Italy versus Spain Live tonight on Ten Action

The 2006 World Cup winners host the 2010 champions in a mouth-watering clash in Bari on Wednesday, in what is probably the midweek calendar's most glamorous game of all.
 

Football fans shall be assured of exciting football action ahead of the Premier League kick-off as the international friendly between Italy and Spain will be broadcasted on Ten Action tonight at 12.15 am IST.

For Spanish side, Xavi and Sergio Ramos have given the tie a miss due to injury concerns. However the game may see the debut of Barcelona's talented midfielder Thiago Alcantara who can still choose to play for Brazil.

The two European super powers meet for the first time since Euro 2008 when the Italians, then coached by Roberto Donadoni, lost 4-2 on penalties at the quarter-final stage.

Injury crisis for Everton

Everton's preparations for the new season have been dealt a blow with the news that Seamus Coleman has suffered a torn ligament in his right ankle. 

The Republic of Ireland international, who is suspended for the first two games of the season, suffered the injury the Toffees' 1-0 friendly defeat against Villarreal at Goodison Park on Friday.

An X-ray immediately after the game revealed there was no break but scans on Monday confirmed the extent of the injury.
It is too early to tell how long the former Sligo Rovers player will be out for, with Coleman set to visit a specialist later this week.

To make things worse for Moyes, midfielder Mikel Arteta is set to miss the club's trip to Tottenham on Saturday as he recovers from a foot injury suffered during pre-season.

Cesc and Nasri Included in squad to face Udinese

Intense speculation has raged all summer that Barcelona target Fabregas and contract rebel Nasri are both are set to leave Emirates Stadium.

But the Gunners have named both midfielders in their 25-man A-list for this month's two-legged play-off round tie.

The Emirates Stadium plays host to the first leg next Tuesday, before the return in Italy on 24th August.

Upson joins Stoke city

Stoke City have completed the signing of free agent Matthew Upson on a two-year deal. 

The 32-year-old has been without a club since his contract with West Ham expired this summer.

Upson becomes Potters boss Tony Pulis' second defensive signing of the close season after Jonathan Woodgate, following the successful completion of his medical.

Atalanta will start with six points deducted this season

Ex-Italy star Giuseppe Signori has been banned for five years while Atalanta will start the 2011-12 Serie A season with a six-point deduction after the FIGC's disciplinary commission announced their sentences following an investigation into the 'Last Bet' scandal.

Last week federal prosecutor Stefano Palazzi advised the Italian FA over the punishment that should be handed out based on the alleged involvement of those implicated in the scandal.

And the FA has now returned their verdicts. Signori was slapped with a five-year ban and will be excluded from holding any football-related role for life while Atalanta have been deducted six points.

Atalanta captain Cristiano Doni received a three-and-a-half year ban from football and Thomas Manfredini has been suspended for three years.

The sanctions all relate to a criminal case brought forward by prosecutors at the tribunal of Cremona who uncovered an illegal betting ring involving a number of footballers and officials back in June.

Atalanta, Doni, Manfredini and Signori have denied any wrongdoing despite the sentences handed out by the FIGC.

Arsenal complete signing of Southampton's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has completed his move to Arsenal having agreed personal terms and undergone a medical at the club's training ground earlier today.

The 17-year-old arrived at Arsenal's London Colney training ground this afternoon to undergo a medical after the club reached an agreement on a package worth £12 million to take the player, 18 next week, to the Emirates Stadium from Southampton.

After completing the signing of the youngster, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger told the club's official website: "We are delighted that Alex has decided to join us.

"He is an exciting young player who will provide us with creativity and offensive quality. Alex is a versatile player who can play in a number of positions. He can play as an attacking centre midfielder, or wide left and right. 

Bendtner looking a way out of Asenal

Nicklas Bendtner hopes to wrap up his Arsenal exit soon as he targets regular first team football.

Bendtner, however, has been unhappy at the club for some time but has not been able to leave due to a prolonged injury.

Now fit, the Dane is still determined to exit the club after being linked with several sides this summer, including Stoke City.

"I would like to play at a place where you are happy and play every week, that is the most important thing for any football player and hopefully that will happen soon."

The Denmark coach Morten Olson has stressed the importance of Bendtner getting regular first team football, suggesting that the forward isn't getting any younger.

He said. "It is good for himself if he plays first-team football. You don't play football for 50 years, you have to enjoy it as long as possible.

Obertan has left Manchester United

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Manchester United winger Gabriel Obertan on a five-year contract.

Obertan, whose first team chances with United were limited during his two years with them, is relishing the prospect of regular football with Newcastle.

"I have come here with a lot of ambition," he said. "I just want to play football."

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew was delighted to have landed a long-term transfer target.

He said: "It's good news for us. He is a player we have been after for some time.

The 22-year-old French player moved to Old Trafford from Bordeaux in the summer of 2009.

Community Shield Result

Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United

38' Joleon Lescott
45+1' Edin Dzeko
52' Chris Smalling
58' Nani
90+3' Nani

Chelsea sign Lukaku

Chelsea have agreed a fee with Anderlecht for the transfer of Romelu Lukaku and the striker will join the club subject to a a medical and personal terms being agreed, the Belgian club have confirmed on their official website.

