Stoke’s Brek Shea injures left knee in exhibition against Philadelphia

CHESTER, Pa. — American midfielder Brek Shea injured his left knee in his first game of the preseason for Stoke, two days after scoring the U.S. goal that beat Panama in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final. Shea helped set up Michael Kightly’s goal in the fourth minute and scored in the 19th minute of Stoke’s 2-0 exhibition win at Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union Tuesday night. The 23-year-old American was hurt from a tackle by Philadelphia’s Matt Kassel and left the game in the 33rd. “It’s incredibly frustrating and hugely disappointing to lose Brek, especially in a game like this where you would expect players to look after their fellow professionals,” Stoke manager Mark Hughes was quoted as saying by Stoke’s website. “I really have no idea what the lad was thinking about by going in for the challenge like that. Maybe he was trying to make a name for himself. I have no idea, but whatever he was thinking, it was totally wrong.” Hughes said Shea was to have an MRI on Wednesday. “We know that we will definitely be without him for a number of weeks,” the manager said. “It looks fairly serious, but fingers crossed it isn’t any more serious than we already know it is.”

Manchester-united-prepare-huge-bid-for-barcelona-star-fabregas

Despite several remarks by Barcelona officials and its manager Gerardo Martino that Cesc Fabregas is not for sale, Manchester United appear intent on signing the Spaniard. They have already had two bids for the player rejected. Their latest offer of £30 million plus a few add-ons comes very close to the fee Barcelona paid to Arsenal in 2011. At 26 years of age, Fabregas will have little sell-on value. Despite this, United are confident that they will be able to sign the player with a third bid. This third bid will offer Barcelona in the region of £40 million. Only recently after taking over from Tito Vilanova, new manager Martino said that Barcelona will probably reject a third bid if it came their way. He has said that the club rejects two offers for a player twice, then it is likely that a third offer will also be rejected. "I'm not going to get into the economic interests but, if the club rejected it twice, I add a third one right now. He will be staying here," said Martino to Sky Sports. After being used in various positions and as a second fiddle to the key men like Xavi and Iniesta, Fabregas will count a lot towards the arrival of Martino, as it may bring a change to his fortunes at the Camp Nou. He is yet to find his best form with the Catalan club. The persistent interest from United, though, may change his mind. Fabregas was well suited to English football and he may very well be interested in the prospect of being the main man once again. Despite the presence of several high profile names at Old Trafford, Fabregas can be sure of being one of the first names on the team sheet if he moves to Manchester United. "It's logical that we've had offers for Fabregas because he is a quality player but he is not for sale," said vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

Transfer Latest – Liverpool And Tottenham After £35m Goal Machine And Benfica Defender Closes In On Reds Move

Jackson Martinez is the latest buzz in Premier League transfer this season. Reports are claiming that two top notche clubs of England, Liverpool and Tottenham are in a race to sign this Colombian international. Currently plying his trade at Portuguese club F. C. Porto, Martinez has appeared in the transfer headlines few times this summer. His prolific performance for the Portuguese club last season has turned the attention of many club managers towards him. He scored 34 goals in 39 appearances for the club last season. Liverpool and Tottenham are both on the verge of losing their respective star players, Luis Suarez and Gareth Bale. So, it’s quite obvious that they will look for a substantial replacement for them. The 26-year old forward can surely become a prominent replacement. But alongside these two Premier League clubs, Serie A side Napoli are also in race for Martinez. Rather, Napoli are way ahead of the English clubs by almost securing the deal. But the player’s agent Manuel Manzo said that there are still some issues to sort out the deal. “There is an agreement with the player. However, one with Porto is missing and they don’t want to sell,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “The only chance of a move happening, in my opinion, is if the Azzurri pay the €40m (£35m) rescission fee clause which is in his contract. Otherwise he won’t move.” The Daily Express claims that the Italian side have offered only £28m till now for the forward. If either Liverpool or Tottenham propose a deal that matches his release clause of £35m, they can have him. Money shouldn’t bother them because they will surely get staggering amount if their star men leaves them. Whereas Liverpool are keeping eyes on Jackson Martinez, Brendan Rodgers has managed to settle down things in the back front. Rumours are that the Portuguese club Benfica have come to an agreement with the Reds to release their left-back Lorenzo Melgarejo to the English club. The move is subject to the Paraguayan’s grant of work permit in England. This loan move has been the prologue of a permanent £8.5m deal that Rodgers could propose the Portuguese club later on. Quoted by the ESPN and Daily Mail, Liverpool would have the option to buy the 22-year-old for around £7 million next summer if the loan deal was successful. Liverpool need to apply for a work permit to complete the signing, though, as the defender has only one international cap for Paraguay.

