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Barclays Premier League Season 2011/2012

David Luiz

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Lambert praises Holt but remains coy on Aston Villa targets
The former Norwich boss was officially unveiled on Wednesday but refused to reveal whether he will attempt to bring the 31-year-old Canaries forward with him


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'I hope I will have some news about my future soon' - Benayoun could be set for Chelsea exit
The Israel captain has taken to Twitter to announce that he could be leaving the west London outfit and a number of clubs are already reportedly interested in him


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Steve Clarke leaves Liverpool
The anticipated exit of the former Chelsea and Newcastle assistant has been confirmed following the recent appointment of Brendan Rodgers as the Anfield club's new manager


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Pogrebnyak determined to secure permanent move to Premier League
The Russian striker has revealed that he still desires a switch to England after enjoying his spell at Fulham, despite his potential move to Craven Cottage falling through


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Holtby reveals Arsenal & Premier League ambition
The German international says he is an admirer of both Everton and the Gunners and, while he is happy with Schalke at the moment, he would not rule out a move to England


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Mertesacker 'glad' to have made Arsenal switch
The German defender has hailed his switch to the Emirates as the correct decision, whilst also explaining that Germany need to exhibit defensive unity if they are to win Euro 2012


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Dawson frustrated by time spent on sidelines at Tottenham
The Spurs defender has revealed that he grew annoyed that his involvement last season was reduced due to injury, but he has set his sights on coming back stronger next term


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Rodgers: Success will not come overnight for Liverpool
The newly-appointed Anfield boss has admitted that he does not expect his new club to show drastic improvements straight away and only hard work will improve their fortunes


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Ivanovic denies link to 'agent' making claims over Chelsea future
Defender revealed the man purporting to be his representative who claimed he was happy at the Blues was in no way affiliated to him and refused to commit his future to the club


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Manchester United step up interest in Everton full-back Baines
Sir Alex Ferguson is willing to offer Ji-Sung Park or one of Da Silva twins on temporary deals to push through a move for England left-back as a long-term Patrice Evra replacement


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Kranjcar confirms Tottenham exit ahead of proposed Dynamo Kiev move
The attacker found first-team opportunities limited last season and now looks set to end his six-year stay in England, although he has conceded there are still terms to be agreed


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Vertonghen's move to Tottenham could be completed 'this week', says agent
The Belgian's representative has revealed his client is only interested in a transfer to White Hart Lane and a deal is close, though the two clubs are yet to agree a fee


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Swansea City target Sigurdsson weighing up Liverpool switch
The Iceland international had been expected to complete a permanent move to the Welsh side, but has admitted that Brendan Rodgers' recent move could see him join the Reds


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Arsenal targeting quality not quantity, says chief Gazidis
The Gunners board member also underlined the importance of Champions League football and insisted that Lukas Poldolski can bring silverware to the Emirates Stadium


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Kagawa's move to Manchester United not motivated by shirt sales, says Arnold
The transfer of the Japanese international is sure to attract interest from the Far East, though the Red Devils have denied this was taken into account when sanctioning a deal


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Forget Hazard, Kagawa is the man to fire Manchester United back to Premier League glory
The Belgian's decision to join Chelsea has led to the Red Devils' financial competitiveness being questioned, yet the midfielder may be just what is missing at Old Trafford


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Van Persie's Arsenal future will be resolved after Euro 2012, says Gazidis
With the striker's contract set to expire in 12 months' time, the board member has admitted that discussions over a new deal have occured, but nothing will happen until next month


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Tim Cahill says Al Nasr link is a compliment but cool on move
The Everton attacking midfielder failed to rule out a move to West Asia following speculation linking him with Saudi Arabian club Al Nasr

 

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Kagawa's Japan team-mates react to transfer: 'It's like something from a comic book'


Manchester United's latest star was reluctant to comment on the announcement, but his Samurai Blue team-mates had plenty to say following their Tuesday practice session

Jun 6, 2012 2:35:00 AM

By Dan Orlowitz

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The announcement on Tuesday of Shinji Kagawa's transfer to Manchester United after weeks of speculation rocked the footballing world, spurring millions of fans to react to the move on social media networks worldwide.

While the player himself spurned reporters as he insisted on focusing on his national team duties, his Samurai Blue team-mates were more than willing to discuss their compatriot's bombshell move to the Premier League.

"For our generation, a Japanese player going overseas and joining a big club was something you'd only see in a comic book," Samurai Blue captain Makoto Hasebe reflected. "Shinji's giving kids something to dream about. It's incredibly big, what he's doing."

