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Juventus to move for Matic if Pogba departs
Juventus will make Nemanja Matic their primary transfer target should Paul Pogba be sold to Manchester United.
The Bianconeri want to hold on to Pogba but are willing to let the France international return to Old Trafford should the 23-year-old's former employers meet their €120 million asking price.
As it stands, the proposed deal is being held up by the fact that Pogba's agent, Mino Raiola, is set to earn 20 per cent of the transfer fee.
However, the two clubs are still in negotiations over what would be a record-breaking deal and if Juve ultimately agree to allow Pogba to depart, they will immediately look to fill the void left by a player who has helped the club win four successive Serie A titles since arriving in Turin from Manchester in 2012.The Italian champions' preferred replacement is Matic, who was a colossus during Chelsea's Premier League-winning campaign of 2014-15.
The Serbia international suffered an alarming dip in form last season - but he was not along in this regard, as the Blues put up a dismal defence of their domestic crown.Furthermore, Juve believe that the Serb would prove an imposing addition to their squad.
The Bianconeri are also buoyed by Matic's present predicament, with the 27-year-old seemingly having fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge following the summer signing of N'Golo Kante from English champions Leicester for €35.8m.
New Blues boss Antonio Conte has also stated that he is keen to keep Matic.Consequently, Juve are also considering both Axel Witsel and Moussa Sissoko as viable alternatives.
Witsel has long been linked with a move to Serie A, having previously been pursued by AC Milan, but the Zenit midfielder's €40m fee has always been seen as prohibitive.
However, in the event of Pogba's sale, it would not be an issue for Juve, who were one of a number of clubs, including Napoli, to have been taken with the Belgian's performances at Euro 2016.
As for Sissoko, he is also readily available at the right price - with the Frenchman's club, Newcastle, having been relegated from the Premier League last season.
Elsewhere, Marcelo Brozovic is of interest to Juve, whose relationship with long-time rivals Inter has improved following Hernanes' relatively amicable transfer from Milan to Turin last year.
Valencia ace Andre Gomes is still under consideration but there is an acceptance at Corso Galileo Ferraris that it would be more difficult to land the Portugal international, who is also being courted by Real Madrid.
For now, Juve's focus is on their talks with United, but moves are already being made to ensure that the Bianconeri have a quality replacement lined up should Pogba depart - particularly as they will be without the injured Claudio Marchisio for the start of their bid for a sixth successive Scudetto.
Juventus will make Nemanja Matic their primary transfer target should Paul Pogba be sold to Manchester United.
The Bianconeri want to hold on to Pogba but are willing to let the France international return to Old Trafford should the 23-year-old's former employers meet their €120 million asking price.
As it stands, the proposed deal is being held up by the fact that Pogba's agent, Mino Raiola, is set to earn 20 per cent of the transfer fee.
However, the two clubs are still in negotiations over what would be a record-breaking deal and if Juve ultimately agree to allow Pogba to depart, they will immediately look to fill the void left by a player who has helped the club win four successive Serie A titles since arriving in Turin from Manchester in 2012.The Italian champions' preferred replacement is Matic, who was a colossus during Chelsea's Premier League-winning campaign of 2014-15.
The Serbia international suffered an alarming dip in form last season - but he was not along in this regard, as the Blues put up a dismal defence of their domestic crown.Furthermore, Juve believe that the Serb would prove an imposing addition to their squad.
The Bianconeri are also buoyed by Matic's present predicament, with the 27-year-old seemingly having fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge following the summer signing of N'Golo Kante from English champions Leicester for €35.8m.
New Blues boss Antonio Conte has also stated that he is keen to keep Matic.Consequently, Juve are also considering both Axel Witsel and Moussa Sissoko as viable alternatives.
Witsel has long been linked with a move to Serie A, having previously been pursued by AC Milan, but the Zenit midfielder's €40m fee has always been seen as prohibitive.
However, in the event of Pogba's sale, it would not be an issue for Juve, who were one of a number of clubs, including Napoli, to have been taken with the Belgian's performances at Euro 2016.
As for Sissoko, he is also readily available at the right price - with the Frenchman's club, Newcastle, having been relegated from the Premier League last season.
Elsewhere, Marcelo Brozovic is of interest to Juve, whose relationship with long-time rivals Inter has improved following Hernanes' relatively amicable transfer from Milan to Turin last year.
Valencia ace Andre Gomes is still under consideration but there is an acceptance at Corso Galileo Ferraris that it would be more difficult to land the Portugal international, who is also being courted by Real Madrid.
For now, Juve's focus is on their talks with United, but moves are already being made to ensure that the Bianconeri have a quality replacement lined up should Pogba depart - particularly as they will be without the injured Claudio Marchisio for the start of their bid for a sixth successive Scudetto.
OFFICIAL: Middlesbrough sign Negredo on season-long loan Getty Images Next Previous
Middlesbrough have announced the signing of Spanish striker Alvaro Negredo, who joins from Valencia on a season-long loan.
The striker, formerly of Manchester City, has linked up with Aitor Karanka's squad at their training camp in Marbella.
The 30-year-old forward had previously travelled 400 miles by car, with his representatives, to meet the Boro boss and thrash out a deal following laboured discussions.
Negredo is Karanka's eight summer signing, with Marten de Roon, Viktor Fischer and Bernardo Espinosa also joining the club.
Middlesbrough have announced the signing of Spanish striker Alvaro Negredo, who joins from Valencia on a season-long loan.
The striker, formerly of Manchester City, has linked up with Aitor Karanka's squad at their training camp in Marbella.
The 30-year-old forward had previously travelled 400 miles by car, with his representatives, to meet the Boro boss and thrash out a deal following laboured discussions.
Negredo is Karanka's eight summer signing, with Marten de Roon, Viktor Fischer and Bernardo Espinosa also joining the club.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan is desperate to win silverware with Manchester United following his transfer from Borussia Dortmund.
