Terry expects Chelsea to make signings

Captain John Terry expects Chelsea to make the most of the January transfer window.

The Blues have had a transfer ban suspended pending appeal so will be free to bring players in when the window opens again.

And Terry expects manager Carlo Ancelotti and owner Roman Abramovich to discuss some moves. 'It's good news about the transfer ban being suspended but we lose four good players to the African Nations Cup in January anyway,' he told The Sun.

'I'm sure the club and the manager are looking into that and having good talks with Roman.

'I wouldn't be surprised if we do go out and buy because we don't know what's going to happen in the summer - or the following summer.'

James: I will be fit for World Cup

England goalkeeper David James expects to be fully fit for next summer's World Cup.

The 39-year-old missed Saturday's friendly against Brazil because of an ongoing knee problem, which has also seen him given a special training routine which gives him time off on Mondays.

But the Portsmouth stopper told the Daily Mail: 'I'm not concerned about my knee and it will not be a reason why I won't be fit for the World Cup. 'If the injury was a serious one I'd be looking to rest for a number of weeks and miss a load of games for Portsmouth.

'But I don't need to and that should tell you everything. By managing the situation, I am able to play every week.

'But I missed England squads earlier in the season because I couldn't train the way the manager (Fabio Capello) wanted me to.

'He has a very strict policy.

'If you can't do their training before a game he won't pick you and that's fair enough.

'And I missed the last squad for Brazil because it was considered more sensible to give me a two-week break.

'The same went for a number of the lads.

'For me, it has proved a good decision because the knee is getting better all the time.'

Indeed, James hopes to win his 50th cap when England next play in March.

'By the time England play again in March my left knee will be fine,' said James. 'I see it as a chance to win my 50th cap, something I'd love to do at Wembley, and if I'm selected I will be fully fit.'

He added: 'I can see why the manager might be a bit worried but it's not strictly true that I can't train for two days after every game.

'I just have a programme in place for now that is designed to allow the knee time to make a full recovery and it means I don't do any goalkeeping training on a Monday.

'I just go in the gym and do conditioning work before returning to goalkeeping work the next day.

Maradona handed two-month football ban

Argentina coach Diego Maradona was banned for two months and fined more than £14,000,000 after a foul-mouthed outburst at the end of last month's decisive World Cup qualifier in Uruguay.

Maradona, 49, who faced a potential ban from some of his team's matches at next year's World Cup, apologised for his behaviour and showed remorse, soccer's governing body FIFA said.

He was sanctioned after an expletive-filled rant when interviewed on the touchline and produced another outburst in the post-match media conference, which was broadcast live on several television networks. Maradona told the media to 'suck it and keep on sucking'. Named as Argentina coach 13 months ago after fighting off drug addiction, alcohol problems and obesity, Maradona appeared in person before the disciplinary tribunal behind closed doors at FIFA headquarters.

'The FIFA disciplinary committee...decided today to impose a two-month ban on taking part in any football related activity and a 25,000 CHF ($24,630) fine on the head coach of Argentina Diego Maradona,' a FIFA statement said.

'The committee took into consideration the apologies and the sincere remorse shown by Maradona in its decision, which was communicated to him at the end of the meeting.

'The committee stressed that any breach of this decision or any repetition of a similar incident would mean that stronger sanctions would have to be imposed in the future.'

FIFA said the sanction would start immediately and run until Jan. 15. It means Maradona will not have to miss any competitive internationals, although Argentina are due to face the Czech Republic in a friendly at a venue to be decided next month.

The ban is the latest episode in the turbulent career of Maradona, who was thrown out of the 1994 World Cup for a doping offence, one of three such bans he received as a player.

Maradona flew in from Madrid, where his team lost 2-1 to Spain in a friendly on Saturday night.

Wearing dark glasses and a track suit, he swept past reporters at Zurich airport refusing to comment.

Around 20 onlookers with Argentina flags and a similar number of journalists gathered outside the gates of FIFA headquarters in a quiet Zurich suburb on a grey, damp autumn day. Maradona was inside the building for just over 2-1/2 hours.

Maradona rounded on his critics after Argentina beat arch-rivals Uruguay 1-0 to secure their berth in the South Africa in the last game of an 18-match qualifying campaign.

The 1986 World Cup winner had been heavily criticised for defeats against Bolivia, Ecuador, Brazil and Paraguay that left twice world champions Argentina on the brink of failing to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1970.

Appointed in October last year, Maradona's coaching credential have been repeatedly questioned.

He has called up more than 70 players for 14 matches (eight qualifiers and six friendlies) and been criticised for his team selections.

Maradona's tenure has been marked by clashes with players, coaches, journalists and directors, most notably playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme who quit the team saying he and Maradona did not live 'by the same codes'.

Arsenal confirm six-week lay-off for Van Persie

Arsenal have confirmed striker Robin van Persie will be out of action for 'approximately six weeks' after suffering ankle ligament damage during Holland's international friendly against Italy on Saturday.

Initially it had been feared the Dutch forward - who has scored eight goals in 15 games in all competitions this season and emerged as one of the Gunners' key figures - could be set for a much-longer spell on the sidelines.

Van Persie, 26, will return to London later this week to continue his rehabilitation but is set to miss key clashes with Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea at the end of the month, the trip to Liverpool on December 13 as well as the rest of the hectic Christmas schedule. A club statement from Arsenal read: 'Following the care given to van Persie by the Dutch FA, he will travel back to London this week and continue his treatment with the Arsenal medical team at London Colney.

'Van Persie will be out of action for approximately six weeks.'

Although Van Persie could be back for what is likely to be a season-defining few weeks when Arsenal host Manchester United on January 31 before games against Chelsea and then Liverpool, the loss of the skilful Dutchman could not have come at a worse time for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

Denmark striker Nicklas Bendtner (groin) and England forward Theo Walcott (knee) are already out until early December.

Van Persie suffered the injury to his right leg in the 10th minute of Saturday's goalless draw against Italy in Pescara.

He was carried off on a stretcher following a heavy challenge from Azzurri defender Giorgio Chiellini and tests yesterday showed partially torn ligaments in his right ankle.

Van Persie had also suggested he would be out for the best part of two months.

'I have had a scan. I am probably out for between four and six weeks,' he told Dutch television programme Studio Voetbal.

However, the striker did absolve Juventus defender Chiellini of blame, adding: 'There was no intent.'

Van Persie scored twice in the 3-0 victory over Spurs last month, revelling in his new role at the head of a 4-3-3 formation, with Wenger afterwards describing him as a mixture of club legends Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp.

Everton end winless run as Hammers sink into mire

David Moyes warned Everton not to get carried away by ending their winless run with victory at West Ham yesterday.

Goals from Louis Saha and Dan Gosling ensured a first Premier League success in five for Moyes' men and the Scot said: 'We have not played well so we cannot ask for any more. When it was 2-0, I felt we had shored it up with nearly a perfect away performance where you have got the goals but did not play well. The key is always to find a winning formula and we found one. But we need to play better. At the moment, we are lacking just a bit of quality.'

Tony Hibbert's own-goal gave the Hammers hope but boss Gianfranco Zola was left perplexed by the result.

'We have to analyse the problems first and find solutions,' he said. 'I felt the players gave everything.'

World Cup dream appears over for Owen

Michael Owen's World Cup dream appears to be over.

