Paper Talk Xabi Alonso

Transfer rumours and football gossip: Xabi Alonso, James Maddison, Antonio Conte


Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has a release clause in his contract that only three clubs can activate, according to reports - Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid (The Sun).

James Maddison has admitted the latest international break has come at an "annoying time" with Tottenham having moved to the top of the Premier League after a fine start to the campaign (Daily Mail).

Antonio Conte has spoken of a potential return to football amid speculation linking him as the next Napoli boss (Daily Mirror).

Steve Clarke says Scotland do not want favours in their Euro 2024 pursuit as he tells his stars "let's do it ourselves" (Daily Record).

PASTE INTO URL >>> https://m.skybet.com/lp/acq-bet-x-get-30?sba_promo=ACQBXG30&aff=688&dcmp=SL_ACQ_ACQBXG30

Wayne Rooney said he plans to "elevate Birmingham City to the next level" after being appointed the Championship club's new manager on a three-and-a-half-year contract (The Guardian).

West Ham first-team coach Kevin Nolan has offered Eden Hazard the opportunity to have a trial at the London side, despite the winger announcing his retirement on Tuesday (Daily Express).

Rangers job contender Kevin Muscat has left his current club's fans 'concerned' he could be about to move on. The Australian took charge of Yokohama F. Marinos in their 1-0 win over Urawa Red Diamonds on Wednesday, but supporters have been left fearing he was saying goodbye in the aftermath (Scottish Sun).

Manchester United have identified two 'perfect' defenders for Erik ten Hag to sign in advance of next season, according to reports in Portugal (Daily Express).

Rasmus Hojlund has put his full backing behind Marcus Rashford, despite his Manchester United team-mate's dreadful start to the season (Daily Mirror).


More from Sporting Life

Safer gambling

We are committed in our support of safer gambling. Recommended bets are advised to over-18s and we strongly encourage readers to wager only what they can afford to lose.

If you are concerned about your gambling, please call the National Gambling Helpline / GamCare on 0808 8020 133.

Further support and information can be found at begambleaware.org and gamblingtherapy.org.

Like what you've read?

MOST READ FOOTBALL

Sporting Life
Join for free!
Access to exclusive features all for FREE - No monthly subscription fee
Race Replays
My stable horse tracker
giftOffers and prize draws
newsExclusive content

FOOTBALL TIPS

We are committed to Safer Gambling and have a number of self-help tools to help you manage your gambling. We also work with a number of independent charitable organisations who can offer help and answers any questions you may have.
Gamble Aware LogoGamble Helpline LogoGamstop LogoGordon Moody LogoSafer Gambling Standard LogoGamban Logo18+ LogoTake Time To Think Logo