Oliver Giroud Urges Arsenal to Buy a New Striker.

Arsenal FC forward Olivier Giroud had come under increased criticism off late with Thierry Henry stating that Arsenal needed a new "spine" in the team to win the league.
The Arsenal legend went on to state that the Gunners won't be able to win the Premier League with Olivier Giroud as their striker.
The 28-year-old striker didn't take the criticism kindly and retaliated through the media. He was also backed by his manager Arsene Wenger, who reminded Henry that he faced similar criticisms when he was signed by the club.
Giroud welcomes challenge
Giroud, currently Arsenal's first-choice forward, said he would welcome the arrival of a new leading striker.
Giroud said: "I am going to focus on my preparation. We are doing well together with a good cohesion. The most important thing for me is that the team is always improving. I give my best every game. If there is another striker it will be nice for all the team because competition is good for everyone."
We don't rule it out, also don't guarantee we will sign: Wenger
While Giroud would welcome a new arrival, manager Arsene Wenger has said he will only enter the transfer market again this summer if he finds an exceptional player with Arsenal FC regularly linked with Real Madrid's French striker Karim Benzema.
"I don't know where that story comes from, but that is not happening at the moment. I am happy with the squad we have. If I find an exceptional player to strengthen, I will do it."
"It depends what's on the market. It is not easy, there are a lot of teams out there in Europe competing for the same player. We don't rule it out and [also] don't guarantee we sign.
"[The title] is our target and we feel we have a chance in a very competitive league. We are not far away." – The Arsenal manager was quoted as saying by the Guardian.
It cannot be ignored that Arsenal FC need to add players upfront, specially someone who can provide something different to what Olivier Giroud brings to the plate. While the manager had hoped that from Welbeck, he has failed to deliver consistently with the Gunners.
Arsene Wenger has, over the past two seasons, made a marquee signings in the form of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez. The fans will hope for something similar this summer.

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Arsenal in talk to sign Roma center-back Alessio Romagnoli

Arsenal are in talks to bolster their defensive options by signing Roma centre-back Alessio Romagnoli.

AC Milan are also in negotiations to sign the 20-year-old and have had three bids rejected, and now Gazzetta dello Sport says Arsenal have approached Roma to discuss a deal.

Romagnoli is valued at £24.4 million but no club has yet come close to offering such a fee.

We are told that Arsene Wenger has stated he won't be signing any new defenders this summer - but Romagnoli is such a top talent, he could make an exception.

Meanwhile, The Metro believes Arsenal are poised to make a 'huge offer' to sign striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

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Bastian Schweinsteiger eye more glory at Old Trafford.

Bastian Schweinsteiger revealed Wednesday the prospect of playing before Manchester United's supporters at Old Trafford's iconic "Theatre of Dreams" helped lure him away from Bayern Munich. (Joined Manchester United to win titles: Schweinsteiger)
The 30-year-old 2014 World Cup-winning midfield general completed a £14m (19.47m euros, $21.72m) move to United on Monday after agreeing a three-year deal with the Premier League side.
The move to Manchester reunites Schweinsteiger with former Bayern boss Louis van Gaal, who forged a solid bond with the midfielder during a successful stint with the Bundesliga giants between 2009 and 2011.
Schweinsteiger, who joined up with United immediately for their pre-season tour of the United States, told journalists in Seattle on Wednesday he was looking forward to working with van Gaal again.
But it was the prospect of playing for United at Old Trafford which had been the biggest draw, he said.
"Of course we know each other, we had a good time but I am here for Manchester United because Manchester United is a big club and I am looking forward to playing in that great stadium," Schweinsteiger said.
Schweinsteiger said the Old Trafford support had made a lasting impression on him during a 2010 Champions League quarter-final, when Bayern lost 3-2 but eliminated United on away goals.
"The supporters from Manchester United, they are huge," Schweinsteiger said.
"I remember once when we played there, we lost 3-2 but we moved on to the next round - but these supporters were very respectful after the match, they gave us applause and I am looking forward to playing in front of these supporters."
Schweinsteiger said he had his sights set firmly on a trophy-winning finale to his career after winning every available honour with Bayern.
"I cannot guarantee titles, but I can guarantee we will give our best to be successful," he said.
"I am very happy to be here and to play for Manchester United. It is a big honour. Of course it is a new step in my life.
"I want to win titles, it is easy. Manchester United is used to it and I am used to it too. That is the goal for the next years in Manchester."
Schweinsteiger could make his bow for United in their opening International Champions Cup match on Friday, when they face Mexico's Club America at CenturyLink Field, home of the Seattle Seahawks NFL team.

