Ozil Signs New Arsenal Deal Which Keep Him Till 2021 to Become Club’s Highest-Paid (BBC)

Mesut Ozil has signed a new three-and-a-half-year contract to remain at Arsenal until the summer of 2021.

The midfielder becomes the highest-paid player in the club's history - earning about £350,000 a week before tax.

The deal, signed on Wednesday, follows months of speculation about the future of the 29-year-old Germany international, whose previous deal was due to expire at the end of the season.

He joined the Gunners from Real Madrid in 2013 for a then club record £42.4m.

SOURCE: All Football

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Ozil Signs New Arsenal Deal Which Keep Him Till 2021 to Become Club’s Highest-Paid (BBC)

Mesut Ozil has signed a new three-and-a-half-year contract to remain at Arsenal until the summer of 2021.

The midfielder becomes the highest-paid player in the club's history - earning about £350,000 a week before tax.

The deal, signed on Wednesday, follows months of speculation about the future of the 29-year-old Germany international, whose previous deal was due to expire at the end of the season.

He joined the Gunners from Real Madrid in 2013 for a then club record £42.4m.

SOURCE: All Football

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OFFICIAL: Arsenal Sign Emerick-Pierre Aubameyang From Borussia Dortmund for A Club-Record €64m Fee

OFFICIAL: Arsenal sign Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Dortmund for club record fee

Having come through the ranks at AC Milan, Aubameyang impressed at St. Etienne before making his name at Dortmund. Arriving in 2013, the striker initially played second fiddle to Robert Lewandowski, but became the main man when the Polish striker moved to Bayern Munich a year later.

Armed with astonishing pace - the rumour goes that he is faster over 30 metres than Usain Bolt - and canny movement, he has netted 141 goals in 212 appearances for Dortmund.

Aubameyang's pace is mesmerising, and he is an instinctive goalscorer, but he is heavily reliant on good service. For Dortmund, he has always been at his best when he has teamed up with the likes of Marco Reus, Ousmane Dembele or Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

His brilliant positioning and sharp movement mean that he is almost unstoppable when coupled with an intelligent winger or attacking midfielder. Left to his own devices, however, he has his limitations. He lacks the incision to create chances for himself, and often fluffs his lines in one-on-one situations.

Aubameyang has established himself as one of Europe's premier marksmen over the last few seasons and has been in incredible form in front of goal this term.

Arsenal official statement:

Welcome to Arsenal, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang!

The 28-year-old has joined us from Borussia Dortmund on a long-term contract for a club-record fee.

Our second signing of the January transfer window, Auba is one of the world’s most highly-rated strikers. He scored 98 goals in 144 Bundesliga games for Dortmund and had a hand in 172 goals in 213 matches in all competitions for his former club.

That works out at an average of 96 minutes per goal or assist.

Auba is the Gabon captain and all-time top goalscorer, and became the first Gabonese winner of the African Footballer of the Year award in 2015.

This deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes and Auba’s squad number will be confirmed shortly.

We hope to be hearing from the man himself very soon - watch this space for exclusive Aubameyang content!

Welcome to Arsenal, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang!

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Chelsea-Bound Giroud's Agent Arrives in London to Complete £18m Move

Olivier Giroud's agent has arrived in London to finalise the striker's move to Chelsea.

Arsenal have agreed to sell the France international for just under £18million and the player's representative is in town to ensure the deal goes through.

The Gunners have agreed to sell the France striker to their London rivals in a move that allows Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to move to the Emirates in a club record £55.5million deal — and sees Michy Batshuayi sign on loan for Borussia Dortmund.

Giroud came on for the final 15 minutes of Arsenal's surprise 3-1 defeat by Swansea on Tuesday night as the clubs ironed out the final details, with the fee expected to be £18m plus add-ons.

In the wake of his side's disappointing display in South Wales, Wenger paid tribute to his departing forward.

It's a tribute to Olivier (that he played) because he is a guy who gave great service to the club, he never let us down on the commitment front and saved us many times,' Wenger said.

'I have absolutely no doubt, when I ask him if he is ready to commit and he says yes. I have no problem with that and put him on because it was needed. Unfortunately he couldn't help us.

'I took him from Montpellier and made him a strong international player for France. We have come together through good and bad but always his behaviour was top, top class.'

Giroud's transfer had earlier reached an impasse as talks between Arsenal and Chelsea broke down over the fee. However, Wenger's willingness to help Giroud achieve his move is understood to have been a key factor.

SOURCE: All Football

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Mesut Ozil to Extend Arsenal Contract Only With Imminent Auba Arrival (Bild)

Mesut Ozil will provide Arsenal with a huge boost and extend his contract in North London, according to reports in Germany.

The German international midfielder's deal with the Gunners is due to expire in the summer, and there has been little progress with talks in recent months.

It had been thought Ozil would follow Alexis Sanchez out the Emirates Stadium exit door - however he now seems set to stay.

German newspaper Bild report that Ozil will stay at Arsenal in order to link up with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who is set to join from Borussia Dortmund.

Aubameyang is in London to finalise a £55m switch from the Bundesliga club, and the ambition shown by Arsenal to bring in a world class striker has reportedly convinced Ozil to stay.

The 29-year-old playmaker has been linked with several clubs, including Manchester United, who signed Sanchez in a swap deal for Henrikh Mkhitaryan in January.

Signing Aubameyang therefore takes on even greater significance for Arsenal, who find themselves as one part of a transfer triangle.

The deal depends on them selling Olivier Giroud to Chelsea - an £18m fee has been agreed - and the Blues letting Michy Batshuayi go to Dortmund, replacing Aubameyang.

It is set to be a pivotal summer for Ozil in many respects, with both his club future to be decided as well as going to the 2018 World Cup with Germany, the reigning champions.

Bild also say it will be a big summer for Ozil personally, with his wedding to fiancee Amine Gulse reportedly to take place after the World Cup in Russia.

SOURCE: All Football

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BREAKING: Pierre - Emerick Aubameyang is Having His Medical at Emirates Ahead of Reported £55m Move

BREAKING: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is having his medical at Arsenal ahead of reported £55m move

The Borussia Dortmund hitman has arrived at London yesterday but no announement has been made by both clubs.

