The Peoples Person

Manchester United’s on loan winger Jadon Sancho shone as Chelsea beat Tottenham Hotspur 4-3 to go second in the table.

The winger enjoyed a fast start to his career at the Blues but recently missed a few games as his form dipped.

He did provide an assist in the Conference League a couple of weeks ago against Heidenheim and scored his first Chelsea goal last weekend in a 5-1 victory over Southampton.

The England international was named in the first eleven this evening and his side got off to the worst possible start at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium, as they were 2-0 down after 11 minutes.

However, Sancho stepped in with a moment of magic after 17 minutes before goals from Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez won the day for the visitors in the London derby.

The winger received the ball out wide on the right, cut in, beating three Spurs players on his way, before unleashing an unstoppable drive into the bottom left hand corner.

Sancho also showed wonderful trickery for Chelsea’s second goal as he beat the Tottenham defender and played a fantastically weighted ball into the penalty area which resulted in a Chelsea player being taken out in the box for one of the clearest penalties you will see.

Sofascore gave him a rating of 7.9 for his fine display as he registered his second goal of the season.

He completed 47 out of his 54 attempted passes for a passing accuracy of 87%. Among those passes were two key ones that helped his team secure a vital away victory.

The 24 year old proved a menace for Spurs’ defenders all evening as he completed three out of his four dribble attempts.

He also got through some crucial defensive work as he won three out of five ground duels.

As United’s own wingers continue to struggle, numerous fans will look over enviously at what is happening at Stamford Bridge and wonder if it really was the right call to let Sancho leave last summer.

The English winger will next be in action for the Blues when they travel to Kazakhstan to take on Astana in the Conference League on Thursday afternoon.

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Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly set to compete for the signature of FC Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.

United have been linked to the Dutchman since the summer of 2022 when they had a €85 million fee accepted from the Spanish club.

However, De Jong rejected the chance to join his former manager Erik ten Hag at United and the Red Devils went on to sign Casemiro that summer from Real Madrid.

Spanish outlet Fichajes is adamant that United, alongside Tottenham, still hold a major interest in acquiring the midfielder.

“Frenkie de Jong, one of the key players in Barcelona’s squad, could be close to leaving Camp Nou,” the outlet reports.

“The Dutch midfielder has attracted the interest of several Premier League giants, with Tottenham being the club that has been most insistent in recent days in trying to secure his services. This interest is added to that of Manchester United, who have been closely following the player’s situation for some time, although now direct competition seems to have emerged between the two English clubs.”

In a fresh twist to the story, it is added that finally De Jong might be ready to embrace interest from abroad and willingly depart the Catalan giants.

It is claimed that the decision to let the “fundamental” midfielder go is not an easy one for Barcelona but the financial needs of the club may “tip the balance”.

Interestingly, it is stated that “the possibility of exploring a new challenge in the Premier League and the temptation of an ambitious project could seduce the player.”

The 27 year old’s ability to handle the ball under pressure and precise passing are seen as very attractive qualities to both United and Spurs.

The Spanish site concludes by stating that Ruben Amorim maintains United’s long-standing interest in the Dutch international as an “historic transfer” could be triggered in the near future.

De Jong would certainly bring a level of passing to the United midfield that will likely be lost once Christian Eriksen leaves but it is debatable whether he would have the physical intensity that Amorim seems to crave in players.

Manchester United have ambitiously set their sights on Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min, as per reports.

United are in north London today to face Arsenal. Despite a promising start under Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils are seen as the second favourites for the high-profile clash at the Emirates.

Irrespective of what happens tonight, there is no doubt that the United board will have to sign several top players in order for Amorim to consistently go toe-to-toe with the likes of Arteta.

In that regard, a report has suggested the Mancunian giants are interested in signing a superstar of another north London outfit.

Son Heung-min is “viable” Manchester United transfer target

A report from GIVEMESPORT reads: “There’s plenty of chat around Old Trafford that Tottenham star Son Heung-min is a viable target.”

It further adds: “Son – described as being “world-class” by Ange Postecoglou – would certainly be welcomed by United fans who still regret losing out to Bayern Munich who signed Harry Kane – Son’s partner in crime at Spurs.”

