Hitching a lift! City new boys Negredo, Jovetic and Navas jump on Spurs' plane to Hong Kong
Tottenham touched down in Hong Kong on Monday morning with three new signings on board – sadly for Spurs fans, they all belonged to Manchester City.
Strikers Alvaro Negredo, Stevan Jovetic and winger Jesus Navas hitched a lift to the Far East for this week’s Barclays Asia Trophy. And just to emphasise City’s wealth of attacking options, David Silva came along for the ride as well.
Vincent Kompany: Our £90m spending spree is a statement of intent
VINCENT KOMPANY says Manchester City’s £90m summer spending spree is a statement of their intent to compete for every trophy in the coming season.
Vincent Kompany believes City are under pressure to improve this season
But skipper Kompany admits being the Premier League’s biggest spenders so far will not guarantee success.
They will need to help their four new signings - Fernandinho, Jesus Navas, Alvaro Negredo and Stevan Jovetic - settle in while the whole squad will have to learn to adapt to the methods and tactics of new boss Manuel Pellegrini.
City arrived here in Hong Kong for the Premier League Asia Trophy tournament with Kompany admitting City needed to strengthen after a disappointing campaign when they finished 11 points behind neighbours United, finished bottom of their Champions League group and suffered a shock FA Cup final defeat to relegated Wigan.
The under-achieving season and dressing room unrest cost Roberto Mancini his job and Kompany insists City are under pressure to improve in the coming season.
"We have definitely played a big part in the transfer market so far," he said.
"Does that bring pressure? You could ask the same question to five or six clubs which is why the Premier League is the most competitive league in the world.
"There are five or six teams with the same target: to win as many trophies as we can. It’s not an option for us. We have to set ourselves this target. Some people talk about pressure for us but that is something we look forward to.
"It is not enough to just spend the money, because a lot of clubs do that. It will take something special. We are just trying to do everything we can in the preparation.
"Buying new players is one thing but the way we have prepared is really good so far. We are doing everything we can to be one of the teams that can compete for every trophy.
"There was a bit of a gap between us and the champions last season and we are doing everything to bridge that gap. It will be a good season and I am sure the other teams will be competitive."
City lost their opening two tour games in South Africa but three of their new signings - Navas, Negredo and Jovetic - arrived here from London today on the same flight as the Tottenham squad, a few hours after their team-mates had flown in from South Africa.
Kompany added: "It’s good to have these new players coming. You can never really guess what impact new signings will have but we will do everything we can to make them feel at home and give them a warm welcome.
"They are important players for us this season. We needed strengthening and we have done that. We are a team that can look forward and say that we can compete on every front.
"A lot of clubs have made statements the past couple of weeks. I’d just say that we definitely have the intention to be champions again. But obviously it will be a long, hard season. We are putting in the hard work now, which is good."
Meanwhile, Pellegrini will re-join City’s squad here tomorrow (Tues) after flying home to his native Chile from South Africa following the death and funeral of his mother.
Manchester City skipper Vincent Kompany and assistant boss Brian Kidd reckon the Blues' transfer business has put them back in pole position for the Premier League title race.
New boss Manuel Pellegrini has overseen deals for Fernandinho , Jesus Navas , Alvaro Negredo and Stevan Jovetic to give the side's attack a much sharper look going into the new campaign.
"We have played a big part in the transfer market so far," Kompany said in Hong Kong.
"There was a bit of a gap between us and the champions last season and we are doing everything to bridge that. It will be a good season and I am sure the other teams will be competitive. It’s good to have these new players coming.
"We will do everything we can to make them feel at home and give them a warm welcome. They are important players for us this season. We needed strengthening and we have done that. We are a team that can look forward and say that we can compete on every front."
Assistant boss Kidd said: "They look really exciting players and you need four strikers in the Premier League and the Champions League and we have an exciting player in Jesus Navas as well.
He added: "I wouldn’t swap our squad for any in the Premier League."
Manchester City's Emyr Huws is getting a taste of the big time
City’s under-21 skipper swaps Carrington for Hong Kong as he samples life with Yaya, Fernandinho, Aguero and Co.
