Borussia Dortmund Playmaker Tamas Hajnal Closing In On Stuttgart Move

Tamas Hajnal appears to be closing in on a move to Stuttgart, meaning that the Swabians could offload an attacking midfielder later today.
This season has been a difficult one for Tamas Hajnal, who has found himself a surplus to requirements at Borussia Dortmund after returning from a long-term injury lay-off. Now it appears that the 29-year old playmaker has found a way out of the Ruhr area as he closes in on a transfer to relegation battlers Stuttgart.

According to information from Sport 1, the Hungary international is on the verge of making a move to Swabia, although some details have yet to be clarified. A week ago, Stuttgart sporting director Fredi Bobic revealed that the Hungarian would not join because the Swabians' squad was too full. The move was was off with "no question" unless VfB were to make soome sales.

With Hajnal reported to be on his way to Stuttgart, the Swabians could be set to offload one or more midfielders before the transfer window closes

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Official: Brescia Sign Cristiano Zanetti From Fiorentina On Two-Year Deal

Midfielder Cristiano Zanetti leaves Fiorentina after 18 months to join Brescia.
Brescia have announced the arrival of Cristiano Zanetti from Fiorentina.

The 33-year-old midfielder heads to Lombardy, having left the Tuscan side he joined from Juventus in 2009.

After a solid campaign last season, Zanetti has only forced six apperances under Sinisa Mihajlovic, leaving him to seek regular action with the Rondinelle.

A statement on Fiorentina's official website reads:

"ACF Fiorentina communicates to have transferred Cristiano Zanetti on a permanent basis to Brescia Calcio.

"We want to thank Cristiano for the effort and professionalism he has shown in Florence and we wish him all the best."

Brescia also confirmed the move on their site with a note reading:

"Brescia Calcio communicates to have acquired Cristiano Zanetti from AC Fiorentina. The midfielder has signed a two-year deal."

More about → Official: Brescia Sign Cristiano Zanetti From Fiorentina On Two-Year Deal

Official: Kaiserslautern Loan Adam Hlousek From Slavia Prague

Adam Hlousek has left Slavia Prague for Kaiserslautern on a loan deal.
Bundesliga outfit Kaiserslautern have completed the transfer of young midfielder Adam Hlousek from Slavia Prague on a six-month loan deal. The German side have the option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.

The attacking midfielder started his professional career with Jablonec and joined Slavia Prague in the summer of 2009. He has made 69 Czech Republic league appearances, scoring seven goals in the process.

"We have added some more quality to the attacking department of our team with the capture of Adam Hlousek. He's still young and is eager to prove his worth. He has what it takes to succeed at Bundesliga level," said FCK sporting director Stefan Kuntz on the club's official website.

Hlousek, who has represented Czech Republic at senior level on three occasions, will be wearing the number 24 jersey at Kaiserslautern.

More about → Official: Kaiserslautern Loan Adam Hlousek From Slavia Prague

Juventus Close To Signing Alejandro Dominguez From Valencia

Juventus in advanced talks for Alejandro Dominguez with reports in Italy claiming a done deal.
Juventus have signed 29-year-old Argentinian striker Alejandro Dominguez on loan for the rest of the season from Valencia.

Sky Sport Italia and Tuttosport claim an agreement has been reached with the Spanish club for a loan with the option to make it a permanent move in the summer.

There were doubts as to whether the deal would go through as voices suggested the striker lacked an EU passport, meaning Juventus would not be able to sign him.

However, it has since been revealed he does have an Italian passport, making eligible to join Juve as he will not affect their non-EU quotas.

Neither club has confirmed the agreement.

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Official: Wolfsburg Sign Starlet Yohandry Orozco From Zulia FC

Venezuelan Starlet Yohandry Orozco has officially left Zulia for Wolfsburg.
Venezuelan starlet Yohandry Orozco has officially joined Wolfsburg, the German club has revealed. The 19-year-old has put pen to paper on a deal that will run until June 30, 2015.

Orozco has rapidly risen to prominence after being named to the Goal.com Hot 100 in December, and scoring a wonder-goal (click here for replay) last week. He leaves Venezuelan club Zulia FC for a sum that Bild has estimated to be in the region of €1.25 million.

"He is a strong dribbler, fast and dynamic, and is also very versatile in midfield," Wolfsburg sporting director Dieter Hoeness said of the Venezuelan, who has already been capped seven times at the international level.

The Wolfsburg website also confirmed earlier reports from Jeju United that the German club had signed midfielder and Asian Cup top scorer Koo Ja-Cheol.

"Despite his young age, Koo Ja-Cheol was one of the top performers in South Korea's team," Hoeness said. "He is not only a goal threat, but can play in nearly all positions in the middle."

The 21-year-old Koo joins Wolfsburg on a three-and-a-half year deal that will see him remain at Wolfsburg until 2014.

Orozco and Koo are not likely to be the last signings Wolfsburg make before the transfer window closes tonight. The 2009 Bundesliga champions are also reported to be in contract talks with Patrick Helmes, Tuncay Sanli and Jan Polak.

More about → Official: Wolfsburg Sign Starlet Yohandry Orozco From Zulia FC

Juventus On Verge Of Signing Alessandro Matri On Loan From Cagliari

Sky Sport 24 claim that a deal is imminent.
Juventus are on the verge of signing Cagliari forward Alessandro Matri on loan until the end of the season, report Sky Sport 24.

The two clubs have been in negotiations all day with the transfer deadline in Italy closing at 1900 CET.

Sky Sport 24 now claim that a deal has been reached for the 26-year-old, who has scored 11 goals in 22 games this season.

Matri will join the Old Lady on loan until the end of the season, with the option to then make the move permanent in the summer.

Juventus have been desperate to make a forward signing in the final hours of the window following a dreadful run of form, and Matri could be the second attacker to arrive with Valencia's Chori Dominguez also close to moving to Turin on loan.

More about → Juventus On Verge Of Signing Alessandro Matri On Loan From Cagliari

Massmiliano Allegri & Edy Reja Take Cautious Approach Ahead Of Milan-Lazio Clash

Coaches of both clubs eager not to slip up in Tuesday's anticipo between Milan and Lazio.
Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri and Lazio's Edy Reja have echoed each other's views ahead of Tuesday's San Siro showdown.

And the emphasis is to avoid a go-slow in league matters after all the hustle and bustle of the transfer market.

"Lazio are doing great things. They have good individuals and a great squad.

"We have to be tranquil because it is a very important moment for us, and we cannot leave points by the roadside."

A view to which Reja responded with force and effect.

"Milan are the strongest team in the league and if we want a result at the San Siro then we must play with intensity.

"Allegri has many injuries to deal with, but we are short too.

"We must be able to score, or we will head back to Roma with a loss."

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Official: Sulley Muntari Leaves Inter For Sunderland On Loan

Clubs agree loan deal with option to make a permanent move.
Sulley Muntari has joined Sunderland for the rest of term on loan, Inter have confirmed.

The Ghana midfielder will head back to the Premier League with the option to make his move permanent.

A statement on Inter's official website reads:

"Now that the documents have been submitted to the relevant associations, Sulley Muntari’s transfer to Sunderland A.C.F. is official. The player moves on a loan deal with the English club holding an option to sign the player permanently.

Inter and all its players bid an affectionate farewell to Sulley, and wish him all the best for his new adventure in the Premier League; without forgetting all the successes achieved together: the 2010 FIFA Club World Cup, the UEFA Champions League on 22 May in Madrid, two Serie A titles, two Italian Super Cups and one Coppa Italia."

Muntari is no stranger to England having played for Portsmouth between 2007 and 2008 before joining Inter.

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Japan Asian Cup Star Yuto Nagatomo Travelling To Milan To Sign Contract With Inter

Japan international Yuto Nagatomo is set to sign for Inter.
Cesena full-back Yuto Nagatomo is reportedly travelling to Milan in order to sign a contract with Scudetto holders Inter, according to Sky Sport 24.

The source reports that the Japanese Asian Cup winner has been the subject of talks between the two sides since earlier today and will complete the move before the transfer window closes.

Nagatomo moved to Cesena from FC Tokyo on loan last summer and tied up a permanent deal earlier this week.

The left-back has been one of Cesena's absolute key men in the 2010-11 campaign. Nagatomo attracted even more interest with his good performances for Japan at the 2011 Asian Cup and a move to a bigger club now seems to be on the cards.

The imminent arrival of the 24-year-old Nagatomo could mean that promising youngster Davide Santon is on his way out of Inter. The Italy international could join Cesena on a six-month loan deal as part of the deal that will take Nagatomo to Giuseppe Meazza.

Both clubs have yet to comment on the imminent transfer, but an official announcement is expected to be released in the upcoming hours.

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Juventus Striker Amauri In Milan To Sign Parma Loan Deal

Sky Sport Italia are claiming Amauri is on the verge of joining Parma.
Amauri is about to leave Juventus for Parma on loan for the rest of the season.

Sky Sport Italia claims the 30-year-old left Vinovo on Monday morning and arrived in Milan for lunch with Parma general director Pietro Leonardi.

A loan deal has been agreed until the end of the season when Amauri's future will come under discussion again.

The season has been unkind to the striker who joined Juventus from Palermo in 2008. Injuries and a struggle for form have put him on the back foot in Turin.

Reports earlier claimed Alejandro Dominguez from Valencia would be Amauri's proxy.

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Official: Partizan Belgrade Sign Prince Tagoe From Hoffenheim

Partizan Belgrade have signed Prince Tagoe from Hoffenheim on a six-month loan deal.
Serbian powerhouse Partizan Belgrade have completed the transfer of Ghanaian attacker Prince Tagoe from Hoffenheim on a six-month loan deal with the option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.

Partizan were eager to add some more depth to their attack this winter and head coach Aleksandar Stanojevic has now gotten his desired reinforcements.

Tagoe joined Hoffenheim from Al Ettifaq in the summer of 2009, but the 24-year-old attacker failed to live up the expectations at the German side. He has scored only two goals in 19 Bundesliga appearances for Hoffe.

"Unfortunately, Prince was unable to leave his mark at Hoffenheim like he had wanted to. He will now get the chance to gain important first team experience at Belgrade," said Hoffenheim's sporting director Ernst Tanner on the club's website.

More about → Official: Partizan Belgrade Sign Prince Tagoe From Hoffenheim

Official: Levante Clinch Loan Signing Of Villarreal Winger Jefferson Montero

Levante confirm the loan signing of Jefferson Montero from Villarreal until the end of the season.
Levante have confirmed that they have reached an agreement with Villarreal over the loan transfer of winger Jefferson Montero until the end of the season.

The promoted side, who are currently in the bottom three in the Primera Division, have made a deadline-day swoop to land the Ecuadorian international as they look to retain their position in the Spanish top flight.

The 21-year-old was promoted to the Yellow Submarines’ first-team squad this season after some dazzling displays for the B team last year, and has been used as an impact substitute on occasions this campaign.

The Granotes have moved quickly to land Montero until the end of the season, and the intention is to gain valuable first-team experience before returning to El Madrigal next season.

The deal has been confirmed on both side's official websites, and the player is expected to join up with his new colleagues later this week.

More about → Official: Levante Clinch Loan Signing Of Villarreal Winger Jefferson Montero

Official: Davidson Drobo-Ampem Joins Esbjerg On Loan From St Pauli

St Pauli have loaned left back Davidson Drobo-Ampem to Esbjerg.
St Pauli have confirmed the transfer of young defender Davidson Drobo-Ampem to Esbjerg FB on loan.

