- Gunners consider Vieira bid

Tuesday, 12 July 2005 09:05

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Arsenal have confirmed that Juventus are interested in their captain Patrick Vieira, with chairman Peter Hill-Wood admitting they had not decided whether to sell him or not.

Vieira came close to leaving Highbury last season when Real Madrid came calling and, in the same manner as Steven Gerrard, the saga has arisen again this year.

This time it is Juventus who have rekindled their long-term interest in the 29-year-old midfielder, and Arsenal have admitted they will inform the player of the Italians' interest.

Hill-Wood will hardly fill Gunners fans with confidence as he admits that the board will consider selling Vieira, although he said he thought they would want him to stay at Highbury.

"I gather they (Juventus) have made enquiries but we are very undecided as to whether we are going to talk to them or not," Hill-Wood told the Daily Star.

"Patrick is aware they have approached us and it all very much depends on what they offer and what he wants to do.

"In a situation like this, you have to listen to what they say and tell the player about it.

"It would be very, very difficult to replace Patrick. We have a board meeting in about a week's time and I am sure we will discuss it then.

"We have not decided what we want to do, but my gut feeling is we would very much like him to stay."

Hill-Wood dismissed accusations that Vieira was below-par last season, saying he played a full part in their FA Cup success.

"He had a fantastic season. People say he wasn't as good as before but I don't think so.

"He played 44 games for us and Arsene Wenger is not going to pick him 44 times if he doesn't rate him as a player any more."

- Smertin poised for Addicks

Tuesday, 12 July 2005 09:05

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Chelsea midfielder Alexei Smertin has revealed he expects to join Charlton Athletic on a season-long loan.

Smertin admits he is leaving Stamford Bridge, as he does not want to spend another season as a bit-part member of Jose Mourinho's squad.

The Russia international joined The Blues from Bordeaux two years ago, but was immediately farmed out to Portsmouth for the campaign.

He returned to West London and featured sporadically, as Chelsea claimed their first title in 50 years.

But with Mourinho again looking to strengthen his midfield area, Smertin could once more find himself a peripheral figure.

To that end, Smertin is keen to move on and is waiting to secure a loan switch to The Valley, with Mourinho surprised by the decision.

"When I told Jose Mourinho I wanted to leave, he was surprised," Smertin told the BBC Russian Service website.

"He told me he still counts on me and that Chelsea have a long season in front of them and we decided that if something goes wrong for me at Charlton, I will be able to rejoin The Blues."

Portsmouth had been keen to take Smertin back to Fratton Park, but the 30-year-old admits he wanted to stay in the capital.

He added: "There were other offers, but I wanted to stay in London. My family is settled here and it is a fantastic city."

- Emre to undergo medical

Tuesday, 12 July 2005 09:05

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Emre Belozoglu is undergoing a medical at St James' Park as he closes in on a move to Newcastle United.

The Turkey international is set to become Graeme Souness's latest recruit after signalling his intention to leave Internazionale.

The Italian outfit had granted Newcastle permission to speak to the winger some weeks ago and Emre has concurred on personal terms.

Newcastle lodged a firm bid with Inter last week and they are confident they will win the chase for Emre.

Fenerbahce and Galatasaray had been keen to take the 24-year-old back to his homeland, but Emre has his heart set on a move to The Premiership.

He has arrived in Newcastle to undergo the necessary medical checks on Tuesday before completing his move to Tyneside.

But should Emre wrap up his switch this week, Magpies boss Graeme Souness has already decided against picking the player for the InterToto Cup tie with Dubnica.

Emre has revealed he is relishing the chance to play for Newcastle and conceded Souness played a major part in his decision to join.

"I am so happy because Newcastle is a very big team and for me, the manager is a very important person," Emre told the club's official website.

Souness is equally delighted to land Emre and is hopeful there will be no last-minute hitches to the transfer.

The Scot commented: "We've worked hard to get him here. Hopefully we can tie everything up and get him signed as he'll be a real addition to the squad.

"We're just going over the final details. There are a few things still to be decided but I'm confident we can do that.

"He will bring a bit of grit and determination and he's a real flair player as well. He works very hard, he's been in Italy for a number of years and has obviously learned a great deal of his trade out there."

- Souey to fight for Jenas.

Tuesday, 12 July 2005 09:05

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Newcastle boss Graeme Souness has insisted the club will not be tempted into selling midfield starlet Jermaine Jenas.