United have endured a number of difficult seasons following the departure of Alex Ferguson in 2013, finishing seventh, fourth and fifth in the Premier League over the past three seasons.
The club did end their FA Cup drought last term but still opted to replace Louis van Gaal with Jose Mourinho following their failure to qualify for the Champions League.
Mourinho has since brought in Eric Bailly, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Mkhitaryan to strengthen his squad, and the latter – who impressed in his first friendly against Wigan – is keen to help his new club to success.
"Manchester [United] are one of the biggest clubs," Mkhitaryan told reporters at a press conference. "I am very happy and I will try to do my best to help us win. We will try to do everything to win titles."It will be difficult but let's hope we can have a good preparation and then we will see."
Gomez rules out Besiktas return
Germany striker Mario Gomez has announced he will not play for Besiktas next season due to on-going political unrest in Turkey.
Gomez joined the Super Lig club on a season-long loan from Fiorentina last term and enjoyed a prolific campaign, scoring 26 goals to help Besiktas to the Turkish title and win an international recall in time for Euro 2016.The former Bayern Munich player still has a year to run on his deal in Florence and Besiktas president Fikret Orman was hopeful of luring him back for 2016-17.
But the events of last Friday, when a failed military coup against president Recep Tayyip Erdogan left 161 dead according to Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, forced Gomez to re-evaluate.
In post shared across his social media pages, the 31-year-old said there were "no sporting or any other reasons" for a decision that was "completely down to the political situation"."It was a difficult decision that I had to think about a lot," he explained.
"I have to tell you Besiktas fans personally that it is very heavy for me that I will not be playing for this great club, in front of you wonderful fans, in this unique stadium anymore.
"The reason for this is completely down to the political situation! There are no sporting or any other reasons that have made me make this decision."It is purely down to the terrible events that happened in the last few days. I hope you can understand that!
"I [give] huge thanks to the club, to you fans and to all the people with whom my family and I had a lot of wonderful times! It was a fantastic year with the championship providing the absolute highlight."Gomez did not rule out the prospect of a return to the Istanbul club if the domestic problems in Turkey can be resolved.
He added: "I hope that these political problems can be solved in a peaceful manner soon. Then it would be my great wish to play for Besiktas again!"The club and the country grew very close to my heart in this past year. Hope to see you again soon."
Germany striker Mario Gomez has announced he will not play for Besiktas next season due to on-going political unrest in Turkey.
Gomez joined the Super Lig club on a season-long loan from Fiorentina last term and enjoyed a prolific campaign, scoring 26 goals to help Besiktas to the Turkish title and win an international recall in time for Euro 2016.The former Bayern Munich player still has a year to run on his deal in Florence and Besiktas president Fikret Orman was hopeful of luring him back for 2016-17.
But the events of last Friday, when a failed military coup against president Recep Tayyip Erdogan left 161 dead according to Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, forced Gomez to re-evaluate.
In post shared across his social media pages, the 31-year-old said there were "no sporting or any other reasons" for a decision that was "completely down to the political situation"."It was a difficult decision that I had to think about a lot," he explained.
"I have to tell you Besiktas fans personally that it is very heavy for me that I will not be playing for this great club, in front of you wonderful fans, in this unique stadium anymore.
"The reason for this is completely down to the political situation! There are no sporting or any other reasons that have made me make this decision."It is purely down to the terrible events that happened in the last few days. I hope you can understand that!
"I [give] huge thanks to the club, to you fans and to all the people with whom my family and I had a lot of wonderful times! It was a fantastic year with the championship providing the absolute highlight."Gomez did not rule out the prospect of a return to the Istanbul club if the domestic problems in Turkey can be resolved.
He added: "I hope that these political problems can be solved in a peaceful manner soon. Then it would be my great wish to play for Besiktas again!"The club and the country grew very close to my heart in this past year. Hope to see you again soon."
Wolfsberger AC 0-3 Chelsea: Trio on target to hand Conte first Blues win
Bertrand Traore, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Nathaniel Chalobah struck in Chelsea's clash with Wolfsberger AC on Wednesday to hand them a 3-0 win.
The result ensured Antonio Conte oversaw his first victory in charge of the Blues, with new arrival Michy Batshuayi playing his first game, following 2-0 defeat to Rapid Vienna last time out.
The Italian started the likes of Diego Costa and Oscar but had to wait until the 41st minute before his side opened the scoring, Traore bundling home a scrappy goal.
A host of changes at half-time saw Chelsea lose some fluency and they had to rely on a late flurry of goals, as Loftus-Cheek and Chalobah struck to seal victory.
Willian was industrious and influential throughout and found Victor Moses to side-foot against the inside of the right-hand post from 15 yards, before the latter turned provider for Traore to hack wastefully over.
But Burkina Faso forward Traore broke the deadlock five minutes before half-time in slightly fortuitous fashion as a prodded effort from Willian's cross ricocheted back into him off goalkeeper Alexander Kofler and into the net.
Wolfsburger spurned a glorious opportunity to equalise 10 minutes into the second period, with Dario Baldauf afforded ample room at the back post, but the half-time substitute headed wide Batshuayi - who was not initially named on the bench before he was introduced - then entered the fray and the Belgium international skilfully rounded goalkeeper Christian Dobnik on the end of Willian's pass but Moses' resulting effort was cleared off the line.
Six minutes from time, Loftus-Cheek made sure of the victory when he got in front of Dobnik to nod in from Moses' corner and Chalobah made his mark by powering into space and unleashing a clinical low finish in stoppage time.
Chelsea continue their pre-season preparations in the International Champions Cup next week, where they face Premier League counterparts Liverpool in Pasadena.
Bertrand Traore, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Nathaniel Chalobah struck in Chelsea's clash with Wolfsberger AC on Wednesday to hand them a 3-0 win.