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Strongest Lineup: Manchester United vs Club America – Schweinsteiger, Schneiderlin, Darmian and Depay debut

Manchester United get their pre-season tour of the USA underway on July 18th with a clash against Club America at the CenturyLink Field in Seattle and Red Devils' faithful all around the world will be eagerly anticipating the match due to the host of star players the club have purchased this summer.

The likes of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Morgan Schneiderlin, Matteo Darmian and Memphis Depay have all arrived at Old Trafford so far this summer and the signings of such quality players has certainly caught the imagination of the fans.

The exciting quartet is set to start in United's first pre-season clash on Saturday and it will be interesting for everyone to see how the new stars will fit into the system of manager Louis van Gaal.

Here is the Strongest Possible Lineup for Manchester United on the day –

Goalkeeper

David De Gea looks all but certain to leave Manchester United this summer but he has been included in the squad for the pre-season tour by the club.

Having been included, there is no reason why the wantaway Spaniard will not be used. Anders Lindegaard and Sam Johnstone are the other goalkeepers who make up the squad and the duo could possibly start as well. Victor Valdes is the surprise omission from the squad.

Defence

United have brought in Italian international Matteo Darmian from Torino this summer and he certainly looks like a very good purchase for the Red Devils. With Rafael left out of the squad, it is very likely that Darmian will make his debut for the club against Club America.

There has been a lot of talk surrounding United purchasing a new central defender this summer but as of now no signing has been made and it looks likely that the duo of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones will be starting at the heart of the defence on Saturday.

Luke Shaw will be hoping for a good season this term following a difficult campaign last season due to injuries and the young Englishman looks likely to be starting in the left back position.

Midfield

The Manchester United fans have been crying out for the club to buy a world class midfielder over the last few years and the Red Devils have finally obliged by bringing two top quality players in Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlin.

Due to presence the of Ander Herrera, Marouane Fellaini, Daley Blind and Michael Carrick alongside the new arrivals of Schweinsteiger and Schneiderlin, United's midfield looks a formidable force all of a sudden.

For Saturday's clash, there is a possibility that Schweinsteiger and Schneiderlin will be handed their debuts while either Ander Herrera or Daley Blind will partner the duo at the middle of the park.

Another exciting signing United fans are looking forward to see is Memphis Depay and he should get his debut on the day as well. The likes of Ashley Young, Juan Mata and Antonio Valencia will also be in consideration for a start while Angel Di Maria has been left out due to his participation in the Copa America.

Attack

Following the departures of Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao, Wayne Rooney remains the undoubted star striker for United and he should be leading the line against Club America as a lone forward.

James Wilson has also been included in the squad and the young striker should be used in some capacity by van Gaal.

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Arda: Ronaldo is special but he'll never be like messi.

The latest arrival at Camp Nou believes that the Argentine is the greatest player the game has ever seen, while he revealed that he received several offers from other clubs

New Barcelona signing Arda Turan says that, while Cristiano Ronaldo is a "special" player, the Real Madrid superstar will never reach the same level as Lionel Messi.

Turkey international Arda completed his €41 million move from Atletico Madrid to the Blaugrana on Friday, putting pen to paper on a five-year contract with the Catalan club.

The attacking midfielder will not be able to play for Luis Enrique's side until January as Barca are currently serving a Fifa-imposed transfer ban relating to the movement of under-age players but Arda explained that he never had any doubts about moving to Camp Nou as he is so excited about lining up alongside the man he believes to be the greatest footballer of all time.

"Cristiano is special but he'll never be like Messi," the 28-year-old told reporters at a press conference on Friday.

"I don't think that there's ever been anyone like Messi - or ever will be."

However, Arda admitted that he is arguably even more excited about playing in the same team as Andres Iniesta and insisted that there is room for him in Barca's all-star attacking line-up.

"Hopefully I will play play alongside Iniesta, Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez," he stated. "I think you can see that picture of the five of us playing together.

