║║║║║ Barclays Premier League Season 2012-13 ║║║║║

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Fiorentina target Berbatov as United continue efforts to release outcast striker

By ASHLEY GRAY PUBLISHED: 08:33 GMT, 21 August 2012 | UPDATED: 08:33 GMT, 21 August 2012


Fiorentina have targeted Dimitar Berbatov as the Manchester United striker struggles to find a suitable new club.

The Bulgarian has been told he can leave Old Trafford this summer, but he has already discarded several options and is wary of taking a big step down.

The 31-year-old would consider a move to Italy and his agent has been keen to talk to AC Milan.

All smiles: Berbatov jokes with new United striker Van Persie ahead of the match with Everton

But Fiorentina want to underline their ambition by bringing in a high-profile striker to play alongside Stevan Jovetic.

Manchester City and Chelsea remain interested in Montenegro star Jovetic, but the Florence club insist he will not be sold this summer.

United want £8million for Berbatov, who joined for a club record £30.75m from Tottenham in 2008.

Fiorentina are prepared to pay only around half, but hope the price will fall as the transfer deadline approaches.

There is a new buzz at the Serie A club under Vincenzo Montella, especially after the arrival of Alberto Aquilani, Borja Valero and Matias Fernandez, but they cannot offer Berbatov European competition this season.

Outcast: Berbatov has been sidelined at United but hasn't found a new club
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Fulham and Newcastle confirm interest in Douglas, says Twente president
The Brazilian-born player is close to attaining Dutch citizenship, but his future has been uncertain with a move to the Premier League looking more likely

Michu: Swansea City debut couldn't have gone better
The £2 million signing from Rayo Vallecano got off to a fine start to his Premier League career by scoring twice against QPR and says that he is settling in well to life in Wales

Inter closing in on Nigel de Jong
The Dutchman will be allowed to leave the Premier League champions if a good offer comes in, with the Serie A giants favourites to sign the midfielder

Manchester United needed to be more clinical against Everton, admits Vidic
The Red Devils enjoyed a majority of possession at Goodison Park but were unable to convert that into goals as Marouane Fellaini's header won the opening-round points

Tevez return proof Manchester City can cope without Aguero – Kompany
The scorer of last season's Premier League-winning goal was stretchered off against Southampton but the club captain feels that the striker's compatriot can fill the void

Manchester United defensive shortage to continue for 'a couple of weeks'
Sir Alex Ferguson does not expect the likes of Jonny Evans to return to the side in time to face Fulham on Saturday, with Michael Carrick likely to continue at centre-back

Former Fulham man McBride: Dempsey would succeed at Liverpool
Former USA international believes his compatriot has the ability and determination to become a star at Anfield and is delighted to be part of the Wembley FC project

Cattermole impressed with Sunderland new boy Saha
The Black Cats' skipper is excited by the experienced Frenchman's hold-up play and, after debuting from the bench against Arsenal, hopes he can make a big impact on Wearside

Fantastic Fellaini shows Manchester United exactly what they are still missing
The Belgian put in a masterful performance for the Toffees as they beat Sir Alex Ferguson's side and gave the Scot plenty to ponder after his expensive recruitment drive

 

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Mourinho backs Sahin for Premier League switch but remains coy on Carvalho move to QPR
The Real Madrid boss has insisted he is not concerned over the Turkish midfielder's eventual destination but has thrown doubt on potential exits for the experienced pairing

Arsenal sales of Van Persie and Song a 'big mistake', says Eduardo
The former Gunners striker, who is now at Shakhtar Donetsk, insists that the north London club will not challenge for the Premier League if they keep selling their best players

Chelsea defender David Luiz ruled out of Reading clash
The Brazilian defender announced on Twitter that a knee injury has forced him to withdraw from the squad for the Premier League meeting at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday

Selling Nani could be the ultimate balancing act for Manchester United's top-heavy squad
The winger has been targeted by Zenit this summer and with the Old Trafford outfit requiring strengthening elsewhere, the potential sale of the Portuguese would be a logical move

Manchester City legend Kinkladze central to Zenit's Nani pursuit
The former Maine Road favourite is one of the key figures behind the Russian giants' bid to secure the 25-year-old Old Trafford winger this summer

Leverkusen insist Schurrle is not for sale
The Germany international has attracted the interest of Chelsea with his eye-catching performances of late, but his club side are determined to hold onto him

Chelsea cannot afford to fall behind in title race, warns Terry
The Blues captain feels that it is essential that his side maintain their good start with wins in their upcoming games against Reading and Newcastle at Stamford Bridge

Welbeck signs new four-year Manchester United contract
England international pens deal which will keep him at the Red Devils until 2016 after his future had been subject of some speculation following the signing of Robin van Persie

Andre Santos arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving
The Brazilian left-back was apprehended by officers after reportedly driving at speeds of up to 130mph and was caught just two miles from the club's training base near the M25

Sahin set to complete season-long Arsenal move
The Turkey international will spend 2012-13 at the Emirates Stadium following a breakthrough in talks between the two clubs over a buy-out option in 12 months' time

Reading tried to sign Hazard six years ago, claims McDermott
The Royals' manager reveals the club enquired about buying the Belgium international after being impressed with his talent whilst watching Lille when he was chief scout

Arsenal did not want to sell Song, says Barcelona vice-president
The Primera Division giants have stressed that signing the midfielder was by no means an easy feat, despite the fact that the transfer materialised relatively quickly

Real Madrid website posts Modric profile
The Spanish champions have blamed a hacker for the gaffe, which listed the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder as a member of Jose Mourinho's squad

