The Transfer Rumours Thread

[Simon]

So presumably he'd go and a replacement will cost more than he will get you? Gibbs' fitness can't be relied on, I guess Traore might come back from Juve though? Especially if that's where Clichy goes.

[Simon]

A lot of people are suggesting Vermaelen to left back which I HATE. Pure speculation by people being hopeful we'll go back in for Cahill or Subotic I think.

I don't think it would be a good idea because he's an excellent centre back and provides some much needed steel there for you - but I imagine he'd be a good left back too, he's comfortable with the ball at his feet and loves bombing forward as it is...maybe not quick enough though. That's if he ever comes back.

[Andy]

Traore is shit. We were trying to sell him all summer, he nearly went to Benfica (I think) but he wanted more money than they were offering.

You're right about Gibbs which is why people are speculating on Vermaelen I think but I really hope that isn't the way we go. The figure I keep seeing is around £13m, who knows if we'll get that. The only links I've seen which seem like pure speculation as well are Baines, Enrique and some guy from Bordeaux who I've never heard of.

[Simon]

There's no way you would get £13m for Clichy, certainly not if he's only got a year left. For that sort of money you'd expect one of the world's best full backs if his contract was running down, surely?

[Andy]

I don't think it would be a good idea because he's an excellent centre back and provides some much needed steel there for you - but I imagine he'd be a good left back too, he's comfortable with the ball at his feet and loves bombing forward as it is...maybe not quick enough though. That's if he ever comes back.

Yeah I have no doubt he could do a job there but he was absolutely fantastic at CB in his first season. He also adds the steel you talk about and some organisation and leadership. He shouted the whole match vs Blackpool that I saw (also his last game I think) and it looked like Song, Clichy and Sagna were all following his instructions and looking to him for leadership. That is invaluable, especially for us. We've had absolutely none of that since he's been injured.

[Simon]

Wenger doesn't seem to value leadership as much as he probably should, as evidenced by his handing of the captaincy to Henry and Fabregas purely as a token to keep them at the club when there were better alternatives available. Fucking Rosicky captained the side a few times earlier this year, ridiculous.

[Andy]

There's no way you would get £13m for Clichy, certainly not if he's only got a year left. For that sort of money you'd expect one of the world's best full backs if his contract was running down, surely?

Maybe. He seems to be very highly rated across the continent, some club with a good defensive coach probably thinks he could be a world beater. Which I believe he probably could be. Who knows though.

[Simon]

You've been linked with Baines, that would be a great buy. Solid defensively, great going forward, fantastic set piece delivery...just a really good player nowadays really.

[Andy]

Wenger doesn't seem to value leadership as much as he probably should, as evidenced by his handing of the captaincy to Henry and Fabregas purely as a token to keep them at the club when there were better alternatives available. Fucking Rosicky captained the side a few times earlier this year, ridiculous.

Definitely. Like any other quality you look for though, proven leadership usually comes at a price. You can't count on being able to pluck Verrmaelens out of nowhere and expect them to be leaders straight away like he was.

As annoying as it is, Fabregas was probably the best choice at the time. Says more about our squad than his leadership but in saying that, he has developed into a real leader on the pitch with the captaincy.

[Andy]

Baines is a good player but to me seems pretty much the equivalent of Clichy. After a season like this we should be looking to make improvements if we are signing new players but we all know how likely that is to happen.

[Simon]

Well who would be an improvement on Baines? He's been very good for a number of seasons now and is an established Premier League player who would presumably adapt very easily...any names cropping up from abroad? That Wendt from Copenhagen is being touted all around Europe at the moment but is there any reason to think he would be able to cut it at the highest level?

There aren't many top class left backs around now that would be available. Maybe a cheeky bid for Zhirkov? He's another player Chelsea have destroyed like Scott Parker. He was unbelievable for Russia and CSKA a few years ago.

[Andy]

I don't know. I wouldn't be wholly against signing Baines, I just don't think he'd be an improvement on Clichy. Barely seen Wendt at all. There is a name from Spain and that one from Bordeaux but I know absolutely nothing about either of them.

[Simon]

That Brazilian left back from Atletico is apparently going to be shipped out as he has been absolutely shit this season after being hyped as the next Bob Carlos. Luis something.

Being realistic you will sign some cunt from Beveren with a name that won't fit on six shirts.

[Ringo]

Well who would be an improvement on Baines? He's been very good for a number of seasons now and is an established Premier League player who would presumably adapt very easily...any names cropping up from abroad? That Wendt from Copenhagen is being touted all around Europe at the moment but is there any reason to think he would be able to cut it at the highest level?

There aren't many top class left backs around now that would be available. Maybe a cheeky bid for Zhirkov? He's another player Chelsea have destroyed like Scott Parker. He was unbelievable for Russia and CSKA a few years ago.

How have we "destroyed him"? He's had a horrific time with injuries, and when he came into the team last year he was excellent. Gave us an extra dimension that we needed. Then he got injured again. Also he was never going to be immediate first choice. Once he gets himself fully fit again I hope we'll see more from him.

[Simon]

It's just been the same thing as Scott Parker - you signed a very good player at his peak when you already had someone better than him in his position, so he's been on the fringes the whole time. Not really Chelsea's fault, he should have known he wouldn't displace Cole. Or maybe he was happy to take the money, who knows. All I know is he was the bollocks before he signed for Chelsea and now he barely registers in anyone's thoughts.

[Ringo]

But injuries have played a major part in that, and he has actually played well when he has featured. Parker didn't. He was very average. Like Steve Sidwell. Scott Parker is better than Steve Sidwell but they were about the same when they played for us. He just didn't cut it.

Also Zhirkov was probably signed as a winger as much as he was signed as a back up left back.

[Bennedy]

We signed Zhirkov and then Malouda went brilliant after a tough first year or so. He looked ok last season before his injury. Hasn't looked the same player since.

[Gary J]

Arsenal have been linked with Nancho Monreal from Osasuna thats a more likely signing then Baines.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

They were linked with Izaguirre from Celtic too but I think everyone is being linked with him.

[Gary J]

Yeah i've seen a few clubs linked with Izaguirre is he any good ?

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Not sure, don't watch Scottish football. Heard good reports but it's possible he's just reasonably good and thus looks like a fucking superstar.

[turdpower]

Liam Miller syndrome.

[Gary J]

Yeah i don't watch scottish football either. I watched one of the cup games against Rangers but didn't really notice him.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

No he actually was a good player, showed it especially in some Champions League games. But Scottish football is the complete pits now.

[MikeHunt]

Emilo is a very good player, very similar player to Cole.

[RFF Champ]

Phil Thompson has claimed on Norweigan television that a deal is in place for Jose Enrique to go to Liverpool at the end of the season :(

[Simon]

Blatantly bollocks.

[Beefy]

I hate Phil Thompson. Really hate him. I don't understand how/why he gets on Soccer Saturday every week.

[RFF Champ]

Blatantly bollocks.