"At Atletico, I always said that Messi is the best player in the world, but Iniesta is my idol."

Arda, who was also linked with Liverpool, Chelsea, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, also revealed that he could have moved elsewhere but that he always had his heart set on a switch to Catalunya.

"I received lots of offers, but when I heard from Barca I pushed all the others aside," he added.

"Those who know me know that I've dreamt of playing for Barca since I was a kid.

"I'm happy to come to the best club in the world. I'll try to give the best I've have.

"I've always liked having to really fight in order to win; I think here people will see the best Arda."

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Messi will feel better if I'm president - Laporta

The Barcelona candidate insists the Argentina international will definitely stay at the club if he wins the upcoming election.

Joan Laporta has insisted that, if he is elected as Barcelona's new president, he will make Lionel Messi feel more comfortable at Camp Nou.

The Argentine rose to prominence during Laporta's stint at the helm of the club between 2003 and 2010 and he is looking to take charge again in the election on July 18.

The 27-year-old was linked to a move away from Barca last season and had a fall-out with coach Luis Enrique, but he turned his form around to fire them to a European and domestic treble.

Laporta, 53, has always maintained that Messi's happiness is crucial to the success of the first team and has again stated that voting for him will help keep the four-time Ballon d'Or winner happy.

"Last season there was talk of selling Leo, but with me in charge he will feel far more comfortable," Laporta said on a debate on TV3.

The Catalan politician then criticised his opponent Josep Maria Bartomeu, who is looking to be re-elected after leading the club from January 2014 until the board was dissolved ahead of the election.

"Bartomeu and his successor Sandro Rosell are the type of people who impede the country from moving forward," Laporta said, before urging the other two candidates Toni Freixa and Agusti Benedito to withdraw from the race and pledge their support to himself or Bartomeu.

"The polls show that the intention to vote for Benedito and Freixa is low. It's impossible for them to win. If I was them I'd channel support to either the Bartomeu/Rosell campaign or my own."

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Man Utd transfers: Sergio Ramos gives update on his future.

Manchester United target Sergio Ramos insists he has not entered into talks with any potential suitors.
Sergio Ramos has insisted that he is not in negotiations with any interested clubs amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding his future.
The Spain international has been heavily linked with a move to
Manchester United in recent weeks after reports emerged suggesting that manager Rafael Benitez is ready to sell the centre-half.
The Red Devils target, who helped Spain win the World Cup in 2010, has two years remaining on his current contract with the 10-time European champions.
However, Ramos, 29, insisted that he was not entered into talks with any potential suitors despite media speculation to the contrary.
"I am not negotiating with anyone," Ramos is quoted as saying by AS English .
Asked if he was going to stay at Madrid, Ramos replied: ""All is very well."
Ramos has won three La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey crowns and the
Champions League.
The Real Madrid defender is set to become a free agent in the summer of 2017 unless the World Cup winner agrees a new deal with the 10-time European champions.
The World Cup winner scored four goals in 42 games in all competitions for Los Blancos last term.

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Man United's Robin van Persie agrees four-year deal with Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

The Guardian reports the Dutchman will pen a four-year deal with the Turkish giants after being told he's not wanted at
Old Trafford.
Starsport earlier revealed the striker had
rejected an offer from fellow Turkish side Besiktas .
But Van Persie's agent Kees Vos has reportedly been in Istanbul for the last two days finalising a deal with fellow Istanbul club Fener.
Former Liverpool hero Dirk Kuyt has been reportedly played a key role in persuading the United striker to go ahead with the move.
The pair played together for the Dutch national team, and Kuyt offered a rave review of the club he left earlier this summer after a three-year spell.
Van Persie's United team-mate Nani is also closing in on a switch to Fenerbahce.
He is also preparing to pen a four-year contract after being told he's not in Louis van Gaal's first-team plans.

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Galatasaray sign Podolski from Arsenal.