Manchester United scout claims Buttner was only 'third or fourth' best left-back in Eredivisie
Dutchman Ed van Stijn, who leads the Red Devils' recruitment in the Netherlands, has made an embarrassing admission about Sir Alex Ferguson's latest acquisition

Leigertwood: Reading won't play with fear against Chelsea
The Royals midfielder has warned that his side will try to attack the European Champions in their clash at Stamford Bridge, and that they have real talent in Pavel Pogrebnyak

Manchester City striker Aguero ready to begin recovery from injury
The Argentina international has confirmed his knee is not as severe as first feared after being stretchered off against Southampton, and he is now set to start physiotherapy

Roma's Pjanic snubbed Tottenham, claims agent
The Bosnia international's representative has reaffirmed that his client is happy with life at Roma and is looking forward to building on his first season in Serie A

Mirallas: I snubbed Arsenal for Everton over playing opportunities
The Belgian forward has revealed that negotiations with the Gunners were at "an advanced stage" before he opted for a move to Merseyside

Llorente agent confirms English interest
Juventus had been confident of landing the Spain international, but his representative has now revealed that two Premier League outfits are also chasing his client

Henriquez granted work permit ahead of Manchester United move
The Premier League giants look set to complete the transfer of the 18-year-old Universidad de Chile striker after he was given permission to register for the club

QPR beat Stoke to £10m signing of Michael Dawson from Tottenham
The centre-back missed much of last season after rupturing his ankle ligaments but has been targeted by Rs boss Mark Hughes to alleviate the club's defensive woes

Agent reveals 15 clubs chasing Manchester City striker Guidetti
The representative of the highly rated Sweden international has revealed that a host of teams have contacted the Premier League champions with a view to buying the 20-year-old

Arteta: Arsenal are good enough to carry on without Song
The Spaniard insists that the Gunners have the squad depth to cope with the defensive midfielder's departure to Barcelona and calls for patience with the club's new signings

Tottenham confirm Adebayor signing
The ex-Manchester City striker has made his loan deal of last season permanent, joining the north London club full-time after registering 18 goals in 37 games in 2011-12

Pogba denies disrespecting Sir Alex Ferguson following Juventus move
The highly rated midfielder departed Manchester United to join the Serie A giants over the summer but has refuted suggestions that he undermined his former boss

Manchester City make £6m Sinclair offer as Johnson closes in on Sunderland switch
Negotiations between the Premier League champions and the Welsh side are now centring on the cost of add-ons for winger, as Martin O'Neill steps up his pursuit of the England man

Official: Buttner joins Manchester United on five-year contract
The 23-year-old Dutch left-back has joined the Red Devils from Eredivisie outfit Vitesse Arnhem and becomes Sir Alex Ferguson's fourth incoming transfer of the summer

Liverpool warn Carroll to find new club or spend the season on the bench
The striker has been linked with an exit ever since new manager Brendan Rodgers arrived and it seems the 23-year-old will not be offered the opportunity to prove himself

Stoke set to launch joint bid for Tottenham pair Huddlestone & Dawson
QPR are also preparing an offer for the England defender as both players head for the White Hart Lane exit after being deemed surplus to requirements by Andre Villas-Boas

Official: Sebastien Bassong leaves Tottenham for Norwich
The Cameroon international defender has fallen down the pecking order in the past 12 months at White Hart Lane and has now signed a three-year deal at Carrow Road

Manchester City target Jovetic ready to take the next step towards superstardom
The Montenegrin looks to have recovered from the effects of a cruel knee injury early in his career and would provide an excellent foil to Mancini's armoury of strikers

Sunderland near loan deal for Tottenham winger Rose
The 22-year-old, who can play at left-back as well as further up the flank, is close to joining the Black Cats, potentially as a temporary replacement for Kieran Richardson

Mertesacker: Podolski will score a lot for Arsenal
The towering defender admits his fellow Germany international found Saturday's goalless draw with Sunderland tough going but insists he will soon be regularly hitting the net

'Matter of time' before Sinclair leaves Swansea for Manchester City, says Curtis
The Team GB Olympic forward looks to have scored his last goal for the Welsh club against QPR on Saturday, with a transfer very close, according to the first-team coach

 

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Jose: Sahin must learn from the Premier League

LOAN EXIT ... Nuri Sahin is heading to English football

Published: Today at 15:083

JOSE MOURINHO does not care which team Nuri Sahin joins on loan — as long as it is in the Premier League.

The Real Madrid boss confirmed Real had received a number of offers for the 23-year-old Turkey international.

Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham are all interested in signing the former Borussia Dortmund ace.

Sahin has had little game time since making his move to the Bernabeu 12 months ago.

And Mourinho is eager to farm him out to continue his development.

The former Chelsea manager said: “The Premier League is a good place for players to pick up certain characteristics which he does not have.

“It is all the same to me, though, which club he goes to. I just hope that it happens soon for him, as it is best for him.

“Liverpool, Arsenal or Spurs — I have no preference.”
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Arsenal... 0 Old Boys... 44

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KNACK KING COLE ... Ashley Cole has got in the habit of winning silverware
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By ANTONY KASTRINAKIS

Last Updated: 22nd August 2012

ALEX SONG’S £15million switch to Barcelona capped a seven-year exodus of stars who won 44 winner’s medals — with Arsenal flops getting NONE.

While Song and £22m Robin van Persie, who joined Manchester United, have yet to win a gong with their new clubs, they are almost guaranteed to do so.

SunSport looked at how many medals ex-Arsenal stars won since leaving. Gunners fans may want to look away now!

Since winning the 2005 FA Cup, Arsenal have gone trophyless as they offloaded 17 top players, who won 44 major medals with 11 different clubs.

Thierry Henry, Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri, RVP and Song are some names who left for glory.

