Talk Football Here... - Part 7

[30stone]

Ak-8eOBzIWA&feature=player_embedded

[30stone]

Arsenal should sign that man!

Along with Chamakh

[30stone]

Real Madrid attempt at the greatest transfer in history thwarted

Real Madrid have been considering buying out Lionel Messi’s contract at Barcelona in what would have been regarded as one of the greatest transfers in the history of professional football but the player himself has squashed any such talk, for now at least anyway.

Responding the the speculation Lionel Mess said

“The truth is that I don’t ever see myself in Madrid or at any other club, I’m very happy at Barcelona and if it were up to me I would continue here for many years.

“It is true that you never know what will happen but I insist that will never be for me because I want to stay at Barcelona for all the time I have left playing and more.”

It is interesting that he accepted that you never know what will happen but some advice for the young Argentinian before he even thinks about a future move to Real Madrid, look at the videos of Figo when he played for Real Madrid against Barcelona after his transfer between the two, they through everything at him did the Barca fans including mobile phones and a pigs head!

It does at least show the nerve of Real Madrid that they think they could pull this off, no player in world football is safe from their clutches.



250m release clause in his contract.. lol 250m??

[30stone]

Watch that video on gourcuff it shows how amazing he is..

[30stone]

OE15wHkL0UI&feature=fvst


Arsenal will have an extra style of play with someone that can score that many headers..

[bbfan1991]

Inter Milan Serie A Champions!:):cheer:, thats the 18th time they won it now and one better than AC:D.

Sevilla got 4th in La Liga yesterday:thumbs:.

[Harry!]

Ben you post too many stories lol.

[bbfan1991]

Swansea City have confirmed Besian Idrizaj has died at his Austrian family home at the age of 22.


RIP how sad and still at a young age too:(.

[30stone]

Arsenal Want £16m Dutch Master: Wenger Plots Move to Capture AC Milan Man Huntelaar

Arsene Wenger is ready to splash the cash this summer and is planning a significant bid for AC Milan striker Klaas Jan Huntelaar. With Brazilian Leonardo being relieved of his duties at the San Siro the Italian giants are set for a turbulent time and the Arsenal boss believes this could be the perfect time to try to move for the faltering Dutchman.

Having experienced a nightmare season at Real Madrid, Huntelaar was offloaded to AC Milan for a fee in the region of £14m and injuries and lack of first team opportunities have left the 26 year old wondering how to resurrect his stuttering career.

Arsenal experienced a massive injury crisis in the attacking third of the field last season and were reduced to having to play some of the season with players out of position. Wenger may well feel that such a crisis hampered his title push and wants to bring in experienced players to help bring an end to a five season silverware-less drought.

Huntelaar would surely jump at the chance of such a move and Wenger may well feel that partnering the former Ajax man with his compatriot Robin Van Persie may well help the Emirates side mount a sustained challenge for significant silverware next season.

[30stone]

Ben you post too many stories lol.

Shh.

[Novo]

3qY6BYPwEsg

The Best Footballer Ever.

[30stone]

Manchester United and Arsenal set to fight for Everton defender Phil Jagielka - report

Manchester United and Arsenal will compete to sign Everton centre-back Phil Jagielka in the summer.

Gunner boss Arsene Wenger believes that the 28 -year-old would do well in a central defense partnership with Thomas Vermaelen and provide some experience for the young team.

Sir Alex Ferguson is also interested in acquiring the former England international, who can also play full-back and midfield, to boost United’s strength for next season.

Jagielka missed much of the season after suffering a severe knee injury last April and despite returning to the Toffees late in the season the defender could not find his way into Fabio Capello’s provisional England squad.

United and Arsenal could start the bidding for Jagielka at £15million but Everton manager David Moyes will not let the defender go easily.



QUALITY defender.



One for Andy..

[30stone]

3qY6BYPwEsg

The Best Footballer Ever.

hr1utneP4u0


H8GuxcFuw58&feature=related

[Novo]

15 MIL???

Would take that for him anyday

Don't need to sign any midfielders this season really as we have more then enough and is by far our strongest position, Cahill, Arteta, Billyaletdinov, Pienaar, Fellaini, Rodwell, Gosling, Osman, Heitinga can play there as well, And Phil Neville

Defence needs polishing up a bit i think, Heitinga, Distin, Yobo, Baines, Need to be the back 4 and Hibbert needs to go,

And we need a pacey striker as we only have Yakubu and Saha neither of them have great pace, Victor Anichebe is average and so is Vaughan neither will score a great amount of goals.

[King Gizzard]

If Lescott is worth 22million then Jagielka is worth 44million lol

[30stone]

15 MIL???

Would take that for him anyday

Don't need to sign any midfielders this season really as we have more then enough and is by far our strongest position, Cahill, Arteta, Billyaletdinov, Pienaar, Fellaini, Rodwell, Gosling, Osman, Heitinga can play there as well, And Phil Neville

Defence needs polishing up a bit i think, Heitinga, Distin, Yobo, Baines, Need to be the back 4 and Hibbert needs to go,

And we need a pacey striker as we only have Yakubu and Saha neither of them have great pace, Victor Anichebe is average and so is Vaughan neither will score a great amount of goals.

Same with us we have a great midfield..

Our defence is slacking and without RVP we have no attacking options..

If Lescott is worth 22million then Jagielka is worth 44million lol

Lescott was an over inflated price payed by man city because moyes wouldnt let him leave.

Worth about 12m.. so jag worth 15 - 16m.


Cant forget that lescott at everton was actually a really good player.

[30stone]

tehp2KrAkqU

[30stone]

Joe hart becoming one of my favourite players.

[Novo]

Chelsea (1st)
Manchester United (2nd)
Arsenal (3rd)
Barcelona (1st)
Real Madrid (2nd)
Valencia (3rd)
Internazionale (1st)
Roma (2nd)
Milan (3rd)
Bayern Munich (1st)
Schalke 04 (2nd)
Marseille (1st)
Lyon (2nd)
Rubin Kazan (1st)
Spartak Moscow (2nd)
Shakhtar Donetsk (1st)
Twente (1st)
CFR Cluj (1st)
Benfica (1st)
Bursaspor (1st)
Panathinaikos (1st)
Rangers (1st)


All the teams that will be in the group stages of the champions league next season :)

22 All together so far with 10 qualifying from the qualifying rounds

[30stone]

Dont 16 qualify?

[bbfan1991]

LOL the NOTW reckons that Manchester City will offer £40 million plus Emmanuel Adebayor and Stephen Ireland to Liverpool for Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres. LOL never going to happen:laugh2::joker:.

[bbfan1991]

Michael Ballack ruled out of World Cup;).

[Novo]

Dont 16 qualify?

Not sure how it worked last year

but this year 22 go straight into the group stages leaving 10 spots remaining for the teams who make the Qualifying stage of the champions league

[Novo]

http://a323.yahoofs.com/ymg/ept_sports_sow_experts__4/ept_sports_sow_experts-438578314-1272226953.jpg?ymJijCDDDl7OvbCO

[30stone]

Michael Ballack ruled out of World Cup;).


Noo :(
Not sure how it worked last year

but this year 22 go straight into the group stages leaving 10 spots remaining for the teams who make the Qualifying stage of the champions league

Ohh right i get cha.

[30stone]

Leeds move for Arsenal keeper Szczesny

Leeds United are moving to take Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny on loan next season.

The 6ft 5in Polish international, who earned his first full cap against Canada last year aged 19, has been impressive on loan at Brentford.

He turned in a man-of-the-match performance against promoted Leeds, and Simon Grayson wants him to replace the released Casper Ankergren.

[30stone]

Manchester United May Make Shock Move for £18m Rated Defensive Midfielder: Sir Alex Targets Inter Milan Man Cambiasso

Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly interested in signing Inter Milan’s massively experienced Argentine midfielder Esteban Cambiasso. The Manchester United boss is looking to bring in defensive minded midfield options as he considers alternative to injury prone Owen Hargreaves who himself may be on his way to an Old Trafford exit.

Reports from Italy suggest that if San Siro boss Jose Mourinho decides to make a much speculated move to Real Madrid, who are apparently about to sack Manuel Pellegrini, then a number of Inter Milan players could be set to leave the club. Esteban Cambiasso was surprisingly left out of Diego Maradona’s Argentine World Cup squad but picked himself up to help Inter to yet another Serie A title.

Ferguson is known to be a fan of the former Real Madrid and River Plate man and the 29 year old may feel that the time is right for a new challenge after six seasons, and five titles, in Serie A. If the defensive midfielder manages to net the Champions League next week then he may feel a departure even more timely.

Manchester United have been linked with a number of midfielders after seeing players like Michael Carrick and Anderson put in a fairly average seasons. Add to that the fact that Paul Scholes is nearing the end of his glittering career at the club and the signs point to the need for reinforcements. Cambiasso is a vastly experienced performer and is extremely fit and has many seasons left in the tank and could well be a smart signing.

[30stone]

Arsenal poised to unveil Marouane Chamakh as striker arrives in London to seal deal

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1279222/Arsenal-poised-unveil-Marouane-Chamakh-striker-arrives-London-seal-deal.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0oEO2IJiJ

[30stone]

Tom Huddlestone, Pass Master?

Adding to the long list of columns by Martin Samuel which are completely and utterly wrongheaded and stupid, today he actually calls Tom Huddlestone a “pass master.”

Harry Redknapp, manager of Tottenham Hotspur, says Huddlestone is the best passer at the club and this is a team that includes Croatia’s playmaker Luka Modric, remember.

Clearly, Fourth-Place-Itis combined with the impending English national delusion which always accompanies the World Cup finals have combined to create a fever in Martin Samuel. He even compares the Chef to Gilberto Silva.

Want to see how delusional this idea is? Here’s a chalkboard of Tom Huddlestone v. Denilson in the passes category during Spuds’ 2-1 epic win.



http://i40.tinypic.com/33w2lpw.jpg

Huddlestone completed just 18 passes, total. In fact, he misplaced 6 passes which was one less than Denilson misplaced. Of course, Denilson completed 40 more passes than Chef Huddlestone for a total of 58 passes to the Chef’s 18.

Proving once again that if you get your “facts” from Harry Redknapp, you’re a moron.

Hell, Silvestre had more passes than Huddlestone and I don’t think anyone would call him a pass master.

[30stone]

Diaby makes the cut

For those interested, Abou Diaby has survived Raymond Domenech’s first cut of the French World Cup team and looks all but assured to travel to South Africa and watch from the bench as Les Bleus are unceremoniously dumped out of the tournament in the first round.

Yay.

Interestingly for Arsenal fans, supposed Arsenal targets Yann M’Vila and Hatem Ben Arfa were both cut by Domenech. Hey, if we buy one of them they will be well rested for the start of the season!

[30stone]

LOL


when you where 13 was you fast ?

AA:
Yes, and even when I was 7. Fast as a lightning.

[30stone]

Hey Andrey...thanks for this site...i am from India....i love football and play it with my friends in our college ground.......we don't have a coach....so our team dose not do very well in competitions....so, may I ask you how we can work on our teamwork?.....and also could you please tell me how i can improve my finishing?...any special kind of training that i may do..?...thanking you in advance...
yours sincerely.
Aritra Roy

AA:
Just hire me and if the contract is good I’ll try to make champions out of you in my spare time ;)

[30stone]

Andrey, are you frightened of bears?

AA:
On the contrary, I like bears.

[30stone]

Hello there! , what would you say your political views are?

AA:
Globally speaking I’m for world peace.

[30stone]

Andrey, was Windows 7 your idea?

AA:
Unfortunately, no.

[30stone]

Press speculation this weekend has been rife with almost every major club subjected to speculation of one sort or another with Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United appearing to be the team most rumoured about. Ferguson knows he needs to strengthen his team and get rid of some of the deadwood at Old Trafford and for the most part the press and media do agree on the three players that Fergie will consider bids for.

The three players in question are Owen Hargreaves, Michael Carrick and Dimitar Berbatov, Hargreaves is apparently very unhappy with Ferguson and wants a move, Carrick is viewed as a player in decline while Berbatov never reach the heights at Man Utd that was expected of him.

Ferguson is not looking to raise money, rather he is looking to revitalise a team that fell very short last season, Berbatov simply did not produce when the club needed him to and Carrick’s form has been inconsistent to such an extent that even Bayern Munich who were once said to be interested, backed off.

Naturally Man Utd could do with some extra money no matter how much the club says that Fergie can spend, they are in heavy debt and any extra income is welcomed, especially when Fergie is expected to spend as much as £50 Million this summer.

It is now looking more and more likely that we will see a huge shake up at Man Utd this summer with a significant turnover of players, certainly more than in previous seasons.

[30stone]

Chamakh deal to be completed.

Chamakh's arrival at the Emirates Stadium has been in the pipeline for several months after he revealed he would not be signing an extension to his contract - allowing him to leave on a free this summer.

The 26-year-old confirmed earlier this month he was 'counting the days' until his move to the Gunners was finalised - revealing he was to be in London this week.

More: Arsenal transfer news and rumours

And now Chamakh has arrived at the Emirates Stadium, where he will complete a full medical and put pen to paper on a contract believed to tie him to the club until 2014.

Two weeks ago, the French forward told L'Equipe: 'I am leaving for a new challenge.

'At Bordeaux I was the club's child. At Arsenal, I won't be a kid anymore. I have grown, I have things to prove and I am motivated to achieve it.

'I am delighted to join the English football atmosphere, it is something amazing.

More: Marouane Chamakh 'counting the days' until Arsenal move

'I love Arsenal's game. I know I will have to adapt but I know the short passing game.'

Chamakh is expected to be the first of several new signings by Arsene Wenger this summer as he looks to build a squad capable of ending the club's five-year trophy drought.

[30stone]

Man City looking to upset Arsenal big time with unwarranted bid

Arsenal manager is reported to be furious with Roberto Mancini the Manchester City manager for his attempts to unsettle his captain Cesc Fabregas. Man City are ready to make a bid for Fabregas even if Barcelona decline to do so, but it is the fact that Fabregas has said numerous times that he will not play for another premiership team and that he will leave Arsenal only for Barcelona and that City have chosen just to ignore those statements.

The fact is that Fabregas will not go to Manchester City no matter how much they offer for him or to the player himself and City know this and it is easy to see why Wenger would be mad, City are bidding for a player that they know will not join them from a club that are their direct competitors and it is up to the reader to decide the motivation behind launching a bid that is guaranteed to fail.

Man City are making no friends at all in World football with their antics, they have continually unsettled players with mighty bids and Arsenal and Wenger are just the tip of the iceberg, other managers are furious with the tactics employed by City and the way they conduct their business.

Wenger knows he has a battle on his hands to keep hold of Fabregas and the last thing he needs is for the likes of Mancini and his mega transfer fund to stick his nose in to an already complicated situation. Fabregas may well not be at the Emirates next season, he may stay, that is still up in the air but what is certain is that the Arsenal captain will under no circumstances become a City player next season.