Why do you say that?

I'm inclined to believe him because I think he probably does have quite a few connections in the club.

[turdpower]

YouTube - Thompson: José Enrique To Liverpool A "Done Deal"

[Simon]

Why do you say that?

I'm inclined to believe him because I think he probably does have quite a few connections in the club.

Because if it was true, the first we hear of it wouldn't be from some bod like Thompson on Norwegian TV.

[Simon]

I hate Phil Thompson. Really hate him. I don't understand how/why he gets on Soccer Saturday every week.

PAYNEY.

YouTube - Phil Thompson Reacts To Riise's Own Goal v Chelsea

[Bad Collin]

:heart: Thommo

Did they say £15 million? That seems a fucking lot. I wonder why we are so intent on contributing to Mike Ashley's pie fund.

[RFF Champ]

:heart: Thommo

Did they say £15 million? That seems a fucking lot. I wonder why we are so intent on contributing to Mike Ashley's pie fund.

I doubt it'll be £15mil. All the papers have been saying around £8.5mil. Ashley should go for 10mil though, he'll be worth every penny.

[Bad Collin]

He is just the type of player we need. If we can keep Pepe, get Insua back and Enrique in and sign a center back our defence starts to look pretty good.

Still, we would need a defensive midfielder and a couple of wide players to get into CL contention I think.

[Andy]

Spanish Press reporting United have agreed a 20m euro deal with Atletico for De Gea.

Same sources saying Arsenal have also had a bid accepted. :eek: ... :lol: ... :(

[Simon]

Great signing if true. Fantastic keeper already and has fifteen years at the top ahead of him.

[RFF Champ]

Commolli did an interview with French press either today or yesterday in which he made out that Matuidi is at the top of Liverpool's shopping list.

[Andy]

Now the same sources are saying Villa Boas will replace Pat Rice and eventually Arsene Wenger next season. I'll now assume the whole lot is bollocks.

[RFF Champ]

Now the same sources are saying Villa Boas will replace Pat Rice and eventually Arsene Wenger next season. I'll now assume the whole lot is bollocks.

He's already won the league with Porto this year. Do you really think he'll want to go back to being an assistant again? Even if just for a year.

[Ringo]

I don't think Andy thinks that, no.

[Andy]

No, that's why I think the whole lot is bollocks.

[Simon]

Villas Boas seems to want to be on the same career trajectory as Mourinho (while making a point of trying to distance himself from someone whose background is so similar to him, for obvious reasons) - he plans to get out of football early, and work at a number of clubs for short spells while he is around. He's wrapped up the Portuguese league with Porto already in his first full season, so it wouldn't be a surprise to see him go to a big European side in the summer.

[Simon]

Commolli did an interview with French press either today or yesterday in which he made out that Matuidi is at the top of Liverpool's shopping list.

They are apparently close to completing the signing of that French winger who was supposed to be signing during the January window, forget his name now. On a Bosman too.

EDIT: Sylvain Marveaux.

[Andy]

We were after Matuidi for ages. It seems we're now after a similar who is basically the same except younger and blacker.

[Hlebsfall]

..cheaper and more incompetent.

[Andy]

Quite possibly.

[RFF Champ]

They are apparently close to completing the signing of that French winger who was supposed to be signing during the January window, forget his name now. On a Bosman too.

EDIT: Sylvain Marveaux.

Does anyone know what happened there? I remember it being reported that he was even at one of the games in January.

[son_of_foley]

Commoli is once again instigating a campaign of trawling lower league clubs in financial trouble the way he did at Spurs. It'll be interesting to see the young purchases made by Liverpool over the next few years.

Apparentley they are after a lad of ours called Kwame Thomas

[Simon]

Arsenal, Chelsea and Barca are all chasing that Shakhtar kid Willian.

[Andy]

Says who?

There's a guy who is reasonably reliable who has come up with a few interesting things today. Apparently we have a good relationship with Atletico and they still owe us money for Reyes and Merida. He reckons it's true we made a bit for De Gea but it wasn't recently and the details were never agreed. He also claims we're still in pole position for Hazard and also thinks Arshavin will go back to Zenit for 14m euros.

This is the same guy who broke the Squillaci, Vermaelen and Koscielny news (ffs, looks like we're signing a French lower league player for 8m).

[RFF Champ]

Where does this guy post, Andy?

I'm surprised there is still Hazard speculation. I thought him signing a long term contract would have put that to bed for a year or two. They look set for CL too.

[Andy]

Nah of course not, a contract means nothing these days.

The guy's name is James Dalton, freelance journalist based in France.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Hazard said himself after signing the contract he may move on in the summer if there's an offer that suits him and the club. It was signed to protect his value for the club more than anything else, somewhat like Aguero signing a new contract earlier this year. Nice guys.

I don't see Arsenal being able to afford Hazard, if Lille qualify for the CL next season then there's no real reason for him to rush into moving on, Lille want big bucks for him and there'll presumably be a number of clubs in for him.

The Atletico president is saying Man U and Chelsea have bid for de Gea, why would Chelsea bother when they have Cech? That's about the only position they don't need to spend big money on.

[RFF Champ]

Ah right, I missed those Hazard comments. I remember him saying he would prefer Spain because of the style of the league and the weather but I thought him signing a new contract was solely because he would get to play CL there and obviously the increased money.

[Andy]

Apparently Sakho for £15m is looking likely. Squillaci to St Etienne.

[Keano's Magic Hat]

Other than a replacement 'keeper, I genuinely wouldn't mind if United didn't sign a single person this summer. If we win the league and beat Shalke, that'll be 4 league titles and three European Cup finals in 5 years; the greatest period in the club's history :shocked: I'm alright with going a couple of years without trophies if it means bringing through the likes of Tunnicliffe, Pogba, Morrison, King, Cleverley and Welbeck.

[Simon]

We need a striker. Shocking I know.

[1_Pablo_Angel]

Other than a replacement 'keeper, I genuinely wouldn't mind if United didn't sign a single person this summer. If we win the league and beat Shalke, that'll be 4 league titles and three European Cup finals in 5 years; the greatest period in the club's history :shocked: I'm alright with going a couple of years without trophies if it means bringing through the likes of Tunnicliffe, Pogba, Morrison, King, Cleverley and Welbeck.

Would you be happy with Young?

[Keano's Magic Hat]

Would you be happy with Young?

Not if he's coming in as a replacement for Giggs. But yeah, he's decent enough and English, so he would be alright. I just think that United have better talent coming through.

[McBain]

Talk of Villa possibly getting in Gervinho and Kim Kallstrom.

Nice to think about the transfer window again now we're all but safe. Things are looking up. Would prefer Ash to stay but the chances of that are slim at best.

[Bad Collin]

You are not allowed to have Gervinho unless we can have Young.

[RFF Champ]

“Newcastle are a good team, I have been linked to various teams now but I am still under contract at Lille until 2012, so I am not worrying. We are top of the league and I want to win that.”