As Alberto Zaccheroni's side prepared for their Friday night 2014 World Cup qualifier with Jordan, one of Kagawa's team-mates threw his hat in the ring as the next Japanese player to join a top club.

"Shinji's the perfect player for a world-class team. As a fellow Japanese I'm proud of him," an unreserved Keisuke Honda told reporters. "But at the same time as a rival, I'm aiming to play at a big club too, and I think I'd fit in just as well."

Kagawa will become the fifth Japanese to play in the Premier League following Junichi Inamoto (Arsenal and Fulham), Kazuyuki Toda (Tottenham), Hidetoshi Nakata (Bolton), and Ryo Miyaichi (Arsenal and Bolton).

The 23-year-old will be the first Japanese player at Manchester United, who will also become the first club to have fielded players from Japan, South Korea and China.

"He can absolutely play well there, and as Japan's number 10 I think he'll be a major part of the team," said 19-year-old Miyaichi, who may play against Kagawa next season as a member of Arsenal's squad.

He added: "But first I have to earn my appearances. I'm looking forward to playing against him."

But despite the media hype, defender Atsuto Uchida managed to find humour in the announcement.

"Didn't they sign him because he doesn't have any big scandals?" the Schalke man laughed as he recalled 6-1 aggregate loss to the Premier League club in the 2010-11 Champions League semi-finals. "I bet he'll be on the front page in the morning."
 

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Alisher Uzmanov warned that he will not be joining Arsenal's board by chief executive Ivan Gazidis


Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has ruled out any possibility of billionaire investor Alisher Usmanov joining the club's board.

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Warning: Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has warned Alisher Usmanov he will not be joining the club's board. Photo: GETTY IMAGES


By Julian Bennetts

10:24PM BST 06 Jun 2012

The Uzbeki is close to owning 30 per cent of the club, a barrier that is significant as it would allow him access to the club's accounts.

But with majority shareholder Stan Kroenke insisting he does not want outside intervention, Gazidis has told Usmanov that the club will not accept his offer of financial assistance – despite the latter's offer to fund a substantial spending spree by Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger.

“I don't think for Mr Usmanov and anyone else out there that we should pump money into the football club,” he said. “We don't think that is healthy or for the good of the game.

“When I arrived three-and-half years ago there had been a lot of changes on the board and some degree of conflict. Since then we have worked hard to ensure the board is unified and has a common purpose.

“In terms of any further additions to the board it is important we don't disturb that unity and don't create conflict.

“Ultimately that is a board decision but that will be the critical issue – are we all aligned and facing in the same direction.”

But Gazidis has admitted that Arsenal's wage structure – where all first-team stars are paid a relatively similar amount – could change in the future.

He added: “Arsenal's squad been based around a flatter salary structure, and we are talking about having a relatively big squad with relatively few super-stars.

“That is part of the team ethos Arsene Wenger develops – that it is about the interaction between players, not the super-star. That carries on into our wage structure.

“We have to make adjustments for the top talent as they are earning a lot of money and I don't think that will slow down – under Financial Fair Play I think they will earn more and more.

“We have to adjust our model but that won't happen instantly. It takes time – three to four years – but we are conscious of that.”
 

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Barcelona reignite interest in Chelsea ace Luiz after struggling in Silva chase

By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 21:38 GMT, 6 June 2012 | UPDATED: 21:38 GMT, 6 June 2012

Barcelona are ready to turn to Chelsea hero David Luiz as their search for a new central defender intensifies.

Sportsmail
exclusively revealed in March the Brazil international was a genuine target for the Nou Camp club - who are long-term admirers of the defender.

The Spanish side's interest in Luiz appeared to have cooled as they made moves to sign his international team-mate Thiago Silva from AC Milan.

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Munich hero: David Luiz (right) helped Chelsea win the Champions League


Barca's swoop for Silva has been an open secret in Spain - but sources close to the deal claim the Catalans are ready to shift their focus on Luiz with the San Siro club unwilling to do business, while his agent Paulo Tonietto insists his client will be staying in Italy.

And Barca are now hatching a plan to lure Luiz to the Nou Camp next season after virtually admitting defeat in their attempts to sign Silva. However, Barca will find Chelsea just as difficult to deal with as AC Milan.

Chelsea will fight to keep hold of their ball-playing central-defender at Stamford Bridge, with owner Roman Abramovich said to be 'extremely reluctant' to sanction Luiz's exit.