Anderlecht manager Herman Van Holsbeeck also took time out to reveal his disappointment at the loss of his star man, but wished him luck in his future career.

Elsewhere it is also confirmed that Javier Pastore has joined PSG.

Anzhi Makhachkala Sign Yuri Zhirkov From Chelsea On Four-Year Deal

From Chelsea

Yuri Zhirkov Midfielder - Age: 22 Fee: Undisclosed Contract: Jun 2015

To Anzhi Makhachkala

Anzhi Makhachkala have finalised the signing of Yuri Zhirkov from English club Chelsea, on a four-year contract.

The 27-year-old told his new club's supporters of his delight in becoming their latest recruit, after being unveiled before Anzhi's league fixture against Tom Tomsk on Saturday.

"I'm very happy to be here in Makhachkala," said Zhirkov according to Reuters. "I hope to make my Anzhi debut in our next game against Spartak Moscow [next Sunday]."

Milan have won Italian supercup

Final Score:

Milan 2-1 Inter 

22' Wesley Sneijder

60' Zlatan Ibrahimovic

69' Kevin Prince Boatang

Jovanovic joins Anderlechet

Liverpool have announced in their official website that Milan Jovanovic has completed his transfer to Belgian outfit RSC Anderlecht.

The Serbia international made 18 appearances for the Reds last season and scored two goals.

Champions League Playoff Draws

Arsenal have been drawn against Udinese in the Champions League play-off to decide who reaches the group stage.

The Italian side, who finished fourth in Serie A last season to qualify for the competition, represent arguably the toughest team that the Gunners could have come up against.

Arsenal will not be at full strength for the first game, which will be played at the Emirates Stadium on either August 16 or 17, with Samir Nasri and Robin van Persie suspended for the home leg, and doubts still linger over whether talisman and captain Cesc Fabregas will play.

Udinese have sold star forward Alexis Sanchez to the Catalan giants this summer but remain formidable opposition.

Other draws are as follows:

League route
Odense         VS	Villarreal
Twente          VS	Benfica
Arsenal          VS	Udinese
Lyon              VS	Rubin Kazan
Bayern Munich     VS	Zurich
Champions route
Wisla Krakow      VS	APOEL
Maccabi Haifa      VS	Genk
Dinamo Zagreb     VS	Malmo
BATE                   VS	Sturm Graz
Copenhagen          VS	Viktoria Plzen

Sergio Canales is loaned out to Valencia

From    Real Madrid

Sergio Canales Midfielder Fee: Loan transfer Term: TBA

To Valencia

Valencia have secured the loan signing of Real Madrid midfielder Sergio Canales, both clubs have announced on their respective websites.

Neither side have so far disclosed the length of Canales' contract with Valencia, but according to a report in AS, the player has agreed to move to the Mestalla on loan until the summer of 2013.

Valencia have secured a purchase option for Canales, believed to be worth €12 million. Real Madrid, meanwhile, will be allowed to re-sign the midfielder during the two-year period which follows the player's potential transfer to the Mestalla for a fee reportedly between €15m-18m.

Independiente sign Diego Milito from Barcelona

Barcelona have announced they have dispensed with the services of centre-back Gabriel Milito, who has gone on to sign for Independiente.

Jose Enrique is ready to become Spain's new left-back

Jose Enrique appears ready for the big time. Cast adrift by coaches early on his career, forced to ply his trade in the lower divisions and then work his way up, the road to the top has been long and at times arduous for Liverpool's prospective new left-back, but the move to Merseyside may be just the tonic he needs to take that final step and claim the coveted left-back position for his country.

Del Horno, signed by Jose Mourinho after coming through the youth ranks and impressing at Athletic Bilbao, was seen as Spain's left-back of the future, but the Basque has since slipped down the footballing ladder and is now at Levante, where Jose Enrique started out.

While Del Horno has fallen into decline, however, Capdevila has gone from strength to strength. The Catalan defender has just joined Benfica following four superb seasons at Villarreal, which also saw him start as Spain's left-back in both Euro 2008 and last summer's World Cup win in South Africa.

Capdevila was Spain's only recognised left-back in South Africa, with Real Madrid's Alvaro Arbeloa providing cover for both full-back positions. Left-backs, in fact, are a precious commodity in Spain these days. "I'm lucky to play as a left-back because there are a lack of players in that position," Jose Enrique claimed. "Both Madrid and Barca, for example, have foreigners there: Marcelo and Abidal."

Barcelona tracked Jose Enrique at Newcastle last season and coach Pep Guardiola weighed up a bid for the left-back after Abidal's health scare last season. With neither Maxwell nor Adriano completely convincing at Camp Nou, Jose Enrique's defensive solidity and marauding runs from deep caught the eye of the Catalans, although the club were keen to bring in a cheaper alternative in the end. Likewise Villarreal, who promoted Jose Catala to their first team last term but also considered an offer for their former left-back to replace Capdevila.

Liverpool could be the ideal place for Jose Enrique to achieve that goal. Although not featuring in Europe next season, the Reds remain a high-profile club and still count on a large following in Spain, having been affectionately nicknamed 'Spanish Liverpool' during the reign of Rafa Benitez.   