Bale is irreplaceable for Tottenham, says Nash

Nash, a life-long Tottenham fan, recognises that it would be hard for Bale to turn down the opportunity to join the Liga giants, but feels chairman Daniel Levy can afford to reject Madrid advances and strengthen the squad with the forward. "I'd rather he stuck around," Nash told Goal. "That is a lot of money, but for me you can't replace a player like that. You want to keep guys like that. I think we can afford to sign players and keep him. It's going to be more difficult [to succeed] if you lose Gareth Bale. "It looks as though he'll probably go. If they say it's now or never, it's going to be hard for him to turn it down." Discussing Tottenham's other talents, Nash reserved special praise for fellow American Clint Dempsey, who he feels is a vital part of Andre Villas-Boas' squad. "I think he's a fantastic player," Nash said. "I don't know that he was fully embraced by Spurs fans at the beginning, but he won a ton of them over. "He's such a clever player who never shies away from how big the moment is. He pops up and scores big, important goals. You've always got a chance to win a game when Clint is on the field. "I think the manager [Andre Villas-Boas] really likes him. He's the kind of player you only sell if you're bringing in a world-class player at his position."

French Legend urges Gareth Bale to join Real Madrid Read more at http://swol.co/french-legend-urges-gareth-bale-to-join-real-madrid/29266?#H9xXO2yQr1g3iwFU.99

Real Madrid have always followed a set of instructions when it comes to big money signings. First, it starts with a publicly demonstrated interest in the player. It is then followed by an extravagant bid. It is not surprising that Madrid have created a new world transfer record four times in the past. Once everything is in place, they get to make the player demand for a transfer. Clubs often oblige to this demand since they do not want an unhappy player in the dressing room. The Spanish giants have so far ticked all the boxes when it comes to their latest high-profile pursuit – Gareth Bale. Club legend and assistant coach Zinedine Zidane has been public about the club's interest in Bale. According to Sky Sports, Real Madrid have made an official offer of £85 million, which would surpass the current world record fee. As they take their time about this world record bid, Zidane has ensured his best by urging the player to follow his dream. "If he's expressed a desire to join Madrid, then Tottenham should give him permission to speak with us. "It's not unusual when a player knows that Real Madrid are interested in them, that they get excited. "The chance to play for Real Madrid might only come around once in a player's lifetime - and it's understandable Gareth doesn't want to miss out on it," said Zidane to Sky Sports. Gareth Bale is expected to tell Daniel Levy and manager Andre Villas-Boas that he wants to leave the club. Even though Tottenham still remain in the driving seat, would they be happy to keep a player who is unhappy and whose value will plummet in next 12 months if he does not perform well as a result of it? He added, "Last season, Gareth was on the same level as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. "Those are the sort of players that win you Champions League and league titles." As much as Bale is important to Tottenham, he was never at the level as Ronaldo or Messi last season. He has also not won a league or Champions League title. Is he worth £85 million?

Suarez Wants Deal Done By Friday

Arsenal are the club most interested in signing the unsettled striker, having already had two bids rejected by Liverpool. Now it seems the Uruguayan is keen to get a deal decided by the end of the week in order to focus on the start of the new season, SportsDirect News claims. The article says a source from the club has said: “Luis wants everything done and dusted by next Friday.

“He’s keen to move on, as people know, but he doesn’t want it to turn into a saga. He knows clubs are interested in him and he desperately wants one of them to make an acceptable offer soon.” Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that the striker understands the club’s position and the actions they have taken to keep him at the club. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodgers said Suarez is happy at Liverpool and is working hard in training despite knowing he cannot take part in the start of the Premier League season. “It’s a story that can keep running but for me there is no new news,” said Rodgers. “Luis is happy. He totally understands the club’s point of view. “He’s in a difficult position in terms of not being able to play because of his suspension. He will sit out the first six games and he will miss playing football. “But he’s working hard and remains part of the group. He needs to get up to speed and we will continue to work to get all the players ready for the first game of the season.” Rodgers continues to remain unperturbed by the Suarez speculation and will hope to keep hold of the striker as the club prepares to challenge for the top four places this season.

Suarez Wants Deal Done By Friday

Arsenal are the club most interested in signing the unsettled striker, having already had two bids rejected by Liverpool. Now it seems the Uruguayan is keen to get a deal decided by the end of the week in order to focus on the start of the new season, SportsDirect News claims. The article says a source from the club has said: “Luis wants everything done and dusted by next Friday.

