Matt Ritchie condemned Manchester United to a shock 1-0 defeat at struggling Newcastle, while Huddersfield climbed out of the relegation zone after a 4-1 win against Bournemouth on Sunday.

United&#39;s second defeat in their last three Premier League games leaves them 16 points behind leaders Manchester City.

Jose Mourinho&#39;s second placed side, beaten by Tottenham in their last away game, were rarely at their best at St James&#39; Park and paid the price in the 65th minute.

United defender Chris Smalling was booked for diving inside his own half and from the resulting Jonjo Shelvey free-kick, Dwight Gayle latched onto a header and played a backheel towards Ritchie.

Ritchie&#39;s run was completely untracked by United&#39;s sloppy defence and the Newcastle winger fired low past David De Gea.

Mourinho responded by pulling off Paul Pogba after another underwhelming display from the France midfielder.

And United should have equalised soon after, but when Newcastle failed to clear a corner, Anthony Martial saw two shots blocked on the line by Gayle.

Newcastle had kicked off in the relegation zone, but a first win in five league games -- their first success against United since 2013 -- lifts them to 13th place.

At the John Smith&#39;s Stadium, David Wagner&#39;s team took a seventh-minute lead as Alex Pritchard took Mounie&#39;s pass and drilled in his first Huddersfield goal since his January move from Norwich.

Junior Stanislas equalised for Bournemouth with a cool finish from Ryan Fraser&#39;s cross seven minutes later.

But Mounie restored Huddersfield&#39;s advantage with a 27th-minute header and the Benin striker netted again from Aaron Mooy&#39;s pass to put the hosts in control in the 66th minute.&nbsp;

Rajiv van La Parra converted a stoppage-time penalty to lift Huddersfield out of the bottom three after they had sunk to five consecutive league games.

The Terriers are one point above the relegation zone, while Bournemouth remain in mid-table.

Huddersfield&#39;s first league win in nine matches was marred by an injury to Australia midfielder Mooy, who was stretchered off with a knee problem 15 minutes from time.

Later on Sunday, Liverpool face Southampton at St Mary&#39;s as Jurgen Klopp&#39;s side look to bolster their bid for Champions League qualification via a top-four finish.

United's second defeat in their last three Premier League games leaves them 16 points behind leaders Manchester City

Matt Ritchie condemned Manchester United to a shock 1-0 defeat at struggling Newcastle, while Huddersfield climbed out of the relegation zone after a 4-1 win against Bournemouth on Sunday. United's second defeat in their last three Premier League games leaves them 16 points behind leaders Manchester City. Jose Mourinho's second placed side, beaten by Tottenham in their last away game, were rarely at their best at St James' Park and paid the price in the 65th minute. United defender Chris Smalling was booked for diving inside his own half and from the resulting Jonjo Shelvey free-kick, Dwight Gayle latched onto a header and played a backheel towards Ritchie. Ritchie's run was completely untracked by United's sloppy defence and the Newcastle winger fired low past David De Gea. Mourinho responded by pulling off Paul Pogba after another underwhelming display from the France midfielder. And United should have equalised soon after, but when Newcastle failed to clear a corner, Anthony Martial saw two shots blocked on the line by Gayle. Newcastle had kicked off in the relegation zone, but a first win in five league games -- their first success against United since 2013 -- lifts them to 13th place. At the John Smith's Stadium, David Wagner's team took a seventh-minute lead as Alex Pritchard took Mounie's pass and drilled in his first Huddersfield goal since his January move from Norwich. Junior Stanislas equalised for Bournemouth with a cool finish from Ryan Fraser's cross seven minutes later. But Mounie restored Huddersfield's advantage with a 27th-minute header and the Benin striker netted again from Aaron Mooy's pass to put the hosts in control in the 66th minute. Rajiv van La Parra converted a stoppage-time penalty to lift Huddersfield out of the bottom three after they had sunk to five consecutive league games. The Terriers are one point above the relegation zone, while Bournemouth remain in mid-table. Huddersfield's first league win in nine matches was marred by an injury to Australia midfielder Mooy, who was stretchered off with a knee problem 15 minutes from time. Later on Sunday, Liverpool face Southampton at St Mary's as Jurgen Klopp's side look to bolster their bid for Champions League qualification via a top-four finish.

EPL: Newcastle rock Man United as Huddersfield win at last

Tottenham Hotspur&#39;s Harry Kane became Europe&#39;s most lethal marksman of 2017 with a second hat-trick in four days to break a 22-year-old Premier League record as his side thumped Southampton 5-2 on Tuesday.

Another young England striker was also among the goals as Jesse Lingard struck twice, the second in stoppage time, as Manchester United hit back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Burnley and deny the visitors a first win at Old Trafford since 1962.

Second-placed United&#39;s second consecutive 2-2 draw left them 12 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City, who play Newcastle United on Wednesday. United&#39;s result allowed Chelsea to close to within a point of Jose Mourinho&#39;s side with a laboured 2-0 home win over Brighton and Hove Albion.

Liverpool slipped below Tottenham for a few hours but reclaimed fourth spot in emphatic fashion in the late Boxing Day kickoff by hammering bottom club Swansea City 5-0.

Roberto Firmino scored twice for Liverpool with Philippe Coutinho, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain also on target for Juergen Klopp&#39;s side.

There was no doubt who the spotlight was on though as England striker Kane eclipsed Alan Shearer&#39;s record 36 Premier League goals in a calendar year, taking his tally to 39 in 2017.

He is also the Premier League&#39;s leading scorer this season with 18, having won the Golden Boot for the past two seasons.

Two close-range efforts and a superb dinked finish from fellow goalscorer Dele Alli&#39;s pass took his tally in all competitions in the calendar year for club and country to 56, lifting him ahead of Lionel Messi who hit 54 for Barcelona and Argentina in the past 12 months.

Kane is the first player apart from Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi to finish the year as top scorer in Europe since 2009.

&quot;I&#39;m very proud of it. Messi and Ronaldo have dominated football for so long, they&#39;re two of the world&#39;s greatest players ever,&quot; Kane said.

&quot;I said to the lads before the game to try and set me up and they all did that, so I&#39;ll have to take them out to dinner or something.&quot;

With runaway leaders Manchester City not in action it was a chance for United to close the gap to 10 points but they ended the day 12 behind as Burnley came close to a shock.

Ashley Barnes gave Burnley a third-minute lead and the visitors went further ahead when Belgian midfielder Steven Defour curled a 36th-minute free-kick past David De Gea.

Mourinho put Lingard on in the second half in place of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and, after missing a sitter, he reduced the arrears with a back-heel flick. Burnley hung on desperately but Lingard drove home the equaliser in stoppage time.

&quot;We should have won, yes. I take satisfaction by the way the team played, by the way the team reacted, to try to recover from 2-0 down,&quot; Mourinho said.

Chelsea were uninspired at Stamford Bridge but Alvaro Morata and Spanish compatriot Marcos Alonso scored after the break to earn the win and move Chelsea to 42 points from 20 games.

Liverpool have 38 with Tottenham on 37 and Arsenal, who play at Crystal Palace on Thursday, on 34.

A fierce relegation battle on the south coast led to Bournemouth snatching a point at the death with a 3-3 draw against West Ham United - Callum Wilson&#39;s controversial goal denying the visitors a victory.

Wilson&#39;s effort, after Marko Arnautovic&#39;s two late goals had turned the game on its head to give West Ham a 3-2 lead, was initially disallowed for offside but was deemed legal by referee Bobby Madley.

&quot;The mistake was the referee went to the linesman. He knows he made a mistake, but we all make mistakes,&quot; Arnautovic said.

The result left Bournemouth third from bottom, a point and a place below West Ham.

Watford snapped a four-game losing streak as they came back to beat Leicester City 2-1 thanks to an own goal by Leicester keeper Kasper Schmeichel.

Huddersfield drew 1-1 at home to Stoke City and second-bottom West Bromwich Albion did little to ease their relegation fears with a 0-0 draw at home to Everton.

