We’re already in the middle of June, and though the signings haven’t been coming hard and fast just yet, that doesn’t mean that there’s a shortage of action thus far in the summer transfer window.

In this morning’s transfer news and rumors roundup, we’ve got tidbits from England, Spain, Italy, Germany, France, and Greece, with many big names and big clubs looking to spend, spend, spend. Some of the rumors are pretty concrete, while there is at least one in the bunch that, like Manchester United being linked with a move for Fernando Torres, are a little head-scratching, to say the least.

There are also a couple of signings to report, and remember, to keep up with all of the latest confirmed signings, check out our summer 2009 transfer lists.

England

Manchester United After Valencia Stars

There has been a great deal of speculation over the last few days about what Manchester United are going to do with the money they get from selling Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid, and it could be that a sizable chunk of those funds go towards signing Valencia stars David Villa and David Silva.

United are reportedly set to make a £45m bid for Villa (The Mirror). The competition could wide open between United, Barcelona (Sky Sports), and Chelsea for Villa, as his potential move to Real Madrid appears to have broken down (Daily Mail).

Meanwhile. Rafa Benitez might not like hearing about United making a concerted effort to land Silva, as the winger has been a target for Benitez for a while now but could be the subject of a £25m bid from United. (The Mirror)

Analysis: £25m looks to certainly be enough to land Silva, but even though they could outbid Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Chelsea for Villa, they could be out of luck if Villa prefers the chance to stay in Spain. Of course, if Barcelona land Villa, that’d all but free up the opportunity for a United move for Samuel Eto’o.

United and Boro In Downing Swap Deal?

Middlesbrough are heavily interested in Manchester United duo Paul Scholes and Gary Neville, and there are reports that they could offer Stewart Downing to United to try to make a deal happen. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Both Scholes and Neville could be reluctant for such a move, but even so, it’d seem like United would come out a lot better in this deal, especially if they didn’t have to spend much of that sizable transfer kitty on purchasing Downing.

Costa On Shortlist To Replace Ronaldo?

Along with the moves mentioned above, United could be set to swoop for Gremio starlet Douglas Costa. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Brazil’s becoming more and more of a hotspot for United, and signing a prospect of Costa’s ability and potential would be worth the fee United may have to stump up. He’s only 18, so he’s more one for the future and wouldn’t be expected to step in and star right away. But as Ronaldo did when he arrived at United, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him earn first-team opportunities immediately.

Bolton Lead Race For Veloso?

Bolton are back in for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Miguel Veloso, and after refusing to overbid for Veloso in January, could be in with a £10.2m offer for the 23-year-old, who’s also been linked with Arsenal. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: £10.2m is still a little lower than Sporting might like to get for Veloso, but it could be a sign that Bolton are willing to fork out a little more in order to land him.

Bentley And Huddlestone To Sign For Villa?

It could only be a matter of time before Aston Villa seal the deal on a couple of new signings, as there are reports that they are close on Tottenham pair David Bentley (Goal.com) and Tom Huddlestone (Birmingham Mail).

Analysis: Considering their interest in Bentley, Huddlestone, and Jermaine Jenas, I’m surprised they haven’t been strongly linked with Darren Bent or Roman Pavlyuchenko, considering a forward should also be on their summer wishlist.

Several Sides Interested In Newcastle’s Martins

Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Everton are all interested in Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins (Tribal Football), but they could face competition from a mystery Bundesliga club (Tribal Football).

Analysis: Everton would be a great fit, considering the familiar faces that would await, but wages would likely be a stumbling block, and that could also be the case with Aston Villa. No telling what the situation could be with the Bundesliga club, but Arsenal may well be the best match financially – but that could all hinge on whether or not they sell Emmanuel Adebayor.

Fulham And West Ham Interested In Acquafresca

It’s a London battle for young Italian striker Robert Acquafresca, as Fulham and West Ham are both interested in the 21-year-old. Acquafresca was supposed to go to Genoa as part of the deal that brought Diego Milito and Thiago Motta to Inter, but he could yet move elsewhere, with even Juventus being linked with a move. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: I don’t have any doubts that Acquafresca could succeed in the Premier League, but if Juventus come in for him, that might be an opportunity that’s too hard to pass up.

Sunderland Bid For Cattermole

Sunderland have made a £7m bid for Wigan midfielder Lee Cattermole. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Well they sure aren’t sitting on their money, are they? That’s certainly a tempting offer for Wigan, considering it’s double what they paid for Cattermole just last summer. I don’t know if Wigan will offload him right now though, unless he’s just that eager to be reunited with Steve Bruce. If someone’s willing to pay 7m for him right now, they could be in line to get a lot more if he continues to develop well over the next season or two. Besides, the sale of Antonio Valencia will net a nice amount of transfer funds for Roberto Martinez.

Wolves Sign Milijas

Wolves have completed the signing of Red Star Belgrade midfielder Nenad Milijas. (The Guardian)

Analysis: For a little while, the deal looked to be in some doubt, but in the end, Wolves fought off some pretty good competition to land the free-scoring midfielder.