The 22-year-old left back heads to the Danish Superliga on a six-month deal after making just one Bundesliga appearance this season, a four-minute run-out against Koeln.

"Drobo has to realise that it's important for him to be able to show everything that he's learned with us on a regular basis. Only then can he develop more and take the next step," St Pauli coach Holger Stanislawski said. "Against Koeln, we used him as a substitute because he earned it again."

Droubo-Amepem has been behind Leverkusen loanee Bastian Okzipka in the pecking order this year, and has not been a regular starter for St Pauli since 2009.

More about → Official: Davidson Drobo-Ampem Joins Esbjerg On Loan From St Pauli

Tottenham Submit Official Approach For Atletico Madrid Striker Diego Forlan

Tottenham have made an official approach to Atletico Madrid for striker Diego Forlan.
Tottenham have made an official approach to Atletico Madrid for striker Diego Forlan, emerging reports from Spain suggest.

Marca comments that the Uruguayan, who has been linked with Real Madrid and Juventus already in the current window, is wanted by the London club, and will table a bid within the next few hours.

The White Hart Lane outfit have already been linked with a €45 million offer for Forlan’s compatriot at the Vicente Calderon, Sergio Aguero, as well as approaches for Villarreal’s Giuseppe Rossi and Athletic Bilbao’s World Cup-winning attacker Fernando Llorente.

Earlier today Spurs manager Harry Redknapp refuted claims of a swoop for Aguero, but did not completely rule out doing business before the end of the day, and with mere hours remaining before the January market slams shut, 31-year-old Forlan is their primary objective, and they will test the Spanish club’s resolve with a substantial offer.

The former Manchester United man, who has twice collected the Pichichi award in Spanish football for finishing the season as top goalscorer, has struggled for form in front of goal this season, and recently suggested that he would listen to offers from other sides if received.

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Paraguay's Guarani To Request Points After Rock Attack Suspends Game With Cerro Porteno

Cerro Porteno and Guarani remain locked in battle after an attack on Guarani's keeper resulted in Sunday's match suspension.
Incensed Guarani officials will ask the Paraguayan FA to award them all three points from their encounter against Cerro Porteno, which was suspended after goalkeeper Pablo Aurrecochea was struck on the head by a rock thrown by opposition fans.

Sunday's game was stopped before the first kick-off when Aurrecochea, warming up in front of the hardcore Cerro fans, was hit by the projectile and left with a three-centimetre gash in the head. The Guarani team immediately left the field claiming that their goalkeeper could no longer play and the referee could not guarantee the safety of the players, and after some confusion official Ulises Mereles declared the game postponed.

Later the club president Juan Alberto Acosta affirmed that his side would be requesting the game to be recorded as a win in their favour.

"[Aurrecochea] could no longer stand up, now we will hand in a request for the points, of course, [the goalkeeper] couldn't stand. We will be demanding the points as the situation merits," Acosta told 780 AM on Sunday night.

In response, Decano club doctor Ramon Garay refuted Guarani claims, asserting that the real injuries were caused by the acrimonious transfer of Jonathan Fabbro over the summer and that the request is their rival's method of gaining revenge.

"The game should be played. Cerro will defend their position to play it again, it is strange what Guarani are asking for", Garay fired on 100.1FM

"They are trying to take this onto political fields because of the Fabbro saga. We already knew it, they are bleeding for that injury."

More about → Paraguay's Guarani To Request Points After Rock Attack Suspends Game With Cerro Porteno

David Silva Does Not Regret Joining Manchester City Instead Of United

Spaniard hopes his side do not fall prey to an upset against Notts County.
David Silva has admitted that he had no qualms over joining Manchester City last summer.

The 25-year-old joined the Eastlands outfit prior to the start of the current campaign, committing to a four-year deal with the club.

But two years prior to his move to the Premier League, he had a half-chance to transfer to his current club's arch-rivals Manchester United.

"I never seriously thought about joining United when they asked about me because it was clear at the time that Valencia would not sell," Silva told The Mirror.

"I understand there was a ­conversation between United and my agent, but it came to nothing.

"These things happen quite often in football and the moment passes. It was only last summer, when it became clear that the financial problems at Valencia meant they would have to sell, that I really considered what ­opportunities were open to me.

"And it was always going to be City once they made it clear to me how important I would be to them."

The former Valencia man was unaware of the banner above the Stretford End at Old Trafford that keeps count of how long City have not won anything, but now intends to rest it to zero.

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Ajax Striker Luis Suarez Believes Liverpool Belong In The Premier League's Top Four

Uruguay international looks forward to a move to Merseyside.
Liverpool-bound striker Luis Suarez believes his move to Merseyside presents itself as a great opportunity to further his career, and insists that the Reds belong in the top four of the Premier League.

Ajax and Liverpool have agreed on a £22.8 million fee for the Uruguay international, who then travelled to England to undergo a medical.

It had been thought that the 24-year-old was being brought in as a strike partner for Fernando Torres, but the Spaniard's potential exit sparked speculation that the Ajax hitman may have second thoughts concerning the move.

But he insists that he sees Liverpool as a "beautiful club" and believes they deserve to get back to being a part of the Premier League's big four, which changed owing to the rise of Tottenham Hotspur and the riches at Manchester City.

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Pep Guardiola Proud Of Barcelona's Record-Equalling Run In La Liga

Pep Guardiola is honoured to have led Barcelona to 15 wins in a row in the league.
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has expressed his pride after his team defeated Hercules 3-0 in the Spanish Primera Division on Saturday evening to equal the Liga record of 15 successive victories.

The record was set by the Blaugrana's arch-rivals Real Madrid in 1960-61 and Guardiola is happy to have matched them.

"It is a tremendous honour to win 15 consecutive league games and equal the record of [Alfredo] di Stefano's Real Madrid side," said Guardiola, according to Soccerway.com.

"I am sure that some team will beat the record but nobody has managed to do it in 50 years. We are proud. If 50 years have passed, it shows how difficult it is."

Guardiola also praised Lionel Messi, who scored twice against Hercules, enthusing: "He has scored 164 goals at the age of 23 and is fourth in Barcelona's all-time scorers' list, but if he continues like this he is going to break all the records."

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Signing Of Fernando Torres From Liverpool To Be Part Of £100 Million Splurge On Transfers By Chelsea

Chelsea are believed to embarking on a £100 million splurge on the transfer market, starting with the acquisition of Liverpool striker Fernando Torres.

The Reds initially turned down an offer thought to be in the region of £35m, but the 26-year-old's head is believed to have been turned towards Stamford Bridge.

Initial reports pointed towards the Blues gearing up to offer Liverpool a £50m deal with Daniel Sturridge included to add more weight to the potential package, but Goal.com UK exclusively revealed that the Merseyside outfit have requested that they strike a part-exchange deal involving one-time Red Nicolas Anelka instead.

Now The Mirror reports that the potential signing of Torres will be part of a £100m plunge into the market that owner Roman Abramovich is personally funding, so as not to put the club into a heavily debt-ridden state.

It is thought that the Spanish striker's prospective move to Chelsea could be completed before the January 31 transfer deadline.

More about → Signing Of Fernando Torres From Liverpool To Be Part Of £100 Million Splurge On Transfers By Chelsea

West Ham Turn To Former Arsenal Ace Edu To Rescue Their Season

West Ham are hoping to sign former Arsenal midfielder Eduardo Gaspar (Edu), before the transfer window slams shut tomorrow night.

Edu, 32, has been a free agent since the summer, after being released from his homeland outfit Corinthians, and West Ham owners David Sullivan and David Gold have identified the Brazilian as a reasonable short-term signing in order to help save the club from relegation to the Championship this season.

The Hammers are also hoping to land, as a loan signing, Tottenham striker Robbie Keane, who has recently fallen down the pecking order at White Hart Lane.

Edu won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups during his time at Arsenal, before parting ways with the London outfit and moving to Valencia in 2005.

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Bolton Manager Owen Coyle Blasts Carlos Vela's Agent For The Collapse Of Agreed Loan Deal With Arsenal

Trotters' boss explains why deal for Mexican striker fell through.
Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle has blasted Carlos Vela’s agent for the collapse of the Mexican’s loan move to the Reebok.

Vela was expected to complete a move to Bolton last week, but instead opted for a temporary switch to West Brom.

Coyle reveals that a six-month deal had been in place with Arsenal for the 21-year-old, but was trashed after Vela’s agent got involved with separate financial demands.

However, the Bolton boss stated that it was his decision whether or not to complete the move.

“It was my decision,” said Coyle, according to talkSPORT.

“We had permission from Arsenal regarding Carlos Vela. On Thursday night we agreed with Arsenal that we would pay the player's salary, we also agreed to pay a loan fee to Arsenal.

“Subsequent to that I then had a chat with Carlos Vela’s agent who informed me that there was more finances to come on top of that in terms of another fee and player appearances.

“Anyway to cut a long story short it was out of the realms of possibility. We’re very upfront, we have a fantastic relationship with Arsenal, we always have.

“We’d agreed a deal with the football club and then outside influences meant that the deal was going to be financially far too much.

“On Thursday night I said to the chairman ‘well that’s it we’ll leave that’, and I stepped away from it.

“I never spoke to the player himself so I stress there’s no fault at the player’s door or indeed Arsenal Football Club.

“It’s just it was getting far too much and I thought it was getting ridiculous and that’s why I stepped away from it.”

More about → Bolton Manager Owen Coyle Blasts Carlos Vela's Agent For The Collapse Of Agreed Loan Deal With Arsenal

Milan Coach Massimiliano Allegri Backs Mark Van Bommel Despite Sending-Off Against Catania

Massimiliano Allegri defends Mark van Bommel despite the Milan debutant's red card against Catania yesterday.
Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has backed midfielder Mark van Bommel despite his sending-off in their 2-0 victory over Catania in Serie A on Saturday.

Both of the Rossoneri's goals came after Van Bommel received his marching orders for two yellow cards early in the second half, but Allegri has refused to criticised the Dutch midfielder.

"It's fair enough," said Allegri after the match, according to Soccerway.com. "The referees make decisions based on what they see and this is an example. Van Bommel should've been a bit sneakier, but it is his second game in Italian football.

"These fouls are not generally sanctioned with a booking in Germany, but he is a generally aggressive player."

Allegri was also full of praise for striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic for assisting the first goal and then scoring the second.

"He is having the best season of his career in terms of intensity," said the Italian tactician. "Ibra has a great deal of enthusiasm, feels like a leader and also knows how to defend, which is the most important thing. If he tracks back, then everyone else follows suit."

More about → Milan Coach Massimiliano Allegri Backs Mark Van Bommel Despite Sending-Off Against Catania

Houssine Kharja Delighted To Have Joined Inter On Loan From Genoa

Houssine Kharja wants to prove himself at Inter.
Houssine Kharja has expressed his delight at joining Italian and European champions Inter on loan from Genoa until the end of the season.

Kharja has been named by Nerazzurri coach Leonardo in the squad for today's Serie A encounter with Palermo at San Siro.

The Moroccan midfielder is delighted to have signed for Inter and told Inter Channel: "I am very happy. After some difficult days of waiting, I am finally here.

"I want to thank president Massimo Moratti for giving me this opportunity and all those who worked to complete the transfer."