Wankers

[30stone]

Man Utd set to show they are still the big boys with club record bid

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is about to send out a message of intent by launching a huge bid for Bayern Munich’s Franck Ribery. Ferguson will show the rest of European football that Man Utd are still one of the biggest boys on the block and that when required the Old Trafford maestro will spend big to get the man he wants.

Ferguson is a fervent admirer of Ribery and has made no secret of his desire to bring the player to Old Trafford and even with a bid reported to be in the region of £50 Million and Man Utd having huge debts, the canny Scotsman will show the world of football that Man Utd can still bid with the best of them.

That said Fergie is hoping to offset the cost of bidding for Ribery by selling the likes of Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Carrick which will go a long way to reducing the overall cost of Ribery to the Premiership runners up.

Ribery would form a terrifying partnership with Wayne Rooney and Fergie’s spending will not stop there, he is still very hopeful of signing David Silva from Valencia as well as looking for a keeper to replace Edwin van der Sar who’s career at Man Utd is fast approaching an end.

A bid like the one being reported for Ribery would certainly be an eye opener considering Man Utd’s debt but then Fergie does have a habit of surprising us on a regular basis.


50m on a 27 year old who lets be honest is not the best in the world.

[30stone]

Barcelona willing to offer Ibrahimovic for Arsenal ace Cesc

Barcelona are weighing up offering Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Arsenal in exchange for Cesc Fabregas.

El Mundo Deportivo says Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger would soften his stance over keeping Cesc if Ibrahimovic was offered in part exchange.

Despite the arrival of Marouane Chamakh from Bordeaux, Wenger would still welcome the chance to sign the Swede - who actually came close to joining the Gunners as a teenager.

Barca want a deal for Cesc before the World Cup, which will mean Ibra being offered to the Gunners in the coming weeks.

[30stone]

Arsenal Apparently Set for £55m Heartache: Wenger Set to Lose Emirates Skipper to Barcelona?

http://www.caughtoffside.com/2010/05/18/arsenal-apparently-set-for-55m-heartache-wenger-set-to-lose-emirates-skipper-to-barcelona/


Finally a price tag fitting for him. 55m yes.

40m no way!

[30stone]

Everton determined to keep Man Utd, Arsenal target Jagielka

Everton will not consider selling defender Phil Jagielka.

The England international was linked with Arsenal and Manchester United over the weekend.

The Liverpool Echo says any approach for Jagielka will be strongly resisted by Everton..

With Jagielka valued at £15million upwards, Everton could make a huge profit on a player who cost just £4million.

[30stone]

flops

Chelsea may have just won the double but here’s my pick of the top (or bottom, depending how you look at it) five players who would rather forget their miserable time at Stamford Bridge.

Winston Bogarde

Bogarde’s time at Chelsea was notable because only weeks after signing his contract with the club, new boss Claudio Ranieri wanted him to leave. Signed without the knowledge of previous manager Gianluca Vialli, he arrived on recommendation from Mario Melchiot as an international pedigree defender.

Despite the London club’s desire to get rid, Bogarde demanded that his contract be respected and subsequently never played for Chelsea again. In the end he made just 11 appearances during his four year contract – reportedly earning £40,000 a week.

With his reputation in tatters, he failed to find a new club and retired at the age of 34.

Buy authentic signed sports memorabilia - Football shirts, boots, prints and photos

Juan Sebastian Veron

Roman Abramovich made a huge splash at the start of his tenure at the Bridge including the misguided £15m transfer of Veron from Manchester United in the summer of 2003. Astonishingly this was only around half the amount that Alex Ferguson had spent on bringing the Argentine to Old Trafford just two years earlier.

Predictably he failed to make the most of his second chance in English football and proved to be completely ineffectual in a Chelsea shirt.

Inexplicably his complete ineptitude on the football pitch appeared to be strictly confined to these shores as after only a handful of appearances for the Blues, he was loaned to Inter Milan where he helped them win two Scudettis.

Asier Del Horno

The special one got things right more often than not but how can we overlook the £8m fee Jose Mourinho paid to bring left back Del Horno to West London in the summer of 2005.

The Spaniard showed early promise but went downhill fast after being sent off against Barcelona for a rash challenge on Lionel Messi. Mourinho quickly lost faith in him and he was flogged to Valencia at a loss of £3m only a year later.


Andriy Shevchenko

The Ukrainian’s £30.8m transfer from AC Milan was an English record buy back in 2006 but he was to find himself permanently on the bench behind Didier Drogma after consistently failing to find the back of the net.

14 goals in 51 appearances was not really the return Chelsea were looking for and after being loaned back to Milan, he is now back with his first club Dynamo Kiev – for a fraction of his original transfer fee. Shocking business.

Adrian Mutu

Chelsea splashed out £15.8m on Mutu in 2003 but he was sacked for taking cocaine a year later. The Blues effectively gave the striker away for free, with Juventus signing him after his seven-month suspension.

They say lightening doesn’t strike twice but the Romanian international has just received a second lengthy bad after failing an anti-doping test in January. After successfully rebuilding the reputation he destroyed in England with Florentina, the striker will now be out of action for nine months.

[bbfan1991]

So Man City have put in a bid for James Milner.. can't see him leaving Villa for them:nono:.

[bbfan1991]

HT Millwall 1 Huddersfield 0.

[King Gizzard]

Oh dear I didn't realise Cesc was dumb, he won't get in the Barca first team

[30stone]

Cesc has reportedly told Wenger " i want to leave for barca this summer"


I think he will get first team, but he will be rotation not star player..

[30stone]

Manchester City and Arsenal in battle to sign £25 million-rated Bordeaux talisman Yoann Gourcuff - report
Bordeaux star could replace Fabregas at the Emirates

:shocked: !!

What i wanted for ages ! i would buy a gourcuff shirt.

Manchester City and Arsenal are set to go head-to-head to bring £25 million-rated Girondins de Bordeaux schemer Yoann Gourcuff to the Premier League.

French sports daily L'Equipe has reported that the French international is high on the shopping list of Roberto Mancini as he looks to add some extra craft to his side at Eastlands.

Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger has also ear-marked the former AC Milan midfielder as the man to fill Cesc Fabregas' shoes — if the 23-year-old makes the £40 million move to Barcelona in the summer.

Gourcuff, who is expected to be given a starting spot at the World Cup for France, has developed at a rapid rate under Laurent Blanc after an unhappy spell in Serie A. He notched seven assists and six goals in the club's unsuccessful bid to retain their Ligue 1 title last term.



Plays very well with chamakh

[30stone]

Barcelona could tempt Arsenal to let go of prized asset Cesc Fabregas by offering last summer's big money signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic in part-exchange.

Arsenal have slapped a massive £50 million price tag on their captain to ward off the long-held interest of the Catalan giants. However, Barcelona vice-president Rafael Yuste has confirmed today that negotiations have begun to bring the player back to his boyhood club.

Spanish daily El Mundo Deportivo has reported the Swedish superstar could be offered as a sweetener to break the Gunners' resolve. He was brought to the Nou Camp from Inter Milan a year ago for £40 million — with Samuel Eto'o heading in the opposite direction — but has yet to convince the supporters and staff of his value despite Barca's La Liga title triumph.
The 28-year old turned down the offer of a trial at Arsenal when he was a teenager, but any new move to bring him to north London would soften the blow of losing Fabregas — and his 21 goals in all competitions last season would certainly boost the north London club's bid to reclaim top spot in the Premier League.

[30stone]

http://www.blog4logos.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/body_paint_ad.jpg

[30stone]

Wenger and Arsenal declare they will not let fabregas leave for less than 40m.

[30stone]

ARSENAL have been linked with a £15million move for Everton defender Phil Jagielka.

The Sunday Mirror claims Arsene Wenger has identified the Toffees’ centre-half as a replacement for William Gallas, who has yet to put pen to paper on a new deal with the Gunners, with his contract running out this summer.

Wenger has admitted that he will look to strengthen his defence after seeing his team fall quickly off the pace of Chelsea and Manchester United in the season run-in.

Jagielka, 28, could fit the bill for the Gunners, although Everton are understood to be reluctant to part with one of their star players, while the price could be a sticking point.

[30stone]

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini eyes shock cross-town swoop for Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic

Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic is the shock number one defensive target for Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini, according to The Sun.

Mancini is in the hunt for a big-name centre back to bolster his leaky backline, as the club prepare for a push in to the upper echelons of the Premier League next season. Serbian international Vidic has the profile to fit the ambitious Blues' needs, and could be available for a £20 million fee.

Rumours have centred on the United defender's future all campaign, with unrest reported on the behalf of his wife who seeks a switch to sunnier climes. This demand is likely to prove an obstacle to Mancini, as if the player was to leave Old Trafford he is expected to move to Spain.

Furthermore, Vidic has stated recently his contentment at life with the top flight runners-up and was in imperious form in the final weeks of the season.


Never gunna happen.

[30stone]

Chelsea Could Smash Transfer Record With £48m Offer for Serie A Star: Ancelotti Ready to Sign AC Milan Striker Alexandre Pato


Carlo Ancelotti is ready to make a renewed attempt to snap up AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato this summer. The former AC Milan boss is keen to take advantage of the fact that the San Siro side are currently without a manager and believes he could lure the Brazilian away from the Italian club as they enter another period of uncertainty.

Chelsea are reportedly looking for new long term attacking options and have previously attempted to sign the talented 20 year old but are now ready to up their bid to around £48m. Silvio Berlusconi will however remember the anger that resulted in the club’s decision to cash in on Kaka last summer and may well try to hang on to the youngster.

However Pato will have become increasingly upset as he has seen Leonardo sacked and has himself sensationally been overlooked by Dunga and will miss out on the upcoming World Cup. All of these events may conspire to leave the former Internacional man thinking about a possible exit.

If the speedy intelligent striker makes it clear he wants to move to Stamford Bridge then AC Milan may have little choice than to take the money rather than be stuck with an unhappy player.




So pato worth 48m and fabregas only 40m?

[30stone]

Man Utd set to table a bid of £20 Million for Everton midfielder

Sir Alex Ferguson the Manchester United manager is set to table a bid of £20 Million to bring Everton’s Jack Rodwell to Old Trafford. Ferguson is concerned that he could lose out to Chelsea for the 19 year old and is hoping that such a big bid will be enough to secure the England U21 Internationals signature.

Chelsea have apparently already had a £16 Million bid refused and there is no guarantee that David Moyes will accept an increased offer from Manchester United but Fergie intends to make an official approach and force Moyes’s hand. Ferguson is keen to find long term replacements for the likes of Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs and other elder statemen at Old Trafford and Rodwell remains integral to Ferguson’s long term vision for the Red Devils.

Chelsea may well come on with another bid, something that Everton will be hoping for, Moyes is no dummy and he knows the chances of keeping Rodwell have diminished significantly with both Chelsea and Manchester very serious about the young midfielder and he will want to get as much money for the player as he can.

Ferguson is loathe to get in to a bidding war and is unlikely to offer more than £20 Million if Chelsea either match the offer or table a higher bid and so the end of this saga is close at hand, it is just a question of which colour shirt will Rodwell be wearing next season, Red of Manchester United or the blue of Chelsea.

[30stone]

Liverpool Set for £15m Attacking Midfielder Swap: Rafa Interested In Tottenham’s Bentley

Liverpool are considering a shock move for Tottenham misfit David Bentley this summer. Rafa Benitez is looking to bring in some bargains as he tries to add more creativity to his midfield using a shoestring budget and has identified the White Hart Lane man as a suitable target.

The former Arsenal man was excellent during the second half of the season when he got a run in the first team as a result of a long term injury suffered by Aaron Lennon. The 25 year old began to show the kind of performances that led to his big money move from Blackburn Rovers to Tottenham but is set for another season struggling to get into the starting eleven and so could be ready for a new challenge.

Harry Redknapp had made it clear that he would listen to offers for the England international and Rafa could well be ready to offer Yossi Benayoun in any deal. Benitez has used the Israeli international very sparingly over the past three seasons and is ready to consider a swap deal to help seal the deal. The north London club are keen to recoup as much of the £15m fee they paid for Bentley back in July 2008 as they can.

Liverpool have lacked natural width on the right for some time and have played Dirk Kuyt out on the wing for the best part of two years but the Anfield boss may feel that Bentley could offer more and is hoping that the carrot of first team football may help lure the Spurs man to Merseyside.

[bbfan1991]

David Villa joins Barcelona for £34.2 million from Valencia, medical on Friday great news:).

Fergie says that United are going to sign one player, in one way because of the debts he could be right then another part of me thinks he has transfer targets so is just keeping the press at bay so they don't find out who they are...

[Raph]

Cardiff - Blackpool (play-off finals)

Inter - Bayern (Champions League Final)

BB's Big Award Show

Lot to watch today! Come on Cardiff and Inter! :thumbs:

[bbfan1991]

Cardiff - Blackpool (play-off finals)

Inter - Bayern (Champions League Final)

BB's Big Award Show

Lot to watch today! Come on Cardiff and Inter! :thumbs:

Agreed:D.

[30stone]

-Arsenal confirm Chamakh signing.

-Gerrard ready to quit liverpool after finding out Benitez is staying.

-Man united are interested in 22m rated real madrid midfielder Van Der Vaart

-Arsenal want 16m rated italian and juventus defender Giorgio chiellini.

-Liverpool in for free transfer Adriano

-Aquilani possibly leaving liverpool for 11m - 15m to Juve.

[bbfan1991]

West Brom will hopefully stay up next season:thumbs:.

[30stone]

Hopefully.


Can see blackpool going right back down, and i think if cardiff would have won they woulda to..

[bbfan1991]

Hopefully.


Can see blackpool going right back down, and i think if cardiff would have won they woulda to..

I think that too but look at teams like Wigan who were tipped in their first season then ended up staying up and remained for a couple of seasons now so anything is possible.. hope they enjoy their moment:).

Think Sir Alex Ferguson is being clever in what he says to the press regarding transfer activity, obviously there is money available and debt situation is concerning but I think he's keeping any potential targets secret.

Arsenal definetly need to sort out the defence Ben;).

[30stone]

Yep gallas campbell and silvestre could all leave.. so we need at least 2 centre backs lol.


Im backing Neven Subotic!

[bbfan1991]

Yep gallas campbell and silvestre could all leave.. so we need at least 2 centre backs lol.


Im backing Neven Subotic!

Gallas is no loss tbh, Silvestre well he did play for United so I think it's a shame he could be off but he's had a tough time this season from the fans:p.

[30stone]

Gourcuff emerging as most likely to replace Cesc at Arsenal
20.05.10 | tribalfootball.com

Bordeaux midfielder Yoann Gourcuff is fast emerging as the player Arsenal want to replace Cesc Fabregas.

The Gunners are expected to lose Cesc to Barcelona some time this summer.

And among potential replacements, Gourcuff is emerging as the most likely.