“He’s keen to move on, as people know, but he doesn’t want it to turn into a saga. He knows clubs are interested in him and he desperately wants one of them to make an acceptable offer soon.” Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that the striker understands the club’s position and the actions they have taken to keep him at the club. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodgers said Suarez is happy at Liverpool and is working hard in training despite knowing he cannot take part in the start of the Premier League season. “It’s a story that can keep running but for me there is no new news,” said Rodgers. “Luis is happy. He totally understands the club’s point of view. “He’s in a difficult position in terms of not being able to play because of his suspension. He will sit out the first six games and he will miss playing football. “But he’s working hard and remains part of the group. He needs to get up to speed and we will continue to work to get all the players ready for the first game of the season.” Rodgers continues to remain unperturbed by the Suarez speculation and will hope to keep hold of the striker as the club prepares to challenge for the top four places this season.

Suarez Wants Deal Done By Friday

Arsenal are the club most interested in signing the unsettled striker, having already had two bids rejected by Liverpool. Now it seems the Uruguayan is keen to get a deal decided by the end of the week in order to focus on the start of the new season, SportsDirect News claims. The article says a source from the club has said: “Luis wants everything done and dusted by next Friday.

“He’s keen to move on, as people know, but he doesn’t want it to turn into a saga. He knows clubs are interested in him and he desperately wants one of them to make an acceptable offer soon.” Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that the striker understands the club’s position and the actions they have taken to keep him at the club. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodgers said Suarez is happy at Liverpool and is working hard in training despite knowing he cannot take part in the start of the Premier League season. “It’s a story that can keep running but for me there is no new news,” said Rodgers. “Luis is happy. He totally understands the club’s point of view. “He’s in a difficult position in terms of not being able to play because of his suspension. He will sit out the first six games and he will miss playing football. “But he’s working hard and remains part of the group. He needs to get up to speed and we will continue to work to get all the players ready for the first game of the season.” Rodgers continues to remain unperturbed by the Suarez speculation and will hope to keep hold of the striker as the club prepares to challenge for the top four places this season.

Suarez Wants Deal Done By Friday

Arsenal are the club most interested in signing the unsettled striker, having already had two bids rejected by Liverpool. Now it seems the Uruguayan is keen to get a deal decided by the end of the week in order to focus on the start of the new season, SportsDirect News claims. The article says a source from the club has said: “Luis wants everything done and dusted by next Friday.

“He’s keen to move on, as people know, but he doesn’t want it to turn into a saga. He knows clubs are interested in him and he desperately wants one of them to make an acceptable offer soon.” Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that the striker understands the club’s position and the actions they have taken to keep him at the club. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodgers said Suarez is happy at Liverpool and is working hard in training despite knowing he cannot take part in the start of the Premier League season. “It’s a story that can keep running but for me there is no new news,” said Rodgers. “Luis is happy. He totally understands the club’s point of view. “He’s in a difficult position in terms of not being able to play because of his suspension. He will sit out the first six games and he will miss playing football. “But he’s working hard and remains part of the group. He needs to get up to speed and we will continue to work to get all the players ready for the first game of the season.” Rodgers continues to remain unperturbed by the Suarez speculation and will hope to keep hold of the striker as the club prepares to challenge for the top four places this season.

Suarez Wants Deal Done By Friday

Arsenal are the club most interested in signing the unsettled striker, having already had two bids rejected by Liverpool. Now it seems the Uruguayan is keen to get a deal decided by the end of the week in order to focus on the start of the new season, SportsDirect News claims. The article says a source from the club has said: “Luis wants everything done and dusted by next Friday.

“He’s keen to move on, as people know, but he doesn’t want it to turn into a saga. He knows clubs are interested in him and he desperately wants one of them to make an acceptable offer soon.” Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that the striker understands the club’s position and the actions they have taken to keep him at the club. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodgers said Suarez is happy at Liverpool and is working hard in training despite knowing he cannot take part in the start of the Premier League season. “It’s a story that can keep running but for me there is no new news,” said Rodgers. “Luis is happy. He totally understands the club’s point of view. “He’s in a difficult position in terms of not being able to play because of his suspension. He will sit out the first six games and he will miss playing football. “But he’s working hard and remains part of the group. He needs to get up to speed and we will continue to work to get all the players ready for the first game of the season.” Rodgers continues to remain unperturbed by the Suarez speculation and will hope to keep hold of the striker as the club prepares to challenge for the top four places this season.

