Transfer Rumours: Mangala to Porto, Conte to Axe Icardi, Fernandes to Man Utd (Again) & More

© Alessandro Sabattini/GettyImages Udinese v FC Internazionale - Serie A

​Sound the transfer rumour klaxon, the latest edition of #thegoss is here for you to enjoy.

Clubs around Europe are all ready to dive in head first into the sea of transfers, with their pockets stuffed with more money than you can ever imagine.

Here are seven more stories for you to look out for this summer.

West Ham 'Hold Talks' Over £16m Move for Olympiacos Star Kostas Fortounis © ARIS MESSINIS/GettyImages FBL-EUR-C3-OLYMPIAKOS-MILAN

After a strong end to last season, ​West Ham are eager to get started on their summer business, but the latest man to be linked with the club might leave fans scratching their heads.

That's because, according to ​The Sun, West Ham are keen to tie up a £16m deal for Olympiacos midfielder Kostas Fortounis, who has spent all but three years of his career playing in Greece.

After being quoted too much in their pursuit of ​Barcelona's ​Andre Gomes, the Hammers have been forced to look elsewhere. The 26-year-old did manage 17 goals and 16 assists this season, but chances are you're not alone if you haven't heard of him.

Eliaquim Mangala Emerges as Transfer Target for Former Club Porto as Man City Prepare Defensive Overhaul © Gareth Copley/GettyImages Eliaquim Mangala

Come on then, hands up who didn't even remember ​Eliaquim Mangala was still a ​Manche​ster City player. 

In Mangala's defence, it's not his fault he fell off the face of the earth. A serious knee injury sidelined the Frenchman in February 2018, and he has not been seen since. You get the feeling his days at the Etihad Stadium are numbered, and ​Sky Sports claim that Porto are interested in bringing the 28-year-old back for a second spell at the club.

​With ​Vincent Kompany on his way out and Nicolas Otamendi thought to be nearing the exit door, City only want to sign one more centre-back, but they've probably forgotten that Mangala is still on their books. It'd probably be in everyone's best interest if he moved on this summer.

Elseid Hysaj Confirms Napoli Departure Amid Links to Chelsea © Francesco Pecoraro/GettyImages Elseid Hysaj

Back in the day, ​Chelsea used to be perpetually linked to the likes of ​Lionel Messi, Radamel Falcao and ​Edinson Cavani. Nowadays, it's ​Napoli man Elseid Hysaj. Sigh. 

Speaking to DigitAlb (via ​Gianluca Di Marzio), the right-back confirmed that he will leave Naples this summer, insisting that he wants to join a team who can win trophies. His next move is currently unknown, although he has long been linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge to link up with Maurizio Sarri again.

A word of advice - don't mention this man's name on Twitter. Chelsea fans, without ever seeing him play, already do not want him around as he would push the future Ballon d'Or winner that is Reece James down the pecking order, and they won't hesitate to tell you.

Tottenham End Interest in Barcelona's Andre Gomes Amid Concerns of High Transfer Fee © Gareth Copley/GettyImages Andre Gomes

Andre Gomes played his way back into relevancy whilst on loan with ​Everton last season, although his future still remains away from Camp Nou.

La Blaugrana want up to £35m for Gomes, but ​Sky Sports claim that eternal penny-pinchers ​Tottenham Hotspur are not prepared to pay that, so they have ended their interest.

You have to feel for Spurs. Having transfer-phobia is no laughing matter. Although, they probably need to sign someone soon, and then maybe not wait 18 months to follow that up. Just a suggestion.

James Rodriguez to Clash With Real Madrid Over Desire to Move to Serie A © Alexander Hassenstein/GettyImages James Rodriquez

​James Rodriguez will almost certainly be one of the most high-profile casualties of Zinedine Zidane's squad overhaul this summer, but it seems like finding a deal which would please both parties is easier said than done.

According to ​Marca, ​Real Madrid want to sell him to the ​Premier League, because clubs there can offer that sweet, sweet cash. Unfortunately, there is one key problem, and that is that the midfielder intends to reject any advances from England.

He wants to move to ​Serie A, with ​Juventus and Napoli thought to be incredibly keen on signing him. It seems like Los Blancos are ready to talk to anyone who is ready to throw money their way, so now it's over to James.

Antonio Conte Ready to Axe Mauro Icardi as Part of Inter Rebuild © Francesco Pecoraro/GettyImages Mauro Icardi

Now, if there is one thing Antonio Conte is good at, it's politely and respectfully asking strikers to leave the club, just ask ​Diego Costa.

​La Gazzetta dello Sport state that Conte is up to his old tricks again with new employers ​Inter, and he is ready to cut ties with striker ​Mauro Icardi, over concerns that his personality, and his wife Wanda Nara, are detrimental to the club's future.​

They specifically state that Conte does not want to deal with "sexy poses on social media", and instead wants players who are only focused on the club. That's fine, but maybe don't send a text this time.

Bruno Fernandes Saga Takes Another Turn as Man Utd Become 'Frontrunners' in Race for Sporting CP Star © PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/GettyImages FBL-POR-LIGA-SPORTING-PORTIMONENSE

Did you know both Manchester City and ​Manchester United want Bruno Fernandes? If only there had been 1,000 reports about the whole situation, I bet people wouldn't be tired of that at all...

In the latest edition of 'We Don't Know What Is Going to Happen', ​A Bola state that it is United who have moved ahead of their cross-town rivals in their pursuit of the Sporting CP man. 

City are ready to offer €55m and some players, but United could offer up to €80m on its own. They could offer some players themselves, but Sporting probably don't want any of them. I can't imagine Sporting fighting to get Ashley Young included in this deal.

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What? Chelsea reportedly eyeing Coutinho if transfer ban is lifted

The report is sensational, if a bit illogical.

Multiple sources are running with the story that Chelsea would aim to buy Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona should their appeal of a two-window transfer ban prove successful.

[ MORE: U.S. U-20s move on ]

Chelsea is expected to sell Eden Hazard to Real Madrid in a bumper deal despite just one year remaining on the Belgian's contract, while Coutinho is 18 months younger and has a deal with Barca through the 2022-23 season.

Coutinho only managed 11 goals and five assists in his second season at the Camp Nou, far worse than the 10 goals and six assists he posted in a half-season the prior campaign.

In his career he's never managed more than 14 goals in a single season, including his time as Liverpool's main target. Hazard annually trumped that total, and Willian is coming off a better year at age 30.

Coutinho is capable of the sublime, but it seems like Chelsea fans might want to hope the transfer window stays shut in this case rather than drop over $100 million on a risky bet.

Arriving American youngster Christian Pulisic has better club momentum as it stands, Maurizio.

Follow @NicholasMendola

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Bradley soccer program unveils 13-player recruiting class

Staff

Wednesday May 29, 2019 at 4:01 PM May 29, 2019 at 11:50 PM

PEORIA — A transfer from a Big Ten school and 12 incoming freshmen make up the Bradley soccer team's recruiting class, announced by veteran coach Jim DeRose on Wednesday.

The newcomers are from six states and two foreign countries. In-state recruits are Springfield High forward Danny Collins, Maine South midfielder/forward Alex Olson, Jacksonville midfielder/forward Reed Rogers and Naperville Central's Cameron Strang, a 6-foot-5, 190-pound defender.

Former Penn State midfielder Mikey Conneh transferred to Bradley during the winter break. From England, he started four matches over his two seasons with the Nittany Lions. Defender Rasmus Smidtslund joins the Braves after fulfilling his military service commitment in his native Finland.

The new group joins an experienced roster that returns 14 lettermen from an 8-5-4 season. The Braves bring back top scorer and United Soccer Coaches All-West Region selection Gerit Wintermeyer (eight goals, four assists in 2018).

Also in the 13-player recruiting class are Jack Armitage of Lakeville, Minn.; Robert "Guy" Beasley of Brandon, Mich. Erik Catus of Des Moines, Iowa; Daniel Chandler of Frisco, Texas; Jack Douglas of St. Louis; Devin Slingsby of Beaverton, Ore.; and Camden Starzyk of Lake St. Louis, Mo.

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Eden Hazard Transfer Saga Nears Conclusion as Real Madrid Unveiling Date Is Set

© KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/GettyImages FBL-EUR-C3-CHELSEA-TRAINING

Real Madrid are set to unveil the signing of Chelsea forward Eden Hazard on June 3rd, provided there are no complications in the coming days.

The Belgian is in Baku, Azerbaijan, preparing to take on Arsenal in the Europa League final in what has long been touted as his final game for the Blues. It is understood that, as it stands, Hazard is wholly focussed on securing his sixth major trophy with the club, but once Wednesday's clash is over, he will finally make his move to Madrid.

According to reports from AS, the player will be unveiled in the famous white shirt on June 3rd, two days after the Champions League final, which will be the first one the club have not been a part of since 2015.

Speaking to Onda Cero, as relayed by the same publication, club president Florentino Perez was quick to play down reports that the deal was completed, citing Hazard's involvement in the Europa League final as the reason for this.

He proclaimed: "How are we supposed to talk to a club who are playing in a final? We've been trying for a number of years to make Hazard a Real Madrid player, but we haven't achieved it yet.

"I'd really like Hazard to come to Real Madrid and really hope he does. He is one of the best footballers."

However, this feels like a sincere underplaying of the situation, with the 28-year-old's future, as per the player himself, long been decided.

Despite this, ​Hazard's loyalty to the west London side has never been in doubt. Even with his expected move from Stamford Bridge, he was recently asked if he would consider moving to another English side, to which he replied: "No chance. I am a Blue! It means a lot to me."