The Bordeaux playmaker was instrumental as his team won through to the quarter-finals but the club fell short in the league - finishing sixth.

And with Les Girondins' manager Laurent Blanc primed to replace Raymond Domenech as the France national coach after the World Cup, the Gunners have a great opportunity to steal in.

[bbfan1991]

As disappointing as it would be to lose Cesc maybe Wenger should consider selling him then buying a few players with the money?;).

When Cesc goes back to the Nou Camp he'll have to rotate a lot and even though he's a good player a tad overrated for my liking.

[30stone]

Cesc is underated imo.


35m is what barca wanna pay.

If torres is 70m
augero 40 - 50
then fab is at least 50m.

[30stone]

Yeah id love us to get gourcuff..

[Raph]

Fuucking Gutted. :(

Chels' facebook status, 'sitting in the bar of a hotel just outside wembley, absolutley heartbroken. cried my eyes out. how did we manage to throw it away twice? :/'

Wise, wise words.

Cardiff Bluebirds for life.

[Raph]

Seriously, how did we let this happen? We were winning at two points in the game as well. We knew there'd be tears..were just hoping for the happy ones :/

[Raph]

mcgidzE8-0g


the better team lost. fact. :(

[Raph]

Inter better win tonight! If Blackpool get a cheap win, Inter should be allowed one just as much.


COME ON INTER!!

[Jayson]

http://www.fm-base.co.uk/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=23679&d=1262556258

[Raph]

http://www.blinkiesuk.com/CardiffLogo_Animation.gif

[Jayson]

I thought you were a Man U/West Ham fan

[Raph]

I thought you were a Man U/West Ham fan

Yeah Man-U is my favorite premier league.
Westham are just a cool team, and my best friend loves them, so I didn't want them relegated, that's all.
Cardiff is the closest thing to my home team, and the best Welsh team.

:)

[Jayson]

kl beans

[Raph]

:)

Who you for in the champions league Jayson?

[Raph]

INTER!!!! yes! If Cardiff lose to the cheap team, so should Bayern! :tongue:

[Jayson]

Probably Bayern for me.

[KG.]

Wahey, come on Inter!

[bbfan1991]

Really pleased Inter won!:hugesmile::dance:.

Jose Mourinho is a really good manager, he's off to Madrid anyway he'll need all the luck as winning doesn't mean everything there...

[Raph]

still gutted for Cardiff.

but chuffed about Inter :D

[30stone]

Blackpool free kick was amazing!

[Raph]

Blackpool free kick was amazing!

Don't remind me :(

How you doing btw, Ben? Been ages!

[30stone]

Pretty good cheers.you?

The Future's Bright!

[Raph]

Pretty good cheers.you?

The Future's Bright!

yeah i'm good too, came back to TiBB 2 days ago :)

Future's bright, as in for Cardiff? I sure hope so, in that case. Cardiff really deserve a place in the premiership now!

[30stone]

Nah for blackpool..
Hence the colour...

The future's bright the future's ..


Nah not a cardiff fan :)

[30stone]

Gerrard to consider 'next best move'

Steven Gerrard has plunged his Liverpool future into doubt by suggesting it will be time consider to his options after the World Cup.

Liverpool's failure to maintain their top four status and the loss of income and prestige from not playing in the Champions League means speculation rages about whether it may be time for Gerrard to move this summer, but he says he won't even think about it for the next month.

Gerrard said in the Daily Star Sunday: "I won't consider my future or think about what is going to happen to me until after the World Cup.

"After the World Cup you have three or four weeks of holiday to consider what the next best move will be for you."

The 29-year-old came closest to leaving the club in 2004 when Jose Mourinho took over at Chelsea and demanded his signature.

The 'Special One' is now set to take over at Real Madrid and could make a similar request, with Manchester City also ready to pay a British domestic record fee to complete the potential transfer.

[30stone]

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina believes club and country team-mate Fernando Torres will remain at Anfield next season.

Torres has been linked with a move away from Merseyside after the club's poor campaign, with Chelsea and Barcelona supposedly in the running for the Spain international's services.

But Reina spoke to his compatriot this week and claims Torres is committed to turning the club's fortunes around.

"I am calm about Fernando," Reina said in quotes reported by The People.

"I spoke to him about his future and he has told me that he intends to continue with us.

"Fernando suffered so many blows last season, but he is a professional and has always wanted to do well for us.

"That is what he remains - committed to this club."

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has also been strongly linked with a move away from the club this summer, with Inter Milan a possible destination, but Reina is equally convinced his manager will stay put.

"I am convinced that Rafa will still be with us and that is good for us because he wants revenge in the next campaign," he said.

[30stone]

Top 10 football transfers for summer 2010
The World Cup will highlight some of the very best talents in the world – but leading clubs are eager to hammer out deals ahead of South Africa. Telegraph Sport look at the top targets – and the teams who are chasing them.


1. Cesc Fabregas

Club: Arsenal.
Wanted by: Barcelona.
Probable Cost: £30-£50m.

The former Barcelona youth team player aches for a return to the Nou Camp and moves have already been put in place for the 23-year-old to leave Arsenal.

2. James Milner

Club: Aston Villa.
Wanted by: Manchester City, Manchester United.
Probable Cost: £25m.

Aston Villa’s World Cup winger is wanted by the two Manchester clubs. Having lost Gareth Barry to City, Villa will be reluctant to lose another important player.

3. Fernando Torres

Club: Liverpool.
Wanted by: Chelsea, Manchester City, Barcelona.
Probable Cost: £70m.

One of the world’s best strikers seems to be edging out of Anfield and after signing David Villa, Barcelona have joined the race. It could be messy.

4. Franck Ribery

Club: Bayern Munich.
Wanted by: Manchester United, Chelsea, Real Madrid.
Probable Cost: £55m.

A year ago Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer claimed Ribery was worth more than £80m. He will be cheaper than that but could he be a Premier League player soon? And at which team?

5. Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Club: Barcelona.
Wanted by: Manchester City, Arsenal, Real Madrid.
Probable Cost: £40m.

His days are almost certainly over at Barcelona following the arrival of David Villa, and the probable arrival of Cesc Fabregas could see the Swede at the Emirates. His former manager Roberto Mancini has also expressed an interest.

6. Hatem Ben Arfa

Club: Marseille.
Wanted by: Everton, Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid.
Probable Cost: £10m.

Just 23 but, having helped Marseille to a first French League title for 18 years, is regarded as capable of playing at a higher stage. A good World Cup will only increase his price so the race is on to get his signature before South Africa.

7. Joe Cole

Club: Chelsea.
Wanted by: Tottenham, Manchester City, Liverpool.
Cost: Free.

The England midfielder doesn’t want to leave Chelsea but with no offer yet on the table, he could be available, and Harry Redknapp, his former manager, is watching with interest.

8. Jerome Boateng

Club: Hamburg.
Wanted by: Manchester City.
Probable Cost: £11m.

The 21-year-old defender, brother of Portsmouth’s Kevin-Prince Boateng, has long been linked with City and is likely to be Roberto Mancini’s first summer signing.

9. Raul

Club: Real Madrid.
Wanted by: Tottenham.
Probable Cost: Free.

The mercurial Spaniard is coming towards the end of his career but still has goals in him and if Spurs could persuade Real to give the striker a free, then they could get the ‘marquee signing’ they have promised.

10. Pablo Hernandez

Club: Valencia
Wanted by: Chelsea
Cost: £18m.

The winger is said to have a release clause of around £45m but Valencia’s financial situation means they may accept considerably less for the Spanish international.

[30stone]

Top 10 football transfers for summer 2010
The World Cup will highlight some of the very best talents in the world – but leading clubs are eager to hammer out deals ahead of South Africa. Telegraph Sport look at the top targets – and the teams who are chasing them.


1. Cesc Fabregas

Club: Arsenal.
Wanted by: Barcelona.
Probable Cost: £30-£50m.

The former Barcelona youth team player aches for a return to the Nou Camp and moves have already been put in place for the 23-year-old to leave Arsenal.

2. James Milner

Club: Aston Villa.
Wanted by: Manchester City, Manchester United.
Probable Cost: £25m.

Aston Villa’s World Cup winger is wanted by the two Manchester clubs. Having lost Gareth Barry to City, Villa will be reluctant to lose another important player.

3. Fernando Torres

Club: Liverpool.
Wanted by: Chelsea, Manchester City, Barcelona.
Probable Cost: £70m.

One of the world’s best strikers seems to be edging out of Anfield and after signing David Villa, Barcelona have joined the race. It could be messy.

4. Franck Ribery

Club: Bayern Munich.
Wanted by: Manchester United, Chelsea, Real Madrid.
Probable Cost: £55m.

A year ago Bayern Munich president Franz Beckenbauer claimed Ribery was worth more than £80m. He will be cheaper than that but could he be a Premier League player soon? And at which team?

5. Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Club: Barcelona.
Wanted by: Manchester City, Arsenal, Real Madrid.
Probable Cost: £40m.

His days are almost certainly over at Barcelona following the arrival of David Villa, and the probable arrival of Cesc Fabregas could see the Swede at the Emirates. His former manager Roberto Mancini has also expressed an interest.

6. Hatem Ben Arfa

Club: Marseille.
Wanted by: Everton, Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid.
Probable Cost: £10m.

Just 23 but, having helped Marseille to a first French League title for 18 years, is regarded as capable of playing at a higher stage. A good World Cup will only increase his price so the race is on to get his signature before South Africa.

7. Joe Cole

Club: Chelsea.
Wanted by: Tottenham, Manchester City, Liverpool.
Cost: Free.

The England midfielder doesn’t want to leave Chelsea but with no offer yet on the table, he could be available, and Harry Redknapp, his former manager, is watching with interest.

8. Jerome Boateng

Club: Hamburg.
Wanted by: Manchester City.
Probable Cost: £11m.

The 21-year-old defender, brother of Portsmouth’s Kevin-Prince Boateng, has long been linked with City and is likely to be Roberto Mancini’s first summer signing.

9. Raul

Club: Real Madrid.
Wanted by: Tottenham.
Probable Cost: Free.

The mercurial Spaniard is coming towards the end of his career but still has goals in him and if Spurs could persuade Real to give the striker a free, then they could get the ‘marquee signing’ they have promised.

10. Pablo Hernandez

Club: Valencia
Wanted by: Chelsea
Cost: £18m.

The winger is said to have a release clause of around £45m but Valencia’s financial situation means they may accept considerably less for the Spanish international.

[30stone]

Manchester United are reportedly lining up a bid to bring German international keeper Manuel Neuer to Old Trafford this summer. Sir Alex Ferguson is apparently very keen on snapping up the Schalke custodian as he looks for a long term successor to veteran Edwin Van der Sar.

24 year old Neuer has had a marvelous Bundesliga season helping Schalke to within 90 minutes of their first domestic title in over 50 years and is fighting to be Joachim Low’s number one choice for the forthcoming World Cup.

Having spent the last four seasons as the regular number one at Veltins Arena it is believed that the towering keeper is ready to leave Germany for a new challenge and would surely jump at the chance of a move to Manchester United who have already offloaded Ben Foster and appear to be unconvinced of back up Tomasz Kuszczak’s ability to step into Van der Sar’s shoes.

[30stone]

Aston Villa's James Milner set to snub Manchester move for Liverpool - report

Aston Villa midfielder James Milner is ready to reject a move to either Manchester United or Manchester City, after reportedly telling a close friend he wants to join Liverpool, according to the News of The World.

Villa rejected City's advances earlier this week, after the Citizens tabled an offer of £20 million, with manager Martin O'Neill keen to hold on to the reigning PFA Young Player of the Year.

However, sources close to Milner have reportedly told the tabloid: "Being born in Leeds, there is no way James wants to play for Manchester United.

"His preferred Premier League club in Liverpool."

With manager O'Neill linked with the post at Anfield, should Rafael Benitez leave, it would be a heavy blow for Villa to lose both their coach and star player.

A source close to O'Neill is quoted as saying: "Martin doesn't want to start the summer feeling like he's pushing a rock up a mountain because the club have let Milner go too cheaply.

"This is a player Villa have turned into an England international, who has been one of the most consistent players in the Premier League and who has discovered a whole new role in central midfield thanks to Martin.

"To let somebody of that quality and stature go without a fight and at a price City believe is a bargan would be counter-productive.

"Nobody at Villa wants to see Milner leave and the club will speak with him before he goes to the World Cup about a contract extension.

"But if his heart is set on leaving, then Villa must get the absolute top price for him."

With City set to renew their interest this week and make an improved bid, it remains to be seen how much longer Villa will be able to hold on to their man.

[30stone]

BmYDW4NV0u4&feature=player_embedded

LOL

[30stone]

Arsene Wenger is being frustrated in his search for a new Arsenal goalkeeper.

The Sunday Mirror says the Arsenal manager had Joe Hart as his top target but Hart has been told he is staying at Manchester City.

Also on his list are Manuel Neuer of German club Schalke and Pepe Reina of Liverpool but neither club is willing to sell.

[30stone]

I hope not...


Arsenal Express Interest In £18m Premier League Midfielder: Wenger Ready to Make Move for Everton Star Fellaini

[30stone]

Marouane Chamakh claimed that joining Arsenal was “a dream come true” as the Moroccan was unveiled at the Emirates Stadium.

The former Bordeaux star has been the subject of much Premier League interest in the past two seasons, had hoped that Arsenal would follow through with their interest and Chamakh is absolutely delighted with the move to North London and cannot wait for next season to start.

Chamakh claims to have been a fan of Arsenal since he was a child and hopes that he can play a big part in helping his new club end their 5 year trophy drought.

“This is a dream come true and a great joy to be joining Arsenal,’ said the 26-year-old. ‘My goal was always to play in the Premier League and Arsenal was the choice of my heart.

“Without any hesitation, Arsenal was my preferred club. The team and history of Arsenal, they make me dream. I have been a fan since I was a child.

“I’m very excited about playing at Emirates Stadium. I have heard many great things about the stadium and I cannot wait to be playing there in an Arsenal shirt.

“I will give my best to this club. We have many great players and I will be giving everything to help the team win trophies next season.” Daily Mail

Chamakh has joined Arsenal on a 5 year deal, with Arsene Wenger claiming that his arrival will bring a different dimension to the Gunners attack.

[30stone]

So it seems as if Arsenal’s skipper and talisman, Cesc Fabregas, is set to leave the Emirates this summer, and make the switch back to the Nou Camp after 7 years at the North London club.

The 23-year-old midfielder is on the verge of leaving Arsenal following a one-to-one meeting with Wenger earlier in the week. It is has been reported that the player had asked his manager what the clubs ambitions would be in the imminent future. Wenger told him what his plans were and as a result of this, the Spaniard has decided to call time on his Arsenal career. Fabregas recently expressed his desire to one day rejoin his boyhood club and it appears he has decided that this would be the summer he went back to Spain.