Reports everywhere say that Aubameyang is highly expected to join Arsene Wenger's side in a club record deal worth of £55m.

Arsenal suffered from a 3-1 defeat last night at Swansea in a game which Henrikh Mkhitaryan made his debut for the Gunners.

With Aubameyang having a medical at Arsenal, Olivier Giroud would be set to join Chelsea and Michy Batshuayi is heading to Dortmund in a crazy 3-way swap transfers.

SOURCE: All Football

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Aubameyang In Arsenal's Training Ground at London Colney - Sky Sports

Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has now arrived at Arsenal's training ground at London Colney after his flight from Germany, according to Sky Sports.

A private jet containing the Gabon international arrived at Luton Airport at 2pm on Tuesday afternoon, less than an hour after leaving Dortmund airport.

Arsenal have agreed a deal worth around £60m with Borussia Dortmund for the 28-year-old striker.

While Dortmund have agreed a fee, Sky sources understand they will not let Aubameyang go until they find a replacement.

Olivier Giroud, Michy Batshuayi and Anthony Modeste are among the names being considered by Dortmund, who are looking to secure a signing before the Bundesliga transfer window closes at 5pm on Wednesday.

Aubameyang did not testify as planned at Monday's trial hearing over the attack on the Dortmund team bus in April 2017 because of illness, and was booed by a section of Dortmund fans during last Saturday's 2-2 Bundesliga draw with Freiburg.

A banner in the crowd read: 'No player is bigger than our club'.

SOURCE: All Football

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OFFICIAL: Manchester City Complete Club-Record deal Signing Athletic Defender Laporte

Manchester City have completed a club-record signing of defender Aymeric Laporte from La Liga side Athletic Bilbao. The 23-year-old has signed a deal until 2023 and will wear number 14 shirt.

According to multiple reports, the transfer fee will be around £57m (€65m), breaking Man City's previous transfer record - the £55m paid for Kevin de Bruyne in 2015.

The deal also makes Aymeric Laporte the second most expensive defender in the world.

Laporte has been a regular since his Spanish top-flight debut in 2012 but is yet to play for France's senior side.

He joined Bilbao aged 16 and has scored 10 goals in 222 appearances for the Basque club, as well as representing France 19 times at under-21 level.

His arrival will provide Guardiola with a valuable additional option in central defence.

Apart from the first-choice pair of John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi, the fitness of skipper Vincent Kompany has proved unreliable and Guardiola appears to lack confidence in the ability of Eliaquim Mangala.

Announcement Official

The 23-year-old joins the Club from Athletic Bilbao as Pep Guardiola’s sixth signing of the 2017/18 season and has signed a deal until 2023. 

Regarded as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe, Laporte will take the number 14 shirt and is eager to help the Blues in their hunt for silverware.

“I am very happy to be here,” Laporte declared. “City are a Club with a lot of ambition and they are one of the best teams in Europe.

“I am looking forward to working under Pep Guardiola and trying to help the Club to achieve success.

“It means a lot that the Club have shown faith in me and I am excited to get started.”

Laporte is a left-footed defender, recognised for his calmness, strength and passing ability. He began his senior career with Bilbao in 2012, after representing their B side and gaining first-team experience with CD Basconia.

At youth level, he began his journey with hometown Club SU Agen and French outfit Bayonne before making the switch to Spain.

Impressed by his skill and potential, Bilbao quickly secured his services and he went on to become a first-team regular. In total, he clocked up 222 appearances for the Club, scoring ten goals.

Also employed as a left-back, the Frenchman was named in La Liga’s 2013/14 Team of the Year. In the 2015/16 campaign, he helped Bilbao to Supercopa de Espana glory – their first piece of major silverware for 31 years.

On the international stage, he has represented France at youth level. 

Txiki Begiristain, City’s Director of Football, stated: “We are delighted to have signed Aymeric.

“We have assessed defensive options and he is a player we have admired for a long time.

“With his quality and ability to play out from the back, we feel Aymeric will fit in perfectly with Pep Guardiola’s playing style.”

SOURCE: All Football

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Hakan Calhanoglu: Gattuso Improved Me

Hakan Calhanoglu believes “I’m returning to my level” since Gennaro Gattuso replaced Vincenzo Montella as Milan Coach.

The Turkish midfielder joined the Rossoneri from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer, but initially struggled to settle in Italy.

“I’m very happy to be back to fitness and form, it was hard for me to find my rhythm after the injury,” Calhanoglu admitted in a Press conference today.

“Now I’m happy though because I’ve found a Coach who gives me a lot of confidence, he talks to me a lot and helps me bring out my best.

“Initially I didn't have the strength to show my qualities, but now that Rino is here I’m returning to my level.

“Since Gattuso came I’ve found the right space and the right formation, I’m getting on really well with Jack [Bonaventura] and we have a good understand on the pitch.

“Every Coach has his idea of playing, of course, and while I respect Montella I’ve never played in a 3-5-2 and because I’ve never played in it, I found it difficult. It’s not my way of playing.

“In Germany I played in a 4-2-3-1 and everything was different went Montella was here. My role is where I play for Gattuso, I’m happy.

“As a Coach he’s giving us the same determination he had as a player. He wants 100 per cent and he wants the same rhythm in every match.

“We have to give our best in every match.

“When we’ve spoken he’s motivated me and shows interest in me. He was clear with me, he told me that the problem was in my head, not in my feet.

“He told me to be free and relaxed, and from that moment on I’ve played much better.

“Aside from the physical problems I’ve had, I haven’t found any particular difficulties in Italian football.

“There was a lot of expectation on me but I couldn’t do my best due to injuries and other problems factors, but now I’ve reached my objectives and I’ll be even better, and as a team we’ll move forward more and more.”

Calhanoglu did identify some differences between Serie A and the Bundesliga.

“In Italy the game is much more tactical and based on experience, it’s very difficult. If you go ahead you shut up shop in defence and try not to concede a goal.

“In Germany they play much more on the front foot.