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Sane in, James out - Bayern Munich’s transfer plans this summer

Despite winning the Bundesliga title for the seventh successive season, 2018-19 is seen as a disappointing campaign by many Bayern Munich supporters. For the first time in a decade, the title race went down to the final day with Bayern usually having the league wrapped up with a few games to spare.

New head coach Niko Kovac inherited a team in transition, but was still expected to dominate domestically. Bayern eventually stumbled over the finish line to another league title, but the nature of their performances at home and in Europe have piled pressure on the Croatian coach.

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Losing to back-to-back Champions League finalists Liverpool is nothing to be ashamed of, but the means of the European exit saw Bayern muster up little opposition to Jurgen Klopp's in-form side. Kovac's players hit out at negative tactics and a defensive approach, which also did not go unnoticed by Bayern's bosses, with Uli Hoeness and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge often contradicting each other about their head coach's future at the Allianz Arena.

With Bayern currently in the middle of a massive rebuild, summer 2019 promises to be a busy one for the Bavarian giants. Kovac's future is heavily in doubt and he currently faces the sack, especially with other promising coaches available on the market and Ajax's Erik ten Hag openly praised by the top men in Munich.

Bayern could very possibly have a coaching change this summer, but regardless of who is in charge for 2019-20, they need to continue their squad overhaul as they look to return to being a Champions League contender.

DEFENCE https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/b1/37/jerome-boateng-mats-hummels-bayern-munich_jc6ytpafq79r16gn857hjunyy.jpg?t=-997327999&w=500&quality=80

Bayern were the first of Europe's big clubs to make major waves in the transfer market ahead of the summer, spending over €100 million on new defenders before the domestic season even ended. Their backline has looked shaky at times this season, conceding over 30 goals in the Bundesliga for the first time since 2010-11 when they finished third under Louis van Gaal.

Veteran defender Jerome Boateng has regularly looked a shadow of his former self, prompting Germany manager Joachim Low to retire both him and long-time defensive partner Mats Hummels from the national team. Hummels still has a future at Bayern but Boateng should move on this summer, having flirted with Paris Saint-Germain last year. Manchester United used to be regularly linked to the centre-back also, but a move to France, Italy or even Major League Soccer seems likeliest for the 30-year-old.

Hummels is set to partner Niklas Sule next season, but the new defensive additions add depth across the backline. Bayern's first transfer was to agree a €35m (£31m/$40m) deal for World Cup winner Benjamin Pavard. The 23-year-old plays at right-back for France but lined out in the centre for Stuttgart. His ability to play on the right will provide additional tactical options, either playing as a backup to Joshua Kimmich or instead of the Germany international so Kimmich can move into defensive midfield.

Bayern also broke the Bundesliga transfer record to sign Lucas Hernandez from Atletico Madrid. The versatile defender was a transfer target in the winter window, but the clubs were able to agree an €80 million (£68m/$90m) deal in March so Hernandez could move this summer. Like Pavard on the right, Hernandez is adept at playing at left-back or in the middle. David Alaba has been in Munich since 2008 and is still one of the club's key players, so probably won't find his left-back spot in jeopardy. Hernandez should provide competition at centre-back and allow more rotation for the league and Champions League.

Kovac had only Rafinha in reserve to play at both full-back positions in 2018-19 and stood in for the suspended Joshua Kimmich against Liverpool in the 3-1 Champions League second-leg defeat. However, he played less than 1000 Bundesliga minutes this season and has already confirmed his exit from the club, with a transfer back to his native Brazil on the cards.

Manuel Neuer remains the club's undisputed number one goalkeeper, with Sven Ulreich acting as his backup. There had been rumours that Schalke goalkeeper Alexander Nubel could follow in Neuer's footsteps by leaving Gelsenkirchen for Munich, but the 22-year-old only wants to be first choice rather than a backup and would not be happy waiting for his chance behind the experienced shot-stopper. Ulreich has been seeking more game time as he turns 31 in August but with Neuer picking up injuries more often, a good offer would have to come for him to leave Munich.

MIDFIELD https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/5f/a9/renato-sanches-bayern-munich-2018-19_od00ukcnyumc13qtbsnibkeey.jpg?t=-1658417807&w=500&quality=80

The addition of Leon Goretzka on a free transfer has added extra competition to the Bayern Munich midfield. The former Schalke player turned 24 in February, so should remain an important figure in Munich for the next few seasons. He played in every Bundesliga game he was fit for this season, starting the majority of matches under Kovac. One player who suffered from Goretzka's presence in the Bayern midfield was Renato Sanches. The former European Golden Boy made just three Bundesliga starts this season and has admitted he may have to leave to find first-team football. A loan move could be on the cards once more, as Bayern are unlikely to recoup the €35m (£30m/$40) outlay they paid in 2016.

Goretzka's midfield partner Thiago scored just two goals in the league but contributed much more to Bayern's play as the Spain international was often the man tasked with unlocking difficult defences and teams who defended deep. He is always wanted by Europe's elite clubs, but it would take a lot of money and a transfer request from the 28-year-old for them to let him go. Javi Martinez is an easier target for interested clubs, turning 31 in September, but has defensive abilities that make him unique in the Bayern midfield.

Corentin Tolisso played in two of the first three games of the season, scoring in the third, but was injured just 42 minutes into that game and missed the rest of the season as a result. He has returned to fitness ahead of the summer and should be good to go again for the start of the new campaign. The French midfielder is just 24 and, like Goretzka, is seen as one of the future stars of the team.

The same cannot be said of James Rodriguez, whose future is in doubt after a two-year loan spell from Real Madrid. The Colombian has a €42m (£36m/$47m) purchase option in his loan deal, but concerns over where he fits in the team as well as a falling out with Kovac mean he is likely to return to Madrid if Bayern keep faith in their current coach. Real boss Zinedine Zidane is also not a huge fan of the attacking midfielder, so he will find himself on the transfer list again this summer.

With Tolisso returning from injury and Martinez set to stay, Bayern are weighing up whether to invest in midfield this summer. Atletico Madrid's Rodri is one of the most in-demand midfielders in Europe and is wanted by Bayern as well as a host of other top clubs including Manchester City.

ATTACK https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/1d/34/arjen-robben-bayern-munich-2018-19_1ij0d7xudgew1kcqj5osusyaf.jpg?t=-2088770278&w=500&quality=80

For the fourth time in six seasons, Robert Lewandowski finished as the Bundesliga's top scorer and despite some questions from fans over his ability in big games in Europe, he is still Bayern's key man up front. Young German striker Jann Fiete Arp has been signed from Hamburg and will arrive in Munich this summer, having said his goodbyes to his boyhood club.

A more prolific backup for Lewandowski would definitely help and may keep the Poland international on his toes as Bayern have not had an alternative in attack since allowing Sandro Wagner to leave for China in January. Thomas Muller is nominally a forward, but rarely leads the line and works best behind Lewandowski. His forced retirement from Germany should also give him more time to rest during the season and add to his longevity at club level.

Sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic found versatility in his defensive signings and would like the same with new additions up front. RB Leipzig forward Timo Werner is seen as someone who can provide competition for Lewandowski, but also play out wide and give depth on the wing. The 23-year-old's contract at Leipzig expires in 2020 and he has rejected a new deal with the intention of moving to Munich. However, the fee could prove a stumbling block for the clubs as Leipzig are still demanding a large sum for his services.

Werner's addition would help soften the blow of senior players Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery leaving. Neither player has been a key performer for Bayern this season, but both were excellent squad options out wide and made impacts off the bench. With Alphonso Davies still learning the trade in European football following his move from Major League Soccer, a more experienced winger is needed. Davies may find himself loaned out next season, along with Woo-yeong Jeong, as both need match experience to be ready for the first team.

Kingsley Coman has been excellent for the club, but is too injury prone to be trusted over the course of a full campaign. Serge Gnabry has flourished in his first season in Munich and has performed above expectations, becoming someone Kovac could rely on to get results. Robben and Ribery's exits mean that Gnabry is probably the only winger that there are no concerns over at the moment.

As a result, Bayern have been linked with many of Europe's most promising wide players. Lille's Nicolas Pepe has been touted as an option for the Bavarians, with the winger's club boss even saying he will wear red next season while claiming he has the qualities to replace Robben or Ribery. A cheaper option could be Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi. Like Werner, he has just one year left on his current club deal and could be available this summer if the price is right. Bayern Munich are hoping that Hudson-Odoi's current injury also helps lower his price, with the winger still eager to leave the Blues following January's failed exit.

Tottenham's Christian Eriksen had been rumoured, but is not under consideration by Bayern's bosses. Rummenigge would like a marquee signing that can be used to help promote the Bayern brand around the world, with Antoine Griezmann fitting the profile perfectly after announcing his desire to leave Atletico Madrid. However, Hoeness's desire to sign German players and his claims that he would not spend more than €80m on a player could scupper a move for the Barcelona target.

Germany international Leroy Sane ticks all the boxes for both Hoeness and Rummenigge, while the 23-year-old has not been first choice at Manchester City. Hoeness confirmed that the club are interested in bringing Sane back to Germany, having missed out on him when he left Schalke for Manchester in 2016. City have been trying to renew Sane's contract for a year, but he has so far refused their advances. Hoeness claimed that Bayern would not pay more than €80m for another player this season, but Goal understands that City likely accept an offer of €100m (£88m/$112m) from Bayern if they decided to break their transfer record for a second time in 2019.

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Football transfer rumours: Gareth Bale to make Tottenham return?