No doubt about it, the news of Fabregas forthcoming exit from the Emirates would have left fans and players of the clubs shocked and deeply saddened. Arsenal will not only lose their most significant player, but they will also be losing their clubs captain.

Fabregas evidently does not wish to continue playing for Arsenal anymore, and many fans will agree with the hypothesis of, if the player is not committed to the club, then its time he moved on. Although the deal hasn’t yet been finalised, it seems almost certain within the next few days a fee will be agreed by both Arsenal and Barcelona for the playmaking midfielder.

So with the inevitable departure of Fabregas looming over the Emirates, Arsenal fans will be wondering if the potential void can be filled. Many will feel that it can be filled by an existing Arsenal player. A majority may look to Wenger to search and buy a top player to balance the loss of Cesc. However, a number of fans may even think the loss of Fabregas is too great to rectify at all.

Well, here are 4 current Arsenal players who could step up to the plate and play in the Fabregas role next season (providing Cesc leaves). Not necessarily be the new Fabregas, but the players that could do well in his position in the near future. The players have been given a ‘Fab Factor’ rating system. This rates the player on how well he would do in Cesc’s role:

[30stone]

Fran Merida

The young Spaniard had actually been labelled by the Spanish media a few years back as ‘the new Fabregas’, whether he can live up to this name remains to be seen.

The 20-year-old has featured for Arsenal only 8 times this season (4 in the league, 3 in the F.A cup and 1 time in the champion’s league). The midfielder did manage to score twice along the way, and they were beauties to say the very least.

The young midfielder possesses great feet, movement and awareness, everything that Fabregas has. Although Merida has had limited chances in the Arsenal squad, he looks to be a promising player for the future. Many fans will feel he is too young to take on such a huge role, but let’s not forget Fabregas came of age when he was 20 as well. Merida may not be a regular starter for the gunners next season, but he will definitely be seeing more action coming his way now more than ever.

Fab Factor: 2/5


Jack Wilshere

The 18-year-old midfielder has been likened to a young Liam Brady by many of the older generation of Arsenal fans. Wilshere featured a lot for Arsenal in their pre-season last summer, but somehow wasn’t able to get games at the Emirates this season. This forced the young midfielder to make a loan move to Bolton in January, in order to partake in games. Wilshere gained valuable premier league experience, making a total of 15 appearances and scoring 2 goals for the Wanderers. He was by far one of their best players this season.

Wilshere has two great feet, can play anywhere in the midfield (looks most comfortable in the middle), has skill and good technique for a player of his age, and also, a good reading of the game.

Wenger might have to do a u-turn with Wilshere for next season. Owen Coyle wants the young midfielder back at the Reebok for a further six months, but with Fabregas’s untimely leave, Wilshere may think this is his year to break into Wenger’s squad.

Fab Factor: 3/5


Aaron Ramsey

The Welsh international was in great form before he suffered his infamous leg break against Stoke in February. Ramsey made a total of 29 appearances in all competitions for the gunners, whilst netting 4 times a long the way. The Welshman was clearly enjoying himself and fans began to take notice of the player.

Aaron Ramsey clearly has the technical ability and passing attributes to become a great player for the gunners in the future. The midfielder is only 19 years of age, yet he possesses great awareness as if he’s been playing in the premier league for years.

Ramsey is definitely a contender for Fabregas’s place. However, his leg break this year has prevented the young midfielder from developing even further. When he fully recovers from his horrific injury, fans can expect to see the Welsh star shine even brighter next season.

Fab Factor: 4/5


Samir Nasri

Possibly the best suited Arsenal player to take Cesc’s role next season. Nasri has played in the centre midfield for Arsenal before and looked comfortable doing so. Although fans may think he is a winger, but by trade he is not. The Frenchman is more accomplished in the centre of the park, this is where he made his name whilst playing for Marseille.

The 22-year-old midfielder performed exceptional well this season, accumulating a total of 36 appearances for the North London club. However, his goal tally failed to impress, netting just the 5 times this year.

Nasri and Fabregas pose the same abilities and physique. Nasri has great passing and technical capabilities, which makes him one of Arsenal’s most creative players at the club. Samir Nasri would be the ideal candidate to play in the Cesc role, providing Wenger does not choose to purchase a player in this position this summer.

Fab Factor: 5/5

Wenger can expect to collect an enormous amount of cash for the transaction of Fabregas to Barcelona, yet it is still unknown as to how much the fee will actually be. Reports today suggest that Arsenal will receive a bid in the region of £35-40 million for the Spanish playmaker. If we are led to believe these rumours, then Wenger will have a monstrous transfer budget to utilize in the summer. Wenger a few weeks back, told fans that he already has £35 million to spend, and with the sale of Fabregas for an alleged £40 million, Arsenal will have a colossal total of£75 million this summer.

With this amount of money at hand, Wenger could acquire a world-class midfielder to replace the loss of Cesc Fabregas.

[30stone]

Diego (Juventus)

The 25-year-old inventive midfielder has been a consistent performer for the Serie A side this season. Diego made 33 appearances in the domestic league and managed to contribute 5 goals as well. The midfielder also appeared in the Italian cup, Champion’s and Europa league this season.

However, due to Juve not qualifying for the champion’s league next season, this may prompt the creative midfielder to look for a club that can offer this to him.

Diego became a recognised footballer when he was playing for Bundersliga side Werder Bremen in 2006. He impressed so much that the Italian giants swooped in for his services and acquired the Brazilian for a fee of £21.5 million. Since then he has impressed both fans and pundits alike in Italy.

Wenger could bring in the Brazilian playmaker as a possible replacement for Fabregas. Although some may view the Serie A and the Premiership are poles apart, but Diego has the ability to adapt to the English game without a doubt. The Brazilian has great awareness, and creativity which would suit Arsenal’s football. The fee wouldn’t be much, but not to cheap either. A bid of around £18-25 million could see the midfielder at the Emirates next season.

Fab Factor: 4/5


Mikel Arteta (Everton)

Mikel Arteta is an older adaptation of Cesc Fabregas. The 28-year-old Everton playmaker acquires great vision and passing ability which makes him one of the best in his position. Wenger has shown recent interest in the Spaniard, but has yet to make an official enquiry about the midfielder.

Arteta would be a great replacement for Fabregas as he already has 5 years of Premiership football in his locker. This season, the no.10 Everton man only managed to appear 16 times in all competitions for the toffees. However, he did manage to accumulate 6 goals within these games but due to a long-term injury it has held him back from achieving more.

Everton will be reluctant to let their star midfielder leave, but should a good offer come in from the gunners, Moyes would find it hard to turn down.

Fab Factor: 5/5


Yoann Gourcuff (Bordeaux)

The French midfielder has finally found his feet at Bordeaux after enduring a number of nightmare seasons with A.C Milan in the past.

The midfield playmaker was a sensation this season in the Ligue 1 and champion’s league this season. Gourcuff appeared 39 times for the French champions, whilst netting 8 goals in the process.

The 23-year-old would be another option for the Arsenal boss to look into, especially following the news of Laurent Blanc’s exit from the club earlier in the week. Gourcuff has 17 international caps for France and is one of the country’s most promising young footballers. The Bordeaux player is young, skilful and possesses great technical ability. Under Wenger’s guidance (if he chooses to obtain him) Gourcuff would develop into one of, if not, the best playmakers in the world.

The French press have compared and claimed that Yoann Gourcuff is ‘the new Zidane’, whether this is true or just plain media hype remains to be seen.

Many fans would be delighted to see the French midfielder play his football at the Emirates next season. Wenger is known for his love of French players, and will no doubt be monitoring the young midfielder when the window opens in July. Gourcuff would make a great replacement for Fabregas, and a bid within the region of £20-28 million would more than likely be enough to prise Bordeaux’s prized asset away this summer.

Fab Factor: 5/5[/b]

With the pending exit of Cesc Fabregas this summer, the Arsenal fans will be expecting to see new arrivals for the start of next season’s campaign. The fans will want Wenger to buy a ‘top’ player in order to accommodate the loss of Cesc.

Wenger will have sufficient funds available to him this summer, but faces the tricky task of finding an appropriate replacement for his star player and captain.

The Arsenal boss may decide against buying a replacement, as he may feel he already has him in his current squad. There are 4 current Arsenal players listed in this article that could possibly fit the void without Wenger spending a single penny. However, if Wenger wishes to bring in a midfield playmaker this summer, then the 3 players listed above would do a grand job for the club. But for now, it seems the Arsenal faithful will have a long and anxious wait to see what their manager decides to do in the next few months.




I would have thought arshavin would be in this list considering he plays best in centre to..

[Raph]

Nah for blackpool..
Hence the colour...

The future's bright the future's ..


Nah not a cardiff fan :)

:(

[Novo]

Charlie Adam

A hero for the English

[30stone]

Mikel Arteta at Arsenal imagine that.. lol

[King Gizzard]

Graham Hunter (Scottish journalist based in Spain) who is normally very clued up, believes arsenal won't let Fab go for anything less than line 65-70 million lol




And the Mexico game has come out of nowhere. I didn't know about it till my dad told me lol

[30stone]

Fab should go for 50 no less no more.
And buy gourcuff for 20 + rosicky..


Carlos vela will score against england lol!




Blackpool will earn 90m from being in the premier league.
40m even if they finish bottom and are relegated.
48m in parachute money for 4 years after
and at least 7m from extra ticket and merchandise sales and sponsorship.

[30stone]

Liverpool want Sylvinho from man city.

[30stone]

Chelsea are about to launch a £26million bid for Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric.

Connections of the 24-year-old Croatia midfielder have been in London this week for discussions with his club aimed at sounding out his future at White Hart Lane.

But he has emerged as a top target for the newly-crowned Double winners with manager Carlo Ancelotti, backed by director of football Frank Arnesen, acutely aware of the need to bring in younger blood if they are to maintain their place at the top of English football.

Another important factor is Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich’s determination to win the Champions League, an ambition he is prepared to support by slugging it out with Manchester City in what will be a multi-million pound transfer battle this summer.

Both clubs have made no secret of their desire to sign Liverpool striker Fernando Torres.

Modric suffered after being switched to a deep-lying role by managerial flop Juande Ramos after a £16.5million move to Spurs in the summer of 2008 and it was only after the Spaniard’s successor Harry Redknapp utilised his passing and vision in a more attacking role that the Croat and Spurs blossomed.

Now the Spurs boss looks likely to get the call he dreads – when Chelsea come knocking for Modric. (Mail on Sunday)

[30stone]

erome Boateng

Left back, left central defender, Hamburg and Germany. Price £11m.

The only deal which has been openly confirmed as a distinct possibility, by City boss Roberto Mancini, and by the player himself.

The deal has been in the pipeline for weeks, with Boateng agreeing a three-year deal worth £85,000 a week, and Hamburg accepting the City offer.

The paperwork cannot be completed until July 1, when his registration can be transferred.

The Blues had hoped to announce the deal, but that has been held up - even though Boateng has thrown a farewell party for his teammates - and no-one can be certain until the ink is dry.

Probability - 9/10

David Luiz

Right back, right central defender, Benfica and Brazil under-20. Price £24m.

Mancini was hugely impressed with the tall, athletic, versatile defender when he starred for Benfica in a Europa Cup tie at Anfield.

He is being touted as one of the best young defenders in the world, and Mancini has singled out the left back position as a real weak spot in his City side.

The problems are that Real Madrid are also interested, and Luiz has a prohibitive buy-out clause in his contract of £43million.

Luiz is also partly-owned by a group of shareholders in the Benfica Stars Fund, who will have to decide whether to cash in on the player now or wait for his stock to rise.

Probability 5/10

James Milner

Centre, right, left midfield, full back, Aston Villa and England. Price £30m.

Set to be the biggest transfer saga of the summer as Villa owner, Randy Lerner, seeks to drive up the price and manager Martin O'Neill digs his heels in to keep a player who is central to his plans.

The Blues have confirmed their interest with a bid worth £25m, with an initial outlay of £20m, a bid which was firmly rejected by the Birmingham club.

Now the Blues are mulling over a more complex player-plus-cash deal, with Nedum Onuoha and Stevie Ireland possibly coming in to the equation.

Milner has offered sufficient encouragement, stating that he does not know where his future lies, but Chelsea could yet muscle in, and offer the ambitious player Champions League football as well.

Probability 7/10

Steven Gerrard

Centre midfield, Liverpool and England. Price £35m.

The iconic signing which City hope will turn them from a good side into a great one, but the difference between finishing fourth and fifth could make all the difference.

Gerrard's Anfield career appears to have run its course, but he is likely to avoid the wrath of the Kopites who adore him, by moving abroad rather than join a Premier League rival.

City are trying to sell him a vision of a bold new future, of a side which will be capable of mounting a real challenge to the Chelsea-United axis, rather than sticking with a fading power.

But Real Madrid are set to make him their prime target, and that could be a challenge which Gerrard finds hard to resist.

Probability 5/10

Mikel Arteta

Centre midfield, Everton and Spain under-21. Price £28m.

After last summer's bitter wrangle over defender Joleon Lescott, the last thing City and Everton want is another protracted row over Arteta.

But business is business, and the Spaniard would fit the bill for the creative midfielder which City crave.

Arsenal also have a beady eye on Arteta, and picking him up would be a double-edged sword - adding a fine player to your squad, and removing a key man from that of a top six rival.

Arteta could be a fall-back position, one of two or three, in case the prime targets fail to come off.

Probability 4/10

Fernando Torres

Striker, Liverpool and Spain. Price £40m.

City want to add a top-class front man to play alongside Carlos Tevez, but they have to see how the ball falls when the European roulette wheel stops spinning.

Barcelona have set it in motion by paying £34m for Torres' Spain strike partner David Villa, and Real Madrid may also enter the bidding for the Liverpool spearhead.

Torres has said in the past that Champions League football is not the be-all-and- end-all, and he is not too keen on a move to Real, having been a star for rivals Atletico.

City will push hard to land Torres, but may, in the end, have to content themselves with the fall-out from whatever deals are done by the major clubs in Spain.

Probability 5/10

[30stone]

Andy wont be happy.


With Everton looking for funds to put in the kitty for Moyesy, the club may need to sell before they buy. Yobo could be the player to go. Joey had a poor season last season starting only 14 premier league games. The Nigerian captain was injured too many times, notably for the away trips in Europe before Christmas, but was fit enough to play in the African Nations cup.

Even though Joe is looked upon as a senior member of the squad, when Jags was back and fit, he was left out and Distin and Heitinga got the nod over him. With Newcastle, Bolton and Blackburn looking to strengthen their defence, don't be surprised to see the Nigerian captain move.

[30stone]

Man Utd, Spurs target Pienaar casts doubt on Everton future

Stephen Pienaar has cast fresh doubt on his future at Everton.

Tottenham, Manchester United and the Toffees' Merseyside neighbours Liverpool have been linked with the South Africa international as he has just one year remaining on his current deal.