Liverpool slipped below Tottenham for a few hours but reclaimed fourth spot in emphatic fashion in the late Boxing Day kickoff by hammering bottom club Swansea City 5-0

Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane became Europe's most lethal marksman of 2017 with a second hat-trick in four days to break a 22-year-old Premier League record as his side thumped Southampton 5-2 on Tuesday. Another young England striker was also among the goals as Jesse Lingard struck twice, the second in stoppage time, as Manchester United hit back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Burnley and deny the visitors a first win at Old Trafford since 1962. Second-placed United's second consecutive 2-2 draw left them 12 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City, who play Newcastle United on Wednesday. United's result allowed Chelsea to close to within a point of Jose Mourinho's side with a laboured 2-0 home win over Brighton and Hove Albion. Liverpool slipped below Tottenham for a few hours but reclaimed fourth spot in emphatic fashion in the late Boxing Day kickoff by hammering bottom club Swansea City 5-0. Roberto Firmino scored twice for Liverpool with Philippe Coutinho, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain also on target for Juergen Klopp's side. There was no doubt who the spotlight was on though as England striker Kane eclipsed Alan Shearer's record 36 Premier League goals in a calendar year, taking his tally to 39 in 2017. He is also the Premier League's leading scorer this season with 18, having won the Golden Boot for the past two seasons. Two close-range efforts and a superb dinked finish from fellow goalscorer Dele Alli's pass took his tally in all competitions in the calendar year for club and country to 56, lifting him ahead of Lionel Messi who hit 54 for Barcelona and Argentina in the past 12 months. Kane is the first player apart from Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi to finish the year as top scorer in Europe since 2009. "I'm very proud of it. Messi and Ronaldo have dominated football for so long, they're two of the world's greatest players ever," Kane said. "I said to the lads before the game to try and set me up and they all did that, so I'll have to take them out to dinner or something." With runaway leaders Manchester City not in action it was a chance for United to close the gap to 10 points but they ended the day 12 behind as Burnley came close to a shock. Ashley Barnes gave Burnley a third-minute lead and the visitors went further ahead when Belgian midfielder Steven Defour curled a 36th-minute free-kick past David De Gea. Mourinho put Lingard on in the second half in place of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and, after missing a sitter, he reduced the arrears with a back-heel flick. Burnley hung on desperately but Lingard drove home the equaliser in stoppage time. "We should have won, yes. I take satisfaction by the way the team played, by the way the team reacted, to try to recover from 2-0 down," Mourinho said. Chelsea were uninspired at Stamford Bridge but Alvaro Morata and Spanish compatriot Marcos Alonso scored after the break to earn the win and move Chelsea to 42 points from 20 games. Liverpool have 38 with Tottenham on 37 and Arsenal, who play at Crystal Palace on Thursday, on 34. A fierce relegation battle on the south coast led to Bournemouth snatching a point at the death with a 3-3 draw against West Ham United - Callum Wilson's controversial goal denying the visitors a victory. Wilson's effort, after Marko Arnautovic's two late goals had turned the game on its head to give West Ham a 3-2 lead, was initially disallowed for offside but was deemed legal by referee Bobby Madley. "The mistake was the referee went to the linesman. He knows he made a mistake, but we all make mistakes," Arnautovic said. The result left Bournemouth third from bottom, a point and a place below West Ham. Watford snapped a four-game losing streak as they came back to beat Leicester City 2-1 thanks to an own goal by Leicester keeper Kasper Schmeichel. Huddersfield drew 1-1 at home to Stoke City and second-bottom West Bromwich Albion did little to ease their relegation fears with a 0-0 draw at home to Everton.

EPL: Liverpool thump Tottenham, Man United come back from two goals down

Manchester United have been rated as Europe&#39;s most valuable club by a new report into the financial muscle of the continent&#39;s top teams.

The report by professional services firm KPMG looked at the finances of 39 clubs based on their popularity on social media channels, revenues for the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons, and success in European competitions.

The clubs were then ranked by enterprise value, an accounting measure used to assess how much it would cost to buy any given club or company as it includes a business&#39;s total debt, with KPMG using its own formula to reach these valuations.

Despite two relatively disappointing seasons on the pitch between 2014 and 2016, United&#39;s value surged clear of Real Madrid and Barcelona last year, becoming the first club to break the three billion euros (&pound;2.7 billion, $3.4 billion) mark for enterprise value.

Bayern Munich remain in fourth place, while Manchester City edge past Arsenal to take fifth spot, both with enterprise values of just under &pound;1.7 billion.&nbsp;

Chelsea, Liverpool, Juventus and Spurs fill the next four positions, which means six of the 10 are from the Premier League.

In a statement, KPMG&#39;s global head of sports Andrea Sartori said: &quot;The aggregate value of Europe&#39;s leading football clubs suggests that the overall value of football, as an industry, has grown.

&quot;While this is partially explained by football&#39;s broadcasting boom, the internationalisation of the clubs&#39; commercial operations, their investment into privately owned and modern facilities, and overall more sustainable management practices are also key reasons for this growth.

&quot;In terms of media rights value, the English Premier League sits comfortably at the top of European leagues, although other major leagues have outlined well-defined strategies to compete for the attention of global fans.&quot;

(AFP)

Manchester United are the first club to break the three billion euros mark for enterprise value

Manchester United have been rated as Europe's most valuable club by a new report into the financial muscle of the continent's top teams. The report by professional services firm KPMG looked at the finances of 39 clubs based on their popularity on social media channels, revenues for the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons, and success in European competitions. The clubs were then ranked by enterprise value, an accounting measure used to assess how much it would cost to buy any given club or company as it includes a business's total debt, with KPMG using its own formula to reach these valuations. Despite two relatively disappointing seasons on the pitch between 2014 and 2016, United's value surged clear of Real Madrid and Barcelona last year, becoming the first club to break the three billion euros (£2.7 billion, $3.4 billion) mark for enterprise value. Bayern Munich remain in fourth place, while Manchester City edge past Arsenal to take fifth spot, both with enterprise values of just under £1.7 billion. Chelsea, Liverpool, Juventus and Spurs fill the next four positions, which means six of the 10 are from the Premier League. In a statement, KPMG's global head of sports Andrea Sartori said: "The aggregate value of Europe's leading football clubs suggests that the overall value of football, as an industry, has grown. "While this is partially explained by football's broadcasting boom, the internationalisation of the clubs' commercial operations, their investment into privately owned and modern facilities, and overall more sustainable management practices are also key reasons for this growth. "In terms of media rights value, the English Premier League sits comfortably at the top of European leagues, although other major leagues have outlined well-defined strategies to compete for the attention of global fans." (AFP)

Manchester United Europe's most valuable club; Real, Barcelona next in rich list

Arsenal are back in the hunt to qualify for the Champions League after Arsene Wenger finally got the better of Jose Mourinho in a 2-0 win over&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United, while Liverpool were held to a 0-0 draw by Southampton on Sunday.

Wenger had failed to win any of his previous 14 competitive clashes against Mourinho dating back to 2004, with his only victory over his old rival coming in the 2015 Community Shield when the Portuguese coach was in charge of Chelsea.

The Gunners boss brought an end to that frustrating streak at just the right time as goals from Granit Xhaka and Danny Welbeck improved Arsenal&#39;s chances of salvaging a troubled season by finishing in the top four.

Sixth-placed Arsenal are now six points behind fourth-placed&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City with four games to play, while Pep Guardiola&#39;s side have only three matches remaining.

Downplaying his rivalry with Mourinho, Wenger said: &quot;It is not manager against manager.

&quot;It was a patiently built win where in the first half you could see we were a bit nervous, but in the second half we took the edge off and scored the goals.&quot;

Fifth-placed United remain four points behind City with three games left.

&quot;Of course, we knew we were not coming in our maximum power. That&#39;s a decision,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;We want to try to win the Europa League. It&#39;s more important than finishing fourth.&quot;

With Mourinho prioritising the Europa League semi-final second leg against Celta Vigo in midweek, United, who hold a 1-0 first-leg lead,&nbsp;fielded a much-changed side in north London.

United can qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League and they may well need to do exactly that after surrendering their 25-match unbeaten run in the Premier League.

The Gunners&#39; only route back into Europe&#39;s elite club competition is via a top-four finish, so it wasn&#39;t surprising that they played with more hunger than United.

Even so, they still needed a stroke of luck to open the scoring in the 54th minute.

Xhaka blasted a long-range strike that slammed into the back of United midfielder Ander Herrera, looping high in the air before dropping into the net just out of the reach of goalkeeper David de Gea.

If that was a fortuitous way to take the lead, Arsenal had no need to apologise for their superb second goal three minutes later.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain whipped over a teasing cross and when United defender Chris Smalling misjudged the flight of the ball, former United forward Welbeck was perfectly placed to bury his header past De Gea for just his second league goal this season.

Infamously labelled &quot;a voyeur&quot; and &quot;a specialist in failure&quot; by Mourinho in the past, this was a sweet moment for Wenger, but it won&#39;t mean much unless Arsenal find a way to catch City.&nbsp;

Dry pitch&nbsp;

At Anfield, Liverpool&#39;s James Milner saw his penalty saved by Fraser Forster as his side wasted a chance to bolster their Champions League bid.

It was Milner&#39;s first missed penalty since November 2009.

Liverpool&#39;s second-half penalty arrived when Jack Stephens elbowed away the ball inside the area.