After being overlooked since the friendly defeat in France over 18 months ago, it was expected Owen would eventually force his way into Fabio Capello's England squad after he completed a surprise summer move to Manchester United.

Yet Owen has found a starting spot hard to pin down at Old Trafford. Despite Dimitar Berbatov's absence, he was only on the bench for United's defeat at Chelsea yesterday.

Capello does not feel it is enough to warrant Owen's inclusion, despite citing the striker as "my torment" in a recent interview.

And, after leaving him out of his squad for Saturday's friendly with Brazil in Qatar, it is difficult to envisage that stance changing.

If Owen is despondent, Darren Bent will join up on Tuesday with a clear sense of focus.

Bent has fallen behind Carlton Cole in the battle to be back-up to Emile Heskey as England's main striking target man and not even some fine early-season form for his new club Sunderland, and a ringing endorsement from manager Steve Bruce, had been enough to get him back in - until now.

With Heskey and Cole both ruled out of what will be England's 31st meeting with the most glamorous team in the planet, after which there will be just one game - next March - before Capello must name his provisional squad, Bent has been handed his chance.

Whether the 25-year-old edges ahead of Peter Crouch, who has a remarkable record of 16 goals in 17 starts for his country, is open to question.

However, Capello will probably want to see Bent in action at some stage and the former Tottenham star, who left White Hart Lane is acrimonious circumstances this summer, must not waste the opportunity.

When picking a side to face the five-times world champions, Capello's hardest choice would appear to be at left-back.

Even though he completed the full 90 minutes at Stamford Bridge, Ashley Cole has not been selected, triggering the call-up of Aston Villa's Stephen Warnock.

Normally, Wayne Bridge would be the automatic stand-in for Cole but the Manchester City defender produced a woeful performance against Burnley yesterday.

His poor positioning was highlighted by BBC pundit Alan Hansen for two of the Clarets' three goals, so Warnock, whose international career extends to a single eight-minute substitute appearance in Trinidad last year, might harbour hopes of a starting berth.

Alternatively, Capello may place his trust in James Milner, who has made a big impression on the Italian recently and is apparently capable of filling in at full-back.

Largely, the squad is notable for who is not in it rather than who is.

Rio Ferdinand and Steven Gerrard head a long list of injured absentees, which also includes Cole, David James, whose only appearance for England since last April was as a substitute in the Ukraine last month after Robert Green had been sent off, and Aaron Lennon.

David Beckham was also last night ruled out of England's first trip to Qatar after the Los Angeles Galaxy secured a place in Friday's Major League Soccer Western Conference final with victory over local rivals Chivas USA.

Hull boss Brown boosts job chances with crucial win

Under-fire Hull boss Phil Brown chose to avoid the media after Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink's late winner handed his team a vital win over Stoke.

The Tigers, having won just three times in 33 Premier League games, had seemed destined for another damaging defeat after a first-half strike from Matthew Etherington.

But Brown's side, re-invigorated by the presence of record signing Jimmy Bullard, earned reward for their greater endeavour as Seyi Olofinjana levelled against his former club - and Vennegoor of Hesselink struck moments after Stoke had captain Abdoulaye Faye sent off for a second booking. He does like the spotlight - there's nothing wrong with that - but tonight he's chosen not to,' said assistant manager Brian Horton, when asked about Brown's absence from the post-match press conference. 'He has just come out of the spotlight. He is having a Guinness. Why shouldn't he?'

Horton, however, was more guarded when asked whether he felt, after a week of speculation, the win had saved Brown's job.

'We hope we can now go on a run and nobody talks about stupid things like that,' he added.

No transfer rush for Ancelotti

"Now, thanks to this decision we have time to look for new players," said Ancelotti. "But we don't want to take a decision in this moment. At the moment, I'm very happy with the squad, these players, and it's not necessary at the moment to take new players."

FIFA banned the Blues from any transfer activity until 2011 after they were found guilty of inducing teenage Gael Kakuta to breach his contract with French club Lens.

Chelsea appealed to CAS against the punishment and also requested the ban be suspended until their case had been dealt with in full.

That is now likely to take place well into the new year.

The Blues will lose Michael Essien, Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and John Mikel Obi to the African Nations Cup in January but Ancelotti remains confident they can cope without them.

The Chelsea boss added: "I know we will lose four in January but if we maintain the players' fitness we can do a good period also without the African players. We can buy players in January, but now we have other questions to answer. It's not important now what we can do in January."

A statement from CAS read: "The Court of Arbitration for Sport has granted the request for a stay filed by Chelsea Football Club Ltd and Mr Gael Kakuta in relation to the decision taken by the FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber on 27 August 2009.

"The FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber imposed, inter alia, a restriction of four months' ineligibility on Mr Gael Kakuta, and Chelsea Football Club Ltd was banned from registering any new players, either nationally or internationally, for the next two complete, consecutive registration periods. Such sanctions are now stayed until the CAS renders its final decision in this matter."

Charlton happy to be eclipsed by Rooney

Sir Bobby Charlton has been encouraged by Wayne Rooney's growing maturity and insists he would relish the Manchester United forward surpassing his own England goalscoring record.
Charlton has 49 goals for his country and Rooney's recent burst over the last year puts him more than halfway there, on 25, with next week's friendly against Brazil another chance to add to his tally.

"Nothing would give me greater pleasure," the United and England legend said. "I would be dead chuffed if that happened."
He added: "I think he is a terrific player, inspirational, and people like him. As along as he doesn't get suspended for arguing with referees or doing something daft on the pitch - he is learning rapidly and doing less and less of that."

Charlton was at Wembley for the unveiling of a bust of Sir Alf Ramsey, the manager of the 1966 World Cup-winning team which he played in.

He sees similarities between Ramsey and current boss Fabio Capello, in terms of them both being disciplinarians.

"He reminds me of Fabio Capello. No question," he said. "His history has always been as a tough character but he gets teams to listen and perform to their best.

"I think England have a great chance of winning.

"I'm not getting carried away because it's a tough game and you are playing against the best in the world.

"It would be sensational if we could win but I don't want to put any more pressure on them."

Information

The FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 takes place in the city of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates from December 9-19, 2009. This is the first time the tournament is being held in one city. The matches will be played in the city's two largest stadiums, Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium and Zayed Stadium. Click on the button in the right hand side to buy tickets online now or call our Ticket Hotline on 800KICK (8005425) if you are calling from within the UAE or +971 (0)2 449 9955 if you are outside the UAE.

TICKET PRICING INFORMATION

Individuals

* Ticket prices range from as low as 10 AED to 300 AED depending on the match and the seat location. Please refer to Ticket Price Schedules - Single Tickets and Match Packages.

* Children under two years of age not occupying a seat are free of charge and do not require a ticket.

* Females who wish to purchase, may select a "Female only seating" area for each match only offered at the Category 1 price.

* If you wish to purchase more than 20 tickets for any one match, please call our Ticket Hotline on 800KICK or +971 (0)2 449 9955 where discount options are available.

* Discount Options

* If you order 21 - 100 tickets for any one match you will receive a discount of 10 per cent off the face value of tickets.
* If you order more than 100 tickets for any one match you will receive a discount of 20 per cent off the face value of tickets.

Ticket Packages

* Family Package

For the cost of two adult tickets only, you will receive two adults AND up to four child (aged 16 and under) tickets.

For families with more than four children, additional tickets are available to a purchaser at a discount of 50 per cent per child.