Pienaar has not ruled out the possibility of staying at Everton, who expect to secure Jack Rodwell on a new four-year contract on Monday, but he will not be prepared to accept a cut-price offer.

"I'd say the spirit of the discussions was very good, but we have differing valuations, so my future isn't clear," said the 28-year-old in the Daily Mail.

"Everton may keep me for the last year of my deal. If they decide to sell, and the move is correct for my career, then I'll consider it.

"Hopefully this hasn't been my last season, but who knows?"



Andy really wont be happy!

[bbfan1991]

Graham Hunter (Scottish journalist based in Spain) who is normally very clued up, believes arsenal won't let Fab go for anything less than line 65-70 million lol




And the Mexico game has come out of nowhere. I didn't know about it till my dad told me lol

He's not worth that much.. 30 to 40 million in that bracket maybe:p.

[30stone]

He's not worth that much.. 30 to 40 million in that bracket maybe:p.

Selling a 23 year old tar for less than 40m would be ridiculous.

[30stone]

The Joe Cole transfer saga has dragged on and on, initially with our midfielder alleged to be waiting for a decent offer from the club. However, yesterday we were told he’s at last been offered a contract worth around £100,000 a week – and he’s set to turn it down.

What we’re now being told is that money isn’t the key issue and that all Cole’s really bothered about is getting to play football. To be fair to him, that’s certainly something he’s always made clear so it’s hardly news and you’d have to think that his lack of games, possibly along with dragged out negotiations not exactly making him feel a valued member of the squad anyway, could well have made his mind up for him.

Cole’s contract is about to expire but whilst he could more or less name his salary at Eastlands, the suggestion is he’s likely to head towards Tottenham and join up with former manager Harry Redknapp instead.

Joe Cole in a Spurs shirt next season? Doesn’t bear thinking about really!


He should stay at chelsea he will get played..

[bbfan1991]

Mourinho set for Madrid talks, poor chap he'll be managing at a club where he is not the only person that has a big ego:shocked:.

[30stone]

Mourinho set for Madrid talks, poor chap he'll be managing at a club where he is not the only person that has a big ego:shocked:.

He will win with real, and leave.. possibly for united.

[30stone]

Liverpool Consider Move for £9.5m La Liga Giant: Rafa Keen On Signing Valencia Forward Zigic




Rafa Benitez is reportedly interested in signing Valencia’s towering forward Nikola Zigic this summer. The Liverpool boss is hoping to pip fellow Premier League outfit Aston Villa to the attacker and may offer Anfield flop Albert Rieira as part of any deal.

The 6ft 7in forward spent last season warming the bench at the Mestalla after completing a successful loan spell at Racing Santander the previous term. Even though Valencia have finally given in and sold prized asset David Villa to Barcelona Zigic is still unlikely to be part of Unai Emery’s long term plans.

The 29 year old has had a mixed time in Spain since he first arrived in the country from Red Star Belgrade where he was something of a goal machine. Although over two metres tall Zigic is still very adept with the ball at his feet and Benitez apparently sees the Serbian international as a good strike partner for Fernando Torres.

Valued between £8-10m Zigic would no doubt welcome a move to the Premier League and Rafa will hope that the glamour of a move to Merseyside may help them snare the forward ahead of their midlands rivals.

[30stone]

Manchester United Hope to Complete Tempting £28m Player Plus Cash Swap: Ferguson Ready to Offer Flop for Edin Dzeko

Sir Alex Ferguson is hoping to tempt Bundesliga side Wolfsburg into selling Edin Dzeko to Manchester United by offering flop Dimitar Berbatov as part of an exchange deal. The Old Trafford boss is looking to bring in new attacking talent but knows that given the financial problems the club is going through that getting a significant cash injection could be tricky, hence the addition of the Bulgarian international as part of any deal.

Berbatov was of course a big success in his Bundesliga days where he managed 90 goals in 200 appearances whilst at Bayer Leverkusen, the form that helped the forward seal a move to Tottenham. After two decidedly average seasons at Man United it appears that Ferguson has run out of patience with the 29 year old and is looking to sign an alternative partner for England man Wayne Rooney.

Wolfsburg are resigned to losing Edin Dzeko who has completed a successful season whilst his side have struggled to live up to their title winning heroics the season before last. The 24 year old has been linked with a move to many of Europe’s elite, including most prominently AC Milan, Chelsea and Manchester City.

Ferguson hopes that a deal that would include Berbatov and cash on top would entice Dzeko’s employers into accepting an offer for their prized asset.




You must be happy with that?!

Dzeko is awesome!

[bbfan1991]

He will win with real, and leave.. possibly for united.

He's made no secret that he wants the United job once Fergie leaves;).

I think that next year La Liga will be more close and Barcelona will win again but you can never rule out Mourinho's men:nono:.

[30stone]

Chelsea Prepare Move for £18m Rated Barcelona Starlet: Ancelotti Hopes to Complete Summer Move for Bojan

Chelsea will reportedly attempt to sign Barcelona youngster Bojan this summer. Carlo Ancelotti is looking to spend big in order to bring some more young talent to Stamford Bridge and has earmarked a move for the Spanish international.

Pepe Guardiola has attempted to inject more youth into his Nou Camp side but whereas the likes of Pedro and Sergio Busquets have been handed more first team football this season 19 year old Bojan has found his time in the starting eleven limited.

With the arrival of David Villa and emergence of Pedro, the teenager may well feel the time is right to leave the Catalan giants even though he is much loved by the clubs fans he could well see a move to the Premier League as the best way to ensure his career progression is not stuttered warming the bench. Giovani dos Santos felt the need to make a similar move two years ago, and whilst his time in the Premier League was problematic, Bojan is a cut above the Mexican and could be ready to jump straight into the Chelsea first team if he did indeed make such a move.

Given that Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka are both over 30 years of age and with Daniel Sturridge still very rough around the edges a move for the young striker may well make a great deal of sense.

[30stone]

He's made no secret that he wants the United job once Fergie leaves;).

I think that next year La Liga will be more close and Barcelona will win again but you can never rule out Mourinho's men:nono:.
Mourinho is a scary good manager.

[30stone]

OFFICIAL: Atletico Madrid Sign Fran Merida From Arsenal
The 20-year-old has signed a five-year deal with the club he supports, rejecting the Gunners offer...


Atletico Madrid have confirmed the signing of Arsenal starlet Fran Merida on a free transfer, after the player could not agree terms with the English side.

The Gunners were keen to hold onto the 20-year old, who had been on the periphery of the first team at the Emirates, but refused their offer of a new contract, allowing los Colchoneros to pounce.

Merida has penned a five-year deal with Atletico, the club that he supported as a boy, and pending a medical he will be available for the European Supercup clash with Inter that will kick off the 2010/11 season.

The Barcelona-born midfielder moved to London in the summer of 2007, and although his appearances in the first team were limited, he was highly regarded by manager Arsene Wenger and considered an important player for the future.

However, Merida has chosen to swap Premier League for La Liga and will form part of Atletico Madrid's bid for success both domestically and in their defence of their Europa League crown.


:( i liked merida.. he was no fabregas tho..

[bbfan1991]

Manchester United Hope to Complete Tempting £28m Player Plus Cash Swap: Ferguson Ready to Offer Flop for Edin Dzeko

Sir Alex Ferguson is hoping to tempt Bundesliga side Wolfsburg into selling Edin Dzeko to Manchester United by offering flop Dimitar Berbatov as part of an exchange deal. The Old Trafford boss is looking to bring in new attacking talent but knows that given the financial problems the club is going through that getting a significant cash injection could be tricky, hence the addition of the Bulgarian international as part of any deal.

Berbatov was of course a big success in his Bundesliga days where he managed 90 goals in 200 appearances whilst at Bayer Leverkusen, the form that helped the forward seal a move to Tottenham. After two decidedly average seasons at Man United it appears that Ferguson has run out of patience with the 29 year old and is looking to sign an alternative partner for England man Wayne Rooney.

Wolfsburg are resigned to losing Edin Dzeko who has completed a successful season whilst his side have struggled to live up to their title winning heroics the season before last. The 24 year old has been linked with a move to many of Europe’s elite, including most prominently AC Milan, Chelsea and Manchester City.

Ferguson hopes that a deal that would include Berbatov and cash on top would entice Dzeko’s employers into accepting an offer for their prized asset.




You must be happy with that?!

Dzeko is awesome!


Dzeko is a skillful player and impressed for Wolfsburg against United but problem is that Fergie has said that Berba is staying.. maybe thats because no-one has offered anything for him or believes that he should have some more time to prove himself.

[30stone]

Dzeko is a skillful player and impressed for Wolfsburg against United but problem is that Fergie has said that Berba is staying.. maybe thats because no-one has offered anything for him or believes that he should have some more time to prove himself.

Would be great if it happened though hes a very quality player, big strong good head good feet would compliment rooney very well..

[30stone]

Arsenal & Manchester United target Sebastian Frey unsure over Fiorentina future
Frenchman pondering Viola future with Premier League duo ready to pounce...

Fiorentina goalkeeper Sebastian Frey is uncertain about his future and he wants assurances that the club will be competitive next season if he is to stay on.

"Do I want to leave? I have spoken with the club about my future. I have a contract until 2013, but sometimes you need new motivations, and I won't hide that I need them," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"But looking for new motivations doesn't mean that you will leave for sure, one can even stay if..."

Despite a poor season that appears to be pushing him closer to an exit with both Arsenal and Manchester United reportedly interested, Frey wants to see signals from Fiorentina that they are looking to improve before making a big decision.

"We have to build a strong team at the highest level. There are no [European] cup competitions for us next year and so we have to try to have a good domestic season. We need a strong team," he concluded.



Although i want joe hart, this guy is an awesome keeper!

[bbfan1991]

Mourinho is a scary good manager.

He is with great man management skills and even though in managerial terms him and Fergie can't be compared as they are both different, one thing Mourinho lacks is working with younger players and is given money to buy players where as Fergie started at United from scratch with not much resources in those days then it took a couple of years for us to finally win the league and succession of trophies, after that but when the club got bigger the money came rolling in:).

[30stone]

Celtic chase second Arsenal defender

SPL giants Celtic are reportedly keen on snapping up Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos whose contract at the Emirates ends this summer.

Signed by the Gunners seven years ago, the Swiss international was tipped as the heir to legendary club captain Tony Adams. Despite several promising performances in his early years, the 25-year-old’s occasional lapses in concentration, including a defining mistake in Arsenal’s quarter-final defeat in the 2008 Champions League campaign against Liverpool, have seen him move down the pecking order at the Emirates.

Loaned to AC Milan for the entire 2008-09 campaign, Senderos returned to north London last summer and appeared on the verge of a permanent exit following an approach from Everton. Kept on the books by Arsene Wenger following an injury to Johan Djourou, the stopper suffered failed to displace either William Gallas or Thomas Vermaelen and was eventually loaned to the Toffees in January but again struggled to assert himself.

Thought to be in favour of a stay at Goodison Park, the Swiss could be tempted by the opportunity to rebuild his career in Scotland. With the start of the World Cup on the horizon, Senderos is unlikely to make a decision on his long-term future until his international duties are completed.

News of Celtic’s interest in the Swiss stopper comes less than a week after The Bhoys were tipped to also offer veteran centre-half Sol Campbell a contract. It appears however, that the 35-year-old will be rewarded with a single year extension at Arsenal after he impressed both fans and the coaching staff with a vigorous comeback despite six months without a club.



Bye senderos :wavey:

[30stone]

Didnt see that coming...

Eboue next off to Barcelona.

Barcelona are looking to find cover for Brazilian right-back Dani Alves in the form of Arsenal man, Emmanuel Eboue, accoridng to Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo. It remains to be seen if Arsenal will do business with Barcelona after already being set to lose star-player Cesc Fabregas to the Catalan club.

[bbfan1991]

Would be great if it happened though hes a very quality player, big strong good head good feet would compliment rooney very well..

Indeed and I still think Fergie could be bluffing when he says that we will only be signing one player:p.

Problem is transfer prices are too high these days so old school managers like Wenger and Fergie have the sense what to do.

[30stone]

Here are some of the latest transfer rumours doing the rounds of late. Some are familiar names to Arsenal fans, with the likes of Melo and Gomis being linked once again. While Gunners fans will be excited to here Gourcuff and Silva being named as possible replacements should captain Cesc Fabregas leave for Barcelona. Arsenal have also been linked with yet another goalkeeper and a couple of centre-backs.

Per Mertesacker

Arsenal have been linked with a move for Werder Bremen’s giant centre-back Per Mertesacker, according to The Sunday Times. Arsene Wenger has been linked with the German international in the past and the report claims Mertesacker is looking for a move away from the Bundesliga and the Arsenal boss is ready to make.

The Gunners are on the look-out for a defensive partner for Thomas Vermaelen after it seems certain that William Gallas will leave the club after failing to agree a contract extension, and with 60 caps for Germany and standing at 6ft 6in, Mertesacker is tipped to be the experienced dominant centre-back the club are looking for. I would love this rumour to be true, he is exactly the type of player Arsene should be looking at.

Felipe Melo

Once again Arsenal have been linked with a move for long-term target Felipe Melo. The Brazilian international was close to a move to the Gunners last summer but opted for Juventus, but his time in Turin has been a disappointment and has been tipped by the Times to make the move the Emirates this summer as Arsene Wenger looks to add some steel to his midfield engine-room. Despite his poor season for Juve, Melo has a lot talent and would be a great signing for Arsenal. Although i think his price tag of £17-£20m is slightly over-inflated given what the player has actually achieved so far.

David Silva

The Mirror claims that Wenger has been keeping a close eye on Valencia’s skillful play-maker David Silva. With Cesc Fabregas linked with a move to Barca, Wenger may look to Silva as a replacement and despite interest from Real Madrid and Manchester United, the report says it’s Arsenal who could land the talented 24-year-old for £17m. Although i would love to see Silva arrive at the Emirates, i can’t see this one happening. He has been linked with Real for that last couple of years and if he leaves Valencia i think he will become a Madrid man, Arsene wouldn’t compete with them on price and wages.

Yoann Gourcuff

Gourcuff has been widely tipped to be Cesc Fabregas’s replacement should our captain make the move to Barca this summer. The Bordeaux ace is valued at around £25m and Wenger sees him as the ideal candidate to take over the create role currently filled by Fabregas. The 23-year-old has been capped 17 times by France so far and has been in tremendous form over the past two seasons since moving to Bordeaux from AC Milan, and was a key figure as he won the Ligue 1 in his first year back in France and was also named the league’s best player. However this season has not been as successful as Bordeaux only managed a sixth place finish and failed to qualify for any European football next season. If Fab’s does go, get this man Arsene. Pure class.

Bafetimbi Gomis

Lyon forward Gomis was linked with the Gunners last summer and his name has once again been thrown in the hat as a potential summer buy. Gomis scored 10 goals in 37 appearances this season and signed for Lyon for £11m only a year ago from Saint-Etienne. After the signing of Marouane Chamakh was tied up last week, it’s very difficult to imagine Arsene Wenger buying another striker so i see no substance in this one.

