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2026-05-24 (A)(LgPL)
3-0 vs Brighton & Hove Albion
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3-2 vs Nottingham Forest
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2026-05-09 (A)(LgPL)
0-0 vs Sunderland
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3-2 vs Liverpool
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2026-04-27 (H)(LgPL)
2-1 vs Brentford
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Manchester United transfer latest as stance revealed on deal for Tottenham captain
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 17:00:35 +0000
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Cristian Romero of Tottenham.
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Manchester United have clear centre-back transfer plan - and it doesn't include Cristian Romero
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 16:30:28 +0000
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Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt have to prove their fitness next season
On paper, Manchester United's centre-back options look good. You have the experienced leader of the pack, an Argentine and Netherlands international both in their prime, then the 20-year-old and 19-year-old tipped for a big future in the game.
There is strength in the air and combative defenders in the duel, two left-footed options, and a blend of line-breaking passers and those who can carry the ball out of defence. It seems like every box is ticked.
The problem is that the game isn't played on paper, and getting United's five centre-back options on the pitch is proving considerably more difficult, posing something of a dilemma heading into next season.
To get it, it's a simple one-two punch.
Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are the five options at Michael Carrick's disposal, and if they are all available, that is enough strength in depth to get through a campaign when you could be fighting on four fronts.
But the likelihood of all of them being available is slim. They won't even start the season all fighting fit, with De Ligt still in rehabilitation after back surgery in May, meaning his absence will likely stretch to 10 months.
Let's take them in order and consider the risks associated with each. At 33, Maguire has just signed a one-year extension with the option for a further 12 months. He was outstanding under Michael Carrick in the second half of last season.
But as you would expect of a player of that age, Maguire has started to struggle with injuries. He missed 10 games through two separate injury problems last year, but was unavailable for more than 15 games the year before with four different issues. That is a concern, but it should be manageable for someone with that experience.
Martinez is arguably the biggest problem. He makes United better with his ability on the ball in defence and his relish of one-on-one defending, but serious injuries have blighted his four years at Old Trafford. He has started 65 out of 152 Premier League games since he joined the club from Ajax.
De Ligt was beginning to look like the elite-level centre-back everyone expected him to develop into at the start of last season. He was an ever-present until the end of November and looked to be rediscovering the form that convinced Juventus to pay €75m when he was 19.
But that back injury has derailed his momentum. He resisted the idea of surgery in a bid to return before the end of the season and force his way into the Netherlands' World Cup squad, but had to admit defeat and go under the knife. He hopes that will solve the problems once and for all and allow him a fresh start early next season.
A knee injury and a foot injury meant De Ligt missed eight games in his first season at United, but he is still only 26 and has time to prove his fitness issues aren't going to be a recurring problem.
Yoro and Heaven don't have the same concerns. The 20-year-old Frenchman was available for 37 of United's 38 Premier League games last season and his challenge is finding the consistency in performances that made him one of the most highly-rated teenagers in Europe when United beat Real Madrid to his signature.
Heaven, 19, has delivered some eye-catching displays since joining from Arsenal 18 months ago and that £1.5million transfer fee looks like a bargain. He is waiting in the wings for more game time.
Those five centre-backs cost United around £235million and collectively around £650,000-a-week. For an elite club, those figures should be enough to field an excellent central defensive partnership.
As people in the industry often say though, you need the money on the pitch, and that is the problem for United. Martinez, 28, and De Ligt, 26, should be their starting centre-backs, but they have played together so little due to injuries.
The figures quoted above are why United are reluctant to enter the market for a centre-back this summer. If those five do stay fit, it would also stunt the development of Yoro and Heaven. Although they have been linked with Tottenham duo Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, there are no plans to sign a central defender at the moment.
United's budget this summer is focused heavily on the midfield, while a left-back is also a must. They could also move for a winger and add a forward if Joshua Zirkzee leaves.
The only way a defender could arrive is if someone is sold, but those injury concerns rule that out. Instead, next summer is the time to look for an elite-level centre-back. Maguire could leave on a free transfer then, and Martinez is also out of contract at the end of the season.
If the Argentine endures another injury-hit campaign, the time will have come to cut ties. De Ligt's situation will also be assessed in the summer of 2027.
