Wednesday, 24 August 2011

Fiorentina Not Interested In Selling Alberto Gilardino To Napoli


Reports have surfaced that Napoli have cooled talk of a deal for Fiorentina striker Alberto Gilardino.

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis insists he will not be digging deep into his pockets for the Italian international.

“Gilardino won’t be a Napoli player,” the movie mogul told La Gazzetta dello Sport on Tuesday.

“The transfer market is still open for us, but only to correct anything that we may have got wrong in this phase.

“I have invested on four players to strengthen a squad that is already very competitive.”

Juventus Interested In Signing Zenit Defender Bruno Alves


Reports have surfaced that Italian giants Juventus are interested in signing Zenit St Petersburg defender Bruno Alves.

Juve GM Beppe Marotta wants to sign an experienced centre-half to play alongside Giorgio Chiellini this season.

The Portuguese international defender is on the radar and Marotta's interest raises the possibility of a swap involving Leonardo Bonucci.

Zenit coach Luciano Spalletti has expressed interest in Bonucci this summer.

Samuel Eto'o On The Verge Of Joining Anzhi Makhachkala


Russian side Anzhi have announced they have an agreement with Inter Milan for striker Samuel Eto'o.

Anzhi released the statement to finalise the €27m deal with a three-year contract expected to be worth €20.5m per season.

"Today an agreement was reached between the football clubs, Anzhi and Inter, for the transfer of Samuel Eto'o.

"The terms of the transfer are completely agreed on both sides. Anzhi expresses gratitude to the leadership of Inter Milan for their professional and constructive approach in the negotiations.

"Tomorrow the player will undergo a medical examination, following which the player will be awarded a three-year contract.

"On Thursday, Samuel will arrive at the location of his new team and will begin preparations for the match against FC Rostov."

Oriol Romeu : I Want To Play As Many Games As I Can!



Chelsea's new signing Oriol Romeu is looking to appear as much as he can for for the Blues this season after joining from Barcelona in July.

The defensive midfielder was a key player in Spain’s U20 World Cup campaign this summer and feels that the conditioning he received in Colombia has set him up for a tilt at the Premier League with the Blues.

"I played in a couple of really tough games during the World Cup against Korea and Brazil, they went into extra-time and this helped me to improve how I am physically and my condition," he told the club's official website.

"I'm in great physical shape right now and happy with the way things are. I am concentrating on this season, I want to do my best and make the most of the opportunity I've been given.

"Chelsea has given me this great opportunity and I want to play as many games as possible."

Cesc Fabregas Wishes Good Luck To Former Teammate Samir Nasri


Barcelona’s Cesc Fabregas has wished former Arsenal teammate Samir Nasri the best of luck.

The Frenchman is set to follow Fabregas out of the Emirates Stadium, with a proposed move to Manchester City set to soon be finalised, and the Spaniard hopes his ex-Gunners midfield mate does well at Eastlands.

"Good luck to my friend @nanas08 (Nasri) at his new club. One of the best players around,” he posted on his Twitter page.

John Terry : Nobody Is Untouchable At Chelsea!


Chelsea captain John Terry has revealed that no player at the club is ‘untouchable’ under Andre Villas-Boas.

The Blues skipper feels that the old tag given to key players at the club during Jose Mourinhos’ rein is no longer and that everybody is on the same page with the main goal being winning matches of football.

“This is what the press said when we won all the matches. When all is OK, why would you want to change?” he told France Football.

“There is an opinion saying that me, Lamps (Frank Lampard) and Drog (Didier Drogba) are untouchables and there for too much time. This is wrong.

"We are the players who, everyday, try to make links in amongst the team, and lead by example on the pitch.

“When we do a five versus five in training we do not want to lose 3-0 because if you let yourself down, you will let yourself down during the game.

"We only want to win. Saying that we are untouchables is not true. Nobody is untouchable.”

Thursday, 11 August 2011

Fernando Torres Suffers Head Injury During International Friendly


It has been revealed that Fernando Torres has suffered a head injury in Spain's friendly defeat to Italy.

The Chelsea striker lasted just 14 minutes of Wednesday night's international friendly against Italy in Bari before leaving the field with suspected concussion.

It remains to be seen if Torres will be fit to feature with the forward due to undergo further examinations from the Spain medical staff, who have insisted his departure from the field was purely precautionary.

The former Liverpool striker has endured a miserable time at Stamford Bridge following his £50million arrival in the January transfer window.

