Eden Hazard next summer, but Real’s top officials have a plan of their own.
According to reports in Spain, via the TheSun, Los Blancos are ready to wait until next summer if their chase for the Belgium international falls through in January. If they still show up in the summer of 2019, it is likely, they will get a cut-price fee of about £65million for their target who currently has only two years remaining on his deal.
Hazard is yet to sign a new contract at Chelsea that will extend his deal beyond 2020 and also make him the club’s highest paid player of all time, with the £300-000 per week deal on the table.
If he does not sign the deal, by next summer, he will have only a year remaining on his deal, and like Real managed with Thibaut Courtois, paying only £35 million due to the number of months remaining on his deal, they Santiago Bernabeu chiefs are hoping to exploit similar advantage with Hazard as well.


All of this depends on Hazard, as his pen on the dotted lines inside Stamford Bridge will ward off Real or get them to pay more for his services.

World most expensive goal keeper reveals what life has really been like under Maurizio Sarri

Arrizabalaga become the most expensive goalkeeper in history when he switched Athletic Bilbao for Stamford Bridge over the summer in a mammoth £71m transfer.

His Blues career has got off to a fine start with Maurizio Sarri’s side still unbeaten in the Premier League and only conceding five goals in eight games.

The 24-year-old has taken to the English game well and looked impressive in the Chelsea net.
And while the young stopper says it hasn’t been easy, he’s enjoying life in west London.

Arrizabalaga said: “Leaving your environment, and the place where you have grown up, is always going to be difficult.
“But I felt moving to Chelsea was an important step in my career so that’s why I wanted to do it, but of course I will always be grateful to Athletic Bilbao for all the years I spent with them, and for all they’ve given me.
“The Premier League and La Liga are very different. The style of play is different, the person training me is different, everything is different and new.

“But all in all, so far I feel very happy.
“I think I’m adapting very well to being in the team, which is the most important thing, and I’m really looking forward to spending a long time in the Premier League with Chelsea.”

Arrizabalaga has enjoyed the opening weeks of Sarri’s Chelsea tenure as has team-mate Ross Barkley.

The England star is starting to show his very best again and has his sights set on silverware this season.

He said: “We are right in there. We have got the players who have achieved that success before, and we believe we are capable of doing that.

“We’re getting used to the way the manager wants us to play and we’ll continue to improve.
“We are taking each month as it comes, setting our targets, and hopefully at the end of the season we will get trophies.”

The 24-year-old, signed from Everton for £15m in January, added: “It was a fantastic result for us [at Southampton], and not only that, for me to get my first goal was fantastic.

“I feel like I have been at a high level for a couple of years, but it’s just about producing performances on game day.

“Last season I had a difficult time with injuries, but on the training pitch I have felt strong and confident and I have built on that.

“As the season goes on I am sure I’ll continue to improve and show people what I am capable of.”

Marcos Alonso confirm he will sign new Chelsea deal

Chelsea defender Marco Alonso appears to be having one of the best moments of his career at the Bridge under new boss Maurizio Sarri.
The Spaniard has been a strong terrifying figure against opponents this season, and still is a threat.
Amid rumours of a looming exit from the Chelsea, the Spanish international is set to sign a new contract at the club.

Alonso was a crux player in Conte’s 2016 debut winning season. Conte drove the team to Premier League success during his debut as manager in his first spell, and next season, to FA Cup triumph.
Alonso flourished under the former manager’s tactics and since Sarri took the helm, the left-back has hit a new level.

La Liga clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid were reported to have eyes on the player, however they will have to take their interest elsewhere.
Alonso remarked he is “calm” and “happy” at Chelsea and per Bleacher Report, the player is in advanced talks with Chelsea over a new contract deal.

The former Fiorentina man spoke about his future at the club, while away on international duty for Spain.

He revealed that talks to retain his services are in the pipeline and at the tag end of the month, he should be inking a new deal.

According to AS Sport, Alonso said, “The conversations are advanced, and, if everything goes well, I believe I’ll sign a new deal before the end of this month.”

Liverpool on the verge of sealing deal for Arsenal playmaker

Liverpool are reportedly ahead in the race for out-of-contract Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey.
The Welshman has been touted to leave the club at the end of next season, after talks to extend his stay at the Emirates stadium broke down.
Ramsey demanded a 200,000-pounds-per-week wages, a fee the Gunners executive reportedly turned down.

It is understood Arsenal do not want the Welshman to leave on a free next season. They’d  rather sell him off on a cheap.
Liverpool never resumed negotiations over French player Nebil Fekir. The Reds demanded a softer price for the Lyon star after discovering some glitches in his medical.
However, Lyon refused to let their star go on a cheap and closed the door on the transfer.
Ramsey showed how much pace and strength he still had under his belt in Arsenal’s 5-1 rout of Fulham.

His sublime effort in the 67th minute, made sure Arsenal steered clear at 3-1.
Ramsey’s third goal, just 39 seconds after coming on as a substitute, was the fastest Premier League goal by an Arsenal substitute, since 2007.
Jurgen Klopp is desperate to add spark in the middle of the park berth in his squad. It was evident in their last Premier League clash against leaders Manchester City on Sunday.

