Football Corner

Tottenham have tonight completed the signing of Hertha Berlin defender Gilberto after hours of uncertainty about the transfer.

Gilberto had previously failed a medical at the club and doubts were raised wheter or not the deal would actually go through or not but it seems a though things have been sorted and the Brazilian international will move to White Hart Lane.

Gilberto is a quality left-back that I feel will be a big hit at Spurs. He is a Brazilian international and has scored in the World Cup so good signing by Juande Ramos in my view.

Jermain Defoe has passed a medical at Portsmouth although the deal is in the balance due to the delay in the deal which will see Benjani join Manchester City.

Pompey agreed a fee with Tottenham earlier on Thursday afternoon and the player has agreed terms and under went a medical at 9:15, which he is thought to have passed.

I would love to see Defoe leave Spurs and gain some more first team football at Fratton Park. I do feel the deal will go through and Pompey will be rather happy with their business for the day.

Tottenham defender Anthony Gardner has joined Everton on a six month loan deal according to reports.


Gardner has struggled to nail down a first team place under manager Juande Ramos since the managers arrival in October and he had spoken of his desire to leave for first team football.

Everton boss David Moyes was said to be interested in a new defender and Gardner looks to be the man for Everton although I forsee him struggling to gain a first team place at Goodison Park.

Sheffield United have completed the loan signing of Inter player Goran Slavkovski. The Swedish international joins the Blades until the end of the season.

Middlesbrough are close to wrapping up a deal to bring Heerenveen striker Afonso Alves to the Riverside after the Brazilian forward was granted a work permit.

The player has been at the centre of a lega dispute between AZ Alkmaar and Heerenveen in recent weeks but now Boro have stepped in and agreed a £14 million bid for the player.

Alves has an amazing goal scoring record at the Dutch club, scoring 45 times in just under 40 games. Alves also has 8 caps to his name for Brazil, scoring once in the process.

I feel this is a terrific signing for Boro and I am glad to see Alves coming to the Premier League. He is obviously a terrific goalscorer, in the Dutch League and I am sure all Boro fans he will be able to carry that kind of form to the Riverside. I just hope for Boro fans sake he's not another Dirk Kuyt!

Newcastle United defender David Rozehnal has this evening joined Serie A giants Lazio on a six month loan deal.

Rozehnal has failed to make a real impression at the Premier League side and Magpies boss Kevin Keegan is keen to bring in a replacement before midnight tonight.

Rozehnal made over 20 appearances for Newcastle since joining in the summer for £2.9 million. "David Rozehnal joined Newcastle only last summer, but has not been playing in his position in defence," Zika told Pravo. "The Lazio offer came shortly before the transfer deadline, but we managed to finish the deal."

This comes as no surprise to me. Rozehnal has been largely dissapointing and I am sure Keegan will be looking to make the deal permanent in the summer. The 27-year old has 40 caps for his country Czech Republic.

Liverpool have this evening signed Javier Mascherano on a permanent deal for a fee believed to be in the region of £18 million.


Mascherano has been on loan at the Merseyside club for just over a year now and has impressed the Liverpool faithful as well as manager Rafa Benitez.

The 23-year old has made over 20 appearances for the club although he is yet to score. He is currently keeping both Xabi Alonso and Lucas Leiva out of the Liverpool team.

I feel the signing Mascherano is a good one for Liverpool although I do think £18 million is a tad over priced. That should be it for Liverpool on deadline day but I still feel Rafa needs to invest in a new striker.

Tottenham are to launch a last gasp £8 million bid for Sevilla left midfielder Diego Capel, according to today's Daily Mirror.


The player has been linked with a move to Spurs for some time as current Spurs boss Juande Ramos looks to fill his left sided midfield slot.

Capel has played under Ramos before whilst the pair were at Sevilla and he has made over 20 appearances for the club although he is yet to score for the La Loga giants.

Capel is a quality midfield player who would be a good addition to Spurs squad. Ramos has been looking at left midfield players inclduing Stewart Downing but it is thought that he has a better chance of signing the 19-year old Capel.

Manchester City are closing in on the double signing of FC Basel striker Felipe Caicedo and Portsmouth top scorer Benjani.

City boss Sven Goran Eriksson has desperately been looking out for a new front man with the current set of front men misfiring.

Caicedo is set to join City for a fee of around £5 million. He has made over 40 appearances for the Swiss club scoring 12 goals. Benjani has scored 19 goals for Pompey in just under 70 games and will also complete a £5 million move to the City of Manchester before midnight.

As a City fan I am not overly happy with the signings. Benjani is, in my view, overrated and I have never really seen Caicedo play but in fairness he has been linked with several top European clubs so he must be decent.

Southend have completed the loan signing of Chelsea youngster Anthony Grant until the end of the season.

Manchester United are supposedly making a last minute attempt to capture the signature of Karim Benzema.

The French international has been linked with Europe's top clubs in the last few transfer windows and it appears now as though United will finally put a bid in for the 20 year old.

He broke through the Lyon academy in 2004 and has since managed to bag 21 goals in about 60 appearances for the Ligue1 champions. He has also made 8 appearances for France and netted 3 times in the process.

There is no doubt about Benzema's ability and I'm sure he is well worth his £20 million price tag

Norwich have completed the loan signing of Arsenal star Kieran Gibbs. The 18 year old is highly rated at the Emirates and could well be a part of Arsenal's future. He will return from Carrow Road at teh end of the season.

Newcastle United's bid for Derby County midfielder Giles Barnes has been rejected.

The player has been at the centre of intense speculation about his future with several clubs vying for his signature including Aston Villa and West Ham.

Derby boss Paul Jewell has stated that if a club come in with the right offer for Barnes then he can go but he won't be letting him go cheap. It was believed that Kevin Keegan bid only £2 million for the 19-year old.

I feel Barnes would relish a move to St James' and I do think that a deal will be done before midnight tomorrow. Barnes is a terrific talent and will inevitably be an England international and would be a good addition to an average Newcastle side.

According to several reports tonight, Middlesbrough are closing in on Inter Milan wonderkid Goran Slavkovski.

The Swedish born 18-year old has been linked with several moves to the Premier League with Manchester United also said to be interested in the player but it appears as though he wants a move to the Riverside.

"Middlesbrough are a perfect club," Slavkovski told Expressen. It is understood that the player will have a medical at Boro either today or tomorrow ahead of a six month loan deal.

Chelsea have a had a £15 million bid for Palermo striker Amauri rejected keeping the door open for fellow admirers, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus according to reports on tribalfootball.com.

Tottenham have this evening completed the signing of Rangers defender Alan Hutton and Spurs midfielder Wayne Routledge is on the way out of the club with Aston Villa close to agreeing a deal for him.

Hutton has long been a target of Tottenham manager Juande Ramos and after weeks of speculation the transfer has taken place. The fee for the Scotland international is believed to be in the region of £9 million.

"We are delighted to announce we have reached agreement with Glasgow Rangers for the transfer of Alan Hutton," said a statement on Tottenham's website.

Meanwhile, according to several reports today Wayne Routledge is close to joining fellow Premier League side Aston Villa. The 23-year old has been linked with several moves away from White Hart Lane after he was told he could leave the club and now it looks as though the former Crystal Palace player is on his way to Villa.

A good day at the office for Ramos. Hutton is a terrific player and I have no doubt will be a top quality signing by Spurs. Routledge wasn't ever really going to threaten to get into Ramos' first team plans so it's better to let him go now than to keep him in the reserves.

Barca have joined Liverpool, Tottenham, United and Lyon in the race to sign Racing centre half Ezequiel Garay according to reports on Sky Sports.com.

According to several reports this evening, Liverpool are to tie up the permanent transfer of midfielder Javier Mascherano as Momo Sissoko has left the club for Juventus.

Mascherano's future at the club had been in doubt for the past few weeks as Momo Sissoko's proposed transfer to Italian giants Juventus stalled at very stages but now it looks as though the deal could be done within hours.

Mascherano has struck up a good partnership with Steven Gerrard in the Liverpool midfield, keeping Xabi Alonso and Lucas Leiva out of the side and the majority of Reds fans were desperate to see him stay at Anfield.

I feel Liverpool were lucky to receive £8.2 million from Juve for the services of Sissoko. I am sure the majority of Liverpool fans will be delighted at the news and they will be hoping Mascherano keeps playing like he is because he has been impressive this season.

Newcastle are considering a move for Czech youngster Lubos Kalouda according to reports on Sky Sports today.

Denis Wise has this evening decided to leave Leeds United to go and join Newcastle United as some executive something or other and in my view he's made a bad decision.

He has led Leeds into the promotion places in League one despite a 15 point deduction and many Leeds fans had grown found of the ex-Chelsea star.

The decision to leave the club is a poor one. Denis should of stayed with Leeds at least until the end of the season and if they were promoted (which I think they would of been had Wise of stayed on) then great. He would be regarded as a possible Premier League manager.

Instead he has decided to join the backroom staff at St James' Park where he will have no influence in picking the first team squad and in my view Denis needs to be doing that kind of thing if he wants to be a top manager.

Yes Barack Obama is a West Ham fan. The (soon to be, in my view) next president of the United States admitted that he has followed the Hammers ever since he visited London a couple of years ago.

In five or six years. Carlos Tevez has today spoken of his desire to leave Manchester United in five or six years and then finish his career at Boca Juniors.

The Argentine striker has been at United since last summer after leaving West Ham. Tevez is currently United's leading striker this season with 13 goals in all competitions.

He told Radio Del Plata: "I would like to play four or five more years in Europe. I would love this to happen at Manchester United and then go back to Argentina.

"I know I will finish my career at Boca. No doubt about it. I do not imagine myself retiring without winning one more title there."

Spurs are supposedly set to add another defender to their January introductions as Alan Hutton is closing in on a move to White Hart Lane according to reports on Sky Sports. Tottenham have already signed Chris Gunter and Johnathan Woodgate so far in this transfer window.

Arsenal are considering a move for Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko according to reports on Sky Sports this evening.

According to several papers today, Tottenham have missed out on the signing of Middlesbrough midfielder Stewart Downing after failing to agree terms with Boro.

Downing has been linked with a move to White Hart Lane for some time now and many people predicted that he would join Juande Ramos' side before the end of the January transfer window.

Downing, 23, has 16 England caps to his name and although he hasn't shown great form of late he is widely regarded as one of England's best left wingers.

I personally felt Downing needed to leave the Riverside and have a fresh start somewhere else. I'm sure Ramos won't be too happy but he can still play Malbranque on the left of the Spurs midfield.

According to several reports today, Liverpool midfielder Momo Sissoko is very close top leaving the club after Juventus and Liverpool agreed an £8.2 million fee for the club.

Sissoko has been the centre of intense speculation throughout the January transfer window with several clubs including Inter Milan interested in the 23-year old.

Liverpool currently have an abundance of quality central midfielder players in Xabi Alonso, Steven Gerrard and Lucas Leiva at the club and Javier Mascherano who is likely to sign on a permanent deal at the club when Sissoko leaves.

I feel it is for the best for Sissoko to leave Anfield. Liverpool need the money and Sissoko needs more playing time and I think Liverpool are receiving a very decent amount of money. Bye bye Momo.

Portsmouth have completed the loan signing of former Liverpool striker Milan Baros from Lyon.

Dinamo Zagreb midfielder, Luka Modric says he would prefer a move to Barcelona rather than City or Chelsea according to reports in the Daily Telegraph.

The 22 year old Croatian is a central midfielder and is very highly rated in Croatia and at his club Dinamo Zagreb. Reports came through this week also that he rejected a move to Arsenal last season.


He also has an impressive goal scoring record from midfield netting 24 times in about 80 appearances for Zagreb.



I have seen this guy play a few times and he definitely looks like a star for the future. It is likely that he will cost Barca about £10 million. But it is thought that he will not be making his move until the summer.

Arsenal right sider, Emmanuel Eboue could be set for a move to Italian giants AC Milan according to reports in the Daily Telegraph.

Celtic are targeting Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia according to reports in The Mail on Sunday.

According to Liverpool shot stopper, Pepe Reina, Reds manager Rafa Benitez supposedly fines his players if they are caught speaking any other language than English. The Spanish keeper said in a recent interview, "There are 12 Spanish speakers but we try not to talk in our language because if he catches us, Rafa fines us."...Pretty soon they might be saying Adios to Rafa if he keeps up their current poor run of form.

Tottenham are supposedly set to sign Middlesbrough defender, Johnathan Woodgate and Hertha Berlin left back, Gilberto.

