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Sports / Jurgen Klopp: ‘philippe Coutinho Will Not Be Replacing Neymar’ by samsonslide: 10:59am On Aug 03, 2017
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has told Barcelona to “save their energy” and forget about making an approach for midfielder Philippe Coutinho.

The Reds are bracing themselves for an offer to be tabled as Barca have reportedly made Coutinho their top summer transfer target in the wake of Neymar’s impending move to Paris Saint-Germain.

Despite the latest development in the transfer saga, Klopp is refusing to budge on the stance that he has taken all summer long when asked about the Brazilian’s future, while also taking a swipe at the rules in place that are supposed to restrict the amount of money clubs spend on new recruits.

“It’s nice that Coutinho is so highly rated but they can save their energy,” he told reporters. “I cannot talk about this just because a Barcelona guy starts talking. Did he say they are coming to Liverpool to do business? They want to come over? They are funny. I don’t want things like this.”

Probed on Neymar’s imminent switch to PSG, Klopp added: “There are clubs that can pay fees like that – Manchester City and PSG. Everyone knows that. I thought [financial] fair play was made so that situations like that can’t happen.

“That’s more of a suggestion than a real rule. I don’t understand that. I don’t know how it happens. That’s not the next step I hope. I think and hope it will stay an exception but we don’t know.”

Coutinho, who is under contract at Anfield until 2022, is said to be willing to take a pay cut in order to push through a move to Barcelona.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp Hopes Neymar’s World-record Move To Paris-saint G by samsonslide: 9:07am On Aug 03, 2017
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hopes Neymar’s world-record move to Paris-Saint Germain is an “exception” rather than the new reality for football transfers.

PSG are set to pay a world-record €222million fee to trigger Neymar’s release clause, with the Brazilian informing Barcelona on Wednesday that he wants to leave the club.

A deal is expected to be completed in the coming days, but Klopp, whose star player Philippe Coutinho is reportedly a target for Barca as they look to replace Neymar, believes Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules should stop such expensive transfers.

PSG have already been punished once for breaking FFP stipulations and both Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu and LaLiga counterpart Javier Tebas have suggested Neymar’s move to the French capital could contravene the regulations.

“There are clubs that can pay fees like that – Manchester City and PSG,” Klopp told reporters after Liverpool’s Audi Cup final loss on penalties to Atletico Madrid.

“Everyone knows that. I thought Financial Fair Play was made so that situations like that can’t happen.

“That’s more of a suggestion than a real rule. I don’t understand that. I don’t know how it happens.

“That’s not the next step I hope. I think and hope it will stay an exception, but we don’t know.”
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Lionel Messi Bids Farewell To Neymar by samsonslide: 3:49pm On Aug 02, 2017
Barcelona forward Lionel Messi has bid farewell to Neymar ahead of the Brazilian’s proposed world-record move to Paris Saint-Germain.

Neymar has asked to leave Barcelona amid interest from the Ligue 1 side, who are lining up a €222m (£198.6m) offer which would trigger the 25-year-old’s minimum release clause.

La Liga president Javier Tebas has suggested that the league will attempt to block the move on financial fair play grounds, although UEFA have claimed that they would be unable to prevent the transfer taking place.

Messi appears to be resigned to Neymar leaving the Camp Nou having taken to Instagram to post a video of the duo’s time together in Barcelona.
“It was an enormous pleasure to have shared all these years with you friend @neymarjr I wish you luck in this new stage of your life. See you tomorrow,” reads the caption.

Neymar has helped Barcelona to eight trophies during his time at the club, including two La Liga titles and the 2014-15 Champions League.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Tottenham Hotspur Star Dele Alli: ‘we Need One Or Two More Players To Win Title’ by samsonslide: 12:48pm On Aug 02, 2017
Tottenham Hotspur star Dele Alli has claimed that the club need one or two more additions to win the Premier League title.

Mauricio Pochettino’s men finished as runners-up to champions Chelsea last season.

The team ended the campaign with the best attack and defence figures, but they were unable to push the Blues to the final weekend in the title race.

So far this summer, Tottenham are yet to bring in new signings, and they are the only club out of last season’s top seven that have not strengthened their squads.