“At the end of the season we can sit down and see what the next step will be. I want to concentrate on my football.”

“The Spanish and English leagues are two of the best in the world and it would be a privilege to play there, but I belong to Lille until 2012.”



Gervinho is ours lads, he loves Tiote and they want to play together.

[McBain]

We'll have Tiote too then, he can clean boots or something.

[Bad Collin]

That's fine, we will just buy Gervinho off Newcastle a few months into the season :)

[McBain]

Nah, overspend on Young instead and we'll have the other bloke.

[Red Dog]

Talk of Villa possibly getting in Gervinho and Kim Kallstrom.

Nice to think about the transfer window again now we're all but safe. Things are looking up. Would prefer Ash to stay but the chances of that are slim at best.

If Kallstrom is as good as he was on Champ 01/02 then you will probably win the league and he will score about 55 goals.

[Gangers]

We've all been waiting since 1998 for Robbie Keane to become that 40 goal a season striker we were promised.

[McBain]

If Kallstrom is as good as he was on Champ 01/02 then you will probably win the league and he will score about 55 goals.

That's what I'm expecting, defo.

[RFF Champ]

You can all have Gervinho. We're signing Taarabt...appaz.

We're releasing Routledge from his contract so he can join QPR, hopefully to butter them up.

[radon]

Was talk in the past few days regarding Robben moving from Bayern as he wants guaranteed champs league next year.

Spoke to his cousin who I work with (and hes going to introduce me when he comes over in the winter :cool:) that he is more than happy at Bayern and will not be moving. He enjoys being quite close to home in Holland and doesnt want to goto Italy as he feels it wont suit his style.

I kind of wish he would come back to the premier league though.

[Bad Collin]

I don't, diving cunt. Imagine him and Suarez in the same team :eek:

[radon]

Ill suggest it to him

[RuneEdge]

Apparently Buffon's agent revealed yesterday that his client is leaving Juventus at the end of the season. He doesnt know where to, only that he wont be at Juventus come September.

Not sure how reliable the source is. I picked it up from a Juve fan from another forum. So yeah, could be bullshit but if its not, you heard it here first. ;)

[turdpower]

:drool:

[Simon]

United have been linked with Ribery :wtf: Would be a strange one considering he would cost a bomb, is 27 and hasn't even been doing the business for a while now.

[Bad Collin]

Buffon and Ribery would be very 'un-United' signings. I would have thought a defensive midfielder would be a higher priority then Ribery as well.

[son_of_foley]

In what way would they be un-united?

[Bad Collin]

They tend to go for younger players to extract full value from their purchases.

Even if he got his form back Ribery would only have a few years left.

[son_of_foley]

Berbatov was about the same age as Ribery
Van Der Sar was 2 years older than Buffon is when he signed.

I know what you mean but for GK I think resale value isn't that important to them with the market the way it is.

I think with Ribery the price you would get him for would be low enough that worries about not making the money back are downplayed a bit

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Ribery is an arsehole, that's what would mainly make it seem unlikely. He now refuses to play anywhere but the left wing, for example.

[Beefy]

Buffon seems very much a United signing. Far more than De Gea does. VDS, Barthez, even Bosnich were all established, experianced goalkeepers available on the cheap/free.

[Keano's Magic Hat]

I'd love Buffon at United

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Buffon had a very serious back injury last summer at the World Cup and lost his place this season. That's after several seasons of injury problems and suggestions he is past his best. It's seems unlikely United would risk it.

[RuneEdge]

I guess it comes down to his price tag, and whether Juve qualify for the CL.
They're 7 points off 4th spot with 4 games to go.
The word is, Buffon would prefer to stay but the club might sell him to fund other transfers. Bastos I think is at the top of their list.


EDIT
My point being, if they're gonna try to sell him like he's still the most expensive keeper in the world, I'd imagine we'd back off. Yeah, he doesnt seem much like a "United signing" but I think he's one of those players Sir Alex has always admired and would go back to get if it was on the cheap. Just like VDS or Owen.

[Bad Collin]

Oh yeah, if they are available cheap then United will snap them up. I don't think they will be though.

[RuneEdge]

But we're talking about a 33 year old keeper who's been hit with injuries and his team might be looking to cash in, seeing how they're sitting in 7th in the league.
Im not saying Juve are gonna slap a cut price on him but they sure as hell wont be able to justify a big price tag.

[Beefy]

He'll be on a decent wage so they'd be getting that off of the wagebill as well.

[Andy]

Sakho, Cahill, Parker, M'Vila, Hazard, Ayew, Hulk and Gamiero known to be on the "Summer Shortlist".


Apparently official contact has been made with two of them (rumoured to be Hulk and Sakho).

[Bad Collin]

Hulk is amazing, I would love to see him in England.

[son_of_foley]

I'm suprised due to your dislike of Suarez before he showed and Hulk showing himself to be just as prone to head staggers

[JIJ]

Hulk and Falcao are gonna dominate Villarreal

[Andy]

It's a real shame they meet in the semi final, like Real and Barca. Would've made a fantastic final.

[Bad Collin]

I'm suprised due to your dislike of Suarez before he showed and Hulk showing himself to be just as prone to head staggers

This sentence makes no sense. Are to trying to say that Hulk has form for misbehaving? I wasn't aware that he had.

[RFF Champ]

Didn't he get a massive league ban for attacking a steward?

[son_of_foley]

He got a 4 month suspension for assaulting a steward

[Bad Collin]

Jesus, what a nutter. Awesome footballer though.

[Grimario]

If Kallstrom is as good as he was on Champ 01/02 then you will probably win the league and he will score about 55 goals.

Only if you play the diablo v3 formation. Ask Melv, he will tell you all about his cheating exploits :yes:

[Simon]

MELV WAS NOT A CHEAT NGGGGGGG SYSTEMATICALLY HOLIDAYING THROUGH SEASONS TO SEE WHICH KIDS BECOME WORLD CLASS THEN SCOOPING THEM UP FOR PENNIES WHEN YOU START A NEW GAME IS NOT CHEATINGGGGGG

[Simon]

Just FYI everyone that was actually me doing an impression of Melv, not Melv himself.

[Grimario]

Oh Si, you are a potato chip off the old block, that's for sure.

[Grimario]

Can one of you lower league sides please sign Dean Bouzanis so he can get some first team football, please? Everyone knows Australia makes pretty good GK's and he has just been released by mutual consent from Liverpool :(

[RFF Champ]

Exciting times, apparently we've agreed a fee with a team in France and should have a signing in the next few days.

[Gangers]

You're getting Guivarch back.

[son_of_foley]

Can one of you lower league sides please sign Dean Bouzanis so he can get some first team football, please? Everyone knows Australia makes pretty good GK's and he has just been released by mutual consent from Liverpool :(

I've started the wheels in motion on this

[Grimario]

I love you, S_O_Fia

[RFF Champ]

You're getting Guivarch back.

We're obviously signing Gervinho, pal.