He continued: "I have joined the strongest team in the world. I'm still a little stunned and excited after the first training session with my new team-mates. I am ready for whatever the coach needs starting from [today's] game.

"I have taken on many midfield roles during my career and at international level I even played as a centre-back.

"I hope and want to give a contribution to this team that is still so hungry for victory. I thank my team-mates for the warm welcome."

More about → Houssine Kharja Delighted To Have Joined Inter On Loan From Genoa

Manchester United Have Assured Atletico Madrid Of A Bid For David De Gea

Manchester United are understood to have assured Atletico Madrid that they will make a move for goalkeeper David De Gea, should the Spanish club wish to sell their prodigy in the summer.

With Edwin van der Sar having announced that this season will be his swansong, the Red Devils have been looking to find a replacement for the retiring Dutchman.

And despite first-team coach Rene Meulensteen having already confirmed that the club's first-choice is Ajax's Maarten Stekelenburg, The People claims that the Old Trafford outfit have guaranteed a bid for the Spaniard if he should be put up for sale.

United have already signed Anders Lindegaard from Norwegian club Aalesunds.

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Lazio Coach Edy Reja: A Europa League Spot Is Our Objective

Edy Reja has once again ruled Lazio out of the title race in Serie A.
Lazio coach Edy Reja has revealed that between now and the end of the season the Aquile will fight for a place in next season's Europa League.

The former Italian champions defeated Fiorentina 2-0 in Rome on Saturday evening and are currently in second place. Mathematically Lazio are very much in the running for the Scudetto, but Reja believes that they are not good enough to last the race for the Italian championship.

“Today we have 40 points, therefore are mathematically safe and anything else that we achieve this season will be a bonus,” Reja told the press.

“We’ll battle for the Europa League, as that is now our objective. If we achieve that, then it will have been a great campaign.”

He continued by praising the side's two-goal hero against Fiorentina, Libor Kozak.

“Kozak had already shown against Roma that he had talent and did so again not just with his goals, but also his work rate," he said. "This lad can see the net and that is down to instinct, plus we’ve worked with him over the last six months to help him improve.”

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Bayern Munich Coach Louis Van Gaal: We Deserved To Win Against Werder Bremen

Louis van Gaal is proud of his Bayern players after defeating Werder Bremen on Saturday.
Bayern Munich coach Louis van Gaal believes that his team were worthy winners against Werder Bremen in their Bundesliga encounter on Saturday.

The German champions continued their resurgence in the new year as they came from behind to register a 3-1 victory, making Van Gaal a proud coach.

“Bremen were the better team in the first 20 minutes, but we switched things around tactically and improved," explained the Dutchman after the match, as quoted by Bayern's official website.

"We went a goal down at the start of the second half, but my team upped the pressure and were significantly more aggressive. At the end of the day, it was a deserved win. I’m very proud of my team.“

Defender Philipp Lahm echoed Van Gaal's words and enthused: “I think it was obvious to everyone we were determined to win and were never going to be satisfied with a draw. We played very good football at times, we pulled Bremen out of position and we created clear-cut chances.

"Taking the 90 minutes as a whole, we deserved to win. Our aim is second place, but it’s easier said than done, so we have to keep winning. But if we play like we did today, we’ll do just that.“

More about → Bayern Munich Coach Louis Van Gaal: We Deserved To Win Against Werder Bremen

Catania Sign Gonzalo Bergessio From Saint Etienne

Catania's Argentinean contingent continues to grow as Bergessio arrives from Ligue 1.
Catania are about to complete the signing of Gonzalo Bergessio from French club Saint Etienne.

The Argentinean striker, 26, has played little in Ligue 1, and he will join forces with Diego Simeone who he knows from San Lorenzo.

Goal.com Spain claims that the hitman will sign a three-and-a-half year deal with the Etnei and that he could join them officially this weekend.

Simeone, who recently joined the Sicilians after the departure of Marco Giampaolo, now has 12 Argentinean nationals under his wing in Maxi Lopez, Nicolás Spolli, Ezequiel Carboni, Matias Silvestre, Pablo Ledesma, Mariano Izco, Adrian Ricchiutti, Alejandro Gomez, Mariano Andujar and Pablo Alvarez.

More about → Catania Sign Gonzalo Bergessio From Saint Etienne

French Minister Of Sport Angry That Patrice Evra & Franck Ribery Could Be Recalled To France Squad

Under no circumstances should Evra or Ribery represent France again, Minister of Sport Chantal Jouanno has stated.
The potential return of France stars Patrice Evra and Franck Ribery to the national squad has been greeted with derision from the country’s Minister of Sport, Chantal Jouanno, who has argued that the pair’s actions mean they should not be again considered for les Bleus.

Evra and Ribery were two of the players at the forefront of the infamous World Cup strike against coach Raymond Domenech in the summer and were subsequently banned by the FFF (French FA) from participating in several matches following an investigation.

With their bans cleared, coach Laurent Blanc appears ready to wipe the players’ slates clean. Evra is reportedly pre-selected for the forthcoming clash with Brazil, while Ribery is likely to have been in the squad had he not been injured.

Jouanno, a former karate champion, has launched an offensive against this decision.

“I don’t understand the suggestion that the leaders of the rebellion in South Africa can be reinstated,” she said, according to La Poste.

“Regardless of their qualities, to bring them back would be inadmissible. They cannot bring shame to France and then pretend play again for France.

“I have nothing against Evra, but as a player in the France team, and above all as the captain, he did not defend the values of sport and also those of the Republic. It would be a huge mistake to forget what happened.

“I'm sure there are other talents that have not messed France and waiting to be given a chance to write a new story.

“We must be inflexible on this issue... We can’t negotiate with our principles.”

France are due to meet Brazil on February 9, with Blanc naming his squad next Thursday.

More about → French Minister Of Sport Angry That Patrice Evra & Franck Ribery Could Be Recalled To France Squad

Manchester City's Shay Given Willing To Drop Into The Championship For Regular Football

Mancini ready to re-engage his rivalry with Notts County boss Paul Ince.
Manchester City's number two goalkeeper Shay Given has stressed that his desire to play football is at bursting point - and he is willing to drop down a tier to get regular games.

The 'keeper has received two offers from Championship sides wanting to take the Ireland international on loan until the end of the season, and Given has made ir clear that he would be ready to make such a move, if he was able to return to Eastlands at 24 hours notice if needed.

Joe Hart has taken the reins in goal for City this season and Given has madejust four appearences since August for the club.

He said: "I just want to play. I do not want to go for an entire season without playing and I am prepared to go to a Championship club and be on a 24-hour call-back.

"That would benefit me, by getting me match-sharp, and City, who would have an experienced, match-sharp goalkeeper to come in if Joe got injured."

However, a loan deal with such a clause to take effect would require Given to be at his new club for at least 28 days before he could return to City at 24 hours notice, and with Roberto Mancini's side having a massive six games to play in February, it is unlikely that such a move will be allowed by the club's board.

Meanwhile, City take on Notts County in an FA Cup fourth round tie on Saturday afternoon. The Magpies are managed by Paul Ince, a man with whom Mancini has history from their days in Italy.

Mancini said: "Roy Hodgson was the Inter manager and told Ince to stay close to me. I had the ball and saw him arriving very quickly and nutmegged him. It was incredible.
"Then he took me out. He wanted revenge and he got his revenge. But I will have the last word this time."

More about → Manchester City's Shay Given Willing To Drop Into The Championship For Regular Football

Michael Ballack Delighted With Return To Bayer Leverkusen Starting Line-Up

Michael Ballack was pleased to play the full 90 minutes against Hannover.
Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Michael Ballack was glad to be selected from the start of his team's 2-0 win against Hannover in the Bundesliga.

"I'm glad I played from the start and got the confidence from the coach," the 34-year old told Spiegel. "I wasn't sure where I stood. The coach believed in me. I had been injured a long time, but there were no problems."

Speaking to Bild about Leverkusen's win, Ballack said, "I think it was okay. We were very focused - it was a deserved victory."

Leverkusen took three points thanks to goals from each of Ballack's central midfield partners, Arturo Vidal and Simon Rolfes. The result send Leverkusen five points clear of Hannover in second place, although the Werkself remain eight points behind leaders Dortmund, who have a game in hand.

More about → Michael Ballack Delighted With Return To Bayer Leverkusen Starting Line-Up

Liverpool Rejected Transfer Request Submitted By Fernando Torres

Liverpool have rejected a transfer request submitted by Fernando Torres after the club declined a bid from Chelsea for the striker.

Chelsea had a £35 million offer turned down for the Spanish international on Thursday, after which, Liverpool reiterated they have no intention of selling the forward.

But Goal.com UK exclusively revealed Torres would welcome a move to London after becoming disillusioned with Liverpool's lack of ambition and on the back of having a transfer request publicly turned down, it appears the striker is keen to push for a switch before the January transfer window closes on Monday.

A statement on Liverpool's official website said: "Fernando Torres tonight submitted a written transfer request, which has been rejected by Liverpool.

"Fernando is under long-term contract and the Club expect him to honour the commitment he made to Liverpool FC and its supporters when he signed the agreement."

Reports have suggested Chelsea are willing to increase their offer but Liverpool will be wanting a substantial profit from the 26-year-old, who was purchased for £20 million in 2007 from Atletico Madrid.

Torres's record at Liverpool has been strong - 65 goals in 102 Premier League games but season's have been blighted by injuries and recently, a dip in form which has led to subsequent questions regarding his attitude.

But the arrival of Kenny Dalglish appeared to reignite Torres, but the Liverpool manager now has the role of persuading Torres to stay at Anfield.

More about → Liverpool Rejected Transfer Request Submitted By Fernando Torres

Mirko Slomka Bemoans Hannover's Lack Of Desire In Bayer Leverkusen Loss

Hannover did not try hard enough to score against Leverkusen, said Mirko Slomka.
Hannover coach Mirko Slomka was disappointed with his team's passive nature in tonight's 2-0 loss to Bayer Leverkusen.

"We were just missing the will to score a goal," he said according to Kicker. "And we should have defended better from the goals conceded.

"Leverkusen then had the individual quality to exploit our mistakes."

Hannover lost by a 2-0 margin, but die Roten never really got into the game offensively, and slumped to their second defeat in three matches.

More about → Mirko Slomka Bemoans Hannover's Lack Of Desire In Bayer Leverkusen Loss

Tottenham Manager Harry Redknapp Insists Indispensible Gareth Bale Will Not Be Leaving For Inter

Winger has been targeted by a number of European clubs.
Harry Redknapp has ruled out the sale of Gareth Bale to Inter – regardless of the amount offered by the Italian side.

The left winger has been an influential figure at White Hart Lane and has attracted the interest of a number of European clubs.

But the Tottenham manager has reiterated his desire to keep the Welsh international at the club and insists selling the 21-year-old would dent his side’s progress.

"You have special players in your team and if you're going to be a top team you've got to keep your top players," said Redknapp.

"We can't go selling Gareth Bale, in all honesty. You've got three or four players who can make the difference and he's one of those players.

“If you lose him, how are you going to replace him?

“When he gets the ball, he can do something that no one else can do. You can't afford to lose him and if you sell him the moment you sell him it sends out the wrong signals.

"If we're going to be a big club, we're not going to sell Gareth Bale. We won't be selling Gareth Bale in the summer, I'm pretty certain of that. It's up to the chairman at the end of the day, but I'd be very surprised if we'd be interested in selling him at any price."