© Getty Images Gareth Bale has seemingly fallen out of favour at Real Madrid under Zinedine Zidane.

Hot off the heels of winning the tightest Premier League title race in aeons by a nose, Manchester City could conceivably find themselves subjected to an embarrassing one-season ban from the competition their Gulf owners are most desperate to win, according to the New York Times. The American newspaper says an investigation into accusations that the club "misled European soccer's financial regulators in pursuit of its success on the field is expected to recommend that the team be barred from the Champions League". According to reporter Tariq Panja, who knows a thing or two about the goings-on in football's corridors of power "it remains unclear if any Champions League ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign". Whether or not Uefa would be willing to cast such a wealthy, high profile club into the European football wilderness even for just one season, is another matter altogether.

Related: Riyad Mahrez happy to stay and take his chances at Manchester City

Surplus to the requirements of his manager Zinedine Zidane but with a £14m-per-year contract that could keep him at Real Madrid for another three years, Gareth Bale has quite the dilemma. Specifically, what to spend all that money on? As reported in Monday's Rumour Mill, his employers are eager to sell him on and Juventus has been identified as one particular destination. However, reports on the back pages suggest Real have offered him back to his former employers Tottenham, who would have to stump a £10m loan fee and pay around half the Welshman's £600,000 per-week (before tax) wages. Whether or not Spurs are interested remains to be seen, but Paris Saint-Germain could ride to Real's rescue if speculation that they're interested in taking a job lot of big-name talent comprising Bale, Isco and Toni Kroos off their hands turns out to have any basis in reality.

Tottenham are close to signing Ryan Sessegnon from Fulham for £25m, following the 18-year-old's rather underwhelming maiden season in the Premier League. So instrumental in helping his club win promotion from the Championship last season that he almost earned a call-up to England's World Cup squad, the full-back/winger was far from the only Fulham player to be unsettled by the club's subsequent, ill-advised £100m summer trolley dash and remains an incredible talent.

Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers is eager to make the loan signing of Youri Tielemans from Monaco more permanent before any other clubs try to turn the Belgian international's head, while Atlético Madrid are about to haul their striker Antoine Griezmann before the headmaster to explain rumours that he has agreed to leave them for Barcelona.

Meanwhile at Anfield, Liverpool's hopes of making a Premier League star of RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner were rumoured to have evaporated after it was reported that he was off to Bayern Munich. However, Leipzig chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff has told Sky he has no idea what Werner wants to do. "We haven't talked to Bayern Munich about Timo Werner yet," he said. "Maybe he doesn't even want to go to Munich. Maybe he would rather join [Thomas] Tuchel in Paris, [Jürgen] Klopp at Liverpool or [Lucien] Favre at Dortmund."

And finally, anyone old enough to remember German striker Jürgen Klinsmann's comical penchant for diving to win penalties during his time as a striker with Tottenham Hotspur will be unsurprised to learn that his son, Jonathan, has grown up to become a goalkeeper. Dissatisfied with the lack of game time he's getting at Hertha Berlin, the 22-year-old is being linked with a move to Rangers.

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MM 5.16: Clemson LB Shaq Smith in transfer portal, Maryland a likely destination

© Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

This is the Maryland Minute, a Shaq story followed by a roundup of Terps-related news.

Clemson linebacker Shaq Smith has reportedly entered the NCAA transfer portal and attached a "do not contact" tag, implying he doesn't want other schools to reach out to him. His connections to Maryland make the Terps the presumed favorite.

Smith, a rising redshirt junior, graduated this spring. The former four-star recruit has played a backup role the last two seasons at Clemson, recording 16 tackles (2.5 for loss) in limited action last season for the national champions. Smith also had 14 tackles and an interception in 2017. He's been expected to either win or seriously compete for a starting job with the Tigers, so his decision to leave certainly surprises some.

Maryland's relation to Smith centers on new defensive backs coach Cory Robinson, who was the Baltimore native's head coach at Calvert Hall before Smith left for IMG Academy. Robinson joined Mike Locksley's staff in December.

The Terps' depth chart at linebacker includes projected starters Keandre Jones, Ayinde Eley and Chance Campbell or Isaiah Davis, with Durell Nchami at the JACK position. If Smith joins the fold, he'd likely leapfrog most of that group, and assuming Jones is officially granted immediate eligibility, linebacker could become a strength for the Terps' defense.

Smith could still reach out to or visit other schools, and even end up somewhere else. But all signs point to College Park.

In other news

The NBA combine starts today! Here's what scouts will be looking for when Bruno Fernando takes the court in Chicago.

And here's the roundup of where the Angolan big man is landing in mock drafts.

Maryland men's soccer released its schedule for the 2019 season, and it's another challenging slate.

Women's lacrosse hosts Denver in the NCAA quarterfinals this Friday, but first, check out this video starring Megan Taylor and Caroline Steele.

Former Terps wrestling coach Kerry McCoy now has a new T-shirt line.

And ... apparently Mark Turgeon met Justin Timberlake.

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Crew SC Soccer Speakeasy podcast: Recapping the primary transfer window, the victory over LA Galaxy

The Columbus Dispatch

Thursday May 9, 2019 at 7:34 PM

Columbus Dispatch Crew SC beat reporter Jacob Myers and sports photographer Kyle Robertson recap the latest 3-1 victory over the LA Galaxy, talk about what moves the Columbus Crew SC made during the primary transfer window, and talk about what The Professional Referee Organization (PRO) had to say about the questionable call in the D.C. United match. Finally, we answer questions submitted via social media.

>> Listen to this episode of the Soccer Speakeasy podcast here

>>Join our Columbus Crew SC Fans Facebook group for the latest news, updates and to join in on the conversation.

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LIVE Transfer Talk: Bayern Munich want Sane as Pepe interest cools

With the transfer window for Europe's biggest clubs set to open soon -- find out when the transfer window opens and closes across Europe's top leagues -- rest assured that Transfer Talk is scouring the world's media and setting correspondents loose to see what is on the agenda. You can click here to review all the latest transfers.

TOP STORY: Bayern make move for City's Sane

Bayern Munich are in talks with Manchester City to sign Leroy Sane, according to the Daily Record.

They're reporting that the Bundesliga champions have been granted permission to meet Sane's representatives in a move to sign the player they tried to sign in 2016 before they were beaten to his signature... by City.

Bayern have cooled their interest in Lille forward Nicolas Pepe and instead are looking to make Sane their main man. City are reportedly pragmatic about the future of the 23-year-old Sane, with the star so far refusing to sign a contract extension before it runs out in 2021. City aren't prepared to see Sane run his contract down, while the player himself is looking for more first-team football.

Any sale of Sane could help fund Pep Guardiola's summer spend as he looks to bring four players into the club.

LIVE BLOG

12.26 BST: A Bola report that PSG are keen on Manchester United's Angel Gomes.

The 18-year-old, who has captained England at U16, U17 and U18 levels, reckons he should have played more this season and is ready to walk out on the club. Though we're not sure he would get much more of a run in the XI in Paris.

12.06 BST: Leganes coach Mauricio Pellegrino would like Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin to continue at the club but says Real Madrid have the final say.

Lunin has played three league games, just two as a starter, since joining Leganes on a season-long loan last summer. Reports in Spain claimed Leganes have asked Madrid for permission to extend Lunin's loan deal for another season.

An understudy of Pichu Cuellar at Leganes, Lunin is reportedly keen to continue with the Madrid minnows and Leganes are happy with the 20-year-old's performance. Lunin is contracted to Madrid until June 2024 but has Thibaut Courtois, Keylor Navas and Luca Zidane ahead of him in the pecking order at Madrid.

Pellegrino said: "Lunin's situation doesn't depend on us as we don't own him. But the club is working on it. He has grown a lot and we have to wait and see. He is very happy here and he is very enthusiastic about staying with us. We have to wait but I wish he can continue."

11.23 BST: Barcelona have reportedly turned down Benfica's first offer for Jasper Cillessen, say Sport. The backup goalkeeper is keen to move on in search of first-team football but Barca evidently want €30m and the Portuguese club only offered €12m.

10.59 BST: Niccolo Zaniolo says he expects to be a Roma player next season, dismissing links with Juventus and Tottenham Hotspur.

Tottenham are reported to have sent scouts to watch the 19-year-old at the weekend, but he told reporters in the Italian capital that he is happy where he is.

"It's always flattering to attract attention from big clubs, but I'm focused on Roma and these final two games," he said. "I'm very positive about signing a new contract and I'm happy to stay at Roma."

The Italy international signed a four-year contract when he arrived in the summer, as a makeweight in the deal which saw Radja Nainggolan move to Inter Milan. However, Roma are looking to improve his terms amid reports of interest from other clubs.

10.32 BST: La Liga president Javier Tebas is hopeful Antoine Griezmann will continue to play in La Liga, which basically means a move to Barcelona or Real Madrid.

"I hope he remains in the Spanish league," Tebas told Cadena Ser radio. "Griezmann is a great player, one wanted by half of Europe and there are six clubs that can afford to pay his release clause. The clause was going to go down so there was the possible prediction that Griezmann could leave, he was chosen in the top three of the Ballon d'Or award. It's difficult for Atletico to fight with those six clubs in Europe."

Tebas added on Cope radio: "That clause can only be paid by Madrid and Barca [in Spain]. Madrid has already said no ... so ..."

Le Parisien report that while Griezmann has been strongly linked with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain are also interested -- with the French giants having attempted to sign the player in 2016.

10.08 BST: Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has cast further doubt over the future of his club captain Lorenzo Insigne by revealing he has asked to leave several times in recent years.