The result ensured Antonio Conte oversaw his first victory in charge of the Blues, with new arrival Michy Batshuayi playing his first game, following 2-0 defeat to Rapid Vienna last time out.
The Italian started the likes of Diego Costa and Oscar but had to wait until the 41st minute before his side opened the scoring, Traore bundling home a scrappy goal.
A host of changes at half-time saw Chelsea lose some fluency and they had to rely on a late flurry of goals, as Loftus-Cheek and Chalobah struck to seal victory.
Willian was industrious and influential throughout and found Victor Moses to side-foot against the inside of the right-hand post from 15 yards, before the latter turned provider for Traore to hack wastefully over.
But Burkina Faso forward Traore broke the deadlock five minutes before half-time in slightly fortuitous fashion as a prodded effort from Willian's cross ricocheted back into him off goalkeeper Alexander Kofler and into the net.
Wolfsburger spurned a glorious opportunity to equalise 10 minutes into the second period, with Dario Baldauf afforded ample room at the back post, but the half-time substitute headed wide Batshuayi - who was not initially named on the bench before he was introduced - then entered the fray and the Belgium international skilfully rounded goalkeeper Christian Dobnik on the end of Willian's pass but Moses' resulting effort was cleared off the line.
Six minutes from time, Loftus-Cheek made sure of the victory when he got in front of Dobnik to nod in from Moses' corner and Chalobah made his mark by powering into space and unleashing a clinical low finish in stoppage time.
Chelsea continue their pre-season preparations in the International Champions Cup next week, where they face Premier League counterparts Liverpool in Pasadena.
Anthony Martial has been voted the most valuable Under-21 player in the world by a Soccerex report from Prime Time Sport.
The Manchester United forward was the clear winner, beating second-placed Leroy Sane of Schalke - who Manchester City are hoping to sign in a deal worth upwards of £40 million this summer.
Euro 2016 winner and new Bayern Munich signing Renato Sanches ranks third after an impressive breakthrough season with Benfica and being named the tournament's best young player earlier in July.
The report reads: "The player’s age, position, current club, contract length, market value perception, international caps, minutes played, goals, injuries and technical quality from a variety of sources [are taken into account] to arrive at a final valuation."
Dele Alli comes in at fourth stepping up from League One to the Premier League with ease to aid Tottenham's first credible title challenge in years, and making his England debut along the way.
Another Bayern star in Kingsley Coman rounds off the top five having thrived under Pep Guardiola while on loan at Juventus, even helping knock his parent club out of the Champions League last season.
Schalke are the most represented club in the top 20 with three entries - Sane joining sixth-placed Breel Embolo and eigth-placed Max Meyer - while Bayern, Borussia Dortmund, United have two.
Anderlecht midfielder Youri Tielemans, who was crowned Europe's most talented Under-18 player by Goal last year, ranks in 12th place above South American-based pair Giovani Lo Celso and Gabriel Barbose.
AC Milan's 17-year-old goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, the youngest player on the list, round off the top 20 as European talents dominate the report.
Bayern Munich 1-0 Manchester City: Pep beaten on Allianz return
Carlo Ancelotti got off to a winning start on home turf as Bayern Munich boss, with a 1-0 victory over Manchester City meaning Pep Guardiola left empty handed on his swift return to the Allianz Arena.
Both sides lacked a clutch of players recuperating from international tournament commitments, and the excellent Franck Ribery ensured a more seasoned Bayern team enjoyed the better of a first half where City goalkeeper Willy Caballero had to show inspired form.
Guardiola's experimental line-up found their poise after the break, but a deflected effort from Erdal Ozturk proved to be the difference 15 minutes from time.Bayern were the quickest to settle as they looked to exploit an inexperienced City backline, with Julian Green narrowly failing to get on the end of Juan Bernat's low cross.
City made an impression in the Bayern box with some trademark Guardiola high-pressing, winning the ball back in a dangerous area before new signing Oleksandr Zinchenko had a shot blocked.
Some wonderful 17th-minute interplay from Ribery and David Alaba saw the Austria international draw a fine close-range save from Caballero.The Argentine goalkeeper was on hand twice more to thwart Green, with the Bayern forward seemingly primed to open the scoring before half-time.
Ribery was one of three Bayern players to make way at half-time and the hosts' potency reduced as a result, with another replacement, Wilfried Bony, giving City a much-needed focal point in attack.Bony twice went close, but Bayern struck in fortuitous circumstances.
Tosin Adarabioyo's clearance struck the referee on the back, allowing Ozturk to approach the box and shoot from 20 yards, where a decisive deflection off Gael Clichy took the ball into the bottom corner.Yaya Toure, on for the final 35 minutes, whipped a free-kick just past the post, but City could not pull level.
City head to China for matches against Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund next week, while Bayern also have International Champions Cup duties on the horizon against AC Milan, Inter and Real Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti got off to a winning start on home turf as Bayern Munich boss, with a 1-0 victory over Manchester City meaning Pep Guardiola left empty handed on his swift return to the Allianz Arena.
Both sides lacked a clutch of players recuperating from international tournament commitments, and the excellent Franck Ribery ensured a more seasoned Bayern team enjoyed the better of a first half where City goalkeeper Willy Caballero had to show inspired form.
Guardiola's experimental line-up found their poise after the break, but a deflected effort from Erdal Ozturk proved to be the difference 15 minutes from time.Bayern were the quickest to settle as they looked to exploit an inexperienced City backline, with Julian Green narrowly failing to get on the end of Juan Bernat's low cross.
City made an impression in the Bayern box with some trademark Guardiola high-pressing, winning the ball back in a dangerous area before new signing Oleksandr Zinchenko had a shot blocked.
Some wonderful 17th-minute interplay from Ribery and David Alaba saw the Austria international draw a fine close-range save from Caballero.The Argentine goalkeeper was on hand twice more to thwart Green, with the Bayern forward seemingly primed to open the scoring before half-time.
