Sunday, 31 July 2011

Palermo Confirm Javier Pastore Sale To PSG


Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has announced that Javier Pastore is being sold to PSG.

It was reported that the deal was struck at around midnight and should be completed on Monday when the Argentine flies in to sign the contract.

President Zamparini told Sky Sport Italia : “I would’ve liked to keep Pastore at Palermo, but with those figures, it was impossible,”.

“Am I satisfied? In economic terms yes, but in football and personal terms no. You can’t have everything.

"I already promised to come see him play in Paris, as watching Pastore in action is always a pleasure.

“The sum we earned from this transfer will allow us to strengthen the squad even more, balance the books which are already looking healthy and create an ever stronger Palermo."

Malaga Ready To Bring Raul Back To Spain


Reports have surfaced that big-spending Malaga are hatching an ambitious plan to bring Schalke striker Raul back to Spain.

The Real Madrid legend is available from Schalke and has also been linked with Roberto Carlos' Anzhi.

Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini and new sports chief Fernando Hierro both have ties with Real and are keen to bring Raul back home.

Backed by businessman Sheik Al Thani, Malaga have been one of Europe's biggest spenders this summer.

Leicester City 1-2 Real Madrid - Highlights

Real Madrid continued their impressive pre-season form with a 2-1 victory over Leicester City.

Jose Callejon opened the scoring for Real Madrid before Karim Benzema finished off a scrappy attack to give the Spanish giants a 2-0 lead.

Leicester City then scored in the dying minutes for a consolation goal to make the scoreline 2-1.

Arsenal 2-2 Boca Juniors - Emirates Cup Highlights

Arsenal blew a two-goal lead and face more questions about their defensive frailties ahead of the new season after Boca Juniors battled to a 2-2 draw in the Emirates Cup on Saturday afternoon.

Arsenal showed little sign of missing Cesc Fabregas as summer signing Gervinho impressed to set up Robin van Persie for the opening goal on 27 minutes, with Aaron Ramsey doubling the lead at the start of the second half.

However, the Gunners once again hit the self-destruct button at the back as mistakes from Sebastien Squillaci and Johan Djourou were punished when the Argentinian side struck twice in four minutes.

Barcelona 1-2 Manchester United - Highlights

Manchester United gained a small measure of revenge over Barcelona with a 2-1 pre-season friendly victory in Washington DC.

Nani opened the scoring in the first half, finishing off a Danny Welbeck through-ball.

Thiago equalised after the break with a thunderous shot from outside the box, only for Michael Owen to calmly dispatch the winner when put in behind by a Tom Cleverley pass.

It gave the Premier League champions the satisfaction of defeating their vanquishers in the Champions League final.

Airtricity XI 0-3 Manchester City - Highlights

A young Manchester City side saw off the challenge of Airtricity XI 3-0 in their opening game of the Dublin Super Cup at the Aviva Stadium.

Second-half goals from Shaun Wright-Phillips, Adam Johnson and Luca Scapuzzi gave Roberto Mancini's side a comfortable victory.

Chelsea 2-0 Aston Villa - Asia Cup Highlights

Josh McEachran scored after just 35 seconds to send Chelsea on their way to a 2-0 victory against Aston Villa to win the Premier League Asia Cup in Hong Kong.

18-year-old McEachran poked home after a superb double save from Shay Given before second half substitute Fernando Torres scored with his first touch as Chelsea cruised to victory.

Saturday, 30 July 2011

Samuel Eto'o Linked With A Move To Manchester City


Samuel Eto'o could follow Sergio Aguero to Manchester City.

The Sun has reported that Roberto Mancini still wants could add another £40m to the bill, with £23m-rated Arsenal star Samir Nasri his next target to fill that midfield role.

If Inter Milan opt to swoop for City skipper Carlos Tevez at around £50m, Mancini could even consider a swap involving Cameroon striker Eto'o if the cash adjustment was right.

With both City and Inter staying at the same Dublin hotel this weekend, a deal could be cooked up.

Mancini added: "Carlos will remain a full part of the squad. He comes back from holiday next week. I don't know about a deal with Inter."