Having overhauled the attack last summer and with the aim of doing the same in midfield this year, 2027 could be the year of the defence. For now, United will hope their five options for this season can deliver on the pitch what they look capable of on paper.
Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.
Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.
Tyrone Marshall is a senior football writer who reports on the game across the region, with particular expertise in Manchester United and Manchester City. A seasoned journalist, he began by covering Burnley during their time in the Premier League before joining the Manchester Evening News (MEN) in 2018. Since then, he has closely followed the fortunes of both United and City, delivering comprehensive coverage of two of the country’s biggest clubs.
Over the course of his career, Tyrone has reported from major domestic and European finals and travelled on multiple pre-season tours, providing on-the-ground insight and analysis. His work spans breaking news, in-depth features, match reports and opinion pieces, and he currently leads the MEN’s Manchester United coverage. Recognised for the quality of his reporting, Tyrone has received industry awards for his football journalism.
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At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the "Do Not Sell or Share my Data" button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.
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Kai Rooney's drastic body transformation ahead of Man United pre-season stirs excitement
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 15:30:32 +0000
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Kai Rooney has sent fans into a frenzy
Kai Rooney could soon be treading a similar path to his father at Manchester United after catching the eye for the academy side last season.
His activities beyond the football field in the lead-up to pre-season have sparked excitement among the Old Trafford faithful, hinting he may be readying himself for first-team action. Kai, the 16-year-old son of the legendary Wayne Rooney, is preparing for what could be a pivotal season with Michael Carrick confirmed as the club's new permanent boss in May.
Despite fierce competition for places in forward positions, it seems he is relishing the challenge. The youngster shared an enigmatic photograph on social media on Tuesday, which left supporters both puzzled and thrilled in equal measure.
Posted to his Instagram Stories, Rooney's picture appeared to show a man flexing his bicep in the gym. Supporters were split over whether it was him in the snap or somebody else altogether, before Kai subsequently confirmed in a later post that it was, in fact, him.
That prompted even greater enthusiasm from the United supporters, who are becoming increasingly animated about the talented forward's prospects. One supporter wrote on X: "Kai Rooney will be the only player to ever match/surpass his father's superstar status, records, and achievements in football history."
Another commented: "Damn how did we get from this to that in three months, this kid wants to oppress defenders like his father did."
The young Rooney has been upping his physique in the gym
He showed off his new build on social media
Rooney was sidelined for the closing months of the 2025/26 campaign following his Under-18s debut in January. With considerable time away from the pitch, it seems he may well have been dedicating hours in the gym to build his physique.
Given his age, it would come as no shock if he were looking to add muscle ahead of a potential Premier League breakthrough next term. Carrick is fully aware of Rooney's ability and would have observed him closely, having progressed through the same youth set-up as his son, Jacey.
The United manager has been seen assessing the Under-18s last season, and he may be prepared to offer him an opportunity to shine in domestic cup competitions next season. He could shortly follow in the footsteps of the likes of Shea Lacey in making the step up to the first team, alongside United prodigy JJ Gabriel.
Kai has already impressed in United colours
Young Kai has missed the opportunity to become United's youngest-ever player, as he has exceeded the age of the club's youngest footballer on record, David Gaskell. That record has remained intact since 1955 despite United's tradition of promoting academy graduates.
However, he could still carve his name into the club's history books as their youngest in the Premier League era. That distinction currently belongs to Shola Shoretire, who featured in the 2020/21 season at the age of 17 years and 19 days.
He could surpass his father's record from 24 years ago, which launched him into the spotlight. Rooney Snr. famously made his Everton debut aged 16 years and 297 days old, scoring the winner against Arsenal back in August 2002.
Kai can make his bow 12 days earlier than that if he features on the opening day of the Premier League season in mid-August. Even if he fails to persuade Carrick before then, United supporters are clearly excited by the possibility of another member of the Rooney family appearing at Old Trafford.
Sky is knocking 20% off its entire range of Glass TVs to mark the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Until June 17, shoppers can upgrade to the Sky smart TV that's ' designed for football' from £4.50 per month when taken alongside a Sky TV and Netflix package.
Choose Manchester Evening News as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.