Ribery was one of three Bayern players to make way at half-time and the hosts' potency reduced as a result, with another replacement, Wilfried Bony, giving City a much-needed focal point in attack.Bony twice went close, but Bayern struck in fortuitous circumstances.
Tosin Adarabioyo's clearance struck the referee on the back, allowing Ozturk to approach the box and shoot from 20 yards, where a decisive deflection off Gael Clichy took the ball into the bottom corner.Yaya Toure, on for the final 35 minutes, whipped a free-kick just past the post, but City could not pull level.
City head to China for matches against Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund next week, while Bayern also have International Champions Cup duties on the horizon against AC Milan, Inter and Real Madrid.
Huddersfield Town 0-2 Liverpool: Quality Grujic strike sends Reds on road to win
Liverpool overcame Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Wednesday thanks to Marko Grujic's strike from a well-worked counter-attack followed by Alberto Moreno's clincher.
Jujrgen Klopp started January signing Grujic alongside summer arrival Sadio Mane, and the pair were instrumental in the build-up to the Serbian's strike.
A flowing counter saw Mane release Roberto Firmino and the Brazilian directed the ball into the path of Grujic, who swept home with aplomb.
Liverpool could have won by a more comfortable margin, but Philippe Coutinho saw his penalty saved two minutes later, after Mane had been brought down in the area.
Still, the Reds were able to wrap up the win when Moreno made no mistake from the spot at the death, sending the Huddersfield goalkeeper the wrong way.
Liverpool have now won their first four friendlies, scoring 10 and conceding none.
Klopp's new signings were at the centre of all of his side's good work in the first half, with Mane having a goal disallowed and Loris Karius making a fine save, before Grujic opened the scoring with his second goal in as many games.
Just a few moments after the Serbian's fine finish, Mane ran through to win a penalty from Joel Coleman, but the Huddersfield goalkeeper remained on the pitch to deny Coutinho from the spot.
While there was a lack of goalmouth action in the second half, Liverpool suffered a blow when Lucas Leiva pulled up with an injury and had to be replaced.Bizarrely, with all outfield substitutes used, young goalkeeper Shamal George was required to come on up front.
There was still time for Moreno to add some late gloss to the scoreline, though.
He scored a penalty won by Ryan Kent, despite being jeered from his own supporters for taking the ball ahead of George.
Klopp's men now head to the United States for a series of International Champions Cup games, starting against Chelsea next Wednesday.
Liverpool overcame Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Wednesday thanks to Marko Grujic's strike from a well-worked counter-attack followed by Alberto Moreno's clincher.
Jujrgen Klopp started January signing Grujic alongside summer arrival Sadio Mane, and the pair were instrumental in the build-up to the Serbian's strike.
A flowing counter saw Mane release Roberto Firmino and the Brazilian directed the ball into the path of Grujic, who swept home with aplomb.
Liverpool could have won by a more comfortable margin, but Philippe Coutinho saw his penalty saved two minutes later, after Mane had been brought down in the area.
Still, the Reds were able to wrap up the win when Moreno made no mistake from the spot at the death, sending the Huddersfield goalkeeper the wrong way.
Liverpool have now won their first four friendlies, scoring 10 and conceding none.
Klopp's new signings were at the centre of all of his side's good work in the first half, with Mane having a goal disallowed and Loris Karius making a fine save, before Grujic opened the scoring with his second goal in as many games.
Just a few moments after the Serbian's fine finish, Mane ran through to win a penalty from Joel Coleman, but the Huddersfield goalkeeper remained on the pitch to deny Coutinho from the spot.
While there was a lack of goalmouth action in the second half, Liverpool suffered a blow when Lucas Leiva pulled up with an injury and had to be replaced.Bizarrely, with all outfield substitutes used, young goalkeeper Shamal George was required to come on up front.
There was still time for Moreno to add some late gloss to the scoreline, though.
He scored a penalty won by Ryan Kent, despite being jeered from his own supporters for taking the ball ahead of George.
Klopp's men now head to the United States for a series of International Champions Cup games, starting against Chelsea next Wednesday.
Zinedine Zidane set to decide James' Real Madrid future
Zinedine Zidane has promised he will sit down and talk with James Rodriguez when he returns to Real Madrid, as the Colombian's future at the club remains in doubt.
James was used only sparingly during the second half of the season, as the coach benched the star in favour of a starting midfield of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro.
The French football legend insisted his charge has a future at the Santiago Bernabeu, but he admits the quality in the club's squad means he will have to work to earn a first-team spot.
"James Rodriguez is a Real Madrid player. He will be back on July 26 with Sergio Ramos and Luka Modric. I will speak to him then, like I will with everybody," he signalled in a press conference.
"I won't say that James isn't part of the first team. He is important to us, sure he has played less, but I don't see him as a substitute. Every time he could play he picked him, and the same will happen this year. We have a very big squad, and it is tough to pick the team. But I will always do the same thing: play the most competitive side."
Zidane will use the carrot and the stick to motivate the Colombian: he is not a reserve, but must prove himself worthy of the first team. The same goes for his position in the transfer window, where his future is still uncertain and dependent on several factors.
The situation in 2015-16 was not ideal for either player or club. James did not see much action, but that was almost certainly a result of his less than satisfactory performances when he did take the field.
Neither Rafa Benitez nor Zizou got the best out of the former Monaco man last season, and his absence in the Champions League final is proof positive that he has lost ground in the fierce battle for minutes at the Bernabeu.
Madrid, however, will not swiftly forget what James is capable of. In his debut campaign he racked up 46 appearances, scoring 17 goals and adding 18 assists.
Even in the last season, he still managed to score seven times and set up eight further goals in his limited outings. The numbers show he still has a lot to offer the Spaniards, and not just off the field with his attractive commercial image.
That is the dilemma faced by the club at this time. If James stays, the club will be missing out on a juicy sale with no guarantee that the Colombian will find his 2015 form.