Suarez Wants Deal Done By Friday

Arsenal are the club most interested in signing the unsettled striker, having already had two bids rejected by Liverpool. Now it seems the Uruguayan is keen to get a deal decided by the end of the week in order to focus on the start of the new season, SportsDirect News claims. The article says a source from the club has said: “Luis wants everything done and dusted by next Friday.

“He’s keen to move on, as people know, but he doesn’t want it to turn into a saga. He knows clubs are interested in him and he desperately wants one of them to make an acceptable offer soon.” Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that the striker understands the club’s position and the actions they have taken to keep him at the club. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodgers said Suarez is happy at Liverpool and is working hard in training despite knowing he cannot take part in the start of the Premier League season. “It’s a story that can keep running but for me there is no new news,” said Rodgers. “Luis is happy. He totally understands the club’s point of view. “He’s in a difficult position in terms of not being able to play because of his suspension. He will sit out the first six games and he will miss playing football. “But he’s working hard and remains part of the group. He needs to get up to speed and we will continue to work to get all the players ready for the first game of the season.” Rodgers continues to remain unperturbed by the Suarez speculation and will hope to keep hold of the striker as the club prepares to challenge for the top four places this season.

Suarez Wants Deal Done By Friday

Arsenal are the club most interested in signing the unsettled striker, having already had two bids rejected by Liverpool. Now it seems the Uruguayan is keen to get a deal decided by the end of the week in order to focus on the start of the new season, SportsDirect News claims. The article says a source from the club has said: “Luis wants everything done and dusted by next Friday.

“He’s keen to move on, as people know, but he doesn’t want it to turn into a saga. He knows clubs are interested in him and he desperately wants one of them to make an acceptable offer soon.” Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that the striker understands the club’s position and the actions they have taken to keep him at the club. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Rodgers said Suarez is happy at Liverpool and is working hard in training despite knowing he cannot take part in the start of the Premier League season. “It’s a story that can keep running but for me there is no new news,” said Rodgers. “Luis is happy. He totally understands the club’s point of view. “He’s in a difficult position in terms of not being able to play because of his suspension. He will sit out the first six games and he will miss playing football. “But he’s working hard and remains part of the group. He needs to get up to speed and we will continue to work to get all the players ready for the first game of the season.” Rodgers continues to remain unperturbed by the Suarez speculation and will hope to keep hold of the striker as the club prepares to challenge for the top four places this season.

Chelsea and Manchester City eyeing Cesc Fabregas

The Reds look to be in pole position to land the former Arsenal star, having tabled an opening offer of £26m. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has made no move to re-sign Fabregas, but United's interest looks to have brought rivals City and Chelsea into the race for his signature. And sources in England have revealed the 26-year-old would be open to a move back to the Premier League, who joined the Nou Camp giants two years ago. Barcelona look unlikely to accept the opening offer from the Old Trafford outfit, paving the way for some of the other top-four clubs to try and hijack any potential deal.

New Fulham owner urged to tap Pakistan talent

Pakistan football chiefs Tuesday urged new Fulham owner Shahid Khan to go back to his roots and tap up young talent in the South Asian country. Billionaire Khan, born in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore, took over the English Premier League club in a deal struck on Friday. The 62-year-old vowed to build on the foundations left by previous owner Mohammad Al Fayed, and Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) marketing director Sardar Naveed Haider urged him to look to Pakistan. “We are trying to make a contact with him to request him to come to Pakistan and see the burgeoning talent in the country and get them an opportunity to groom at the Fulham academy,” Haider said.

Malaga give Santa Cruz permanent deal

Malaga have signed striker Roque Santa Cruz to a three-year contract after he played well for the Spanish club on loan last season from Manchester City. The 31-year-old Paraguay international helped Malaga reach the quarterfinals of the Champions League last season