Birmingham Bid For Gomez

Birmingham have made a £1.5m offer to Espanyol for midfielder Jordi Gomez, who starred on loan for Swansea last season. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: With Roberto Martinez set to complete his move from Swansea to Wigan anytime now, Birmingham could face some competition from Wigan for Gomez, so it might be in Birmingham’s best interests to try to get him signed, sealed, and delivered as soon as possible.

Spain

Real Madrid Offer Sneijder For Inter’s Maicon

Real Madrid could be set to offer Inter Milan €20m plus attacker Wesley Sneijder in a bid for right back Maicon. (Goal.com)

Analysis: Sounds like a reasonable deal. Sneijder’s someone that has been linked with Inter, and €20m + Sneijder would meet the €40m asking price that Inter have for Maicon.

Italy

AC Milan Sign Cissokho

AC Milan have completed the signing of Porto defender Aly Cissokho for €15m. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: This time last summer, Cissokho had just made the jump from France’s Ligue 2 to Portugal, joining Vitoria du Setubal, and now, he’s signed for AC Milan. Talk about a quick rise!

Inter Closing In On Double Swoop

Jose Mourinho could be close to being reunited with Deco and Ricardo Carvalho, as Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti spoke hopefully about being able to agree a deal with Chelsea for the duo. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Seems to be only a formality, really.

Juventus To Swap Trezeguet For Rossi?

Juventus are prepared to offer striker David Trezeguet as part of a swap deal for Villarreal star Giuseppe Rossi. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: £15m + Trezeguet would fall a little short of Rossi’s buyout clause of £40m, but it could get Villarreal to bite, or at least think seriously about the offer. Trezeguet might turn down the chance though, considering the interest that he’s had from the likes of Inter, Real Madrid, and others.

Lazio In Talks For Barnetta

Lazio are in talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a move for Swiss midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Barnetta’s valuation is reportedly €10m, but even though Lazio don’t exactly have the room to break the bank on summer purchases, it shouldn’t be a problem to spend the right amount on a player who’s certainly worth it.

Germany

Wolfsburg Want Berbatov?

In one of the more interesting transfer rumors of the day, Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov is being linked with a loan move to VfL Wolfsburg. (Sofia Echo)

Analysis: Though things didn’t exactly go completely swimmingly at United last season, Berbatov’s not going anywhere.

Stuttgart Interested In Tottenham Striker

VfB Stuttgart could be targeting Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko. According to Stuttgart general manager Horst Heldt, the Russian striker has come up in discussions within the club. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: After selling Mario Gomez to Bayern Munich for €30m, Stuttgart have money to spend and a big void to fill up front. Replicating Gomez’s 33-goal output from this past season might be a little much to ask, but Pavlyuchenko does have the quality to succeed in the Bundesliga, even though his struggles at Tottenham last season might convince some otherwise.

France

Shevchenko Offered To French Trio

Chelsea have offered striker Andriy Shevchenko to Lyon, Marseille, and Monaco. Lyon have turned down the opportunity to sign the Ukrainian, but Marseille and Monaco are still considering the chance to snap him up. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Safe to say then that Sheva doesn’t have a future at Chelsea, eh?

Coupet To Sign For PSG

Former Lyon goalkeeper Gregory Coupet could be set for a quick return to Ligue 1, as he has agreed personal terms over a move to Paris Saint-Germain. Coupet moved from Lyon to Atletico Madrid last summer, but after seeing little time last season, will be back on familiar soil if a fee can be agreed. (Goal.com)

Analysis: With current #1 Mickael Landreau looking to leave, PSG needed to swoop for a quality replacement, and Coupet, with his long history of success with Lyon, certainly fits the bill.

Greece

Panathinaikos Close On Drenthe?

Panathinaikos are going all out in their efforts to sign Real Madrid’s Royston Drenthe, as they could offer £11m in order to land the versatile Dutchman. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: That’s about the same amount Real spent to sign Drenthe from Feyenoord in the summer of 2007, so I don’t see them turning down an offer of that amount. Drenthe hasn’t exactly blossomed at Real, and he wouldn’t appear to have much of a future there, so the only holdup might be whether or not he wants to move to Greece or to a more elite league.

“Transfer Rumors (15 June 09): Man United after Valencia stars Villa and Silva, Aston Villa close on Tottenham duo, Berbatov and Pavlyuchenko linked with Bundesliga moves, and more” was originally published at footballlens.com – football news.

Today’s rumours are looking for a comfortable dark place in which to hide

Yes, he’s really off now. Off. This time. Going now. Five-goal ace Carlos Tevez really is packing up his little scurrying legs and taking his wounded, puppyish baby-brown eyes off to somewhere else, somewhere better, somewhere his organ grinder can get a few more quid to put towards that small Pacific Island complex where he plans to raise his next generation of energetic, saleable human beings. According to The Sun, Tevez gave the United-Player-of the-Year do the swerve, choosing instead to scurry about ceaselessly at home making rehearsed emotional gestures (or “looking after his daughter who had a temperature”). “Now free agent Tevez is set to join United’s fiercest rivals Liverpool — and there will be nothing Ferguson can do about it”. Except, of course, pay a bit more money if he really wanted him that much.