“The best opponent? There are a lot of strong players, but in terms of teams Juventus and Napoli are ahead.”

SOURCE: All Football

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Usain Bolt Set For Dortmund Trial

The 31-year-old hung up his sprinting boots last year, after claiming 11 world titles in his illustrious athletics career, and is now curious to test himself in a different sporting arena.

Bolt's physical talents are without question impressive, but his technical footballing abilities will be put to the test when he goes on trial at the BVB.

The Jamaican also trained with South African Premiership side Mamelodi Sundowns on Monday as he continues his football experiment.

"That is something that I want to do, as you said I have trials with Borussia Dortmund so that's something that is on the table," he said, according to FourFourTwo.

"After the trials, then I can determine if it makes sense to do it or it doesn't make sense. That's what the plan is."

Dortmund are currently enduring a difficult period in the Bundesliga. They have drawn three consecutive games and have consequently dropped down to sixth position in the standings.

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WWE Raw Results 1/29/18



WWE Raw

Here are your quick and dirty, editorial-free WWE Raw results for January 29, 2018. The show featured an Intercontinental Championship rematch, Sasha Banks taking on Asuka, and Braun Strowman committing another attempted manslaughter. Make sure you’re here tomorrow for the complete Best and Worst of Raw column.

WWE Raw Results:

– The show opened with Asuka celebrating her Royal Rumble win, Sasha Banks interrupting, and Stephanie McMahon making Asuka vs. Sasha Banks for later in the night. Also, the first women’s Elimination Chamber match was announced for the upcoming pay-per-view.

1. Last Man Standing Qualifying Match For Elimination Chamber: Braun Strowman defeated Kane. WWE announced a series of matches for the night, with the winners moving on to compete in the Elimination Chamber for a shot at Brock Lesnar’s Universal Championship at WrestleMania. Strowman defeated Kane after crushing him with the entire announce table and stage. Kane was taken away on a stretcher to a Local Medical Facility.

2. Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Elias defeated Woken Matt Hardy. Bray Wyatt caused a distraction, allowing Elias to hit Drift Away and pin Hardy.

3. Intercontinental Championship Match: The Miz (c) defeated Roman Reigns. The Miztourage provided repeated distractions, so Reigns took them out with a Superman Punch (to Axel) and a spear (to Dallas). After the spear, Miz rolled up Reigns from behind and pinned him to retain the championship.

WWE Raw

4. The Revival defeated Heath Slater and Rhyno.Dash Wilder pinned Rhyno after a Shatter Machine.

5. Asuka defeated Sasha Banks. Asuka won an intense (and sometimes dangerous) back-and-forth match by submission with the Asuka Lock.

6. Raw Tag Team Championship Match: The Bar (c) defeated Titus O’Neil and Apollo Crews.Sheamus pinned Crews after a double-team White Noise to retain the championship.

7. Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: John Cena defeated Finn Bálor. Cena pinned Bálor after an Attitude Adjustment off the second rope.

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Axel Tuanzebe: I Want My Place Back In Manchester United And Fight For My Place

Axel Tuanzebe intends to use his Aston Villa loan as a springboard to launch a lengthy Manchester United career.

And he thinks one of his new teammates can help him achieve it.

The young centre-back made just eight appearance for the Reds before heading to Villa Park in search of first-team opportunities for the remainder of the season.

His short-term aim is to help Villa win promotion back to the Premier League.

But he wants to use his time in the Midlands to show United what he is capable of.

Manager Jose Mourinho has altready spoken in glowing terms of the Congo-born, Rochdale-raised 20-year-old, one of the most highly thought-of academy graduates of recent years.

And Tuanzebe, in an interview with the Express and Star, said: “After getting the promotion and my medal, I want to go back to United and be a real contender for my place.

“I believe it is my home. I want to be playing there for ten to 15 years. That is my motivation.

“This is my chance to demonstrate what I can do on the pitch.

“If I can break into the team [at Villa], I can show I am a man, who can play men’s football and do well.

“I want to show the qualities I know I have got, to prove I can do it.

“From the back of last season when I played a few Premier League games, I feel like I am ready for the next stage.

“It is not like I am a young boy anymore, looking to please. I am here to fight, here to play and help the team win promotion.”

Tuanzebe believes the presence of former Chelsea veteran John Terry at Villa Park can aid his progress.

“That’s definitely intriguing, having such a legend in the team,” he said.

“If you watch him carefully, he’s never been the quickest. But for some reason he is always in the right position.

“It shouldn’t add up but he is smart, has studied the game, where to be at the right time. Having someone like that to learn off, adding those qualities into my game. It can elevate me.

“I want to show I am developing. Showing I can be a leader when needed, whatever is required. I want to show that I can play.”

Tuanzebe’s accent may be pure Rochdale, but he is inspired by his Congolese roots.

“My mum and dad wanted to give us a better opportunity in life,” he said. “The chance to become someone, to do something with ourselves.

“I want to give something back to the people I love. We still have family living in the Congo who I would like to help out one day.”

And he explained his distinctive first name, adding: “My parents were going to call me Alex but my uncle liked Axel so they went with that. It’s uncommon. I like it.”

SOURCE: All Football

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Kenedy Says Newcastle Loan Move is 'Dream Come True'

New loan signing Kenedy says the chance to play for Newcastle is a "dream come true".

The 21-year-old midfielder arrived on Tyneside on January 23 as Newcastle's first signing of the January transfer window.

He said: "When I was a child, I used to play with my friends in the streets and I always dreamt [of] being in a club like this one. And now the dream has come true.

"It's a really important time in my career and I hope I can do my best. I'm here to learn and show my potential is not just potential, but that I can do things in the future."

Kenedy got his big chance when Chelsea paid Fluminese £6.3m for him in July 2015, although his opportunities at Stamford Bridge have been limited to date.

He was given a formal warning by the FA for his comments on social media which also saw him sent home from Chelsea's pre-season tour of China.

A colourful character, he boasts a series of tattoos, one of which reads, "Forgive me, mum, for my crazy life".

