birminghammail--2020-05-16--The Bundesliga club requesting the support of Aston Villa fans

While Aston Villa 's wait for a return to Premier League action goes on , Bundesliga clubs kick-off once again behind-closed-doors .
It is the first major European league to resume since fixtures across the continent were suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic .
BT Sport have confirmed they will be screening every match live and clubs are appealing for support from England as they gear up for the behind closed doors experience .
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Google Play Store and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rivals Dortmund at 2.30pm , have taken it one step further by requesting support from fans of all 20 Premier League clubs .
They posted on social media : `` We have a reason for fans of EVERY PL club to support FC Schalke 04 for the remainder of the Bundesliga season ! ''
They preceded to give a reason for fans of every club to support them , and their plea to Villa was simple : `` We ’ re the one blue team you 're allowed to like ... '' One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t believe I ’ m saying this but I ’ m sold and can ’ t wait to errrr supprt my new temporary team ! ''
`` I ’ m in lads !
Come on Schalke , '' posted another .
But the Gelsenkirchen side may have made a new enemy in Birmingham City supporters .
One replied : `` That 's Schalke off the list . ''
`` You WERE my German team , '' said another .
As luck would have it , Schalke will be renewing their own local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Revierderby .

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Top-flight football is finally back today... in Germany.
While Aston Villa's wait for a return to Premier League action goes on, Bundesliga clubs kick-off once again behind-closed-doors.
It is the first major European league to resume since fixtures across the continent were suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.
BT Sport have confirmed they will be screening every match live and clubs are appealing for support from England as they gear up for the behind closed doors experience.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
Schalke, who take on rivals Dortmund at 2.30pm, have taken it one step further by requesting support from fans of all 20 Premier League clubs.
They posted on social media: "We have a reason for fans of EVERY PL club to support FC Schalke 04 for the remainder of the Bundesliga season!"
They preceded to give a reason for fans of every club to support them, and their plea to Villa was simple: "We’re the one blue team you're allowed to like..."
One Villa fan said: "I can’t believe I’m saying this but I’m sold and can’t wait to errrr supprt my new temporary team!"
"I’m in lads! Come on Schalke," posted another.
But the Gelsenkirchen side may have made a new enemy in Birmingham City supporters.
One replied: "That's Schalke off the list."
"You WERE my German team," said another.
As luck would have it, Schalke will be renewing their own local rivalry this weekend, facing Borussia Dortmund in the Revierderby.


birminghammail--2020-05-16--Watch - Police out as visitors pack park on first weekend of lockdown easing

Car parks at Birmingham 's biggest park were packed and police were on patrol as families enjoyed their first weekend since the lockdown rules were eased .
New guidance giving the green light to unlimited exercise and meeting one person from another household saw Sutton Park 's parking bays full on Saturday afternoon , May 16 .
Couples , dog walkers , cyclists , joggers and young families alike were pictured enjoying the fresh air in the park as police officers in a marked car patrolled the area .
One couple wore face masks as they walked side by side @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the two metre distancing rules .
From around noon , cars appeared to be queuing at the car park as several vehicles were seen parked up on the side of the road .
Discussing the easing of the lockdown , First Secretary Dominic Raab previously told BBC Breakfast : `` You can drive as far as you want to drive to go and walk in a park or a particular area you 're fond of as long as you maintain the social distancing .
`` But obviously , if you 're going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another , so if you 're going from England to Wales or from Scotland to Wales and different rules are in place because the devolved administrations take a different approach you need to be very mindful of the regulations that they 've got in place . ''
However when asked if people could play football for exercise , Mr Raab said people would not be able to because they would not be maintaining the social distancing measures .
He said : `` No I do n't think so because you ca n't stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do want people to play more sport and let me give you one example of something you can do .
`` Two people from the same home could go and play tennis , because that 's something where they could stay two metres apart from everyone else .
`` What you could n't then do , and this is why we say you 've got to stay alert , you could n't then go into the clubhouse and mill around where you will be within two metres of other people .
`` So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where I think would be very difficult to stay two metres apart if you 're playing , you know , 11-a-side or even five-a-side . ''
The picture was similar across the counry , with parts of the Peak District `` extremely busy '' - despite pleas for the public not to visit .
On Twitter , park bosses in the Peak District said : `` This area [ Langsett ] is reported to be extremely busy with car parks currently full and social distancing difficult .
`` Please do n't travel to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bays . ''
The Yorkshire Dales introduced a traffic light system to let visitors know how busy its car parks were in ten locations .
By Saturday afternoon , its Malham car park , which has 140 spaces , was marked red to indicate it was full , while other locations were marked amber to show they were filling up fast .
With the Met Office forecasting sunny conditions , members of the public are being urged to continue observing social distancing rules and avoid potentially contributing to crowded public spaces .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police issued statements alongside the North York Moors National Park Authority asking the public to avoid large gatherings and use open spaces near their homes .
The park authority was carrying out a phased reopening of some car parks and public toilets , but warned most facilities would be closed .
Drivers were asked to `` go elsewhere '' if they arrived to find a lot of parked cars and people at a particular location .
The South Downs National Park asked people to help keep the local air cleaner by staying at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visits to the park car-free .
With high temperatures of 20C expected in some parts of the country , many people might also be tempted to flock to the coast this weekend .
But the Maritime and Coastguard Agency ( MCA ) urged people to stay safe as the majority of beaches would not have lifeguards .
The RNLI suspended lifeguard provision during lockdown and there are currently no lifeguards on the 240 beaches that it normally patrols .
Coastal areas were also deterring visitors from making non-local trips to the seaside .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ body Visit Cornwall , previously encouraged people not to travel more than an hour from their local area to enjoy the outdoors , and to avoid tourist `` hotspots '' .
And Visit Weston-super-Mare , which has changed its promotional slogan to `` do n't visit Weston-super-Mare '' on social media , was still asking people not to visit the seaside town in Somerset .
In a video posted to Twitter on Wednesday it told people : `` Just because you can , does n't mean you should . ''

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Car parks at Birmingham's biggest park were packed and police were on patrol as families enjoyed their first weekend since the lockdown rules were eased.
New guidance giving the green light to unlimited exercise and meeting one person from another household saw Sutton Park's parking bays full on Saturday afternoon, May 16.
Couples, dog walkers, cyclists, joggers and young families alike were pictured enjoying the fresh air in the park as police officers in a marked car patrolled the area.
(Image: Darren Quinton/Birmingham Live)
One couple wore face masks as they walked side by side, while others could be seen sticking to the two metre distancing rules.
From around noon, cars appeared to be queuing at the car park as several vehicles were seen parked up on the side of the road.
Discussing the easing of the lockdown, First Secretary Dominic Raab previously told BBC Breakfast: "You can drive as far as you want to drive to go and walk in a park or a particular area you're fond of as long as you maintain the social distancing.
"But obviously, if you're going from one part of the UK to another, so if you're going from England to Wales or from Scotland to Wales and different rules are in place because the devolved administrations take a different approach you need to be very mindful of the regulations that they've got in place."
However when asked if people could play football for exercise, Mr Raab said people would not be able to because they would not be maintaining the social distancing measures.
He said: "No I don't think so because you can't stay two metres apart. So, we do want people to play more sport and let me give you one example of something you can do.
"Two people from the same home could go and play tennis, because that's something where they could stay two metres apart from everyone else.
"What you couldn't then do, and this is why we say you've got to stay alert, you couldn't then go into the clubhouse and mill around where you will be within two metres of other people.
"So, football would be one of those where I think would be very difficult to stay two metres apart if you're playing, you know, 11-a-side or even five-a-side."
The picture was similar across the country, with parts of the Peak District "extremely busy" - despite pleas for the public not to visit.
On Twitter, park bosses in the Peak District said: "This area [Langsett] is reported to be extremely busy with car parks currently full and social distancing difficult.
"Please don't travel to the area or park outside of designated bays."
The Yorkshire Dales introduced a traffic light system to let visitors know how busy its car parks were in ten locations.
By Saturday afternoon, its Malham car park, which has 140 spaces, was marked red to indicate it was full, while other locations were marked amber to show they were filling up fast.
With the Met Office forecasting sunny conditions, members of the public are being urged to continue observing social distancing rules and avoid potentially contributing to crowded public spaces.
On Thursday, Cleveland Police and North Yorkshire Police issued statements alongside the North York Moors National Park Authority asking the public to avoid large gatherings and use open spaces near their homes.
The park authority was carrying out a phased reopening of some car parks and public toilets, but warned most facilities would be closed.
Drivers were asked to "go elsewhere" if they arrived to find a lot of parked cars and people at a particular location.
The South Downs National Park asked people to help keep the local air cleaner by staying at home as much as possible and keeping visits to the park car-free.
With high temperatures of 20C expected in some parts of the country, many people might also be tempted to flock to the coast this weekend.
But the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) urged people to stay safe as the majority of beaches would not have lifeguards.
The RNLI suspended lifeguard provision during lockdown and there are currently no lifeguards on the 240 beaches that it normally patrols.
Coastal areas were also deterring visitors from making non-local trips to the seaside. Malcolm Bell, chief executive of tourism body Visit Cornwall, previously encouraged people not to travel more than an hour from their local area to enjoy the outdoors, and to avoid tourist "hotspots".
And Visit Weston-super-Mare, which has changed its promotional slogan to "don't visit Weston-super-Mare" on social media, was still asking people not to visit the seaside town in Somerset.
In a video posted to Twitter on Wednesday it told people: "Just because you can, doesn't mean you should."