It was well spotted by referee Bobby Madley and although Milner&#39;s spot-kick was right in the corner, Forster did well to get down and palm the effort away.

Liverpool are up to third, five points ahead of United, who have a game in hand.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp had a curious excuse for Liverpool&#39;s woes as he blamed the poor quality of the Anfield pitch.

&quot;Nobody wants to hear it but the pitch was really dry today,&quot; Klopp said.&nbsp;

&quot;We gave all the water we had and after 15 minutes it was really dry - a lot of passes you could say why are they playing this?&quot;

(AFP)

Xhaka and Welbeck scored for the North London club

Arsenal are back in the hunt to qualify for the Champions League after Arsene Wenger finally got the better of Jose Mourinho in a 2-0 win over Manchester United, while Liverpool were held to a 0-0 draw by Southampton on Sunday. Wenger had failed to win any of his previous 14 competitive clashes against Mourinho dating back to 2004, with his only victory over his old rival coming in the 2015 Community Shield when the Portuguese coach was in charge of Chelsea. The Gunners boss brought an end to that frustrating streak at just the right time as goals from Granit Xhaka and Danny Welbeck improved Arsenal's chances of salvaging a troubled season by finishing in the top four. Sixth-placed Arsenal are now six points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with four games to play, while Pep Guardiola's side have only three matches remaining. Downplaying his rivalry with Mourinho, Wenger said: "It is not manager against manager. "It was a patiently built win where in the first half you could see we were a bit nervous, but in the second half we took the edge off and scored the goals." Fifth-placed United remain four points behind City with three games left. "Of course, we knew we were not coming in our maximum power. That's a decision," Mourinho said. "We want to try to win the Europa League. It's more important than finishing fourth." With Mourinho prioritising the Europa League semi-final second leg against Celta Vigo in midweek, United, who hold a 1-0 first-leg lead, fielded a much-changed side in north London. United can qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League and they may well need to do exactly that after surrendering their 25-match unbeaten run in the Premier League. The Gunners' only route back into Europe's elite club competition is via a top-four finish, so it wasn't surprising that they played with more hunger than United. Even so, they still needed a stroke of luck to open the scoring in the 54th minute. Xhaka blasted a long-range strike that slammed into the back of United midfielder Ander Herrera, looping high in the air before dropping into the net just out of the reach of goalkeeper David de Gea. If that was a fortuitous way to take the lead, Arsenal had no need to apologise for their superb second goal three minutes later. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain whipped over a teasing cross and when United defender Chris Smalling misjudged the flight of the ball, former United forward Welbeck was perfectly placed to bury his header past De Gea for just his second league goal this season. Infamously labelled "a voyeur" and "a specialist in failure" by Mourinho in the past, this was a sweet moment for Wenger, but it won't mean much unless Arsenal find a way to catch City. Dry pitch At Anfield, Liverpool's James Milner saw his penalty saved by Fraser Forster as his side wasted a chance to bolster their Champions League bid. It was Milner's first missed penalty since November 2009. Liverpool's second-half penalty arrived when Jack Stephens elbowed away the ball inside the area. It was well spotted by referee Bobby Madley and although Milner's spot-kick was right in the corner, Forster did well to get down and palm the effort away. Liverpool are up to third, five points ahead of United, who have a game in hand. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp had a curious excuse for Liverpool's woes as he blamed the poor quality of the Anfield pitch. "Nobody wants to hear it but the pitch was really dry today," Klopp said. "We gave all the water we had and after 15 minutes it was really dry - a lot of passes you could say why are they playing this?" (AFP)

Arsenal beat Manchester United to keep top four hopes alive

Another day and another day of transfer rumours. So without me being a fork in the soup, let&#39;s just get started with today&#39;s goss.

Romelu Lukaku

Let&#39;s start Monday with the big Belgian. The Everton striker, the league&#39;s top-scorer, is wanted by several big Premier League clubs, including his former club Chelsea.

But Sun believes that he is likely to reject the Blues and instead sign for Manchester United.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XNwyaADU2xo" width="560"></iframe>

The UK tabloid says this year&#39;s Premier League top-scorer is unsure as to how he would fit in Antonio Conte&#39;s team.

But despair not, fans of Diego Costa-less Chelsea. Not all is lost. The report goes on to state that Lukaku aspires to play in the Champions League and United getting a berth is far from certain.

Alvaro Morata

The Real Madrid striker is another player in hot demand.

And it is the same two protagonists. Nope, we won&#39;t just track Manchester United and Chelsea transfer stories, I promise.

But here, it is Chelsea that is coveted and not United.

Dario Gol reports that the player held several meetings with clubs across Europe, but has penned down Stamford Bridge as his next destination.

Morata did his reputation no harm over the weekend by scoring a couple during Real&#39;s mauling of Granada.

Radja Nainggolan&nbsp;and&nbsp;Antonio Rudiger

I honestly am not a Chelsea fan. It&#39;s not my fault that the fantastical, but sometimes real, world of football transfer world have taken a liking to Chelsea to beat away its Monday morning blues.

Or maybe the Sun&nbsp;just has more dope on the Blues today.

Their report suggests that Chelsea gaffer Conte is planning to raid Roma this summer, and splash out 70 million GBP to bring the duo to Stamford bridge.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8MRCa9z_iJQ" width="560"></iframe>

Midfielder Nainggolan was close to signing for Chelsea last season but the deal collapsed as the club failed to comply with Roma&#39;s 32 million GBP demand.

Rudiger, who has been a rock in Roma&#39;s backline, since joining from Stuttgart in 2015.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IhC4TS16qGk" width="560"></iframe>

Ross Barkley

Tottenham&nbsp;are interested in him. So would their fierce cross-town rivals be left out?

Arsenal too have shown their interest in the 23-year-old England international.

Both the clubs are keeping a hawkish eye on developments in the next few days. They plan to swoop in for him if his talks with his current employers Everton fall through.

Luka Modric

Bayern Munich are keen to replace the Xabi Alonso with the Real midfielder, according to Don Balon.

Kylian Mbappe

The teenage sensation doesn&#39;t seem to be keen on joining Manchester United, if L&#39;Equipe is to be believed.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/football-transfer-news-which-spanish-giant-is-launching-a-bid-for-coutinho-and-more-15266">More transfer news</a>

(WION)

Also, what about Morata? And which club is interested in Modric?

Another day and another day of transfer rumours. So without me being a fork in the soup, let's just get started with today's goss. Romelu Lukaku Let's start Monday with the big Belgian. The Everton striker, the league's top-scorer, is wanted by several big Premier League clubs, including his former club Chelsea. But Sun believes that he is likely to reject the Blues and instead sign for Manchester United. The UK tabloid says this year's Premier League top-scorer is unsure as to how he would fit in Antonio Conte's team. But despair not, fans of Diego Costa-less Chelsea. Not all is lost. The report goes on to state that Lukaku aspires to play in the Champions League and United getting a berth is far from certain. Alvaro Morata The Real Madrid striker is another player in hot demand. And it is the same two protagonists. Nope, we won't just track Manchester United and Chelsea transfer stories, I promise. But here, it is Chelsea that is coveted and not United. Dario Gol reports that the player held several meetings with clubs across Europe, but has penned down Stamford Bridge as his next destination. Morata did his reputation no harm over the weekend by scoring a couple during Real's mauling of Granada. Radja Nainggolan and Antonio Rudiger I honestly am not a Chelsea fan. It's not my fault that the fantastical, but sometimes real, world of football transfer world have taken a liking to Chelsea to beat away its Monday morning blues. Or maybe the Sun just has more dope on the Blues today. Their report suggests that Chelsea gaffer Conte is planning to raid Roma this summer, and splash out 70 million GBP to bring the duo to Stamford bridge. Midfielder Nainggolan was close to signing for Chelsea last season but the deal collapsed as the club failed to comply with Roma's 32 million GBP demand. Rudiger, who has been a rock in Roma's backline, since joining from Stuttgart in 2015. Ross Barkley Tottenham are interested in him. So would their fierce cross-town rivals be left out? Arsenal too have shown their interest in the 23-year-old England international. Both the clubs are keeping a hawkish eye on developments in the next few days. They plan to swoop in for him if his talks with his current employers Everton fall through. Luka Modric Bayern Munich are keen to replace the Xabi Alonso with the Real midfielder, according to Don Balon. Kylian Mbappe The teenage sensation doesn't seem to be keen on joining Manchester United, if L'Equipe is to be believed. More transfer news (WION)

Football transfer news: Is Lukaku joining Man United or Chelsea?

The football agents are up and about, ready to embark on another day of wheeling and dealing in the universe of European football.

The following are some of the stories that we heard through the grapevine.&nbsp;And believe me some of the stories are juicy indeed.