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Manchester United 'plot Leeds United swoop' despite deal for star Casemiro loves
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 15:30:31 +0000
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Casemiro has already made his feelings clear about the importance of one Manchester United star
Manchester United are said to be keen on bringing in Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow this summer as they look for an experienced deputy in that position. The 35-year-old's deal at Elland Road is due to run out later this month, making him available as a free agent.
According to The Athletic, the Whites are eager to hand Darlow fresh terms to retain his services despite United's interest, and are anticipated to table a new offer. United have also reportedly held talks over a potential move for Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, who progressed through the academy at Old Trafford.
The 33-year-old departed United in 2018 and has built a solid career since, despite never featuring for the Reds' senior side. It comes despite United having just renewed veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton's contract for a further season.
The 40-year-old was anticipated to depart Old Trafford this summer, but has committed to staying for another campaign. Heaton initially joined the club in 2021 and has only made three first-team outings during that period.
Despite his limited playing time, he's regarded as a vital squad member and fulfils an important role in maintaining standards off the pitch. One player who will certainly be departing United this summer is Casemiro, whose Old Trafford contract is also set to expire.
Tom Heaton has been back at Manchester United since 2021
The Brazilian has previously highlighted the vital role Heaton plays within the dressing room, and the importance of his presence.
"He [Heaton] is very important. Very important for us," Casemiro told the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel.
"He pushes the training, he pushes in the game, of course, he doesn't play, but he pushes every time. For me, everyone needs this guy; he helps the room so much."
United are anticipated to overhaul their goalkeeping ranks, with Altay Bayindir set to depart, while questions remain over Andre Onana's future at Old Trafford.
The latter spent last season on loan in Turkey and United are keen to recoup funds on the keeper, though reports suggest he wishes to remain and compete with Senne Lammens for the first-choice position.
Sky is knocking 20% off its entire range of Glass TVs to mark the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Until June 17, shoppers can upgrade to the Sky smart TV that's ' designed for football' from £4.50 per month when taken alongside a Sky TV and Netflix package.
Choose Manchester Evening News as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the "Do Not Sell or Share my Data" button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.
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Manchester United transfer stance on Tottenham defender Cristian Romero
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 15:00:37 +0000
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Tottenham defender Romero.
Manchester United are not preparing a bid for Tottenham defender Cristian Romero. On Monday night, reports from Argentina claimed United wanted to sign Romero and an offer was being prepared.
United sources have dismissed that suggestion. The report is understood to be wide of the mark, with Romero not on United's summer wishlist.
Romero has captained Tottenham as they have finished 17th in back-to-back seasons in the Premier League. Spurs' top-flight status was in serious danger this term, but Roberto De Zerbi kept them in the division.
To get it, it's a simple one-two punch.
Tottenham defender Romero missed the end of the campaign due to a knee injury. He travelled back to Argentina, but was forced to return to England to watch Spurs' final game of the season after receiving backlash.
The 28-year-old has suffered disciplinary issues during his time with Tottenham. He has been sent off six times with Spurs, including a straight red card against United at Old Trafford in February.
United are prioritising other areas of the squad this summer. The midfield is set to be overhauled, with a deal already agreed to sign Ederson from Atalanta, while the left side of the squad is also being looked at.
The recruitment team are analysing the left-back options in the transfer market. Newcastle defender Lewis Hall is admired, but he has three years remaining on his contract and manager Eddie Howe wants to keep him.
The Reds are aware of their centre-back situation, but Michael Carrick currently has five senior players in Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, and Ayden Heaven at his disposal.
Maguire and Martinez are Carrick's first-choice centre-back partnership. However, Maguire served a two-match suspension after receiving a red card against Bournemouth in March, while Martinez missed time on the pitch between February and March due to a calf injury.
The Argentina international was also suspended for three matches after being sent off for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin's ponytail when Leeds visited Old Trafford.
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At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the "Do Not Sell or Share my Data" button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.
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Casemiro 'recommends' transfer to Man United as parting gift as decisive meeting scheduled
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 12:00:34 +0000
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Casemiro reportedly recommended his Manchester United replacement
Casemiro reportedly offered Manchester United some advice over his replacement before departing Old Trafford — to sign Atalanta star Ederson. The midfielder is expected to join Michael Carrick's team later this summer in a deal worth up to £39million.