Jenas has forced his way into Sven Goran Eriksson's England plans during his time at St James' Park and is seen as the future of the Newcastle engine room.

Rumours persist, though, that the midfielder is concerned about his chances of securing playing time next season.

The Magpies have an array of midfield options and the imminent arrival of Emre from Internazionale will only increase competition for places on Tyneside.

Tottenham have been persistently linked with Jenas, but Souness says the former Nottingham Forest man is firmly in his plans.

"Whether other clubs are interested in Jermaine is not an issue," said the Scottish tactician. "As far as we are concerned, he is not for sale.

"We have not had a transfer request from the player and, as far as I'm aware, he is happy here."

Newcastle's quest for a place in the Uefa Cup via the InterToto Cup is no easy one, with Deportivo La Coruna lying in wait, but striker Shola Ameobi is relishing the challenge.

"If we beat Dubnica we will almost certainly face Deportivo La Coruna and then it will be either Lazio or Marseille in the final," said Ameobi, who is currently on the sidelines with a hip injury.

"That is very tough, but you won't hear any complaints from us. This is our only chance to play in Europe this season, so to get there it's right we should have to work hard."

- Smith content at United.

Tuesday, 12 July 2005 09:05

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Alan Smith has dismissed suggestions that he could be ready to move on from Manchester United.

The England international caused a real stir when crossing The Pennines from Leeds to Manchester last summer and was hailed as the future of Old Trafford's striking options by Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ferguson then signed Wayne Rooney and Smith was asked to play in a variety of positions as United slipped into Chelsea's shadow in The Premiership.

A host of clubs have expressed interest in signing Smith this summer, but Red Devils chief Ferguson has resisted all offers and the striker insists he has no intention of moving on from Old Trafford.

"I've been reading a lot of rubbish about how I might want to go and need a new challenge to rescue my career," the forward told The Sun. "Why? I don't want to go anywhere.

"This club is the best in the world and I never want to leave.

"People say I did not play much last season, but I started 28 games and was out for three months with an ankle injury.

"I don't think that was too bad after leaving Leeds who were relegated.

"I knew it would take time. The whole place, though, is fantastic.

"I have developed as a player. I know I've improved."

United went through last season without securing a trophy, but Smith feels the club can take the Premiership title from Chelsea.

"Everyone at United is buzzing," he added. "We came back to training early and we are up for the fight.

"We know we are good enough. I've never won anything and it is about time I did it.

"Everyone wants to show again that we are the best and that we can win this title race."

- Man Utd set to complete Park deal

wednesday, 22 June 2005 09:05

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The South Korean, 24, is reported to be flying to England on Wednesday for a medical before signing a four-year deal with the Old Trafford outfit.

The undisclosed fee is reported to be in the region of £4m, according to the player's agency FS Corporation.

Park joined PSV in December 2002 from Japanese club Kyoto Purple Sanga.

Park had said he was unsure whether he wanted to leave the Dutch champions, citing his close relationship with coach Guus Hiddink, who led South Korea to the 2002 World Cup semi-finals.

But his representative Kim Jung-Il said: "Park has made up his mind to join Manchester United and the president of our company informed PSV."

Park, who has 38 caps, recently helped South Korea book their place in their sixth consecutive World Cup by scoring in the 4-0 thrashing of Kuwait.

He impressed during PSV's superb run in the Champions League last season, scoring in the second leg of the semi-final against AC Milan.

If he does move he will become United's second signing of the summer after 34-year-old Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.

He would also be the third player in recent years - after Jaap Stam and Ruud van Nistelrooy - to swap PSV for Old Trafford.

- Bowyer feared threat of violence

wednesday, 22 June 2005 09:05

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"Steve Bruce, we thought, had talked him round," Blues co-owner Sullivan told the Birmingham Evening Mail.

"But he was genuinely worried that one night there would be 10 Asians waiting outside his house ready to kick seven bells out of him.

"We are not going to beg if someone clearly doesn't want to join us."

Sullivan added that the 28-year-old midfielder would welcome a move abroad.

He told us that he would only leave Newcastle if a London club came in for him, or one from France," said Sullivan.

"Why France? Apparently he likes it and believes he could live quite anonymously over there."

But Sullivan underlined Birmingham's determination to press ahead and try to sign other targets ahead of the new season.