Though, that could change should the former Benfica star show any inclination that he wants a move to the Nou Camp.
Barca are looking for a long-term successor to injury-prone captain Carles Puyol and could offer £35million for Luiz.

 

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Di Matteo close to landing Chelsea job as Guardiola pursuit seems to have failed


By MATT LAWTON PUBLISHED: 21:52 GMT, 6 June 2012 | UPDATED: 21:54 GMT, 6 June 2012

Chelsea have told Roberto Di Matteo they would like him to remain as manager, with sources at Stamford Bridge increasingly confident the Italian will still be in charge at the start of the new season.

Roman Abramovich is now understood to view Di Matteo as a serious replacement for Andre Villas-Boas after trying, and seemingly failing, to persuade Pep Guardiola to cut short his sabbatical after leaving Barcelona to move to Stamford Bridge.

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Nearly: Roberto Di Matteo is edging closer to the Chelsea job


Nothing has been agreed yet, and last night it remained unclear as to how long a contract is being discussed for the man who guided the club to a stunning Champions League and FA Cup double last month.Di Matteo may also still have issues. It will concern him that he could be keeping the managerial seat warm while the club wait for Guardiola. He also has options in Italy.

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Relaxing: The Champions League winning boss has been taking it easy during the summer
 

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Chelsea spending spree set to continue as Abramovich lines up £20m Fellaini swoop

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 06:48 GMT, 7 June 2012 | UPDATED: 06:48 GMT, 7 June 2012

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Top target: Fellaini (right) starred for Belgium at Wembley on Saturday


Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini has emerged as the No 1 transfer target for big-spending Chelsea as owner Roman Abramovich continues to rebuild his playing squad.

The Champions League-winning Blues remain managerless, but that has not stopped Abramovich already sanctioning deals for Eden Hazard and Marko Marin, who cost the club £32million and £8m respectively.

And according to the Daily Mirror, 24-year-old Belgian Fellaini is set to become the latest big-name arrival at Stamford Bridge.

Fellaini has established himself as one of the best all-round midfielders in the Premier League since his move to Everton in 2008, and he confirmed that reputation with a virtuoso performance for his country in their 1-0 loss to England at Wembley last weekend.

Chelsea are keen to strengthen their midfield with Frank Lampard approaching his 34th birthday and fitness doubts remaining over Michael Essien.

The Toffees would be prepared to sell should they make a significant profit on the £15m they paid Standard Liege for Fellaini nearly four years ago.

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Star man: Fellaini has impressed for Everton since his move in 2008
 

David Luiz

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Hughes prepared to write Giroud cheque! QPR in ambitious bid for Arsenal target

By SAMI MOKBEL PUBLISHED: 22:04 GMT, 6 June 2012 | UPDATED: 23:41 GMT, 6 June 2012

Queens Park Rangers are so determined to avoid another relegation battle they have made an audacious bid to lure France striker Olivier Giroud.

Manager Mark Hughes is prepared to splash a significant part of his summer budget to land a top-class goalscorer.

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Busy summer: Olivier Giroud arrives at Donetsk airport for Euro 2012 with France

Arsenal have led the running for Montpellier striker Giroud, who scored 26 goals last season. His club owner Louis Nicollin recently said he rated Giroud, 25, at £50million but the player is believed to have a £12.8m release clause in his contract.

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Leap of faith: Will Giroud be worth QPR's transfer budget?


Arsenal have also made checks on CSKA Moscow’s Seydou Doumbia and Malaga’s Salomon Rondon.

QPR goalkeeper Radek Cerny, 38, has signed a one-year deal with the club, who were still waiting to discover whether Joey Barton would be charged with affray for his alleged role in a dawn brawl outside a Liverpool nightclub earlier this week.
 

David Luiz

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Come in No 2! Clarke set to land West Brom top job after Anfield axe

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 05:46 GMT, 7 June 2012 | UPDATED: 05:48 GMT, 7 June 2012

Steve Clarke has emerged as the surprise frontrunner for the vacant West Brom managerial post after he left his role as Liverpool's assistant.

Clarke, 48, is set to step into England boss Roy Hodgson's shoes at the Hawthorns and is expected to signed a three-year deal worth £1million a season, according to The Sun.

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Stepping up: Clarke is set for his first managerial role


The Scot was No 2 to Kenny Dalglish at Anfield last season and has also had assistant roles at Newcastle, West Ham and Chelsea in the past.