Roberto Mancini Targets Two More Signing


Sensational news are out and it has been revealed that Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is targeting two more signings after the arrival of Sergio Aguero.

The Argentine international striker was signed from Atletico Madrid on Thursday.

Asked in what areas the club were also looking to strengthen, he replied: "The middle and like a winger.

"One midfielder, one winger."

Michel Bastos Pondering Future With Lyon


Michel Bastos has revealed that he is still pondering whether or not he will remain with Lyon.

The 27-year old French international winger has recently been linked with Chelsea and Juventus and has left the door ajar for a potential shift away from the Stade de Gerland.

Bastos told L'Equipe : "I am working hard to help this team, but I still have to evaluate many things, whether it is here with Lyon or somewhere else,".

"If I was to stay then I would because I know I have an important role, but I am ready for anything."

Javier Pastore On The Verge Of Palermo Exit


Palermo director of sport Guglielmo Micciche has declared that a transfer for Javier Pastore is ‘imminent’.

The Argentine international is being heavily linked with Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain and Micciche told Radio Kiss Kiss that something is likely to happen very soon.

However, it appears that the 22-year old could be on his way to Paris for around £37million.

"Pastore's transfer is imminent. It's a matter of minutes," Micciche told Radio Kiss Kiss.

"We want to close the deal, but it must be both sides who sign the contract.

"There are no doubts PSG are interested in Pastore. People from the club's ownership have intervened and they want to take a top player to Paris."

Friday, 29 July 2011

John Carew Linked With A Move To West Ham United


Interesting transfer news are out and it has been revealed that West Ham United are looking to bring in Norwegian striker John Carew as a free agent.

The 31-year old striker is out of contract after his deal with Aston Villa expired and manager Sam Allardyce is targeting him as a potential replacement for Carlton Cole according to skysports.com.

It is highly likely that Cole will be sold this summer and the Hammers see Carew, who spent the second half of last season on loan with Stoke City, as the perfect player to fill the void.

Chivas Guadalajara 0-1 Juventus - Highlights

Italian giants Juventus edged Mexican opponents Chivas Guadalajara 1-0 in their final Herbalife World Football Challenge on Thursday.

Italy international Fabio Quagliarella scored the only goal of the match when he capitalised on a slip by Chivas defender Jonny Magallon in the 12th minute to slot home past goalkeeper Luis Ernesto Michel.

Sporting Lisbon Plays Down Nicklas Bendtner Link


Sporting Lisbon chief Carlos Freitas has rejected news that they are in talks to sign Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner.

The Danish international striker is reported to be on his way to Sporting this weekend.

However Freitas says: "I have no justification for such news. Bendtner is a player who is as close to Sporting as Higuain or Drogba are.

"Those are players who are at the same distance from Sporting. The reports of a move for Bendtner are a fictitious production."

Javier Hernandez Suffering From Long-Term Neurological Condition


Javier Hernandez's former club doctor has warned Manchester United that the striker could have a long-term neurological condition.

The Mexican sensation is currently sidelined for two weeks, after suffering a mild concussion when he was hit on the back of the head by a ball during a training session.

However, Rafael Ortega, the doctor at Hernandez's old club Chivas de Guadalajara, has revealed that the 23-year-old suffered from severe migraines as a teenager - and fears that both issues could be linked to a brain condition that would warrant further examination.

Ortega said : "I remember in his time as a youth player at Chivas he suffered from acute migraines,".

"Originally it manifested itself as a headache but afterwards the symptoms disappeared. We had some studies done on him but that was six years ago and he has done well since.

"I don't know if there is a connection between the two situations. I'm not up to date with the current situation, we would have to speak to a neurologist.

"I don't know if this will affect him in the future but I'm sure United will send him to a specialist and the situation will be resolved."

Gerard Pique Pays Tribute To Sir Alex Ferguson


Gerard Pique has paid tribute to his former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Barcelona defender said : "I have never seen anything like this in Spain,"

"It is unbelievable.

"I was with him for a few years and know why he is there.