Arsenal raked in £163m for those who left, without the £39m they will get for RVP and Song.

In our research, we have not included the Community Shield or national Super Cups.

Ironically, players won medals with PORTSMOUTH (1 FA Cup for Sol Campbell and Lassana Diarra) and BIRMINGHAM (1 Carling Cup for Seb Larsson and Alex Hleb).

No wonder midfielder Song was happy to have joined Catalans a year after his close pal Fabregas, who won three major trophies.

Song said: “I said ‘yes’ to everything Barca wanted. This chance is once in a lifetime. They’re a team of champions.

“My kids are happy. They play in the garden and pretend to be Messi. I’m in a team full of stars.

“The style of play is similar to Arsenal. Cesc will help me adapt.”

 

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Chelsea plotting £12m bid for Brazilian forward Taison if Hulk deal fails

By ASHLEY GRAY PUBLISHED: 11:56 GMT, 22 August 2012 | UPDATED: 11:56 GMT, 22 August 2012

Chelsea could make a shock move for Metalist Kharkiv’s Brazilian forward Taison.The 24-year-old is seen as a £12million alternative to Hulk and Edinson Cavani if they prove to be beyond the Londoners’ reach.The creative force behind Metalist’s rise in Ukraine can play just behind the main striker or on the flank and had been compared to Shakhtar Donetsk forward Willian by scouts.

Wanted: Taison has emerged as a target for big-spending Chelsea

Taison was surprisingly left out of his club’s match at the weekend, with sources claiming he was given leave to return to Brazil to explore visa and passport options ahead of a possible move to Stamford Bridge. The former Internacional player finds himself caught up in a chain of deals.

Coincidentally, Porto are interested in him in case they lose their Brazil striker Hulk to Chelsea.And Shakhtar have him top of their list to replace Willian if he completes a move to Tottenham, having seen his own transfer to Chelsea fall through.

Options: Porto striker Hulk (right) remains on Chelsea's radar

Blues boss Roberto Di Matteo is keen to further add to the forward line before the transfer window closes. Meanwhile, Cesar Azpilicueta is on the verge of clinching his move to Chelsea. The 22-year-old Spain right back has not been included in Marseille’s squad to face Moldova’s Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League on Thursday.
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Arsenal sign Sahin as Madrid midfielder agrees season-long loan deal

By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 21 August 2012 | UPDATED: 21:48 GMT, 21 August 2012

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Arsenal’s move for Nuri Sahin has gone through after stalling over a £14m buy-out clause if they decide to make his loan deal permanent next summer.Sportsmail revealed on Tuesday how the deal for the Real Madrid midfielder had hit a snag as Real wanted a fixed price of £14m attached to the deal if Arsenal decide to take up the option of signing the Turkey midfielder once his loan ends. However, there seems to have been a compromise between the parties and the Gunners have finally got their man.

Arsenal bound: Nuri Sahin's move to The Emirates has been completed

The Gunners were so confident of securing Sahin’s services that they planned a photo shoot on Monday ahead of his official unveiling. The club called a halt to the shoot after the last minute problem.The Gunners are also expecting to offload Andrey Arshavin before the close of the transfer window after Zenit St Petersburg revived their interest in the Russia forward. Arsenal are desperate to shift Arshavin’s £70,000 a week off the wage bill.
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Best day of my life! Buttner delighted to complete £4m move to Man United

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 13:48 GMT, 21 August 2012 | UPDATED: 14:22 GMT, 21 August 2012

Alexander Buttner has hailed his £4million move to Manchester United as the best day of his life. The Dutchman completed his move to the Premier League giants, signing a five-year deal. The 23-year-old moves to Old Trafford from Vitesse Arnhem, where he made 119 appearances over the past four years.

The left-back, who will hope to force Patrice Evra out of the side, said: 'Joining Manchester United is one of the best days of my life. It's a team I have admired for many years now and I can't wait to join my teammates and play my part in helping the club be successful.' Manager Sir Alex Ferguson said: 'Alexander is one of the best young left backs in Europe and we're delighted to sign him. He's someone we've been watching for a while now. He gives us some really exciting options in that position.'

United front: Alexander Buttner has completed his £3.9million to Manchester United from Vitesse Arnhem

Buttner was part of Holland's preliminary squad for this year's European Championship and has made 119 appearances for Eredivisie side Vitesse over the past four years. He becomes the second Dutch player in a week to make the switch to Manchester United, following in the footsteps of striker Robin van Persie, move moved from Arsenal in time to feature in last night's season-opening 1-0 defeat at Everton.

'Joining Manchester United is one of the best days of my life,' Buttner said. 'It's a team I have admired for many years now and I can't wait to join my team-mates and play my part in helping the club be successful.'

The Dutchman completed his medical in Manchester and is understood to have moved on a deal worth £3.9 million.

Buttner, a product of the youth system at Vitesse, was linked with a move to Barclays Premier League newcomers Southampton earlier in the summer, but that deal fell through, paving the way for the switch to United.

Buttner will provide much-needed cover for first-choice left-back Patrice Evra.
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Manchester United aiming to beat Liverpool to £10m Mexico midfielder 'Zorro'

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 20:27 GMT, 21 August 2012 | UPDATED: 21:45 GMT, 21 August 2012


Manchester United are considering a £10million move for Mexico's Olympic star Hector Herrera.The 22-year-old midfielder was the inspiration behind Mexico's gold medal victory and has been on United's radar for over a year with Liverpool also very keen.

Pachuca sporting director Andres Fassi has announced they had had a fresh approach from United requesting permission to approach the starlet who is nicknamed 'Zorro'.