Also on the go is Paul Scharner, who believes he may have to give up spinning really quickly on his big toe to the music of Martha and the Vandelas and leave Wigan for good in order to play in the Champions League. “That is any player’s dream,” he says. Hamburg and Schalke are reported to be “interested”, but they might just be being polite. Formerly Granny finagling oddball turned sparky midfield thruster Stephen Ireland could be on his way out of Manchester City if he’s not offered a bulging new contract. “I think I’ve done enough this year, let my football do the talking,” he sighed. And Tony Mowbray “faces a fight” to keep loan striker Marc-Antoine Fortuné. A proper jacket-off, tell-the-wife-to-go-home, slowly-remove-your-watch-and-adopt-kung-
fu-pose-in-the-car park kind of fight too.

The Mirror is convinced City are on the verge of paying £20m to secure the amiable Diego Forlán, who’s good in Spain. And in no way destined to replicate his Old Trafford turn as a scurrying and vaguely hunchbacked goal-shy gnome. Apparently David Villa costs too much. Milan believe they have “a good hope” of being allowed to pay Emmanuel Adebayor lots of money to stroll about shrugging and wanging footballs at the corner flag next season. And Peter Andre meanwhile is “crushed”. Not, however, beneath a sudden and violent volcanic mudslide. But by being dumped by Jordan and, at a push, the weight of his own looming absurdity.

In The Times there’s talk of a crimp in Chelsea’s bid to install the man who looks most like Guus Hiddink if you squint: Carlo Ancellotti may not be allowed to bring his coaches Mauro Tassotti and Filippo Galli with him, but may instead have to sit next to Ray Wilkins. The club are currently trying to persuade Ancelotti that this would be, not just tremendous, but also super.

The Daily Mail has Stewart Downing putting on a rough smock, growing a locust-infested beard and “leading the exodus” when Middlesbrough are relegated. Sorry, if. Liverpool are “leading the race”. And amazingly Chelsea are interested in Tuncay. ‘Arry Redknapp has been getting hot and sweaty and muttering quietly in his sleep about 23-year-old Bosnian striker Edin Džeko, who plays for Wolfsburg. Džeko, who the Mill imagines John Motson will call “Duzechko” and “Jekko”, before settling on “Djjejjchko” will cost £12m, score one goal in 23 appearances, have a moan in a foreign newspaper but claim he was “misquoted” and eventually go out on loan to Portsmouth before being signed by either a third rate Spanish club or someone in Turkey. Brazil defender Luisão could be moving to Manchester City for £15m. Apparently he’s “a good friend of Robinho” (disco! disco!) And Steve Bruce has agreed a £21.5m deal with Real Madrid for occasionally quite eye-catching winger Antonio Valencia. But he’s still waiting to see if Sir Alex can match it. Why would he do that, the Mill wonders? Steve, just take the money. Take the £21.5m. Take it Steve.

And according to Tuttosport, via Goal.com, the aged Fabio Cannavaro will leave Real Madrid for Juventus. Cannavaro has already had a medical, which determined that he was, indeed, very old and quite small. Middlesbrough youngster Adam Johnson’s odd and unexpected but still strangely exciting move to Atletico Madrid could be a goer. And Internazionale have set their sights on prising Nemanja Vidic away from Manchester United. Well, it’s nice to have ambitions. Back in the world of things that might actually happen, Milan are eyeing up Shakhtar Donetsk’s very nifty Croatian wing-back Darijo Srna.

And according to Calciomercato.com, who appear to have taken laudanum and embarked on a 17-hour dream-like Serie A transfer-related trance, next season’s “new Inter” will feature not just Vidic, but also Thiago Motta, Diego Milito, someone called Marko Arnautović, Didier Drogba and, yes, Emmanuel Eboué. With, presumably, Peter Andre, Carlos Tevez, Garrincha and Howard from the Halifax ads on the bench.

Got a rumour of your own? Have your say in the comments section below.

]]> http://www.latestfootballnews.net/football-transfer-rumours-diego-forlan-to-manchester-city/feed/ 0 http://www.latestfootballnews.net/manchester-united-barcelona-and-inter-title-champions-20082009/ http://www.latestfootballnews.net/manchester-united-barcelona-and-inter-title-champions-20082009/#comments Sat, 16 May 2009 22:49:51 +0000 admin http://www.latestfootballnews.net/?p=1423

16 May – What a day! Titles in Europa’s three biggest leagues decided today.

In England Manchester United sealed an impressive third successive Premier League title today by getting the point they needed against Arsenal – but the Old Trafford celebrations only started after an afternoon gripped by tension.

In the La Liga in Spain Barcelona claimed their 19th Spanish league title without having to even kick a ball after title-rivals Real Madrid lost 3-2 at Villarreal on Saturday.

In Italy Serie A giants Inter secured their seventeenth Scudetto in and impressive fourth consecutive league title (first for José Mourinho). Seria A was won after AC Milan lost at 1-2 at Udinese today.

There’s quite a few stories doing the rounds on Saturday, including The Sun’s story. The paper has quotes via Argentina coach Diego Maradona which suggest that Sir Alex Ferguson does not like the little striker, and Tevez sees his boss as an “old man” who is just trying to lower his value. Remember, Diego is quoted and not Tevez himself.

