Compiled by Ranjika Perera
* Benzema is doubt for Euro Opener

France striker Karim Benzema limped out of Tuesday’s (8) friendly match against Bulgaria. Real Madrid strike was recalled to the national team after a six-year absence and was tipped to play a pivotal role for France at Euro 2020 starting on the 12 June. However, it could be in doubt after Benzema picked up a knock in the first half against Bulgaria.
Bulgarian defender Ivan Turitsov appeared to have struck his leg during a tackle inside the first half. Benzema tried to continue on after the clash but he went down in the 37th minute and signalled to the sideline that he would require a sub.
National team boss Didier Deschamps told M6 at half-time, “It’s a knock. He took a good hit on the muscle above the knee and he felt that it was hardening so we took no risk. The medical staff is currently with him.”
* Coutinho, Pjanic, Umitit could see end of Barca career

According Goal, Philippe Coutinho, Miralem Pjanic, and Samuel Umtiti are among the players Barcelona could sell as the Catalan giants seek to cut costs. The Catalan club are currently dealing with debts in excess of € 1 billion (Rs. 241 billion), having suffered most from losing match-day revenue during the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, they have decided to reduce the squad wage bill by putting a number of first-team stars up for sale when the transfer window reopens.
According to the website, Pjanic and Umtiti are earning € 16 m (Rs. 3.8 billion) and € 14 m (Rs. 3.3 billion) per annum respectively. They will be pushed for potential buyers that will likely agree for a reasonable deal. Both these players were in and out of Ronald Koeman’s squad last season with Umtiti still struggling with a serious knee issue. Former Liverpool star Coutinho, was linked with a return to England, but Barca are concerned of their initial € 120 m (Rs. 28.9 billion) investment in him.
* Dortmund give deadline on Sancho

Borussia Dortmund will sell Jadon Sancho to Manchester United if they receive a suitable offer by the end of July, Bild claims.
The English giants and Sancho have been in agreement on personal terms for more than a year, but the Red Devils did not meet the expectations of Dortmund last summer.
However, Manchester United are desperate to increase their squad depth and they bid € 93 m (Rs. 22.4 billion) plus an additional € 23 m (Rs. 5.5 billion) in add-ons.
* PSG and Chelsea make bid on Hakimi

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Serie A champions Inter Milan are ready to sell their star full-back. Chelsea and PSG have both made € 60 m (Rs. 14.4 billion) offers for Achraf Hakimi.
Inter will likely be forced into selling the Moroccan international due to the club’s unstable financial situation. Few weeks ago, Antonio Conte also parted ways with Inter Milan, after guiding them to the Serie A title. He wanted to strengthen the squad but the club owners had plans on downsizing.