Alli, who has become a first-team regular at the North London outfit, believes that the club need to bring in some new faces if they want to win the league crown.

“I think we’re inches away from winning the Premier League. Maybe another player or two players is all we need,” the 21-year-old told GQ magazine.

Tottenham will face Juventus at Wembley in their final pre-season friendly this Saturday.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Neymar To Finalise Move From Barcelona To Paris Saint-germain Next Week by samsonslide: 12:04pm On Aug 02, 2017
Barcelona star Neymar will reportedly complete a world-record move to Paris Saint-Germain next week.

The Brazilian attacker is believed to be on the verge of ending his four-year spell at the Camp Nou, where he has formed a deadly partnership with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

It is believed that PSG are prepared to smash the record transfer bid by paying Neymar’s €222m (£198.6m) release clause, and according to L’Equipe, the move could be finalised as early as Monday.

The French publication states that Neymar could have a medical this weekend, but it is unclear whether he will go through the tests in Barcelona, Paris or Qatar.

Speculation over the attacker’s future intensified this morning when Barcelona confirmed that the 25-year-old has been given permission to miss training.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Borussia Dortmund 0 Atalanta 1: Ilicic Hands BVB Another Pre-season Defeat by samsonslide: 9:43pm On Aug 01, 2017
A fine finish from Josip Ilicic consigned Borussia Dortmund to their third defeat of pre-season, going down 1-0 to Atalanta in Altach.

Slovenia international Ilicic, signed from Fiorentina in the close-season, fired a cool finish over substitute goalkeeper Dominik Reimann as a Dortmund squad that did not include the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Ousmane Dembele or Lukasz Piszczek were beaten.

Peter Bosz selected Mario Gotze as captain in a strong midfield, but a lack of creativity proved their undoing, with teenage striker Alexander Isak failing to make an impact.

The defeat follows losses against Rot-Weiss Essen and Espanyol and sends Dortmund into the DFL-Supercup against Bayern Munich on Saturday on the back of a disappointing result.

Isak failed to make the most of an early opportunity when he attacked a near-post cross from Christian Pulisic and did not get a meaningful connection.

Dortmund pressed well and controlled the opening period, but goalscoring chances were few and far between.

Atalanta could have taken a lead into half-time, but Jasmin Kurtic found the hands of Roman Burki rather than the top-right corner following a cutback from Timothy Castagne.

Reimann replaced Burki for the second period and, after Gotze made way for Dan-Axel Zagadou in the 63rd minute, Maximilian Philipp arrowed a lovely volley from another Pulisic delivery just wide.
Kurtic saw an effort blocked by Reimann after good work from Andrea Petagna down the right, but Atalanta soon put Dortmund to the sword.

Remo Freuler’s throughball released Ilicic in behind and the Slovenian made no mistake, committing Reimann to ground and firing a powerful finish into the net.

Luca Vido threatened with a header in the closing stages, but there would be no more goals before the final whistle.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Leicester City Reject Derby County Bid For Tom Lawrence by samsonslide: 4:51pm On Aug 01, 2017
Leicester City have reportedly rejected a bid of £7m from Derby County for winger Tom Lawrence.

The 23-year-old has been on the radar of a number of sides this summer following his performance out on loan at Ipswich Town last season, which saw him score 11 goals in 36 appearances in all competitions.

Gary Rowett’s Rams are one of the potential suitors and earlier this week it was claimed that they were preparing a bid of £7m to bring the youngster to Pride Park.

According to Sky Sports News, Derby have now made their interest official but have been promptly knocked back by the Foxes, who signed Lawrence on a four-year deal from Manchester United in 2014.

Premier League newcomers Brighton & Hove Albion have also been credited with an interest in Lawrence, who is now into the last 12 months of his Leicester deal.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Chelsea Are Title Favourites, Says Conte by samsonslide: 1:10pm On Jul 28, 2017
Chelsea boss Antonio Conte believes his side remain the team to beat ahead of the start of the 2017-18 Premier League season.

The Blues claimed a second title in three years in Conte’s first season in charge, finishing seven points clear of Tottenham after winning 30 of their 38 matches.

Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City in particular have invested heavily in their squads ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested title race next term.