Barcelona's future star Jeffren sold !

From Barcelona

Jeffren Winger Fee: €3.7 million Contract: Jun 2016

To Sporting Lisbon

Sporting Lisbon have announced to the Portuguese stock market (CMVM) that they have signed Barcelona winger Jeffren for €3.7 million.

The 23-year-old midfielder has penned a five-year contract with the Portuguese club, with a €30m buy-out clause inserted into the deal.

Sporting have revealed that Barcelona will be entitled to 20 per cent of the profit any future sale of Jeffren generates, with no mention of a buy-back clause for the Catalan club, which had been suggested by the Portuguese media over the last few days.

Jeffren, a product of Barca's youth ranks, has opted for a new challenge after being told he would have little room to operate at the Camp Nou in the new season.

At his official presentation, Jeffren said: "Sporting are a great club. I am proud to be able to represent this club. I am very happy with the trust they have in me. My goal is to grow in this team. I can grow and evolve, to become a better player."

Liverpool have snatched probable Spanish national side left back Jose Enrique

Liverpool have agreed an £8 million deal to sign full-back Jose Enrique from Newcastle United and hope to wrap up the move by the end of the week.

Executives from both clubs are tying up details today on a move that will see Newcastle receive an initial £6m with an agreement for a further £2m to be paid in add-ons depending on performance-related targets.

Once a deal is formally struck, Enrique will be given permission to discuss personal terms with Liverpool and undergo a medical on Merseyside. The 25-year-old has indicated his desire to move to Anfield.

Reds manager Kenny Dalglish and director of football Damien Comolli hope to have Enrique in place by the end of the week as they prepare for their Premier League opener against Sunderland on August 13.

With Enrique desperate to leave, Ashley decided to cash in now rather than risk losing one of the team's star performers on a free transfer next season and having another bad influence in the dressing room.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has been resigned to Enrique's departure all summer and failed in a deal to sign Neil Taylor from Swansea as a potential replacement.

With youngster Shane Ferguson set to be the only recognised left-back remaining at the club, Pardew has been linked with moves for Manchester City's Wayne Bridge and Aston Villa full-back Stephen Warnock. 

Friendlies round up

A Manchester United XI were hammered by Marseille in a charity game, while Sunderland, QPR and a Newcastle XI all won but Everton lost.

Fabien Barthez had an unhappy return as a guest in a Manchester United XI as they were thrashed 8-2 by Marseille in Monaco.
Cameroon defender Nicolas Nkoulou and Ivory Coast striker Jordan Ayew put Marseille 2-0 up but Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley made it 2-2 at half-time.

In a one-sided second half, Benoit Cheyrou and Loic Remy each hit a brace, Ayew also grabbed his second and Alou Diarra was on target as the Coupe de France holders completed their rout.
Everton's pre-season trip to Germany ended in defeat after they lost to Werder Bremen.

The Bundesliga side won thanks to a Sandro Wagner strike - the only goal of a low-key game at the Weserstadion.
David Moyes' side started brightly, with youngster Ross Barkley a threat on the right flank, but fell behind eight minutes before the break, Wagner crashing home a header from close range.

The Toffees were almost immediately back on terms, Sylvain Distin heading narrowly over (44) before a raft of half-time changes disrupted the flow of the match.

And the visitors were ultimately lucky to only go down by a single goal as Markus Rosenburg fired a glorious chance wide late on.

Mirko Vucinic joins Juventus

Juventus have signed Mirko Vucinic from Roma on a four-year deal for a transfer fee of €15 million, the Serie A club announced on Monday via their official website.

The 27-year-old Montenegro international agreed to sign a contract to run until June 2015.

Tottenham were said to be linked with the former Lecce man, but Juventus were quick to tie up a deal after their general director Giuseppe Marotta spoke with Roma's Walter Sabatini to formalise the move last week.

And, having passed his medical on Monday morning, Juventus said the transfer is now official via a note.

Barton transfer listed !

Newcastle United have made Joey Barton available on a free transfer after placing the midfielder on the transfer list. 

The 28-year-old has just a year left on his current deal, and he has been unable to agree fresh terms with the club.

Barton has also been left disappointed by the Magpies' transfer policy and has criticised them heavily on his Twitter account.

Now Newcastle have decided that his future does lie away from Tyneside and have made him available on a free transfer.

Bolton's Lee out for nine months

Bolton Wanderers winger Chung-yong Lee faces at least nine months on the sidelines after breaking his leg against Newport County. 

The South Korea international was stretchered off during the first half of Bolton's 3-1 friendly victory over Newport on Saturday.

He was immediately placed in a leg brace and was taken to hospital where he underwent an operation on a broken right leg.

Lee sustained a double fracture to his lower right leg and he is now likely to miss the majority of the upcoming Premier League season.

Who will win tonight: Man Utd or Barca??

Its the clash of Football Giants and a rematch of Champions League Final-this time in the United States' capital Washington D.C.

FedEx Field seats roughly 91,000 people - nearly 16,000 more than Manchester United's Old Trafford, but 8,000 less than Barcelona's Camp Nou.