The League Managers Association confirmed Clarke had left his post at Liverpool on Wednesday and it is understood the Reds agreed a £750,000 severance package with the former Chelsea defender.

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The new way: Brendan Rodgers has appointed his own backroom staff at Liverpool


Former Schalke boss Ralf Rangnick had been tipped for the Baggies' top job after an approach for Norwich-bound Birmingham boss Chris Hughton was rebuffed, but it now looks set to fall to Clarke to build on last season's 10th-placed finish.
 

David Luiz

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Jermain Defoe thanks well-wishers for condolences
The Tottenham Hotspur striker returned to Britain to be with his family after the sudden death of his father


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Van der Vaart eyes move to Serie A
The Dutch international would like to play in another country after taking in the Netherlands, Germany, Spain and England and the Italian league looks likely to be next


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Ralf Rangnick rejects West Brom job
The ex-Schalke manager has ruled himself out of the running to become the new Baggies manager after he suggested he was offered the job, and Steve Clarke is now favourite


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Hughton hoping to keep Holt at Norwich
New Canaries boss hopes the striker can be persuaded to withdraw his transfer request and remain at Carrow Road, while funds have been made available for him to spend


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Brendan Rodgers thanks Swansea staff and fans
In an open letter to his former club, the newly appointed Liverpool manager expressed his satisfaction at the job he did at the Liberty Stadium, hinting at a future return


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Word on the Tweet: Defoe's Tottenham team-mates pay tribute after striker's family bereavement
Tributes also flooded in from the Spanish Euro 2012 squad for Manolo Preciado, who died on Wednesday evening just hours after becoming the manager of Villarreal


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Dinamo Kiev sign Kranjcar from Tottenham on four-year deal
Out-of-favour Croatia ace reveals delight at sealing Kiev switch following a six-year spell in the Premier League, three of which were spent in north London


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Premier League coaches tip Spain to win Euro 2012
Only a minority of top flight bosses surveyed see Roy Hodgson's team progressing beyond the quarter-finals, but think Joe Hart will be their star man


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Moses will stay and develop into a top star at Wigan, insists owner Whelan
Latics owner says the young star is "not going anywhere" and is hopeful that he will sign a new deal that has been offered despite reported interest from elsewhere


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Chelsea stadium move stalls as club outbid on Battersea Power Station site
Alternatives will now have to be found after the club's attempts to move to the Wandsworth area end having been outbid by Malaysian developers SP Setia and Sime Darby


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Defoe returns to England following father's death
The forward has left the Three Lions' base camp in Poland but will return "in due course", with no replacement call-up planned, according to the Football Association


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Moses claims interest from Liverpool and Chelsea
The Wigan forward has admitted he could be persuaded to move away from the DW Stadium this summer and also revealed an ambition to play in Italy's Serie A later in his career


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'Disappointed' Whelan claims money is behind Diame departure from Wigan
Latics owner aims parting shot at highly-rated Senegalese midfielder who is a free agent after rejecting a new deal at Lancashire club but has seen move to Liverpool break down


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Manchester City plan shock Sturridge return with £10m bid
Roberto Mancini is keen to re-sign the club's former academy star and take advantage of the England international's current contract stalemate with Chelsea
 

David Luiz

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Norwich City confirm Chris Hughton as new manager


Norwich City have named Chris Hughton as their new manager just 24 hours after former manager, Paul Lambert, officially took over at Aston Villa.


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Back in the top-flight: Chris Hughton will return to the Premier League as manager at Norwich City Photo: PA


By Telegraph Sport

3:32PM BST 07 Jun 2012

The 53 year-old Hughton has transferred to Norfolk from Birmingham, and although it was difficult to leave he said he is ready for a new challenge.

"I had a very good year [with Birmingham City] ... it's a wonderful club," Hughton said. "I am looking forward to the challenge in front of me."

Lambert steered Norwich back to the Premier League during his two-year stint at the club. Norwich finished 12th last season, four places higher than Villa.

"It's a wonderful achievement," Hughton said of his Norwich predecessor's campaign, and added: "It's a hard act to follow ... but it's about the club moving forward."

With Hughton in charge, Birmingham finished in fourth place in the English second tier Championship last season.

Hughton led Newcastle before moving to Birmingham a year ago.
 
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David Luiz

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Luka Modric to join Man Utd


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UNITED BOUND .... Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric

EXCLUSIVE
By NEIL CUSTIS

Last Updated: 08th June 2012

LUKA MODRIC is on his way to Manchester United.