More about → Tottenham Manager Harry Redknapp Insists Indispensible Gareth Bale Will Not Be Leaving For Inter

Real Madrid Defender David Mateos Close To Joining AEK Athens

AEK Athens are close to capturing Mateos of Madrid on a loan deal until the end of term.
Real Madrid are about to loan David Mateos to Greek outfit AEK Athens until the end of the season.

Goal.com Spain understands that the 23-year-old centre-back, who made his debut for the Merengues earlier this season, will leave the Bernabeu and join forces with coach Manolo Jimenez in Athens.

The former Sevilla coach has been pressing for the Spanish stopper to beat off a reported interest from Zaragoza and Celtic.

Mateos is expected to complete his move on Saturday and his move to Greece will offer him the chance of regular action, something that has not happened in Madrid.

A loan deal seems likely as Madrid are not prepared to allow their man to leave permanently as they see him as a prospect for next season.

More about → Real Madrid Defender David Mateos Close To Joining AEK Athens

Chelsea To Come At Liverpool With £60 Million Bid For Fernando Torres

Chelsea look set to improve on their bid for Liverpool's Fernando Torres with a sum of £60 million, according to The Mirror.

The record-breaking bid comes after the Spanish striker told his current team that he wants to leave via a written transfer request.

His representatives have also apparently written to the club's new American owners stating all the reasons why the player should be allowed to leave, including the fact that the forward has been let down over promises made last summer to keep him at the club after Rafa Benitez's departure.

The West London club are also prepared to throw in young striker Daniel Sturridge, a player Liverpool wanted to take on loan earlier this season, and the Reds look to have an offer they can't refuse.

Any completed deal will probably see Torres become Chelsea's highest ever earner, but the negotiations will need to gather momentum quickly given that there are only three days left for such a big transfer to go through before deadline

More about → Chelsea To Come At Liverpool With £60 Million Bid For Fernando Torres

Official: Mahamadou Diarra To Leave Real Madrid For Monaco

Mahamadou Diarra is set to join Ligue 1 outfit Monaco.
Real Madrid have revealed that midfielder Mahamadou Diarra will join French Ligue 1 side Monaco after he undergoes his medical.

Los Blancos made the announcement on their official website on Thursday evening but didn't give any details about the terms and conditions of the deal.

"Real Madrid C. F. and Monaco FC have reached a deal for the transfer of Mahamadou Diarra," read the statement.

"It is contingent upon the player passing a medical as well as the contract signed with his new club."

Diarra, 29, joined Madrid from Olympique Lyonnais in 2006 and won two Primera Division titles in 2007 and 2008.

This season, though, the Mali international has fallen down the pecking order and has not started a single game in La Liga under coach Jose Mourinho.

Monaco are struggling for survival in the French top flight and are second from bottom in the division.

More about → Official: Mahamadou Diarra To Leave Real Madrid For Monaco

Liverpool Fail In Latest Attempt To Agree Fee With Ajax For Striker Luis Suarez

Liverpool have once again been unable to agree a fee with Ajax for striker Luis Suarez after further negotiations.

As revealed exclusively by Goal.com UK early on Thursday, the Merseyside club were preparing to make a final offer for the Uruguayan after having an initial offer of £12.7 million rejected by the Amsterdam club.

And now, Voetbal International reports the two clubs are still far from agreement regarding a price for the striker after Liverpool made another offer.

Ajax are understood to be holding out for at least £21m for Suarez, though they had previously set an asking price of £30m.

Manager Frank de Boer has indicated that Liverpool have until Saturday to agree a fee with the Dutch club for the World Cup star, who is believed to want a move to Anfield.

Liverpool may now be forced to wait until the summer to move for the player.

More about → Liverpool Fail In Latest Attempt To Agree Fee With Ajax For Striker Luis Suarez

Massimiliano Allegri Waiting For Milan To Sign Domenico Criscito Or Didac Vila

Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri expects Genoa's Domenico Criscito or Espanyol's Didac Vila to join the club in January.
Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri is waiting for the Rossoneri to sign a full-back during the winter transfer window.

Allegri would like to see either Genoa's Domenico Criscito or Espanyol's Didac Vila join the squad in the coming days.

"Should a full-back arrive, I think it will surely be a quality player such as Vila or Criscito," the tactician revealed to Tuttomercatoweb.

"If one of those two players don't arrive, we will continue to go ahead like we are today."

The former Cagliari boss was also flattered by recent comparisons to current England manager Fabio Capello.

"This is something that fills me with joy. I am honoured by such a comparison," he added.

More about → Massimiliano Allegri Waiting For Milan To Sign Domenico Criscito Or Didac Vila

Juventus Must Now Focus On Doing Well In The League - Luigi Del Neri

Juventus coach Luigi Del Neri says his side must now solely focus on doing well in the league after being dumped out of the Coppa Italia.
Juventus coach Luigi Del Neri admitted the Bianconeri struggled against Roma in the quarter-finals of the Coppa Italia.

The tactician believes his side failed to create enough chances in the 2-0 loss and said they will now focus on doing well in the Serie A.

"We did not play our best," bemoaned Del Neri to reporters after the match. "We produced little and if you cannot create scoring chances, you can't score.

"Roma are a team that have played together for a long period. Together, they have overcome many critical moments and are now returning to their best."

Del Neri went on to say that they were unlucky not to have been awarded a late penalty after Alessandro Del Piero went down in the box.

"The penalty was there. At the moment, we are not even lucky during these episodes. We did not deserve to win this evening.

"Now, we must focus solely on the league, hoping to recover some players who are not at full fitness," concluded Del Neri.

More about → Juventus Must Now Focus On Doing Well In The League - Luigi Del Neri

Claudio Ranieri Delighted With Roma Display

Roma coach Claudio Ranieri is ecstatic with the Lupi's 2-0 win over Juventus in the Coppa Italia.
Roma coach Claudio Ranieri was extremely pleased with his side's display following the 2-0 win over Juventus in the quarter-finals of the Coppa Italia.

Ranieri also agreed with the referee's decision not to award Alessandro Del Piero a penalty late in the match, as the coach believes Juve's captain slipped while leaning on defender Philippe Mexes.

"In the dressing room, I praised my players for their efforts this evening," the coach told Corriere Dello Sport.

"We put a lot of effort into the match, even without many of our fans here to support us. We played well, scoring two goals and not conceding any.

"I am very satisfied. At this moment, we have a healthy side, and looking to improve especially away from home. We started the week well and must focus on beating Bologna [on Sunday].

"For me, there was no penalty. Alex was leaning on Mexes and then he fell over," he added.

The Lupi's next opponents in the semi-finals are reigning champions Inter, but the coach believes many things can happen between now and April.

"We will play them in April. There is still a lot of water to pass under the bridge until then. We will just savour our progression in the tournament and go from there," concluded Ranieri.

More about → Claudio Ranieri Delighted With Roma Display

Milan Jovanovic Rejects Chance To Leave Liverpool For Wolfsburg

Liverpool forward Milan Jovanovic is understood to have turned down the chance to join Bundesliga club Wolfsburg.

Steve McClaren was believed to be keen on replacing striker Edin Dzeko, who moved to Manchester City, with the former Standard Liege man.

Reports suggested a £6 million offer had been tabled, but the former Standard Liege man has rejected the opportunity of a move, according to Sky Sports.

Jovanovic arrived at Anfield in the summer as Roy Hodgson took over, but has been unable to make himself a first team regular on Merseyside.

The striker recently told LFC Weekly he is expecting his fortunes to vastly improve under Kenny Dalglish over the second half of the season.

More about → Milan Jovanovic Rejects Chance To Leave Liverpool For Wolfsburg

Marco Storari Keen To Regain Juventus Starting XI Spot

Juventus goalkeeper Marco Storari says he is determined to regain his starting XI after the return of Gianluigi Buffon from injury.
Juventus goalkeeper Marco Storari has revealed he is keen to regain his spot in the Bianconeri's starting XI after the return of Gianluigi Buffon from a back injury.

The former Sampdoria and Milan shot-stopper knows he will have to fight for his spot, and admits to having a good relationship with Buffon.

"With Gigi, I have a very good relationship," Storari told Sportal after the side's match against Roma in the Coppa Italia. "I will look to train hard to regain my spot, even if I know that there are certain rules I need to respect.'

The shot-stopper says the team is disappointed to have lost to the Giallorossi, but will turn their attention to the weekend's league clash against Udinese.

"We are all disappointed because we relly wanted to make the semi-finals," he continued. "It is a shame.

"Now we must roll up our sleeves and quickly think about the match against Udinese and doing well in the league."

More about → Marco Storari Keen To Regain Juventus Starting XI Spot

Liverpool Reject Bid From Chelsea For Fernando Torres

Liverpool have revealed they have rejected a bid from Chelsea for star striker Fernando Torres.

Chelsea have long been admirers of the Spain international, and the bid was given the green light by club owner Roman Abramovich, who hoped to finally get his man in a shock January transfer window move.

The London club are believed to have made a bid in the region of £35 million, but Liverpool declared they have no intention of selling Torres.

“Chelsea have made a bid for Fernando which has been turned down,” a Liverpool spokesman said, according to The Times. “The player is not for sale.”

Torres had struggled earlier in the season under Roy Hodgson, but caught the eye when he scored a stunning goal against Carlo Ancelotti's side and has since enjoyed a resurgence in form under Kenny Dalglish.

The World Cup winner declared his commitment to the Merseyside club in the summer, but reportedly had a clause inserted in his contract that would allow him to leave should they receive an offer of £50m.

Torres' current deal expires in 2013, but Chelsea are understood to be hoping the striker could seek a move away from Anfield following what could be another unsuccessful season.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are locked in negotiations with Ajax over striker Luis Suarez, who looks less and less likely to join the club, making Torres' departure more unlikely still.

More about → Liverpool Reject Bid From Chelsea For Fernando Torres

Milan Agree €4 Million Deal For Espanyol Defender Didac Vila

Reports are emerging that Milan and Espanyol have agreed a deal for defender Didac Vila.
Milan and Espanyol have reportedly agreed on a deal to bring defender Didac Vila to the Rossoneri.

Diavoli vice-president Adriano Galliani flew to Spain earlier today to have discussions with the Spanish outfit, and came to an agreement over the 21-year-old's transfer in a three-hour meeting.

According to ElMundoDeportivo and Datasport, the meeting was attended by Galliani and agent Mino Raiola with all parties agreeing to a €4 million deal.

Vila will become the Rossoneri's fourth signing of the winter transfer window, after Antonio Cassano, Urby Emanuelson and Mark van Bommel moved to the Italian giants.

The Spain Under-20 international could also be available for coach Massimiliano Allegri to select for Saturday's clash against Catania.

More about → Milan Agree €4 Million Deal For Espanyol Defender Didac Vila

Tottenham Already Have The Strikers To Challenge For The Premier League Title - Gary Mabbutt

Former skipper rejects notion that new forward is needed at White Hart Lane.
Former Tottenham captain Gary Mabbutt has dismissed talk that Spurs are desperate for a new striker and believes the current squad is good enough to go all the way in domestic and European competition this season.

Spurs travel to Craven Cottage on Sunday for a fourth round FA Cup clash with Fulham with all four strikers struggling for goals this season.

Jermain Defoe (0), Peter Crouch (1), Roman Pavlyuchenko (5) and Robbie Keane (0) have bagged a meagre six Premier League goals between them this season, which has led to questions over whether their firepower can match their aspirations.