"We will battle on," he said. "We gave it our best shot, and we have lost this round - but there are others still to come.

". The search goes on."

Bowyer's move from Newcastle to Birmingham collapsed following protests by Blues fans.

- Defender Camara signs Celtic deal

wednesday, 22 June 2005 09:05

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The former Burnley left-back, a Guinea international, put pen to paper after undergoing a medical on Tuesday.

Camara, 29, had a chance to remain in English football with Ipswich, but they fell out of the running after failing to win promotion to the Premiership.

He could be joined at Celtic Park by striker Maciej Zurawski, who hopes to seal a £2.2m move from Wisla Krakow.

Camara, who turns 30 on Saturday, had been lined up by previous Celtic manager Martin O'Neill, who stood down last month to spend more time with seriously ill wife Geraldine.

- Souness reveals interest in Figo

wednesday, 22 June 2005 09:05

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Graeme Souness has admitted that Newcastle are considering bringing Real Madrid's Luis Figo to Tyneside.

Newcastle boss Souness told BBC Sport: "There is an interest there as far as Luis Figo is concerned but we don't want to say any more at the moment."

The 32-year-old former Portugal captain is keen to end his career in England after being told he can leave Real.

And BBC Sport understands that Fulham's Luis Boa Morte is also under consideration by Newcastle.

Newcastle may yet face competition for Figo from Turkish side Galatasaray, with sporting director Bulent Tulun saying: "We're following the situations of many players and Luis Figo's is one of them."

Souness remains confident of landing Inter Milan midfield man Emre Belozoglu in a £4m deal after sealing a £6.5m move for Scott Parker.

If Figo comes to Newcastle, it is likely to be on a one-year deal as he seeks to finish his career with a flourish.

Figo is being touted around the Premiership after making it clear he would like to play in England.

The major stumbling block is likely to be Figo's reported £90,000-a-week wages, with Newcastle wary after Patrick Kluivert's expensive failure.

Souness is unlikely to be interested in offering Figo terms anywhere near as lavish as those he enjoys at The Bernabeu.

Liverpool and Bolton have also been linked with Figo but Anfield boss Rafael Benitez was cool on the move, while Sam Allardyce admitted he would not be able to finance the deal.

Qatari club Al Rayyan have also shown an interest but Figo is keen to give the Premiership a shot near the end of his glittering career.

Figo, capped 107 times by his country, said: "I have always said that the Premier League is a competition that I would like to play in some day and that has not changed.

"The Premier League has improved a lot in the last few years and many of the best players in the world have signed with clubs in England.

"It is very different from the Spanish league but I am sure that I will be able to adapt if some day I end up playing there."

- Classy Argentina held by Germany

wednesday, 22 June 2005 09:05

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Both teams had already qualified for the last four, but a 76th-minute equaliser from Argentina's Esteban Cambiasso saw the points shared.

Kevin Kuranyi put Germany ahead after 29 minutes, before Juan Roman Riquelme equalised with a free-kick.

Gerald Asamoah then restored Germany's lead before Cambiasso levelled late on.

"The way we played in the second half has got me convinced that we're on the way to having a very strong team," said Argentina coach Jose Pekerman.

"In the first half we didn't do well, while Germany were in charge, but in the second we were just excellent. We have to be content with that. It was a very good level of football."

Argentina will face the winners of Group B - expected to be Mexico - while Germany will face the runners-up, likely to be Brazil.

Germany coach Jurgen Klinsmann, who opted to rest Michael Ballack, was glad to see his team taking the game to Argentina even without the influence of their skipper.

"We showed we're still strong without the captain," said Klinsmann.

"The team is learning tactically, as we showed with our movement across midfield. That was good to see."

- Robert completes Portsmouth move.

wednesday, 15 June 2005 09:05

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Robert, 30, has signed a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee after he opted to join Pompey ahead of Bolton.

The winger joined Newcastle for £9.5m from Paris St Germain in 2001 but after the Magpies' last game of the season he vowed never to play for them again.

Chief executive Peter Storrie told the Pompey website: "It shows everybody not only our intentions, but some of the top players' ambitions for the future."

Robert had a fractious relationship with Newcastle boss Graeme Souness following Bobby Robson's departure.

It is believed Robert chose to join Portsmouth after they offered him a three-year deal.

Bolton had only been prepared to offer the winger a two-year contract.

Newcastle are likely to ask for a transfer fee of £2m for Robert.