Galatasaray have announced the signing of Lukas Podolski from Arsenal, with the Germany international signing an initial three-year deal.
Podolski, 30, was expected to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer, having slipped down the pecking order following the arrivals of players such as Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez.
He spent the second half of last season on loan at Inter Milan and has now signed a contract with the Super Lig champions, with an option for a fourth year in place.
Announcing the deal through their website, Galatasaray confirmed an initial fee of 2.5million euros (£1.8m) plus add-ons for how well the club perform during the length of Podolski's stay, with the former Bayern Munich man tweeting a picture of himself inside the Turk Telecom Arena.
President Dursun Aydin Ozbek admitted Galatasaray had been chasing the signature of the FIFA World Cup™ winner for some time and was pleased to have finally worked out a deal for the forward. "Podolski was a player we have been following for a long time," he said at the announcement of the signing. "We have met the expectations of our fans. We think he will serve us for many years."
Podolski, who started for the Gunners in the 2014 FA Cup final victory over Hull, had long been linked with a move to Galatasaray and his agent Nassim Touihri said on Friday that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had begrudgingly allowed the player to leave.
''We had good talks with Wenger,'' Touihri said. ''He wanted to keep Lukas at Arsenal but could not guarantee him a starting position. That's why we agreed to make a transfer.''
Despite moving to Arsenal with a fine reputation, Podolski's chances became limited as Wenger added the likes of Ozil, Sanchez and Danny Welbeck to his forward options. He also has Theo Walcott, Olivier Giroud and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain at his disposal, which is the likely reason why the Frenchman could not guarantee Podolski the game-time he craves.

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Arturo Vidal to Real Madrid: Manchester United and Arsenal target agrees 'five-year deal' with Los Blancos.

Real Madrid have moved to agree a five-year deal with Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal, according to reports in Chile.
The 28-year-old had been a target for Manchester United until they lost interest following his drunk-driving incident where he crashed his Ferrari . Arsenal were also interested in the midfielder but Arsene Wenger was said to have had a 're-think' on Vidal .
Chilean newspaper La Tercera report that Real Madrid have no such concerns for Vidal's off-field antics and have moved to agree terms with the player, but are still to agree on a fee with the Italian club.
Vidal has impressed for hosts Chile in the Copa America, where he will likely start in the final against Argentina on Saturday night.
New Real Madrid manager Rafa Benitez is yet to make a signing this summer, with the move for Porto right-back Danilo being agreed back in Marc. Germany midfielder Sami Khedira left the club on a free transfer, eventually signing for Juventus.

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Deal! Louis van Gaal favourite agrees Manchester United exit

ROBIN VAN PERSIE has agreed to join Fenerbahce, according to reports.
The striker has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford this summer after injuries restricted him to just 10 goals in 27 Premier League appearances last season.
Louis van Gaal is believed to be looking for a new first-team striker, with Paris Saint-Germain's Edinson Cavani and Napoli's Gonzalo Higuain on his radar.
And the Guardian claims that Van Persie is now on the verge of leaving Old Trafford after agreeing a move to Turkish outfit Fenerbahce.
The striker has apparently struck a four-year deal with the Super Lig club, although a transfer fee is currently being negotiated.

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Man Utd to refuse to sell David De Gea unless they get Sergio Ramos.

Manchester United will block David De Gea's transfer to Real Madrid unless they can secure a deal to bring Sergio Ramos to Old Trafford, according to The Guardian .
The Red Devils are said to be playing hardball over the De Gea deal because Madrid are blocking their attempts to sign Ramos.
The centre-back has been informed of a £28.6m bid from United and has told his current club that he would like to be allowed to make the move this summer and wants to open negotiations.
That has not happened yet and, if the situation doesn't change, United will reportedly keep hold of their Spain international keeper and allow him to wind down the final 12 months of his contract.
The report suggests that Madrid lodged an informal offer of £12.7m for De Gea. That was rejected by United, who want £35m.
De Gea is due to return to United's Carrington base to start pre-season training on Monday.

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Luis Enrique requested Atletico Madrid's Arda Turan - Bartomeu.

