Liverpool is set to encounter a challenging competition for the transfer of Borussia Dortmund’s winger, Jamie Gittens.
**Liverpool Eyeing Gittens as Interest Grows**
Liverpool FC are reportedly keen on securing the services of Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens, who made the switch from Manchester City in 2020. The young talent has caught the attention of several clubs, with the Reds not being the only ones monitoring his progress.
According to the Mirror, Liverpool have dispatched scouts to keep a close eye on Gittens as his stock continues to rise. The 20-year-old has emerged as one of the latest England youth internationals to thrive in the Bundesliga, overcoming initial injury setbacks and the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Gittens has made a promising start to the current season, having scored both goals in Dortmund’s opening day victory against Eintracht Frankfurt, followed by another brace in the Champions League. His impressive performances under new head coach Nuri Sahin have certainly not gone unnoticed, and it appears that interest from clubs across Europe is intensifying.
With Liverpool among the Premier League clubs showing interest, Gittens’ development will be closely watched in the coming months.
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**Dele Alli Linked with Move to Lille**
In other transfer news, former Tottenham and Everton midfielder Dele Alli has been linked with a potential move to French club Lille. The 27-year-old is available on a free transfer, although Tottenham may be entitled to performance-related payments should he be sold by the French side.
The Daily Mail reports that Alli did not feature at all last season due to a long-term thigh injury. However, he received support from fans, evidenced by a banner displayed in the Gwladys Street End, following his candid admissions about his childhood struggles.
Currently a free agent, Everton are reportedly open to offering him a new contract if he can demonstrate his fitness. Tottenham have also shown goodwill by waiving a clause that would have seen them receive £10 million if he made 20 appearances for the Toffees, a target he fell short of with just 13 appearances.
However, there is a catch-22 situation regarding his registration. As he is not currently registered, he is ineligible to participate in Under-21 matches to prove his fitness, making it difficult for him to showcase his abilities. Should he sign with Everton, it is understood that Spurs would be compensated through performance-based bonuses and a sell-on clause. Lille have emerged as one of the clubs interested in acquiring his services.
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**Tuchel and Guardiola Considered for England Role**
Following Lee Carsley’s struggles with the England national team during the UEFA Nations League, The Telegraph has suggested two high-profile alternatives for the managerial position: Thomas Tuchel and Pep Guardiola.
The paper notes that Tuchel, currently available, would represent an elite-level appointment, but it is Guardiola who remains the standout candidate. His contract with Manchester City is set to expire at the end of the season, coinciding with the anticipated departure of director of football Txiki Begiristain, who has been a key figure in Guardiola’s success.
Guardiola has enjoyed triumphs in Spain, Germany, and England, and with his 54th birthday approaching in January, he has expressed a desire to manage an international team. However, his current salary at City, reportedly around £20 million a year, poses a significant challenge for the FA, which has a turnover of £481 million but must manage its spending carefully.
While Guardiola may need to temper his financial expectations for an international role, the prospect of him taking charge of the England team remains an intriguing possibility.
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**Zidane’s France Aspirations Leave Door Open for United**
Zinedine Zidane’s aspirations to take over the France national team could be complicated by Didier Deschamps’ continued tenure, potentially benefiting Manchester United in their managerial search.
The Daily Express suggests that United’s chances of appointing Zidane as their new manager have improved amid speculation surrounding Erik ten Hag’s future. The Red Devils have had a tumultuous start to the season, managing only two wins from their first seven Premier League matches.
However, United are not alone in their pursuit of Zidane, as the French FA is reportedly considering him as a successor to Deschamps. Nevertheless, French media outlet RMC indicates that Deschamps has no immediate plans to step down, leaving Zidane’s future uncertain.
As the managerial landscape continues to shift, both United and the French national team will be keeping a close eye on developments surrounding the legendary midfielder.