- Newcastle poised to sign Parker

wednesday, 15 June 2005 09:05

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Newcastle are believed to be closing in on the £6.5m signing of Chelsea midfielder Scott Parker.

The Magpies are understood to have spoken to the 24-year-old England man on Tuesday after Everton dropped out of the race to sign him.

Newcastle have agreed terms with Chelsea, and are thought to be ready to match Parker's his reported weekly wage of £55,000 at Stamford Bridge.

Boss Graeme Souness has admitted he is "interested" in signing Parker.

The Magpies' manager feared he could lose Parker to Spurs, with Chelsea possibly using the England midfield man as a bargaining chip in the row over sporting director Frank Arnesen's expected departure to White Hart Lane.

But the Magpies appear to have won the race, with Souness admitting: "He is a player we like very much and we are definitely interested in signing him.

"He's a player I've admired for a very long time and there is no question he will be an excellent signing for us."

Everton had targeted Parker but have lost out and Souness is also confident of beating Toffees boss David Moyes to land Inter Milan's Emre Belozoglu.

Newcastle believe they are close to a deal for the Turkish midfield man.

- Birmingham closing in on Bowyer.

wednesday, 15 June 2005 09:05

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He is understood to have opened discussions with Birmingham after being given permission by Newcastle.

Birmingham chairman David Gold is keen to bring the 28-year-old midfield man to St Andrews and said: "Lee Bowyer's record speaks for itself.

"We know that Steve Bruce is special in getting the best out of players with his man-management skills. He has shown that on so many occasions."

It is understood that Birmimgham would be reluctant to pay a major transfer fee for Bowyer - if they have to match his current £45,000-a-week wages.

They may be willing to part with around £500,000 if Bowyer helped to keep them in the Premiership for another season - but little more than that.

Bowyer has also been mentioned as a possible transfer target for West Ham.

- McNamara makes switch to Wolves

wednesday, 15 June 2005 09:05

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The Scotland defender turned down a late offer from Celtic to end his 10-year association with the club.

"I want to play in the Premiership and as far as I'm concerned, Wolves are a Premiership club in the wrong division," said 31-year-old McNamara.

"Celtic went into overdrive to keep Jackie and we see this as a massive coup," said Wolves chief Jez Moxey.

New Celtic manager Gordon Strachan voiced his desire to keep McNamara at the club but the player was upset at the club's sluggish response.

"I gave Celtic an opportunity to sign me to a new contract but I was a little surprised and disappointed it took them so long," admitted McNamara.

"It could have all been started before the end of last season and if we'd started talking then, I don't think I'd be with Wolves now, two weeks before the start of pre-season.

"But it took them a long time to make me an offer whereas Wolves made me feel important to their plans, they showed a great interest.

"I told Celtic I was leaving and they spoke to me as I travelled down but I'd already given my word to Wolves.

"Once I gave my word to Wolves that was it. I was coming down for my medical and then I was going to sign.

"There's no ill will towards Celtic though.

"I have a great affection and always will have for the place and the people and the club itself."

McNamara lifted the Scottish Cup for the third time last month and picked up four championships and three League Cups during his time at Celtic Park.

A statement on the Celtic websitet read: "We offered Jackie a greatly improved deal and, contrary to reports, we offered Jackie a two-year contract.

"Naturally, we are disappointed that Jackie has chosen not to accept our offer but this is clearly his prerogative to do so."

- Diouf ready to sign Bolton deal.

wednesday, 15 June 2005 09:05

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The 24-year-old winger was on loan from Liverpool last season and helped Bolton secure a place in the Uefa Cup.

"I'm going to sign for Bolton for four years," Diouf was quoted as telling the Senegalese daily L'Observateur.

"It gives me great pleasure. I am very happy to be able to play for Bolton next season," the former African Player of the Year added.

Diouf joined Liverpool from Lens in the 2003/04 season for £11m, but failed to make an impact at Anfield.

However, the former African Footballer of the Year has rediscovered his form during his time at Bolton.

"I believe that I'm at a club where people have confidence in me. The coach, the doctor, everybody," said Diouf, who is in Senegal for their World Cup qualifing match against Togo in Dakar on Saturday.

- Ronaldo demands new Man Utd deal

wednesday, 15 June 2005 09:05

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The 20-year-old is only two years into a five-year contract, but agent Jorge Mendes wants an improved contract.

