In Focus: Tottenham will hope to beat Premier League rivals to Malcom this summer

According Brazilian media outlet UOL Esporte, Tottenham Hotspur have been given the green light to sign reported target Malcom, rated at £45m according to the Daily Mail last month, after he confirmed that Bordeaux have promised him that he will be able to leave this summer.

What’s the word, then?

Well, Spurs were heavily linked with a move for the exciting winger during the January transfer window, but a deal never materialised as the Ligue 1 outfit were keen to hang on to the highly-rated 20-year-old.

However, the Brazilian’s latest comments via UOL Esporte suggest that the French club are ready to let him move on at the end of the season.

What did Malcom say?

The attacker said, as repoted by UOL Esporte: “Yes, there was a promise that I will be negotiating in June. I will choose the team, and Bordeaux will let me go.”

How has he done this season?

He has been excellent.

The 20-year-old has scored eight goals and provided a further six assists in 24 Ligue 1 outings, with his goals including a number of stunning long-range strikes.

The Brazilian likes to play on the right-hand side and cut in on to his left foot, and according to WhoScored.com he has made 56 key passes in the French top flight this term and successfully completed 63 of the 91 dribbles he has attempted.

Would he be a good signing for Tottenham?

He certainly would be.

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The winger is one of the most exciting young players in European football right now, and the potential he has means he would be a brilliant addition for the north London outfit.

Mauricio Pochettino has proven time and time again that he can develop and improve young talents, and Malcom is certainly one of those.

Will they get him?

They stand a good chance given they pushed hard for him in January, but with reports suggesting that Arsenal and Manchester United are all also interested, it could prove to be a big battle and perhaps even involve a bidding war.

Why Christian Pulisic is the perfect target for Liverpool and Manchester United

Anyone who has ever seen Christian Pulisic play, for either the USA or Borussia Dortmund, will know he is a precocious talent.

At 19, he has the world at his feet. In his home country – the USA, who he represents, rather than Croatia, who he could have chosen to play for through his grandfather – there is a real belief that he can go on to become their first genuine superstar player.

Born in 1998, he has already cemented a status of potential world-beater on this side of the pond, and is regarded in America as someone with the ability to propel their side forward in the same manner that Gareth Bale has with Wales.

With 20 international games under his belt, and nine goals so far, as well as 55 Bundesliga appearances yielding eight goals and 15 assists, and 15 Champions League appearances, he already has pedigree at the top level.

Skilful, quick, mature and focused, the creative attacker has cemented a place in the Dortmund team and has looked confident and assured.

Both Liverpool and Manchester United are said to be keen, and rightly so. Both have American owners and large stateside fan bases; in a football world where revenue is king, this could be the perfect deal to seal.

At the perfect age for Jurgen Klopp to mould, Pulisic would be ideal as a player. He is already a good player, but will need more guidance to fully exploit his potential.

Primarily a wide man, he can also play as an attacking midfielder, potentially making him someone the Merseyside club could target to replace Philippe Coutinho.

It is no secret that United wanted a winger last summer, and still will, having failed to acquire Ivan Perisic from Inter Milan, despite the arrival of Alexis Sanchez, and Pulisic – valued at £40.5m by transfermarkt.com – fits the bill.

Like with Liverpool, it is logical from the perspective of the money-men as well as the scouts.

No doubt the fee to prise him away from the Rhine area would be astronomical. Given Ousmane Dembele set Barcelona back around an inflated £130 million last summer, a similar price-tag would likely be demanded.

Soccer Football – Europa League Round of 32 First Leg – Borussia Dortmund vs Atalanta – Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund, Germany – February 15, 2018 Borussia Dortmund’s Christian Pulisic in action with Atalanta’s Etrit Berisha REUTERS/Leon Kuegeler

But neither side are short of cash, with Manchester United’s financial power well-documented and Liverpool flush with the Coutinho money, and so that would not be a problem.

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Simply for his marketability the transfer fee would be vast, but the reward of having a player of his level is a guaranteed income for the next 15 years.

For both Manchester United and Liverpool, the American fan base is enormous, but a signing like this would propel that to another level.

Securing the USA’s prodigy would represent a smart move for either. It might be that he moves this summer, or at some point in the future, and all the top clubs will be in for him.

The optimal blend of ability and exportability, both Liverpool and Manchester United should be right at the front of the queue for Christian Pulisic.

Liverpool fans are loving the progress of Trent Alexander-Arnold

Liverpool put themselves into a commanding position in the race to finish in the top four of the English Premier League on Saturday, beating Newcastle 2-0 at Anfield to go seven points ahead of fifth-placed Chelsea.