The player himself has the challenge of winning a starting spot with plenty of top names ahead of him. If they sell, meanwhile, there is little prospect of a 'galactico' taking the place of a star whose talent and personality are big assets.
Zidane, then, will keep an open mind over the future of his player. Depending on the conversation between the pair and James' performances in pre-season up to the start of the campaign in August, a better idea of his next move will appear.
He has a month to either cement his place in the Madrid squad or else find a new club, with the jury still out on what would be the best outcome for him and for the Blancos.
Zinedine Zidane has promised he will sit down and talk with James Rodriguez when he returns to Real Madrid, as the Colombian's future at the club remains in doubt.
James was used only sparingly during the second half of the season, as the coach benched the star in favour of a starting midfield of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro.
The French football legend insisted his charge has a future at the Santiago Bernabeu, but he admits the quality in the club's squad means he will have to work to earn a first-team spot.
"James Rodriguez is a Real Madrid player. He will be back on July 26 with Sergio Ramos and Luka Modric. I will speak to him then, like I will with everybody," he signalled in a press conference.
"I won't say that James isn't part of the first team. He is important to us, sure he has played less, but I don't see him as a substitute. Every time he could play he picked him, and the same will happen this year. We have a very big squad, and it is tough to pick the team. But I will always do the same thing: play the most competitive side."
Zidane will use the carrot and the stick to motivate the Colombian: he is not a reserve, but must prove himself worthy of the first team. The same goes for his position in the transfer window, where his future is still uncertain and dependent on several factors.
The situation in 2015-16 was not ideal for either player or club. James did not see much action, but that was almost certainly a result of his less than satisfactory performances when he did take the field.
Neither Rafa Benitez nor Zizou got the best out of the former Monaco man last season, and his absence in the Champions League final is proof positive that he has lost ground in the fierce battle for minutes at the Bernabeu.
Madrid, however, will not swiftly forget what James is capable of. In his debut campaign he racked up 46 appearances, scoring 17 goals and adding 18 assists.
Even in the last season, he still managed to score seven times and set up eight further goals in his limited outings. The numbers show he still has a lot to offer the Spaniards, and not just off the field with his attractive commercial image.
That is the dilemma faced by the club at this time. If James stays, the club will be missing out on a juicy sale with no guarantee that the Colombian will find his 2015 form.
The player himself has the challenge of winning a starting spot with plenty of top names ahead of him. If they sell, meanwhile, there is little prospect of a 'galactico' taking the place of a star whose talent and personality are big assets.
Zidane, then, will keep an open mind over the future of his player. Depending on the conversation between the pair and James' performances in pre-season up to the start of the campaign in August, a better idea of his next move will appear.
He has a month to either cement his place in the Madrid squad or else find a new club, with the jury still out on what would be the best outcome for him and for the Blancos.
Sunderland reveal 'anger and frustration' at Allardyce's England link
Sunderland have released a statement to confirm Sam Allardyce remains their manager despite mounting speculation he will imminently be appointed as England boss.
In the hours leading up to Sunderland's 3-0 friendly win at Hartlepool United on Wednesday, multiple outlets reported Allardyce would be confirmed as Roy Hodgson's successor by the Football Association within the next 24 hours.
After full-time at Victoria Park, Sunderland made their feeling on the issue public – stating they "share in the anger and frustration of our supporters"."Naturally we are aware of the intense media speculation this evening, however, at the present time Sam Allardyce remains Sunderland manager," the statement read.
"We share in the anger and frustration of our supporters and would like to assure them that we are working to conclude the matter in the best interests of Sunderland AFC."Last week, Sunderland urged the FA to find a "swift resolution to the matter" after claiming the focus on Allardyce was "extremely damaging" to the club.
Sunderland's first match of the Premier League season is away at Manchester City, while England open their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign with a trip to Slovakia on September 4.
Sunderland have released a statement to confirm Sam Allardyce remains their manager despite mounting speculation he will imminently be appointed as England boss.
In the hours leading up to Sunderland's 3-0 friendly win at Hartlepool United on Wednesday, multiple outlets reported Allardyce would be confirmed as Roy Hodgson's successor by the Football Association within the next 24 hours.
After full-time at Victoria Park, Sunderland made their feeling on the issue public – stating they "share in the anger and frustration of our supporters"."Naturally we are aware of the intense media speculation this evening, however, at the present time Sam Allardyce remains Sunderland manager," the statement read.
"We share in the anger and frustration of our supporters and would like to assure them that we are working to conclude the matter in the best interests of Sunderland AFC."Last week, Sunderland urged the FA to find a "swift resolution to the matter" after claiming the focus on Allardyce was "extremely damaging" to the club.
Sunderland's first match of the Premier League season is away at Manchester City, while England open their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign with a trip to Slovakia on September 4.
Real Madrid will have to wait until December to sign Gabriel Jesus
Goal can reveal Brazilian wonderkid Gabriel Jesus will keep Real Madrid waiting until the end of 2016 should they wish to pursue their interest in the Palmeiras forward.
With 10 goals in 15 Serie A clashes so far this season, Gabriel has fired the Sao Paulo side to the top of the Brazilian championship.
But the 19-year-old, who has drawn comparisons with Ronaldo, is not in any rush to move to European football despite confirmed interest from the Blancos.
"I am staying until the end of the season. After that we will see," he told reporters on Sunday after Palmeiras' 1-0 victory over Internacional.
Sources close to the player confided in Goal that his mind has not changed, and that the end of the Brazilian season in December will be the earliest date he would consider a switch.
Despite those affirmations, preliminary contact has been made between Madrid and the Verdao. Gabriel Jesus' release clause is set at €24 million, while the forward is under contract at the club until December 2019.
Madrid are aware, though, that an impressive showing at the Olympic Games with his nation could increase interest in their target even further, making early negotiations even more important.