Manager Harry Redknapp has made no secret of his desire to bring in a world-class frontman with the club preparing a possible move for Atletico Madrid hitman Diego Forlan.

But Mabbutt believes the dynamic within the team has changed and with goals coming from all areas of the team, they should stick with the squad they have.

More about → Tottenham Already Have The Strikers To Challenge For The Premier League Title - Gary Mabbutt

Former Real Madrid Striker Fernando Morientes Backs Emmanuel Adebayor Signing

Adebayor can only benefit Real Madrid according to former los Blancos hitman Fernando Morientes.
Former Real Madrid and Liverpool striker Fernando Morientes has indicated that he believes the loan deal to bring in Manchester City forward Emmanuel Adebayor will be a boost for the club in their bid to overcome Barcelona at La Liga's summit.

"I played with him at Monaco. Emmanuel has always had a great desire to learn and work. He is very tall and good with the ball at his feet. However, in training his flaws will be there for all to see, as he is not as good in the air as he could be.

"I think the move is up there alongside the likes of [Angel] Di Maria and [Mesut] Oezil. Adebayor has many advantages to bring to Real Madrid," Morientes told AS.

With Gonzalo Higuain out injured for a lenghty spell, Adebayor will provide competition for Karim Benzema, who has just started to find goals for Madrid in the last two matches.

More about → Former Real Madrid Striker Fernando Morientes Backs Emmanuel Adebayor Signing

Asian Cup 2011: We Want To Write New History For Japan In Doha - Eiji Kawashima

Japan's memories of Doha from a couple of decades ago aren't happy ones and goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima is keen to write a new history.
The agony of Doha is still fresh in the memories of the Japanese fans when they missed out on a place in the 1994 World Cup finals.

On that day they were held to a 2-2 draw by Iraq at the Al Ahli Stadium, which allowed their rivals South Korea to book a berth as one of the two Asian nations at the biggest football extravaganza on the planet.

With the Samurai Blue training primarily at the same stadium where the tragedy occured around two decades ago, the team is looking to mark the location with victory this time around.

“At that time, I was student at elementary school. But I remember that moment very clearly," said Eiji Kawashima, Japan's goalkeeper and semi-final hero.

"Also today, we are talking about it. It is a good experience that we can come here and feel the atmosphere and [we are] excited [about] the next match."

The Japanese number one stated that the positive messages from their homeland has motivated the team to perform.

"[We received more messages] than during the World Cup. We really get energy from the messages from Japan and we, the Japanese national team, can play with this energy from Japan."

Following his spot-kick heroics against South Korea, the custodian was asked whether he would prefer winning the final in normal time.

“I hope so. But in a match we always have to fight with our strong hearts. So yeah, we will try," he said.

The absence of Shinji Kagawa is a big blow to Japan but Kawashima sees it as an opportunity for another player to come in the side and do the job.

“Kagawa is a very important player for the team but the Asian Cup is not only important for the players in Europe," Kawashima said.

"We are a unit. We have to fight with all the players."

Kawashima was respectful towards the Australians but added that the Japanese need to focus on their own game rather than play according to the opposition’s strengths.

“They have really experienced players. Some of their players play in Europe and are very good. But we also have strong points [with one of them being] that we are a young team.

"We like to play to our strengths. This is really good challenge for us."

More about → Asian Cup 2011: We Want To Write New History For Japan In Doha - Eiji Kawashima

Premier League Harder Than Serie A - Fiorentina Midfielder Valon Behrami

Valon Behrami claims Premier League experience made him stronger as he rekindles his relationship with Calcio.
Fiorentina midfielder Valon Behrami believes he can enjoy a thriving fortune in Serie A following his move from West Ham.

The 25-year-old was unveiled by the club on Thursday, and first up is a clash with former side Lazio on Saturday.

"Lazio? It will be a tough clash away from home, but I am tranquil. There is some emotion, but it's because I will be wearing the Fiorentina shirt," he told the press.

"My experience in England was important. The work was physical, and there was not much pressure off the pitch.

"I also think in certain aspects English football is different to the Italian game, it's more difficult."

Behrami revealed Fiorentina were just one of many clubs sourcing his services, but made it clear he was not forced to leave West Ham, despite making a handful of apperances this season.

"Had I not come to Fiorentina I would have remained at West Ham," he said.

More about → Premier League Harder Than Serie A - Fiorentina Midfielder Valon Behrami

Dinamo Moscow Want Anderlecht Winger Jonathan Legear

Anderlecht attacker Jonathan Legear has attracted the interest of Dinamo Moscow.
According to a report in Het Nieuwsblad, Russian side Dinamo Moscow are considering making a move for versatile attacker Jonathan Legear, currently under contract with reigning Belgian champions Anderlecht.

The Moscow side are looking to add some more creativity to their squad ahead of the start of the Russian league season and head coach Miodrag Bozovic is supposedly a keen admirer of the 23-year-old Legear.

Legear is a product of the Standard Liege youth academy, but left the Rouches for Anderlecht in the summer of 2004. The right winger has since made over 100 official appearances for the Brussels side.

Dinamo Moscow face stiff competition in the race for Legear's services. Clubs such as Newcastle United, Everton, Wolfsburg, Schalke and Paris Saint-Germain are also believed to be interested in signing the Belgium international.

Anderlecht are keen to hold on to Legear, but they could be tempted to cash in on the winger if an offer in the region of €6 million comes in.

More about → Dinamo Moscow Want Anderlecht Winger Jonathan Legear

Official: Hoffenheim Sign Edson Braafheid From Bayern Munich

Hoffenheim have completed the signing of Edson Braafheid from Bayern Munich.
Bundesliga side Hoffenheim have signed Netherlands international Edson Braafheid from German titleholders Bayern Munich for an undisclosed fee. The full-back has signed a contract until the summer of 2014 with his new club.

Hoffenheim were looking for a new left back because of the departure of Luiz Gustavo and Christian Eichner earlier this month and head coach Marco Pezzaiuoli has now gotten his desired reinforcements.

"We've added some more quality and experience to our squad with the capture of Braafheid. He's a modern left-back who adds something to the team both defensively and going forward," said Pezzaiuoli on the Hoffenheim website.

Braafheid joined Bayern from Twente in the summer of 2009, but the 27-year-old failed to secure regular first team action at the Bavarians.

"It was very important for my personal development to leave Bayern for Hoffenheim, also with an eye on my future in the national side. I know the Bundesliga very well and I'm confident that I'll find my way at Hoffenheim," commented Braafheid.

More about → Official: Hoffenheim Sign Edson Braafheid From Bayern Munich

Mallorca Unaware Of Internacional Approach For Striker Fernando Cavenaghi

Mallorca claim that they have not received official word regarding an approach from Internacional for striker Fernando Cavenaghi.
The future of striker Fernando Cavenaghi remains in doubt after Mallorca admitted to being unaware of any approach from Internacional to sign the player.

The Argentine, who is currently on loan to the Primera Division club until the end of the season from Ligue 1 side Bordeaux, was thought to be on his way back to South America after the Brazilian outfit announced earlier in the week that the 27-year-old would be joining them on a short-term arrangement.

However, Inter have since released a statement claiming: “The signing of Cavenaghi has been delayed with good reason as the documents to allow the player to travel to Port Alegre to undergo medical examinations with not arrive until tomorrow [Thursday].”

Furthermore, AS reports to have no knowledge of the former Spartak Moscow attacker leaving the club any time soon, although Cavenaghi’s representative, Nestor Sivori, stated: “The case should be settled today, for better or worse, because it is not good for the player to be in this situation.”

Should Cavenaghi be leaving the Balearic club, they would prefer to resolve the issue as soon as possible to allow them to swoop for an alternative before the current window slams shut on Monday.

More about → Mallorca Unaware Of Internacional Approach For Striker Fernando Cavenaghi

Sunderland Reach An Agreement With Paris Saint-Germain Over Stephane Sessegnon Switch

The deal to take Stephane Sessegnon to Sunderland from Paris Saint-Germain is all but completed.
Little over 24 hours after a deal to take Stephane Sessegnon from Paris Saint-Germain to Sunderland was declared to be dead in the French media, Le Parisien has reported that the transfer has virtually been concluded.

After reporting earlier that personal terms had been reached with the 26-year-old, the Paris daily has now stated that an accord over a transfer fee, thought to be around €6 million plus bonuses, has been reached with the French club. Now all that is required is the official stamp of approval.

Sessegnon made clear his desire to leave the French capital prior to the opening of the window, unhappy with the amount of time he had been forced to spend on the Parc des Princes bench. The Benin international, who is a flair-packed but rather erratic offensive midfielder, even went AWOL from PSG training earlier this month in an attempt to push through his transfer.

Les Parisiens, on the other hand, had made it clear that they saw the versatile attacker as a valuable player in their first team plans, even if he failed to break into the starting XI because of the excellent form of Nene and Ludovic Giuly.

“We’re in talks with Paris and we’re awaiting a response,” Sunderland assistant manager Eric Black is quoted by the paper has having said earlier.

It seems that the Black Cats have received the thumbs up to complete the deal from PSG, who may be forced to quickly dip into the transfer window themselves in the coming days.

More about → Sunderland Reach An Agreement With Paris Saint-Germain Over Stephane Sessegnon Switch

Bolton Wanderers Resume Talks With Manchester City Over Shaun Wright-Phillips

Bolton Wanderers have emerged as the leaders in the race to sign Shaun Wright-Phillips from Manchester City having re-entered into discussions with the England international's club, according to The Times.

Fulham looked to be the most likely destination for the winger, as Goal.com UK reported earlier in the month, but they have brought in Chelsea youngster Gael Kakuta on loan which looks to have ended their interest in Wright-Phillips.

Cottagers boss Mark Hughes said yesterday of the situation: “We've enquired but it seems like it's becoming more and more difficult. There are a lot of things being put in our way to prevent that.”

It is thought that Wright-Phillips was in the stands for Bolton's clash with his former team Chelsea on Monday night and he is also thought to be a fan of the brand of football Owen Coyle has introduced at the Reebok Stadium.

Wages could prove to be an issue for the Lancashire side, as they have been the stumbling block for Fulham and other interested party Newcastle United.

None of his suitors are willing to match his £65,000-a-week wages and are only willing to venture into the £45,000 territory. City would also prefer a club to buy their man permanently, but a loan move is preferred by Bolton.

More about → Bolton Wanderers Resume Talks With Manchester City Over Shaun Wright-Phillips

Liverpool Could Move For Tottenham's Niko Kranjcar If They Don't Land Charlie Adam From Blackpool

Liverpool could make a move for Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Niko Kranjcar if their pursuit of Charlie Adam proves fruitless.

According to The Daily Mirror, Werder Bremen are interested in the Croatian, but the player himself wants to continue plying his trade in the Premier League.

It is thought that he would like to play for the Reds, who are currently interested in Blackpool midfielder Adam.

However, it has been reported that the situation could very well change if they are unable to land the Seasiders' skipper, with Spurs outcast Kranjcar lined up as a backup option.

Blackpool have slapped a £12m price-tag on Adam

More about → Liverpool Could Move For Tottenham's Niko Kranjcar If They Don't Land Charlie Adam From Blackpool

I Will Probably Retire From International Football After Euro 2012 - Germany's Arne Friedrich

Wolfsburg defender Arne Friedrich will retire from international football after Euro 2012.
Experienced Wolfsburg defender Arne Friedrich has revealed that he will probably retire from international football after Euro 2012.