Olympic hero: Hector Herrera was the inspiration behind Mexico's gold medal

Fassi said: 'There is an official interest. We have the document, but there’s nothing else to add at this time.' Herrera is recovering from an ankle injury but United see him as a decent replacement for former transfer target Lucas Moura who moved to Paris St Germain.

In demand: Herrera (left) is wanted by both Manchester United and Liverpool

United, who have also gained a work permit for Chilean striker Angelo Henriquez, are understood to be exploring the possibility of taking defender Phillipe Mexes on loan from AC Milan.
The 30-year-old has also been offered to Arsenal in discussions over Nicklas Bendtner.
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Don't waste your time! Leverkusen tell Chelsea not to bid again for Schurrle

By JOHN EDWARDS PUBLISHED: 09:01 GMT, 21 August 2012 | UPDATED: 12:22 GMT, 21 August 2012


Chelsea have been told not to bother making a second bid for Andre Schurrle and warned they will have to wait at least 12 months before being able to land one of their top attacking targets.

Sportsmail revealed earlier this month that owner Roman Abramovich was ready to sanction an improved £20million offer for the Bayer Leverkusen forward after having an opening £16million approach turned down.

But the response from Leverkusen was an unequivocal 'don't waste your time' after chief executive Wolfgang Holzhauser reiterated their determination to hang on to one of German football’s rising stars for another season, at least.

No go: Chelsea have been warned off making a bid for Schurrle

Sportsmail has learned that Schurrle's contract, which runs until 2016, has an escape clause, allowing him to leave for around £23.5 million this time next year.

Chelsea may feel they can negotiate the fee down to around £20million, but they will have to wait to prise the versatile 21-year old away, according to Holzhauser, who said: 'We will not sell him this season, no matter how much they (Chelsea) want him and no matter how much they offer. Next year may be different, but he will not leave this season.'

Holzhauser's stance will come as a blow to Chelsea after they again watched Schurrle, in Leverkusen's pre-season friendly against Liverpool at Anfield, and vowed to add him to an influx of top young talent that has seen Marko Marin, Eden Hazard and Oscar arrive at Stamford Bridge in recent weeks.

Wigan winger Victor Moses could be next in line, as Chelsea edge nearer Wigan’s £9million asking price, but Schurrle, who underlined his worth for Germany at this summer's European Championships and can operate on the flanks or as a central striker, will be staying with Sami Hyypia’s team for the next 12 months.
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United wrap up Henriquez signing after Chilean striker granted work permit

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 19:29 GMT, 21 August 2012 | UPDATED: 19:29 GMT, 21 August 2012


Manchester United have confirmed Chilean teenager Angelo Henriquez has been granted a work permit which will enable him to complete his move to the Red Devils.The 18-year-old Universidad de Chile striker underwent a medical last week and has now been given the green light to join the Barclays Premier League outfit. A United statement read: 'Manchester United is pleased to announce that Angelo Henriquez, 18, has been granted a governing body endorsement which will allow him to register and play for the club.

New arrival: Henriquez (right) says he's fulfilling a dream after completing his move to Manchester United

'He will play his final game for Universidad de Chile tomorrow and a further announcement on him joining United will be made in due course.'Speaking last week to Chile paper La Tercera, Henriquez touched on his bewilderment at the speed of the deal.

'I am super happy to get to Manchester United. I'm fulfilling a dream,' he said. 'I am going where I wanted.

'You look on television and see the outstanding players, scoring spectacular goals. I cannot waste this opportunity.

'It is not clear what will happen with my future. 'I want to play in the first team of Manchester United. That's my first thought.

'If they decide to send me on loan, I would prefer to continue at Universidad, although I will do whatever United deem appropriate.'
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As Dawson and Huddlestone join stampede out of Spurs, has Villas-Boas gone too far?

By ADAM SHERGOLD PUBLISHED: 12:12 GMT, 22 August 2012 | UPDATED: 15:47 GMT, 22 August 2012


Swinging in to the Tottenham training ground to be reacquainted with English football, Andre Villas-Boas knew it was of vital importance to say the right things and send out the right signals.There was a new group of players to win over, his new employers to keep happy and sceptical fans to convince – three things he hadn’t managed to do in his previous post across town at Chelsea. And so, to foster instant harmony, he told the assembled media: ‘The club is driven towards success, and everybody knows they must play a part.’But of course it was impossible for everybody to be involved in his grand vision to restore the glory days to White Hart Lane.

Get gone! Andre Villas-Boas has wasted no time in chopping down the size of his squad at Tottenham

In the weeks since, Villas-Boas has enthusiastically wielded the axe and chopped all the dead wood from his squad – to the point where some fans are expressing great alarm at the slender core left.Defender Vedran Corluka was the first out the door but no great loss. He’d fallen out of favour last season and spent the second half in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen.The £5m paid by Lokomotiv Moscow represented good business and helped towards the purchase of Jan Vertonghen from Ajax.Croatian Niko Kranjcar followed, making a swift return to Ukraine following the European Championships by joining Dynamo Kiev.He had been initially popular under Harry Redknapp, whose large shoes Villas-Boas is trying to fill, but was never able to challenge Gareth Bale for a starting place.

The Croatian duo of Vedran Corluka (left) and Niko Kranjcar were among the first out the exit door following the arrival of Villas-Boas

The scalping continued – Steven Pienaar was allowed to make permanent his loan to Everton, Louis Saha - who mustered just four goals at the club - was released to join Sunderland, Ryan Nelsen likewise to QPR.There was also the sad news that persistent knee problems had forced the retirement of fans’ favourite Ledley King, further limiting the defensive options.But recently, a day hasn’t passed without further evidence of the crazy Villas-Boas fire sale. The protracted Luka Modric to Real Madrid saga continues to rumble on, while fringe players David Bentley and Giovani dos Santos are being touted around.Norwich took Sebastien Bassong, who had spent three seasons at Spurs without becoming a regular. If this didn’t inflict much of a blow, the stunning news that captain Michael Dawson was about to sign for QPR, could be more damaging. Sunderland and Stoke City could yet gazump the deal.