He grew up idolising Adriano, Romario and Ronaldo, and admits some of his knowledge of his current club comes courtesy of the film trilogy Goal, in which a young player from Los Angeles gets his big break at Newcastle.

Kenedy learned his football playing on the streets on his native Brazil, but revealed he had to make sacrifices early on.

"I left home at the age of eight or nine. My uncle was my manager, and he gave me the chance to play for Fluminense. Then, I moved to Europe when I was 19.

"I moved from Santa Rita do Sapucai, a city in the countryside in Minas Gerais, to Rio de Janeiro. It's about 300 miles, more or less the same as from Newcastle to London."

Asked if he was scared by the prospect of moving so far from home at that age, he replied: "No, it was fine, it was okay for me."

SOURCE: All Football

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Chelsea Offer Luiz to Arsenal in Giroud Swap Deal

Goal takes a look at the biggest transfer rumours from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A and beyond as we head into the winter window

Chelsea offer Luiz to Arsenal in Giroud swap

Chelsea have offered David Luiz to Arsenal as part of a swap deal involving Olivier Giroud, according to the Daily Star.

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger reportedly has been interested in a move for Brazilian centre-back, who has become surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.

Luiz would be a welcome boost to the Arsenal defence, with Wenger deterred by the price of West Brom centre-back Jonny Evans.

Arsenal & Liverpool dealt Lemar blow

Arsenal and Liverpool have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Monaco midfielder Thomas Lemar.

Both Premier League clubs remain keen on the France international, but despite him missing Monaco's last two matches with a mystery injury, the Ligue 1 champions insist he is not for sale during the January window.

Chelsea hold out Dzeko hope

Chelsea are still hopeful of signing Edin Dzeko from Roma, but are lining up Olivier Giroud and Fernando Llorente as alternatives, Goal understands.

The Blues' move for striker has stalled and they see the Arsenal and Tottenham players as good options to turn to should there be a lack of progress on Dzeko's side.

Read the full story on Goal!

Dortmund consider Giroud move

Borussia Dortmund are considering making another attempt to lure Olivier Giroud from Arsenal to replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as he nears his move to the Emirates Stadium, according to Kicker.

Dortmund previously had an interest in signing Giroud, but he opted to stay in London and although he has been linked to Chelsea this month, the Blues have also lined up Fernando Llorente as an alternative.

The German club are already said to be looking at Chelsea's Michy Batshuayi, but they could fancy their chances of landing Giroud this time around and will consider making a move for him.

Chelsea won't sell Hazard to Man City

Chelsea have ruled out any possibility of allowing Eden Hazard to join Manchester City as interest from the Premier League leaders emerges, The Telegraph reports.

Goal understands City are hoping to beat Real Madrid to the signing of the Belgium international, with Pep Guardiola's men linked to a £100 million move for him.

However, Chelsea are said to have no interest in letting their star man join their domestic rivals and would even refuse a world record offer from City.

Barca confident in Arthur approach

Barcelona have made an official approach for Gremio star Arthur and expect to conclude negotiations over a summer move soon, UOL reports.

The 21-year-old midfielder has been linked with several top sides in Europe, including Real Madrid, Chelsea and AC Milan, but it is the Catalan side who have moved first to sign him.

Barca representative Andre Cury met with the club's directors and the player's agent in Brazil and further talks are set to take place, with the Spanish giants said to be offering €30 million, which is €10m under Gremio's asking price.

Chelsea and Arsenal agree Giroud fee

Having missed out on signing Edin Dzeko, Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud, reports Gianluca DiMarzio.

The Blues were unable to land Roma striker Dzeko and have now shaken hands on a £15 million fee plus incentives for the France international.

The move will enable Michy Batshuayi to leave Stamford Bridge on loan, with Borussia Dortmund linked witht the Belgian.

Barca to rival Madrid for Skriniar signing

Barcelona will enter a battle with Real Madrid for the signing of Inter defender Milan Skriniar, according to Don Balon.

The centre-back has been a star in the Inter defence this season after impressing for Sampdoria last term, prompting Madrid to highlight him as a top target.

But Barcelona are hoping to hinder their rivals' hopes of landing the 22-year-old.

Athletic close on Inigo Martinez

Athletic Club are closing on a deal to sign Barcelona and Manchester City target Inigo Martinez from Real Sociedad.

With Aymeric Laporte set to join City, the Basque club have moved quickly and are set to make Martinez the most expensive Spanish defender in history.

Read the full story here on Goal!

West Brom land Sturridge on loan

Daniel Sturridge has joined West Brom on loan from Liverpool, with the Baggies beating Inter and Premier League rivals Newcastle United to the striker's signature.

Both clubs have confirmed the deal with West Brom paying a £2 million loan fee and the entirety of Sturridge's £120,000 a week wages

Newcastle appeared to be in the lead for Sturridge, only to have West Brom emerge as the actual destination for the England international.

Read the full story on Goal!

Chelsea's Musonda joins Celtic on loan

Charly Musonda has completed an 18-month long loan move from Chelsea to Scottish Premiership giants Celtic, the clubs have confirmed.

Celtic beat a host of clubs to the 21-year-old midfielder, including Real Betis, Leganes and Nottingham Forest, whilst several English clubs were also thought to be interested.

Read the full story on Goal!

Watford take Deulofeu on loan

Barcelona winger Gerard Deulofeu is heading back to England having agreed a loan move to Watford for the remainder of the 2017-18 season.

The Hornets will pay the entirety of Deulofeu's salary in addition to a €1 million fee.

Deulofeu previous played two season with Everton before going out on loan to AC Milan in 2016-17 and returning to Barcelona prior to the current campaign.

Read the full story on Goal!

Lucas travels to London complete Spurs move

Paris Saint-Germain winger Lucas Moura is travelling to London to complete a £25 million move to Tottenham, Goal understands.

The winger is not in PSG boss Unai Emery’s plans, with the manager telling the attacker to find a new club due to lack of available playing time.

While Manchester United and Arsenal have been linked to Lucas, Lucas is headed to London to undergo a medical at Spurs that will take place Tuesday.

Read the full story on Goal!