Cavani joins PSG in record French transfer

Edinson Cavani was officially unveiled as Paris Saint-Germain's latest mega-signing, the striker joining the French champions for a Ligue 1 record €64m from Napoli. The 26-year-old Uruguay international, Serie A's top scorer last season with 29 goals, has joined Laurent Blanc's expensively assembled Qatari-backed side on a five-year contract. The previous highest French transfer was set earlier this year, when Colombia forward Radamel Falcao signed for Monaco from Atletico Madrid for a figure estimated at nearly €60m. "I'd like to thank everyone who made this transfer possible, it's a great project," a delighted Cavani, nicknamed 'the Matador', told a press conference. "I'd also like to thank the people in Napoli who went out of their way to make it possible," the player who passed the traditional pre-signing medical on Monday, added. "I come here with lots of joy, lots of confidence, lots of hunger and lots of motivation to win major trophies," he said. PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi paid tribute to the club's outgoing sporting director Leonardo for his instrumental role in securing the services of the Serie A sharp shooter. "A big thank you to 'Leo', he's done a great job here for the past two years," Al Khelaifi told the press conference to announce the headline deal. This was the Brazilian's final act in his post before resigning from PSG as a result of the season-long ban he received earlier this month for pushing a referee after PSG's league game against Valenciennes on 5 May. Leonardo, 43, was pivotal not only in Cavani's arrival at the Parc des Princes but also the capture from Napoli's Serie A rivals AC Milan of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva. PSG's previous club record signing was Lucas Moura, the attacking midfielder who joined in January from Sao Paulo in a deal worth a reported €45m. With former coach Carlo Ancelotti, Leonardo used his Italian contacts to also raid Italy for the likes of goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu, defensive midfielder Marco Verratti, attacking midfielder Javier Pastore and forward Ezequiel Lavezzi.

Pep Guardiola key to Thiago Alcantara's move to Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich's new signing Thiago Alcantara has revealed that the chance to work again with ex-Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola was one of his main reasons for joining the European champions. The 22-year-old completed his transfer from Barcelona to Munich on Monday, having signed a four-year deal with an initial fee of 20 million euros ($26 million), plus an extra five million euros from a future friendly between Bayern and Barcelona. Thiago, the son of Brazil's midfielder Mazinho, who was part of the Selecao team which won the 1994 World Cup, was given his Barcelona debut in 2009 by Guardiola, who only last Wednesday said "I want Thiago or nobody". "There aren't many coaches in the world with his ability. He was definitely one of the important reasons for me making the move to Munich," Thiago said of Bayern's new coach. "On the one hand, there's the history of the club, which has been one of the best in the world for many years. "On top of that, this team plays very attractive football. And I believe the arrival of Pep Guardiola will provide an additional boost. "We've known each other for a long time and he's a coach who has placed great faith in me. "I'm a huge fan of the way he likes football to be played. "I have to thank him for everything I have achieved in my career." As he does not speak German, the Spaniard admitted the Munich move is not an easy one, but Thiago will face his former club next week: Bayern host Barcelona at Munich's Allianz Arena on July 24 in a pre-season friendly.

As Roma confirm signing of Maicon

Maicon returns to Serie A after a one-year hiatus following his exit from Internazionale to join up with Roberto Mancini Manchester City last summer. It is reported that Maicon hasn't cost Roma a penny in terms of a transfer fee with Sky Italia reporting that Manchester City have been forced to pay in excess of €2 million in order for Maicon to leave the club. This, if true, seems a ludicrous bit of business on Manchester City's part with the Brazilian defender having cost the Eastlands club £3 million last summer. Roma announced the signing of Maicon in the last hour via the club's official Twitter page with the words: "Benvenuto Maicon." There was also an accompanying image of Maicon taking part in his first training session in Giallorossi colours earlier today. Little is known on the wages being offered to Maicon by Roma and it is difficult to assess the transfer without this information however, in basic terms of quality, Maicon will add something to Roma's squad. The Brazilian fullback is rich in experience and still relatively quick. We saw his pace on a number of occasions last season when he played for Manchester City. Rudi Garcia's 4-3-3 formation for which he became infamous for in French football utilised quick wing-backs using the whole flank to get forward with Lille having Mathieu Debuchy on the right hand side and Lucas Digne on the left. Maicon can certainly play in this role and will give Rudi Garcia a selection headache with Vasilis Torosidis also possessing significant ability in the same position on the right hand side of the defence. Maicon becomes Roma's eighth new signing this summer and the third defender following the arrivals of Tin Jedvaj and Mehdi Benatia. Roma have largely been unrestricted in terms of finances this summer with Kevin Strootman expected to follow Maicon to the Stadio Olimpico in the very near future. However, it is expected last season's beaten Coppa Italia finalists will recoup somewhere in the region of €30 million from Paris Saint Germain or to a less likely extent Barcelona for central defender Marquinhos, which is a sensational sale considering the player's age and lack of Champions League experience. Roma will certainly be hoping Maicon's experience of winning several Scudetti and a Champions League during his six-year stay at the San Siro will aid Roma in their quest to once again dine at Europe's top table.