Barcelona boss Luis Enrique asked the club to sign Arda Turan from Atletico Madrid, presidential candidate Josep Maria Bartomeu has said.
Bartomeu, who has stepped down as president ahead of his bid for re-election on July 18, confirmed to Cadena SER on Friday that the coach had specifically requested both the Turkey international and Aleix Vidal, who has already completed a move from Sevilla.
"Luis Enrique has asked for him," Bartomeu said, in quotes reported by AS. "The priorities for the coach were Aleix Vidal and Arda.
"The board needs to sign a player like him -- they have to. They must sign Arda and incorporate him as soon as possible so that he can start the preseason."
Joan Laporta, Bartomeu's primary rival at the election, has been critical of the club's efforts to sign Paul Pogba and Turan before the new president is confirmed, telling Cadena SER: "The board shouldn't make any statements. [Turan] is a great player, I like him, but the board can't make these declarations and should wait until the 19th when there is a president."
However, Marca has reported that neither Atletico nor Turan are willing to wait until July 18 and that they want a decision on his future by Monday.
Manchester United and Chelsea are both reported to be keen on signing Turan, with Chelsea striker Diego Costa saying this week he wants a reunion with his former Atletico teammate, which may force Barca into early action.
Bartomeu said he felt everything was in place for Barca to make their move for the 28-year-old now.
"Before stepping down, we left everything in an advanced state which is why we have the information we need," he said. "I am not in contact with the board but the statutes should always be respected as long as it is to the benefit of the club.
"I don't know whether Arda can wait 10 days. I hope to make it official in due course and the price we have set is less than €35 million."
Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has also talked up a potential deal for Turan.
"Arda is a great player, one of talent and spectacular quality," he said in AS. "Anything that improves the team is always important. If he comes in the end, he will be welcome. He will come to add [to the team]."
On comparisons with Xavi Hernandez, who left Barca at the end of the season, he added: "They are different players. Arda, at Atletico, does not play in that position but he has the characteristics to play inside. He is a midfielder that combines very well, he understands the play very well, but we will see what happens."
He also praised Juventus midfielder Pogba, saying: "He is a player that all of the big teams would want to have in their team, a lad who is still very young, with talent and strength to play at the top level."

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Keep Argentina maestro Lionel Messi in check. It’s the only way.

How do Chile need to set up for the final?
For most teams facing off against an Argentina side that possesses not only the best player in the world in Lionel Messi but also Sergio Aguero, Javier Pastore and Angel Di María, you would expect to say defend deep and stay compact, nullifying space between the lines and behind the defence.
But Chile aren't most teams. They are unique.
Away to Colombia in qualifying for last year's World Cup finals, they raced into a three-goal first-half lead before losing a player in the second half and attempting to defend their lead.
The game finished 3-3. It was a mesmerising match. One in which coach Jorge Sampaoli learnt a lesson. He admitted afterwards that his side are not built to defend the area.
In a defensive sense, Chile are confrontational. The defenders don't drop back and let the forwards come on to them.
The likes of Gary Medel and Gonzalo Jara, who is suspended, are proactive and aggressive and will commit themselves to challenges higher up the pitch.
Whether Chile play with a back three or four, they will press high and push Argentina's dangerous players away from goalkeeper Claudio Bravo.
The one alteration in their attitude may be reining in Arturo Vidal's and Charles Aranguiz's forward surges, Sampaoli perhaps asking them to help Marcelo Diaz and acting as NFL tackles to stop Pastore and Di María.
What are Argentina's weaknesses that Chile can exploit?
Against Paraguay in their semi-final, Argentina looked most vulnerable when trying to play from the back.
Nicolas Otamendi and Martin Demichelis were getting the ball in very deep areas but there was a nervousness about them.
Paraguay pushed high and stopped any Argentine fluidity in deep areas.
Chile are experienced in the art of pressing so will likely do so with more structure and greater intensity.
This may force Argentina to forego their passing from the back and go more direct, which will suit Chile if the ball is in the air without an Argentine target man.
The problem is if they get the Chile defence turning.
Another area Chile may be able to exploit is the areas around and behind Javier Mascherano.
Lucas Biglia and Pastore have been on the front foot as well as the full backs. Space is there for Jorge Valdivia as well as Vidal and Aranguiz if they do not have shackles placed on them.
Space for Valdivia will allow him to thread passes behind the slow Argentine defence for Eduardo Vargas and Alexis Sanchez.
What will be the key battles?
Gary Medel and Marcelo Diaz v Lionel Messi
Messi will drift from the left-hand side with the ball, in and out of challenges, in and out, before looking for that arced ball over the defence to runners from the left to score.
Or he will look for combinations around the box before popping off a shot.
With Pablo Zabaleta surging forward from full back and Aguero darting right, Chile's left centre back and left back – if they play four at the back – will be occupied.
This means much responsibility will be on Diaz and one of the centre halves, probably Medel, to come out and squeeze Messi's options.
Diaz is an intelligent player while Medel has the low centre of gravity and aggression that can be used to combat Messi's magic.
Mauricio Isla v Angel Di Maria
Isla is a player who looks much more at home in a Chile shirt bombing forward with a large dollop of recklessness.
He has been excellent going forward so far, linking with Valdivia and Vidal and scoring the winner against Uruguay.
But he has yet to come up against someone as penetrating, as quick and as good as Di Maria.
Will Isla try to force him back and risk leaving acres of space in behind him, space that Jefferson Montero attacked in Chile's opener with Ecuador?
If Isla can shut out Di Maria, it will prevent Messi reaching one of his favoured targets.
Jorge Valdivia v Javier Mascherano
Could there be two more contrasting players.
The creative genius whose career has suffered from a spate of injuries and off-field misdemeanours against the ultimate team player.
Yet Valdivia has surprised just about everyone, having started every game and remained in consistent fitness. He has harried opponents without the ball and sparkled with it.
Medel's goal from Valdivia's flighted assist in the 5-0 victory over Bolivia in Group A is up there with Eduardo Vargas' rocket in the 2-1 semi-final win against Peru as Chile's goal of the tournament.
Mascherano can at times be left to his own devices for Argentina defensively.
Who will win between the visceral talents of "El Mago", Valdivia, or the hard-running dependability of Mascherano?
Score prediction?
Chile 2, Argentina 4.