Madrid to anger Ronaldo and pay Neymar €50m per year

Real Madrid are prepared to make Neymar the highest-paid player on the planet if they can sign him from Paris Saint-Germain, according to Don Balon.

Los Blancos would need to part with a fee of €300 million to get PSG to part with the former Barcelona star and then hand him a salary approaching €50m per season.

That could set up a conflict with Cristiano Ronaldo who makes €25m per season and wants a new contract.

Source : All Football

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Beckham Wants Ibrahimovic to Stay at Old Trafford Amid Interest From MLS

The former Red Devils and LA Galaxy star doesn't want to see the Swedish star leave for Southern California just yet

David Beckham wants Zlatan Ibrahimovic to stay at Manchester United amid reported interest from the LA Galaxy.

ESPN reported Sunday that the Swedish striker is closing in on a deal to join the five-time MLS champions, with United manager Jose Mourinho explaining Monday that he wouldn't stand in the way of a potential move.

Speaking at Monday's event that confirmed his Miami franchise as the next MLS expansion team, Beckham said he isn't ready to see his former Paris Saint-Germain teammate make the move to Southern California just yet.

"No matter how you talk about him, he's one of the best players, one of the best people, and if he comes to this league at some point it would be great," Beckham told ESPN. "But at the moment he's a Manchester United player and I'm happy about that, and I want him to stay there. But at some point he might come here."

Beckham played for United from 1992 to 2003 and the Galaxy from 2007 to 2012, giving the former England captain a unique insight into Ibrahimovic's decision-making process.

While some critics believe Ibrahimovic would be coming to MLS too late, with the 36-year-old limited to one start in the Premier League this season after recovering from major knee surgery, Beckham is more optimistic.

"Any mention of any great player like Zlatan coming to this league can only be good for the league," he said. "The fact that I joined [the Galaxy] from a small team like Real Madrid — when you're playing for a team like Real Madrid and you make that decision and that time to actually come to a league that is not as established as it is now, that was a big move for me back in the day.

"But now this league is talked about globally. You're talking about players that have played in this league already — you look at players as great as Kaka, he's come in and he's played in this league.

"And when you talk about Zlatan, yeah, it's great that it's talked about like that, and he would be more than welcomed into this league by fans, by players. It doesn't matter what injuries he has had over his career — he's a beast."

SOURCE: All Football

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Isco Fallen Out of First Eleven in Recent Matches

Isco has fallen out of Real Madrid's starting line-up in recent matches, just as Los Blancos have put together two successive victories in LaLiga for the first time since October.

This may not mean anything or conversely it could give an indication as to what Zinedine Zidane wants to do to prepare for the monstrous tie with Paris Saint-Germain.

The former Malaga midfielder has suffered since the return of Gareth Bale to the starting XI.

It's impossible to deny that the midfielder played well or very well in many matches, however, it's also the case that Isco was one of the major disappointments in matches where Los Blancos struggled and have ultimately lost the league.

It's not about arguing his talents as a footballer, that's foolish, because many times he was the only shred of support Real Madrid had to hang onto.

But the fact remains that he didn't support the team enough.

Of course, it was not Isco's fault but other circumstances such as a lack of clinical finishing, defensive inconsistencies, bad refereeing decisions and a crisis of confidence throughout the team since August have made more of an impact.

The reality is that if Isco plays well, Real Madrid doesn't always win the match.

If Luka Modric and Toni Kroos do then it's difficult to see how Los Blancos don't emerge victorious.

In the last two matches against Deportivo La Coruna and Valencia, Isco wasn't on the pitch as the team scored 11 goals in total, nor was he present when Los Blancos eased to a 5-0 victory over Sevilla.

He also didn't play in the 3-0 defeat at the hands of Barcelona but across the matches where the defending champions have dropped the most points, he has been there.

Involved in the Copa del Rey debacle where he was substituted, he left the pitch furiously without even acknowledging Zidane or Borja Mayoral, who entered in his place.

It's a question of whether the style of the former Malaga playmaker fits with that of Real, a club that are more efficient on the counter than in possession.

There is no doubt that when he plays with the national team he has produced some wonderful moments, like during the Spain-Italy qualifying fixture, but unfortunately Zidane must be thinking in another way.

Los Blancos are winning well without him and this has been noted by the French coach, but the fact is something has happened to Isco.

SOURCE: All Football

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FA Cup 5th Round Draw: Manchester City v Wigan in A Repeat of 2013 Final

Manchester City face an away trip to League One leaders Wigan in the fifth round of the FA Cup, while Chelsea host struggling Championship side Hull City.

The Premier League leaders beat Cardiff City 2-0 on Sunday to set up a tie with Paul Cook's side, who have a two-point lead at the top of English football's third tier.

Meanwhile, Manchester United will travel to take on the winner of Tuesday's fourth round replay between Birmingham and Huddersfield, and Tottenham, should they beat Newport on Wednesday, will face either Rochdale or Millwall.

Result of FA Cup 5th Round Draw:

Sheffield Wednesday vs Notts County/Swansea

West Brom vs Southampton

Chelsea vs Hull City

Leicester vs Sheffield United

Huddersfield/Birmingham vs Man Utd

Millwall/Rochdale vs Newport/Spurs

Brighton vs Coventry 

Wigan vs Man City

SOURCE: All Football

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OFFICIAL: Daniel Sturridge Completes Loan Move From Liverpool to West Brom

OFFICIAL: Daniel Sturridge completes loan move from Liverpool to West Brom for the rest of the season.

Liverpool can confirm Daniel Sturridge has joined West Bromwich Albion on loan until the end of the season.

The striker will spend the remainder of the 2017-18 campaign with the Baggies after finalising the deal today.

Sturridge, who recently marked five years with the Reds, has scored 63 goals in 133 appearances for the club following a transfer from Chelsea in January 2013.

This season so far, the 28-year-old has netted three times in 14 outings for Liverpool.

