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1 Manchester United reportedly have the upper hand over Barcelona in the race to sign Benfica wonderkid Joao Neves ahead of the summer transfer window. Midfield is believed to be an area of the pitch Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are keen on reinforcing, especially if Casemiro and Christian Eriksen depart the club. Casemiro continues to be strongly linked with a switch to the Saudi Pro League while Eriksen – who recently revealed that he is unhappy with the playing time afforded to him since the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo – is thought to be on the radar of Galatasaray. Neves has been repeatedly mentioned to be a prime target for United and he has admirers at Old Trafford. A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Red Devils are even prepared to break their record fee for a midfielder to lure Neves to Old Trafford. It was stated that Erik ten Hag’s side have set aside more than €100 million to get a deal for Neves over the line in the coming months. A fresh report has claimed that United have settled on Neves as their priority alternative in the middle of the park and his agent, Jorge Mendes, wishes to take him to the 20-time English champions for a fee in the region of €80m (£68m). In addition to this, it’s understood that United have an advantage “without Barca being able to do anything”. The Blaugrana “are not willing to pay” Benfica’s €80m minimum asking price, which effectively rules them out of the running to land him. Mendes is eager to ensure his client plays for “a much more powerful club” than Benfica – United certainly fit this profile. The report also notes that United “intend” to buy Neves in the summer with Casemiro’s “days numbered” in England. For Neves, Barca “will not be his next adventure.” The 19-year-old midfielder has made 52 appearances for his side this term across all competitions. In that time, he has registered three goals and two assists. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

1 Manchester United’s draw against Burnley kept up the theme of the season where it’s one tiny step forward after a win followed by a giant step backwards. However, there was one glimmer of hope for Erik ten Hag, which is when his gamble of ultimate trust in Antony paid off. The Brazilian’s well-taken finish allowed United to take the lead and continue something of a minor uptick in form. Of course, considering the absolute dire run he was in the midst of earlier, finding an uptick is not a very high bar but it is nonetheless a positive. The winger spoke to reporters after the game and addressed his poor run of form and the critics that have come with it. He appeared to brush off the critics and said that he knows his worth which is why he doesn’t think much of people who doubt him. At the same time, he acknowledged that the noise around him would be a lot quieter, especially with regards to his transfer fee, if his performances were up to scratch. He said: “It doesn’t really impact me because I know my worth. “The money is the money and obviously everyone speaks about it but no one would if the performances of everyone and myself were at the top.” Although he did suggest that he uses the criticism to drive himself further and work harder to improve and prove his doubters wrong. He said: “So it’s something that is just a way of working harder, knowing I can get better. I know my worth and I will. As I said, the critics are going to exist and it’s something that makes me want to work harder, prove to myself first. “I’m going to keep working, giving everything for the group because it’s most important to have a good mentality and to be focused.” Antony’s performances this season have often mirrored United’s fate as both have been extremely inconsistent and frustrating for the fans. The view is now towards the FA Cup final in May and hopefully consolidating the sixth place in the standings. From there on, next season and a marked improvement have to be on the agenda for the club and the players. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

1 Manchester United u21s rounded out the Premier League 2 regular season with an unusual lunchtime kick-off on a Monday away to Southampton. Needing a win for a chance to secure qualification to next season’s Premier League International Cup, things got off to a shaky start as Southampton scored within the opening minute. A loose pass back by Omari Forson saw possession turned over at United’s end to launch a quick counter for Southampton, ending with Sam Amo-Ameyaw sliding the ball under Elyh Harrison. United looked for a quick response through Ethan Williams who opened the space on the left wing, playing a one-two with Harry Amass before running 50 yards and smashing the ball off the crossbar. Ethan Wheatley opened United’s tally in the 21st minute, taking Forson’s pass on the turn inside the box to slot inside the bottom right corner. The striker, who recently made his first team debut, added his second just two minutes later. Sam Mather played the ball over the top for Wheatley to take down while holding off the defender and expertly sliding low past the keeper. Southampton had the lion’s share of the possession but Harrison made two big saves to keep the score 1-2 going into the break. Harrison couldn’t keep them out forever though and the home side equalised just before the hour mark, an unlucky deflection saw Harrison’s save bounce back off Luke Pearce and into the goal. United were deadly in the final third on the day though and restored their lead with two goals within two minutes. First Mather drove into the box and curled the ball into the bottom left corner before Ethan Williams tapped in the rebound from Wheatley’s shot to make it 2-4. Williams added his second in the 80th minute when he received the cut back from Amass to side foot into an almost empty net. A lovely pass over the Southampton backline by Jacob Devaney found Charlie McNeill, who took it down and hit it low into the bottom left corner. Southampton’s Will Merry added a consolation goal before the end but it was too late to catch the free-scoring United. The win brought United up to 29 points in 20 matches and sealed the 12th spot in the table. The u21s season isn’t over yet though as they now move onto the play-offs, where they will face off against fifth place Arsenal. Six goals. Three points. Signing out of the regular #PL2 season in style! #MUFC || #MUAcademy pic.twitter.com/Nwgfzjn1Qp — Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 29, 2024 United: Harrison, Ogunneye, Jackson, Aljofree, Amass, McAllister, Curley (Devaney 56), Forson, Mather (Scanlon 81), Williams (Murray 86), Wheatley (McNeill 82) Unused subs: Kingdon Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

1 Manchester United’s shocking season has left INEOS under pressure to make some major changes in the summer. Top of the list may well be a new manager with Erik ten Hag’s chaotic playing style leading to some bizarre performances throughout the campaign. The Dutchman has suffered badly in his second season and failure to qualify for next year’s Champions League may have been the final straw for the new minority owners. Many names are being linked with the managerial post but with the ownership yet to take a final call regarding Ten Hag’s future, any conversations will be currently taking place behind closed doors. One man heavily rumoured to be on INEOS’ managerial list, should they make a change, is outgoing Bayern Munich coach, Thomas Tuchel. However, as relayed by Sport Witness, United will need to move quickly to secure the German’s services with the 50-year-old open to taking some time off after a gruelling couple of seasons with Bayern. Bayer Leverkusen have romped to an unlikely title success, ending Bayern’s 11-year stranglehold on the competition and damaging Tuchel’s reputation in the process. Journalist Tobias Altschäffl confirmed, “He (Tuchel) hasn’t completely ruled out the possibility of taking a sabbatical,” despite being the bookies favourite to take over at Old Trafford. Furthermore, football expert Christian Falk claimed that Tuchel remains extremely tempted by the position at United and the club are keen as well. “Tuchel wants to go to the island, he’s hotly tipped at Manchester United,” says Falk. No official deal is likely to be announced before the end of the season given the importance of United’s remaining fixtures. The four remaining Premier League games will end up determining where the club finishes while the FA Cup final will bring the curtain down on United’s season, and possibly Ten Hag’s career in Manchester. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