Sebastien Bassong signed a three-year deal with Norwich this week

Michael Dawson, seen here in a pre-season friendly with Liverpool, has been linked with a £10m move to QPR

Meanwhile, it appears Tom Huddlestone will become the ninth player to leave Spurs this summer, albeit on loan to Stoke.So, with the Premier League season underway (and to a losing start at Newcastle) and just nine days left in the transfer window, where does the Villas-Boas cull leave Spurs?With a few areas for concern, certainly. The signing of Emmanuel Adebayor for £5m boosted the Tottenham attack, but worryingly it only doubled the number of recognised strikers from one to two - the other being Jermain Defoe.Presumably Villas-Boas has someone in mind – the £20m signing of Brazilian Willian from Shakhtar Donetsk is reportedly close – but any delay in negotiations will place an almighty burden on Defoe and Adebayor for at least half the season.

Villas-Boas will hope to tie up a deal for Shakhtar player Willian before the close of the transfer window

The Portuguese is cutting it very fine in assembling a strikeforce to achieve his lofty aims of Champions League qualification in his first season.In midfield, Villas-Boas will not have been fooled into believing that Modric is staying though chairman Daniel Levy’s transfer fee demands are proving a stumbling block.He has signed Gylfi Sigurdsson as a like-for-like replacement, and overall the central axis looks as full of pace and creation as it has in recent seasons.But will Villas-Boas have his fingers burnt by his hasty fire sale? Spurs will challenge in four competitions this season, including the Europa League, which has grown into a pan-European marathon of a competition with too many matches and too many miles.

The group stage draw could easily send Spurs to far-flung corners of the continent and the absence of back-up squad players to ease the pressure of a congested fixture schedule could weigh heavily on the established first teamers.And as much as Villas-Boas wants to believe Spurs will be challenging the Manchester clubs for the Premier League title, instant success is more likely in the two domestic cup competitions – adding to the crowded calendar.Assuming the departure of Dawson, Spurs will have three established centre-backs in Vertonghen, Younes Kaboul and William Gallas to choose from, along with the 20-year-old prospect Steven Caulker.

New centre-back Jan Vertonghen was left on the bench for Tottenham's opening match at Newcastle on Saturday

They have the two Kyles – Walker and Naughton – at right-back and either Danny Rose or Benoit Assou-Ekotto at left-back.But there remains a niggling feeling that Villas-Boas is short of one or possibly two defenders as insurance when the inevitable injury crisis strikes.We are in late August and the reality is that Villas-Boas needs a couple of new forwards and two new defenders in the next nine days to have a squad ready to compete on four fronts.The Portuguese has always been an eloquent talker, now he must prove he’s also a shrewd negotiator having cut his squad to the bone.
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Cahill: Chelsea must challenge for the title this year
The centre-back was also thrilled to see team-mate Fernando Torres open his account for the season against Reading and says he can be the "main man" this year for the side

Gervinho: I want to be better than Pires at Arsenal
The Cote d'Ivoire international says he has learnt from his first season in English football and is willing to improve and change his game in order to succeed in the Premier League

Fulham make official complaint about Liverpool & Brendan Rodgers' pursuit of Dempsey
The west Londoners have reported the Anfield boss to the Premier League for his public courting of the wantaway attacker, who will again be absent for his side's game this weekend

Barton wants to play for Marseille and is in negotiations, claims agent
The controversial midfielder is eager to move to the French side and his representative says discussions are currently taking place but no agreement has yet been reached

It will be an honour to play in the Premier League for Swansea, says Ki
The Celtic midfielder is set to complete a move to the Swans ahead of Saturday's match against West Ham, and hopes to learn from new manager Michael Laudrup

Adebayor expecting another 'intense' season at Tottenham
After finally completing his permanent move to White Hart Lane, the Togo forward is looking forward to helping Spurs achieve Champions League football

Moses no closer to Chelsea move, claims Martinez
The Spaniard has stated that he is not aware of any further contact from the Blues and says the interest will not become an issue until the player's valuation is met

Arsenal Sahin switch on hold as Wenger considers option of permanent deal
The Gunners are still in the driving seat to capture the midfielder amid reports in Spain that the midfielder's agent has held fresh talks with Liverpool

Laudrup attracted to Swansea style of play
The Danish manager believes that he is a good match for the Welsh club because of the footballing philosophy developed under previous managers such as Brendan Rodgers

Rodgers plays down reports linking Adam with move away from Liverpool
The Reds manager has revealed that he tried to sign the midfielder when he was in charge of Reading and insists that he is working hard to fight for a place in the first team

Giggs: Van Persie signing sends out big message to Manchester United's rivals
The Red Devils acquired the former Arsenal striker in a deal that could be worth up to £24 million and the veteran was encouraged by the Dutchman's desire to play at Old Trafford

Forster deserves England call, claims Celtic boss Lennon
After impressing to help his club to a 2-0 win over Swedish club Helsingborgs, his manager believes the former Newcastle man should be in the international fold

Zidane better than Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, says Cazorla
The Spain international has nothing but praise for the former Juve and Madrid playmaker, and feels honoured to have played against him

Everton will not get carried away with good start - Howard
The American goalkeeper has revealed that the Toffees will not get carried away after their previous bad starts to seasons, but is delighted with the win over Manchester United