"He is a great coach but he also treats the players really well. It is not only in terms of football. No matter what it is, he will be there for you.

"He has won so many titles and so many important things.

"All the Manchester United fans are really happy that he has stayed because they never won as much as they do now.

"Most of the is because of him and I hope he stays for many years yet."

Tottenham To Open Swap Talks For AS Roma Ace Mirko Vucinic


It has been reported that Tottenham are ready to set up a swap deal for AS Roma striker Mirko Vucinic.

The Daily Mail has reported that Tottenham fringe players David Bentley, Niko Kranjcar and Robbie Keane have been offered in discussions over a possible deal for Roma striker Vucinic.

The 27-year-old is keen on Tottenham but is rated at £15million by Roma and their coach Luis Enrique is not a fan of the players offered.

He is looking more towards a bid from Juventus although Atletico Madrid are also interested.

Arsenal Ready To Terminate Barcelona Talks For Cesc Fabregas


Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has blasted Barcelona for "messing about for a year and a half" over Cesc Fabregas and that his club are now close to ending the negotiations.

It had been expected that a deal would be agreed in the coming days, but Hill-Wood insists Arsenal are still waiting for a credible offer and are considering terminating the talks.

Hill-Wood told the Daily Star : "They have been messing about for a year and a half now and they have got to make up their minds,".

"The ball is in their court. They have made one bid of around £26 million and another rather tentative one.

"If they want to buy the player they are going to have to pay the right price - and when you look at what is being paid elsewhere I don't think what we are asking is at all unreasonable."

Asked whether Arsenal are close to calling off the negotiations, Hill-Wood added: "We are getting close to that."

The Daily Mirror says Arsenal have sent Barcelona an email saying any deal must be completed before August 5.

Anders Lindegaard Eyeing Starting Role at Manchester United


Anders Lindegaard is hoping that the form he has shown whilst on pre-season tour in the USA has given Sir Alex Ferguson a selection headache ahead of the club's Premier League title defence.

After some eye catching performances during their pre-season tour, the Manchester United goalkeeper is tipped to start for United instead of £18.9 million new boy, David de Gea.

The Danish goalkeeper said : "I think it's been very good, I'm satisfied. I said before the season that it was going to be very important how the goalkeepers perform because Edwin (van der Sar) has retired. I'm very satisfied with my own performances and, if I had the chance to do anything differently, I'm not sure I would."

Jose Mourinho : Pre-Season Form Not Important


Jose Mourinho is eager for fans not to get carried away with their impressive preseason form.

The Real Madrid boss said : "Football is not mathematics and nobody can guarantee this will happen this season, but my second seasons are always better,".

"The results of pre-season are not the most important thing. The good thing is taking shape. Winning is nice because you travel happier.

"It was good training for us because the league starts soon and we are gathering pace and intensity. After playing against American and Mexican teams, it has been good to come and play in Germany."

Alexis Sanchez Confident Of Improving At Barcelona


Alexis Sanchez is confident that he will improve playing for Barcelona.

The Chile international joined Barca on a five-year deal for a fee which could rise to almost 40million euros.

He told BarcaTV : "I cannot wait to go back, step on the field and receive the ball to show what I can do,".

"The best players in the world play here. I want to learn from Messi, Xavi and Iniesta and reach their level.

"I always had faith in myself. That allowed me to move to a big team like Udinese and be the best I could be, individually and for the team."

He also added : "I see the sport as a game, but without forgetting the responsibility it entails," he said.

"I'm still the same player as when I was five or 10 and playing in my neighbourhood."

Sergio Aguero : I Have Plenty To Offer To Man City!


Sergio Aguero is convinced that moving from Atletico Madrid to Manchester City is a step up.

The Argentine international is the latest in a line of high-profile signings for City from the Spanish league, and he is already familiar with new team-mates Yaya Toure and David Silva from having played against them in La Liga.

Aguero said : "Of course the are great players, and yes I have played against them in the past but now they are here, in a team which right now is one of the biggest teams in England,".

"So for sure they are great players and I'm lucky to be playing alongside them. I'm happy about that."