[son_of_foley]

I love you, S_O_Fia

Although I assume if it's mutual consent he already has something lined up handsome

[Bad Collin]

We're obviously signing Gervinho, pal.

Back off Geordie boy, he is coming to Anfield.

[son_of_foley]

Are Newcastle only shopping in France? Heard Crouch as well. Would be an odd one

[Simon]

Exciting times, apparently we've agreed a fee with a team in France and should have a signing in the next few days.

It's Toulouse, a couple of left backs I've never heard of. Presumably Enrique is definitely on his way then?

[Bad Collin]

BC's ideal summer shopping list:

Ashley Young
Enrique
M'Vila
Gervinho

[Simon]

We need Gervinho over here for his hair alone, best in the business.

http://i.telegraph.co.uk/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01660/gervinho-gi_1660732i.jpg

:lol:

[Alf]

It's Toulouse, a couple of left backs I've never heard of. Presumably Enrique is definitely on his way then?

Is it M'Benge? I love him.

[Simon]

Hang on.

[Simon]

Cheikh M'Bengue and Franck Tabanou :dunno:

[Alf]

M'bongo is pretty good on FM.

[RFF Champ]

Are Newcastle only shopping in France? Heard Crouch as well. Would be an odd one

Graham Carr our chief scout think that's where the best talent is and the talent that fits in with Ashley's business model. i.e buy them young and cheap then sell them on.

Basically we want more Ben Arfa's


It's Toulouse, a couple of left backs I've never heard of. Presumably Enrique is definitely on his way then?

Where are you hearing all this?

I've heard those same two, we bid for Mbengue at 5mil but it was rejected. Tabanou seems more likely now but we're talking to 3 clubs in France supposedly, I guess over a left back and probably a striker. Funds were put into the NUFC bank account yesterday.

All appaz of course.

Enrique is definitely leaving, I think. I don't think that any deal with Liverpool is in place but if we can get £10mil for an uncapped full back then we've done good business. He's been poor the past couple of games. I'd rather we played Shane Ferguson because it's experience for him and Enrique hasn't looked that bothered.

[son_of_foley]

Its in the sun.

Gameiro looks possible.

[RFF Champ]

Ah right. There's a guy who occasionally posts on our forums and I also follow on twitter who gave me that info. Most of our fans hate him for some reason but I think he tends to be pretty spot on.

He was saying Ireland was going to sign for weeks before it happened. He also said that Mike Ashley was looking for an excuse to sack Hughton and bring Pardew in weeks for it actually happened.

[Andy]

Gameiro looks a class act. Very highly rated too, would be a big coup for Newcastle if they got him.

[Peter Griffin]

Apparently there's been a rumour going around about derby signing michael owen :lol: if this happens I'll eat the proverbial hat! Sounds like SOF been cooking rumours up again :squint:

[RFF Champ]

Gameiro looks a class act. Very highly rated too, would be a big coup for Newcastle if they got him.

Have you seen him play? Is he actually good?

[Andy]

Only little bits and pieces. He buzzes about in the box, looking to get on the end of stuff. Bit like Hernandez I guess. He's been linked with Arsenal a lot over the past six months.

[RFF Champ]

He's been in the French press today drawing comparisons between himself and Villa and saying that he is learning Spanish. Looks like he fancys Valencia. The hope was good while it lasted.

[Simon]

I always find it quite odd when that happens, when two sides in such different positions go for the same players. There's a similar thing at the moment with Villa and Real Madrid supposedly interested in the same player, and we are apparently 'going head to head' with United for Dani Osvaldo.

[RFF Champ]

My mate reckons Fulham are in the market for Osvaldo too. He says Hughes was out there watching him the other night.

Isn't this his first decent season? There's a lot of interest based on that.

[Keano's Magic Hat]

Does this Osvaldo chap have a permanent abode? If so, you can count United out right away

[Simon]

My mate reckons Fulham are in the market for Osvaldo too. He says Hughes was out there watching him the other night.

Isn't this his first decent season? There's a lot of interest based on that.

Na he was at Bologna a few years ago and doing much the same thing ie. showing loads of promise and some outstanding skill but not doing it regularly enough. He is startlingly similar to Berbatov in style.

EDIT: Fiorentina not Bologna.

YouTube - Pablo Daniel Osvaldo - compilation (skills and goals)

[Keano's Magic Hat]

Spurs will end up signing Macheda for £12m

[RFF Champ]

Wow, some of those clips are ridiculously like Berbatov.

We need a goalscorer who'll get on the end of the midfield service, that's why Gameiro was an exciting prospect.

I have a feeling we're going to end up in a bidding war with Sunderland over Carlton Cole. Even with sof's backing, I just can't get excited for that.

[RFF Champ]

Reo-Coker is out of contract too. I wouldn't be surprised if we made a crack at signing him. I'm assuming all this on the Pardew connection.

I wouldn't mind that if it was to cover Tiote's suspensions and we moved Alan Smith on but if it's to replace Tiote then I'll weep.

[son_of_foley]

Carlton cole is a good link up player. If you had someoe off him I genuinely think he's worth circa 8-9m but a bidding war as a lone striker ild be unhappy too.

He's just one of many targetmen talent spotted by yours truly

[Andy]

Along with Benjani and Kyle Lafferty.

[son_of_foley]

You jest but benjani was spotted before the goal scoring wonder season. Don't hate me because you don't understand football Andy go back to reason arshavins blog

[Simon]

I've said this a couple of times now but I really think a newly-promoted team or even any current side outside the top seven or eight could do worse than sign Shane Long. He's from the same background as Kevin Doyle and there are similarities to their game, he's maybe not as natural a goalscorer but he's got great pace. 21 goals in the Championship this season as well, if Reading don't go up I'd be interested to see if anyone goes in for him.

Has anyone seen much of Danny Graham? I knew he was scoring goals but 24 goals for a midtable team is seriously impressive.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Shane Long is a handful. He has added goals to his game this season which is a big plus. Robbie Keane is probably getting worried about Long and Doyle being Ireland's front two now on recent showings (although Doyle's injured right now obviously).

[Simon]

I thought Keane said that if players were coming through who were deserving to play ahead of him he would stand aside? I don't think he meant retiring from international but making the transition for them easier and not kicking up a fuss about it. I'm sure someone on Football Weekly said it, probably Glendenning.

[son_of_foley]

I've said this a couple of times now but I really think a newly-promoted team or even any current side outside the top seven or eight could do worse than sign Shane Long. He's from the same background as Kevin Doyle and there are similarities to their game, he's maybe not as natural a goalscorer but he's got great pace. 21 goals in the Championship this season as well, if Reading don't go up I'd be interested to see if anyone goes in for him.

Has anyone seen much of Danny Graham? I knew he was scoring goals but 24 goals for a midtable team is seriously impressive.