Insigne has been made something of a scapegoat by Napoli fans when things have not gone well and De Laurentiis told reporters in Rome that he "didn't feel loved" at his hometown club.

"I certainly can't force him to stay if he doesn't want to," De Laurentiis said. "He has asked me to leave many times -- four years ago, six years ago and even recently before [Mino] Raiola became his agent because he didn't feel loved."

AC Milan had been linked with a move for the Italy international, although financial fair play restrictions would appear to rule them out of the running, while Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is reported to be an admirer of the 27-year-old.

09.47 BST: Marca says Barcelona right-back Nelson Semedo has offers in England and Italy. He's not been able to displace Sergi Roberto from the first-team so the club would reportedly consider any offers in the region of €35m.

09.13 BST: Atletico Madrid forward Luciano Vietto has joined Sporting Lisbon in a permanent transfer, with the Portuguese club agreeing to drop legal proceedings relating to winger Gelson Martins' departure for Atletico without any fee being paid last summer.

Atletico did not release any of the financial details involved, but a Sporting statement said the La Liga club would pay €22.5m for Gelson, with Sporting paying €7.5m for half of Argentine attacker Vietto's "future rights."

Vietto, 25, joined Atletico from Villarreal for €20m in summer 2015, but has never settled in the Spanish capital, and scored just one goal in 22 games on loan at Fulham last season. Gelson left Sporting amid their much publicised issues last summer but then struggled to impress Atletico coach Diego Simeone over the first six months of 2018/-9. After being loaned to Monaco in January, he helped them climb away from relegation trouble in Ligue 1.

08.47 BST: Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi says he is not yet ready to bring an end to his playing career after being told by the Giallorossi that his contract will not be extended this summer.

The 35-year-old has turned down an offer to become a director at Roma since he plans to carry on playing elsewhere next season, after 18 years in the Eternal City.

"I've not wanted to think about where to play next because I didn't want any distractions to the team as we push for a place in the Champions League, so I don't have any particular direction for the future, although I still feel like a footballer and I still have a burning desire to play football," said De Rossi at a news conference. "I'll go on holiday because I still need some time without thinking about football, then I think I'll find another club."

De Rossi, who turned down opportunities to play in the Premier League in the past, having stated his desire to play in England, added that he sees himself "more as a coach than a director" when he does decide to end his career.

08.30 BST: Keisuke Honda is hunting his next "great opportunity" as he seeks to keep his football career alive to the Tokyo Olympics next year.

Honda's A-League career was cut one game shorter than hoped last Sunday night as Melbourne Victory's season was brutally ended by Sydney FC. The Japan star had previously given his intention to leave Victory after one season in a deal made possible by FFA investment from the marquee fund, but doesn't know where he will land next.

"I've been thinking. I'm looking for a great opportunity to play for next season," he said. "But so far, I don't have any options. So we will see."

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1:48

ESPN FC's Stewart Robson says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's honeymoon is over and it's time for the Man United manager to start getting to work.

PAPER TALK (by Nick Judd) Tottenham duo off to Turin?

Having not signed a player for two years, Tottenham boss Mauricio Pocchettino is expected to splash some cash this summer, but he's also expected to sell players as he looks to freshen things up at White Hart Lane.

The biggest change could come at the back, with Calciomercato reporting that both Toby Alderweireld and Kieran Trippier have been offered to Italian champions Juventus.

The Italian site is reporting that Cristiano Ronaldo's employers have made contact with the Tottenham hierarchy, and are interested in activating the Belgian defender's £30 million release clause.

Alderweireld has been a long-term target for Manchester United, who now look set to miss out on their man as a result of not playing Champions League football next season. And while Alderweireld has been linked with a move away from Spurs in the last four transfer windows, he may feel Juve represent his strongest chance of lifting regular silverware both domestically and in Europe.

Tripper is seen as a potential replacement for Joao Cancelo, should the right-back move on this summer.

Inter close to signing Italian wonderkid

Inter Milan are close to signing one of Europe's most-wanted stars, Cagliari midfielder Nicolo Barella.

The Serie A giants have raced ahead of several Premier League clubs to land a player who has impressed with his consistency in the middle for Cagliari, and who has made his international debut for Italy this season.

Calciomercato are reporting that the two clubs are close to an agreement, with the player himself supposed to have already met coach Luciano Spalletti and the two clubs' presidents in communication since January.

The 22-year-old had recently stated that he knew little of any potential move to Inter and instead hinted that a move to England could be his favourited move. But now, it seems he could be sticking around Serie A.

Tap-ins

- Manchester United are reportedly prepared to break the bank to land Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly, according to Talksport. United are set for a major overhaul this summer and a central defensive rock is a top priority, with Koulibaly a long-term target.

- AC Milan are looking to build a new midfield for the 2019-20 season, reports Calciomercato. With the Rossoneri looking set to miss out on Champions League football next season, the club are looking to add midfield targets Alfred Duncan, Stefano Sensi and Sergey Milinkovic-Savic to play alongside current favourites Lucas Paqueta and Giacomo Bonaventura. This would appear to be bad news for Tiemoue Bakayoko, Franck Kessie and Lucas Biglia.

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The 15 most valuable teenage soccer players on the planet right now

Some of the most valuable assets in all of sport play on a soccer pitch, and even the next generation of superstars are commanding extraordinary valuations.

Identifying a player's transfer value is not easy, but a prominent research group in Switzerland — the CIES Football Observatory— has done just that by publishing a ranking of the most valuable under-20 soccer players in Europe's best leagues according to its own algorithm.

The Observatory only considers athletes competing in England's Premier League, Spain's La Liga, Italy's Serie A, Germany's Bundesliga, and France's Ligue 1, but says it has been able to calculate a player's value by monitoring soccer transactions since 2010, speaking to market actors (club executives operating in elite soccer), and studying factors like playing activity, the club the athlete plays for, the athlete's age, playing position, and economic level of the releasing club.

Read more: A 19-year-old broke down in tears after he showed the world why Europe's top soccer clubs want to sign him after one incredible performance

While the Observatory's list includes a number of players aged 20, Business Insider has omitted these to only look at world soccer's most valuable teenagers — and the most expensive would cost more than $150 million if he was bought today.

Here are the 15 most expensive youngsters in soccer, ranked in ascending order by transfer value:

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Everton 2018-19 Season Review: Summer Transfer Priorities

© Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images

Continuity and growth needed across the board

If the last quarter plus of this season is an indication of things to come, we have every reason to be very optimistic about the Everton project moving forward. Marcel Brands has bought well and Marco Silva (finally) figured out how to put the pieces together in a winning formula in the English Premier League.

The key this summer will be to ensure that we do not lose what we have, and that we build on the momentum we've built. With this in mind, I view Everton's potential transfer work in three main categories: securing what helped us this year, bringing our own young players into the fold, and adding the right pieces.

Securing what helped us this year

The very first priority for Everton this summer should be the permanent signing of Kurt Zouma and Andre Gomes. If either loanee returns to their parent club this summer, the priority becomes buying someone of their skill level at their positions, and of course such a new player would be a year behind Gomes and Zouma in adjusting to the club and system.

I think it is unlikely that either parent club will be too dedicated to trying to keep these players. In the position that Gomes would likely fill at Barcelona, they have the massively talented Arthur who has come into fruition in a big way this year. Their priority in midfield will be the replacement of Philippe Coutinho (and possibly Ivan Rakitic, if they are foolish) and someone more truly attack minded than Gomes will be what they want. In recent years Barca has largely eschewed growing their own talent for a highly commercialized heavy spend policy, and a shiny new toy will probably more attractive to them than Gomes if they can get a good fee for him.

In the Kurt Zouma situation, I know that many folks are convinced that with an incoming transfer ban, Chelsea will absolutely refuse to sell him. While this is a possibility, of course, I do not consider this a particularly large concern. Zouma has been sent on three loans during his time at Chelsea, and has only had one year where he started more than ten games in the league for them (2015-2016 when they finished 10th and Jose Mourinho was fired). I see no indication that Chelsea considers Zouma a top four type talent, and that of course will continue to be their goal, transfer ban or not. In addition, new rules about the number of non-domestic loanees allowed for clubs will be coming in to effect soon, and as Chelsea tries to sort out their three dozen plus list of loan players some will certainly be sold.

Transfermarkt has this duo listed at a combined £47m, but I think securing the pair may cost closer to £60m given how important both were for us this year.

Young players into the fold

The solutions to a lot of the gaps Everton needs to address already exist either on loan or with the first team. A backup (and eventual replacement?) for Gylfi Sigurdsson already exists in Nikola Vlasic, we have an upgrade for Bernard already in the first team if Silva will just put a little faith in Ademola Lookman, depth for Richarlison exists if we can get Henry Onyekuru's work permit sorted, and it is my belief that Dominic Calvert-Lewin will continue to develop at striker.

Knowing how transfer summers work, it is very unlikely that all these things happen. If we do not bring home Vlasic or Henry and we fail to patch things up with Ade, then each of these positions represents a potential buy. Because they are attacking positions those buys could become expensive in a hurry. There is no reason, however, to keep Calvert-Lewin from the starting post at striker. As Richarlison continues to grow into a first choice scoring option, we do not need our starting #9 scoring 20 league goals a season. If he can contribute 10-15 he can be a viable starter in a quality offense. This year, Calvert-Lewin has six Premier League goals in 1776 minutes matching his xG tally almost perfectly. Assuming development by the player and an increased minutes load, there's no reason he can't improve on his 222 minutes per G+A rate and while he is at it contribute to at least 15 goals next season.