Monday, 8 August 2011

Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United - FA Community Shield


After going in at the break two goals down Manchester United showed their fighting spirit by scoring three in the second half to defeat rivals Manchester City 3-2 at Wembley.

At half-time Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson would have been forgiven for thinking that history was about to repeat itself, as despite dominating the early exchanges, as they did against Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final last season, it was their fierce rivals who lead at the break.

Friday, 5 August 2011

PSG Chasing Liverpool Midfielder Joe Cole


Reports have surfaced that PSG are chasing Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole.

The Sun has reported that the England international is facing an uncertain future under boss Kenny Dalglish despite playing a full part in pre-season.

And big-spending PSG - now backed by the Qatar Investment Authority - believe they could get him out of Anfield on a free transfer to get his £90,000-a-week wages off the Kop books.

Cole, 29, has told pals he is ready to accept a move abroad if a switch to a top Premier League club does not come off.

Spurs are keen, but boss Harry Redknapp must unload a few players before he can buy.

Premier League new boys QPR have also been linked with a daring move but Cole has told pals he still believes he can play at the very top level.

Thursday, 4 August 2011

Inter Milan Open To Wesley Sneijder Sale To Manchester United


Sensational news are out and it has been revealed that Inter Milan chief Ernesto Paolillo has performed a U-turn by admitting Wesley Sneijder could still move to Manchester United.

After earlier appearing to shut the door on Wesley Sneijder, Inter's Paolillo has appeared to open it again.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, he admits: "If there's a bid we can't refuse, whether it's for Sneijder or other players, then we'll look for a replacement.

"Sneijder is a great symbol of our club but, in football, anything can happen. At this moment, there are no talks ongoing but that may just change."

Wednesday, 3 August 2011

Harry Redknapp Interested In Signing Lassana Diarra


It has been revealed that Harry Redknapp is chasing Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra.

The London Evening Standard has reported that Tottenham have made an enquiry for controversial Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton but Diarra remains their first choice.

Redknapp signed the France international midfielder while Portsmouth manager three years ago before Diarra moved to Madrid.

The 26-year-old defensive midfielder is surplus to requirements at the Bernabeu and was left out of the squad by manager Jose Mourinho for their recent pre-season tour to the United States.

Tuesday, 2 August 2011

Tottenham Leading The Race To Sign Joey Barton


It has been revealed that Tottenham are favourites to sign released Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton.

The Daily Mail has reported that Spurs boss Harry Redknapp is keen on adding more steel to his ranks, after failing to in his attempt to bring Scott Parker to White Hart Lane.

He is expected to turn his attention to Newcastle's controversial star, with Aston Villa, Blackburn, Fulham and Stoke all monitoring the former Manchester City man's situation closely.

Barton was kicked out of Newcastle United after owner Mike Ashley finally lost patience with the star midfielder’s online rants against the club.

Yaya Toure : We Are Coming For Manchester United!


Yaya Toure revealed that Manchester City look in good shape ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield clash with Manchester United.

The Ivory Coast star — scorer of winning goals in last season’s FA Cup semi-final and final — insisted last night that City are viewing the game as a chance to put down a marker for the season.

He said: "The most important thing is not that I score another goal at Wembley, it is that the team proves to our fans and everyone else that Man City are coming. We have to show United we are here and we want to win this cup for the fans.

"United is very important, very strong and it will be very tough on Sunday."

Jeffren Suarez Set For Sporting Lisbon Switch


The father of Barcelona winger Jeffren Suarez has revealed that his son is edging closer to a move to Sporting.

Jeffren, now age 23, has been linked with a transfer away from Camp Nou for some time after struggling to establish himself as a first-team regular under Pep Guardiola.

The player's father Efren Suarez, who is also the winger's agent, confirmed that a €5 million move is close.

"Things are going in a really nice direction; there are only a few details about the deal left," Suarez told Portugese newspaper A Bola.

Jeffren made his debut for Barca in the 2006-07 season but with Guardiola consistently preferring Pedro as a starter, the Bolivian-born winger's chances have been limited and he has now decided it is time to leave the club after seven years.

Fernando Torres Delighted With Pre-Season Goal


Chelsea striker Fernando Torres was delighted with his goal against Aston Villa in the Asia Trophy final.

It was the Spaniard's first goal since the opening pre-season match against Wycombe.

He told Chelsea TV: "It gives you confidence when you score with the first ball you touch, but especially because with a 2-0 lead we closed the game.

"A striker has to always be ready to score and when you score with the first time you touch the ball you have already done your work so everything is easier after that."

