SPORTING’S SLIM HOPE OF REUNION

SPORTING LISBON want to re-sign striker Islam Slimani from Leicester.

The Foxes’ record signing has scored just 13 goals in 46 appearances since his £29million move from Portugal in 2016. The Algeria star, 31, was loaned out to Newcastle (left) in January, but made only one start due to injury. The targetman is not part of City’s plans, but still has three years left on a lucrative deal.

He is still loved at Sporting for the 57 goals he registered in 109 games. But Lisbon, who have been hit by a mass exodus of players claiming 50 masked fans storming the training ground jeopardised their safety, have to find the funds to buy Slimani. ROMELU LUKAKU is in Russia to win the World Cup, not the Golden Boot, according to Belgium boss Roberto Martinez.

While Cristiano Ronaldo and England skipper Harry Kane have made no secret of their desire to be top scorer at the tournament, Lukaku has no such individual target.

The Manchester United striker scored twice in Belgium’s opening 3-0 win over Panama, but Martinez, speaking ahead of Belgium’s Group G encounter with Tunisia today, said the forward is not motivated by the pursuit of individual glory.

“He will tell you that he’s not here to be the top goalscorer in the World Cup,” said former Everton manager Martinez.

“He’s here to try to help TUNISIA coach Nabil Maaloul admits it is make or break for his side against Belgium today.

After a 2-1 defeat by England in their first match, Maaloul (right) has no room for error.

“The squad can feel the pressure now, following our loss to England,” he said. “The Belgium team is obviously one to be reckoned with, but we have to win – we have no other choice.

“When we were drawn in this group, we knew Belgium were very strong. Hopefully we will be able to avoid the mistakes we made against England.”