* Football Fan Package

Purchase tickets to all eight matches, including Opening and Closing Ceremonies and receive a 30 per cent discount off regular Category 1 and 2 ticket prices.

* Gold Premium Package

Purchase this six match package, including the Opening Match & Ceremony; the first Semi-Final Match; the second Semi-Final Match & 5th Place Match (double-header); and the 3rd Place Match & Final, including the Closing Ceremony (double header) and receive a 25 per cent discount off regular Category 1 and 2 ticket prices.

* Finals Package

Purchase this four match which includes a Semi-Finals Match & 5th Place Match (double-header); plus the 3rd Place Match & the Final, including the Closing Ceremony (double-header) and receive a 10 per cent discount off regular Category 1 and 2 ticket prices.

* Football Supporter Package

Purchase a ticket to both Quarter Final Matches and receive a 50 per cent discount off regular Category 1 and 2 ticket prices.

SCHEDULE AND TICKET PRICE TABLE (Refer to Ticket Price Schedules for full details)

SEATING

* At the time of ticket purchase, customers will be allocated a seat in their requested price Category but not a physical seat location. Seats will be assigned at a later time and customers will be notified accordingly.
* Customers who purchase Family Tickets (2 Adults plus 4 children) will be seated in a dedicated "family area" within their nominated price category 1, 2, 3 or 4.
* "Female only seating area" will be restricted to females who purchase Cat 1 tickets and who nominate to sit in this area.
* The best seats will be allocated to those whose purchase tickets first.
* Customers will know their exact seat location upon receipt of their tickets.
* The Local Organising Committee of the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 will make every effort to ensure that all tickets ordered together are seated together.

TICKET LIMITS

Only two match days of the tournament have ticket limits - Match 5/6 (Semi-Final & 5th Place Match) and Match 7/8 (3rd Place March and Final). There is a limit of 20 tickets per match day per purchase.

TICKET ORDERING PROCESS

* To purchase tickets online, please click on the Purchase Tickets Button. All ticket prices are in UAE Dirhams (AED) currency.
* To purchase tickets via the telephone please call our Ticket Hotline. From within the UAE dial 800KICK (8005425) toll free. Outside the UAE, please call +971 (0)2 449 9955. Please note that international call charges will apply for customers calling from outside the UAE.
* All customers who purchase tickets online or through the Ticket Hotline will receive an email confirming their purchase.
* Tickets will be issued once the official match draw is held in November, with delivery and pick up of tickets to take place after this date.

Dunne targets Champions League

Speculation regarding the delay centred around the fact Dunne was negotiating a pay-off from a club he had served for the last nine years, and with a testimonial in the offing.

But with the Premier League now granting clearance after sifting through the backlog of transfers following a hectic deadline day, centre-back Dunne is a Villa player.

Despite losing their opening-day game at home to Wigan and crashing out of the Europa League to Rapid Vienna, Dunne firmly believes the club has the potential to clinch a Champions League place for next season.

The 52-times-capped Republic of Ireland international, who has signed a four-year deal, said: "I'm delighted. It's a great opportunity for me.

"With Aston Villa, with the experience they would have gained from last season - they went so close for so long at the top end and the manager has bought in some new players into the squad this year - maybe it might help us go that bit further."

Dunne, who turns 30 on the 21st of this month, was relieved that what proved to be a surprisingly protracted move was finally done and dusted.

"I came on Friday and passed my medical and I thought it would be a straightforward day for me," he added. "I think there was just a lot of pressure on a lot of people with so many deals going through, but I'm just really pleased that finally we have it all done."

Speculation regarding the delay centred around the fact Dunne was negotiating a pay-off from a club he had served for the last nine years, and with a testimonial in the offing.

But with the Premier League now granting clearance after sifting through the backlog of transfers following a hectic deadline day, centre-back Dunne is a Villa player.

Despite losing their opening-day game at home to Wigan and crashing out of the Europa League to Rapid Vienna, Dunne firmly believes the club has the potential to clinch a Champions League place for next season.

The 52-times-capped Republic of Ireland international, who has signed a four-year deal, said: "I'm delighted. It's a great opportunity for me.

"With Aston Villa, with the experience they would have gained from last season - they went so close for so long at the top end and the manager has bought in some new players into the squad this year - maybe it might help us go that bit further."

Dunne, who turns 30 on the 21st of this month, was relieved that what proved to be a surprisingly protracted move was finally done and dusted.

"I came on Friday and passed my medical and I thought it would be a straightforward day for me," he added. "I think there was just a lot of pressure on a lot of people with so many deals going through, but I'm just really pleased that finally we have it all done."

remier League this season.

Dunne on Wednesday finally joined Martin O'Neill's side in a £6million deal from Manchester City, despite passing his medical and the two clubs having agreed the fee five days ago.

"Aston Villa have improved each season recently, and hopefully I can be part of a squad that can challenge for a Champions League spot," said Dunne on AVTV.

Speculation regarding the delay centred around the fact Dunne was negotiating a pay-off from a club he had served for the last nine years, and with a testimonial in the offing.

But with the Premier League now granting clearance after sifting through the backlog of transfers following a hectic deadline day, centre-back Dunne is a Villa player.

Despite losing their opening-day game at home to Wigan and crashing out of the Europa League to Rapid Vienna, Dunne firmly believes the club has the potential to clinch a Champions League place for next season.

The 52-times-capped Republic of Ireland international, who has signed a four-year deal, said: "I'm delighted. It's a great opportunity for me.

"With Aston Villa, with the experience they would have gained from last season - they went so close for so long at the top end and the manager has bought in some new players into the squad this year - maybe it might help us go that bit further."

Dunne, who turns 30 on the 21st of this month, was relieved that what proved to be a surprisingly protracted move was finally done and dusted.

"I came on Friday and passed my medical and I thought it would be a straightforward day for me," he added. "I think there was just a lot of pressure on a lot of people with so many deals going through, but I'm just really pleased that finally we have it all done."

Zola closes on Chamakh

friday, August 21, 2009

Chamakh Marouane

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is edging closer to signing Bordeaux forward Marouane Chamakh and is looking to sell James Collins to push the deal through.

Stoke manager Tony Pulis is still hopeful of signing Collins but the Hammers are also waiting to see if Aston Villa are willing to bid for the 25-year-old centre-back.

The money for Collins would be used for Morocco international Chamakh, who is needed to support Carlton Cole as Zola's only senior striker.

Chamakh wants to leave his French club and earlier in the summer was on the radar of Arsenal but Arsene Wenger felt his price was too expensive for a player whose contract is running out.

Meanwhile, left-back Herita Ilunga's facial injury means he is rated as doubtful to face Tottenham on Sunday in the Barclays Premier League clash at Upton Park.

Jonathan Spector is a likely replacement but Fabio Daprela, the Switzerland Under-19 international, impressed in a behind-closed-doors practice match against Watford.

Radoslav Kovac also featured in the 2-1 win, his first appearance since signing a permanent deal with the club. Josh Payne and Zavon Hines scored the goals in the friendly.

Yeung takes step towards bid

friday, August 21, 2009

Carson Yeung

Birmingham have revealed Carson Yeung's investment company has paid a £3million deposit with a view to making an offer for the Premier League club.

Yeung's Grandtop International Holdings, which currently holds a 29.9% stake in the St Andrews club, has entered into an escrow agreement with City.

He had looked set to bid for the club two years ago but an offer failed to materialise, prompting the current owners to challenge him to prove he had the financial muscle to make a firm approach.