Monday, 1 August 2011

Inter Milan Include Douglas Maicon In Tevez Offer


It has been revealed that Inter Milan are trying to convince Manchester City to take Douglas Maicon in exchange for Carlos Tevez.

Inter president Massimo Moratti was in Dublin on the weekend to discuss Tevez's situation with City directors and manager Roberto Mancini.

City are insisting on a straight cash sale, but the Gazzetta dello Sport says Moratti urged them to consider taking Maicon in part-exchange.

Samuel Eto'o has also been mentioned and the Cameroon striker has informed Moratti he is open to moving to City.

The Inter president would prefer to keep hold of the 29 year-old and could improve his contract to keep him happy.

Barcelona To Launch New Improved Bid For Cesc Fabregas


Sensational news are out and it has been revealed that Barcelona will deliver a new bid to Arsenal today for Cesc Fabregas.

According to El Mundo Deportivo, Barca president Sandro Rosell may even fly to London to accelerate negotiations later this afternoon.

Barca's last offer was €29 million - which fell well short of Arsenal's €50 million asking price.

The new bid will still be €29 million plus another €6 million based on various bonuses and another €5 million from Cesc Fabregas, which he is giving up to move to Barca.

It's suggested Arsenal will release Cesc once they have an agreement with Valencia for Juan Mata, who would arrive as a direct replacement.

Liverpool Upbeat Over Steven Gerrard Injury


Liverpool are upbeat over Steven Gerrard's latest injury setback.

The Daily Mail has reported that Liverpool are cautiously optimistic Steven Gerrard will be able to return to the club's Melwood training base before the end of the week to continue his rehabilitation from a groin problem.

The England midfielder was admitted to hospital for treatment with antibiotics over the weekend after an infection was detected in his groin.

Given the unusual and sensitive nature of the problem, there were initial concerns Gerrard had suffered a setback that would keep him out for an indefinite period.

Boca Juniors Reject Barcelona Approach For Sergio Araujo


It has been revealed that Barcelona face defeat in their pursuit of Boca Juniors striker Sergio Araujo.

The 19 year-old forward is a loan target for Barca, which want to take him on an initial 12 month deal for coaching staff to assess him.

Boca president Jorge Amor Ameal, however, warned: "We have no money problems."

Indeed, Ameal has indicated only a bid of 10 million euros would bring them to the negotiating table over Araujo.

Mourinho Makes Phone Call To Neymar : Come Join Us!


Reports have surfaced that Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has spoken with Santos star Neymar.

According to AS, Mourinho phoned the Brazilian international immediately after Brazil's Copa America elimination, urging him to make the move to Madrid.

Neymar assured Mourinho he wanted to join Real - but only after playing for Santos at the Club World Cup.

"Son, just come and join us," Mourinho told Neymar during their conversation. The Special One made the call while in Los Angeles with the Real squad.

Ossie Ardiles : Sergio Aguero Great Signing For Man City


Tottenham legend Ossie Ardiles believes Manchester City have pulled off a coup with the signing of Sergio Aguero.

Ardiles, who has played and managed in the English top flight with Tottenham, believes Aguero, at 23, represents a fine acquisition by City boss Roberto Mancini.

Ardiles told the Manchester Evening News : “Aguero is quick, he is sharp and clever,”.

“He can play as a lone striker, he can play with another guy and can come back and create things.

“He is very sharp. You give him one yard and this is it, he is gone.

“His vision is to score goals. If he has a little chance the ball will be in the net.

“I have no doubt whatsoever that he will be wonderful in the Premier League.”

Wesley Sneijder Open To Manchester United Switch


Wesley Sneijder has hinted that he could still end up playing for Manchester United.

The Dutch international said : "There is always a chance something will happen but we will see."

Asked if he would like to play in England, Sneijder said: "Maybe. I have played in many big competitions in Holland, Spain and Italy and I'm still here.

"What is going to happen we will see but I am a happy guy.

"But there is always speculation, every year.

"I am happy to train and play my games. Whatever happens after that, we will see."

Diego Wants Atletico Madrid Switch


Diego is keen on a move to Atletico Madrid with the Spanish club making an official bid for the midfielder.

The talented playmaker has been on the outer with coach Felix Magath, and the player himself last week stated, "I don't want to be at Wolfsburg any longer".

His father and agent Djair da Cunha has now revealed his son would look forward to fitting in at the Vicente Calderon.