On the transfer itself, the Daily Mail reports Real Madrid’s £40m interest is taking him to La Liga, but the player has no intention of moving to Spain.

A few other transfer stories, starting with Tottenham and in The Sun it is said that Harry Redknapp sees £5m-rated Almeria left-winger Albert Crusat. as a second choice if he cannot sign Stewart Downing.

And an amazing Chelsea-Middlesbrough link with The Daily Mirror claiming Chelsea will make a move for out-of-favour goalkeeper Ross Turnbull!

It’s the second, second, second, second, final, second chance for Joey Barton at Newcastle United with The Sun claiming Alan Shearer with give him a second chance.

And finally… Andrei Arshavin will not be popular among the ladies of England are claiming they should not be driving and should be given their own roads. It’s in the Daily Mail.

Is it safe to say that striker receives more time in the transfer gossip pages from January to December than any other position? Several well-known strikers are in today’s transfer news and rumors, but the goal-getters aren’t the only men in the summer shop window. In today’s roundup, we’ve got tidbits from several of Europe’s top leagues, with several big names being linked with big clubs.

England

Chelsea After Adebayor and Young

It’s looking increasingly likely that Carlo Ancelotti will be Chelsea’s next manager, and two names he could look to in order to strength his attack could be Arsenal’s Emmanuel Adebayor and Aston Villa’s Ashley Young. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Martin O’Neill’s not letting Young go anywhere anytime soon, so that one can be dismissed right off the bat. I don’t rate Adebayor’s chances of being at Arsenal next season that highly, but I don’t think Arsene would let him go to Chelsea, unless the money offered was something that absolutely couldn’t be refused.

Chelsea Interested in Wolfsburg Star Dzeko

Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko has confirmed Chelsea’s interest in him, and the Bosnian goal-getter also says that his future is up in the air, due to Felix Magath’s impending departure to Schalke 04. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: I’m sure Wolfsburg will bring in a solid replacement for Magath, but I think the chances of him remaining at Wolfsburg aren’t too high, especially with some top sides sure to come after him. He certainly won’t come on the cheap though, because he’s young and he’s proven his worth as a prolific scorer in a top league.

Tottenham to Pip Man City to Santa Cruz?

Harry Redknapp will likely be in the market for at least one new striker in the summer, and one of his prime targets looks to be Blackburn’s Roque Santa Cruz, who, in case we didn’t know already, wants to leave Ewood Park. In return for Santa Cruz, Blackburn could receive cash and striker Darren Bent. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: It seems like Manchester City’s interest in Santa Cruz waned in January, so he could be Harry’s to lose. Given his injury issues and a loss of form this season, his valuation takes a big hit, but cash plus a solid striker in Bent is a reasonable deal.

Newcastle Interested in Wigan’s Scharner

Defense will be one of Newcastle’s main issues to address in the summer if they remain in the Premier League, and one of the targets at the top of Alan Shearer’s wishlist is Wigan center back Paul Scharner. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: I find it a little strange that Newcastle are being linked with such transfers when their safety is anything but secured, but I digress. Steve Bruce wouldn’t want to see him leave, but the £6m is something that Newcastle could afford to pay if they do go after him.

Blackburn to Seal Permanent Givet Deal

Blackburn are set to shell out the 4m needed to make defender Gael Givet a permanent signing. The French defender has impressed since joining from Marseille on loan in January. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Defensive improvement over the last few months has been key towards Blackburn moving away from the relegation zone and securing their safety, and Givet has had a big hand in that, so making the deal permanent was the right move.

Bolton to Bid for Middlesbrough’s O’Neil

Bolton are set to make a £4m bid for Middlesbrough midfielder Gary O’Neil. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Middlesbrough rebuffed advances for O’Neil in January, but their potential relegation combined with his reported issues with settling in the area make his sale a realistic possibility. I’d have to favor Portsmouth over Bolton, however.

Spain

Barcelona to Swoop for Ibrahimovic?

According to Italian news reports, Inter Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has already agreed personal terms and signed a pre-contract with Barcelona. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: The knock on Ibrahimovic is his performances (or lack thereof, rather) in big games, but in a squad as talented as Barcelona, he’d have no reason not to do well in those situations. At the same time, he could get away with his disappearing act, with Messi, Henry, or Iniesta all too ready and raring to step up.

Italy

Inter Lead Race for Milito

Despite a bevy of interest from abroad, including the Premier League, it appears that Genoa striker Diego Milito could be set to remain in Italy,

Analysis: I was hoping to be able to see Milito in the Premier League next season, but it appears that Inter will be needing a replacement (not a partner, as Milito’s agent says) for Ibrahimovic, so they’re going to be hard to beat.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12876_5323530,00.html

AC Milan to Lure Toni Back to Italy?

AC Milan could try to use Yoann Gourcuff as bait to persuade Bayern Munich to sell striker Luca Toni. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: No disrespect to Toni, who’s a great striker and is by no means on the decline, but shouldn’t AC Milan be trying to inject a little more youth in their squad?

France

Bordeaux Step Up Interest in Kameni

Bordeaux manager Laurent Blanc sees Espanyol keeper Carlos Kameni as his ideal #1 for next season. But, he’ll have to face some competition from Benfica, who have already made an offer for the Cameroonian, who’ll be out of contract in June. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Considering how much mention Kameni has gotten in the transfer pages in recent years, you’d think he’d have more than just the one offer from Benfica, but he’ll certainly land on his feet.