Philippe Coutinho

Let&#39;s begin the day with the juiciest bit of news (But I&#39;d suggest Liverpool fans to look away).

Coutinho, the playmer that makes Liverpool tick, has grabbed Barcelona&#39;s attention, according to AS.

The Catalan giants have prepared a 51 million GBP offer for the Brazilian and are keen to bring him to Camp Nou.

Surely that would make Jurgen Klopp froth at the mouth with rage as Coutinho has been integral to everything that Liverpool do.

Though Coutinho has had an injury-ravaged season, he has still managed to represent the Reds 27 times this year, scoring 10 goals in the process.

But it is not just the goals that makes him improtant, the playmaker/attacking midfielder is the fulcrum of the free-flowing football that Anfield has witnessed during Klopp&#39;s tenure.

Here&#39;s a taster of how important he is for Liverpool:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/trmJIDSNepM" width="560"></iframe>

If the deal does go through, the only upshot would be that Liverpool will make a decent profit of 42.5 million GBP. (Coutinho&#39;s services were acquired for 8.5 million GBP).&nbsp;

Kylian Mbappe

I know, I know. It&#39;s tiring to open the transfer section and read about the new kid in town.

It&#39;s tiring for me to type it out too. But believe me, this has all the ingredients to be a summer-long saga. So let&#39;s embrace it and go along with the ride.

What we know is that a clutch of major football powerhouses are in the races to get the French teenager.

We also know that Manchester United reportedly made a 72 million GBP for the speedy forward. And some media reports suggest that the bid has been declined by Monaco. In case you didn&#39;t know, let me just plug the story <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-transfer-news-mbappe-on-city-psg-radar-de-geas-madrid-saga-15189">here</a>.

But it&#39;s a new day and there&#39;s a new story.

Manchester United may have bid first, but it is Real Madrid that stands at the front of the queue.

And if Daily Mail is to be believed, the rising star has &quot;said yes&quot; to joining Los Blancos. But something tells me, this is not over yet...

Ronald Koeman

In case you were living under a rock, I need to inform you that Barcelona will be coach-less at the end of the year.

Luis Enrique has decided to step down as Barca boss and the Catalan giants are preparing a list of candidates that can take over.

And Koeman has taken the opportunity to flaunt his love for Barcelona, a club where he played from 1989 to 1995.&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z5fR2bwqXYg" width="560"></iframe>

&quot;Everyone knows that I am from Barca, they know my love for a club where I grew up as a player and as a person,&quot; he told Sport.

&quot;In football, as in life, as in business, everything can be talked about and discussed.

&quot;In my life as a professional coach I have two dreams to fulfil. One, coach my country, Holland [he was previously assistant to Guus Hiddink for the 1998 World Cup].

&quot;My other wish, my other dream, is to one day coach Barca. That&#39;s the truth.

&quot;I now owe Everton. We have a very powerful and exciting project and we will reinforce our best to try to reach next season the Champions League.&quot;

Now, that&#39;s an impressive statement of purpose to his prospective bosses, while at the same time&nbsp;he keeps his current bosses by his side too.

Alvaro Morata

The 24-year-old striker has caught Manchester United gaffer Jose Mourinho&#39;s attention.

Multiple reports suggest that Old Trafford is looking to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic with the Real Madrid forward.

Is getting him a possibility? Sure. he hardly gets to play for Real Madrid -- anyone would, considering there&#39;s Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, James Rodriguez&nbsp;and Isco to contend with.

Is there a hitch? Sure. A certain Chelsea is also monitoring him closely.&nbsp;

James Rodriguez

Yes, him. Remember the Colombian who made a huge splash at the World Cup, winning the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup?

You don&#39;t. Never mind, here&#39;s a refresher video:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hO41kJJTFik" width="560"></iframe>

There are rumours abuzz about Manchester United looking to get him as part of a swap deal with David De Gea.

De Gea&nbsp;is keen to go to Real Madrid and United are looking to leverage him for the 25-year-old with a feared left foot.

Arda Turan

I hate to do this but it&#39;s another piece of bad news for Gooners.

The Turkish &#39;Zizou&#39; is not too keen to join Arsenal. Instead, he wants to fight it out at Barcelona, according to The Independent.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-transfer-news-mbappe-on-city-psg-radar-de-geas-madrid-saga-15189">May 3 transfer gossip</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-transfers-bayern-eye-sanchez-united-look-to-griezmann-15235">May 4 transfer gossip</a>

(WION)

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Also, Manchester United's transfer wishlist and the Mbappe transfer saga

The football agents are up and about, ready to embark on another day of wheeling and dealing in the universe of European football. The following are some of the stories that we heard through the grapevine. And believe me some of the stories are juicy indeed. Philippe Coutinho Let's begin the day with the juiciest bit of news (But I'd suggest Liverpool fans to look away). Coutinho, the playmer that makes Liverpool tick, has grabbed Barcelona's attention, according to AS. The Catalan giants have prepared a 51 million GBP offer for the Brazilian and are keen to bring him to Camp Nou. Surely that would make Jurgen Klopp froth at the mouth with rage as Coutinho has been integral to everything that Liverpool do. Though Coutinho has had an injury-ravaged season, he has still managed to represent the Reds 27 times this year, scoring 10 goals in the process. But it is not just the goals that makes him improtant, the playmaker/attacking midfielder is the fulcrum of the free-flowing football that Anfield has witnessed during Klopp's tenure. Here's a taster of how important he is for Liverpool: If the deal does go through, the only upshot would be that Liverpool will make a decent profit of 42.5 million GBP. (Coutinho's services were acquired for 8.5 million GBP). Kylian Mbappe I know, I know. It's tiring to open the transfer section and read about the new kid in town. It's tiring for me to type it out too. But believe me, this has all the ingredients to be a summer-long saga. So let's embrace it and go along with the ride. What we know is that a clutch of major football powerhouses are in the races to get the French teenager. We also know that Manchester United reportedly made a 72 million GBP for the speedy forward. And some media reports suggest that the bid has been declined by Monaco. In case you didn't know, let me just plug the story here. But it's a new day and there's a new story. Manchester United may have bid first, but it is Real Madrid that stands at the front of the queue. And if Daily Mail is to be believed, the rising star has "said yes" to joining Los Blancos. But something tells me, this is not over yet... Ronald Koeman In case you were living under a rock, I need to inform you that Barcelona will be coach-less at the end of the year. Luis Enrique has decided to step down as Barca boss and the Catalan giants are preparing a list of candidates that can take over. And Koeman has taken the opportunity to flaunt his love for Barcelona, a club where he played from 1989 to 1995. "Everyone knows that I am from Barca, they know my love for a club where I grew up as a player and as a person," he told Sport. "In football, as in life, as in business, everything can be talked about and discussed. "In my life as a professional coach I have two dreams to fulfil. One, coach my country, Holland [he was previously assistant to Guus Hiddink for the 1998 World Cup]. "My other wish, my other dream, is to one day coach Barca. That's the truth. "I now owe Everton. We have a very powerful and exciting project and we will reinforce our best to try to reach next season the Champions League." Now, that's an impressive statement of purpose to his prospective bosses, while at the same time he keeps his current bosses by his side too. Alvaro Morata The 24-year-old striker has caught Manchester United gaffer Jose Mourinho's attention. Multiple reports suggest that Old Trafford is looking to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic with the Real Madrid forward. Is getting him a possibility? Sure. he hardly gets to play for Real Madrid -- anyone would, considering there's Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, James Rodriguez and Isco to contend with. Is there a hitch? Sure. A certain Chelsea is also monitoring him closely. James Rodriguez Yes, him. Remember the Colombian who made a huge splash at the World Cup, winning the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup? You don't. Never mind, here's a refresher video: There are rumours abuzz about Manchester United looking to get him as part of a swap deal with David De Gea. De Gea is keen to go to Real Madrid and United are looking to leverage him for the 25-year-old with a feared left foot. Arda Turan I hate to do this but it's another piece of bad news for Gooners. The Turkish 'Zizou' is not too keen to join Arsenal. Instead, he wants to fight it out at Barcelona, according to The Independent. May 3 transfer gossip May 4 transfer gossip (WION)

Football transfer news: Which Spanish giant is launching a bid for Coutinho and more

Zlatan Ibrahimovic&#39;s magical season with Manchester United appears over after the club announced he had suffered a serious knee injury in Thursday&#39;s Europa League clash with Anderlecht.

The club revealed that both the 35-year-old Swedish striker and Argentinian defender Marco Rojo had suffered knee injuries in the same match.

&quot;Detailed investigations on the injuries sustained by Marcos Rojo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic during Thursday&#39;s Europa League match have confirmed significant knee ligament damage in both players that requires specialist opinions over the coming days,&quot; read the United statement on their website.