Shalulile made up for poor recent performances by grabbing a brace as Sundowns extended their unbeaten run to 23 league matches. Mamelodi Sundowns are back to winning ways following a 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in a DStv Premiership match that was played at Loftus Versfeld. The Brazilians dominated the game from the first whistle and had a commanding 2-0 lead at the break with Peter Shalulile getting a brace. ALSO READ: Sundowns seek redemption in Galaxy clash Thembinkosi Lorch came off the bench to round off the scoring in the second half as Sundowns edge closer to another league title. Masandwana need just one more win to pick up a record-extending seventh successive league title. They will wrap up the league championship should they beat old nemesis Kaizer Chiefs on Thursday. Sundowns will also be crowned champions if second-placed Stellenbosch FC lose to Golden Arrows on Wednesday. Shalulile came under scrutiny for his lacklustre showing in the Caf Champions League semifinal defeat to Esperance last Friday. Before the clash against Galaxy, the 30-year-old’s last league goal came against Cape Town Spurs in December. In fact, the Namibian’s only goal this year came in the Champions League game against TP Mazembe last month. Shalulile made up for his poor performance by grabbing a brace as Sundowns extended their unbeaten run to 23 league matches. His first goal was a half-volley from a Themba Zwane cross from the right while the second came from a silky move that saw Zwane set him up with a lovely back heel. Zwane was again involved in the third goal – this time he fed Lorch inside the box who unleashed a first time shot to kill off the game. Rockets lack spark The win will go a long way in easing the heartache of the loss to Esperance and the home fans were treated to some great football as Sundowns played with flair. The Rockets simply didn’t turn up in Tshwane and hardly threatened the whole night. ALSO READ: Chiefs to miss key defender for Sundowns showdown Galaxy were reduced to 10-man Orebotse Mongae was shown red for a late tackle from behind on Bongani Zungu with five minutes left. The Rockets’ best chance came from the spot in stoppage time but Bernard Parker had his penalty saved by Ronwen Williams. It was Parker’s first game back since the horrific leg break earlier this season.

1 Manchester United’s unexpected over-reliance on youth academy players this season has been a double-edged sword. While some have come through the baptism of fire and established themselves in the first team, question marks remain over the others. However, at least players at the club got that chance to impress, something that can’t be said for players who went out on loan and couldn’t get games there. Enter Dan Gore, the pre-season revelation who had United fans salivating at his potential, grit, and drive to succeed. The midfielder spent the first half of the season at the club but couldn’t get consistent games so he went on loan to Port Vale. Now, the Valiants have confirmed that Gore will return to Old Trafford at the end of his loan spell in the summer. The loan can be deemed as a certified fail, as Gore barely got a look in at Vale Park due to injuries and a club in turmoil. Vale got relegated to League Two this season after two years in League One and all Gore could manage was a measly 54-minute appearance in the league for them. Needless to say, he didn’t make any impact during his time on the pitch and amid a change of managers, a free-falling club, and a dysfunctional team, his progress has been set back. Gore will return to a different United this summer who are under new ownership with tall ambitions for the club. He should get a chance to impress in the pre-season as well but with so many unknowns at the club, not least of which is the manager’s future, it is likely that Gore’s chance to make it at United has passed. A shame for a player how one ill-advised loan has probably changed his entire career trajectory as staying at United amid the glut of injuries past the winter window would have quite possibly lent him more minutes than he managed at Vale all season. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

1 After years of bad decisions in the transfer market, Manchester United will need to act smart in the upcoming transfer window in order to acquire their desired profiles. Such are the PSR concerns that new co-owners INEOS need to think about selling players first before thinking about recruitment. One shrewd acquisition that the club are keeping an eye on is Galatasaray’s Baris Alper Yilmaz with his biggest attribute being his versatility. The Turk prefers the right wing role but can also play on the opposite flank and even upfront while also doubling up as either a right-back or left-back. Yilmaz links The 23-year-old has played a key role this season, making 51 appearances across all competitions, while scoring six times and providing nine assists. Galatasaray are leading the Turkish league currently. Ten Hag and United are aware of his talents after the player registered one of his assists against the Red Devils during the Champions League game at Old Trafford . His ability to play across different positions on the pitch have seen him earn comparisons with Real Madrid’s versatile genius Federico Valverde and he has even been dubbed as the “Turkish Valverde”. “Premier League giants Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are watching Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz with one scout feeling he could be the ‘Turkish Valverde’,” HITC Football reported. “The stellar form of Baris Alper Yilmaz has been a big reason for Gala’s success in 2023/24, scoring six goals and providing nine assists while catching the eye of Aston Villa, Tottenham, Man United, AFC Bournemouth and Brighton and Hove Albion. “Scouts, HITC have been told, have been drawn to Yilmaz’s versatility. One talentspotter has even drawn comparisons with Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde.” That is not all as the Turkish international has also been compared with Gareth Bale in terms of strength and speed and with Phil Foden by former coach Ilker Puren. “I compare Baris Alper Yilmaz to Gareth Bale in terms of strength. He has the ability to sprint 3-4 meters after eliminating the opponent with the ball,” former coach Ilker Puren told GS Gazete. “One day, he will definitely play in the Premier League because physics comes to the fore there. He has also improved his positional knowledge. The level he is at now is close to Phil Foden.” Versatility is his forte Such comparisons must have piqued United’s interest with the player said to be available for around £22 million. His ability to play on both flanks could come in handy considering the uncertain futures of Jadon Sancho, Antony and Marcus Rashford. His ability to play as a full-back means Yilmaz could potentially come in if Aaron Wan-Bissaka is moved on or if the likes of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia once again suffer from injury as seen this season. Victor Lindelof and Sofyan Amrabat have had to play as an emergency left-back due to lack of options. Yilmaz could certainly fill the void. Considering his fee, this could prove a bargain buy. Lots of other teams are in the fray and this could be a deal worth keeping an eye on. Gala are also interested in multiple United players and the club could take advantage if they are serious about the player. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

1 Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay has revealed that the injury he picked up against Burnley is nothing serious and he’s hoping to make a return to action as soon as possible. United were held to a 1-1 draw by the Clarets on Saturday at Old Trafford. Antony gave the Red Devils the lead in the 79th minute but as has been the case for large parts of the campaign, the team could not hold on and surrendered their advantage soon after. Andre Onana was judged to have wiped out a Burnley player and a penalty was awarded to the visiting side. Zeke Amdouni made no mistake from the spot-kick to ensure the spoils were shared. Beyond the result, the other thing that raised concerns among the fanbase was McTominay’s injury. He was brought on by Ten Hag in the second half to try and make a difference but he didn’t finish the match. The Scotland international hobbled off in pain during injury time with what seemed like a knock. After the game, Ten Hag spoke to reporters and said, “We have to assess this, to set the diagnosis. I don’t know in this moment to return [against Crystal Palace next month], I think it’s a little bit too quick turnaround.” “You have seen he has a problem. We have to diagnose this and see what it is.” A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that there were fears McTominay would miss United’s next Premier League clash against the in-form Crystal Palace at Selhurst Palace. The Carrington academy has taken to social media and given a massive update on his fitness. The midfielder wrote on Instagram, “I slipped and fell awkward on my knee similar to against Chelsea.” “Nothing serious just hyperextension but I was angry and upset that I thought it was worse than it was.” He added, “Hoping to be back on the pitch very soon to help the team as much as I can.” The news will come as a huge relief to all United fans, Ten Hag and his coaching staff, who have had to deal with several key players missing multiple games this term due to physical setbacks. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