Grandtop have done that by placing a substantial deposit which could lead to a takeover worth around £81.5million.

A statement to the Stock Exchange said: "The board of Birmingham announces that on 20 August 2009 it entered into an escrow agreement with Grandtop International Holdings Limited, the holder of an existing 29.9% interest in the issued share capital of Birmingham.

"Under this agreement, Grandtop has put down a deposit of £3million with a view to making an offer for the entire issued share capital of the company.

"The £3million deposit is a surety for Grandtop's ability and intention to make an offer, without which the company was unable to commit resources to considering an offer."

Majority shareholders David Sullivan and David and Ralph Gold have always maintained they would not sell the club unless they were confident it was going into safe hands.

The statement added: "The irrevocables (a signed agreement for the sale of shares), if signed, will be in respect of 40,757,026 ordinary shares of 10p each in the share capital of Birmingham, representing approximately 50.0% of the existing issued share capital.

"The offer, if made, would value the entire issued share capital of Birmingham at approximately £81.5 million. It is expected that the irrevocables will be signed as soon as Grandtop indicates that it is in a position to announce a firm intention to make an Offer on the Agreed Basis."

Late penalty gives Blues win

James McFadden scored an injury-time penalty to earn Birmingham a dramatic victory over Portsmouth at St Andrew's.

Referee Lee Probert pointed to the spot after England goalkeeper David James had clattered into Blues midfielder Sebastian Larsson.

Up stepped McFadden to drill the ball past the 39-year-old who had earlier denied the home side with fine saves from Larsson and veteran striker Kevin Phillips.

James' efforts looked to have earned his side a valuable point on the day Pompey confirmed a new consortium led by chief executive officer Peter Storrie was in negotiations to buy the club.

Blues boss Alex McLeish is desperate for his side to make St Andrews into a fortress after eight draws in his 13 home games in charge two seasons ago were a major factor in them being relegated.

But for all their endeavour and purpose, with Barry Ferguson impressive in midfield, they were unable to unlock the visitors rearguard, in which Sylvain Distin was a key performer, until the late finale.

Larsson came close to putting City in front after 18 minutes when the Sweden international got on the end of a deep first-time centre from left-back Gregory Vignal but he could not keep down his header.

Hart parried a low effort around the post from Frederic Piquionne although the shot was probably heading just wide before his intervention.

City tried to build up some momentum and James turned over a curling free-kick from Larsson after Phillips had been brought down by Hayden Mullins.

James made a fine save to turn a curling shot from Phillips past the post after Garry O'Connor had headed the ball into his path. But St Andrews erupted after McFadden's late decider.

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Fabregas targeted for Milan move

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Centre of attention: Cesc Fabregas has been linked with Milan

AC Milan are reportedly lining up a £30million offerc for Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.

The Italian Tuttosport newspaper claims the San Siro club already have an understanding with Arsene Wenger to buy the Spain playmaker, when the Arsenal boss decides he is ready to sell.

The report claims Milan coach Leonardo will meet with vice-president Adriano Galliani and Italy's prime minister Silvio Berlusconi - the club's owner - on Wednesday to discuss the move.

Everton deny Senderos bid means Lescott can leave

Everton have confirmed they are in talks with Arsenal about a move for Philippe Senderos, but deny he will be a direct replacement for Joleon Lescott.

England defender Lescott is wanted by Manchester City, and talk of a move for Senderos led to speculation a switch to Eastlands could be imminent.

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright said: 'We have been negotiating with Arsenal for the transfer of Philippe. Nothing has been concluded yet but talks are on-going.'

A fee of about £6million is being discussed for the player who was on loan to AC Milan last season, playing 15 times.

But an Everton club source insisted Senderos - who joined Arsenal in 2003 - was not being signed as a direct replacement for Lescott.

Senderos is being lined up as cover at the back, where Phil Jagielka is not due back from a knee injury until November at the earliest.

However, the Switzerland international's arrival on Merseyside would compensate for a possible Lescott departure.

Everton have rejected two bids, £15million and £18million, from City boss Mark Hughes.

But Lescott did hold talks with Toffees manager David Moyes yesterday, but did not put in a formal transfer request.

Lescott has been told by Moyes he will not be sold and City have yet to return with a third bid.

Redknapp would welcome Vieira arrival

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp believes Patrick Vieira's determination to play at White Hart Lane shows the character of the former Arsenal captain.

Redknapp's priority at the moment is for cover at centre-back but he is also in the market for a defensive midfielder and the club have made an inquiry to Real Madrid about Lassana Diarra. He feels Vieira would add quality to his midfield and has no reservations over the 33-year-old spending almost a decade at the club's rivals.

"I'm still interested in Patrick, I would like him," Redknapp said after Friday night's friendly 1-1 draw against Barcelona at Wembley.

"What's he done wrong, he hasn't killed anyone, he's just a great player who played for Arsenal.

"If he wants to come to Tottenham it shows you about his character. He wants to come and play, he's a fantastic player and wants to play here."

Redknapp is also still interested in Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch, adding: "We are interested in him but the whole deal is expensive. We feel it is more than we want to spend."

Jake Livermore, after signing a new contract with the club earlier in the day, grabbed the equaliser against Barca after Bojan Krkic had opened the scoring.

The European champions fielded a team of reserves and youngsters but gave Spurs a massive test with their passing.

"It's very difficult to play under that pressure - anyone can play when given time," he added. "I should have had my youth team here to watch.

"The whole club is a credit to football. People will only talk about their passing but I saw the other side of their game."

Trotters sign defensive duo

Bolton have completed the signings of Aston Villa defender Zat Knight and Hull full-back Sam Ricketts on three-year deals.

Centre-back Knight, who has won two England caps, joined Villa in the summer of 2007 from Fulham in a £3.5million deal but struggled for regular first-team football, starting just 13 Premier League games last season.

Wales international Ricketts, who can play on the left or the right of a back four, started 27 of the Tigers' Premier League games in their debut season in the top flight. They are Wanderers boss Gary Megson's third and fourth signings of the summer, with the club having brought in Sean Davis after his contract at Portsmouth expired and also defender Paul Robinson from West Brom.

Mascherano 'wants to quit Liverpool'

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano wants to quit the club for Spain, claims the player's agent.

Real Madrid and Barcelona are both keen on the Argentina holding midfielder but Rafa Benitez is desperate to keep the player at Anfield.
However, his representative Walter Tamer has reportedly told Infobae.com: 'Barcelona is the easiest deal to set up as Javier wants to go to Spain. He is tired of life in England.

Spurs not chasing Beckham but keen on Crouch, says Redknapp

Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp says there is no chance of the club signing England midfielder David Beckham.

Spurs have been linked with the LA Galaxy midfielder and Beckham is desperate to play in Europe when the MLS season finishes to boost his chances of playing in the 2010 World Cup finals.

But, speaking after last night's 4-0 friendly win over Peterborough, Redknapp said: 'David Beckham is a fantastic player, and an amazing professional.

'There's no truth in those stories. No enquiries have been made by us.

'I don't know where those stories came from.'

Redknapp did admit he is interested in signing Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch, thouhg, who would cost around £12m.

#Crouchy, I have signed several times, and if Portsmouth want to sell we could be interested,' Redknapp told Sky Sports.

'It depends on everything about price etc, but everyone has their price and it would be up to the chairman and Portsmouth to sort out a price. I love Crouchy but we will have to wait and see.'