He said: "I think he will stay, but I also have to do what is best for my client. In three years he will be the best player in the world.

"He signed the existing contract at 18 after only a handful of games for Sporting Lisbon, but now he is a star."

Ronaldo joined Manchester United in a £12.6m deal in 2003 and has proved to be a major success.

Mendes added: "Cristiano has huge ambitions. At Sporting there were lots of big clubs after him, all the big names from Italy and Spain.

"But when I sat down with Alex Ferguson I knew it was the right choice because he told me that Cristiano would play one week, then have a rest, then play then rest and that he wouldn't be burned out."

- Kaladze ready for Chelsea talks

wednesday, 15 June 2005 09:05

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The 27-year-old told sports newspaper Sarbieli that it would be his first face-to-face meeting with Chelsea.

"I'm going to Moscow and I'd like to find out finally whether Chelsea want to get me or not."

The Georgia captain added: "This meeting will clarify the situation. Milan do not want to let me go."

He has admitted that he first met Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich in the United States last year.

Kaladze added: "We got acquainted one year ago when our teams were in the USA in an exhibition tournament and I think I caught the eye of Jose Mourinho.

"With Abramovich it is clear he has football fever."

- Luque eyes Liverpool Move.

wednesday, 8 June 2005 09:05

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Spanish striker Albert Luque believes a move to European champions Liverpool would suit him.

Rafael Benitez is reportedly chasing the 27-year-old forward's signature, with Luque's club Deportivo La Coruna claiming one offer has already been rejected.

Luque, who scored for Spain in a World Cup qualifier against Lithuania on Saturday, said: "At Liverpool I have friends like Luis Garcia and goalkeeper Jose Reina, who will arrive soon.

"I want a quick decision so I can go on my holiday and know where I am playing next season.

"English football is excellent and I have no doubt that I could play in the Premiership.

"My characteristics will suit English football and the supporters will be happy with my style and the goals I would score."

Depor president Augusto Cesar Lendoiro added: "We refused the first offer [for Luque] from Liverpool because it was insufficient, but we are still open for the negotiations."

- Magpies set sight on Parker

wednesday, 8 June 2005 09:05

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Newcastle are preparing themselves for a battle to make Chelsea midfielder Scott Parker their first summer signing.

The Magpies believed they were in the driving seat to land the 24-year-old England international this week despite firm interest from Everton.

However, in the last 24 hours, rumours that Liverpool are ready to battle it out with the Tyneside club have given way to speculation that Tottenham will demand first option on the player as they attempt to settle their row with Chelsea over their alleged illegal approach for sporting director Frank Arnesen.

Most of the protagonists have maintained a silence on the matter throughout several days of claim and counter-claim, although the Toffees have spoken out to insist their interest is ongoing amid suggestions that Parker's wage packet had halted their involvement in the race.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho wants to keep the man signed for £10million by his predecessor Claudio Ranieri in January last year, although a foot injury last season saw him start just seven games and appear as a substitute in four more.

The Magpies' midfield pool is in a state of potential flux with Hugo Viana and Laurent Robert seemingly certain to leave and question marks hanging over Lee Bowyer and Jermaine Jenas, the latter still being linked with north London rivals Spurs and Arsenal despite Souness' insistence that he is going nowhere.

As well as chasing the the men on their own wish-list, chairman Freddy Shepherd is working hard to offload those members of the squad deemed surplus to requirements, so far with little success with only versatile defender Aaron Hughes having left for Aston Villa.

However, one man to whom the club are determined to hang on is keeper Shay Given, who has again been linked with a move to Arsenal, although compatriot and former Newcastle midfielder Liam O'Brien has urged him to stay at St James' Park.

- Glazer sons take places on United Board

wednesday, 8 June 2005 09:05

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Malcolm Glazer's sons - Joel, Avram and Bryan - have been appointed to the board of Manchester United in a major reshuffle of the Old Trafford boardroom.

The Glazer family are already effectively in control of the Red Devils after increasing their shareholding in the club to 76% last month and are due to confirm their precise stake next Monday once all replies to their offer of £3 per share have been received.

It was only a matter of time before the Americans exercised their right to take a more hands-on role at United and Tuesday's announcement had been anticipated.

It is thought Joel will be his father's main representative at the club, although he will be working without long-serving chairman Sir Roy Gardner, who confirmed his resignation on Tuesday.