Other rumours include a move for Newcastle centre-back Steven Taylor who is out of contract next summer and Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer. I could see the sense in going for Taylor who is a good age and wouldn’t break the bank, but i can’t see Wenger going for a 37-year-old goalkeeper and Fulham would be very reluctant sellers.

So they are the latest transfer rumours and I’m sure that as the summer goes on a whole host of other names will be linked with a move to the Emirates.




David silva + Melo + Gourcuff = Premier league title


But we need defenders and keeper to win really..

[bbfan1991]

Kevin Doyle of Wolves linked with Arsenal also:joker:.

[30stone]

Indeed and I still think Fergie could be bluffing when he says that we will only be signing one player:p.

Problem is transfer prices are too high these days so old school managers like Wenger and Fergie have the sense what to do.

Wenger doesnt when it comes to selling he could have got 20m for toure (got 14) and 30 for adebayor (got 25).

Hence why barca are only offering 30 - 35.

He sells fab for under 40 it will be stupid..

[30stone]

Chelsea and Arsenal lining up summer move for Barcelona's teenage playmaker Gai Assulin



Chelsea and Arsenal are weighing up a summer bid for Barcelona's exciting teenage playmaker Gai Assulin.

The Israeli is struggling for first team opportunities with the Catalan giants, and is available on a free transfer.

The attacking midfielder has been likened in some quarters to a young Lionel Messi, and the Spanish newspaper Sport are reporting he could me making a move to England.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has signed players from the Barcelona youth team before, including Fran Merida and Cesc Fabregas.

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is expected to bring in a host of young players into the first team squad next season.

Even though the Blues won the Premier League and FA Cup, it is believed they will need to strengthen their squad in order to win the Champions League.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1280787/Chelsea-Arsenal-lining-summer-Barcelonas-teenage-playmaker-Gai-Assulin.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0oqOXusgy



Looks like a young carlos tevez..

[30stone]

Barcelona official will call Arsenal this week to smooth over Fabregas deal


Spanish daily 'Sport' claims that Barcelona's sporting director, Txiki Begiristain will call Arsenal's chief executive Ivan Gazidis this week in an attempt to pave the way for smooth negotiations for the transfer of Cesc Fabregas .

Fabregas reportedly told Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger last week that he would like to move to Barcelona, following intense speculation that the Gunners' skipper would move back to the Nou Camp where he began his career.

However, according to 'Sport', Arsenal have been unimpressed by the attitude of Barcelona, whose officials have alluded to their pursuit of midfielder Fabregas at the unveiling of new signing David Villa , while senior players such as Xavi and Lionel Messi have publicly praised the Arsenal star. Barcelona are worried that causing such offence to Arsenal "might endanger the signing."

As a result, 'Sport' reports that Barcelona's sporting director Txiki Begiristain will call Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis this week "to prevent the growing anger at the Emirates Stadium" and to encourage "peaceful dialogue" between the two clubs.

23 year-old Fabregas missed the end of the season with a broken leg. The midfield playmaker enjoyed an outstanding season for Arsenal, scoring 19 goals in 35 games, contributing 12 assists. He is under contract with the Gunners until 2014.



They pretty much tapped up fabregas.. no wonder wenger is pissed.

[30stone]

Big speculation over Gourcuff coming to us now..

Arsenal are being linked with a move for French international midfielder Yoann Gourcuff.

The Bordeaux midfielder has impressed at the Stade Chaban-Delmas this season despite les Girondins finishing the campaign in a disappointing sixth, and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has set his sights on Gourcuff as a replacement for Cesc Fabregas should he leave for Barcelona.

Gourcuff started his senior career as a teenager at Rennes, making his debut in 2004 before moving to AC Milan for a fee in the region of €3.5 million in 2006.

After failing to make a significant impact with the Rossoneri, he came back to Ligue 1 on a season long loan with Bordeaux. It proved to be a great move for the French side, with Gourcuff earning the league's Young Player of the Year award during an impressive 2008-09 campaign that saw the club take the title.

Bordeaux paid the minimum fee release clause in the loan contract drawn up with the San Siro club last summer, with a fee in the region of €14 million spent on keeping Gourcuff in France.

Some fine Champions League displays have followed this term, with Gourcuff playing his part in Bordeaux's run to the quarter-finals before bowing out against Lyon.

At international level, Gourcuff has made 14 appearances for Les Bleus since making his debut in 2008. A regular for France during World Cup qualifying, the midfielder is expected to play a key part in France's South African efforts.

After completing the deal for former Bordeaux star Marouane Chamakh on Friday, Wenger has made his transfer intentions clear as he looks to build a title-challenging side this term.

The Sunday Express reports that the Gunners boss hopes Chamakh can lure Gourcuff to the Emirates, with the north London club hoping to add one of France's 'golden boys' to the ranks.


1

[30stone]

Arsenal Targeting Bordeaux Midfielder Yoann Gourcuff & Lyon Striker Bafetimbi Gomis - Report

Bordeaux attacking midfielder Yoann Gourcuff and Lyon forward Bafetimbi Gomis are reported targets for Arsenal as they line up a double swoop for the French Ligue 1 stars.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger reportedly has £40 million to spend on new recuitments this summer and could have further funds should captain Cesc Fabregas leave for Barcelona.

Gourcuff is rated at £25 million and could be seen as an ideal replacement should captain Fabregas swap the Emirates for the Nou Camp.

The 23-year-old has 17 international caps and has been a key man for Bordeaux since moving back to France from AC Milan two seasons ago.

Gourcuff was instrimental in helping the club to the Ligue 1 title in his first season and was also named the league’s best player.

However, Bordeaux failed to replicate the form that saw them win the league title as they finished sixth this campaign and as a result missed out on European football.

With manager Laurent Blanc confirmed as the next France national coach after the World Cup, Arsenal maybe able to tempt the Frenchman to London. 


As well as a move for Gourcuff, the Gunners are also being linked with a move for Lyon striker Bafetimbi Gomis who has hit 10 goals in 37 games this season following an £11m move from Saint-Etienne last summer.

Arsenal have already wrapped up the signing of Marouane Chamakh from Bordeaux on a free transfer earlier in the week and new faces look set to arrive this summer at the Emirates.



2

[bbfan1991]

LOL Newcastle linked with Shaun Wright Phillips:D.

[30stone]

Arsenal line up French midfielder Gourcuff if Fabregas leaves

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has only just completed the signing of striker Marouane Chamakh from Bordeaux, but the Sunday Express claims that he could return to the French club to sign one of the 'golden boys' of French football.

There is widespread speculation that midfield schemer Fabregas will leave for the Nou Camp and should he do so, Gourcuff is reportedly viewed as the ideal replacement for the Gunners.

The 23 year-old enjoyed an excellent season at Bordeaux, scored 9 goals and helped Laurent Blanc's side to the Champions League quarter-finals.

Gourcuff spent three years at AC Milan earlier in his career, but returned to France where he has since flourished. He was voted as the best young player in France in 2008 and is renowned for his excellent technique.

According to the Sunday Express, Wenger will hope that the signing of Chamakh will help to lure Gourcuff to Arsenal. The midfielder is set to star in the World Cup and Wenger might be tempted to make a move for Gourcuff sooner rather than later or else risk his value rising off the back of an impressive World Cup.

Gourcuff has already played 16 times for Les Bleus and has scored one international goal.


3

[30stone]

Arsenal target Felipe Melo and £17m David Silva

Read more : http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/63688,sport,football,transfer-talk-felipe-melo-and-david-silva-among-arsenal-targets



Seriously if we dont sign gourcuff.. we need to sign silva!

[30stone]

Be back in a bit lol.

[bbfan1991]

Arsenal target Felipe Melo and £17m David Silva

Read more : http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/63688,sport,football,transfer-talk-felipe-melo-and-david-silva-among-arsenal-targets



Seriously if we dont sign gourcuff.. we need to sign silva!

Silva is destined for Old Trafford;).

[30stone]

We need him more lol.

Saying that we have a great midfield we need defenders.

Playing cod now lol.

[30stone]

Real Madrid sign Benfica winger Angel Di Maria for £34 Million - report

Real Madrid have put pen to paper on a £34 million deal for Benfica winger Angel di Maria, according to radio station TSF.

The Argentina international has long been linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu after an impressive season at Benfica, both in domestic competitions and in the Europa League.

Reports of an impending switch to the Spanish capital club by Di Maria have intensified after Inter boss Jose Mourinho, who is an admirer of the 22-year-old, became the red hot favourite to assume the reins of the Merengues.

The Portuguese radio station claims that, after signing Di Maria, Real will now put their focus on Benfica colleague David Luiz, for whom negotiations are believed to be at an advanced stage already.

TSF also state that Benfica could receive a player from Real Madrid in return, with centre-back Ezequiel Garay and winger Royston Drenthe both on the table.



Good player but 34m ? 40m euro?

Real madrid should buy fabregas they would offer 50m..

[30stone]

Arsenal Plan Astonishing £45m Quartet Summer Spending Spree: Interesting Targets Analysed

Sunday Times journalist Duncan Castles has tipped Arsenal to sign Mark Schwarzer , Per Mertesacker and Felipe Melo during the summer transfer window.

All eyes will be on Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger this summer with Cesc Fabregas widely expected to return to Barcelona after telling the Frenchman he wants to leave the Emirates.

The Arsenal manager reportedly has 40 million pounds available and Mark Schwarzer is the latest goalkeeper to be linked following the likes of Gianluigi Buffon, Robert Green and Joe Hart.

Per Mertesacker is considering leaving Werder Bremen and with 60 caps for the German international team, the 25-year-old would bring a host of experience to the Arsenal backline.

Arsenal were linked with a move for Brazilian midfielder Felipe Melo last summer but missed out to Juventus. The defensive midfielder struggled in 2009/2010 and is expected to leave the Turin giants after the World Cup. (Sunday Times as reported on IMScouting)

The Mirror says that Arsenal are bullishly pursuing Valencia midfielder David Silva, much to the chagrin of Real Madrid. The ailing Spanish giants, who finished the season trophy-less, have coveted the 24-year-old Silva for months – as have Manchester United and Liverpool – but the Mirror says we shouldn’t be surprised if Arsenal land the attacking midfielder for around £17m, paid for by offloading the injured Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona.


Wow good times.

[30stone]

Chelsea Set for Imminent £25m Real Madrid Move: Ancelotti Readies Himself for Ashley Cole Bid


Should he become the new coach at Real Madrid , Jose Mourinho will look to make Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole one of his first signings.

Although Mourinho led Inter Milan to Champions League glory on Saturday, sealing an unprecedented treble for the club, the self-styled ’special one’ is set to confirm a move to the Bernebeu this week.

Should he take over at Real Madrid , one of his first tasks will be to find a quality left-back, given the unimpressive form this season of Alvaro Arbeloa . The Daily Mail speculates that Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole will be one of Mourinho’s immediate targets. The England international has endured a well-publicized problematic season both on and off the pitch and only returned to the Chelsea side towards the end of the season, having suffered a broken foot.

Mourinho and Cole of course know each other well from their time together at Stamford Bridge and the Portugese coach may well seek to surround himself with familiar players should he end up at Real Madrid .

Cole has four years left on his £100,000-a-week contract at Stamford Bridge and Chelsea will not let the 29-year-old go without a struggle, given that he is considered perhaps the world’s top left-back. The Daily Mail speculates that it would take a bid of at least £25million for Cole to leave Chelsea.

[30stone]

Atletico Mineiro slap £5m price tag on Liverpool and West Ham target Diego Tardelli


Liverpool and West Ham have been told they will have to pay Atletico Mineiro £5million if they follow up their interest in Brazilian striker Diego Tardelli.

The 25-year-old, who has won four caps, is on stand-by for the World Cup finals.

He earlier had two spells on loan in Europe with Real Betis and PSV Eindhoven.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1281124/Atletico-Mineiro-slap-5m-price-tag-Liverpool-West-Ham-target-Diego-Tardelli.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0ovnFRT1H

[30stone]

Benayoun confident of Chelsea move.

Liverpool's Yossi Benayoun is confident that he will be heading to Chelsea for next season. He told the Daily Mail: "Ancelotti wants me for next season and now everything depends on Liverpool. Chelsea will have to pay some £6 million but I believe that in the end I'll be moving there."

[30stone]

Fabio Aurelio to leave Liverpool



Liverpool defender Fabio Aurelio has turned down the offer of a new pay-as-you-play deal and will leave the club next week, manager Rafael Benitez has confirmed.

The Brazilian's Anfield career has been littered with injuries and his final year was indicative of that.

He missed the start of the campaign after sustaining a freak knee problem while playing football with his children and a thigh problem at the end of February prematurely ended his season.

Because of his fitness record the club offered the 30-year-old a flexible deal based on the matches he played but Aurelio wanted the security of a more permanent arrangement and has chosen to end his four-year stay at Anfield.

'Fabio's contract is nearly finished and he is going to leave us,' said Benitez.

'We had been trying to work something out with regards an extension but it was a pity that we couldn't.

'He has given us absolutely fantastic service. The one problem we had with Fabio was that he suffered too many injuries and it was such a pity because he has great quality.'

Aurelio's absence placed additional pressure on 21-year-old left-back Emiliano Insua as there were times when Benitez wanted to rest the player but had no other back up and, as a result, the Argentinian played 44 matches before he too succumbed to injury late in the season.

Benitez was sorry to see Aurelio leave as he had nothing but praise for the player he brought from former club Valencia on a free transfer in June 2006.

'With Fabio being out so much, it meant that we had to use Insua more than we would have liked and that was not easy for him,' the Spaniard told the Liverpool Echo.

'Fabio is a top professional, a great player and a really good lad.

'It has been a pleasure having him here and we really will miss him

'You are talking about an amazing person who gave 100% all the time. We wish him all the best.'

[30stone]

Arsenal Chairman Peter Hill-Wood: ‘No Offers For Cesc Fabregas Yet’

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has revealed he is ‘very surprised’ that the club are yet to receive a bid from Barcelona for their talismanic captain ‘Cesc Fabregas.

The Spanish midfielder is understood to have told manager Arsene Wenger that he wanted to leave Arsenal this summer, following years of increasingly intense speculation linking him with a move to the Camp Nou.

High-ranking Barca sources have repeatedly confirmed their interest in acquiring Fabregas over the past week, and the Catalan giants were even reported to have sent their first formal bid via fax yesterday but it seems, for now at least, that Arsenal are yet to enter any form of negotiations with the recently-crowned La Liga champions;

“We have heard nothing at all and I am not looking for a telephone call from them,” Hill-Wood told The Daily Star.

“As far as I am concerned, [Fabregas] is our player. If they want to make a bid it is up to them.We are very surprised, but delighted [that no approach has been made].”