1 Manchester United’s issues with scoring goals have plagued Erik ten Hag’s second season at Old Trafford. Ten Hag’s troops are comfortably the lowest scorers in the top six of the Premier League and the lack of firepower has been a major reason behind their wretched campaign. United are expected to go into the market in the summer and a raft of top players across Europe are being linked with bolstering the attacking options in Ten Hag’s first-team squad. Lille striker Jonathan David is one of the names rumoured to be on the INEOS shortlist but it appears United will face stiff competition for his signature. As reported by TuttoMercatoWeb, Premier League rivals Aston Villa are in pole position to sign the 24-year-old with Unai Emery keen on the player. The outlet reports United have “made contact” in recent weeks but Villa have now emerged as favourites for the Canadian. The midlands club currently occupy the coveted fourth spot in the Premier League and therefore could be able to offer Champions League football to the player – something United cannot. David is out of contract next summer and it’s believed Lille will settle for a deal at €35 million which represents good value for money in the current market. The striker has 24 goals and eight assists from his 44 games this season and has no doubt caught the eye of major clubs across the continent. Serie A giants AC Milan and Napoli are also said to be monitoring David’s situation closely but stand little chance of tempting the player if the Premier League comes calling. No official bid has come from Villa or United but expect the race to sign the striker to hot up in the coming weeks with the summer transfer window swinging open mid-June. In the meantime, United will hope to salvage something from what has been a dreadful season, by winning the FA Cup against Manchester City next month. United travel to Wembley for a repeat of last year’s final on May 25 and will be desperate to avenge last season’s loss and win the trophy for a remarkable 13th time. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

Following their Caf Champions League elimination on Friday, Mamelodi Sundowns focus on the DStv Premiership. Bafana Ba Style are two wins away from securing their seventh league title In a row. Rulani Mokwena‘s charges play TS Galaxy on Monday looking to maintain their unbeaten run this season. Mamelodi Sundowns defender Mosa Lebusa admits the club is still hurting from the Champions League exit. “Well, obviously I mean coming from Champions League exit, moods a bit low, but as a team, we had 24 hours. So 24 hours has passed, so we are looking forward to our next game where we have to redeem ourselves,” the Mamelodi Sundowns defender told the club’s media department. “I mean, we have the league to play for and playing against a good side who’s in a very good form. So we were sad, after exiting the Champions League, but right now we picked ourselves up and we have to finish the league. Mamelodi Sundowns out for blood this week “So I think everyone now is fully focused on the upcoming game. Yeah, I think it’s one of the teams that we haven’t played this season. I mean, the only time we played them was in the Carling Black Label, but in the league, we haven’t played them so it’s gonna be interesting. “ Mamelodi Sundowns will play TS Galaxy twice in a space of 30 days and Lebusa expects touch games in both matches. And yeah, they are in a very good form. I mean, if you check the league, they’re slowly climbing up and mathematically they can still catch us. “But we’re playing at home tomorrow, I don’t think it’s possible for them to do that because tomorrow we have to redeem ourselves and you know what happens to a wounded animal? We have to go all out attack and make sure that we get maximum points and look forward to the next game,” he said. Masandawana looked to wrap up the league if Mamelodi Sundowns beat Galaxy, they won’t be crowned champions but a loss for Stellenbosch will see Masandawana lift the title. Stellies play Golden Arrows on Wednesday but their title aspirations are all but over given Downs’ games in hand. Masandawana and Kaizer Chiefs play each other this Thursday. A win for Masandawan might crown them PSL champions

Orlando Pirates boosted their goal differential with their latest DStv Premiership victory over the weekend. Bet Anytime, Anywhere Quick and Easy with Betway The Buccaneers found the back of the net on four occasions – without conceding – against Royal AM in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday. The Soweto giants’ strikers have been in a rich vein of from of late, with the side scoring 12 goals in their most recent three league matches. That has boosted the Buccaneers’ goal tally this season to 39 – the same number as log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. With their goals conceded tally standing at 23, Orlando Pirates have a goal differential of +16. That is tied with Stellenbosch FC who sit one place above the Buccaneers in the standings as both sides vie for the second and final CAF Champions League spot next season. Both sides have five matches remaining this season. Orlando Pirates will next be in action on Wednesday, 1 May when they travel to Cape Town to take on Cape Town City FC. Kick-off is at 15:00. DSTV PREMIERSHIP LOG

Few Liverpool loanees have enjoyed as much success this season as Vitezslav Jaros, who speaks to This Is Anfield as his club, Sturm Graz, challenge for the double. — GRAZ, AUSTRIA It has been a whirlwind few months for Vitezslav Jaros since joining Sturm Graz on loan from Liverpool back in the January transfer window. He’s made his debut in Europe playing in the UEFA Conference League, qualified for the Austrian Cup final and is currently competing for the Austrian Bundesliga title. Mixed in there, he’s also earned his first senior international call-up for Czechia. “I sort of knew a little bit that it was coming,” Jaros tells This is Anfield. “I was talking to the goalie coach, and I was talking to the scout that was coming to watch my game. So I sort of knew that was on the cards, but I didn’t know for sure until the squad came out.” Jaros spent the March international break training with Czechia’s senior squad to prepare for two friendlies against Armenia and Norway. He may not have earned any minutes on the pitch, but he still relished every moment. “It was proud moment,” he says. “It was good overall. Good group of lads and good staff. It was good to get to know everyone, and it’s good to make the step up. It’s a big difference, U21 to the first team. So, I’m really happy for it.” At 22 years old, Jaros is entering a significant turning point in his career. He has been at Liverpool for almost seven years and has enjoyed loan spells at St Patrick’s Athletic in Ireland, winning the club’s Player of the Season in 2021, as well as Stockport County and Notts County in the English football pyramid. “A different kind of loan” This current loan spell feels like a step up from the rest. In Sturm Graz, Jaros joined a team that drew 2-2 with Atalanta in the Europa League group stage earlier this season. He’s earning regular minutes as the club’s No. 1 and catching the eye. “It feels like a different kind loan,” he says. “Because I’m coming in knowing I am going to play, and I can really focus on just enjoying the football. It’s a really good league. We played in Europe as well, so I’m really enjoying it.” Jaros made the round of 16 with Sturm Graz in the UEFA Conference League. He featured in a win over Slovan Bratislava in the previous round, and produced a solid performance against Lille as well, despite ultimately being eliminated. In total, the Liverpool loanee made 10 saves in the two games against Lille and outperformed his expected goals against by 0.71, as per FotMob. “It was great,” he says. “It’s always good to sort of test yourself against one of the better teams in Europe. I mean [Lille are] third or fourth in France. So it was good to know where I am and where the team is at as well. “I think I did quite well in the two games personally, so I’m really happy with that.” Contact with Liverpool He hasn’t been forgotten about at Liverpool either. The club’s goalkeeping staff are regularly keeping in contact with Jaros and tracking his progress at Sturm Graz. “I’m keeping in touch with John Achterberg the most. We talk after every game, and I sort of get his feedback as well. “He just drops me a message and says what he thinks of my game, what I did right, what I did wrong, but I think overall he seems to be really happy with the way I’m performing and I’m getting on.” In terms of the season ahead, there is plenty left for Jaros and Sturm Graz to fight for. At the time of writing, the club is three points clear of Red Bull Salzburg at the top of the Austrian Bundesliga with three games to go. Jaros’ side is also set to face Rapid Wien in the Austrian Cup final on May 1, after knocking out Salzburg in the semi-finals. With Jaros between the sticks, Sturm Graz will be hoping to retain their crown, having also won the cup last season. It’s a good time to be at the Austrian club, and the Liverpool loanee is relishing every moment. Especially playing in front of Sturm Graz’s boisterous crowd. “Every game feels like a big game” “It’s always good when you get a big crowd because you haven’t got an empty stadium, and it brings that atmosphere, so every game feels like a big game,” he tells This Is Anfield. “There’s not that much left [of the season]. There’s only about a month left, but yeah, I just want to carry on playing, doing well and see what that brings me.” Jaros is determined to achieve success with Sturm Graz. He now also has an added incentive to return to Czechia’s senior squad for Euro 2024 later this summer. “Hopefully I’ll get to go to the Euros in the summer,” he says. “It would be class even though I don’t think I would play. But you never know, crazier things have happened in football. But yeah, it would be unbelievable. It would be a proud moment. Even to be around a team. “The team is really strong now as well, I think ready to compete with the best, so it would be interesting.” What the future holds beyond that, only time will tell.