Sunderland were also chasing Crouch but pulled out of the race yesterday as the player is keen to stay in the south of England.

Darren Bent, Jermain Defoe, Luka Modric and Roman Pavlyuchenko got the goals last night for Spurs.

Terry plays as Chelsea beat Jose's Inter

Slick Chelsea dominated former boss Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan at the Rose Bowl to get their World Football Challenge campaign off to a winning start in Pasadena, California, this morning.

Goals from Didier Drogba in the 11th minute and a Frank Lampard penalty just after half-time gave Chelsea the victory over the Italian champions in front of 81,224 fans.

The impressive nature of the Blues' performance more than the scoreline, however, will have delighted new head coach Carlo Ancelotti, especially coming so soon into the ex-AC Milan chief's first pre-season campaign and against his former cross-city rivals.

Mourinho, facing the club he led to two Premier League titles during his three seasons at Stamford Bridge between 2004-07, had seen his Inter team open its campaign with a penalty shoot-out defeat to Mexico's Club America on Sunday.

Chelsea, meanwhile, had warmed up with a 2-0 win over Major Seattle Sounders the previous day but had since lost German midfielder Michael Ballack to a broken toe.

Led once again by John Terry in central defence with Ricardo Carvalho, Chelsea fans at the Rose Bowl saw their African players start for the first time in pre-season, John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien returning to midfield with Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou in attack.

It was the central defenders, though, who had Chelsea's first sights on the Inter goal, Florent Malouda receiving a short corner on the left and crossing for Carvalho to head over the bar at the near post in the second minute and Terry heading from the resultant Malouda corner from the right.

Chelsea were dominant throughout the opening half and Drogba opened the lead in the 11th minute, receiving a short pass from Lampard with his back to goal, turning and shooting unimpeded from 20 yards, the ball bouncing over Inter Milan keeper Vid Belec's outstretched left hand and into the bottom corner of the goal.

The Londoners continued to play with purpose and fluency, highlighted in the 16th minute when Lampard and Branislav Ivanovic exchanged a one-two down the right, the Serbian full-back advancing to the byline and centering for Drogba whose shot was straight at a grateful Belec.

Trailing 1-0 at the break, Inter's first real chance came as Chelsea adjusted to the five changes made by Ancelotti at half-time. With Carvalho making way for Alex in defence, the incoming centre-back gave the ball away to Mario Balotelli on halfway immediately following the restart and the through ball found Diego Milito who cut inside Terry but was blocked at his feet by Petr Cech, the Chelsea keeper making his first meaningful contribution of the game.

Daniel Sturridge, who scored on his debut at Seattle, and Nicolas Anelka had replaced Drogba and Kalou and they quickly caused problems.

Deco, on for Malouda, sent Sturridge clear in the box in the 48th minute and when his cross from the left was blocked by Ivan Cordoba's hand, Lampard was given the chance to add to his goal scored against the Sounders, converting the penalty, right footed into the bottom corner.

Ancelotti made further changes in the 64th minute, taking off Cech, Essien and Ivanovic for Ross Turnbull, Juliano Belletti and Michael Mancienne, who was called straight into the action, blocking a Balotelli bicycle kick on the six-yard line after Inter sub Zlatan Ibrahimovic had crossed from the right.

Late substitute Franco Di Santo nearly added a third for the Londoners in stoppage time, taking a delicate Deco chip over the top on his chest and shooting right-footed over the bar.

Alonso plays it cool over Madrid move

Xabi Alonso joined up with the Liverpool squad last night for their Far East tour with his future at the club still uncertain.

The midfielder met boss Rafael Benitez and the Anfield squad at Vienna airport after flying from Spain - where he got married last weekend - following weeks of speculation that he was about to join Real Madrid.

Bernabeu officials had been working last week to try to tie up a deal for the 30-year-old that would have avoided him having to take part in the Liverpool trip to play Thailand in Bangkok on Wednesday and Singapore next Sunday.

There were even suggestions that he would be given leave from Liverpool so that a £30million move could be completed.

But after Liverpool had lost 1-0 yesterday evening in a friendly against Rapid Vienna, the squad went directly to the airport to be reunited with their Spanish stars, for the overnight flight to the Far East.

Alonso, Fernando Torres, Jose Reina and Alvaro Arbeloa had all been given extra time off following their participation in the Confederation Cup.

And Alonso - who as yet has not formally asked for a transfer - has spoken for the first time about his future ahead of the flight from Spain.

Alonso said: 'It is always a great feeling when Madrid want you, especially considering the phase of the career I am in now.

'But at this point, whether or not that can happen is not up to me. It's a matter that involves three parties, including myself. I do not like to force the issue. I prefer to talk.

'Madrid's project is certainly impressive. But beyond that, I cannot tell you anything else.'

Alonso intends to hold discussions with Benitez. He said: 'I will talk to him, sure, but the first thing to do when I arrive [in Austria] is to greet him.

'But I imagine that in the next few days, there will be time for all that, even though in reality, there is nothing in particular to talk to Rafa about. It's the clubs who have to negotiate to reach an agreement.'

On the reported fee, Alonso said: 'I am not the man who can answer these questions.

'The truth is that I cannot say much, because every little thing can be misinterpreted. And I do not know how things will turn out either because I am not a fortune teller.'

Benitez has consistently said in public that he does not want to sell Alonso, but if the position becomes untenable with the Spaniard having to search for a replacement, the fee he wants is over £30m.

Valencia's David Silva is reputed to be a target, while Liverpool are also likely to enter the bidding for Aston Villa winger Ashley Young.

Javier Mascherano, who has been told he will not be sold to Barcelona, played in the last 25 minutes of the defeat in Vienna, while new signing Glen Johnson was sidelined with an Achilles injury.

'Fraud' Beckham clashes with fans in return to LA Galaxy

David Beckham got involved in an ugly confrontation with fans at his home return game in Los Angeles.

The former England captain attempted to jump over a barrier as he left the field at half-time to remonstrate with a section of the crowd that had been jeering him.

He was held back by security staff, members of whom were also needed to restrain an angry fan who left his seat and rushed towards the footballer.

Beckham received a less than friendly welcome at his first home game for LA Galaxy after returning from a five-month loan spell at AC Milan - the team LA faced.

A hardcore section of the crowd booed Beckham every time he touched the ball and held aloft signs reading "Go Home Fraud" and "23: Repent" in reference to his shirt number.

Another read: "Hey Becks, Here Before You, Here after You, Here Despite You" while one stated: "Is evil something u are...or something u do?"

Frand: Fans' signs said it all at the LA Galaxy home coming

Earlier this year, Beckham indicated he wanted to stay in Milan rather than return to America, stating that the standard of play was far higher in Italy.

The apparent snub has angered some LA fans, notably a hardcore that sit in the so-called LA Riot Squad section.

Throughout the first half of the game he was subjected to jeers and obscene chants.

After the referee blew for half time, Beckham tried to hurdle an advertising boarding and appeared to make a "come on" gesture towards fans.

In response, one man left his seat, jumped down onto the pitch and attempted to run towards Beckham. At this point security intervened and escorted Beckham to the changing room, while removing the fan from the pitch.

Simon Fuller, Posh, Tom Cruise and Gary Barlow watch the match

Despite the incident, Beckham returned in the second half. He was the last man to take to the pitch and hugged several of his former AC Milan teammates before gesturing towards the rowdy section of the crowd.