Gardner's fellow non-executive directors, Jim O'Neill and Ian Much, have also quit, while commercial director Andy Anson has been reinstated after being voted off the board by Glazer at last year's annual general meeting.

United released a statement confirming the boardroom reshuffle.

It read: "Following the unconditional mandatory cash offer for Manchester United plc made by NM Rothschild & Sons Limited on behalf of Red Football Limited on 23 May 2005, Sir Roy Gardner, the non-executive chairman of Manchester United plc, and Mr Ian Much and Mr Jim O'Neill, both non-executive directors of Manchester United plc, have each resigned from the board of directors of Manchester United plc with effect from 6 June 2005.

"Manchester United plc is pleased to announce the re-appointment to the board of directors of Andy Anson as commercial director and the appointment of Joel Glazer, Avram Glazer and Bryan Glazer as new non-executive directors. The appointments are effective from 6 June 2005."

- Saints reject 5m pounds bid for Crouch

wednesday, 8 June 2005 09:05

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Boss Harry Redknapp wants the England striker, 24, to spearhead Saints' attempt to win promotion back to the Premiership at the first attempt.

Southampton are thought to value the 6ft 7in forward - who they signed for £2m from Aston Villa in July 2004 - at about £7m.

Crouch, who made his England debut against Colombia on 31 May, scored 16 goals for Saints last season.

Redknapp admitted last week that it would be tricky for Southampton to hold on to one of their prized assets following relegation to the Championship.

The striker would receive a far higher salary in the Premiership - and his England chances will be hindered if he is not playing top-division football.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is keen to sign a striker, as Milan Baros seems set to leave Anfield this summer.

- Barca play down Henry speculation.

wednesday, 8 June 2005 09:05

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Barca boss Frank Rijkaard has stated his admiration of striker Henry and speculation arose he may offer forward Samuel Eto'o in a possible swap deal. But Laporta said: "Barca have not made an offer for Henry.

"It is true the coaching staff think he is a very good player, but we are happy with the squad we already have. We have no desire to sell Eto'o."

Barcelona have signed midfielder Mark van Bommel and Santi Ezquerro already this summer and Laporta insisted the Catalan outfit are not prepared to sell their better players.

He added: "I want to make it clear to other clubs that we don't want to sell anyone."

- Robinson close to Spurs deal

Tuesday, 7 June 2005 09:05

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Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson has revealed he is close to committing his long-term future to the north London club.

The 25-year-old arrived at White Hart Lane from Leeds in May 2004 and has established himself as number one for club and country, inevitably attracting interest from elsewhere.

However, Robinson told official club website www.spurs.co.uk: "I've been in negotiations for a few weeks with the chairman and we're just about there. It's a long-term contract that will keep me here for a few years."

He added: "It's a commitment but one I'm happy to do and something I've looked to do since the chairman first spoke to me about signing a new deal.

"There has never been any doubt on my part that this is where I want to be. I've thoroughly enjoyed my first year here and I hope to have many more.

"The fans can see that I care and I want to win. When I joined it was all about going to a club that wanted me, a club I wanted to go to to achieve things and prove things to people.

"The chairman showed his commitment to me by signing me in the first place and by signing this new deal I'm repaying that faith.

"If we continue what we started last year we'll be going places - it's up to us to do that now. We've given everyone hope but we can't rest on our laurels, we have to work even harder next season."

- Lyon keep eye on Baros

Tuesday, 7 June 2005 09:05

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Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has confirmed that the French champions are interested in signing Liverpool striker Milan Baros this summer.

Czech Republic frontman Baros, 23, scored nine times in 26 Premiership appearances this season and knows new Lyon boss Gerard Houllier well after he played under his command at Liverpool.

"Even if we want to remain as discreet as possible on our recruitment, I can confirm that Baros is definitely one of our objectives," said Aulas.

"(Sporting director) Bernard (Lacombe) and Gerard (Houllier) will attend the Czech Republic's next match."

The Czech Republic, who are second in Group One in the 2006 World Cup qualifiers, play Macedonia on Wednesday.

- Bolton Anger at Jaidi request.

Tuesday, 7 June 2005 09:05

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Bolton have turned down a transfer request from defender Radhi Jaidi and are reporting his representative to the Premier League for allegedly touting the player to other clubs.

The 29-year-old Tunisia international has become frustrated after losing in the place in the side last season after a bright start.