1 Erik ten Hag’s disastrous second season in charge of Manchester United has left him fighting for his position at the club. Failing to qualify for next season’s Champions League coupled with an embarrassing early exit from Europe this year has left INEOS under pressure to make a change. Given Ten Hag’s struggles, Dutch journalists claim there is a safe route out of Old Trafford for Ten Hag – back to his former club in The Netherlands. Football expert Marcel van der Kraan says the 54-year-old is the number one choice to take over at Ajax and the Dutch giants have a date in mind to make their move for the United coach. “Alex Kroes (Ajax technical director) has got Erik ten Hag at the top of his wanted list. He is his man and will wait for him until the end of this month because by June 1st they have to appoint a manager or make a decision,” he said. Journalists Mike Verweij echoed Van der Kraan’s sentiments and believes Ajax will want the issue of a new coach resolved as soon as possible at the end of the current season. “It is a kind of poker game, because on the one hand you want to wait for your dream candidate, but not too long, otherwise the trainer’s carousel will start moving and you will miss your numbers two and three (but) Ten Hag is definitely number one,” he said. Former Chelsea and Brighton coach Graham Potter has been heavily linked with both the United and Ajax posts but Valentijn Driesse, another expert on Dutch football, believes there is a clear solution to the situation. “The information we have is that he (Potter) is not number one at Ajax either,” he said on a De Telegraaf podcast. “I also heard on English radio yesterday that Potter is waiting for Manchester United. That would be a good swap, Potter to United and Ten Hag to Ajax. Ten Hag is just not yet convinced that he should wobble at United,” he added. Ten Hag’s kamikaze style of play has led to some horror shows throughout the season and his reluctance to change tactics has been the major issue behind United fans’ growing frustration. However, amidst the chaos, the Dutchman has steered United into back-to-back FA Cup finals and the showpiece occasion against Manchester City next month looks like his only chance to save his position at the club. Before then, United must navigate four tricky looking league games and know they need to go into the final with confidence if they are to stand any chance of avenging last season’s defeat in the competition. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

2 Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first summer as Manchester United owner is shaping up to be a monumental one. A lack of Champions League football would have necessitated ruthless decisions anyhow, but what the extent of that ruthlessness was going to be is becoming clearer. David Ornstein reports that United are now open to selling Marcus Rashford in the summer window only a year after giving him a new contract. Rashford signed a new contract last summer after a career year in Erik ten Hag’s first season which nets him about £325k/week. Unfortunately, his performances fell off a cliff after he secured a future for himself and those heights have never been reached again. Ornstein reports that if there are credible offers for the player and Rashford also tells them he is open to moving, they will be considered. This is a softening of stance from earlier reports when Ten Hag backed Rashford and recounted his ability to score in his first season with him. Rashford being removed from the list of “untouchables” despite signing a new deal recently speaks volumes about the decision-making at United. The older regime gave him a king’s ransom despite not showing anything to prove he could sustain those performance levels, a running theme with the Glazers. That same contract is likely to prove to be hard to shift now although in Rashford’s case, at least, clubs will look at his age (26) and past performances and know there is a player to be unlocked there. Even from the player’s point of view, he could be open to leaving as his recent tweets clearly show he is struggling with the intense scrutiny and criticism of his displays. United need to sell to buy in the summer to avoid falling foul of Profit and Sustainability rules and selling Rashford would instantly catapult them into the green due to his huge wages and academy product status. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

It has been a busy day of Liverpool news, with a major update on Mo Salah‘s future and some positive news on Andy Robertson‘s fitness.   Mo Salah expected to stay With Jurgen Klopp leaving in the summer, some supporters assumed Salah would be on his way out too. However, This Is Anfield understands that the club’s current expectation is that he will be staying for at least another year. With the Egyptian’s contract set to expire in 2025, new sporting director Richard Hughes “will lead talks on a fresh deal for Salah before the forward’s contract ends,” according to the Times‘ Paul Joyce. This would make sense as the Reds seek to avoid losing Salah on a free transfer. If they were to sell him this summer, Liverpool would likely raise over £100 million from a move to Saudi Arabia. At 31 years old, the winger is still in top physical condition, but his form has been poor since returning injured from the Africa Cup of Nations. Hopefully, a good post-season break can refresh Liverpool’s No. 11.   3 things today On the topic of Salah, a new angle has emerged showing his touchline disagreement with Klopp – we’ll leave you to draw your own conclusions from the incident Having been at the London Stadium on Sunday, defender Lutsharel Geertruida has been linked again to Liverpool – De Telegraaf say Feyenoord are “already expecting his departure” Journalist Jonathan Northcroft reported Feyenoord analyst and technical advisor Etienne Reijnen will join Liverpool, along with Arne Slot and at least two other backroom staff   Latest Liverpool FC news Liverpool “have signed all documents” for Slot to become the new head coach, wrote Fabrizio Romano – expect to see a statement from Feyenoord this week Despite limping out of the London Stadium, Andy Robertson is fit and “did not even need scans,” according to the Mail – positive injury news, for once! The documentary currently being filmed about Klopp’s last few months in charge is still to be picked up by a broadcaster, reported the Athletic – can’t say we’re excited for it, to be honest   Latest chat from elsewhere The Premier League have agreed, in principle, a spending cap limited to five times the TV earnings of the bottom club ( The cumulative attendance for both the Women’s Super League and the Women’s Championship has passed one million for the 2023-24 season – the previous WSL record of 689,297 was broken in March (BBC Sport)   Video of the day and match of the night Ahead of Liverpool Women’s big game against Chelsea on Wednesday at Prenton Park, Sam Millne went down to Melwood for an exclusive chat with Matt Beard. We also caught up with Gemma Bonner who is about to make a club-record 150th Liverpool Women appearance. Match of the night is Preston vs. Leicester, at 8pm (BST) on Sky Sports Football. The confirmed Championship winners take on a Preston squad featuring ex-Reds Ben Woodburn, Liam Millar and Layton Stewart. Elsewhere, Barcelona play Valencia at the same time on La Liga TV – perhaps a night to skip the televised football!