But although he has warned his players against becoming complacent, Conte feels they deserve to start the season as favourites.

“For sure; we won the Premier League title last season,” he told a news conference. “This season will be tough. You know what has been happening in England. Chelsea won in 2014-15 and then Leicester City won the league. So we must be careful and not take any team lightly.

“It is normal that every big team tries to reinforce their squad by bringing in quality players. That is what they have done. For sure, next season in Premier League will be a huge challenge for us.”
Chelsea have brought in Alvaro Morata, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Antonio Rudiger and Willy Caballero during the transfer window at a reported combined cost of close to £130million.

Despite the significant outlay, Conte has warned that his new signings will need time to adapt to his methods in England’s top flight.

“It is very important for players to understand my football and adapt,” he said. “Bakayoko needs some time to understand my football and this is the great difficulty for a coach. You need a bit of time to bring the player into your idea of football.

“It is the same for Morata. He is working very well and is putting himself into every session. I think it is very good but it is important for him to have some time to adapt to our system. But I can see the will power in the player to do so.”

Conte faced criticism this week for accusing young players of being “impatient” while allowing a number of Chelsea youngsters to leave Stamford Bridge.
Dominic Solanke, Nathan Ake and Nathaniel Chalobah have all left on permanent deals, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Tammy Abraham, Izzy Brown, Michael Hector, Tomas Kalas and Ola Aina are among a number to have completed loan moves.

Conte has defended his policy when it comes to youngsters trying to break into the first team and suggested that Chelsea is not the ideal place for them to do so.

“It is always difficult to speak about young players. There is always a great debate around this,” he said.

“I think every young player was good in this pre-season. But I have to take the right decision and see what is best for the club, players and young players when the season kicks off.

“I don’t think the landscape has changed. Young players had difficulty to break into first teams in the past, too.

“If a young player is good and strong and is ready to play, I will play them. I played my first game when I was just 16 in Italy. But I played with Lecce while avoiding relegation and not with Juventus while fighting for the title.”
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Chelsea Join Race To Sign Bayern Munich Midfielder Renato Sanches? by samsonslide: 10:58am On Jul 28, 2017
Bayern Munich midfielder Renato Sanches has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for Chelsea.

In recent weeks, the Portuguese youngster has been linked with both Manchester United and AC Milan, and Bayern boss Carlo Ancelotti is open to agreeing a loan deal for the 19-year-old.

However, according to The Telegraph, they face competition from the Premier League champions, who appear willing to bring Sanches to Stamford Bridge for the next campaign.

Last summer, Bayern paid Benfica a fee of €35m for the hot prospect, but he only made six starts in the Bundesliga as he played second fiddle to the German club’s more established stars.

He has featured heavily during pre-season but it has been claimed that with regular first-team opportunities still likely to be limited, Ancelotti is prepared to allow him to join another club on a temporary basis.

Chelsea are currently keen to sign another central midfielder with Nathaniel Chalobah having departed for Watford and Nemanja Matic expected to leave for another team before the end of August.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Chelsea In For Ross Barkley, Alex Oxlade-chamberlain? by samsonslide: 10:45am On Jul 28, 2017
Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte has reportedly decided to launch offers for both Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ross Barkley.

The Italian has already spent over £100m in the transfer market this summer, but he remains in the hunt for players who can play at wing-back and in central midfield.

Competition is required for both Marcos Alonso and Victor Moses, while Nemanja Matic is likely to leave Stamford Bridge before the end of August.

According to The Sun, that will see offers made for Arsenal wideman Oxlade-Chamberlain and Everton playmaker Barkley, players which will also increase Chelsea’s domestic quota.

The pair have just 12 months remaining on their contracts at their respective clubs, and with both players allegedly indicating that they are ready for new challenges, Chelsea represent a realistic option.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Ronald Koeman: ‘we Want Another Striker’ by samsonslide: 9:01am On Jul 28, 2017
Everton boss Ronald Koeman has revealed that he wants to bring another striker to Goodison Park in this summer’s transfer window.

Leighton Baines scored the only goal of the match as Everton recorded a 1-0 victory over Slovakian side MFK Ruzomberok in the first leg of their Europa League third qualifying round tie on Thursday night.