In further news, Fabregas, who has been sidelined since April with a cracked fibula (sustained in Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash against, ironically, Barcelona), trained for the first time in over a month yesterday – coming through a full one-hour training match unscathed at Spain’s World Cup training camp in Madrid.

Read more: http://soccerlens.com/arsenal-chairman-peter-hill-wood-no-offers-yet-for-cesc-fabregas/45553/#ixzz0ovooE6U3

[30stone]

Arsenal Boss Considers Move for Promising £26m Pair: Wenger Interested In Lyon Stars Lisandro Lopez & Miralem Pjanic


Lyon attackers Lisandro Lopez and Miralem Pjani? have a fan in Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger who reportedly may consider making a move for the pair this summer. Having seen his side miss out on silverware for the fifth straight season the Gunners manager is keen to bring in new faces to his north London squad and to that end has already snapped up Marouane Chamakh and is set to add more signings in the forthcoming transfer window.

27 year old Lopez has had a fine first season at the Stade Gerland scoring 24 goals, including most impressively seven in the Champions League run that took the French side all the way to the Semi-Finals. Miralem Pjani? has matured into a phenomenal prospect this term. The 20 year old Bosnian has had an astounding season and is the type of adaptable player that Wenger covets.

Neither are household names and are the kind of players one can imagine the Emirates boss making a move for given Arsene’s penchant for bringing in talents he can then mould into the type of ‘total football’ players he likes to fill his squad with.

Money does not appear to be an issue as the Arsenal manager has been promised significant funds to improve his side this summer and given that the £26m pair would surely jump at the chance of a move to the Premier League perhaps this deal could well come to fruition.

[30stone]

Bolton Wanderers want £14m for Arsenal target Gary Cahill - report

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will have to pay Bolton Wanderers £14 million if he wants to take Gary Cahill to the Emirates, according to a report from The Sun.

Wenger sees the highly-rated 24-year-old as offering the kind of solidity that would perfectly complement Thomas Vermaelen at the heart of the Gunners' defence as he looks to recondition his options in the back four.

Trotters gaffer Owen Coyle does not want to lose the former England Under-21 centre-back, though he has apparently acknowledged that, should a big club come calling, it might be hard to keep Cahill at the Reebok Stadium.

Coyle does enjoy good relations with Arsenal and remains keen to take midfielder Jack Wilshere on loan again next season.

[30stone]

Mikel Arteta braced for Arsenal and Manchester City transfer tug-of-war
Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta could be the subject of a £20million bid from Manchester City this summer, which could see Arsenal miss out on one of their top transfer targets.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is desperate to tie up a creative midfield player before the World Cup with club captain Cesc Fabregas on the verge of moving back to hometown club Barcelona.

Arteta, who is rumoured to be on the brink of leaving Everton, had been mentioned as a likely target for the north Londoners - although he would come at a price.


However, City are now thought to have expressed an interest in the Spanish midfielder and are set to test the Toffees' resolve with a £20million bid - at least £5million more than Wenger is believed to be willing to pay.

Roberto Mancini is a known admirer of the 28-year-old, who has five years of Premier League experience and is one of the most consistent performers in the English top-flight.



But Wenger may be tempted to use some of the significant funds available to him in order to outbid City and ease the growing discontent around the Emirates Stadium caused by Fabregas' rumoured transfer request.

[30stone]

Following rumours in the Sunday Times that Arsenal are interested in signing German centre-back Per Mertesacker , the defender has described the possible move as “attractive”.

Interviewed by German daily Bild, the Werder Bremen defender was asked directly if he knew anything about interest from Arsenal, but replied that his agent deals with all enquiries. Pushed as to whether he would like to move to the Gunners, the 25-year-old responded, "There are certainly attractive clubs abroad. In particular, clubs that have been playing for years in the Champions League”.

Mertesacker has just finished his fourth season at Werder Bremen and the 6ft 5in centre-back has already accumulated 60 international caps. Regarded as a consistent performer and a leader on the pitch, Mertesacker could be the type of player Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is looking for.

Wenger is thought to have a summer war chest to strengthen his squad with a centre-back one of his top priorities. Although Thomas Vermaelen enjoyed an extremely successful first season with the Gunners, the Arsenal futures of aging defenders Mikael Silvestre, Sol Campbell and William Gallas appear less certain.

Mertesacker is expected to star at this summer’s World Cup for Germany.

[Novo]

20 Million + Nasri :)

[30stone]

20 Million + Nasri :)

LOL
I dont think so.

If im honest id prefer gourcuff anyway as hes only 23..

[30stone]

Manchester United Boss Weighs Up Move for £38m Italian International: Midfield Maestro De Rossi Interests Sir Alex

Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly weighing up a potential big money bid for Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi this summer. The Manchester United boss will have seen that local rivals City have been strongly linked with the battling Italian and the Old Trafford manager knows that he could well do with a bit of steel in his midfield and may make a move for the 26 year old.

Having seen Owen Hargreaves return from injury but still not convinced the England international will have returned a different player to the one he invested a great deal of time and money chasing, Ferguson has been looking for players to play in the centre of his Man United midfield.

With Paul Scholes nearing the end of his glittering career, and with Anderson and Michael Carrick both coming off the back of very average campaigns, the club could do with a new addition and De Rossi is a top quality player who is in many ways two types of players in one.

Never afraid to put in a tackle, but fortunately more able to do so successfully than Scholes, the Rome born man is also able to steer his side towards goal and has the ability to score his fair share of crucial corkers. The valuation of the World Cup bound De Rossi could however be something of a problem. Roma are reportedly pricing their player at a rather inflated £38m which could well scare off any interest in the player, which may well be Claudio Ranieri’s intention.



Best defensive midfielder in the world alongside essien, possibly better than essien imo.

[30stone]

José Mourinho transfer targets: who could join 'Special One' at Real Madrid?
If, as expected, José Mourinho leaves Inter Milan to take over at Real Madrid, which players could join the Galacticos at the Bernabeu?


Ashley Cole
Bought previously to Chelsea by Mourinho and, after one of the best seasons of his career, is established as the world’s best left-back. The intense focus on his private life amid the spilt with wife Cheryl is understood to have left him considering his future in England.
How likely? 2/5

Fernando Torres
An unhappy season at Liverpool following injuries and the club’s desperate form. Would clearly not come cheap and, after 16 years at Atletico Madrid, may also be reluctant to join their greatest rivals.
How likely? 2/5




Steven Gerrard
Delivered mixed messages about his future last week and clearly has concerns over whether Liverpool will be in a position to challenge for the league in the foreseeable future. Was previously wanted by Mourinho when he was manager of Chelsea. How likely? 3/5

Maicon
Brazil international who was outstanding at right-back both in attack and defence this season for Inter. Expected to be an immediate target for Mourinho at Real.
How likely? 5/5

Daniele de Rossi
Currently at Roma and regarded as the ideal sort of combative midfielder to play alongside the more extravagant talents of Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo. Likely to cost in the region of £45 million.
How likely 3/5

Aleksandar Kolarov
Another potential left-back if Ashley Cole proves unobtainable, who will have caught Mourinho’s eye this season following some outstanding performances with Lazio. Could be one of the unlikely stars of the World Cup for Serbia.
How likely? 4/5

[30stone]

Albert Riera could find himself returning to La Liga this summer as Liverpool bid to lure Valencia striker Nikola Zigic to Anfield.

The winger's position at Anfield has become untenable following scathing attacks on Benitez and the club itself in recent months. VfB Stuttgart made enquiries last week about the 28-year-old's asking price but have yet to table an offer.

Reports in Spain suggest that Rafael Benitez is considering using frustrated Riera as a makeweight in a deal to bring Serbian hitman Zigic, 29, to Merseyside if Valencia agreed to a part-exchange deal.

However that arrangement would come at a price, with Los Che expected to command between €3million and €4million in addition to Riera, who was overlooked by Vicente del Bosque for Spain's World Cup squad following his unruly conduct in the press.

Liverpool could face a fight for Zigic with Midlands rivals Birmingham City and Aston Villa both planning moves for the lofty striker.

Riera had been in line for a move to Spartak Moscow last month but his extravagant wage demands priced him out of a move to the Russian capital.

[30stone]

Suarez, Van Der Vaart and Aguero linked to United

[King Gizzard]

I just found out the nets and posts for the champions league final were made at this place that manufactures goals about 5minutes from my house. thats crazy

[bbfan1991]

Suarez, Van Der Vaart and Aguero linked to United

:), last two would be cool for us. Not seen much of Suarez.

England's performance last night was alright but at least we got the win.. G Johnson and Ledley King impressed me where as Walcott and Stevie Me didn't;).

[bbfan1991]

Glad that Fernando Torres is staying at Liverpool, I couldn't imagine him at Manchester City, Chelsea or Real Madrid:nono:.

[Raph]

Nice reads there Ben!

[Raph]

I can see Maicon going to Madrid. Gerrard seems the least likely tbh, dunno really why.

[King Gizzard]

Think I might get an Ipswich season ticket if I don't get a Villa one

Roy Keanes barmy army !!

[Raph]

I'm going to a Bayern - Kaiserslautern game next season. (German Bundesliga 1.)
naturally, rooting for Kaiserslautern :tongue:

When I go back to Wales, one day, I can't wait to go to a Cardiff game. Hopefully they'll be in the premiership by then :D

[King Gizzard]

I haved switched allegiances to FC St Pauli

[bbfan1991]

Think I might get an Ipswich season ticket if I don't get a Villa one

Roy Keanes barmy army !!

Keano!:D.

Not a surprise Madrid will sign Angel Di Maria;).

[30stone]

Not seen much of Suarez.



23, Uruguayan.

49 goals in 48 games in all competitions in 09 - 10 season.

[Raph]

I haved switched allegiances to FC St Pauli

hahah yeah they made it up, along with Kaiserslautern. But Kaiserslautern won the league ;) I wonder if anyone else here knows much about the German Bundesliga :tongue:

[Raph]

Who would you guys think would win between Japan and Cameroon in the World Cup?

[Novo]

St Pauli are a vile dirty team...

Hamburg :)

[Raph]

St Pauli are a vile dirty team...

Hamburg :)

I used to like Hamburg, when they had Takahara. I even have a shirt. :hugesmile:

[30stone]

You all know the best team in the world..

http://www.coolwap.org/sports/soccerlogos/images/Valencia%203%20old%20logo.png


Though without david villa.. and possibly david silva im not sure ill like them as much anymore, and i doubt they will be able to hold a champions league spot without villa.

[30stone]

Just realised i have almost 7k posts in here i thought i was just at 6k :o

[Novo]

I am 2nd but way behind you

[30stone]

Lol nate did overtake you at one point.

Good that your back more regularly.. now all we need is andyman, david, christina and lauren back..

and miss kitty and brad (able to come on more)


Then the bh will return.

[bbfan1991]

You all know the best team in the world..

http://www.coolwap.org/sports/soccerlogos/images/Valencia%203%20old%20logo.png


Though without david villa.. and possibly david silva im not sure ill like them as much anymore, and i doubt they will be able to hold a champions league spot without villa.

They still have some decent players:).

[30stone]

They still have some decent players:).

Yeah but villa and silva to a lesser extent are the stars.

Mata kinda..

They may lose zigic to liverpool for riera and i dont like riera..

i wanna like them just :( wish they didnt have to sell their best :(

[bbfan1991]

Yeah but villa and silva to a lesser extent are the stars.

Mata kinda..

They may lose zigic to liverpool for riera and i dont like riera..

i wanna like them just :( wish they didnt have to sell their best :(

Zigic tbf doesn't play much anyway although this season he's had a bit more
1st team action. Must be gutting for Valencia fans that their 2 biggest stars will be leaving but the club is far more important;).

I do hope they sort out the debts:).

[30stone]

I do hope they maintain a champions league spot.

Dont get how they are in so much debt..?

I played with zigic on fifa 10 on manager mode and he is huge, like a bulky crouch and he was awesome on there..

[bbfan1991]

I do hope they maintain a champions league spot.

Dont get how they are in so much debt..?

I played with zigic on fifa 10 on manager mode and he is huge, like a bulky crouch and he was awesome on there..

They will, depending on the group they get I expect them to at least make it to the KO stages:).

Football has been hit very hard by the economy:(.

[King Gizzard]

Fran Merida has signed for Atletico Madrid

[30stone]

I know terrible news :(

[30stone]

They will, depending on the group they get I expect them to at least make it to the KO stages:).

Football has been hit very hard by the economy:(.

Hope so :(

Hope villa doesnt score against them..

[Novo]

St. Pauli enjoys a certain fame for the left-leaning character of its supporters: most of the team's fans regard themselves as anti-racist, anti-fascist and anti-sexist, and this has on occasion brought them into conflict with neo-Nazis and hooligans at away games. The organisation has adopted an outspoken stance against racism, fascism, sexism, and homophobia and has embodied this position in its constitution. Team supporters traditionally participate in demonstrations in the Hamburg district of St. Pauli, including those over squatting or low-income housing, such as the Hafenstraße and Bambule. The centre of fan activity is the Fanladen St. Pauli.

The club prides itself on having the largest number of female fans in all of German football. In 2002, advertisements for the men's magazine Maxim were removed from the team's stadium, in response to fans' protests over the adverts' sexist depictions of women.

St. Pauli is also a worldwide symbol for punk and related subcultures.[3] The Totenkopf logo and the team's brown and white football jerseys have often been worn by international artists such as the band Asian Dub Foundation. Turbonegro recorded a special version of their song "I Got Erection" with re-worked German lyrics for St. Pauli. Bad Religion played a charity match against St. Pauli's third team in 2000.[4] KMFDM frontman and Hamburg native Sascha Konietzko is a recognisable St. Pauli fan, even at one point placing a huge picture of a fist smashing a swastika on his band's main page, with the caption St. Pauli Fans gegen Rechts! (St. Pauli fans against the right-wing) underneath it. One of the most notable supporters and sponsors is Andrew Eldritch, lead singer of band The Sisters of Mercy. On his 2006 'Sisters Bite The Silver Bullet' tour, Eldritch wore the famous Totenkopf shirt. Other German musicians are fans[citation needed]: Fettes Brot, Die Ärzte singer/drummer/songwriter Bela B., Kettcar, Tomte and many other bands, most of them underground. Georg Holm, bassist of the Icelandic post rock band Sigur Rós, performed at several festivals wearing a Sankt Pauli shirt.

When the team played in Germany's second football division, their home fixtures at the Millerntor used to average greater attendances than any other team in that division, and often exceeded turnouts for second division teams. St. Pauli have more holders of season tickets than many Bundesliga teams[citation needed]. One study recently estimated that the team has roughly 11 million fans throughout Germany [5], making the club one of the most widely recognised German sides. There are about 200 registered fan clubs, many of them outside Germany.