Rumoured Kaizer Chiefs target Iqraam Rayners is in the form of his life and that means he’s just become a much more expensive proposition. How much will it take to lure the Bafana Bafana man to Naturena? RAYNERS BAGS FIVE FOR STELLIES Bafana and Stellies attacker Iqraam Rayners is enjoying the season of his life. The 28-year-old hit five against Polokwane City to take his tally to 13 goals for the season in the league. That’s two more than Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Tshegfatso Mabasa in the race for the Golden Boot. Khanyisa Mayo, joint-winner of the award last term, has 10 goals for Cape Town City. Rayners is the first man to hit five in a single PSL game since 2007 and only the second man in history to achieve the feat. Stellenbosch hold all the cards in potential negotiations With Rayners flying high, his transfer value will only increase, as will Stellenbosch’s bargaining power. They have no obligation to sell but if they do, they can ensure they fetch the maximum value for their prized asset. besides, there’s no guarantee he’ll even want to leave a Stellies side in pole position to qualify for the CAF Champions League. They’re also preparing for a Nedbank Cup semi-final against Sundowns. Rayners, a full Bafana Bafana international, joined the emerging Winelands side from SuperSport United in January 2023. Iqraam Rayners. Image: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix SUNDOWNS NEXT UP FOR JOHNSON’S KAIZER CHIEFS Chiefs will be eager to capitalize on a Downs team potentially low on morale after their CAF Champions League exit to Esperance at the semi-final stage. The much-needed 2-1 win over SuperSport at the weekend, courtesy of goals from Christian Saile and Mduduzi Shabalala, snapped a streak of four consecutive matches where Johnson’s team failed to find the back of the net. Amakhosi host Sundowns on Thursday 2 May with kickoff at 19:30. Edmilson Dove is suspended while Thatayaone Ditlhokwe isn’t yet match-fit, leaving Johnson with a dilemma in the centre of defence. Nkosingiphile Ngcobo is still not deemed fit enough to make a matchday squad. Kaizer Chiefs coach Cavin Johnson. Image: Kaizer Chiefs website What do you think is a fair price for Rayners? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest football news.

1 Manchester United failed to beat 19th placed Burnley and were held to a 1-1 draw in their Premier League game at Old Trafford on Saturday. As has become the norm this season, the hosts yet again conceded a late goal with the Clarets deserving their luck after creating so many chances throughout the game. This season, United have conceded late goals against Chelsea, Brentford, Liverpool and Coventry City and Erik ten Hag’s chaos ball tactics are largely to blame. Opposition teams have found the press easy to bypass and with injuries devastating the backline, the Dutchman has had to constantly shuffle his pack and the lack of consistency has also not helped. Defensive issues at United Currently, Casemiro is partnering Harry Maguire in the heart of the defence with Raphael Varane, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof and Willy Kambwala all sidelined. The Brazilian and Englishman have conceded six goals in three games – three against Championside side Coventry, two against bottom of the league Sheffield United and the Burnley equaliser. With Varane and Evans‘ contracts expiring in June and with both Maguire and Lindelof linked with moves away, it is clear to see that INEOS need to strengthen at the back. Barcelona star Ronald Araujo is one of the defenders linked with a move to the Theatre of Dreams with Bayern Munich also reportedly in the race. But as The Peoples Person relayed recently, United are prepared to blow the Bundesliga giants out of the water in order to secure the Uruguayan’s services. United set to open talks with Araujo As per CaughtOffisde, United are ready to enter talks with the player’s agent and are reportedly prepared to pay €100 million for a transfer this summer. The 25-year-old has helped keep 10 clean sheets this season and has been an ever-present member of the backline with Xavi keen to hold on to him. But the Catalan giants are under immense financial pressure and they need to sell a few big-name players with the Uruguay international open to a move should he receive a decent salary and a long-term offer. “Manchester United are ready to enter into talks with the agent of Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo ahead of a potential €100million transfer move this summer, CaughtOffside understands. “Araujo wants to stay at Barcelona, while the club are also not keen to sell, but there are various moving parts involved that could sway things in Man Utd’s favour. “Sources with a close understanding of Araujo’s situation have informed CaughtOffside that although the Uruguay international is an important player to Barca, their financial situation means they’d consider selling some big names this summer. Araujo price revealed “For Araujo, that could mean seriously considering offers in the region of €100m, while the player himself would also be open to leaving the Nou Camp for a long-term contract with a good salary.” The only stumbling block could be the lack of Champions League football on offer in Manchester while Bayern could offer the player the chance to keep playing in the premier European competition. Araujo’s current salary stands at 134,615 per week (as per Capology) and the Red Devils should have no problem breaching the 200 thousand mark for the player should INEOS sign off on the deal. Bringing in a long-term target would be a great opportunity but whether the club have the money to spend big on one player remains to be seen. Maybe Varane’s departure and selling a couple of defenders could help in this regard. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

Kaizer Chiefs fans should prepare to say “farewell, Amakhosi” to these players who are set to leave at the end of the season. With the end of season comes the end of player stints at their respective clubs. Meaning, with the season drawing to a halt there are inevitable exits facing Chiefs players. Moreover, we have some insight into a couple of players who are heading out of Naturena. CHIEFS LOAN FLOP SET TO LEAVE Jasond Gonzalez is one of the players who are set to leave at the end of the season. “Loanee Jasond Gonzales is set for an exit when his deal lapses,” the relevant source reported on SoccerLaduma. He has been one of the more underwhelming signing made by the Soweto giants. That says a lot given the wide array of recent transfer flops. AMAKHOSI MIDFIELDER RUNNING OUT OF TIME AT NATURENA? However, he is not the only likely to leave. Midfielder, Siyethembe Sithebe is the other Amakhosi man likely leaving Chiefs when the current 2023/24 DStv Premiership season commences. “The player is likely to make an exit when his current contract expires in June,” the Siya crew reported on the same publication. As things stand, both players are facing the end of their current underwhelming Amakhosi stints. Although, it must be noted that, the new coach will play a big role in determining who stays and leaves the club. With player exits on the cards, doors will open and transfer targets will be identified. The latest Amakhosi target is a former Orlando Pirates star. Which current Chiefs players do you think should leave Naturena at the end of the season? Let us know in the comments below.

As Liverpool’s once-promising season unravels at its end, it may be welcome news to fans that the club’s behind-the-scenes documentary is yet to be picked up. Filming for Liverpool’s addition to a growing collection of fly-on-the-wall documentaries within football began in December, and was officially announced in January. That coincided with the news of Jurgen Klopp‘s resignation, with the initial reception of a documentary series of his final months in charge hugely positive. But with the challenge for four trophies crumbling amid a frustrating run-in – knocked out of the Europa League and FA Cup and unlikely to win the Premier League – there have been calls from fans to scrap it entirely. While that will not happen, The Athletic‘s Tom Burrows reports that, despite ongoing talks with streaming services, no deal has been struck for its broadcast. Burrows writes: “The programme was expected to generate an eight-figure sum for the club, with Disney+ considered the early favourites, but nothing concrete has materialised.” It was previously reported that Liverpool would seek in the region of £10 million for rights to the documentary, which is being produced by Lorton Entertainment. The plan is the air in August, ahead of the new campaign, with Liverpool’s senior vice-president of digital Drew Crisp viewing it as “a way to boost their huge global reach.” Interestingly, Burrows’ report notes that Klopp granted the production “access they did not believe they would get when filming began” when they were invited into the dressing room at Wembley for the Carabao Cup celebrations. There have been no such celebrations since, though, with the second half of the multi-episodic documentary series set to take a dour note. Speaking on the announcement of the series, Klopp told the club’s official website: “With this being my final season I thought we should provide a rare opportunity for viewers to have more of an inside look at what makes this club so special: its people. “From our fans to our players and those who work so hard behind the scenes, constantly in pursuit of success for Liverpool Football Club. “Thanks to this new documentary series, viewers will be able to see what I see every day at this great club, and understand those amazing people more.”