Adding the right pieces

Two years ago, it had been my hope that at this point Everton would have consolidated seventh and be working to close the gap on the top six. Unfortunately, where we find ourselves instead is competing with Watford FC, Wolverhampton, and Leicester City for that position. I firmly believe our roster is more talented (and has a brighter future) than that of Watford or Leicester but Wolves present a problem that is unlikely to go away as long as Jorge Mendes is using them as a stash for his second tier of clientele.

Making good use of the pieces we already own and maintaining continuity in most of our first eleven are both essential, but we have no choice but to also be aggressive in the market trying to improve. I would like to see us gain a reliable backup striker that Marco Silva trusts to spell Calvert-Lewin (I love Cenk Tosun but I just do not think Silva does), a young starting quality right-back (with all possible respect to Seamus Coleman who is a club legend), and a like for like backup for Idrissa Gueye.

Conclusions

The moves I talk about here will probably cost us over £100m before sales of pieces we already have. This is just part of being a big club in the Premier League in the modern era, we really have no choice. I see the improvement in our first choice XI coming primarily from growth by DCL and Richarlison, and improvement on our right wing and right back slots. Increased depth should also contribute to more points by the end of the year. The goal next year should be about 60 points, and I think with the moves described here we can certainly hit that mark and possibly exceed it.

Meanwhile, if Brands is able to pull a rabbit out of his hat during the summer transfer window either in purchasing or loaning another Lucas Digne type player or three, then we might be able to look even higher.

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Transfer Rumours: Abraham to Villa, Rice to Manchester United, Butland to Premier League and More

© Paul Harding/GettyImages Aston Villa v West Bromwich Albion - Sky Bet Championship Play-off Semi Final: First Leg

The Premier League season is now finished, which means for most clubs, attentions now turn to the building for 2019/20. With that, naturally, comes a fresh dose of rumour-y goodness.

Here are eight of Monday's best, fresh off the press. 

Benfica Close in on Barcelona Keeper © David Ramos/GettyImages Jasper Cillessen

​​Barcelona goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen has been linked with an exit virtually ever since Marc-Andre Ter Stegen locked the starting spot down, and it seems as if he might finally actually be on the move. 

According to Mundo Deportivo's Francesc Aguilar, he is all but certain to be off to Portugal, to join Benfica on a deal which seems likely to be a loan - at least initially. 

Both Odisseas Vlachodimos and prospect Mile Svilar have been linked with moves away so, should Cillessen arrive, it looks as if one of the two will be on their way. 

Youri Tielemans Dashes Leicester's Hopes of Permanent Move © David Rogers/GettyImages Youri Tielemans

Since arriving at ​Leicester on loan in January, Youri Tielemans has shown the ​Premier League exactly why he is one of the most exciting midfield prospects in Europe, leading to speculation that the Foxes could kick-start the Brendan Rodgers era with a permanent move for the Belgian. 

Whether or not he fancies it himself, however, remains to be seen, as he told ​VTMNieuws: "I expect that I will return to Monaco in the summer, unless something's moving."

Since sacking and reappointing Leonardo Jardim, Monaco have got it together somewhat, but are still in danger of relegation, out of the relegation playoff zone only on goal difference. You would imagine their fate will play a part in his future.

Roy Hodgson Speaks on Crystal Palace's Chances of Signing Michy Batshuayi © Alex Morton/GettyImages Michy Batshuayi

​Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi has enjoyed a productive spell on loan across the city at ​Crystal Palace, netting six goals in 13 games so far, but manager Roy Hodgson sounds less than positive about his side's chances of landing him on a permanent deal. 

"Conviction didn't need strengthening it's just not in our hands," the boss said, as quoted by ​Football London. "That's the thing, when players belong to another club you can say 'we would like him' but then there has to be an agreement struck between the two clubs."

It's worth remembering that Chelsea paid £35m to sign him three years ago, so perhaps Roy's realism is well placed.

Crystal Palace and Bournemouth to Do Battle Over Stoke City Keeper © Nathan Stirk/GettyImages Jack Butland

Sticking in the south, both Palace and ​Bournemouth look set to offer Jack Butland a route out of Championship purgatory in the summer, after his side's dismal 16th-place finish in their first season down. 

That's the story from ​Stoke on Trent Live, at least, who report that sources close to the player want a move to a top six club (how?) but feel that it is a straight toss-up between these two. 

It's pretty clear that he wants back into the top flight to boost his England prospects, and with Jordan Pickford now well-established as the number one, the 26-year-old has a fair shift to put in to that end. 

Arsenal Scouting Brazilian Wonderkid

​Arsenal were linked with a move for Baha's Eric dos Santos Rodrigues - Ramires for short - back in January, but after their interest seemingly waned, they are reported to be back with a vengeance. 

​The Mirror say that the Gunners have been watching the 18-year-old, and that he would jump at the chance to move to the Premier League.

Baha's chief executive confirmed 'conversations' with Brazilian side Flamengo, however, and that he had been watched by representatives from other European clubs - plural - so it seems as if they are facing some competition. 

Aston Villa to Make £25m Move for Tammy Abraham if They Get Promotion © Paul Harding/GettyImages Tammy Abraham

Tammy Abraham has set the Championship alight for ​Aston Villa this season. He scored his 26th of the season as they edged out West Brom in the first leg of their playoff semi final, and according to the ​Telegraph, Villa see him as a key part of their side upon any eventual promotion.

He has shown some serious potential, so Chelsea wouldn't be too keen to let him go – particularly since they're facing a transfer ban – but a reported £25m move would certainly be a statement from Villa about their intentions. 

They still have some way to go before they get there, however. If they avoid defeat in the second leg against West Brom, they'll have a final with either Leeds or Derby County standing between them and a Premier League return. 

Tottenham to Take Advantage of Barcelona Exodus With Move for Malcom © Alex Caparros/GettyImages Malcom,Rober Ibanez

After chucking a three goal lead against Liverpool, Barcelona are set to join Real Madrid, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Manchester United in the ripping-the-teamsheet-up club this summer, and under-performing winger Malcom could be one of the first victims of that forthcoming purge. 

That's according to the ​Express, at least, who say that Ernesto Valverde will not stand in the way of any players who want to leave, and that Tottenham will take advantage and attempt to lure Malcom to London just a year after he signed for the Catalan side. 

They were reported to be close to landing him back when he played for Bordeaux, so they'll be hoping for a bit more luck on their second attempt. 

Manuel Pellegrini Admits Holding Onto Declan Rice Could Prove 'Impossible' © Shaun Botterill/GettyImages Declan Rice

​Declan Rice has long been linked with a move away from West Ham, and that isn't expected to change after another impressive season, with manager Manuel Pellegrini sensationally admitting that he cannot predict the future. 

"It's impossible, I cannot know the future," he said, via the ​Mirror. "Maybe some of the big teams, or all of them, will want him. But that is one thing – the other is whether he will stay here or he goes, and I cannot say at this moment."

Heads up, Manchester United. 

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Raiola transfer ban extended worldwide by FIFA

According to reports across Europe, including Sky Sports, superagent Mino Raiola has seen his transfer ban extend worldwide by FIFA's disciplinary committee.

News of Raiola's initial suspension came through on Thursday, with the Italian FA banning the agent from performing his representative duties for three months, a suspension that only took effect within the Italian federation. However, the reports on Friday state that the chairman of the FIFA disciplinary committee, Ghanan judge Anin Yeboah, has taken charge of the case and extended it to apply worldwide. This means Raiola is effectively banned from performing any duties as an agent for the duration of the suspension.

It is still unclear what the reason for the suspension is, as neither the Italian FA nor FIFA have officially stated the reason for the disciplinary action. However, Gazzetta dello Sport reported Thursday that the suspension has to do with the 2015 transfer of Gianluca Scamacca from Roma's youth system to PSV. Scamacca, now 20 years old, was just 16 at the time, and the transfer reportedly angered Roma. The report did not explain what rule Raiola may have violated during the proceedings of that transfer.

The exact start and end dates of the suspension are not known, but theoretically, if it were to take effect yesterday, that would mean Raiola could resume duties on August 9, exactly one day after the close of the summer transfer window in England.

The ban could have a significant affect on the transfer market this summer, with Raiola representing a number of high-profile players who are the subject of heavy transfer speculation. The most notable two Raiola clients are Paul Pogba and Matthijs de Ligt, with Pogba reportedly unhappy at Manchester United and de Ligt a highly sought-after young defender set to play in the Champions League final with Ajax in a few weeks. Raiola will likely have coworkers and colleagues who could perform the duties he would otherwise complete during a normal, uninterrupted transfer window, but it could leave Raiola clients in a tricky situation if they are unable to communicate with their agent normally.

Raiola said Thursday that he would challenge the suspension legally, calling it "a sentence dominated by political willing, without taking into the right consideration the reason of law."

Follow @the_bonnfire

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LIVE Transfer Talk: Premier League's Big Six prepare to battle over Maguire

With the transfer window for Europe's biggest clubs set to open soon -- find out when the transfer window opens and closes across Europe's top leagues -- rest assured that Transfer Talk is scouring the world's media and setting correspondents loose to see what is on the agenda. You can click here to review all the latest transfers.

TOP STORY: Maguire in demand

Leicester City's Harry Maguire will play his final game for the club this weekend as Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United prepare to battle for the £60 million-rated defender, according to the Sun.

That would break the record for the most expensive British defender, currently held by Kyle Walker and John Stones, who joined Manchester City for £50m each.