According to reports in today's News of the World, Spanish giants Sevilla are planning to make a £7 million bid for Tottenham defender Pascal Chimbonda.

The player is supposedly unhappy at the club after Spurs boss Juande Ramos starting buying more full-backs and he has been linked with moves to several clubs since then.

The 28-year old has been at Spurs for a year and a half now after leaving fellow Premier League side Wigan. He has mad over 50 appearances for the North London side netting 3 times.

I wouldn't surprise me one bit if Chimbonda joined Sevilla. Sevilla are playing Champions League football at the minute and I feel Chimbonda would love to play in Europe's top competition although will Ramos sell?

According to reports in today's News of the World, Arsenal and Manchester United are keeping tabs on Everton defender Joleon Lescott.

The player has impressed this season, earning an England call-up and becoming a vital part of the Everton starting eleven.

The 25-year old has been at Goodison Park since 2006 after joining from Championship side Wolves. It is very clear that David Moyes wants to hold onto his star players but when the sides like Arsenal and United come knocking they often get their man.

It is not thaught that both sides will make bids in January but a summer move may be on the cards. Both Ferguson and Wenger are likely to start the bidding at around about £8 million but I feel they will have to cough up a lot more than that for Everton star.

Middlesbrough have tonight moved a step closer to signing Heerenveen striker Afonso Alves after Gareth Southgate admitted that a deal may be done within the next 24 hours.

Boro have been tracking the Brazilian striker for some time now and have been frustrated at the length of time taking to do the deal due to an supposed agreement between AZ Alkmaar and Herenveen for Alves' services.

Southgate told the club's official website: "We're still in talks with Heerenveen and we're hoping that within the next 24 hours we can conclude an agreement with them, and then of course there are things like work permits to get through."

I feel the signing of Alves would be a terrific one for Boro. Alves is a quality goal striker that scores bag fulls of goals. Alves is 26-years old and has scored more goals than he has played for the Dutch club and I'm sure Boro fans will be hoping he can produce the same at the Riverside.

Tottenham's turn around in this Premier League season is down only to one man and that man is Juande Ramos.

Ramos was appointed Spurs boss back in October after Martin Jol was sacked for a poor run of results (rather harshly in my view).

He had a terrific pedigree coming into the Spurs hot seat having led Sevilla to two consecutive UEFA Cup's and qualifying the club for Champions League football last season.

When Ramos took the reins at White Hart Lane everything changed. A new diet for all the players, a new assistant manager in Gus Poyet and ,most importantly, a better run of results. Spurs have won 12 of the 20 games Ramos has been in charge and are now within touching distance of the European places.

Spurs were in danger of relegation, no two ways about it, but since Ramos has come that sounds laughable. Spurs recently beat arch rivals Arsenal 5-1 in the Carling Cup semi-final second leg to ensure they reached the final at Wembley in February. That was the clubs first win over the Gunners for nearly ten years.

Ramos is a very cool and collected manager. He doesn't make any rash decisions in games and remains motionless when his side score. There is no doubt in my mind he is one of the best managers in the league and next season Spurs will be real contenders for a Champions League place.

It looks as though tonight that Tottenham have won the race to sign Middlesbrough defender Jonathan Woodgate after Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan admitted that it was unlikely the player would be going to St James' Park.

Woodgate has been the centre of much speculation over the past week or so after it was confirmed that he would be aloud leave Boro if the asking price was met. That has been met by both Spurs and Newcastle and both clubs spoke with the player.

"At this moment I don't think he is going to come to Newcastle," Keegan told Sky Sports News. "In fact I am almost certain he isn't. I think he is going to go somewhere else. "It looks like we have lost him. I am very disappointed. I fully understand though. But I desperately want him to come."

It is clear to see that Spurs boss Juande Ramos is looking to strengthen his defence and I feel Woodgate will be a good addition to the Spurs side although I feel £7 million is a bit much for a player that is very injury prone.

A Yossi Benayoun hat-trick ended Havant & Waterlooville's hopes of progressing to the fifth round of the FA Cup.

Liverpool ran out 5-2 winners but the non-leaguers put up an amazing fight, twice taking the lead. There was a huge 6,000 following for Havant that travelled up to Anfield and they certainly were given a lot to shout about.

The away side unbelievably took the lead after only nine minutes of the match when Richard Pacquette got on teh end of a Mo Harkin corner. Liverpool equalised soon after when Lucas Leiva struck a superb shot from outside the visitors box and many people felt the non-leaguers would just crumble, not the case.

Havant went 2-1 when Liverpool's new £6 million defender Martin Skrtel scored an og. Liverpool were level just before the break when Benayoun grabbed his first of the game after some neat play by Jermain Pennant and the same combination put the Reds 3-2 ahead.

Benayoun completed the hat-trick just three minutes later when he pounced on a loose ball after Ryan Babel had a shot saved by the Havant keeper. Peter Crouch finished the scoring after he was played in by captain Steven Gerrard.

All I can say is congratulations Havant. They put up a terrific fight against the Premier League side and were by no means disgraced.
Benayoun doubled his tally when

According to reports in today's Daily Mirror, Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe is to sign a new deal at the club.

The player's future at the club has been thrown into doubt in recent weeks after it was reported that Spurs boss Juande Ramos told the player he could leave the club.

Aston Villa, Newcastle and Man City were all said to be interested in the player but it now appears as though their chances of signing the 25-year old are very slim.

The England international in my view is too good to be sitting on the bench every week. I still feel that Berbatov and Keane are better than him and he will continue to struggle to nail down a first team place at White Hart Lane.

According to reports on BBC, Newcastle United have taken a lead in the race to sign Middlebrough defender Jonathan Woodgate.

The player is currently holding talks with the club he spent to seasons at a couple of years ago after holding talks with Spurs on Wednesday.

Woodgate has apparently been told he can leave Boro after falling out of favour with Boro boss Gareth Southgate. It is believed that Boro have accepted two £7 million bids for the player from both clubs.

I personally feel he will pick Newcastle in the end, simply because he is already living up their. I think he will turn out to be a very good signing for Kevin Keegan, that's if he can keep injury-free.

Today's Bet of the Day comes from the FA Cup tie between Liverpool and Havant & Waterlooville. This is obviously going to be a very one sided game and I am pretty certain there are going to be goals... and lots of them. That's why I have gone for the game to have six or more goals @ 15/8 @ PaddyPower.

According to reports in several papers today, Manchester City boss Sven Goran Eriksson is interested in bringing David Beckham back to the Premier League.

Beckham has been away from English football since leaving Man United almost four years ago for Real Madrid. He is obviously now in the US with LA Galaxy.

Beckham has been training with Arsenal in order to gain match fitness to try and earn a England call-up for the friendly with Switzerland next month to earn his 100th cap.

According to the Daily Express, Newcastle United are the latest team to show an interest in Derby County midfielder Giles Barnes.

Barnes has been linked with several moves away from the Premier League strugglers with West Ham and Aston Villa said to be interested in the 19-year old.

New Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan is apparently ready to bid £5 million for the midfielder and Derby boss Paul Jewell may be tempted by that kind of money.

I feel Barnes deserves to be playing at a bigger and better team, with all due respect to Derby. Barnes is capable of winning a game on his own but the only thing I'm worried about is that he may just be a great player in a average team.

According to reports on Sky Sports this morning, Celtic have snapped up Middlesbrough striker Ben Hutchinson on a pre-contract agreement.

Hutchinson has made eight substitute appearances for the Premier League side and scored on his debut against Manchetser City earlier in the season. Many sides were said to be interested in the 20-year old who joined Boro from non-league side Arnold Town last summer.

Boro boss Gareth Southagte is said to be deeply frustrated at losing the striker but Boro will receive some sort of compensation.

Spurs are targeting Barcelona defender Carles Puyol according to reports on Sky Sports last night.

According to reports in today's Daily Mirror, Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is interested in bringing Real Zaragoza attacking midfielder, Pablo Aimar to Anfield.

The Argentinian international played under Benitez whilst they were at Valencia and Benitez is keen to bring him to Liverpool but will have to bid as much as £8 million.

The 28-year old has been linked with a move to the Premier League before when Liverpool were said to of made a £10 million bid for him before his move to Zaragoza.

Aimar has 47 caps for Argentina and in my view would be a quality signing. I personally feel Reds fans will want Benitez to spend his money on securing the signature of Javier Mascherano but you never know this transfer could happen in the summer.

Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo has today claimed he can get better.

Ronaldo has already had a terrific season with United, equalling his goal tally of 23 from last season and he is on course to retain his Premier League player of the year award.

"To be honest I am a bit surprised to have already equalled my total of 23 from last season," said Ronaldo."Now I want to improve, so I will continue to work hard in the hope of getting more goals.

"I am enjoying my career at the moment as we are playing some nice football. But I need to say thanks to my team-mates. They help me a lot."They give me great passes and give me confidence. I appreciate that. Maybe I score more goals than my colleagues but they also help the team.

Obviously bad news for fans of other Premier League teams who will have to face the magician that is Ronaldo.

Ashley cheats on Cheryl. Poor show Ashley!

Tottenham's move for Juventus midfielder Tiago Mendes has this evening collapsed after the club and player couldn't agree personal terms.

Tiago has long been linked with a move to the Premier League with Manchester City, Bolton and Newcastle all said to be interested in the Portuguese international.

The 26-year old made over 40 appearances for Chelsea during his time in England and played a large part in Chelsea's title winning season three years ago.

It is believed Juande Ramos will now turn his attentions to Valencia midfielder David Albelda. The player has been told by Valencia manager Ronald Koeman that he can leave the club and Tottenham are believed to among the interested parties.

I believe the signing of Tiago would of been a good one for Spurs manager Juande Ramos. Tiago is a good midfielder that I feel would of been a good addition to the Spurs side, however I feel the signing of Albelda would be just as good for Spurs.

Pascal Chimbonda does care about Spurs but will not rule out a move away from the club according to the agent of the Tottenham defender.

The player has been left frustrated in recent weeks about the club going out and buying new full-backs and that fuelled speculation about a move to either Newcastle or Aston Villa.

New Newcastle United boss Kevin Keegan is said to be very interested in bringing the French defender to St James' Park and Chimbonda's agent could not rule out Pascal leaving Spurs before the end of January.

Willie McKay said:

"Pascal cares about Spurs, he cares about his team-mates, he cares about his football and he cares about his career."Even if he does move on Spurs will always have a place in his heart as will the fans.

Tottenham and Pompey are targeting former Chelsea striker Mateja Kezman according to reports in The Guardian today.

According to reports in several papers today, Chelsea are to make a £15 million bid for Palermo striker Amauri.

The Brazilian born striker has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time now with Manchester City also said to be interested in the 27-year old. AC Milan and Juventus are also keeping a close eye on the situation at Palermo.

It is believed whoever wants to buy the striker will have to wait until the summer to secure the players signature as the Italian club are currently reluctant to sell. The player has spent just under two years with Palermo and has managed to score 15 goals for the club.

I have seen only bits and bobs of Amauri and I have to say he looks a very strong front man and I feel he would be very capable of playing for a top side like Chelsea. I have one slight problem with Amauri going to Chelsea and that is that the club would then have three strikers over the age of 27.

According to reports in The Times, Liverpool have had an ambitious loan bid for Arsenal striker Theo Walcott rejected, however Man City are still hopeful of signing the youngster.

Chelsea have signed Argentine youngster Franco di Santo from Audax Italiano in Chile on a four and a half year deal.

According to reports in various papers today, Liverpool could be about to complete a deal to sign Javier Mascherano on a permanent basis after the clubs owners agreed a refinancing investment of over £350 million.

The players future at the club had been in doubt for some time due to the owners failing to back Benitez with the £17 million which he needs to sign Mascherano but it now appears as though things could be looking bright for Mascherano's future at Anfield.

The 23-year old Argentinian midfielder has been linked with several moves away to clubs like Man City, Barcelona and Juventus all said to be interested in him. Mascherano has always stated he would love to stay at the club.

I feel this is terrific news for all Liverpool fans because Mascherano is a quality player. I know a lot of Liverpool fans and they all say he's class and that the club should keep him at all cost and it appears a though they have been granted their wish.

According to reports in today's Daily Mirror, Tottenham boss Juande Ramos is interested in bringing Valencia midfielder David Albelda to White Hart Lane on a free transfer in the summer.

The club are also close to signing Middlesbrough defender Jonatan Woodgate after the clubs agreed a fee of £7 million for the England international.