Asked what he would add to the side, Aguero said: "My style has always been to fight to the death for every ball, and give 100% in every game.

"Be concentrated to the maximum in everything I do; movement, running off the ball, winning the ball back and scoring goals. I'm not a player who can do everything, but I still have plenty to offer."

Arsenal Clinch Agreement For Juan Mata


Sensational news are out and it has been revealed that Arsenal have clinched an agreement for Valencia midfielder Juan Mata.

The Sun has reported that the Spanish international winger has told friends he is joining the Gunners in a £19m deal.

The arrival of Mata, now age 23, would be seen as a coup as Tottenham have also launched a last-ditch bid.

Barcelona are also being linked with Mata should they fail to prise Cesc Fabregas away from the Gunners.

Myanmar vs Oman Abandoned After Crowd Violence - Video

A World Cup qualifier between Myanmar and Oman was abandoned on Thursday after angry fans hurled rocks and glass bottles at the referee, the visiting coach Paul Le Guen and one of his players, witnesses said.

Oman were leading the second leg 2-0 and 4-0 on aggregate.

Galatasaray 3-0 Liverpool - Highlights

Milan Baros scored twice against his former club as Liverpool slumped to a 3-0 loss at the hands of Galatasaray at the Turk Telekom Arena.

New arrival Johan Elmander, previously at Bolton, scored a sensational third late on as a makeshift Reds team struggled in humid conditions.

Flamengo 5-4 Santos - Ronaldinho Hat-Trick

Ronaldinho scored a hat-trick as Flamengo came from 3-0 down at Santos to edge a nine-goal thriller 5-4 in the Campeonato Brasileiro.

Flamengo found themselves three goals down inside 25 minutes thanks to a double from Borges and one from Neymar, but Ronaldinho struck three minutes later and they were level two minutes before half-time thanks to further efforts from Thiago Neves and Deivid.

Neymar struck again five minutes after the restart, but Ronaldinho again levelled after 67 minutes, before completing his hat-trick nine minutes from time to seal the dramatic victory for his side.

Manchester City Complete The Signing Of Sergio Aguero


Manchester City have formally announced the signing of Sergio Aguero from Atletico Madrid on a five-year contract for a reported £35m.

The 23-year-old Argentina international's deal is believed to be worth £200,000 a week.

No fee was confirmed by either club, but it is thought City have paid Atletico Madrid a fee which eclipses their previous high of £32.5million for Brazil forward Robinho in August 2008.

He becomes manager Roberto Mancini's third signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Arsenal defender Gael Clichy and Partizan Belgrade's Stefan Savic, and takes the Italian's spending in this window to £48million.

Thursday, 28 July 2011

Frank Lampard : I Know When I Will Quit


Frank Lampard says he'll quit when he feels in can no longer make an impact at the top level.

The Chelsea midfielder has said he will quit football when he is no longer able to make the sort of attacking impact which has characterised his career.

The 33-year-old has been a prolific goalscorer from midfield over the years and would not relish taking on a more defensive role.

"I have never been a defensive kind of player," he was quoted as saying on The Sun's website. "I love getting up and down the pitch and arriving late into the penalty area.

"If I felt I wasn't getting there, I wouldn't want to hang around too long. I'll be the first to know when I'm no longer capable of doing that job. Mind you, I'll probably have been sold before then!"

Manchester City To Announce The £90 million Signing Of Sergio Aguero


Sensational news are out and it has been revealed that Manchester City's deal for Atletico Madrid star Sergio Aguero is worth a staggering £90 million.

The Sun reported that City agreed to pay Atletico Madrid £38m for the Argentine striker - and Aguero's five-year contract, at more than £200,000 a week, will set City back another £52m.

However the Argentine international, 23, insists he is worth the money. He said: "I think like a giant, think like a winner."

The deal easily eclipses City's previous record, the £32.5m they paid Real Madrid for Robinho three years ago.

And among British signings it ranks second only to the £50m Chelsea forked out to take Aguero's former Atletico team-mate Fernando Torres from Liverpool in January.

