Manchester United turn down chance to sign Karim Benzema - Paper Talk

Plus: Chelsea hold an interest in Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran and are considering a surprise bid this month; Celtic are bracing themselves for more bids for Matt O’Riley after Atletico Madrid made the first move; Nathan Jones is a contender to take over at Charlton Athletic

Wednesday 24 January 2024 23:37, UK

The top stories and transfer rumours from Thursday's newspapers...

THE SUN

Manchester United have turned down the chance to land Karim Benzema with the club refusing to enter talks due to what they claim are «exorbitant» sums involved in bringing the 36-year-old, who earns £86m a year, to Old Trafford.

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Nathan Jones is reportedly a contender to take over at Charlton Athletic.

Luke Littler has pocketed £59 per dart in his opening three senior tournaments.

DAILY TELEGRAPH

Chelsea hold a legitimate interest in Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran and are considering making a surprise bid for the Colombia international before the closure of the January transfer window.

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos team's powerbase at Manchester United is set to significantly widen with the Glazers agreeing that Ineos should have a broader influence encompassing key decisions across the business.

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Maro Itoje has handed a major boost to Steve Borthwick by committing to play for his country until the World Cup in Australia in 2027 «at the bare minimum».

George Skivington, the Gloucester head coach, has turned to mentors Warren Gatland and Stuart Lancaster for advice on how to turn around the club's concerning form in recent