To make things even more complicated, FIFA's punishment over the signing of under-age players is still pending, and could see the team shut out of the 2017 winter and summer transfer windows if the case goes against them.
Diego Llorente, Jesus Vallejo and Borja Mayoral have left the club on loan, and Madrid are not ruling out the possibility of completing the deal for Gabriel now and leaving him at Palmeiras until the start of the new year.
Barcelona, meanwhile, will not wait until 2017 to land their man.
The Blaugrana are keen to sign a back-up striker behind the MSN for the new season, and liked Gabriel's profile as the 'fourth man' behind Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar.
However, the club are already looking at other options for an immediate transfer and will not enter a bidding war for the young Brazilian.
Real Madrid therefore have the upper hand, but may have to wait for the wonderkid should they be determined to seal a deal.
Goal can reveal Brazilian wonderkid Gabriel Jesus will keep Real Madrid waiting until the end of 2016 should they wish to pursue their interest in the Palmeiras forward.
With 10 goals in 15 Serie A clashes so far this season, Gabriel has fired the Sao Paulo side to the top of the Brazilian championship.
But the 19-year-old, who has drawn comparisons with Ronaldo, is not in any rush to move to European football despite confirmed interest from the Blancos.
"I am staying until the end of the season. After that we will see," he told reporters on Sunday after Palmeiras' 1-0 victory over Internacional.
Sources close to the player confided in Goal that his mind has not changed, and that the end of the Brazilian season in December will be the earliest date he would consider a switch.
Despite those affirmations, preliminary contact has been made between Madrid and the Verdao. Gabriel Jesus' release clause is set at €24 million, while the forward is under contract at the club until December 2019.
Madrid are aware, though, that an impressive showing at the Olympic Games with his nation could increase interest in their target even further, making early negotiations even more important.
To make things even more complicated, FIFA's punishment over the signing of under-age players is still pending, and could see the team shut out of the 2017 winter and summer transfer windows if the case goes against them.
Diego Llorente, Jesus Vallejo and Borja Mayoral have left the club on loan, and Madrid are not ruling out the possibility of completing the deal for Gabriel now and leaving him at Palmeiras until the start of the new year.
Barcelona, meanwhile, will not wait until 2017 to land their man.
The Blaugrana are keen to sign a back-up striker behind the MSN for the new season, and liked Gabriel's profile as the 'fourth man' behind Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar.
However, the club are already looking at other options for an immediate transfer and will not enter a bidding war for the young Brazilian.
Real Madrid therefore have the upper hand, but may have to wait for the wonderkid should they be determined to seal a deal.
Guardiola hails 'amazing' Man City youngsters after Bayern loss
Pep Guardiola was satisfied with Manchester City's "amazing" youngsters in the 1-0 friendly defeat to Bayern Munich, singling out rookie full-backs Pablo Maffeo and Angelino for special praise.
Guardiola named an experimental line-up for his first game in charge of the Premier League side at Allianz Arena, with numerous key first-team players yet to return following international commitments.
City were indebted to goalkeeper Willy Caballero for a string of fine saves during the first half, when a Bayern XI inspired by Franck Ribery made their extra experience and quality count.
The introduction of more seasoned performers such as Yaya Toure, Wilfried Bony and Fabian Delph helped City to exert a measure of control after the break but a deflected attempt from Bayern youngster Erdal Ozturk 15 minutes from time proved decisive.
"Sometimes it is not easy but I am so happy," Guardiola told BT Sport after a match where he was particularly taken with the industrious showing from his two teenage Spanish defenders.
"We did many, many things that we spoke about in the right moments. We did them well. I am happy about many things. We cannot forget about the fact of which team we played, with eight or nine top players.
"Pablo Maffeo and Angelino - they played amazing. Of course Brandon Barker, Oleksandr Zinchenko – we need them to play in these games to see how their level is and find out whether during the season we can use them."
Guardiola was afforded a warm welcome just two months on from bringing down the curtain on a trophy-laden three seasons in Bavaria and he was visibly delighted to be back in familiar surroundings.
"I am so happy – I came back home," he added. "I spent three years, my family were so happy here so to see the people was good."
Pep Guardiola was satisfied with Manchester City's "amazing" youngsters in the 1-0 friendly defeat to Bayern Munich, singling out rookie full-backs Pablo Maffeo and Angelino for special praise.
Guardiola named an experimental line-up for his first game in charge of the Premier League side at Allianz Arena, with numerous key first-team players yet to return following international commitments.
City were indebted to goalkeeper Willy Caballero for a string of fine saves during the first half, when a Bayern XI inspired by Franck Ribery made their extra experience and quality count.
The introduction of more seasoned performers such as Yaya Toure, Wilfried Bony and Fabian Delph helped City to exert a measure of control after the break but a deflected attempt from Bayern youngster Erdal Ozturk 15 minutes from time proved decisive.
"Sometimes it is not easy but I am so happy," Guardiola told BT Sport after a match where he was particularly taken with the industrious showing from his two teenage Spanish defenders.
"We did many, many things that we spoke about in the right moments. We did them well. I am happy about many things. We cannot forget about the fact of which team we played, with eight or nine top players.
"Pablo Maffeo and Angelino - they played amazing. Of course Brandon Barker, Oleksandr Zinchenko – we need them to play in these games to see how their level is and find out whether during the season we can use them."
Guardiola was afforded a warm welcome just two months on from bringing down the curtain on a trophy-laden three seasons in Bavaria and he was visibly delighted to be back in familiar surroundings.
"I am so happy – I came back home," he added. "I spent three years, my family were so happy here so to see the people was good."
Gotze to Dortmund 'could be solved on Thursday'
Mario Gotze's move back to Borussia Dortmund could be confirmed on Thursday, Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has suggested.
The Germany international has long been linked with a move back to Signal Iduna Park, with Rummenigge confirming last Sunday that talks had taken place between the clubs.
Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke said this week that a deal had not yet been concluded, but Rummenigge has revealed that an update on the 24-year-old's future is expected in the next 24 hours.Speaking ahead of Bayern's friendly match with Manchester City on Wednesday, he told ZDF: "I think everything could be solved tomorrow."
Rummenigge said last weekend that he was not surprised to see Gotze, whose contract expires next year, wishing to leave a club he joined in 2013.
"Gotze has been at Bayern for three years and it did not work out for him," he told Sport1. "I am not surprised that Gotze wants to leave. He is 24 and needs to play regularly."Gotze made just 14 Bundesliga appearances last season, though a number of injuries hampered his chances for more playing time under Pep Guardiola.
He has won three league titles, two DFB-Pokals, the UEFA Super Cup and the Club World Cup since moving to the Allianz Arena in a €37 million deal.
Mario Gotze's move back to Borussia Dortmund could be confirmed on Thursday, Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has suggested.
The Germany international has long been linked with a move back to Signal Iduna Park, with Rummenigge confirming last Sunday that talks had taken place between the clubs.
Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke said this week that a deal had not yet been concluded, but Rummenigge has revealed that an update on the 24-year-old's future is expected in the next 24 hours.Speaking ahead of Bayern's friendly match with Manchester City on Wednesday, he told ZDF: "I think everything could be solved tomorrow."
Rummenigge said last weekend that he was not surprised to see Gotze, whose contract expires next year, wishing to leave a club he joined in 2013.
"Gotze has been at Bayern for three years and it did not work out for him," he told Sport1. "I am not surprised that Gotze wants to leave. He is 24 and needs to play regularly."Gotze made just 14 Bundesliga appearances last season, though a number of injuries hampered his chances for more playing time under Pep Guardiola.
He has won three league titles, two DFB-Pokals, the UEFA Super Cup and the Club World Cup since moving to the Allianz Arena in a €37 million deal.
Conte happy for England-bound Allardyce
Antonio Conte has wished Sam Allardyce well amid mounting speculation that the Sunderland boss will be named as the new England manager.
Multiple reports have suggested Allardyce will be confirmed as Roy Hodgson's successor by the Football Association on Thursday.Conte is beginning life as Chelsea manager having led Italy for two years, culminating in their run to the quarter-finals of Euro 2016.
The 46-year-old's decorated period in charge of Juventus helped to establish him as one of the most highly regarded coaches in world football but, speaking after Chelsea's 3-0 win over Wolfsberger, Conte revealed he sought inspiration from the comparatively unheralded Allardyce during the latter's time in charge of West Ham.
"I know Sam. I visited him at the West Ham training ground two years ago," he told Chelsea's official website.
"I can say the experience is fantastic because you are the coach of your country and this is a great responsibility."You feel great pressure but it's fantastic. You represent your country, your colours."
Conte added: "I am happy for him if becomes the manager of the national team."
Antonio Conte has wished Sam Allardyce well amid mounting speculation that the Sunderland boss will be named as the new England manager.
Multiple reports have suggested Allardyce will be confirmed as Roy Hodgson's successor by the Football Association on Thursday.Conte is beginning life as Chelsea manager having led Italy for two years, culminating in their run to the quarter-finals of Euro 2016.
The 46-year-old's decorated period in charge of Juventus helped to establish him as one of the most highly regarded coaches in world football but, speaking after Chelsea's 3-0 win over Wolfsberger, Conte revealed he sought inspiration from the comparatively unheralded Allardyce during the latter's time in charge of West Ham.
"I know Sam. I visited him at the West Ham training ground two years ago," he told Chelsea's official website.
"I can say the experience is fantastic because you are the coach of your country and this is a great responsibility."You feel great pressure but it's fantastic. You represent your country, your colours."
Conte added: "I am happy for him if becomes the manager of the national team."
Manchester United reach agreement to sign Paul Pogba for world-record €110m fee
Manchester United have agreed a world record deal to sign Paul Pogba for €110 million, Goal understands.Officials from the Premier League club met with their Juventus counterparts earlier on Wednesday to discuss a deal to bring Pogba back to Old Trafford.
It is now understood that United have settled on a fee of €110m for Pogba, which eclipses the previous record set when Real Madrid paid €100m for Gareth Bale in 2013.
The France international will sign a five-year contract for the Red Devils. Pogba had also been linked with the likes of Real, but they were priced out of a move and the France international was happy to leave Juventus after weighing up his options.The midfielder is said to be ready to accept a €13m annual salary at Old Trafford, which would almost treble the wages he is currently earning at Juventus.
He originally left United for Juventus four years ago due to a lack of first-team opportunities, but his imminent return to the club will cap a busy start in the transfer market for new boss Jose Mourinho.
United have already added Eric Bailly, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to their squad, with Mourinho keen to get his major business tied up as quickly as possible.
Guardiola plays down Manchester City's chances of landing Sane
Pep Guardiola has played down the prospect of Manchester City being able to secure prime transfer target Leroy Sane.The Germany forward has been extensively linked to City over recent weeks, with reports earlier on Wednesday suggesting the Premier League club were close to agreeing a £42million fee with Schalke.
Christian Heidel, general manager at Schalke, has stated the 20-year-old has expressed a desire to leave and will do so this close-season.
But, speaking after a 1-0 friendly defeat at former club Bayern Munich, Guardiola suggested City and the Bundesliga side are some way apart in terms of striking a deal.
"Sane is a player of Schalke. Of course we talk to him – Schalke knows we are interested but at this moment we don't have many possibilities to get him," Guardiola told a post-match news conference."There's a difference between City and Schalke and it's quite big but I don't know what's going to happen in the coming weeks and months."
City have already acquired midfielders Ilkay Gundogan and Oleksandr Zinchenko ahead of the new season, along with Spain forward Nolito.