Michael Laudrup rule out of spanish signing

Swansea City manager Michael Laudrup has stated he won't be adding anymore Spanish players to his current team after signing Jose Canas, Jordi Amat and Alejandro Pozuelo. This takes Swansea’s total of Spanish player to seven and Laudrup has made it clear that he wants to start bringing in more British talent. "We have seven Spanish players now and we have more or less reached a limit. They are all very nice guys but this is still a Welsh team - a British team," explained Laudrup. "The Premier League and La Liga are the top two leagues but there is an economic difference because of the financial crisis. "We can have two players at the same level and one will cost £4m and the other £8m - which would you choose? "The problem is one player is Spanish and the other is British. But you can't choose the £4m man every time or you will have 11 Spanish players. "That's why I am very pleased we have a player like Jonjo Shelvey. He has quality, he's young but experienced and I hear the value for money is good. When you have the possibility to get a talent like that, it's good." Laudrup has also signed Ivory Coast international Wilfried Bony during this summer’s transfer window.

Diego Lugano intends to leave PSG this summer

Diego Lugano says he will not be spending another season at Malaga, but he does intend to leave Paris St Germain this summer. The Uruguayan defender spent the second half of the 2012/13 campaign in Spain after falling out of favour in France. The 32-year-old does not expect to see that agreement extended and will return to PSG for pre-season training. Lugano will, however, be looking to make his way through the exit door at Parc des Princes at some stage during the current transfer window. He told Urugol: "I will return to Paris St Germain. I was only on loan to Malaga and it is over, so I am returning to Paris.

Sandro close to return

Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas has revealed that midfielder Sandro is close to returning to full training after six months out. The Brazilian had established himself as a regular in the heart of the field for Spurs over the last year until injury ended his campaign prematurely. Villas-Boas has already strengthened the midfield by signing Paulinho for a fee of £17million this summer and the two Brazilians could be forced to compete for a place. Spurs will be looking to hit the ground running and have everyone available ahead of the new season; they take on Swindon Town in their first pre-season friendly on Tuesday. Read more at: http://www.clubcall.com/tottenham-hotspur/sandro-close-to-return-1606755.html?

Top 5: Goal-Scoring Midfielders In Europe

Erik Lamela's is the fifth position in the midfielders that scored, he even outscore totti, he created 56 chances and weighed in with five assists.
Alexander Meier is the fourth position in the midfielder that scored,He scored 16 goals, the only player in the side to reach double figures and only Stefan Kieβling and Robert Lewandowski scored more than him in last season’s Bundesliga. He outscored the likes of Mario Mandzukic and Marco Reus and his worth to his side cannot be overestimated. His performance score (967) was outscored by just Anderson and Sebastian Rode (who is believed to have agreed a deal to join Bayern Munich).
Piti the only player to move clubs so far He scored 18 league goals last season which is higher than the likes of Gonzalo Higuaín and Cesc Fabregas. In fact, only four players outscored Piti and his form saw him attract the attention of Granada who he has since signed for. His performance score of 773 was the second highest for Rayo last season and although he is 32 he still has plenty to offer.
Michu He finished the season with 18 league goals but I’m actually going to be a little bit critical of Michu. Nevertheless, the Premier League is one of the harder leagues in world football given its intensity and to do what Michu did deserves respect. I’m waiting until this time next year to pass judgement.
Gareth Bale I’d be amazed if anyone is actually surprised to see Gareth Bale at the top of this list. The Welshman has had one of those seasons where you begin to wonder if he can do anything wrong. 21 goals in 33 league matches, a performance score of 1,685 and the PFA Player of the Year, Bale did have some season. He was by far and away Spurs’ standout performer and without Bale you’d have to question whether Tottenham could have challenged Chelsea and Arsenal as well as they did. Clearly keeping Bale is Spurs’ number one priority and it seems they have managed it, for a season at least. Real Madrid will probably come calling again next summer and Daniel Levy’s resolve will be tested again but for now it looks like Tottenham fans can continue to worship him for one more season at least.

Maritzburg United sign Ashley Hartog

The 30-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Team of Choice. “We are very pleased with the signing of Ashley which will now increase our options in attack,” Maritzburg commercial manager Younus Kadodia tells the club’s official website. “Ashley will add great experience to the team and we expect him to contribute significantly during his time at the club. “He is a model professional who is hungry to succeed at this stage of his career and we all believe Maritzburg can be the perfect platform for him to do that.”

Henrikh Mkhitaryan hold first training with Borussia

Armenian national’s midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan held the first training with Borussia Dortmund after signing a four-year deal with the club. Mkhitrayan will wear the No. 10 shirt at Borussia Dortmund.Previously, the shirt belonged to Mario Götze who left the club for Bayern Munich.