Veteran star Casemiro's contract expires at the end of the month after he waved goodbye to supporters in May to bring his four-season spell to an end. The former Real Madrid superstar struggled at times in the Premier League but was a key part of United's return to the Champions League as they finished third and he transformed how his time with the club is viewed.
Strengthening United's midfield was already a priority for Carrick and the recruitment team but Casemiro's exit ensured they are light in number of people to take charge of the centre of the pitch. Manuel Ugarte is also expected to depart, leaving Kobbie Mainoo with little company outside of more attacking options in Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount.
Atalanta and Manchester United have scheduled a 'decisive meeting' for Tuesday, according to reports in Brazil. The gathering should go a long way toward ironing out the finer details of a deal for the player recommended by Casemiro.
United may have to wait longer than expected to bring Ederson into their ranks, however. The 26-year-old was expected to arrive at United in time for the beginning of pre-season, but the Atalanta star received a late call-up to Brazil's World Cup squad.
Ederson has linked up with Casemiro to work under Carlo Ancelotti, and the tournament's final does not take place until after United's first pre-season match. As a result, the club have been forced to rethink their timetable.
Ederson was set to become Manchester United's first signing of the summer transfer window
The transfer could still be completed during the World Cup but it would require the player and the Brazilian football federation (CBF) to be open to the possibility. While United have agreed a four-year contract with the option of an extra year with Ederson, there remain issues to tie up.
The ex-Corinthians and Fortaleza ace, who has just three caps to his name, still needs to undergo a medical and will need to sign the paperwork to complete his transfer to Old Trafford.
A more likely timeframe would now see Ederson undergo his medical and complete any outstanding paperwork once Brazil's World Cup is over. Then Ederson will be granted a summer break before the start of the new season.
United's midfield moves won't end with Ederson, however. Newcastle star Sandro Tonali and West Ham's Mateus Fernandes have both been linked with Old Trafford.
The club view the latter as a 'highly realistic option' following West Ham's relegation to the Championship. They could yet face competition from Real Madrid.
A deal for Tonali may prove more difficult with the Magpies slapping a £100m price tag on the Italian midfielder.
Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.
Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.
Choose Manchester Evening News as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the "Do Not Sell or Share my Data" button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.
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Manchester United have been given a reminder of how close they came to transfer blunder
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 12:00:34 +0000
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Kobbie Mainoo has become a mainstay at Manchester United under Michael Carrick and is now in England's World Cup squad
A fascinating sub-plot during England's World Cup campaign might be how much pressure Kobbie Mainoo can put on the midfielders ahead of him as he tries to force his way into Thomas Tuchel's starting XI.
Mainoo had not long turned 19 when he was included in the squad for Euro 2024, but having started the tournament on the periphery and been a substitute in the group stage, he ended it as a regular starter, starting all four knockout games.
At that time, Mainoo looked like the golden boy of the English midfield, but he has lost ground over the last two years. Ruben Amorim's ignorance of Mainoo's qualities meant he played only sparingly for the Portuguese head coach, especially in the first half of last season.
To get it, it's a simple one-two punch.
As a result, he saw other young English midfielders move ahead of him. Adam Wharton was behind Mainoo in that Euro 2024 squad, but looked to have jumped the Stockport-born youngster last season. Elliot Anderson wasn't even in the squad two years ago, but is now nailed on to start alongside Declan Rice in Tuchel's midfield.
The good news for Mainoo is that United's decision to sack Amorim at the start of January and bring in former United midfielder in Michael Carrick has worked out perfectly for him. Within a couple of weeks, he went from looking for a mid-season loan to Napoli to an integral part of his boyhood team again.
Having not started a Premier League game until the middle of January, Mainoo's form in the second half of the season was so good that he was recalled to the England squad in March, having not been included since September 2024.
The 21-year-old got better as the season progressed and ended the campaign in the form of his life, delivering all-action midfield displays that showed how much his game has developed from the teenager who was outstanding on the ball but not always aware of his defensive duties.
That looked to be a thing of the past towards the end of this season and Mainoo can now combine outstanding technical ability with a greater strength in midfield, while his reading of the game and awareness of what's happening around him have also developed.