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Watch - Car engulfed in flames in lockdown 'arson attack'

This is the moment fire crews battled a raging car fire in a city street after a suspected arson attack @ @ @ @ @ were seen surrounding the vehicle as its interior was engulfed in flames on Friday evening @ @ @ @ @ raced to Barnesville Close in Small Heath at around 8pm .
A parked car was @ @ @ @ @ as fire crews worked to extinguish the fire .
It was not believed anyone was @ @ @ @ @ and appealed for witnesses .
A statement from the force read : `` We are @ @ @ @ @ set alight on Barnesville Close on Friday evening .
`` Anyone with information should contact @ @ @ @ @ west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight or call 101 anytime quoting log 3882 of 15/5 .
@ @ @ @ @ Midlands Fire Service added : `` We were called to reports of a car fire @ @ @ @ @ Heath at around 8.10pm .
`` There was a car alight that we put out @ @ @ @ @ be with police . ''

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This is the moment fire crews battled a raging car fire in a city street after a suspected arson attack.
Thick plumes of smoke were seen surrounding the vehicle as its interior was engulfed in flames on Friday evening, May 15.
Firefighters raced to Barnesville Close in Small Heath at around 8pm.
A parked car was fully ablaze in the street as fire crews worked to extinguish the fire.
It was not believed anyone was injured. Police were investigating and appealed for witnesses.
A statement from the force read: "We are investigating after a car was set alight on Barnesville Close on Friday evening.
"Anyone with information should contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight or call 101 anytime quoting log 3882 of 15/5."
A spokeswoman for West Midlands Fire Service added: "We were called to reports of a car fire at Barnesville Close, Small Heath at around 8.10pm.
"There was a car alight that we put out. Any other details would be with police."


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Stolen car hit 130 during dramatic 50-mile getaway bid

A stolen car had to be stung by police after a driver hit 130mph during a 50-mile getaway bid .
@ @ @ @ @ from West Mercia , Dyfed Powys and West Midlands – were forced to use the @ @ @ @ @ end to the chase on Saturday , May 16 .
The driver was arrested for @ @ @ @ @ initially failing to stop , a spokesman for Central Motorway Police Group said .
Pictures @ @ @ @ @ the grey Mercedes-Benz B-Class on the hard shoulder of a motorway with three flat tyres @ @ @ @ @ force added : `` This stolen vehicle failed to stop for our colleagues from Uned @ @ @ @ @ Policing Unit and Operational Patrol Unit Shropshire .
`` It was reaching speeds of 130mph @ @ @ @ @ miles onto Central Motorway Police Group area .
`` With the help of Traffic West @ @ @ @ @ vehicle .
The driver was arrested for a number of offences .
# teamwork ''

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A stolen car had to be stung by police after a driver hit 130mph during a 50-mile getaway bid.
Traffic units – who were from West Mercia, Dyfed Powys and West Midlands – were forced to use the spike strip to bring an end to the chase on Saturday, May 16.
The driver was arrested for a variety of offences after initially failing to stop, a spokesman for Central Motorway Police Group said.
Pictures taken from the scene showed the grey Mercedes-Benz B-Class on the hard shoulder of a motorway with three flat tyres.
A spokesman for the force added: "This stolen vehicle failed to stop for our colleagues from Uned Plismona'r Ffyrdd Roads Policing Unit and Operational Patrol Unit Shropshire.
"It was reaching speeds of 130mph and had travelled over 50 miles onto Central Motorway Police Group area.
"With the help of Traffic West Midlands Police we stung the vehicle. The driver was arrested for a number of offences. #teamwork"


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Fresh doubt poured on Aston Villa's Premier League resumption

Premier League players will not be ready to restart the season for several weeks .
That ’ s according to Newcastle - and former Aston Villa - boss Steve Bruce who says the current plans are not viable .
In an interview with The Telegraph Bruce .
whose current side leads his former employers by six places and ten points , queried the provisional restart date of June 12 .
“ We need a good stretch of time here to get them ready , ” he said .
“ Certainly once we get into stage two , that is vitally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter .
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Google Play Store and App Store “ We need enough preparation to get these players into shape or they are just going to fall down like a pack of cards .
Most of the managers have the same concerns .
We would need at least six weeks .
“ I don ’ t see how we can play games until the back end of June.
” Bruce revealed that , as long all of his players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Newcastle will start group training on Tuesday .
“ Certainly , the measures being put in place , you ’ re probably more at risk going to the supermarket or putting petrol in your car .
“ We are in a fortunate position , we can get tested every three days .
We will be tested on Sunday , every player and every member of staff .
“ Once we get the results back , if everybody is OK , we are pencilled to start training again at 2pm on Tuesday afternoon .
@

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Premier League players will not be ready to restart the season for several weeks.
That’s according to Newcastle - and former Aston Villa - boss Steve Bruce who says the current plans are not viable.
In an interview with The Telegraph Bruce. whose current side leads his former employers by six places and ten points, queried the provisional restart date of June 12.
“We need a good stretch of time here to get them ready,” he said. “Certainly once we get into stage two, that is vitally important.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
“We need enough preparation to get these players into shape or they are just going to fall down like a pack of cards. Most of the managers have the same concerns. We would need at least six weeks.
“I don’t see how we can play games until the back end of June.”
Bruce revealed that, as long all of his players and staff return negative COVID-19 tests, Newcastle will start group training on Tuesday.
“Certainly, the measures being put in place, you’re probably more at risk going to the supermarket or putting petrol in your car.
“We are in a fortunate position, we can get tested every three days. We will be tested on Sunday, every player and every member of staff.
“Once we get the results back, if everybody is OK, we are pencilled to start training again at 2pm on Tuesday afternoon.”