“It’s always difficult against these kind of teams who drop back. We are not 100% yet, it is pre-season and it is a good result. We would like to score more, we had chances but every clean sheet in European football is a good result,” Koeman told ITV Sport.

“When Sandro [Ramirez] came on, Wayne Rooney had more freedom and we had pace up front which made the team better. We know that we would like another striker, you normally need two nines in the squad. I am really confident that we can bring in a good one to make us better.”

Cuco Martina, Michael Keane, Davy Klaassen and Sandro Ramirez all made their Everton debuts against Ruzomberok, while Rooney made his Goodison Park return after re-joining the Toffees from Manchester United.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / David Seaman: ‘arsenal Must Keep Hold Of Alexis Sanchez’ by samsonslide: 4:23pm On Jul 25, 2017
Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has urged the club to do “whatever it takes” to keep Alexis Sanchez at the Emirates Stadium this summer.

Sanchez has just one year remaining on his current deal in North London, and the Gunners are understood to be unwilling to meet the Chilean’s wage demands of up to £400,000 per week.

Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain have been heavily linked with a move for the 28-year-old, who has hinted that he wants Champions League football next season, but Seaman believes that Sanchez would be too difficult to replace.

“[Arsene Wenger’s] main problem is going to be holding on to Alexis Sanchez. I would do whatever it takes to hold on to him because he’s a quality player who you wouldn’t want to be leaving the club, especially to your rivals,” he told Goal.

“Sanchez-type players are the ones Arsenal should be bringing in. To replace him, It’d be hard. What are they going to get for him?

“He’s got a year left on his contract, his price-tag, I’d guess, would be around £50-70 million – you can’t guarantee spending that money and getting a player as good as Sanchez. He’s a guy who is just brilliant all over the pitch.”

Sanchez scored 24 goals in 38 Premier League appearances for Arsenal last season.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Crystal Palace ‘still Keen On Mamadou Sakho’ by samsonslide: 4:00pm On Jul 25, 2017
New Palace boss Frank de Boer has carried over the club’s interest in re-signing Sakho, although the Mirror reports that Liverpool are refusing to budge in their valuation for the centre-back.

The Reds are only interested in a permanent deal for the France international rather than allowing him to leave on loan again, while their asking price remains at £30m.

Palace are unwilling to spend that amount on Sakho, despite the player himself favouring a move to the club ahead of Sevilla, who are also understood to be interested.

The Eagles have already signed centre-back Jairo Riedewald from Ajax this summer, while they are currently in talks with Arsenal over a possible deal to bring Calum Chambers to the club.

Sakho, meanwhile, remains surplus to requirements at Anfield following a fallout with manager Jurgen Klopp last summer.
Read More Soirt Newshttps://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Javier Hernandez “excited” To Return To Old Trafford With West Ham United by samsonslide: 2:24pm On Jul 25, 2017
Javier Hernandez has admitted that he is relishing the prospect of facing former club Manchester United with West Ham United on the opening weekend of the new season.

The Mexico international is back in the Premier League after a three-year absence, in which time he has taken in spells with Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen.

Hernandez, who completed his move to West Ham on Monday night for a fee of £16m, is looking forward to playing at Old Trafford after scoring 59 goals in 157 appearances for United during his previous spell in English football.

“I think I will be a little bit more excited than my teammates to be back at Old Trafford,” Sky Sports News quotes him as saying. “To start the season with my new team there is important and I will be happy to be there. I was desperate to come back to the best league in the world.

“It will help me a lot to improve as a player and person. We want to fight to aim for the Europa competitions. Slaven Bilic was a massive part of why I joined. Since I joined Bayer Leverkusen he wanted me, he spoke with me. He did everything he could to bring me here but couldn’t for a lot of reasons and now I am here I want to repay him.

“My aim is to give my best, to try to give back all the confidence and support from my manager and the board, and help my team get as far as we can this season. You can see in this window they’ve spent very well on good players because we want to be better compared to the last season.”