"I have to be realistic about my future. Euro 2012 will probably be my last tournament before I retire from international football," 31-year-old Friedrich was quoted as saying by Bild.

"We have a lot of promising youngsters coming through and they deserve a chance to play for the national side.

"It's my goal to win the European Championships with Germany in Poland-Ukraine. I'm confident that we'll be among the candidates to win the tournament."

Friedrich made his Germany debut against Bulgaria in August 2002 and has since made over 70 appearances for the Nationalelf. He played at Euro 2004 and 2008 and also took part in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.

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Former Palermo Director Walter Sabatini Excludes Roma Move

Walter Sabatini has said Roma have not made an approach to land him as a director at the club in relation to American takeover reports.
Walter Sabatini has said there has been no long and sustained contact with Roma over a possible future role at Trigoria.

Reports suggested the former Palermo transfer chief was being considered by the Lupi's prospective new owners - an American consortium led by Thomas Richard Di Benedetto.

However, Sabatini has revealed there has been no dialogue with the Romans, but gestured he would consider a move if he was offered a deal.

"It's an honour to be linked with Roma, but there has been nothing," he told Radio Centro Suono Sport.

"I was surprised by the news as nobody has told me anything.

"If they call me? Anyone would say yes, and me too. There wouldn't be a more important chance."

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Blackpool Boss Ian Holloway To Get A Cut Of Liverpool Target Charlie Adam's Transfer Fee

Gaffer also reveals he's on a much bigger bonus to avoid relegation.
Blackpool manager Ian Holloway has admitted that he stands to receive a slice of the transfer pie when Charlie Adam is sold to another club.

The midfielder has already handed in a transfer request to force a move away from the Seasiders, with Liverpool being heavily linked with a move for the player.

The 47-year-old recently maintained that Adam could be the man to fill the void left by Xabi Alonso's departure to Real Madrid in 2009, amid recent reports that Blackpool have placed a £12 million price tag on their skipper – of which Holloway is expected to receive a cut.

"I do get rewarded with anybody I coach and make a profit on," he told The Sun.

"My chairman looked at my record of producing players and helping players and selling them on and he wanted that at Blackpool.

"That's not what I'm doing it for. I'm on a far bigger bonus to keep us in the Premier League and Charlie Adam can help me do that."

The gaffer also recently described a £4 million bid from the Merseyside club as "disgraceful" with regards to how much the club expect to make through the sale of the former Rangers player.

But Holloway added: "If you're saying I'm doing this because I'm getting 20-30 per cent of the Adam money I'll not be very happy - it's miles away, absolute nonsense."

A spokesman for the FA said: "This type of agreement does not contravene any of our rules whatsoever."

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Atletico Madrid Players Must Believe They Can Achieve Champions League Qualification - Tomas Ujfalusi

Atletico Madrid defender Tomas Ujfalusi claims that team must believe they are capable of qualifying for the Champions League.
Atletico Madrid stopper Tomas Ujfalusi claims that the club's players must believe that they have the capability of qualifying for the Champions League this season.

Los Colchoneros lie a massive 10 points behind fourth-placed Valencia in the race to return to Europe’s premier club competition, and Sunday’s weekend defeat to Sporting left coach Quique Sanchez Flores appearing downbeat to the team’s chances.

In an interview with AS however, the Czech defender feels that they must keep the faith that they can close the gap on their Primera Division rivals.

He remarked: “One thing is to believe, and it is quite another to go out and do the most we can to win games. We have a very good team who can come out of the worst of situations. Everyone has to believe, but we all must do our part.”

Ujfalusi also mentioned the meeting held with board member Gil Marin, and what was discussed, adding: “He wanted to see us to assess the situation after the last match, which was very bad and we had no chance of scoring.

“We still have 18 games, however, to reach fourth place and we know that we have no margin for error.”

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Newcastle United's Andy Carroll To Be Sent To Specialist After Suffering Injury Blow

Striker's absence looks set to continue for some time.
Newcastle United forward Andy Carroll will fly to Scandanavia later this week to see a specialist in the hope of repairing an ongoing thigh problem that has seen him miss all his team's action so far this year.

His manager, Alan Pardew, had hoped that Carroll would be fit within two weeks, but that seems unlikely seeing as his striker has had to resort to drastic measures with the club currently spending time in Portugal during a fixture lull.

“We brought him out here to start running, and the disappointing news is that he hasn't,” said Pardew, according to The Northern Echo.
“His injury is in the muscle, just above the tendon where it joins the knee, so it's not an area that gets great circulation and therefore it doesn't heal quickly.

“We have had a consultation this week about sending him to someone who is the world's best tendon repair expert – there are experts in different fields – and this guy is at the Arctic end of Sweden.

“He's flying out there on Friday and we're hoping that we can turn him around quickly. But now I have to say that Fulham is definitely out and possibly even Arsenal. We can't rush him back.”

The news will come as a bitter blow to Newcastle fans as Carroll has impressed hugely so far this season, contributing 11 goals in the Premier League.

Summer signing Dan Gosling also remains on the sidelines with a knee injury and is unlikely to make his debut for the Magpies for another month.

More about → Newcastle United's Andy Carroll To Be Sent To Specialist After Suffering Injury Blow

Official: Wolfsburg Sign Kaiserslautern Striker Srdjan Lakic On Bosman Move

Wolfsburg have secured the services of Kaiserslautern attacker Srdjan Lakic on a Bosman move.
Ambitious Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg have completed the signing of Croatian attacker Srdjan Lakic from Kaiserslautern on a free transfer. The striker has signed a contract until the summer of 2015 with his new club and will join the Woelfe at the end of the 2010-11 campaign.

Wolfsburg were looking for attacking reinforcements because of the departure of Edin Dzeko to Manchester City earlier this month and head coach Steve McClaren sees the 27-year-old Lakic as the perfect replacement.

"Lakic is a classic striker who really adds something to the team with his dynamic style. He always works hard and is very dangerous in front of the goal. We're very happy that we've manged to sign him, despite the stiff competition from a few other teams," said sporting director Dieter Hoeness on the Wolfsburg site.

The striker joined Kaiserslautern from Hertha Berlin in the summer of 2008 and had since become a key player at 1FCK. Nevertheless, Lakic was reluctant to sign a new contract with Kaiserslautern and is eagerly anticipating a new challenge.

"I'm very happy that the transfer is a done deal now and I'm looking forward to a new challenge. Wolfsburg are a big club with ambitious goals and I'm hopeful of playing a big role in the club's future," commented Lakic.

More about → Official: Wolfsburg Sign Kaiserslautern Striker Srdjan Lakic On Bosman Move

Boca Juniors Midfielder Gary Medel Arrives In Sevilla To Complete €6 Million Switch

Gary Medel arrives in Andalucia to complete transfer from Boca Juniors to Sevilla.
Chilean midfielder Gary Medel has arrived in Andalucia to complete his move from Boca Juniors to Sevilla.

The 23-year-old has not yet signed the contract being offered by Los Nervionenses, and will first undergo a series of medical examinations before the deal will be confirmed.

The deal on the table for Medel, who starred for La Roja in the World Cup in South Africa during the summer, is thought to be for four-and-a-half seasons, and all that is required is the player’s signature to confirm that transfer.

The Primera Division side will pay in the region of €6 million for Medel, whose versatility means he can also slot into central defence if necessary.

Speaking to the media before boarding the flight from Madrid earlier this morning, he claimed to be "very happy" about the prospect of playing in European football, and that he hopes "to do well in Spain".

Medel will become Sevilla's first addition of the winter transfer market, and have also been heavily linked with Rosenborg's Anthony Annan and Schalke's Ivan Rakitic.

More about → Boca Juniors Midfielder Gary Medel Arrives In Sevilla To Complete €6 Million Switch

Juventus Striker Amauri Could Start Against Roma In Coppa Italia Quarter-Final

Del Neri to give Amauri Coppa Italia chance.
Juventus coach Luigi Del Neri is showing faith in Amauri, who is expected to start against Roma in the Coppa Italia.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims he may be flanked by either Alessandro Del Piero or Vincenzo Iaquinta, with Milos Krasic likely to be rested ahead of the weekend clash with Udinese.

Simone Pepe will set off from the right side with Claudio Marchisio on the opposite side. Felipe Melo and Alberto Aquilani will hold the midfield.

Frederik Sorensen, Leonardo Bonucci, Giorgio Chiellini and Fabio Grosso complete the back line.

Meanwhile, Roma coach Claudio Ranieri will make a last minute decision on whether to play Jeremy Menez in place of Marco Borriello.

Il Corriere dello Sport claims the Italian suffered a problem to his meniscus against Cagliari at the weekend, but he could be in contention to start in Turin.

Simone Perrotta, Daniele De Rossi, Rodrigo Taddei and Matteo Brighi are all expected to start.

More about → Juventus Striker Amauri Could Start Against Roma In Coppa Italia Quarter-Final

Juventus Are Seeking A Quality Striker - Pavel Nedved

Club legend and administrator Pavel Nedved says Juventus are looking to sign a quality striker before the transfer market closes.
Juventus club legend and current administrator Pavel Nedved says the Bianconeri need to obtain a quality striker in order to get to the next level.

The former player believes the club need a top-class striker to strengthen the line-up.

"The transfer window for Juventus has not closed," the former Czech international told Tuttomercatoweb during his book signing.

"We are still seeking a quality striker who can score many goals."

The Old Lady had signed Luca Toni from Genoa several weeks ago, but the 33-year-old is sidelined with a knee injury.

Juventus currently sit in sixth place on 35 points in the Serie A table.

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Chelsea Deny Making €60m Bid For Atletico Madrid Duo Sergio Aguero And Diego Godin

Miguel Angel Gil transfer claims described as 'wild'.
Chelsea have denied making a €60 (£52) million joint-bid for Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero and defender Diego Godin.

Miguel Angel Gil, the Spanish club's CEO, claimed the Premier League champions had made the huge offer for the pair.

But the English club claim to have made no such enquiry for the highly-rated duo, describing the story as 'wild.'

"We never comment on transfer speculation, no matter how wild it is," a club sokesperson commented to Press Association Sport.

Aguero has been linked with most of Europe's heavyweights over the last two years, but has repeatedly stated his loyalty to the club.

Godin on the other hand, is less well known to those outside Spain, but recently performed admirably at the heart of Uruguay's defence at the most recent World Cup, and has been at Atletico for little over half a year since his move from Villarreal.

Gil, who is no newcomer to a little controversy, also claimed recently that Atletico's city rivals Real Madrid offered for the Argentinian international, mentioning that the club were willing to part ways with £39m.

More about → Chelsea Deny Making €60m Bid For Atletico Madrid Duo Sergio Aguero And Diego Godin

Mark Van Bommel Keen To Impress For New Club Milan

New Milan signing Mark van Bommel says he is keen to impress for the Rossoneri following his move from Bayern Munich.
New Milan signing Mark van Bommel says he is ready to fight for a spot in the Rossoneri starting XI, and keen to impress the Diavoli fans.

The Dutch international joined the Italian giants, but believes Bayern Munich - his former club - could have still used the 33-year-old.

"I am happy to play for Milan," the holding midfielder said to Spox.de. "It isunusual for such a prestigious club to look for a 33-year-old.
"I am not afraid of competition that I might find in the Rossoneri squad. It was solely a sporting decision that I made.