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Car parks packed at Brum's favourite beaches

Car parks in beach resorts popular with Midland families were packed as the lockdown eased this weekend .
Bays at Dunster and Minehead in Somerset were full on Saturday , May 16 following the introduction of unlimited travel and exercise in England .
Brummie tourists had previously been urged to stay away from nearby Weston-Super-Mare , a hugely popular spot for families from the city , with reports that facilities including toilets would remain closed .
But SomersetLive reported that caravans and camper vans were visible in pictures taken in the car park leading to Dunster beach .
Several councils @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to drive to beaches and beauty spots amid fears that large crowds could congregate and increase the risk of spreading coronavirus .
There was no suggestion anyone who has travelled to beaches in Somerset broke any of lockdown rules .
Beaches were not the only popular spot where large numbers of visitors were seen on the first Saturday since the rules were relaxed , with car parks in the Mendip Hills also packed .
Elsewhere , police enforcing the continued stricter lockdown in Wales turned away visitors from Redditch as they tried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The three occupants stated they were going to the beach , there was also camping equipment within the vehicle , '' the force said .
`` All three reported for non-essential travel , vehicle turned around . ''
A black Nissan Navara was stopped at Llanteg , having travelled 200 miles from Wokingham in Berkshire .
`` The occupants were unable to account for their reasons for travel .
Vehicle turned around accordingly , both occupants reported . ''
Later , the traffic officers said they had made four arrests , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 26 people had been reported for non-essential travel .
Officers had turned away vehicles travelling to Pembrokeshire from as far as Redditch , Wokingham , Bristol and Gwent .
South Wales Police arrested a motorist who was allegedly caught speeding at 140mph on the M4 at Bridgend and then provided a positive test for cannabis .
Where members of the public refuse to listen to advice , officers can issue penalty notices of £60 , which will rise to £120 if they have previously received a fixed penalty notice under the same regulations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fixed penalty notice could be taken to court , with magistrates able to impose further fines .
If an individual continues to refuse to comply , they will be acting unlawfully , and the police may arrest them .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Stephen D’Albiac, Daisy Naylor, Sanjeeta Bains)

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Car parks in beach resorts popular with Midland families were packed as the lockdown eased this weekend.
Bays at Dunster and Minehead in Somerset were full on Saturday, May 16 following the introduction of unlimited travel and exercise in England.
Brummie tourists had previously been urged to stay away from nearby Weston-Super-Mare, a hugely popular spot for families from the city, with reports that facilities including toilets would remain closed.
But SomersetLive reported that caravans and camper vans were visible in pictures taken in the car park leading to Dunster beach.
Several councils across the South West had urged people not to drive to beaches and beauty spots amid fears that large crowds could congregate and increase the risk of spreading coronavirus.
There was no suggestion anyone who has travelled to beaches in Somerset broke any of lockdown rules.
Beaches were not the only popular spot where large numbers of visitors were seen on the first Saturday since the rules were relaxed, with car parks in the Mendip Hills also packed.
Elsewhere, police enforcing the continued stricter lockdown in Wales turned away visitors from Redditch as they tried to cross the border and reach Pembrokeshire.
Dyfed-Powys traffic officers aso stopped a rented white Transit van from Bristol.
"The three occupants stated they were going to the beach, there was also camping equipment within the vehicle," the force said.
"All three reported for non-essential travel, vehicle turned around."
A black Nissan Navara was stopped at Llanteg, having travelled 200 miles from Wokingham in Berkshire.
"The occupants were unable to account for their reasons for travel. Vehicle turned around accordingly, both occupants reported."
Later, the traffic officers said they had made four arrests, had submitted 12 traffic offence reports and 26 people had been reported for non-essential travel.
Officers had turned away vehicles travelling to Pembrokeshire from as far as Redditch, Wokingham, Bristol and Gwent.
South Wales Police arrested a motorist who was allegedly caught speeding at 140mph on the M4 at Bridgend and then provided a positive test for cannabis.
Where members of the public refuse to listen to advice, officers can issue penalty notices of £60, which will rise to £120 if they have previously received a fixed penalty notice under the same regulations.
Individuals who do not pay a fixed penalty notice could be taken to court, with magistrates able to impose further fines.
If an individual continues to refuse to comply, they will be acting unlawfully, and the police may arrest them.


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Man United fans are livid after 'outrageous' Grealish transfer claim

Manchester United fans are stunned at the suggestion that Jack Grealish could cost them £80million - even if Aston Villa are relegated at the end of the season .
United have been extensively linked with the Villa skipper , who has been the leading light in his boyhood team ’ s first season back in the top-flight .
His performances have earned plaudits aplenty and are believed to have impressed United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer , placing him at the top of his transfer wishlist .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Google Play Store and App Store With Villa firmly entrenched in the bottom three , it had been suggested that United could look to land Grealish for a cut-price fee , if they drop back into the Championship at the end of the season .
However , according to the Mirror , due to Villa ’ s strong financial position , they will be in no hurry to sell and will still ask for around £80m for the England hopeful .
According to the report , the Red Devils have started their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a move that would be close to their club-record fee should it happen .
It is claimed that even if Villa are relegated , owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens ’ substantial wealth , means the club will not be forced into selling their most prized asset at a bargain fee .
With United chief Ed Woodward warning it will not be business as usual this summer , United fans think it could be too much to bring Grealish to Manchester when the window reopens .
@ Devilzsusan : Honestly , 40 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
!
@ ZiqubuAsanda : But anyway we know glazers they 're not going to pay dat kind of money @ sirdivockda1st : and I thought jack will be a cheaper alternative to madders @ Brandon40865885 : I dont think 80m is a fair price at all .
If we could do the brilliant work getting Bruno for an initial fee of less than 50m then i dont see why we should pay 80m for Jack .
I am pro Grealish and i want to see him at united but i would stick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UnitedIink : They ’ ll be lucky to get £50m @ RocBoiJ : Lol 80m I would much rather raid the championship for Eze or spring 4 another unknown player ( secretly I would want Gomes to be backup to Bruno ) @ DeadlyJuan : Rather get Maddison for that much @ nickeddewiked : Imagine signing Bruno for 46m and then being told 80m for Grealish lmao not worth that at all @ _Robin_Wright : No one is paying £80m for Grealish

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Manchester United fans are stunned at the suggestion that Jack Grealish could cost them £80million - even if Aston Villa are relegated at the end of the season.
United have been extensively linked with the Villa skipper, who has been the leading light in his boyhood team’s first season back in the top-flight.
His performances have earned plaudits aplenty and are believed to have impressed United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, placing him at the top of his transfer wishlist.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
With Villa firmly entrenched in the bottom three, it had been suggested that United could look to land Grealish for a cut-price fee, if they drop back into the Championship at the end of the season.
However, according to the Mirror, due to Villa’s strong financial position, they will be in no hurry to sell and will still ask for around £80m for the England hopeful.
According to the report, the Red Devils have started their background checks on the 24-year-old, ahead of a move that would be close to their club-record fee should it happen.
(Image: Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
It is claimed that even if Villa are relegated, owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens’ substantial wealth, means the club will not be forced into selling their most prized asset at a bargain fee.
With United chief Ed Woodward warning it will not be business as usual this summer, United fans think it could be too much to bring Grealish to Manchester when the window reopens.
@Devilzsusan: Honestly, 40 mil£ is max for this guy!!!
@ZiqubuAsanda: But anyway we know glazers they're not going to pay dat kind of money
@sirdivockda1st: and I thought jack will be a cheaper alternative to madders
@Brandon40865885: I dont think 80m is a fair price at all. If we could do the brilliant work getting Bruno for an initial fee of less than 50m then i dont see why we should pay 80m for Jack. I am pro Grealish and i want to see him at united but i would stick around the 50m to 60m mark.
@UnitedIink: They’ll be lucky to get £50m
@DanielMorris991: He’s good but not worth £80 million. He’s £45-£55 million max
@RocBoiJ: Lol 80m I would much rather raid the championship for Eze or spring 4 another unknown player (secretly I would want Gomes to be backup to Bruno)
@DeadlyJuan: Rather get Maddison for that much
@nickeddewiked: Imagine signing Bruno for 46m and then being told 80m for Grealish lmao not worth that at all
@JamesMoscrop97: Outrageous pay 40 mil max
@_Robin_Wright: No one is paying £80m for Grealish


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Martin Lewis's latest HMRC advice to self-employed workers