Last year Emyr Huws spent a soggy British summer battling through pre-season in the unremarkable fields of Carrington.
This time he has been to South Africa and Hong Kong, going into tackles with Yaya Toure, sitting down to eat with James Milner, and heading out on a wildlife safari when the hard work finally relented.
An invitation to join the first-team preparations was Huws’ reward for making good progress with the elite development squad, a recognition of his attitude and application in a season which included a successful loan spell at Northampton.
But Huws has not been wandering around the Blues’ Durban training camp all starry-eyed, thinking he has finally made it – he is level-headed enough to know that this is work, and his football career has not even got started yet.
The 19-year-old Welsh midfielder was one of three elite development squad players who were invited to experience the rigours of a first-team squad pre-season, the others being Shay Facey and Devante Cole. Facey and Cole were due to fly back to Manchester yesterday, while Huws – who skippers the under-21s – has continued with the squad to Hong Kong for the second leg of their pre-season tour.
And one things has struck Huws about the superstars with whom he is taking breakfast, swapping banter and sharing the pain of Manuel Pellegrini’s punishing triple training sessions – they work like Trojans.
“You learn more from the senior players than you do from the coaches,” said the youngster from Llanelli, who also joined the squad in their post-season tour of the USA in May.
“That is saying nothing against the coaches, but as a young player you can learn so much from the top players, on and off the field.
“Their attitude and work ethic is incredible – lads like Gael Clichy and James Milner work so hard, and that is why they are up there, at the top.
“And off the pitch, it is all about the way they are with the media and people around the hotel, giving of their time, and signing autographs. Gael especially is someone who is always there to help – he has been telling me to keep working hard, and helping me make the right decisions. He has done it all in his career, so you just have to learn from someone like him.”
The work ethic of the first-team squad is something City are trying hard to engender in the youth ranks, with academy head Mark Allen saying last month that in the academy – especially among British players – there is often a culture which sees players who do extra work as trying to curry favour with the coaches.
Huws acknowledges that in the youth ranks that can be the case, but by the time you reach the elite development squad, that attitude has disappeared, usually along with the players who hold it.
“It can be the case in the lower age groups,” says Huws.
“You do get lads saying you are being busy if you put in extra hours, but as soon as you get to this level, you realise that the best players work harder than anyone – no-one here says you are busy for doing extra.”
Pellegrini has introduced the occasional triple training session because he wants his team fit enough to play a high-pressure, high pressing game next season, and fitness is the key. That means the players are up at 7am for a running session which begins at 8am, with another tough physical session at 10am.
The day is rounded off with a two-hour football session at 5pm, working on technique and tactics. Jack Rodwell described the regime as ‘brutal’, although the sessions will have to be toned down now the Blues have landed in the 95 per cent humidity of Hong Kong.
Huws said: “It’s certainly tough, and you end up knackered. It’s something I have never done before, but I don’t think many of the first-team lads are used to it either.”
The players have largely spent the afternoons sleeping or relaxing, with very little down time – yesterday some headed out on safari and some played golf, while many of the braver City staff went diving with sharks.
For Huws, the globe-trotting tour is a chance to catch Pellegrini’s eye: “It’s a great chance for me to make an impact,” he says.
“I am not expecting too much from this season, I just want to improve myself, and work day by day to try and get more opportunities.
“I will have a better idea of what next season holds for me when I get back – whether I go on loan again, or stick with the under-21s for a bit.”
Huws played half a game against SuperSport United in Pretoria last week but was rested for the defeat by AmaZulu on Thursday after picking up a quadriceps strain – now he is hoping for another run-out against South China on Wednesday.
Manuel Pellegrini’s mother Silvia Ripamonti has died at the age of 92. The new City boss left City’s tour in South Africa to return to Chile before she died at the weekend. He is expected to meet up with the City squad in Hong Kong after her funeral.
Pellegrini missing as Man City land in Hong Kong
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Manchester City arrived in Hong Kong on Monday without new manager Manuel Pellegrini, but assistant manager Brian Kidd insisted the team's pre-season build-up was on track despite the Chilean's absence.