SOURCE: All Football

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OFFICIAL: Barcelona Winger Gerard Deulofeu Completes Loan Move to Watford Until End of Season

OFFICIAL: Barcelona winger Deulofeu moves on loan to Watford until the end of the season

FC Barcelona and Watford Football Club reach an agreement on the loan of Gerard Deulofeu until 30 June 2018. The agreement sees the English team cover his salary and a potential add on of one million euros.

110 games and three trophies

The Catalan winger will continue his development as a footballer with Watford Football Club until the end of this season. He started out as a nine-year-old at La Masia in 2003. From these beginnings, he impressed as a blaugrana and eight years later, in 2011, he made his debut for Luis Enrique’s Barça B team. In April of that year, when he was 17 he was called up to the first team by Guardiola. However, it wasn’t until August 2011 that he made his first team debut. 

After alternating between FC Barcelona and Barça B, the Club loaned him out to Everton in 2013. At the age of 20 he returned and was then loaned to Sevilla FC and he played for Unai Emery. He was then signed on a permanent basis by Everton and spent two seasons there in which he played 37 times and scored twice. Following this, he moved to AC Milan and his good performances in Italy earnt him a return to FC Barcelona, where he has played 17 games and scored twice. 

The winger from near Girona has played a total of 110 games for the first team and the B team. With the first team, he has won the league and two Spanish Supercups. In the 2011/12 season, he was the top scorer for Barça B with nine goals. He will now move to Watford Football Club in the Premier League until the end of this season.

SOURCE: All Football

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How Victoria & David Beckham Met Their Net Worth & Families

The couple known as "Posh and Becks" by the media have become extremely successful in business since moving on from their music and football careers

David and Victoria Beckham are one of the world's most famous couples having married in 1999 when both were at the peaks of their early careers.

Since moving on from football and music, the pair have become extremely successful business people, with Victoria building a fashion empire and David making money from the Beckham brand.

Goal looks at their respective careers, their net worth individually and together, how they met and who their children are.

How did they meet?

David Beckham pursued Victoria Adams after meeting the Spice Girls singer at a charity football game in London in 1997. However, the then-Manchester United star had spotted her earlier when a Spice Girls video was on TV, with Beckham telling Gary Neville that Victoria was his future wife: "I turned around to Gary and said, 'That one there, that's the girl I'm going to marry'."

Despite not asking her out after the game, the pair met again a fortnight later, with Beckham finally plucking up the courage to ask her for her phone number. They arranged a date for the next evening, with David driving all the way from Manchester to London.

Victoria admits that she was not even sure who David was when she met him: "I didn't really know who he was. I was never into football," she told W Magazine. "He was always with his mom, dad and sister while a lot of the footballers were at the bar getting drunk. I could sense right from the start that David was a gentleman, and very family-oriented, which is important because I'm the same."

When news of their romance hit the media, British tabloids named them "Posh and Becks" with their home later dubbed "Beckingham Palace". They married on Independence Day, 1999 at Luttrellstown Castle on the outskirts of Dublin, Ireland, where Gary Neville was Beckham's best man.

David Beckham's net worth

David Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 after calling time on a playing career spent at Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan and PSG. He played 115 times for England and won the Champions League as well as the domestic league title in four different countries.

According to the Richest, Beckham's net worth is $450 million (£325m), with earnings in 2017 of $65m (£47m). During his playing career, Beckham was listed at number eight on Forbes' list of the World's Highest Paid Athletes.

Forbes also indicate that he makes $42m (£37m) in endorsements, with the former footballer promoting clothing retailer H&M, Breitling watches and Haig Club whiskey. He owns a number of companies including Seven Global LLP and DB Ventures.

In addition, he is also on the ownership board of Beckham Miami United, who are responsible for bringing Major League Soccer back to Miami, with the franchise hoping to become an MLS expansion team by 2020.

Victoria Beckham's net worth

Victoria Beckham first came to prominence as a member of UK girl group the Spice Girls. Formed in 1994, they were one of the biggest pop acts of the 1990s, selling 85 million records worldwide. After their split in 2000, "Posh Spice" released a self-titled solo album, and had three top 10 singles in the UK on her own as well as a number two as a guest artist on True Steppers' single 'Out of Your Mind'.

Since ending her music career, she has become one of the world's most famous fashion designers. In 2011, "Victoria Beckham" won Designer Brand of the Year at the British Fashion Awards, and she went on to expand her brand with plus-size outfits and childrenswear in 2017.

The Richest estimates Victoria Beckham's net worth at $450m (£325m), which is the same total as they have assigned to her husband. Between them, David and Victoria Beckham have a combined net worth of almost $1 billion.

Harper's Bazaar reported that her fashion label was valued at $140m (£100m) in November 2017, with former Goldman Sachs banker David Belhassen investing $42m (£30m) with the intention of expanding the company's eCommerce presence.

David & Victoria Beckham's children

David and Victoria Beckham's first child was born four months before their wedding in 1999, Brooklyn Joseph Beckham, who reportedly was named after the place where he was conceived. However, Victoria denied this in her autobiography Learning to Fly, writing "It was when we were in Marbella that we came up with the name Brooklyn. We already knew he was a boy and so I knew he could end up a footballer, so it had to be a name that was a bit blokey. I had always liked the name Brooke and then we suddenly thought about Brooklyn."

Their second child, Romeo James Beckham was born in London in 2002, and then Cruz David Beckham was born in Madrid in 2005 when David was on the books of Real Madrid. They completed their family in 2011 with daughter Harper Seven Beckham.

Brooklyn has worked as a model and photographer, and also made headlines for dating actress Chloe-Grace Moretz. The younger Beckham children are all still at school, but Romeo has modelled for Burberry, while Cruz followed his mother's footsteps by releasing a pop single. Six-year-old Harper is usually kept out of the public spotlight.

Source: All Football

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Barcelona Sign Ballou Tabla From Montreal Impact

Ballou Tabla has become the first Montreal Impact academy product to be sold to Europe, with Barcelona snapping up the 18-year-old.

Barcelona have secured the signing of Canadian youngster Ballou Tabla from Montreal Impact on an initial three-year deal.

Ballou is said to have been tracked by Barça for several months after establishing himself as an emerging talent in Major League Soccer.