Scotland

Celtic Bid for Hamilton’s McCarthy

Celtic have made a bid for highly-rated Hamilton midfielder James McCarthy, but the club says that this offer, just as with Portsmouth’s recent offer, will be rejected. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: The interest is reciprocal, which is no surprise, but Hamilton aren’t about to be ripped off for their prized asset. There’s a good chance Celtic will come back at least another time or two in the summer, but I think he’ll remain at Hamilton for at least one more season, if not more.

Portugal

Benfica Linked with Quaresma

Inter are likely going to offload Ricardo Quaresma in the summer, and Benfica are closely watching any developments. The Portuguese winger is currently on loan at Chelsea, but with him seeing very little time on the pitch since Guus Hiddink’s arrival, a permanent deal at Stamford Bridge doesn’t look too likely. (Benfica Linked with Quaresma”>Sky Sports)

Analysis: His talent’s unquestioned, but he’s always played better in Portugal than he has anywhere else. His performances at Sporting and Porto have earned him moves to bigger clubs, so he might as well make the rounds to all of Portugal’s Big Three, earn a move back to Italy, Spain, or England in a couple of seasons, and hopefully stick.

“Transfer Rumors (14 May 09): Chelsea after Arsenal’s Adebayor and Villa’s Young, Tottenham want Santa Cruz, Barcelona to land Inter’s Ibrahimovic, and more” was originally published at footballlens.com – football news.

Several of England and Europe’s top clubs already being proactive with their summer transfer plans. Who’s making bids and trying to seal a few deals before the window officially opens?

England

Liverpool Make £15m Bid for Valencia’s Silva

Liverpool have made a take-it-or-leave-it offer of £15m to Valencia for winger David Silva. (The Mirror)

Analysis: I was expecting Liverpool to make a bid for Silva before too long, but with some superior offers likely to come in (which Valencia no doubt hope for), Rafa might be left hoping and praying that the lure of Liverpool is too much to resist.

Rafa to Move for Forlan?

While Silva may be far from a certainty, Liverpool could be set to land Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan in a cash-plush-Lucas Leiva swap. The former Manchester United man has already reportedly agreed terms with Liverpool, but the stumbling block could be the fee. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: You have to wonder where all these funds are going to come from, but Liverpool could do to add another prolific striker, and Forlan’s been just that since he moved to Spain. The capper on the deal, at least for Liverpool fans, could be seeing Lucas be sent on his merry way out of Merseyside.

Manchester United to Sign Brazilian Center Back

Manchester United have agreed a £5.4m deal for Corinthians center back Dodo. The 17-year-old Brazilian youth international has a Portuguese passport, so he should have no problems being able to make his way to England. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: All Fergie needs now is one more Brazilian center back, and United could have an all-Brazilian backline in just a few short years. I’m sure he’s already got his eye on that other center back, so it won’t be long.

Blackburn Interested in Barcelona’s Krkic

Blackburn have reportedly made quite the ambitious attempt to bolster their front line, putting forth a loan offer for Barcelona starlet Bojan Krkic. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Bojan may well go out on loan to get regular first-team opportunities next season, but I think there’ll be better offers than Blackburn.

Wigan’s Bruce Expects Valencia to Leave

Wigan manager Steve Bruce has resigned himself to the fact that he could lose star winger Antonio Valencia in the summer, with Real Madrid and Manchester United both heavily interested in the Ecuadorian. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Well, he may lose Valencia, but the sizable fee that he stands to receive for him will be more than enough to make several quality additions to his squad for next season.

Tottenham After Fulham’s Schwarzer

Tottenham and Aston Villa are both being linked with Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, who has been a huge reason why the Cottagers have Europe in their sights. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: I don’t see them letting him go, or him wanting to go just to compete for a starting spot, when he already has one more than assured where he is.

Italy

Werder Bremen Star Diego Inks with Juve

According to the agent of Werder Bremen star Diego, the Brazilian playmaker signed a five-year deal with Juventus last week. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: You always have to wait on the official confirmation for these such things, but I do think it’s only a matter of time before this one’s official, much to the disappointment of Bayern Munich.

Sao Paulo Look to Seal Ronaldinho Deal

Brazilian side Sao Paulo are looking to make a quick deal for AC Milan’s Ronaldinho, as they’ve made contact with his brother/agent about a potential move. A sweetener to the deal for AC Milan could be Sao Paulo defender and Rossoneri target Joao Miranda. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Things haven’t quite panned out as well as Ronnie would’ve hoped when he spurned Manchester City for Milan, but will he take the same route that Ronaldo and Adriano have to rejuvenate their caeers? It’s certainly not a bad idea.

“Transfer Rumors (13 May 09): Liverpool bid for Valencia’s Silva, Manchester United land another young Brazilian defender, Blackburn bid for Barcelona’s Bojan, and more” was originally published at footballlens.com – football news.