1 Manchester United’s upcoming summer transfer window was set to be a landmark one as it will be Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first as United owner. Now, it will be a landmark window for all Premier League clubs and United are not huge fans of it. Martyn Ziegler of The Times reports that the league has voted in a spending cap for the clubs from next season with only three clubs voting against it. NEW: Premier League clubs agree in principle for spending cap known as anchoring to TV earnings of bottom club. Understood Man City, Man Utd, Villa voted against and Chelsea abstained. Will now go to AGM — Martyn Ziegler (@martynziegler) April 29, 2024 The Manchester clubs, along with Aston Villa voted against it while free-spending Chelsea abstained from voting. The new cap will anchor the maximum spend of all clubs in the league to the TV revenue of the bottom-placed club in the league. It is still undecided by what multiple that revenue will be finalised to reach the final cap, neither is it decided what the repercussions for going over it will be. In the meantime, this proposal will go to the Annual General Meeting of the league but this might just be the start of the storm. The PFA, the organisation that safeguards the interests of the players, has already come out with a statement against the proposal, wary of it potentially capping player wages. Furthermore, with other countries not following suit, it could put the Premier League at a competitive disadvantage. England infamously decided to close its transfer window before the start of the league season but had to go back to the status quo after realising other clubs could buy their players. From a United perspective, it is clear why the club voted against this change. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already shown more ambition for the club than the Glazers did in the last nearly 20 years and he would have been eagerly waiting to start making his mark in the summer. In the long term, those hands could be tied, especially if United enter a virtuous cycle of on-pitch success driving revenue off the pitch. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

1 Manchester United technical director Jason Wilcox is looking to overhaul the club’s culture and working environment. Following INEOS’ minority takeover of the club, part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has begun a major overhaul of the club, starting with the back office staff. In addition to appointing a new CEO and pursuing Dan Ashworth as a sporting director, Ineos also decided that the time had come to hire a new technical director. Earlier this month, The Peoples Person relayed that Wilcox has been hired as United’s technical director with immediate effect. The former Academy Director of Manchester City, Wilcox left his role as Southampton Director of Football in order to join United. While Southampton proved difficult to negotiate with, Wilcox decided to resign from his role at the club in order to faciliate his move to Old Trafford. During his week in charge, the new technical director has had his hands full, with Ratcliffe instructing him to conduct a thorough audit of Erik ten Hag‘s performance as manager. Ten Hag would effectively be on trial for a month, with his managerial credentials and his dressing room relations under evaluation. It appears as if Wilcox has fully immersed himself in his special project, meeting with Ten Hag after the FA Cup win over Coventry. Apparently, further meetings have been planned. Still, Wilcox’s involvement with Ten Hag may not be as deep as some might think, given a recent report explaining that he is more concerned with the broader mentality that has been adopted at the club. GiveMeSport claimed that Wilcox did not instruct Ten Hag to change his playing style as was alleged in prior reports. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Wilcox is more focused on improving the culture and working environment of the club, rather than focusing on the playing style. “What has been made clear is that he’s going to be very hands on, which you would expect from a technical director and that the culture at the club on and off the field is deemed to be very important,” Jacobs stated. Should this report be true, Wilcox will have a major task on his hands following seasons of underperformance, with the club unable to return to its glory days under Sir Alex Ferguson. Player power continues to run rampant while managerial changes have seen the club go from one extreme to the other with the club stockpiling average players and subsequently finding it difficult to move them on. This rotten culture needs to change and Wilcox has quite the job on his hands! Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

Kaizer Chiefs are believed to be pressing ahead with plans to secure the services of a new coach next season. Arthur Zwane was in-charge at Chiefs last season, before being replaced by Molefi Ntseki ahead of the current campaign. To the majority of the Chiefs fan base, Ntseki was already an unpopular appointment, with no positive track record. Prior to taking over the first team reigns, he had never coached a senior professional side. He did, however, coach Bafana Bafana after Stuart Baxter, before being fired for failing to qualify for AFCON 2021. The duo reunited as part of a new structure at Amakhosi, which put him in charge of football development. Ntseki did not last long as Chiefs coach, however, being sacked before even the halfway mark of the season. This came after an unconvincing start to the campaign which also saw them knocked out of two cups. After being relieved of his duties, the club appointed Johnson to take over on an interim basis. Coincidently, Cavin Johnson also came into the club in a developmental role, before being asked to steady the senior ship. A run which saw Chiefs winning three of their last four games of 2024, saw Johnson in with a shout. But now according to the latest, the club are back looking at other candidates. There have been the likes of Pitso Mosimane and Manqoba Mngqithi in a local sense. Internationally, Jose Peseiro, Vanderlei Luxembergo , Raul Caneda Perez and Nasreddine Nabi.  Mosimane is the priority for Chiefs It has been made no secret that Chiefs want Mosimane as their first choice candidate. Previously what could’ve stood in their way are finances, technical team make up and desire to return. But recently, the coaches agent had revealed that the project and not money would be the attraction. She also revealed that the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach would be willing to return to the country.  Last season, Chiefs saw their negotiations with Nasreddine Nabi hit a snag. This because they could not agree on the make up of the technical team. It is believed the Tunisian coach wanted to bring two assistants and a fitness coach. Amakhosi only allowed one assistant. But now with the latest news, it seems they’re open to a coach bringing in his own technical team.  Both camps making sacrifices for a potential deal? It is well documented that Mosimane brings his own trusted members of staff to any team he goes too. Both his camp and Chiefs camp seem to have made a commitment to meet half way. Mosimane’s camp financially and Chiefs camp with their technical team rules. This in a time where the coach is thought to be ready to return to the PSL?   Could we be seeing the negotiations of a Mosimane to Chiefs move playing out before our eyes?

It does seem unlikely the Chiefs head coach will tinker too much with his team elsewhere. Kaizer Chiefs will be without key defender Edmilson Dove when they take on Mamelodi Sundowns in a DStv Premiership showdown at FNB Stadium on Thursday. The Mozambican 29 year-old, who was Chiefs’ only representative at the Africa Cup of Nations finals in the Ivory Coast earlier this year, has been a regular in the heart of the defence for Amakhosi since November, but will miss this game through suspension after picking up a booking in the 2-1 win over SuperSport United on Saturday. The absence of Dove means Cavin Johnson, who named an unchanged side against Matsatnsantsa, will have to shuffle his pack a little for the meeting with Masandawana. Ngcobo absence Njabulo Ngcobo has not been in the Chiefs squad for their last two matches, and it remains to be seen if he returns for Thursday’s match, while Zitha Kwinika is another option for Johnson. Kwinika did come off the bench right at the end of the victory over SuperSport. It does seem unlikely the Chiefs head coach will tinker too much with his team elsewhere, on the back of just a second win in all competitions in 2024. That means Mduduzo Shabalala is likely to continue in an attacking midfield role after his winner against Matsatsantsa, while Chiefs may well also stick their front three of Ashley Du Preez, Pule Mmodi, and Christian Saile, who picked up the Man-of-the-Match Award in Polokwane on Saturday