A line of yellow-jacketed security staff stood below the supporters in the trouble area as a precaution.

In the 65th minute Beckham assisted in the scoring of an LA Galaxy goal. After doing so he turned and shrugged his shoulders in the direction of the section of crowd that had been jeering him.

Beckham was substituted in the 75th minute and walked off to a mixture of cheers and boos. The friendly match ended 2-2.

Beckham claimed he had tried to shake a supporter's hand. "The majority of the fans have been great," Beckham said afterwards in comments broadcast on Sky Sports News.

On the boos, he added: "It's to be expected. Sometimes it goes beyond it. I tried to shake one of the guy's hands but he didn't want any of it. That's the way it is."

Tevez reveals Real rejection

Carlos Tevez has revealed he rejected the chance to join former Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid.

The Argentina striker also confirmed that Chelsea and Liverpool had made inquiries about securing his services. Instead Tevez opted for a move to Manchester City after his extended loan deal at United ended, signing a lucrative five-year deal at Eastlands.

"Real made an offer but there was no agreement," Tevez told the Nation newspaper during a promotional visit to Abu Dhabi with his new club.

He added: "There were talks about deals and agreements but in the end it was only City. They showed lots of interest in me and are intent on growing and signing big players.

"I am sad to leave United but I am excited to join City. I'm thinking about the future and I will grow with this club."

Meanwhile manager Mark Hughes is continuing his pursuit of Emmanuel Adebayor and John Terry. Hughes remains determined to land the two men even though there are suggestions that Adebayor is not keen to leave Arsenal for Eastlands while Chelsea are adamant Terry is not for sale. Adebayor knows as well that there is stiff competition for places in attack at City following the arrivals of Tevez and Roque Santa Cruz with Craig Bellamy also on board.

Terry is Chelsea's defensive rock but Hughes believes the England international is ready for a new challenge.

"We do need new players," Hughes told the Gulf News. "We are still in discussions (over Adebayor) and the talks will continue.

"We have got attacking-minded players but we are looking to bring other players to the club before the transfer window closes.

"We are also looking to strengthen the defence. Every transfer deal is difficult and has different problems. There are areas which we need to address but we are happy with our progress."

Young going nowhere - O'Neill

Manager Martin O'Neill insists the £12million arrival of Stewart Downing at Aston Villa does not spell the end of Ashley Young's time at the club.

With the likes of Chelsea, Tottenham and even Real Madrid said to be interested in the former Watford man, speculation has been rife that Young could be on his way from Villa Park.

The signing of Downing only adds more fuel to the fire, but O'Neill insisted on Thursday: "There have been a lot of stories about Ashley - and that's what they are - stories."

Pardew marches into Saints

Southampton have named former Charlton and West Ham boss Alan Pardew as their new manager.

The 47-year-old, who left The Valley in November following an eight-game winless run, has signed a three-year deal at St Mary's.

Saints will kick off the new season in League One with a 10-point penalty, having been relegated and fallen into administration last term.

The south coast club were on the brink of going out of business over the summer until Swiss businessman Markus Liebherr completed his takeover last week.

Liebherr's first action was to sack Dutchman Mark Wotte as first-team coach and he has now turned to Pardew, who has achieved promotions with Reading and West Ham and also took the Hammers to the 2006 FA Cup final.

Liebherr said: "We are delighted to have been able to attract Alan to St Mary's from a very strong field of candidates we identified and who expressed an interest in joining us.

"Alan has a strong track record and impressed us with his vision, commitment and ambition."

Pardew is expected be in the stands when Southampton host Ajax in their latest pre-season friendly on Saturday.

Injury won't halt Villa bid for Downing

Aston Villa were holding talks with England winger Stewart Downing last night after agreeing a £12million fee with Middlesbrough.

The 24-year-old arrived at Villa's training ground on crutches as he took a break from his rehabilitation from foot surgery to discuss personal terms with manager Martin O'Neill.

His pending arrival will spark fresh speculation Ashley Young could be leaving. Downing's injury, suffered in a clash with Villa's Stiliyan Petrov in the penultimate game of last season, means he is unlikely to play again until October and may be out for some time longer.ut O'Neill has made his move in the hope of avoiding a bidding war in January when other clubs might have been prepared to do business once he had proved his fitness.

Sunderland step up Crouch pursuit

Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is keen to begin talks with Portsmouth striker Peter Crouch over a possible move to the Stadium of Light.

The Black Cats have been in discussions with Pompey for several weeks about the £12million-rated frontman but have yet to agree a fee. Sunderland are in a hurry amid speculation Fulham, who accepted a £5m bid from Hull for Bobby Zamora yesterday, are ready to swoop for the England striker.

Bruce said: 'He is a player I have admired for a very long time, and I suppose a lot of other managers do exactly the same thing.

'We hope we can try to put something together because he would be the type of player, of course, that would signal our intention of the way we want to take the football club forward.'

Asked if a fee had been agreed, Bruce replied: 'I know discussions at high levels were going on late last night, so we will see, and I will be able to tell you more in the next 24 hours.'

Fulham are tipped to turn to Crouch after agreeing to offload Zamora just 12 months after signing the 28-year-old from West Ham. Any deal could take some time, with Zamora currently on the club's pre-season tour of Australia.

Chelsea warn City off priceless Terry

Chelsea have warned Manchester City no amount of money will be enough to prise away John Terry.

City manager Mark Hughes has gone public with his desire to tempt Terry to become the Eastlands club's latest big-name signing. However, at an event to announce a new three-year deal with kit sponsors Samsung, chief executive Peter Kenyon was adamant Chelsea have no plans to sell the England skipper.

'He is not for sale at any price,' Kenyon told Sky News. 'John's going to remain with us. He is our talisman, the heart of Chelsea. It is irrelevant what another club will offer.'

Hughes, who looks set to complete the £25million signing of Emmanuel Adebayor today after the Arsenal striker was granted a work permit, had been encouraged by the failure of Terry to publicly dismiss the idea of leaving Stamford Bridge. But there was encouragement for Chelsea fans on that front when the defender stood alongside new coach Carlo Ancelotti to mark the contract with Samsung.

Terry's appearance to publicise the deal - believed to be worth more than the £11m-a-year agreement in place for the past five years - could suggest he remains committed to the club.

Kenyon also dismissed as 'mad speculation' reports he himself feels marginalised and may leave Chelsea, with City a possible destination.

Meanwhile, Uefa has reduced the European bans given to Blues striker Didier Drogba and defender Jose Bosingwa for their conduct following Chelsea's Champions League semi-final defeat by Barcelona in May.

European football's governing body has reduced both players' suspension by one game on appeal.

Fergie snubs forced me to move on, insists Tevez

Carlos Tevez has accused Sir Alex Ferguson of not showing him enough love at Manchester United.

Tevez yesterday became one of the few players to cross the Manchester divide, joining City immediately after quitting United in a five-year deal worth around £170,000 a week.

Ferguson claimed Tevez had a deal in place last January and that the Argentina striker refused to return phone messages.

But Tevez says it was the United boss who snubbed him, triggering the disenchantment that made him leave. 'I felt Sir Alex Ferguson and [chief executive] David Gill did not do enough to try to keep me,' said the 25-year-old.

'I was at Manchester United for two years. I never got a call or a text message from Sir Alex Ferguson.