It still represents small change for City's fabulously-wealthy backer, Sheikh Mansour, a member of Abu Dhabi's ruling family.

But he will expect a better return for his money than Brazilian Robinho provided, or Chelsea have so far seen from the goal-shy Torres.

MLS All Stars 0-4 Manchester United - Highlights

Manchester United continued their encouraging preparations for the new season as they dispatched David Beckham's MLS All Stars 4-0 in New Jersey.

Two goals each side of half-time from Anderson, Park Ji-sung, Dimitar Berbatov and Danny Welbeck were more than enough to see off the All Stars who could not stop the Premier League champions' pre-season goal-scoring machine.

Cesc Fabregas Too Expensive For AC Milan


AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has confirmed they're moving for Fiorentina midfielder Riccardo Montolivo - and asked for Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.

Montolivo is being lined up at Milan as a replacement for new Juventus signing Andrea Pirlo.

"It's an opportunity for the market. But we do not want to create any problems for the Della Valle family.

"If Fiorentina player will not renew, it will not be due to interference from AC Milan," insisted Galliani.

"Fabregas? His price is exorbitant."

Emmanuel Adebayor Back On The Agenda Of Real Madrid


Jose Mourinho is set to demand that a new striker is signed before the market shuts.

El Mundo Deportivo has reported that with Atletico Madrid attacker Sergio Aguero moving to Manchester City, Mourinho does not want to be left short like last season.

Reviving a permanent deal for Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor is under discussion, while Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente also remains in the equation.

With Mourinho now fully in charge of all transfer policy, the Real boss will push to bring in a new centre-forward in the coming weeks.

Ipswich Friendly Called-Off After Player Injury

Colchester boss John Ward and his Ipswich counterpart Paul Jewell felt it was the right decision to abandon their pre-season friendly.

The game was called-off after 78 minutes when U's midfielder Andy Bond suffered a serious head injury in a collision with team-mate Mark Cousins.

The 25 year old eventually walked off the pitch after receiving lengthy treatment but was still taken to hospital in an ambulance.

Barcelona 2-0 Bayern Munich - Audi Cup Highlights

Barcelona lifted the pre-season Audi Cup with a 2-0 victory over hosts Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday night.

Thiago Alcantara scored the opening goal four minutes before half-time and then wrapped up the victory with a second goal in the 74th minute.

However, it was not all smiles for the European champions, as youngster Jonathan Soriano was carried off injured midway through the second half.

SC Internacional 2-2 AC Milan (2-0 Pens) - Audi Cup Highlights

Internacional claimed third place with another penalty shoot-out victory over AC Milan after the game finished 2-2 in normal time.

Milan had twice led through Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alexandre Pato, but Leandro Damiao and substitute Andres D'Alessandro both grabbed equalisers.

Milan then suffered in the shoot-out, missing all four of their kicks to lose it 2-0.

Wednesday, 27 July 2011

Inter Milan Locked In Talks For Carlos Tevez


Reports have surfaced that Manchester City have held talks with Inter Milan over the sale of Carlos Tevez.

The Premier League side remain keen to find a buyer for the Argentine international after seeing a deal with Corinthians fall through last week.

Sportitalia and Argentina's Ole has reported that Inter chief Marco Branca met with City officials this week to outline plans over the signing of Tevez.

It was agreed the deal would wait until the second-half of August when Inter will have a clearer picture of whether the likes of Wesley Sneijder and Lucio will be staying or going - for big money.

City are happy with the situation and also informed Branca they are willing to slash their current €50 million asking price to get Tevez off the books.

AC Milan Want 12 Month Loan Deal For Kaka


It has been revealed that AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani is seeking a loan deal for Real Madrid star Kaka.

With the Brazilian failing to catch fire on tour of the US, Real management are seriously considering cutting their losses and allowing the midfielder to leave.

Milan however are pushing for a free 12-month loan, with the view to signing Kaka permanently next summer for a realistic fee. The midfielder’s wages remain a problem, however.

Galliani has been pushing to introduce a new wage ceiling at Milan and Kaka's €9 million salary would smash that by some margin.