‘It was my first year, I was doing grade 10 and he (Harold Legodi) took me to Manchester United at that time and I trained with them,’ Manyisa said Oupa Manyisa is without doubt an Orlando Pirates legend, having won a double treble between 2010 and 2012 in what will always go down as a golden period in the history of the Buccaneers. ALSO READ: Arsenal can cope with pressure of ‘beautiful’ title challenge: Arteta The script could have been different had things turned differently during a short trial at English Premiership giants Manchester United, while he was still a youngster coming through the Africa Sport Youth Development Academy ranks. The academy was run by Mamelodi Sundowns legend Harold “Jazzy Queen” Legodi. Manyisa found himself training with United legends Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes during a trip to the United Kingdom. “It was my first year, I was doing grade 10 and he (Harold Legodi) took me to Manchester United at that time and I trained with them,” Manyisa said on Izinja zeGame Podcast that is hosted by Josta Dladla. “Yes, the Manchester United of your Ronaldos, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs. When I was there I trained with the reserve side. I think the first team was playing at home, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs were not in the team so they trained with us. “The trials went well and I was supposed to go back but Jazzy Queen said I must finish school first. It wasn’t only me, there was a boy who went to Barcelona and others went to Chelsea. We also went to Strasbourg FC where Katlego Mphela was playing.” Manyisa spent nine years at Pirates having joined the club from the Africa Sport Youth Development Academy in 2008. He later joined Mamelodi Sundowns in 2017 but it is with the Sea Robbers where he will be fondly remembered. ALSO READ: Riveiro unhappy despite big Pirates win against Royal AM “I went to school at Highlands North Boys and there was Thuso Phala, Mandla Masango, Lebohang Manyama,” he recalled. “I was suspended because I didn’t play rugby. Jazzy Queen had to go and tell them that I will play football and not rugby. That’s when we agreed and we played for two years because Screamer Tshabalala came to see me while I was still at school. That’s where Screamer saw me and after my matric in 2008, Screamer took me to Pirates and I signed without a trial or anything.”

1 Manchester United struggled against 19th placed Burnley and eventually escaped with a 1-1 draw in their Premier League game at Old Trafford on Saturday. Vincent Kompany’s men enjoyed most of the possession and carved open United at will and could have scored more if not for heroics from Andre Onana. It was the hosts who took the lead through Antony but it was the same familiar sinking feeling as the Clarets joined a long list of clubs who have scored late on against the Red Devils this season. Erik ten Hag’s chaos ball is unsustainable and it has been well-known by now and after the performance against Sheffield United in midweek, it was thought that the Dutchman would ditch his flawed plan and continue playing a more possession-based game as per Jason Wilcox’s instructions. EtH’s tactics not helping But that did not prove to be the case as the manager doubled down and his team reverted to type. The manager’s future continues to remain up in the air. United’s lack of goals throughout the campaign has been a major concern with the 20-time English league champions being the lowest scorers in the top-10. Summer signing Rasmus Hojlund has 14 strikes to his name in his debut campaign and while it is a good start, it is far less than what the club needed. The young Dane has been starved of service due to the manager’s tactics and against the Clarets, the 21-year-old managed to complete only three passes in over 60 minutes of action. He had zero shots as well and apart from that mini-spurt of goals in six consecutive games, the Denmark international has looked lost out on the field. Inconsistency was expected from a 20-year-old arriving in Manchester on the back of one season in Italy. But United cannot afford it right now. Rasmus needs help They need an elite striker, someone Hojlund can learn from and as per Fichajes, Viktor Gyokeres is Ten Hag’s “obsession” to improve the frontline next season. The Swede has 40 goals and 16 assists in 46 games across all competitions for Sporting CP, which equates to a goal involvement in every 67 minutes. Remarkable numbers indeed! The 25-year-old was playing in the Championship last season for Coventry City and had managed 22 goals and 12 assists and earned himself a move to Lisbon for €21 million. Gyokeres has a release clause of €100 million and Sporting will not agree to any deal for anything less than that. The Spanish outlet have claimed that United are open to including players in the deal to lower the price. “Viktor Gyokeres has long been one of Manchester United’s main objectives to strengthen its squad for next season, and they are looking for a formula to reduce the purchase price of the Nordic attacker. Gyokeres price “Rúben Amorim, coach of the Lisbon club, assured at the time that they would only let their star scorer leave in exchange for the 100 million euro clause he currently has. “The price is something that United would not be willing to pay, preparing an offer in which it would include players from the current squad to reduce that amount as much as possible and in this way offer Erik Ten Hag the forward that he has requested so much for 2024/2025.” Considering Ten Hag’s own uncertain future, and with INEOS expected to take charge of transfers, whether the new backroom team deem Gyokeres worthy or not remains to be seen. This is his first big success at European level and a move to Manchester could come too soon for a player who struggled at Brighton and Swansea earlier. Maybe if he continues in the same vein the following campaign, a mega money move would make more sense. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

Kaizer Chiefs are believed to be pressing ahead with plans to secure the services of a new coach next season. Arthur Zwane was in-charge at Chiefs last season, before being replaced by Molefi Ntseki ahead of the current campaign. To the majority of the Chiefs fan base, Ntseki was already an unpopular appointment, with no positive track record. Prior to taking over the first team reigns, he had never coached a senior professional side. He did, however, coach Bafana Bafana after Stuart Baxter, before being fired for failing to qualify for AFCON 2021. The duo reunited as part of a new structure at Amakhosi, which put him in charge of football development. Ntseki did not last long as Chiefs coach, however, being sacked before even the halfway mark of the season. This came after an unconvincing start to the campaign which also saw them knocked out of two cups. After being relieved of his duties, the club appointed Johnson to take over on an interim basis. Coincidently, Cavin Johnson also came into the club in a developmental role, before being asked to steady the senior ship. A run which saw Chiefs winning three of their last four games of 2024, saw Johnson in with a shout. But now according to the latest, the club are back looking at other candidates. There have been the likes of Pitso Mosimane and Manqoba Mngqithi in a local sense. Internationally, Jose Peseiro, Vanderlei Luxembergo , Raul Caneda Perez and Nasreddine Nabi.  Khanye gives Chiefs Mosimane advice Now according to controversial former Chiefs player Junior Khanye, the club are wasting time with that list. He believes Mosimane is the only who can do the job and should be appointed.  “They are not solving anything with those interviews. Why are you holding interviews as Kaizer Chiefs? Because we know people want you more than you do them mostly, the best coaches. If you are serious just simply appoint a coach and tell him to bring his technical team. Appoint Pitso Mosimane, leave Cavin Johnson, let Pitso also bring his technical team and give him a budget. A lot of players will not survive.” Said Khanye to iDiski TV.  Will it ever happen? Will Mosimane to Chiefs ever happen? Get in the comments below and let us known what you think.