Sir Alex Ferguson is leading the race to sign the £20million-rated Ecuadorian, who is also attracting interest from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. Sources close to United told The Sun that the player wants to move to Old Trafford and Wigan boss Steve Bruce said: “It’s inevitable Antonio will leave – but where he goes I’m not quite sure.”

Meanwhile, Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, who was yesterday linked with a revived bid for Valencia’s David Silva, is consoling himself by preparing to splash out £15million to bring former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan to Anfield in the summer, according to the Daily Star.

The Atletico Madrid striker has scored 27 goals in La Liga this season and is closing in on his second pichichi, the top scorer award in Spain, only one goal behind Barcelona’s Samuel Eto’o, who has netted 28 times.

Liverpool’s ranks will not be depleted by the departure of midfielder Xabi Alonso, who has been linked with a host of top European clubs for the successive summers, as his agent has revealed the Spaniard is eager to stay at Anfield.

Ignacio Ibañez denied there had been any approaches for his client and told The Guardian: “I know nothing about these reports. As Xabi has always said, he is happy at Liverpool and focused on them.”

Frustratingly frugal Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger could also dip into the transfer market this season after billionaire shareholder Alisher Usmanov initiated proceedings to clear the club’s debt – a result of building the Emirates Stadium – that has hamstrung the Gunners.

The Daily Telegraph report that the Russian is ready to suggest that Stan Kroenke and other stakeholders join him in making a commitment to tackle the £318m burden.

But that will not prevent the Gunners from flogging infuriating striker Emmanuel Adebayor to Chelsea for £10m in the transfer window, according to the Daily Mirror.

The Blues are set to part company with Didier Drogba should Milan manager Carlo Ancelotti take charge at Stamford Bridge as expected and Adebayor, who was linked with the Rossoneri last summer, is top of the Italian’s wanted list.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Roman Pavlyuchenko expects to remain at the club next season and claims he has been given assurances about his future at White Hart Lane.

The Independent claim that the Russian striker met with manager Harry Redknapp and then declared: “I am a Tottenham player and want to remain one.”

The Daily Mail ‘exclusively reveal’ that Manchester City star Stephen Ireland is on the verge of signing a new £4million-a-year deal at Eastlands after he verbally agreed a double-your-money new contract worth £80,000-a-week.

And finally… The Times report that Adrian Boothroyd, Phil Parkinson and Gus Poyet are the favourites to replace Steve Coppell as reading manager.

Today’s groundless gossip bets you look good on the dancefloor. Especially if you’re a parrot

You know how it is when there’s something you’ve wanted for ages, really really wanted for a very very long time, or at least fancied a bit for quite a while, until finally the moment comes when you might actually be able to get it and you think, “Actually I’m not that fussed, let’s go to the pub”.

Well that is how football works too.

Take, for example, Roque Santa Cruz. Having just looked it up on our newspaper archive search tool, the Mill can reveal that the Paraguayan hitman was first linked with Manchester City in 2007, before he even signed for Blackburn. Just this January City bid £20m for him and were told it wasn’t enough. This summer Rovers are likely to drop their asking price but City don’t care – they’re not interested any more. But they’ve rather taken a fancy to Valencia’s David Villa, whose £35m price tag shouldn’t be too much of a problem, and they might pop over to Madrid and snap up Arjen Robben while they’re in Spain.

Arsenal, on the other hand, will be very interested indeed. With Emanuel Adebayor’s move to Milan likely to be resurrected Arsène Wenger will be in the market for a striker and Santa Cruz is top of their hitlist. According to various media sources this morning, Arsenal will sign him for £10m or for £12m, and they may or may not offer Nicklas Bendtner as some kind of sweetener. They also may face competition from “Tottenham and possibly Liverpool”, or maybe they won’t.

Liverpool might have already splashed their cash on Carlos Tevez, who is no longer wanted at Manchester United. Sir Alex Ferguson, you see, wants to spend the £30m the Argentinian would cost on Karim Benzema instead. Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona are also sniffing round the French ace.

While in France, they might have bumped into David Moyes. The Everton manager popped across the Channel this week to cast his lazy eye over Rennes full-back Rod Fanni, with a £6m summer switch in the pipeline. Moyes may be buoyed by news that Stoke and Wolves are both interested in taking the permanently-injured, dog-loving winger Andy van der Meyde on a free transfer.

Another popular French defender is Newcastle’s Sébastien Bassong, linked with a £9m move to Arsenal. Cheaper, younger, but less likely to play in anyone’s first team for a few years is Liverpool’s 16-year-old centre-back Andre Wisdom, who might get a tasty offer from Chelsea, Arsenal again or Manchester City again before he’s old enough to sign a long-term deal at Anfield.

Wigan have given up on the overpriced Ecuadorian Christian “Chucho” Benítez, who plays in Mexico for Santos Laguna. So they might buy Fraizer Campbell from Manchester United instead.

Derby are going to sell lots of players, either because they’re not good enough or because their name is Przemysław Kazmierczak, which is clearly ridiculous, while Leicester want to keep on-loan Arsenal full-back Kerrea Gilbert for good.

And there is a cockatoo called Snowball, living in a bird shelter in Indiana, who can dance. The ability to boogie has so far been identified in 14 species of parrot, but no mammals other than the human. “We found strong evidence that these birds were synchronising with the beat,” a boffin said.