Rooney focus as Moyes start Man utd era

Intense speculation over Wayne Rooney's future looks set to dominate the headlines this week as Manchester United begin their new era under David Moyes at the start of a bumper series of pre-season tours to Asia. Moyes' first outing as United boss, starting with Saturday's friendly in Bangkok, will be forensically scrutinised for clues about the want-away star, who made a transfer request just before the departure of legendary boss Alex Ferguson. Britain's Daily Mail on Tuesday linked Rooney with a STG60 million ($A99 million) bid from United's English Premier League rivals Chelsea - who also arrive in the Thai capital this week, led by returning manager Jose Mourinho. The new starts by Moyes and Mourinho, and the opening of the July-August transfer window, will put extra focus on this year's Asian visits with Barcelona, Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham also among the clubs headed east. With Manchester City led by incoming manager Manuel Pellegrini, the three biggest powers of English football will all be under new leadership during the pre-season spree, spread over a giant arc from Kuala Lumpur to Sydney.

Fiorentina demand €30m for Jovetic

Viola co-owner Andrea Della Valle has warned clubs that they must stump up big money if they are to sign the Montenegrin forward Fiorentina co-owner Andrea Della Valle has stressed that the club will not back down from their €30 million valuation of striker Stevan Jovetic. Juventus had been linked with the Montenegrin forward as they bid to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season. But following the arrivals of Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez, Bianconeri general director Beppe Marotta revealed that the club had called off their pursuit of Jovetic due to the poor relations between the two sides. And Della Valle has made it clear that his club could only be tempted into selling 23-year-old to the Serie A giants for a huge transfer fee. "Give us €30 million or nothing," he told Sport Mediaset. "We need to understand if they have the money or not. We do not accept exchanges. We won't go down from our €30m demand and won't wait much longer.

Transfer latest: Alonso rules out return to Liverpool

Xavi Alonso ruled out of is return move to liverpool this season,

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew not happy with Yohan Cabaye transfer talk

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has reacted angrily to the news that Paris Saint Germain have been publicly courting his midfielder Johan Cabaye, Sky Sports reports. The 27-year-old has been on the radar of both PSG and Ligue 1 new boys Monaco, though new PSG boss Laurent Blanc, who gave the player his international debut back in 2010 has been the more keen, calling him ‘an interesting player’. And Pardew, who returned to Newcastle this week after his summer break, had reacted angrily to the comments made by the former Manchester United defender, particularly as he had not been in touch over negotiations for the player. “I don’t think that’s right,” the Newcastle manager said. “He can get on the phone to me or make a bid. I think that’s the right way to do it. “I think the way it’s come out isn’t perhaps respectful to Yohan. That’s something I want to talk to him about.”

Chelsea in line for Luis Squarez bid for £40

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is lining up a sensational £40 million bid for Liverpool’s Luis Suarez, according to the Mirror. Premier League rivals Arsenal have already seen a £30 million offer knocked back by the Merseyside club, but Chelsea are ready to test Liverpool’s resolve not to sell the Uruguayan by upping the bidding. Suarez has a clause inserted in his Anfield contract that forces Liverpool to listen to offers of £40 million-plus, but they do not have to sell at that price. Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has the financial firepower to back Mourinho’s pursuit of the South American, who will sit out the beginning of next season following his 10-match ban for biting Blues defender Branislav Ivanovic toward the end of the last campaign. Mourinho is keen to bring in a top-class striker after the club missed out on the likes of Neymar, Hulk, Radamel Falcao and Edinson Cavani, and the Portuguese manager has now switched his attentions to Suarez. Read more at http://whatculture.com/sport/chelsea-transfers-40-million-luis-suarez-bid-coming.php#27ctFB7gGLrmGy3M.99

Ronaldo, Messi on UEFA award list

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are competing with four Champions League winners from Bayern Munich in a 10-man contest to be named UEFA Best Player in Europe for the 2012-13 season. UEFA published on Tuesday the candidate list, which included Arjen Robben, whose late goal clinched Bayern’s 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium. Thomas Mueller, Franck Ribery and Bastian Schweinsteiger from the German champion were also selected by journalists from UEFA member countries. Dortmund forward Robert Lewandowski makes the list, which features no defenders or goalkeepers. Messi and Ronaldo are also joined by Robin van Persie, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gareth Bale. The award will be presented on August 29 at the Champions League group-stage draw in Monaco.