Hernandez scored 39 times in 76 appearances for Leverkusen, though he has found the net in just five of his last 31 outings for club and country.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

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Sports / Re: Visit Here For Bet9ja Sure Games...no Tell Anybody O by samsonslide: 10:22am On Jul 25, 2017
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Sports / Hope U Didnt Tell Anybody Abt D Game Of Yesterday...sure Zone by samsonslide: 10:19am On Jul 25, 2017
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Sports / Mourinho Crashes Lingard Interview by samsonslide: 9:34am On Jul 25, 2017
Jose Mourinho was in a joking mood as Manchester United touched down in Washington.

United’s pre-season tour of the United States has moved to DC for the upcoming International Champions Cup clash against Barcelona.

And with four wins from as many pre-season matches following victories over Real Madrid, Manchester City, Real Salt Lake and LA Galaxy, Mourinho showed his funny side on Monday.

The Portuguese boss – a man relaxed following a stressful first season at Old Trafford – stepped in to interrupt Jesse Lingard’s interview with club channel MUTV.
Lingard – who scored against Madrid – and his team-mates must keep their performances up to stay on Mourinho’s good side.

United face Barca on Wednesday before returning to Europe for friendlies against Valerenga (July 30) and Sampdoria (August 2), followed by the UEFA Super Cup showdown with Madrid on August 8.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Visit Here For Bet9ja Sure Games...no Tell Anybody O by samsonslide: 12:36pm On Jul 24, 2017
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Click The Link For d Games:https://www.sportlineng.com/2017/07/24/115125/

Sports / I Sent 10 Messages A Day – Montella Pestered Milan Chiefs To Attempt Bonucci Cou by samsonslide: 11:28am On Jul 24, 2017
AC Milan coach Vincenzo Montella has claimed he was the driving force behind the stunning capture of Leonardo Bonucci from Juventus, having convinced the club to move for the Italy international.

Bonucci joined the Rossoneri from the Serie A title-holders this month for a reported fee of €40million, announcing Milan as a force to be reckoned with in the transfer market following a takeover by Chinese investors.

Despite suggestions of a rift with Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri, few expected the Azzurri centre-back, a key man for club and country, to leave Turin.

Montella, though, having received a tip-off, ensured his team did not miss an opportunity to stage a major coup.

“I was convinced it was achievable, I trusted who told me, while my leaders had a different perception,” he was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport.

“I sent [sporting director Massimo] Mirabelli at least 10 messages a day, with only three words: ‘Good morning, or good night, director: Bonucci’.”
Montella is not concerned about Bonucci disrupting the dynamic among the squad and acknowledged his arrival may prompt a change to a three-man defence in 2017-18.

“It intrigues me as an idea,” he said of the potential for a switch in formation.

“But I must say that with these players we can really use so many systems.

“Bonucci is a highly competitive professional, he will be an example for young players. I do not know if without him Juve has been weakened, but we certainly have strengthened ourselves.

“[And] I do not think he will be too big of a presence in the locker room.”
Having spent big to overhaul the team, Milan are expected to allow several players to depart before the transfer window closes next month.

Among those seemingly at risk of being offloaded is M’Baye Niang, but Montella indicated the French forward could yet earn a reprieve.

“Niang against Bayern made a brilliant match,” he said of Milan’s 4-0 International Champions Cup victory over the Bundesliga title-holders.

“He can become a top player, but he needs to improve himself in managing himself when things are fine. There is no reason not to believe in him, it depends more on M’Baye.”
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

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Sports / Zidane: I Haven´t Asked For A Forward Amid Mbappe Links by samsonslide: 10:04am On Jul 24, 2017
Zinedine Zidane denied asking Real Madrid to sign a forward as Monaco sensation Kylian Mbappe continues to be linked with the Spanish and European champions.

Zidane has already lamented Madrid’s forward options after Alvaro Morata moved to Premier League champions Chelsea.

French teenager Mbappe, 18, is reportedly at the top of Madrid’s list after scoring 26 goals in all competitions last season.

Quizzed on his reported request for a forward following Madrid’s 2-1 penalty shoot-out loss to Manchester United after Sunday’s International Champions Cup clash finished 1-1, Zidane told reporters: “You know I will not ask for anything.

“I’m talking to the president. The staff. We have 28 here, and I’m happy with the job. Then we’ll see what happens.

“Until August 31 anything can happen. I do not request anything.”

