United takeover still possible
The Mirror reports that despite almost a year passing to kick off the process of selling Manchester United, both Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani remain in contention.
“The protracted Manchester United takeover process overseen by the Glazer family has not put off the two leading bidders,” the paper reports.
“The Glazers announced on November 22 that they were beginning a process to “explore strategic alternatives” for United. It has now been 302 days since that announcement and, despite several deadlines, the club appears no closer to being sold.
“Ratcliffe, who was born in Failsworth, Greater Manchester, is bidding to buy the Glazers’ stake of the club. The 70-year-old already has experience in football through his ownership of French side Nice and also invested in sailing and motorsport.
“Sheikh Jassim, meanwhile, wants to purchase 100 per cent of the club, complete a full takeover from the Glazer family and “return the club to its former glories both on and off the pitch”. The mysterious Qatari banker is popular with the club’s fans because his takeover would result in the Glazers leaving.”
Arsenal and Chelsea target Toney summer move
The Sun claims that both Arsenal and Chelsea are looking at a summer transfer for Brentford forward Ivan Toney, with the player then having just 12 months on his contract.
The paper explains: “Arsenal are known to be big fans and were reportedly lining up a move for Toney in the previous transfer window before his ban kicked in.
“Likewise, Chelsea are also keen as they struggle to score goals under new boss Mauricio Pochettino.
“The duo could now battle it out to seal a £60million deal for Toney.
“But they are likely to wait until next summer, when the hitman has just 12 months remaining on his contract.
“It would also provide Toney with the chance to get his match sharpness back with Brentford.”
Lingard still playing for West Ham deal
Jesse Lingard is still training with West Ham as he looks to convince David Moyes that he is worth another contract.
“Free agent Jesse Lingard has been pictured training with West Ham ahead of their Europa League clash against Backa Topola as the England international looks to earn a short-term contract with the Hammers,” writes the Daily Mail.
“Lingard was released by Nottingham Forest this summer, less than a year after he joined the club and became their top earner – and the player has since been training with the Hammers.
“He was pictured being put through his paces with the rest of the squad as they prepare for the start of their Europa League campaign – having won the UEFA Conference League last season.
“Mail Sport reported that the England international has impressed manager David Moyes, who is considering offering him a short-term deal but wants to be assured about his commitment to the club first.”
Nadal admits Real Madrid hopes
As Rafael Nadal contemplates retirement from tennis next year, Spanish newspaper Marca reports that he harbours an ambition to become president of his favoured club, Real Madrid.
“Despite his familial ties to Barcelona, Nadal has always been a fan of Real Madrid… he adores Los Blancos and he hopes to be part of the club’s structure one day,” the outlet states.
‘Yes, I would like to be president of Real Madrid,’ Nadal said.
‘But at the moment there’s nothing to say, because we have the best possible president. Afterwards, life takes many turns and you have to consider whether you are capable of certain things.’
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