His performances saw him overtake Wharton for a place in England's 26-man World Cup squad. Mainoo might well be the next cab off the rank in midfield, behind Anderson and Rice. That duo have formed an impressive partnership but in the heat of North America, the United youngster will get a chance.
There was a reminder of just how impressive he is when full-back Tino Livramento appeared on England's in-house media show, Lions' Den, this week and spoke about Mainoo's qualities.
“One thing that's like, seeing Kobbie play two-touch. He's so good at two-touch. He'd be passing it or flicking it with his ankle and that," said the Newcastle United man.
It's a reminder of how close United came to losing the gem of their academy in recent years. Had Amorim not been sacked in January, Mainoo might well have left. Not on a permanent deal, but it seemed unlikely that the head coach and midfielder could co-exist forever at Old Trafford. One was going to have to make away.
Thankfully, for United and Mainoo, it was Amorim. Back in a 4-2-3-1 and playing alongside the experience of Casemiro, Mainoo excelled for United. He will need to develop a new partnership next season, and if United get their way, it would be alongside Anderson.
For now, Mainoo's sights might be trained on Anderson and launching a challenge for his place in Tuchel's strongest team.
Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.
Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.
Tyrone Marshall is a senior football writer who reports on the game across the region, with particular expertise in Manchester United and Manchester City. A seasoned journalist, he began by covering Burnley during their time in the Premier League before joining the Manchester Evening News (MEN) in 2018. Since then, he has closely followed the fortunes of both United and City, delivering comprehensive coverage of two of the country’s biggest clubs.
Over the course of his career, Tyrone has reported from major domestic and European finals and travelled on multiple pre-season tours, providing on-the-ground insight and analysis. His work spans breaking news, in-depth features, match reports and opinion pieces, and he currently leads the MEN’s Manchester United coverage. Recognised for the quality of his reporting, Tyrone has received industry awards for his football journalism.
Choose Manchester Evening News as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the "Do Not Sell or Share my Data" button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.
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Marcus Rashford suffers Man United exit blow as Barcelona forced to make desperate request
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 11:30:26 +0000
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Marcus Rashford's Barcelona hopes are hanging by a thread
Marcus Rasford's hopes of becoming a Barcelona player permanently continue to hang in the balance after the club's cash shortage was laid bare.
Following a successful season-long loan, Barca have the option to buy the Manchester United forward outright for around £26m this summer. However, the Catalan club are struggling to afford the fee and are hoping to haggle it down or extend his loan for another season.
That would go against the wishes of United, who want to cut ties with Rashford once and for all. Barca have until June 15 to trigger their option. However, the club's ability to stump up the fee looks questionable, amid the reports the club is 'running out of money' to complete work on the revamped Nou Camp.
Having spent a period playing at the Olympic Stadium, Barca returned to their legendary home in November, although the renovation work still isn't finished and the capacity has been capped at just under 63,000.
The overall projects has overrun and gone over budget, with a £1.25billion loan from Goldman Sachs proving not enough to complete the project. As a result, the club will ask to have its credit limit increased at either the upcoming Extraordinary General Assembly in July or at the next ordinary meeting before the start of next season.
If or when the extra finance is secured, the club will focus on building the two VIP rings and the third tier. That could take until next summer before the final stage, adding a roof, which will necessitate another temporary ground move.
Work is ongoing at the Nou Camp
That would presumably be back at the Olympic Stadium in the Montjuic, although a dispute with Barcelona City Council has raised questions over that.
Those financial issues go some way to explaining why Barca are reluctant to pay the full option fee of £26m for Rashford, who could see his hopes of joining permanently crushed.
Other clubs are waiting in the wings as Barcelona continue to stall. They include Bayern Munich, who are prepared to meet United's asking price but, according to The Sun, not his current wages.
Other clubs are interested in Rashford
Marca report that the 28-year-old has no interest in joining Vincent Kompany's side and is not responding to any approaches from other clubs, including Bayern. However, unless Barca can strike a deal with United, he may not have a choice.
For now, Rashford will be focused on the World Cup and England's final pre-tournament friendly against Costa Rica on Wednesday.
Manchester United have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27 season, i nspired by the club's heritage and featuring a classic polo collar with iconic adidas details.
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At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the "Do Not Sell or Share my Data" button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.