]]> http://www.latestfootballnews.net/football-transfer-rumours-roque-santa-cruz-to-arsenal/feed/ 0 http://www.latestfootballnews.net/transfer-rumors-11-may-09-spurs-enter-race-for-manchester-united%e2%80%99s-tevez-arsenal-want-russian-striker-pogrebnyak-valencia%e2%80%99s-silva-in-juventus-negotiations-and-more/ http://www.latestfootballnews.net/transfer-rumors-11-may-09-spurs-enter-race-for-manchester-united%e2%80%99s-tevez-arsenal-want-russian-striker-pogrebnyak-valencia%e2%80%99s-silva-in-juventus-negotiations-and-more/#comments Tue, 12 May 2009 07:59:01 +0000 admin http://www.latestfootballnews.net/transfer-rumors-11-may-09-spurs-enter-race-for-manchester-united%e2%80%99s-tevez-arsenal-want-russian-striker-pogrebnyak-valencia%e2%80%99s-silva-in-juventus-negotiations-and-more/

It’s a new week, and we’ve got a fresh batch of transfer news and rumors from around Europe. We’ve got tidbits from England, Italy, and Germany in today’s roundup, with names big, medium, and small all being linked with moves from here to there.

England

Tottenham Enter Race for Tevez

Tottenham have joined the queue of teams looking to sign Carlos Tevez, as Spurs are being linked with a 25m offer for the Argentine hit-man. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: If he can combine effort and goal-scoring more often, he’s easily worth the 25m and then some, but if he did combine those two things more, he wouldn’t be on the market right now.

Cisse Reveals Summer Spurs Switch

On-loan Sunderland striker Djibril Cisse reacted to being left out of the starting XI for the club’s weekend match at Bolton by telling his teammates that he’s off to Tottenham in the summer. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: Well, that’s a good way to assure that you won’t be in the starting lineup for the last two games, eh Djibril? There’s no telling whether or not this is actually true, or if he was saying it just for devilment, but given his little outburst, I might be considering if my name was Harry Redknapp.

Arsenal After Zenit Striker Pogrebnyak

After striking gold with Andrei Arshavin, Arsenal are going digging in St. Petersburg again, this time lining up Arshavin’s former Zenit teammate Pavel Pogrebnyak as a replacement for the itching-to-leave Emmanuel Adebayor. (The Mirror)

Analysis: He’d certainly be one of the less expensive options on the market, and Zenit won’t have much room to do what they did with Arshavin, considering that Pogrebnyak is out of contract in six months.

Aston Villa Like Ajax’s Vermaelen

Aston Villa could be in the market for a new center back in the summer, and one of the names at the top of their list is Ajax defender Thomas Vermaelen, who Martin O’Neill went to personally scout over the weekend. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Even if Laursen is able to overcome his injury problems, Villa do need to bolster their defense, and adding a player who’s young and has experience at a high level for club and country can only improve their back line.

Fulham In for Stockport Striker Johnson

Roy Hodgson is looking to the lower leagues to bolster his front line, targeting 21-year-old Stockport County striker Oli Johnson. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Given Stockport’s current financial straits, Fulham should be able to get him on the cheap. He looks to be more for the future than the present, but to make the move up from non-league to League One to the Premier League in less than a year is certainly something to be proud of either way.

Portsmouth’s Davis Wanted by Several

Portsmouth midfielder Sean Davis is a serious target for newly-promoted Birmingham, but Alex McLeish could face competition from Wigan, Bolton, and fellow promoted side Wolves for the 29-year-old. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Davis will be out of contract this summer, so it might all come down to who’s going to fork out the best wages. Birmingham seem to be willing to fork out a sizable amount to add his experience to their ranks, so they’ve got a chance.

Italy

Juventus Set for Talks for Valencia’s Silva

Valencia winger David Silva confirmed yesterday that the club has given his agent the go-ahead to negotiate with Juventus. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Silva may not want to leave Valencia, but selling him would certainly be a much-needed boost for the club financially (and so will Champions League qualification), and I think you can expect a few more clubs, including one or two (or more) from the Premier League, to enter the race with this bit of news.

Inter After Fiorentina Star Melo

Jose Mourinho is reportedly eyeing Fiorentina midfielder Felipe Melo as a potential replacement for Patrick Vieira. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Fiorentina signed Melo just last summer from Almeria for 13m, and he’s already discussing an extension to his current contract, but Inter would have no problem paying the 12m buyout clause, so this one can‘t be ruled out yet.

Shevchenko Wants to Stay at AC Milan

His second spell at the club has been nowhere near as successful as his first, but on-loan AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko says he would like to finish his career at the San Siro. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: So, does that mean he’s going to retire after this season? In all seriousness, it doesn’t seem too likely at present that his stay in Milan will be extended, and his future at Chelsea seems to be grim, so he may just have to hope that Milan have enough faith in his abilities to keep him past this season.

Germany

Bayern Confirm Interest In Barcelona’s Hleb

Bayern Munich are hoping to beat out Juventus for Werder Bremen star Diego, but if they miss out on the Brazilian, Alexander Hleb is next on their wish list. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: This is like someone telling you, “Yeah, I like you, but I’ll only date you if the guy I like more turns me down.” As is though, he could be their guy in the end, because I don’t see Werder selling to Bayern, especially if Juventus offer what they’ve been holding out for.