St. Pauli, and their fans, are also known for their close links with many other foreign clubs, enjoying a particularly close friendship with Scottish side Celtic. St. Pauli fans are often seen attending Celtic games on the continent when Celtic play UEFA competitions, St. Pauli flags and scarves are frequently seen on display at Celtic matches, the official Celtic club shops sell St. Pauli merchandise. Every year Celtic supporters arrive in Hamburg for the annual St. Pauli – Celtic Festival.[citation needed] The link between the two clubs was strengthened once more in 2010, when as part of their club centenary celebrations, St Pauli invited Celtic to play in a friendly match at The Millerntor. The match was played on 17 May 2010. Celtic won 2-0 thanks to second half goals from Paddy McCourt and Morten Rasmussen.


what a great team.

That Article is a load of ****e they are Scum

Hamburg :)

http://files.stv.tv/img/articles/135231-celtic-greeted-with-no-surrender-banner-in-hamburg-410x230.jpg

http://www.anenglishmanscastle.com/No%20Surrender.jpg


Hamburg supporters had a surprise welcome inside the HSH Nordbank Arena ahead of their Europa League tie with Celtic. When the two teams emerged onto the pitch, fans behind the goal unveiled a huge display of a giant Union Jack with a banner unfurled underneath which read "No Surrender".

The 4,000 strong Celtic travelling support were stunned to find the old taunt at a foreign ground. They can after all get Union Flags from the rivals at home - though this was much more provocative than would be allowed in Scotland

With Uefa having dished out one improper conduct charge this week, the governing body will take an interest in what was obviously a carefully planned and well-organised show involving more than a thousand Hamburg supporters.

The phrase 'No Surrender' originates from the Siege of Derry, part of the fighting which led to the catholic King James II being ousted from power by his protestant daughter Mary and her husband William of Orange.

Rival fans always seek to wind up the opposition and in many cases it is seen as fair game around Europe. The memories of the infamous Celtic v Rapid Vienna games in the 1980s were quickly brought to the surface when the two sides were drawn in the same group in this year's Europa League.

But the European footballing authorities will be concerned that such a specific taunt, based on historical religious affiliations, has surfaced in this way at a showpiece occasion.

Fans of Hamburg's local rivals St Pauli were believed to be in the Celtic end of the ground as well. Hamburg fans were seen wearing Rangers shirts and scarves when they visited Glasgow two weeks ago.

Amazing Team

[Chels]

rumoured villa are coming in for adam matthews with a £2million bid.
they are having a laugh? TG would tell them to shove that up their ass.

[Novo]

Rangers want ledley as well and they can get him on a free :)

Transfer rules could give Rangers an advantage in the race to land the youngster though. The Welshman is still only 23, which means that although he could move to club from another football association for nothing, any English club would have to pay compensation. A failed bid of £8 million last year means that a transfer tribunal would be unlikely to set a fee considerably lower than his established market value

[bbfan1991]

Birmingham have signed Nikola Zigic from Valencia:).

[bbfan1991]

West Brom sign Steven Reid permanently from Blackburn on a 2 year contract:thumbs:.


Cardiff release 5 players- Peter Enckelman, versatile Tony Capaldi, strikers Warren Feeney and Josh Magennis and defender Aaron Morris.

[30stone]

Birmingham have signed Nikola Zigic from Valencia:).

Thought liverpool would get him.


He will be a good buy..

6 foot 7 and built lol. good in the air..

[Novo]

Arsenal are interested in Lorient's £8m-rated centre-back Laurent Koscielny, 24, who is eligible to play for Poland and France.

[Novo]

Spain striker Fernando Torres has sparked a new round of speculation over his future by refusing to rule out a summer move from Liverpool.

[Novo]

Everton are being linked with a move for Marseille's France winger Hatem Ben Afra, 23, who has a price tag of £10m.

[Chels]

Rangers want ledley as well and they can get him on a free :)


he's too good for you
he's apparently going to blackburn where we'll get a ****load of compensation for him

[Chels]

West Brom sign Steven Reid permanently from Blackburn on a 2 year contract:thumbs:.


Cardiff release 5 players- Peter Enckelman, versatile Tony Capaldi, strikers Warren Feeney and Josh Magennis and defender Aaron Morris.

Encks = thank ***** he's gone he's an absolute *****ing donkey. worst keeper alive.

Capaldi = not good enough for league 2, never mind us

Feeney = ... 'nuff said

Magennis = wtf? he was quality from what i saw "/ and he's only 19

Morris = nobody even saw him play lmfao

[Locke.]

If Torres leaves we are well and truley ****ed. I reckon he will stay though.

Jovanovic signs for us after the world cup:

http://www.fenerbahceworldwide.org/uploads/pictures/6c4vsd0n7823.jpg

He has 71 goals in 159 domestic games, and 9 goals in 24 international games.

[Chels]

bellamy is coming

[Novo]

he's too good for you
he's apparently going to blackburn where we'll get a ****load of compensation for him

He is not good enough you mean

he wouldn't even get into the starting 11 because of Davis Edu and Thomson and Fleck would probably get into the starting 11 ahead of him as well.. he'd be a good player to warm the bench though

[bbfan1991]

bellamy is coming

Was always his dream of playing for his hometown club:), heard about a £7 million fee being payed to Manchester City if the deal was to happen;).

Still I have heard rumours that although you guys have new owners could still be faced with the danger of Administration and points deduction next season.. best not to believe everything until it's confirmed:hugesmile:.

[bbfan1991]

Edin Dzeko could be going to Manchester City:shocked:.

[Novo]

Bellamy in the championship LOL!!!!

[bbfan1991]

Chicarito is handed his work permit yes!!!!:).

[30stone]

Bellamy in the championship LOL!!!!

He would smash it.



And Dzeko if he goes city, thats one of my favourite players that will join my hate list.

[Johann]

City are also apparently holding talks with Real Madrid for Higuain and Gago.

Higuain would be a superb signing.

[Johann]

Joe Cole is said to be joining Man Utd on a free transfer.

[SocietyIsRuined]

Man City will not get Higuain. They might get Gago but not Higuain. God help Man City if they bought Imbrahimovic off Barca. One of (If not the) worst players I've ever seen.

[Chels]

He is not good enough you mean

he wouldn't even get into the starting 11 because of Davis Edu and Thomson and Fleck would probably get into the starting 11 ahead of him as well.. he'd be a good player to warm the bench though

lol what a load of ****

spl standard is ****ing ****, it's like the quality of league one, if you joined the championship both you and celtic would get raped week in week out

[Chels]

Was always his dream of playing for his hometown club:), heard about a £7 million fee being payed to Manchester City if the deal was to happen;).

Still I have heard rumours that although you guys have new owners could still be faced with the danger of Administration and points deduction next season.. best not to believe everything until it's confirmed:hugesmile:.

nah won't happen
the guy's a billionaire and has said he will invest any money that is needed on transfers

[Chels]

Bellamy in the championship LOL!!!!

Ledley in the spl LOL!!!!!!!!!!

[Novo]

Chelsea is wrong again...

Rangers would walk the Championship i hate to say it but so would Celtic.. over 100 points like newcastle did this year. you seriously think players with the quality off Bougherra, Boyd, Davis, Wilson, Papac, Whittaker, Thomson, would struggle in the championship.. then you clearly are deluded

Like Ben said Bellamy would easily walk the championship, yet players like Robbie keane although he had a good goalscoring record struggled against teams like Ross county and St Mirren? Like i said ledley wouldn't get into the starting 11.. this Rangers team is near enough the exact same team which made the europa league final in 2008 beating Sporting lisbon, Wender bremen, Panianthokos and Fiorentina on the way, yes off course they would struggle in the Championship.....

[Chels]

no i'm dead serious, you'd be sh*t.
it's a well known fact that spl quality is fecking awful.

scottish football = boring + sh*te.

[Novo]

It is a well known fact that Rangers are the most successful team in the world as well... It is also a well known fact that Blackpool beat cardiff in the play off final it is also a well.. There are a lot of well known fact's

And scottish football isn't ****e it's just the league format that's ****e..

[Chels]

It is a well known fact that Rangers are the most successful team in the world as well... It is also a well known fact that Blackpool beat cardiff in the play off final it is also a well.. There are a lot of well known fact's

And scottish football isn't ****e it's just the league format that's ****e..

:joker::joker::joker::joker::joker::joker:

seriously i'd stop now before you look even stupider.

and scottish football is nothing compared to other leagues such as the prem, la liga etc

[Novo]

They actually are the most succesful club in the world in terms off trophy's won...more major trophies than any other team, and being the first club to reach 100 major honours :)

Off course it's not on Par with the Prem and La liga it's better then the champioship though for **** sake.. :joker:

[Chels]

er, i know for a fact barca are a much more succesful club than rangers.

and no it's not better than the championship, all the spl has is two good(ish) teams and it's obvious one of them will win the title and go on to get their arses kicked in the champions league along with the runners up. in the championship we're all good teams and there's so much unpredictablility there, anyone can suprise anyone.

championship > spl

we have a larger following also

[Novo]

Barca haven't won more honours then Rangers therefore they are not as successful as Rangers are.. Real madrid are 2nd and they are 17 trophy's behind Rangers ( Last time i checked )

Scottish teams do well in the Champions league ( with the odd expection like last year ) But Celtic beat United 1-0 several seasons back and Rangers beat Lyon 3-0 away they even got into the last 16 in 2006 and only got knocked out on away goals by Villareal..
Just admit it SPL > championship anyday

And you don't have a larger following at all.. no where near LOL!..

[Chels]

Barca haven't won more honours then Rangers therefore they are not as successful as Rangers are.. Real madrid are 2nd and they are 17 trophy's behind Rangers ( Last time i checked )

Scottish teams do well in the Champions league ( with the odd expection like last year ) But Celtic beat United 1-0 several seasons back and Rangers beat Lyon 3-0 away they even got into the last 16 in 2006 and only got knocked out on away goals by Villareal..
Just admit it SPL > championship anyday

And you don't have a larger following at all.. no where near LOL!..

but yet they're still a better team. they'll pound you into nowhere eventually.

lmao, 4 years ago? teams are improving now and rangers are nowhere near champions league quality. no it's championship > spl still. nobody more south than northern england gives two sh*ts about the old firm or spl at all. it's a small town league.

yes our league does have a larger following. just googled up some stats - average spl attendance 14,708. average championship attendance 19,451.

ta daaaah

[Novo]

I hope we get Real madrid or Barcelona now.. when they come to Ibrox we'll take them to the limit and grab a goal win 1-0 Sasa Papac :)... Well for a start the EPL isn't improving if anything it's going down hill with near enough half the clubs in debt and small town league PSML!... Rangers have a huge following in London and Celtic have a Huge Following over in America, I don't see any talk of a swansea and Cardiff match being played in the states...

When you said " We " i thought you meant Cardiff have a bigger following then Rangers.... and Attendence doesn't mean how Quality the league is tbh it's just stadium size.. if you going to compare attendance do it between Cardiff and Rangers :)

Average Attendance Cardiff - 20717 - 77%
Average Attendance Rangers - 47564 - 93%

[Novo]

I hope we get Real madrid or Barcelona now.. when they come to Ibrox we'll take them to the limit and grab a goal win 1-0 Sasa Papac :)... Well for a start the EPL isn't improving if anything it's going down hill with near enough half the clubs in debt and small town league PSML!... Rangers have a huge following in London and Celtic have a Huge Following over in America, I don't see any talk of a swansea and Cardiff match being played in the states...

When you said " We " i thought you meant Cardiff have a bigger following then Rangers.... and Attendence doesn't mean how Quality the league is tbh it's just stadium size.. if you going to compare attendance do it between Cardiff and Rangers :)

Average Attendance Cardiff - 20717 - 77%
Average Attendance Rangers - 47564 - 93%

[bbfan1991]

Manchester City won't be getting David Silva either:nono:.

So Kris Boyd has left Rangers.. hope he moves to Birmingham or Aston Villa;).

[30stone]

Calm down you two!


And ive been playing ultimate team finally and its awesome.
Ive created the frnech national team (minus 3 positions right now)

And am going to have the italian team as my secondary team.

[bbfan1991]

City are also apparently holding talks with Real Madrid for Higuain and Gago.

Higuain would be a superb signing.

Good to see you back Johann:). I think Gago could go but Higuain wouldn't to Man City.

[30stone]

Higuan wouldnt leave i dont think awesome player.. and knows his club willbe winning stuff next season.

[Novo]

Ben do you have football manager 2010?

You need to play it online with me

[bbfan1991]

Why can't the papers and bookies get that Wayne Rooney doesn't want to play in La Liga:mad:?.

[30stone]

Only have chmpionship manager 2010 lol.


You should play fifa ultimate team tho its awesome.

[Novo]

I've got Championship Manager 2010 as well

Could do La liga on it

One of us be Barcelona and the other one Real Madrid

[Novo]

I've got Championship Manager 2010 as well

Could do La liga on it

One of us be Barcelona and the other one Real Madrid

[30stone]

Id be vlaencia and still smash it :) lol!

[bbfan1991]

Valencia will definetly be fighting for 3rd in La Liga next season hopefully;).

[Raph]

Japan - England tomorrow. Should be fun watching :)

[bbfan1991]

Walcott starts:conf::shocked:, WTF?.

[Novo]

Walcott and Lennon

[30stone]

Walcott starts:conf::shocked:, WTF?.

He will score today :)

[bbfan1991]

He will score today :)

Nope and nor did Rooney either:p.

[bbfan1991]

Jermaine Beckford joins Everton on a free transfer and four year deal from Leeds United;).

[Novo]

Good old Beckford

he will be scoring 40 next season

[Raph]

World Cup to start in 11 more days :D

[Novo]

10*

[30stone]

Wonder how beckford will fair in the pl..

[Nemo123]

Wonder how beckford will fair in the pl..

who will he displace at Everton?

I suppose since Landon Donovan went home they have room for a striker.

I think he'll do well.

[Novo]

Yakubu is likely to be going

[King Gizzard]

Wonder how beckford will fair in the pl..

At a push hes a championship player, hes not very good at all. Very selfish and misses loads of sitters, he'll fade away in the Premier League

[bbfan1991]

Yakubu is likely to be going

It's not worked out for him.. however the Toffees are in need of another striker me thinks for back up incase Saha gets injured as he is prone but recently has done well to stay fit and of course for competition:p.

[bbfan1991]

At a push hes a championship player, hes not very good at all. Very selfish and misses loads of sitters, he'll fade away in the Premier League

I wonder if Villa will move for Kris Boyd?.. because at the moment according to my local paper Birmingham who I thought he would be going to have cooled their interest;).

[Novo]

Martin " Scummy " O'Neill best give Rangers over 4 MIL For him

[King Gizzard]

I wonder if Villa will move for Kris Boyd?.. because at the moment according to my local paper Birmingham who I thought he would be going to have cooled their interest;).

I hope to god no his attitude is awful, he can go to Birmingham they suit each other

We will get Keano hopefully

[Nemo123]

Kris Boyd has a phenomenal scoring rate. I think he may be off to Turkey.