The former Real Madrid player has become increasingly frustrated with life under Gareth Southgate at Boro and is interested in a move away from the club, with Spurs the most likeliest of destination's now for the 28-year old.

Meanwhile, Spurs are also monitoring the current situation at Spanish giants Valencia in relation to the possibility of signing David Albelda. The player was told a couple of weeks ago that he could leave the club and he has been linked with moves to the Premier League including, Chelsea, Fulham and Everton.

I believed if Ramos was to sign both players it can only be good for Spurs. There is no doubt Spurs need to strengthen in the defence with the side leaking goals from all directions and I feel Woodgate could become a key part of the side.

Middlesbrough are close to signing Brazilian striker, Afonso Alves according to reports on Sky Sports this evening.

According to reports in today's Sun, Newcastle United have joined the race to sign Dinamo Zagreb star Luka Modric.

The Croatian midfielder has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time now with Arsenal, Chelsea and Man City all said to be interested in him.

It now appears as though new Magpies boss Kevin Keegan is also interested in bringing the 23-year old to England and he is willing to pay as much as £15 million although it is believed they will have to wait til the summer as Zagreb are reluctant to sell.

I have seen Modric a couple of times now and all I can say is the sooner he comes to England the better. He is an extremely talented attacking midfielder that any club would love to have in their side and this is reflected in the amount of top clubs in for him.

According to reports on Sky Sports this evening, Italian side Palermo are interested in Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva.

Lucas has failed to nail down a first team place at Anfield since joining in the summer, although he has impressed a large majority of the Reds fans.

Palermo have been alerted by the lack of first team football for the 21-year old at Anfield and are interested in bringing him to the Seire A although it is unlikely Reds boss Rafa Benitez will let him go.

I have to say I have been impressed by Lucas in his brief appearances for the Merseyside club. He is only young and I am sure he has a big future at the club, although he may grow frustrated at the current situation, ie, the amount of quality midfielder at the club, and decide to leave.

Liverpool, Man City and Everton are all supposedly tracking Sevilla striker Luis Fabiano according to reports on BBC today.

Tottenham and Man City are targeting Sevilla midfielder Christian Poulsen according to reports on Sky Sports today.

According to reports in today's Daily Mail, Tottenham are set to wrap up the signing of Juventus midfielder Tiago and they are also closing on signings of Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing and Rangers defender Alan Hutton.

Tiago has long been linked with a move to White Hart Lane after falling out of favour at Juve and it appears as though now the deal is on the brink. Tiago has played in the Premier League with London rivals Chelsea and Spurs boss Juande Ramos is very keen to bring him back to England.

Meanwhile, Rangers defender Alan Hutton, who turned down the chance to move to Spurs earlier in the month is said to of changed his mind and a deal could be the done in the next few days. Hutton has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time now with clubs like Man United, Man City and Liverpool said to be interested in the Scotland international.

Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing is also said to be close to a move to Spurs after he admitted last week that he would be interested in a move to London if the opportunity arouse. Downing was also being tracked by fellow Premier League side Everton.

I personally feel all three signings would be terrific for Spurs, especially the possible capture of Hutton. It is taught this will cost Tottenham as much as £30 million for the three players, which sounds a lot of money for just three players but I feel it would be money well spent.

According to reports in today's Daily Mail, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is ready to let Theo Walcott leave the club on loan.

The England international has failed to make a big impression at the Emirates since joining the club over two years ago for a fee of £12 million.

Walcott was touted the next Thierry Henry when he was at Southampton and Wenger decided to splash a huge amount of money on such a young kid. Walcott has made only 30 appearances for the club since joining back in 2006.

It is believed West Ham are looking to bring Walcott in on loan until the end of the season and Gunners boss Wenger is said to be happy to do just that. We have all seen glimpses of Walcott's talents but unfortunately for him and Arsenal it hasn't been consistent enough.

Manchester City striker Rolando Bianchi has tonight leftthe club on a six month loan deal which sees him join Serie A side Lazio.

The Italian striker only joined the Blues in the summer for a fee of £8.8 million and he has failed to live up to expectations, thus seeing him leave the City of Manchester.

Bianchi admitted that he was finding it hard to settle in England and that a return to Italy would be best. "I had a couple of other very interesting offers but I chose Lazio for my future and because I wanted to be valued in a very great team," Bianchi told Lazio's official website.

"It was a choice that I thought about and thought about again so now I am sure that it is the right one and the future will prove it."First I will have the opportunity to play and, moreover, I will be happy.

"I was pleased to meet the other Lazio players. I have the impression that they're a very united group, which is right when you want to build something solid for the present and the future."

City have been linked with numerous amounts of strikers in recent months, but as yet, Eriksson hasn't brought anything in. He only has Vassell and Mpenza now and I my view he really needs to strengthen before the window shuts next Thursday.

Taken from Manchester City FC.

According to reports on Sky Sports, Newcastle United are interested in bringing former Real Madrid defender Jonatan Woodgate to the club from Middlesbrough and they are likely to face stiff competition from Tottenham.

The England defender has a spell at St James' Park that was plagued with injury before leaving to join Spanish giants Real.

Woodgate, 28, is said to be growing increasingly frustrated under current Boro manager Gareth Southgate and opened to the possibility of a move away from the Riverside. It is believed that new Magpies boss Kevin Keegan will have to bid as much as £9 million to secure Woodgate's services.

Spurs boss Juande Ramos is also said to be keen on Woodgate and it will be very interesting to see who Woodgate opts to join. My guess would be Newcastle simply because he has played for them before and because he if from up around their.

According to various papers today, the mother of Manchester United star, Ronaldo, has said she would love one day for her son to play for Real Madrid.

This comes after weeks and months of speculation about a possible move to the La Liga side in the future. I'm sure Real are hoping Ronaldo's mom has a big influence on him and hoping she persuades him to join them.

So will Ronaldo keep his mother happy and sign for Real?

According to Valencia midfielder David Albelda, both Chelsea and Tottenham are interested in him.

Newcastle are targeting Lazio striker Goran Pandev, according to reports on Sky Sports today.

According to a recent poll run on Football Corner, you the readers voted that Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez will not be in charge of the club next season.

Many people throughout the game have put into question whether or no he would be allowed stay by the current owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks.

Here are the results of the poll:

Yes - 1184 (41%)
No - 1426 (49%)
Maybe - 246 (8%)

Total Votes : 2856.

Thank you all for voting, and we would encourage you all to vote in the new poll displayed on the top right of the page.

Kevin Keegan is supposedly targeting West Ham striker Dean Ashton according to reports in the Daily Telegraph today.

Ashton is just one of a whole list of names being linked with the Toon Army since King Kev's arrival last week. Rather surprisingly, Ashton has been left out of The Hammers side on a few occasions this season even when fit, which has led to the former Norwich man being linked with a move away from the club.

It is thought that Newcastle are going to launch an initial bid of around £7 million, which West Ham are unlikely to accept. So Newcastle may have to splash out up to £9 million for the 24 year old.

Liverpool midfielder Momo Sissoko's move to Juventus is "almost complete" according to reports on Sky Sports today.

According to today's Daily Mirror, Newcastle United boss Kevin Keegan is interested in bringing West Ham United striker Dean Ashton to the club as well as Liverpool defender John Arne Riise.

The new Magpies boss has been told by his own players in recent days to go out and spend and he is said to have the backing of club owner, Mike Ashley, to do just that.

Ashton has returned to the West Ham first team in recent months after missing the whole of last season through injury. He joined the Hammers back in 2005 from Championship side Norwich.

Riise has been linked with several moves away from Anfield over the last six months or so, with Aston Villa said to be amongst the interested parties. I personally think Riise may be looking to move, with Fabio Aurielo getting back in the side in left-back.

I think if Keegan were to sign these two it would be great for Newcastle. Both are good players in their own right and I feel they would be great additions to a somewhat, below par Newcastle side this season.

Tottenham are supposedly set to make an approach for Racing defender, Ezequiel Garay according to reports in The Sun today.

Tottenham are on their way to Wembley after defeating arch rivals Arsenal in tonight's Carling Cup semi-final. Spurs ran out 5-1 winners on the night, 6-2 on aggregate to earn Juande Ramos' side their place in the final where they will meet either Everton or Chelsea.

The Spurs goalscorer's on the night were Jermaine Jenas, Nicolas Bendtner og, Robbie Keane, Aaron Lennon and Steed Malbranque and their was just a consolation for the Gunners when substitute Emmanuel Adebayor scored the goal of the night.

Sunderland have this evening completed the signing of Manchester United defender Philly Bardsley.

The 22-year old defender has signed a three-and-a-half year deal at the Stadium of Light after spending some time on loan with Championship side Sheffield United.

Bardsley has played in the Premier League with Aston Villa before, whilst playing on loan with the Midlanders and Bardsley expressed his delight at completing the £2 million deal.

Bardsley said: "Sunderland have a fantastic manager who has given me the chance to come here and play. I'm delighted, it's a massive club."Black Cats boss Roy Keane said: "We needed to strengthen our defence and Phil is a good addition to the squad."

I feel the signing of Bardsley is a decent one for Sunderland. He is a good right-back that likes to get forward at every oppurtunity and he is certainly not afraid to put a tackle in.

West Ham are supposedly close to striking a deal for Villareal central midfielder Leandro Somoza according to reports in the Independent today.

Fulham have agreed a fee for Rangers striker Daniel Cousin according to reports on Sky Sports today.

Liverpool's deal for Racing defender Garay has supposedly fallen through after the La Liga side lost interest in Reds pair El Zhar and Leto, according to reports on Sky Sports.

According to various papers today, Tottenham are to challenge Liverpool, Chelsea and Atletico Madrid for Porto attacking midfielder Ricardo Quaresma.

The Portuguese international has been linked with a move away from the Drago for some time now and it appears as though he could leave the club before the end of the January transfer window.

Quaresma, 24, has been at Porto since 2004 after leaving Spanish giants Barcelona and he has made over 100 appearances for the club scoring 24 times.

Porto vice-president Fernando Povoas has remarked in a double-edged statement: "I know that he is happy at Porto. Regarding a possible transfer, we will decide together at the right time."

I have seen a bit of Quaresma, mainly in the Champions League and he looks quite tasty. He is a midfielder that rarely helps the defence out. Spurs boss Juande Ramos is said to be keen on bringing him to White Hart Lane, but he will have to bid at least £25 million, which in my view is way to much for Quaresma.

According to reports in various papers today, Newcastle United are preparing a £7 million bid for Liverpool striker Peter Crouch.

New Magpies boss Kevin Keegan has been linked with numerous amounts of players in recent days and it is taught he has outline Crouch as one of his main targets.

It is believed Newcastle will make an offer of £7 million to Liverpool for Crouch who hasn't started anywhere near as many games as he would of hoped.

Crouch, 26, once again proved to Rafa Benitez why he should be starting for Liverpool by last night scoring in the side's 2-2 draw with Aston Villa. I feel it is the right time for Crouch to leave Anfield and go and get some first team football somewhere else and Newcastle would be a good option.

According to several reports today, Fulham are looking to bring in former Liverpool striker JariLitmanen.

Litmanen, 36, is a free agent and Fulham boss Roy Hodgson is keen to bring in the player he has worked with as Finland manager.

It is widely speculated that the former Ajax and Barcelona star will fly into London for a short term medical so Hodgson can asses the player's fitness.

"Jari has been working hard lately and he is fighting fit," Hodgson was quoted as saying by the Finnish Football Federation website.

Litmanen was a decent player whilst he was at Liverpool but he is now 36 and I feel Fulham should be looking to bring in a younger striker. He was terrific player when he was at Ajax and I suppose you don't just lose that kind of talent.

Portsmouth are supposedly set to launch a loan bid for West Ham Striker Bobby Zamora according to reports in the Daily Telegraph today.

Arsenal could be set to make an approach for West Ham keeper, Rob Green according to reports in the Daily Express today.However Tottenham have also been linked with Green recently as well.

Reports over the last few days are linking Terry Venables closer and closer to the Republic of Ireland job, which I'm certain would finish off what Stan had started... the downfall of Irish football.

According to several reports today, Celtic have joined Blackburn Rovers in the race to sign Wigan Athletic midfielder Jason Koumas.

The Welsh international has found himself out of favour under new Latics boss Steve Bruce and he is rumoured to be growing increasingly frustrated at the current situation.

Koumas only joined Wigan during the summer from Championship side West Brom after the Baggies failed to earn promotion to the Premier League. Wigan spent £5.3 million the player in the summer and it is unclear wheter or not Bruce is prepared to let him go.