Graham isn't too special in terms ofbility to step up. It's probably v lazy comparison but he has a touch of a chopra about him. Decent finisher but seemingly in right place more than anything. Quite strong and his movement is quite good but not premiership standard

A handful is probably want best described benjani. Workhorse. Good movement comically poor finishing at times but instinctively good at finishing. In and around the box he was alright but with anytime to think about it not so much. It's so evident that his legs have gone. Sad.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

He did say something like that, it was interpreted by some that he was throwing the head up and saying he'd retire if they dropped him but he basically just said that he knows his time will come pretty soon and he won't have a problem being replaced if there are better players on the scene. He's still a very good player anyway, he just needs a bit of regular football at a decent club. He's the type of player who needs to be on a roll of form.

[Simon]

He's a fucking wanker. Sorry but he is. West Hams fans will agree there. We are in the unenviable situation of seeing three of our four strikers pass their peak at the same time.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

I really don't care if he's a wanker, he's an absolute legend. Besides, Spurs and West Ham fans are most likely in no position to be describing anyone as a wanker.

[Simon]

He's a wanker and you're a wanker if you don't think he's a wanker.

[Christopherson]

He's still a very good player anyway,


Love you (yes homo) and your football knowledge is unquestionable but that is a load of shit. Torres has lost confidence but no one is saying he's lost "it" you find anyone else say all Keane is lacking is confidence, he's clearly lost a step to go along with an all round decline in his skills. He is simply not the same player he once was.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

He has barely played for a year and a half. He has always been a confidence player too. He was immense in both legs of the qualifiers vs. France and that defeat, allied to obviously not being right at Spurs and being dropped, seemed to puncture him completely. Prior to that he was still class for Ireland despite having hard times for Liverpool and Spurs, so I think it's clearly an attitude issue.

So like I say, he is still a very good player. As good as he was before the Liverpool move? Hardly, but he's still got enough quality. He never had much pace and has always been a streaky scorer, so I think if he finds a good club and plays regularly, he'll still do the business. We can re-visit this in the future, if you like.

Torres' issue is that his pace is gone. He needs to adapt, his change of pace was an enormous part of his game and it's not coming back. Still got the ability to be an excellent goalscorer but he will never be the devastating striker he was around 2006-08.

[Christopherson]

I wasn't aware Torres injury was that severe, what age is he 26? Surely he'll regain a decent portion of his pace.

And yes we'll see about Keane :squint:

[El Capitano Gatisto]

I didn't watch Robbie in Scotland, by the way, but he seemed to be doing ok. For all that's worth.

Torres has had chronic groin and ankle problems, plus he had to have his knee cartilage repaired twice last season. That's an injury that has a low probability of being fixed. They can usually only tidy it up a bit but it'll always cause problems. There've been a fair few players that lose something of their pace when they have knee cartilage problems (although I'm struggling to think of them right now to be honest).

[MMH]

I didn't watch Robbie in Scotland, by the way, but he seemed to be doing ok. For all that's worth.

Torres has had chronic groin and ankle problems, plus he had to have his knee cartilage repaired twice last night. That's an injury that has a low probability of being fixed. They can usually only tidy it up a bit but it'll always cause problems. There've been a fair few players that lose something of their pace when they have knee cartilage problems (although I'm struggling to think of them right now to be honest).

Didnt Owen and Gascoigne have knee cartlidge problems?

Its a pretty destructive injury in the NFL too.

[Bad Collin]

Owen is the first name I thought of too. He was still quite good when he lost his pace but some way short of world class. I suspect Torres is in the same boat.

[RFF Champ]

I've said this a couple of times now but I really think a newly-promoted team or even any current side outside the top seven or eight could do worse than sign Shane Long. He's from the same background as Kevin Doyle and there are similarities to their game, he's maybe not as natural a goalscorer but he's got great pace. 21 goals in the Championship this season as well, if Reading don't go up I'd be interested to see if anyone goes in for him.

Has anyone seen much of Danny Graham? I knew he was scoring goals but 24 goals for a midtable team is seriously impressive.

I've never heard you mention him.

I don't think he's good enough for the Premier League. He's on a fantastic scoring spree for a team in great form. He's made a couple of good recent appearances for Ireland as well but I think as ECG says it's because he is a handful. He's very good at running the channels and his movement is good but otherwise his link up play is not anything as good as Doyle.

When he came on against Wales the other month his finishing was woeful. He's on a par with Leon Best.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Didnt Owen and Gascoigne have knee cartlidge problems?

Its a pretty destructive injury in the NFL too.

Gascoigne and Owen ruptured their cruciate knee ligaments. That is a fairly common injury in NFL too, I am guessing that's what you're thinking of. A cartilage tear is not as serious and the majority of us probably wouldn't even notice that we've done it, unless you're running or playing football regularly (I'm fairly sure I tore mine in my left knee a couple of years ago), but the problem is that most of the time it doesn't heal very well. For a professional footballer that's a problem, in Torres' case he had two separate operations to tidy it up so I would guess it's giving him grief.

Paul McGrath and Jamie Redknapp are two who had their cartilage completely removed, which isn't really done now.

[Christopherson]

I wasn't aware of that, kinda even more unbelievable that Chelsea still choose to spend £50 million on him.

[Ringo]

Yeah, it is rather odd. I'm still not too happy about it. There wasn't really any evidence that he'll ever be able to get back to his best.

In saying that, £50m isn't all that different to £30m or £40m as far as Abramovich is concerned, and the transfer fee represents more than just his value on the pitch. He's a name and he's also a face, and by the sound of it we're already making shit loads off of shirt sales. I read some stats a while back that were quite astounding. I guess he's one of those stars who people in Asia, Africa, the States and wherever else will support wherever he goes. Purchase a shirt with his name on the back, even begin to follow the club he plays for.

[Ringo]

annoying

[Second City Saint]

Yeah I know a fair bit of Liverpool fans who switched to Chelsea after the transfer. Granted Americans have a tendency to care more about players than clubs as far as allegiances are concerned.

Unfortunate.

[Ringo]

Mmmhmm, a fair few new "Chelsea fans" from around the globe have signed up to a Chelsea forum I frequent and freely admit to choosing to follow Chelsea for Torres.

[Andy]

Now that Wilshere is going to be missing the first month of the season I want us to sign Scott Parker. Good cover for Jack and competition for Song. Over 30 but surely not expensive. Do it Arsene.

[Bad Collin]

£10,000,000 at least for Scotty

[Lagom]

Scott Parker as COVER for Jack Wilshere? You're surely joking here Andy?

[BBF]

Gascoigne and Owen ruptured their cruciate knee ligaments. That is a fairly common injury in NFL too, I am guessing that's what you're thinking of. A cartilage tear is not as serious and the majority of us probably wouldn't even notice that we've done it, unless you're running or playing football regularly (I'm fairly sure I tore mine in my left knee a couple of years ago), but the problem is that most of the time it doesn't heal very well. For a professional footballer that's a problem, in Torres' case he had two separate operations to tidy it up so I would guess it's giving him grief.