Along with the free loan, the Milan powerbroker hopes to convince Real president Florentino Perez to cover a percentage of Kaka's wages to make the move happen.

Luis Suarez Determined To Win Titles With Liverpool


Luis Suarez is keen to add a Barclays Premier League title with Liverpool to his Copa America medal.

The 24 year old told the Liverpool Echo : "When you play for a club like Liverpool, one of the biggest clubs in England, you've always got to have the aspiration of winning the title,".

"You've got to believe with the quality we've got at this club that this can be a realistic possibility.

"But we know there is a lot of competition and there are a lot of other teams with the same objective.

"The next objective is to make sure you're in the Champions League places.

"We've got to have the confidence that we've got the type of quality here to be aiming for those things.

"We've got to have an excellent pre-season, prepare really well and then it's a case of being consistent through the season and have a good run of form - not just in flashes through the season."

Tuesday, 26 July 2011

Alexis Sanchez Wants Cesc Fabregas At Barcelona


Barcelona signing Alexis Sanchez has been roped into the Cesc Fabregas saga.

The Chile international winger declared yesterday he'd welcome the Arsenal captain to Barca - which is sure to infuriate Arsene Wenger.

Former Udinese star Sanchez was welcomed by hundreds of Chilean fans at Barcelona's El Prat airport last night and said: "It was incredible - like a film.

"I want to learn from players like (Lionel) Messi and Xavi - and I want to help the club win more titles."

Asked if he would like to play alongside former Barca trainee Fabregas, Sanchez replied: "Of course."

Manchester United Join Race To Sign Javier Pastore


Premier League champions Manchester United have joined the battle for Palermo midfielder Javier Pastore.

The Argentine international star has been a long-term target for United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and now he is firming up his interest with Inter Milan pricing Wesley Sneijder out of a move.

La Repubblica has reported that it is a two-way fight between United and Chelsea for the signature of the Palermo playmaker.

Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini expects a decision on Pastore this week.

Fernando Gago Waiting To Hear From Inter Milan


Real Madrid midfielder Fernando Gago is reportedly eager to hear from Inter Milan.

The Italian giants have made tentative contact with Gago's camp in recent days and the Argentina international is excited by their interest.

Sportitalia says now formal talks will begin this week between the two parties.

Real are keen to see the deal happen as coach Jose Mourinho has no plans to include Gago in his first team squad for the coming season.

Wesley Sneijder Happy To Wait In The Sidelines


It has been reported that Wesley Sneijder is happy to sit on the sidelines as Inter Milan wait for Manchester United to make a firm bid for the midfielder.

Sky Sport 24 has reported that for the moment, the trail has gone cold, though United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, despite the denials, remains keen to bring Sneijder to Old Trafford.

For his part, the Dutch international ace is happy with the situation and not bothered if he ends up staying with Inter - or moving to United.

The midfielder can go either way and if United do meet Inter's asking price, he is prepared to pack his bags, but if not, then he'd happily play this season with the Nerazzurri.

AC Milan Ready To Snap Up Mario Balotelli



AC Milan is ready to reignite their interest in Mario Balotelli after his bust-up with Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini.

The Italian international's huge public row with Mancini in LA is the talk of English football and being monitored closely by Milan directors.

A move to bring former Inter Milan striker Balotelli back home is now being discussed by Rossoneri vice-president Adriano Galliani and patron Silvio Berlusconi.

Galliani is close to Balotelli's agent Mino Raiola and has made it no secret of wanting to sign the young forward in the future.

With Antonio Cassano getting itchy feet, a place could be opening in the Milan squad for Balotelli - if Mancini is now prepared to cut his losses and sell.

Monday, 25 July 2011

Barcelona FC Unveils New Signing Alexis Sanchez

Alexis Sanchez was presented as the new signing for FC Barcelona at Camp Nou sports complex on July 25, 2011 in Barcelona, Spain.

Blackburn Slap £15 Million Price Tag On Christopher Samba


It has been revealed that Blackburn Rovers want £15 million for Christopher Samba.

