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Aliko Dangote Explains Why He Put His Plans to Buy Arsenal on Hold

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Aliko Dangote Explains Why He Put His Plans to Buy Arsenal on Hold.

Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has officially ended his long-standing ambition to purchase Premier League club Arsenal, citing changing financial priorities and the club’s increased valuation.

In a recent interview with Bloomberg, the CEO of the Dangote Group expressed his regret at missing the opportunity to buy the club when its valuation was around $2 billion.

Reflecting on the missed chance, Dangote stated, “I think that time has passed.”

The Nigerian billionaire, with a net worth of over $13 billion, acknowledged that Arsenal’s current valuation of $2.6 billion, combined with the success of his refinery project in Nigeria, shifted his focus from football to business.

Back in 2020, Dangote had expressed his intention to buy Arsenal after completing his multi-billion-dollar refinery project. However, with the club’s rising value and its recent improved performance, Dangote has decided to stay on as a passionate supporter rather than pursue ownership.

“Arsenal is doing extremely well right now… I don’t have the excess liquidity to spend $4 billion on buying a club,” he remarked.

Despite his enduring love for the club, Dangote emphasized that completing the Dangote Refinery project, which is now operational, took precedence over acquiring Arsenal. He admitted,

“I could have bought the club for $2 billion, but I wouldn’t have been able to finish my project.”

Arsenal, owned by American billionaire Stan Kroenke, has experienced significant financial growth, finishing second in the Premier League for two consecutive seasons and raising their annual revenue to $560 million.

While Dangote’s plans to own Arsenal are no longer in motion, his loyalty to the club remains strong.

“I will continue to be a major supporter of Arsenal… but buying the club today just doesn’t make sense,” he concluded.

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Leroy Sane Breaks Silence On Arsenal Transfer Rumors

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Leroy Sane Breaks Silence On Arsenal Transfer Rumors

Leroy Sane has revealed ongoing talks with Bayern Munich about extending his contract at the Allianz Arena, signaling his reluctance to consider a return to the Premier League.

The German winger, who joined Bayern from Manchester City in 2020, is now in the final year of his current deal.

This situation has sparked interest from Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool, especially after Sane’s hesitation to commit to an extension last year.

From January, clubs outside Germany can legally initiate discussions with Sane regarding a potential transfer. However, the 28-year-old has delivered a significant setback to his suitors, expressing his preference to remain at Bayern if terms can be agreed.

Since arriving in Munich, Sane has made a strong impact, contributing 51 goals and 50 assists across 186 appearances.

Despite featuring mostly from the bench this season under Vincent Kompany, Sane has reiterated his commitment to Bayern. In an interview with BILD, he stated: “We are in talks. I feel comfortable in Munich. I feel really comfortable. Talks are very good. My focus is currently only on Bayern.”

Addressing the possibility of a Premier League return, Sane was clear about his priorities. “I follow Premier League football, but the attraction for me lies in the club where I can show my best performance, develop, and win titles. I have that at Bayern,” he said.

Although Sane has seen limited starts this season, Kompany—his former Manchester City teammate—has acknowledged the winger’s influence. Speaking after Bayern’s recent win against Benfica, Kompany praised Sane’s contribution: “Leroy changed the game, you could say that. Leroy did very well after he was subbed on.

“I’m very happy to have the quality of Leroy Sane and Michael Olise in the same position, not to forget Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry. They have all scored goals and contributed well so far this season.”

Manchester United and Arsenal, who were reportedly preparing to battle for Sane’s signature, may now be forced to reconsider their plans.

Both clubs were eager to secure the services of a player with proven Premier League credentials, including two league titles and a PFA Young Player of the Year award from his time at Manchester City.

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Real Madrid Star Endrick Could Make Shock EPL Move After Transfer Talk

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Real Madrid Star Endrick Could Make Shock EPL Move After Transfer Talk

Southampton, currently rooted at the bottom of the Premier League table, are eyeing an ambitious January transfer window with a potential move for Real Madrid’s young talent, Endrick. However, the Saints may face stiff competition for his signature.

The 18-year-old Brazilian joined Real Madrid in the summer from Palmeiras in a £60m deal but has struggled for regular playing time. This season, Endrick has made ten appearances across all competitions, scoring twice. Despite these contributions, he has yet to start a game, with his league minutes limited to brief late appearances.