Money saving expert Martin Lewis has been on our screens more than ever during the coronavirus pandemic .
The financial journalist 's advice has been invaluable .
In Thursday night 's edition of The Martin Lewis Money Show , filmed from his London home , he interviewed Jim Harra , Chief Executive at HMRC .
The Daily Record reported that Martin asked for clarity on a number of key issues for the self-employed as well as latest furlough extension guidelines .
Those working for themselves can now claim from The UK Government ’ s Self-Employment Income Support Scheme but there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked Mr Harra for his thoughts on one viewer 's predicament .
Martin read out a question from viewer Theresa : “ My partner checked eligibility and the first screen said eligible .
“ The second screen then said not eligible .
He clicked to request a review and it said this would be looked at at the end of May .
Will this stop my application , having requested a review ?
” Mr Harra responded : “ When we opened the eligibility checker last week , we still had some last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that does mean a small number of people may have got a change in that decision .
“ People should fill in the review form and we will double check and get back to them before the end of this month to confirm whether they are eligible or not.
” He added : “ Everyone who is eligible should have heard from us by now , as we have been texting , emailing and writing to people .
“ But if you haven ’ t heard from us , and you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online and use the eligibility checker .
“ If it says you are not eligible , but you can ’ t understand why , read the guidance , and if you still can ’ t understand , get in touch with us and we will double check your case .
If you are ineligible , then we will explain why .
“ So far , we have checked thousands and thousands , and we have only found one anomaly.
” The Self-Employment Income Support Scheme will allow you to claim a taxable grant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monthly trading profits , paid out in a single instalment covering three months , and capped at £7,500 altogether .
If you receive the grant you can continue to work , start a new trade or take on other employment including voluntary work , or duties as an armed forces reservist .
The grant does not need to be repaid but will be subject to Income Tax and self-employed National Insurance .
There is other support available if you ’ re not eligible for the grant .
HMRC will work out if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you may get .
HMRC has issued claimants using the scheme with a specific date to apply for the grant - between May 13 and 18 .
Anyone who misses their date can still apply for support by using the HMRC eligibility tool checker here .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Linda Howard, Sanjeeta Bains)

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Money saving expert Martin Lewis has been on our screens more than ever during the coronavirus pandemic.
The financial journalist's advice has been invaluable.
In Thursday night's edition of The Martin Lewis Money Show, filmed from his London home, he interviewed Jim Harra, Chief Executive at HMRC. Watch the interview above for the latest information for self employed workers.
The Daily Record reported that Martin asked for clarity on a number of key issues for the self-employed as well as latest furlough extension guidelines.
Those working for themselves can now claim from The UK Government’s Self-Employment Income Support Scheme but there have been several reported problems.
(Image: ITV)
Martin asked Mr Harra for his thoughts on one viewer's predicament.
Martin read out a question from viewer Theresa: “My partner checked eligibility and the first screen said eligible.
“The second screen then said not eligible. He clicked to request a review and it said this would be looked at at the end of May. Will this stop my application, having requested a review?”
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Mr Harra responded: “When we opened the eligibility checker last week, we still had some last bits of data to load up, and that does mean a small number of people may have got a change in that decision.
“People should fill in the review form and we will double check and get back to them before the end of this month to confirm whether they are eligible or not.”
He added: “Everyone who is eligible should have heard from us by now, as we have been texting, emailing and writing to people.
“But if you haven’t heard from us, and you do believe you may be eligible, go online and use the eligibility checker.
“If it says you are not eligible, but you can’t understand why, read the guidance, and if you still can’t understand, get in touch with us and we will double check your case. If you are ineligible, then we will explain why.
“So far, we have checked thousands and thousands, and we have only found one anomaly.”
What is Self-Employment Income Support Scheme?
The Self-Employment Income Support Scheme will allow you to claim a taxable grant of 80 per cent of your average monthly trading profits, paid out in a single instalment covering three months, and capped at £7,500 altogether.
If you receive the grant you can continue to work, start a new trade or take on other employment including voluntary work, or duties as an armed forces reservist.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
The grant does not need to be repaid but will be subject to Income Tax and self-employed National Insurance.
There is other support available if you’re not eligible for the grant.
HMRC will work out if you’re eligible and how much grant you may get.
HMRC has issued claimants using the scheme with a specific date to apply for the grant - between May 13 and 18.
Anyone who misses their date can still apply for support by using the HMRC eligibility tool checker here.


birminghammail--2020-05-17--When will caravan sites and holiday parks reopen in the UK?

Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirmed earlier this week that we are unlikely to go on foreign summer holidays this year .
Countries such as Spain have effectively closed their borders to Brit holidaymakers for the time being .
But what about a holiday closer to home ?
The lockdown restrictions have relaxed to the extent that you can drive to beauty spots in England and spend unlimited time outdoors .
But the changes do n't apply to the rest of the United Kingdom - so holidaying in Wales is currently not permitted .
MirrorOnline has investigated the reopening dates for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Be warned as the Covid-19 pandemic is a ever changing situation , this information may be quickly updated .
Please check details with the holiday company .
Caravan Club is hoping to introduce a phased reopening of its UK sites in July .
Haven parks are closed until 2 July .
If you are booked before then , Haven will contact you to offer either a full refund , or credit towards a holiday later this year or next year .
If you choose to postpone your holiday and accept credit , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beverage voucher to spend on site .
Center Parcs is closed until 11 June 2020 .
If you were booked to visit before then , you can reschedule your trip ( with a £100 discount ) or accept a full refund .
Butlins has closed all resorts until 2 July 2020 .
You can transfer your holiday to another date in 2020 or 2021 , and receive a £50 resort voucher .
You can request credit for when you are able to book your holiday .
But if people are not sure when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or they can request a refund .
The Camping and Caravanning Club has closed all its sites until further notice .
Customers with a holiday booked in May are being contacted , and offered either a full refund or the opportunity to move their booking to later in the year .
Any new booking made at the moment is fully flexible , so you will be able to change date or location at any time , without being charged .
Hoeseasons is not accepting bookings for holidays arriving on or before 30 June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then , you can move your holiday to 2021 , or you will be offered a refund .
Away Resorts has temporarily closed all sites .
They are accepting new bookings for 3 July onwards .
Customers with holidays before then are being contacted , and offered a refund or a date change .
Lyons Holiday Parks has cancelled all holidays up to 28 May 2020 .
They can be deferred to a later date , or you can get a full refund .
It is currently offering its 2021 holidays at 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sites until 31 May 2020 .
Holidaymakers booked to travel before this date will be offered a full refund , or a voucher to the value of 120 per cent of their original holiday .
John Fowler Holidays has closed all parks until 28 May 2020 .
You can reschedule your holiday or get a full refund if you are booked before then .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Daisy Naylor, Sanjeeta Bains)

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Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirmed earlier this week that we are unlikely to go on foreign summer holidays this year.
Countries such as Spain have effectively closed their borders to Brit holidaymakers for the time being.
But what about a holiday closer to home? The lockdown restrictions have relaxed to the extent that you can drive to beauty spots in England and spend unlimited time outdoors.
But the changes don't apply to the rest of the United Kingdom - so holidaying in Wales is currently not permitted.
MirrorOnline has investigated the reopening dates for various holiday parks and caravan sites.
Be warned as the Covid-19 pandemic is a ever changing situation, this information may be quickly updated. Please check details with the holiday company.
Caravan Club is hoping to introduce a phased reopening of its UK sites in July.
Haven parks are closed until 2 July. If you are booked before then, Haven will contact you to offer either a full refund, or credit towards a holiday later this year or next year.
If you choose to postpone your holiday and accept credit, you will also get a £50 food and beverage voucher to spend on site.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
Center Parcs is closed until 11 June 2020. If you were booked to visit before then, you can reschedule your trip (with a £100 discount) or accept a full refund.
Butlins has closed all resorts until 2 July 2020. You can transfer your holiday to another date in 2020 or 2021, and receive a £50 resort voucher.
(Image: LincsLive)
You can request credit for when you are able to book your holiday. But if people are not sure when they will be able to travel, or they can request a refund.
The Camping and Caravanning Club has closed all its sites until further notice. Customers with a holiday booked in May are being contacted, and offered either a full refund or the opportunity to move their booking to later in the year.
Any new booking made at the moment is fully flexible, so you will be able to change date or location at any time, without being charged.
Hoeseasons is not accepting bookings for holidays arriving on or before 30 June 2020.
If you are booked before then, you can move your holiday to 2021, or you will be offered a refund.
Want free family lockdown tips? How's the lockdown going for your family? For daily survival tips sign up to our new newsletter Lemon-Aid here.
From toddlers prone to temper tantrums, to teenagers struggling to adapt to the abrupt closure of schools and separation from their friends - we’ve got it covered.
Away Resorts has temporarily closed all sites. They are accepting new bookings for 3 July onwards. Customers with holidays before then are being contacted, and offered a refund or a date change.
Lyons Holiday Parks has cancelled all holidays up to 28 May 2020. They can be deferred to a later date, or you can get a full refund.
It is currently offering its 2021 holidays at 2020 prices.
Parkdean Resorts has closed all sites until 31 May 2020. Holidaymakers booked to travel before this date will be offered a full refund, or a voucher to the value of 120 per cent of their original holiday.
John Fowler Holidays has closed all parks until 28 May 2020. You can reschedule your holiday or get a full refund if you are booked before then.