While United have had a long-standing interest in Maguire, rumours that Toby Alderweireld will be leaving Tottenham have Mauricio Pochettino looking at alternatives.

It's looking as though Maguire's next destination will be one of the Premier League's top six sides.

LIVE BLOG

20:30 BST: PSG's Brazilian defender Dani Alves said he has not made a decision on his future. "The only thing that I can say is that I have enough options. It is not something that I am thinking about. I want to fulfil my mission. I am under contract until the end of June with PSG," the ex-Barcelona man said after PSG's win over Angers on Saturday. "Until then, I will give 200 percent for the club. After that, we will sit down and make a decision. If I keep going with PSG, I will keep giving my best. If not, I will give my best elsewhere."

20:00 BST: Inter Miami CF co-owner Jorge Mas has said that the incoming MLS club has "targeted eight or nine players ...They're all international stars. They're all very well known. They all play in Europe. They all play on their national teams." The David Beckham-led project has been tied to players such as Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez and Robert Lewandowski.

19.30 BST: Leicester want to keep on-loan Monaco midfielder Youri Tielemans, but the Belgium international told VTM Nieuws: "I expect I will return to Monaco in the summer unless something's moving. At the moment, there's nothing. I don't know what Monaco will be asking, so I can't talk about it."

18.59 BST: Ivan Rakitic is not happy about speculation that he could leave Barcelona and move to Inter Milan, the Mirror reports, adding that he has said he wants to stay with Barca for "many years."

18.03 BST: Reports in France suggest Newcastle have made an approach for Reims striker Remi Oudin, who is valued at around £10m and has also been linked with Watford.

17.08 BST: Mesut Ozil's agent has a message for those Arsenal fans concerned that the playmaker might leave -- don't worry. "Mesut bleeds Arsenal red, and respecting his contract is a certainty," Dr Erkut Sogut told Turkish Football. "He'll be staying at Arsenal until at least 2021. He has found a place where he feels welcome, and believes he has a lot more to give."

16.11 BST: Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has said he is not worried by continuing speculation linking forward Antoine Griezmann with a move to Barcelona. "Ever since the topic came up, I always say the same: I see him well, happy, he's our captain and we give him all the affection we can, the importance he deserves," he said. We think he will stay with us. I'm not scared of losing him."

15.22 BST: Over to South London now, where Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson has said he wants some new faces in the summer. "We're looking next season to keep the nucleus of what we think is a good team and hopefully add to it because we know that staying in the league has been a fight and a struggle, and we need to make sure we're as well-equipped as we can be," he said.

14.37 BST: A mooted Juventus move for Roma defender Kostas Manolas has been put on hold, according to reports in Italy -- and that could let Manchester United in. Arsenal have also been linked with Manolas.

14.00 BST: Not a transfer as such, but an appointment that will shape a transfer or two -- Brendan Rodgers has made Lee Congerton, who worked with him at Celtic, the new Leicester head of recruitment.

13.27 BST: Antonio Conte will make a move for Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku if he becomes the new coach of Inter Milan, according to Corriere dello Sport.

12.44 BST: Everton manager Marco Silva has told the Liverpool Echo that the club have begun negotiations with Barcelona over a permanent deal for on-loan midfielder Andre Gomes. "His future is open and it is up to us the best we can do to sign him," Silva said. "I don't know all the details, but I think we already started to do something."

12.10 BST: Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has said rumours surrounding his future are "amusing" as he insisted on Saturday that he does not intend to leave the Bianconeri at the end of the season.

There was speculation during the week that Allegri had decided to leave Turin, but he dismissed that at a news conference ahead of Juve's trip to Roma on Sunday.

"I find it amusing reading and hearing everything," he said. "This morning, I was just thinking to myself -- if I'd not won some trophies these years, I would have been impaled somewhere.

"I find it amusing and it's part of the game. We've been champions for a month already. We'll have a meeting next week with the president and draw our conclusions like we do every year. I said before the return leg against Ajax that I was staying, and this is a fact."

- Horncastle: Conte's potential return hangs over Roma, Juve

11.25 BST: Barcelona have already signed Frenkie de Jong, are favourites to bring in Matthijs de Ligt and are now being linked with a third Ajax player, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Spanish outlet reports that midfielder Donny van de Beek is also a target. The 22-year-old Netherlands international has scored 11 goals this season, including the only goal in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal against Tottenham.

10.35 BST: Ander Herrera has confirmed he will leave Manchester United at the end of the season when his contract expires.

Spain international Herrera, 29, made the announcement in a farewell message posted on the club's Twitter account.

Sources have told ESPN FC that Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Juventus, Inter Milan and Barcelona are among the clubs interested in signing the midfielder as a free agent in the summer, with PSG the most strongly linked.

Herrera spent five years at Old Trafford after signing from Athletic Bilbao in 2014. He helped the club win the Europa League, FA Cup and League Cup in 2016-17 and claimed the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award that season.

10.15 BST: Manchester United gave up their pursuit of Matthijs de Ligt before Ajax's run to the Champions League semifinals because of concerns about his weight, sources have told ESPN FC.

The 19-year-old defender is wanted by Barcelona after helping the Dutch giants to the brink of a first Champions League final since 1996 before Tottenham's stunning comeback on Wednesday night.

However, sources have told ESPN FC that prominent members of United's recruitment team voiced worries that De Ligt, who lined up against United in the 2017 Europa League final, was vulnerable to gaining weight because of concerns about his family history, leading the club to ditch their pursuit.

09.30 BST: Barcelona are due for an overhaul of their squad after yet another Champions League humbling, and are confident they can do so without necessarily losing any of their big-name players, according to Sport.

The Spanish sport daily reports that sales of fringe players such as Malcom, Jasper Cillessen, Rafinha, Denis Suarez and Andre Gomes can bring in more than €100m if all are sold -- and that is before the potential exits of first-team stars such as Philippe Coutinho, Samuel Umtiti or Ivan Rakitic are factored in.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde, whose future is the subject of speculation following Tuesday's shock European elimination with the 4-0 loss at Liverpool, will address the media later today.

PAPER TALK (by Steve Wright): Sancho staying in Germany

Jadon Sancho will not be moving to Manchester United in the summer, with Borussia Dortmund officials saying he will stay in Germany for at least one more season, the Sun reports.

Sancho, 19, is reportedly valued at around £100m and, while bids will almost certainly come in, Dortmund are "determined to resist approaches when the transfer window opens."

- Germany's rising stars reach crossroads as transfer window nears- When does the transfer window open and close?

A number of top Premier League clubs were reported to be interested in bringing Sancho back to England, none more so than Manchester United.

Sancho has scored 12 goals this season and earned a call-up to the England squad.

Spurs want Bolton's next big thing

Tottenham are among the clubs interested in 18-year-old midfielder Luca Connell, who will leave Bolton when the club goes into administration, according to the Sun.

Connell has also caught the eye of Wolves, Everton and Norwich, while Southampton and Brighton attempted to sign him in January but had two bids rejected.

But with Bolton now in debt amounting to as much as £41.6m, it's likely that they won't have much power in any transfer negotiations.

Tap-ins

- The Mirror cites Portuguese outlet A Bola as reporting that Benfica will offer forward Joao Felix a new contract worth £2.1m a year to fend off interest from Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus and Real Madrid.

- Atletico Madrid face a decision over the future of on-loan Chelsea forward Alvaro Morata, according to AS, with the option to keep him on loan for another 12 months in exchange for €18m, buy him outright or send him back to West London.

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Sarri Hopeful of 'One or Two Players' as Chelsea Fight Transfer Ban

(Reuters) - Chelsea need to sign "only one or two players" to bolster their squad for the next season if they manage to overturn or postpone FIFA's one-year transfer ban, manager Maurizio Sarri has said.

The world soccer governing body on Wednesday upheld Chelsea's transfer ban after they were found guilty of breaching rules on the transfer and registration of overseas players under the age of 18.

Chelsea refuted FIFA's findings and said they would appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and Sarri said the Premier League club needed to invest in the market to close the gap on league leaders Manchester City and Liverpool.

"I don't believe when you buy 10 players," Sarri told reporters on Wednesday. "I think we have to buy only one or two players.

"It's very difficult to cover the gap at the moment. We need to work, probably we need to do something from the market. It's not easy, because the level of the top two is very, very high.

"Otherwise it's very difficult to improve immediately. I think we are a very good team, so we need only one, two players, no more."

Sarri said he had not yet discussed the situation with the club's hierarchy as he prepares his squad for Eintracht Frankfurt's visit for the second leg of their Europa League semi-final tie on Thursday. The first leg ended 1-1.

"We didn't speak about the market," the Italian added. "Also because, at the moment, we don't know if we'll be able to go into the market.

"If the club is banned from making any transfers, then we'd have to keep the squad we have and bring some of the loan players back in, and that would give them an opportunity to play more.

"But, for me, that's not something that should be used to get an opportunity to play. It should be down to hard work and playing well."

While Chelsea cannot register players for their senior team, the FIFA's Appeal Committee decided the club can still sign players under the age of 16.

(Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Amlan Chakraborty)

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Soccer: Hopefully we can sign our transfer targets - Solskjaer

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Soccer: Manchester United must invest wisely in transfer market - Solskjaer

(Reuters) - Manchester United must take "smart" decisions when signing new players during the close season and nurture their youth players so they can compete in the Premier League next season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

Soccer Football - Premier League - Huddersfield Town v Manchester United - John Smith's Stadium, Huddersfield, Britain - May 5, 2019 Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer before the match Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff/Files

A brief resurgence under Solskjaer gave United hope of finishing in the top four but they failed to qualify for the Champions League after winning only two of their last eight games.