On the match itself in Santa Clara, Madrid head coach Zidane was left pleased.

Marcelo, Gareth Bale, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, Isco and Karim Benzema all played in the first half, which Madrid trailed to a Jesse Lingard goal.

Madrid’s youngsters were given a chance to shine as Theo Hernandez, Oscar and Alvaro Tejero were introduced and helped force penalties via Casemiro’s 69th-minute spot-kick.

Zidane, who said captain Sergio Ramos is close to resuming full training, added: “Very happy for this match. The kids played 45 minutes and they did very well. Satisfied, there were no injuries.

“We competed well. They played four games before. It is positive. Now we have another match. Hopefully we will find the shape little by little.”
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Morata Backed For Chelsea Success By Spanish Duo by samsonslide: 9:51am On Jul 24, 2017
Chelsea’s Cesc Fabregas and Cesar Azpilicueta are confident in Alvaro Morata’s ability to capably assume the role of first-choice striker.

Though neither has played with the former Real Madrid man at club level, time with the Spanish national team was evidently sufficient for both to endorse Morata, who has joined the Blues in Singapore.

“I have always had a good understanding with him. He’s always been a striker with a little bit of everything,” Fabregas said.

Having recently left the Spanish capital for Stamford Bridge, Morata is likely to replace Diego Costa, who is set for a move in the opposite direction.

He will face competition for that spot in the form of Michy Batshuayi, who has performed well in pre-season. According to Fabregas, talent is not in question for either.

“He has a lot of potential to improve, the same as Michy Batshuayi. It is up to them how far they want to go,” he added.

“They are two young strikers who have to improve as quickly as possible because they are our main strikers.

“If you are going to fight for all competitions, you need your strikers to score lots of goals.”

Meanwhile, Azpilicueta believes his 24-year-old compatriot can quickly adjust to the Premier League under Antonio Conte.

“It is his first experience in the Premier League but he played in Italy, he played for Real Madrid, living with pressure his whole life as a striker,” Azpilicueta said.

“He scored a lot of goals for the national team and in big competitions. He is going to bring his qualities and he can do very well.

“He is strong physically. He has good technique on the ball. He knows the manager. He knows the way we play. He will adapt quick and as a striker hopefully he will score many goals.”
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Belotti Scores In Torino Win, Terry Lifts Bizarre Cup Of Traditions by samsonslide: 9:16am On Jul 24, 2017
Bologna and Torino racked up big wins as football clubs across Europe continued to build towards the new league season on Sunday.

Both sides scored five, with Bologna battering Trento, while in-demand striker Andrea Belotti was on the scoresheet in Torino’s 5-0 win at Renate.

Atalanta were among the other Serie A sides to win on Sunday, running out 3-1 victors against Giana Erminio, while Empoli drew 1-1 at Real Forte Querceta.

Udinese were on track for victory but they were pegged back 2-2 against Kayserispor thanks to the Turkish side scoring two late goals.

LEEDS OUTCLASSED BY EIBAR

LaLiga side Eibar proved to be far too strong for Championship club Leeds United, with the Spaniards picking up a 4-2 victory in Austria.

Eibar led 3-0 at the break but Leeds hit back through New Zealand international Chris Wood and Ezgjan Alioski before Oliveira made sure of Eibar’s win with a late strike.

ZAKARIA OFF THE MARK

Borussia Monchengladbach were beaten 2-1 at home by Nurnberg, but Switzerland international Denis Zakaria got off the mark for the club to give them the lead.

Their fellow Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen were upset 3-2 by Sandhausen despite holding a 2-1 lead at the interval.

Elsewhere in Germany, Aston Villa triumphed in the Cup of Traditions, with the club’s new captain John Terry getting his hands on some unusual silverware.
PORTO CRUISE TO VITORIA VICTORY

Vincent Aboubakar and Tiquinho Soares struck in the first half as Porto eased to a 2-0 win at Vitoria Guimaraes.

Andre’s red card early in the second period left Porto a man down for the remainder of the match but the result was never in doubt.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

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Sports / BREAKING NEWS: Hernandez Set To Join West Ham From Leverkusen by samsonslide: 10:44pm On Jul 20, 2017
Former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez will sign for West Ham from Bayer Leverkusen subject to a medical, the two clubs have announced.