Manchester United register 'official interest' in Liverpool target Hector Herrera
Pachuca have claimed that both Premier League clubs are interested in the midfielder but the Mexican side's sporting director has revealed details of the Red Devils' contact

Stevan Jovetic and Edinson Cavani on Manchester City radar as Mancini steps up pursuit of marquee signing
The Premier League champions are beginning the process of clearing out the deadwood and are looking towards Serie A in order to recruit the big name player their manager craves

Chicharito dreams of winning treble with Manchester United
The Mexico striker has insisted that trophies, and not goals, motivate him and says he will be the "happiest man in the world" if the Red Devils can accomplish the feat

Former Arsenal striker Eduardo would be open to Fulham move
The Croatian, who spent three years in the Premier League during his time at the Emirates, would like to return to England after two years at Shakhtar Donetsk

Fiorentina in talks over move for want-away Manchester United star Berbatov
The Viola's move for the Bulgarian could offer him a way out of Old Trafford, and also hold the key to Manchester City's attempt to sign Stevan Jovetic from the Serie A club

Hazard shows the way but Chelsea are yet to convince
The young Belgian's sensational early season form has enthralled Blues fans but also papered over the cracks in the European champions' armoury, and improvement is needed

Hoilett reveals he shunned interest from Liverpool, Newcastle & Sunderland to join QPR
The new arrival at Loftus Road confirms that he turned down several offers from Premier League clubs to reunite with former Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes in west London

Di Matteo delighted with new Chelsea signings
The Blues manager has heaped praise on his new summer recruits after seeing his team overcome Reading and clinch back to back victories

'Torres was clearly offside!' - McDermott 'gutted' at decision to allow Chelsea goal
The Royals' boss was disappointed with the assistant referee after he failed to spot the Spanish striker was "clearly offside" for the Blues' third goal in a 4-2 win

Cahill praises 'special' Chelsea team-mate Hazard
The England defender has been impressed with the new signing after the Belgian international inspired the Blues' late comeback against Reading at Stamford Bridge

Rodgers: Liverpool players are allergic to complacency
The Reds boss will be hoping to bounce back from Saturday's disappointing 3-0 defeat against West Brom, by returning to winning ways against Hearts in the Europa League

West Brom boss Clarke: Lukaku wasted first season at Chelsea
The recently-appointed Baggies manager believes the Belgian striker can further his career at the Hawthorns, after a disappointing first year at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea 4-2 Reading: Hazard bags three assists as Blues come from behind to claim victory
Roberto Di Matteo's side fell behind following a Pavel Pogrebnyak header and a Petr Cech blunder, but Fernando Torres completed a comeback before Branislav Ivanovic's late goal

Jelavic predicts big season for Everton after the Toffees 'killed' Manchester United
The Croatian striker says big things are going to happen for the Merseyside club this year after his side defeated the Red Devils in their opening game of the season

'Cazorla will shine at Arsenal,' says former Gunners midfielder Pires
The Frenchman has lauded the ability of the club's new Spanish playmaker, after the former Malaga man impressed on his debut for the club against Sunderland

Pardew pleads guilty to FA misconduct charge
The Magpies manager will not contest charges from the governing body after pushing an assistant referee in his side's opening-day clash with Tottenham on Saturday

Tottenham unlikely to sign Lloris, says Lyon chief advisor
Spurs are losing the battle to sign the French goalkeeper according to Bernard Laporte, though a move could be resurrected should Luka Modric seal his move to Real Madrid

No Southampton move for Ramirez & Tottenham or Liverpool switch unlikely, reveals agent
The Bologna midfielder had reportedly agreed terms with the south coast club but negotiations have now come to an unsuccessful end, according to the player's representative

Aguero set to return for Manchester City in Stoke City clash
The Argentine forward suffered a knee injury during the opening minutes of his side's victory over Southampton, though the blow is less severe than had first been feared

Oscar: I will have adapted at Chelsea within a month
The Brazilian midfielder began life in the Premier League with a substitute appearance against Wigan on Sunday but is already targeting a place in the Blues' first team

 

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Pardew pleads guilty to FA misconduct charge

The Magpies manager will not contest charges from the governing body after pushing an assistant referee in his side's opening-day clash with Tottenham on Saturday

Aug 22, 2012 6:45:00 PM

By Ewan Roberts

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has pleaded guilty to a Football Association misconduct charge after pushing assistant referee Peter Kirkup, during Newcastle’s victory over Tottenham on Saturday.

The Magpies boss had until 4pm on Wednesday to respond to the charge, although he had previously indicated that he would accept the FA’s decision regarding the matter.

Pardew reacted angrily when play was allowed to continue despite Gareth Bale appearing to have taken the ball out of play. In the aftermath of the decision, he then pushed the nearby Kirkup in the back.

"We have to do the procedure that has to take place and we are following that through,” said Pardew at his pre-match press conference ahead of Newcastle’s Europa League play-off match with Atromitos on Thursday.

"We are doing a letter on my call on what I thought happened at the weekend.

"But we have pleaded guilty and we will go to see the FA and see what punishment is going to come to fruition."

Pardew spent the last half hour of the game against Tottenham in the stands, taking owner Mike Ashley’s vacant seat. He was quick to apologise for his actions, but may still face punishment.

 

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Fulham make official complaint to Premier League about Brendan Rodgers' pursuit of Clint Dempsey

Fulham, who have become increasingly frustrated by Clint Dempsey's desire to move away from the club, have made an official complaint to the Premier League about Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers.

Looking to move: Fulham have complained about the unsettling of their star player Clint Dempsey by Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers Photo: ACTION IMAGES

By Telegraph Sport

4:17PM BST 23 Aug 2012

Fulham registered a complaint against Rodgers last month after the Northern Irishman revealed in a press conference that Liverpool had made an inquiry about signing the US international midfielder.