Paul McGrath and Jamie Redknapp are two who had their cartilage completely removed, which isn't really done now.

Cap, I tore mine last year (almost to the day actually). It still gives me a load of trouble, aches like a bastard if its bent for too long, and feels 'loose' inside my knee. Fairly normal or should I go and get it checked?

[Red Dog]

I've said this a couple of times now but I really think a newly-promoted team or even any current side outside the top seven or eight could do worse than sign Shane Long. He's from the same background as Kevin Doyle and there are similarities to their game, he's maybe not as natural a goalscorer but he's got great pace. 21 goals in the Championship this season as well, if Reading don't go up I'd be interested to see if anyone goes in for him.

Has anyone seen much of Danny Graham? I knew he was scoring goals but 24 goals for a midtable team is seriously impressive.
Long is a diving bastard.

Graham is considerably better.

[Andy]

Scott Parker as COVER for Jack Wilshere? You're surely joking here Andy?

Cover when he's away and after that a squad member to compete for any of the three midfield spots.

[Bennedy]

If you manage to keep Fabregas then a midfield trio of him, Parker and Wilshere would be very tasty.

[Ringo]

Looks like Sahin is off to Real Madrid for €10m. An absolute bargain by all accounts. Imagine that he Alonso and Khedira will rotate for them while Lass probably moves on.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Bollocks. Hopefully Dortmund can keep the side together for one season at least for a crack at the CL. It's soul-destroying seeing these sides just get picked off when they're making progress.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Cap, I tore mine last year (almost to the day actually). It still gives me a load of trouble, aches like a bastard if its bent for too long, and feels 'loose' inside my knee. Fairly normal or should I go and get it checked?

You tore your cruciate ligaments I thought?

Go to your doctor if it's bothering you but most likely (and best) advice will be to get in shape and strengthen your thigh muscles.

[BBF]

Nah it was my MCL to be exact. I (obviously) still need to lose a bit of weight but thigh-wise I'm a muscular beast. Its generally just an ache whenever its bent for ages but its the looseness that really bothers me along with the fact that when I clench my muscles in my leg my kneecap moves a good inch and makes a hideous scraping noise.

I'll book an appointment on Monday. Cheers for the advice :yes:

[RFF Champ]

Pardew: "Obviously we are going to bring in one or two players and I think we can get stronger from this point."

Already Pardew is already trying to lower our expectations. If we've already got two lined up on a free then we should see more than two in, I hope.

[RFF Champ]

Jamie O'Hara has come out and said he's settling in Wolverhampton and he's still looking to find a house in the area. He even said he'd consider staying in the Championship because he thinks they'll go straight back up and he 'loves' playing for the club.

[1_Pablo_Angel]

Pardew: "Obviously we are going to bring in one or two players and I think we can get stronger from this point."

Already Pardew is already trying to lower our expectations. If we've already got two lined up on a free then we should see more than two in, I hope.

The man has a 37 year contract.

l:lol:

[1_Pablo_Angel]

I will trade you one Gary McAllister for a single Alan Shearer.

COME ON! The man is an unmitigated failure ffs.

[MMH]

Bollocks. Hopefully Dortmund can keep the side together for one season at least for a crack at the CL. It's soul-destroying seeing these sides just get picked off when they're making progress.

Yeah definately. Almost makes you wonder what the point of it all is.

I saw Goetze was linked with Arsenal today too. I hope they keep the squad together and build from it as Dortmund back in the champions league along with their money making potential could be a genuine force in Europe again. I just hope they learnt from their past mistakes.

[Lazurus]

Jamie O'Hara has come out and said he's settling in Wolverhampton and he's still looking to find a house in the area. He even said he'd consider staying in the Championship because he thinks they'll go straight back up and he 'loves' playing for the club.

Well of course he says that but if they go down I'm sure he'll be out of there like a shot.

[Simon]

Paul McGrath and Jamie Redknapp are two who had their cartilage completely removed, which isn't really done now.

Ledley King as well. Bone rubbing on bone, shudder.

[turdpower]

Sol Campbell had that.

[RFF Champ]

"We have followed the boy (Osvaldo) for a long time now and I think everyone is aware of this and we are not going to hide it," Hughes said in Catalan newspaper Sport.

"I don't want to say anything else about the topic because he belongs to another club.

"He is a very good player and we will see how this matter turns out."

Mark Hughes making some comments on Osvaldo. I'm not sure how they'll get on if all these other clubs are in for him but they might as well give it a try.

[Andy]

Very strong rumours that we've tonight made an official approach for Benzema.

[RFF Champ]

Apparently Kaka's mum posted on twitter yesterday 'Next season we will be in London spreading the word of God'. She deleted it immediately. Chelsea, perhaps?

[Simon]

Mark Hughes making some comments on Osvaldo. I'm not sure how they'll get on if all these other clubs are in for him but they might as well give it a try.

Seems odd that they're in for another striker when they have Zamora, Dembele and Dempsey all weighing in with their fair share of goals, plus Johnson and Gudjohnsen there as well (although I think Eidur is on loan?).

Funnily enough I just had a look at the Fulham squad for obvious areas of improvement and there aren't really any - the squad is very balanced in quality and depth, they just don't have any outstanding players. Centre mid probably needs strengthening if they want to kick on, first of all a better defensive mid than Etuhu and in the mid-term a replacement for Murphy.

Someone make an end-of-season catch-all thread - where did you go wrong, how can you improve etc.

[Simon]

Apparently Kaka's mum posted on twitter yesterday 'Next season we will be in London spreading the word of God'. She deleted it immediately. Chelsea, perhaps?

Hoops!

[RFF Champ]

Seems odd that they're in for another striker when they have Zamora, Dembele and Dempsey all weighing in with their fair share of goals, plus Johnson and Gudjohnsen there as well (although I think Eidur is on loan?).

Funnily enough I just had a look at the Fulham squad for obvious areas of improvement and there aren't really any - the squad is very balanced in quality and depth, they just don't have any outstanding players. Centre mid probably needs strengthening if they want to kick on, first of all a better defensive mid than Etuhu and in the mid-term a replacement for Murphy.

Someone make an end-of-season catch-all thread - where did you go wrong, how can you improve etc.

Dembele doesn't score many and has been quite crap really, I wonder whether he might be seen as a winger in the long term.

They're looking to bring Gudjohnsen in permanently, he's started the past couple of games so Hughes is obviously impressed. Johnson has been linked with West Brom because of the Hodgson link.

I think their problem is the age of their squad, most of their first teamers are 29+. Murphy is past it now and needs replacing which I think is their biggest weakness, wonderful player but he loses the ball so much now. Zamora hasn't started many since returning from injury, perhaps they're saving him for next season.

[turdpower]

Redknapp, who admits Spurs need a miracle to oust City for the second season running, said: “The Champions League is the key. People I know at City tell me they’ve got one or two players lined up already who’ll blow your brains out. That’s where they are going.
“They’ve got unlimited funds and won’t stop until they win the championship and even then the Champions League.”