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United are willing to pay Ramos €12-million-a-year

Spanish football correspondent Begona Perez believes that Manchester United will offer Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos €12-million-a-year to join the club this summer, as reported by talkSPORT .
Perez told the radio station that Ramos did not receive the wage improvement that he was promised after he helped the club win the Champions League in 2014, the tenth in their prestigious history.
The reporter has stated that United are willing to offer him in excess of €10-million-a-year, which could easily drag him away from the Santiago Bernabeu in the coming months.
"Real Madrid told him after last year's Champions League final that he would be getting a pay rise, but they only offered him €7-million-a-year-net, when he is already on €6-million," Perez told talkSPORT.
"He want's €10-million-a-year and Man Utd are apparently willing to offer him more than that, €12-million-a-year. If that is the case, then Real Madrid will be desperate to keep him," Perez explained.
The defender, who scored four goals last in the league last season, could cost the Red Devil's an incredible £70-million according to the Daily Mirror, who predict that Los Blancos will employ similar tactics that saw United pay £59.7-million for Angel di Maria last season.
Ramos played 27 matches last term but following the dismissal of former manager of Carlo Ancelotti and the appointment of Rafa Benitez, signs of unrest have begun to surface from the Spanish international, with Bayern Munich also said to be interested, as per the Daily Star.
The 29-year-old has been at Madrid since 2005, following a transfer from Sevilla and has so far played 445 games for the club.

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Messi not the only focus- Bravo

Santiago, Chile: Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo has warned his teammates not to be focussed solely on stopping star striker Lionel Messi in the Copa America final, but concentrate on the entire opposition.
The keeper plays with Messi and Javier Mascherano for FC Barcelona and knows first-hand the quality that both possess.
On Saturday, they will go head-to-head in the Copa America final here.
He admitted that such knowledge gives him some cause for concern, but suggested that Chile must focus on the entirety of Gerardo Martino's side and not just one player.
"The truth is that it is not easy, seeing the quality that Leo has and what he has done throughout his career, it's been amazing," Bravo said in a press conference on Friday.
"I think that our focus is the team - that as a team we can control Leo and the other class players.
"Javier is a very valuable player who gives character to your team, is the heart of the side.
"The performance of the team does not only go through Javier or Leo."
Ahead of the clash at the Estadio Nacional, Bravo insisted Chile are not afraid of taking on the World Cup 2014 runners-up and that Jorge Sampaoli has prepared the team well.
"We never have fear with any team. We have the maximum respect for all national teams," he added.
"The feeling which is not only mine, but of all my team-mates, is of great happiness to see that the work we are doing is on track.
"By continuing the style of play we had under (former coach Marecelo) Bielsa we have always tried to capture the idea that Chile play as equals with any team.
"We are prepared, we know how he have to play. We have always tried to play and suffocate with our pressing."
There have been worries of the fitness of La Roja's star striker Alexis Sánchez, but Bravo was quick to allay suggestions that he may miss the showpiece event.
"He worked normally, is fine and in good condition. No player has been ruled out."

