Former Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde is closing in on a return to Athletic Bilbao after emerging as their preferred candidate ahead of Marcelo Bielsa. The 58-year-old has been out of work since being sacked by the Blaugrana midway through the 2019/20 season and has had two previous stints with the Basque giants.
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Gareth Bale has agreed to join MLS side Los Angeles FC on a one-year deal. The forward, a free agent after leaving Real Madrid this summer, had other offers but has chosen to move to California and the MLS. Bale is looking to maintain his fitness ahead of Wales’ appearance at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
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Wayne Rooney has told troubled Derby County that he wishes to be “relieved of his duties as first-team manager” with immediate effect. The 36-year-old’s contract with the club had another year to run. The Rams have been in administration since September last year and were relegated to League One last season.
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Arsenal have confirmed a deal sign midfielder Fabio Vieira from Porto for £34m including add ons. The 22-year-old is the Gunners’ third summer arrival after goalkeeper Matt Turner and Brazil forward Marquinhos. Arsenal will pay £30m up front plus £4m in performance-related add-ons.
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Southampton have announced the signing of 20 year old Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu for €14m from Manchester City. The Dublin native’s stock has been on the rise over the past year with a string of strong performances for both club and country earning him a move to the Saints.
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