Paul Scholes tears into Michael Carrick and calls Man United 'c**p' u… — and more

United were beaten 2-1 by Newcastle after William Osula's stunning 90th-minute winner at St James' Park, where Carrick grew up watching football.

Former Scotland number eight Johnnie Beattie believes Gregor Townsend's men are "capable of the extraordinary" and wouldn't be surprised to see them beat France on Saturday.

Fabien Galthie's French side travel to Murrayfield knowing a bonus-point win will make them Six Nations champions with a game to spare.

A home victory would allow Scotland to head to Ireland on the final day with a genuine shot at a first title in 27 years.

Townsend's men have faced France 13 times during his tenure, winning five, and Beattie is not putting it past the Scots to add a sixth.

The 40-year-old, who played for Montpellier, Castres and Bayonne as well as Glasgow Warriors, told the BBC's Scotland Rugby Podcast: "It's a funny Scottish set-up because they have such high days and such lows as well but they're capable of the extraordinary.

"I wouldn't put it past them to beat a French side, travelling away from home that know they've got a game in hand and can wrap up a championship this weekend. But they could also be very French about it and be absolutely dismal.

"Let's not forget that we've put them under real pressure before, both away in Paris and at Murrayfield. It is possible. I know we're being totally written off but I still think there's enough that it doesn't matter.

"You look at Scotland's backline and what they have been capable of. They will score points and we have to back them to do so. Give them the ball, don't give France the ball, dominate set-pieces, try to control possession and try to outscore them.

"We've been written off but I still think it's possible."

Liverpool and Man Utd Track Juventus Midfield Star Ahead of Summer Window

Interest in Juventus midfielder Khéphren Thuram is gathering pace ahead of the summer transfer window, with Liverpool and Manchester United among the Premier League clubs monitoring his progress. According to Caught Offside, the France international has emerged as one of the most intriguing midfield options available, even though Juventus maintain that he remains central to their long term plans.

Transfer speculation often develops gradually before accelerating suddenly. Thuram’s situation feels like one of those stories quietly building momentum behind the scenes.

Juventus Growth Elevates Midfield Reputation

Thuram’s development since arriving in Turin has been steady and impressive. Once viewed primarily as an energetic presence, he has matured into a well rounded midfielder capable of influencing games in several ways.

Standing 6ft 4in and blessed with natural athleticism, he combines physical authority with a willingness to carry the ball through midfield. Juventus have increasingly relied on him to provide balance between defensive responsibility and attacking transitions.

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His versatility also appeals to prospective buyers. Thuram can operate as a traditional box to box midfielder, sit deeper to protect the back line, or surge forward to support attacks when opportunities arise.

The numbers underline his importance. The 24 year old has made 35 appearances across all competitions this season, a reflection of his growing role within Juventus’ structure.

Premier League Recruitment Focus Intensifies

Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that both Liverpool and Manchester United are interested in signing the French midfielder to strengthen their squad and add depth in their midfield.

For Liverpool, the appeal is obvious. Adding physical presence and ball winning ability in midfield remains a priority as the club refine the balance of their squad. Reports suggest a package worth around €45 million plus bonuses could be explored.

Manchester United’s thinking is slightly different but equally clear. The club are beginning to plan for life beyond Casemiro and Thuram fits the profile of a younger, high energy midfielder capable of anchoring the next phase of their rebuild.

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Arsenal are also monitoring the situation, though their interest appears more cautious at this stage.

Juventus Hold Strong Negotiating Position

Juventus are not under immediate pressure to sell. Thuram is under contract until 2029, giving the Italian club considerable leverage if negotiations develop.

The expected valuation between €65 million and €75 million reflects his growing importance. While Juventus insist he remains integral to their project, the financial realities of elite football mean that few players are entirely beyond reach.

If the coming months bring formal offers, this could become one of the more intriguing midfield transfer stories of the summer.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the idea of signing Thuram makes considerable sense. Liverpool’s midfield rebuild has already begun in recent seasons, yet supporters still debate whether the squad possesses enough physical authority and ball recovery in central areas. Thuram’s athletic profile would address exactly that concern.

Fans often appreciate midfielders who can dominate duels and carry the ball through pressure. Thuram appears capable of doing both. The question for Liverpool supporters is whether the club are prepared to meet Juventus’ valuation if it climbs towards €70 million.

Manchester United supporters will view the situation through a different lens. For many at Old Trafford, the coming years feel like a transition period in midfield. Casemiro remains influential, but will be leaving at the end of the season. Thuram fits the age profile and playing style United supporters often call for, energetic, durable and capable of covering large areas of the pitch.

There is also the Premier League factor. Players with Thuram’s blend of power and technical control often adapt well to the pace of English football.

Supporters of both clubs would likely agree on one thing. If this move becomes realistic, it will not stay quiet for long. Midfielders with this profile rarely remain available without attracting serious attention.