&quot;Estimations of time to full recovery will only be possible once definitive treatment plans have been decided after these consultations.&quot;

Ibrahimovic didn&#39;t have his finest game agianst Anderlecht -- Marcus Rashford edging United through to the semi-finals on aggregate after extra-time -- but his goals this season have been the main reason for an improvement in the club&#39;s fortunes, albeit without ever being title challengers.

Ibrahimovic has defied many doubters since joining on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last year, scoring 28 goals and inspiring United to victory in the League Cup.

Rojo&#39;s injury is also a serious bodyblow to United&#39;s depleted resources at the back with both England international central defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling expected to be out till mid May.

(AFP)

Marcos Rojo's injury is also a serious body blow to United's depleted resources at the back

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's magical season with Manchester United appears over after the club announced he had suffered a serious knee injury in Thursday's Europa League clash with Anderlecht. The club revealed that both the 35-year-old Swedish striker and Argentinian defender Marco Rojo had suffered knee injuries in the same match. "Detailed investigations on the injuries sustained by Marcos Rojo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic during Thursday's Europa League match have confirmed significant knee ligament damage in both players that requires specialist opinions over the coming days," read the United statement on their website. "Estimations of time to full recovery will only be possible once definitive treatment plans have been decided after these consultations." Ibrahimovic didn't have his finest game agianst Anderlecht -- Marcus Rashford edging United through to the semi-finals on aggregate after extra-time -- but his goals this season have been the main reason for an improvement in the club's fortunes, albeit without ever being title challengers. Ibrahimovic has defied many doubters since joining on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last year, scoring 28 goals and inspiring United to victory in the League Cup. Rojo's injury is also a serious bodyblow to United's depleted resources at the back with both England international central defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling expected to be out till mid May. (AFP)

Man United's Ibrahimovic suffers 'significant knee ligament damage'

Zlatan Ibrahimovic marked his return from suspension with a 94th-minute penalty to earn Manchester United a 1-1 draw against Everton at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

A deliberate handball by Ashley Williams, who was sent off, allowed Ibrahimovic to cancel out Phil Jagielka&#39;s opener and extend United&#39;s unbeaten run in the Premier League to 20 matches.

But it remained an unwelcome result for Jose Mourinho&#39;s side, who have now drawn nine games at home this season and trail fourth-place Manchester City by four points.

Elsewhere, Leicester City&#39;s resurgence under Craig Shakespeare continued as they beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to record a sixth successive win since the dismissal of manager Claudio Ranieri.

Ibrahimovic&#39;s last-gasp spot-kick -- his 27th goal of the season -- meant United held on to fifth place, three points above Arsenal and Everton having played a game more than the former.

But the Europa League looks increasingly like their best hope of securing a return to the Champions League next season.

They face Belgian side Anderlecht in a two-legged quarter-final later this month, with the winners of the competition assured of a place at Europe&#39;s top table.

United manager Mourinho welcomed top scorer Ibrahimovic and Ander Herrera back from suspension, while Paul Pogba returned to the bench following a hamstring injury.

His side fell behind in the 22nd minute when Williams flicked on Kevin Mirallas&#39;s right-wing corner and centre-back Jagielka held off Marcos Rojo to poke a volley between David de Gea&#39;s legs.

Everton goalkeeper Joel Robles, much criticised after his side&#39;s 3-1 derby loss at Liverpool, produced flying saves to repel a Daley Blind free-kick and a rasping Herrera drive.

Pogba came on at half-time and headed against a post from an Ashley Young free-kick, while Ibrahimovic had a 71st-minute header chalked off for a marginal offside.

But in the fourth minute of injury time, Williams was penalised for parrying a shot from substitute Luke Shaw -- brought in from the cold by Mourinho -- and Ibrahimovic dispatched the penalty.

Champions Leicester are now 10th, a healthy nine points above the bottom three, after sinking Sunderland to record a fifth league win in a row.

Substitute Islam Slimani opened the scoring with a 69th-minute header before Jamie Vardy smashed in his sixth goal in seven games from Marc Albrighton&#39;s pass.

Defeat completed a miserable few days for Sunderland manager David Moyes, who had to apologise after being caught on camera threatening to &quot;slap&quot; a female television reporter.

The result left Sunderland eight points from safety with eight games of the season remaining.

George Boyd struck as Burnley boosted their survival hopes by beating Stoke City 1-0, while goals from M&#39;Baye Niang and skipper Troy Deeney earned Watford a 2-0 home win over West Brom.

(AFP)

But the goal in the dying seconds was only sufficient to hand Manchester United their ninth home draw of the season

Zlatan Ibrahimovic marked his return from suspension with a 94th-minute penalty to earn Manchester United a 1-1 draw against Everton at Old Trafford on Tuesday. A deliberate handball by Ashley Williams, who was sent off, allowed Ibrahimovic to cancel out Phil Jagielka's opener and extend United's unbeaten run in the Premier League to 20 matches. But it remained an unwelcome result for Jose Mourinho's side, who have now drawn nine games at home this season and trail fourth-place Manchester City by four points. Elsewhere, Leicester City's resurgence under Craig Shakespeare continued as they beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to record a sixth successive win since the dismissal of manager Claudio Ranieri. Ibrahimovic's last-gasp spot-kick -- his 27th goal of the season -- meant United held on to fifth place, three points above Arsenal and Everton having played a game more than the former. But the Europa League looks increasingly like their best hope of securing a return to the Champions League next season. They face Belgian side Anderlecht in a two-legged quarter-final later this month, with the winners of the competition assured of a place at Europe's top table. United manager Mourinho welcomed top scorer Ibrahimovic and Ander Herrera back from suspension, while Paul Pogba returned to the bench following a hamstring injury. His side fell behind in the 22nd minute when Williams flicked on Kevin Mirallas's right-wing corner and centre-back Jagielka held off Marcos Rojo to poke a volley between David de Gea's legs. Everton goalkeeper Joel Robles, much criticised after his side's 3-1 derby loss at Liverpool, produced flying saves to repel a Daley Blind free-kick and a rasping Herrera drive. Pogba came on at half-time and headed against a post from an Ashley Young free-kick, while Ibrahimovic had a 71st-minute header chalked off for a marginal offside. But in the fourth minute of injury time, Williams was penalised for parrying a shot from substitute Luke Shaw -- brought in from the cold by Mourinho -- and Ibrahimovic dispatched the penalty. Champions Leicester are now 10th, a healthy nine points above the bottom three, after sinking Sunderland to record a fifth league win in a row. Substitute Islam Slimani opened the scoring with a 69th-minute header before Jamie Vardy smashed in his sixth goal in seven games from Marc Albrighton's pass. Defeat completed a miserable few days for Sunderland manager David Moyes, who had to apologise after being caught on camera threatening to "slap" a female television reporter. The result left Sunderland eight points from safety with eight games of the season remaining. George Boyd struck as Burnley boosted their survival hopes by beating Stoke City 1-0, while goals from M'Baye Niang and skipper Troy Deeney earned Watford a 2-0 home win over West Brom. (AFP)

Last-gasp Ibrahimovic penalty rescues Man United, Leicester surge on

Wilfried Zaha rocked Chelsea as Crystal Palace breathed new life into the Premier League title race with a stunning 2-1 win over the leaders at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

In a frantic start, the Ivory Coast winger cancelled out Cesc Fabregas&#39;s opener and teed up Christian Benteke for the winner as Chelsea lost at home for the first time since September 16.

Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea&#39;s lead to seven points.

&quot;I&#39;m stunned. They&#39;re top of the league. No-one would expect us to come here and do that,&quot; said Zaha, whose side have won four games in a row.

&quot;We know there&#39;s talent here. We just needed to work together. Everyone is seeing it now.&quot;

Liverpool closed to within 10 points of Chelsea, albeit having played a game more, after sinking Everton 3-1 in the Merseyside derby.

But Manchester United lost ground in the race for top-four places following a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion.

Zaha&#39;s headline-grabbing display against Chelsea followed a week of headlines about his decision to switch international allegiances from England to Ivory Coast last year.

His side fell behind in the fifth minute when Eden Hazard crossed from the left for Fabregas to score at the near post.

But Zaha levelled matters in the ninth minute, drilling home through a posse of defenders, and two minutes after his pass freed Benteke to dink a cocky finish over Thibaut Courtois.

Despite losing defenders James Tomkins and Scott Dann -- Tomkins&#39;s replacement -- to injury, Sam Allardyce&#39;s patched-up Palace side gallantly held on to stay four points clear of the bottom three.

&quot;This is football. We must accept this result,&quot; said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte.