Boss Alex Ferguson has offered Tottenham a £25million fee, rising to £30m based on appearances and success.

Modric, 26, will be handed a four-year deal worth £26m.

His wages of £125,000 a week will put him among the big earners at Old Trafford.

Modric has kept up to date with talks while at Euro 2012 with Croatia and will seal the move on his return.

Spurs held off interest from Chelsea to hold on to the midfielder last year.

The Croatian said he had no intention of quitting Spurs having signed a six-year deal in May 2010.

United boss Fergie signed Japanese star Shinji Kagawa this week and wants Newcastle’s Cheick Tiote and Everton left-back Leighton Baines — but refuses to match the £20m valuations on each.
 

David Luiz

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Robin van Persie wouldn't leave Arsenal for Barcelona, Man City or Real Madrid, says father
The Dutch striker is in the last year of his contract at Arsenal, but despite speculation linking him with an Emirates exit, his dad has ruled out a switch to the Etihad Stadium


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Liverpool's appointment of Rodgers gives me hope, says Alonso
The Real Madrid man is optimistic about life at Anfield and is also pleased to see compatriot Fernando Torres enjoying success at Chelsea after a difficult start


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Mike Ashley will fund new signings, says Newcastle scout Graham Carr
The former Dagenham & Redbridge boss is certain the club’s owner is completely dedicated to the Magpies, and will be providing funds for the summer transfer window


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Cech expects goalkeeping understudy Courtois to go far with Chelsea
The experienced Stamford Bridge shot-stopper has proclaimed the young Blues keeper as one of the most talented players in Europe after a year-long loan spell at Atletico Madrid


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Dembele happy to stay at 'fantastic' Fulham despite Manchester United, City & Chelsea interest
The Cottagers player was converted from a forward to a midfielder by Martin Jol last season and the Belgian has attracted interest from Champions League clubs as a result


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Ben Arfa would only leave for a 'very serious proposition' but insists he is settled at Newcastle
After a successful season on Tyneside the playmaker has been attracting attention, but is happy to stay and feels settled at the club that took a gamble on him after his leg break


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Beckham set to survive latest Olympic cut - report
The LA Galaxy midfielder looks likely to make the next stage of the selection process for Stuart Pearce's squad for the tournament held in England this summer


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Suarez supports Rodgers appointment at Liverpool
The Uruguyan forward endured an up and down campaign last season on and off the pitch, but has backed the former Swansea boss to make an impact at Anfield next term


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Steve Clarke appointed new West Brom boss
After being denied permission to speak with Chris Hughton and turned down by Ralf Rangnick, the Midlands club have turned their attentions to the former Liverpool assistant manager


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Former Manchester City chief executive Garry Cook admits mistakes
During his time at the club, he offended Nedum Onuoha's mother, lambasted AC Milan while also brokering the deal that brought Abu Dhabi United Group to the club


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France must beat England, otherwise I will get teased by Manchester City team-mates, admits Nasri
The 24-year-old attacking midfielder is in no doubt that he will be mercilessly mocked upon his return to the Etihad Stadium if Les Bleus are beaten by Roy Hodgson's men


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Norwich City give Chris Hughton deserved second shot at the Premier League
The former Newcastle boss takes the reigns at Carrow Road after being sacked at St James' Park and just missing out on another promotion to the Premier League with Birmingham


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Jermain Defoe thanks well-wishers for condolences
The Tottenham Hotspur striker returned to Britain to be with his family after the sudden death of his father

 

David Luiz

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Man United finally agree £4m deal for Crewe play-off final hero Powell


By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 22:34 GMT, 8 June 2012 | UPDATED: 00:44 GMT, 9 June 2012

Manchester Unitedhave agreed a £4m deal for Crewe attacking midfielder Nick Powell, 18.

Powell's marvellous goal helped his team overcome Cheltenham 2-0 in the League Two play-off final.Sir Alex Ferguson has been tracking Powell for several weeks and now the Red Devils have made their move.

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Talent: Nick Powell (right) demonstrated his ability in the play-off final

Around £2m of the fee is paid up front and the rest will follow, based on the teenager's appearances.It is possible the youngster will go back to Crewe on loan for a season and he is thought to be anxious to secure he will be playing regular football next season.