 

 Probable Lineups:

Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdes, Abidal, Pique, Puyol, Fontas, Thiago, Busquets, Iniesta, Afellay, Jonathan, Villa.

Xavi is doubtful with an Achilles problem while Lionel Messi and new signing Alexis Sanchez are still on holidays following their Copa America participation with Argentina and Chile respectively.

Manchester United (4-4-2): De Gea, Jones, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra, Young, Carrick, Anderson, Park, Rooney, Berbatov

Javier Hernandez is out after suffering concussion in the previous game against the MLS All-Stars. Darren Fletcher is sidelined with a virus and Antonio Valencia with an ankle injury. 

Blues miss the chance to sign Pastore

Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini claims sought-after midfielder Javier Pastore has joined Paris St Germain, ending Chelsea's pursuit of the Argentinian. 

Zamparini has revealed that a €43million (£37.5m) deal was struck late on Friday for the 22-year-old to join the Parc des Princes club.

Chelsea were thought to be chasing the talented youngster's signature but it appears they have been beaten to the punch by the Ligue 1 outfit.

The swoop is yet to be officially confirmed by the two sides, while Palermo sources had earlier said that the Argentina international's agent was still negotiating with the Blues over a move.

Bad news for Liverpool fans as their star palyer gets injured till September

Liverpool have been dealt a blow with the news captain Steven Gerrard has been ruled out until September after being admitted to hospital with an infection related to his troublesome groin injury.

The midfielder had been undergoing rehabilitation from groin surgery that ended his season in mid-March but manager Kenny Dalglish had expected him to be back for the start of the new campaign.

However, a statement on the club's official website today revealed he will not be available until the following month.

N'Zogbia moves to villa

Aston Villa have completed the £9.5million capture of Charles N'Zogbia from Wigan Athletic.

The former Newcastle United man has signed a five-year deal having successfully completed a medical on Friday.

N'Zogbia had just one year remaining on his Latics contract and owner Dave Whelan was against running the risk of losing him for free next summer.

The winger, who is naturally delighted at the move, could make his Villa debut in next Wednesday's pre-season friendly with Derby.

Villa moved for N'Zogbia after losing Stewart Downing to Liverpool and Ashley Young to Manchester United and the French ace is looking forward to working with manager Alex McLeish.

Cesc Fabregas omitted from Arsenal's Emirates Cup side

Arsenal have announced that club captain and Barcelona target Cesc Fabregas has been omitted from the squad that will play in the Emirates Cup. The move to leave the Spaniard out will ignite further talk that a deal between Arsenal and the Spanish champions is edging closer to completion.
Fabregas’ manager Arsene Wenger concedes that the midfielder is struggling to focus on club targets as the saga continues over whether he will re-join his boyhood team, but the Frenchman is remaining understanding towards his captain’s situation.
"He is not settled and that has to be sorted out soon. He [Fabregas] is just coming back from injury and we have to make sure that he is focused on being with us," said Arsene Wenger.

"Cesc is torn between to loves. I can understand that but we want to be certain about his commitment"
Another player Wenger is required to keep his eye is compatriot Samir Nasri as his future is equally unresolved, but the club’s manager insists both players have been keeping faithful to the north London outfit.

"Samir loves the club [Arsenal]. We read that he and Cesc are somewhere else every day. But they are still here"
Arsenal will play Boca Juniors in the Emirates Cup on Saturday, before a tie with MLS side New York Red Bulls the following afternoon. 

QPR Bid for DJ Campbell Accepted

The 29-year-old has a clause in his contract which would allow him to speak to any club that offered £1.25million for his services.

Campbell was one of the beacons of success for the Seasiders last year as they were relegated from the top flight.

His return of 13 goals from 31 appearances made him one of the highest scoring Englishmen in the Premier League last season.

Johnson moves to Leicester

Leicester have signed Manchester City midfielder Michael Johnson on a season-long loan.

As exclusively revealed by skysports.com earlier this week, Leicester have beaten off competition from the likes of Wolves and Leeds to land Johnson.

Sergio Agureo signs for Manchester City

Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero has completed a switch to Manchester City, the player announced via Twitter.

"I am a City player already. I am happy to be at this club and in this city. Thank you everyone for the welcome and the reception !!!," Aguero tweeted.

The move is likely to signal the departure of compatriot Carlos Tevez, with Serie A side Inter reported to be in talks with City for a season-long loan. 

Spanish player Santi Carzola moves to Villareal

Malaga and Villarreal have come to an agreement regarding the transfer of Santi Cazorla to La Rosaleda, both clubs have announced on their respective websites.

The two clubs were locked in talks earlier on Tuesday and Cazorla will finalise a switch to Malaga on Wednesday, subject to him passing a medical with the club.
Neither side have disclosed any information about the transfer fee, but reports in Spain on Monday claimed that Cazorla will cost Malaga €19 million plus €2m in the form of bonuses. 

Cazorla, who is set to become Malaga's tenth signing this summer, will join up with the rest of the squad at their pre-season training camp in the Netherlands on Wednesday.