Fulham believe that in doing so, Rodgers has broken Premier League rules.

The Premier League said in a statement on Thursday: “The Premier League has received a complaint from Fulham FC regarding certain comments made by Liverpool FC officials and is currently looking into the matter.”

The Premier League’s first step is to write to all parties before the board decides whether to take further action.

Dempsey, was left out of Martin Jol's plans for last Saturday's opening day 5-0 drubbing of Norwich City, will once again be missing from the squad this weekend.

The American has made it clear that he wanted to secure a move elsewhere.

Liverpool, who have expressed an interest in signing Dempsey, have yet to table an offer leaving the player and the club in limbo, with Dempsey not involved during pre-season.

Jol's frustration with Liverpool's conduct has now come to a head with distracted Dempsey omitted for the game against Manchester United on Saturday.

Jol had admitted earlier this week that the situation was an "embarrassing" one and it seems that the problem has now come to a head.

“Clint was not involved over the last four weeks so he is not going to be in the squad,” said Jol. “He is not committed to the club. He wants to leave. I would like to keep him, but I think it’s impossible. It’s a sad and an almost embarrassing situation.”

Brendan Rodgers, the Liverpool manager, admitted in a website interview last month that he had made an inquiry for Dempsey.

Asked if there was any change, the Dutchman replied: "It's the same situation. There has been no formal bid on the table and nothing has changed," Jol said.

Tottenham, Sunderland, QPR, West Ham and Aston Villa are all said to be monitoring Dempsey's situation ahead of the transfer window closing next week.

The action is believed to have been made specifically against Rodgers rather than Liverpool or the club’s American owners Fenway Sports Group.

 

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Don’t be so cheap, Blues

Martinez blasts Chelsea's pursuit of Victor Moses

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NO NEWS ... Victor Moses is waiting on a renewed bid from Chelsea

Published: 5 hrs ago

ROBERTO MARTINEZ has labelled Chelsea "cheap" over their pursuit of Victor Moses.

The Blues have made several bids for Wigan's highly-rated striker, including one believed to be around £8million.

But the Latics are holding out for £10m and Martinez has warned the Londoners to stump up or keep shut.

He said: “You will get all sorts of speculation and talk but the reality is every player has a valuation.

"If a club matches that valuation then maybe you have to sit down with the player and there is a decision to be made.

“Here, for all the talk and speculation, we have never had an offer which matches what the club wants — so at that point, all the rest is cheap talk."

Martinez reckons Moses, 21, is worth every penny of Wigan's £10m valuation.

He added: “Victor is an incredible young man and I think the maturity he showed on Sunday is not normal in a 21-year-old.“It has been a real joy to see him grow over the last few seasons. We made a massive investment in him as a young man and we are very proud of him."

“If there is nothing to consider, it is not an issue.”Moses joined Wigan from Crystal Palace on a three-and-a-half-year deal midway through the 2009/10 season for £2.5million.
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[THE_CHANSTER]

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has pleaded guilty to a Football Association misconduct charge after pushing assistant referee Peter Kirkup, during Newcastle’s victory over Tottenham on Saturday.

The Magpies boss had until 4pm on Wednesday to respond to the charge, although he had previously indicated that he would accept the FA’s decision regarding the matter.

Pardew reacted angrily when play was allowed to continue despite Gareth Bale appearing to have taken the ball out of play. In the aftermath of the decision, he then pushed the nearby Kirkup in the back.

"We have to do the procedure that has to take place and we are following that through,” said Pardew at his pre-match press conference ahead of Newcastle’s Europa League play-off match with Atromitos on Thursday.

"We are doing a letter on my call on what I thought happened at the weekend.

"But we have pleaded guilty and we will go to see the FA and see what punishment is going to come to fruition."

Pardew spent the last half hour of the game against Tottenham in the stands, taking owner Mike Ashley’s vacant seat. He was quick to apologise for his actions, but may still face punishment.

It wasn't even a shove, more like a little push. He also apologized for it after the game to the officials and the Press.
In all fairness, he really shouldn't be punished too severely I hope.

 

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Liverpool looking to offload midfielders Adam and Spearing to fund £7.5m Dempsey bid

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 06:35 GMT, 23 August 2012 | UPDATED: 06:35 GMT, 23 August 2012


Liverpool are desperately trying to raise money to fund a £7.5million bid for wantaway Fulham star Clint Dempsey.

New Reds manager Brendan Rodgers has been tracking the American international all summer, but after already spending £25m on Fabio Borini and Joe Allen he needs to sell before he can buy again.

With an Andy Carroll departure from Anfield looking less likely by the day, Rodgers is now looking to offload midfielders Charlie Adam and Jay Spearing, according to the Daily Mirror.

Wantaway: Dempsey was left out of Fulham's opening day win over Norwich

Both Adam and Spearing were favourites of former Anfield boss Kenny Dalglish, but Rodgers sees neither as playing a part in his first team plans with Steven Gerrard, Lucas Leiva and Allen his preferred midfield trio.

Adam, 26, has been offered to Fulham as a £2.5m makeweight as part of the Dempsey deal, although it is thought the Scot is not keen on a move to London.

Merseyside rivals Everton are interested in Adam, but manager David Moyes is prepared to play a waiting game to get the former Blackpool man for as cheap as possible.

Up for sale: Adam (left) and Spearing (right) are set to leave Liverpool

With Jordan Henderson and Jonjo Shelvey also in contention for a starting spot at Anfield, academy graduate Spearing looks certain to move on before the transfer window closes next week, with Bolton showing an interest in 23-year-old.