I have been surprised by the lack of first team football Koumas has received under Bruce. Koumas in my view, without doubt, one of Wigan's best players and I find it hard to believe Bruce isn't playing him. I think He may opt to join Blackburn if he has the chance, mainly because Mark Hughes.

In the space of three minutes halfway through the second half against Aston Villa, Liverpool may have blown their chances of getting the fourth Champions League place.

According to today's Daily Mirror, Newcastle United are preparing a bid for Tottenham defender Ledley King.

New Magpies boss Kevin Keegan is keen to add to his defensive options in the coming days after he was told he does have money to spend by United woner Mike Ashley.

Keegan is prepared to bid as much as £15 million on the England defender, a lot of money in my view for a player who always seems to be prone to injury.

King is a terrific defender that any team would love to have at their disposal. He only played seven league games in 2007 due to several injuries and I feel that would put off Keegan and I'm pretty sure Juande Ramos would reject any bid for the player.

According to the London Evening Standard, Tottenham keeper Paul Robinson has handed in a transfer request after losing his first team place to Radek Cerny.

The England international was dropped for Tottenham's 1-1 draw away at Arsenal two weeks ago and has not played since for the London club leading to intense speculation about his future.

Many clubs including Middlesbrough and Man City have been linked with the 28-year old in the past few days but it is unclear yet wheter or not Spurs boss Juande Ramos will accept the request.

Meanwhile, Spurs striker Jermain Defoe is staying at the club after talking with Ramos. The England striker was recently told he could leave if he wanted to but after captaining the side on Saturday against Sunderland it appears as though Ramos wants to keep him.

Portsmouth, Man City, Newcastle and Aston Villa were all said to be interested in the 25-year old but it appears as though now there hopes of signing the former West Ham star have been all but ended.

Liverpool fans are tonight to stage a protest against the American owners outside Anfield.

Liverpool face Aston Villa needing to win to regain their fourth spot in the league ahead of local rivals Everton.

Many Liverpool fans are angry at the owners for not backing Reds boss Rafa Benitez financially and in terms of his position.

Dubai International Company have been linked with making a bid for the club to get rid of current owners George Gillet and Tom Hicks but as of yet nothing has happened.

According to Bayern Munich general manager Uli Hoeness, Bayern striker Lukas Podolski can leave the club on loan this month after the club earlier said he wasn't going to leave the club.

Podolski has failed to gain a first team place at Bayern since joining from Clone back in 2006. Podolski really made a name for himself in the World Cup in 2006 when he played an instrumental part in Germany's run to the semi-finals.

Podolski wants to leave Bayern to ensure he earns a place for Germany's Euro 2008 side. Hoesness said: "I want to help him to make it to the European Championships.

"And if we loan him out and everything goes well, we have done everything right."Then we have got him games and he comes back on July 1."

According to eatsleepsport, Newcastle have joined West Ham United in the race to sign Reading left-back Nicky Shorey.

The Royals defender has been linked with several exits from the Madejski over the past 18 months or so with West Ham always said to be keen on him.

The 22-year old has two England caps to his name and he will be hoping to add to that but he may have to leave Reading for that and maybe join either Newcastle or West Ham.

I personally think Shorey will leave Reading, but it will probably be during the summer. He had a terrific first season in the Premier League last year but I personally don't think he has played as well this year, however I do think he would be a good signing for either Newcastle or West Ham.

According to several reports today, Tottenham are closing in on the signing of Hertha Berlin defender Gilberto.

The player had previously been linked with a move to Premier League champions Manchester United but nothing ever materialised from that rumour.

The 31-year old is said to be very keen on a move to England and with Spurs in the market for a new defender Gilberto definitely fits the bill.

I have rarely seen Gilberto but I hear he is a very good player and is very capable of playing for a top side like Spurs. He has played and scored in football's top tournament, the World Cup and I feel would be a good addition to a Spurs side that really needs a few defenders.

Inter Milan boss Roberto Mancini has confirmed his interest in bringing Barcelona attacking midfielder Ronaldinho to the San Siro.

The Brazilian international has had a poor season by his standard's and there has been talk he may be on his way out of the Camp Nou.

Inter boss Mancini said : "Two months ago I said Inter were going to sign Ronaldinho," said Mancini. "And no one believed me, in fact everyone started laughing.

"I don't think it would be a problem fitting him into a squad. Ronaldinho is a great player. "What's more important than behaviour is that a champion steps onto the pitch and changes the game and Ronaldinho does that always."

I personally feel Ronaldinho should join AC if he gets the chance. He currently isn't doing the business at Barca and I think it's time he decided he should quit the La Liga outfit but wheter or not Frank Rijkaard will be willing to let him go or not is another question.

Chelsea, Arsenal, Everton, Newcastle and Spurs have all been linked with Russian midfielder, Andrei Arshavin in reports on Sky Sports today.

John Arne Riise and Peter Crouch have said they are fully committed to Liverpool according to reports on Sky Sports.

Everton have joined Tottenham in the race to sign Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing according to reports in the News of the World.

Unsettled Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann has insisted that he has a future at the club despite the keeper being second in line to Manuel Almunia this season, according to reports on Sky Sports.

Barcelona, Real Madrid and AC Milan are set to battle it out for the signature of Chelsea striker Didier Drogba according to reports in the Daily Mail today.

According to reports in the News of the World Chelsea striker, Claudio Pizarro is being targeted by Serie A side Lazio. Rumours in a few other of today's papers are linking Chelsea with Sam Eto'o in what would be a £40 million replacement for Pizarro.

As we come to the 50th anniversary of the Munioch air disaster, my brother has written a piece on the disaster in which eight Manchester United's finest players lost their lives. Well worth a read. an article on the death.

According to today the Telegraph, Newcastle are chasing Rangers defender Alan Hutton and Liverpool striker Peter Crouch.

Liverpool and Arsenal are supposedly locked in a battle to sign Marseille midfielder Samir Nasri according to reports in the Telegraph.

Man United, Arsenal and Chelsea have all today won and kept their title hopes most definetly alive.

Sir Alex Ferguson's Man United went away to Reading and saw off a very gain Royals side. United ran out 2-0 winners with Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo getting on the scoresheet. Match report.

Arsenal ran out comfortable away winners at Fulham today to keep the pressure on United. Adebayor continued his terrific season to date with two goals and Tomas Rosicky finished off the scoring. Match report.

Chelsea survived a scare when they just scraped past Alex McLeish's Birmingham. Chelsea scored late on through a Claudio Pizzaro header to send the Chelsea faithful home happy. Match report.

Hello their! I would just tell everybody about my new blog. It's called Manchester City FC , please have a look!

Man United have joined Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea and Arsenal in the race to sign Brazil's hottest prospect in football, 15 year old Neymar da Silva, according to reports on Sky Sports today.

England and Wigan Athletic keeper Chris Kirkland says he would love to become a fireman when he leaves football accoridng to today's Independent.

Spurs, Man City and West Ham United could make an approach for Sevilla star Aleksandr Kerzhakov according to reports in The Telegraph today.

The Russian international only joined Sevilla at the beginning of 2007 and has since played over 20 times, scoring 8 times.

He had previously been playing for Russian giants Zenit St Petersburg where he spent 5 very successful years scoring over 60 goals in just under 160 games.

Kerzhakov has been strongly linked with a move to Spurs in recent months but it is believed Man City and West Ham are also interested in the 25-year old. Kerzhakov was funnily enough was brought to Sevilla by Spurs boss Juande Ramos.

It is likely that whoever wants to sign the striker will have to splash out as much as £8 million and I feel that represents good value for money. I personally feel Kerzhakov would be a terrific signing for either of the three sides but I have a funny feeling he will choose Juande Ramos' Spurs.

Chester City have signed Liverpool striker Craig Lindfield an a month long loan according to reports on Sky Sports.

Inter Milan have today told Barcelona and Chelsea to forget about signing Inter right-back Maicon after it was rumoured that both clubs were lining up bids for the player.

The Brazilian international has been at Inter for two years now after joining the club back in 2006 from French side AS Monaco. He has made over 40 appearances for the Italian giants.

Maicon has 28 caps for Brazil and is regarded by many as the best right-back in Europe and beyond. "Maicon is under contract with us until 2011 and we count on him a lot," technical director Marco Branca told Gazzetta dello Sport.

Maicon is a quality player and I would love to see him in the Premier League but now that the club have confirmed that they are ready to offer him a contract extension that seems unlikely. The 26-year old currently has three years left on his current deal with Inter but the club are looking to tie him down to a longer contract.

Dubai International Capital are set to launch a £500 million bid for Liverpool according to reports on BBC Sport.

Manchester City attacking midfielder, Geovanni, is close to agreeing a deal to sign for La Liga side Deportivo La Coruna.

The player has failed to nail down a first team place at City since joining Sven Goran Eriksson's side in the summer with the fantastic form of Elano.

His highlights as a City player include his memorable winner against loacl rivals Manchester United in the Derby back in August. He also scored during City's 1-1 draw away at Wigan back in November and in the first game of the season away at West Ham.

"There is already an agreement for a year-and-a-half," Roberto Assuncao - Geovanni's step-father and representative - told AS. "The player is very happy with the interest of Deportivo and hopes everything can move forward.

"Now everything depends on the release of Geovanni, over the past few days we have advanced a little and we hope for another meeting on Monday in the hope that we can get his direct release as a Manchester City player."

I personally feel Geovanni has been harshly treated as a City player. Geovanni played some lovely stuff in his brief appearances for the club but for whatever reason Eriksson hasn't given much of a chance. As a City fan I will be very sad to see him go.

Kevin Keegan has today given Michael Owen the captain's armband for Newcastle's game against Bolton today.

This is obviously Keegan's first game in charge of the Magpies since returning on Wednesday and he has decided to give Owen the responsibility of leading the side out at St James' today.

Owen controversially criticised Keegan in his book a few years back and it was taught that may be a hindrance in the pair's relationship at Newcastle but Keegan has said that he is looking forward to working with Owen and doesn't hold anything against him.

According to various papers yesterday, Everton are ready to use the money they got from James McFadden's sale to Birmingham on Barcelona striker Santiago Ezquerro.

The Spanish international has one Spain cap to his name but has found it very hard to nail down a first team place with Frank Rijkaard's Barcelona.

Ezquerro has been linked with several moves to England in the past with Bolton among the interested parties and Everton boss David Moyes is ready to bring him to the Premier League by using the James McFadden money on the 31-year old.

I have only seen Ezquerro the odd time for Barca and I must say I'm not surprised he can't get a place in the first team largely down to the calibre of strikers at the Camp Nou. Having said that Ezquerro is still a decent player and I feel would be an OK signing for the Toffees.

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch has today said that he will stay at Liverpool and fight for his place in the side according to reports on Sky Sports.

Kevin Keegan has made his first signing in his second reign as Newcastle manager after bringing Zalaegerszegi's Tamas Kadar to St. James Park.

Keegan signed the 17 year old after he had spent a few weeks on trial at the club. It is believed that the Hungarian will cost Newcastle about £900,000, a fee which breaks the record for most expensive Hungarian defender.

In an interview with his club's website the defender said, "My dream has come true, that I have signed to play for a club from the Premiership,".

So who's next on Kev's shopping list... Any preferences Toon army fans ???

Tottenham are targeting Juventus midfielder Tiago after the player said it would be "best" if he left the club according to reports on Goal.com.

According to various papers today, Newcastle United are interested in bringing out-of-favour Barcelona midfielder Deco to St James' Park.

This follows the arrival of Kevin Keegan at the club and it is believed that Keegan has targeted Deco as a possible acquisition for the club.

Deco joined Barca back in 2004 after spending five years at Portuguese giants Porto. He has been linked with several moves away from the Camp Nou including several Premier League teams.

Deco is obviously a quality player and although he hasn't shown that over the 18 months or so I feel he would still be a terrific signing. Deco, 30, has won the Champions League twice with Barca and Porto respectively and I'm sure a lot of Magpies fans would be glad to see him come to St James'

Celtic are planning an approach for West Ham midfielder Mark Noble according to reports in the Daily Mirror today.

Is Roy Keane having a laugh? Sunderland manager Roy Keane has today said that Black Cats striker Kenwyne Jones is worth £40 million.

I understand Jones has had a pretty good season so far but there is absoloutley no way he's worth £40 million.

“I have said before, there is no doubt we have got the best striker in The Premier League at the moment in Kenwyne, no doubt about it,” Keane proudly said.