Suarez as a kid on TV - The Kop Video - Liverpool FC

Suarez as a kid on TV - The Kop Video - Liverpool FC

Sergio Batista has left Argentina

Argentina have dispensed with the services of coach Sergio Batista, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced.

Batista's future at the helm of the South American giants had come under scrutiny following the team's failure to go beyond the quarter-finals at Copa America while hosting the competition.

Arsenal were refused by Fifa to use goal-line technology in pre-season matches

Fifa has refused to allow Arsenal to experiment with goalline technology during pre-season matches. The Gunners were hoping to use the technology to help officials at the Emirates Cup, with Arsene Wenger's side competing alongside Boca Juniors, Paris Saint-Germain and New York Red Bulls.
Yet, despite the games being classed as friendlies, the world football organisation will not allow the north London club to implement it.

“You need permission to use it and we didn't get it,” manager Arsene Wenger was quoted as saying by The Sun.
“I think they do not want to start to have a different set of rules here and there and I understand that.
“The good news is they are open to it and it looks like in the next World Cup we will have it.
“You want it so you have a better chance to make the right decisions. You know it could be a help for the referees.
“The more help they get, the more decisions they get right. I would like to use it for more than the goalline but it's a first step.”

The Frenchman has long been an advocate of using technology to assist officials in games but Fifa has been against its implementation.
Recently, however, they have showed signs of changing their stance with mounting pressure from managers, players, officials and fans to make the technology available.

Fifa president Sepp Blatter was in attendance at the World Cup match last year between England and Germany, and witnessed the referee refusing to allow Frank Lampard’s shot as a goal even though it was a significant way over the line.
Premier League chief Richard Scudamore said recently that he hopes England's top flight will have goalline technology in place for the 2012-13 season.

Evra asked to leave

Patrice Evra has revealed Sir Alex Ferguson talked him out of leaving Manchester United last summer.

The French full-back admits he returned from the 2010 World Cup - where he found himself at the centre of controversy following a strike within Les Bleus' camp - with his heart set on securing a move away from Old Trafford.

He claims Inter Milan and Real Madrid had expressed an interest and the time felt right, after four years with United, to try something new.

Evra informed Ferguson of his decision, but was happy to sit down with his manager and discuss the situation.

Those talks ended with Evra opting to stay in England, and he believes the right call was made eventually.

"Sometimes you have to make a choice in your life and there was an approach from two big clubs, Inter Milan and Real Madrid, and I just had a chat about it with the boss," said Evra.

Pastore 'likely' to join Chelsea

The Sicilian club's chief Maurizio Zamparini stated on Saturday that Manchester City and Roma, along with Chelsea, were interested in landing the Argentine forward.

But now Micciche has admitted that Chelsea are in pole position to land the 22-year-old, who Palermo have previously insisted would cost any side €45million (£39.7m).

"We are talking about a great player who, in my opinion, is extraordinary," Micciche explained to Radio Sportiva.
"There is no doubt that he should be sold for several reasons. He wants a big club and negotiations are well advanced with a very important team.

"His agent is working well and if someone pays the right amount we are happy to let him go.
"Very likely he will go to Chelsea but I think there are many other clubs of that level looking at the boy."

Micciche ruled out any suggestion of a player plus cash deal for Pastore, adding: "We don't want any players in exchange, it would be impossible because it would mean taking players of a level that Palermo could not afford."

Samir Nasri hoping to leave on free transfer

Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri is believed to be willing to remain in north London for another year and then leave on a Bosman transfer.

The 24-year-old had a breakthrough campaign last season, making 46 appearances, scoring 15 goals and contributing five assists. His performances also saw him nominated for the PFA Player of the Year and PFA Young Player of the Year awards.

Despite his strong showings, Arsene Wenger's men again failed to lay their hands on any silverware, as the trophy drought extended to six years.

Since the end of the season the former Marseille man has been heavily linked with a move away from the club, with Manchester City thought to be interested in his services.

Now The Sun reports that the midfielder is ready to see out his contract at Ashburton Grove and leave for free next summer.

Furthermore, it has been reported that the Gunner has told his team-mates that he is not going to sign a new contract with the club.

For his part, Arsenal manager Wenger has maintained that he would be willing to risk losing the midfielder for free in order to keep him at the club for another season.

He said: "I'm willing to keep him for another year, even if it means we risk losing him for nothing in a year's time.

Bojan agrees Roma move

The Serie A outfit had already reached an agreement over personal terms with the 20-year-old last month.
The deal includes a buy-back option for Barcelona to bring the player back to Camp Nou in 2013 for €13million.

A statement from Barcelona read: "The cost of the operation is 12million euros but includes a compulsory buy-out option to be exercised by Barcelona at the end of the 2012/13 campaign, at a cost of 13million euros.
"This buy-out option can be blocked by AS Roma but in that case, the total cost of the transfer would be 40million euros."

Bojan struggled to hold down a regular place in Barca's star-studded side last season and they are willing to let him move on.
The Spain international admitted he was happy to move to Roma and he was also pleased Barcelona included a buy-back option in the deal.

"My dream was to triumph with Barca, but I am very happy that another club has given me the chance to continue succeeding," said Bojan.
"I'm going from one big club to another and all parties have an interest. That makes me happy. I consider myself privileged."