I wonder who they are :chin:

[BBF]

Ashley Cole?

[Bad Collin]

Kurt Cobain?

[Andy]

lol bbf

[son_of_foley]

PINCH OF SALT

Lee Camp to Aston Villa if Forest fail to go up

[RFF Champ]

It looks like Osvaldo is going to Atletico Madrid. It would have been nice to see him in the Premier League, shame.

[Simon]

On the upside it means it's more likely that Aguero will come over here, probably to Chelsea the brilliant little shit. Forlan is almost certainly leaving though so maybe Aguero and Osvaldo will be the dream team.

[Red Dog]

PINCH OF SALT

Lee Camp to Aston Villa if Forest fail to go up
We would fail to EVER go up if we sold him.

[Andy]

Aguero to Juventus.

[Simon]

Jonny Woodgate is being released at the end of the season, his contract is up. Such a shame. He played about an hour for us this season I think. King played five times.

Woody would be a great acquisition for someone on a pay as you play basis. Much like King, he can come straight into the side without any need to get back to match sharpness. Someone in the Prem will surely take a punt on him, maybe QPR?

Oh also, Tony Bloom is big pals with Michael Owen from their gambling exploits apparently, and he is now 2/1 to join Brighton next season :eek:

[Darkoke]

Jelavic, Rangers striker, said last week that according to his agent Man Utd were preparing a £15million bid for him. Blatantly bollocks.

[Ringo]

A number of "sources" suggesting a deal for Neymar is either close or done already... Will believe it when I see it.

Supposedly 5 transfer targets lined up in total, with van der Wiel looking likely and Lukaku almost certain too. Would be absolutely chuffed with two of the three, VDW not so much.

Apparently we're also looking for a deep lying playmaker.

[Bennedy]

I bloody hope we don't get Kaka. He would be another expensive flop.

Neymar, Lukaku and VDW would all be excellent.

[Brennino]

Why are you so convinced Kaka would be a flop?

[MMH]

Why are you so convinced Kaka would be a flop?

He has been finished for ages and is a big god bothering fanny.

[Brennino]

He has been finished for ages and is a big god bothering fanny.

I dunno, he has had no luck with injuries this season, but there are still glimpses of the old player here and there. He doesn't strike me as a Ronaldinho-type lazy Brazilian who once they lose interest will never make the effort again.

I'd still love to see him in the Prem.

[Bennedy]

I think it's a big gamble. I think he will come if Ancelotti is in charge next season but at 29 could we not invest our money elsewhere? I've not seen much of Pastore but I have heard good things about him. It looks like he might be off to Barcelona, but I would rather spend money on younger talent like him than a world superstar who has been plagued with injuries for the past couple of seasons.

[Gary J]

He has been finished for ages and is a big god bothering fanny.

He was always over-rated before all the injuries. The only time i've ever seen him play well was against Man Utd in the champions league.

[Simon]

He's been soopoib since coming back from injury for Madrid. Very harsh to write him off.

[Brennino]

Indeed. Infact I think Chelsea missed that sort of world class pedigree in the middle this season. A role that Ballack played so effectively and very quietly. I would see no problem taking Kaka on for a reasonable price.

But like I said, Villa aren't going to sign the guy, I just want to see him in the Premiership.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

He was always over-rated before all the injuries. The only time i've ever seen him play well was against Man Utd in the champions league.

You always say this when Kaka is mentioned. It's never been true. He was a great player. If you hadn't seen him play well other than that then you weren't watching. That season he was top scorer in the CL from midfield so it's fair to say he probably played well more than once.

[Alf]

He was incredible when Real thrashed Valencia.

[Gary J]

I think since he got back into the madrid team he has looked nervous on the ball and completely reluctant to really run with it. Which isn't suprising since his speed has dropped to non-exsistent levels.

He'll probably get crocked in the Copa America which will scupper any move from any interested clubs anyway.

[Keano's Magic Hat]

Crikey, give Sir Alex a few glasses of red and it all comes out. From an interview at end of season awards

- He isn't ever going to retire whilst healthy
- Scholes' career is finished :(
- No mention of Macheda when talking about returning players from loan deals
- We will sign three players this summer, including a goalkeeper that Gill says is a '90% done'


So then, got to find a replacement for Scholes. Good luck.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Macheda looks crap, to be honest. I don't know he did at Samp individually but they've been terrible this season by all accounts and Macheda obviously hasn't been able to replace Pazzini.

Andrea Pirlo is leaving AC Milan on a free this summer. Supposedly going to Juventus but it would be lovely to see him in the Prem.

[RFF Champ]

It's astonishing to think they could be letting Seedorf, Pirlo, Nesta, Jankulovski, Ambrosini and Inzaghi go for nothing next month.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Inzaghi and Nesta are staying for another year at least.

[turdpower]

Scholes will surely "play" one more season.

I imagine he does as much for the squad off the field than on it. He obviously won't play as many games. But I truly think me might do one more. Please :(.

Modric and Sneijder are the ones mentioned for replacements. Not so sure about Modric. He looks a decent player, but I dunno if he quite has that world class spark.

Heard quite a few people mention we're going to be in for a striker, but unless Berbatov leaves; this seems massively unlikely.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Modric would be perfect for United. In fact, he'd be perfect for probably any team in Europe, barring Barcelona.

[Keano's Magic Hat]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/may/18/manchester-united-raphael-varane-lens

Guardian usually spot on with United. £10m on an 18 year old central defender who can also play in defensive midfield means we're surely moving one of our defenders on. Probably Wes Brown. I'll be sorry to see him go, but it looks like the injuries have taken their toll.

[Keano's Magic Hat]

Modric would be perfect for United. In fact, he'd be perfect for probably any team in Europe, barring Barcelona.

agreed. Modric is the one player I hope we do sign but not if it means getting raped by Spurs. They'll be looking for £30m+ and I can't see United stumping up that sort of money for him.

[turdpower]

I want WESLEY.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Snjeider is a bit overrated. Very good player but not as good as is made out at times. There's no way an English side could play 4-4-2 with him in the side. Not possible.

[turdpower]

Everytime I've watched him play either in Serie A or Champions League he always been the best thing on the pitch.

Maybe I fluked out on the games I watched, but he looks good. He'd probably want stupid money though. Heard he was on about 180k after tax or some bollocks.

[Keano's Magic Hat]

I'll definitely have Modric over Sneijder for United. Proven in England, proven in a 4-4-2 and younger.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

United already have Rooney playing the same position Sneijder would take up, unless he's used wide. Modric has played 4-4-2 for Spurs and is a natural at it.

Either player would cost a bomb but Modric would be better value. I don't see Spurs selling him anyway, they paid £16 million in the first place, he seems to like it there and doesn't seem in a hurry to go and Spurs never let their best players go easily. It would take a mega-bid to get him away.