The Evening Standard says they can get the Wales midfielder for half the 53 million pounds price they wanted to splurge for Nebil Fekir.

Unai Emery eyed up two star for Aaron Ramsey's replacement

Ramsey is heading for the Emirates Stadium exit after a new contract offer was withdrawn.
The Arsenal ace’s deal is up at the end of the season, and he won’t be sticking around unless there is a late U-turn from the club.

Premier League rivals Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United all interested in Ramsey, and the likes of Real Madrid and Juventus are also chasing him.

The midfielder can speak to foreign clubs in January about a pre-contract agreement but sides in England must wait until the end of the season.

In any case, Arsenal are keen to sell in the New Year to ensure they get a return on the player, rather than letting him leave for nothing in the summer.

The Evening Standard report Emery is busy preparing for life without Ramsey, by lining up two options to replace him.

It’s claimed Miguel Almiron, who plays for Atlanta United in the MLS and Porto captain Hector Herrera are on his wanted list.

Almiron is a full Paraguay international, who joined Atlanta in December 2016.

He’s quickly become of the best performers in the US league, and the 24-year-old will likely relish the chance to impress in the Premier League should Arsenal firm up their interest.

Herrera would provide more European experience should Emery opt for him.

The Mexican has played Champions League football regularly since moving to Portugal in 2013, and at 28, has the edge on Almiron in terms of experience.

However he would likely prove more expensive that the Atlanta man, which may determine which Arsenal opt to go for.

Arsenal went into the international break on the back of a positive run of results there is talk they could now finish back in the top four - if not challenge for the title - having missed out on Champions League football for the last two seasons.

Striker Alexandre Lacazette, however, wants to silence any chat of such an achievement and focus on doing the things which have enabled Emery to oversee such a streak.
"To talk about the top four is early I think," he said.

"We have to keep quiet and work like we did before and the season is going well. Just work as we did and we will see at the end of the season."

Alderweireld not closer too sign new contract offers hope to Man Utd

Toby Alderweireld, who has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, admits he is no closer to penning fresh terms in north London

Toby Alderweireld admits he is no closer to signing a new contract at Tottenham, with that revelation likely to have Manchester United believing that they can still strike a deal.

The Belgium international is set to see his current agreement in north London expire at the end of the season.

Spurs have the option to take up a 12-month extension, but activating that clause will also trigger a £25 million ($33m) buyout option for the 29-year-old’s many suitors.

Tottenham had been hoping to avoid that situation by agreeing fresh terms with a man who was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford over the summer, but there has been no progress in talks.
Quizzed by Sky Sports on whether he can provide any update on discussions, Alderweireld said: "Not that I can say, no. I'm focused on Spurs and trying to help the team. That's all I can do."

Alderweireld claims to have had “tunnel vision” when seeing his future called into question on a regular basis over the summer.

The endless rounds of rumours could have been an unwelcome distraction, but the Belgian believes he has put the speculation behind him to find true happiness on and off the field.

He added: "I'm the old Toby again. I try to do my best and help the team.
"How happy am I on a scale of one to 10? When you have a daughter it's 10 out of 10. It doesn't matter what happens. The joy that I get from that, I try to give it to my football."

Alderweireld is currently putting club matters to one side during the international break.
Belgium have Nations League clashes with Switzerland and the Netherlands approaching, with a star-studded side looking to build on their third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup.

They will have many of their leading lights available for their next two outings, such as Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku, but Jan Vertonghen will be unavailable after picking up a hamstring injury.
Alderweireld said of his Tottenham team-mate: "He is devastated he can't play but will try to come back as quickly as possible.


"If you're injured it's always mentally hard. He will get through this and become stronger."

Man United pay millions for Anthony Martial’s goal against Newcastle

Last time out in the Premier League, Man United beat Newcastle 3-2 at Old Trafford.

Jose Mourinho’s men put in an excellent second half performance after Newcastle headed into the break 2-0 up.

Juan Mata started the Man United fightback with a terrific free-kick.

French forward Anthony Martial levelled the match for United, while Alexis Sanchez came off the bench to score a late header to win the game.

Anthony Martial’s goal cost Man United a lot of money

Martial’s goal against Newcastle was expensive for Man United.

The 22-year-old has now scored 25 goals since joining the Red Devils from Monaco.

That landmark has triggered a fresh expense for United. As confirmed in the Telegraph:

The France forward’s 76th minute equaliser at Old Trafford on Saturday was his 25th Premier League goal for the club and triggered a clause in his contract entitling his former club Monaco to a €10 million (£8.73 million) windfall.

United paid Monaco an initial £36 million when they signed Martial in September 2015 but the cost of the transfer has now risen to what is expected to be a final fee of £44.73 million.

For the record, 22-year-old Martial is under contract at Old Trafford until 2019.

Martial is one of 11 players currently on Man United’s books who could leave for free at the end of the season.

The other players include David De Gea, Antonio Valencia, Luke Shaw, Juan Mata, Ashley Young, Ander Herrera, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Andreas Pereira and Matteo Darmian.