The 20-times league winners dropped down to sixth as a result and cannot finish higher than fifth on the final day. Solskjaer said player injuries in the final weeks of the season cost United a top four spot.

"We've got to recruit smart, we've got to keep blooding the youngsters and we'll be fine," Solskjaer told MUTV at the club's end-of-season awards night.

"This club is huge and the media and everyone's criticising us as soon as they've got a chance. We got a few injuries and it's been ups and downs for the last two months, but that's football.

"It's not like (playing the video game) Football Manager. You've got to deal with different stuff outside of football as well... But I've enjoyed it. It's a great challenge. I haven't gone to bed one night worrying about what's going to happen."

Defender Luke Shaw was named the club's player of the year but the English left back said he would trade the award for a successful season with the team.

"It's obviously nice for me but I'd rather win no trophies and have a better season as a team," Shaw said. "It's nice but we need to move on and focus on next season and what's to come.

"I think for me personally it's probably been my best season since I've been here. I would have rather it had been a better season for the team but it wasn't meant to be."

United host relegated Cardiff City on Sunday in their final game of the season.

Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Amlan Chakraborty

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'Sign Rabiot, sell Mkhitaryan & Iwobi' - Arsenal legend offers transfer advice to Emery

Arsenal have been urged to snap up Adrien Rabiot when his contract at Paris Saint-Germain comes to a close, with Charlie Nicholas also calling on Unai Emery to offload Henrikh Mkhitarya and Alex Iwobi.

The Gunners are expected to be busy in the next transfer window.

A frugal approach to recruitment is not likely to be relaxed, with no war chest about to be handed to Emery, but plenty of comings and goings are on the cards.

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With Aaron Ramsey heading to Juventus as a free agent, Nicholas feels Arsenal should be snapping up another currently plying his trade in France, while moving on the deadwood at Emirates Stadium.

The ex-Gunners forward told Sky Sports: "They won't spend £60m-£70m on defensive players so this manager will be identifying the good young players. You don't need to go to Dortmund's or Valencia's to buy from there, but it has to be a step up from what they have right now.

"It should be an encouraging summer for Arsenal, but finally we have a manager that knows what the priority is and he will be the judge of who they bring in consequently.

"In midfield we will need to replace Aaron Ramsey. I am hoping that will be Reiss Nelson from Germany. I don't know what the future holds for Mesut Ozil and who will entice him to move on - if at all - but there is a possibility of that happening. We need to add a striker, as well as a wide man.

"In defence, if I was to keep anyone, it would be Bellerin, as he would play right back or right wing-back. Rob Holding would hopefully be fit for the start of the season, as well as Sokratis as a squad player so those are the potentials to keep.

"We need a box-to-box style midfield player and a player that can pick a pass too, so it is a matter of bringing in the right ones. I think you need to know your system, fit them in and see where it takes you. Adrien Rabiot will be a free-agent and been linked with different clubs, but I would take him. He has the quality and is of decent level, which Arsenal need.

"In attack, I like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette but will they win you the Premier League? I think they could.

"Between them, bearing in mind they haven't actually played much together, their goal return has been a very good return. Arsenal have been relying on one striker for too long and now they have two so it does give me hope.

"I would sell Henrik Mkhitaryan and if I got the right money for Alex Iwobi I would sell him too. Denis Suarez has gone, that was a waste of time."

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LIVE Transfer Talk: Manchester clubs want Sporting CP star Fernandes

With the transfer window for Europe's biggest clubs set to open soon -- find out exactly when the Premier League transfer window opens -- rest assured that Transfer Talk is scouring the world's media and setting correspondents loose to see what is on the agenda. You can click here to review all the latest transfers.

TOP STORY: Hot-shot Fernandes can take his pick

Manchester City and Manchester United are in a race for the services of Sporting Lisbon midfielder Bruno Fernandes, according to both Sport Witness and the Manchester Evening News.

Fernandes has been in fine form this season, scoring 10 goals in 31 Primeira Liga matches. The 24-year-old struck a 14-minute hat trick against Belenenses on Sunday, and has been linked with both City and United for some time.

The MEN reports that City hope they can use striker Marlos Moreno as a makeweight in a deal, while United's lack of Champions League football will diminish their chances of landing him.

Moreno joined City three years ago but has since disappointed in loan spells at Deportivo La Coruna, Girona and Flamengo.

City may also agree to send more players to Sporting on loan in an effort to further sweeten the deal.

If Bruno Fernandes has a choice between the Manchester clubs, where would he go?. GettyLIVE BLOG

11.17 BST: And staying in France, TF1 reports that PSG's €30m-rated right-back Thomas Meunier remains a summer target for Everton.

10.38 BST: Lille president Gerard Lopez has told Le Parisien that it will be tough for the club to keep winger Nicolas Pepe, a reported target for both PSG and Arsenal. "It is no secret -- we have had many offers for Nicolas, ones where we will never be able to match the salary he can earn somewhere else," he said. "Clearly, he will move on to a big club."

10.05 BST: Liverpool are interested in 17-year-old Fulham defender Cody Drameh and could make a move in the summer, according to reports.

Drameh, an England under-18 international has starred for Fulham's under-23s this season and is also interesting Frankfurt.

09.30 BST: Miralem Pjanic has cast doubt over his future at Juventus by saying he would consider a move to Paris Saint-Germain.

Speaking to Canal+, midfielder Pjanic said he was attracted by what PSG were building and would listen to an offer if one was made.

"Paris are one of the top eight clubs in Europe at the moment, and certainly in the Champions League they want to go further than they have done recently," the 29-year-old said.

"They're a very, very big club and a club where all players are willing to go because they have a sporting project and very big players are going. You have a real chance of winning the Champions League there."

08.45 BST: Real Madrid forward Mariano Diaz has said he is eager to stay at the club despite having limited opportunities this season.

The 25-year-old, who returned to Madrid from Lyon last summer, earned his third league start of the campaign on Sunday and scored twice in the 3-2 win over Villarreal.

The Spanish-born player, who has now scored four goals in 19 appearances in all competitions, told the club's official website: "I don't have a crystal ball but I want to continue here. I'm happy and looking ahead with optimism. I hope I can continue to have opportunities and I'm going to work to have them."

Mariano is tied to Madrid until June 2023.

08.00 BST: Benfica's coveted Joao Felix has been left out of Portugal's Under-20 World Cup squad, according to Record, sparking rumours that he may feature for the senior side at the UEFA Nations League finals this summer.

The 19-year-old attacking midfielder -- dubbed "the new Cristiano Ronaldo" by Portuguese media -- has enjoyed a sensational season at the Estadio da Luz, scoring 18 goals in 40 appearances in all competitions, including a hat trick in the Europa League quarterfinal against Eintracht Frankfurt.

Felix, who is tied to Benfica until June 2023 and has a release clause set at €120m, is a target for top European clubs including Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Juventus, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

PAPER TALK (by Nick Judd): Celtic in for Jose

Fresh from winning an eighth consecutive Scottish title at the weekend, Celtic are believed to have made an approach -- though not a concrete offer -- for Jose Mourinho, according to the Mail.

The 56-year-old is likely to receive a number of approaches following his exit from Manchester United earlier in the season, and Celtic have made an early move.

Mourinho may feel he has something to prove -- and offer -- given the ignominious end to his tenure at Old Trafford, and he would be guaranteed Champions League football at Celtic.

Celtic, Roma and Lyon are also said to be interested in Mourinho.

Big clubs circling Palace for Zaha, round two.

Crystal Palace are preparing to face a flourish of bids for star player Wilfried Zaha.

The 26-year-old scored against Cardiff on the penultimate weekend of the season to take his league tally to 10, and the Eagles are expecting offers from home and abroad.

The Mirror quotes Zaha's teammate Andros Townsend s pleading with the club to do what they can to keep Zaha, who has said he wants to play Champions League football next season.

The Ivory Coast international is desperate to prove he can cut it a top club, and could make his move in the summer.

Pogba deal edges closer

Manchester United's failure to secure a top-four place following the dismal draw at Huddersfield means Paul Pogba's move to Real Madrid could happen sooner rather than later, AS reports.

Pogba left the field with his shirt over his head following the stalemate, but United's failure to qualify for the Champions League will cost him a pay cut of 25 percent. He was one of several players to have the salary cut written into their contract.

Pogba and Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane have made little secret of their mutual admiration, and a €150 million Madrid move is already said to be under way.

Tap-ins

- AC Milan are confident of landing long-term target Allan Saint-Maximin after failing to sign him in January.

Milan could not reach an agreement with Nice then, but both the Rossoneri and the player are keen on the move, Calciomercato reports .

- Real Madrid's Marco Asensio is on the move, according to Calciomercato.

However, his destination is unknown, with both Juventus and Inter Milan after the playmaker. Inter have reportedly already made an offer in excess of €100m.

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The top primary transfer window deadline-day player acquisitions

We're headed into the final week of Major League Soccer's primary transfer market for 2019, which means that any deal-making left to be done will soon be running up against the deadline.

To get you primed for what could go down on May 7, we decided to take a look back at some of the most influential moves made by MLS clubs as the clock ran down on the final day of the transfer window. To ensure a splashy finish, let's stroll back down memory lane for this list, taking these in reverse order from the present.

Adama Diomande & Lee Nguyen, LAFC, 2018

Adama Diomande (right) celebrates a goal | USA Today Sports Images

The expansion side were already looking pretty good before the start of deadline day, but were even better off after thanks to a late double swoop. Adama Diomande bagged nine goals in his first seven LAFC outings and finished the year with a dozen (or one of 104 minutes played).