"I have many great moments at Bayern and I will admit that it is a little sad to leave at this moment, but I have faith in my abilities and think I can do well in Italy.

"I do think Bayern Munich could have still used a player like me," he concluded.

More about → Mark Van Bommel Keen To Impress For New Club Milan

Asian Cup 2011: Japan Captain Makoto Hasebe Pleased With Victory Over South Korea

Japan captain Makoto Hasebe may have watched the Samurai Blue progress to the Asian Cup final via the bench, but he is pleased the side has gotten through.
Japan midfielder Makoto Hasebe may have been substituted with only three minutes to go in extra-time, but the captain was pleased the Samurai Blue fired the side through to the Asian Cup final via the penalty spot.

The captain began having cramps in his leg, and had to watch the East Asian fire the spot-kicks from the bench.

"I made sure that I was on the bench when the penalty kicks were being taken, so that I could share the joy with my team-mates," Hasebe was reported as saying to Goal.com Japan.

"We tried to help out our defence as much as we could, as it was our aim during the match.

"I'm glad that a good result has occurred by us winning in the end," he concluded.

Japan now face Australia in the final of the tournament on Saturday.

More about → Asian Cup 2011: Japan Captain Makoto Hasebe Pleased With Victory Over South Korea

Bastian Schweinsteiger Passes Like Xavi And Andres Iniesta - Mario Gomez

Mario Gomez believes Bastian Schweinsteiger plays passes that only Xavi and Andres Iniesta could match.
Joint Bundesliga top scorer Mario Gomez has come out with plenty of praise for Bayern Munich team-mate Bastian Schweinsteiger, who he believes is among the very best ball-players in the world.

"Sometimes he plays world class passes," the striker said, according to Spox. "Such passes maybe three players in the world can play: Xavi, Iniesta and he."

Gomez also commented on the positioning of Schweinsteiger in the Bayern line-up, which as of late has been a hot topic of conversation.

"How Schweini plays the No. 10 role, for me, is world class."

In recent months, Schweinsteiger has been deployed in a central playmaking role, which coach Louis van Gaal has admitted is not his best position, but is for the better good of the team. In an advanced position on Saturday, the natural defensive midfielder nonetheless set up two of Gomez's three goals as Bayern completed a 5-1 rout of Kaiserslautern.

More about → Bastian Schweinsteiger Passes Like Xavi And Andres Iniesta - Mario Gomez

Juventus Will Struggle For A Champions League Place; Milan For Scudetto - Luciano Moggi

Luciano Moggi sees dark skies ahead for Juventus and seems dubious on their Champions League credentials.
Luciano Moggi doubts Juventus can squeeze into the top four by the end of the season as he tips Milan for the title.

The Bianconeri's run has become tangled with inconsistent results, the latest being a 0-0 draw at Sampdoria. And Moggi thinks things will continue to go stale as he fails to see a fresh start from the Old Lady.

"It was a nasty game against Sampdoria. It was not a game of football and you can see both teams' struggles technically," Moggi told Gold TV.

"Juve can fight for fourth place, but it will not be easy."

Milan continue to raze the opposition as they maintain the pace at the top.

"Zlatan Ibrahimovic makes the difference. The team who has him will win the Scudetto," said Moggi.

More about → Juventus Will Struggle For A Champions League Place; Milan For Scudetto - Luciano Moggi

Kenny Dalglish Confirms Ryan Babel Is Staying At Liverpool

Dutchman looked set to move to Hoffenheim.
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has confirmed that winger Ryan Babel will not be leaving the club this January, after a proposed move to German side Hoffenheim fell through.

The move to Germany looked very likely as the Anfield outfit accepted a bid of around £6 million for the Dutchman and even went as far as having a medical, but it seems the deal collapsed on personal terms between the player and the proposed club.

Babel also showed a willingness to be part of a deal that would see him go back to former club Ajax, with Luis Suarez moving in the opposite direction, but it remains to be seen if any light will be shed on such a deal.

Dalglish would not speculate on how long Babel would be at the club, saying: "He's staying here."

The Reds have been linked with a move for Blackpool captain Charlie Adam, but Dalglish refused to be drawn on any possible transfer targets.

"If we have some business to discuss we will discuss it," he added.

"We will try to adopt the way of Liverpool Football Club and certainly one of our ways is to be respectful of other clubs and certain players at other clubs.

"The most important people we have are the people at this club."

More about → Kenny Dalglish Confirms Ryan Babel Is Staying At Liverpool

Four-Point Lead Over Real Madrid Is Nothing - Barcelona Striker David Villa

Barcelona striker David Villa feels that four-point lead over Real Madrid counts for nothing at this stage.
Barcelona striker David Villa believes that the four-point lead the club hold over bitter rivals Real Madrid is nothing, and that the Blaugrana have a difficult run of fixtures coming up.

'El Guaje' has been in great form as the Catalan giants have continued to maintain a blistering pace at the top of the Primera Division table, but when addressing the media yesterday, the former Valencia goal-getter said he knows that it is an advantage that can easily be made up by the opposition.

He remarked: “The difference is small and for Barcelona to keep up our streak of victories is difficult. We know that we can fail, but we know that if we win, we will be champions. We have an advantage and we must seize it.”

“I do not know if Madrid are in crisis, but we know that four points is nothing. We are very close, and there are many more points to play for. We have to make sure that we pick up as many as possible, because we know that Madrid will.”

Villa also spoke fondly of his experiences working with coach Pep Guardiola, and said that he is confident the tactician will decide to remain at the Camp Nou.

He added: “He has built this Barcelona, people are willing him to renew, he has never done anything against this club, and we would like a renewal to be announced as soon as possible."

More about → Four-Point Lead Over Real Madrid Is Nothing - Barcelona Striker David Villa

Joachim Loew Impressed By Fit-Again Wolfsburg Defender Arne Friedrich

Since returning from back surgery, Arne Friedrich has impressed Joachim Loew, and should play for Germany in March.
Since the World Cup, there has been widespread speculation over the future of Germany's central defence. The rise of Mats Hummels and Holger Badstuber has put the roles of Per Mertesacker and Arne Friedrich into doubt. However, Germany coach Joachim Loew has given a vote of confidence in Friedrich, who has impressed for Wolfsburg since returning to action following back surgery.

"I am pleased that he's back playing again," Loew told WAZ. "You can see that he gives Wolfsburg a great deal of stability."

The 31-year-old Friedrich has formed an impressive central defensive partnership with Simon Kjaer over the last two weeks, and based on form, Loew expects the former Hertha man to rejoin his squad in March.

"He will either be in the squad against Italy or later, in March [in a Euro 2012 qualifier against Kazakhstan]."

More about → Joachim Loew Impressed By Fit-Again Wolfsburg Defender Arne Friedrich

Valencia Winger Vicente Ruled Out For Two Weeks With Thigh Injury

Valencia's Vicente faces at least two weeks on the sidelines after suffering from a thigh injury.
Valencia winger Vicente has been ruled out of action for two weeks after suffering from a thigh strain in training, the club have confirmed.

The former Spanish international has enjoyed a return to the team of late, playing a key role in last weekend’s 2-0 defeat of Deportivo.

He had been expected to retain his place for the match against Malaga last Saturday, which Los Che eventually won 4-3, but he complained of discomfort in his right thigh, and was left out of the squad as a precaution.

Team medics have today confirmed that the injury requires rest for at least the next two weeks.

The 29-year-old is now in his 11th season at the Mestalla, and with his contract due to expire in June, his hopes of playing his way to a new deal have been dashed by this latest setback.

More about → Valencia Winger Vicente Ruled Out For Two Weeks With Thigh Injury

Chelsea Close To €25.1 Million Signing Of Benfica Defender David Luiz

Chelsea expect to tie up a deal with Benfica to sign Brazilian international defender David Luiz today, report The Guardian.

The move is likely to cost the Premier League champions a fee of £21.5 million (€25.1m) if the Blues are given the go-ahead with a work permit, the application for which will be heard on Wednesday.

Luiz, 23, was omitted from the Benfica side that beat Nacional 4-2 on Saturday night, and will travel to London for a medical.

All being well, he could be confirmed as a Chelsea player tomorrow subject to the work permit being granted.

Furthermore, it is believed that Chelsea will offer to loan the Portuguese side one or two of their young players as a makeweight in the deal, with Dutch centre-back Jeffrey Bruma mooted.

Luiz has made 126 appearances in five seasons at the Stadio De Luz, scoring six goals.

More about → Chelsea Close To €25.1 Million Signing Of Benfica Defender David Luiz

Bayern Munich Sporting Director Christian Nerlinger Responds To Louis Van Gaal Criticism

Christian Nerlinger has shot back at Louis van Gaal after the Bayern coach made harsh comments in the media.
There is never a dull day at the Saebener Strasse. Even after Bayern Munich earned a 5-1 win against Kaiserslautern, internal conflict has struck the club. Recently, coach Louis van Gaal criticised Christian Nerlinger for revealing that Franck Ribery may not recover his fitness in time to face Werder Bremen next week. But the sporting director has now replied to Van Gaal.

"It is not the role of a coach to comment publicly on my statements, on what I say. In my role as sporting director it is my right and my duty to make such things public," he told Bild. "I find it laughable that [Van Gaal] would get himself worked up over the fact that I said, after a conversation with the doctors, that Ribery may not be fit in time for the Bremen game.

"I am of the opinion that one should settle things internally whenever there is a dispute. Van Gaal seemingly thinks otherwise on these matters. He must realise that in this club there are other people who are also responsible for sporting matters."

Ribery suffered a knee injury last week, and was initially ruled out until the Bremen match, which is scheduled for Saturday. However, in recent days there has been a cloud of doubt cast over the exact date of his return.

More about → Bayern Munich Sporting Director Christian Nerlinger Responds To Louis Van Gaal Criticism

Real Madrid Full-Back Marcelo Expecting Tough Match Against Sevilla In Copa Del Rey

Real Madrid left-back Marcelo is expecting partisan atmosphere in Copa del Rey tie with Sevilla.
Real Madrid full-back Marcelo has admitted he is expected a hugely difficult match when he and his team-mates travel to the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan for their Copa del Rey tie with Sevilla on Wednesday evening.

Los Blancos are looking to reach the final for the first time, with either Barcelona or Almeria lying in wait for the winners of the tie.

The Brazilian knows that the tournament holders will make life difficult for Madrid, but they are confident of making in through the tie.

He remarked: “We need rest to be prepared to face the grief of the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, because it will be a difficult match, and they will look to shock us. For us, it will be a very tough match, but this season we have great hopes of winning the Copa del Rey.”

Referring to the weekend’s narrow win over Mallorca, he focused his praise on goalscorer Karim Benzema, saying: “The important thing was the three points.

“The team has had a great reliance on Benzema. His goal has given us the three points he has helped to be where we wanted.”

More about → Real Madrid Full-Back Marcelo Expecting Tough Match Against Sevilla In Copa Del Rey

Inter Have Not Contacted Sevilla's Luis Fabiano

Agent of Sevilla striker Luis Fabiano claims Inter have not made an approach.
Luis Fabiano's agent Jose Fuentes has offered his interpretation of the transfer noise surrounding his client and Inter.

The 30-year-old Brazilian international has been linked with Juventus, and more recently Inter after reports in Il Corriere dello Sport claimed Marco Branca was ready to move.

And while the roots regarding a Sevilla exit remain strong, Fuentes said the branches of interest sprawling out were unofficial.