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New recruit: Kagawa has completed a deal to join United already this summer

 

David Luiz

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Chelsea land 'next Hazard' just days after signing £32m Belgian playmaker


By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 23:23 GMT, 8 June 2012 | UPDATED: 00:44 GMT, 9 June 2012

Chelsea have beaten Arsenal and Manchester City to sign one of Europe's most highly-rated teenagers by snapping up 15-year-old Charly Musonda from Anderlecht.

The attacking midfielder reportedly held talks with Arsenal in London last month and has frequently been watched by City scouts after being tipped to make as big an impact on the game as his compatriot Eden Hazard, who joined Chelsea for £32m last week.

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Real deal: Chelsea new boy Eden Hazard


But Musonda has decided to follow former Lille midfielder Hazard to Chelsea, who have wrapped up a deal for him and his two brothers, Tika and Lamisha.

All three are Belgium youth internationals, but Charly Jnr, whose father played for Zambia as well as Anderlecht, where he still works as kitman, is far and away the outstanding prospect.
 

David Luiz

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Spurs ponder shock free move for Seedorf after veteran's AC Milan exit

By ASHLEY GRAY PUBLISHED: 08:56 GMT, 8 June 2012 | UPDATED: 00:45 GMT, 9 June 2012

Tottenham have been linked with a surprise move for Dutch veteran Clarence Seedorf.
The 36-year-old is leaving AC Milan on a free transfer this summer and has six offers from across the football world. Sources close to the player claim at least one English club are keen to sign him, with reports in Brazil naming Tottenham as making an approach.

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Respect: Clarence Seedorf (left) with Pierluigi Collina in Warsaw this week


Sportsmail revealed last year that Manchester City were keen to sign the midfielder, but he opted to stay at the San Siro for another season.

The former Ajax man also has offers from USA’s MLS, the United Arab Emirates, China and Brazil.

One of the offers from Asia is believed to be worth a whopping £20million over three years, but Seedorf’s representative Deborah Martin has insisted that money alone is not decisive.

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End of an era: Seedorf is leaving Milan


She has been in Rio de Janeiro for talks with Botafogo, who are increasingly confident that they can secure his signature.

Seedorf, who was born in the South American country Suriname, has previously spoken of his desire to play in Brazil and is exploring how to a move to Botafogo could incorporate social and business projects in the run-up to the 2014 World Cup.

But his advisers have expressed concern at the case of Ronaldinho, who rescinded his contract with Flamengo after allegedly going unpaid millions of pounds over many months.

 

David Luiz

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Spurs demand £35m for Modric as Sir Alex bides time for Croatia midfielder


By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 22:24 GMT, 8 June 2012 | UPDATED: 00:44 GMT, 9 June 2012

Tottenham will demand at least £35million from Manchester United for Croatia midfielder Luka Modric.United are set to beat Chelsea to the Spurs playmaker, once the he returns from Euro 2012, but had hoped to pay around £25m initially with a further £5m in performance-related additions.

Modric is in line for a bumper four-year contract worth £125,000-a-week, and £26m in all.

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Warming up: Luka Modric (centre) during a Croatia training session in Warka


The 26-year-old midfielder is preparing for Euro 2012 with the Croatia squad but will sort his future once his tournament is over.

Slaven Bilic's side face a fight to qualify from a tough group, which contains Italy, Spain and the Republic of Ireland, their first opponents of the tournament in Poznan on Sunday.

Despite the £17m signing this week of midfielder Shinji Kagawa, United fans have been desperate for the club to splash out on a big name.

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In the bag: Shinji Kagawa has signed for United from Borussia Dortmund


Supporters are concerned that United's spending power in the transfer market in being inhibited by using funds to pay off the owning Glazer family's debt.

Tottenham had to fight to keep Modric out of Chelsea's clutches last year.

But with Harry Redknapp's side narrowly missing out on Champions League football next season, the club look likely to lose several big stars this summer.
 

David Luiz

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Schalke manager Huub Stevens confirms talks with Van der Vaart agent
The Netherlands international continues to be linked with the Bundesliga side, whose coach is keen to be reunited with the 29-year-old, who previously played under him at Hamburg


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Manchester United have wanted me for the last four seasons, claims Benzema
The Real Madrid striker has claimed that Sir Alex Ferguson has been chasing his signature for the many years, but insists that is happy at Santiago Bernabeu


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Arsenal won't break bank to keep Van Persie, warns chairman Hill-Wood
The Gunners are prepared to lose the PFA Player of the Year if his demands for a new contract mean the club cannot afford to keep the Dutch star at the Emirates


