Lisandro Scores In Copa America Quarterfinal Win
Argentina secured their place in the Copa America semi-finals after a tense quarter-final match that was decided by penalties. The key moment in regular time came when Lisandro Martinez scored Argentina’s sole goal, helping his team secure a 1-0 lead over Ecuador.
The goal arrived in the 35th minute, with Messi delivering a corner that was flicked on by Alexis Mac Allister to Martinez. The Argentine defender met the ball with a powerful header, which Ecuador’s goalkeeper, Alexander Dominguez, was unable to clear despite his attempt to punch it away. This goal marked Martinez’s first for the national team, coming in his 21st appearance, and it proved crucial in sending Argentina through to the next round.
Although Messi missed his penalty in the subsequent shootout, Argentina managed to prevail with a 4-2 victory, advancing to the semi-finals of the tournament.
Real Madrid Unwilling To Go The Distance For Yoro
Manchester United have been exploring various options for centre-backs as they aim to strengthen their defence this summer. Their initial bid of £35 million for Jarrad Branthwaite was swiftly turned down by Everton on the first day of the transfer window. Since then, United have shifted their focus to Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt, with whom negotiations appear to be progressing well. The potential signing of De Ligt could mark the Red Devils’ first significant acquisition of the summer.
Despite the optimism surrounding De Ligt’s potential move, Manchester United are also eyeing other defensive prospects, including Lille’s 18-year-old talent, Leny Yoro. Yoro has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid. However, Real Madrid’s pursuit of the young defender appears to be faltering due to their reluctance to meet Lille’s asking price.
Lille had initially set Yoro’s value at €60 million (£50 million), but they have since lowered their demands to approximately €40 million (£33 million). Real Madrid’s current offer, which includes £16.9 million upfront and additional bonuses potentially bringing the total to £25 million, falls short of Lille’s expectations. This disparity in valuation has put the proposed transfer at risk, with Yoro’s future remaining uncertain as the transfer window progresses.
Amrabat Wants United Return
Sofyan Amrabat, who spent the previous season on loan at Manchester United, is reportedly keen on a return to Old Trafford for the upcoming 2024/25 campaign. According to Italian sources, including Il Corriere dello Sport and as reported by Sport Witness, the Fiorentina midfielder is eager to rejoin United, with the Italian club potentially willing to reduce their asking price for the Moroccan international.
The latest reports indicate that Manchester United have opted against making Amrabat’s loan move permanent for €20 million. Despite this, Amrabat remains hopeful of returning to Manchester, especially with Erik ten Hag’s continued presence at the club potentially influencing the decision. Fiorentina have granted Amrabat an additional week off, with the midfielder expected to resume pre-season training on July 15.
Although Amrabat is not anticipated to stay at Fiorentina, other Italian clubs have shown interest. There is speculation that Fiorentina may lower their asking price to €15 million, which could be a more attractive option for United. Whether the club decides to make a formal offer remains to be seen, but the prospect of securing a seasoned player like Amrabat at a reduced rate could benefit United as they prepare for the new season.