Lee Nguyen solidified Bob Bradley's midfield, acting as the team's gutsy "the pass before the pass" guy and helping to cover for the loss of Mark-Anthony Kaye. Their first playoff chase went up in smoke quickly, though. Can they help finish the job this season?

Blerim Dzemaili, Montreal Impact, 2017

The Swiss midfielder wasn't around Stade Saputo for long (22 games to be exact), but he certainly made things exciting while he was. Dzemaili instantly became Montreal's engine to the final third, and added in a tidy seven goals and 10 helpers while in it. He spurred an 8-4-2 run that had the Impact in playoff contention until their horrible late swoon killed a roller-coaster season.

Fanendo Adi, Portland Timbers, 2014

Fanendo Adi celebrates a goal with Timber Joey's chainsaw | USA Today Sports Images

Portland narrowly beat the deadline buzzer with paperwork on a loan spell for the then-23-year-old target man from FC Copenhagen. The club waited only six weeks before taking up the buy option on Fanendo Adi (who's now with FC Cincinnati). All he did in return was score 56 league goals, temporarily becoming the team's all-time leading scorer along the way. Two of those strikes came during the Timbers' 2015 title run.

Aurelien Collin, Sporting Kansas City, 2011

It wasn't considered a blue-chip acquisition when Sporting KC plucked the French defender from Vitoria Setubal, but boy, did he pay big dividends. Aurelien Collin was a Best XI selection and U.S. Open Cup champion in 2012, but saved his best for the 2013 MLS Cup Playoffs. The center back went into beast mode, scoring three times in five games. In the title bout against Real Salt Lake, he buried both their late-regulation equalizer and the winning penalty kick to net MVP honors.

Jeff Parke, Seattle Sounders, 2010

Jeff Parke | Getty Images

The veteran defender had seen his New York Red Bulls tenure end in disgrace a couple of years earlier, so not much was expected of it when he signed with Seattle on deadline day. However, Parke was a steady constant in the Sounders back line for three seasons. Perhaps most notably, he went the full route in consecutive U.S. Open Cup final triumphs.

Juan Pablo Angel, New York Red Bulls, 2007

The dashing forward was an instant hit in New York after arriving from Aston Villa on deadline day. Angel hit 19 times during his first MLS season to earn a Best XI nod, but their playoff run ended while he was sidelined with a head injury. The following season, he led the club to their first MLS Cup appearance. In all, the Colombian international struck 62 times in four season with the Big Apple bunch, and was their all-time leading scorer until Bradley Wright-Phillips came along.

Guillermo Barros Schelotto, Columbus Crew SC, 2007

This guy is the main reason Angel's Red Bulls were unable to claim that 2008 MLS Cup final. And this move came with the biggest deadline-day fanfare since... well... we'll get to that in a moment. The current LA Galaxy boss was once the maestro of thrills in Columbus, notching 38 goals, 49 assists and a case full of silver in four seasons there. Schelotto was a Best XI selection his first two seasons with the Crew, who he led to the league double in his second. The following year, they claimed a second straight Supporters' Shield.

Landon Donovan, LA Galaxy, 2005

Landon Donovan lifts another MLS Cup | USA Today Sports Images

You may have heard of this guy. Heck, you may remember this move. After weeks of speculation, reports and rumors, the US men's national team star returned to MLS from a short, rough spell at Bayer Leverkusen. Only a couple of years removed from winning a pair of MLS Cups up the coast in San Jose, Donovan landed in his hometown, capturing everyone's attention.

The Galaxy had to deal two-time Golden Boot man Carlos Ruiz away to gain the top allocation spot, but we're fairly sure they never looked back. Donovan spent 10 seasons and change in Carson, piling up 137 goals, four MLS Cups, two Supporters' Shields, a U.S. Open Cup, six Best XI citations – and one distinction as the global face of American soccer.

LIVE YOUR COLORS: Download the free MLS app - The official MLS app gets a major update for 2019, making it easier than ever to keep up with your favorite club, check standings, watch videos and much more.

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African soccer president denies bribery allegations

DJIBOUTI (AP) — The president of the African soccer confederation has denied allegations of bribery against him made by a high-ranking official at his body who was then fired.

CAF president Ahmad, who goes by one name, said he had no control over finances at the confederation after former secretary general Amr Fahmy accused him of bribing presidents of African national soccer associations and misusing hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Fahmy was fired last month for "misconduct" but CAF didn't release details of any disciplinary case against him. Fahmy reportedly sent the allegations against Ahmad to FIFA, where Ahmad is a vice president, but the world governing body has not announced any ethics investigation.

Ahmad said Wednesday on a visit to Djibouti that "when you talk about the management of finance at CAF, the president is not responsible." He said Fahmy, as the secretary general, had control over CAF's money.

Ahmad also responded to allegations that he misused money to buy himself two luxury cars, one in Cairo where CAF is based and one at home in his native Madagascar. He said he had two cars because flying one to and from Egypt "is expensive." He said he needed the cars because "CAF is a very big institution and this means the image of the CAF president is very important."

Ahmad became head of African soccer in 2017 after beating longtime president Issa Hayatou in an election. He promised to clean up African soccer's corruption-tarnished reputation but he has been criticized for his leadership, sometimes by senior officials within his organization.

Ahmad said "I cannot explain myself … to everybody."

___

More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/apf-Soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

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Arizona soccer adds two transfers

There are over 740 players in the NCAA women's soccer transfer portal, and the Arizona Wildcats felt the wrath of it this spring when four players, including top assister Amanda Porter, left the program.

But now the portal is paying Arizona back.

On Saturday, the UA announced the arrival of two sophomores — Cal Poly defender Ava McCray and William & Mary midfielder Grace Santos.

McCray was a member of the Big West All-Freshman Team in 2018, while Grace was named to the Colonial Athletic Association's All-Rookie Team.

A Davis, California native, McCray started in 18 games for the Mustangs in 2018, notching 13 shots. Santos, from Scottsville, Virginia, played in all 17 games for the Tribe, started in nine and scored her first career goal vs. Elon on Oct. 17.

Having these two in the fold means the Wildcats will be adding nine players in the fall, the other seven being a freshman class that ranks in the Top 25 nationally, according to TopDrawerSoccer.

Arizona also returns eight starters from a team that went 13-6-2, creating a deep roster that could be the most talented the Wildcats have ever had. (Transfers typically are not required to sit out a season.)

"You're always going to have players graduate and move on, and you got to have other players step up and that's why you have to have a deep roster and I think we've put together a really good roster," said head coach Tony Amato.

Here is more info on McCray and Santos via the Cal Poly and William and Mary athletic departments, respectively.

On McCray...

McCray helped lead Davis High School to three straight Sac-Joaquin Section Division 1 championships from 2016-18, culminating a four-year run in which Davis went 82-3-8 overall.

With McCray in the back line, Davis won four consecutive Delta League titles, going 50-1-5 altogether in conference play. She helped the Blue Devils earn four top-10 statewide rankings in a row through MaxPreps, including No. 1 in California her sophomore year and No. 6 most recently as a senior second-year captain (accompanied by a No. 18 national ranking on the way to a NorCal Regional Playoffs appearance).

An all-league honoree and Blue Devil Athlete of the Week, McCray also played lacrosse. Her father Justin played baseball as an infielder at Cal Poly and was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1989.

In club season, McCray helped Legacy reach a trio of consecutive NorCal State Cup finals from 2012-15, a span featuring a Blues Cup title and Surf Cup championship-game trip in 2015. She also was one of 32 girls selected from the U.S. by Generation Adidas International to train with FFC Frankfurt in Germany during the summer of 2016, prior to playing for the Northern California squad in the 2017 Gothia Cup in Sweden.

On Santos...

Santos, who was homeschooled, played club soccer for SOCA Charlottesville and Aromas Café FC. She was a member of the Virginia State Olympic Development Program team and helped her club to a semifinal appearance in the Virginia State Cup in 2016-17.

Santos was a member of the VA 99 State ODP Pool and one of just 18 players selected to the VA 99 ODP national roster for the National Championships in Phoenix.

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Paul Pogba transfer rumors: Real Madrid not willing to match high wages from Manchester United

If Paul Pogba plans to leave Manchester United for Real Madrid during the summer transfer window, then the World Cup-winning central midfielder might be forced to take a pay cut. According to ESPNFC on Tuesday, the Spanish club isn't prepared to match his wages at Old Trafford of $378,000 a week, which could halt any potential move.

The report said those close to Pogba think he'll push for a move away from United if the club doesn't make the Champions League, with Real Madrid seeming like the most logical choice from a financial standpoint. United is currently in sixth place in the Premier League, three points back of fourth place with two games to go. The Red Devils travel to West Yorkshire for a date at Huddersfield town on Sunday -- stream on fuboTV (Try for free). 

Zinedine Zidane is looking to rebuild Real Madrid in the post-Cristiano Ronaldo era, having returned to the club this year after Julen Lopetegui and Santiago Solari failed to find stability. Manchester United reportedly plans to reject any offer for the French star.

Real Madrid could use some flair in the midfield to pair with Luka Modric, and Pogba is a logical option if he does become available, though the financial side makes things complicated. Real Madrid is currently in third place in La Liga and will go without a trophy this season after winning the Champions League the last three seasons.

Pogba is having a fine season with United and has scored 16 goals, six more than any other season in his career. Real Madrid is expected to chase the likes of Eden Hazard of Chelsea and Inter Milan's Mauro Icardi this summer.

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