Following multiple big-name exits at Spurs in recent seasons, Son has become a crucial figure under Postecoglou. He has also been handed the captain’s armband.

The 32-year-old forward, who has been directly involved in seven goals in the Premier League this term, is in the final year of his contract.

As things stand, he will be available on a free transfer next summer. However, Spurs still have an option to extend his deal by one-year to 2026 if they fail to find an agreement over a new long-term contract.

Son is one of the best attackers in Europe in transition situations and has all the tools, including pace and impeccable ball-striking ability, to be a great fit in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system and challenge Marcus Rashford for the left-sided number 10 spot behind the striker.

However, even on a free transfer, the Spurs talisman would be a risky option, owing to his age.

United have signed many veteran forwards, including Cristiano Ronaldo, in the post Sir Alex Ferguson era and bar Zlatan Ibrahimovic all stars have failed to meet expectations.

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Manchester United are interested in Tottenham Hotspur full-back Pedro Porro, as per reports from Spain.

Amorim’s arrival at Carrington was followed by question marks over United’s full-back options, as the new manager’s 3-4-3 system relies heavily on the side’s full-backs to create chances from wide areas.

As far as the right-flank is concerned, Amad Diallo has so far exceeded the expectations, proving to be a very promising option as a right wing-back going forward. However, it remains to be seen how he deals with defensive responsibilities against more able opponents.

In the meantime, the Red Devils continue to be linked with other quality options for the position. It has been widely reported that Amorim wants to reunite with Sporting CP right wing-back Geovany Quenda.

Now, it is being suggested that United are following Porro, another full-back who has previously impressed under Amorim.

According to SPORT (via Sport Witness), the Tottenham Hotspur star is ready to move to a “giant” club and has attracted interest from several top European sides, including Real Madrid.

The Spanish outlet says “now is the time” for the Spaniard to depart North London and earn a big move.

The 25-year-old, known for his creative instincts, has been one of Spurs’ best players under Ange Postecoglou.

United, alongside Madrid and Manchester City, are believed to be keen on Porro.

However, Spurs’ stance on the potential departure of their prized asset, who only joined the club from Sporting in 2023, remains unclear.

After struggling to cement his place under Pep Guardiola at City, Porro moved to Portugal and thrived under Amorim at Sporting before returning to England.

As such, if the player is indeed looking to leave Spurs, the idea of reuniting with his ex-boss in Manchester isn’t far-fetched and can’t be ruled out at the moment.

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Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim is reportedly contemplating sanctioning a January deal for PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder Malik Tillman.

It has been suggested that Amorim will have very little to spend in the upcoming windows, amidst United’s dire financial shape – a fact that became even more apparent after the club announced its quarterly results.

It’s believed that United chiefs are eager for Amorim to try and get the most out of his current squad.

However, this has not stopped the Red Devils from continuing to be linked with several stars, even as the January transfer period approaches.

According to GIVEMESPORT, United retain an interest in Malik, who plies his trade in the Eredivisie. There are at least two other Premier League clubs also eyeing the midfielder, who was described by his USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino as “unbelievable” and “similar to Dele Alli.”

“Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim is facing competition from Premier League rivals Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur after setting his sights on luring PSV Eindhoven star Malik Tillman to Old Trafford during the fast-approaching winter transfer window, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.”

“Manchester United are monitoring Tillman ahead of potentially testing PSV’s resolve with a formal proposal in January, according to GMS sources, but their pursuit is in danger of being complicated due to Aston Villa and Tottenham also contemplating whether to offer a route into the Premier League.”

“His performances have left his current employers facing a battle to keep him on board as the Red Devils, Villans and Spurs have been checking him out as they make plans for the winter transfer window.”

GMS add that United, Spurs and Villa have all sent scouts to watch Tilman in action.

It’s understood that he has more than three years left on his £5,000-per-week contract with PSV Eindhoven.

Tillman impressed on loan at the Philips Stadion from Bayern Munich last term, prompting the Dutch outfit to make the signing a permanent one for around £10 million before the start of the ongoing 2024/25 campaign.

Bayern have a £30million buy-back and a sell-on clause for the ex-Rangers attacking midfielder.