The 29-year-old Mexico international moved to Leverkusen from Old Trafford, following a season on loan at Real Madrid, in August 2015.

He scored 39 goals in 76 competitive games for the Bundesliga side and will bolster Slaven Bilic’s attacking options, with the West Ham boss having already signed Joe Hart on a season-long loan along with the England goalkeeper’s former Manchester City team-mate Pablo Zabaleta.

West Ham are said to be paying a fee in the region of £13million for Hernandez’s services.

A statement on West Ham’s official website read: “West Ham United and Bayer Leverkusen have agreed terms for the transfer of Javier Hernandez to London Stadium.

“The former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker will fly to London in the coming days to finalise personal terms and undergo a medical with the Hammers.”

West Ham are also reported to be on the brink of signing Stoke City forward Marco Arnautovic, with a £24m fee understood to have been agreed between the two Premier League sides.
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Sports / CAF Expands AFCON Teams, Moves Competition From Winter To Summer by samsonslide: 10:33pm On Jul 20, 2017
CAF Executive Committee, at its meeting on Thursday, 20 July 2017, in Rabat, Morocco, reviewed the resolutions of the various working groups of the 1st CAF African Football Symposium held from 18 -19 July 2017 at the Palais des Congrès in Skhirat, near Rabat.

The Committee advocated the establishment of a working group to work on the implementation of the resolutions and propose short, medium and long term implementation timetables.

However, a consensus emerged on a number of issues raised by the working groups; Working group 1: AFCON – Competition and specifications: Increasing the Africa Cup of Nations to 24 teams as of the 2019 edition, and the tournament will now be held in the months of June and July.

The competition will however remain a biennial event (every two years), odd years and exclusively held on African soil with African national teams.

Working group 2: Inter-club competitions It was agreed by the Committee to maintain the current format, but to proceed in the future to a change in timing for interclub competitions which are expected to start from August to May.

Working group 3: Football development (Coaching, Refereeing, Medical)
The principle of increasing the indemnities of referees was approved.

The Committee expressed its determination to explore all scientific and medical solutions that could eradicate the phenomenon of age cheating, likewise a research that can help to determine the causes of sudden death among footballers, of which majority of the victims are of African origin.

The 2019 AFCON Competition is now set to have 24 teams and be held in June/July in Cameroon. Absolutely a great Development from the Ahmad Ahmad led administration.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Torino Want £53, Three Players From AC Milan For Striker Andrea Belotti? by samsonslide: 4:59pm On Jul 20, 2017
AC Milan have reportedly been informed what they will have to give Torino in order to sign striker Andrea Belotti.

The 23-year-old has attracted plenty of attention after netting 26 goals in Serie A last season and at one stage, both Manchester United and Chelsea were in the running for his signature.

However, he has allegedly indicated that he wants to move to the San Siro but according to Sky Sports News, Milan will have to put together a huge offer to sign him ahead of the new campaign.

It has been suggested that Torino are demanding £53m plus three players – M’Baye Niang, Gabriel Palletta and Manuel Locatelli – in order to complete a deal.

Milan are said to have offered £35m plus Niang and Palletta, but it appears that they will be unsuccessful with their bid unless they meet Torino’s demands.

In two years at Torino, Belotti has netted 40 goals from 73 appearances in all competitions
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Report: Manchester City’s £44.5m Benjamin Mendy Bid Rejected by samsonslide: 4:22pm On Jul 20, 2017
Manchester City have fallen short with their approach for AS Monaco ace Benjamin Mendy, according to a report.

The Citizens are said to have tabled a £44.5m offer for the France international, as they look to further add to their full-back ranks ahead of the new campaign.

Less than a week on from signing Kyle Walker from Tottenham Hotspur in a world-record deal for a defender, the Daily Mail suggests that City have now officially made a move for Mendy.

It is claimed that Monaco instead value their title-winning player higher than Walker, though, with the Ligue 1 champions holding out for a sum of £54m.

Chelsea are also understood to have made an enquiry this summer and could match any successful bid from their Premier League rivals, having seen their attempt to sign Alex Sandro from Juventus hit a brick wall.