“If they are on about certain strikers being worth £20 million, then Kenwyne is worth £40 million, without a doubt. “I wouldn’t swap him for any of them.”

The 23-year old has netted five league goals this season for the Premier League strugglers, but do you think he is worth £40 million?

Tottenham Sporting Director, Damien Comolli has today said that Spurs striker Darren Bent is not for sale after weeks of speculation about his future and also confirmed the club are not in the market for another striker.

Bent has struggled to nail down a first team place at White Hart Lane after joining the club in the summer for a fee of £16 million for Charlton.

Bent arrived at Tottenham as a proven goalscorer but for whatever reason it hasn't worked out at Spurs. Bent has three England caps to his name but no goals.

"The majority of the reports that I have read are completely wide of the mark," Comolli told Tottenham's official website. "I feel it is important to clarify a couple of things that are unhelpful - namely that reports that Darren Bent is for sale are totally inaccurate and, furthermore, we are not in the market for any strikers."

I am quite surprised by these comments by Comolli. I felt Spurs would be looking to offload Bent in January, what with him being crap and stuff. Obviously these comments rule out the possible arrival of Fred to the club but it appears as though Defoe will be on the way out of the Lane.

According to today's Daily Express, Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan is interested in bringing Chelsea defender Wayne Bridge to St James' Park.

Bridge has been linked with several moves away from Stamford Bridge in recent years after the club signed Ashley Cole last year.

Bridge has made over 75 appearances for the Blues scoring once in the process. Bridge joined Chelsea back in 2003 after leaving Southampton.

I feel Bridge would be a decent addition to the Newcastle side who really do need reinforcements in the defence. Bridge is a good left-back that will get forward at every opportunity and he isn't afraid to make a tackle.

Manchester City striker Georgios Samaras is set to trade City's by signing for Birmingham after the clubs agreed a fee for the Greek striker.

This ends Samaras nightmare at City after signing for the club back in 2006 for a fee of £6 million.

The 22-year old scored only eight goals in 55 games for the Manchester club and has rarely featured under new City boss Sven Goran Eriksson.

As a City fan I will be glad to see the back of Samaras. He was never up to Premier League standard and I'm surprised to see such an intelligent man as Alex McLeish spend any money on him.

According to reports in the Daily Mail today, the FAI are interested in making former Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier the new Republic of Ireland manager. To be honest I would be pretty pleased with Houllier taking over the Irish post. He has a number of good qualities as a manager, the best being he's not Terry Venables.

Liverpool are targeting Real Madrid's Gabriel Heinze and Athletic Bilbao duo Fernando Amorebieta and Javi Martinez according to reports in today's Daily Telegraph.

According to various papers today, Aston Villa are chasing Manchester City defender NedumOnouha and Tottenham defender Pascal Chimbonda.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill is keen to add to his defensive options in the January transfer window, with Olof Mellberg's future at the club still undecided.

Onouha has broke into the Manchester City starting eleven in recent weeks and O'Neill is said to be keen on bringing the England under-21 international to Villa Park.

Chimbonda was supposedly told by Spurs boss Juande Ramos that he had no future at White Hart Lane after he questioned Ramos' decision to bring in new full-backs.

I personally feel Villa may be able to bring Chimbonda to the club but I don't foresee Nedum Onouha joining them. Both are good players and both are capable of playing for Villa but wheter or not O'Neill will be able to persuade them to join is another question.

Stoke City have today completed the permanent signing of Manchester United defender Ryan Shawcross.

The player has been on loan at the Potters since the start of the season and City boss, Tony Pulis has decided to make the deal permanent.

Stoke have paid a club record fee of £1 million for Shawcross who has seven goals to his name this season in only 28 games.

"Ryan has been with us on loan since the start of the season and has already demonstrated his class.

"The fact that we have been able to secure Ryan's signature despite competition from a number of other clubs demonstrates how far we have come as a club in the last twelve months."Manager Tony Pulis added: "I am absolutely delighted to have signed Ryan permanently.

Porto left-back Marek Cech has admitted today that he would be interested in a move to Newcastle after it was reported that the Magpies were interested in him.

Cech was linked with a move to St James' Park in the summer whilst Sam Allardyce was in charge but nothing ever materialised.

Cech, 25, is a Slovakian international with over 20 caps for his country."I would leave Porto only if I received a really good offer," he told Pravda.

"I am finding a way to make a step up in my career. I don't think Newcastle are higher than Porto in the football hierarchy as Porto have been winning trophies, play in the Champions League every year and even won it before I entered the club.

"However, I would welcome to taste the Premier League, which definitely is of a higher quality than the Portuguese one. Perhaps I would like to move to Newcastle."

According to various papers today, Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan is chasing Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips.

Wright-Phillips used to work under Keegan at Manchester City and Keegan is said to be very keen on making him his first signing at St James' Park.

Wright-Phillips left City almost three years ago now and has only played just over 70 games in that period. Many people questioned Wright-Phillips decision to join the Blues in the first place and many people felt he needed to move to get more first-team football.

Wright-Phillips was a fantastic player whilst at City but unfortunately it hasn't worked out the way he would of liked at Stamford Bridge. He has starting playing some decent stuff in recent weeks but no where near his best. I feel it would be a good move for both player and club.

Rangers defender Ugo Ehiogu is in talks with Cahmpionship side Sheffield United after it was confirmed he had been released by the Scottish giants.

Ehiogu has spent just over a year at Rangers and United boss Bryan Robson is keen to bring him to Bramill Lane after working with him at Middlesbrough several years ago.

"At my stage I need to be playing football, but I will always have good memories, none more so than my goal at Parkhead last season," Ehiogu told the club's official website.

"I've really enjoyed my time at Rangers. They are a massive club and I hope they go on to win the championship this season." The 30-year old has 4 England caps to his name and well over three hundred Premier League appearances.

Bryan Robson told the club's official website: "I've worked with him before and he is interested in joining the club. "He has got vast experience and he's terrific in the air."

Liverpool have already completed the signing of Martin Skrtel so far in the January transfer window. Who do we need to bring in and who do we need to get rid of before January 31st.

According to various newspapers today, Real Madrid, Man United, Chelsea and Arsenal are all tracking Santos youngster Neymar.

The 15-year old attacking midfielder has been labelled by some as the next Ronaldinho, very high praise for such a young player.

"All he does is play football. In the street, in the backyard, in any place possible and impossible" advises his father, Neymar Senior.

I have seen a couple of videos of the player and let me tell you something he looks incredible. I personally hopes he joins one of the Premier League sides in for him simply because I would get to see more of him.

According to several papers today, Arsenal, Everton and Tottenham are all interested in bringing Russian captain Andrei Arshavin to the Premier League.

The Zenit St Petersburg striker has been linked with several moves to big European clubs in recent months and these three Premier League clubs are all said to be interested.

"We have three offers, all from big European teams," Pavel Andreev (Arshavin's agent) told Sport Express. "Now we're considering the pros and cons."

A lot of English fans know Arshavin from his terrific displays in Russia's successful European qualification campaign. Arshavin, 26, is likely to cost whoever wants to buy him at least £8 million and I feel that is terrific value for money for such a good player.

Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie is likely to miss another couple of weeks after sustaining a thigh injury during Arsenal's 1-1 draw with Tottenham last week.

The Dutch international has only recently returned from a lenghty injury but will now be forced to spend more time on the sidelines.

Many people were hyping Van Persie to be the man to fill in for Theirry Henry this season who left for Barca in the summer but unfortunately the 24-year old has sustained these injuries.

This is obviously bad news for Arsene Wenger and indeed all Gunners fans. Van Persie showed signs at the start of the season that he was going to take the Premier League by storm but unfortunately this has happened. Get well soon Robin!

Barca are in advanced talks with Celta Vigo in a deal which will see Jose Manuel Pinto join the La Liga runners up according to reports on Sky Sports today.

Fulham have this evening agreed a fee for Watford striker Marlon King of around £5 million with Fulham striker Collins John going the other way on a loan deal.

Fulham have had numerous bids rejected for King in recent weeks after Roy Hodgson signalling him out as one of his main transfer targets.

King has been a star player for Watford for many years now and he unfortunately picked up a serious injury near the beginning of Watford's relegation season from the Premier League last season.

King has so far scored 11 goals this season for Aidy Boothroyd's side and it is no surprise to see Fulham holding a keen interest in him. I really can see King being a real success in the top league in England. He is terrific goalscorer and I predict he will help Fulham survive the drop this season.

Fulham striker Collins John goes in the opposite direction on loan for the rest of the season. The Dutch striker has already played on loan in the Championship this season with Leicester City and scored twice.

Kevin Keegan's Newcastle has joined the race to sign Spurs striker Jermain Defoe according to reports on thisislondon.co.uk today.

Dubai International Capital are reportedly ready to make an offer for Tom Hicks share in Liverpool according to reports in the Liverpool Echo today.

Portsmouth have today sold Matty Taylor to Bolton and have bought Lassana Diarra from Arsenal.

Portsmouth splashed out a fee of around £5.5 million on Diarra who comes to Fratton Park after only spending six months at Arsenal. Portsmouth saw off competition from several sides including Newcastle, Blackburn, Tottenham and Everton for Diarra's signature.

Pompey sold midfielder Matty Taylor to Bolton for a fee believed to be in the region of £4.5 million. The 26-year old had only started four league games under Harry Redknapp this season after impressing over the previous two years.

It is no surprise to see Taylor leave because you can't have a player of his quality sitting on the bench every week. Taylor is a good acquisition by Gary Megson and I feel will be a big hit at the Reebok.

I feel the signing of Diarra by Redknapp is superb. Diarra has shown his class whilst starring in Arsenal's Carling Cup run this season and I think he wasn't given a fair chance at the Gunners although you can't blame Wenger who already has Flamini and Fabregas playing terrifically well this campaign.

Former Real Sociedad manager Chris Coleman could be set to take the assistant manager role at Newcastle according to reports in The Guardian today.

Liverpool, Portsmouth and Man City could be set to make an approach for Real Mallorca winger, Jonás Gutiérreze according to reports on Sky Sports.

Manchester United have today agreed a deal to sign 17-year old Brazilian twins, Fabio and Rafael, from Brazilian side Fluminese.

The pair, who are both full-backs will fly into Manchester on Monday and begin their careers with the Red Devils although they cannot play for United until the summer.

Both had a trial at United back in 2006 and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has decided to offer them contracts."After eights visits to Manchester United, we will travel to live in England," said Rafael who is a right-back, whilst his brother Fabio is a left-back.

"In the last two years we went there about every three months, we stayed for 10 days and then returned to Fluminese."This time we will have the whole family, father, mother and my older brother's wife with him."

According to several websites today, Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe is close to joining Aston Villa after holding talks with the club.

Defoe was told a few weeks ago that he could leave White Hart Lane by Spurs boss Juande Ramos and since then a number of teams have been linked with the player including Man City, Newcastle and Portsmouth.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill currently has a lot of English talent at Villa Park including Ashley Young, Nigel Reo-Coker and Gabby Agbonlahor and Defoe looks to be the latest to join them. It is believed that Villa had a £10 million bid accepted for the player by Spurs.

I feel it would be a terrific signing by O'Neill if he does indeed sign Defoe. Jermain is a hard worker and has scored goals wherever he has been and I think he will be a instant hit with the Villa faithful. I only hope that O'Neill plays him instead of doing what Ramos did.

Real Madrid Sporting Director, Predrag Mijatovic has today claimed he will never give up on signing Manchester United star player Ronaldo.

Real had previously expressed an interest in the player only for Alex Ferguson to tell them to stuff it. There was even rumours they were ready to spend as much as £50 million. on the Portuguese international.

Predrag Mijatovic told The Sun: "Ronaldo is an exceptional footballer and, although we know signing a player like that is very complicated, we will just have to keep working on it. "If one day a chance opens up, then we will be there trying to sign him. He'd grace any team in the world."

I am quite confident that Ronaldo will stay in the Premier League for years to come but I can see him joining Real when he's 26 or 27. He has the ability to become a footballing legend and I feel he may want to experience a new league later in his career and it would be very interesting to see how he would settle in La Liga.

Everton have tonight agreed a fee with Birmingham for the services of James McFadden.

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has been interested in McFadden for some time now and has had previous bids rejected by Toffeees boss David Moyes.

McFadden played under McLeish when he was Scotland manager and it looks as though now they will be reunited at St Andrews.

I feel if McFadden can produce anything like the form he has whilst playing for Scotland he will be a decent signing for Birmingham. He has never really shown his true potential at Goodison Park and it comes as no surprise to me that Moyes has decided to offload him.