Pep Guardiola has played down the prospect of Manchester City being able to secure prime transfer target Leroy Sane.The Germany forward has been extensively linked to City over recent weeks, with reports earlier on Wednesday suggesting the Premier League club were close to agreeing a £42million fee with Schalke.
Christian Heidel, general manager at Schalke, has stated the 20-year-old has expressed a desire to leave and will do so this close-season.
But, speaking after a 1-0 friendly defeat at former club Bayern Munich, Guardiola suggested City and the Bundesliga side are some way apart in terms of striking a deal.
"Sane is a player of Schalke. Of course we talk to him – Schalke knows we are interested but at this moment we don't have many possibilities to get him," Guardiola told a post-match news conference."There's a difference between City and Schalke and it's quite big but I don't know what's going to happen in the coming weeks and months."
City have already acquired midfielders Ilkay Gundogan and Oleksandr Zinchenko ahead of the new season, along with Spain forward Nolito.
Barcelona were priced out of Pogba move - Braida
Barcelona were interested in signing Manchester United-bound midfielder Paul Pogba but were priced out of a move, according to the Spanish giants' international advisor Ariedo Braida.
Pogba, who made his senior debut for United in 2011 before leaving to join Juventus in 2012, is closing in on a return to Old Trafford for a world-record fee in the region of €110million, Goal understands.
Real Madrid have also been linked with the France international and, while Braida admits Barcelona were initially keen on Pogba, he says the club ended their interest after learning of his hefty price tag.
"Clearly when you talk about figures that go over €100million, you need to reflect on them," Braida told Canale 21.
"It all comes down to the TV rights that brought in a lot of money and completely changed the logic of the transfer market. Clearly all players are overrated to some degree or another at this stage.
"We know Pogba, he is a player who proved to be very strong and, for a while, Barcelona were interested, but clearly the dynamics changed and once the figures reached a certain point, we were no longer interested.
"It's hard to keep up at some stage, because you don't only have to consider the price of the transfer fee, but also the player's salary. Over the course of five years, that can amount to tens of millions."
Barcelona were interested in signing Manchester United-bound midfielder Paul Pogba but were priced out of a move, according to the Spanish giants' international advisor Ariedo Braida.
Pogba, who made his senior debut for United in 2011 before leaving to join Juventus in 2012, is closing in on a return to Old Trafford for a world-record fee in the region of €110million, Goal understands.
Real Madrid have also been linked with the France international and, while Braida admits Barcelona were initially keen on Pogba, he says the club ended their interest after learning of his hefty price tag.
"Clearly when you talk about figures that go over €100million, you need to reflect on them," Braida told Canale 21.
"It all comes down to the TV rights that brought in a lot of money and completely changed the logic of the transfer market. Clearly all players are overrated to some degree or another at this stage.
"We know Pogba, he is a player who proved to be very strong and, for a while, Barcelona were interested, but clearly the dynamics changed and once the figures reached a certain point, we were no longer interested.
"It's hard to keep up at some stage, because you don't only have to consider the price of the transfer fee, but also the player's salary. Over the course of five years, that can amount to tens of millions."
Mourinho has to make United feared again, says Beckham
Jose Mourinho must return the fear factor to Manchester United, according to former captain David Beckham.Mourinho replaced the sacked Louis van Gaal in May on a three-year deal, less than a week after the Dutchman guided the club to FA Cup glory.
However, the trophy was the first for United in a three-year dry spell, following the retirement of club legend Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013 and the failed spell of David Moyes.Beckham believes Mourinho is the right man to take United forward, but admits that the Portuguese has a huge task on his hands.
"I fully expect it to work," Beckham told Sky Sports. "With Jose leaving Chelsea and now coming back into the Premier League with United, for me it is a great move."I had huge respect for Van Gaal, but it did not work out the way people expected it to. But I think at the end of the day, now it is a new start for United.
"We have had a couple over the last three or four years, which is not the Manchester United style, who are used to a manager like Alex Ferguson being in there for so many years."We have had quite a lot of change over the last few years. So now with Jose in there, he knows what he wants and how to get it, he knows how to win titles.
"I think that is what Man United definitely need to get back to and they need to get back to being feared again. "Because we were always a club - and are still a club - that when teams come to Old Trafford, they know they are going to be up against it and they know they are probably going to lose. So that is what we need to get back to."
Mourinho has won the league with every club he has been manager of and Beckham expects him to achieve Premier League glory with United in his first season.
"I am going to have to say United [will win next season's title]," Beckham added. "I will always be on that side of the fence."
Jose Mourinho must return the fear factor to Manchester United, according to former captain David Beckham.Mourinho replaced the sacked Louis van Gaal in May on a three-year deal, less than a week after the Dutchman guided the club to FA Cup glory.
However, the trophy was the first for United in a three-year dry spell, following the retirement of club legend Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013 and the failed spell of David Moyes.Beckham believes Mourinho is the right man to take United forward, but admits that the Portuguese has a huge task on his hands.
"I fully expect it to work," Beckham told Sky Sports. "With Jose leaving Chelsea and now coming back into the Premier League with United, for me it is a great move."I had huge respect for Van Gaal, but it did not work out the way people expected it to. But I think at the end of the day, now it is a new start for United.
"We have had a couple over the last three or four years, which is not the Manchester United style, who are used to a manager like Alex Ferguson being in there for so many years."We have had quite a lot of change over the last few years. So now with Jose in there, he knows what he wants and how to get it, he knows how to win titles.
"I think that is what Man United definitely need to get back to and they need to get back to being feared again. "Because we were always a club - and are still a club - that when teams come to Old Trafford, they know they are going to be up against it and they know they are probably going to lose. So that is what we need to get back to."
Mourinho has won the league with every club he has been manager of and Beckham expects him to achieve Premier League glory with United in his first season.
"I am going to have to say United [will win next season's title]," Beckham added. "I will always be on that side of the fence."