City boss Pep Guardiola is desperate to freshen up both defensive flanks during the off-season, with Danilo also expected to join from Real Madrid in the coming days – direct competition for Walker on the right.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Neymar Signing ´would Be Good´ For PSG, Says Silva by samsonslide: 10:14am On Jul 20, 2017
Thiago Silva is excited by the prospect of Brazil colleague Neymar completing a world-record transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain.

Reports in Brazil have claimed that Neymar is prepared to accept a contract offer from PSG, as the capital club intend to activate a €222million release clause in his Camp Nou contract.

Barca claimed to be “200 per cent” certain that Neymar would remain in Spain, but it has been suggested that the striker wishes to be the outright star in a team – a status he is denied as part of the ‘MSN’ front line at Barca alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

Silva has been unable to get the inside track from Neymar on the finer details of the deal, but says the signing of such a calibre of player is what PSG need.

“I do not know if Neymar is coming, he did not tell me,” Silva is quoted by L’Equipe after PSG’s penalty-shootout win over Roma in the International Champions Cup.

“When you have a project like the PSG it’s important to have players like that. If it happens it would be good for the group.”

Unai Emery added fuel to the fire on Thursday, hailing Neymar has a potential difference maker in PSG’s attempts to become a bona fide Champions League powerhouse.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Arsenal Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny Arrives In Turin To Complete Juventus Move by samsonslide: 1:25pm On Jul 18, 2017
Wojciech Szczesny is on the verge of ending his 11-year association with Arsenal after he arrived in Turin to finalise a move to Juventus.

The Polish goalkeeper is believed to be the subject of a £13m deal, which will see the 27-year-old become Gianluigi Buffon’s backup.

With Juventus’ number one expected to retire at the end of the upcoming season, Szczesny is likely to take over from the veteran at the Serie A outfit.

The Italian giants, who won their 33rd top-flight title a matter of months ago, confirmed on their official Twitter page that the Arsenal keeper has touched down in Turin.
Szczesny, who joined Arsenal’s academy in 2006, spent the last two years on loan at Roma.
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

Sports / Liverpool Won´t Sell Coutinho Or Other Key Players, Says Klopp by samsonslide: 1:01pm On Jul 18, 2017
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp insists the club will not sell Philippe Coutinho or any other key players before next season.

The Brazil international has been linked with a possible move to Paris Saint-Germain in recent weeks following his outstanding Premier League form in 2016-17.

Klopp, however, has no concerns over the futures of any of his first-team stars.

“Not with only Phil, but it’s a good thing to talk about in the transfer window because the world thinks improving is only about bringing in new players,” he told a news conference.

“Nobody thinks that the players we already have will make the next step, which is also a nice idea. We use the transfer window, of course, because it gives us an opportunity, but the main thing I think about is how we can make the next step with the players we had last season.”The good news is we didn’t lose – and we will not lose – a player we want to keep this summer. That’s the best news, actually, and then we’ll see who we can bring into the squad. I expect a lot of progress from the players based on their experiences from the last years.”

Liverpool broke their transfer record to sign Mohamed Salah from Roma for an initial €42million last month and the Egypt international scored on his debut in the friendly draw with Wigan Athletic last Friday.

Salah enjoyed a strong spell in Serie A with Fiorentina and then Roma but his return to England has been met with some scepticism following his dismal time at Chelsea, where he failed to make an impact over 12 months after signing in January 2014.

Klopp, however, has no doubt he will prove a hit.”A lot of players have shown it is quite easy to struggle at Chelsea. [Kevin] De Bruyne is one,” he said. “The only thing that we really ignored was what he did at Chelsea.

“We played against him when he was at Basel and we didn’t know him. We played with [Borussia] Dortmund against him and when I watching him, it was ‘what the f***!’. It was unbelievable!

“The moment I said ‘let’s go for him’ he was already at Chelsea. Then he struggled at Chelsea because it was too early.

“Then he went to Fiorentina and then Roma. The question is ‘what did you not see in him?’ because he played all-inclusive football. He was quick, he played a lot of games, he created goals, chances, he scored by himself. He was involved in pretty much everything for Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.”
Read More Sport News:https://www.sportlineng.com/more-news/

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