'The only time he spoke to me was after the Champions League final in Rome when I was going back to Argentina. I don't think this is the way to treat a player who is at a club for two years. There was no line of communication.'

Tevez was unhappy at his lack of first-team action at United so he must have supreme confidence in his own ability as City will have ten strikers in their squad if Emmanuel Adebayor joins from Arsenal for £25million.

It is estimated City have paid £25.5m to buy Tevez, gaining his registration from the investors who owned his 'economic rights'. 'To bring one of the top strikers in world football to the club is fantastic,' added City boss Mark Hughes.

Tevez will join his new team-mates on their three-match tour of South Africa when they leave today.

City open their Premier League campaign at Blackburn on August 15, while Tevez returns to Old Trafford with his new club on September 20.

No Newcastle return for Kinnear

Joe Kinnear will not return to Newcastle as the club's new manager, sources at the club said today.

A report claimed the 62-year-old has been asked to take charge at St James' Park for the second time as Mike Ashley struggles to offload the club he put up for sale days after relegation to the Coca-Cola Championship was confirmed.

However, sources at Tyneside have insisted that is not the case and efforts to secure a deal with prospective buyers, who will then appoint their own manager, are ongoing.

Fans' favourite Alan Shearer remains at the end of a telephone line just waiting for a call after making his position on the vacancy clear.

However, Ashley, who held talks with the 38-year-old before deciding to sell the club, has his hands tied with those consortia leading the race to buy him out insisting it is they who will make any appointment.

In the meantime, coach Chris Hughton is acting as caretaker for the third time in less than a year with assistance from Colin Calderwood.

Kinnear arrived on Tyneside last September in the wake of Kevin Keegan's departure, much to the astonishment of the football world, and presided over a difficult period in the club's turbulent recent history.

The Magpies won four of the 20 games for which he was in charge before he succumbed to heart problems once again hours before a 3-2 Barclays Premier League victory at West Brom.

Kinnear needed further surgery, which ruled him out for the rest of the season, and Newcastle won just once more in their final 13 league fixtures, the last eight of them under Shearer.

Despite today's denial, there is a growing realisation within the Tyneside hierarchy that, if a sale does not go through soon, they will have to do something on the managerial front, and that could only be on a temporary basis.

The start of the new season is a little more than three weeks away - the Magpies travel to West Brom on August 8 - and the process of re-shaping the squad is yet to get under way.

Several players have already registered their displeasure with the lack of progress off the field, and some have indicated privately that their patience is wearing thin.

Should Ashley decide he has to appoint a short-term boss, Kinnear is at least available and has indicated he is keen to return to work.

However, he was the man who presided over the January departures of Shay Given and Charles N'Zogbia and the one who, after being linked with a series of big-money signings, recruited Kevin Nolan, Ryan Taylor and Peter Lovenkrands.

City close in on Adebayor and Terry after Tevez finally completes his United switch

Carlos Tevez completed his £25.5million move to Manchester City yesterday and looks set to be joined at Eastlands by further star names.

As Tevez was being unveiled, Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor was having a medical.

And if a work permit is granted for the Togo forward he could be on today's flight to South Africa for City's three-match tour along with a growing number of top players.

If that was not enough, manager Mark Hughes has not given up on signing England captain John Terry and the defender's future is likely to be resolved before Chelsea leave tomorrow for a tour of the United States.

'I have had fantastic respect for John Terry since I saw him as a young player when I was at Chelsea,' said Hughes.

'He's a great player and an outstanding captain. Any manager would covet a player like that. But we have to respect he plays for Chelsea.'

Adebayor's days at Arsenal appear numbered, even though City remained silent on the prospect of a £25m transfer being speeded through.

'There has been discussions between ourselves and Arsenal,' Hughes confirmed.

'Yes, there has been contact and possibly there is a deal to be done.'

Villa agree £12million fee for Downing

Middlesbrough and Aston Villa have agreed a fee of around £12million for England winger Stewart Downing.

Metro understands the two clubs have struck a deal which could see the 24-year-old midfielder leave his home-town club for the midlands.
Downing is currently recovering from foot surgery which is likely to sideline him until October at the earliest, but has been promised by chairman Steve Gibson that he can leave if a big club comes in at the right price.

Beckham: I may come back to Premier League

David Beckham would consider a return to the Barclays Premier League - despite having said he would never play for an English side other than Manchester United.

The 34-year-old was speaking in California where he has returned to link up with the Los Angeles Galaxy after a spell in Serie A playing for AC Milan.

Beckham is desperate to play in next year's World Cup and admitted he would ponder a move back to his homeland if it would increase his chances, saying: "I would definitely consider it."

He added: "Never say never. When I left United, I said I would never want to play for another English club.

"My heart was in Manchester - and I couldn't see myself wearing another shirt in the Premiership and playing against United. Now I wouldn't rule it out."

More likely is a return to Milan, where he impressed then coach Carlo Ancelotti, now with Chelsea, with his fitness and professionalism.

"Obviously Milan expressed that they want me to go back, so I don't see any reason why that would change," he said.

"We'll have to wait and see. I hope to be going back there."

Meanwhile, Beckham has been making peace with Galaxy team-mate Landon Donovan, who recently questioned the midfielder's commitment.

Beckham had a meeting with Donovan and manager Bruce Arena on his return and said: "I'm not going to talk about what was said. That was between me, Landon and the manager but we had a good talk."

Spurs set for shock swoop for ex-Arsenal captain Vieira

Tottenham fans may have to brace themselves for the sight of a former Arsenal skipper playing in their colours next season after boss Harry Redknapp made Patrick Vieira his number one transfer target.

The French midfielder could move to White Hart Lane on a free transfer from Inter Milan – on the proviso that he takes a huge salary cut. The Daily Mail reports that Spurs boss Redknapp has given the green light to opening discussions with the ex-Gunner, with a one-year contract up for grabs.zBut 33-year-old Vieira may have to accept a pay-as-you-play deal and accept wages of about £35,000-a-week to make the deal happen.

This is not about money, this is about a chance to play

Vieira has struggled with injuries during his time in Italy but is said to be desperate for a fresh start and a return to England – even if it is with his former club's arch-rivals.

'This is not about money, this is about a chance to play,' a friend of Vieira's told the newspaper. 'He has great memories of his time in London at Arsenal but that is in the past. The deal is not completed but he has an open mind. He is not afraid of the challenge from Spurs.'

Vieira was previously linked with a move to Premier League newcomers Birmingham City, but that switch has seemingly broken down.

United not interested in Eto'o

Samuel Eto'o's hopes of a big-money move to the Premier League appear to be dwindling.

After Manchester City publicly ended their attempts to sign the Barcelona forward on a massive contract last Friday, neighbours United have now distanced themselves from offering Eto'o an exit from the Nou Camp as well.

MORE: Manchester United transfer news and speculation

It had been suggested the Red Devils were ready to offer Eto'o wages in the region of £150,000-a-week to bolster their striking options, memories still fresh of his opening goal against them in last season's Champions League final.

However, while there will be no public statement on the speculation from Old Trafford, senior figures at United have distanced themselves from such talk.

Thoughts of a bid for the Cameroon star have already been rejected, with Sir Alex Ferguson happy to look elsewhere if, as is believed, he wants further attacking options despite the shock capture of Michael Owen, who will be officially unveiled tomorrow.

It leaves Eto'o in a quandary given City made it perfectly clear on Friday their announcement was not a game of brinkmanship aimed at securing the marquee signing they are known to be keen on.

