David de Gea hints at Manchester United return, Newcastle eye Sandro Tonali replacements - Paper Round
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Updated 27/10/2023 at 06:44 GMT
Manchester United could bring back goalkeeper David de Gea on a free transfer ahead of Andre Onana's departure for the Africa Cup of Nations, while the club's chief executive Richard Arnold could exit if Sir Jim Ratcliffe arrives. Elsewhere, Chris Wilder could be brought back as manager at Sheffield United, and Newcastle United look at replacements for Sandro Tonali.
David de Gea
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De Gea hints at United return
Former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea could be back at Old Trafford, reports The Sun.
“David de Gea has dropped a second hint that he could seal a sensational return to Manchester United,” the paper claims.
“The Spaniard has been without a club since he left Old Trafford at the end of last season.
“SunSport had exclusively revealed that The Red Devils were considering a move to re-sign their former stopper.
“This is due to summer signing Andre Onana heading to the African Cup of Nations in January.
“He posted a picture on his Instagram story of a pair of goalkeeping gloves, football boots and a ball.”
Sheffield United consider Wilder return
Chris Wilder could be brought back to replace Paul Heckingbottom, according to the Daily Mail.
“Paul Heckingbottom could lose his job as Sheffield United manager if they lose at Arsenal on Saturday, with Chris Wilder likely to take over in the event they extend their miserable run at the Emirates Stadium,” the outlet writes.
“Mail Sport revealed last month that Wilder had been sounded out over a shock return to Bramall Lane and since then Heckingbottom's side have lost a further five straight games, including 8-0 at home to Newcastle United.
“Despite an appetite to reward Heckingbottom with time following their promotion to the Premier League, sources have strongly indicated that this weekend could be the 46-year-old's final fixture in charge if it results in a ninth defeat in 10.
“Wilder is understood to be the lead name on a shortlist of three, having patched up the fractious relationship he shares with the owner, Prince Abdullah.”
Newcastle eye Tonali replacements
Newcastle United have a number of options to replace Sandro Tonali as the Italian midfielder faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a betting ban.
“The most obvious solution would be a deal for England international Kalvin Phillips, who is still not playing regularly at Manchester City and admitted last week that he needs to consider his future under Pep Guardiola because of it,” explains The Telegraph.
“But will City be willing to trade a player, on loan, to help a club like Newcastle who have emerged as a serious competitor for domestic honours over the last 12 months?
“That is far from guaranteed, although it is understood Phillips would like the move if he leaves City. That could help Newcastle’s cause, but it is not a straightforward negotiation especially if other Premier League clubs are willing to buy the 27-year-old in January.
“Another intriguing option would be to try and bring former Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves back to the Premier League. The Portugal international signed for Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in the summer – the same club who bought Saint-Maximin to ease their FFP concerns – and there is nothing to prevent Newcastle trying to loan any player based abroad.
“Newcastle are effectively owned and controlled by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and that deal would anger many, given PIF also has a controlling stake in Al-Hilal and three other Saudi Premier League sides.”
Arnold may leave United
Manchester United chief executive Richard Arnold could be on his way out at Manchester United when and if Sir Jim Ratcliffe buys a stake.
“Richard Arnold could be first in the firing line once Sir Jim Ratcliffe formalises his investment in Manchester United,” reports the Mirror.
“Arnold succeeded Ed Woodward as the club's CEO in early 2022, remaining in the post when the Glazer family began exploring takeover options in November of that year. Following a long and drawn-out process, with bids from Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani considered, a minority stake for British billionaire Ratcliffe looks to be on the cards.
“Ratcliffe is not thought to have made a final decision on who might take over from Arnold, but the same report indicates Jean-Claude Blanc is being eyed up. Blanc, who has held senior roles with Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain, took up a post relating to INEOS' sport portfolio last year.
“INEOS have already dipped their toe into football in the form of French club OGC Nice and Swiss outfit Lausanne-Sport, and also have a presence in sports such as cycling and Formula 1.”
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