Pellegrini, who was only appointed last month after Roberto Mancini was sacked, returned to Chile at the end of last week for family reasons.
City officials told AFP that they hoped he might join up with his squad on Tuesday, although that was not concrete.
The big-spending team touched down in the southern Chinese city after two losses in friendlies in South Africa.
Kidd said he was happy with City's preparations ahead of the start of their Premier League season on August 19.
"The main concern is players getting minutes under their belt," said Kidd. "Even when he (Pellegrini) went back to Chile the substitutes were all planned, what time the players had to go on and off, albeit with a bit of scope with injuries and everything.
"His preparation has been superb and his backroom staff have been tremendous. I have been really impressed with them."
City, who lost their Premier League crown to Manchester United last season, have been the biggest spenders so far in the transfer market, adding forwards Stevan Jovetic and Alvaro Negredo, and midfielders Jesus Navas and Fernandinho.
All are expected to feature against local side South China on Wednesday in the Barclays Asia Trophy. City will play Sunderland or Spurs three days later.
Kidd said he was excited by the new additions: "They look really talented boys and they are going to make an impact in the Premier League and in the Champions League.
"I believe you need four forwards so you can alternate because the Premier League is a demanding league and we will be fighting on all fronts in the Champions League.
"I would not change our squad for any squad in the Premier League."
Those sentiments were echoed by captain Vincent Kompany.
"We've played a big part so far in the transfer market. There was a bit of a gap last season between us and the champions, but we are doing everything to bridge that gap," he said.
"It shows that we definitely have the intention to be champions again."
Spending alone won't bring Manchester City their title back, warns Cech
The Chelsea goalkeeper insists that the 2011-12 champions cannot regain their crown by simply outspending their rivals in the transfer market on stars like Stevan Jovetic
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has warned Manchester City that spending alone will not win them back the Premier League title.
The 2011-12 champions have spent nearly £100 million in the transfer market so far this summer, with Fernandinho, Jesus Navas, Alvaro Negredo and Stevan Jovetic all arriving at the Etihad Stadium.
But the Blues star, who was signed by Chelsea in the year Roman Abramovich bought the club, insists that money is not the key to glory.
"Money has never won anything," Cech told the press. "You can spend as much as you want but you must build a team first.
"Yes, City have huge competition for every place. They have a new manager, new expectations and new motivations - and, if they build a team, they will be a tough opponent and rival for us in the Champions League and for the Premier League title but so will Manchester United. So will Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool."
The 31-year-old did acknowledge, however, that City's spending will make them a dangerous rival for his side in 2013-14.
"Manchester City have spent money to challenge. That's the reality of the situation," Cech continued, "So, at Chelsea, we know it's going to be a tough season but we're here as well and working hard to be ready for the challenge.
"We'll try our best to win the league. Our aim is to do the very best we can. We know what our objectives and targets are and will go game-by-game and try to win everything we can and then see."
Manchester City arrive in Hong Kong to huge fan greeting
Manchester City’s biggest stars were greeted by the sounds of the Beatles – as die-hard fans gave the team a grand entrance at Hong Kong International Airport on Monday morning.
Captain Vincent Kompany signs autographs at the airport on Wednesday. Photo: Jonathan WongThe star-studded squad looked tired from their 14-hour flight from Durban, South Africa, as they shuffled slowly into the arrival hall for the next leg of warm-ups for the upcoming Premier League season. On Wednesday, they will face local league champions South China at Barclays Asia Trophy.
The Hong Kong Manchester City Supporters Club’s unusual chant is normally reserved for farewells, not grand entrances.
Amid the camera flashes, the arrival of the former Premier League champions brought a hundred fans and children from local schools to the airport. Middle-aged men grinned with delight, as did a gaggle of primary school students draped in the team's distinctive sky blue colour.
MORE plus Video ... http://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/arti ... n-greeting
GOLDEN BOLLOX 22-7-1991
Former YTS forward Ashley Ward leaves for Leicester City after making just one senior appearance for the Blues. Far from simply drifting down the leagues and eventually out of football, Ward’s playing career lasts 14 seasons during which time he makes more than 400 appearances for ten different clubs including Blackburn Rovers, Derby County and Norwich City.