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Antony reveals Liverpool offer after Man United flop's 'very good proposal' to replace Mo Salah
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 11:00:37 +0000
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Former Manchester United winger Antony claims he came close to joining Liverpool and replace Mo Salah
Manchester United's decision to sign Antony has faced considerable scrutiny over the years, but the Brazilian has now revealed that Liverpool were also competing for his services before his switch to Old Trafford.
The winger has enjoyed one of the finest campaigns of his career at Real Betis, recording 14 goals and 10 assists in 46 outings across all competitions, and has restored his standing following a challenging period at United.
In an interview relayed by ESPN Brazil, Antony looked back on his 2022 transfer from Ajax to England, disclosing that, while Erik ten Hag and United eventually won his signature, they were not the only Premier League club involved.
Antony has claimed that Liverpool submitted a firm offer for his services before he committed to joining United. The Brazilian stated that at the time, then-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was exploring attacking options amid doubt surrounding Mohamed Salah's future, with the Egyptian striker engaged in contract discussions.
According to Antony, Liverpool were actively making contingency plans for a potential exit, placing themselves in contention before United finalised the transfer. "When I went to Manchester United, I had a proposal from Liverpool, from Klopp, on the table.
"It was also very good. Salah was negotiating a departure, but he ended up staying. Then the manager called me. The name of Manchester United carries weight."
Former Manchester United winger Antony claims he came close to joining Liverpool.
That information carries greater importance when viewed in retrospect. Salah eventually pledged his loyalty to Liverpool by penning a new deal and remaining the club's primary attacking focal point, while Antony instead followed Ten Hag to Old Trafford in a transfer worth approximately £82 million.
Salah would go on to remain on Merseyside for a further four years, claiming another Premier League crown amongst other accolades. He netted 257 goals in 442 appearances across all competitions for Liverpool, though a tally of merely 12 goals in 41 matches this season indicated a drop-off in productivity for the Egypt international.
Antony never truly lived up to his price tag and left United on a permanent deal last summer, but hit out at a 'lack of respect' during his time at Old Trafford.
"Look, I'm not the kind of guy who gets involved in controversies, who names people, in fact, I won't mention anyone's name here," he told ESPN Brazil.
"But I think there was a bit of a lack of respect there, even a bit of rudeness too, with no one giving you a good morning, a good afternoon.
"Not even that. But, anyway, that's in the past, I won't give much importance to these things. Now I'm here, at Betis, I'm living here, that's the most important thing for me."
Sky is knocking 20% off its entire range of Glass TVs to mark the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Until June 17, shoppers can upgrade to the Sky smart TV that's ' designed for football' from £4.50 per month when taken alongside a Sky TV and Netflix package.
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Jason Wilcox issues statement as Manchester United's final pre-season fixture confirmed
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Posted by
Bill on
2026-06-09 @ 11:00:36 +0000
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The Tarczynski Arena.
Manchester United's director of football Jason Wilcox has said the club are "excited" to conclude their pre-season tour with a friendly against Italian giants AC Milan at the Tarczynski Arena in Wroclaw, Poland.
On Tuesday, United officially announced they will play AC Milan in Wroclaw on Saturday, August 15. Michael Carrick will oversee his first pre-season as United boss following his permanent appointment last month, but a dozen senior players are representing their respective nations at the World Cup this summer.
That means several young players from the academy will get a chance to impress Carrick across the six friendlies, which will be played against Wrexham, Rosenborg, Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Leeds and AC Milan.
To get it, it's a simple one-two punch.
Reacting to the formal confirmation of the AC Milan friendly, Wilcox said: "We’re excited to be concluding our pre‑season tour in Wroclaw, Poland, with a big game against AC Milan.
“With fixtures now confirmed across five countries and six fantastic cities, these matches will provide strong preparation for the 2026/27 season and a valuable opportunity to connect with our incredible fans across Europe. Their support will be vital as we build momentum.”
United's pre-season tours around the world have been hugely commercially successful, but the club will stay in Europe this summer to protect their players from clocking up thousands of air miles.
United did not travel abroad for pre-season in 2020 or 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but the Reds have played outside their own continent in every other summer since 2003. Excluding the pandemic years, the last time United spent an entire pre-season in Europe was 2002.
United's pre-season schedule:
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