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Chile vs Argentina: Copa final set to go down on fire.

Having lacked the goalscoring prowess that we would have expected from Argentina in the earlier stages of the Copa America, it was refreshing to see Messi and co. take apart Paraguay to book their spot in the final.
La Albiceleste turned the screw to dispatch of Los Guaranies 6-1 and progress to their second major final in the space of 12 months.
They are 4/7 to end this one in a better fashion than they did in Brazil and get their hands on the trophy.
But standing in their way are hosts Chile who have looked fantastic in front of their own fans, former QPR loanee Eduardo Vargas topping the scoring charts with four goals so far.
That demonstration of their unrelenting nature in front of goal has seen them extend their impressive record of finding the net in all but one of their last 38 games on their own patch.
Argentina could be a tough nut to crack though, with Tata Martino's men keeping clean sheets in four of their last six matches.
Sergio Aguero has found the net in three of their five matches at the tournament this year, but it is Gonzalo Higuain that will be licking his lips at the thought of facing Chile again.
The Napoli man bagged a hat-trick in a World Cup qualifier against La Roja in Buenos Aires in 2011, before netting again in the sides most recent meeting in October 2012.
He's 7/4 to add to that tally on the biggest stage in South American football, and will be a massive danger to the hosts.
But while our prediction for a low scoring semi-final for Argentina went down the pan, this one really does look like it could go right down to the wire.
Don't believe us? Then here's the professor with all the stats that matter…
DID YOU KNOW?
Chile have been drawing at half-time in five of their last seven competitive matches
Chile have scored two or more goals in 18 of their last 23 matches at home
Gonzalo Higuain has scored four goals in his last two appearances against Chile
Five of Chile's last seven matches have seen most goals come in the second half
Argentina haven't lost in 90 minutes in 12 competitive matches
Half of Argentina's major finals have gone to extra time

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Odemwingie signs new deal at Stoke

Nigeria international forward Peter Odemwingie has signed a one-year extension to his contract with Stoke.
The 33-year-old winger will remain at the English Premier League side until the summer of 2016, with the option of a further 12 months.
"I'm delighted to stay here," Odemwingie told BBC Sport.
"I've enjoyed great support from everyone connected to the club and I am honoured to be given another opportunity to continue here."
A serious knee injury kept Odemwingie out of action for eight months last season and he only returned for the last five games of the campaign.
Odemwingie is eager to show the club - and the fans - how grateful he is for their help during a tough year.
"The fans make me feel at home and I would like to thank the fans who have continually supported me," he said.
"Everyone at the club stood by me during my tough period and I have a big chance to repay them in a positive way.
"Right now I've earned the contract and hopefully there could be a few more years after this because I love it here.
"This club is on the way up and it is a great time to contribute to the progress."
Odemwingie has scored five goals in 23 appearances for Stoke after signing in January 2014 from Cardiff City in a swap deal which took Kenwyne Jones the other way.
His form for the Potters earned him an international recall and he played for Nigeria at the World Cup in Brazil, scoring the winner against Bosnia-Hercegovina.
Previously Odemwingie enjoyed a successful three-year period at West Bromwich Albion scoring 15 goals in his first season at the Hawthorns and 31 overall in his time there.

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Chile vs Argentina: How the hosts must use Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez to...