So far this term, Tillman has made 17 appearances across the Eredivisie and the Champions League, registering an impressive six goals and three assists in that period.

Featured image Dean Mouhtaropoulos via Getty Images

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly contemplating making a January swoop for Lille midfielder Angel Gomes, in a bid to beat Manchester United to his services.

Gomes rose through Manchester United’s academy and made history as the club’s fourth youngest player, debuting in the Premier League against Crystal Palace in May 2017 at just 16 years and 263 days old.

However, he was unable to build on this feat and found playing time hard to come by. Gomes made just 10 first-team appearances for the Red Devils before his departure in 2020.

He has looked like a player reborn at Lille, where he has attracted a number of top clubs to his availability, especially as he nears free agency in the summer of 2025.

There have been whispers of a potential return to United and when asked about these suggestions last month, Gomes welcomed them, indicating he retains a “soft spot” for the club.

Other teams thought to have the midfield technician on their radar include Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle and even Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

According to GIVEMESPORT, Spurs want to steal a march on their rivals by trying to strike a deal for Gomes as early as when the winter transfer window opens.

“Tottenham Hotspur are considering making a January offer for Angel Gomes as boss Ange Postecoglou and members of the Hotspur Way hierarchy are desperate to beat the likes of Manchester United and Newcastle United to the Lille star’s signature, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.”

“[Postecoglou] is working with technical director Johan Lange and chairman Daniel Levy to win the race for Gomes.”

“Tottenham have been making inroads in a bid to discover whether it would be possible to snap up Gomes for a small fee when the transfer window reopens in January, according to GMS sources, and they are mulling over whether to launch an offer in an attempt to see off competition from Manchester United and Newcastle.”

The news outlet states that Spurs are eager to test Lille to determine whether they’re willing to gain some money from parting ways with Gomes instead of just letting him leave a few months later for nothing.

GMS add that United “are only likely” to “pounce” on Gomes when he officially becomes a free agent in the summer.

It’s understood that the 24-year-old currently earns less than £11,500-per-week in France but is eyeing a whooping £150,000-per-week, as he seeks to capitalise on the increasing demand for his services.

Manchester United are facing the possibility of playing two crucial games in less than 48 hours, following the confirmation of their Carabao Cup quarter-final meeting with Tottenham Hotspur.

United proceeded to the quarter-final stage of the competition after easing past Leicester City in a 5-2 victory last week. The match was Ruud van Nistelrooy’s first as interim manager.

United have now confirmed that they will take on Ange Postecoglou’s men at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday 19 December.

Kick-off is at 20:00 BST and unsurprisingly, the fixture has been selected to be shown live on Sky Sports.

It was expected that quarter-final ties will be played in the week commencing Monday, December 16.

Presumably, this would have seen the Red Devils’ clash with the North London outfit take place on either Tuesday, December 17 or Wednesday, December 18, in line with Carabao Cup traditions.

Currently, United are set to face Spurs on December 19, followed by a home match against Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Saturday, December 21, with the latter kicking off at 15:00 BST.

If this stands, the 20-time English champions will be forced to prepare for two matches in less than 48 hours.

Last month, the Premier League revealed its TV picks for the Christmas and New Year period, and United’s match against Bournemouth was not selected for live broadcast in the UK, so it remains scheduled for its original 15:00 BST time slot on December 21.

Even worse for United is that they are scheduled to take on Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City on December 15. Ruben Amorim and his players may therefore find themselves in a situation in which they play three times in less than a week.

There is certainly a serious risk of the United stars pushing themselves to the limit.

It’s unclear whether the club will seek a postponement of the Bournemouth clash to guarantee the team a little bit more recovery time.

Manchester United are losing ground in the race for League of Ireland star Mason Melia.

Ineos have been very decisive so far in terms of bringing in young talent, such as Chido Obi-Martin and Sekou Kone.

The Red Devils have also been linked with other skilled starlets such as Chris Rigg at Sunderland and Franco Mastantuoso at River Plate, as they aim to become the premier destination for young talent in world football.

The 17-year-old Irish star Melia is another player United are keen to add to their squad of already talented teenagers. Nonetheless, they face an uphill task to land him as one Premier League team has already taken a lead to secure his services.