Kaizer Chiefs transfer update revealed with a list of positions uncovered. One player in question is progressing, that should excite the Khosination. Chiefs have been actively pursuing a deal to secure the services of a talented midfielder from Mamelodi Sundowns for over a week now. This midfielder, who initially started the season on loan at Sekhukhune United from Sundowns, has attracted significant interest from Kaizer Chiefs. Transfer triangle: Chiefs, Downs and Sekhukhune  Sources have revealed that discussions are set to commence between Chiefs, Sekhukhune, and Sundowns. Regarding the availability of the midfielder, Siphesihle Mkhize, according to Soccer Laduma. As negotiations progress, there is potential for an exchange deal involving the teams. Chiefs are reportedly determined to secure Mkhize’s services for the upcoming season and are actively working towards that goal. Kaizer Chiefs need to update and satisfy Sekhukhune because they have an option to buy Mkhize from Sundowns.  Kaizer Chiefs update: Siphesihle Mkhize  Despite being just 25 years old, Mkhize has already proven to be an invaluable asset for Sekhukhune United. Making up to 20 appearances in the DStv Premiership, solidifying his position as one of the team’s key midfielders. Kaizer Chiefs transfer plans and squad overhaul  Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs are gearing up for a significant overhaul as they aim to update and challenge Mamelodi Sundowns in the upcoming season. According to The South African insider, the club is actively seeking to strengthen multiple positions. Which includes goalkeeper, strikers (potentially including a winger), left backs, midfielders, right back, and centre back. “The search for new players has already started at Kaizer Chiefs. They are monitoring and looking to add a goalkeeper, two strikers(which could include a winger), two left backs, three midfielders, one right back and one centre back,” as per our inside source. Out with the old and in with the new strategy  However, in order to accommodate new signings and manage the wage bill. Several players are expected to depart the club. It’s anticipated that at least four players will be released to make room for incoming talent. Although the club acknowledges that not all signings will be completed in a single transfer window. “They are also looking at releasing about more than four players. Which is normal, due to the amount of players they are looking at,” concluded the source. Kaizer Chiefs are in the midst of strategic manoeuvres to bolster their squad for the upcoming season. With negotiations well underway for the acquisition of Siphesihle Mkhize and others still being assessed. Planning for potential departures to facilitate the transition is also taking place.

It is easy to forget that there were many who thought Liverpool mad for turning down ludicrous sums from Saudi Arabia for Mohamed Salah last summer. Yet even as they fielded offers worth up to £150 million for the Egyptian, senior Anfield figures remained steadfast in their belief that there was value in delaying any decision on his future until the final year of his contract. As we reach the climax of a campaign that has brought 24 goals, 13 assists, one League Cup and Champions League qualification, it would be fair to say that stance has been entirely vindicated. Still, if last year’s call on the Reds’ star man was considered to be straightforward by the powers that be, then they would surely admit that the matter is a touch more complicated this time around. This Is Anfield understands that the current expectation within the club is that Salah will stay put to help kickstart the Arne Slot era. And any concerns that last weekend’s heated touchline spat with Jurgen Klopp might have changed things are wide of the mark, particularly as the German is departing this summer anyway. What Salah wants – and Liverpool’s stance But it would be unwise to suggest that an extended stay is entirely set in stone, not least because of the many variables outside Liverpool’s control that will come into play. The first is that Salah is understood to want a contract extension of at least a year which, considering his £350,000-per-week wages and the hints of decline seen in recent weeks, is far from a formality. For their part, Liverpool are open to the idea of waiting another year and letting a player who has served them so well depart on a free transfer, as has been the case for a number of stellar servants down the years. Yet, if a new deal isn’t forthcoming, you wonder whether Salah might wish to leverage his as-yet-undiminished standing to seek greater contractual certainty elsewhere. There is no question that the 31-year-old is keen to continue playing at the highest level for as long as possible, and considers himself more than capable of doing so. The pull of Saudi Arabia But it will be interesting to see whether that resolve is tested once again by promises of untold riches in the Saudi Pro League. It felt notable that, having initially ruled out a move on social media, Salah’s famously vocal agent, Ramy Abbas Issa, went quiet as the sums being offered by the Saudis ramped up towards the end of last summer’s window. And if the Public Investment Fund’s commitment to overseeing a footballing revolution in the Middle East remains, then they will surely be back again to try everything to capture the sport’s leading Arab star this year. As such, it would be unwise to take Liverpool’s confidence regarding Salah as the final word on his future, with so many external factors capable of throwing a spanner in the works in the months ahead.

Stellenbosch FC forward Iqraam Rayners scored all five goals in helping the Winelands side thrash Polokwane City 5-0 on Saturday. Rayners’s performance in front of goal helped his team stay ahead of Orlando Pirates in the race to finish the DStv Premiership season as runners-up and book a CAF Champions League place. Rayners is just the second footballer to score five times in a PSL match – a feat first achieved by Zambian James Chamanga for Moroka Swallows in 2007. 5 – Iqraam Rayners is only the second player in PSL history to score five goals in a league game, and the first since James Chamanga for Moroka Swallows v Platinum Stars in 2007. Star. #dstvprem pic.twitter.com/t3B82vTxbb — OptaJabu (@OptaJabu) April 27, 2024 Meanwhile, defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns are poised to seal a seventh straight DStv Premiership title as they need a maximum six points from eight matches to succeed again. Second-placed Stellenbosch FC, 10 points behind Mamelodi Sundowns having played three matches more, lead Orlando Pirates by three points with each club having five fixtures to play. Stellenbosch FC are seeking a first ever appearance in Africa while Orlando Pirates were crowned CAF champions in 1995 and finished runners-up 18 years later. Iqraam Rayners the top scorer in the PSL Rayners netted three times with his right foot and twice with his left as he soared to the top of the DStv Premiership scorers chart with 13 goals, two more than his closest rivals. The 28-year-old, who returned to the Western Cape club last season after an unsuccessful spell with SuperSport United, scored the only goal of the first half on 17 minutes. He then scored four more times in a 17-minute blitz, which began midway through the second half. Having received the man-of-the-match award, Rayners deflected attention away from his achievement, stressing that “a great team effort led to my personal success”. The win saw Stellenbosch FC stretch their unbeaten streak to an incredible 24 matches across all competitions. Stellenbosch FC will next be in action at home against Golden Arrows on Wednesday, 1 May at 17:30. Don’t bet against Iqraam Rayners not adding to his goal tally! 17′ – Iqraam Rayners 65′ – Iqraam Rayners 75′ – Iqraam Rayners 79′ – Iqraam Rayners 82′ – Iqraam Rayners You’ve never seen anything quite like it pic.twitter.com/f7BsphDerl — Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) April 28, 2024

Orlando Pirates may have handed Royal AM a beating, but they will leave Durban with a huge problem.  Pirates were again on hand to put four over a Durban-side, after a 4-0 win against Royal AM on Sunday.  Goals came courtesy of Patrick Maswanganyi from the spot, Thalente Mbatha, Kabelo Dlamini and Relebohile Mofokeng. Apart from being prolific in front of goal, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro will also be happy that his side kept a clean sheet.  Maswanganyi suspended for Pirates Unfortunately for them, however, the man who opened the scoring in Maswanganyi also picked up a yellow card. That was his fourth caution during the current cycle, which meant an automatic one-game suspension. The playmaker will now miss Pirates’ crunch encounter against Cape Town City in Cape Town on Wednesday evening.  Maswanganyi is not the only player suspended for that encounter. Veteran midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula will also not travel with the Pirates side to face Cape Town City.  The loss of Maswanganyi is set to be a big blow for Pirates. This because he has been at the centre of their attacking displays. Since joining the Buccaneers in a shock move from SuperSport United, he has had 19 goal goal contributions in 34 games in all competitions as it stands. That has come in the form of nine goals and 10 assists. He has been in sensational form That type of form has not only seen him become a Pirates fan darling, but also catch the eye of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos. Maswanganyi recently made his long-awaited national team bow against Andorra in an embarrassing 1-1 draw. This encounter was part of the FIFA series that took place in Algeria during the previous international window. With Maswanganyi going from strength to strength for Pirates since then, he could well be in the Bafana squad too. The national team will next be in action against Nigeria in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier away in June.