Voted as Arsenal's player of the season, the Chilean took Premier League by storm by producing awe striking performances in only his first season in England. Even world class players at times take their time to settle in, especially when coming into the Premier League.
This however was not true in the case of Alexis, who seemingly settled in his new side and was able to adjust to the physicality of the Premier League without much hassle. He ended a terrific campaign with 25 goals including a thunderbolt of a strike in the FA Cup final against Aston Villa, supplementing his goals with 12 assists to his name.
He started the Copa America brightly picking an assist in the opening match against Ecuador, was sharp in the match against Mexico and scored a beautiful headed goal against Bolivia. The former Barcelona man however has not been at his supreme best in his last two outings and Chile will want him to pull his socks up as they prepare for a big match against Argentina.
Argentina however will be like no side Chile have played so far in the tournament. La Albiceleste have now made it to the final of two major tournaments in two years and apart from having a very potent attack they also have a resilient defence which Alexis will try to get the better off.
It is however possible that in the case of Alexis Sanchez, fatigue is taking its toll for the 26 year old who made more than 50 appearances for Arsenal last season. Following which, the Chilean had no time to rest and headed straight for the Copa America. It is also important to realize that Alexis in the past had been used to getting breaks in the winter, having played his trade in Spanish and Italian clubs in the past.
Sanchez however is a fighter and he certainly will not let something like fatigue come in his way and glory. On Saturday one can expect an energetic display from the Arsenal man, closing down defenders giving them less time on the ball and tracking back whenever necessary.
However it is important that Jorge Sampaoli and his staff turn Sanchez's focus on his prime duty on Saturday which is to create difference in the final third. Whereas his off the ball antics are commendable and do earn his team an added advantage, he is quite a menace with the ball at his feet.
Not only is he capable of skipping past a host of defenders without effort, but is capable of unleashing a strike from a distance. He possesses quite an understanding of the players around him and his link up play is excellent. What bodes even better for him is the fact that Alexis is currently being played in his preferred position through the middle from where he can create quite a nuisance.
Argentina however possess one of the most impressive defensive set ups in the tournament right now and it will be impossible for Alexis to do it all in his own. It is important that his strike partner Eduardo Vargas supports him well as well as the midfielders behind him who will have to put forth an all-round display if Chile are to win the Copa American title.

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No bids for Llorente or Vidal- juventus.

Chief executive Giuseppe Marotta says the club has not received any offers for the pair and expressed his delight with the Old Lady's summer business so far
Juventus chief executive Giuseppe Marotta says the club have not received any bids for Real Madrid targets
Fernando Llorente and Arturo Vidal.
Striker Llorente was forced to play a bit-part role in Turin last season as former Madrid forward Alvaro Morata became a regular in attack, while Vidal has repeatedly been linked to the club in recent seasons.
New Blancos coach Rafa Benitez is reported to be interested in bringing the pair to the Spanish capital but while Llorente could be set for a summer move, Marotta says the club have no interest in allowing Chile international Vidal to leave.
"We have not received any offer for Llorente or Vidal," Marotta told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"There are no ongoing negotiations for Vidal, who has been the object of desire for half of Europe."
Llorente has been targeted to bolster Madrid's attacking options after Javier Hernandez returned to Manchester United following his loan spell at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Juventus marched to their fourth straight Serie A title and the Coppa Italia last season before falling to Barcelona in the Champions League final.
Carlos Tevez has since departed for Boca Juniors, but Marotta says he is delighted with the business the club has carried out this summer following the arrivals of Mario Mandzukic, Paulo Dybala, Sami Khedira, Simone Zaza and Daniele Rugani.
"We moved in good time, anticipating the competition, and gained some important players," Marotta said.
"We lack nothing, the team is complete and ensures another year at a very high level, with some eclectic options that allow the coach a lot of opportunities to rotate the squad."

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Agent confirms Chlsea winger exit to Seria A

Mohammad Sallah's agent has revealed his client willnot e joining Fiorentina on a permanent basis from Chelsea this summer, according to reportsfom Express.
After struggling for the first-team football at Stamford Bridge, the 23-year-old was loaned out in january this year to Seria A club Fiorentina,in which he enjoyed a successful hal of th season.
And the Egyptian internaional was set to make a permanent tansfer after the two clubs reportedly agree on a #12.8 million deal, but his agent Ramy Abbas hascme out to claim that Salah rejected the viola's offer and wll join a rival italian club instead.
"We have decided not to stay in Fiorentina", Abbas said.
Salah will sortly move to another Italian cub."
This will come as a big blow to the Fiorentina hierarchy, who thougt the had completed the deal because of a clause in his loan contract stating his stay could be extended in th case that permanent deal was finalized.
But it seems unlikely now that Sallah will be plying his trade at the Artemio Franchi, with Inter Milan one of the clubs intereted in the formal Basel man

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