Montreal Impact's youngest ever player

The 18-year-old made 21 appearances in MLS last year, becoming the youngest player in Montreal's history and doing enough to catch the eye of Barça.

A right midfielder by trade, Ballou will join Barça's 'B' team in Spain's second tier, with the side occupying the final relegation spot in the table after 23 matches.

The Ivory Coast-born Canada Under-20 international has signed on for an initial three years with the option of another two.

25-million-euro release clause

His release clause is set at 25 million euros, but that will be increased to 75m should Barca take up the option of the two-year extension.

SOURCE: ALL FOOTBALL

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Gary Lineker Says Tottenham Faces 'Watershed Moment'

Gary Lineker feels Tottenham face a "watershed moment" as they seek to end a 10-year wait for silverware - and keep their star players.

Spurs won the 2008 League Cup but, led by Harry Kane and Dele Alli, finished second in the league last year.

They are fifth this season, but are in the fourth round of the FA Cup and last 16 of the Champions League.

"If they want to keep the likes of Kane and Alli, their star players, they'll have to pay the going rate," he said.

England forward Kane has scored 128 goals in 194 appearances for Spurs since making his debut in 2011, winning the Premier League golden boot in each of the last two seasons.

Both 24-year-old Kane and Alli, 21, are contracted to Spurs until 2022, having signed new deals at the end of 2016.

"I think Tottenham have to decide what they are. They'll also have to bring players in and challenge for titles because the great players want to win things, they want to be at places where they can do that," added former Tottenham and England striker Lineker.

"I suspect Harry Kane, he'd love that to happen, I think that would be his preference [to win things with Spurs]."

Tottenham face Newport County in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday and Italian champions Juventus in the last 16 of the Champions League next month.

"If Tottenham don't show the same ambition perhaps as one or two of the players, then they'll get a little bit disgruntled and they might seek different areas and different places to play, so it's a bit of a watershed moment for Tottenham," said Lineker.

Kane surpassed Alan Shearer's record for Premier League goals in a calendar year in 2017, prompting the former England captain to say it is "inevitable" Real Madrid and Barcelona will eventually come calling for Kane.

Unlike Shearer, Lineker did play overseas, having joined Spurs after a three-year stay at Barcelona.

"When those big boys come calling, it's quite difficult," added Lineker.

"It depends on your personality and what you want out of life and where you want to go, so we've all got different circumstances, so we'll have to wait and see."

Lineker also remains the only Englishman to have finished top scorer at a World Cup, with Kane set to lead the line for England in Russia later this year.

Kane has scored 12 goals in 23 appearances for England, including five goals in the successful qualifying campaign for Russia.

"Harry Kane is more capable of scoring different kinds of goals than I was but you still need a team behind you to support you to get yourself in that position," said Lineker.

"If he wins the Golden Boot, it means England will be doing pretty well, which will be a great thing."

SOURCE: ALL FOOTBALL

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Cristiano Ronaldo - We Still Have Battles To Conquer

All eyes will be on defending the Champions League at the Santiago Bernabeu, as their star striker insisted there was still plenty to play for

Cristiano Ronaldo issued a defiant message to Real Madrid's critics after Wednesday's Copa del Rey exit at the hands of Leganes plunged them further into crisis.

Leganes overturned a 1-0 first-leg loss to progress to the semi-finals of the Copa with a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday, although Ronaldo was left out of the squad.

A third home defeat in five matches in all competitions left coach Zinedine Zidane accepting his fate will be decided by next month's Champions League tie against Paris Saint-Germain.

And with Madrid 19 points behind rivals Barcelona in La Liga, retaining the Champions League again is Madrid's only realistic hope of adding silverware to the Supercopa de Espana they won at the start of the campaign.

Dani Carvajal admitted the Champions League is all that remains for Madrid to focus on and Ronaldo hinted at a similar target in a social media post.

"Cheer up team. Cheer up madridistas," Ronaldo wrote on Twitter. "We still have many battles to win."

Ronaldo's future remains the subject of intense transfer speculation, although Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has moved to play down rumours linking the Portuguese superstar with a return to Old Trafford.

"I think with the moment Real Madrid is having now, I think I should be the last one to add some fuel to the fire," Mourinho said on Thursday of a potential move for Ronaldo.

Madrid travel to Valencia in LaLiga on Saturday, with Zidane's side sitting fourth in the table, five points behind Los Che.

SOURCE: ALL FOOTBALL

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PSG Agreed To Sell Neymar To Real Madrid on One Condition (GOAL)

The Brazilian remains a top transfer target for the Liga giants and will be granted a move if he can help to deliver European success in France

Paris Saint-Germain are prepared to let Neymar join Real Madrid this summer if he helps the club to Champions League success, Goal understands.

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has promised the Brazil international that he will be granted permission to return to Spain if European glory is delivered in the French capital.

Over recent weeks, the 25-year-old has confided in those closest to him that he dreams of returning to Spain at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Neymar only left La Liga in the summer of 2017 as a record-breaking €222 million transfer carried him to Paris from Barcelona.

He is enjoying his time at Parc des Princes, with 24 goals recorded in just 23 appearances, but has made no secret of his desire to become a leading figure at Real.

The Blancos consider him to be the ideal heir to Cristiano Ronaldo, with the 32-year-old Portuguese being mentioned as a possible makeweight in a move for Neymar despite boasting countless records at the Bernabeu.

Neymar would relish taking on such a role, having harboured ambitions of representing Real since being in his early teens.

He spent 20 days on trial with the reigning La Liga champions back in 2006 , when he was just 13, and came close to securing a switch in 2013 following talks with Florentino Perez.

Barcelona eventually swooped to scupper those plans, but Real have refused to give up on a long-standing target.

Perez has remained vocal in his desire to get a deal done, with the Blancos president having urged Neymar to chase his Ballon d’Or dream with the Spanish giants .

He told reporters after seeing Ronaldo claim that particular prize for a fifth time in December 2017: “Being in Madrid would make it easier to win the Ballon d'Or.

“Real Madrid is a club which gives all you need as a big player, everyone knows that I already wanted to sign him at one point.”