[Keano's Magic Hat]

We're going to sign a 19 year old for £10m who'll either be the next great world class player, or a tramp. United's recent transfer policy has been one massive gamble.

The only 'proven' player I'm expecting will be the goalkeeper; probably Stekelenburg, though his recent talk about not hearing from United goes against Gill's claim of an almost 'done deal'.

[Andy]

I wouldn't be surprised to see City make a huge bid for Morric to replace Barry.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

I'd be very surprised, it would be fairly pointless to have him and Silva in the same side. City are set up to play 4-2-3-1. Makes more sense they would just bring in another deep midfielder to partner de Jong.

[Andy]

Real Madrid have confirmed the signings of Altintop and Sahin. How many midfielders do they need?!

[Bennedy]

They are sure to get rid of a few in the summer. Is Gago still there?

[RFF Champ]

Kaka came and said he should be staying.

"I have a good relationship with Sao Paulo and Milan, but I want to stay at Real. I've been told I'm staying and that makes me happy."

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Lassana Diarrhea will probably be on his way with Sahin coming in. The Altintop one is a bit strange, he couldn't get for Bayern and it's unlikely he'll be getting on for Real either. Must just be a squad strengthener, but still weird given their squad is very strong indeed.

[RFF Champ]

Altintop is a good replacement for Diarra really. Diarra is obviously causing trouble with his wage and playing demands. Altintop can play through the middle, at full back or on the wing and will be cheaper and cause less problems.

[El Capitano Gatisto]

Yeah but they have Alonso, Khedira, Sahin, Granero, Pepe and Gago already. They also have Pedro Leon, Kaka, Ronaldo, Di Maria and Canales for the attacking midfield positions. Altintop is a really strange signing unless they're clearing out a pile of very useful squad players.

Also strange for Altintop himself to go to another club where he is unlikely to play.

[Andy]

I'd imagine Pedro Leon, Diarra and Gago will be on their way. Maybe Canales on loan now that Kaka is fit.

[RFF Champ]

My guess would be that Canales and Leon will move out short term. Gago and Diarra will leave. Then Altintop would look more likely to play. I agree it's strange in the sense that he could have commanded a good wage and a better opportunity of playing if he went elsewhere as a free agent.

His versatility and Real's packed schedule should see him play a fair amount of games though.

[Andy]

Looks like Juve are going all out this summer after a disastrous season. Approaches made for Diarra and Aguero apparently and favourites to sign Pirlo.

[Bennedy]

Heard they are after Benzema and Ribery as well. Should be an exciting summer for them.

[Simon]

Milan have signed Taye Taiwo and Mexes.

Tevez has confirmed he wants to leave this summer. That's a massive plus for everyone else in the division.

[RFF Champ]

Johan Elmander has signed for Galatasary.

That's one of the strikers we were heavily linked with gone. It's alright because we're signing Gervinho.

[da_man]

Denilson has said he wanted to leave Arsenal after the 'worst season' of his career.

The midfielder, 23, who is flying home to Brazil after Sunday's match with Fulham, blamed his frustration on the club's six-year trophy drought, saying: 'I am so upset. I am a winner and I came here to win trophies but I've been here for five years and won nothing.

Unlucky Arsenal

[son_of_foley]

With any luck Lansbury might get a game there. He looks interesting as a prospect

[RFF Champ]

Denilson seemed to be played as a direct replacement for Song, which doesn't play to his strengths. I hope that Wenger doesn't expect Lansbury to do the same because it's not his role and would limit him.

[Simon]

:lol: Arsenal aren't big enough for Denilson. Good luck winning trophies when you get fucked out to some midtable team you chubby-faced fuckwit.

Alex, Gervinho is a winger not a striker isn't he?

[son_of_foley]

Denilson seemed to be played as a direct replacement for Song, which doesn't play to his strengths. I hope that Wenger doesn't expect Lansbury to do the same because it's not his role and would limit him.

A 3 of Wilshire, Ramsey and Lansbury would probably have enough energy and bite about them to control games against most sides I would think.

[RFF Champ]

:lol: Arsenal aren't big enough for Denilson. Good luck winning trophies when you get fucked out to some midtable team you chubby-faced fuckwit.

Alex, Gervinho is a winger not a striker isn't he?

To be honest I've never seen him play. I think you're right though based on what I've read, either that or in a position behind the striker.

In the unlikely event that we do sign him then we would still need a striker, if not two. Gervinho and HBA :wired:

[Andy]

Apparently we've signed some bloke called Ricardo Gabriel Alvarez. 23 year old left winger from Velez Sarsfield. :dunno:

[da_man]

:lol: Arsenal aren't big enough for Denilson. Good luck winning trophies when you get fucked out to some midtable team you chubby-faced fuckwit.


He might well have to seeing as...

"I can't see myself returning in a Chelsea shirt, or Liverpool or Manchester City - and definitely not Tottenham."

:spit:

[Hlebsfall]

Apparently we've signed some bloke called Ricardo Gabriel Alvarez. 23 year old left winger from Velez Sarsfield. :dunno:

Good to see Arsenal getting some experience in, just the sort of player they need.

As for Gervinho, Lille play a three up top. He seems to switch wings with Hazard, with Sow playing through the middle.

[Simon]

He might well have to seeing as...

"I can't see myself returning in a Chelsea shirt, or Liverpool or Manchester City - and definitely not Tottenham."

:spit:

Sounds like he must be going to United.

[Andy]

This Alvarez thing is now apparently rubbish. Most people think he's actually signed for the Argentinian Arsenal. :lol:

Although others are speculation this is the bloke we've nabbed from Palermo. :dunno:

[Simon]

I don't even know what you're referring to :eek:

[Andy]

Palermo President Maurizio Zamparini: "There is a player who I thought was ours, agreed since January, but it seems that Arsenal have moved in and signed him."

[Keano's Magic Hat]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1389611/Alex-Ferguson-confirms-Owen-Hargreaves-Manchester-United-exit.html

Somebody could be getting the potential deal of the season if he gets back playing.

I can't see that happening, though.

[Andy]

Latest rumour is that Clichy is close to going to Inter and we have made a bid for Izaguirre. :dunno:

[Andy]

Nick Bendtner's agent/Dad has claimed interest from Villa. What do you make of that Villa lads? I think he could be a very good signing for someone willing to stick with him every week and play him in the correct position.

[son_of_foley]

He's not going to be the focal point though there is he? He's going to be asked to do a lot of channel running for Bent. Does he have the right attitude for that?

Think he's got all the skills but you would probably want him playing as an out and out target man. Would be a good fit for Bolton as the Elmander replacement

[Simon]

Villa would make no sense for either player or club. If his ego would allow it, Bendtner would be best served at somewhere like Bolton, Newcastle or Stoke IMO - a team that base their play around getting service to a big man. Bendtner's decent in the air but can play a bit too. I've always felt a bit sorry for him in a way, he's clearly a good player but his skill set (sorry for the Yank terminology) is so out of place at Arsenal it makes him look quite shit.