Knowing the Blues have a hugely difficult match away to Manchester City on Sunday, Jurgen Klopp’s side knew victory was a must against the Magpies and didn’t disappoint, scoring a goal in each half to secure the victory.

Their attacking talents took centre stage once again, but another player supporters were raving about was teenager Trent Alexander-Arnold.

With 21 appearances this season, the 19-year-old has emerged as a trusted member of Klopp’s team and was in classy form against Newcastle, easily intercepting the opposition and having a go in attack down the right flank.

Still not the finished article, fans are nonetheless delighted with his progress and can’t wait to see how he develops no he has cemented his place as first choice right-back.

Alongside Andy Robertson, the Reds have two of the best young full-backs in the league and supporters couldn’t be happier.

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They took to Twitter to share their thoughts on his performance…

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Arsenal boss provides update on Wilshere future

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has admitted that he does not know whether Jack Wilshere will sign a new contract at the Emirates Stadium.

Wilshere’s current deal with the Gunners will expire at the end of June, and the two parties are yet to come to an agreement.

The midfielder looked to be on his way out of the club in the early stages of the campaign, but he has since worked his way back into favour at Arsenal.

Wenger, whose own future is also under the microscope, has revealed that there is a contract offer on the table for Wilshere, but the Frenchman is unsure whether it will be signed.

Wenger told reporters at his pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday’s Europa League last-16 second leg against AC Milan:

“On my side nothing has changed. Jack will be free at the end of the season, we have made a proposal to him and I want him to stay and be linked with the club for the future, I hope he will do it.”

Wilshere, who is believed to be on £90,000 a week at Arsenal, has scored twice in 30 appearances in all competitions for the Gunners during the 2017-18 campaign.

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The 26-year-old spent last season on loan at Bournemouth before returning to the English capital.

Everton should steer clear of targeting a move for Valencia striker Rodrigo

According to a report by Italian media outlet Calciomercato, Everton are one of three Premier League clubs interested in signing in-form Valencia striker Rodrigo, who flopped during a loan spell with Bolton Wanderers in the top flight previously.

What’s the word, then?

Well, the Spain international has been in fine form for the La Liga side this season and Calciomercato says that his form hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Toffees, Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton and Hove Albion.

Calciomercato says that the 27-year-old only recently signed a new contract with Valencia that doesn’t run out until 2022 and includes a release clause set at €120m (£105m), but the Merseyside outfit and their Premier League rivals are ready to offer €40m (£35.1m) to bring him to England ahead of the 2018/19 campaign.

The attacker joined Bolton on a season-long loan deal in 2010, but he scored just once in 20 appearances before returning to Benfica.

How good has Rodrigo been this season?

He has been excellent and has helped his team currently lie fourth in the La Liga standings, just one point adrift of third-place Real Madrid.

The Spaniard, who primarily plays as a centre-forward but can also play on either wing if needed, has scored 16 goals in 35 outings in all competitions for Valencia, providing a further seven assists.

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Would he be a good signing for Everton?

While his record this season is good and he would provide some much-needed competition for Cenk Tosun up top, the Merseyside outfit would have to make sure that he isn’t another Sandro Ramirez.

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The forward, who is currently on loan at Sevilla, had a decent goalscoring record for Malaga last term but struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League, and there could be fears that it could be the same situation for Rodrigo given his struggles with Bolton when he was younger.

The fact that he could cost so much because of the release clause he has in his contract means he is a player that Sam Allardyce, who continues to be unpopular with the Goodison Park faithful, and Everton shouldn’t be willing to take a risk on, and they should look elsewhere instead.

Gareth Bale’s price tag set at £88m, Tottenham Hotspur fans react

Since Gareth Bale made the huge move to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2013, he has regularly been mentioned in the transfer gossip pages.

Initially, rumours of feeling homesick stirred reports that he could make a return to the Premier League, and now his fitness has become an apparent issue in the Bernabeu.

According to Spanish publication AS, Los Blancos are open to offloading the Wales international this summer, but will not accept less than £88m for his signature.

Bale has had a hugely successful time in Spain given that he has won 10 trophies, including three Champions League crowns, but this season he has been affected by injuries.

The attacker has made 29 appearances in all competitions so far and has still managed to score 12 goals, but it spells on the sidelines have reportedly made Madrid bosses consider their options.

Manchester United are the first club that tend to be mentioned with regards to Bale’s future, but Tottenham have entered the rumour mill in recent months.

After hearing of the 28-year-old’s alleged £88m price tag,

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Spurs fans have taken to Twitter.