Real could soon get their wish, despite Neymar being tied to a contract at PSG which is due to run until the summer of 2022.

There is no release clause in his current deal , such as the one triggered upon his exit from Camp Nou, with French football’s governing body (LFP) prohibiting such stipulations.

Any agreement with Madrid is therefore dependent on Al-Khelaifi giving the green light.

He is prepared to do that, but only if Neymar can help PSG to fulfil their ultimate ambition of claiming a Champions League triumph.

They have reached the last-32 stage of this season’s competition, where they are due to face Real, with the Ligue 1 leaders heavily fancied to mount a serious challenge for the continental crown.

SOURCE: ALL FOOTBALL

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Dortmund To Walk Away From Olivier Giroud Transfer Talks......But Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Could Join Gunners For £56m

The proposed sale of Olivier Giroud from Arsenal to Borussia Dortmund looks to be off as talks hit an impasse.

Borussia Dortmund wanted the France international to replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang but, despite an initial acceptance for the deal to progress, the Germans have been unimpressed with offers so far and Giroud is assessing other options.

Arsenal have increased their initial offer but it is still short of Dortmund's desired price for Aubameyang and has not been well received by the Bundesliga side.

Aubameyang is insistent on the move which is an advantage for Arsenal but there is a general acceptance that they will need to increase their bid to around £56million.

Dortmund may then revert to asking Chelsea for Michy Batshuayi rather than revive interest in Giroud. However, that will hinge on Chelsea signing Edin Dzeko or an alternative.

West Ham striker Diafra Sakho is discussing a potential move to French side Rennes.

The 28-year-old had been close to joining them before but saw a move fall through in the summer while a proposal earlier this month fell short of West Ham's valuation.

Rennes are now proposing a loan with a view to making the deal permanent should Sakho score seven goals.

Talks are centring on a potential £10million fee.

Crystal Palace, Swansea, Newcastle, West Brom and Bordeaux have all enquired for Sakho this month.

West Ham's new signing Joao Mario will fly to London ahead of his medical. The Portugual international is joining on loan for the rest of the season.

Manager David Moyes is looking to add another striker with Marko Arnautovic likely to be out for two weeks and midfielder Mario Lanzini out for up to six.

West Ham have a number of midfield and defensive options but, as Sportsmail reported on Monday, Moyes considers a move for Real Betis midfield prospect Fabian Ruiz to be too early in the career for the 21-year-old despite his undoubted talent.

Liverpool have beaten off late competition from Manchester United to sign Falkirk teenager Tony Gallacher.

The left-back, once coveted by Barcelona, is due to sign for Liverpool on Friday in a deal that could potentially rise to £1.2million.

Gallacher has been followed by Liverpool for over a year while Swansea City had been considered frontrunners for his signature prior to Christmas.

However, Liverpool invited him down for training last week and he impressed staff suitably for an offer to go in.

Manchester United though, had also followed Gallacher and, on finding out about Liverpool's move, made enquiries to sign the former Scotland U17 international themselves last week.

The 18-year-old travelled back to Scotland last weekend to hear of the rival interest but was set on a move to Liverpool.

Gallacher is expected to finalise terms on Friday.

Meanwhile, Red Bull Leipzig are primed to beat Manchester United to the signing of Umaro Embalo in a deal worth up to £12million.

The 16-year-old was wanted by United but they believe the price for Embalo is too high.

Chelsea have put a recall option in their loan deal for left-back Baba Rahman.

The Ghana is on his way for a medical at Schalke ahead of confirming his 18 month loan.

The 23-year-old, who has recovered from a knee ligament injury, was also a target for Everton and Inter Milan in recent weeks plus Monaco. His arrival precedes Chelsea's move for Emerson Palmieri with the Roma left-back expected to sign regardless of whether they can agree terms for his teammate Edin Dzeko.

The Bosnia international is understood to be looking for substantial wages and a longer contract than the one initially proposed.

Roma have been linked with a move for Erik Lamela at Tottenham, meanwhile, but that deal is considered unlikely.

Crystal Palace are pressing ahead in their bid to sign Lille defender Ibrahim Amadou.

The 24-year-old can also play as a defensive midfielder and will give Palace options as their injuries mount.

Lille want £16million for the former France U19 international but could be persuaded to part with him on an initial loan as first proposed by Palace earlier this month.

Lille are also braced for further interest from Everton for defender Adama Soumaoro while Manchester City continue to discuss 18-year-old midfielder Boubakary Soumare.

Everton are ready to allow Ademola Lookman to go out on loan. A number of Premier League sides have shown interest in the talented 20-year-old who is likely to slip down the pecking order following the arrival of Theo Walcott.

Derby County made enquiries in the summer for Lookman who cost Everton £11m from Charlton.

Everton striker Sandro has interest from Newcastle, Sevilla and Malaga while Davy Klaassen is an option for Fenerbahce.

Brighton are discussing moves for Real Betis midfielder Victor Camarasa and Ezri Konsa from Charlton Athletic.

The 23-year-old Camarasa impressed on loan at Alaves from Levante last season and Betis moved to sign him in the summer for for £6million.

He has started just 11 of their 20 league games but Brighton were on his trail last summer and have revived their interest as they look to put in a bid of around £8million.

Manager Chris Hughton is keen to add a couple more players to his squad as they begin to slip back into the relegation zone.

Highly-rated Konsa has been the subject of interest from Liverpool and Everton but both have been put off by the League One club's £5million asking price. The 20-year-old centre-back has been with Charlton since he was 12 and has been capped by England at U20 level.

Brighton have had an £8million bid rejected for Newcastle striker Aleksandar Mitrovic and were rebuffed in an attempt to sign Bristol City defender Aden Fint for £6million.

Brighton have also asked about Wigan Athletic midfielder Nick Powell.

Bournemouth are weighing up a bid for Dundee defender Jack Hendry after watching him against Hibernian on Wednesday.

West Ham also watched the 22-year-old who was unable to prevent his side losing 1-0.

Celtic have already had a £500,000 bid rejected for Hendry and Dundee's price is rising as clubs latch on to the promise of the young centre-back.

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