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Star's joy at reunion with friend for first time since 'wheels fell off'

This Morning star Philip Schofield told of his relief as he was reunited with a pal for the first time since before the lockdown .
Sharing an image of a ramble in glorious countryside , the celebrity said Simon Schofield - no relation - was the last friend he saw `` before the wheels fell off '' .
But , replying to fans on Instagram , the 58-year-old stressed Simon was not his new partner after he announced he was gay earlier this year .
He captioned the picture : `` First socially distanced walk with a mate !
Thank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a drink with before the wheels fell off , first I ’ ve seen as we try to reattach them !
`` Several of Phil 's 3.1 million followers were quick to ask Phil whether his walking companion was a new love interest - but they were shut down by the star .
The star replied : `` Yes !
A mate !
That 's what they still call family friends who you 've known for 20 years and come round to check if you 're OK. '' Simon is a 36-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ achieved a taste of musical fame as a child - making his West End debut playing the title role in Oliver !
Phil announced he was gay in an Instagram statement , in February and later on This Morning .
He praised his wife Stephanie Lowe and daughters Molly , 27 and 24-year-old Ruby for their support .
At the time Stephanie , who first met Phillip as a production assistant at the BBC in the early nineties , said : `` We have had to face the most emotionally painful time in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Phil and Steph have remained good friends since their separation and the family have been spending time together over lockdown .
Earlier this week on This Morning , the TV star embarrassed stylist Gok Wan who appeared on a cooking segment - after revealing to viewers Gok had a dream about him .
Gok was visibly mortified but explained the dream involved Phil being surrounded by mushrooms .
Holly replied : “ Gok , your reaction made it look like it was much worse ! ''

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This Morning star Philip Schofield told of his relief as he was reunited with a pal for the first time since before the lockdown.
Sharing an image of a ramble in glorious countryside, the celebrity said Simon Schofield - no relation - was the last friend he saw "before the wheels fell off".
But, replying to fans on Instagram, the 58-year-old stressed Simon was not his new partner after he announced he was gay earlier this year.
He captioned the picture: "First socially distanced walk with a mate! Thank you @sischofe .. last person I had a drink with before the wheels fell off, first I’ve seen as we try to reattach them! "
Several of Phil's 3.1 million followers were quick to ask Phil whether his walking companion was a new love interest - but they were shut down by the star.
The star replied: "Yes! A mate! That's what they still call family friends who you've known for 20 years and come round to check if you're OK."
Simon is a 36-year-old producer, actor and singer. He achieved a taste of musical fame as a child - making his West End debut playing the title role in Oliver!
Phil announced he was gay in an Instagram statement, in February and later on This Morning.
He praised his wife Stephanie Lowe and daughters Molly, 27 and 24-year-old Ruby for their support.
At the time Stephanie, who first met Phillip as a production assistant at the BBC in the early nineties, said: "We have had to face the most emotionally painful time in our 27 years of marriage."
Phil and Steph have remained good friends since their separation and the family have been spending time together over lockdown.
Earlier this week on This Morning, the TV star embarrassed stylist Gok Wan who appeared on a cooking segment - after revealing to viewers Gok had a dream about him.
Gok was visibly mortified but explained the dream involved Phil being surrounded by mushrooms.
Holly replied: “Gok, your reaction made it look like it was much worse!"
Gok cheekily added: “I haven’t told Phillip the whole dream …”


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Police stop suspected kerb crawler - driving his mum's car

A suspected kerb crawler was stopped by police - driving his mum 's car without insurance .
Officers suggested the man 's mother would `` not be happy in the morning '' after the motorist was stopped on Handsworth 's Soho Road on Saturday night , May 16 .
The West Midlands Police Force Response team sent out a tweet and pictures of the car which was stopped .
Police said officers from Newtown stopped the car and discovered the driver was using his mother 's Peugeot to kerb crawl and look for prostitutes .
It was unclear if the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will certainly have to have a very awkward conversation with his mother .
They tweeted : `` CTeam # Newtown Response Driver thought it was a good idea to drive up and down Soho Road looking for ladies of night in his moms car having no insurance she will not be happy in the morning . ''
In February , BirminghamLive revealed how new super-cameras were to be used on crime-plagued Soho Road .
Two of them were to be installed on Soho Road in the fight against crime , including kerb crawlers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movement and track whoever is moving , giving police better information , helping them spot more crimes and zoom in on the offenders .
Funding for the two-year project came from Project Guardian , the police campaign to steer youngsters away from knife crime .
There have been many reports of crime on Soho Road including prostitution , street-drinking , aggressive begging , drugs , violent robberies and rapes .

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A suspected kerb crawler was stopped by police - driving his mum's car without insurance.
Officers suggested the man's mother would "not be happy in the morning" after the motorist was stopped on Handsworth's Soho Road on Saturday night, May 16.
The West Midlands Police Force Response team sent out a tweet and pictures of the car which was stopped.
Police said officers from Newtown stopped the car and discovered the driver was using his mother's Peugeot to kerb crawl and look for prostitutes.
It was unclear if the car was seized. But the driver will certainly have to have a very awkward conversation with his mother.
(Image: WMP)
They tweeted: "CTeam #Newtown Response Driver thought it was a good idea to drive up and down Soho Road looking for ladies of night in his moms car having no insurance she will not be happy in the morning ."
In February, BirminghamLive revealed how new super-cameras were to be used on crime-plagued Soho Road.
Two of them were to be installed on Soho Road in the fight against crime, including kerb crawlers.
(Image: Birmingham Mail)
The new generation cameras react to movement and track whoever is moving, giving police better information, helping them spot more crimes and zoom in on the offenders.
Funding for the two-year project came from Project Guardian, the police campaign to steer youngsters away from knife crime.
There have been many reports of crime on Soho Road including prostitution, street-drinking, aggressive begging, drugs, violent robberies and rapes.


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Police shut down 70-person rave with DJ in park

Seventy revellers defied the lockdown to pack a park for an illegal rave with a DJ .
The bash was shut down by police at Granville Park , Muxton , Telford , on Saturday , May 16 .
The partygoers were all spoken to and sent home , a spokesman for West Merica Police said .
`` We are attending a mass gathering/rave at the Granville park , '' Telford Cops posted on Twitter .
`` I 'm told 70 people here !
We have worked so hard and sacrificed so much and this group decide it does n't apply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would care so little .
# hangYourHeadsInShame .
`` I asked one of them why they came to this event . '
I 'm sick of self-isolation ' .
`` They had a DJ set up and appears to be pre-planned .
We dispersed them for now . ''
Officers took to social media to shame the ravers , who could be seen packing up .
Under government guidance , released on Monday , people are encourage to stay at home apart from when buying essential items , commuting or exercising .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many times as you like and to sit and rest outside with one person who is not from your household , so long as you remain two metres apart .
Anyone caught breaking the law can be fined £100 for a first offence up to a maximum of £3,200 for repeat offenders .