In demanding half an estimated £18million transfer fee City had agreed to pay Barcelona, Eto'o said he would remain in Catalonia for the final year of his contract before leaving for nothing.

Without a further intervention, the 28-year-old looks likely to do just that.

Not that such a scenario sits easily with Barcelona, who are keen to complete a deal with Valencia for David Villa but are seeking to offload Eto'o first.

Ironically, Villa's insistence on remaining in Spain, rather than join Chelsea as John Terry believed was probable in the spring is one of the reasons given for the England skipper's willingness to, at the very least, talk to the Eastlands outfit, who are due to leave for South Africa on Wednesday, 24 hours before United head to the Far East for a four-match tour.

City hope to seal Tevez deal

Manchester City are hopeful of clinching the signature of Carlos Tevez before they head off for a three-match tour of South Africa on Wednesday.

Tevez has been tipped to land at Eastlands since informing Manchester United he would not be making his 'lease' deal permanent.

MORE: Manchester City transfer news and speculation

The South American's subsequent stinging attack on Sir Alex Ferguson has not endeared him to the Red Devils faithful, nor former United striker and current academy director Brian McClair, who branded Tevez 'disrespectful' for claiming he should have started the Champions League final defeat to Barcelona in May.

However, his stock will have risen among the Blues support, who will have noticed how effective Tevez's all-action style can be. City officials have always been quietly confident of getting their man.

Aware of the complexities surrounding the Argentina star - who would have to join the Blues under normal contract conditions, rather than the third-party status that caused such controversy when it was unearthed at West Ham - City have been reluctant to appear too bullish.

Yet, if talk of a medical, which would have to take place tomorrow when the player returns from holiday, proves to be accurate ahead of a departure for South Africa, Tevez could then join fellow new recruits Gareth Barry and Roque Santa Cruz.

City are also monitoring John Terry's situation with interest as the Chelsea skipper continues to give the impression of wanting to talk with the Blues hierarchy.

Terry is said to have had a meeting with Roman Abramovich this weekend and is bound to have raised concerns about the failure to land any of the big-name targets that were put to him as possible signings last spring.

Fearing another season without either the Premier League or Champions League trophies despite the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti, Terry's head is sure to have been turned to some extent by the offer of a massive salary, said to be way beyond his current £135,000-a-week deal.

It is claimed City are ready with a third bid for the 28-year-old, which may just be enough to trigger a formal transfer request.

Real ready to give up on Alonso deal

Real Madrid are not giving up the chase for Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso - but coach Manuel Pellegrini admits it will be hard to thrash out a deal for the Spain international.

Despite the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Karim Benzema and Raul Albiol this summer Real are now looking to strengthen their midfield with Reds star Alonso top of their wish-list.

However Madrid are not finding it straightforward to cut a deal with the Anfield club and admit they are some way short of Liverpool's £35million valuation of the player. 'It's not a mystery Real Madrid are interested in signing him [Alonso] but it won't be easy,' said Pellegrini.

'We are looking at alternatives for some positions.

'The attack is complete and perhaps a central midfielder or full-back is still missing but the rest of the positions are covered.' Meanwhile Brazil playmaker Kaka insists he and Ronaldo were worth every penny of the huge £130m Real forked out jointly for them.

Kaka insisted: '[The reason] Madrid have decided to pay so much money for us is because we are worth it, isn't it? Because we've shown it with our football over the last few years.

'We are in a sport which pays these kinds of figures and within this sphere it could be that we are worth this investment.

'In the case of Cristiano Ronaldo he has shown he's No.1 and that he's worth this money.'

Ronaldo deal sealed

Real Madrid and Manchester United have finalised an agreement for the £80million transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo to the Spanish club.

United confirmed earlier this month they had accepted a world-record £80million bid from the Primera Division side.

A statement on Madrid's website, www.realmadrid.com, on Friday evening read: "Real Madrid and Manchester United have signed a final agreement for the transfer of the rights of Cristiano Ronaldo from July 1. The player will be tied to Real Madrid for the next six seasons and will be presented on July 6 at the Santiago Bernabeu."
The Portugal superstar came close to joining Madrid last summer before Sir Alex Ferguson convinced him to stay at Old Trafford.

But Ramon Calderon, who was president of Madrid at the time, claimed this month a "gentleman's agreement" existed over the signing before he left the Spanish giants in January.

Nevertheless, Ronaldo becomes the latest signing in Florentino Perez's Madrid revolution.

Perez, who was responsible for bringing the likes of Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham and Luis Figo to the Bernabeu in his first stint as president, has already taken Brazil star Kaka from AC Milan and Spain international Raul Albiol from Valencia.

England in final after shoot-out win

Stuart Pearce ended England's semi-final spot-kick hoodoo as his under-21s defeated Sweden 5-4 on penalties after extra-time - following a 3-3 draw - to reach the European Under-21 Championship final.

Pearce lost at the last-four stage twice as a player and as a coach two years ago - but it looked like his youngsters would cruise to victory in Gothenburg after leading at half-time through Martin Cranie, Nedum Onuoha and Mattias Bjarsmyr's own goal.

The Swedes then staged a stunning revival at Gamla Ullevi and levelled through two goals from Marcus Berg and another from Ola Toivonen before Fraizer Campbell was sent off for England in extra-time.
Goalkeeper Joe Hart was booked to rule him out of the final but also scored one and saved one, sending England through.

It was James Milner who took the corner that saw England lead after just 53 seconds. Micah Richards jumped for the ball initially but it found its way to Cranie, who took a touch with his chest before volleying home with the help of Gabriel Agbonlahor jumping over the ball in front of Sweden goalkeeper Johan Dahlin.

While Bjarsmyr was being treated off the field, England grabbed the second. It was a Milner corner again, with Onuoha this time allowed to take a touch close to the six-yard area, turn Rasmus Bengtsson and fire into the bottom corner.

It got worse for Bjarsmyr before the break when he tried to clear Lee Cattermole's header from Theo Walcott's cross but sliced into his own net.

The Swedes eventually forced their way into the game and Berg gave Sweden a glimmer of hope with 22 minutes remaining when he turned in Guillermo Molins' cross.

Jack Rodwell came on for Mark Noble to shore up the midfield, but Toivonen found the net from a free-kick to give the Swedes real hope, then the equaliser came with nine minutes left. Molins crossed from the right again, Rasmus Elm flicked backwards at the far post, with Berg applying the final touch.

Campbell received his second booking of the match during extra-time when he challenged with Mikael Lustig, and he had stormed off the pitch even before the red card had been shown.

Liverpool star Gerrard: I could retire in four years

Steven Gerrard has said he could retire from football in four years time when his Anfield contract expires.

The Liverpool captain's contract runs out in 2013 and he admits will be tempted to call it a day and complete his career as a one-club man. Gerrard also revealed how close he came to joining Chelsea in 2005.

I will be 33 at the end of my contract in 2013 and I don't know if I will go any further,' Gerrard told France Football.

'If I do retire, then I will know that from the start to the end of my career I only had one club. And I don't want to think about wearing any other shirt in the future.

'I was close to leaving in the past, maybe twice, most notably in 2005. That year we (Liverpool) were a long way off the Premier League title and Chelsea's interest turned my head.

'It was a difficult moment for me. However, now when I look back I am very happy that I chose to stay here. It has given me real pride.'