&quot;In every game in England, anything can happen. The league is so strong.&quot;

Tottenham kept their title hopes flickering after Eric Dier scored from close range and Son Heung-Min converted a cross from Dele Alli in the second half at Burnley.

However, victory came at the cost of injuries to midfielders Victor Wanyama and Harry Winks, who was taken to hospital with a potentially serious ankle injury.

Philippe Coutinho scored a dazzling goal and made another for Divock Origi as Liverpool overcame Everton at Anfield.

Leicester resurgence continues&nbsp;

Sadio Mane put Liverpool in front in the eighth minute, drilling in following a one-two with Roberto Firmino, but was later forced off by a knee injury.

Matthew Pennington equalised, but Coutinho strolled past him to restore Liverpool&#39;s lead with a fine, curling effort and then teed up Origi, Mane&#39;s replacement, to slam home Liverpool&#39;s third.

Everton midfielder Ross Barkley was fortunate to avoid a red card for a crude foul on Dejan Lovren, but his manager Ronald Koeman felt Liverpool&#39;s protests were excessive.

&quot;I don&#39;t like coaches from the bench the whole time shouting to referees and linesmen, making a big show about tackles,&quot; he said. &quot;They were crazy. It&#39;s a man&#39;s sport.&quot;

Victory lifted Liverpool to third place, two points above fourth-place Manchester City -- who visit Arsenal on Sunday -- having played two games more.

Manchester United now lie four points off the Champions League positions in fifth place after being held to an eighth draw of the season at Old Trafford by West Brom.

Anthony Martial and Marouane Fellaini squandered good chances for Jose Mourinho&#39;s men either side of half-time.

But former United midfielder Darren Fletcher almost snatched victory for West Brom with a shot that David de Gea pushed against the bar.

&quot;We have a lot of draws this season,&quot; Mourinho told the BBC in a spiky post-match interview.

&quot;Teams come here just to defend. Goalkeepers come here to be man of the match. We cannot score a goal even when we are one-on-one.&quot;

Leicester City&#39;s resurgence continued with a 2-0 home win over Stoke City that gave Craig Shakespeare a fifth successive victory since succeeding Claudio Ranieri as manager.

The champions prevailed through a glorious 25-yard strike from Wilfred Ndidi and a sharp Jamie Vardy volley, leaving them six points clear of the relegation zone.

Bottom club Sunderland remain seven points from safety after Miguel Britos&#39;s header earned Watford a 1-0 win at Vicarage Road.

Andy Robertson and Andrea Ranocchia wiped out Andy Carroll&#39;s opener as third-bottom Hull City came from behind to win 2-1 at home to West Ham United.

It left Marco Silva&#39;s side below fourth-bottom Swansea City on goal difference alone.

Elsewhere, Bournemouth&#39;s Harry Arter blazed a 78th-minute penalty high over the crossbar in his side&#39;s 0-0 draw at south-coast rivals Southampton.

(AFP)

Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea's lead to seven points

Wilfried Zaha rocked Chelsea as Crystal Palace breathed new life into the Premier League title race with a stunning 2-1 win over the leaders at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. In a frantic start, the Ivory Coast winger cancelled out Cesc Fabregas's opener and teed up Christian Benteke for the winner as Chelsea lost at home for the first time since September 16. Second-place Tottenham Hotspur took advantage by winning 2-0 at Burnley to trim Chelsea's lead to seven points. "I'm stunned. They're top of the league. No-one would expect us to come here and do that," said Zaha, whose side have won four games in a row. "We know there's talent here. We just needed to work together. Everyone is seeing it now." Liverpool closed to within 10 points of Chelsea, albeit having played a game more, after sinking Everton 3-1 in the Merseyside derby. But Manchester United lost ground in the race for top-four places following a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion. Zaha's headline-grabbing display against Chelsea followed a week of headlines about his decision to switch international allegiances from England to Ivory Coast last year. His side fell behind in the fifth minute when Eden Hazard crossed from the left for Fabregas to score at the near post. But Zaha levelled matters in the ninth minute, drilling home through a posse of defenders, and two minutes after his pass freed Benteke to dink a cocky finish over Thibaut Courtois. Despite losing defenders James Tomkins and Scott Dann -- Tomkins's replacement -- to injury, Sam Allardyce's patched-up Palace side gallantly held on to stay four points clear of the bottom three. "This is football. We must accept this result," said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte. "In every game in England, anything can happen. The league is so strong." Tottenham kept their title hopes flickering after Eric Dier scored from close range and Son Heung-Min converted a cross from Dele Alli in the second half at Burnley. However, victory came at the cost of injuries to midfielders Victor Wanyama and Harry Winks, who was taken to hospital with a potentially serious ankle injury. Philippe Coutinho scored a dazzling goal and made another for Divock Origi as Liverpool overcame Everton at Anfield. Leicester resurgence continues Sadio Mane put Liverpool in front in the eighth minute, drilling in following a one-two with Roberto Firmino, but was later forced off by a knee injury. Matthew Pennington equalised, but Coutinho strolled past him to restore Liverpool's lead with a fine, curling effort and then teed up Origi, Mane's replacement, to slam home Liverpool's third. Everton midfielder Ross Barkley was fortunate to avoid a red card for a crude foul on Dejan Lovren, but his manager Ronald Koeman felt Liverpool's protests were excessive. "I don't like coaches from the bench the whole time shouting to referees and linesmen, making a big show about tackles," he said. "They were crazy. It's a man's sport." Victory lifted Liverpool to third place, two points above fourth-place Manchester City -- who visit Arsenal on Sunday -- having played two games more. Manchester United now lie four points off the Champions League positions in fifth place after being held to an eighth draw of the season at Old Trafford by West Brom. Anthony Martial and Marouane Fellaini squandered good chances for Jose Mourinho's men either side of half-time. But former United midfielder Darren Fletcher almost snatched victory for West Brom with a shot that David de Gea pushed against the bar. "We have a lot of draws this season," Mourinho told the BBC in a spiky post-match interview. "Teams come here just to defend. Goalkeepers come here to be man of the match. We cannot score a goal even when we are one-on-one." Leicester City's resurgence continued with a 2-0 home win over Stoke City that gave Craig Shakespeare a fifth successive victory since succeeding Claudio Ranieri as manager. The champions prevailed through a glorious 25-yard strike from Wilfred Ndidi and a sharp Jamie Vardy volley, leaving them six points clear of the relegation zone. Bottom club Sunderland remain seven points from safety after Miguel Britos's header earned Watford a 1-0 win at Vicarage Road. Andy Robertson and Andrea Ranocchia wiped out Andy Carroll's opener as third-bottom Hull City came from behind to win 2-1 at home to West Ham United. It left Marco Silva's side below fourth-bottom Swansea City on goal difference alone. Elsewhere, Bournemouth's Harry Arter blazed a 78th-minute penalty high over the crossbar in his side's 0-0 draw at south-coast rivals Southampton. (AFP)

Premier League round-up: Crystal Palace stun Chelsea, Man United draw a blank

Wayne&nbsp;Rooney&nbsp;became Manchester United&#39;s record scorer when he netted his 250th goal for the English giants in a 1-1 draw away to Stoke City in the Premier League on Saturday.&nbsp;

Rooney&nbsp;equalised in the fourth minute of stoppage time to break fellow England great Bobby Charlton&#39;s United record of 249 goals.

The 31-year-old forward, making his 546th United appearance, surpassed 1966 World Cup-winner Charlton&#39;s record in style when he bent a free-kick past Stoke goalkeeper Lee Grant into the top corner of the net at the Britannia Stadium.

His latest United goal came a fortnight after&nbsp;Rooney, who succeeded Charlton as England&#39;s record goal-scorer in 2015, equalled the former midfielder&#39;s United mark during an FA Cup tie against second-tier Reading&nbsp;

(AFP)

Wayne Rooney's stunning last-gasp free kick broke Bobby Charlton's record of 249 goals

Wayne Rooney became Manchester United's record scorer when he netted his 250th goal for the English giants in a 1-1 draw away to Stoke City in the Premier League on Saturday. Rooney equalised in the fourth minute of stoppage time to break fellow England great Bobby Charlton's United record of 249 goals. The 31-year-old forward, making his 546th United appearance, surpassed 1966 World Cup-winner Charlton's record in style when he bent a free-kick past Stoke goalkeeper Lee Grant into the top corner of the net at the Britannia Stadium. His latest United goal came a fortnight after Rooney, who succeeded Charlton as England's record goal-scorer in 2015, equalled the former midfielder's United mark during an FA Cup tie against second-tier Reading (AFP)

Rooney scores club record goal to help Man United pinch point at Stoke

Manchester&nbsp;United&nbsp;have deposed Real Madrid as the world&#39;s richest football club after revenue grew to a record $735 million in 2015-16, according to Deloitte&#39;s annual Money League published on Thursday.