Man Utd fans face allocation cut

Manchester United supporters could see their ticket allocation for October's Premier League clash with Liverpool cut by more than a third because of 'persistent standing' problem at Anfield. 

A report submitted to Liverpool City Council has recommended cutting the visiting supporters' capacity from 3,015 to 1,965 in an attempt to combat the problem of people blocking gangways.

The Ground Safety Advisory Group, who compiled the report after the match between the two sides in April, suggest problems with United fans at Anfield are far greater than those of other visiting clubs.

"Pictures were presented which showed how the gangways at that game were affected compared to a similar high-profile game where persistent standing also occurred," said the report.

"The actions of the Manchester United supporters had overwhelmed the reasonable operations of the stewards through the management plan.

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney tops list of most Premier League shirt sales

The top 10 was published as part of the review and is based on worldwide sales of names and shirt numbers, with Rooney the first United player to top the list since Cristiano Ronaldo in the 2007/08 season.

Chelsea’s Fernando Torres had been the biggest selling name for the past two seasons, but the striker has slipped to second place since moving from Liverpool to west London, while Steven Gerrard has also dropped down.

Rooney, Torres and Gerrard are the only players to have featured in the top 10 in the past four seasons, while big names such as Cesc Fabregas and Carlos Tevez did not shift enough shirts to make the list.

Arsenal’s Robin van Persie returns after a three-season absence, while Ryan Giggs made the list for the first time, as did Liverpool's January signing Luis Suarez.

The top 10:
1. Rooney
2. Torres
3. Gerrard
4. Chicharito (Javier Hernandez)
5. Van Persie
6. Lampard
7. Drogba
8. Suarez
9. Arshavin
10.Giggs

Wayne Rooney tips Liverpool to challenge Manchester United for Premier League title

The Red Devils overtook Liverpool’s league title record last term, winning their 19th crown, yet the Merseyside club have heavily invested in their squad this summer, with the arrivals of Stewart Downing, Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam.

With the big money January signings of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez also part of Kenny Dalglish’s Anfield revolution, Rooney believes Liverpool could push United all the way this season as they hunt for their first ever Premier League trophy.

Speaking to reporters, Rooney said: "I think they will challenge this time. They have made some really good signings, British players, and under Kenny Dalglish I'm sure they will be trying harder than they ever have done, fighting to be up there. They will think they have a chance of winning the title next season.”
The 25-year-old also conceded that neighbours Manchester City are likely to contend for top spot this campaign, having ended their 35-year trophy drought with May’s FA Cup victory.

When asked if City will challenge for the league, Rooney said: “You'd think so. They've obviously got a lot of good players now and they had a big push towards the end of last season.

Official: Barcelona complete £33m signing of Udinese's Alexis Sanchez

The 22-year-old forward is due to sign a five-year contract and undergo a medical on Monday. The deal involves Barcelona paying £22.9M up front, with the potential of up to £10.1m being paid to the Serie A side in bonuses.

The attacker, who will become Barcelona's first ever Chilean player, had been given permission to leave his national squad's preparation for the Copa America in anticipation of the transfer being finalised late last month, but the two sides were unable to reach an agreement and the move was therefore put on hold until the conclusion of the tournament.

Barcelona had hoped to negotiate a player plus cash deal for Sanchez, but both Bojan Krkic and Jeffren Suarez rejected moves to the Serie A side.

Arsenal and Tottenham to battle for Nepal star

Arsenal will battle north London rivals Tottenham for Nepalese teenager Rohit Chand.

The 18-year-old, who plays for Indian First Division side Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) SC, is regarded as one of the hottest prospects in Asian football and is desparate to make the big time in European football.

Both Arsenal and Spurs are expected to run the rule over the classy defender when Nepal face Jordan in the World Cup 2014 qualifier next week.

Former Spurs skipper Graham Roberts, who is the current coach of Nepal, is in no doubt Chand is destined for the very top.
He said: "Rohit is by far the best centre-half I have ever coached. He is an extreme talent who will play at the highest level."
 

Fifa president Sepp Blatter named biggest villain of the past decade

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has been named biggest villain of the past decade in a poll by the Syfy channel that surveyed over 2,000 people.
Blatter took 9.2 per cent of the vote, ahead of second-place former-RBS boss Sir Fred Goodwin (on 8.2%), and beating out contenders Osama Bin Laden and Robert Mugabe it appears on his way to ‘victory’.
It seems the British public still resent the football chief for his role in denying England the chance to host the 2018 World Cup, while the 75-year-old has also been embroiled in a corruption scandal at world football's governing body in recent months.
The Fifa chief has run the organisation for over 13 years and overseen four World Cups in his controversial reign.
Other footballers to be ranked in the villain list include Chelsea full-back Ashley Cole and Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs, who have both attracted controversy courtesy of well-reported off-the-pitch behaviour.
In the hero list, LA Galaxy star David Beckham came second, behind US president Barack Obama.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson downplays talk of Wesley Sneijder leaving Inter for Manchester United

Sir Alex feels a deal is unlikely and says that he would be happy to start the season tomorrow with the squad he has now, although he did admit that he was "overloaded" with strikers, while his midfield was "not nearly as strong".