"Inter have not moved forward, neither with me nor Sevilla," the agent told Calciomercato.it.

"Those who are interested in the player should contact us. It's the same for Juventus. There is no official contact, but just speculation."

More about → Inter Have Not Contacted Sevilla's Luis Fabiano

Edwin Van der Sar To Turn Down Manchester United Coaching Role

Dutch goalkeeper wants to spend time with his family when he retires.
Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van der Sar will turn down an offer to become goalkeeping coach at Old Trafford.

The 40-year-old looks set to hang up his gloves at the end of the season but United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has offered the former Dutch international the role of goalkeeping coach.

However, Van der Sar is looking to take a break from the game after retirement.

"I will hopefully not start coaching too quickly,” he told The Sun.

"I will try to have 18 months or two years for myself - and I've a family to do nice things with, too.

"I think about 80 per cent of players who played in football are saying that."

Van der Sar joined the Red Devils from Fulham for £2 million in 2001, but admits he wished the move came sooner.

"One of the biggest regrets from both sides - United's and mine - is that we didn't come together earlier," he said.

The Dutch shot stopper kept goal at the weekend as United continued their unbeaten Premier League run with a 5-0 victory over Birmingham City at Old Trafford.

More about → Edwin Van der Sar To Turn Down Manchester United Coaching Role

Uzbekistan's Odil Ahmedov Eyes Asian Cup Glory

Uzbekistan midfielder Odil Ahmedov is determined to go all the way at the 2011 Asian Cup.
Uzbekistan have been the surprise package at the 2011 Asian Cup and versatile midfielder Odil Ahmedov has made it clear that the White Wolves are determined to go all the way and lift the trophy.

"I normally play in midfield and not in defence. Personally I’d prefer an attacking role in midfield, but we’ve had one or two problems at the back and I’ve had to help out," Ahmedov said, according fifa.com. "That hasn’t stopped me from scoring though. I love getting forward and hitting the back of the net.

"We’re thrilled to be through to the semi-finals and I hope we can pay back the fans supporting us here in Qatar. To be among the top four sides in Asia is a major achievement for us, and it’s sure to give football a big boost back home.

"We want to keep going and beat Australia to reach the final. Our goal is to win the Asian Cup and we’ll be giving our very best to make that happen.

"My aim before I came here was to put on a good show and attract some offers from European clubs. I’d love to play there because it’s a totally different game. Everyone wants to play in Europe."

Uzbekistan are set to lock horns with Australia on January 25.

More about → Uzbekistan's Odil Ahmedov Eyes Asian Cup Glory

Milan Defender Mario Yepes: We Are A Unified Group In The Dressing Room

Yepes suggests the whole squad will have a say in the club's success in 2010-11.
Milan defender Mario Yepes has claimed that the Rossoneri's title challenge will require commitment from the whole team this season. The defender was one of the standout performers in the 2-0 win over Cesena on Sunday, despite seeing limited playing time this season.

The 35-year-old is likely to see more action in the near future after Alessandro Nesta was ruled out for a month with a dislocated shoulder.

"Those who play a little less need to be ready. Here at Milanello the whole squad is important," he was quoted as saying by Datasport.

"Everyone wants to play, but we can't all play and must be ready when the coach needs us."

Star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic praised the Colombian for his recent efforts and Yepes believes every player must be ready when called upon.

"His words meant so much to me. We are a unified group in the dressing room," suggested the former Chievo and Paris Saint-Germain star.

"After all we need to address three competitions and we cannot only rely on 11 players."

More about → Milan Defender Mario Yepes: We Are A Unified Group In The Dressing Room

Wolfsburg Interested In Schalke Midfielder Ivan Rakitic

Schalke midfielder Ivan Rakitic has attracted the interest of Wolfsburg.
According to a report in Bild, Bundesliga side Wolfsburg are closely monitoring the situation of Ivan Rakitic, currently under contract with Champions League hopefuls Schalke.

Wolfsburg coach Steve McClaren is eager to add another midfielder to his squad in the winter transfer window and the former England manager reportedly sees the 22-year-old as the perfect addition to his squad.

Rakitic started his professional career with Basel and joined Schalke in the summer of 2007. The Croatia international has since made close to 100 official appearances for the Koenigsblauen and his good performances haven't gone unnoticed elsewhere.

The midfielder has previously been linked with clubs such as Inter, Juventus and Sevilla, but Wolfsburg are now believed to be sitting in pole position to lure Rakitic away from his current club.

Rakitic's current contract expires at the end of the season and the playmaker is reluctant to sign a new deal. Therefore, Schalke could decide to cash in on Rakitic in the January transfer window.

More about → Wolfsburg Interested In Schalke Midfielder Ivan Rakitic

Javier Zanetti: I Want To End My Career At Inter

Zanetti wants to carry on playing for Inter.
Inter captain Javier Zanetti has revealed that he wants to finish his playing career with the Nerazzurri.

The 37-year-old Argentine legend has been with Inter since 1995 and captained the side to a sensational treble triumph last season.

“I am very happy. I didn't expect to be here for so long with a team as important as Inter," he told ESPN.

“I am very happy to have played all these games with the blue and black shirt. Being captain for so many years is a reason to be proud.

"I have a contract for another two years in which I hope to play. Then I will judge how I feel in that moment.

“I will certainly end my career at Inter."

More about → Javier Zanetti: I Want To End My Career At Inter

Hamburg Striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy Set To Join Real Madrid After All

Van Nistelrooy is set to join Real Madrid from Hamburg, claims an insider.
Real Madrid TV presenter Andy May has sensationally claimed that Hamburg striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is set to join the Blancos and that an announcement will be made very soon.

The 34-year-old veteran has been linked with a return to his old club since last week and the player himself has claimed that he is ready to feature for Madrid once again.

Hamburg, though, were reluctant to let go of the Dutchman, whose contract with the German Bundesliga club expires at the end of the season.

However, it now appears that a deal has been struck, if May is to be believed.

"It's still not official but it looks like RVN is returning to #RealMadrid. Keep an eye on realmadrid.com for the announcement," said Real Madrid TV presenter on his twitter page andymaytvradio.

Earlier on Friday, Spanish sports daily Marca claimed that the Merengues had already made a formal bid of €2 million to Hamburg for the immediate transfer of Van Nistelrooy but reported that the German outfit had yet to respond.

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Catania Striker Maxi Lopez Keen On Napoli Switch

Catania striker Maxi Lopez welcomes interest from Napoli.
Catania striker Maxi Lopez has admitted that while he has not spoken with Napoli, he would welcome a move to the Partenopei.

“I don't know anything about it, but it would make me happy. Napoli are a great team,” the 26-year-old told Radio Kiss Kiss.

Lopez cited linking up with Ezequiel Lavezzi and Edinson Cavani as the main reason he desires a move to Napoli.

“A trident with Cavani and Lavezzi would be a very important step in my career."

“It's an honour to know about [Napoli president] Aurelio De Laurentiis' interest. I hope that we can talk about it in June.”

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Ryan Nelsen Extends Blackburn Rovers Contract

Defender could end career at Ewood Park.
Blackburn Rovers captain Ryan Nelsen has signed a contract extension, potentially keeping him at the club until the end of his career.

Manager Steve Kean, who was on a temporary contract until the end of the season, was handed a two-year deal to make hum the club's permanent boss on Thursday.

And now Nelsen will also stay at the club for a further two years, taking the New Zealand international into his mid-30s.

Nelsen arrived at Blackburn in 2005 and, despite being disappointed to see former manager Sam Allardyce sacked earlier in the season, has given his support to Kean's appointment.

Blackburn have been busy in the transfer market in January, signing Schalke midfielder Jermaine Jones after failing in ambitious attempts to lure Ronaldinho and David Beckham back to England.

Rovers are also keen on Birmingham winger Sebastien Larsson, as revealed exclusively by Goal.com UK earlier this week, but have had an initial bid rejected.

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Arsenal Consider Shock Move For Tottenham Defender Jonathan Woodgate

Arsenal are reportedly considering a surprise move for Tottenham defender Jonathan Woodgate.

Arsene Wenger has admitted he may need to sign a new centre back in January after Thomas Vermaelen sustained a long term Achilles injury and Sebastien Squillaci has been forced out of action repeatedly with various knocks.

Wenger refused to comment on speculation linking the club with a bid for Bolton Wanderers defender Gary Cahill earlier on Friday, and now skysports.com understands the Frenchman could be set to make Arsenal's bitter rivals an offer for the stopper.

Woodgate is returning from his own nightmare spell on the sidelines and has not played a competitive game since November 2009.

The former Newcastle, Leeds United and Real Madrid man played 45 minutes in a behind closed doors friendly for a Spurs XI against QPR during the week and is looking to work his way back into first team contention.

Spurs manager Harry Redknapp has previously expressed a willingness to allow Woodgate to pick up match practise by going on loan to a Championship club, with QPR and Leeds believed to be interested.

How willing Redknapp would be to do business with Arsenal, however, remains to be seen, while Wenger may still be concerned with the defender's past injury record.

More about → Arsenal Consider Shock Move For Tottenham Defender Jonathan Woodgate

Andrea Barzagli Is On The Verge Of Joining Juventus

Andrea Barzagli's agent has confirmed the Wolfsburg defender will return to Italy with Juventus next week.
Wolfsburg defender Andrea Barzagli is on his way back to Italy with Juventus, according to his agent Claudio Orlandoni.

The 29-year-old has often been linked with a return to the peninsula during an up-and-down spell in the Bundesliga. He is expected to cost the Turin giants around €1 million as his contract is due to expire this summer.

"At the beginning of next week, the player will be in Turin," confirmed his representative to Ansa.

"There remains a few details to fix."

Barzagli has not been called up for Saturday's clash against Mainz by coach Steve McClaren, likely further evidence of his impending move.

A member of Italy's 2006 World Cup winning squad, Barzagli joined Die Wolfe in 2008 after a highly successful four-year stint at Palermo.

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Hamburg Coach Armin Veh: We Are All Fit Now

Hamburg coach Armin Veh was pleased with his team's performance and fitness in a 1-0 win against Frankfurt.
Hamburg coach Armin Veh hailed his team's resolve and fitness following Friday's 1-0 win against Frankfurt.

"We played patiently and did not give up much in the danger area," he said according to Kicker.

"You can see now that we have more quality on the pitch. We had many injured in the fall campaign, but now are all fit."

Hamburg struggled to create clear-cut chances, but held firm in defence and took three points thanks to Mladen Petric, who finished a classy sequence between Ze Roberto and Anis Ben-Hatira.

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Eintracht Frankfurt Coach Michael Skibbe: We Lacked Determination Against Hamburg

Michael Skibbe was pleased with Frankfurt's ability to hold HSV scoreless for 65 minutes, but was let down by their lack of resilience.
Frankfurt coach Michael Skibbe was pleased by his team's resilient effort in defence, but bemoaned the flatness his players exhibited in attack in Friday's 1-0 loss to Hamburg.

"We held out for a long time, Hamburg did not earn many scoring chances," he said according to Kicker. "But we lacked determination."

Frankfurt held firm for 65 minutes, but were ultimately undone by Mladen Petric's strike on 65 minutes, which turned out to be the winner.

The result was the second loss in as many matches for die Adler, who have struggled to find their form following the winter break.

More about → Eintracht Frankfurt Coach Michael Skibbe: We Lacked Determination Against Hamburg