Unsettled Dempsey, 29, was left out of Fulham's opening day win over Norwich with his future remaining unclear.
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Life under Lambert: Strict times for Villa players with no laptops and no phones at training

By NEIL MOXLEY PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 23 August 2012 | UPDATED: 21:30 GMT, 23 August 2012


There are reminders of former Aston Villa boss Ron Saunders in Paul Lambert’s actions. The hard-line Merseysider, who won the First Division title 31 years ago, revelled in the role of tough guy. His chosen sport was boxing and he instilled a barrack-room mentality into the club. But times have changed. Players have become all powerful. Managers have to fear where they tread.However, Lambert has clearly defined his own territory. And that, basically, means the club’s luxurious £9million training base.

My rules: Paul Lambert has defined his territory at Aston Villa

The latest intelligence from Villa’s Bodymoor Heath training base is that the Scot has banned his players from taking their mobile phones and laptops into work.‘If you are a professional footballer, then it’s not your hobby, it’s your job,’ he told a fans’ meeting this week. ‘I think it’s important. You are at the training ground to work.‘If you train the way you play, then I don’t have a problem with it. But iPhones and iPads are a distraction.

‘I’m here to win football matches not to play on a phone or computer.’It is not as if those who have found themselves surplus to Villa — or Lambert — have little idea of his focus.Emile Heskey and Carlos Cuellar were out of contract and due to leave as Randy Lerner chopped a wage bill that was close to spiralling out of control.But James Collins has quit for West Ham and others are under no illusions as to their future roles. Left back Stephen Warnock was taken to one side on Monday and told by the manager that he would have to train with Villa’s development squad. Alan Hutton has not been used at all since the first pre-season friendly at Burton Albion. It appears harsh, but such is the current financial climate that such decisions have to be taken.Of course, this should come as no surprise to many who have been involved with the Glaswegian before.

Strict: Lambert says training is the footballer's work-place and as such there should be no distractions

The erstwhile Champions League winner has marked himself down as a one-off from the days when he was one of the first to take advantage of the Bosman rule and win himself a contract at Borussia Dortmund, playing under legendary coach Ottmar Hitzfeld.Lambert kept a pad at his side during those training sessions and made notes. Indeed, he was so impressed by the Teutonic approach that he eventually snubbed the opportunity to take his coaching badges in this country and returned to Germany.But there can be no doubt also of the influence of another former Villa boss, Martin O’Neill, upon Lambert’s thinking.The Northern Irishman comes to life on match days. He is still referred to as ‘the gaffer’ by his successor at Villa Park and similarly courts a strong team ethic in all of his sides.That trait runs through O’Neill’s teams and it was almost like stepping back in time for seasoned observers of the club when Lambert said: ‘Team spirit is absolutely vital.

No talking: Lambert has banned players from speaking to the media too close to a game

‘It’s about 90 per cent of your game because, if you know the guy next to you is going for it for you, then you will do exactly the same and it will transmit to everyone else in the dressing room.’But it is the idea of stamping his own identity on the club which has been a hallmark of his reign so far. At Norwich City, the training ground was out of bounds to outsiders. Those not directly involved with the players were actively discouraged from entering the manager’s place of work.It is similar here. He has banned any player interviews taking place within 48 hours of a match.

At Villa Park, the most outward sign of his authority has been moving the dug-out over the halfway line to be nearer the club’s core support in the Holte End.And it was noticeable before kick-off at Upton Park last week that Lambert has also cherry-picked another idea from one of his former clubs. The pre-match ‘huddle’ was used at Celtic Park while Villa’s boss was a player under O’Neill and Darren Bent performed his captaincy duties by addressing his charges prior to kick off.Not, in the end, that it made much difference. But the point is that Lambert is providing his players with the focus and environment in which to perform.Whether they are up to the job in hand is another matter.
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Moses off to Chelsea at last as Blues agree £9m fee with Wigan for winger

By NEIL ASHTON PUBLISHED: 18:22 GMT, 23 August 2012 | UPDATED: 22:04 GMT, 23 August 2012

Chelsea will take their summer spending to a staggering £73million after Wigan agreed a £9m deal for winger Victor Moses with them on Thursday night.The clubs are finalising details of the move after weeks of negotiations for the former England Under 21 forward.Wigan chairman Dave Whelan named his price for Moses two weeks ago and, having turned down four offers, will reluctantly sell him to the European champions.

Audition: Wigan forward Victor Moses (left) in action against Chelsea last Sunday

The delay had been down to wrangling over the payment structure as Wigan wanted the majority of the fee paid up front. They have got their way, with £7m being paid immediately and £2m more guaranteed at the end of the season. Moses has been on Chelsea’s radar since his sparkling form at the end of last season helped keep Roberto Martinez’s team in the Barclays Premier League.Moses was outstanding for Wigan during their 2-0 defeat by Roberto Di Matteo’s side at the DW Stadium in last weekend’s Premier League opener. That performance convinced Di Matteo, as well as Chelsea technical director Michael Emanalo and owner Roman Abramovich, to meet Wigan’s asking price. Moses, 21, has spent two seasons at the DW Stadium after being sold by Championship side Crystal Palace for £2.5m. He spent his early years playing for England’s youth teams but has switched and now represents his native Nigeria.

Transfer saga: Moses' protracted move has rumbled on for most of the summer

Martinez admitted he was not involved in the negotiations to sell Moses and that Whelan had handled the talks with Chelsea.The FA Cup and Champions League winners will be relieved the deal has been done before the transfer deadline of 11pm next Friday.The deal adds to Abramovich’s spending on Eden Hazard and Oscar.Moses has the element of magic Abramovich has been demanding and Di Matteo is convinced he can play a big role in Chelsea’s season.
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