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England will lose without Rooney, says Saha
The out-of-contract Tottenham forward has tipped his countrymen to beat Roy Hodgson's Lions, with Real Madrid goal-machine Karim Benzema to score


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'Vertonghen will be a brilliant signing for Tottenham' - Ajax star Christian Eriksen
The Ajax captain is set to move to White Hart Lane this summer and the Danish striker feels his club-mate has outgrown the Dutch league


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West Ham to step up Holt bid with improved £4.2m offer for wantaway Norwich striker
The 31-year-old has handed in a transfer request and remains determined to leave Carrow Road, despite the Canaries' reluctance to sell


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Manchester City make last-ditch bid to keep De Jong
The Dutch midfielder, whose contract expires at the end of next season, will hold one final set of talks with his club after Euro 2012 as Arsenal, Inter & QPR lie in wait


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Arsenal's Johan Djourou set for Italian move, says agent
The representative of the Gunners' defender has revealed that Serie A is the player's most likely destination, having expressed his desire to leave the Emirates


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Family pressures mean Van Persie is more likely than ever to stay at Arsenal
The Gunners have reason to be optimistic as quotes emerge from the Dutchman's father suggesting the 28-year-old is leaning towards staying at the Emirates Stadium


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Robin van Persie wouldn't leave Arsenal for Barcelona, Man City or Real Madrid, says father
The Dutch striker is in the last year of his contract at Arsenal, but despite speculation linking him with an Emirates exit, his dad has ruled out a switch to the Etihad Stadium
 

David Luiz

Alfrescian (Inf)
Asset

Roberto Di Matteo set to be given one-year deal as Chelsea's new manager

Chelsea last night appeared set to concede defeat - for now - in their attempts to secure Pep Guardiola as manager by preparing to announce that Roberto Di Matteo would remain in the post.

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Just rewards: Roberto Di Matteo coached Chelsea to Champions League glory Photo: GETTY IMAGES

By Jason Burt

8:55PM BST 10 Jun 2012

Despite leading Chelsea to a Champions League triumph, and winning the FA Cup, Di Matteo had to wait until the weekend to find out whether he would keep his job. It appears that he has been offered only a one-year deal.

Talks have been ongoing for the past week with Di Matteo increasingly confident that he would secure a deal although he will be disappointed at the length of contract.

Senior figures at the club remain unsure whether the former West Bromwich Albion manager is the right man to take over.

While hardly a ringing endorsement of Di Matteo, it is understood the Italian is prepared to accept the offer and is expected to sign a new contract when he returns from holiday in the United States later this week.

The 42 year-old’s current deal, as interim head coach, expires at the end of this month. His assistant, Eddie Newton, is also expected to agree a new contract.

Di Matteo was promoted from assistant manager after Andre Villas-Boas was sacked by Chelsea at the beginning of March and was charged with the task of gaining Champions League qualification.

Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League — a place below they were when Villas-Boas was sacked — but won the Champions League.

Even though there is an acknowledgement within the club that Di Matteo enjoyed a huge slice of fortune, there is a belief that he should be credited with the way in which he galvanised the team and turned the season around.

Despite his achievements, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich had appeared reluctant to confirm Di Matteo and discussions took place, even after the Champions League trophy was won last month, as to whether Guardiola could be persuaded to take over after he announced he was quitting Barcelona.

Guardiola has maintained that he wants to take a year-long sabbatical from football although he did relent on that timetable before Barcelona’s final match of the season, saying he could be “seduced” by the right club before clarifying that he still intended to take some “months” off.

The problem for Di Matteo, given the short contract he has been offered, is that he will have to deal with the spectre of Guardiola being in the background. If Chelsea start next season poorly, or the style of football is not deemed acceptable by Abramovich, then the pressure on him will build quickly and his position could become untenable.

Abramovich also considered a raft of other candidates such as Marseille coach Didier Deschamps, France’s Laurent Blanc and others such as former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez and Fabio Capello before reasoning that if he could not get Guardiola then he would keep Di Matteo.

The Italian will have to adapt the style of play of the team away from the defensive counter-attacking approach which proved successful at the end of the season but is not what Abramovich has demanded.

The new manager also has to conduct an overhaul of the Chelsea squad which started with the departure of Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and Jose Bosingwa and with the acquisition of £35 million play-maker Eden Hazard and attacking midfielder Marko Marin.

Meanwhile Abramovich is set to make a personal check on Poland forward Robert Lewandowski during Russia’s Euro 2012 clash with the co-hosts in Warsaw.