Sneijder has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, but the boss has once again dismissed talk of Manchester United signing the 27-year-old.

“Forget it,” he told the press when asked about the Dutchman.

“We are looking at some things but I am not so sure Sneijder will be easy to get.”

The veteran manager admitted that there are not many other players he could target who would add sufficient quality to his already strong team.

“I could pick three or four players to come in but they wouldn't be good enough for us so there is no point,” said the 69-year-old.

And when asked if he would be pleased to start the new Premier League season with the squad currently at his disposal, Sir Alex replied: “I would be happy enough.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson wary of Liverpool title threat again

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes Liverpool will be a force to be reckoned with again this season after two years outside the top four.

The Anfield club have not won the top flight title for 21 years, and last season United claimed their 19th, one more than the 18 the Reds have.

Sir Alex, who will turn 70 later this year, admitted that a full season under Kop idol Kenny Dalglish will put their rivals back in contention for silverware.

“Liverpool went off the radar for a bit. They are now back on it. Long-term you know they are going to be there,” he told reporters.

Shay Given joins Aston Villa

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has made his first signing as Villa boss after the club confirmed the arrival of Manchester City goalkeeper Shay Given on a five year contract.

The 35-year-old Republic of Ireland international completed a medical at Villa Park over the weekend before finalising his move on Monday evening for an undisclosed fee.

Given joined City in 2009 but found himself play second fiddle behind Joe Hart last season, and the lure of first team football was something that attracted him to the Midlands.

"Aston Villa is a huge football club and I'm really excited to be joining," Given told the club’s official website.

"I'm looking forward to training and playing with the players here. They're a good bunch of lads, very talented and I know several of them already which will help.

"Everyone knows that I didn't play enough football last season, so I'm really pleased that I'll be able to put that right here. Hopefully, this move will get me back to where I was before in the Premier League, which is where every player wants to be playing.”

Before moving to City, Given enjoyed the best times of his career at Newcastle United where he made 462 appearances, but rather than be second choice at City he chose the challenge of moving to Villa, and working under their new manager.

Liverpool complete Doni deal

Liverpool today confirmed they have completed the signing of Alexander Doni from AS Roma.

The goalkeeper has put pen to paper on a contract with the Reds after agreeing personal terms and passing a medical.

Doni, who has 10 caps for his country, made 179 appearances for Roma in six seasons in Italy during which time he lifted the Coppa Italia twice as well as the Supercoppa Italiana.

The 31-year-old custodian also helped Brazil to success in the 2007 Copa America.

Bayern agree Boateng deal

Bayern Munich have confirmed that they have agreed terms with Manchester City for Germany international defender Jerome Boateng. 

The 22-year-old, who can play at full-back or in central defence, only moved to Eastlands last summer when City paid Hamburg over £10million for his services.

But he made just 16 appearances during the season and was never able to command a regular first-team place under Roberto Mancini.
Now City and Bayern have agreed terms after weeks of talks and Boateng is due for a medical in Germany ahead of signing a four-year deal.

Bayern sporting director Christian Nerlinger said: "Jerome Boateng is a young German international, who fits perfectly into the philosophy of FC Bayern.

Liverpool have agreed to sign Downing

Liverpool FC tonight announced they had agreed a fee with Aston Villa for the transfer of Stewart Downing.

Liverpool have now been granted permission to discuss personal terms with the player and arrange a medical.

Manchester United and Inter agree €40m fee for Wesley Sneijder as negotiations continue on personal terms

Manchester United have agreed a €40 million club record fee with Inter for the transfer of Wesley Sneijder, Goal.com can reveal.

But Sneijder's wage demands are currently holding up the deal from being close to completion. Sources have told Goal.com that the player's camp have indicated they want around €227,000-a-week but United are reluctant to pay more than €193,000-a-week.

Nevertheless, the Premier League champions are hoping to reach a compromise over the difference as the prospect of a switch that would smash United's transfer record grows increasingly likely.

Senior officials from the two clubs are understood to have shaken hands on the terms of the deal after United chief executive David Gill made it clear the Premier League champions are willing to meet Inter's asking price in a series of meetings in recent days.

United have confirmed that Gill was in Zurich on Wednesday, where an Inter delegation was also present, to attend a European Club Association meeting but an Inter source told Goal.com that he had been in Milan on Tuesday and early on Wednesday to lead Sneijder negotiations with another Old Trafford director.

Konchesky has left liverpool to join Leicester City

Liverpool have finalised a deal to sell Konchesky to Leicester city.

The 30-year-old, who played 18 games for the Reds, will now join the Championship outfit for pre-season.

Arsenal sign Gervinho

The Ivory Coast international, who notched 15 goals and 10 assists to help the French side to their first league title in 57 years last term, arrives at the Emirates for a fee believed to be €12 million, although the length of his contract has not been revealed.

Wenger revealed the news about Gervinho as his side arrived in Malaysia, without their newly acquired forward, ahead of their pre-season tour of the Far East.

"Gervinho has come back from holiday and signed," said Wenger.

"He had a medical on Thursday and we sent him back home to sort things out for two days. He has a family with children.