Havant & Waterlooville have tonight progressed to the fourth round of the FA Cup after knocking out League One side Swansea City and will now go to Liverpool in the next round.

Havant beat Swansea 4-2 at a packed Westleigh Park and amazing scenes were witnessed at the end with the home support ecstatic with the result.

Garry Monk's own goal put the home side in front and they were soon two up when James Collins bundled the ball over the line to put Havant 2-0 up. Rocky Baptiste tapped in soon after to put the Blue Square Premier side 3-0 up.

Guillem Buaza replied for the League One side just before the break and Swansea had a penalty saved soon after when Leon Britton missed a penalty. It starting getting edgy for the non-leaguers just after the break when Jason Scotland scored for City.

But it was Havant & Waterlooville's night, Tom Jordan headed home to wrap up the tie and send the crowd into raptures. Elsewhere in the FA Cup 4th round replays it finished : Man City 1-0 West Ham. Newcastle 4-1 Stoke. Hereford 1-0 Tranmere.

Liverpool could be set to make an approach for Spurs striker Darren Bent according to reports in the Daily Telegraph.

According to various papers today, both Bolton Wanderers and Sunderland are interested in Blackburn Rovers striker Jason Roberts, who is almost certain to leave the club in January.


Roberts once again staked his claim for a place in Mark Hughes' starting eleven on Sunday when he scored Rovers' winner away against Bolton to earn his side three valuable points in the race for a UEFA Cup spot.

Roberts, 29, joined Rovers back in 2006 after spending a very successful spell at Wigan. Roberts has made over 25 appearances for Blackburn but has failed to nail down a first team place which has led to him asking for a transfer.

I feel Roberts would be a decent addition to either of the sides interested. I feel he may opt for Bolton, simply because he wouldn't have to move house. It is likely that whoever wants to sign Roberts will have to splash out as much as £4 million.

According to today's Daily Star, Tottenham manager Juande Ramos is interested in bringing in Manchester United defender Wes Brown to sure up his defence.

Wes Brown is likely to leave Man United either in January or in the summer after rejecting a new contract at the club and Alex Ferguson saying they won't offer him another one.

Spurs boss, Ramos, is very keen to strengthen his defensive options with Spurs leaking goals by the shed load at the minute.

In my opinion, Brown would be a good addition to the Spurs side. He is a defender who can play in either right back or in the centre and for £3 million is a bargain. I am pretty sure he will leave Old Trafford at the end of the season and I'm sure every United fan will be grateful for what he has done for the club over the years.

Manchester City defenders Richard Dunne and Micah Richards are both rumoured to be stalling over contract talks and may be on their way out of City.

Micah Richards is apparently holding out for £70,000 a week but the club has only offered him £60,000. Richards has been a key figure in City's magnificent season so far and there is absolutely no doubt Eriksson will be doing everything he can to hold onto him.

City captain Richard Dunne is also said to be holding out for more money. He is currently on £28,ooo a week and in my view that isn't enough for such a terrific player. Dunne has been a rock at the back for City and his partnership with Richards has simply been awesome.

As a City fan myself, I have to say I would be devastated to see the pair leave. They are one of the top central defence partnerships in the Premier League and to see them go would be unthinkable. I am not surprised Dunne wants more than he's getting but I feel Richards should be happy with the £60,ooo he's been offered.

Former Newcastle skipper Gavin Peacock says that he expects Alan Shearer to have a role in the management staff in Kevin Keegan's second reign at St. James Park. "I wouldn't rule out someone like Shearer being brought in by Keegan as an assistant or a coach to learn his trade," Peacock told BBC Sport. So for the vast majority of Newcastle fans they seem ecstatic with their new appointment and Shearer looks to be the icing on the cake for the Toon army.

Real Sociedad manager Chris Coleman has today decided to quit his post as manager of the Spanish club.

Coleman joined Sociedad back in 2007 after been sacked as Fulham manager after a poor run of results.

"We are quitting as coaches of Real Sociedad and we are leaving the posts with much sadness as it is a fantastic club," said Coleman.

Coleman endured an indifferent period with the club, winning seven, losing seven and drawing four of the 18 games he oversaw.

Everton and Portsmouth are both set to enquire about Chelsea midfielder Steve Sidwell according to reports in The Sun today. Blackburn have also been linked with the former Reading man in recent weeks.

Since joining Chelsea in July of last year the 25 year old has made just under 20 appearances for the Blues and personally I think that his move to Stamford Bridge was the worst decision of his career.

Anyway that's not the point, he is a good player and I think he should manage to get his game in any of the above teams. It is thought that Chelsea will be looking for between £5 million and £6 million pounds for their number 9.

Famous Keegan 'I Will Love It' Interview
Video sent by redhalfofmerseyside

Keegan's back, brilliant!

Kevin Keegan has been appointed the new Newcastle United manager.

Toon army fans will have to aim low with their possible targets for the managerial post at St James Park after reports in the Daily Mail suggested that a big name manager like Jose Mourinho will not be appointed.... Looks like Stan for Toon.

According to various papers today, Manchester City are lining up a £12 million bid for Bayern Munich striker Lukas Podolski.

The German international has found it hard to nail down a first team place with Munich since joining them from fellow Bundesliga side Cologne.

There is no doubt that City boss Sven Goran Eriksson is on the look out for a new striker in January after seeing his summer signings Valeri Boijinov and Rolando Bianchi not banging in the goals for one reason or another.

As a City fan myself, I would be over the moon if we were to sign Podolski. The 22-year old impressed immensely during the World Cup in 2006 and in my view, hasn't been given a fair chance at Bayern.

Tottenham are targeting Russian midfielder Andrei Arshavin according to reports on Sky Sports today. Newcastle have also been linked recently with the 26 year old.

Arshavin has made 229 appearances for the club since joining in 2000 and has managed to bag 55 goals in the process. He has also netted 7 times for Russia in his 26 appearances for them.

Pavel Andreev, Arshavin's agent, has said that they have recieved three offers from big European clubs. "We have three offers, all from big European teams... Now we're considering the pros and cons."

From the few times I have seen him play for Russia he looks to be a very promising talent and would be a great signing for either of his admiring teams.

According to today's Sun, Arsenal are tracking Torpedo Moscow defender Vyacheslav Dmitriev who is nicknamed "The Elephant".

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is apparently lining up Vyacheslav to fill in for Kolo Toure who is currently playing for Ivory Coast at the African Nations.

Vyacheslav, 17, has apparently caught the eye of Wenger with his performances for Torpedo in recent months. He is nicknamed The Elephant because he is big, strong and deceptively quick.

Liverpool have handed a trial to Rochdale youngster Matt Hughes according to reports on Sky Sports today.

The 15 year old has raced through the Rochdale youth system and has in turn caught the attention of Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez.

In a recent statement on the Rochdale website, assistant manager Dave Flictcroft said, "He has great leadership qualities and a fantastic attitude and I can honestly say that I have never seen a young player so focused.

"To see a story like this unfold in front of your eyes is fantastic. I feel sure Matty is going to be a real player who goes on to play at a very high level." From the sounds of things this guy seems to be a promising young talent and would be a good prospect for the future of Liverpool.

Liverpool are in discussions with Spanish side Racing Santander about the possibility of letting Nabil El Zhar and Sabastian Leto join the club on loan. Both El Zhar and Leto are likely to leave the club in the January transfer window until the end of the season and Racing are supposedly very keen on the pair.

El Zhar really made a name for himself during Liverpool's Carling Cup tie with Cardiff City two months ago when he scored a cracker from 25-yards. Leto has figured twice in the Carling Cup for Liverpool and twice in the Champions League.

There is a lot of talk that Liverpool will try and include Racing defender Ezequiel Garay as part of the deal. Garay has been strongly linked with a move to Anfield in recent months and it is taught Benitez will offer Leto and El Zhar and £9 million.

Liverpool could be set to make an approch for Real Madrid full back, Gabriel Heinze according to reports on Eat SleepFootball.com.

According to today's Sun, Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini is stalling over the idea of signing a new contract at the club.

The French midfielder has had a terrific campaign so far, contributing in no small part to Arsenal's magnificent start. He has played a lot more than some people taught he might of done this season after knocking Gilberto out of the side.

Flamini, 23, joined the Gunners back in 2004 from French side Marseille and has since earned one cap for the French national team coming against Argentina last year.

I'm sure every Gunners fan is hoping that Flamini does eventually sign the contract because he is playing some fantastic football this season. I feel it would be a real shame to see Flamini leave English football after only been here a couple of years.

According to various papers today, Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has told Barcelona to come and get him.

The player has stated on numerous occasions that he would be leaving the London club at the end of this season with Barcelona said to be one of the interested parties if he does indeed leave Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea recently signed Nicolas Anelka from Bolton for £15 million and it was taught that the two would link up once the African Nations finishes. I personally taught when he said that he wanted to lave the Blues the first time he wasn't being serious but now that he has said it again, I feel he may just leave in the summer.

According to a recent poll run on Football Corner, you the readers, have voted that Liverpool will win the Champions League. I would like to take this oppurtunity to thank everyone who voted and I would encourage all of you to take part in our latest poll, will Rafa still be Liverpool boss next season?

Here are the results of the poll:

• AC Milan - 446 (votes) 3%
• Barcelona - 582 (votes) 4%
• Celtic - 677 (votes) 5%
• Lyon - 57 (votes) 0%
• Man United - 2228 (votes) 16%
• Liverpool - 4445(votes) 33%
• Porto - 37 (votes) 0%
• Chelsea - 874 (votes) 6%
• Sevilla - 116 (votes) 0%
• Arsenal - 2389 (votes) 17%
• Roma - 46 (votes) 0%
• Schalke 04 - 95 (votes) 0%
• Real Madrid - 666 (votes) 4%
• Olympiakos - 124 (votes) 0%
• Inter Milan - 435 (votes) 3%
• Fenerbahce - 176 (votes) 1%

Steven Gerrard tonight scored a magnificent hat-trick to send Liverpool into the next round of the FA Cup.Liverpool ran out 5-0 victors over League One side Luton Town with Babel and Hyypia getting the other goals.

Luton played with great heart in the first-half holding Liverpool to 0-0 until the 46th minute when Ryan Babel finished well after been put through by Fernando Torres.

Liverpool doubled their lead just after the break when Gerrard headed home his first from the edge of the six-yard box. Liverpool were soon 3-0 up when Sami Hyypia got on the end of a Gerrard corner to head in at the near post.

Gerrard grabbed his second when he calmly placed the ball into the bottom left-corner after Torres had a shot blocked in the box. Gerrard completed his hat-trick just after 70 minutes when he powered a shot home from all of 30-yards.

Good result for Liverpool and it may just relieve a tiny bit of the pressure on Benitez at the moment. Liverpool weren't very convincing in the first half but they put on a good show for the Anfield crowd.

According to today's Sun, West Ham are lining up a £3 million bid for Ipswich striker Danny Haynes. Haynes, 19, has impressed this season with the Championship outfit and has caught the attentions of Hammers Alan Curbishley.

Haynes spent a season on loan with West Ham's arch rivals Millwall two years ago and scored twice in a five game stint at the New Den. He has since scored 13 goals for Ipswich and has played over 70 games for the club.

I have heard many good things about Haynes and it will be exciting to see how he develops over the next few years. Comparisons have even been drawn between Haynes and former Ipswich star Darren Bent.

Gerard Houller has today emerged as one of the bookies favourties to succed Sam Allardyce at Newcastle.

The former Liverpool manager is currently the technical director for Frecnh football but rumour has it that he would be interested in a move back to the Premier League.

Houllier left Liverpool back in 2004 having led them to two League Cup success as well as one UEFA Cup and one FA Cup.

I personally would like to see Houllier back in English football and I certainly feel Newcastle could do a lot worse. Houllier did a great job at French giants Lyon when he left Liverpool and is widely regarded as one of the best French managers at the moment.

For more on this story click here.

Chelsea have agreed a fee for Lokomotiv Moscow star Branislav Ivanovic according to reports on Sky Sports today.

According to today's Daily Mirror midfielders , Portsmouth are lining up bids for Arsenal and TottenhamLassana Diarra and Kevin Prince Boateng.

Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp is keen to add to his midfield in January after Papa Bouba Diop and Sully Muntari left the African Nations last week.

Diarra is unhappy at the lack of first team football at Arsenal and has asked Arsene Wenger for a move away from the Emirates. Prince-Boateng has failed to make a huge impression at White Hart Lane and although Juande Ramos hasn't confirmed it, he may be looking to offload him.