Reports suggest that Real Madrid might consider loaning him out to gain more experience, and Southampton are reportedly interested. According to Sport, the Saints have initiated discussions with Real Madrid about a possible deal.

However, they are not alone in their pursuit. Serie A club Roma and La Liga side Real Valladolid are also said to have expressed interest in the talented forward.

The decision on Endrick’s future is expected to take shape as the January transfer window approaches. Meanwhile, speculation surrounds another Real Madrid youngster, Arda Güler. The Turkish starlet has attracted interest from clubs like Arsenal, who have reportedly opened talks with Real Madrid about a potential move.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti recently addressed the situation regarding both players. He emphasized their quality and readiness to contribute but maintained that the team’s immediate focus is on improving collective results.

He acknowledged that Endrick and Güler could play key roles, saying, “They are ready to play and showing a lot of quality in training. They can help us in the next games, but the priority is to turn things around as a team.”

For Southampton, the stakes are high. With just one win in their first 11 games of the season and only seven goals scored, the Saints find themselves four points adrift of safety.

Manager Russell Martin will be desperate for reinforcements in January to boost their survival hopes and avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

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Ruben Amorim Discovers Man Utd Transfer Budget

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Ruben Amorim Discovers Man Utd Transfer Budget

Ruben Amorim’s appointment as Manchester United manager marks a shift toward developing existing talent and a more measured transfer approach under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS ownership.

The club, having spent heavily in recent years, is now focusing on sustainability, signaling a new era at Old Trafford.

United spent over £600 million during Erik ten Hag’s tenure, but Amorim’s arrival comes with a mandate to prioritize squad improvement rather than relying on lavish spending. The Portuguese coach, hailed as one of Europe’s brightest young tacticians arrives with his trusted coaching staff from Sporting Lisbon after achieving remarkable success, including two league titles and two domestic cups.

Costly Changes Amid Financial Pressures

Bringing Amorim to United mid-season came at a significant cost. The club paid Sporting Lisbon £9.25 million in compensation, while parting ways with Ten Hag and his staff required an additional £15 million.

These decisions highlight United’s financial struggles, as the club posted pre-tax losses of £312.9 million over the past three seasons and faces pressure to meet profit and sustainability regulations.

Amorim inherits a squad strengthened by a £180 million summer transfer window, which included signings like Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee, Noussair Mazraoui, and Manuel Ugarte.

However, he has been told not to expect funds for the January transfer window. Instead, the club will focus on leveraging the potential of its current roster, including players like Rasmus Højlund (£72 million) and Mason Mount (£55 million).

Strategic Focus on Youth and Development

Amorim’s task is clear: maximize the potential of the squad and build around a promising young core.

The new leadership team, comprising sporting director Dan Ashworth, technical director Jason Wilcox, chief executive Omar Berrada, and INEOS director of sport Dave Brailsford, believes this approach will stabilize the club financially and on the pitch.

Manchester United’s current position—13th in the Premier League and four points off the top four—underscores the urgency of Amorim’s mission. Missing out on Champions League qualification for a second consecutive year could have significant financial repercussions.

January Transfer Window: Limited Activity Expected

With financial constraints looming, United are unlikely to make major moves in the January transfer window despite links to players like Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres and Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. Instead, Amorim will look toward the summer window for more flexibility in reshaping the squad.

Contracts of several players, including Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans, are set to expire at the end of the season, while options exist to extend deals for Harry Maguire and Amad Diallo.

Jadon Sancho could also leave permanently, as Chelsea hold an obligation to buy him if they finish in the Premier League’s top 14.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

The new INEOS leadership has already implemented significant cost-cutting measures, including a controversial reduction of 250 staff members, costing the club £47.8 million. Such moves highlight the financial balancing act required as Manchester United aims to remain competitive while addressing long-term sustainability.

Ruben Amorim’s ability to revitalize the squad, instill his philosophy, and navigate these financial constraints will be pivotal in determining whether Manchester United can re-establish themselves as Premier League contenders. His journey begins with Sunday’s clash against Ipswich Town, where he’ll aim to spark the turnaround fans have been waiting for.

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