According to TEAMtalk, “Tottenham Hotspur are leading the race ahead of their Premier League rivals to land Irish teen sensation Mason Melia.”

“Melia is regarded as one of the best young talents to emerge from Ireland after impressing for Dublin-based outfit St Patrick’s Athletic and for Republic of Ireland’s youth sides over the course of the last two years.”

Manchester City and Chelsea, as well as United, have all sat up and taken notice of the player’s rise but it is Spurs who are reportedly in “pole position” to land the talented forward.

“Tottenham see Melia as a potential star in the making and they are keen to steal a march on their rivals by firming up a move for the teenager as soon as possible”.

He has played over 50 times for the League of Ireland side despite his tender years and has scored 10 goals.

According to scout reports, Melia is a “very direct player” who “possesses some excellent close control, allowing him to retain possession whilst travelling at speed.”

He also has “a good eye for a pass” and can make “highly intelligent” off-the-ball movements to open up defences.

It was reported last year that United had been tracking the youngster and then in the summer it seemed that Everton had taken a lead in securing the exciting forward’s services.

Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images

Manchester United have drawn Spurs in the Carabao Cup quarter final.

The Red Devils booked their place this evening after tearing apart a depleted Leicester side 5-2 in Ruud van Nistelrooy’s first game in charge as interim manager.

Two goals for both Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro and one from Alejandro Garnacho were enough to put the Foxes to the sword in a swashbuckling match reminiscent of the Alex Ferguson era.

Having seen Manchester City and Chelsea knocked out earlier, the draw was quite unkind to the Red Devils.

It was Spurs themselves that put United’s neighbours out this evening with a 2-1 victory.

However, it will be a chance to get revenge on the Lily Whites after the embarrassing 3-0 home defeat at the end of September.

In fact, it is over two years since United last beat Spurs, when goals from Bruno Fernandes and Fred saw them snuff out Antonio Conte’s Harry Kane-led side.

United never beat Spurs at White Hart Lane under Erik ten Hag and last achieved that feat in 2021 when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was manager.

Goals from Ronaldo, Cavani and Rashford made the difference on that day.

The last time the two teams met in the League Cup was in 2009 when two Darren Gibson goals saw United through.

The other matches are:

Arsenal vs Crystal Palace

Newcastle vs Brentford

Southampton vs Liverpool

The ties will take place in the week commencing 16 December, when it is expected that incoming United manager Ruben Amorim will have his feet firmly under the table.

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Manchester United are reportedly facing competition from Tottenham Hotspur for the signing of Boca Juniors forward Kevin Zenon.

TBR Football reports that United Boca are “expecting to lose” Zenon in January – a state of affairs that could open the door to a potential swoop from United.

The news outlet further reveals, “We understand that the likes of Napoli, Atalanta, Lyon, Sporting Lisbon and Atletico Madrid are amongst those who are keen on Zenon.”

“There is English interest – we can confirm from sources that Liverpool, Newcastle, Tottenham, Man United, Fulham and Everton have all watched Zenon in the last six months.”

It’s understood that if the Red Devils successfully manage to get a deal for Zenon over the line, he would be competing with Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford for a starting berth under Erik ten Hag.

Zenon is thought to have a £13m release clause in his contract, which is a relatively modest fee nowadays.

It’s easy to see why United, Spurs and other top clubs in Europe retain an interest in Zenon. The 23-year-old has already cemented his status as one of the most important figures at Boca.

This season, he has registered 11 goals involvements across 38 appearances.

According to Fbref, the left-footed wizard ranks in the top one per cent for progressive carries per 90 in Liga Profesional Argentina, highlighting his attacking threat.

Further, he ranks in the top four per cent for progressive passes received, which demonstrates his terrific movement during attacking phases of play.

For the low price tag, Zenon is an attractive, low-risk option. The Argentine also represents the profile of players Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are believed to be keen on luring to Old Trafford – young, hungry and relatively unknown gems that can then be nurtured to potentially become superstars.

United already have a success story from Argentina in Garnacho, who has now firmly established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet. Zenon could well follow in his compatriot’s footsteps.

Ten Hag’s men return to action on Thursday when they face Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce in the Europa League.

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