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Seventy revellers defied the lockdown to pack a park for an illegal rave with a DJ.
The bash was shut down by police at Granville Park, Muxton, Telford, on Saturday, May 16.
The partygoers were all spoken to and sent home, a spokesman for West Merica Police said.
"We are attending a mass gathering/rave at the Granville park," Telford Cops posted on Twitter.
"I'm told 70 people here! We have worked so hard and sacrificed so much and this group decide it doesn't apply.
"I'm shocked that people would care so little. #hangYourHeadsInShame.
"I asked one of them why they came to this event. 'I'm sick of self-isolation'.
"They had a DJ set up and appears to be pre-planned. We dispersed them for now."
Officers took to social media to shame the ravers, who could be seen packing up.
Under government guidance, released on Monday, people are encourage to stay at home apart from when buying essential items, commuting or exercising.
You can, however, exercise outside as many times as you like and to sit and rest outside with one person who is not from your household, so long as you remain two metres apart.
Anyone caught breaking the law can be fined £100 for a first offence up to a maximum of £3,200 for repeat offenders.


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Villa stand above Liverpool and Man United in Premier League rich list

Aston Villa 's owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens have been ranked as the fifth wealthiest Premier League owners , in the Sunday Times rich list .
Sawiris and Edens have helped to turn Villa back into a Premier League team , since they bought the club off controversial former owner Tony Xia .
The pair helped steer Villa away from impending financial disaster in 2018 , before bankrolling a summer spending spree of almost £150m last summer .
There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Aston Villa news with our daily newsletter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Villa news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter .
We also have a free app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Sunday Times claim that the minimum wealth of the 1,000 richest people had dropped by 3.7 % , as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc in the financial world .
According to Forbes ' most recent figures , Sawiris is worth around $ 5.5bn , a drop of $ 900m from the previous year .
Edens meanwhile is said to be worth $ 1bn , with the two committed to transforming Villa back into top-four contenders .
Their combined wealth of £5bn sees them sit behind only , Man City , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the table .
Based on the list , they are comfortably ahead of the ownership groups at 'big-six ' clubs , Tottenham , Manchester United and Liverpool - with the Anfield owners valued at £2.1bn .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Ben Husband, Elliott Jackson)

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birminghammail--2020-05-17--Wolves topple Aston Villa to become region’s wealthiest club

Fosun International have been ranked as the fourth wealthiest football club owners in England – with Wolves at the top of the Midlands .
The investment company , fronted by Guo Guangchang , bought the club in 2016 and have continued to pump funds into both the playing squad and infrastructure behind the scenes , as Wolves have gone from Championship also-rans , to Champions League contenders .
According to the Sunday Times Rich List , Fosun chairman Gunagchang sits behind only the owners of Manchester City ( £23.3bn ) , Chelsea ( £10.16bn ) and Arsenal ( £6.8bn ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There 's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter .
Delivered straight into your email inbox each day , the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news , views , gossip and opinion .
All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - it looks just like this ... And what 's more , it 's absolutely free !
You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ app which you can download .
It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region .
Google Play Store and App Store In addition to running a successful football club , Fosun are also leaders in a variety of other fields and hold shares in leading pharmaceutical companies .
Based on Forbes ’ financial figures , Guangchang has seen his personal wealth sky rocket $ 1.3bn in recent months .
Fosun has pledged to help in the search for a vaccine to the coronavirus and are also creating Personal Protective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distributed across the globe , and that could explain why Guangchang 's net worth has risen so sharply .
Wolves were recently rated as the seventh most valuable Premier League club by football finance expert Kieran Maguire .
Maguire estimates the club is worth £458million - 10 times what Fosun paid Steve Morgan to purchase it four years ago - and only trail the 'big six ' in the standings .
Wolves made a pre-tax profit of almost £20million for the financial year ending in May 2019 and their turnover was £172.5million - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .
Midlands rivals Aston Villa ( £5bn ) and Leicester City ( £4.6bn ) , sit directly behind Fosun in the list published over the weekend , with the owners of 'big-six ' clubs , Liverpool ( £2.1bn ) , Manchester United ( £3.8bn ) and Tottenham ( £3.9bn ) all trailing them .

newsdesk@birminghamlive.co.uk (Alex Dicken, Ben Husband)

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Fosun International have been ranked as the fourth wealthiest football club owners in England – with Wolves at the top of the Midlands.
The investment company, fronted by Guo Guangchang, bought the club in 2016 and have continued to pump funds into both the playing squad and infrastructure behind the scenes, as Wolves have gone from Championship also-rans, to Champions League contenders.
According to the Sunday Times Rich List, Fosun chairman Gunagchang sits behind only the owners of Manchester City (£23.3bn), Chelsea (£10.16bn) and Arsenal (£6.8bn) - with a value of £5.2bn.
Wolves daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox There's a quick and easy way to stay on top of all the Wolverhampton Wanderers news with our daily newsletter. Delivered straight into your email inbox each day, the bulletins will feature the latest Wolves news, views, gossip and opinion. All you have to do is punch your email in at the top of the article - or sign up here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
In addition to running a successful football club, Fosun are also leaders in a variety of other fields and hold shares in leading pharmaceutical companies.
Based on Forbes’ financial figures, Guangchang has seen his personal wealth sky rocket $1.3bn in recent months.
Fosun has pledged to help in the search for a vaccine to the coronavirus and are also creating Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which is being distributed across the globe, and that could explain why Guangchang's net worth has risen so sharply.
Wolves were recently rated as the seventh most valuable Premier League club by football finance expert Kieran Maguire.
Maguire estimates the club is worth £458million - 10 times what Fosun paid Steve Morgan to purchase it four years ago - and only trail the 'big six' in the standings.
Wolves made a pre-tax profit of almost £20million for the financial year ending in May 2019 and their turnover was £172.5million - a mind-blowing £146million increase on the previous year.
Midlands rivals Aston Villa (£5bn) and Leicester City (£4.6bn), sit directly behind Fosun in the list published over the weekend, with the owners of 'big-six' clubs, Liverpool (£2.1bn), Manchester United (£3.8bn) and Tottenham (£3.9bn) all trailing them.


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Director sends Wolves warning about race for Man City transfer target

Angers sporting director Sebastien Larcier has warned that 'the cards have been shuffled ' in their quest to hold onto highly-rated defender Rayan Ait-Nouri .
The 18-year-old is believed to be one of the most highly-sought after players in Europe , after a string of impressive performances for the French side .
That form has led to Premier League interest , with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester City both linked with a potential move .
According to reports , Man City have opened talks with Ait-Nouri , who would look to bring him to the Etihad- via a loan spell in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the ongoing coronavirus pandemic means they have an advantage , despite the looming interest from Wolves and City .
`` It is the first time that the football world has experienced a situation like this '' , he told Ouest France ( via GFFN ) .
`` It is difficult to predict the reactions of the big clubs , those who were likely to put down large sums on transfers .
`` Before Covid-19 , I would have said it would be difficult to keep him .
With this new challenge , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
In January , there were claims that an unnamed Premier League club made a €30m offer to Angers , although no move materialised .

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Angers sporting director Sebastien Larcier has warned that 'the cards have been shuffled' in their quest to hold onto highly-rated defender Rayan Ait-Nouri.
The 18-year-old is believed to be one of the most highly-sought after players in Europe, after a string of impressive performances for the French side.
That form has led to Premier League interest, with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester City both linked with a potential move.
According to reports, Man City have opened talks with Ait-Nouri, who would look to bring him to the Etihad- via a loan spell in La Liga.
But Larcier has warned that the ongoing coronavirus pandemic means they have an advantage, despite the looming interest from Wolves and City.
"It is the first time that the football world has experienced a situation like this", he told Ouest France (via GFFN).
"It is difficult to predict the reactions of the big clubs, those who were likely to put down large sums on transfers.
"Before Covid-19, I would have said it would be difficult to keep him. With this new challenge, I think the cards have been shuffled."
In January, there were claims that an unnamed Premier League club made a €30m offer to Angers, although no move materialised.