Pompey are looking to complete the permanent signing of Diarra as soon as possible and are trying to bring in Prince-Boateng on a loan deal for the rest of the season. Both, in my view would be excellent additions to the Pompey squad although I'm not too sure Harry will be able to get Boateng in.

Arsenal are supposedly close to signing Ghana youngster Andre Ayew according to reports in The Sun today. It is thought that the Gunners have put in a £5 million bid for the 18 year old, Marseille star. His playing positions are left midfield and striker. He has also appeared 5 times for Ghana's first team.

Celtic are set to make an approach for Bayern star Daniel van Buyten according to reports on Sky Sports today.

Sunderland have signed French youth international Jean-Yves Mvoto from Paris Saint Germain according to reports on Sky Sports.

According to today's Sun, Chelsea and Liverpool are to battle it out to sign Villarreal defender Martin Caceres.

The player has been linked with moves to the Premier League before and he is said to be keen on coming to England.

Both Avram Grant and Rafa Benitez are said to be preparing £10 million bids for the 19-year old who is has played on loan with Spanish side Recreativo this season.

Caceres has represented his national side Uriaguay at under-20 level and is said to be one of the next best things to come out of South America. I have heard many good things about this player and although I have rarely seen him play, I would love to see him join the Premier League.

Spurs have won the race to sign Lyon striker Fred according to reports in The Sun today.

QPR have made a bid for Spurs winger Wayne Routledge according to reports on Sky Sports today.

Micah Richards could be on his way out of Manchester City and on his way to one of the big four in the Premier League.

The England defender is apparently holding out for £70,000 a week with Manchester City but the club are reluctant to offer the 19-year old that kind of money.

Richards has played a large part in City's terrific start to the season and City are keen to tie him down to a long-term deal but contract talks have apparently stalled.

All of the bid four are waiting in the wings to offer Richards a big money move. City will obviously be reluctant to sell one of their prized assets but if he rejects the contract then Eriksson may be forced to sell him.

It is likely that if Micah is to reject the contract that all four of the clubs involved will offer up to £20 million for the player and in my view he's worth even more than that. As a City fan myself I am just hoping Richards stays and keeps playing the way he is because he is a terrific talent.

Fantastic news, Watford midfielder Al Bangura has been granted a work permit and can now stay in the UK.

Lyon star Fred has rejected Portsmouth after both the South coast club and Spurs had bids of around £15 million accepted for the Brazilian.

One of Liverpool's biggest mistakes, in my opinion, was the sale of full back, Stephen Warnock in 2007 to Blackburn.

Liverpool, Man City and Man United are all set to make an approach for Ajax star Klaas Jan Huntelaar according to reports on Sky Sports today.

The bad news for Liverpool fans is that defender Daniel Agger has had a setback in his return from injury and will face even longer than expected out of action.

The Danish centre-back hasn't played since September and Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has been forced to play Sami Hyypia along with Jamie Carragher in the defence.

"We've had some bad news in that Agger has the same problem again," Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv. "He was training and ready to play but yesterday (Sunday) in training he felt something, so we need to go back and start from the beginning.

"It's not easy to say when he will be back. He is going to see different surgeons and then we will be able to analyse the situation."

Obviously this isn't what Liverpool fans wanted to hear. Agger has been terrific for Liverpool over the past 18 months or so but unfortunately this has happened. He is a vital part of the Liverpool defence and I'm sure Rafa is hoping to have him back as soon as possible.

According to Sky Sports, Manchester City, Bolton Wanderers and Fulham are interested in bringing Valencia striker Nikola Zigic to the Premier League.

Zigic, 27, joined Valencia during last summer's transfer window for a fee believed to be in the region of £14 million has struggled to nail down a first team place at the Spanish giants.

He was said to be close to joining Man City in the summer but instead opted to join Valencia. The three clubs are said to be in the market for a new striker for obvious reasons and Eriksson, Megson and Hodgson are all keen on the 6 foot 7 inch striker.

Arsenal could be set to make an approach for Deportivo B keeper Fabricio according to reports on Sky Sports today.

The 20 year old is highly rated in the Spanish youth teams and has even been compared by some as the next Iker Casillas.

Appearing 19 times for Deportivo's reserves this season, the shot stopper has conceded just seven times in that space of time.

Gunners scout Sergio Cagigao has been watching the player in recent times and following that, the La Liga side released a club statement saying, "It is not a surprise because other clubs are also following the youngster, but we are calm about the situation."

Atletico Madrid have joined the race to sign Liverpool midfielder, Momo Sissoko according to reports on Sky Sports. Inter Milan are also thought to be interested in the player.

Juventus were thought to be on the brink of signing the Mali international until the Serie A side's president announced that the club would not be making any signings this month. "Juventus will not make any acquisitions in the January transfer market," said Giovanni Cobolli Gigli.

According to various papers today, Chelsea midfielder Steve Sidwell is close to joining Sunderland for the rest of the season.

The former Reading star has, unsurprisingly, failed to nail down a first team place at Stamford Bridge and Roy Keane is willing to give him a chance at Sunderland.

Sidwell, 25, has only made 10 appearances for the Londoners this season, most of which have come as a substitute. Many people questioned Sidwell's decision to leave Reading at the end of last season and it is clear now he made a huge mistake.

I feel Sidwell would be a good addition to a Sunderland side who will inevitably be in a relegation battle. After missing out on Robbie Savage last week it is no surprise Keane is looking at Sidwell and I think a deal of some sort will be done.

Jose Mourinho has tonight denied reports that he will become the next Liverpool manager after Rafa Benitez.

The former Chelsea manager has been linked with the Reds for some time now due to the ongoing speculation over Benitez' future at the club.

But in a statement, Parades (Mourinho representative) said: "These are aberrant and heinous ideas."Some media have consistently linked Jose Mourinho's name with various clubs without, as they are ethically bound to do, trying to determine the truth of these reports."

"It is unacceptable that the unscrupulous press uses the name of Mourinho when they try to create or profit from current controversial situations in different teams as has happened recently," he added.

Although these reports distance Mourinho from the Liverpool I still envisage him taking over the reins at Anfield next season. Mourinho as we all know is a quality manager and I feel is just what Liverpool need. He manage to turn Chelsea, who were in truth an average side, to being one of Europe's top teams and I feel he could be the man to lead Liverpool to league success.

Inter Milan are set to make an approach for Liverpool midfielder Momo Sissoko according to reports on Sky Sports.

Chelsea have made an inquiry over Valencia full back, Miguel according to reports on Sky Sports.

Tottenham are set to make an approach for Almeria's Alvaro Negredo and Mane according to reports on Sky Sports today.

According to today's News of the World, Aston Villa are planning a £10 million bid for Valencia defender Miguel.

The Portuguese international may be the subject of a £10 million bid from Villa boss Martin O'Neill.

Miguel has made over 40 appearances for his national team since making his international debut back in 2003. He has made over 60 appearances for Valencia since joining the club back in 2005 from Benfica.

I am really excited by the prospect of Miguel coming to the Premier League because he is a quality player. He was linked with a move to both Chelsea and Liverpool last summer and is widely regarded as one of La Liga's top defenders. His preferred position is right-back but he can also do a job in right-mid as well.

An Arab investment group could be set to buy out Liverpool with a £500 million bid according to reports in The Observer today. Liverpool's current owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett only took charge of the club last year but it has been far from a quiet ride for the American duo after a falling out with manager Rafa Benitez. Despite patching things up there has still been a lot of speculation over the pair's future at the club. So could this be another fresh beginning for The Reds.

Today's bet of the day comes from the Premier League clash between Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers. Bolton will be looking to get off to a winning start post Nicolas Anelka and Blackburn will be hoping to continue their good form.

The bet of I have gone for is for a score draw @ 3/1 @ Paddy Power.

Fulham are set to make an approach for AC Milan star Dario Simic and David Albelda according to reports in The Sunday Mirror and The News of the World respectively.

Chelsea are set to make an approach for Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta according to reports in the Daily Mirror today.

According to several papers today, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Feguson is looking to replace the injured Louis Saha with Ajax striker Klass Jan Huntelaar.

The player has stated his ambition to leave the Dutch giants at the end of the season but United are planning to make a £12 million bid for the player during this January transfer window.

It has been widely speculated today that Louis Saha could face the rest of the season out injured after a severe set-back in his return from injury. United may face competition from local rivals Manchester City for the Dutch international.

I would be very excited to see Huntelaar join the Premier League. The 24-year old is a terrific finisher and guarantees goals for whatever side he joins. I feel if he had the choice he would definitely join United and I'm sure he would be a big success.

Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Hertha Berlin defender Gilberto according to Bild am Sonntag.

Gilberto has attracted the attentions of United boss Sir Alex ferguson and the club is prepared to offer the 31-year old a two and a half year contract.

The Brazilian born left-back said yesterday "I don't want to say too much about it. I have a number of offers, and perhaps I'll stay in Berlin. Or perhaps I'll go to England or Portugal or even back to Brazil. I am not worried,"

Gilberto joined Berlin back in 2004 and has made 14 appearances in the Bundesliga this season scoring once. The player can also play in midfield and would provide good cover for the United team.

According to today's Mirror, Celtic and Everton are interested in signing Bayern Munich defender Daniel Van Buyten.

Both clubs are interested in bringing the Belgian international to Britain on loan until the end of the season.

Van Buyten, who of course has played in the Premier League before with Manchester City four years ago, has made over 35 appearances for Munich but has recently not figured as much in the side.

I am really hoping Van Buyten returns to Britain because he a quality centre-back. He is strong and can certainly make a tackle. He would be a terrific signing for either side and would be an instant success whoever he joins.

Real Madrid are preparing a January bid for Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva according to Radio Marca.

Lucas has impressed during his rare appearances for the Merseyside club but has failed to nail down a first team place at Anfield and Madrid are prepared to offer the player more first team football at the Santiago Bernabeau.

Leiva joined the club from Brazilian club Gremio for a believed to be in the region of £8 million and the 21-year old has drawn some high praise from fans and pundits across Europe.

It would be a real shame to see Lucas leave the Premier League so soon after joining the Reds because he has to ability to become a top player in the Premier League. I just hope this is speculation but you know what they say, there's no smoke without fire.

Liverpool are said to be close to signing Racing Santander centre-back Ezequiel Garay for a fee believed to be in the region of £10 million.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is keen to add to his defensive options and Garay is said to be Benitez' next target. Benitez recently signed defender Martin Skrtel from Zenit St Petersburg and this clearly shows Benitez' intentions.

The Argentine international is apparently keen on a move to the Premier League and it seems as though Liverpool are close to offer Garay his dream move. Garay joined Santander back in 2005 from Newell's Old Boys and has shone ever since.

I have only seen Garay once or twice and he looks very good and capable of playing for a top side like Liverpool. If Liverpool are to sign Garay it could spell the end for Sami Hyypia at Anfield and I'm sure a lot of Liverpool fans will be sad to see him leave.

Football Corner does it again. Today we gave Man United to score three or more goals as our Premier League bet of the day and what do you know, it happened.

This is only one of many bet of the day's that has ended up successful so now you know, make sure you check out Football Corner's bet of the day every Saturday and Sunday to make some money.

This is Football Corner's 1,000th post and we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has made the blog so successful. We hope you continue to view the blog and hope you keep telling us your toughts and opinions on our stories.

We would also like to take this opportunity to ask you the reader, what changes you think would help make the blog even more successful. Thank you!

Fulham are tracking Valencia midfielder David Albelda and hope to sign the player by the end of next week.

The player has been told he can leave the club by Valencia boss Ronald Koeman and many clubs have expressed an interest in the player including Everton and Newcastle.

The Spanish international could be set to join The Cottagers until the end of the season and he would almost double his current wages. Fulham boss Roy Hodgson is keen to bring in new players to help Fulham steer clear of the relegation battle.

I really hope Albelda joins the Premier League because he is a quality player and I feel he would definitely have the ability to help Hodgson's side. I was very surprised when Albelda was told he could leave the Mestalla but these things happen in football.

Newcastle are targeting Spurs striker Jermain Defoe according to reports in The Sun today. However Aston Villa, City and Liverpool have also been linked with the England international.

Everton have confirmed the loan signing of Manuel Fernandes from Valencia for the rest of the season.

Reading striker Kevin Doyle has admitted today that if a top four club came in for him he would leave the club.

Arsenal and Liverpool have today both dropped points against Birmingham and Middlesbrough respectively.