The 20-times English champions knocked Madrid off the perch they had occupied for 11 years with a return to the Champions League and increased commercial revenue key to their rise.

Real dropped to third behind Barcelona with Bayern Munich fourth and&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City into the top five for the first time after a run to the Champions League semi-finals.

Eight of the top 20 (including five of the top 10) revenue generators are from the Premier League, reflecting the greater financial clout England&#39;s top-flight clubs enjoy compared with their European counterparts.

Surprise champions Leicester City made the list for the first time in 20th place and Tim Bridge, senior manager at Deloitte, said it is likely every Premier League club will be in the top 30 next year thanks to an eye-watering 5.1 billion pounds television rights deal that kicked in this season.

&quot;The Money League continues to demonstrate the Premier League&#39;s financial strength in depth,&quot; Bridge, senior manager at Deloitte, said. &quot;The appearance of Leicester shows that on-pitch success gives any Premier League club a chance of a place in the top 20.

&quot;There is a strong chance that almost all Premier League clubs will be in the top 30 clubs next year.&quot;

Only one other Spanish club, Atletico Madrid, made the top 20 while there were three from Germany and four from Italy led by Juventus in 10th place. Paris St Germain, the only French club in the list, dropped to sixth from fourth. Russian club Zenit St Petersburg completed the top 20.

Combined revenues, which excludes player transfer fees, VAT and other sales related taxes, of the top 20 clubs went up 12 percent to 7.4 billion euros.

United, who have returned to the top for the first time since 2003-04, Barcelona and Real all broke the 600 million euros ($639.96 million) revenue barrier in 2015-16 - the first clubs to do so.

&quot;It has taken phenomenal commercial revenue growth to help them (United) achieve this,&quot; Dan Jones, partner in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte, said, referring to a 71 million increase in commercial revenue.

&quot;In recent years, their ability to secure commercial partnerships with value in excess of that achievable by their peers has been the crucial factor in enabling the club to regain their place at the top of the Money League.&quot;

Despite&nbsp;United&#39;s woeful group stage exit from the Champions League last season and a fifth-placed finish in the Premier League under ex manager Louis van Gaal, commercial partners continued to be drawn to Old Trafford like moths to a flame.

Gulf Oil International signed a three-year commercial partnership last season taking the total of company logos lurking down the bottom of the club&#39;s website homepage to 24.

United&#39;s kit deal with Adidas, now in it&#39;s second season, is worth 750 million pounds ($923.18 million) and their other partners include car firm Chevrolet and financial services giant Aon who sponsor the club&#39;s state-of-the-art training ground.

(Reuters)

The Mancunian club's revenue grew to a record $735 million to leapfrog Real Madrid from the top spot

Manchester United have deposed Real Madrid as the world's richest football club after revenue grew to a record $735 million in 2015-16, according to Deloitte's annual Money League published on Thursday. The 20-times English champions knocked Madrid off the perch they had occupied for 11 years with a return to the Champions League and increased commercial revenue key to their rise. Real dropped to third behind Barcelona with Bayern Munich fourth and Manchester City into the top five for the first time after a run to the Champions League semi-finals. Eight of the top 20 (including five of the top 10) revenue generators are from the Premier League, reflecting the greater financial clout England's top-flight clubs enjoy compared with their European counterparts. Surprise champions Leicester City made the list for the first time in 20th place and Tim Bridge, senior manager at Deloitte, said it is likely every Premier League club will be in the top 30 next year thanks to an eye-watering 5.1 billion pounds television rights deal that kicked in this season. "The Money League continues to demonstrate the Premier League's financial strength in depth," Bridge, senior manager at Deloitte, said. "The appearance of Leicester shows that on-pitch success gives any Premier League club a chance of a place in the top 20. "There is a strong chance that almost all Premier League clubs will be in the top 30 clubs next year." Only one other Spanish club, Atletico Madrid, made the top 20 while there were three from Germany and four from Italy led by Juventus in 10th place. Paris St Germain, the only French club in the list, dropped to sixth from fourth. Russian club Zenit St Petersburg completed the top 20. Combined revenues, which excludes player transfer fees, VAT and other sales related taxes, of the top 20 clubs went up 12 percent to 7.4 billion euros. United, who have returned to the top for the first time since 2003-04, Barcelona and Real all broke the 600 million euros ($639.96 million) revenue barrier in 2015-16 - the first clubs to do so. "It has taken phenomenal commercial revenue growth to help them (United) achieve this," Dan Jones, partner in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte, said, referring to a 71 million increase in commercial revenue. "In recent years, their ability to secure commercial partnerships with value in excess of that achievable by their peers has been the crucial factor in enabling the club to regain their place at the top of the Money League." Despite United's woeful group stage exit from the Champions League last season and a fifth-placed finish in the Premier League under ex manager Louis van Gaal, commercial partners continued to be drawn to Old Trafford like moths to a flame. Gulf Oil International signed a three-year commercial partnership last season taking the total of company logos lurking down the bottom of the club's website homepage to 24. United's kit deal with Adidas, now in it's second season, is worth 750 million pounds ($923.18 million) and their other partners include car firm Chevrolet and financial services giant Aon who sponsor the club's state-of-the-art training ground. (Reuters)

Manchester United is world's richest football club: Deloitte

Cesc Fabregas&#39;s goal earned Chelsea a 1-0 victory at Sunderland on Wednesday -- their 10th in succession -- as Antonio Conte&#39;s side surged six points clear at the Premier League summit.

Fabregas, who came in for Nemanja Matic, curled in from Willian&#39;s 40th-minute cut-back to establish Chelsea&#39;s longest winning run within the same league campaign since 2005-06.

There were also wins for Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic&#39;s 88th-minute strike earned Manchester United a 2-1 win at Crystal Palace.

Chelsea, for whom Eden Hazard missed out due to a knock, have won all 10 league games they gave played since losing 3-0 at Arsenal on September 24, keeping eight clean sheets.

But it took a flying save from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to prevent Patrick van Aanholt snatching a point for bottom club Sunderland at the death.

Conte&#39;s men are six points clear of Liverpool, who stole above Arsenal into second place courtesy of a 3-0 win at Middlesbrough in which Adam Lallana scored twice.

Having seen his side beaten 4-3 at Bournemouth and then held to a 2-2 draw by West Ham United, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp dropped goalkeeper Lorus Karius for Simon Mignolet.

His team went ahead in the 29th minute when Lallana headed in from England team-mate Nathaniel Clyne&#39;s right-wing cross.

Lallana teed up Divock Origi to add a second on the hour and eight minutes later the Belgian returned the favour as Lallana claimed his second goal.

Liverpool moved above Arsenal on goal difference, Arsene Wenger&#39;s side having lost 2-1 at Everton on Tuesday.

In further bad news for Arsenal, City, Tottenham and United all closed in on them.

Rondon&#39;s headed hat-trick

Pep Guardiola&#39;s City hit back after successive defeats against Chelsea and champions Leicester City by winning 2-0 at home to Watford.

Guardiola, who dropped John Stones and reverted to a back four, saw his side prevail thanks to goals in each half by Pablo Zabaleta and David Silva.

City remain fourth, seven points adrift of Chelsea, but only a point below Liverpool and Arsenal.

Tottenham are three points back in fifth place after Christian Eriksen scored twice in a 3-0 home win over Hull City, with Victor Wanyama also on target.

Having beaten Spurs 1-0 on Sunday, United recorded back-to-back league wins for the first time since August by edging Palace to remain three points below Mauricio Pochettino&#39;s men in sixth place.

Jose Mourinho&#39;s side went ahead in first-half stoppage time at Selhurst Park when Ibrahimovic chested down Juan Mata&#39;s free-kick for Paul Pogba to score from close range.

United were pegged back in the 66th minute when James McArthur beat David de Gea at his near post, but with full-time beckoning Pogba freed Ibrahimovic to dink home his 14th goal of the season.

West Bromwich Albion climbed to the heady heights of seventh place after a hat-trick of headers by Salomon Rondon gave Tony Pulis&#39;s men a 3-1 home win over third-bottom Swansea City.

The Venezuelan striker became the first player to score a headed Premier League hat-trick since Everton&#39;s Duncan Ferguson in December 1997. Wayne Routledge replied for Swansea.

West Ham pulled clear of the relegation zone after Mark Noble tucked away the rebound from his own penalty to secure a 1-0 home win over Burnley.

Stoke City survived the 22nd-minute dismissal of Marko Arnautovic for a studs-up lunge at Sofiane Boufal to secure a 0-0 draw at home to Southampton.