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Tammy Abraham backs up Dean Smith concern amid 'Project Restart' talks

Chelsea star Tammy Abraham has become the latest Premier League player to voice his concerns over training and games resuming , amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Elite football in the UK has been suspended since mid-March , with the threat of the campaign being curtailed indefinitely , still looming large .
Further talks are planned on Monday , where Premier League bosses hope to convince stakeholders about the viability of football returning next month .
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Google Play Store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the door for sport , behind-closed-doors , to resume next month , if the current trajectory of the virus continues .
But , in recent days , a number of players and managers have discussed their reservations about games starting again , with a potential for players to refuse playing .
Watford skipper Troy Deeney has hinted he would sit out games , unless they were proved to be completely safe - while his manager , Nigel Pearson warned of a potential COVID-19 related death .
And now Abraham , who spent last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has revealed that catching the virus would be 'the worst thing ' for him , with his father at home suffering from asthma .
“ Everyone can see what 's going on in the world , ” Abraham told the Daily Mail .
“ Everyone wants to come back to football .
I love football .
It was my first full season at Chelsea , I was having a great season and I would love it to continue .
“ The most important thing for me is for everyone to be well and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opening up .
Then by all means football can always come back .
If it 's safe to do so let 's do it , but if it 's not then we will wait .
“ My dad has asthma , so if I was to return to the Premier League and , God forbid , I do catch this disease and bring it home it 's the worst thing possible .
“ The last thing I need is to catch the virus myself or be in contact with anyone with the virus.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ mentioned by his former manager Dean Smith , who admitted that a few members of his squad would be reluctant to return due to underlying health conditions either for themselves , or family members .
Smith told Sky Sports : `` Everyone wants to get back into training but they want to see what the medical protocol is first .
`` There 's a certain risk attached to returning to training for all players and I think they want to make sure we tick the boxes for them so it 's safe to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a couple of players , we 've got a player who 's asthmatic , a player who 's mother-in-law is in remission who 's living with the family so you 've got to be very careful and that 's certainly been the transmission because this illness knows no boundaries . ''
The PFA also want assurances that if players do opt out and refuse to train that it will not be held against them as chief executive Gordon Taylor admitted asthma sufferers and BAME players may have particular concerns .
Taylor said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to be more vulnerable than others according to particular conditions which is another part of the equation .
“ I think it ’ s a time when everybody is entitled to make their own decisions so long as we put in place the very best people to answer any questions or misgivings they have and that ’ s what we are trying to do .
”

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Chelsea star Tammy Abraham has become the latest Premier League player to voice his concerns over training and games resuming, amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Elite football in the UK has been suspended since mid-March, with the threat of the campaign being curtailed indefinitely, still looming large.
Further talks are planned on Monday, where Premier League bosses hope to convince stakeholders about the viability of football returning next month.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
The UK Government opened the door for sport, behind-closed-doors, to resume next month, if the current trajectory of the virus continues.
But, in recent days, a number of players and managers have discussed their reservations about games starting again, with a potential for players to refuse playing.
Watford skipper Troy Deeney has hinted he would sit out games, unless they were proved to be completely safe - while his manager, Nigel Pearson warned of a potential COVID-19 related death.
And now Abraham, who spent last season on loan with Aston Villa, has revealed that catching the virus would be 'the worst thing' for him, with his father at home suffering from asthma.
(Image: Getty Images)
“Everyone can see what's going on in the world,” Abraham told the Daily Mail. “Everyone wants to come back to football. I love football. It was my first full season at Chelsea, I was having a great season and I would love it to continue.
“The most important thing for me is for everyone to be well and safe, and for things to start opening up. Then by all means football can always come back. If it's safe to do so let's do it, but if it's not then we will wait.
“My dad has asthma, so if I was to return to the Premier League and, God forbid, I do catch this disease and bring it home it's the worst thing possible.
“The last thing I need is to catch the virus myself or be in contact with anyone with the virus.”
They are fears that have been mentioned by his former manager Dean Smith, who admitted that a few members of his squad would be reluctant to return due to underlying health conditions either for themselves, or family members.
Smith told Sky Sports : "Everyone wants to get back into training but they want to see what the medical protocol is first.
"There's a certain risk attached to returning to training for all players and I think they want to make sure we tick the boxes for them so it's safe to do so.
"We've got a couple of players, we've got a player who's asthmatic, a player who's mother-in-law is in remission who's living with the family so you've got to be very careful and that's certainly been the transmission because this illness knows no boundaries."
The PFA also want assurances that if players do opt out and refuse to train that it will not be held against them as chief executive Gordon Taylor admitted asthma sufferers and BAME players may have particular concerns.
Taylor said: “There are certain players who are going to be more vulnerable than others according to particular conditions which is another part of the equation.
“I think it’s a time when everybody is entitled to make their own decisions so long as we put in place the very best people to answer any questions or misgivings they have and that’s what we are trying to do.”


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Leeds hero makes stunning promotion claim affecting West Brom

Former Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson has backed Norwich City 's demand for promotions and relegations to be cancelled , if the season is n't completed .
Leeds sit one point ahead of West Brom at the top of the Championship and with a healthy gap to Fulham in third , both are well set for a return to the Premier League .
The coronavirus suspension is now well into its second month , with the threat of the season being ended completely still looming large .
Earlier this week , the EFL took the unprecedented step of cancelling the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voted to resolve promotion on a weighted , points-per-game table .
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Google Play Store and App Store It 's a precedent that would see the Baggies and Leeds both promoted and although the EFL remain committed to completing the Championship , it has caused concerns from those at risk of the drop from the Premier League .
Norwich sporting director Stuart Webber told Sky Sports that if fixtures are n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to relegate and promote teams .
He said : “ What we could not accept is that we get relegated because they let us play , and then they automatically promote some teams who haven ’ t finished the season .
“ ( For ) anyone who has got promoted from the Championship it is a 46 or 49 game slog .
It ’ s a bit like saying the FA Cup finishes now , we ’ re in the quarter-finals , we beat a Championship top six team away , we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , does that mean we win the FA Cup , qualify for Europe and we all get a medal ?
” They are comments that have been met with widespread condemnation , with fans , players and board members hitting back .
But Robinson , who spent six years at Elland Road , has backed Webber 's plan and said West Brom and his former club should n't be promoted in the case that the campaign is curtailed prematurely .
Speaking to Sky Sports , Robinson said : “ Every club is going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every club has a different opinion .
“ If you ’ re a club like Leeds and West Brom , the financial implications are huge .
“ As much as it pains me , to listen to Stuart Webber , he ’ s talking a lot of sense .
Everyone wants to see football finished on the pitch rather than on a computer .
Both leagues have to be completed on the pitch .
He added : “ It ’ s only fair if one league starts then another league should start .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pitch and another on a computer , it ’ s very hard to argue for promotion and relegation as many owners have touched upon .
“ The decisions that are going to be made in the next couple of weeks are going to be huge .
Some clubs will be delighted , others won ’ t be .
”

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Former Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson has backed Norwich City's demand for promotions and relegations to be cancelled, if the season isn't completed.
Leeds sit one point ahead of West Brom at the top of the Championship and with a healthy gap to Fulham in third, both are well set for a return to the Premier League.
The coronavirus suspension is now well into its second month, with the threat of the season being ended completely still looming large.
Earlier this week, the EFL took the unprecedented step of cancelling the League Two season, after the teams voted to resolve promotion on a weighted, points-per-game table.
West Brom daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox Why should you sign up? We'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer gossip and comment pieces in our daily Baggies bulletin, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Just type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up by clicking here. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest West Brom updates by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download via Google Play Store or the App Store. It is always up-to-date with the latest news .
It's a precedent that would see the Baggies and Leeds both promoted and although the EFL remain committed to completing the Championship, it has caused concerns from those at risk of the drop from the Premier League.
Norwich sporting director Stuart Webber told Sky Sports that if fixtures aren't fulfilled, it wouldn't be fair to relegate and promote teams.
He said: “What we could not accept is that we get relegated because they let us play, and then they automatically promote some teams who haven’t finished the season.
“(For) anyone who has got promoted from the Championship it is a 46 or 49 game slog. It’s a bit like saying the FA Cup finishes now, we’re in the quarter-finals, we beat a Championship top six team away, we’ve beaten two Premier League teams away, does that mean we win the FA Cup, qualify for Europe and we all get a medal?”
They are comments that have been met with widespread condemnation, with fans, players and board members hitting back.
But Robinson, who spent six years at Elland Road, has backed Webber's plan and said West Brom and his former club shouldn't be promoted in the case that the campaign is curtailed prematurely.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Robinson said: “Every club is going to be in a different position and every club has a different opinion.
“If you’re a club like Leeds and West Brom, the financial implications are huge.
“As much as it pains me, to listen to Stuart Webber, he’s talking a lot of sense. Everyone wants to see football finished on the pitch rather than on a computer. Both leagues have to be completed on the pitch.
He added: “It’s only fair if one league starts then another league should start. If one league’s decided on the pitch and another on a computer, it’s very hard to argue for promotion and relegation as many owners have touched upon.
“The decisions that are going to be made in the next couple of weeks are going to be huge. Some clubs will be delighted, others won’t be.”