Lewandowski, top scorer in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund last season, was watched repeatedly by Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City and Arsenal last term.

Bayern Munich are also interested in the striker.
 

David Luiz

Alfrescian (Inf)
Asset


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Arsenal's Alexandre Song assaulted in Cameroon
The Arsenal midfielder was assailed with blows from angry fans following the Indomitable Lions’ 2-1 defeat to Libya last weekend in a 2014 World Cup qualifying game


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Kagawa: Agreement with Manchester United is done
The Japan international revealed he has spoken to Sir Alex Ferguson and that his move to Old Trafford is almost complete pending a medical, with official news to come


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Dunga: Hulk is a player everyone wants
The 48-year-old coach was full praise for the powerful striker, who in his opinion would be a quality addition to any club in the world


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Parker vows to fight through the pain of troublesome Achilles injury
The 31-year-old is confident he and Steven Gerrard can play three games in nearly a week, while Glen Johnson has also declared his intentions to play through the pain barrier


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Huth signs three-year contract extension with Stoke
The German will remain at the Britannia Stadium until 2016, with Potters boss Tony Pulis pleased to retain one of the club's 'best signings' since promotion to the Premier League


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Chelsea not the only team chasing Hulk, agent claims
The Porto striker's representative has asserted that the Champions League holders are not the only club interested in his client, who he maintains is happy with life in Portugal


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Debuchy to decide club future after Euro 2012
The highly-rated defender has been heavily linked with a move to Newcastle United, but is determined to focus on international duty before discussing a possible Lille departure


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Redknapp angered by Tottenham quit rumours
Claims that the 65-year-old had left his post at White Hart Lane had swirled around the internet following four months of uncertainty since Fabio Capello's England resignation


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Manchester United sign England Under-18 forward Nick Powell
The Red Devils have beaten off competition from a number of Premier League rivals to complete a deal for the talented youngster who has described the move as “a dream come true"


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Arsenal close in on deal for France striker Giroud
The France international has been subject of much interest from top clubs, with the likes of Bayern Munich also reportedly keen, but the Gunners now appear to be in pole position


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Dortmund insist Lewandowski not joining Manchester United
The German champions have once again stressed that the Poland international is not bound for Old Trafford, while adding BVB have not received any offers for the striker


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Liverpool hope to beat Schalke to Kalou signing
German side's manager admits that a lot of clubs are chasing the Ivorian forward but thinks that his team are in the driving seat because the winger wants to move abroad


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PSG set to rival Manchester United for Modric - report
Paris Saint-Germain have joined the hunt for Tottenham's 26-year-old combative midfielder, and are prepared to use their financial muscle to outbid the Red Devils


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Liverpool keen for Aquilani to seal full-time AC Milan move - report
Aquilani arrived at Anfield from Roma in 2009 but his first year at the club was blighted by injuries and he has spent the past two seasons in Italy

 

David Luiz

Alfrescian (Inf)
Asset

'Dream come true' for Powell as Man United snap-up £4m Crewe youngster

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 16:59 GMT, 12 June 2012 | UPDATED: 02:01 GMT, 13 June 2012

Manchester United have completed their second signing of the summer with highly-rated Crewe youngster Nick Powell joining on a four-year deal.

The 18-year-old England Under 18 international is considered one of the nation's hottest prospects and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has beaten off the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City for his services.

The deal is believed to be in the region of £4million with £2.75m being paid up front to the newly-promoted League One side.

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United he stands: Nick Powell has joined Manchester United

It is understood that Blackburn are interested in allowing Powell experience in the Championship next season on a short-term deal but Ferguson is likely to reject that offer and put him on a fast-track into his first-team plans.

Ferguson told the club's official website: 'We have scouted Nick for months now. He is an exceptional talent and has been schooled well at Crewe.

'I’m delighted he has chosen to come to United. He has a lot to offer and we are all looking forward to working with him.'

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New addition: Shinji Kagawa has also joined the ranks

Powell described the move as a 'dream come true' after following Japan international Shinji Kagawa as the club's second summer arrival.

'It really is a dream come true to be signing for Manchester United,' he said.

'I have had a great time at Crewe and I would like to thank them for helping me to develop as a player over the past 13 years.

'I’m excited about continuing my development with Sir Alex and the world-class players in the squad.

'The thought of making the step up to the Premier League next season is an exciting prospect. I can’t wait to get started.'

 
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