(AFP)

Chelsea have won all 10 league games they gave played since losing 3-0 at Arsenal on September 24

Cesc Fabregas's goal earned Chelsea a 1-0 victory at Sunderland on Wednesday -- their 10th in succession -- as Antonio Conte's side surged six points clear at the Premier League summit. Fabregas, who came in for Nemanja Matic, curled in from Willian's 40th-minute cut-back to establish Chelsea's longest winning run within the same league campaign since 2005-06. There were also wins for Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic's 88th-minute strike earned Manchester United a 2-1 win at Crystal Palace. Chelsea, for whom Eden Hazard missed out due to a knock, have won all 10 league games they gave played since losing 3-0 at Arsenal on September 24, keeping eight clean sheets. But it took a flying save from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to prevent Patrick van Aanholt snatching a point for bottom club Sunderland at the death. Conte's men are six points clear of Liverpool, who stole above Arsenal into second place courtesy of a 3-0 win at Middlesbrough in which Adam Lallana scored twice. Having seen his side beaten 4-3 at Bournemouth and then held to a 2-2 draw by West Ham United, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp dropped goalkeeper Lorus Karius for Simon Mignolet. His team went ahead in the 29th minute when Lallana headed in from England team-mate Nathaniel Clyne's right-wing cross. Lallana teed up Divock Origi to add a second on the hour and eight minutes later the Belgian returned the favour as Lallana claimed his second goal. Liverpool moved above Arsenal on goal difference, Arsene Wenger's side having lost 2-1 at Everton on Tuesday. In further bad news for Arsenal, City, Tottenham and United all closed in on them. Rondon's headed hat-trick Pep Guardiola's City hit back after successive defeats against Chelsea and champions Leicester City by winning 2-0 at home to Watford. Guardiola, who dropped John Stones and reverted to a back four, saw his side prevail thanks to goals in each half by Pablo Zabaleta and David Silva. City remain fourth, seven points adrift of Chelsea, but only a point below Liverpool and Arsenal. Tottenham are three points back in fifth place after Christian Eriksen scored twice in a 3-0 home win over Hull City, with Victor Wanyama also on target. Having beaten Spurs 1-0 on Sunday, United recorded back-to-back league wins for the first time since August by edging Palace to remain three points below Mauricio Pochettino's men in sixth place. Jose Mourinho's side went ahead in first-half stoppage time at Selhurst Park when Ibrahimovic chested down Juan Mata's free-kick for Paul Pogba to score from close range. United were pegged back in the 66th minute when James McArthur beat David de Gea at his near post, but with full-time beckoning Pogba freed Ibrahimovic to dink home his 14th goal of the season. West Bromwich Albion climbed to the heady heights of seventh place after a hat-trick of headers by Salomon Rondon gave Tony Pulis's men a 3-1 home win over third-bottom Swansea City. The Venezuelan striker became the first player to score a headed Premier League hat-trick since Everton's Duncan Ferguson in December 1997. Wayne Routledge replied for Swansea. West Ham pulled clear of the relegation zone after Mark Noble tucked away the rebound from his own penalty to secure a 1-0 home win over Burnley. Stoke City survived the 22nd-minute dismissal of Marko Arnautovic for a studs-up lunge at Sofiane Boufal to secure a 0-0 draw at home to Southampton. (AFP)

Premier League: Chelsea 1-0 Sunderland, Ibra rescues Man Utd

Manchester United beat Dutch side Feyenoord 4-0, courtesy a record-breaking goal and an assist by captain Wayne Rooney.

Rooney opened the scoring&nbsp;in the 35th minute to become United&#39;s top-scorer in European football history, passing&nbsp;Ruud van Nistelrooy&#39;s 38. Rooney&#39;s opener also means he is a goal shy of&nbsp;Bobby Charlton&#39;s all-time club scoring record of 249.

The first-half saw United dominating possession and laying siege to Feyenoord&#39;s last third but the best chance before Rooney&#39;s goal had fallen to Feyenoord forward Dirk Kuyt.

United started the second-half in the same vein and increased the attacking tempo as the match went along. The second goal was a team effort, capped by Juan Mata&#39;s run into the six-yeard box to tap in a Rooney cross.&nbsp;

The third goal came by&nbsp;when&nbsp;United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovich&#39;s cross clipped the inside of Feyenoord goalkeepr Brad Jones&#39; heel from close distance. Jesse Lingaard scored the fourth in the dying stages in the game following a raft of short, sharp passes in the final third.

The win leaves&nbsp;United a point below Group A leaders Fenerbahce in second place ahead of their final game at Zorya Luhansk.&nbsp;United will go into that game knowing a draw will take them into the last 32.

Mkhitaryan goes close

Mkhitaryan, who was playing just his second game for United, looked lively in the match.

The former Borussia Dortmund player sped past five Feyenoord players, only to be denied a free-kick after being clipped by Jens Toornstra, while Mata&#39;s elegant chip drew a finger-tip save from the backpedalling Jones.

Mkhitaryan was soon on the scene again, exchanging passes with Ibrahimovic, stealing past Kuyt -- another Liverpool old boy -- and thrashing a left-foot shot into the side-netting.

Mkhitaryan has had a slow start in England. The former Bundesliga player of the year was starting just the second match for his new team, following a poor performance in the Manchester derby earlier in the season.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

Wayne Rooney opened the scoring in the 39th minute and then helped his teammate Juan Mata score in the second half

Manchester United beat Dutch side Feyenoord 4-0, courtesy a record-breaking goal and an assist by captain Wayne Rooney. Rooney opened the scoring in the 35th minute to become United's top-scorer in European football history, passing Ruud van Nistelrooy's 38. Rooney's opener also means he is a goal shy of Bobby Charlton's all-time club scoring record of 249. The first-half saw United dominating possession and laying siege to Feyenoord's last third but the best chance before Rooney's goal had fallen to Feyenoord forward Dirk Kuyt. United started the second-half in the same vein and increased the attacking tempo as the match went along. The second goal was a team effort, capped by Juan Mata's run into the six-yeard box to tap in a Rooney cross. The third goal came by when United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovich's cross clipped the inside of Feyenoord goalkeepr Brad Jones' heel from close distance. Jesse Lingaard scored the fourth in the dying stages in the game following a raft of short, sharp passes in the final third. The win leaves United a point below Group A leaders Fenerbahce in second place ahead of their final game at Zorya Luhansk. United will go into that game knowing a draw will take them into the last 32. Mkhitaryan goes close Mkhitaryan, who was playing just his second game for United, looked lively in the match. The former Borussia Dortmund player sped past five Feyenoord players, only to be denied a free-kick after being clipped by Jens Toornstra, while Mata's elegant chip drew a finger-tip save from the backpedalling Jones. Mkhitaryan was soon on the scene again, exchanging passes with Ibrahimovic, stealing past Kuyt -- another Liverpool old boy -- and thrashing a left-foot shot into the side-netting. Mkhitaryan has had a slow start in England. The former Bundesliga player of the year was starting just the second match for his new team, following a poor performance in the Manchester derby earlier in the season. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Europa League: Rooney helps Man United breeze past Feyenoord

Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Borussia Dortmund&#39;s Henrikh Mkhitaryan after making an &quot;improved offer&quot; for the midfielder, the Bundesliga club&#39;s CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke has said. 
 
The Armenia international has been linked by British media with a move to Old Trafford under new manager Jose Mourinho. 
 
&quot;The situation is now different. Manchester have made a much improved offer,&quot; Watzke told Sport Bild magazine. 
 
&quot;In situations like this there are always a lot of different things to consider and in the end at one point we have to make a decision. 
 
&quot;As we are back in training on Monday we will decide at the weekend. I have contacted the relevant people and we will weigh things up ...then the board will make the decision.&quot; 
 
The 27-year-old scored 11 goals in 31 league games as Dortmund finished second last season and could be Mourinho&#39;s second signing at United after defender Eric Bailly&#39;s arrival from Villarreal. 
 
(Reuters)

The midfielder displayed good form for the German club which finished second in the Bundesliga last season

Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Borussia Dortmund's Henrikh Mkhitaryan after making an "improved offer" for the midfielder, the Bundesliga club's CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke has said. The Armenia international has been linked by British media with a move to Old Trafford under new manager Jose Mourinho. "The situation is now different. Manchester have made a much improved offer," Watzke told Sport Bild magazine. "In situations like this there are always a lot of different things to consider and in the end at one point we have to make a decision. "As we are back in training on Monday we will decide at the weekend. I have contacted the relevant people and we will weigh things up ...then the board will make the decision." The 27-year-old scored 11 goals in 31 league games as Dortmund finished second last season and could be Mourinho's second signing at United after defender Eric Bailly's arrival from Villarreal. (Reuters)

United make 'improved offer' for Dortmund's Mkhitaryan

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