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Villa slap £80m price tag on Grealish - even if they are relegated

Aston Villa will reportedly demand upwards of £80m for Jack Grealish – even if they are relegated at the end of the season .
Manchester United have been extensively linked with the Villa skipper , who has been the leading light in his boyhood team ’ s first season back in the top-flight .
His performances have earned plaudits aplenty and are believed to have impressed United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer , placing him at the top of his transfer wishlist .
With Villa firmly entrenched in the bottom three , it had been suggested that United could look to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they drop back into the Championship at the end of the season .
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Google Play Store and App Store However , according to the Mirror , due to Villa ’ s strong financial position , they will be in no hurry to sell and will still ask for around £80m for the England hopeful .
According to the report , the Red Devils have started their background checks on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be close to their club-record fee should it happen .
It is claimed that even if Villa are relegated , owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens ’ substantial wealth , means the club will not be hard-balled into selling their most prized asset at a bargain fee .
United executive vice-chairman has already warned fans that the upcoming window will not be business as usual at Old Trafford , with the coronavirus pandemic affecting clubs ’ finances across the world .
During a supporters ’ meeting last month , Woodward warned that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ millions of pounds in the current climate .
He said : “ Nobody should be under any illusions about the scale of challenge facing everyone in football and it may not be ‘ business as usual ’ for any clubs , including ourselves , in the transfer market this summer .
“ As ever our priority is the success of team , but we need visibility of the impact across the whole industry , including timings of the transfer window , and the wider financial picture , before we can talk about a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basis , I can not help feeling that speculation around transfers of individual players for hundreds of millions of pounds this summer seems to ignore the realities that face the sport.
” “ As ever our priority is the success of team , but we need visibility of the impact across the whole industry , including timings of the transfer window , and the wider financial picture , before we can talk about a return to normality .
“ On this basis , I can not help feeling that speculation around transfers of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pounds this summer seems to ignore the realities that face the sport.
” Just last week , reports emerged that United could shelve their approach for Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho , with the club unable to justify paying £100m , mainly due to the public perception of spending such fees while the country comes to terms with the financial impact of the pandemic .

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Aston Villa will reportedly demand upwards of £80m for Jack Grealish – even if they are relegated at the end of the season.
Manchester United have been extensively linked with the Villa skipper, who has been the leading light in his boyhood team’s first season back in the top-flight.
His performances have earned plaudits aplenty and are believed to have impressed United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, placing him at the top of his transfer wishlist.
With Villa firmly entrenched in the bottom three, it had been suggested that United could look to land Grealish for a cut-price fee, if they drop back into the Championship at the end of the season.
Aston Villa daily newsletter. Free. To your inbox In our daily Aston Villa bulletin, we'll be bringing you the latest breaking news, transfer features and comment pieces, as well as the key talking points for fans. How do you sign up? It's easy and only takes seconds. Simply type your email address into the box at the top of this article and hit sign up. And that's it, you're all set. You can also sign up here. If you decide later that you no longer wish to receive the emails, simply follow the unsubscribe link in one of the newsletters - but we don't think you'll want to. And what's more, it's absolutely free! You can also get all the latest updates by following us on social media here Facebook and Twitter. We also have a free app which you can download. It is always up-to-date with the latest news from across the region. Google Play Store and App Store
However, according to the Mirror, due to Villa’s strong financial position, they will be in no hurry to sell and will still ask for around £80m for the England hopeful.
According to the report, the Red Devils have started their background checks on the 24-year-old, ahead of a move that would be close to their club-record fee should it happen.
It is claimed that even if Villa are relegated, owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens’ substantial wealth, means the club will not be hard-balled into selling their most prized asset at a bargain fee.
(Image: PA)
United executive vice-chairman has already warned fans that the upcoming window will not be business as usual at Old Trafford, with the coronavirus pandemic affecting clubs’ finances across the world.
During a supporters’ meeting last month, Woodward warned that they would not be splashing hundreds of millions of pounds in the current climate.
He said: “Nobody should be under any illusions about the scale of challenge facing everyone in football and it may not be ‘business as usual’ for any clubs, including ourselves, in the transfer market this summer.
“As ever our priority is the success of team, but we need visibility of the impact across the whole industry, including timings of the transfer window, and the wider financial picture, before we can talk about a return to normality.
“On this basis, I cannot help feeling that speculation around transfers of individual players for hundreds of millions of pounds this summer seems to ignore the realities that face the sport.”
Just last week, reports emerged that United could shelve their approach for Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho, with the club unable to justify paying £100m, mainly due to the public perception of spending such fees while the country comes to terms with the financial impact of the pandemic.


birminghammail--2020-05-17--Wolves handed huge James Rodriguez transfer boost - reports

Real Madrid could be forced to let James Rodriguez leave the Bernabeu for free this summer , according to reports .
The Colombian playmaker has been heavily linked with a transfer to Wolverhampton Wanderers over the past few months .
Rodriguez is a client of Jorge Mendes and the Gestifute boss has been tasked with finding him a route out of the Bernabeu in the next transfer window .
According to various reports , Wolves , Newcastle United and Everton - who are managed by former Madrid chief Carlo Ancelotti - are in the running to land Rodriguez .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal this summer or even for free according to a report in the Daily Mail .
La Liga chief Javier Tebas has ordered clubs to rein in spending following the coronavirus pandemic and Spain 's elite of Real Madrid , Barcelona and Atletico have been told to cut their wage bills by up to 30 per cent .
Rodriguez was set to leave Los Blancos anyway after limited game-time under Zinedine Zidane , but they now face making a huge loss on the 28-year-old .
Despite interest from the Premier League Rodriguez 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Onda Cero .
They claim the he loves life in the Spanish capital and wants to complete a transfer to Atletico .
Like Wolves , Atletico also has strong ties to Mendes - but the same report suggests they would have trouble matching his £7.1million salary .
A low-cost deal between the two Madrid clubs is n't likely to be feasible and the likelihood is that Real will want Rodriguez to move abroad .

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Real Madrid could be forced to let James Rodriguez leave the Bernabeu for free this summer, according to reports.
The Colombian playmaker has been heavily linked with a transfer to Wolverhampton Wanderers over the past few months. Rodriguez is a client of Jorge Mendes and the Gestifute boss has been tasked with finding him a route out of the Bernabeu in the next transfer window.
According to various reports, Wolves, Newcastle United and Everton - who are managed by former Madrid chief Carlo Ancelotti - are in the running to land Rodriguez.
And Rodriguez could be available in a cut-price deal this summer or even for free according to a report in the Daily Mail.
La Liga chief Javier Tebas has ordered clubs to rein in spending following the coronavirus pandemic and Spain's elite of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico have been told to cut their wage bills by up to 30 per cent.
Rodriguez was set to leave Los Blancos anyway after limited game-time under Zinedine Zidane, but they now face making a huge loss on the 28-year-old.
Despite interest from the Premier League Rodriguez's preference is to stay in Madrid according to Onda Cero. They claim the he loves life in the Spanish capital and wants to complete a transfer to Atletico.
Like Wolves, Atletico also has strong ties to Mendes - but the same report suggests they would have trouble matching his £7.1million salary.
A low-cost deal between the two Madrid clubs isn't likely to be feasible and the likelihood is that Real will want Rodriguez to move abroad.