"A player like him will be great for Atletico; he has quality and I think he can adapt really well to [coach Gregorio] Manzano's scheme. Diego is thrilled with the idea," Da Cunha told AS.

The former Juventus man will likely be required to take a pay cut in order to complete the move, but da Cunha has suggested that will not be an issue.

"Diego has made every possible effort; now we will wait for both clubs to find a way," he added. "There is time until the end of August. We would like it to be solved soon, but that does not depend on us."

Jeremy Menez : I Had To Quit Roma


Jeremy Menez revealed that he had to quit AS Roma for PSG for the sake of his career.

The French international completed his €8m transfer this week after failing to really connect with the Giallorossi supporters.

“Roma remains a good experience for me during which I forged a close friendship with Philippe Mexes and Francesco Totti.

“They are great champions and great men who helped me to progress,” said the 24-year-old.

“Paris Saint-Germain was my destiny. This club is going into a new dimension and it was a turning point for my own career too.

“Signing for PSG was a sentimental choice, but above all a professional one. I think our mutual ambitions come together at the right moment.

“I want to fly higher and so do PSG.”

Inter Milan Open Talks For Carlos Tevez


Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti stepped up talks over Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez on the weekend.

It was reported by Mediaset that Moratti flew into Ireland to meet with City manager Roberto Mancini to intensify negotiations for Tevez.

Moratti has no intention of including Samuel Eto'o in the deal and instead is proposing a free loan - with Inter covering Tevez's wages - and signing the Argentina international permanently in 12 months' time.

Inter are willing to run down the clock to get the best price for Tevez and won't consider going higher than €25 million should City insist on an immediate sale.

Moratti is convinced Inter can win back the Scudetto with a new attacking trio of Eto'o, Tevez and Giampaolo Pazzini.

Manchester City Offer Mario Balotelli To AS Roma


Sensational news are out and it has been revealed that Manchester City have offered Mario Balotelli to AS Roma.

Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that the agent of the Italian international, Mino Raiola, made contact with Roma sports director Walter Sabatini last week to offer the player on-loan for the coming season.

Sabatini declined the approach, insisting Balotelli's wages were too rich for the Giallorossi.

Balotelli struck for City yesterday against former club Inter Milan, but his relationship with manager Roberto Mancini remains under scrutiny following their bust-up in Los Angeles.

Arsenal 1-1 New York Red Bulls - Emirates Cup

Arsenal fail to beat New York Red Bulls as a late Kyle Bartley own-goal hands the MLS side a 1-1 draw and wins them the Emirates Cup.

A first-half Robin Van Persie header put The Gunners ahead and looked to have been enough until substitute Bartley's attempted clearance cost his team the three points.

Internazionale 0-3 Manchester City - Dublin Super Cup

Goals either side of half time and one seconds from full time ensured Man City a 3-0 win over Italian giants Internazionale at the Aviva Stadium.

A Mario Balotelli header followed by Edin Dzeko’s strike either side of half time effectively sealed the Dublin Super Cup tie. Adam Johnson scored a late goal to round off an impressive win and help his side life the inaugural trophy.

Ibrahim Afellay Out Injured For Five Weeks


Barcelona midfielder Ibrahim Afellay has torn a muscle in his left thigh and will be out of action for up to five weeks, the European champions said on Sunday.

The Dutch international picked up the injury in Barca's 2-1 friendly defeat to Manchester United in Washington DC on Saturday, but will stay with the team as they continue their pre-season tour of the United States.

Afellay will miss the La Liga curtain-raiser against Real Madrid when the league champions take on King's Cup winners in the Spanish Super Cup on Aug 14 and 17.

The 2011-12 La Liga season kicks off on the weekend Aug 20-21.

Maarten Stekelenburg Joins AS Roma


Dutch international goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg has agreed to a €6 million deal with AS Roma.

Stekelenburg, now age 28, had only one year remaining on his Ajax contract and will sign for four years once the minor details of the transfer have been ironed out.

"Ajax and AS Roma have reached an agreement concerning the transfer of Maarten Stekelenburg," read a statement on Ajax's official club website. "The agreement with the Italian club is conditional, and depends on a number of conditions being met."

Stekelenburg admitted he was looking forward to the move, after spending his entire career in Holland. "Finally the deal is done," he said on the website of his management agency Sport-Promotion. "I am proud to sign a contract soon."

"This club is breathing football, in all aspects. I did not have time yet to see the stadium, but I've already seen the training complex, which looks good. All facilities are there, everything is optimal, all beautiful."