Daily Links

Fletcher to Miss UEFA Champions League Final

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher will not play in the Champions League final against Barcelona, as UEFA unsurprisingly upheld his red card against Arsenal.

Mexico Withdraws from CONMEBOL Tournaments

Mexico’s football federation has withdrawn its teams from participation in CONMEBOL tournaments after the South American football federation’s decision to force two Mexican sides to play their Copa Libertadores home legs in Colombia.

“Transfer Rumors (11 May 09): Spurs enter race for Manchester United’s Tevez, Arsenal want Russian striker Pogrebnyak, Valencia’s Silva in Juventus negotiations, and more” was originally published at footballlens.com – football news.

Another day, another several notable names linked with moves as the start of the summer transfer window edges closer by the day. Which rumors are worth buying, and which would should you throw out with the weekend trash?

England

Liverpool’s Alonso a Manchester City Target?

Manchester City are set to make a bid for Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso, which could be in the range of 18m. (News of the World)

Analysis: Dear Rafa Benitez,

Don’t. Even. Think. About. Selling. Alonso. GOT IT? (And I’m not even a Liverpool fan, by the way.)

That is all.

Signed,
Eddie Griffin

Liverpool to Sign Heerenveen Star Pranjic

Liverpool are close to sealing a 6m deal for Heerenveen midfielder Danijel Pranjic. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Aside from giving Liverpool another option on the left flank, Pranjic offers the versatility to be able to play defensively, so he has a great chance to nail down a favorable place in Rafa’s rotation.

Allardyce Admits Longtime Interest in Portsmouth’s Crouch

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce has admitted that not only did he seriously weigh up a move for Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch, but he’s also held an interest in Crouch since his tenure at Bolton. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: There’s a good chance that Santa Cruz could be off in the summer, and with Portsmouth’s precarious financial position, Big Sam could finally get his man.

Coventry Interested in Hearts’ Driver

Championship side Coventry City are paying close attention to Hearts winger Andrew Driver. Hearts value the 21-year-old at 2m, but Coventry will try to make a deal happen for less. (The Mirror)

Analysis: Coventry actually made a January bid of 1m, which was rejected, so their offer in the summer will have to be closer to Hearts’ valuation, or they’ll have to go looking elsewhere.

Scotland

Celtic to Move for Newcastle’s Owen?

Celtic are set to offer Newcastle striker Michael Owen a 50k per week, incentive-laden, pay-as-you-play deal. (News of the World)

Analysis: Ambitious offer, and not unreasonable either. Owen’s record is one thing, but his injury problems make giving him a big contract outright a serious risk. This one’s pretty simple – if he plays, and he does well, he earns his money. And Celtic would offer him Champions League football, which he’d no doubt relish. But, because England is likely the first option no matter what, Celtic are probably a long shot at this point.

Spain

Barcelona’x Xavi Laughs Off Real Interest

Barcelona playmaker Xavi has been one of the big names thrown about as part of the Real Madrid presidential promise jabbering, but he’s very, very happy where he is. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: In other words, “dream on, Real.”

Malaga After Barcelona’s #2 Keeper

Malaga are going after Barcelona backup keeper Albert Jorquera, with a view of him being their future #1. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Save for a couple of loan spells, Jorquera has been at Barcelona since his youth, and he doesn’t have much to show for it in appearances. This is an excellent opportunity for him to show what he can do as the #1 for a solid side that could very well be playing in Europe next season.

France

PSG Star Sessegnon’s Future Uncertain

PSG midfielder Stephane Sessegnon has recently been linked with Chelsea, and his agent says said that a summer move could be in the cards, with interest coming from England, Spain, Italy, and Germany. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: In his first season at PSG, the former Le Mans man has played a large role in helping PSG make the quarterfinals of the UEFA Cup and pushing for a Champions League place. PSG would no doubt prefer to hold on to such a key player, but it might all depend on what direction they go with their next manager, and how well they finish the season.

Daily Links

footballlens Podcast Episode 10: The French Kiss, The Italian Job and the Best and Worst of Spain and England

On the latest episode of the footballlens Podcast, Stephen Darwin and his guests discuss the Champions League semifinals, the Ligue 1 title race, and much more.

Arsenal 1-4 Chelsea – Chelsea Trounce Gunners to Clinch Third

Chelsea took out their Champions League anger on Arsenal at the Emirates, blasting the Gunners 4-1 to seal third and stay in the hunt for second.

Roy Hodgson Should Be Premier League Manager of the Year

Fulham are in position to make the Europa League, and Roy Hodgson deserves the highest of accolades for the club’s achievements.

The Offside’s Weekend Quiz: African Players

Many African talents have made an indelible mark on European football over the last several years, and if you want to do well on this weekend’s quiz over at The Offside, hopefully they left an indelible mark on your memory.

“Transfer Rumors (10 May 09) – Liverpool to sign Eredivisie star Pranjic, Celtic target Newcastle’s Owen, Barcelona star Xavi staying put, and more” was originally published at footballlens.com – football news.