Ward also becomes a successful property developer after football, renovating luxury homes for several top footballers.
Nasri: I accept criticism as long as it's justified
He may still be only 25, but Samir Nasri has just been through the most difficult season he is likely to experience in his career. Heavily criticised during UEFA EURO 2012 following an altercation with a journalist, the Manchester City midfielder then struggled to perform at his best for large parts of his team's domestic campaign, resulting in harsh words from the club's then manager Roberto Mancini.
Called back into the France set-up after a year away and a strong end to 2012/13 with City, the former Arsenal man then endured further disappointment when he had to pull out of Didier Deschamps's squad with injury.
Speaking to FIFA.com, Nasri reflected on his troubled year, how he has learnt from his mistakes, and City's season in general. He also signalled his firm desire to win back his place as a France starter and spoke of his dream to contest the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™.
FIFA.com: You recently finished the most testing season of your career. How do you feel today?
Samir Nasri: I feel good at the moment. I'm feeling more relaxed, but the last few months were very trying for me. Emotionally, I went through several moments of doubt and reassessment. Some of the criticism I got hurt me, and lots of bad things were said. I accept criticism as long as it's justified, but there were lots of lies about me. I made mistakes, I know, but I'm not the ugly duckling that some people seem to think.
Are you referring to the incident involving a journalist at UEFA EURO 2012?
Yes, but not just that. As far as that incident goes, I made a mistake by reacting to the provocation of a journalist. I shouldn't have said what I said. That episode made me think a lot and the fact that I found myself under fire from critics weighed heavily on me. I possibly took too long before making my apologies, but that's done now. It's one thing less to worry about, and that's done me a lot of good.
Do you think you have gained maturity in dealing with these challenges?
Yes, for sure. I've learnt from my mistakes and I feel more mature now. I'm still young and I know I have a lot to learn. These last few months have made me grow as a man.
Your club also had a tough year, not winning any trophies and exiting the UEFA Champions League at the group stage. What do you make of Manchester City's season?
It was certainly a very disappointing season and losing our title of English champions was a failure that was difficult for the whole squad to swallow. We didn't manage to win a single trophy, and that's disappointing for a club with the standing of Manchester City. We had a very testing year but we'll learn from our mistakes to have an excellent season next year.
You were due to return to the France team after a year out only to be denied by an injury. What does it mean to you to be on the verge of the national side again?
I'm very happy about it. One of my priorities is to get back in the France team as quickly as possible. Wearing that blue shirt is very important to me and I'll do everything to win back my place in the squad. I know I can help the team, but I'm also perfectly aware that I must prove to the coach that I'm up to the task. I've been given another chance and it's up to me to give my all.
What do you think of France's chances of qualifying for the next FIFA World Cup?
Honestly, I'm confident, even if the road to the end of the qualifiers is still long. The team has put in good performances up until now, like getting a draw in Spain, and I think this squad of players is one of the most talented in Europe. Between the experienced senior players and the youngsters coming through like Raphael Varane and Paul Pogba, we've got what it takes to have a very competitive team. We're just one point behind Spain and we can still take first place in the group, which would allow us to avoid the play-offs.
If France manage to qualify, what would it mean to you to be in the squad and play in a FIFA World Cup in Brazil?
I dream about it! It's one of the biggest football countries on earth and the sport is like a religion for Brazilians. I don't think there's a single footballer who wouldn't want to play such an important competition in a country like Brazil. It's a legendary place – you think about their spectacular play, Pele, Ronaldo, the yellow shirt and the festive atmosphere in the stands. Every footballer or fan of this sport has magical memories linked to A Seleção.
Manchester City weekend round-up: Jovetic explains move and two more to follow?
Following his move from Fiorentina, Stevan Jovetic has explained why he chose Manchester City over his other suitors.
Despite long being linked with a move to Arsenal, the striker said it was City’s desire to sign him that ultimately won out.