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Tottenham fans react to rumour Mousa Dembele could be sold this summer

According to reports in The Mirror, Tottenham Hotspur could be ready to sell midfielder Mousa Dembele this summer if they receive an acceptable offer for him, and Spurs fans have been quick to react to the rumour.

The Mirror says that while the north London outfit aren’t actively looking to move the 30-year-old on at the end of the season, the situation could change if they receive a large offer for the £80,000-a-week man, who has previously attracted interest from the Chinese Super League and was linked with a move to Juventus last week.

The Belgium international has been a key player for Mauricio Pochettino’s men over the course of the last few seasons, and he has been in particularly impressive form in 2018 so far.

Tottenham supporters have taken to social media to give their thoughts on the story, and while one said “it is time to shift him on and make a huge amount”, another disagreed and said “no chance”.

Here is just a selection of the Twitter reaction…

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Milivojevic fast becoming one of the Premier League’s most underrated midfielders

When Luka Milivojevic first arrived in the Premier League, he quickly became a crucial part of Crystal Palace’s survival bid under Sam Allardyce – adding physicality and defensive awareness to the engine room while netting some hugely decisive penalties.

And yet, he was still seen merely as a defensive midfielder, someone to sit deep and provide positional discipline rather than make opportunities for Palace to score.

Under Roy Hodgson though, the 26-cap Serbian has played an increasingly expansive game. He’s still an integral buffer in front of the Eagles defence, but he’s also contributed so much more going forward this season.

His return of goals, albeit mostly still spot kicks, has jumped up from two last season to a whopping ten this term, while he’s also become one of Palace’s key creative assets – especially from dead ball situations.

That was evident once again on Saturday as Palace edged out bitter rivals Brighton in a thrilling five-goal first half at Selhurst Park.

Milivojevic finished the match with the most created chances to his name of any player on the pitch, four, including the assist for Wilfried Zaha’s second goal with a delicious, dipping cross into the path of the Ivorian international. And although he wasn’t credited with the setup due to a deflection of Maty Ryan, it was the 27-year-old who made Zaha’s opener too – his drive across goal eventually falling into the winger’s path.

That’s why Milivojevic is fast becoming one of the most underrated midfielders in the Premier League; combining the defensive nous and physicality he showed in the English top flight last season with telling contributions in attack this time around.

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As much as Zaha, Andros Townsend or club-record signing Christian Benteke, Milivojevic – who Transfermarkt value at just £9million – could have a decisive impact on Palace avoiding the drop this term.

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Manchester United fans delighted with Alexis Sanchez

Manchester United fans are delighted with Alexis Sanchez after the Chilean’s sensational semi-final showing on Saturday.

Jose Mourinho proved once again that he is a winner on Saturday, as the Red Devils cruised past Tottenham into the FA Cup final.

Despite going behind early, United never really looked in too much trouble after Sanchez found the equaliser with a superb header in the 24th minute.

Alexis has of course struggled since his move from North London, with fans starting to question his motivation after some dire recent performances.

The 29 year-old put all that to rest on Saturday though, as he crowned the man of the match thanks to his fantastic header and tireless work rate.

Not only did Sanchez pull his side back into the match with a lovely cushioned header, he made two key passes, made two tackles and absolutely worked his socks off for the cause.

If any Manchester United fans were worried about the form of the Chilean superstar, they certainly won’t be now, and this could be just the performance he needed to kick start his Old Trafford career.

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Some of the best Twitter reactions can be found below…

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Leeds fans bash club after incredible Klich performance

Leeds fans are once again bashing their club’s decision making, as loaned out midfielder Mateusz Klich put in a simply wonderful performance this weekend.

There aren’t many clubs with a worse recent record in the transfer window than Leeds, as the club have constantly sold their best players and replaced them with below average players from below average leagues.

That looked to be the case when they signed Polish midfielder Mateusz Klich last summer, as the 27 year-old was loaned out to Dutch side Utrecht after just six months in a Leeds shirt.

Many fans felt the tough tackling midfielder deserved more chances having made just one Championship start though, and he is now proving them right in his loan spell in the Eredivisie.

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Utrecht drew 2-2 at Heracles on Sunday, and Klich scored an incredible 9.54 rating on WhoScored.

As well as providing an assist, the Leeds loanee had three shots, made a remarkable 11 key passes, completed three dribbles, and also added two tackles and two interceptions.

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It is exactly this kind of box-to-box, creative, hard-working performance Leeds are lacking in midfield, and fans have been bashing their club for loaning the Polish international out.

Some of the best Twitter reactions can be found below…

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