Alcaraz set for Everton move

Everton are close to agreeing a deal for Paraguayan defender Antolin Alcaraz, according to Sky Sports. The 30 year old is currently a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Wigan Athletic, for whom he was signed by Roberto Martinez from Belgian side Club Brugge back in 2010. The new Toffee’s manager has already raided his former club this week for striker Arouna Kone, who’s singing was announced yesterday, and is set to link up with another of his former players in the shape of Alcaraz. The centre-back has agreed a two year deal with the Merseyside club, and will undergo a medical on Tuesday ahead of the move. Alcaraz has 22 caps for Paraguay, four of which were won at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where he scored one of his two international goals in a group match against then holders Italy. Sky Sports also understand that Everton are set for talks with goalkeeper Joel Robles, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Wigan from Atletico Madrid.

Arsenal Seek Defensive Cover for Injury Plagued Captain Thomas Vermaelen

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger may well have to bring in some defensive cover after it was revealed that injury prone captain Thomas Vermaelen will miss the start of the new season. The Belgian defender had fallen out of favour with Wenger last term but was hoping to make an impression during pre-season in order to gain a regular place alongside either Per Mertesacker or Laurent Koscielny. However, an injury picked up while representing Belgium at the end of May appears to be more serious than first thought, with the Daily Mail reporting that the chronic back problem could keep him out of action for a number of months.

Zidane passes coaching exam

Madrid - Former world football superstar Zinedine Zidane has reportedly passed his coaching license exam and is free to serve next season as an assistant coach at Real Madrid under new boss Carlo Ancelotti. The Spanish sports paper Marca reported on Tuesday in its online edition that the 41-year-old Zidane passed the text by the French Football Federation in Paris. Real president Florentino Perez wanted to hire Zidane as director of sports but the former great chose to become a coach. It's unclear what tasks the Frenchman will have in his new position. Ancelotti, who coached Zidane while together at Juventus Turin, has brought along to Madrid his former assistant Paul Clement from Paris Saint Germain.

Wanderers offer deals for Tommy Fletcher

WANDERERS have handed trialist Tommy Fletcher a contract after he impressed for Blues in a friendly. The 18-year-old signed his first professional deal today after agreeing a one year contract that has the option of a second year. Fletcher, who arrives from non league Cheshunt, played for 45 minutes of Wanderers' 1-0 win at Havant and Waterlooville on Saturday and impressed boss Gareth Ainsworth enough for him to offer the youngster a contract. He has been training with Blues since last Monday and is likely to play for the side again tonight at Eastleigh.

Chelsea Set to Sign Marco van Ginkel

Chelsea are close to completing their second signing of the summer after announcing a deal to bring midfielder Marco van Ginkel from Vitesse. The Dutch international maybe only 20 years of age, but he is expected to compete against established first-team players like Frank Lampard and Ramires. Read more at http://swol.co/chelsea-set-to-sign-marco-van-ginkel/28870?#tPyrMzJizEYuwoE0.99

Dortmund sign Saint-Etienne's Aubameyang

UEFA Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund began pre-season training with Gabon striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang set to join from Coupe de la Ligue winners Saint-Etienne. "He has been given permission to attend the medical examination. The contract details and the financial plan are still to be clarified but I have no doubt that we will reach an agreement," Saint-Etienne club president Roland Romeyer said.

Arsenal close to signing Gonzalo Higuain for £22

Gonzalo Higuain is on the brink of finalising a £22 million move from Real Madrid to the Emirates Stadium following weeks of speculation surrounding his future at the Bernabe

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Chelsea close in on signing Luis Suarez for €40m

Last night the rumours flying were that Luis Suarez was heading to Arsenal, tonight Madrid-based paper AS seem pretty certain the Liverpool striker is about to sign for Chelsea

Manchester United to announce Thiago Alcantara deal within 24 hours

Friday July 5 2013 is the date hundreds of sports journalists and millions of football fans have been anticipating for several weeks, the f

irst time David Moyes will face the press officially as Manchester United manager.

Fiorentina complete Ambrosini signing

Fiorentina have completed the signing of veteran midfielder Massimo Ambrosini on a one-year deal. Ambrosini was released by Milan at the end of last season after 18 years at San Siro, which saw him win four Serie A titles, as well as two UEFA Champions League winner's medal

Pirlo was voted by FIFA as the best player of the match against Mexico

In the just concluded confederations cup Pirlo was voted best player of the match against mexico

Slovenia's Bojan Jokic signed for Villarreal for four seasons

Bojan Jokic of Slovenia has signed for Villarreal for four seasons