“It was a long time they wanted me,” he said, “last year also, and I stayed with Fiorentina.
“They wanted me more than everyone and I decided to come here. They are fighting for the Premier League and also for the Champions League, and this is the reason I came here.”
There is little doubt that following some impressive summer business the Blues can take the next step in Europe, whilst challenging for the title once more.
Not that Petr Cech thinks it will all be smooth sailing at the Etihad.
“I am thinking: ‘You have got a lot of players, let’s see how you are going to deal with it’,” the Chelsea ‘keeper said.
But while it is true that Manuel Pellegrini has some thinking to do when it comes to team-selection, his summer business speaks of brighter things ahead. These players are not simply there for the pay-cheque; they are ambitious, hugely talented individuals. And City may just be the team to beat next season.
The Chilean manager may not even be done spending yet, if reports linking him with moves for Pepe and Eduardo Salvio are believed.
Benfica winger Salvio appears the less likely of the two, given that fellow right-winger Jesus Navas has only just arrived. But Real Madrid defender Pepe could form quite a partnership with Vincent Kompany at the back.
And while his arrival may stifle the development of Matija Nastasic, strength in depth will be vital should Pellegrini wish to challenge on all fronts in the coming campaign.
And finally, Jack Rodwell has spoken of his hopes for the year ahead.
The former Everton player’s first season at City was disrupted by injury, as he made only 15 appearances.
But speaking of the chance to impress the new boss, Rodwell said, “I think everyone has a chance to prove himself and that is what I am hoping to do.”
Vincent Kompany hopes Manchester City can compete for trophies
Vincent Kompany is happy with the preparations for the new season and hopes Manchester City can compete for the Premier League title.
City endured a frustrating past campaign after relinquishing the title to local rivals Manchester United and losing to Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup final.
Manuel Pellegrini has subsequently replaced Roberto Mancini as manager and has already added Fernandinho, Jesus Navas, Alvaro Negredo and Stevan Jovetic to his squad.
The team are currently in Hong Kong to participate in the Barclays Asia Trophy and Kompany is aiming for a positive season.
When asked if there is pressure to win the title, the defender told Sky Sports News: "You could go round with this question to five or six clubs and say the same.
"That's why the Premier League is the most competitive league in the world.
"It's not enough to just spend the money, I think a lot of clubs do that.
"It will take something special, but we will just do as much as we can now in the preparations. Buying new players is one thing, but the way we have prepared has been really good so far and we're doing our best to be one of the teams to compete for every trophy."
Pellegrini has returned to his native Chile following the death of his mother and Kompany offered his support to the club's new boss.
He added: "It doesn't only put things in perspective, it's a bit of a reality check.
"Football is more than just the signings, it's about being in a group, being in a family and him, too.
"When he comes back we will make sure there is everything that he can feel at home with us as it's not easy to be so far away from home."
Manchester City weekend round-up: Jovetic explains move and two more to follow?
Following his move from Fiorentina, Stevan Jovetic has explained why he chose Manchester City over his other suitors.
Despite long being linked with a move to Arsenal, the striker said it was City’s desire to sign him that ultimately won out.
“It was a long time they wanted me,” he said, “last year also, and I stayed with Fiorentina.
“They wanted me more than everyone and I decided to come here. They are fighting for the Premier League and also for the Champions League, and this is the reason I came here.”
There is little doubt that following some impressive summer business the Blues can take the next step in Europe, whilst challenging for the title once more.
Not that Petr Cech thinks it will all be smooth sailing at the Etihad.
“I am thinking: ‘You have got a lot of players, let’s see how you are going to deal with it’,” the Chelsea ‘keeper said.
But while it is true that Manuel Pellegrini has some thinking to do when it comes to team-selection, his summer business speaks of brighter things ahead. These players are not simply there for the pay-cheque; they are ambitious, hugely talented individuals. And City may just be the team to beat next season.
The Chilean manager may not even be done spending yet, if reports linking him with moves for Pepe and Eduardo Salvio are believed.
Benfica winger Salvio appears the less likely of the two, given that fellow right-winger Jesus Navas has only just arrived. But Real Madrid defender Pepe could form quite a partnership with Vincent Kompany at the back.