Chairman Phil Gartside insists that Jaidi is not for sale, telling www.bwfc.co.uk: "He is 12 months into a two-year contract with an option for another year. It is an absolute nonsense you sign up for three years and do not honour it.

"I am annoyed and disappointed that the players representative is allegedly touting him to other clubs.

"This is a serious breach of league rules and I will be reporting it to the Premier League."

Gartside added: "In light of recent issues in the game we have to stamp down on this type of activity and eradicate it from our game."

- Santa Cruz "I am leaving Bayern"

Tuesday, 7 June 2005 09:05

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- Van Der Sar ready for Manchester United

Tuesday, 7 June 2005 09:05

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Manchester United new boy Edwin van der Sar has spoken of his delight at landing a dream move to Old Trafford.

The experienced Holland international has been a long-term target of Sir Alex Ferguson and the Scottish tactician has now finally landed his man.

United have experienced difficulties in replacing former favourite Peter Schmeichel and van der Sar is the latest to step from the shadow of the big Dane.

Van der Sar admits that the decision to quit Fulham for United was not a difficult one to take and is now looking forward to continuing his long and distinguished career in Manchester.

''Of course you're happy if you get a chance to join United,'' said van der Sar.

''You don't have to think about that for a very long time. I think first contact was about eight-nine days ago and yesterday we sort of concluded it.

''Maybe in the back of my head I had the idea of that possibility but I was fully committed to Fulham until the end and I think that showed.

''The manager Cookie (Chris Coleman) called me, he was happy with me and wished me all the best.

''Of course the next two years will be great for me. I hope to bring United back to where they belong and that is in the top position.

''I signed a two-year deal, had a few talks with the manager, he explained my role and what he wants from me, so it's clear for me what I need to do and I will perform the best I can.''

Van der Sar admits that David Gill sold the club to him whilst he was back in his homeland and that despite off-the-field turmoil with regards to the club's takeover, the able custodian is predicting a bright time for the Manchester giants.

''I had a good chat also with Gill in Holland,'' he continued.

''He explained a lot of things about the club, also the new takeover and position of him and Ferguson and everything seems in place perfectly to get some more success at Old Trafford.

''I'm not thinking of retirement, I wanted to finish my career at Ajax. Maybe at end of this contract it's the end for good for van der Sar but I've got two nice years to look forward to and i'll do my utmost to perform at the level that's required at United.''

- Gilardino set on Milan Move

Tuesday, 7 June 2005 09:05

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Parma sensation Alberto Gilardino has decided to move to Milan, according to his father.

The 22-year-old hotshot finished second in the Serie A top scorers list this season despite Parma struggling at the wrong end of the table, and has attracted the interest of Europe's biggest sides.

Premiership champions Chelsea have been strongly linked with a move for the precocious striker, with Jose Mourinho admitting he is in the market for a striker, although The Rossoneri have always remained favourites to land the player.

Gilardino's agent recently informed us that Milan were at the head of the queue for his prized signature despite a rumoured €43 million bid from The Blues, and his father has now echoed his perspective on events.

Whilst proving reluctant to make any official declaration on his son's position, Gianfranco Gilardino insisted that Carlo Ancelotti's side must only find an agreement with Parma if they are to land their man.

"Alberto already decided, he likes Milan although he has never said it officially," Gilardino's father told Corriere dello Sport.

"Only the agreement of Parma is missing, they rightly ask a sum compared to Adriano's valuation.

"Will his next side be Milan? No comment.

"The announcement will be made soon, but it will be made by Alberto."

Parma are currently involved in preparations for their relegation play-off against Bologna, and Gilardino snr is hopeful that his son's future will be resolved before the all-important second leg.

With a host of clubs all across the continent chasing his signature Gilardino has become one of Europe's hottest properties, and his father revealed that he has urged his offspring to remain in Italy.

"I think and hope [it will be resolved] before June 18th when Alberto comes onto the pitch for Parma for the second leg play-off to avoid relegation against Bologna," Gilardino snr continued.

"I can't say a lot, but Milan came in first, then Chelsea, Real Madrid distanced themselves, Juve never made an official offer.

"Inter? It came up three days ago and no-one spoke with me or his agents, I've read it in the papers.

"The only thing I told my son is to stay in Italy, should they allow him to leave it will be a big mistake.

"I'd like him to go to England but after five or six years to learn a language, now it is better he stays in Italy."