Arsenal went into today's game two points ahead of Manchester United hoping to make that five before United's 5:20 kick-off against Newcastle but that hasn't happened.

The Gunners took the lead mid-way through the first half when Phil Dowd awarded them with a penalty after Eduardo was taken down in the box. Emmanuel Adebayor stepped up and slotted home well.

Birmingham were by no means out of it and they fought back to bring the sides level when Sebastian Larsson swung in a corner that Gary o'Connor got on the end of only for Cesc Fabregas to turn the ball into his own net.

Obviously not good news for the Gunners but they do stay top for now. What a fantastic result for Alex McLeish and his Birmingham side. They previously went to North London and beat Tottenham 3-2 and today was just as good a result.

Liverpool were hoping to regain fourth spot in the league with a victory over Gareth Southgate's Middlesbrough but they also slipped up.

They fell behind when Boro captain George Boateng get on the end of a Jermaine Alliadiere pass to send the Riverside crowd into raptures. Boro could of gone two in front mid-way through the second half when Stewart Downing struck a magnificent shot off the post.

Liverpool got back in the game soon after when, who else but, Fernando Torres struck a peach of a shot from all of twenty five yards out to make sure they didn't go home with nothing. Liverpool could of, in truth took the whole three points when Steven Gerrard and Ryan Babel both went close with long range efforts.

This obviously ends Liverpool's faint title hopes and it puts them in real danger of missing out on a top four spot. A great result for Boro, but it does beg the question, why can't they play like that every week. They have already beaten Arsenal at home this season and another terrific result today but they have also lost to sides like West Ham and Blackburn.

After weeks of speculation about Celtic legend Henrik Larsson returning to Celtic Park, Larsson has signed a new contract with Swedish side Helsinborgs.

Many Celtic fans haoped that the Swedish striker would rejoin the club but unfortunately it's not going to happen.

The 36-year old left Celtic for Barcelona almost four years ago after scoring an amazing 173 goals in just 221 games.

Manchester City are targeting Tottenham pair Paul Robinson and Jermain Defoe according to several papers.

Juande Ramos has already told Jermain Defoe that he can leave the club and after an apparent bust-up between Ramos and Robinson after Robinson was dropped for the Carling Cup tie with Arsenal in midweek, he is said to be interested in a move away from the club.

Ramos is on the look out for a new keeper and that, in many people's opinions, is the end of Robinson at Spurs.

City boss Sven Goran Eriksson worked with Robinson when he was England manager and he is said to be keen to bring him to the City of Manchester stadium.

Eriksson also worked with Defoe when national team coach and after Defoe was told he could leave the club by Ramos, City were on of the first teams on many peoples lips. Defoe scored three times for Sven with England and has scored over 40 goals for Tottenham.

It is taught City will bid as much as £15 million for the pair. As a City fan myself, I would be happy with Sven signing Defoe but I'm personally not a fan of Robinson's. City already have a top class keeper in Joe Hart and I feel we should stick with him.

According to today's Sun, Tottenham are preparing a £10 million bid for Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing.

The player has been linked with a move away from the Riverside for some time now with Spurs always holding a keen interest in him although Everton are also said to be interested in Downing.

Downing has come in for criticism in recent months from his own fans and he is supposedly growing very frustrated at it and interested in a move away from the club.

The 23-year old has made over 120 appearances for Boro and also has 16 England caps to his name. I feel it would be best for Downing to move to another club and have a fresh start. There is no doubt he has a lot of talent but for some reason or another he hasn't been able to show enough of it this season.

Today's bet of the day comes from the Premier League clash between Manchester United and Newcastle. Both sides come into the game with totally opisite form with United on the up and Newcastle going in the other direction.

Newcastle sacked manager Sam Allardyce three days ago and will today be managed by Nigel Pearson. I feel United will score goals and the best bet is for United to score 3 or more goals @ 11/10 @ Paddy Power.

Reading striker Kevin Doyle has admitted today that if a top four club came in for him he would leave the club.

The Irish international has been one of Reading's top performers over the last two years and he recently said , "If one of the top four want to sign me I would want to go for it.

"When I left Cork City to come to Reading people said I would never play but if you listen to comments like that you never progress."You don't just want to sit there on the bench but you have to give it a go and then a year down the line you may go back.

"But you have to take the opportunity if it comes, otherwise you will never know how far you can go." Ina separate development regarding Doyle's future at the club, Aston Villa are apparently lining up a bid for the player but if the 24-year old sticks to his word he won't be joining the Villains.

Harry Redknappy has today confirmed that he is staying at Pompey to end all speculation about him going to Newcastle but he faces a fight to keep summer signing Sulley Ali Muntari.

The player has attracted the attentions of Spanish giants Valencia and they are keen to bring him to the Mestalla during this transfer window.

Muntari has impressed no end since joining the club from Italian side Udinese for a fee believed to be around £8 million. He has made sixteen appearances for the South Coast club and has scored four goals.

It would be a real shame to see Muntari leave the Premier League because he has been a real joy to watch. His skill on the ball and his ability to pick out a pass in incredible and I'm sure all Pompey fans would be devastated to see him leave.

According to today's Sun, Tottenham are lining up a bid to sign West Ham keeper Robert Green.

Spurs boss Juande Ramos is keen to add to his goalkeeping options after dropping long-term number one Paul Robinson for Spurs' 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Wednesday.

Green has been one of the Premier League's top performers in goals this season, with many England fans calling for him to be called up to the national squad.

Green has built up a reputation as a terrific shot stopper saving more penalties than any other keeper this season in the Premier League. It is taught Ramos will bid £6 million for Green's services but I feel the Hammers will be reluctant to sell.

Arsene Wenger and Roque Santa Cruz have today been awarded with the Premier League's manager of the month and the player of the month awards respectively for December.

Wenger's Arsenal picked up an impressive fourteen points in December and after a fine start to January, they sit at the top of the Premier League, two points clear of Man United. Gunners fans will be hoping Wenger keeps up the good work between now and January to ensure the title.

Santa Cruz scored six goals in December including a hat-trick during Blackburn's 5-3 defeat to Wigan. Santa Cruz joined Rovers for only £3.5 million from Bayern Munich in the summer and it certainly looks a bargain now.

Spurs are targeting Espanyol star Daniel Jarque according to reports in The Times today.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has today said that Arsenal are close to signing Gillingham striker Luke Freedman.

The 15-year has attracted the attentions of several Premier League clubs including West Ham and Newcastle but it looks as though Wenger has persuaded the youngster to join the Gunners.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has a knack for producing young talent and Freedman looks to be the next. “I met the boy, I like him, his personality, he looks alert,” Wenger said. “He is a striker and at 15 years of age to play for the first team sometimes is something special.”

This signing sticks to Wenger's plans to sign English and he added: “When a good player comes out you know you are not on your own, so even if ideally you would wait one or two more years, you cannot any more.”

Both Tottenham and Portsmouth have tonight had bids accepted for Lyon striker Fred.

The player had already been told he could leave the club and the club have tonight told him he can pick between Pompey, Spurs or French side PSG.

Lyon accepted a £9 million bid from Portsmouth, a £11 million bid from Tottenham and a £7.5 million bid from PSG. "We have accepted these offers," said Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas. "It's up to Fred to decide."

I am excited to see that Fred may be on his way to the Premier League although he may opt to stay in France. He is a terrific talent and will guarantee goals to whichever of the sides he signs for and I for one wish him luck.

Juventus have made an approach for Aston Villa defender Olof Mellberg according to Villa boss Martin O'Neill.

The player has been linked with a move to the Turin club for some time now and Mellberg himself has failed to deny the speculation."I will not comment on rumours or newspaper stories on this matter," said Mellberg.

When asked if he could deny he had been in Italy, he replied: "I do not want to comment on anything at this stage. "This rumour has just as much to do with Aston Villa also.

"Whether I sign for someone else or agree an extension with Villa, or whatever I may yet decide, it will become official fairly quickly but nothing has been done yet."

It would obviously be a big loss if Villa were to lose Mellberg and that is looking increasingly likely. Mellberg has been at the club for over six years now and I'm sure all the Villa fans will be upset to see him leave, if he indeed does leave Villa Park.

I feel it is a shame to see O'Neill receive no money for the player because in my view he would easily be worth £4 or £5 million. It will be interesting to see how Mellberg fairs in the Champions League next season with Juve.

Barcelona are set to offer midfielder Andres Iniesta a new contract at the Camp Nou to fend off interest from Premier League side Chelsea.

Iniesta has had a dramatic rise into the first team at Barca over the past three seasons and Barca fear that Chelsea could be set to make a bid for the player.

Chelsea assistant manager Henk Ten Cate used to work with Iniesta at Barca and was said to be a good friend of the 23-year old's and Barca fear Chelsea may use that relationship to tempt Iniesta away from the club.

Barca president, Juan Laporta is set to offer the attacking midfielder a lucrative six-year deal at the club to end any possible speculation about the Spaniard's future.

Now this is only speculation but, Portsmouth fans pain at possibly losing Harry Redknapp to Newcastle could get worse because Steve McClaren may be the man to replace him.

McClaren has been out of a job since been sacked by England almost two months ago. Mclaren has today stated his desire to get back into management as soon as possible and at a high level.

"For the first time in my life I am out of work. But I think I can go into the level I was before," he said. "I've worked with England and Manchester United. I've won a trophy and had European football with Middlesbrough.

"I've been working with top players, at Premiership level, for many years." I just hope for all you Pompey fans out their that this is only a wild rumour but unfortunately it may yet happen.

Chelsea and Liverpool have today dipped into the transfer market by signing Nicolas Anelka and Martin Skrtel respectively.

Anelka has joined Chelsea for a fee believed to be in the region of £15 million. The 28-year old becomes boss Avram Grant's first signing at the club.

The former Bolton Wanderers striker had been linked with a move to Chelsea for some time and after Chelsea made their intentions clear earlier this week when they made a bid for the player, it was only a matter of time before the French international joined.

Martin Skrtel joined Liverpool from Zenit St Petersburg today after days of speculation about his possible move to Anfield. Skrtel joins the club for a fee of £6.5 million. The Slovakian international becomes the most expensive defender ever to sign for the club.

I hope after today's transfers club start buying more because it has been relatively quite in the January transfer window so far. I feel both are good signings although I have have only seen Skrtel once or twice.

According to today's Sun Jan , Manchester United are preparing a £12 million bid for Ajax striker KlassHuntelaar.

The player looks certain to leave the Dutch giants at the end of this season and many clubs in the Premier League have expressed an interest in him and United are the latest.

Huntelaar, 24, has been playing at Ajax at Ajax for two years now after joining from fellow Dutch side Herenveen. He is widely recognised as one of the best finishers in Europe.

It is believed United will bid £12 million for the player and many people feel he may be tempted by the Old Trafford club. I would personally love to see Huntelaar join the Premier League because I feel he would be an instant success and he will score bags of goals.

AC Milan are reported to be interested in Newcastle United midfielder Emre about a possible move to the San Siro.

The player is reportedly interested in leaving Tyneside after a less than convincing start to the season by Newcastle which has seen manager Sam Allardyce loose his job.

The 27-year old joined The Magpies back in 2005 after spending four seasons with AC's great rivals Internazionale.

Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti has always been a keen admirer of the player and reports suggest that Emre will speak with AC officials next week to negotiate a move to the European Champions.

Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva says he is committed to the club despite falling out of favour with manager Arsene Wenger.

Gilberto has been linked with a move away from the Emirates stadium for some time now with Juventus, Roma and Valencia all said to be interested in the Brazilian.

"At the moment, I prefer not to think about moving and to fight for my position," Gilberto said."This is what I have in mind, to get back in the team and hope I can achieve that as soon as possible," said the 31-year old.

"But I know the team is playing well and so are the guys in my position, especially Mathieu. I will do my job, and I did that again against Tottenham which was another good opportunity for me to show that I am capable to come back into the team."

According to various English papers today, Tottenham are planning to make a bid for Atletico Madrid midfielder Maniche.

The player is said to be on the verge of leaving Atletico after he fell out of favour with the manager, Javier Aguirre.

Maniche has of course played in the Premier League before, with London rivals Chelsea and he is said to be keen on a move back to England.

Spurs boss Juande Ramos sees Maniche as a key man to bolster the Spurs midfield, but in own view, I feel Tottenham already have enough in Maniche's department and should look elsewhere in the side to improve on.

Jimmy Bullard is set to return to the Fulham first team for Saturday's trip to Upton Park to face West Ham. Hurray!