And while his arrival may stifle the development of Matija Nastasic, strength in depth will be vital should Pellegrini wish to challenge on all fronts in the coming campaign.
And finally, Jack Rodwell has spoken of his hopes for the year ahead.
The former Everton player’s first season at City was disrupted by injury, as he made only 15 appearances.
But speaking of the chance to impress the new boss, Rodwell said, “I think everyone has a chance to prove himself and that is what I am hoping to do.”
Two more names lined up by Manchester City
Manchester City fans are looking up with excitement here at the Football Transfer Tavern as Metro note that the club are not only still interested in Real Madrid’s Pepe but are also trailing Benfica’s Eduardo Salvio.
Pepe has been on the radar of his one time manager Manuel Pellegrini for some time now and despite being assured that he is vital to Carlo Ancelotti’s plans this season, the defender knows Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos are likely to be the first choice pairing at Real next term.
Benfica winger Salvio is of course being targeted to add some depth to the squad in the wide positions and despite already spending close to £100 million this summer on the likes of Fernandinho, Jesus Navas and Alvaro Negredo not to mention Stevan Jovetic, Pellegrini is not convinced that his side is finished just yet.
Pellegrini knows that if he wants not only domestic glory in the Premier League but also to finally see City perform in the Champions League, that means new recruits and some strength at the heart of the defence in his team.
Joleon Lescott may now be staying at the club but this does not mean Pellegrini sees the England international as an automatic choice at the heart of his side, hence the move for Pepe.
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GOLDEN BOLLOX 22-7-2010
Tottenham to make loan move for Manchester City forward Craig Bellamy[/size]
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is making an audacious bid to take Craig Bellamy on loan from Manchester City.
Bellamy is on City's pre-season tour of America but is keen to move away following the arrival of David Silva from Valencia.
He has already rejected a move to Wolfsburg. Redknapp has admired the Welshman for some time, but Tottenham are reluctant to pay big money for the 31-year-old, particularly with his injury record, and Redknapp will try to take him on loan first - hoping that City see it as a quick solution.
Harry: We can be Tott dogs
HARRY REDKNAPP reckons Spurs are ready to pull off another shock - by winning the Premier League title.
Tottenham surprised many when they reached the Champions League for the first time last season by snatching fourth place ahead of Manchester City.
And Redknapp, in New York for tomorrow's friendly with the NY Red Bulls, insists his side are good enough to grab Spurs' first title since 1961.
He said: "We could contend for the title. We've got the players. We've got to aim for it. We could win it, it's not impossible.
"Some people might look at what we achieved last season and say it was a flash in the pan. We have to prove them wrong and really go for it.
"Manchester City will be a massive factor in the title race because of the amount of investment they are making - and will continue to make until they win the title.
"But we have got to aim to try to win the title ourselves. Last year we started by saying we wanted to finish in the top four and got there.
"If you don't aim for things, you've got no chance and the status quo will remain - with the big-spending teams winning everything.
"Somebody has got to do it at some time. It can't all just be Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool - why not Tottenham?"
He added: "There are two, three players I want and they will make a big difference."