The Daily Star Sunday has reported that the DR Congo international, born in France, was originally valued at £8m before the price on his head rose first to £10m then £12m.

However Rovers are now quoting almost double the original figure to clubs inquiring about giant Samba, 27, because of the interest of Arsenal and Tottenham.

Blackburn boss Steve Kean doesn’t want to lose Samba having seen his central-defensive partner Phil Jones move to Manchester United for £16.5m.

But Blackburn’s cash problems mean it would be difficult for them to resist a big bid for Samba.

Messi : Alexis Sanchez A Big Boost For Barcelona


Lionel Messi has welcomed the arrival of new signing Alexis Sanchez.

The Chile international dazzler will sign formally for the Spanish champions today after flying in yesterday from Chile.

The former Udinese winger's deal has been given the thumbs up by Messi, who said: "Alexis Sanchez is a big boost for Barcelona.

"For his qualities, I think he'll adjust quickly to our football and in the squad."

Everton Ready To Swoop For Nicklas Bendtner


Reports are out claiming that Everton are chasing Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner.

The Daily Star Sunday has reported that Everton are seriously considering a bid for unwanted Arsenal striker Bendtner.

The Dane, now age 23, did not figure in any pre-season trips and was left behind in London to sort out his future.

German Bundesliga clubs Hamburg and Borussia Dortmund have also gone public with their interest in the hitman.

Manchester City Close To Signing Timo Hildebrand


It has been revealed that Manchester City are expected to offer terms to trialist Timo Hildebrand.

The Daily Mail has reported that the former Germany international goalkeeper is a free agent after his contract finished with Sporting Lisbon this summer.

The 32 year old has been training with Manchester City during their tour of America after they decided to draft someone in as cover for Joe Hart following Shay Given's decision to stay behind and subsequently sort out his transfer to Aston Villa.

City have been scouring the market for potential candidates to replace Given with Stuart Taylor the only other experienced back-up for England No 1 Hart.

And Hildebrand has worked hard in America to have given himself a chance.

Man Utd Keen On Sao Paulo Starlet Lucas


Reports have surfaced that Manchester United have made a move for Sao Paulo starlet Lucas.

Brazil international Lucas has been tipped as a star of the future and his representative, Wagner Ribeiro, claims United and Bayern Munich have shown interest in the past.

Ribeiro told Terra: "Lucas was approached earlier this year by Manchester United and Bayern Munich."

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to shop in the Brazilian transfer market thanks to the success of Anderson and the Da Silva twins.

Juventus Chasing Fiorentina Ace Juan Manuel Vargas


Juventus are interested in Fiorentina wing-back Juan Manuel Vargas.

La Nazione has reported that the Turin giants are willing to discuss a swap deal with Fiorentina for Vargas.

The Peru international's form in the Copa America has convinced Juve management to make a move for him.

The Bianconeri are willing to include Jorge Martinez and Leonardo Bonucci in negotiations with the Viola.

Kaka Nearing Real Madrid Exit


Kaka's future appears further and further away from Real Madrid.

According to AS, after starting their US tour brightly, Kaka's form in their last two friendlies has disappointed Real management - and certainly isn't of a standard expected from someone on €9 million-a-year.

Without the excuse of injury to lean on, major doubts are being raised about whether coach Jose Mourinho can afford to indulge the Brazilian in his first team plans.

However, despite his poor form, he still has suitors and it's been revealed both AC Milan patron Silvio Berlusconi and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich are waiting for the green light from Real to open talks about taking Kaka away from Madrid.

Gennaro Gattuso Welcomes Cesc Fabregas Signing


Gennaro Gattuso would welcome AC Milan signing Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.

Some veterans have walked away, as Andrea Pirlo opted to join Juventus after 10 years at San Siro.

Gattuso said, “Pirlo’s absence will be felt, as Andrea is a fantastic player. You just can’t find players of his quality nowadays.

“Cesc Fabregas? He could be a good potential signing, thanks to his quality and experience. If Milan had waited until now to announce Philippe Mexes and Taye Taiwo, then people would be saying what a great transfer campaign Milan have had.”