"He came back yesterday and starts his fitness programme in London today. He is officially an Arsenal player now. I decided not to take him because he had had no training sessions."

Gervinho did not travel with Arsenal as part of their initial group and it remains to be seen whether he will link up with the squad.

Gervinho is Arsenal's second signing of the summer following on from the capture of youngster Carl Jenkinson.

After arriving in Malaysia for the Gunners' pre-season tour of the Far East, Wenger confirmed he expects Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri to be part of his plans for the coming campaign.

Italian legend Fabio Cannavaro retires from professional football at the age of 37

The World Cup-winning captain has called it a day after an illustrious career with the likes of Parma, Inter, Juventus and Real Madrid.

Italian legend and 2006 Fifa World Player of the Year Fabio Cannavaro has retired from professional football at the age of 37.

The veteran defender, who last played for Dubai-based Al Ahli, has claimed that injury has taken its toll and is the key reason for his decision to stop playing. He will continue in a coaching role for the Asian club, however.

Sunderland snap up Vaughan

Vaughan who arrives at the Stadium of Light on a free transfer, agreed personal terms and passed his medical late on Thursday night.

The 28-year-old left Blackpool earlier this summer after seeing out his contract at Bloomfield Road.

The Wales international was one of Blackpool's top performers last season and his performances alerted a number of Premier League sides to his availability.

O'Shea Joins Sunderland

Brown's move from Old Trafford to the Stadium of Light was confirmed earlier on Thursday and the Black Cats tied up O'Shea's transfer just a few hours later.

The Republic of Ireland international has been with United since the start of his professional career but will now embark on a new challenge at the age of 30.

Finally Adam is a LFC player

Adam put the finishing touches to his move from Blackpool after successfully passing a medical and putting pen to paper on his new Anfield deal.

With speculation rife for months that the Scottish midfielder would be on his way to Merseyside, Adam is now happy to focus on the future and play his part in the club's quest for honours.

"I am absolutely delighted to be here," he told Liverpoolfc.tv. "It has been a long process but now I can't wait to get started and hopefully this will be a successful period in my career and in the club's history.

"Liverpool is a massive club with terrific players and a terrific manager. You have seen since the new manager came in the forward strides that have been made. Kenny has a terrific respect from players and people in the game. He is a wonderful manager and it's an honour to be able to say I'm going to be able to play for Liverpool.

Official: Sunderland complete signing of Wes Brown from Manchester United on four-year deal

Sunderland have confirmed the signing of Manchester United defender Wes Brown on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The 31-year-old, who made 361 appearances for the Red Devils, was part of five title-winning sides at Old Trafford, and twice won the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup.

The former England defender signs a long-term contract at the Stadium of Light with former team-mates John O'Shea and Darron Gibson expected to follow from Old Trafford.

Lionel Messi can learn from Falcao's example

It was the reality that, aside from a handful of sparkling moments that we almost take for granted from a player of his quality, he looked lost and ineffective in his role as a withdrawn No. 9, a centre-forward who could neither create nor define amongst a sea of tenacious defenders.

No-one could make the case that the Porto striker is a better player than the little Argentine, but Falcao demonstrated on Wednesday that he could become the focal point of an attack in the way that Lionel has struggled to over the last week.

Dropping deep, he had the strength to hold off the opposition defence, time and again drawing two markers before releasing a colleague into space. And when it fell to him to beat a man, Radamel proved himself capable of surging past with skill and pace. 

Most importantly, the Colombian did not allow himself to get sucked back into midfield like his opposite number. His territory begins on the edge of the final third and ends in the penalty area, and in this sector there are few who can match him run-for-run, shot-for-shot.  

Arsenal reject Manchester United's £20m bid for Samir Nasri

Gunners reject opening bid for in-demand Frenchman and are thought to be holding out for £25m (€28m) for him, with offer set to trigger bids from other clubs said to be interested.

Nasri could also move abroad with Inter said to be keen on bringing him in as uncertainty remains surrounding the future of Wesley Sneijder.

The Arsenal midfielder was beaten by only Gareth Bale in the PFA Player of the Season award last term after especially impressing in the first half of the campaign.

Since moving to the Emirates from Marseille in 2008, Nasri has made 124 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 24 goals.

Liverpool have reached agreement with Blackpool over a fee for the transfer of long-term target Charlie Adam

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish has been pursuing the 25-year-old Scotland international for a number of months having failed with two bids for the midfielder in the January transfer window.

A statement on the club's official website read, "Liverpool Football Club today announced they have reached agreement with Blackpool for the transfer of Charlie Adam.

"The player will now travel to Merseyside for a medical to discuss personal terms."
Following the Seasiders' relegation from the Barclays Premier League, Adam made clear his intention to remain in the top-flight - a notion that has attracted attention from a number of rival clubs.

With Tottenham Hotspur the only other side to have made a firm offer for the talented playmaker's services, but still falling short of Blackpool's £9million valuation of their sought-after captain.

The path now appears clear for Liverpool to begin contract talks with a view to finalising a deal that will see Adam become the second confirmed Anfield signing this summer after the arrival of Jordan Henderson from Sunderland for an initial £16million.