Manchester United are prepared to double 26-year-old Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas's current wages in a bid to lure him to Old Trafford. Mirror
Chelsea are ready to offer £40m for striker Wayne Rooney, 27, as the Blues look to convince United to sell the England international. Telegraph
Rooney is close to signing for Chelsea in a deal which is expected to be worth around £200,000-a-week to the former Everton striker. Times
United will only allow Rooney to leave if they pull off ambitious plans to sign Fabregas and Tottenham midfielder Gareth Bale, 24, this summer. Express
Tottenham are preparing an £18m bid for Valencia striker Roberto Soldado, 28, that would break the club's record transfer fee. dssc
Arsenal have told Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Julio Cesar, 33, he will have to take a pay cut if he wants to move to the Emirates Stadium. Metro
The Gunners are also back in the race to sign Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain, 25, as Napoli are unwilling to match the £35m price tag set by the Spanish club. DSSC
Premier League pair Sunderland and Aston Villa are monitoring Inter Milan midfielder Zdravko Kuzmanovic. The Serbian international, 25, has been told he can leave the San Siro this summer. People
Lyon striker Bafetimbi Gomis , 27, wants to join several of his French international team-mates at Newcastle - which could signal the end of Papiss Cisse's time at St James' Park. Newcastle Chronicle
Chelsea have rejected an enquiry from Liverpool about the availability of 23-year-old left-back Ryan Bertrand. Observer
Sunderland appear to have ended their interest in Greek winger Charis Mavrias , 19, following the arrival of Italy international and 28-year-old midfielder Emanuele Giaccherini. Sunderland Echo
Norwich City manager Chris Hughton admits he wants to sign another striker after being linked with moves for Juventus forward Fabio Quagliarella, 30, and Sampdoria's Maxi Lopez, 29, as the Canaries bid to add fresh forward options. Norwich Evening News
Premier League newcomers Hull City are close to signing Ivory Coast striker Yannick Sagbo from French side Evian. Tigers boss Steve Bruce hopes a bid of £1.6m will be enough to capture the 25-year-old. Hull Daily Mail
Chelsea will offer former striker Didier Drogba, 35, a player-coach role in order to tempt him back to Stamford Bridge from Turkish side Galatasaray. Sunday Mirror
Manchester United are set to reintroduce the words "Football Club" to their crest as part of a rebranding process. The words were removed in 1998. Times
Swansea manager Michael Laudrup has described reports linking him to the vacant job at former club Barcelona as "pure speculation". South Wales Evening Post
But the Spanish champions have targeted another ex-Barca player - Luis Enrique - instead. The ex-Spain attacking midfielder, 43, only took charge of their La Liga rivals Celta Vigo last month. Observer
Manchester United have moved around 60 season ticket holders from their seats at Old Trafford - in order to replace them with television cameras. Metro
Chelsea are growing increasingly confident of signing 27-year-old Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney for £30m. Daily Mirror
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been impressed by striker Romelu Lukaku, 20, who spent last season on loan at West Brom but he will continue to chase Rooney. Guardian
Arsenal could turn to Swansea's Ashley Williams, 28, to cope with their growing defensive crisis.
Read Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain scored 18 goals last season for the La Liga side Metro
The Gunners could also revive their interest in Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain, 25, who is stalling on a move to Napoli because he is keen on a move to London. Daily Mirror
Liverpool striker Luis Suarez, 26, is waiting to see if Arsenal will bid over £40m for his services. Daily Express
Suarez is set to discuss his future with Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers within the next 24 hours as he arrives in Melbourne to join their pre-season tour. Daily Telegraph
Liverpool have entered the race to sign Tottenham target and Valencia striker Roberto Soldado, 28, after Spurs had an initial bid of £17m rejected. Daily Star
Bundesliga side Hamburg are preparing a £6m bid for 27-year-old Everton striker Nikica Jelavic. DSSC
West Ham are interested in bringing Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker, 32, back to Upton Park if their wage bill allows it. DSSC
Middlesbrough striker Scott McDonald, 29, is set for a move to Millwall. Daily Express
Real Madrid have confirmed the sale of defender Raul Albiol, 27, to Napoli. abc.es
Inter Milan are interested in signing Algerian midfielder Ryad Boudebouz, 23, from French side FC Sochaux-Montbeliard. Corriere Dello Sport
Manchester United manager David Moyes claims his Glasgow upbringing will give him the edge when it comes to mind games with Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho. Sun
Manchester United striker Robin van Persie, 29, has backed Moyes to prove doubters wrong about his abilities to replace Sir Alex Ferguson. Daily Telegraph
Plans to give England women's coach Hope Powell a new position as director of elite women's football have been scrapped, according to Sir Trevor Brooking. Independent
Former Cardiff City owner Sam Hammam is set to return to the club in a key role - seven years after he was ousted from the club. Sun
An attempt by Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard to mingle with fans in Jakarta backfired when one female fan became hysterical as the 33-year-old approached her. Metro
more bollox soon
